TUSCALOOSA ACADEMY 2025-26
YEAR IN REVIEW Midnight Blue and a Gold, We Love Thee
A letter from the Head of School Dear TA Family & Friends, The 2025-2026 school year was one of extraordinary momentum, growth, and achievement at Tuscaloosa Academy! Our students continued to raise the standard of academic excellence across every division of our school. From earning AP Honor Roll Platinum distinction to national recognition in cybersecurity, technology, and academic competition, TA students embraced opportunities to think critically, lead boldly, and pursue excellence at the highest levels. The arts continued to thrive at TA in remarkable ways. This year, Tuscaloosa Academy was named a Disney on Broadway School of Excellence, a distinction awarded to only 21 schools nationwide. This prestigious award recognizes the strength of our theatre program and the incredible talent of our students and faculty. Across the fine arts, students continued to perform, create, and lead with confidence and passion. Athletics remained a defining part of the TA experience, with 91% of eligible students participating in at least one sport and 63% competing in multiple sports. Across all programs, our student-athletes represented the Knights with resilience, discipline, teamwork, and pride while competing at a high level throughout the year. Beyond the classroom, stage, and athletic fields, this community continued to invest boldly in the future of Tuscaloosa Academy. From record philanthropic support to the groundbreaking of the Mayers Athletic Center, this year reflected the extraordinary belief our families, alumni, grandparents, faculty, staff, and friends have in our mission and in the future of our school. There is something special happening at TA, and you can truly feel it. Thank you for believing in our students and partnering with us as we continue building excellence together.
Beckie Share Head of School
Beckie Share, a Seminole 100 Award recipient, was recognized as a leader of one of the fastest growing organizations led by Florida State University alumni.
95,539,669
All in a Year Celebrating a year of learning, leadership, and growth.
Words read by Lower School and Middle School students
4,606 Y I E L D RAT E
95% R E T E N T I O N R AT E
94%
Students admitted to TA go on to enroll, reflecting strong confidence in TA and exceeding the 70–75% NAIS national average
TA students return to TA for the following school year, outperforming the 90% national average for independent schools
COL L EGE A CCEPTA N CE RATE
100% COL L EGE SCH OL A RSH IPS
$2.5M+
Named AP Honor Roll Platinum School
Books read by Lower School and Middle School students
81 Ambassador Applications, a 31% increase from last year
74% Juniors and seniors enrolled across 15 Advanced Placement courses
11 Students in the “30+ Club” (ACT score 30 or higher)
10:1 Student-teacher ratio
5 Quality Stars Preschool Program achieved 5 Quality Stars by Alabama Quality STARS
3 National Merit Finalists
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Making A Difference Inquiry. Action. Impact. At Tuscaloosa Academy, service learning is more than a requirement or a single event. It is an ongoing opportunity for students to build relationships, understand the needs of others, and discover the impact they can make in their community. Across every division, students are encouraged to step beyond the classroom and engage with the people and organizations around them through meaningful experiences rooted in empathy, leadership, and connection.
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Lower School Impact The Lower School Student Government Association and fourth-grade class built upon their ongoing relationship with the residents of Pine Valley Retirement Community through monthly visits throughout the school year. What began as early connections has grown into a meaningful tradition of time spent together. Students and residents connected through crafts, conversations, and seasonal celebrations, including holiday activities, Valentine’s Day visits, and Read Across America reading sessions. Kindergarten students also visited Connect: Where Love Never Forgets, a respite ministry at Christ Church that supports individuals experiencing memory loss and their caregivers. Through shared activities and conversation, students experienced early lessons in empathy and human connection. This culture of service extended into a schoolwide food drive benefiting the Family Kitchen at Hospice of West Alabama, reinforcing the impact of small acts of kindness.
Middle School Impact Middle School students deepened their understanding of service through hands-on learning connected to real community needs.
