Upper School Archives • St. Luke's School

From St. Luke’s to Scientific Breakthroughs: 2023 Alumna Excels in Biomedical Research

St. Luke's Staff Writers — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 15:37:40 +0000

More Than An Alumna: Taylor Jackson.

I
n the heart of Mobile, Alabama, St. Luke's Episcopal School has long been recognized for its commitment to academic excellence and innovative programs. Among its distinguished offerings, the Biomedical Sciences Program stands out as a beacon for students aspiring to delve into the medical and scientific fields. A shining example of this program's success is Taylor Jackson, a 2023 alumna whose journey from St. Luke's to groundbreaking research epitomizes the program's impact.

Taylor's passion for biomedical sciences was ignited during her time at St. Luke's. The school's Biomedical Sciences program, established in 2010, is renowned for providing a pre-professional college preparatory curriculum that immerses students in various healthcare and biomedical engineering fields. From the outset, students engage in an in-depth study of healthcare systems, medical history, safety protocols, and medical terminology. The program's dynamic curriculum integrates real-world experiences and hands-on learning, facilitated by a cutting-edge skills and simulation lab. This lab features designated hospital, clinic, and triage simulation spaces, allowing students to practice clinical skills such as suturing, venipuncture, and spinal immobilization. The incorporation of advanced technologies like 3D virtual and augmented reality further enriches the learning experience, enabling students to visualize internal anatomical structures and devise innovative solutions to medical challenges.

During her senior year, Taylor participated in the program's capstone course, "Interventions in Biomedical Sciences." This course required her to complete a comprehensive research paper and deliver a presentation, experiences that honed her research abilities and public speaking skills. Additionally, she engaged in job shadowing opportunities, providing her with invaluable insights into various medical professions and helping to solidify her career aspirations.

After graduating from St. Luke's, Taylor pursued higher education as a pre-health major, where she continues to excel. After just her first year of undergraduate study, Taylor was selected to join a competitive summer research project at the University of South Alabama's Whiddon College of Medicine. Her dedication and the solid foundation built during her high school years culminated in her co-authorship of the research paper titled Design of Multiplexed Live-Cell Imaging Experiments Using Excitation Scan. This study focuses on advanced imaging techniques that allow for the simultaneous measurement of multiple signals within live cells, a critical advancement in understanding complex biological systems. The research introduces a multiplexed imaging strategy that enables live-cell target detection via sequential fluorescence imaging, providing a more comprehensive view of cellular dynamics.

Taylor's achievements underscore the effectiveness of St. Luke's Biomedical Sciences Program in preparing students for collegiate and professional success. The program's emphasis on experiential learning, coupled with access to state-of-the-art facilities and mentorship from experienced faculty, equips students with the skills and confidence needed to thrive in competitive scientific environments. Taylor herself credits the program for her preparedness, stating, "The Biomed program, real-world experiences, and hands-on learning truly prepared me for college and life. I have more confidence in my research abilities and public speaking, which is something that I didn’t know I would grasp from the program."

St. Luke's Episcopal School continues to foster an environment that changes the way students experience the world through STEM+M. The Biomedical Sciences Program remains a cornerstone of this vision, inspiring and preparing the next generation of medical professionals and researchers. Taylor's journey from a curious high school student to a published researcher exemplifies the program's success in cultivating talent and ambition.

For prospective students considering a future in the biomedical field, St. Luke's offers a unique and comprehensive program that blends rigorous academics with practical experiences. The school's commitment to innovation and excellence ensures that graduates are well-equipped to navigate the challenges of higher education and contribute meaningfully to the scientific community. Taylor's story is a testament to the transformative power of dedicated educators, a supportive learning environment, and a curriculum designed to inspire and challenge students.

As St. Luke's Episcopal School looks to the future, it remains dedicated to nurturing the intellectual and personal growth of its students. The success of alumni like Taylor serves as both a source of pride and a reminder of the profound impact that a robust educational foundation can have on an individual's trajectory. Through programs like Biomedical Sciences, St. Luke's continues to empower students to pursue their passions and make significant contributions to the world.

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Forensics Week 2025

Shelby Stevens — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 16:04:00 +0000

Coming Soon: Forensics Week 2025.

St. Luke’s Episcopal School is committed to providing students with engaging and innovative learning experiences through its STEM+M programs. Among its standout initiatives is the Biomedical Science Program, which offers students hands-on exposure to the fields of medicine, research, and forensic science. One of the most highly anticipated events in the program is Forensics Week, a dynamic and immersive opportunity for students to engage with real-world criminal investigations.

