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In our weekly newsletter, Paw Prints, you will find:
- Wildcats in the News
- Important All-School Announcements, Japonica Announcements and University Announcements
- Links to calendars
- Wildcat Cafe information & links
- Online Campus Store information & link
- Church Information
- Ways that you can help SLES
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CELEBRATING STUDENT SUCCESS THROUGH YOUR GENEROSITY
We are deeply grateful for your support—your partnership over the past academic year has been the cornerstone of our success at St. Luke’s. Because of your generosity, our students have thrived in a vibrant, nurturing environment—excelling not only in the classroom but also in the arts and the athletic fields.
Our graduating seniors have much to celebrate: the Class of 2026 includes 6 student-athletes who committed to compete at the collegiate level, 1 student who will continue speech and debate in college, 1 student who will perform with a collegiate band program, and 1 student who earned early acceptance to medical programs at both the University of Alabama at Birmingham and Brown University. In addition, 25% of the class earned an ACT score of 30 or higher, and together they were awarded more than $6 million in college scholarships.
Their accomplishments are a testament to their hard work and the community that has supported them every step of the way.
Thank you!
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CELEBRATING MRS. BANKS' RETIREMENT
A couple of hundred of Mrs. Banks’ closest friends gathered to celebrate a remarkable career! From former students and families to current colleagues and friends, it was a joy to see so many familiar faces come together to honor the impact Mrs. Banks has made on generations of Wildcats.
As she begins this exciting new chapter, we wish her nothing but happiness. While retirement may mark the end of a career, it will never mark the end of her place in the St. Luke’s family.
And even though we know she already knows it, we'll say it anyway: Once a Wildcat, Always a Wildcat. 🐾
We love you, Mrs. Banks, and thank you for everything!
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CAMP WILDCAT OFF TO A GREAT START
Summer is here, and so is St. Luke's Summer Camp! Our campers are already making a big splash as they dive into a summer filled with adventures! We’re looking forward to an unforgettable summer, making the best memories!
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CAMP INVENTION SPARKS CURIOSITY & CREATIVITY
Our Camp Invention campers had a fantastic week diving into science, technology, engineering, and creativity through hands-on activities, challenges, and inventive projects.
Throughout the week, campers worked together, thought creatively, solved problems, and discovered new ideas along the way.
A big thank you to our amazing camp counselors and staff for making the week such a fun, engaging, and inspiring experience for our campers. Your energy and support helped make it a great success!
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EVELYN CUMMINGS PLACES AMONG NATION'S TOP 60
IN SPEECH & DEBATE
Congratulations to St. Luke's graduate Evelyn Cummings for an outstanding performance at the National Speech & Debate Tournament in Richmond, Virginia! Evelyn placed among the Top 60 competitors in the nation in Humorous Interpretation, an incredible achievement on the national stage.
This fall, Evelyn will continue her speech and debate journey as a member of the Speech and Debate Team at the University of Alabama. We are proud of all she has accomplished and can't wait to see what she achieves next.
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FUTURE LEADERS: ST. LUKE'S STUDENTS ATTEND
HOBY LEADERSHIP SEMINAR
Congratulations to rising juniors Kenlee Hamilton, Atli Johnston, and Dylan Driskell, who represented St. Luke’s this summer at the HOBY (Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership) Leadership Seminar on the campus of Troy University!
Selected based on their demonstrated leadership, service, citizenship, and commitment to their community, these students participated in a week-long program designed to inspire and develop future leaders. Alongside St. Luke’s alumni counselor Megan McDonough, they engaged in small-group activities, leadership workshops, and sessions led by accomplished and inspiring speakers.
Participants also embraced Hugh O’Brian’s mission of service by completing community-focused projects during the seminar and were challenged to continue making a positive impact in their own communities throughout the coming year.
We are proud of these students for their dedication to leadership and service and look forward to seeing the difference they will make in the future!
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WELCOME TO ST. LUKE'S
As we prepare for an exciting school year ahead, we are pleased to welcome new members to the St. Luke’s family and to announce that Meredith Donald is stepping into an expanded role. Please join us in welcoming everyone as we look forward to the positive impact each will make in the lives of our students, families, and school.
