The Scholar Experience

Where scholars are inspired to discover their potential, build confidence, and lead with purpose.

The Bellingrath Scholar Experience

From Day One to Success and Beyond

At Bellingrath, the scholar experience goes far beyond the classroom. As a tuition-free public charter school serving grades 6–8 in Montgomery, Alabama, we nurture the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally—through personalized instruction, hands-on learning, and a welcoming, inclusive, and culturally rich environment. Every scholar is known, supported, and inspired to grow into a confident learner and compassionate leader.

Families are at the heart of everything we do. Together, we empower scholars to achieve excellence, embrace their culture, and make a meaningful impact within our school and the greater Montgomery community.

Bellingrath scholars.

Where Care Meets Excellence

Bellingrath scholars.

Mary C. Holloway, Ph.D., Principal

“When scholars walk through the doors of Bellingrath, they’re entering a place where they are seen, valued, and inspired to achieve their best. Our team is dedicated to fostering a welcoming, inclusive, and culturally rich environment that nurtures both academic excellence and personal growth. Every scholar is encouraged to think boldly, lead with integrity, and take pride in their learning and achievements.”

Hallmarks of

THE Bellingrath Experience

Bellingrath Middle School’s proven model ensures that every scholar has access to a high-quality, well-rounded education—one rooted in equity, care, and community.

Strong Academics & Personalized Learning

Every scholar benefits from rigorous, data-driven instruction tailored to their individual needs. Through small-group learning, one-on-one support, and targeted intervention in math and reading, our teachers help scholars build strong foundations and achieve lasting academic growth.

Enrichment & After-School Programs

Bellingrath offers a wide range of after-school activities and enrichment opportunities—including STEM, robotics, art, athletics, and student leadership clubs. These programs inspire creativity, teamwork, and leadership beyond the classroom.

Safe, Inclusive, and Culturally Rich Environment

Safety, care, and inclusion are at the heart of our mission. Our staff foster trust, respect, and belonging so every scholar feels valued, supported, and confident to explore and grow in a culturally rich environment.

Caring Teachers & Mentorship

Our teachers serve as mentors who truly know and support each scholar. Through guidance, goal-setting, and encouragement, they nurture confidence, character, and a lifelong love of learning.

Character & Leadership Development

Bellingrath prepares scholars to lead with integrity, empathy, and pride in their culture. Leadership programs, enrichment clubs, and community service opportunities help students strengthen their voice, values, and sense of purpose.

Family & Community Partnership

We believe strong family and community connections are essential to scholar success. Through open communication, family events, and partnerships like Summer Advantage, SkilledUS, and local organizations, we support scholar learning, leadership, and family growth.

What Families Can Expect

from the Bellingrath Experience

Families choose Bellingrath for a school that feels welcoming, inclusive, and connected—where scholars are supported, challenged, and inspired every day. From rigorous academics to hands-on enrichment, we help every student reach their potential and grow into confident, compassionate leaders.

Where Every Child Belongs

Bellingrath is built on safety, respect, and belonging. Every scholar is known, valued, and supported in a welcoming environment that celebrates diversity, culture, and community.

Innovative Classrooms

We combine data-driven instruction, small-group learning, and 1:1 technology to make lessons engaging, personalized, and effective for every scholar.

Character & Leadership

Our scholars learn to lead with integrity, kindness, and confidence. Through mentorship, enrichment clubs, and community partnerships, they develop the skills to make a positive impact at school and beyond.

Academic Excellence for All

With a rigorous curriculum and targeted intervention, every scholar receives the support and challenge they need to excel in reading, math, and science.

Joyful Learning Environments

From STEM and art to athletics, clubs, and family events, Bellingrath provides joyful, engaging experiences that make learning exciting and meaningful.

Empowered Educators

Our dedicated teachers are lifelong learners themselves—receiving ongoing coaching, training, and support to provide the best education for every scholar.

McKinney-Vento Act

The McKinney-Vento Act protects scholars from discrimination based on their lack of a permanent residence. Homeless Scholars are eligible to receive a variety of services including: transportation services, free meals under the school nutrition programs, limited English proficiency class, gifted and talented programs, and special education services based on a scholar’s eligibility. Homeless Scholars will not be denied enrollment based on lack of proof of residency. Please consult the McKinney-Vento Act Liaison if you need assistance. The PLA Network does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, disability or national origin in any employment and/or educational opportunity. No person shall be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise subjected to unlawful discrimination in any program or activity for which the PLA Network Board is responsible or for which it receives financial assistance from the U.S. Department of Education. The PLA Network values diversity. Phalen Leadership Academies (PLA) is committed to making its websites accessible for all, including individuals with disabilities, and strives to ensure accessibility currently and as new technologies emerge. PLA welcomes questions and input on its sites' accessibility at each development phase. Please contact our Call Center at 888.655.0777 or submit feedback to Communications@PhalenAcademies.org if you encounter an issue accessing any portion of the network's websites.