Middle School Archives • St. Luke's School

Charles “Chip” Menton Named New Head of School at St. Luke’s

St. Luke's Episcopal School — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 18:34:20 +0000

St. Luke’s Episcopal School marks a meaningful transition as it celebrates the retirement of Head of School Mrs. Suzy Banks and announces the appointment of Charles “Chip” Menton as the next Head of School, effective July 1, 2026.

Mrs. Banks has been a devoted member of the St. Luke’s family since the 1980s, serving the school as a teacher, Dean of Academics, and, since 2022, as Head of School. Throughout her career, she led with wisdom, warmth, and a steadfast commitment to ensuring students were known, supported, and challenged. Her leadership strengthened the academic and spiritual foundation of the school and leaves a legacy that will be felt for generations.

Looking to the future, the Board of Trustees has selected Charles “Chip” Menton to lead St. Luke’s into its next chapter. In a letter from the Board of Trustees, chair Tara Lockett said:

“Mr. Menton currently serves as Upper School Director at St. Luke’s Episcopal School, a role he assumed in 2025. During his time in this position, he has earned the respect of students, faculty, and families through his visible presence on campus, collaborative leadership style, and unwavering focus on student growth. His ability to balance academic rigor with relationship-building has made him a trusted and effective leader within the St. Luke’s community.”

“Throughout the search process, Mr. Menton distinguished himself as a leader with a clear educational vision, deep integrity, and a strong alignment with the mission and values of St. Luke’s Episcopal School. He brings extensive experience in educational leadership, a thoughtful approach to decision-making, and a commitment to fostering a supportive and forward-thinking school culture.”

“From the beginning of this process, our goal was to identify a leader who reflects the values of our community and has the experience to move St. Luke’s forward,” said Tara W. Lockett, chair of the Board of Trustees. “It became clear through our conversations and interviews that Mr. Menton brings not only exceptional professional experience but also a presence that aligns beautifully with the spirit of our school.”

“As Head of School, Mr. Menton will focus on advancing St. Luke’s STEM+M program, supporting student growth, fostering strong partnerships within the school and broader community, and guiding responsible institutional growth. His leadership will emphasize collaboration, innovation, and a continued commitment to excellence—ensuring St. Luke’s remains a place where students are prepared to lead with confidence, character, and compassion.”

As St. Luke’s honors the remarkable legacy of Mrs. Banks, the school moves forward with purpose and optimism under the leadership of Mr. Menton, confident in a future defined by innovation, integrity, and opportunity.

To read more about Mr. Menton’s prior experience click here.

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Continuous Enrollment FAQ’s

St. Luke's Episcopal School — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 18:30:19 +0000

Continuous Enrollment FAQ's

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St. Luke’s 8th Grade Class Attends Technology Workshop in Disney

St. Luke's Episcopal School — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 14:09:32 +0000

The St. Luke’s 8th grade class recently travelled to Orlando and attended a Technology Workshop with Disney Imagination Campus Youth Education Series in Epcot that started in backstage Disney and learned about the different technologies used in the parks to enhance their storytelling.

Most of the technology that was discussed applies a principle St. Luke’s students learn about in Mrs. Perez’s 8th grade science class. Students then had the rest of the time to explore the World Showcase in Epcot and then a day in Magic Kingdom!

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John Wesley Holt Foundation to Host Third Annual 4JW 5K & Fun Run

St. Luke's Episcopal School — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 18:30:23 +0000

The third annual 4JW 5k & Fun Run will be hosted on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at St. Luke’s Episcopal School (Upper Campus).

The 5k will begin at 8 a.m. followed by the Fun Run at 9 a.m.

For more information on location, times, and registering click here.

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University Summer Reading, Textbooks, and Supplies 2025

Racheal Banks — Tue, 01 Jul 2025 01:49:43 +0000

Summer Reading, Textbooks, and Supplies.

PDF attachments for each grade level are listed below. Please check back frequently for updates and new additions.

All summer reading assignments are due on the first day of class. Students should come to school prepared to turn in their assignments and/or discuss their projects. Summer reading is mandatory for all students in grades 6-12, regardless of enrollment or contract date.

