FROM YOUR ADMINISTRATOR
Knowing God vs Knowing About God
This is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true god, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent (John 17:3)
As we begin the 2026–2027 school year, our theme and verse invites us to consider an important question: Do we simply know about God, or do we truly know Him?
There is an important distinction between knowing about God and knowing God. Knowing about God means understanding facts and biblical truths like His character, His attributes, the story of creation, the fall, and redemption. These truths are essential, but if we are not careful, they can remain only in our heads as knowledge about God.
Knowing God is much deeper. It is a personal relationship with Him that transforms the way we live. It means allowing the truths we learn to move from our heads to our hearts, shaping our thoughts, decisions, and daily lives. Knowledge about God is valuable, but by itself it is incomplete. True knowledge of God comes from walking with Him, keeping Christ at the center of our lives, and spending time with Him through prayer and His Word. As we listen to Him and apply His truth personally, our relationship with Him grows.
As we begin this new school year, we encourage you to make our theme and Scripture verse a regular part of your family conversations. Talk together about what it means to know God personally, not just know about Him. Our prayer is that this year’s theme will inspire each of us to grow in a deeper, more intimate relationship with the One who knows us completely
Jenny
NEW RECORDINGS ARE ON THE WEBSITE!
If you are a new family and were unable to attend the New Family Orientation, this year’s recording is on our website under Media. This is vital as you go into this year because it will give you important information on submitting grades and requirements specific to Crossroads.
If your 9th – 12th grade student and one parent were unable to come to the High School Orientation, the recording of the August 8th meeting is up on the website under Media. Please watch.
The recording for How To Homeschool Through High School is on the website as well. If you have a student in 8th or above and have not attended or watched this seminar, I highly encourage you to watch it. This seminar answers many of the questions you have or will have about teaching your student in the high school years.
CHURCH SCHOOL ENROLLMENT FORMS
You may need to complete a Church School Enrollment Form IF:
- Your family has moved from one school district to another during this past school year
- You are adding another school-age student to the Crossroads family
- You have a child who turned 6 years old this past school year
PREPARING FOR COLLEGE
Thursday, September 10, 1 p.m.
Community Presbyterian Church – Back Building
Do you have a junior or senior homeschooled student looking to attend college, either a 2-year or a 4-year school? If this is your first student headed that way, then you may have questions and concerns. This workshop is Crossroads’ efforts to provide guidance counseling. We don’t consider ourselves experts, but we do have a few years of experience: with our own children, with Crossroads graduates, and time spent with admissions officers from local colleges. We’ll discuss the admissions process, financial aid, preparation, and skills, among other things. Bring your questions to ask! We schedule this workshop right before the two college fairs in the Birmingham area. See the information below about them. Check websites for any possible changes.
Contact the school office to let us know you plan to attend our Preparing for College meeting.
National College Fair
Sunday, September 27, 2026 from 1–4 PM
Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center
2100 Richard Arrington Blvd., Birmingham, AL 35203
Briarwood Christian School College Fair
Thursday, October 8, 2026 at 1:30 PM until 2:30 PM
Christian College Fair NACCAP
North American Coalition for Christian Admissions Professionals
Thursday, October 28, 2026
12:00 – 2:00 p.m.
Westminster Oak Mountain
5080 Cahaba Valley Trace
Birmingham, Alabama, 35242
The Crossroads Yearbook is the perfect way to remember all the special moments of the 2026-2027 school year! Our dedicated yearbook team works hard to capture memories that you will treasure for years to come. Don’t miss out on this keepsake – order your yearbook today for just $48. Go to Cheddar Up and look for the Yearbook collection. Don’t wait!
WE NEED YOUR PHOTOS!
Our yearbook staff works hard all year to capture the memories of the 2026-2027 school year, but we can’t do it without you! We need your help to make this year’s yearbook the best it can be. As your students participate in school events, sports, fine arts, and other activities, take a moment to upload your favorite photos to the yearbook site under the Media tab. Share the best of the best from your camera roll—those fun, candid, and special moments that only you capture. Together, we can create a yearbook full of memories that every student will treasure for years to come!
We have a growing lending library at Crossroads. Feel free to “CHECK OUT” any of the materials you find. We have various titles, and it is worth a look. You will simply “CHECK OUT” the item by filling out the form provided. You will write your name and date checked out. When you are finished (up to a year) return it to the office and we will check it in. Simple! All items will be marked with CRCS Lending Library – Not for Resale. If you have current curriculum you would like to donate to the lending library, contact the office.
ACTIVITIES @ CRCS!
