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Connecting Creativity to the Creator: ECCS Drama Program

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 13:35:47 GMT

Participating in drama encourages creativity and celebrates the arts

April 29, 2026

The pursuit of the arts is an important one at ECCS for many reasons, and our Drama Program is a vital part of encouraging and exploring creativity. Since God is creative and we are made in His image, when we pursue something that is good, beautiful and true, we are connecting to our Creator in a very special way, says Mrs. Sandi Luna, one of our drama teachers.

While the plays presented are not specifically Christian or classical, they are carefully chosen for good writing and valuable lessons. “The amazing thing about theatre is that God places Himself within good plays, even if the playwright didn’t necessarily intend for Him to be there. A well-told and well-acted story can definitely point an audience to Christ,” says Mrs. Luna.

Mrs. Luna started acting when she was in kindergarten and never stopped. While her love of drama and theatre sent her to many places, it was becoming a part of the ECCS faculty that helped her realize that she also had a calling for teaching. Her time teaching at ECCS started with co-curricular drama three years ago, and although she had never taught drama to kids, she says she loved it and realized that teaching and directing are very similar. It’s so important at ECCS, because she says you cannot have classical education without the arts.

“Drama is one of the classical arts; its birthplace is Ancient Greece so it perfectly aligns with all things classical. Since classical education seeks to make a student well-rounded in all things, we must learn to see that the arts are a vital part of that pursuit,” she says. “Humans are much more than the sum total of skills, insights, and facts that they acquire. They are also feeling and relational creatures and it's in music, the visual and dramatic arts that we explore that side of what it means to be human.”

The benefits of participating in drama for students are numerous, she says: improved public speaking, being more comfortable onstage, learning to understand how plays work, an appreciation for good storytelling, the ability to watch a play or movie and evaluate it, and gaining a deeper connection to their own thoughts and feelings.

“I could go on and on,” she adds. “But my very favorite thing is the sense of teamwork that inevitably develops and the concept of an ensemble. This is the idea that there are no stars, but a group of actors of equal importance working together to tell a story. If one actor were not a part of the group, the ensemble would suffer.”

Our Grammar Drama Program, led by Mrs. Amanda Wortham, presented their play, Charlotte’s Web in February, and in March, the Intermediate Drama class presented the Sophomore Showcase, which included a variety of Shakespearean scenes and monologues. “The class put it together from beginning to end, learning about acting techniques, script analysis, and staging,” says Mrs. Luna. “The result was an excellent performance where the personalities of the students really shone.”

The Introductory Drama Class recently presented their play, Oz directed by Dr. Wendy Kautz, and the Advanced Drama Ensemble, made up of juniors and seniors, also recently performed William Shakespeare’s Hamlet .

There are still opportunities to see the ECCS Drama Program in action. Logic Drama (6th, 7th and 8th grade students) will perform Alice @ Wonderland by Jonathan Yukich on May 1 and 2 at 7:00 pm in the gym. Mrs. Luna says the play is a modern interpretation of Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland . “Modern Alice is, like most teenagers, very attached to her phone and social media but when she falls down the rabbit hole, Alice learns that imagination is better than the online world.”

We are so thankful for Mrs. Luna, Dr. Kautz, and Mrs. Wortham for the time, effort, and passion they pour into our drama program!

Speech Meet Event Introduced for Grammar School in 2026

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 15:54:39 GMT

“A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.” (Proverbs 25:11)

April 21, 2026

The art of oratory skill has been an important part of ECCS for many years, so when 4th grade teacher, Mrs. Victoria Chandler, introduced the idea of Speech Meet, it was a natural progression. The event for 2nd through 5th graders is focused around speaking confidently and winsomely in public with the goal of blessing others.

While it’s not something we’re familiar with in the south, Mrs. Chandler says that Speech Meet is common among classical schools, especially west of the Mississippi.

