Finding the right school for your child can be overwhelming. There are curricula to compare, class sizes to weigh, and communities to consider. But for many families, the final decision often comes down to a moment, one that feels right.
At Advent Episcopal School in Birmingham, parents describe those moments vividly. Whether it was a small act of kindness, a teacher’s personal gesture, or a tradition that stirred deep emotion, these experiences remind us that Advent isn’t just a school, it’s a home.
When My Child Is Seen
“The level of individual care and attention that Advent teachers give is remarkable. Last year, my daughter’s teacher bought each child a Christmas ornament, which was lovingly wrapped and opened in front of the class before being hung on the class tree. That ornament had a place of prominence on our tree last year, as I’m sure it will for years to come. What a joy for one’s child to be seen, known, and celebrated.”
— Jen Green, Advent Mom and Alumna
“Driving through Homewood one day, our oldest spotted the Vulcan and said, ‘Our art teacher lives right under there!’ It reminded me how Advent feels like an extended family — one where relationships spill into everyday life.”
— Lynlee Hughes, Advent Mom
At Advent, being known is a practice, not an aspiration. With a 7:1 student-to-teacher ratio and a close-knit faculty, students are celebrated for who they are and encouraged to grow into who they’re becoming.
Advent faculty and staff are invested in the lives of their students and their families. They are knowledgeable and responsive to parents’ questions about small habits and big dreams, show up to cheer on students at weekend basketball games, dance recitals, and you may even catch them at a birthday party or two.
When Confidence Blossoms
“Jack has always been a little shy and sensitive in big groups, and as a mom, I worried he might get lost in the crowd at a large school. At Advent, the opposite happened — his confidence flourished! Every morning he’s greeted by name, and recently, I caught him reading his yearbook before school just to see his friends and teachers.”
— Ragan Stone, Advent Mom
The Advent school community of faculty, staff, students, and parents fosters a feeling of family that encourages personal growth and helps children develop a strong sense of responsibility and a positive sense of self.
When Learning Becomes Joy
“The first time I heard Michael sing with the choral ensemble, I knew he was exactly where he was meant to be. His joy and confidence radiated — nurtured by teachers who truly cared.”
— Christina Jackson, Advent Alumna and Mom
From art and French to music and science, Advent’s curriculum, coupled with clubs and organizations, encourages both curiosity and creativity, reminding students that learning can be a source of joy.
When Curiosity Takes Root
“My three children were well prepared for their academic journeys after Advent. Beyond academics, they left Advent with a sense of wonder, a deep respect for others, and a desire to do good in the world. Their Advent experiences launched them into high school and college as thoughtful, empathic leaders.” – Donie Carlson, Mom of 3 Advent Alumni
At Advent, learning begins with curiosity. From science labs and literature circles to French songs and math explorations, students are encouraged to ask big questions and see themselves as thinkers.
When School Traditions Become Family Traditions
“I tear up at Lessons and Carols every year. Not only is it a beautiful service, but is a moving reminder of how much Advent invests in developing our children into well-rounded individuals. from singing carols in French to the children’s participation in reading the lessons. It makes me so proud of the young people we are nurturing.”
— Sharonda Childs-Fancher, Advent Alumna, Board Member, and Mom
Since its founding in 1950, Advent has developed beloved traditions like Lessons and Carols and weekly chapel services that embody Advent’s school culture and spirit.
If you’re searching for a school that feels like home, where your child will be known, loved, and inspired, Advent Episcopal School in Birmingham welcomes you to experience it firsthand.
Join Advent Adventures, a free family series where young children and their parents can explore, create, and connect on campus. To RSVP or learn more, contact Admissions Counselor Lelia Carlson at [email protected].