It’s “back to school” time, and as your students hit the books, we want to offer some terrific activities that will enrich their learning, provide a break from the routine, and/or simply give them time to hang out with friends and have fun.
Currently, all the first semester activities are in Cheddar Up. Please pay attention to the information given there for each item as specifics are important.
The “Looking @ 2027” section below has some additions and changes that you may want to check out. All of the second semester activities will go “live” in October with full descriptions in Cheddar Up.
We hope that you are taking advantage of the Early Bird discounts and enjoying the savings.
As always, if you have any questions or need additional information, please do not hesitate to contact us via email, text, or phone. We are here for you, and we absolutely love doing what we do for our Crossroads Family.
Sallie, Courtney, Mary Beth, Kristy, and Kaitlin
Courtney Wrenn—Schoolwide Events Coordinator
(205) 863-9931
Mary Beth Brown—Teen Events Coordinator
(205) 527-8394
Kristy Rosenow—Field Trip Coordinator
(205) 413-7336
Kaitlin Rich—Field Trip Coordinator
(205) 405-0243
Sallie Albus—Activities Director
(205) 863-9585
Visit Cheddar Up for detailed information, registration, and deadlines for all activities.
Note the following guidelines/suggestions as you study the available activities and register via Cheddar Up.
- Find what activities fit your family.
- Follow the age and grade stipulations. Failure to do so may result in forfeiture of your payment.
- Read all the notes on Cheddar Up. Some field trips require certain attire, a signed waiver, etc.
- Know that the Crossroads dress and behavior guidelines, as noted in the school handbook, also apply to field trips. Parents/guardians are responsible for their own children.
- Please know that we endeavor to locate enriching, educational, and enjoyable activities. However, we cannot always know from which perspective or philosophical background a topic may be presented. We encourage you to always discuss with your students what they have “learned.”
- Our preferred method of payment on Cheddar Up is e-check or credit card. However, if you choose to pay the school office by cash/check, you still must register via Cheddar Up. Payment must be received in the school office no later than two weeks prior to an event.
- Remember that fees will be added to each transaction as explained on Cheddar Up.
- Register on time. Deadlines are listed on Cheddar Up.
- Cheddar Up purchases for activities and field trips are not transferable to other persons.
- Generally, CRCS does not issue refunds for activities and field trips.
FALL SEMESTER @ A GLANCE
September
11-Ballroom Resumes
17-Burritt Historic Park (Registration closed.)
18-Ballroom
23-Civil Rights in the City (Register by Sep. 2nd)
25-Ballroom
October
2-Ballroom
6-Big Time Fun (Register by Sep. 15th)
7-“The Symphony Is All Around You” – ASO (Registration closed.)
9-Ballroom
14-Furry Friends (Register by Sep. 23rd)
15-“The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs” @ BCT (Register by Sep. 10th)
16-Ballroom
24-High School Dance (Register by Oct. 3rd)
30-Ballroom
November
5-Frontier Days (Register by Oct. 1st)
6-Ballroom
13-Ballroom
December
2-“Santa’s Boots” @ BCT (Register by Oct. 14th)
3-Jr. High Christmas Party (Register by Nov. 12th)
3-High School Christmas Party (Register by Nov. 12th)
4-PreK/Elementary Christmas Party (Register by Nov. 13th)
17-Alabama Ballet – “The Nutcracker” (Register by Sep. 30th)
LOOKING @ 2027
January
26-Berman Museum (Register by Jan. 5th)
February
11-“Make Our Garden Grow – The World of Music” – ASO (Register by Jan. 5th)
12-Valentine Box Competition (Register by Jan. 22nd)
20-High School Dance (Register by Jan. 30th)
March
3-“The Trumpet of the Swan” @ BCT (Register by Jan. 20th)
18-Busy Brush Studio (Register by Feb. 25th)
22-Foxhound Bee Company (Register by Feb. 28th)
April
1-Spring Formal (Register by Mar. 4th)
5-Challenger Learning Center (Register by Feb. 28th)
14-“A Year with Frog and Toad” @ BCT (Register by Mar. 3rd)
TBD-Southern Museum of Flight
SCHOOLWIDE ACTIVITIES (ALL AGES)
REGISTER IN CHEDDAR UP!
Frontier Days
@ FORT TOULOUSE-JACKSON
2521 W. Fort Toulouse Road, Wetumpka, AL 36093
Let’s go on a journey and step back in time to the eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries at Fort Toulouse-Jackson. During our time at this living history event, we will see how Alabamians, from Creek Indians to British traders to American soldiers, lived back then, what their day to day lives were like. This is a fun experience for all ages as we get to interact with demonstrators and see frontier crafts and trades up close and personal.
