A Rock & Roll Road Trip to Remember

by: Haley Hust, class of 2026

Haley (left) and classmates at the world-famous FAME music studios.

On an early and frigid morning, both current and past History of Rock and Roll students joined Dr. York and Mr. Harrison on a four-hour bus ride to Muscle Shoals, AL. What seems like a random small town is actually an epicenter of rock history. From the Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, and Aretha Franklin, to Demi Lovato, Chris Stapleton, and Alicia Keys, tons of artists recorded parts of their famous discographies in this town. There is a musical magic in Muscle Shoals, and we had to experience it firsthand. 

Our first stop on our tour of the historic Muscle Shoals was the iconic FAME Studios. Started in 1959 by Rick Hall, FAME Studios became a site of history. When we walked in, the smell of wood and coffee enveloped us. The building felt homey on such a cold day. 

Students pose with iconic photo of Duane Allman shaking hands with legendary producer and songwriter Rick Hall.

We entered Studio B in awe of how tall the walls were. Our tour guide explained how the room's acoustics worked. The walls were slightly slanted, the floor was carpeted, and slats lined the walls, all in an attempt to make the sound feel still. It was amazing to see the original pianos and microphones used by famous musicians years ago. 

We then ventured into Studio A, the original studio. The sound felt completely different in comparison to Studio B. It was livelier, and the paneling was distinct. Our tour guide played us music from various artists who had recorded right where we stood. It was a unique and fascinating experience to hear the music while visualizing where they were. We heard artists from the 70s all the way to this year. It was so intriguing. 

After buying some merch, we boarded the bus again and headed to the second studio, Muscle Shoals Sound Studio. Famous for their “Muscle Shoals Sound,” the studio's founders were known as the Swampers. The Swampers were a group of studio musicians who were renowned for their ability to create hit music. With collaborations with Paul Simon, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and the Rolling Stones, the Swampers created a significant name for themselves. Artists such as Bob Dylan, Bob Seger, Elton John, and Willie Nelson all traveled to or hired studio space to experience the town's classic, magical sound. 

Students enjoyed a tour of the space where “The Swampers” helped create some of the most beloved music to ever come out of Muscle Shoals.

Our tour guide offered up stories, songs, and facts about the studio, and when our tour was done, Dr. York had the opportunity to play on the historic piano where hits like “Free Bird” and “Kodachrome” were created. It was an amazing experience. Learning about Rolling Stone’s illegal recordings and Paul Simon’s perfectionism was fascinating. No one wanted to leave after our tour of the studio finished, but sadly, our hunger had gotten the best of us. 

We boarded the bus and headed to the Pie Factory, an outstanding pizzeria that had specialty dishes inspired by the artists who recorded in the local studios. Their calzones and pizzas were a hit with our group, and it was an outstanding way to end our trip.

For the last time, we boarded our bus and headed home. Our experience in Muscle Shoals was absolutely fantastic and filled with memories I will never forget. Listening to rock music, hanging out with the best teachers, and learning about local history is the best way to fill a day. I am so thankful for this opportunity, and this was a rock & road trip for the books. 

Saint James "“History of Rock & Roll” students with their teacher, Dr. Sallye York.

Quality Time with the Class of 2029

by: Abigail Huynh, class of 2026

In early August, the freshman class of ’29 had a blast on their annual retreat to Butter and Egg Adventures in Troy, Alabama. Although the weather proved to be a challenge at the beginning of the day, the freshman didn’t allow that to dampen their high spirits and utter excitement. The day started off with group based activities in which the students were divided into three different groups based on their advisory classes. Each station consisted of different team building activities and challenges. These survivor inspired series of obstacles were part of the outside course. The freshman got to participate in word puzzles, ring and bean bag toss, and the thrilling minefield challenge. The minefield challenge was very entertaining to watch, because the freshman struggled quite a bit at the start and really had to come together to solve the puzzle. The rules stated that only one person could be in a section at a time while the collective group held hands to make it to the other side. Many giggles were shared between the freshman, peer leaders, teachers, and our Butter and Egg guide as the freshman had to problem solve ways to navigate the string course in order to get across.