“I think it fits beautifully with our school mission,” Mrs. Chandler adds. “Our faith as Christians is based on the Word, Jesus Christ. The Word is creative and life-giving. Our goal at ECCS is to train our students as image-bearers to speak winsomely and convey truth in a manner that lovingly persuades and blesses, ultimately leading others into a transformative relationship with Jesus Christ.”

Speech Meet is meant to teach our students that all communication is a gift to bless others. As they learn how to speak with clarity, poise, and meaningful expression, they learn that their words are gifts for the sake of the listener, not for themselves.

“If we can give them these tools in their toolbox during the Grammar years, by the time they get to the Logic phase, and they start wielding thoughts and asking ‘why,’ they will be able to articulate well to other people,” says Mrs. Chandler. “It’s so much more than public speaking. Everything we do here is with purpose, and it is to shape these children so they aren’t just virtuous scholars, but virtuous scholars that will go out and spread the love of Christ to the world. Teaching them how to speak well is one piece of the puzzle.”

A few months before Speech Meet, students chose what they would recite from a wide selection of Bible passages, poems, speeches, and literary prose that exposed them to language that is beautiful, delightful, and wise. The selections were curated to align with the different historical, Biblical, and literary focus in each particular grade.

Mrs. Chandler says it was definitely a “grand experiment,” but with a foundation for speech already in place, the teachers were able to hit the ground running, creating S.P.E.A.K skills, coupled with seven different training methods they taught over the six weeks leading up to Speech Meet. The students were well prepared in class for their presentations in February.

“I was SO proud of the performances! To watch the children walk up to the microphone, introduce themselves, and give their recitations so beautifully, ending with a crisp, ‘Thank you,’ was a sight to behold. They were given the opportunity to work toward a goal and watch themselves succeed – a wonderful way to build confidence!” says Mrs. Chandler.

All students recited their selections for classmates and teachers on an initial date, and they did receive a rating based on various criteria. The two students with the highest score then went on to present at the Speech Meet Showcase a few weeks later, when parents and family members were invited to attend.

“Parents and even grandparents have expressed that their children and grandchildren are being taught how to speak well.,” says Mrs. Chandler. “Teaching children at an early age how to speak in a public setting builds them into articulate and confident young men and women who are equipped to love their neighbor well through speech.”

Mrs. Chandler says she and other teachers are already thinking about next year and how to improve on the foundation that’s been laid this year. Her hope is that one day Speech Meet will be common among classical schools in our area.

What’s In a Name: The Meaning of Protocol & Why It’s Different

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 13:28:31 GMT

Logic & Rhetoric students attend Protocol every spring

April 8, 2026

No part of Creation is neutral and meaningless, and this includes how we dress, the music we listen to, and how we spend our time. ECCS Protocol was created and crafted with intention and care, making it an event that stands apart from other more typical school dances or proms.

The word “Protocol” is used at military academies to describe a formal dance, explains Thomas Caucutt, our Dean of Classics and Latin Department Head. “It was decided to call ours Protocol because we wanted to give it a name different from ‘prom.’ We wanted to set some distance between ourselves and the cultural stereotype of prom.”

It is different in many ways, especially in that it’s meant to be a social occasion first and foremost, not a romantic one. “There's an emphasis on showing courtesy to others in the way we dine, dance, practice good manners, conversation, etc. It was also designed to train young men and women to be just that - grown up! So although we want to have fun, there's not the same lowest-common-denominator standard of dance, music, and clothing,” says Mr. Caucutt.

The reality is that there are cultural pressures that have to be resisted since Christians recognize the holiness of the human body in a way our culture doesn't. “Certain musical choices will be more in harmony with God's design and others less so,” he adds. “Of course the kids are like fish swimming in the not-too-pristine waters of our secular culture, so they can't always see what's wrong with some music, dance or clothing choices. But we tried to put something lovely and attractive in front of them, something that agrees with God's harmonious design and not the awkward and ugly parts of our culture marred by sin.”