Who: Preschoolers – 12th Graders and parents/legal guardians
When: Thursday, November 5, 2026
TIME: 9:00 a.m.
Cost: $15 per student (ages 6-18)
(ages five and under – FREE)
$15 per additional adult *
*Each HOUSEHOLD is allowed one FREE ADULT ADMISSION.
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: October 1st *
*Early bird discount for registering by September 24th. See info in Cheddar Up.
PRESCHOOL & ELEMENTARY ACTIVITIES
REGISTER IN CHEDDAR UP!
Big Time Fun
@ Big Time Entertainment
42 Tower Road, Oxford, AL 36203
Get ready for fun and fellowship as students try their hands at Adventure Golf, Laser Tag, Arcade Games, Bowling, and the Ninja Course! Students age eight and under can also enjoy the Soft Play Tower.
Who: Preschoolers – 6th Graders and parents/legal guardians
When: Tuesday, October 6, 2026
1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Cost: $30 per child
$32 per participating* adult
* Adults do not have to pay UNLESS they intend to participate.
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: September 15th *
*Early bird discount for registering by September 8th. See info in Cheddar Up.
Fellowship Fun at the Christmas Party
@ CPC GYM
Let’s celebrate the birth of our risen Savior together ! This will be a time of fellowship, games, and a light lunch spent with our homeschool family in celebration of Jesus’s birth.
Who: Preschoolers – 5th Graders and parents/legal guardians
When: Friday, December 4, 2026
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Cost: $10 per student
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: November 13th *
*Early bird discount for registering by November 6th. See info in Cheddar Up.
TEEN ACTIVITIES
REGISTER IN CHEDDAR UP!
Civil Rights in the City
@ BIRMINGHAM CIVIL RIGHTS INSTITUTE and
16th STREET BAPTIST CHURCH
1530 6th Avenue North, Birmingham, AL 35203
520 16th Street North, Birmingham, AL 35203
Spend the day learning about the Civil Rights Movement. We will begin our day at the historic 16th Street Baptist Church. This was the Civil Rights headquarters for many meetings and rallies in the 1960s. The church became known worldwide on Sunday, September 15, 1963, when a bomb exploded, killing four young black girls and injuring many others. This event became a major turning point in the Civil Rights Movement.
At 11:00 a.m., we will have an early lunch at Kelly Park or the surrounding area. Next, we will walk across the street to the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute (BCRI). The BCRI is home to numerous artifacts and memorabilia related to the events during the civil rights struggle of the 1950s and 1960s in the city of Birmingham and beyond. Enjoy a self-guided tour at the BCRI.
Students, interested parents, and designated chaperones are welcome to attend. Please know that there will be chaperones if you plan to drop your student(s) off or if they will be driving themselves.
Who: 7th – 12th Graders, interested parents/guardians, and designated chaperones
When: Wednesday, September 23, 2026
10:00 a.m. – 1:00/1:30 p.m.
Cost: $20 per student; $25 per adult
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: September 2nd *
*Early bird discount for registering by August 26th. See info in Cheddar Up.
Furry Friends
@ THE GREATER BIRMINGHAM HUMANE SOCIETY
300 SNOW DRIVE, BIRMINGHAM, AL 35209
Dr. John Herbert Phillips founded the Greater Birmingham Humane Society (GBHS) in 1883. He was a young educator who came to Birmingham to direct the school system. Through his work, he realized that children must be taught humane values and compassion. Through the years the mission of GBHS has been the same, “to promote the humane treatment of people and animals through education, advocacy, and services.” GBHS provides programs to help animals in our community through adoption, pet resource centers, education, animal cruelty investigations, and animal care and control services.
This field trip will be a fun one where we will learn the history of this organization and how to get involved. We will tour the facilities and participate in a few fun volunteer activities. Of course, there will most definitely be some socializing with, loving on, and handling of animals!
Who: 7th – 8th Graders and parents/legal guardians
When: Wednesday, October 14, 2026
Option A: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Option B: 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Cost: $5 per person
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: September 23rd *
*Early bird discount for registering by September 16th. See info in Cheddar Up.
Lights, Camera, Dance
On the RED CARPET (a.k.a. THE CPC GYM)
Ninth through twelfth graders are invited to step into the spotlight at our Hollywood Red Carpet Teen Dance.