Lower School Summer Reading

Go to Japonica Summer Reading

Middle School Summer Reading

Upper School Summer Reading

Textbooks and Supplies

Middle School supplies

Middle School textbooks

Upper School textbooks

Back to School Guide

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2025 6th Grade Summer Reading

Arnold Tillman — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 18:02:33 +0000

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St. Luke’s National Junior Honor Society

Joseph Tiemann-Mena — Wed, 02 Apr 2025 14:25:00 +0000

Middle School Honors.

T
he National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) at St. Luke’s Episcopal School recently held its induction ceremony on March 11, 2025. Families, friends, and faculty filled the auditorium to celebrate the achievements of the newest inductees, recognizing their commitment to scholarship, service, leadership, character, and citizenship.

The event was not just a formality but a meaningful tradition that honored students for their dedication and encouraged them to continue striving for excellence. The ceremony kicked off with the current NJHS members processing in as music played, setting a formal yet celebratory tone. After everyone had settled, the attendees recited the Pledge of Allegiance and the school prayer, reinforcing the values that the school and NJHS hold dear.

One of the most significant moments was the candle-lighting ceremony, where five students each represented a key NJHS quality. Cammie Moore spoke about scholarship, emphasizing that true learning requires dedication and perseverance. Campbell Tillman discussed leadership, noting that real leaders are not just confident but also willing to make sacrifices for the greater good. Service, a core tenet of NJHS, was described as assisting others without expecting anything in return. Kylie Gibbs addressed character, explaining how integrity, reliability, and respect for others define a person’s true self. Finally, Lamar Smith II spoke about citizenship, highlighting the importance of contributing to one’s country and community in meaningful ways.

After the lighting of the candles, it was time for the official induction. Each new member was called up and presented with an NJHS pin by Head of School Mrs. Suzy Banks and Upper School Director Mr. Arnold Tillman. The pinning ceremony served as a symbolic moment, recognizing the students' achievements and their responsibility to uphold the values of NJHS. Mrs. Banks took a moment to reflect on the significance of these five qualities, reminding students that being part of NJHS is not just about academic success—it’s about leading by example and making a lasting impact. Her speech encouraged inductees to take their new role seriously, not just as an honor but as an opportunity to serve their school and beyond. A student-led prayer followed, closing out the formal portion of the ceremony and allowing attendees to reflect on the responsibilities that come with this distinction. Faculty members who played a role in organizing the event were thanked, and then the newly inducted students and their families moved to a reception to celebrate the milestone.

For many of the inductees, the event was a mix of emotions. Some expressed excitement about being recognized for their hard work, while others looked forward to the opportunities NJHS would provide. When asked about the qualities that helped them earn their place in the organization, responses varied. Many credited determination, strong study habits, and a willingness to help others as key factors in their selection. The common thread among all inductees was a commitment to the values the NJHS represents.

For students hoping to join NJHS in the future, the inductees offered practical advice. “Work hard and do your work,” said Tucker Rone. Matthew Cote echoed a similar sentiment, saying, “Work hard.” While their words were simple, they highlighted an essential truth—academic success and good character don’t happen by accident. They require effort, discipline, and a willingness to push through challenges.

While the ceremony itself was a formal event, it also served as a reminder of what NJHS is all about. It’s not just an academic achievement—it’s a commitment to being a better student, leader, and citizen. The newest members now carry the responsibility of upholding these values, serving as role models for their peers, and making a difference in their school and community. With their induction, they join a long tradition of students who have not only excelled in their studies but have also used their talents and character to make a lasting impact.

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SLES Grilling Champion, Cammie Moore

Shelby Stevens — Fri, 14 Mar 2025 19:08:36 +0000

One Wildcat Lights Up Competitive Grilling.

St. Luke’s has a very talented young student named Cammie Moore who is currently in the 8th grade. Not only is she a dedicated honor student, Student Council Vice President, National Junior Honor Society Vice President, but she is also a grilling champion. In addition to her culinary talents, Cammie enjoys playing soccer, volleyball, and track.

