St. Luke's School

Paw Prints 2025-03-21

Connie Jackson — Fri, 21 Mar 2025 13:09:40 +0000

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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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Paw Prints 2025-03-14

Connie Jackson — Fri, 14 Mar 2025 01:51:14 +0000

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2025-26 Cheer

St. Luke's Staff Writers — Fri, 14 Mar 2025 01:35:01 +0000

2025-2026 Cheer.

Congratulations to the 2025-2026 St. Luke's Wildcat Cheerleaders.

Varsity

Maddie Banks, Captain
Caroline Hooper, Co-Captain
Catelynn Gill, Co-Captain
Addison Yeargan
Allie Courson
Blakeleigh Ware
Chloe Lambert
Elva Johnson
Evelyn Cummings
Hannah Eblen
Jenna Simpson
Lauren Leege
Mary Katherine Brasel
Reese Browning
Vivian-Blaire Parish

Junior Varsity

Avery Weed
Emily Smiley
Grace Carlisle
Hannah Kooienga
Isabelle Palmer
Josie Moses
Kat Edmondson
Lexie Romano
Maci VanCleave
Trinity Eziefula
Victoria Tharp
Whitney Sears
Zoey Driskell

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Mardi Gras at Japonica

Madisen Gabel — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 16:31:17 +0000

Magical Mardi Gras.

E
ach year, St. Luke's Japonica Campus hosts a one-of-a-kind Mardi Gras parade for K2-K5 students, right after the Grandparents Day program. It’s a tradition that brings together students, families, and the entire school community for a colorful and exciting celebration. This year’s parade, following the “School House Rock” themed Grandparents Day, was no exception. The students’ enthusiasm, creativity, and school spirit shone brightly as they marched through the campus, making lasting memories along the way.

A Parade of Fun and Creativity

The Mardi Gras parade is a unique experience where each grade level brings its own flair and creativity to the event.

K2 Students kicked off the festivities dressed in Mardi Gras-themed T-shirts and proudly carried shakers they made in class. These little ones were full of energy, their handmade instruments adding to the parade’s lively vibe.

K3 and K4 Students added a splash of color with homemade Mardi Gras decorations. They wore festive outfits with feathers, beads, and glitter, playing various instruments and waving noise makers to keep the energy high. Their excitement and creativity were infectious, helping set the tone for the rest of the parade.

K5 Students took the parade to the next level by creating their own Mardi Gras floats, each one based on a personal theme, from dinosaurs and football to Barbie and stuffed animals. The creativity behind each shoebox-sized float was impressive! To top it off, the varsity cheerleaders escorted the K5 students and their floats, showcasing both their school spirit and the hard work the students put into their creations.

A Community Celebration

One of the best parts of the Mardi Gras parade is how it brings everyone together. Parents, grandparents, and siblings join in the fun, marching alongside the students or cheering them on from the sidelines. It’s a chance to celebrate not only Mardi Gras but also the sense of community that makes our school so special. The support from families and the collective pride in the students’ efforts make the event even more memorable.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss It Next Year

If you’ve never experienced St. Luke's Mardi Gras parade, you’re missing out! It’s an event full of joy, creativity, and school spirit. Whether you’re participating in the parade or watching from the crowd, there’s something magical about seeing the students’ hard work come to life in such a colorful and lively way. The mix of music, homemade creations, and family participation makes it an event that’s not just for the students, but for the whole school community.

Next year, we invite you to join us for another unforgettable Mardi Gras celebration. Mark your calendars, gather your family, and get ready for an event that’s sure to be bigger, better, and more festive than ever before. It’s a tradition we look forward to every year, and we can’t wait to share the excitement with you!

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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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Paw Prints 2025-02-28

Connie Jackson — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 02:59:52 +0000

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2025 Camp Wildcat Registration

St. Luke's Staff Writers — Thu, 27 Feb 2025 20:46:31 +0000

Camp Wildcat registration now open to Japonica Campus students registered for the 2025-26 academic year.

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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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