Dress to impress and enjoy an unforgettable evening filled with music, dancing, exciting games, tasty snacks, and plenty of opportunities to make lasting memories with friends. Walk the red carpet, strike your best pose, and experience a night of Hollywood glamour right here at CPC!
Don’t miss this star-studded event! Gather your friends and join us for a night of fun, laughter, and memories that will last long after the final curtain call.
We can’t wait to see you on the red carpet!
Who: 9th – 12th Graders
When: Saturday, October 24, 2026
6:00 – 9:30 p.m.
Cost: $20 per student
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: October 3rd *
*Early bird discount for registering by September 26th. See info in Cheddar Up.
Christmas in the Tropics!
Junior High @ CPC GYM
Trade the snow for sunshine and join us for a festive tropical Christmas party. Grab your favorite Hawaiian shirt, Christmas attire, or beach-inspired outfit, and celebrate the season with friends, fun, and plenty of holiday cheer.
Enjoy a delicious pancake bar, creative Christmas crafts, exciting holiday games, tropical treats, and much more! It’s the perfect opportunity to kick off the Christmas season and create memories that will last long after the holidays are over.
Don’t miss this merry island getaway filled with laughter, fun, and Christmas spirit. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
Who: 6th – 8th Graders
When: Thursday, December 3, 2026
5:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Cost: $15 per student
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: November 12th *
*Early bird discount for registering by November 5th. See info in Cheddar Up.
Christmas in the Tropics!
High School @ CPC GYM
Trade the snow for sunshine and join us for a festive tropical Christmas party. Grab your favorite Hawaiian shirt, Christmas attire, or beach-inspired outfit, and celebrate the season with friends, fun, and plenty of holiday cheer.
Enjoy a delicious pancake bar, creative Christmas crafts, exciting holiday games, tropical treats, and much more! It’s the perfect opportunity to kick off the Christmas season and create memories that will last long after the holidays are over.
Don’t miss this merry island getaway filled with laughter, fun, and Christmas spirit. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
Who: 9th – 12th Graders
When: Thursday, December 3, 2026
7:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Cost: $15 per student
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: November 12th *
*Early bird discount for registering by November 5th. See info in Cheddar Up.
Birmingham Children’s Theater
REGISTER IN CHEDDAR UP!
MainStage Theatre:
“The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs”
October 15, 2026
10:00 a.m.
Grades: 2nd and older
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: September 10th *
*Early bird discount for registering by September 3rd. See info in Cheddar Up.
“Santa’s Boots”
December 2, 2026
10:00 a.m.
Grades: 1st and older
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: October 14th *
*Early bird discount for registering by September 30th. See info in Cheddar Up.
“The Trumpet of the Swan”
[In partnership with the Alabama Symphony Orchestra]
March 3, 2027
10:00 a.m.
Grades: 3rd and older
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: January 20th *
*Early bird discount for registering by January 6th. See info in Cheddar Up.
“A Year with Frog and Toad”
April 14, 2027
10:00 a.m.
Grades: 1st and older
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: March 10th *
*Early bird discount for registering by March 3rd. See info in Cheddar Up.
Alabama Symphony Orchestra
REGISTER IN CHEDDAR UP!
Young People’s Concert:
“Make Our Garden Grow – The World of Music”
February 11, 2027
9:30 a.m.
Grades: 3rd – 6th
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: January 5th
*Early bird discount for registering by December 29th. See info in Cheddar Up.
Alabama Ballet—The Nutcracker
@ BJCC
1 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd N, Birmingham, AL 35203
As one of only eight companies in the world licensed by the Balanchine Trust to perform this holiday masterpiece, the Alabama Ballet is proud to present George Balanchine’s “The Nutcracker.”®
Who: CRCS students and parents/legal guardians
When: Thursday, December 17, 2026
10:00 a.m.
Cost: $1 per student; $26.25 per adult
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: September 30th *
*There is no Early bird discount for this event.
Note: There are a limited number of tickets which usually sell fast, and new stipulations apply.
REGISTER IN CHEDDAR UP!
Samford University Theatre for Youth Series
Thursday, October 1 at 9:30 a.m.
Ages 5-10
Deadline to sign up – September 3
The English countryside comes to life in this classic tale of friendship and bravery. In this witty and magical adaptation, humble and friendly Mole leaves behind the safety and comfort of an underground home to explore the Riverbank. There, Mole becomes fast friends with loyal and brave Ratty, who introduces Mole to arrogant Otter, impulsive Toad and wise Badger. Together they embark on thrilling and daring adventures throughout the Wild Wood.
