2024–2025 ANNUAL REPORT
Where Passion Shapes Purpose
A LETTER FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL
Dear TA Family & Friends,
Each year at Tuscaloosa Academy tells a story, a story of growth, purpose, and possibility. The 2024–2025 school year was no exception.
Across every division, students stepped boldly beyond the classroom, conducting research, exploring new places, engaging in service, and leading with heart. We celebrated five state championship appearances in athletics with our student-athletes and coaches pushing themselves to new heights and proving the tangible meaningfulness of connection and teamwork. Whether competing in national cyber challenges, guiding peers in theatre productions, or presenting at real-world mock trials, Tuscaloosa Academy students exemplified what it means to learn by doing and crafting.
Faculty inspired, families supported, and students rose to meet every opportunity. Like our students, our community supported TA’s fundraising efforts to reach record highs, reflecting the strength of our shared commitment and providing vital resources to enhance programs, facilities, and access to opportunity.
As Head of School, I am endlessly proud of the people who make this place exceptional. Thank you for investing in our mission and believing in our students. It is your partnership that helps us grow stronger each year.
Go Knights! With gratitude and excitement for the journey ahead,
Beckie Share Head of School
100%
College acceptance rate
$3.4M In college scholarships earned by the senior class +
#1
Best private school in Tuscaloosa County by Niche, the nation’s leading platform for connecting families with schools and colleges
10:1
Student–teacher ratio that consistently ensures personalized instruction
Increase in applications 43% Increase in accepted offers shows confidence in TA 28%
78
Full-time faculty and staff
$192,295
Awarded in Tailored Tuition to support families
Faculty and staff participated in over 72 professional development opportunities 44
Student-athlete average GPA 3.64
Students in the “30+ Club” (ACT score 30 or higher) 18
Juniors and seniors enrolled across 15 Advanced Placement courses 71%
Strategic Plan, Priorities
&
Action
Access to Opportunity
Tuscaloosa Academy is focused on expanding access to quality education through a variety of efforts. This year, qualified families began benefiting from Tailored Tuition, a personalized and flexible tuition structure designed to fit each family’s unique financial situation. Targeted scholarships also continue to support recruitment of students demonstrating strong academics and character.
Looking ahead, TA will participate in Alabama’s CHOOSE Act starting in 2025–26. This state law provides eligible families with Education Savings Accounts of up to $7,000 per student to use toward tuition and other approved educational expenses. Together, these initiatives broaden access to private education and support enrollment growth.
Uniform Success
For the first time in school history, Tuscaloosa Academy successfully implemented a student uniform policy this academic year. The school community, students, families, and faculty embraced the change, which has helped foster a greater sense of unity, belonging, and school pride across campus.
Sharing Our Story, Growing Our Community
Tuscaloosa Academy has focused on raising our brand awareness and sharing our highlights throughout the community. This intentional storytelling helped us earn the #1 Best Private School ranking in Tuscaloosa County on Niche, the leading platform connecting families with schools nationwide.
+365 new followers (37% annual increase)
3,113 total followers
+447 new followers (23% annual increase)
2,412 total followers
1 Finalist, 3 Junior Candidates National Merit Honors
Academic Excellence
Expanding Academic Support
To uphold our commitment to a strong collegepreparatory education for every student, TA enhanced its academic support for those with diagnosed reading or language challenges. We welcomed Mrs. Shonda Guthrie, a Certified Structured Literacy Dyslexia Specialist, who provides on-campus reading therapy and expert consultation. Faculty will engage in ongoing training with Mrs. Guthrie to strengthen support for all students.
Certified Structured Literacy Dyslexia Specialist Mrs. Shonda Guthrie
Preschool Excellence Recognized
TA’s Preschool earned a 5-star rating from Alabama Quality Stars once again this year, its highest honor. This secured $81,000 in grant funding, supporting continued excellence in early childhood education.
Celebrating Excellence in Education
Tuscaloosa Academy proudly celebrates 4th Grade Teacher Mandy Akins, recipient of the Nick’s Kids Teacher Excellence Award. Her energy, passion, and dedication to her students inspire us all. Mandy shared, “Many thanks to Tuscaloosa Academy for giving me such a wonderful place to do what I love!” We’re grateful for her daily impact on our school community.
Experiential Learning
Tuscaloosa Academy is committed to learning that goes beyond the classroom. This year, students explored new places, new ideas, and real-world challenges that brought their education to life.
Each year in the Lower School is shaped by a unifying theme, guiding activities and curriculum to open new pathways for discovery. This year’s theme: “Discovering the Decades. Forging the Future.”
