Science Educator · STEM Advocate · Mentor
Inspiring the next generation of scientists and critical thinkers at i3 Academy High School in Birmingham, Alabama.

The Philosophy of Dr. Michael L. Hollingsworth
"Keep on Smiling" is a registered trademark of Dr. Michael L. Hollingsworth. All rights reserved.
"Keep on Smiling" is more than a phrase — it is a daily declaration, a quiet command, and a steady reassurance that carries students from one moment to the next. Spoken with calm authority and genuine warmth, these three words are Dr. Hollingsworth's signature call to resilience.
The message is clear: do not be consumed by yesterday's failures, and do not be paralyzed by tomorrow's uncertainties. Fix your eyes on what lies ahead. Walk with purpose. Carry yourself with dignity. And no matter what this day brings — keep on smiling.
For Dr. Hollingsworth, a smile is not a sign of naivety — it is a sign of strength. It says, "I have been through the storm, I know more is coming, and I am still here." It is the quiet confidence of someone who has chosen to press forward.
Dr. Hollingsworth does not simply show up to teach — he shows up to serve. He has always believed that his place in the classroom is not a coincidence; it is a divine appointment. Teaching is his true calling, placed on his heart by God, and he honors that calling every day with patience, preparation, and unshakable love for the students entrusted to his care.
Whether navigating the complexities of Chemistry, exploring the wonders of Earth and Space Science, or guiding students through the intricacies of Anatomy and Physiology, Dr. Hollingsworth approaches every lesson with the same gentle certainty: every student has greatness within them, and it is his purpose to help them find it.
Calm & Steady
A reassuring presence in every classroom
Confident & Clear
Expertise that inspires trust and curiosity
Caring & Committed
Every student matters, every single day
Faith-Driven
Guided by purpose, principle, and prayer
His Guiding Verse
“He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”
— Micah 6:8 (ESV)
These words are the compass by which Dr. Hollingsworth leads his life and his classroom. To do what is right, to treat every student with kindness and dignity, and to walk in humility — knowing that the gifts he carries are not his own, but given to him by God for a purpose far greater than himself. Keep on Smiling™ is the outward expression of that inward conviction.
Welcome! I'm Dr. Michael L. Hollingsworth, a dedicated science educator at i3 Academy High School — home of the Rockets — in Birmingham, Alabama. With a passion for inquiry-based learning, I strive to make science accessible, exciting, and meaningful for every student.
My academic credentials span multiple disciplines. I hold a Doctorate in Theology and a Doctorate in Chemistry Education, an Education Specialist (Ed.S) in Special Education, a Master of Science in Chemistry Education, a Bachelor of Science in Biology, and a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education – General Science. This broad academic foundation allows me to bring a rich, multidisciplinary perspective to everything I teach.
Outside the classroom, I mentor students in STEM competitions, collaborate with local universities, and actively work to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application.
2
Doctorates (Theology & Chemistry Ed.)
5,000+
Students Mentored
6
Degrees Earned
25+
Years of Experience
Explore the subjects I teach at i3 Academy High School. Click on any course to learn more.
11th Grade
Explore the structure of the Earth, plate tectonics, weather patterns, the solar system, and the universe beyond.
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11th Grade
Dive into the properties of matter, chemical reactions, the periodic table, stoichiometry, and laboratory techniques.
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11th Grade
In-depth examination of the human body's systems, structures, and functions — from cells to organ systems.
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Everything you need to succeed — syllabi, study guides, lab materials, and more.
Download current semester syllabi for all courses.
Review materials and exam prep resources for each unit.
Safety guidelines and step-by-step lab instructions.
Access grades, attendance, and school communications.
Log in to the school's learning management system anytime.
Stay up to date with the latest news, events, and class updates.
Congratulations to all students who took the AP Biology exam! Results are now available through the College Board portal.
Our annual STEM Research Fair will be held June 10th in the school gymnasium. All Biology and Environmental Science students are invited to present.
Students enrolled in AP Biology for the 2026–2027 school year can download the summer reading list from the Resources section.
Everything in One Place
Navigate directly to any page on Dr. Hollingsworth's site — courses, resources, motivation, and more.
Have a question? Reach out and I'll get back to you as soon as possible.
Doc@keeponsmiling.org
Phone
(256) 553-8165
School Address
2601 Carson Road, Birmingham, Alabama 35215
Monday – Friday:7:30 AM – 3:30 PM
After School: By appointment only
Follow Along
Social Media Channels
Stay connected with Dr. Hollingsworth and the Keep on Smiling™ community across all platforms.
TikTok
@keeponsmiling.org
Short videos, science tips & daily motivation
YouTube
@keeponsmilingorg
Lessons, lectures & educational content
Facebook
May You Keeponsmiling
Updates, announcements & community