Ballroom Dance Class
@ CPC GYM
Ballroom dancing not only teaches the skill of dancing but also etiquette. It helps promote confidence and self-esteem. It builds coordination, grace, poise, and good posture. And, of course, dancing is great exercise. Our lead instructor, Chris Bailey, has an exemplary record of teaching and performing. So, with all these positives, come “cut a rug” with your friends!
Who: 9th – 12th Grade CRCS Students who are at least 14 years old
When: Most Fridays (see dates below)
1:30 – 2:40 p.m.
Cost: $15 yearly registration fee per student AND $5 per lesson
- The yearly registration fee may be paid in Cheddar Up or at the first lesson.
- There are TWO payment methods available for weekly lessons:
- Details for the “full semester payment” option are in Cheddar Up.
- The other option is to pay $5 CASH each week at the beginning of dance class.
- Regardless of the chosen payment method, ALL students must visit the check-in table weekly to get their registration stickers.
Schedule (subject to change):
September 11, 18, 25
October 2, 9, 16, 30*
November 6, 13
*Seniors will vote for the winter dance theme.
MOM’S NIGHT OUT
Hey homeschool moms! We would love for you to join us for a fun and relaxing Mom’s Night Out—special evenings planned just for you! It’s the perfect chance to step away from the daily routine, enjoy some sweet fellowship, meet other moms on the same journey, and be encouraged. Whether you’re new to homeschooling or have been at it for years, we all need a little time to laugh, connect, and recharge. We can’t wait to see you there!
You will also find other encouraging articles, podcasts and other things here throughout the year.
GAME NIGHT
Tuesday, September 22, 2026
6:30-8:30
$5
Deadline to sign up is Monday, September 14.
Hey Crossroads moms! Grab your comfy shoes and your competitive spirit and join us for a Game Night you won’t want to miss! We’ll be diving into fun Minute to Win It–style challenges led by the one and only Amanda Popwell. Get ready to laugh, cheer each other on, and maybe discover some hidden talents! It’s guaranteed to be a night to remember. Bring a snack to share and lots of energy – we’ll take care of the rest!
Sign up on Cheddar Up – Bring a snack to share!
Pottery – Nativity
Thursday, October 15, 2026
6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Max 12 – Cost $40
Sign up on Cheddar Up
Join us as pottery artist Debby Simmons leads us in making a treasured piece of pottery. We will be making a beautiful nativity. No previous experience is needed, and you truly will come away with a beautiful keepsake.
Pottery – MUG
Monday, November 16, 2026
6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Max 12 – Cost $40
Sign up on Cheddar Up
Who doesn’t like a good mug? Join us as pottery artist Debby Simmons leads us in making our own personal mug. No previous experience is needed. Guaranteed to be night of fun and learning.
Ornament Exchange
December 8, Tuesday
6:30 – 8:30
Women’s Ministry Room – Gym Building
Sign Up Genius- No cost
Join us for a fun and festive Christmas Ornament Exchange just for homeschool moms! Sign up, bring a snack to share and an ornament to exchange and let’s enjoy a sweet time of fellowship and encouragement as we head into the busy Christmas season. It’s so easy to get caught up in the hustle, but let’s remind each other to slow down and keep our hearts focused on the true reason we celebrate—Jesus Christ. We hope you’ll join us for laughter, connection, and a little sparkle of Christmas joy!
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60B0E48AAAB28A3F94-58972397-christmas
Who Gets to Define Gen Z? A Voice from the Next Generation
This episode of “Christian Parent/Crazy World” brings the spotlight to one of the most pressing questions facing Christian parents today:
Who gets to define the next generation?
As Gen Z faces the competing forces of culture, media, politics, and social pressure, host Catherine invites a remarkable young guest, Charis Shoemaker, a graduating senior from the Crossroads Christian School class of 2026. Charis, already known in our CCS family for her faith, creativity, award-winning talent, and courage, shares the original poem “They Say”—the same one she performed live to a packed auditorium of over 700 at our May graduation. In this episode, Charis brings her generational voice to the podcast and performs the poem for all to hear. Catherine has been part of the Crossroads Christian community for six years and first met Charis through her comedy improv class at the CRCS co-op.
Key Takeaway:
Rather than letting culture, tradition, or pain define who they are, a growing number of Gen Zers—like Charis—are anchoring their identity in the unchanging truths of Scripture and Christ. Gen Z longs for authenticity and is hungry for voices in the Church to share real, biblical hope. For parents and mentors, the message is clear: Be present, speak truth in love, and trust that God is able to reach and redefine the next generation, no matter what “they say.”