Through the National Geographic service-learning class led by faculty member Jaclyn Foster, students explored issues affecting people, animals, and the environment, then translated learning into action through projects designed for impact. Students used digital storytelling to communicate their work and findings. Projects included environmental conservation efforts, partnerships with Metro Animal Hospital, holiday outreach for families in need, and service supporting organizations such as Magic Moments. Students also extended the school’s connection to Pine Valley Retirement Community by sharing handwritten letters and treats with residents.
Through these experiences, students learned that service is a direct extension of learning and that their work can create real impact.
Upper School Impact Upper School students expanded service learning through consistent community partnerships. Ninth and tenth-grade students partnered monthly with the West Alabama Food Bank to address food insecurity and serve alongside community organizations. Juniors and seniors participated in monthly Habitat for Humanity projects, stepping into the community to build, serve, and give back while expanding their perspective that leadership is lived through action. Fifty-nine Upper School students participated in Key Club, contributing 1,062 service hours. Projects included a blanket drive, Career Closet support for a local high school, assistance with the Annual Fund, and ongoing support for the West Alabama Food Bank. Across experiences, Upper School students strengthened a culture of service that extends beyond campus and into the broader community.
Student Spotlight:
Academic Excellence Early Learning Foundations Enrichment begins in Preschool with weekly instruction and grade-level productions that expand on classroom learning. Early literacy instruction was strengthened through the implementation of the Heggerty Program in Preschool and Kindergarten, ensuring consistent phonemic awareness development. In grades K–4, students used IXL alongside MAP Growth data to provide personalized skill practice in reading and math, supporting differentiated learning across classrooms. The Lower School continues to demonstrate strong academic achievement and growth on the Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA) Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) Growth assessment. In Spring 2026, the median student scored in the 64th percentile nationally, 14 percentile points above the national average, and the percentage of students performing in the highest achievement categories increased over the past year. 6
Benji Schwaeble Benji Schwaeble is recognized for his leadership, academic achievement, and commitment to serving others. An active member of Student Government and a school ambassador, Benji will serve as Middle School SGA President next year. This year, he completed a service project through the National Geographic Elective, benefiting residents of Pine Valley, and was inducted into the National Junior Honor Society. Benji was also recognized as a History and Math Award winner and plays on the TA varsity soccer team.
Peer Mentorship in Action: Student-Led Conferences Middle School student-led conferences give students ownership of their academic growth.
Student Spotlight:
Niko Matis Niko Matis is recognized for his international athletic achievement and commitment to excellence in youth soccer. Lower School student Niko Matis participated in an invitation-only, international youth soccer tournament in Barcelona in February 2026 after previously competing in events in Madrid in 2024 and 2025. Chosen for the U11 squad by European coaches and managers, Niko competed alongside players from across the United States and internationally against European teams. One of his favorite memories from the experience was scoring a goal against a French team during tournament play.
Students compile portfolios of work from core classes and present selected artifacts to parents and advisors, reflecting on progress, strengths, and goals. New this year, eighth-grade students serve as mentors to younger peers, guiding them through the conference process and helping them prepare to confidently share their own learning. Through this experience, students build confidence, reflection skills, and a stronger sense of responsibility for their learning.
Exploring Together Across Generations At Tuscaloosa Academy, learning often extends beyond a single classroom or grade level. This year, second and seventh-grade students spent the day exploring Majestic Caverns together, creating opportunities for discovery, mentorship, and connection across divisions.
Middle School Scholars Bowl competed at the 2026 AISA Middle School Scholars Bowl, finishing tied for 3rd place.
Distinction in Academics Upper School students earned national recognition through the PreACT Rising Stars program, with students recognized for exceptional performance on the PreACT assessment, including top percentile distinctions at the national level. The school also achieved AP Honor Roll Platinum status, the highest level of recognition, reflecting both high levels of student participation in Advanced Placement coursework and strong performance across exams. Of the 64 independent schools in Alabama recognized with AP Honor Roll honors, just 12 earned Platinum status, placing Tuscaloosa Academy among the state’s highest-performing independent schools in AP achievement. Additional academic engagement included participation in experiences such as Alabama History Day, where students applied research and presentation skills, and all entries placed in statewide competition.