LOWER CAMPUS DIRECTOR: MEREDITH EVANS
A dedicated educator and experienced instructional leader, Mrs. Evans brings a wealth of knowledge, leadership, and passion for student success to her new role. Throughout her career, she has earned a reputation for building strong relationships, fostering academic excellence, and creating positive learning environments where students and faculty alike can thrive. Her commitment to educational excellence and her student-centered approach make her exceptionally well-suited to lead the Lower School community.
A native of Mobile, Alabama, Meredith earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, a Master’s degree in Library Media, and K–12 Instructional Leadership certification from the University of South Alabama. Her diverse educational background includes service as a Preschool Director, Pre-K, 1st Grade, and 3rd Grade Teacher, School Media Specialist, and, most recently, Assistant Principal. These experiences have provided her with a comprehensive understanding of child development, curriculum, instruction, and school leadership.
Mrs. Evans has been married to her husband, John, for 26 years and is the proud mother of two children, Hunter and Summer. She values strong school-family partnerships and looks forward to working closely with students, parents, faculty, and the broader St. Luke’s community.
As she begins this exciting new chapter, Mrs. Evans is eager to continue building a culture of excellence, collaboration, innovation, and opportunity for every child. Her vision, leadership, and unwavering dedication to students will help ensure that St. Luke’s Lower School continues to provide an exceptional educational experience rooted in academic achievement and character development.
MIDDLE SCHOOL DIRECTOR: MEREDITH DONALD
Coach Donald is an accomplished educational leader, athletic administrator, and championship-winning volleyball coach with more than a decade of experience in secondary education and athletics. She is currently serving as Athletic Director at St. Luke’s.
A dedicated advocate for educational leadership and athletics, Coach Donald is pursuing an Education Specialist Degree (Ed.S.) in Educational Leadership at Liberty University. She holds both a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Business from Spring Hill College and is a Certified Athletic Administrator through the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA).
Under Coach Donald's leadership, the Wildcats have captured two state championships, three region
championships, eight area championships, and eight Final Four appearances while compiling a
career record of 352–159. She was recognized as the 2024 Alabama High School Volleyball
Coaches Association 3A Coach of the Year and was selected for the American Volleyball
Coaches Association's Prestigious 30 Under 30 Award in 2019. The program has also earned
AVCA Team Academic Awards annually since 2018.
HIGH SCHOOL DIRECTOR: BRAD LOWELL
With more than 25 years of experience in education, leadership, athletics, and student development, Mr. Lowell brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to helping students achieve success both inside and outside the classroom.
Since beginning his career in education in 2000, Mr. Lowell has served the Mobile County Public School System in a variety of leadership roles, including teacher, coach, head football coach, local school athletic director, assistant district athletic director, assistant academic supervisor, district athletic director, and academic supervisor. His diverse background has equipped him with a unique ability to build strong teams, cultivate leadership, and foster a culture of accountability, excellence, and student achievement.
Mr. Lowell is dedicated to creating a positive and engaging learning environment where students are encouraged to reach their full potential academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually. He believes that strong relationships, clear communication, and high expectations are essential to a thriving school community. His leadership philosophy emphasizes collaboration among faculty, students, and families to ensure a supportive, mission-driven educational experience while honoring the values and traditions that make St. Luke’s Episcopal School special.
A lifelong learner, Mr. Lowell remains actively engaged in professional development opportunities that enhance student achievement and organizational effectiveness. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education from the University of South Alabama and a Master’s Degree in Educational Administration from Grand Canyon University.
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BAKER FARNELL & COOPER MATTHEWS ATTEND BOYS STATE 2026
Baker Farnell and Cooper Matthews were delegates at the Eighty-Ninth American Legion Alabama Boys State. They were outstanding representatives of both their community and St. Luke’s Episcopal School. Baker published the first edition of the 2026 series of The Citizen Builder, and Cooper ran for the office of Associate Commissioner, Public Service Commission, in the general election. Both young men also participated in the Constitutional Convention Interest Group. While participating in the Constitutional Convention, they helped to research, evaluate, and discuss the Alabama State Constitution and principles of governance in a democratic society. Ultimately, the Convention drafted a new Constitution for the State of Alabama. By teaching youth to understand and appreciate the basic principles of democratic governance, The American Legion's Boys State program hopes to keep America strong and ensure freedom for future generations.
