Core Notes

TCS Families,

As we approach the end of the 2024–25 school year, there is much to celebrate — from student achievements to the dedicated service of our retiring employees. I encourage you to read below to learn more, including details about an upcoming change to our cell phone policy for the next school year.

Student learning is always our top priority. While we are updating our cell phone policy to comply with pending statewide legislation, I believe this is a move in the right direction. Research consistently shows that turning off phones and other personal devices helps create a more focused, productive learning environment. Please be prepared for this change starting next school year.

On a personal note, I announced yesterday my plans to retire on June 30, 2026, after 30 years with Tuscaloosa City Schools. As a result, the Board voted to shorten my contract to reflect this timeline. I have deeply loved my career in TCS — from the classroom to district leadership. I’m especially proud of the academic progress our students have made and the collective efforts of our educators and families to keep our schools moving forward. While I would be happy to continue this work for many more years, I know the time is right to begin the next chapter. By announcing my retirement now, I hope to give the Board the time and space to conduct a thoughtful search for the next superintendent.

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

Mike Daria
Superintendent, Tuscaloosa City Schools

The Tuscaloosa City Board of Education is preparing to ban student cell phone use during the school day beginning in the 2025–26 school year, in order to comply with pending state legislation.

The policy, which aligns with the Alabama FOCUS Act (SB92), requires all wireless communication devices to be turned off and stored in a district-approved manner—such as in a locked pouch or vehicle—upon arrival on campus.

“Cell phones are a distraction in our schools,” said Superintendent Mike Daria. “While we are adopting this policy to comply with state law, we believe it’s a move in the right direction to provide a better learning environment for our students.”

TCS middle and high school students will use designated pouches to lock away phones and smartwatches that are turned off during the instructional day. Students will be able to unlock their pouches by swiping them against specialized unlocking magnets at designated parts of the building, including main exits. In elementary schools, phones and smartwatches will not be allowed at all, and must be turned off and put away in backpacks for the entirety of the day.

Limited exceptions will be made for documented medical needs, instructional use approved by staff, or emergencies.

Another change in policy to comply with the state bill means personal devices such as laptops will not be allowed. Personal laptops and tablets must be left at home. Instead, students will be expected to use their assigned TCS chromebooks.

Violations may result in confiscation, loss of privileges or other disciplinary action. Devices are also banned during all state-mandated testing. The district is not responsible for lost, stolen or damaged personal devices.

The Tuscaloosa City School board heard a first reading on the 2025-26 TCS Code of Conduct, which includes changes pertaining to the cell phone policy. It will vote on the changes to the code book on May 20. On Tuesday, the board also approved the purchase of the Yondr pouches to ensure they will arrive in time for the start of school in August. The pouches, at a cost of $163,000, will be paid for through funds set aside for technology, Daria said.

For more answers about the ban, check out our new Cell Phone Policy page on the TCS website: TCS Wireless Device Policy - Tuscaloosa City School District

TCS graduations are this Friday! All three high schools will have their graduation ceremonies at Coleman Coliseum on May 9, 2025:

• Paul W. Bryant High School will be at 3 p.m.
• Central High School at 5:30 p.m.
• Northridge High School at 8 p.m.

All three high schools will have early dismissal friday at noon due to graduation.

Please note that ONLY CLEAR BAGS will be allowed inside the facility. Parking at the Coliseum will be extremely limited due to construction and a baseball game that evening. For more information on graduation, including on where to park and what is allowed, click HERE.

The Tuscaloosa Board of Education voted unanimously Tuesday to reduce Superintendent Mike Daria's contract from 5 years to four, ending June 30, 2026. The change was made upon Daria's request in order to retire.

Daria, who has served as TCS Superintendent since 2016, will have spent 31 years in K-12 education, with three decades of it in the Tuscaloosa City Schools. During his tenure in TCS, he has served as an English teacher, assistant principal, principal, executive director of personnel, and assistant superintendent prior to his current role. In 2023, he was selected as the State Superintendent of the Year by the School Superintendents of Alabama.

“It has been the honor of my life to serve the students, educators, and families of Tuscaloosa City Schools over the past three decades," Daria said. "Every step of this journey has deepened my belief in the power of public education to change lives. While I could joyfully continue this work for another ten years, I believe now is the right time to step aside and make space for the next chapter — for me, for my family, and for this incredible school system."

Daria said that he is most proud of the academic progress that the system has made over the last decade, moving the school system closer to its goal of being an "A" school district. During this time, several schools have moved from a "D" to a "B" on the state report card, and won state and national awards.

