The Tuscaloosa County School System is now accepting applications for the 2023-2024 cohort of TCSS University, or TCSS U. 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. Applications will be accepted through Friday, September 1, 2023, at 4 pm. You will find more information about the program and application process below.

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 will 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 26, 6 – 8 pm, TCSS Central Office

Session Two: Tuesday, October 17, 6 – 8 pm, Location To Be Announced

Session Three: Tuesday, November 14, 6 – 8 pm, Location TBA

Session Four: Tuesday, January 23, 6 – 8 pm, Location TBA

Session Five: Tuesday, February 27, 6 – 8 pm, Location TBA

Session Six: Tuesday, March 26, 6 - 8 pm, Location TBA

Session Seven: Tuesday, April 16, 6 - 8 pm, Location TBA

TCSS U Reception & Graduation: Monday, April 22, 4:45 – 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 of the seven sessions.

A full schedule of locations will be finalized by the October session. 

How many members will be accepted? 

Approximately 50 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?

Applications are available on the TCSS web site (below). You may also call the TCSS Central Office at (205) 758-0411 for an application. The application includes submission instructions. To be considered for the program, an applicant's completed application must be received by Friday, September 1, 2023, at 4 pm.

How will program members be selected?

A steering committee, comprised of TCSS leaders, educators, and community members, will review applications and hold interviews. All applicants will be notified if they have been selected or not by Friday, September 15, 2023.

Additional Questions?

Please call (205) 758-0411 with any additional questions. You may also email Mrs. Terri Brewer, TCSS Director of Public Relations, at tbrewer@tcss.net.

Download a PDF - TCSS U 2023-2024 Information

Download the Application for TCSS U 2023-2024