The Lower School brought learning to life through a new “Explore More” e-learning initiative, where students became independent researchers and creators. The third grade class extended experiential learning to community service: building a heartfelt connection with the residents of Pine Valley through plays, planting, bingo, and kindness. It was learning with purpose, and empathy.
Middle School students are also recognized for their yearlong, student-led portfolios, a signature of reflection, growth, and responsibility.
In the Middle School, field trips expanded at every grade level, connecting art, science, and team building to real-world exploration. Expeditionary Day gave students full ownership of their learning: each chose an area of interest, immersed themselves in handson experiences, then created poster presentations to reflect, share, and showcase their work. It was education fueled by curiosity and driven by action.
In the Upper School , students took on advanced STEM challenges, cybersecurity competitions, and real-world simulations. Led by Mrs. Tammi Scheiring, TA STEM teams consistently placed in the top five at both regional and national competitions, including a 2nd place finish in Wichita State’s 27-hour cyber challenge. Our tech program earned scholarships, state titles, and national recognition from the College Board and the National Cybersecurity Training & Education Center. Speech students stepped into roles from attorneys to witnesses, putting months of preparation, critical thinking, and collaboration into action by presenting a mock trial in a real courtroom.
Across every division, field trips told the same story. Tuscaloosa Academy students learn by doing. From Gulf Shores to Washington D.C., from Desoto Caverns to Dauphin Island, our students don’t just study the world, they step into it.
The Arts at TA
At TA, art is more than projects. It’s about growth, voice, and becoming true artists.
Art in Action: Visual Storytelling at TA
At Tuscaloosa Academy, visual arts nurture creativity from preschool through Upper School. Every Lower and Middle School student receives weekly art instruction where they explore painting, sculpting, illustration, and photography. This year, 65 Lower School students became published illustrators in Monster Madness, and TA continued its five-year streak of top honors in Alabama Independent School Association (AISA) art shows.
Middle schoolers take art up to three times a week and learn to tell stories through photography. Students at every grade level participate in TA’s annual art showcase, celebrating growth and creativity. In Upper School, students refine their skills across media like watercolor, collage, and tape-casting, building artistic vocabulary and discovering new ways to express themselves.
Student Art Publication
Sixty-five Tuscaloosa Academy students were selected to be published in Monster Madness , a vibrant collection showcasing their imaginative and creative artwork. Highlighting this achievement, student Ember Rhodes designed the book’s cover. Led by art teacher Jessie Harbin, this project provided a special opportunity for our students to gain recognition for their artistic talents.
Spotlight on Performing Arts
Tuscaloosa Academy’s Performing Arts program fosters creativity, collaboration, and confidence from Pre-K through Upper School. This year, 65% of students participated in dedicated performing arts classes, while 63 students engaged in extracurricular opportunities, producing four full-length shows.
TA theatre students earned high honors at the Trumbauer State Theatre Festival and the Alabama State Thespian Festival, with multiple superior ratings, college callbacks, and two students invited to the International Thespian Festival. Isabella Nodine was also named a Student Thespian Officer for the state of Alabama.
Adding to this year’s achievements, Music & Theatre Director Mrs. Sara-Margaret Cates was appointed Studio Chair for the Southeastern Theatre Conference Studio Theatre Play Festival. In this national leadership role, she will guide the development of a program that champions acting, directing, and storytelling, especially for schools with limited technical resources.
A Year of Championship Success Athletics at TA
Five TA teams advanced to state championships, with Boys Tennis and Girls Golf winning state titles. Football, Boys Basketball, and Boys Soccer each earned State Runner-Up finishes. Danilo Stojakovic (Basketball) and Preston Lancaster (Football) were named 2A Players of the Year, and Coach Luke Hutcheson earned 2A Coach of the Year honors for Basketball. As TA continues its AHSAA transition, these strong playoff runs are raising the profile of our athletics program and bringing positive recognition to the school and community.
Baseball – Area Champions
Boys Basketball – State Runner-Up
Boys Golf – Sectionals 4th Place
Boys Soccer – State Runner-Up
Boys Tennis – Overall Team Champions, Singles Champions
Cross Country – State Qualifier
Football – State Runner-Up
Girls Basketball – Elite 8
Girls Golf – State Champions
Girls Soccer – Elite 8
Girls Tennis – Sectionals Runner-Up
Softball – Area Runner-Up
Track and Field – Indoor State Qualifiers,
Outdoor State Qualifiers
Volleyball – Elite 8
TA teams advanced to state championships, with Boys Tennis and Girls Golf winning state titles
Elevating Athlete Health and Support
TA welcomed Stephen Bontrager as a full-time athletic trainer, providing daily, personalized care to support all sports. His dedication ensures athletes receive focused attention and priority treatment. In addition, a partnership with Northriver Primary Care, with Drs. Kemp and Harrison as team doctors, further strengthens our commitment to athlete health and safety, resulting in increased parent satisfaction.