This year’s Forensics Week will take place from March 17-21, 2025 and will feature an exciting lineup of activities designed to give students first hand insight into criminal investigations. Throughout the week, local law enforcement officers, forensic experts, and criminal investigators present actual criminal cases, guiding biomed students through the forensic techniques used to solve them. Students analyze case files, learn about evidence collection methods, and explore investigative techniques, gaining a deeper understanding of the meticulous work behind solving crimes.

A highlight of the experience is the crime scene recreation, where students step into the role of forensic investigators. A staged crime scene may be set up on campus, allowing students to practice real-world forensic methods such as collecting and analyzing evidence, examining crime scene photographs and case files, reconstructing events using forensic principles, and applying deductive reasoning to solve the case. This hands-on activity allows them to examine staged evidence, connect the dots, and apply their newfound knowledge to reconstruct the case.

Beyond hands-on activities, students will also have the unique opportunity to study actual criminal cases, presented by law enforcement professionals who worked on them. Investigators will walk students through the steps they took to solve each case, detailing the role that forensic science played in uncovering key evidence. The week concludes with an in-depth case review, where the investigators who solved the original crime explain their methods and findings. A question-and-answer session follows, giving students the rare opportunity to engage directly with professionals in the field.

Because Forensics Week involves active participation from law enforcement and emergency services personnel, the school would like to reassure the community that their presence on campus is planned and part of the experience. Parents, students, and faculty should not be alarmed if they see police officers or emergency vehicles throughout the week. Every activity is conducted in a safe, controlled, and supervised environment, ensuring that students can engage in hands-on learning without any risk. So mark your calendars and stay tuned for more social media posts promoting this wonderful time.

Forensics Week is more than just an exciting event—it is a valuable educational experience that connects science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) with real-world applications. By integrating forensic science into the school’s broader STEM curriculum, St. Luke’s provides students with a deeper appreciation of how science and technology are used in fields such as law enforcement, criminal justice, and medicine.

Students interested in careers involving forensic science, criminology, biomedical research, or law enforcement can use Forensics Week as an opportunity to explore their passions. The program encourages curiosity, analytical thinking, and a deeper understanding of how forensic evidence plays a crucial role in modern investigations.

Forensics Week at St. Luke’s has become a defining feature of the Biomedical Science Program, offering students an unforgettable opportunity to engage with real professionals and experience the challenges of crime scene investigation. Each year, students walk away with valuable knowledge, hands-on experience, and inspiration for future careers in STEM-related fields.

With the 2025 event just around the corner, excitement is already building among students eager to participate in this thrilling and educational journey. As always, St. Luke’s remains committed to providing innovative learning experiences that challenge, inspire, and prepare students for the future.

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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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Dylan Driskell Accepted Into All-State Choir Festival

Joseph Tiemann-Mena — Tue, 18 Feb 2025 16:56:55 +0000

Dylan Driskell Headed to All-State Choir Competition.

Dylan Driskell, a freshman at St. Luke’s Episcopal School, has achieved a remarkable milestone by being accepted into the prestigious All-State Choir Festival. This honor reflects not only his exceptional musical talent but also the dedication and passion he has poured into music throughout his life. Dylan’s achievement is a source of immense pride for the St. Luke’s Wildcat community, showcasing the strength of the school’s music program and the talent it fosters. His story also serves as a reminder of the transformative power of music and its ability to connect and inspire individuals.

The All-State Choral Festival, organized by the Alabama Vocal Association, is a three-day event that brings together the best young vocalists from across the state. Participants are selected through a rigorous audition process, competing against students from all over Alabama. The event provides these talented singers with the opportunity to work with nationally recognized choral clinicians, helping them refine their craft and broaden their musical horizons. The festival culminates in a professionally recorded concert at the BJCC Concert Hall in Birmingham, where the students perform challenging choral literature of the highest quality.

For Dylan, attending the festival represents a chance to push himself musically while collaborating with other exceptional singers. Dylan’s journey in music began early. At just five years old, he attended a gospel camp where he learned to sing in four-part harmony. This formative experience sparked a lifelong love for music and vocal performance. “It was very influential that I learned how to sing and four-part harmony at such a young age,” Dylan shared, reflecting on the significance of that early exposure.

