History of TCS

School History

Cottondale Baptist Church became involved in Christian education in September 1969 with the first class of five-year-old kindergarten consisting of ten pupils. The kindergarten was started under the ministry of Bro. Archer Thorpe. In September 1974, first through third grades were included under the name of Cottondale Christian Academy. This change took place under the leadership of Pastor Jim Rushing. In September 1975, fourth through eighth grades were added. All of these classes met in the basement of Cottondale Baptist Church. On March 22, 1976, the name of the school was changed from Cottondale Christian Academy to Tuscaloosa Christian School. Under the leadership of Dr. E.H. Richards, Pastor of Cottondale Baptist Church, the church purchased 15.9 acres of land on Prude Mill Road and built the first building. In September 1976, the school moved into the new building on Prude Mill Road. The ninth and tenth grades were added at this time. Four-year-old and five-year-old kindergarten classes remained at the Cottondale Baptist Church location. In September 1977, eleventh and twelfth grades were added. In May 1978, the school graduated its first class consisting of five students.

Our Belief

With academic excellence as our goal, our students are challenged to compete on state and national levels with other Christian schools in academic testing as well as fine arts.  Tuscaloosa Christian School is an integral part of Cottondale Baptist Church.  We are governed by a school board which also serves as the church board of deacons. Christian training in the school is from a Biblical approach, and Christ-like principles are clearly taught. No applicant shall be denied admission on the basis of race, color, or national origin.

Mission Statement

Tuscaloosa Christian School exists to challenge young people to know Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, to live according to Biblical principles, and to equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills to serve others.