School Profile

Mission

The Tuscaloosa Magnet Schools' mission is motivate students to discover knowledge, create a better world, and serve in a way that respects others.

Vision

The Tuscaloosa City Schools’ International Baccalaureate programs inspire students to be lifelong learners, divergent thinkers, and caring individuals while encouraging international mindedness through inquiry and service to others.

Core Values

• Diversity: We understand that everyone is unique, and we have respect for self and others.
• Excellence: With a positive attitude, we aim high and try to be outstanding in all we do.
• Inquiry: We gather knowledge by asking questions, thinking critically, and engaging in project-based learning.
• Integrity: We are honest and believe in doing the right thing, even when it is hard and no one is looking.
• Leadership: We motivate, listen, and persevere when tasks are challenging.
• Service: We volunteer our time and best efforts to benefit local and global communities.

Awards & Accolades

• TMS-M was awarded the National Blue Ribbon in 2017.
• TMS-M was named a National School of Character in 2022.
• TMS-M integrates the arts in all subjects.

Clubs offer students opportunities to explore topics and activities of their choice every nine weeks. Past clubs included: French club, international cooking club, chess, cooking, gardening, Battle of the Books, writing club, and games.

Diverse Curriculum

All students participate in a music class (strings or band), art, design and Spanish. There are no electives. The IB curriculum requires that all students receive music, art, design, foreign language, physical education and the four core classes.

Service Learning

All students are encouraged to complete at least 1 hour of community service per semester. All 8th grade students complete the International Baccalaureate Community Project (we call it the "Passion Project"), which enables students to serve the community and share their talents with others.

Student Advocacy

We have a family atmosphere where students feel free to talk to all teachers and the counselor. Class meetings are held to discuss issues; students serve as guides during school visits and the student council is an important voice of the school.

Team Concept

All students are placed into one of 5 Houses, which compete for the service award and the spirit award. Students must collaborate and cooperate in their houses as they problem-solve and plan the house activities each month during House Day.

Friday Clubs offer activities for all students that develop their interests -- from gardening to drama.