His passion for music only grew stronger over the years, nurtured by his family’s deep musical roots. His father, Mr. Daniel Driskell, who serves as the band director at St. Luke’s, has played a pivotal role in cultivating Dylan’s talent. “We use it all the time,” Mr. Driskell remarked, emphasizing how music and four-part harmony are integral to their family’s daily life.

Dylan’s acceptance into the All-State Choir Festival is a reflection of his talent and hard work, but it also signifies his aspirations for the future. While he enjoys the immediate thrill of participating in such a prestigious event, Dylan has his sights set on long-term goals. He hopes to continue his musical journey by taking a choir class in college and potentially performing with larger musical organizations. “It gives opportunities for choir people to push themselves,” Dylan said, highlighting the unique value of the festival. Mr. Driskell echoed this sentiment, noting that the festival not only gathers the best high school singers from across Alabama but also provides a platform to showcase their dedication and skill.

Dylan’s accomplishment is a source of inspiration for the entire Wildcat community. His peers and teachers are thrilled to celebrate his success, recognizing it as a testament to the dedication and support of St. Luke’s music program. The school’s commitment to nurturing students’ talents and providing them with opportunities to excel shines through in moments like these. Dylan’s story is a reminder of the importance of perseverance, passion, and the willingness to embrace new challenges—qualities that the St. Luke’s Wildcats take great pride in fostering.

As the festival approaches, excitement continues to build within the St. Luke’s community. Dylan’s participation not only showcases his personal dedication but also reflects the collective pride and support of his family, friends, and educators. His journey highlights the importance of music in shaping young minds and creating opportunities for growth and connection. Congratulations to Dylan Driskell on this incredible achievement—we can’t wait to see where his musical journey takes him next! With his talent and determination, the future is undoubtedly bright for this remarkable young Wildcat.

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Biomed: Beyond Healthcare

Connie Jackson — Mon, 17 Feb 2025 15:27:31 +0000

Exploring Opportunities Beyond Healthcare in Biomedical Sciences.

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ou don't have to be solely interested in healthcare to find value in St. Luke's Biomedical Sciences program. The field of biomedical sciences offers a wide array of career paths that extend beyond traditional healthcare roles.

Senior Biomed student Hallie Dickinson has a passion for healthcare law and found an enriching experience by shadowing Mr. McDonough, an Assistant District Attorney whose work intersects with healthcare law. Her unique opportunity gave her an in-depth look at the different types of courts and the array of cases handled by the District Attorney's office.

The DA's officea prosecutes medical fraud and abuse cases, including Medicare, Medicaid, and insurance fraud. They also handle cases of medical malpractice and negligence, as well as those involving drug abuse or the illegal distribution of controlled substances. Additionally, the office addresses violations related to HIPAA and privacy alongside issues concerning mental health. Mr. McDonough's role at the District Attorney's office exemplifies how legal professionals can impact the healthcare sector.

The job shadow took place at the Mobile County Courthouse. Upon arrival, Hallie was greeted by Mr. McDonough and Fiji, a facility service dog trained to comfort victims testifying in court. They explored the district court's behind-the-scenes areas and observed various cases, primarily traffic violations. Other cases involved a murder trial, a complex domestic violence charge, and an assault case, which led to a request for a mental evaluation. Hallie learned that only circuit judges, not district judges, can order such assessments. She then had the chance to observe proceedings in the circuit courts and meet Judge Vicki M. Davis, rounding out her insightful experience in the legal system and its daily operations.

We are proud that our Biomedical Sciences program can provide foundational knowledge to thrive in numerous fields. Whether students are interested in impacting healthcare through law, technology, or business, our program offers pathways and support to help them achieve their goals!

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Cherishing the Moments: 2025 Basketball Senior Night

Megan McDonough — Tue, 28 Jan 2025 23:51:43 +0000

2025 Basketball Senior Night.

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hat does it mean to play your last game on St. Luke’s home court? Well for me it was everything I have ever dreamed of.

Having attended St. Luke’s Episcopal School since kindergarten I have experienced a multitude of senior nights. But it wasn't until January 6th as the horn blew to end the last quarter that it hit me, how fast it all went by.

All my life I have participated in athletics and as I ended my last game on my home court, I realized just how important sports are to me. As they called my name to walk across the court, I looked around the gym at all my closest friends, I finally understood what it meant to be a part of the St. Luke’s family. In the bleachers, there were not just my classmates, but my closest friends, not just my teachers, but my greatest supporters, and on the court was not just my team, but my closest family.

