Frequently Asked Questions


1. Is SMCS accredited?
Yes. The school has accreditation through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) and is a member of the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI). You can read our SACS 2010 Quality Review Team Report by clicking here. In 2012, SMCS will submit a midterm report.  We will share that information with you as well once the submission is complete.
 
2. Does a particular church sponsor the school?
No. We are an independent, community Christian school. Our enrollment is comprised of students from over 100 local congregations.
 
3. What curriculum do you use?
In the elementary program, we primarily use the A Beka and Purposeful Design curricula, although individual teachers (and grade levels) select additional materials to support and enhance their teaching. At the secondary level, each department selects the curriculum they consider best for their subject areas and student levels. Please see our academics page to learn more about grade specific curriculum.
 
4. What is the cost of registration and tuition?
Please call the school office at (205) 978-6001 to inquire about tuition costs or view this Tuition & Fees document.
 
5. What grade levels are included in the school?
SMCS educates students from  K3 through twelve. Our  K3 and K4 program is a half-day program, and K5 is a full day program.  Our after school program is available to students starting with K3 for an additional cost.
 
6. Is there a waiting list? Is it maintained from year to year?
During the enrollment period, we strive to meet the needs of all of our families; occasionally we will develop a waiting list for those classes that are at maximum capacity. Parents are notified when a space opens.
 
7. What are your school hours?
K3 and K4: 8:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.
K5 and Elementary School: 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Secondary School: 7:55 a.m. – 3:05 p.m.
 
8. Are the teachers experienced?
Yes. We at SMCS have been blessed with an incredible staff who feel that they have been called to serve our school community. To learn more, please visit our faculty page.
 
9. What percentage of your students go on to college?
Approximately 95% of our graduates go on to college. Click here for a list of college and universities our graduates have attended or are currently attending.
 
10. Is there an after-school care program? What is the cost?
Our after school program is available to students starting with K3 for an additional cost. This program follows the school calendar and observes the same holidays and closings as SMCS.
 
11. Do you have a program for children with learning differences?
Our Educational Therapy program services students with average to above average intelligence that have learning differences. We currently have two therapists who work with students one-on-one approximately three hours per week.
 
12. What is the dress code?
At SMCS, it is our purpose to prepare students to face the challenges of today’s society from a Biblical perspective. How our young people dress can either add to or detract from the educational atmosphere we want to maintain.  The specifics of the dress code can be found in the Parent Student Handbook.
 
13. How do I get to the school?
Our campus is located at 2290 Old Tyler Road in Hoover, Alabama. From I-65 south, take exit 252 onto Montgomery Highway heading south. Turn right at the first traffic light on Southland Drive. At the next light, Tyler Road, turn left and proceed approximately one and one-half miles to the campus. Our main offices are on the left side of the street and are part of Shades Mountain Independent Church. Click here for a printable map and directions to our campus.
 
14. What kind of extracurricular activities do you have?

The elementary grades offer youth football and baseball. We are currently looking into adding other after school activities for our students. If you have suggestions or would like to sponsor an afternoon activity, please contact us.

The middle/high school offers a wide variety of extra-curricular activities. We have athletic teams in different sports for boys (baseball, basketball, cross-country, football, golf, soccer, tennis, and track) and girls (basketball, cheer leading, cross-country, golf, soccer, softball, tennis, track, and volleyball). We have an outstanding band program that includes marching, jazz and ensemble sections, as well as a choral program that has performed at Carnegie Hall. We also have a student council, academic teams, and a National Honor Society.
 
15. Will my child be eligible to participate in athletics?
SMCS is a 1A member of the Alabama High School Athletic Association, which sets the guidelines for athletic eligibility. Please contact our Athletic Director, Mike Crawford by email or by calling 205-978-9215.
 
16. When should I apply for the following school year?
Apply in the winter and spring of the year prior to the one you wish to attend. Refer to our Admissions page for specific information.
 
17. Can I come tour the school before I schedule an interview?
Definitely, just contact the main office at 978-6001 or email us to schedule a tour.

-top-