The next station was brain puzzles where the classmates joined hand and hand to be the quickest team to finish the puzzle. The games challenged the freshmen with their ability to be efficient while staying calm in the midst of chaos. Some games consisted of how fast a ball can travel around a circle of hands, touching all the bases as quickly as a group can, and card games.

Records were broken left and right as each group kept outdoing the one before. After wrapping up this station, yummy burgers and sides were being served in the dining hall. As everyone walked in the smell of delicious burgers, tater tots, chips, beans, and some fudgey brownies wafted in the air. Lunch was filled with smiling faces and tons of chitter chatter. As lunch was coming to an end the owners of Butter and Egg, surprised everyone with popsicles and cookies, just before we were ambushed by a giant rain storm. We were guided to the dome to take cover, but the guides made sure we had plenty of activities to do inside. We had cup stacking games, rock, paper, scissors relays, card games, Simon says, and grabbed the cone. The freshmen’s competitive spirits came out because they wanted to be victorious and the ultimate winner.

As time passed, the rain cleared and we were allowed to go outside and participate in the ziplines, canoes, ropes course, and paddleboating. Watching the freshman have fun on the zip lines was the highlight of my day. We were surrounded by yells of excitement and yelps of nerves, but overall it was a total hit with the freshman. Canoeing was also a fan favorite as people raced and got a water front view of people going on the zip lines. Two of our faculty members even took an unexpected dip in the lake! After about an hour and a half of constant outside activities we had to load the bus for departure.

This was also a productive time for the new Peer Leaders to spend quality time with their mentees, providing them with helpful advice and tactics for being a successful student at STJ. The students shared plenty of laughs and created memories that will stick with this grade for years to come. Thank you Butter and Egg Adventures for the fun trip, and see you next year with the class of 2030! #wearesaintjamesschool

Rewind to Elementary: Trick or Treat That Took Us Back to the Place We Began

By: Lucy Hwang, class of 2026

Me, Lucy Hwang, with my co-buddy MaryEllis Killough and our kindergarten buddy dressed up as Silver Mist and Rosetta from Tinkerbell. Our buddy even spray painted her hair! 

Every year, the seniors participate in trick-or-treating with their kindergarten buddy. This year, it was colder than usual, so we huddled together like penguins trying to stay warm while waiting for our buddies to arrive in the quad. It felt funny and a little surreal because Elsa, Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz, and the Addams Family were all hugging each other like a movie crossover. We had been talking about costumes for weeks, sharing ideas and guessing what everyone would wear, so it was extra fun to finally see them. 

We hyped each other up, traded compliments, and for a moment it felt like we were five again. 

Seniors Madison Jackson and Breyonna McKinnon with their kindergarten buddy dressed up as the Addams family.

When our buddies arrived, we set off to trick-or-treat starting from Furlong Hall, Science building, Humanities hall, the High School, and then the Middle School. Walking with our buddy through the places where we study and rush to class felt tender, like showing them a map of who we have become. Moving from high school to middle school and back to elementary felt like rewinding a tape, each doorway opening to an earlier version of us.

Back in elementary, we brought our buddies to their classrooms. The tiny desks, the cubbies, and the toys rattling on the floor brought up old memories. We remembered our own senior buddies and the steady hands that once guided us through crowded hallways. Watching our buddies slide into those little chairs brought a warm, protective feeling. For a moment, we felt like the adults in the room. 

After the candy run, we headed to the parking lot to grab our bags and change back into uniforms. Climbing into our cars felt surreal. A few minutes earlier we were holding tiny hands. Now we were unlocking the car, checking mirrors, and walking back to our classes. That jump from little desks to car keys made the day feel even more special. It reminded us how far we have come and how sweet it is to share that with the ones just starting out. It also made graduation feel a little closer, like the next doorway we will walk through, and for a second we wanted time to slow down so we could hold on to this feeling. #wearesaintjamesschool

From the Gridiron to the Marching Band: Meet John Ashton Dollar

John Ashton Dollar plays for the STJ Trojan Football Team and the STJ Marching Trojans.