Mrs. Lesia Holcombe, our Director of Logic & Rhetoric (L&R) Operations, originally became involved with the first Protocol in 2010 as a volunteer. In 2014, she organized the event for the first time, and that was also the first year it was held at the American Village where it continues to take place.

It is an event that truly brings students, teachers, and staff together. Mrs. Holcombe explains that seniors choose the theme and submit ideas for decorating and food. They also present a program leaving "responsibilities" or items to the juniors, and the juniors present a program honoring the seniors. Mr. and Miss ECCS are announced on the night of Protocol as well.

“Teachers and staff come together that night to serve our students a three course meal. They dress in black and wear white aprons. They enjoy it as much as the students!” Mrs. Holcombe says.

The end of the meal brings another unique aspect of the evening, which is the dance card. Each student receives a card that includes 20 dances to fill out with various dance partners for ballroom dances. The DJ also throws in line dances throughout the night. Dance lessons begin when the students are in 6th grade preparing for Cotillion, our middle school dance, and over the years leading up to Protocol, they are prepared well.

When explaining why ballroom dance is included in Protocol, Mr. Caucutt says: “The relationship of men and women found in God's design made ballroom dance our natural choice. Male and female have unique and distinct roles, each has their own part to play, they cooperate together, and this can only be done well by honoring one another.”

Protocol 2026 will take place at the American Village on Saturday, April 11.

Alabaster Living Video Answers: What Is Cotillion?

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 18:13:10 GMT

Learn more about the ECCS version of middle school dances

At ECCS, we do middle school dances much differently than what you’ll find at most other schools. Some of the awkwardness might still be there, but through etiquette classes, dance lessons with an instructor, and dance cards our students are prepared for the night that always ends up being a highlight of the year.

Since we have such a unique tradition with cotillion, Alabaster Living came to talk to Logic & Rhetoric Principal, Mrs. Julie McGuffey, along with 6th, 7th, and 8th graders, about why we have cotillion, the benefits, and what the best parts are from a student perspective.

Evangel Live Back and Better Than Ever for 2026

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 15:19:46 GMT

What makes Evangel Live so special and some history about the event

February 24, 2026

Evangel Live began with an idea in 2022. ECCS PTO officers at the time had a vision that a variety show would be a great fundraiser for our school, and the first show was held in February 2023.

While it is a fundraiser, more importantly, it’s a community event. “I think that people are always surprised by how good the show is and how much fun they have,” said Sandi Luna, ECCS Drama teacher who was the PTO president during the first two years of the show. She continues to be involved in helping with auditions and planning and executing the show. “For the two hours that the show is happening, we are all rooting for the performers to do well. There are lots of smiles and laughter. It’s entertaining and really does feel like a family get together.”

One of the most unique things about Evangel Live is that it’s a variety show, which means you really never know what type of acts are going to be performed. Over the years, there have been instrumental performances with violins, bagpipes, and piano, and there have been raps, drama performances, and poetry recitations. Singing acts have also been popular with soloists, family duets, and choirs.

Another unique element is that Logic & Rhetoric (L&R) Houses have the opportunity to work together to come up with their own act. These have varied greatly over the years with creative skits, original songs, dances, and other types of performances.

“I think it’s really exciting how the show always comes together as something special every year,” Mrs. Luna said. “Evangel Live is not a talent show; there are no prizes for the individual acts. Therefore, the performers are performing just for the joy of it. I think this teaches excellence and intentionality, that we are to do all things to the glory of God, no matter what it is. It doesn’t have to be a specifically Christian song or poem in order to honor Him.”

She adds that there’s something very special about choosing to share the gifts and skills that God has given us with others, expecting nothing in return.

Evangel Live fits in so well with all of the ECCS Distinctives . It is an event that is intentional, countercultural, and fruitful in many ways, but Mrs. Luna says that relational is the distinctive that really stands out.