Training for Success Beyond TA
TA’s athletic program is dedicated to developing student-athletes beyond their sport. By partnering with The Lab, athletes receive specialized training, exposure, and guidance to help them pursue college scholarships and succeed at the next level. Equally important is fostering teamwork and character, providing students in grades 7–12 opportunities to grow as leaders and teammates in a supportive environment.
At TA, students play, compete, and lead, often on multiple teams.
Student-Athlete College Signings
TA is proud to celebrate six student-athletes who committed to continue their athletic and academic careers at the collegiate level:
Ford Beeker Football, University of Mississippi
Preston Lancaster Football, Tarleton State University
Ellis Hamiter Baseball, Shelton State Community College
Isaak Edmondson
Football, Huntingdon College
Haston Crawford
Football, Kennesaw State University
Saxon Skinner
Golf, Washington University
85%
Of eligible students play at least one sport, and 65% participate in multiple sports
Building Community
At TA, building internal and external community unites our school and the greater Tuscaloosa community.
Community Development
This year, the TA Parents Association (TAPA) significantly expanded its presence and efforts, playing a vital role in fostering community spirit. Their dedicated focus on faculty and staff appreciation boosted morale through monthly recognitions, including duty-free lunches, coffee trucks, snack carts, “Take Home Dinners,” and Teacher Appreciation Week celebrations with prizes and meals. TAPA also partnered with the school to spotlight Middle and Upper School Students of the Quarter, further strengthening community bonds.
TA’s connection to the Tuscaloosa community also grew stronger. The German Program led the Kids Zone at Oktoberfest, while faculty and staff formed a branded team for the Oktoberfest 5K. Additionally, TA engaged families at Live at the Plaza, distributing giveaways and building relationships at this popular event.
A Legacy of Love
This year’s Grandparents Day welcomed 350+ attendees, a record turnout and a 17% increase from 2024. The two-day celebration included a Lower School musical performance, BINGO, and a crowdfavorite spaghetti dinner. More than just an event, it was a celebration of connection, tradition, and the lasting legacy of TA families.
Student Experience Global Connections
The German Program: A Unique Opportunity at TA
With 47 students enrolled, representing 10% of the student body, Tuscaloosa Academy’s German program is a key part of the school’s academic and cultural identity. This year featured six major cultural events, including the popular Christmas Market. The market grew to 37 vendors, nearly a 40% increase from the previous year, showcasing the program’s role in community connections and cultural engagement.
U.S. Department of State Recognition
Tuscaloosa Academy was honored by the U.S. Department of State for our ongoing support of the German American Partnership Program (GAPP). In February 2024, we hosted German exchange students, creating meaningful cross-cultural experiences that deepen global understanding.
Student Leadership
This year, theatre at TA became a platform for student leadership. Upper schoolers took on major production roles such as music director, choreographer, lighting designer, stage manager, and student director, guiding younger students in the Young TA Players’ show. A new Technical Theatre Apprenticeship Program also launched, mentoring middle schoolers in the art and craft behind the curtain.
The Ambassadors visited the University of South Alabama (USA) to learn from the Southerners, USA’s ambassador team. They explored leadership skills, ambassador etiquette, and team dynamics, while gaining a glimpse of college life through the eyes of student leaders. This experience inspired new opportunities and growth for the TA Ambassador team.
Cross-Divisional Collaboration
Takes Center Stage
TA’s production of Disney’s Frozen Kids brought students from every division together. Lower and Middle School students took center stage as cast members, rehearsing side-by-side after school, while Upper School theatre leaders stepped up as directors and producers. This encouraged mentorship, creativity, and a strong sense of community across all age groups.
Campus Enhancements & Facilities Growth
With a fully staffed facilities team, TA now operates with greater efficiency and consistency in maintaining and improving our campus. This year brought major upgrades including classroom cameras, new paint and flooring, renovated restrooms, updated library carpet, and fresh furniture for third grade. Safety also remained a top priority with active shooter training funded by generous parent donors. These enhancements reflect our ongoing commitment to providing a secure, well-maintained, and inspiring space for teaching and learning.
A Playground Built by the TA Community
This year’s Annual Fund project, the complete renovation of Tuscaloosa Academy’s 25-year-old preschool playground, has become a shining example of what can happen when an entire community comes together for a shared purpose.