"This progress reflects the unwavering commitment and hard work from our board of education, teachers, staff, students, and families," Daria said.

The Tuscaloosa City Schools has named Dr. Thomas E. Jones as the new principal of Central High School. The Tuscaloosa City Board of Education unanimously approved his appointment during its regularly scheduled meeting on May 6.

Jones brings more than 30 years of experience in public education, beginning his career as a paraprofessional in Courtland, Ala. He has served as a teacher, coach and administrator, including principal roles at R.A. Hubbard High School in Courtland, Lawrence County High School in Moulton and, most recently, Columbia High School in Huntsville, where he has served since 2022.

“I am excited, honored and humbled to join Tuscaloosa City Schools and become part of a district that is committed to excellence and equity,” Jones said. “I want to sincerely thank Dr. Mike Daria and the Tuscaloosa City Schools Board of Education for entrusting me with the opportunity to serve as principal of Central High School. I do not take this responsibility lightly, and I am eager to contribute to the ongoing success of this remarkable school community. It is a great day to be a Falcon.”

Jones said one of his top priorities is to learn and build relationships in the school community.

“One of my most important initial challenges is to immerse myself in the tradition, pride and culture that make Central unique,” he said. “I believe leadership begins with listening and learning, and I will work diligently to earn the trust of this community through authentic relationships and transparent action.”

He emphasized that the decision to relocate to Tuscaloosa was rooted in purpose and belief.

“This wasn’t just a career move — it was a heart decision,” he said. “When I learned more about the vision for CHS, the students and the potential that exists here, I felt a strong calling to be part of something bigger than myself. I believe in the power of education to change lives, and I saw in Central a place where that belief could be lived out daily, in partnership with a dedicated team and a resilient student body.”

Jones holds a doctorate in education from Samford University, an education specialist degree and a master’s in education from Alabama A&M University, and a bachelor’s degree in human resources from the University of Alabama in Huntsville. He is a member of the UAH Alumni Relations Board and was inducted into the university’s hall of fame. He is also a CLAS Certified Instructional Leader.

“As your principal, my goal is to listen, learn and lead with integrity and vision,” he said. “We will work together to establish a culture of high expectations, consistency and support — focused on improving student achievement, increasing daily attendance and strengthening relationships among staff, students and families.”

Superintendent Mike Daria praised Jones’ leadership background and focus on student success.

“Dr. Jones is a leader of deep integrity and experience, and comes with the highest recommendations from current Huntsville City Schools Superintendent Dr. Clarence Sutton, who was also an outstanding former principal at Central High School,” Daria said. “Dr. Jones is committed to building strong relationships and student-focused success, and we know he will help continue our progress and high expectations for all. We’re excited to welcome him to the TCS family.”

Jones will begin his role at Central High School in June in preparation for the 2025–26 school year.

It's Teacher Appreciation Week! Want to thank a teacher for their positive impact or share words of encouragement? Submit an online message! We will print them as Teacher Appreciation Cards and deliver them to teachers! Click here to submit: https://survey.k12insight.com/r/FfLTS2

District 4 board member Patrick Hamner served his last board meeting Tuesday night. First elected in 2017, Hamner decided not to run for re-election this year.

"Mr. Hamner, thank you, we are a better school system for your service," said Superintendent Mike Daria during the meeting. "Your ability to see where we are going and to understand the perspective of people is absolutely amazing. When I say that you have made us a better school system, it comes from your curiosity about the people we serve and asking us the questions we need to be asked as a school system. It makes us think deeper, it makes us think better. Even though we value your finance background, you also fill in the role of what educators need, what kids need. We are immensely grateful for your service."

Hamner will be replaced by the incoming District 4 representative Clint Mountain, a managing partner at Mountain and Mountain law firm after he is sworn in May 19.

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). You will need to ensure that your school has your correct email address updated in PowerSchool prior to June 1st.

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!

Central Elementary School was named a CLAS School of Distinction last week. The honor is part of the CLAS Banner School Award program, which identifies, recognizes and publicizes schools with outstanding educational programs to serve as a model in Alabama, according to the program.

"This is truly a great honor and a powerful reminder of the excellence happening at Central Elementary," said Central Elementary Principal Cynthia Huff.

For four decades, the Tuscaloosa City Schools has hosted its annual Special Olympics to celebrate the achievements of its students with special needs. On May 2, more than 420 TCS students participated in this year's events, with all students receiving ribbons, some in multiple events, said Bruce Prescott, director of special education. In addition to the special education students who competed, many of the schools had students volunteer to help their peers, culminating in a fun day to celebrate all students.