Catherine Segars is an award-winning actress and playwright—turned stay-at-home-mom—turned author, speaker, blogger, and motherhood apologist. Shas been with Crossroads for several years. Life it is taking them to Nashville, and we will be miss them.
CPYU PARENT PAGE
The CPYU Parent Page is a monthly newsletter designed by the Center for Parent/Youth Understanding to help keep parents informed about the latest happenings and trends in the world of youth culture. Each month’s newsletter is at the end of the email I send out weekly; This Week’s News. I cannot stress enough how valuable this resource is in parenting your students. Please take the time each month to look at the trends, resources offered, and encouragement form CPYU!
Check out the Fine Arts activities going on this first half of the 2026-2027 school year.
Spotlight Club!
This past year, our senior high was officially part of the Spotlight Clubs of CEPA Pell City. Spotlight Club is for 9th – 12th graders who are interested in theater, whether it is performing, technical crew, design, or backstage. By being part of the Spotlight Club, students will have access to additional training with CEPA and can be part of supporting other CEPA productions by working in the house for their events. Club officers will be our point people in our own drama productions held at CEPA. To squeeze a few club meetings in a year, we will use the 5th Fridays from 12:30-1:30, so this year our meetings will be Oct 30 and Jan 29 (and maybe Dec 11). Obviously, this does not provide a lot of meeting time, but it will allow us to be more fully functioning as a Spotlight Club and helps identify those interested in other avenues of theater besides just being on stage. At our first meeting (Oct 30) we will identify students wishing to participate as club leaders, and the Spotlight adults will appoint our Student Officers Team. (Please note: Sr High play is 10th – 12th grade, but Spotlight club does include 9th grade.)
Spotlight Club will neither hinder, nor be a requirement for, either the CRCS Drama productions or participation in the Advanced Theater Class/Trumbauer Competition.
Key points:
- Spotlight Club is for ANY 9th – 12th grader interested in ANY aspect of the theater, not just performing. In fact, we really hope it will help us identify those interested in tech (sound/lights) or artistic (set/costumes/props) areas.
- Spotlight Club participation is NOT required for participation in Jr High and Sr High Dramas.
- Spotlight Club participation is NOT required for participation in Advanced Theater Coop Class/Trumbauer.
- You can be in Spotlight Club even if you DON’T audition for the plays or join advanced theater class!
The Fine Arts Team is pleased to announce the Lower Elementary Show!
Lower elementary students, tighten your belts and get ready for a musical based on the epic battle described in II Chronicles 20 that teaches the power of prayer and how we shouldn’t be afraid “for the battle is not yours, but it’s God’s!” We will laugh, overcome struggles, and learn trust God’s plan in this great musical!
The Fine Arts Team is pleased to announce the Upper Elementary Show!
Come back to 1942 in this exciting tribute to World War II, full of intrigues, dances, and history!
Be on the lookout for ticket information next month!
Jr. High Chamber Choir
7th and 8th graders!
Come join Ms. Jennifer Day and Ms. Jessica Lloyd in Chamber Choir! What is Chamber Choir? A chamber choir is simply a small or medium-sized choir of roughly 8 to 40 singers. Choir practice will be held in the back building each Friday beginning on September 4th from 1:30 p.m.- 2:40 pm, with a joint concert on November 21st with the Senior High Choir at Eden Westside at 6:30pm.
There are no auditions and no max on participants, but this group is only for 7th and 8th graders.
A choir fee of $25 per family is required and includes all printed music, binders, and licensing fees. Registration is on Cheddar Up.
We hope you’ll join us!
High School Choir
9th – 12 Graders
$25 per family
It’s time for High School Choir!
High school choir is open to students of all musical abilities in grades 9 to 12. There is no audition or maximum number for participation. All are welcome to sing with us! We will meet in the sanctuary from 2:45 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Fridays. Our first meeting will be on September 4th, and we will meet each Friday until our Fall Concert on Saturday, November 21 at Eden Westside at 6:30 p.m.
Choir members will be exposed to vocal technique, harmonizing/part singing, general musicianship, music history, hymns, modern worship and will learn how to work well inside a team. A typical practice for us begins with vocal warm-ups, a vocal technique lesson, and then we dive into our music. We end with a fun song for all of us to sing, and we strive to make every minute in choir productive but fun!
A choir fee of $25 per family is required and includes all printed music, binders, and licensing fees. We hope you’ll join us!
Clayton Rector (director) Kristen Henninger (admin)
Registration will be on Cheddar Up.
Jr High and Sr High Plays (Spring 2027)
Get ready…the October Newsletter will list the titles and audition information for the Jr High and Sr High plays. Unfortunately, exact dates are still being confirmed with our venues.