“One of my favorite parts of Evangel Live is how the older students support and cheer for the younger students. They usually applaud the loudest for the youngest and that always brings a smile to our young performers’ faces.”

It’s an event that everyone will enjoy as a part of our ECCS community. In addition to the entertainment from the performances, PTO will have free pizza this year before the show and will hold a raffle throughout the event. Tickets can be purchased ahead of time for $6.00 per person through family FACTs accounts, or at the door the night of the event for $8.00 per person.

All proceeds from the event go to the ECCS Principals’s Wishlist Funds to be used by our Grammar and L&R Principals.

Alumni Panel: Is It Worth It

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 16:58:35 GMT

ECCS graduates discuss the value of classical Christian education

Is classical Christian education worth it? That’s a big question to answer, and while our faculty and administration could talk all day about their thoughts on the matter, we decided to turn to a different group to get their opinions.

On January 29, 2026, several ECCS alumni joined us for a panel discussion to answer questions about the value of classical Christian education.

We had panelists from all different seasons of life and a variety of vocations. They had many insights to share, including funny stories about teachers and the community that surrounded them at ECCS, which our Director of Admissions, Kristi Culpepper, says is a really special part of the school. She also added:

“Our students are our best advertisement, and the same is true for our alumni. Classical education builds on itself as you move through the different stages, and you cannot see the entire fruit of it until you see older students and alums who have been out in the world using the skills they were given here, especially the rhetoric, logic, and critical thinking. It’s important for parents to see the value and benefit to their kids.”

Logic & Rhetoric (L&R) Principal, Julie McGuffey, who organized the event, said that through the testimony of these panelists, you see the vision of what we’re doing at ECCS. “Classical Christian education has proven itself.”

Kendyll Weeks, 2013 graduate, started at ECCS in the 9th grade, and that alone posed a unique set of challenges. Coming from public school, things were much different, but in a very good way for her, and she talked about how much she loved her four years at ECCS. From extra help from teachers and classmates to get caught up in math and rejoicing with Mrs. McGuffey in the hallway over good history grades, she noted that the smaller class sizes and teachers who truly knew and saw her really mattered the most.

“I know you've heard the small class sizes are so good, but my teachers saw me, and if I didn't believe in myself, they believed in me, and that made all the difference for me,” Kendyll said. “You also really learn people skills that personally, I don't think I would have learned if I had stayed in public school, and I really owe that to Evangel and just being able to speak and articulate myself well.”

Stephen Kirkland graduated in 2010 as part of our first senior class. He’s now an entrepreneur and business owner. “I am eternally grateful for the things that I received and that I learned here, but far beyond the books, far beyond the curriculum, I also learned life skills. I learned personal skills, I learned time management skills that are just not common amongst other peers outside of this particular house.”

Jonathan Parker, 2013 graduate, is a Criminal Investigator with the Department of Homeland Security and Air Force Reserve. He brought up something that he said might sometimes be overlooked. “Evangel is very counter-cultural in so many ways, but manners and basic respect is something that I think is overlooked a little bit, but it's still very important. Having that ingrained in you throughout high school, when you're becoming an adult, and then being able to take that with you when you're applying to jobs, going to the workforce or going to college, that's something that unfortunately makes you stand out in a very good way. That should be the standard, but it's not. And so I think that's something that Evangel does a really good job of.”

When asked about how their education at ECCS has impacted their current vocation, the answers often went back to things like writing skills, personal skills, and even public speaking.

“I'm a shy person by nature, but we had to speak so much at Evangel, from memory time to sixth grade Bible verses to everything you do in high school. My knees would start shaking, I would feel like I'm about to throw up, but I'd still get up there and remember what I'd prepared,” says Elise Helton, 2015 graduate who is an Associate Attorney at Baker Donelson. “I got to my first trial last year, and I felt all the same symptoms of nerves and anxiety. But I had the skills to recognize the emotions and press on. I can't think of a better education for the job I'm in now than what I received at ECCS, and I'm very grateful.”

