At Ascension Leadership Academy, faith is not just something students learn about, it’s something they live, create, and share together. That spirit was beautifully on display during a recent Friday adventure centered on a beloved Christian tradition: the Chrismon tree.
A Chrismon tree is a special evergreen decorated with white and gold ornaments that tell the story of Christ — crosses symbolizing sacrifice, doves representing peace, and stars pointing to hope and promise. This Christmas season, First Presbyterian Church of Talladega wanted to display a Chrismon tree, and Ascension Leadership Academy was honored to help bring it to life.
Led by First Presbyterian Talladega Rev. Leeann Scarbrough and teacher Mrs. Terry Liner, students spent the day crafting Chrismon ornaments by hand, carefully creating symbols that reflect Christ’s life and majesty. Each ornament became more than a decoration — it became a testimony of faith, creativity, and joy. As hands worked and conversations flowed, students laughed, learned, and connected in ways that felt natural and welcoming.
And because community at Ascension extends beyond the classroom, the day included another meaningful tradition: making apple dumplings together. While the ornaments will shine on First Presbyterian’s Chrismon tree throughout the holiday season, the students enjoyed the sweet reward of their labor right away, sharing dumplings and fellowship at the end of the day.
Moments like these capture the heart of Ascension Leadership Academy. As a faith-based private school, Ascension is a place where every student fits in, feels valued, and truly feels at home. Whether crafting symbols of faith, serving the wider community, or simply sharing a meal, students are reminded that they belong — and that they are part of a story much bigger than themselves.
To send your student to Ascension Leadership Academy, enroll here and learn more about applying for funding assistance with an Alabama CHOOSE Act scholarship here.