When the Saint James Trojans head to halftime, most football players grab water and take a breather. Not junior lineman John Ashton Dollar. Wearing jersey #72, he swaps his helmet for a tuba and joins the marching band.

John Ashton has been playing tuba for four years and is a member of the Saint James Marching Trojans, jazz band, and concert band, under the direction of Mr. Andy Martin. When asked about his favorite part of band, his answer was easy: “The people. They’re my favorite people in the school. We’re like a band family.”

That sense of belonging carries over to the football field, where he plays offensive tackle. He’s been playing football since childhood and says the sport gives him a healthy physical outlet and a strong support system. “I am close with my teammates. There’s a lot of tough love, but they always have my back,” he said.

John Ashton has been playing tuba for four years.

Balancing two demanding activities hasn’t been easy, but John Ashton says the challenge is worth it. “It’s a mental challenge to make it all work, but I know the band needs me and the fans want to hear us play,” he said. “The band is so important to the energy of the team. The vibe changes when the band plays certain songs and hypes up the crowd.”

Encouraged by Coach Larry Ware to share his talents beyond the gridiron, John Ashton has become a true bridge between the football field and the band field; he’s a student who proudly represents both worlds. “I like being an advocate for both groups,” he said. “I hope more athletes will join the band too.”

A Trojan since Pre-K4, John Ashton plans to attend the U.S. Air Force Academy to study flight after graduation. Outside of football and band, he also enjoys playing guitar and trying out other instruments. Music is a big part of John Ashton’s life and he hopes to continue playing beyond high school.

John Ashton as a 3rd grade “Pee Wee” football player.

John Ashton’s story is one of balance, dedication, and heart. His example is a reminder that at Saint James, being a Trojan means giving your all, wherever your passions lead you. #wearesaintjamesschool

“The band is there no matter what the score is. The energy on the field reflects the energy in the stands and the band plays a big role in vibe on Friday nights”

— John Ashton Dollar, #72

On Air: Adam in Alabama

Recently, STJ English teacher and AP Coordinator, Mr. Adam Osborn, joined host Karli on the podcast Coordinated, which spotlights superstars and unsung heroes in education. In this episode, Karli kicks off the state-by-state series in Montgomery, Alabama, highlighting Mr. Osborn’s dedication to celebrating student success and keeping the AP program shining bright.

Since joining the Saint James faculty in 2021, Mr. Osborn has made a significant impact on students both in and out of the classroom. He teaches English and Public Speaking, and serves as the Saint James AP Coordinator, guiding students through the school’s robust Advanced Placement program.

Approximately half of Saint James high school students enroll in the school’s 21 offered AP courses, taking more than 220 AP exams in 2025 alone. Thanks to the rigorous curriculum and dedicated instruction, Saint James students consistently score above state and national averages. In 2025, the school celebrated a 92% pass rate—meaning the majority of students scored a 3 or higher on their exams. AP courses are offered starting in ninth grade, and students may take as many classes as they qualify for, with an exam required in each course.

Listeners can hear important updates, best practices, and inspiring stories from AP coordinators and educators around the world. Press play to hear how Mr. Osborn reminds fellow coordinators just how much their work matters, while celebrating the achievements of Saint James students along the way.

Mr. Osborn earned a BA in English (minor in History) from Tulane University, and attended the University of Chicago, MA Program in the Humanities (Middle English Literature).

“Over the summer, I attended the APAC conference in Boston. I attended AP Coordinator sessions all day on both days I got to ask questions and learn best practices, but also meet and converse with AP Coordinators from all over the country. That’s how I ended up getting asked to do the podcast; one of the organizers of the sessions for experienced AP Coordinators suggested me to the producers of the Coordinated podcast!”

