Amanda Pevey
Elmore Autauga News
Students at Airport Road Intermediate School took center stage this week as the Elmore County Board of Education recognized two standout programs that are quietly making a big impact, the school’s dance and robotics teams.
During the board’s recent meeting, Principal Marcia Stephens highlighted the accomplishments of both groups, shining a light on what she calls the school “a hidden gem.”
“This is a great day. I like to first thank the board members, and Superintendent to allow me to recognize my special students,” said Stephens. “So many times we hear about the high school, but we are here today to talk about ARIS, because we are the hidden gym.”
Stephens said the recognition was about more than awards, it was about giving students opportunities they might not otherwise experience.
At ARIS, she said, many students come from Millbrook and Coosada and may not often have exposure beyond their immediate communities. Through programs like dance and robotics, the school works to broaden those horizons.
“Our dance team and robotics team are phenomenal. Today we celebrate something truly special, and that is our students. Our dancers did not just perform, they inspired. We also have a robotics club that is all about competing, and I want to expose them and let them go out and travel around,” she said.
The ARIS dance team recently earned top honors at the National Inspire Dance Competition, receiving the Diamond award, one of the highest distinctions, in both lyrical and jazz categories. The team also brought home Judge’s Awards for Most Inspiration and the Golden Egg Award.
Dance team sponsors Zoie Frasier and Amy Medeiros lead the nine-member group, which includes Trinity Cooper, Adalyn Kindig, Paris Moncrief, Kairo Whetstone, Shilo Whetstone, Zimri Whetstone, Savannah Zukowski, Lucy Vaughn and Ellie Morris.
“I want them to know I am loud because I want them to know that I am their biggest cheerleader,” Stephens said. “When we show up, we show out. We are incredibly proud of each and every one of you.”
Stephens encouraged the dancers to carry their lessons beyond the stage.
“To all our dancers, that moment is a result of your hard work, discipline, and your heart. You showed everyone how you step on stage, and you demanded their presence, and that is why you were rewarded with the things that you were. Always remember, it is not just about trophies, it is about your passion. You carry the teamwork you build, and the confidence that grows along the way. Keep pushing yourself boys and girls, because we are not going to stop here,” she said.
The school’s robotics team also earned recognition for a strong season of competition. A few years ago, the team advanced to nationals, and this year they competed at the state level after a standout performance locally.
ARIS Team 95432C earned the Excellence Award at the Elmore County competition, qualifying them for the state tournament. Competing among 54 teams, and as one of the youngest groups present, the team advanced to the finals after eight qualifying matches. They ultimately finished ninth in the finals round and ranked 17th overall among the top 20 teams in Alabama.
“That is big for our school history, and we represented Elmore County well,” Stephens said.
The robotics team is sponsored by Amanda Main and Sarah Lamar. Team members include Lucus Molander, Liam Faber, Asher McKee and Peyton Spradley.
Stephens also thanked community supporters, including county commissioners who contributed donations to help the program grow.
“I am so thankful for the many people that support us, and to our county commissioners who provided some donations to us,” she said.
She closed by encouraging students to keep striving for success in and out of the classroom.
“I want you all to always be our future engineers, and scientists as well,” said Stephens. “I want to thank you all, keep on pushing, never give up, and we believe in you.”
As applause filled the room, the recognition served as a reminder that big achievements are happening at every level, and that with the support of educators and the community, students at ARIS are finding their footing and their momentum, both on stage and in competition.