What made the experience meaningful was not only what students learned, but who they learned with. Experiences like this help build relationships across age groups and strengthen the close-knit community that defines the TA experience.
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The German International Program A Program with Global Reach The German International Program at Tuscaloosa Academy continues to grow as a distinctive academic experience that connects students to language learning, culture, and global engagement. This year, 61 students participated in the program, representing 14% of the student body. Signature events continued to expand, strengthening both student involvement and community engagement. The annual Christmas Market grew from 37 to 55 vendors, a 49% increase that reflects the program’s continued momentum and visibility across campus and the broader community.
Excellence in Language Learning TA students earned more honors than any other school in Alabama on the 2026 National German Exam, ranking among the state’s top performers. Out of 96 participants statewide, TA students earned multiple distinctions recognizing excellence in German language proficiency and cultural understanding.
Expanding Cultural Partnerships The German International Program strengthened its statewide presence through membership in the AlabamaGermany Partnership, an organization connecting educational, cultural, and business institutions across Alabama and Germany. This partnership expands visibility for the program and creates new opportunities.
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Faculty Excellence
Jaclyn Foster Alabama Public Television’s Teacher of the Month
Celebrating Excellence in Teaching Suzanne Abernathy of Tuscaloosa Academy was recognized with the Nick’s Kids Teacher Excellence Award, honoring her commitment to education and her impact on students across the TA community. Jaclyn Foster was named Alabama Public Television’s Teacher of the Month for January 2026, recognizing her creativity in the classroom, passion for civic education, and commitment to meaningful student learning experiences. 10
Suzanne Abernathy Nick’s Kids Teacher Excellence Award
Collaborative Leadership Lower School faculty expanded collaborative leadership through small planning and mentorship teams that encouraged communication, support, and shared ownership across the division. The Lower School was also enriched by 15 University of Alabama education students completing field experience placements on campus.
A Commitment to Professional Development This year, school leadership placed a clear focus on expanding professional development opportunities designed to empower faculty growth and instructional innovation. These experiences allowed teachers to apply new strategies directly in the classroom while continuing to refine curriculum and student engagement.
60 Faculty and Staff participated in over 145 professional development opportunities.
Sharing the Story of Tuscaloosa Academy Throughout the year, TA continued expanding its visibility across the greater Tuscaloosa community through strategic marketing, media partnerships, and community engagement. A broadened advertising strategy across digital, radio, social media, billboards, print, and direct mail increased awareness of the school throughout the region, while expanded storytelling and media coverage highlighted student life and campus achievements. TA also strengthened community connections through involvement in events and partnerships, including Oktoberfest, Live at the Plaza, the Screenagers screening at the BAMA Theatre, and collaborations with TAPA for the Tinsel Trail and Bunny Trail.
Expanding Our Reach Social media continued to highlight student life and connect with the greater community.
3,500+
2,750+
Facebook Followers
Instagram Followers
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The Arts at TA Spotlight on Performing Arts The performing arts program at Tuscaloosa Academy continues to serve as a space where students develop confidence in storytelling across every division. This year, 66% of TA students participated in performing arts classes. Students engaged in a wide range of performance opportunities throughout the year, both on stage and at competitions. The TA Players brought High School Musical Jr. to life with three sold-out performances, highlighted by strong senior leadership in key roles and a continued tradition of high-quality productions.
A milestone year for the program included its first competition at a more advanced division at the district theatre festival competition, where students earned superior ratings and recognition across performance and technical categories. Students also expanded their leadership presence beyond the school stage, with two theatre students selected for state-level leadership through the Alabama Thespian State Officer Board. Through performance, competition, and leadership, TA Theatre continues to grow as a program where students learn to collaborate, communicate, and lead through the arts.
Excellence on a National Stage TA has been named a Disney on Broadway School of Excellence, one of only 21 schools nationwide recognized for outstanding studentled theatre programs. This distinction honors excellence in performance, production, and student leadership in theatre education.