Cammie Moore began her hobby of grilling when she was in the fifth grade at just nine years old. She discovered her love for grilling after taking her first kid’s barbecue cooking class at Loblolly Farm in Semmes. It was during this class that she learned about the different cuts of meat as well as how to properly trim, tie, season and cook them. She found the experience both fun and inspiring, igniting a passion for grilling that has only grown over the years.

When asked what she loves most about competitive grilling, Cammie highlights the creative process of developing seasoning combinations for different meats, and testing out what flavors complement each other. She loves sampling her grilled creations and sharing her recipes with her mom. In addition to competing in grilling competitions, she has participated in local cook-offs, further expanding her culinary expertise.

Cammie has achieved remarkable success in her grilling ventures. Recently, she was one of 16 teams competing in The Grilled Cheese Meltdown in October of 2024. She placed 2nd in People’s Choice for her Dragonfly Dust Seasoning Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese and took 3rd place for her Blueberry Vanilla Goat Cheese and Bacon Grilled Cheese. Impressively, she was the only kid competing in the event. At the Gulf Coast Mac Down, Cammie secured 1st place for her Cheeto Mac N Cheese and 2nd place for her Veggie Mac featuring Cauliflower.

When it comes to her personal grilling preferences, Cammie’s favorite food to grill is pork chops. She finds them easy to cook and believes they have the best flavor when prepared with her special seasoning blend. However, she also enjoys grilling a delicious ribeye or New York strip steak.

The same seasoning combination could win 1st place in one competition and land in last place in another.
Cammie Moore

There is a significant difference between grilling for fun and competitive grilling. Casual grilling is relaxed and allows for personal preferences, whereas competitive grilling requires precise execution. Competitions are judged on various factors, including temperature, flavor, appearance, texture, and overall presentation. Additionally, competitions are timed, and cooks must anticipate what the judges will enjoy, not just their own preferences. For example, if a judge dislikes salt and a dish is heavily seasoned, it may result in a lower score—even if another judge would have loved it. Cammie acknowledges that the competition is fierce, but she thrives on both the challenge and the fun.

For those interested in competitive grilling, Cammie offers some valuable advice: “One ‘bad’ score doesn’t mean you’re a ‘bad’ griller. Every competition and every judge is different. The same seasoning combination could win 1st place in one competition and land in last place in another. It all comes down to personal preferences. The key is to keep your head high and keep trying.”

Cammie encourages young grillers to start wherever they are, emphasizing that practice is key. She began as a 9-year-old with no prior experience near a 600-degree grill. With dedication and practice, she quickly became an accomplished competitor. She firmly believes that anyone can improve with effort and determination.

Cammie’s hard work has already paid off in a big way. In her first Ancillary Contest for the Steak Cook-Off Association (SCA), she placed 2nd and won her Golden Ticket to the World Championships. She is proof that dedication and passion can lead to extraordinary achievements.

Cammie’s next big competition will take place on May 3, 2025, at the Mobile’s Best Burger Championship at Loblolly Farm in Semmes, AL. She is currently seeking sponsors, vendors, and competitors—including kids' cooks, food trucks, restaurants, and backyard BBQ enthusiasts. A portion of the sponsorships will support St. Luke’s Tuition Assistance Program, helping more students receive a quality education.

Follow Cammie on her grilling journey on Facebook and Instagram at Griller Girl Cammie and support her as she continues to shine in the culinary world!

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St. Luke’s Athletic Intern Program

Joseph Tiemann-Mena — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 14:42:08 +0000

Athletic Department Interns Lead Middle Schoolers.

The St. Luke's athletic intern program allows seniors to assist in coaching 6th-grade PE and foster a fun and structured environment. These interns help organize games, maintain discipline, and serve as role models for younger students. Their presence ensures students stay engaged while allowing them to explore leadership skills and potential careers in coaching or education.

More than just assistants, these seniors bring energy and enthusiasm that make PE enjoyable and meaningful for the 6th graders. Senior Ethan Watts plays a key role in the 6th-grade PE classes. He describes his job as “helping monitor the kids and [teaching] them games” while ensuring they have fun. For Ethan, this experience is a stepping stone toward a potential career. “I’ve thought about teaching and becoming a coach,” he explains.

