“If they only knew…”

How many times has that phrase crossed your mind when thinking about what most people don’t understand about public education and the complexity of running a school system? Don’t you wish the vocal critics of your schools had accurate — and complete — information? But how do you accomplish that in a world of soundbites and comment sections?

For the Tuscaloosa County (Ala.) School System, our answer to that challenge is TCSS University, better known as TCSS U.

TCSS U is a year-long program designed to educate citizens about every aspect of our school system, from funding and mental health services to human resources and curriculum, facilities and safety, and everything in between. More than six years after our district first implemented TCSS U, it continues to help break down walls throughout our community, combat misinformation and create informed advocates for our schools. In the years since TCSS U began, several other school districts throughout Alabama have implemented similar programs. In fact, we modeled our program after FCPS 101, presented by Frederick County (Va.) Public Schools at the NSPRA National Seminar back in 2019. If you’re interested in launching a similar program in your district, the framework can be easily implemented with thoughtful planning and collaboration.

Below, read more about the structure, partnerships and strategies that help power TCSS U.

What is the format of TCSS U?

TCSS U sessions meet monthly during the school year, September through April, except for December. Each two-hour evening session focuses on two or three aspects of our school system and is facilitated by leaders from those departments. Sessions are held at schools across our district, as well as our central office and transportation department. A local restaurant serves as our sponsor and provides dinner for each session. (Don’t overlook the importance of good food: Many of our participants are busy people who look forward to a meal they might not have to prepare or provide…and actually sit down while eating it.) The program concludes with a graduation ceremony at a Board of Education meeting. Participants must miss no more than one session to graduate from the program.

Who is the target audience of TCSS U?

Lots of people: parents and guardians of students, educators, business professionals, community leaders, faith leaders, members of non-profit organizations, supporters of our school system and even outspoken critics of our school system. We’ve also had one of our high school seniors go through the program. And while TCSS U was not initially intended as a program for our own faculty and staff, many have eagerly applied and been some of our most engaged class members. I’ll never forget what one of our class members, a teacher in the district, told me after her first TCSS U session, “I’ve been teaching here for more than 20 years, but tonight was the first time I’ve ever heard any of this!”

How does someone apply?

An application is available on our website and at schools. A committee comprised of TCSS leaders, educators and community members reviews applications.

How many class members are accepted?

About 40. Coincidentally, that’s about the number we have apply each year. While we want to reach as many people as possible, I’ve found that keeping the group small enough to have a collegial feel is important.

Is a virtual option offered for TCSS U?

No. We believe this program is so impactful because it is in person. Relationships are formed that otherwise would not be, and the aspects of communication that are often lost through text, email and even video are preserved. Most importantly, class participants have gotten to know our district leaders for who they are – educators who care about students, carry the weight of tough decisions and are trying to do their best in hard situations.

Want to learn more?

If you’d like to know more about TCSS U, please email me: tbrewer@tcss.net or visit www.tcss.net/about-tcss/tcss-u. We’re so proud of this program and love to see it benefit other school systems!

Terri Brewer, APR, has served as director of public relations for the Tuscaloosa County School System since 2018. Terri is proud to have been honored with NSPRA Gold Medallion Awards in 2024 and 2025. As someone whose life was impacted tremendously by great teachers and meaningful school experiences, Terri is grateful to have the opportunity to work in support of educators.