Technology & Innovation Competition-Based Learning Students at TA engaged in hands-on STEM learning through competitions across divisions. Middle School students earned recognition at the University of Alabama STEM Showcase and the University of Alabama Birmingham Center for Community Outreach Development (UAB CORD) competition, including multiple awards and advancement to state-level competition. Robotics teams also competed at the University of Alabama, with one team finishing in 5th place. Students participated in the University of Alabama Cybersecurity Capture the Flag competition against more than 130 teams nationwide. Middle School earned 3rd place in its first year of participation, while Upper School placed Top 10.
A Culture of Innovation TA students earned national and state recognition in technology and computer science competitions this year. CyberKnights earned 1st place nationally in the “Capture the Wu” cybersecurity
competition and a state championship in the Alabama Consortium for Technology in Education programming challenge. Students were also recognized by the National Center for Women & Information Technology with Rising Star, Honorable Mention, and State Winner distinctions. This year also marked the first year of Middle School CyberKnights participation, expanding access to competitive technology experiences across divisions. 13
Athletics At TA, competition builds character, and community builds champions.
A Year of Success Baseball – Elite 8 Boys Basketball – Sweet 16 Boys Golf – Sectional Qualifier Boys Soccer – Sweet 16 Boys Tennis – Sectional Champions Football – Elite 8 Girls Basketball – Area Champions Girls Golf – State Runner-Up Girls Soccer – Final 4 Girls Tennis – Sectional Champions Softball – Area Runner-Up Track/Field – Indoor State Qualifiers, Outdoor State Bronze Medal in 4x400 Volleyball – Elite 8
Armor Program: Supporting Student-Athletes More than 25 TA student-athletes benefited from the launch of the ARMOR Program (Academic Resource & Management for On-the-Road Athletes), a new initiative designed to help students pursue extraordinary opportunities without sacrificing academic excellence. Whether competing, performing, or traveling for high-level commitments, Tuscaloosa Academy students received personalized academic support, teacher coordination, and individualized learning plans that allowed them to thrive both in and beyond the classroom.
91% of eligible students participate in at least one sport, and 63% participate in multiple sports 3.7 Student-athlete average GPA
Built-In Teammates At TA, teammates are often family, and families often become teammates. This year, 10 sibling sets shared the varsity stage, reflecting the close-knit spirit that defines TA Athletics. Students do not just compete alongside teammates. They grow up competing beside their siblings, becoming each other’s strongest supporters through every practice, game, and season. Matthew and Bennett Atkins – Football and Basketball Scott and Jack Kemp – Football and Baseball Graham and William Sims – Football Henry and Harmon Smith – Football and Baseball Jack and Zach Brummond – Cross Country and Soccer Alexander, Julius, and Isabella Haefner – Track and Field Lily and Caroline Lucas – Basketball Sarah and Sophie Johnson – Basketball and Softball Anna Claire and Lillian Johnson – Softball Garrison and Zane Coppock – Soccer
Individual Excellence and Character: Jonni Kneer One of the most meaningful individual recognitions at TA this year was awarded to Jonni Kneer, who was named a Bryant-Jordan Scholar Athlete, honoring excellence in academics, leadership, and character. Jonni Kneer was also surprised with an additional Blankenship Scholarship recognizing his perseverance and impact on and off the field. This moment became especially meaningful as a full-circle family story, as his brother Oli previously received the same Bryant-Jordan Scholar Athlete honor.