The interns also introduce new activities and ensure games remain structured, keeping students excited for class. By stepping into a leadership role, Ethan and his fellow interns gain firsthand experience in working with younger students, giving them insight into the challenges and rewards of coaching and mentorship. Bryce Jordan, another intern, sees his role as bigger than just setting up games. “I try to help them grow into better people,” he says. Being an intern was a way for him to give back to the school. “I wanted a chance to help and volunteer with my school.” Bryce finds it rewarding to watch the 6th graders develop, form friendships, and gain confidence.

The bonds formed between the interns and students often extend beyond PE class, reinforcing a sense of community. Interns also develop patience, communication, and leadership skills that will serve them well in the future. The lessons they learn—how to manage a group, encourage teamwork, and make physical activity enjoyable—will benefit them whether they pursue coaching or any other leadership role later in life. For the 6th graders, the interns make PE more enjoyable. Prince Fields appreciates the leadership aspect of the program, saying, “I think that it’s really fun that the seniors have an opportunity to coach the younger kids during PE because they have more responsibility.”

The interns actively participate in games, help enforce fair play, and add excitement to the class. Mathias Valverde notes that they “help by preventing cheating and joining in on the games,” making PE more engaging. Their energy and enthusiasm encourage students to put in more effort and develop a genuine appreciation for physical activity. With the interns on the field, students feel more encouraged to take part in games and improve their skills, knowing they have older mentors cheering them on. Beyond simply assisting, the interns bring a contagious enthusiasm to PE. “They’re energetic, they can play with us… it’s just fun to be around them and play,” Jackson Reynolds shares. Their presence makes the class both structured and lively. Popular activities like dodgeball, trench ball, and indoor soccer become even more exciting with the seniors involved. Their participation helps bridge the gap between competition and fun, as younger students see the seniors as both authority figures and friends.

The presence of athletic interns also allows PE teachers to manage the class more effectively, as having additional leaders ensures every student remains engaged and involved. Through this program, the senior interns enhance PE for younger students while gaining valuable leadership experience. The interns contribute to an environment where 6th graders can develop teamwork, sportsmanship, and an appreciation for physical activity. Whether organizing games, ensuring fair play, or simply having fun with students, their impact is clear.

As these seniors prepare to graduate, they leave behind a legacy of mentorship and teamwork that has made a lasting impression on St. Luke’s. By balancing responsibility and fun, the athletic intern program benefits both the interns and the students they mentor, creating a dynamic and engaging experience for all involved.

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Grade Level Challenge

Madisen Gabel — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 20:37:43 +0000

2025 Grade Level Challenge.

This week Wilkes the Wildcat made a surprise visit to our students at the University and Japonica Campuses. He was there to take pictures for the Grade Level Challenge. The 2025 theme is Paws Together.

This annual event was created to be a fun way for the entire St. Luke's community to participate in giving to our school. Every grade at St. Luke’s will compete against each other in raising funds. The contribution size does not matter at all. The grade that raises the most money will have a special surprise and the teacher of the class will receive a gift card.

As if participating in such a great cause wasn’t incentive enough, there are also fun rewards for getting involved! The class with the highest participation rate will be recognized with a special prize. But perhaps the most important reward of all is the satisfaction of knowing that, by working together, we can achieve something great for the community.

If you cannot give, just post on social media and spread the word. By doing this you can get friends and family involved and can receive participation that way. The parents have helped the most with a total of ninety five percent of the donors being parents. The "Paws Together" Class Challenge reminds us that even the smallest actions, when combined, create a powerful impact. It’s about more than just donations—it's about fostering a spirit of collaboration, supporting our children, and encouraging kindness and generosity. Each effort, whether it's donating, spreading the word, or rallying your child’s class to get involved, makes a difference. We can only succeed by putting our paws together.

So thank you to all the parents, grandparents, and others who have donated. Let's put our paws together for a successful 2025 challenge! Whether you’re participating as a family or supporting your child’s class, you’re helping to build something amazing. Together, we can create positive change and make a lasting impact.

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