November 1, 2021

Congratulations to our first group of TCSS University graduates! TCSS U is a program designed to engage members of our community who are passionate about education, seek a deeper understanding of issues facing our schools, and want to become informed advocates for education and students in our community.

Our first class of TCSS U began in the 2019-2020 school year. When the COVID-19 pandemic began in early 2020, the class was unable to meet for their final session and graduation. We paused TCSS U for the following school year. This year, TCSS U is back in full swing, and the 2019-2020 class had the opportunity to complete the program and graduate at a TCSS Board of Education meeting. TCSS U graduates, thank you for dedicating your time to learning more about how a school system works and how you can best support our schools.

There are several remaining spots available in the current class of TCSS U. If you are interested in joining TCSS U, please review the information below and promptly submit your application. Applications will not be accepted beyond Friday, November 5, at 4:30 pm. The application is linked at the bottom of this page.

The application window will reopen in the Summer of 2022 for the TCSS U Class of 2022-2023. Information will be posted on the TCSS web site closer to that time. 

What is the purpose of TCSS U?

To provide members of the community with an opportunity to learn more about the Tuscaloosa County School System and its operations, including instructional and administrative services.

To create a sense of pride and knowledge among program graduates, enabling them to act as informed advocates for our schools.

How does the program work?

Members of the program will meet seven times. Locations for most sessions are still being finalized, but sessions will be held at various TCSS schools and facilities across our county.

Session One: Tuesday, September 28, 6 – 8 pm, TCSS Central Office

Session Two: Tuesday, October 26, 6 – 8 pm, TCSS Transportation Department

Session Three: Tuesday, November 9, 6 – 8 pm, Location TBA

Session Four: Tuesday, January 25, 6 – 8 pm, Location TBA

Session Five: Tuesday, February 8, 6 – 8 pm, Location TBA

Session Six: Tuesday, March 8, 6 - 8 pm, Location TBA

Session Seven: Tuesday, April 12, 6 - 8 pm, Location TBA

TCSS U Reception & Graduation: Monday, April 25, 4 – 5:30 pm, TCSS Central Office

Sessions One through Seven will focus on various aspects of our school system, and will be facilitated by TCSS leaders who work in each of these areas. Topics will include school finance, curriculum, school safety, teacher recruitment and retention, counseling, assessment and accountability, special education, transportation, facilities, child nutrition, and more. Dinner will be provided at each of the five sessions, beginning at 5:30 pm. Participants are welcome to arrive at 5:30 for dinner, but are not required to be present until the official start of the session. Sessions will begin promptly at 6 p.m., and participants may continue their dinner as the session begins.

The final session will be a Reception and Graduation ceremony. In order to graduate, a program member may miss no more than one session.

How many members are in a class? 

Approximately 40 members.

Who can apply?

The purpose of TCSS U is to engage a wide variety of citizens, from all areas of Tuscaloosa County, who care about education in our community. This includes, but is not limited to, parents and guardians of TCSS students, educators, business professionals, community and civic leaders, members of non-profit organizations, and retired educators.

Is there a cost to apply or be part of the program?

No.

How do I apply?

The application is available on this web page. You may also call the TCSS Central Office at (205) 758-0411 for an application. The application includes submission instructions.

How will program members be selected?

A steering committee, comprised of TCSS leaders, educators, and community members, will review applications and hold interviews.

What are the procedures for masks and social distancing?

TCSS U will follow whatever current procedures are in place for our schools. As of the publication of this document, masks are strongly recommended, but not required, in our schools. We practice social distancing to the best extent possible in a K - 12 setting. Locations for TCSS U are being selected with social distancing in mind.

Additional Questions?

Please call (205) 758-0411 with any additional questions.

Download the TCSS U 2021-2022 Application

Download the TCSS U 2021-2022 Information Packet