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SCIENCE IN MOTION AT MR. MUTCHNICK'S SCIENCE CAMP
Mr. Mutchnick’s Science Camp was full of hands-on learning, creativity, and fun as campers explored the concepts of potential and kinetic energy. After learning how energy works, students put their knowledge to the test by designing and building a giant marble run. Watching the marbles race through twists, turns, and drops helped bring the science behind motion to life.
Campers also dove into the world of kinetics and mechanics as they designed and built their own remote-control cars. Through trial and error, problem-solving, and teamwork, they learned how engineering and physics work together to make things move.
From building marble runs to racing remote-control cars, science camp gave students a fun and engaging way to explore new concepts and experience the excitement of learning by doing.
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A ST. LUKE'S SUMMER OF CREATIVITY
This summer’s High School & Adult Art Camp was a creative celebration of painted paper collages and mixed media! Participants selected a photo as their inspiration and dove into unique ways to add colorful designs and textures to their artwork. Each artist developed a one-of-a-kind masterpiece that reflected their individual style and vision. We’re proud of their incredible artwork!
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2A ALL-STATE BASEBALL STANDOUTS
Congrats to our 2A All-State Baseball standouts!
2nd Team: Cooper Frampton, Jathan Richardson
Honorable Mention: Colton Duke
We're proud of your hard work and dedication — go Wildcats!!!
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GIRLS SOCCER ALL-STATE EXCELLENCE: WILDCATS RECOGNIZED
Congratulations to our St. Luke’s Girls Soccer players on earning All-State honors for
an outstanding season!
4A All-State First Team: Evelyn Cummings, Kiley Hawarah, Presley Jackson, Ally Grace Lowell, Sofia Maghupoy, Ashley Turner.
Special congratulations to Kiley Hawarah on being named to the Super All-State First Team! What an incredible accomplishment!
We are so proud of these Wildcats for their dedication, leadership, and excellence on the field.
Your hard work makes St. Luke’s proud.
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BOYS SOCCER ALL-STATE EXCELLENCE: WILDCATS RECOGNIZED
Congratulations to our St. Luke’s Boys Soccer players on earning All-State recognition for an
incredible season!
4A All-State First Team: Rishi Gupta and Ashton Roberts
4A All-State Second Team: Logan Taylor and Michael Reedy
Honorable Mention: Atli Johnston and Ryland Yasurek
And a special congratulations to Rishi Gupta for being named to the 1A-7A All-State Second Team!
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CELEBRATING ST. LUKE'S FEMALE ALL-COUNTY WILDCATS
Congratulations to our outstanding St. Luke’s female All-County athletes for their hard work, dedication, and incredible accomplishments this year!
We are proud to celebrate Ella Bentley for being named the Mobile County Kiwanis Club Athlete of the Year! Go Wildcats!
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CELEBRATING ST. LUKE'S MALE ALL-COUNTY WILDCATS
Congratulations to our St. Luke’s Boys Soccer All-County honorees on an incredible season!
1A-4A All-County First Team: Atli Johnston, Rishi Gupta, Zachary Robinson, Sawyer Smith, Ryland Yasurek, Isaac Mejia, Logan Taylor, and Michael Reedy
Honorable Mention: Tavah Thepphanorinh and Ashton Roberts
1A-7A All-County Super Team: Atli Johnston and Rishi Gupta
And a very special congratulations to our 1A-4A All-County Player of the Year — ATLI JOHNSTON!
We are so proud of these Wildcats for their hard work, leadership, and dedication on and off the field. What an outstanding season for St. Luke’s Soccer!
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237 CAREER GOALS. STATE CHAMPION. TOURNAMENT MVP. HISTORY MAKER.
Congratulations to Kiley Hawarah, who led St. Luke’s Girls Soccer to a state championship while earning Tournament MVP honors! Kiley had a record of 237 career goals, making her the 2nd ALL-TIME leading goal scorer in Alabama girls soccer history across classifications 1A-7A.
What an incredible accomplishment for an incredible Wildcat!
Click here to read article about St. Luke's Girls Soccer Historic Season
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ST. LUKE'S 2026 AHSAA ALL-STARS
Congratulations to our Wildcats selected to the 2026 AHSAA South All-Star Teams!
Cross Country – Zachary Robinson
Tennis – Lauren Watson
Soccer – Michael Reedy, Ashlyn Turner & Sofia Maghupoy
We are so proud of these outstanding student-athletes for earning this incredible honor and representing St. Luke’s among the best in Alabama!
