Two ASMS Wonder Kids!

The Alabama School of Math and Science is proud to announce that we've had not one- but TWO students named 2026 Wonder Kids by Mobile Bay Magazine!

Congratulations to recent 2026 ASMS graduates Murray Reed and Emma Kathryn South! This is an annual recognition honoring "13 young local standouts in academia, artistry, athletics, and more." Read on to find out why these amazing students are now also known as Wonder Kids. 

Murray Reed

2026 graduate, Alabama School of Mathematics and Science // Swimming sensation

 

Why He Rocks

Murray has been competitively swimming since age 6 and has become a highly decorated athlete. As a freshman in Gulf Shores, his performance won him two relay state championships and a record-breaking performance in the 4×100 medley and 4×100 freestyle relay. This past season, he placed in the top three at the Southeastern Swimming and Diving Championships in both the 200 and 100 freestyles and earned the title of Southeastern Swimming Champion in the 200 freestyle. A member of the City of Mobile Swim Association (CMSA) club team, he was recognized as the overall male High Point Champion and inducted into the CMSA Hall of Fame.

 

Out of the Water

Even while balancing the rigorous academic demands of ASMS, a structured training schedule and elite-level swimming, Murray maintained a 3.85 GPA. He likes learning about engineering, science and technology and spends time outdoors, hiking and exploring new places when he’s not in the pool.

 

Future Plans

Murray will swim at a Power Four university, signing with West Virginia University in the Big 12 Conference. He is the first ASMS student to sign with a Division I university to pursue athletics.

 

Biggest Influence

Murray praises his parents for their dedication, driving him to early-morning swim practices and encouraging him to chase his dream. “Their sacrifices and support have given me opportunities I will always be grateful for.”

Emma Kathryn South
2026 graduate, Alabama School of Mathematics and Science // Scientific research pro
Why She Rocks
Fresh out of high school, Emma Kate has already made a significant impact in scientific research. She is part of a team of research fellows working with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Her work focuses on the negative effects of ocean acidification and her thesis explored the impact these effects have on the marine nitrogen cycle and the Eastern oyster. Out of over 1,000 applicants, she was named as one of 40 Randall Research Scholars nationwide at the University of Alabama, the US’s first interdisciplinary research program, and earned the Senior Medal of Excellence in Biology at ASMS.
Out of the Lab
Emma Kate’s mark goes beyond the ocean. She lobbied at the state capitol on behalf of the Alabama School of Mathematics and Science, successfully securing more funding for the school. She also won second runner-up and placed first in self-expression and interview in the Distinguished Young Woman of Baldwin County program.
Future Plans
Emma Kate will attend the University of Alabama, where she will complete her MBA and earn a Bachelor of Science degree simultaneously. She aims to become a pediatric endocrinologist one day.
Biggest Influence
Emma Kate lists her dad and her science teacher, Dr. Natalie Ortell, as her biggest influences and supporters.