Core Notes

Dear TCS Families,

As we move into July, I want to take a moment to celebrate the progress and momentum we’ve seen across Tuscaloosa City Schools this summer—and to thank you for being an essential part of our shared success.

We’ve just wrapped up another impactful season of TCS Summer Learning, with nearly 1,800 students participating in hands-on, high-quality academic experiences. While this year’s program was smaller due to changes in funding, the results were no less meaningful. Across our K–12 programs, students built confidence in reading and math, stayed connected to learning, and had fun in the process. It’s a powerful reminder of what happens when a community invests in education year-round.

Even as summer continues, we are already hard at work preparing for the first day of school on Wednesday, August 7. From classroom updates to transportation planning to curriculum development, our team is focused on creating welcoming, safe, and productive environments for every student.

As we gear up for the 2025–26 school year, I also want to remind families about an important change: in accordance with state law, all TCS schools will implement a new policy banning student use of personal wireless devices—such as cell phones and smartwatches—during the instructional day. We know this is a shift, and we’re committed to helping students and families adjust with clear expectations and support.

To stay connected, I encourage all families to download the ParentSquare app. ParentSquare is our district’s new official communication platform and will be the primary way we share school updates, emergency alerts, classroom information, and messages from principals, teachers and coaches. It’s a simple and effective way to stay informed all year long.

Thank you for your continued support, and for choosing Tuscaloosa City Schools.

Mike Daria

TCS Superintendent

Tuscaloosa high schoolers now have greater access to free college coursework, thanks to a major expansion of the Elevate Dual Enrollment Scholarship.

Beginning fall 2025, eligible Tuscaloosa City Schools students can take up to nine dual enrollment courses through The University of Alabama’s Early College program at no cost. That’s equivalent to a full year of college, with tuition, fees and textbooks fully covered.

“We are committed to preparing students for life and career success,” said Superintendent Mike Daria. “This expansion removes financial barriers and opens more doors for students to get a head start on college.”

Previously, the Elevate Scholarship covered one course per semester—up to 12 total credit hours. Under the new plan, students can take one course per semester throughout their high school eligibility, up to nine courses.

The expansion is possible after UA reduced its dual enrollment tuition to $33 per credit hour.

“The Elevate Dual Enrollment scholarship expansion is a game changer for the Tuscaloosa community,” said Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox. “Not only is this an investment in our students, it’s an investment to our economy. By relieving financial barriers, we are able to position our future generations for career-oriented success. I’m so proud of the way Elevate continues to drive a significant and measurable impact to our community, and I'm thankful for our educational partners who make this important initiative possible.”

In the 2024–25 school year, TCS students completed 1,021 dual enrollment courses, earning nearly 2,900 credit hours through partnerships with UA, Shelton State Community College and Stillman College. While the expanded Elevate benefit applies only to UA, TCS students may continue to take dual enrollment classes at Shelton State during high school, plus earn 12 additional tuition-free credit hours there after graduation.

Funded through the City of Tuscaloosa’s Elevate initiative, the scholarship reflects the district’s broader commitment to access, equity and academic opportunity.

Beginning with the 2025–26 school year, Tuscaloosa City Schools will implement a new policy limiting student access to wireless communication devices during the school day. Here’s what families need to know:

Q: When can students use cell phones or smartwatches?
A: Device use is only allowed:

• For documented medical or learning needs in an IEP, 504 Plan or health plan

• When a teacher gives permission for classroom use

• During emergencies that directly threaten student safety

At all other times—including lunch, recess and class transitions—devices must be turned off and stored.

Q: Can students carry phones if they’re locked in a pouch?
A: Yes. In middle and high schools, devices may be carried in locked Yondr pouches or other TCS-approved storage. These methods comply with policy because students cannot access the device during the day. They will not be allowed in elementary schools.

Q: What if my student is in a post-secondary program, like dual enrollment?
A: Students must follow the host institution’s policy while offsite. Once on a TCS campus, TCS rules apply. If a student is completing dual enrollment coursework online inside a TCS building, staff will ensure access to needed resources.

Q: Are cell phones allowed on field trips?
A: That depends on the nature of the trip. Each school or teacher will decide in advance and inform students of expectations.