— Adam Osborn

Ahoy from AP US History!

by: Heesoo Cho, Class of 2027

Ahoy matey! Welcome aboard!

On August 20, 2025, in the small APUSH classroom, a fierce battle took place between two pirate ships: the Frootloop and the Optimus Prime. But instead of ships, we had desks and, instead of pirates, we had 11 friends determined to defeat the other side. 

Like she does every year, Mrs. Hughes, for a fun, exciting day for a stress free environment, sets up a pirate day for all of us to enjoy. Though we didn’t board any actual ships, we experienced as much as the class participated in activities to protect their vessels . 

The Frootloops were victorious.

We pushed our desks together and formed two crews: the Frootloops and the Optimus Primes. There were many quests we had to complete in order to keep our ship afloat, starting with finding our way across the ocean. Using the two provided atlases, each crew was able to navigate across the world, locating destinations from the lists we were provided. We then created our own rules for the crew on board as well as punishments, solved a math problem to split the gold equally, and wrote thesis statements on why people chose to become pirates. 

Though both ships succeeded in completing these tasks, I’m happy to say, as a member of the Frootloops, we were victorious in our battle and were awarded with well-deserved chocolate and candy. What a fun day!

Alabama Girls Sate: How to be an Active and Patriotic Woman of this Country

by: MaryEllis Killough, class of 2026

MaryEllis campaigned and was elected Girls State Speaker of the House.

This spring, I was asked countless times if I was excited to go to Alabama Girls State. To be completely honest, I had no idea what I was getting into. All I knew was that every school sent one girl to participate in a week-long program, where we would participate in mock legislative sessions and listen to speakers. Little did I know, it was so much more influential and exciting than some mock debate and boring lectures. I was about to embark on a week full of amazing opportunities, surrounded by some of Alabama’s brightest minds. The lessons and connections I was about to make would last a lifetime and teach me more about myself.

MaryEllis with Saint James alumnae and U.S. District Judge Anna Manasco ’98.

The whole week was orchestrated by the American Legion Auxiliary and hosted at the University of Alabama. Depending on the floor and area you were dorming at the Tutwiler dormitory, you were placed into a fictional Alabama city and county. I was a part of the city Wiregrass in Jordan county (3rd floor). We were further divided into separate political parties, Federalists and Nationalists, that organized their own platforms and elected primary candidates. Then, we were divided among the two congressional chambers, where I presided, to debate bills.

MaryEllis (right), pictured with past STJ Girls State delegate, Anna Dickey ‘23.

Everyday, we experienced different aspects of our duties as a citizen of Alabama and America. From literal experiences, like plurality voting and parliamentary process, to the less concrete, like voicing your opinions and understanding the freedom of this country, we learned what it meant to be an active and patriotic woman of this country.

We heard from an array of powerful voices from all sides of society, like Senator Britt, State Treasurer Boozer, Governor Kay Ivey, and many more. My favorite was a former North Korean citizen and popular internet personality, Yeonmi Park. She, as well as many of the other speakers, detailed the events that lead them to this very moment. All of them expressed how deeply important our democracy is and how we are the future leaders of that very system.

All in all, the experience was amazing. I have never felt more confidence in my and I am eternally grateful to Saint James for sending me. #Wearesaintjamesschool

MaryEllis appeared on CBS 42 News

88th Annual Alabama Boys State

by: Luke Catchings, class of 2026

Saint James School Boys State Delegate- Luke Catchings

Earlier this month, I had the incredible opportunity to attend the 88th Annual Alabama Boys State, held at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa. Hosted by the American Legion, Boys State brings together over 500 high school students from across the state to learn about leadership, government, and civic responsibility through a week of immersive, hands-on experiences in a simulated state government. I arrived not knowing exactly what to expect, but I left having grown in ways I never imagined.

When we arrived, we were divided into cities (about 50 students), counties (100–150), and political parties (around 250). I was lucky enough to be placed in Cook City 10-aka, the best city. This group became like a second family, as we spent the most time together throughout the week. I was also placed in Lincoln County, made up of Cities 9 and 10, and was part of the Nationalist Party.

