Each summer, TURNERBATSON’s team comes together for our annual Serve Day. It’s an opportunity to live out our values of People, Passion, and Purpose by giving back to one of our clients through a meaningful community service project. This year, we were honored to serve Cornerstone Schools of Alabama at its Elementary School Campus in Woodlawn.

Cornerstone Schools of Alabama is one of the largest private Christian school systems in Birmingham, serving students across three campuses with a mission of providing a positive learning environment while empowering students to glorify God. This summer, refreshing the elementary school cafeteria was a top priority.

The existing cafeteria consisted of two separate dining spaces that no longer met the needs of students and faculty. TURNERBATSON developed plans to transform the space by increasing seating capacity, connecting the dining rooms with a new hallway, and adding much-needed storage. Rives Construction completed the renovation. Once construction was finished, our team added painted murals and accent walls that celebrate Cornerstone’s mission and create a welcoming environment for students.

The cafeteria serves as more than just a place to eat — it is a gathering space that supports the school’s commitment to providing nutritious, attractive, timely, and consistent meal services while fostering connection and community among students and faculty.

Our Serve Day efforts extended beyond the cafeteria renovation. Team members cleaned kitchen equipment, pressure washed sidewalks and picnic areas, organized gym materials, assembled K4 trikes, prepared outdoor activity spaces, and assisted with the installation of smart boards, helping prepare the campus for another successful school year.

TURNERBATSON has partnered with President Dr. Nita Carr and the Cornerstone team for many years to reimagine spaces across all three campuses. This year’s project was especially meaningful because it enhanced a space that supports students’ daily well-being while creating opportunities for fellowship and community.

“Serving Cornerstone Schools this summer was very special,” said Project Architect Hannah Burns. “We see the incredible impact they make on the Birmingham community, and it was a joy to serve them with our time and talents! It is especially meaningful to serve alongside the team you work with every day.”

We are grateful to Cornerstone Schools of Alabama for the opportunity to partner with them once again and invest in a space that will serve students, faculty, and families for years to come.