Lavens Maginnis, 2021 graduate, also mentioned the many years of speaking and projects being helpful to her throughout college and in her role as a Graphic Designer with Shelby County Newsmedia. “We were prepared so well in the basics. When I got to college, I saw a lot of peers really struggle with writing, because it wasn’t something they had been challenged with at whatever school they attended. I realized I had been given everything I needed to do that,” Lavens said. “With graphic design, I also had to do presentations of my work, including a senior project, which was reminiscent of senior thesis. I was so well prepared, and I knew what it was to defend what I had created.”

Learning everything from a Christian worldview is another topic that came up several times among the panelists.

“I think the biggest way that Evangel impacted my vocation has to do with Christian worldview, because, let's be honest, the world is a terrible, terrible place, and we are fairly lucky to be in such an insulated environment from how terrible life can be,” Jonathan said. “I was given the opportunity to debate my fellow students in systematic theology and apologetics, especially in junior and senior year. If I had left before those two years, I would not have gotten 50% of the benefit that I got those last two years because of those classes.”

Lastly, a topic that comes up often is the thesis process. One question came in from an audience member who wanted to know what the panelists would say to students and parents who were apprehensive about the thesis. This answer from Jonathan sums it up well:

“This is an opportunity for the student. This is not something someone is trying to punish them with. The teachers are not trying to see anyone fail, the adjudicators are not trying to see anyone fail. They are trying to see everyone succeed. It’s an opportunity to flex creative and critical thinking muscles and have fun with it. Finding something they’re passionate about might help them enjoy it more and relax a little,” he said. “For the parent, look at the fruit that it bears. Yes, it’s hard and stressful, but the fruit that it bears cannot be gained any other way. There are no shortcuts.”

Thank you to all of our panelists for providing such thoughtful answers and insights!

Stephen Kirkland (2010): Entrepreneur and Business Owner, WAV Install

Jonathan Parker (2013): Criminal Investigator, Department of Homeland Security and Air Force Reserve

Kendyll Weeks (2013): Admissions and Recruitment Representative, Faulkner University

Elise Helton (2015): Associate Attorney, Baker Donelson

Grant Petersen (2018): Assistant Project Manager, Brasfield and Gorrie

Lavens Maginnis (2012): Graphic Designer, Shelby County Newsmedia

Julia Hankins’ Painting Part of Local Art Exhibit

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 15:40:19 GMT

Art teacher’s painting depicts the comfort and protection of Christ

February 12, 2026

Julia Hankins has been shaping minds through art for 19 years at ECCS by focusing on truth, beauty, and goodness. She is an amazing art teacher, but she’s also an amazing artist herself.

One of her recent pieces was selected to be part of the Robin Nance Metz Art Competition (formerly Adult Juried Art Exhibit), which is sponsored by the Shelby County Arts Council and its partners. This juried art exhibit is open to all Alabama residents 18 years old and up, and includes art work in categories, such as drawing, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, digital art, and more.

Mrs. Hankins’ piece is a painting of her goddaughter, Felicity Callender, daughter of ECCS teacher Eric Callender and his wife, Elsie. The painting is titled Felicity's Fortress, and it is rich with symbolism and meaning.

“She is shown with her blanket, book, and toy, looking out at the viewer. She is temporarily comforted by the physical things around her, but truly and quietly comforted and protected by Christ who is symbolized by the dogwood standing behind her, wrapping around in front of her heart,” Mrs. Hankins says. “I pray God's protection over her as in the hymn, ‘St. Patrick's Breastplate’: Christ be with [her], Christ within [her], Christ behind [her], Christ before [her], Christ beside [her], Christ to win [her], Christ to comfort and restore [her]."

This beautiful piece of art work will be on display as part of the show at the Shelby County Arts Council in Columbiana until March 1st, 2026.