Q: How does this work for TCTA students or those who travel between campuses?
A: TCTA students follow the policy set by their home school. Students who drive between campuses may access devices while traveling but must store them upon arrival. Both schools will clearly communicate expectations.

Q: How do I contact my child during the school day?
A: Call your school’s main office. Staff will ensure that messages are delivered as needed. You can also email your child's TCS email account, if they access it during the day.

Q: What if my child experiences bullying and wants to document it?
A: All reports of bullying are taken seriously. Students should immediately inform a trusted adult or administrator. The focus is on student safety and support.

Q: How will families be notified in an emergency?
A: TCS will use automated calls, texts, emails, the district website, and social media to keep families informed.

Q: Does this policy apply to elementary students too?
A: Yes. Elementary students must store devices and follow the same policy, with age-appropriate reminders and guidance provided by staff.

Q: What counts as a “wireless communication device”?
A: Devices that can call, message, record, access the internet or play audio/video. This includes:

• Phones

• Smartwatches

• Tablets and laptops

• Headphones and Bluetooth devices

Q: What if my child’s phone is used for a medical condition?
A: The need must be documented in a formal plan (IEP, 504 or health). Use must be limited to the specific, approved purpose.

Q: Is TCS responsible for lost or damaged devices?
A: No. Devices brought to school are the student’s responsibility, even if stored in pouches or lockers.

For more information, visit the TCS website, TCS Wireless Device Policy - Tuscaloosa City School District or contact your child’s school directly.

Liz House, who served as administrative assistant to the Tuscaloosa City Schools Board of Education for nearly three decades, retired June 25. Her final board meeting was held the evening prior, on June 24, where she was recognized by board members for her years of service.

Board Chairman Eric Wilson praised House for her commitment and reliability during her tenure.

"Ms. House, you are just really a wonderful person, and you don't come across people who make a huge difference in your life that often, and you are for me," Wilson told House during the meeting. "You do everything, and you do it with your heart and with love, and you've been wonderful to every one of us. You've made a very difficult job much easier, and you've made it more fun, and this experience for me personally would not be near the level that it has been without you being here. You have truly made a difference in all of our lives, and the system as a whole, and you will be missed."

As part of the recognition, House was given flowers and given the honor of striking the gavel to adjourn the meeting—an act typically reserved for the board chair. Her departure marks the end of a significant chapter in the board’s history.

Tuscaloosa City Schools is looking to fill more than 40 positions ahead of the 2025–26 school year, with openings in teaching, transportation and child nutrition services.

To support hiring efforts, the district will host a job fair Wednesday, July 10, at the Tuscaloosa Career and Technology Academy from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.. Interested applicants will have the opportunity to meet with department leaders, learn more about open roles and begin the application process onsite.

TCS offers competitive pay—3.5% above the state salary schedule—as well as participation in the state retirement system, affordable health insurance and free dental coverage for all employees.

For bus drivers, starting pay is $23.80 per hour and includes paid training and air-conditioned buses.

Those unable to attend the job fair can visit the TCS Careers page to learn more and apply online: www.tuscaloosacityschools.com/careers

Tuscaloosa City Schools officially concluded its 2025 Summer Learning programs on June 27, marking the end of a successful month of academic support and enrichment for K–12 students. The district’s nationally recognized initiative focused on preventing the “summer slide” and strengthening reading and math skills for students in need of extra support.

This year, nearly 1,800 students participated in the program—exceeding early projections despite a significant scale-down from last year’s enrollment of more than 3,000 students. The reduction was due to the end of federal COVID relief funding, but the program remained robust thanks to federal 21st Century Community Learning Center grants, which funded most school sites. At select schools not eligible for the grant, a paid summer learning option was made available to families.

Dr. Andrew Maxey, TCS director of strategic initiatives, said the program continues to have a measurable impact on student growth.

“Even with fewer students this summer, we remained focused on high-quality instruction and engaging experiences,” Maxey said. “The results speak for themselves—students had fun, stayed connected to learning, and came away better prepared for the upcoming school year.”

Throughout the month, students engaged in hands-on projects and targeted instruction designed to build confidence and close academic gaps. The continued success of the program highlights Tuscaloosa’s commitment to ensuring all students are equipped for a strong start to the school year.

