By Haley Mitchell Godwin

The Alabama Independent School Association (AISA) recently recognized Crenshaw Christian Academy (CCA) in a July 17 media release, applauding the school for achieving and maintaining academic excellence.

The school was awarded the prestigious 2023-2024 AISA Blue Ribbon School Award, an honor, which involves meeting benchmarks in a rigorous application process. The award recognizes schools that excel in providing outstanding educational programs and demonstrate excellence in scholastic achievement, teaching practices, professional development, student performance, student involvement, vibrant school life and effective community engagement.

David Smyth, a proud 1977 graduate of CCA, expressed his deep gratitude for the education he received at the academy. Smyth worked alongside his father in various family business ventures for 24 years before serving as the Crenshaw County Administrator for 18 years. Having retired last year, Smyth credits CCA for playing a significant role in his life and career.

“CCA will always be dear to me and my family, having instilled in many graduates, including myself, the desire to be a better person,” Smyth said. “In the society we live in today, that’s needed more than ever before. CCA has been awarded the AISA Blue Ribbon Award 15 times since 2002-03, but I am sure there are more ribbons and awards.”

The honor of “Blue Ribbon School” is  reserved for institutions of learning which meet standards of excellence in areas like ACT scores, professional development for teachers and a variety of academic areas. As a member of AISA, CCA students gain opportunities to compete in academic contests within the school and also among their peers from across the state.

According to Smyth, CCA has always shown exceptional student performance and high levels of achievement in testing, due largely to individualized student instruction. Smyth’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. J.D. Smyth, Jr., were among the handful of original founding parents of CCA, a fact he remains extremely proud of.

“The CCA Alma Mater speaks of honor, courage, strength and might,” Smyth said. “The song talks about how our spirit swells with pride and I’m extremely proud that my school has received the coveted AISA Blue Ribbon award yet again this year. I’m also extremely proud of the role the school plays in supporting the entire community.”

This year, CCA joins 31 other distinguished schools in receiving the award including Bayside Academy, Lee-Scott Academy, Pike Liberal Arts School, The Donoho School and others

Since its establishment in 1970, AISA has been dedicated to maintaining an organization of independently operated non-public schools that provide a rich and diverse educational environment committed to academic excellence and student growth.

For more information visit https://aisaonline.org.