Words cannot begin to describe the instant gratitude I felt for all the warm souls surrounding me and I would not be here without each and every one of them. I know it may seem like a sappy cliche, but the best advice I can give any underclassmen is to appreciate every moment truly. I know the practices full of running seem horrible, but I would give anything to go back and run it one more time. Just for another game with my team, another huddle with my family, and even getting chewed out by my coach one more time. The emotion St. Luke’s athletics has brought into my life is unmeasurable and I will be forever grateful.

St. Luke's athletics have shaped me into the person I have become today. Each sport is so different, but all of my coaches have taught me one thing. Athletics is bigger than a win or a loss, it's about how you conduct yourself through it. As I walked across the court for the last time, I was overcome with memories of my season.

This moment made me truly appreciate the type of coach that Coach Hill has been for me. She has taught me strength, gratitude, selflessness, and courage. Coach Hill has brought out the best in me and I know she has always seen it even when I didn’t. She has been there for me when I didn’t know I needed her and pushed me and my teammates to be the best versions of ourselves, not for our sake, but for our team. I will forever be grateful for the opportunity to play under such a passionate coach and I hope more people get to experience the way she changed my life.

Throughout my final sport at St. Luke, I found a deeper appreciation for my teammates. These girls and I have been to War together, from no-ball practices to learning a team cheer, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything. They are who I try for and who I play for, they have taught me passion outside of myself. That is the most precious life lesson to me, fight for someone else and not just for you. Specifically, the younger classmen are who I find the most love for. Although there are grades in between us, they have become my best friends on and off the court.

That's what St. Luke’s athletics have done for me, it has provided me with an ever-growing family. From the outside, our team may look like a regular, run-of-the-mill basketball team, but deep down these girls have become the most important people in my life. They orchestrated the most thoughtful senior night for me, from balloons to silly strings. They knew my favorite songs, candies, and bible verses. This ceremony was everything to me, but the appreciation I felt from my teammates was so much more. I know that this next step in life is going to be terrifying for me, but I have so much faith in these girls that I’m not scared. They are stronger than they think, braver than they believe, and smarter than they know.

So as I finish up this last season, I hope to see you all in the stands supporting us and the rest of St. Luke’s athletics. Try everything you can while you still have time, because it will be over in a blink of an eye. Find deeper appreciation for the moments you do have and don’t dwell on the moments you have lost. God has provided you with the most amazing opportunities, don't let them go to waste. Love your team, your classmates, your coaches, and your teachers because you will never find a closer bond anywhere else besides St. Luke’s.

Go Wildcats!

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Academic Insights: January 2025

Diane McCleery — Tue, 28 Jan 2025 16:49:02 +0000

Insight on STEM+M at St. Luke's.

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s St. Luke's continues to support its mission to prepare students for college and life, it is important to provide continuing education to parents, students, and the community on the ways that the school is accomplishing its goals. Each quarter, we will release an informative article on this progress. Issue 2 discusses the importance of STEM+M education at St. Luke's

What is the importance of STEM+M in education?

St. Luke’s Episcopal School takes seriously the responsibility to prepare our students for success in a workforce that, according to recent publications (the World Economic Forum'sFuture of Jobs and Dell Technologies Institute for the Future) it is estimated that 85% of the jobs that will exist in 2030 have not been invented yet.

At St. Luke’s Episcopal School, our vision is clear: To change the way students experience the world through STEM+M. In a region increasingly driven by healthcare and engineering, we are proud to be the first school in our area to fully integrate STEM+M (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math, and Medical) into every aspect of our K2-12th curriculum, activities, sports, and student life.

This comprehensive approach ensures that our students are prepared for college and equipped with the skills and mindset to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. Embedding STEM+M into their daily experiences fosters critical thinking, creativity, and a deep understanding of the fields shaping their future.

Together, we are shaping leaders who will navigate and innovate in a world where science and technology are the keys to opportunity and success.

How will our STEM+M focus benefit our students?

St. Luke’s Episcopal School offers distinctive programs that set our STEM+M education apart, notably our Biomedical Sciences Program and Project Lead The Way (PLTW) classes.

The job market outlook for students with a STEM+M foundation is highly promising, with STEM+M fields expected to grow by 10.4% from 2023 to 2033, far outpacing other sectors. Healthcare alone will add 1.6 million jobs, and engineering roles are set to rise by 13%. STEM+M education prepares students for high-demand, well-paying careers in these fields and equips those pursuing humanities or social science degrees with critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability skills. These competencies enhance creativity, critical analysis, and effective communication, equipping STEM+M and liberal arts majors with a competitive edge in a job market increasingly intertwined with technological advancements. At St. Luke’s Episcopal School, our comprehensive STEM+M approach ensures ALL students are ready to thrive in an evolving world.