Congratulations to Northridge High’s Speech & Debate team for finishing 7th in the nation at the National Speech and Debate Tournament! A top 10 finish is no small feat—your dedication, countless hours of preparation, and passion for the craft truly paid off. We’re proud of every team member and Coach Trimm for this incredible accomplishment!

Tuscaloosa City Schools is transitioning to ParentSquare as our primary communication platform beginning with the 2025–26 school year. The app will streamline messages from schools and the district—keeping families better connected and informed.

Parents are encouraged to download the free ParentSquare app now to ensure they receive important updates, event notices and emergency alerts.

For more information, visit www.tuscaloosacityschools.com.

Congratulations to TCS Superintendent Dr. Mike Daria, who officially began his term this week as president of the School Superintendents of Alabama. His leadership and commitment to public education are now being recognized at the state level.

“I’m honored to serve in this role and to advocate for public schools across Alabama,” Daria said. “Our work as superintendents is rooted in the belief that every child deserves access to a high-quality education—and I look forward to working alongside colleagues across the state to continue moving that mission forward.”

Carissa Sterling has been named the new assistant principal of Eastwood Middle School for the 2025–26 school year. Sterling brings extensive experience and a strong commitment to fostering student success. She joins Eastwood with a focus on building strong relationships and supporting a school culture where every student, staff member and family feels valued. Please join us in welcoming Ms. Sterling to the Eastwood community.

Southview Elementary has been awarded a $199,584 Growing Academic Performance (GAP) Grant to support student achievement and instructional improvement. The funding will be used to expand learning resources, enhance technology in resource classrooms, and strengthen academic programs across the school. Congratulations to Southview on this important investment in student success.

Calling all TCS families! 📣

Registration for the 2025-26 school year is underway! Make sure to find your "infosnap" codes and complete your child's registration via PowerSchool. Secure your child’s spot early to ensure a seamless transition!

Register now and let the excitement for the new school year begin! 🍏✨

The Tuscaloosa City Schools will use a new app for parents to find out where their child's bus stop is, when the pickup is and even track where their bus is or if it's running late. The system will use the app “Stopfinder” which you will be able to see the bus assignment for your child with the bus number, bus stop and times.

This app will be available to use for the 2025-26 school year starting on July 1st. You can set alerts, share the information with a caregiver and message the Transportation Department directly from the app.

The transportation Department will be sending out more information and a tutorial video on how to use the app soon.

It is VITAL that all families that utilize school bus transportation download the app, as it will be the only way to get information if a bus number has changed or if a bus is running late. TCS will no longer send robocalls with that information. Thus, it is very important that families who use the school bus transportation have access to the Stopfinder app.

Also, beginning June 1st, you will receive an email with questions regarding transportation for your child(ren).

All students will be de-assigned from buses over the summer. You will need to complete the transportation request form in order to receive transportation for the 25-26 school year. If your address changes over the summer, you will need to complete a form at the school to verify your home address with the secretary.

Stay tuned for more information about Stopfinder!

BSN Sports has set up online "swag stores" for our schools where any student, faculty or parent can buy school branded gear. This was a desire that was expressed by students during the Superintendent's student advisory meetings at the high schools last school year.

The "swag" on these sites include a variety of price points, brands, and are in men's, women's and children's sizes, plus they have cups and other items as well. On the main page, they also have gear per sport.

There is also branded gear for the elementary and middle schools, too! To see the middle school and elementary options, on the desktop website, once you have clicked on the type of item to browse, you can go to the sidebar where it says "campus" and then select feeder school, where the items will pop up with other school names. Select the school that you want.

Each feeder zone will receive 10% back of all purchases in the form of a store credit/rebate that can be used for future branded purchases by the school(s). So, support your school and show school pride!

Northridge feeder zone store: NORTHRIDGE HIGH SCHOOL JAGUARS - TUSCALOOSA, Alabama - Sideline Store - BSN Sports

Central feeder zone store: CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL FALCONS - TUSCALOOSA, Alabama - Sideline Store - BSN Sports

Bryant feeder zone store: PAUL W BRYANT HIGH SCHOOL STAMPEDE - COTTONDALE, Alabama - Sideline Store - BSN Sports

It is important to remember that if you or your child see or hear something concerning, please report it to your school's principal. It can be the first step to saving a situation from becoming dangerous. Again, "See Something, Say Something!"