The 2026 AHSAA All-Star Sports Week will take place July 20–24 in Montgomery, Alabama. Congratulations and good luck, Wildcats!
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REMINDER: OFFICE HOURS & SUMMER SCHEDULE
Summer office hours will begin following the holiday:
Monday–Thursday: 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Friday: Closed
The school will also be closed the week of June 29.
Regular office hours will resume on Monday, August 3.
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UPCOMING PAW PRINTS SUMMER SCHEDULE
The next issue of Paw Prints will be published on July 31st. Starting on August 21st, Paw Prints will return to its regular schedule, publishing every Friday during full school weeks
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2026-2027 BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE
As we look ahead to another exciting school year, we are pleased to share the 2026–2027 Back-to-School Guide. This guide contains important information to help your family prepare for the upcoming school year and serves as a valuable resource throughout the summer.
Please be sure to review the guide carefully, as it includes:
- K5–12th Grade: Summer assignment links
- 6th–8th Grade: Middle School supply lists and textbook information
- 9th–12th Grade: Upper School textbook lists
- Important dates, procedures, and back-to-school information for all grade levels
We encourage you to save this guide for easy reference as you prepare for the first day of school.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out. We hope you are enjoying a wonderful summer, and we look forward to welcoming our students back to campus in August!
Click here for the Back to School Guide 2026-2027
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UNIVERSITY CAMPUS WILDCAT WELCOME (AUGUST 5)
New Wildcats, this one’s for YOU!
The countdown is on for our University Campus Wildcat Welcome! Join us on Tuesday, August 5, at 6:00 p.m. in the Auditorium as we officially welcome all new 6th-grade students and new students in grades 7–12, along with their parents/guardians.
Come meet fellow Wildcats, learn what to expect for the school year, and get ready for an
amazing year ahead!
Feel free to bring your laptop for setup assistance.
Questions? Contact cmenton@slesmobile.org.
We can't wait to meet our newest Wildcats and help you start the year off strong.
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JAPONICA CAMPUS PARENT PREVIEW (AUGUST 10)
Parents, this one is for you!
Before our Wildcats head back to class, join us for our K2–5th Grade Parent Preview on
Monday, August 10 at 5:30 p.m.
This parents-only event is your opportunity to get important information, learn about the year ahead, and make sure you're ready for a fantastic start to the school year. Parents/Guardians Only.
Have questions? Please contact cmenton@slesmobile.org.
We look forward to partnering with you for another amazing year of learning, growth,
and Wildcat memories!
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JAPONICA CAMPUS MEET & GREET (AUGUST 11)
Get ready to get WILD about learning!
Calling all K2–5th-grade Wildcats! Join us for our Japonica Campus Meet & Greet on and come meet your teacher before the first day of school!
August 11 - Drop in anytime between 1:00–3:00 p.m.
Take a peek at your classroom, meet your teacher, and start getting excited for an amazing year ahead. Whether you're a brand-new Wildcat or a returning one, we can't wait to welcome you back!
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CAMPUS-SPECIFIC ANNOUNCEMENTS
Stay connected and up to date with the latest news and announcements for your division!
Click the links below to find important information, upcoming events, and campus updates. Be sure to check back weekly so you don't miss important information.
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ST. LUKE'S WILDCAT WAREHOUSE
Show your Wildcat pride! The Spirit Store's storefront is in Room 305 on the University Campus.
We will be adding merchandise, so please fill out this suggestion form
to let us know what you would like to see for sale in the future.
All proceeds of the Online Campus Store go to school programs and supplies.
We will deliver purchases to your student unless you request to pick-up.
Click here to shop!
Please don't forget to leave your student's name and grade level during the checkout process so that we know which campus to deliver to. Thank you for having Wildcat Spirit and supporting SLES!
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ST. LUKE'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH WEEKLY NEWS
Sunday Schedule
Worship Services – 7:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.
Adult Education Class – 8:45 a.m.
Children’s Sunday School (k4-5th grade) – 10:00 a.m.
Youth Sunday School (6th-12th grade) – 10:00 a.m.
Youth Outing every Sunday at 11:15 a.m. (bowling, laser tag, mini golf, exploring downtown, and more!)
Weekly Services:
Mondays: Morning Prayer at 8:30 a.m.
Wednesdays: Evening Prayer at 5:30 p.m.
First Wednesday of every Month: Healing Service at 12:00 p.m.
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