What distinguishes St. Luke’s from other schools in terms of STEM+M education?

St. Luke’s Episcopal School offers distinctive programs that set us apart from our competitors. In addition to our strong offerings in language arts, community and historical instruction, foreign language, music, and performing arts, our commitment to providing a stellar STEM+M curriculum begins in PK2 and continues through 12th grade.

Our youngest students are introduced to STEM+M concepts in those classrooms through interactive play, stories, games, and table activities. Basic science, engineering, and math skills are presented in shapes, colors, patterns, blocks, stacking, magnetic tiles, and puzzles. Technology is used minimally in the classroom at this age. The medical component includes introducing personal hygiene through handwashing, covering coughs/sneezes, and the importance of good nutrition.

Our elementary and intermediate grades engage in a comprehensive STEM+M curriculum that includes coding, physics, computer programming, aeronautics, computer systems, and the properties of matter. Through hands-on activities and design challenges, such as coding robotic devices, designing games, and creating reaction-time programs, students develop critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a strong foundation in STEM+M concepts, preparing them for future academic and real-world success.

Middle school students delve into aerospace engineering, mobile app development, design and modeling, and take on the role of medical detectives. They tackle real-world challenges by designing flight models, creating apps to address societal issues, developing therapeutic toys for children with cerebral palsy, and tracing food-borne illnesses through a mock scenario, all of which foster problem-solving, creativity, and a deeper understanding of STEM+M's impact on the world.

Our high school curriculum offers a vibrant blend of traditional math and science courses, honors and AP options, and cutting-edge STEM+M classes to prepare students for diverse career paths. In addition to advanced subjects like calculus, biology, chemistry, and physics, students can delve into specialized areas such as Innovations in Biomedical Sciences, where they design and build medical devices like laparoscopic simulators, and Introduction to Engineering, where hands-on projects are designed to explore chemical, civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering. Other distinctive offerings include Culinary Medicine and Sports Medicine classes. Students engage in hands-on projects such as developing mobile apps, creating adaptive and assistive devices, and mastering biomedical skills like CPR, clinical assessments, and medical equipment use. Through Interventions in Biomedical Sciences, students conduct in-depth research and collaborate with mentors, culminating in a capstone presentation to a professional audience.

This comprehensive approach empowers students to apply their knowledge in meaningful ways, whether pursuing careers in healthcare, engineering, or other STEM+M fields. It is also beneficial for any profession that requires organizational skills and problem-solving, teamwork and collaboration, or the use of technology. In other words, this benefits ALL of our students for whatever journey they take after graduation from St. Luke’s Episcopal School.

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St. Luke’s Kicks Off Hi-Q Season

Arianna Ori — Tue, 21 Jan 2025 22:12:48 +0000

These Wildcats Have Hi-Q!

T
he 2025 Hi-Q season at St. Luke’s Episcopal School started excitingly, with the school’s Hi-Q team competing against two schools: Vigor High School and Cottage Hill Christian Academy. The match, held on January 16, was a display of knowledge, quick thinking, and teamwork, setting the stage for what promises to be an intense season of academic competition.

What is Hi-Q?

The Hi-Q program assembles some of the best and brightest young minds from area schools to compete against each other in a "quiz bowl" type format. Kids compete on questions involving history, science, literature, geography, and current events. It is a rapid-fire competition, with each correct response earning the team points to make for a game testing knowledge and thinking under pressure.

Who are the Wildcats on Hi-Q?

Senior Megan McDonough, Senior William McDonough, Junior Chloe Lambert, and Junior Rishi Gupta made up St. Luke's for round one. From the beginning, this team buzzed in first with answers that not only showed an incredibly deep collection of knowledge but also reflected great strategy in their gaming style. From start to finish, St. Luke's was on top of their game, showing major teamwork and playing to each member's strengths.

As the competition entered the second round, the lineup changed. We introduced Senior Gavin Leege, Senior Zane West, Junior Mac Boone, and Junior Calista Conway to the stage. The last set of questions added a twist to the competition because they were toss-up questions that were not handed to a specific team. Each team had to rely on both their academic knowledge and their ability to stay calm under pressure.

