One Athens Connects April 2026

Mark your calendars with important dates to remember:

• April 15 - Progress Report Day
• April 15 - Early Dismissal Day

View the ACS district calendar at acs-k12.org/calendar.

Looking for a rewarding career in education? Join us at the annual Athens City Schools Job Fair! This event will be held on Tuesday, April 14, from 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM in the Athens High School Arena/Gymnasium. Don't miss this awesome opportunity to explore open positions, meet our team, and discover what it means to be a part of the family! Learn more at acs-k12.org/jobfair.

Athens City Schools will dismiss early on Wednesday, April 15, as scheduled in the 2025-2026 ACS Academic Calendar. Buses will depart at the school's early dismissal time. Please plan for your bus rider to arrive home earlier than usual. Latchkey will NOT be available. If you have any questions, please contact your school.

Early Dismissal Schedule:

• Pre-K 10:45 AM
• K-3 11:15 AM
• AIS 11:20 AM
• AMS 11:30 AM
• AHS 11:45 AM

View the academic calendar at acs-k12.org/calendar.

Athens High School and Athens Middle School Progress Reports will be available on Wednesday, April 15. View the ACS progress and report card schedule at acs-k12.org/reportcards.

One Generation Away will host a Mobile Food Pantry this Saturday, April 4, at Athens High School, and they need volunteers! If your school club or organization is interested in volunteering, please contact Blake Mathis at 256.410.1650. See flyer for more information. Thanks! ​

National School Librarian Day is celebrated on April 4th and we are so thankful for all of our amazing Media Specialists in ACS!

• Kristie Murphree, Athens High School
• Leslie Batts, Athens Middle School
  
• Dana Pressnell, Athens Intermediate School
• Kasey Starnes, FAME Academy at Brookhill
  
• Katie Harbin, Julian Newman Elementary School
  
• Leisha Russell, Athens Elementary School
  
• Abbi Griffin, SPARK Academy at Cowart

National Assistant Principals Week is April 6-10 and we would like to take a moment to celebrate our amazing Assistant Principals in ACS!

• Mike Holt, Athens High School
  
• Carla Parker, Athens High School
  
• Leslie Sedberry, Athens Middle School
  
• Neil Turner, Athens Middle School
• Scott McCormick, Athens Intermediate School
  
• Paige Evans, Athens Intermediate School
• Katie Dalrymple FAME Academy at Brookhill
  
• Tenika Malone, Julian Newman Elementary School
  
• Nick Looney, Athens Elementary School
  
• Darran Alexander, SPARK Academy at Cowart
  
• Kendra Draper, Athens Renaissance School

And a special shout-out to our awesome Deans of Students across the district:

• Josh Fuqua, Athens Middle School
• Tiffany Burns, Renaissance Virtual School
• Jared Laxson, Athens High School

ACS Eagles Nest Pre-K Registration Deadline Extended! Eagles Nest Inclusion Pre-K is a nurturing, inclusive program, serving students ages 3-5, where children of all abilities learn and grow together in a supportive classroom environment. Learn more about the Eagles Nest, including the structure, requirements, and tuition at acs-k12.org/eaglesnest. Please note that ACS offers two Pre-K programs: Eagles Nest and Alabama First Class Pre-K. The Pre-K registration deadline extension applies only to Eagles Nest. If you have any questions, please contact jessica.lynn@acs-k12.org. Spots are limited. Apply today at acs-k12.org/eaglesnest.

Class of 2026 Graduation Dates:

• Athens Renaissance School May 19 at 4:00 PM
  
• Renaissance Virtual School May 19 at 7:00 PM
• Athens High School May 21 at 7:00 PM

Congratulations to our talented artists for being selected to have their artwork displayed in the Huntsville Museum of Art's 2026 Youth Art Month exhibit. This exhibition showcases hundreds of works of art created by youth in kindergarten through 12th grade from schools across North Alabama.

• William Vargas, Athens High School
• Jacob Dektor, Athens Renaissance School
• Aubrey Galarza, Athens Intermediate School
• Brynleigh May, SPARK Academy at Cowart Elementary
• Maria Fernando Soto Santa, Julian Newman Elementary School
• Willa Gibson, Athens Elementary School
• Mason Malone, Athens Renaissance School
• Madelyn Oltmans, Athens Renaissance School
• Joanna Newborn, Athens High School
• Zoey Powers, Athens High School - Congratulations to Zoey Powers on winning the Alabama Youth Art Month (YAM) Flag Contest! Zoey’s design was printed on a banner flag and proudly displayed at the National Art Education Association Conference in Chicago earlier this month.

Special thanks to our awesome ACS art teachers who teach, encourage, and inspire creativity in these young artists!