Watch the video below to see some of the highlights from this year's Special Olympics.

Last week, TCS celebrated a group of 34 talented and dedicated educators for their years of service and the lasting impact they’ve made on students’ lives. Superintendent Dr. Mike Daria highlighted the many ways this group has strengthened the school system and described them as truly irreplaceable. Watch this year's retirees from TCS be recognized in the video below.

Students at the Tuscaloosa Magnet Schools - Middle performed Lion King Junior last week and did an excellent job! Couldn't make the performance? Check it out on YouTube in its entirety by clicking below!

The Tuscaloosa Board of Education recognized Tuesday students who recently participated in the Battle of the Books competition.

As part of the competition, teams from Westlawn Middle School Eastwood Middle School Tuscaloosa Magnet Schools - Middle The Alberta School of Performing Arts and Northridge Middle School competed to see who could answer the most questions from "Lifeboat 12" by Susan Hood, "Simon Sort of Says" by Erin Bow, "The Tryout" by Christina Soontornvat, "Mexikid" by Pedro Martin, and "Minecraft: The Island" by Max Brooks. TCS librarians organize the run the event that allows students to improve their literacy skills, compete against others and make friends from different schools.

This year 66 students on 14 different teams competed in the pool and bracket play. Northridge Middle School Team 1, Tuscaloosa Magnet Schools-Middle Team 1 and Northride Middle School Team 3 where the top three finishers in the event.

Calling all TCS families! Registration for the 2025-26 school year has officially begun! 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.

Students from across the system recently participated in the 2024-2025 Spring Superintendent's #BeAmazing Writing Contest, where they were tasked with writing an essay aligned to the overall theme of what it means to be amazing. Each school submitted the top 1-3 essays at each grade level. A team of Central Support Team (CST) members reviewed submissions and selected the overall winners for the district.

The District Level winners were recognized by the Tuscaloosa City Board on Tuesday and received a certificate, medal, and book.

The K-12 district level winners for each grade level are:

Kindergarten: Charlee Johnson, Oakdale Elementary

1st Grade: Maeve Cassidy, Tuscaloosa Magnet Elementary

2nd Grade: Xavion RiversMartin Luther KIng, Jr. Elementary

3rd Grade: Keanu Norman, The Alberta School Performing Arts

4th Grade: Mason McBride, University Place Elementary

5th Grade: Thompson Davis, Rock Quarry Elementary

6th Grade: Allie Zheng, Tuscaloosa Magnet Middle

7th Grade: Emerald Zhang, Northridge Middle

8th Grade: Ki'Zariah Hinton, Eastwood Middle

9th Grade: Xavier Anderson, Central High School

10th Grade: Jimmy Steverson, Central High School

11th Grade: Mikiyah Crawford, Central High School

12th Grade: Laderrick Cotton, Central High School

TCS is shifting its communications to ParentSquare for the 2025-26 school year! What does that mean? Families will still communications via email, text or phone calls. However, rather than juggling between different applications like Remind, ClassDoJo, GroupMe or other apps for communcation from teachers, coaches and schools, all communication will be done in one app. Have kids at multiple schools? It will make things easier as communications from the district, school, teachers and coaches will be all found in one place.

Consider downloading the ParentSquare App now! We will go live with Parentsquare for communications on July 1.

DID YOU KNOW that TCS now has a new anonymous reporting system called "Say Something" from the Sandy Hook Promise? Reporting is easy, by click here: Say Something Anonymous Reporting - Tuscaloosa City School District

People can help save lives by reporting observed threats, behaviors, actions, and harassment. Here are examples of some of the most common behaviors and incidents to report:

• Acts of violence, with or without weapons
• Verbal or physical abuse, assault or harassment
• Sexual abuse, assault or harassment
• Threats seen on social media
• Bullying, fighting, harassment or intimidating behaviors
• Bragging about weapons or a planned attack
• Depression, anxiety or loss of self-control
• Hopelessness, excessive guilt or worthlessness
• Reckless behavior, theft and petty crimes
• Social isolation or withdrawal
• Substance or alcohol abuse
• Suicide threats, cutting or other self-harm
• Any other troubling situation or behavior

Neighborhood Bridges helps gather donations of items that are needed by our TCS students and schools. These items go directly to making a positive impact. Since TCS Neighborhood Bridges was launched in 2019, there have been 866 needs filled and 43,970 students have benefitted. Check out their current donation wish list today by clicking the link below!

Tuscaloosa City | Neighborhood Bridges

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