The Season Looks Promising

St. Luke’s rallied up a lot of points in round two; however, Cottage Hill ultimately pulled ahead with a lead of 7 points. In the end, St. Luke’s ended in second place with 28 points, while Cottage Hill had 35 and Vigor had 7.

Although St. Luke’s didn’t come away with the win in this opening match, the team’s performance was a testament to their hard work and dedication. Mrs. Haynes, the Hi-Q team sponsor, expressed pride in the team’s effort, noting how the new members had stepped up in essential moments. With the first match of the season behind them, St. Luke’s Hi-Q team is already looking ahead and preparing for their next competition. The experience against Vigor and Cottage Hill provided valuable lessons, and the team’s determination to improve and continue learning is stronger than ever.

As the season rolls on, there is no doubt that St. Luke's will continue to be one of the major contenders in the Hi-Q circuit! The St. Luke's Hi-Q team will proceed further with continuing to represent their school with pride and determination, facing new challenges and opponents during the remaining weeks. Most of all, this is just the start of the season, and better things are in store.

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Exploring the Cutting-Edge Biomed Program at St. Luke’s

Madisen Gabel — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 21:36:00 +0000

Biomed at St. Luke's.

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As someone who is passionate about pursuing a career in medicine, I want to share an inside look at the incredible Biomedical Sciences Program here at St. Luke’s Episcopal School. This program, which is spearheaded by the amazing Mrs. Diane McCleery, is a true gem for students interested in science, healthcare, and innovation. Mrs. McCleery, a registered nurse with an impressive track record, has worked tirelessly to secure grants and resources that make this program so impactful.

A Diverse and Dynamic Curriculum

The Biomedical Sciences Program is part of our broader STEM+M initiative—Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine. From day one, students dive into a variety of classes designed to expose us to different aspects of healthcare and science. Some highlights include:

Innovations in STEM+M and Biomed:

A class where creativity meets practical problem-solving in areas of biomedical engineering.

Biomed Fundamental I and II:

A progressive series that builds foundational knowledge in medicine.

Culinary Medicine:

Where food meets health science.

Sports Medicine:

Perfect for those interested in athletic health.

Interventions in Biomed:

A hands-on experience focusing on specialty skills like suturing, emergency response, and understanding hospital codes.

Senior Year Capstone: The Ultimate Challenge

Senior year in the Biomedical Program is where everything comes together. In our capstone course, we complete a 25-page research paper and deliver a 5–7 minute presentation. These aren’t just academic exercises—they’re real-world preparation. Each senior is paired with a mentor and completes at least four job shadowing experiences, although many of us go beyond the minimum.

The mentorship and job shadowing experiences are invaluable. They give us a chance to see what life in the medical field is really like and help us decide if this is the right path for us.

Trauma Week: Learning Under Pressure

One of the most exciting and intense parts of the program is Trauma Week, which takes place right after Thanksgiving. Each year, a realistic medical scenario kicks off the week, such as a pool drowning, a tib-fib fracture during a football game, or even a chemical bomb at a concert. Over the next few days, guest speakers guide us through the treatment process step-by-step. It’s an adrenaline-filled week that teaches us how to think and act under pressure.

Forensic Week: Crime Scene Investigation Meets Medicine

For those interested in the intersection of law and medicine, Forensic Week is a favorite. We learn from lawyers, deputies, and forensic experts while solving simulated crime scenes. Past scenarios have included car accidents, homicides, and courtroom trials. It’s fascinating to see how medical knowledge applies to the world of law enforcement.

Real-World Skills and College Prep

The Interventions class is another standout. It’s designed to mimic a college-level course, complete with weekly agendas, deadlines, and independent research projects. Students choose a medical specialty to focus on, create presentations and pamphlets, and even teach their peers how to perform a procedure related to their specialty.

To top it all off, we take field trips to places like the University of South Alabama’s biomedical library and participate in simulations such as Friday Night at the Emergency Room, where teams manage a hospital during a high-pressure 24-hour cycle.

A Testament to Leadership

None of this would be possible without Mrs. McCleery’s vision and dedication. She has created a program that prepares us not only for college but also for life in the medical field. As Avery, one of my classmates, said, “We’ve been waiting three years to get this far, and we’ve been prepared every step of the way.”

The Biomedical Sciences Program at St. Luke’s is more than just a collection of classes—it’s a launchpad for future medical professionals. As I prepare to take the next step in my academic journey, I know that the skills, experiences, and confidence I’ve gained here will stay with me forever. Thank you, Mrs. McCleery, for making it all possible!

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