Luke with fellow Boys State delegates.

The first few days were focused on elections for city, county, and state government positions. This meant jumping into introductions, campaign speeches, and leadership pitches, often in front of hundreds of people. I was honored to be elected Vice Chairman of my political party, a role that allowed me to collaborate with fellow party leaders to shape our platform, organize meetings, and rally support for our candidates. I was also elected Circuit Clerk for my county, a position that may fly under the radar, but plays a big role in the legal system by keeping court records and proceedings in order.

In the second half of the week, we transitioned from elections to legislation. Each county was given a mock budget and two real-world problems to solve. With only four hours, we had to research, develop practical solutions, coordinate with our city and state governments, and create a presentation outlining our proposals. It was fast-paced, collaborative, and one of the most valuable team experiences I’ve ever had. We also had the chance to take a trip to Montgomery, where we toured the State Capitol and visited the National Memorial for Peace and Justice, which was an incredibly moving and humbling experience. As part of the Engineering interest group, I also visited Montgomery Whitewater, where we met local engineers and learned about the design and function behind the scenes. That visit was fascinating and gave me new insight into how engineering shapes public spaces.

While I’m proud of the positions I held and the work we did, the most impactful part of Boys State was the people. I met students from all over Alabama. Whether we were debating policy, sharing ideas, or just hanging out between sessions, we built friendships I know will last far beyond the week.

“The energy and drive of everyone there was contagious, and it pushed me to become a stronger leader, listener, and teammate.”

I’m incredibly thankful to God, my school, my parents, and the American Legion for giving me this life-changing opportunity. And to everyone I met along the way…thank you for making this experience so memorable. #wearesaintjamesschool

The 88th Annual Boys State

Case Closed: STJ Pre-Law Students Explore the Legal World

We met Buckets, the Jones School of Law unofficial mascot.

by: Maddie Nguyen, sophomore

Nestled in the unpretentious streets of Atlanta Highway is Jones School of Law at Faulkner University. Stepping onto the campus of Jones, we were transported to a world of prestige. Mr. Daryl Bailey, the Director of Admissions, warmly greeted our class and introduced us to the President of the school, Mr. Mitch Henry, and the Dean of the School of Law, Mr. Charles Campbell. They were all gracious enough to take the time out of their busy schedules to speak to us and to share their passion for the law. Their informative and personable conversation illustrated the strong network of support and community at Jones. The environment that Jones creates in teacher-student relationships is incredible and definitely plays a big role in why the students of Jones School of Law are so successful. We got to see this first hand sitting in one of the school’s criminal law classes. The professor’s legal jargon was incomprehensible at times to us as Pre-Law students, but we understood that his relationships with the students fostered an environment that valued everyone’s growth. The students were comfortable with sharing their thoughts and questions, which overall stimulated a conducive learning environment. Montgomery has an exceptional law school right in its backyard. Ranked the fastest growing law school in the nation, Jones School of Law creates an environment that encourages students to excel in their fields of study. I highly consider looking into Jones School of Law for anyone pursuing a legal career. 

Spanish on the Menu!

by: Chloe Taylor, class of 2026

Spanish 3 and 4 students with our teacher, Sra. Grate

Authentic street style tacos

¡Hola! As a celebration of the school year coming to a close, Spanish 3 and 4 visited La Coronilla. La Coronilla is a Mexican restaurant that serves authentic Mexican cuisine, and with its colorful banners and unique decorations, makes you feel like you’ve stepped into Mexico! With the menu being entirely in Spanish, it gave us the opportunity to practice our Spanish-speaking skills. Along with beef and chicken street tacos, enchiladas, and tamales, they offer lengua (tongue) and gripe! We were brave enough to try the gripe tacos, and they weren’t half bad! We enjoyed practicing our Spanish trying interesting Mexican dishes, and spending time together before the summer!

#wearesaintjamesschool