How We Do Dual Enrollment at ECCS

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 15:22:46 GMT

How We Do Dual Enrollment at ECCS

Since 2021, ECCS juniors and seniors have had the unique opportunity to participate in our dual enrollment option that involves the same high quality, Christian education that we always offer while also getting college credit.

“There are some things people don’t realize about what we do at ECCS when it comes to dual enrollment,” says Logic & Rhetoric (L&R) Principal, Julie McGuffey. “People don’t realize that they can get college credit for attending classes here just like they normally would.”

While traditional dual enrollment more typically involves in-person classes at a college campus or taking an extra class online, at ECCS we don’t take that approach since it would mean outsourcing our education. It wouldn’t be classical or Christian. Instead, we have a partnership with the University of Mobile (UM), which is an accredited Baptist university.

“Students sign up to take a dual enrollment class, they go to their regular ECCS class just as any other student does. They do the same amount of work and receive college credit for that work and credit at ECCS,” Mrs. McGuffey explains. Our dual enrollment classes include 11th and 12th grade rhetoric, Bible, literature, history, and anatomy/physiology. UM has reviewed our curriculum for these classes.

“The reason we can do this is because the faculty we have teaching these classes at ECCS are qualified to teach college classes,” she adds. For example, Dr. Wendy Kautz has a Ph.D. in English and has taught at the collegiate level. Dr. Bill Poole is an M.D., and Andie Shoop has a masters degree in Bible. “This high caliber of our teachers is really significant, because with dual enrollment at ECCS, students are getting the same classical, Christian education that they enrolled for, and they are receiving college credit from extremely credentialed faculty.”

There is an additional dual enrollment fee per class, and credits from UM should transfer to any other college or university. If the dual enrollment class, such as Bible, is not offered at another school, that credit may count as an elective. Students have the opportunity to earn as many as 28 college credits if they take advantage of all of our dual enrollment classes.

We are so thankful for our partnership with UM that allows us to offer this option. We’ve had great feedback from those who have participated. Questions about dual enrollment are welcome!

ECCS Seniors Interviewed by Alabaster Living

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 15:22:44 GMT

ECCS Seniors Interviewed by Alabaster Living

Most memorable moments, accomplishments over the years, and next steps for the future. Alabaster Living came to visit our ECCS seniors and interviewed three students about these topics and more.

Watch the full video below, and thank you to Alabaster Living for featuring our incredible students!

ECCS Graduate Featured in Article About Graphic Design Accomplishments at Auburn

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 15:22:42 GMT

ECCS Graduate Featured in Article About Graphic Design Accomplishments at Auburn

Lavens Maginnis, ECCS Class of 2021

In December 2025, Lavens Maginnis was selected to be the student marshal for the College of Architecture, Design and Construction (CADC) at Auburn University’s fall commencement ceremony.

Lavens received a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design from the School of Industrial and Graphic Design (SIGD). The CADS recognized her in a recent article about her time at Auburn and her graphic design accomplishments.

We are always happy to share the wonderful things our ECCS graduates are doing out in the world, and we are proud of Lavens and how she has excelled in her chosen path of graphic design!

Defending Truth: Senior Thesis Presentations 2026

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 15:22:37 GMT

Defending Truth: Senior Thesis Presentations 2026

The fruit of a classical Christian education is seen throughout the grammar, logic, and rhetoric stages, but the marquee event that truly showcases what our students have learned as critical thinkers who have been taught through biblical truth, is the thesis presentation.

For anyone who has ever wondered about classical, Christian education or wanted to know what that looks like as kids get older, the senior thesis presentations are the perfect opportunity to learn more. This year’s event was held on the nights of January 13 and 15 in the Evangel Church sanctuary as the culmination of many years of education, diligence, and passion.