April is Autism Awareness Month. Autism and autism spectrum disorder affects an estimated 1 in 36. The autism experience is different for everyone, with each individual having a distinct set of strengths and unique abilities. During the month of April, we celebrate autism awareness, understanding, and inclusion.

• Light It Blue will be held on Thursday, April 2 from 4:00 PM - 6:30 PM at the Limestone County Courthouse.
• Spectrum Family Fest will be held on Saturday, April 4 from 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM on Marion Street in downtown Athens.

All are invited and welcome to attend these events celebrating Autism Awareness.

Students, are you interested in participating in sports or extracurricular activities at AHS or AMS next school year? If so, be sure to mark your calendars for upcoming tryout dates! Tryouts are open to current 6th–11th grade students. All required forms must be completed and up to date in DragonFly Max. Learn more at acs-k12.org/athletics.

• AHS & AMS Colorguard Tryouts April 13-17
• AMS Volleyball Tryouts April 20-21 (6th) & April 23-24 (7th)
• AMS Boys Basketball Tryouts: April 22-23 & Spring Training: April 27-29
• AHS Volleyball Tryouts: April 27-29
• AHS Boys Basketball Tryouts May 4-5 & Spring Training May 6-7
• AMS Girls Basketball Tryouts May 4-5 & Spring Training May 6-7
• AHS Girls Basketball Tryouts May 11-12 & Spring Training May 13-14
• AHS & AMS Boys Soccer Tryouts May 11 & 12

• AMS & AHS Cross Country Tryouts May 14-15
• AMS & AHS Girls Soccer May 14-15
• AMS & AHS Softball May 20-22
• AMS & AHS Flag Football May 20 & 22

Additional dates will be announced soon. Questions? Contact linda.moore@acs-k12.org.

You can make a lasting impact in the lives of students - today, tomorrow, and for years to come - by supporting the Athens City Schools Foundation. Visit acsf.acs-k12.org/donate to make a donation, purchase a legacy brick, and explore other ways to give. The Athens City Schools Foundation proudly sponsors annual programs, including the Third Grade Violin Program, Teacher Classroom Grants, and Teacher of the Year recognition. Learn more about ACSF at acsf.acs-k12.org and consider giving today. Together, we truly make a difference.

Are you a rising junior or senior student ready to level up your future? If so, don’t miss your chance to join the inaugural Athens Limestone CEO Program! CEO (Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities) is a nationally recognized, community-driven model that aims to inspire the next generation of innovators and thought leaders. Throughout this year-long experience, students connect directly with local businesses and community leaders, gaining real-world skills that set them up for future success. This isn’t your typical classroom experience. CEO takes learning beyond the classroom by placing students in real business environments. Students will meet daily during 1st block (beginning at 7:30 AM) at businesses across the community, where they will hear from guest speakers and engage in interactive, hands-on learning. Bonus: Students also have the opportunity to earn Dual Enrollment credit through the University of Alabama in Huntsville (see your counselor for details). We are so excited to bring this incredible opportunity to our students! Spots for CEO are limited. Scan the QR code or visit athenslimestonealceo.com to learn more and apply by April 7.

Show your #goldeneaglespirit in style! The official Athens Golden Eagles BSN spirit wear store is open for a limited time only. Don’t miss your chance to get your game day gear. View the store at bsnteamsports.com/shop/aRdVKNR5vs. All orders are due by April 21.

Mark your calendars for summer fun! Additional team dates and registration will be announced soon. Check acs-k12.org/camps for updates.

• May 27-28 Girls and Boys Basketball Camp (ages 5-14)
• June 11-12 Soccer Camp (ages 5-14)
• June 22-24 Softball Camp (ages 5-14)
• July 20-21 Volleyball Camp (ages 5-14)

The Athens-Limestone County Chamber of Commerce Limestone LEAD (Leaders Encouraging a Difference) Youth Leadership program is now accepting applications for the 2026-2027 school year! This program is open to rising 10th/11th grade students who are ready to grow as a leader and make a difference in our community. Participants are selected through an application and interview process based on academic performance, school involvement, and community service. Selected students will engage in hands-on experiences related to team building, community service, healthcare, government, arts, business, agriculture, and more. Apply today at forms.gle/Yh8krVtKZuhACDjC8. Applications are due April 15. If you have any questions, email pammie@alcchamber.org.

Athens Arts League is now accepting submissions for the My American Inspiration Art Contest for students in Athens-Limestone County. Entries will be displayed at Athens-Limestone Tourism, Athens City Hall, Scout House, and Athens State University. Winners will be announced during Tourism's Red, White, and Boom event on July 4. There will be 250th celebration certificates and cash prizes for winners. This event is supported by the City of Athens - America250AL Committee. Submissions are due to City Hall by Tuesday, April 28, at 4:30 PM. Please include student name, age, grade level, school, and telephone number on the back of the artwork. If you have any questions, please reach out to hhollman@athensal.us.