From students and parents to faculty, alumni, and generous donors, every part of the TA family played a role in making this long-overdue project a reality. TAPA, the school’s parent association, led the way with a $30,000 gift to name the new Timberwolf play set, part of their remarkable $41,000 total contribution to this year’s fund. The senior classes of 2021 through 2025 joined forces to contribute $13,000 toward playground equipment, a meaningful, student-led effort organized by the 2025 Class President, Brilyn Hollyhand.
With 17 naming opportunities and gifts pouring in from parents, alumni, faculty, and friends, the project reflects the spirit of Tuscaloosa Academy, a legacy of collaboration, care, and commitment to the youngest members of our school.
Student Spotlight
Michael Constantine
Valedictorian of the Class of 2025 and a National Merit Finalist, Michael Constantine has demonstrated exceptional academic achievement throughout his Upper School career. He competed in the AISA District Math Competition at The Donoho School and earned the Highest Score in the District for the third consecutive year.
At the AISA State Math Competition at Faulkner University, Michael achieved a perfect score, once again earning the highest score in the state. His consistent excellence in mathematics and academics reflects the highest standards of Tuscaloosa Academy.
Student Spotlight
Libbi Cate Stell
Class of 2025 Salutatorian Libbi Cate Stell has had an extraordinary year marked by academic excellence, leadership, and national recognition. She was named the Distinguished Young Woman of Tuscaloosa and will represent the county at the state finals in Montgomery. At Alabama’s Distinguished Young Women competition, Libbi not only won the Scholastic Preliminary but also earned the highest overall scholastic score in state history.
Libbi’s achievements extend to the national stage. She was named a National Awardee by the National Center for Women & Information Technology, one of just 40 students selected from over 40,000 applicants. She was honored in Charlotte, NC, with a $500 scholarship, a MacBook, and additional awards, recognizing her outstanding work in computing, leadership, and academics.
Senior Class Highlights
Reflecting on the Class of
2025
The Class of 2025 was made up of 47 remarkable seniors who made a strong impact both inside and outside the classroom. Together, they contributed over 1,700 hours of community service. Their hard work and dedication earned them acceptance to 34 different colleges and universities, along with more than $3.4 million in scholarships. This talented group includes 11 AP Scholars, a National Merit Finalist, and six student athletes who continued their sports careers at the college level.
Graduates began their next chapter at The University of Alabama, Auburn University, Mississippi State University, and The University of Mississippi. Others attended institutions such as Wake Forest University, Kennesaw State University, Huntingdon College, Furman University, Miles College, Tarleton State University, The University of Montevallo, Washington University in St. Louis, Elon University, The University of Kentucky Shelton State Community College. Additionally, three seniors returned internationally to Germany. With a wide range of talents and passions, this accomplished class is poised to make an impact.
47 Graduates in the Class of 2025
8 University representatives visited campus, including:
MIT, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, University of Alabama, Auburn University, University of Mississippi, Mississippi State University, and Samford University
Scholarship Spotlight
Annemarie Henderson
Annemarie Henderson earned an impressive scholarship to Furman University valued at approximately $1.22 million over four years, about $40,000 annually. This award reflects her outstanding achievements and the bright future ahead as she continues her education.
Investing in TA’s Future
Annual Fund
The 2024–25 Annual Fund raised $517,026.68 from 314 generous donors, with grandparents making up a significant portion, 61 contributors (19%).
Tuscaloosa Academy’s Board of Trustees, faculty, and staff demonstrated full commitment to the annual fund with 100% participation.
TA Gala: Havana Knights
The Havana Knights Gala was a bright and lively celebration that successfully raised $108,000, 122% more than last year. With 200 guests joining the fun (33% increase in guests from the prior year), the energy was high all evening.
The auction was full of exciting and unique items, from meaningful experiences to a surprise new family member: a puppy! Sponsorships grew too, boosted by the title sponsor Smart Bank. It was a great night of community, celebration, and giving that set a new fundraising record for TA.
Thank you for being a part of the legacy that is TA’s signature strength. Raised through the Annual Fund with a total of 314 donors $517,026.68
Development and Fundraising
This year marked a strategic restructuring of the Development Office to better support major gift fundraising. The Director of Development is able to focus on personalized major gift asks, while a newly added Associate Director of Development expanded efforts in events and donor cultivation, positioning TA for stronger, more sustainable growth.
WE ARE lifelong learners who strive for excellence in responsibility, service, and achievement.
WE ARE multitalented, thriving in academics, athletics, and the arts.
WE ARE the Knights’ loudest and proudest supporters.
WE ARE the creative thinkers, collaborators, and problem solvers that our 21st-century world needs.
WE ARE a community of students, teachers, families, alumni, and coaches where everyone is known and valued.
WE ARE