Jr High play for 7th, 8th & 9th graders will be a straight play (non-musical) this year.
Sr High play for 10th, 11th & 12th graders will be a musical this year.
Co-op
Co-op Calendar
9/4 First day of Friday co-op
9/10 First day of Thursday co-op
11/13 Last day of Friday co-op
11/19 Last day of Thursday co-op
11/20 Co-op showcase
Registration for the fall semester of co-op is closed. We are looking forward to classes beginning the first week of September!
Kind Regards,
Crystal
Upper Room
Friday, September 4, 2026 (First Friday for most months)
12-1:30 p.m.
7th – 12 Grade
Meet in the gym at noon for fellowship as we have lunch together. Then we will transition into a time of study and prayer. It is a great time to connect with others, learn and lift each other up in prayer. Riley Winter from Leadership Camp will be our speaker this year.
CRCS will facilitate the lunch. To do that, we need help. There will be a FB event with the menu and parents will sign up to bring food. That is usually posted the week before each event. We also will need volunteers to help with the set-up, serving of the food, and clean up. If you can volunteer, please contact the office or reply on the FB post when it is created. We can NOT do it without you.
KEY CLUB NEWS!
The summer is coming to an end, and the school year is starting backup; Key Club has a lot of new opportunities to serve. Key Club is an international service organization, run by high school students, that are excited about leadership and community service. Our officers have been working hard to make this year amazing, with new service projects, events, and fundraisers.
Our First Key Club Meeting will be on Friday, September 11th , 12:30-1:30 in the gym at Crossroads. This will also be a parent info meeting; we ask that all parents stay for the first fifteen minutes. After that the parents will be asked to leave for the rest of the meeting.
To sign up for Key Club, fill out the registration form below and pay on Cheddar Up. Even though it looks like you fully signed up on Cheddar Up you still must fill out the registration form.
Remember any rising ninth graders who were in Builders Club this past school year may also count summer hours for Key Club. We look forward to having you all as members this year!
LAST DAY TO REGISTER AND PAY IS SEPTEMBER 25th: You must pay on Cheddar Up and sign up on the registration form.
This is the link to fill out the registration form:
This is the link for submitting your community service hours.
Calendar
- First Key Club\Parent Meeting: Friday, September 11th, 12:30-1:30 in the gym
- See You at the Pole: Wednesday, September 23rd , 8:00 a.m.
- Key Club Meeting: Friday, September 25th, 12:30-1:30 in the gym (LAST DAY TO REGISTER AND PAY FOR KEY CLUB)
- Kiwanis Chili Cookoff: Saturday, September 26th, 10:00-2:00 at the St. Clair County Arena
Stay connected! Follow us on Facebook at CRCS Key Club and Instagram at crossroads_key_club
If you have any questions, please contact:
Cody Albus, Student President
(205)-864-7082
codyedwardalbbus@gmail.com
Abby Dickinson, Student Editor
(205)-902-7570
abigailanndickinson@icloud.com
Juli Turner, Faculty Advisor
(228)-265-0622
crcskcadvisor@gmail.com
September 11, 2026 – First Meeting (2nd Friday)
Back Building
Registration Fee: $35. (covers T-Shirt and fees for the year)
If you missed the August Faculty meeting or just didn’t get a chance to sign up for Builder’s Club, then reach out to Mrs. Jessica or just come to the first meeting on September 11th.
The first meeting will introduce our advisor and officers for the year as well talk about the club and some things we plan to do throughout the year. All parents that sit in on meetings have to have a background check.
Advisor: Jessica Guyton 205-505-9149 guytonhomeschool2023@gmail.com
Eta Sigma Alpha Honor Society
Eta Sigma Alpha is the first honor society established exclusively for homeschooled students in Grades 9-12. The purpose of Eta Sigma Alpha National Home School Honor Society is to recognize and encourage scholarship among homeschool students, while creating an energetic environment in which to forge relationships. The Sigma Zeta Chapter at Crossroads incorporates social, scholastic, and service aspects into our organization, staying active with fun game night hangouts and service projects planned for each semester.
A candidate for membership must meet all of the requirements set forth at etasigmaalpha.com/membership as well as requirements described on the local chapter application. Please reach out to Mary Beth or check the website for a detailed lists of scores and requirements.
Our new officers are William Rea (President), Lexi Day (Vice President) and Elijah Wheelis (Secretary).
Our first meeting for the year will be on September 17 at 1 pm.