Additional Honors and Recognition:
Student-Athlete College Signings TA is proud to celebrate four student-athletes across four different sports who committed to continue their athletic and academic careers at the collegiate level: Jonni Kneer University of South Alabama, Tennis
Anna Christian Beeker University of Kentucky, Golf
Beau Cochran University of West Alabama, Football
Sarah Davis Roe Auburn University, Tiger Paws Dance Team
Bryant Brown – selected to the AHSAA North-South All-Star Game Russell Cole (‘25) – National Football Foundation Team of Distinction, one of 82 athletes nationwide
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Building Excellence A Campaign for the Future of TA Tuscaloosa Academy’s Building Excellence Capital Campaign continues to build momentum as the school advances a long-envisioned project first planned in the 1980s. To date, the campaign has raised over $5.1+ million toward its goal, including a lead gift of $1 million. The campaign reflects strong participation across the entire school community, including 100% giving from faculty, staff, and the Board of Trustees, and gifts of all sizes have contributed to the campaign’s progress. Support has also come from students, whose efforts have included small personal fundraising projects such as lemonade stands, along with contributions from classroom and campus initiatives, including the Lower School SGA. On May 7, Tuscaloosa Academy broke ground on the Mayers Athletic Center, a 23,000-squarefoot facility designed by Ward Scott Morris. The center will include a gymnasium, locker rooms, training spaces, and offices, expanding TA’s ability to host athletic events and strengthening opportunities for student engagement and community connection. Completion is expected in Fall 2027. The Building Excellence Campaign reflects a shared investment in the future of Tuscaloosa Academy as this long-planned vision moves into construction. 16
The Ribbon Cutting of Mama Madge’s Playground After more than 25 years in the making, TA celebrated the ribbon-cutting of the new Lower School playground. In a surprise moment, the space was named Mama Madge’s Playground in honor of Mrs. Mary Madge Crawford and her lasting impact on generations of Lower School students.
Campus Enhancements Tuscaloosa Academy continued investing in campus improvements focused on student spaces, safety, athletics, and technology. Key projects included the installation of a new Lower School playground, renovations to Lower School bathrooms, upgraded LED lighting across campus, classroom updates, and continued painting and exterior improvements. The school also installed a new security camera system with approximately 75 cameras added throughout campus. Athletic facility enhancements included new LED lighting at Knights Stadium and the softball field, a new softball press box and concession stand and refinishing of the gym floor. Technology updates also continued with new computers and iPads being added for students and faculty.
The project was made possible through the support of generous annual fund donors, past senior classes, TAPA, faculty and staff, and the Board of Trustees.
Supporting Excellence Through the Annual Fund The Annual Fund plays a vital role in supporting TA beyond the operating budget, providing resources for campus enhancements, academic enrichment, student wellness, and overall excellence. This year, 214 generous donors contributed $237,727 to the Annual Fund. Grandparents represented a meaningful portion of support, with 43 contributors (21% of donors). In a continued show of commitment, the school community achieved 100 percent participation from faculty, staff, and the Board of Trustees.
TA hosted the largest Grandparents Day to date, welcoming over 360 guests.
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Senior Highlights Reflecting on the Senior Class of 2026 The Class of 2026 represents a graduating class defined by achievement, service, and continued excellence across academics, leadership, and extracurricular involvement.
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This year’s 44 seniors were accepted to 34 different post-secondary colleges and universities, earned more than $2.5 million in scholarship offers, received 12 AP Scholar distinctions, and completed more than 9,600 service hours throughout their Upper School experience. Among their accomplishments, three students were named National Merit Finalists, and four seniors will continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level.
A Global Next Step: Kat Taylor
National Merit Finalists Three members of the Class of 2026—Ozan Bish, Wellesley Matthews, and Audrey Price— were named National Merit Finalists in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Competition, one of the highest academic honors a high school student can achieve.
Ozan Bish
Wellesley Matthews
Audrey Price
Kat Taylor was selected for the highly competitive Global Launch Program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Through this program, she will begin her college experience studying abroad at the University of Limerick in Ireland this fall before continuing at UNC– Chapel Hill in the spring. As a lifelong traveler, the opportunity to begin her college journey abroad made the program an ideal fit for Kat. She credits her time at Tuscaloosa Academy with preparing her for this next chapter through meaningful extracurricular experiences and strong relationships with faculty and peers.
WE ARE
lifelong learners who strive for excellence in responsibility, service, and achievement. WE ARE
multi-talented, 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
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Where Passion Shapes Purpose
420 Rice Valley Road N, Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 • tuscaloosaacademy.org • 205.758.4462