Our Athens City Schools Board of Education approved the 2026-2027 academic calendar at the December board meeting. You can also view the district calendar at acs-k12.org/calendar.

View the 2025-2026 district calendar at acs-k12.org/calendar.

• April 15 - Early Dismissal/Parent Conference Day

• May 19 - RenV/ARS Graduation

• May 21 - AHS Graduation

• May 21 - Early Dismissal/Last Day For Students

• May 22 - Teacher Workday

• June 19 - Juneteenth Holiday

Check out the April breakfast, lunch, and snack menus. Special thanks to our Child Nutrition Program for preparing delicious and nutritious meals for our students each and every day. View and download at acs-k12.org/menu.

SUMMER MEAL PROGRAM Athens City Schools is pleased to offer the 2026 Summer Meal Program, open to children 18 years old and younger in Athens and Limestone County. This program will be available at Athens Elementary School beginning June 1 through June 18 on Mondays through Thursdays. Breakfast will be served from 8:15 AM - 8:45 AM with lunch from 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM. Dine-in only (pick-up/take-out will not be available). If you have any questions, call (256) 233-6600 or email Tandy.Blackwell@acs-k12.org.

Eligible school-age children will receive a one-time payment of $120 per child in grocery benefits during the summer through the Alabama SUN Bucks program. SUN Bucks benefits are in the form of a pre-loaded card with a one-time $120 benefit for the summer that families can use to purchase groceries. These benefits can provide the nourishment your children need during the summer break. Check your eligibility, learn more and apply at alabama-sunbucks.com.

Please note: Eligible families will receive a SUN Bucks card with the funds pre-loaded and ready to use for groceries. These cards will be mailed to the address on file. If your family has had a change of address since the beginning of the school year, please contact your school to update your information as soon as possible.

The AHS Boys Soccer Program is excited to partner with the American Cancer Society through the Red Card Cancer Campaign. This special event honoring cancer survivors will take place on Tuesday, April 14 at 6:00 PM. It's more than a match...it's a mission! Let's pack the stands and support the fight.

Only one application is necessary per family. Learn more and apply at acs-k12.org/freeandreduced. Families must re-apply each school year to potentially receive this benefit.

2025-2026 ACS Student Daily Lunch Pricing:

• $2.75 - PAID (Family does not qualify for free or reduced lunch)
• $0.40 - REDUCED (apply to potentially qualify)
• $0.00 - FREE (apply to potentially qualify)

For help with Free and Reduced Lunch Application, contact Dr. Tandy Blackwell, Child Nutrition Program Coordinator, at Tandy.Blackwell@acs-k12.org or (256) 233-6600. Learn more about our ACS Child Nutrition Program at acs-k12.org/nutrition.

• Call Athens City Schools at (256) 233-6600 for assistance with the ACS Free and Reduced Lunch Application.

• Call the Child Nutrition Program at (334) 694-4656 for free interpretation or translation services, including non-English languages and American Sign Language (ASL).
• For relay or speech services, dial 711.

Did you know that Athens City Schools offers free breakfast to all students each and every morning during the school week? Our Child Nutrition Program works to ensure every child is ready to start their day, well-fed and ready to learn. Visit acs-k12.org/nutrition to learn more about our CNP program.

An easy way to add lunch money to your student account is through My School Bucks. Create or log in to your student account at myschoolbucks.com and view immediate information about your student account balance and purchases. Need help? Funds can be added to your student's account at MSB on the web or download the MSB app. You may also submit a check to the school lunchroom. All checks must be made payable to Athens City Schools CNP or ACS CNP. Please write your child's name and homeroom on the check or envelope.

2025-2026 Child Nutrition Program meal prices and a la carte pricing. Learn more at acs-k12.org/nutrition.

Parents are encouraged to pay for student meals by the week or month. Funds can be collected in the lunchroom or submitted online at myschoolbucks.com. All checks should be made payable to Athens City Schools CNP or ACS-CNP. Please write your child's name and assigned lunch number on the check, or write it on the envelope if cash is sent. Apply for free or reduced priced meals at acs-k12.org/freeandreduced.

By joining the ACSF Power for Students program, you can make a lasting impact on ACS students and teachers. Giving is easy! Add a monthly donation of any amount to your Athens Utilities bill. Your contribution goes directly to our schools, supporting initiatives like Teacher Classroom Grants, the 3rd Grade Violin Program, and more. Submit the completed form to your child's school/teacher, drop off in person at the ACS Board of Education Central Office, email to foundation@acs-k12.org, or mail to ACSF, 455 U.S. Highway 31 N., Athens, AL 35611. Thank you for supporting Athens City Schools Foundation! Visit acsf.acs-k12.org/power for more information. Together, we truly make a difference.