While it is a huge accomplishment for our seniors and a lot of hard work, the process is well thought out, and they are guided every step of the way by their teachers and advisors, including Dr. Wendy Kautz and Mrs. Amanda Wortham. The official thesis process takes 17 months and begins in the fall of the students’ junior year. Mrs Wortham explains an overview of what that looks like:

The process begins with choosing a topic, brainstorming, preliminary research, and formal study of rhetoric.
The students then begin to develop an outline, work with a faculty advisor, and construct research-based arguments.
Once their outlines are fully developed, they begin writing, producing three written drafts. They adapt their draft into a speech, which they present publicly on thesis presentation night.
The final step is defense, when they defend their ideas for a panel of adjudicators.

“The students develop academic skills in critical thinking, research, writing, rewriting, responding to critics, prepared and extemporaneous speech, and development of ideas,” says Mrs. Wortham. “They also cultivate spiritual disciplines in diligence, faithfulness, deference, perseverance, courage, kindness, and championing truth.”

This long-term project is a tremendous challenge that bears substantial fruit. Dr. Kautz and Mrs. Wortham agree that this process prepares students for whatever is next, whether that's college, relationships, service, citizenship, or vocation. “Our hope is that this challenge prepares students to continue to work in the kingdom of God and bless their neighbors.”

2026 Seniors and Topics:

Hector Caucutt: A Case for Rhetoric
Emily Blake: Japan: Ground for the Gospel
Luke Petersen: The Constellations: God’s Glorious Story 
Nandry Taylor: Sexual Purity in a Christian’s Life
Colin Puckett: AI and Education: Friends or Foes?  
Caroline Majors: Which Mirror Are You Looking In? The Value of Self-Reflection
Dean Cranston: A Look at a Life Well Lived
Lexi Culpepper: Never Too Old: The Timelessness of Children’s Literature
Alexander Luna: Out of Many, One: The Lost Art of American Federalism
Charlotte Hankins: False Beauty, Theft, and Other High Crimes: The Dangers of AI Art
Seth Patrick: More Than a Blueprint: How Architecture and Design Shape Our World
Alyssa Stephens: A Piece Is Missing: How the Loss of a Mother Affects Her Children
Sam Patrick: Three Key Principles of True Education
Anna Caroline Poole: The Good, the Bad, and the Godly: The Morality of Pagan Mythology
Will Hindman: Wonder and Wisdom: A Disneyland Story 
Will Harvey: To the Ends of the Earth: A Call to Missions

Dr. Kautz and Mrs. Wortham also agree that there was a great variety in topics this year, which they loved. “The students choose their own topics, and we learn so much from them about their various interests,” says Mrs. Wortham.

For those who are interested in watching this year’s thesis presentations, the full videos can be found on our Youtube page. Night 1 and Night 2 .

ECCS Art Teacher Featured in Alabaster Connection Magazine

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 15:22:35 GMT

ECCS Art Teacher Featured in Alabaster Connection Magazine

Julia Hankins has been an art teacher for 19 years, and for every one of those, she’s been at ECCS. She has seen many changes over that time and with her students, but her goal remains the same to help her students sit still, truly see, and communicate visually, even in our world of overstimulation and instant gratification.

Mrs. Hankins sat down with Alabaster Connection magazine to talk more about our ECCS art program, how she approaches teaching, and how she aspires to shape minds through art that focuses on truth, beauty, and goodness. We are so thankful for Mrs. Hankins, how she shares her talent for art and teaching, and how she has poured into our art program for so many years!

Read the full article from Alabaster Connection.

Watch Alabaster Living Video About ECCS Music Teacher

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 15:22:31 GMT

Watch Alabaster Living Video About ECCS Music Teacher

At ECCS, we are so blessed to have Mrs. Jenny Diamond as our Logic and Rhetoric Choir Director and Grammar Music Teacher.

Alabaster Living interviewed Mrs. Diamond about her impressive background, how she has grown the ECCS music program, and the specific singing-based methodology she uses. With this methodology that starts in kindergarten, students learn how to read and write music by the end of 5th grade through singing, games, movement, and activity.

Learn more about Mrs. Diamond, our music program, and hear a piece by our Logic and Rhetoric choirs in the video below.