Please contact Mary Beth Brown (hoganma23@gmail.com) with any questions or for more information. 205-527-8394
Yearbook
Students in grades 9-12
Yearbook is a great choice as an activity this year! Why? The reasons are many but just to highlight a few:
- Learn skills by working together in a group.
- Learn about the new Canva program used by Herff Jones to produce a fantastic yearbook.
- Learn and use leadership skills
- Have opportunities to use photography skills.
- Have FUN!
Requirements:
- Must be in grades 9-12
- Must be able to attend monthly meetings on the 3rd Friday of each month from 12:30-1:30.
- Must have a laptop that they can bring to each meeting. We have found that without a laptop (not a tablet), there is not much you can do at the meetings.
- 1st meeting Friday, September 18, 2026 / 12:30-1:30 CRCS back building.
Sign up at the faculty meeting or contact the yearbook advisors:
Advisors: Jenny Bartz or Trenity Whitfield
ROBOTICS
Robotics has kicked off, but we still have room for any student (7th-12th grade) who would be interested in joining our team. The team will meet every Tuesday and Thursday from 6pm-8pm
and every Saturday from 8:30-12:30 until December-please come check us out! We have a Robot/Computer Team as well as a Marketing Team. The Robotics Team will organize like a small business. The Marketing Team will create: a website, business cards, brochures, and a display booth; they will also write the Engineering notebook and be interviewed at competition. The Robot Team will build and code a robot capable of following commands and drive the Robot at competition. The Robot Team will assist in writing the Engineering notebook. The students learn a lot and it is fun to be a part of it all. If you have questions, please contact James Stanley 205-362-5525.
Where we meet on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays
2882 Crawfords Cove Road
Springville, Alabama
East Central Patriots
East Central Homeschool Organized Sports provides opportunities for homeschooled kids to participate in a variety of sports in a Christian atmosphere! Some of our sports have a firm foundation with longstanding success, while startup programs are constantly changing the climate here at East Central. Excitement is at an all-time high! East Central provides excellent instruction and competition to over 200 junior and senior high school athletes.
East Central is affiliated with the ACSC – Alabama Christian Sports Conference. For more information about the Conference, required forms, and a calendar of important events, visit their website. https://www.eastcentralpatriots.com/
East Central is a non-profit corporation exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Join us today! Need more information? Be sure to contact us. We are here to serve the Crossroads Community! For more information contact Dan Jett – Athletic Director 205-746-5917
Contact Information:
Feel free to contact us at the email addresses below, depending on the concern.
Office: office@crossroadschristian.us (General Communications)
Records: records@crossroadschristian.us (Records, Grades, Transcripts, etc.)
Accounting: accounting@crossroadschristian.us (Financial)
OFFICE HOURS: Crossroads office has regular office hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays 9 am to 3 pm. Call and leave a message, and we’ll return your phone call. E-mail is always a good way to get in touch with us, almost any time!
TUITION: All Crossroads families will receive a monthly email reminder (through QuickBooks Online) on the last day of each month about next month’s tuition. It is due by the 15th of each month. There is a link through the QuickBooks e-mail to pay tuition from your bank to the Crossroads bank and you can pay for more than one month at a time. School year 2026-27 began on June 1, 2026 for Returning Families. Tuition for New Families who joined over the summer begins in August. You always have the option of paying by cash or check at faculty meetings or in the office. And you can mail checks also. We do not accept credit cards. If you believe there is a discrepancy, please contact the office so we can verify. If you are not receiving the QuickBooks e-mail, please let us know that also.
TRANSCRIPT REQUESTS: If you need a transcript for any reason, the first step is to go to our website, and under records, fill out the transcript request form. Lori Booth, our registrar, will send your transcript where you have requested. She will also contact you if she has any questions. Feel free to contact her with any questions you may have as well. If we have to prepare a transcript from scratch, it may take up to two weeks to produce it, depending on work volume. So don’t wait until the last minute to make that transcript request, and remember we need your up-to-date records before we can do it!
WORK PERMITS: Under the current state law, work permits are no longer required for your teenager. If a 14YO or 15YO is working, he or she must provide an Eligibility to Work form to employers, which can be obtained from the Crossroads office. Students 16 years or older do not need anything from the school. For more information, check the Child Labor Law .
DRIVERS PERMIT and DRIVERS LICENSE: If your student plans to take the driver’s permit or driver’s license test, the student must provide proof of school enrollment. Contact the school office for a ALEA form 1-93 enrollment/exclusion form. Or, call and request that we mail it to you. These forms will also be available at faculty meetings.