PowerSchool Parent Portal is a web-based platform and app that can be used to access information such as student grades, attendance, assignments, class announcements, class schedule and more for students in grades 6-12. Parent Portal is accessible from any device with internet access (i.e. computer, tablet, smartphone) or download the app for free. Learn more about PowerSchool Parent portal at acs-k12.org/powerschool. If you have any questions, please contact your school.

View the 2025-2026 ACS Progress and Report Card Distribution Schedule at acs-k12.org/reportcards.

Reminder that there is a new law in effect statewide. The Alabama FOCUS Act restricts students from using cell phones, smartwatches, AirPods, and other communication devices throughout the entire school day. Athens City Schools is following this law to help create a distraction-free learning environment where students can stay focused, engaged, and ready to learn. We believe this is a positive step toward helping our Golden Eagles soar to success. View expectations, exceptions, consequences, and FAQs at acs-k12.org/focus.

Be sure to check out the information below related to our ACS Athletic Facilities. Thank you for supporting our Athens Golden Eagles!

The following bags are permitted inside Athens City Schools Athletics Facilities:

• Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC that do not exceed 12" x 6" x 12" (tote bags, fanny packs, cross-body bags, etc.)
  
• One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags (Ziplock type bag or similar)
  
• Small clutch bags, with or without a handle or strap, that do not exceed 4.5" x 6.5" (approximately the size of a hand).
• Please note that individuals are limited to (1) clear bag plus (1) small clutch.

Fans are welcome to bring cameras, binoculars, and small seat cushions/pads, however, cases are not allowed. Know before you go. Learn more at acs-k12.org/athletics.

In an effort to make all Athens City Schools athletic event experiences GOLDEN for all spectators, fans and families, please take a moment to review the Golden Guidelines. Know before you go. Learn more at acs-k12.org/athletics. Thank you for supporting Athens City Schools Athletics. It's great to be a Golden Eagle!

Watch our Athens Golden Eagles HOME games this fall on the NFHS Network. Subscription required. Visit www.nfhsnetwork.com/schools/athens-high-school-athens-al for options. NFHS offers access to LIVE and ON DEMAND events, nationwide. View available events and learn more at NFHS. Please note that this is the only legitimate and authorized livestream for AHS sports (home games only). If you have any questions, please contact linda.moore@acs-k12.org.

Mark your calendars for Fall Friday Night Lights!

Special commemorative bricks from the Athens City Schools Foundation Legacy Brick Project make perfect gifts to celebrate a graduation, a teacher, retirement, and more. Bricks are placed on the Athens High School campus. Prices start at just $50. Order and pay online at acsf.acs-k12.org/bricks. Thank you for supporting the Athens City Schools Foundation!

Athens Elementary School invites you to become a permanent part of their new campus by purchasing a commemorative brick to recognize students, teachers, family, and friends in the Athens community. The bricks are incorporated into the design and displayed at the entrance area to the beautiful new school. One hundred percent of the proceeds go to support our teachers and students at Athens Elementary School. Two brick options are available: 4” x 8” - $50 (includes up to three lines with 21 characters per line) and 8" x 8" - $100 (includes up to six lines with 21 characters per line).

• To place your Athens Elementary brick order, visit bricksrus.com/donorsite/athenses.
• To pay for your brick, you can either drop off payment at Athens Elementary School or visit website at aes.acs-k12.org and click the "Pay Fees" button.

Thank you for supporting Athens Elementary!

Julian Newman Elementary School invites you to become a permanent part of the new Julian Newman Elementary School campus by purchasing a commemorative brick to recognize students, teachers, family and friends in the Athens community.

Engraved on your commemorative brick could be a family name, student or alumnae, teacher, staff member, business or organization. You could choose to honor someone special or place a brick in memory of a loved one. The bricks are incorporated into the design and displayed at the entrance area to the beautiful new Julian Newman Elementary School. Your brick donation will serve as a visible reminder of your commitment and connection to the excellence and ongoing achievements of Athens City Schools. Proceeds go to support our teachers and students at Julian Newman Elementary School. At Julian Newman Elementary School, with your support, we are "Empowering all students for lifelong success!" Learn more and place your order at jnes.acs-k12.org/bricks.

Kids and Kin is a FREE statewide program that provides resources and training to grandparents, aunts, uncles, and older siblings who provide child care for the children of a relative. Kids and Kin offers a wide range of helpful topics in a small and supportive group setting. If you have any questions, contact Tammie Hill, Family Guidance Center, at thill@familyguidancecenter.org or call (256) 724-2554. Learn more at familyguidancecenter.org. Kids and Kin is provided by the Family Guidance Center of Alabama and funded by the Alabama Department of Human Resources.

Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful invites our students to participate in the annual Earth Day Art Contest. This creative competition is open to students in Athens and Limestone County in grades K-12. This year's theme is "You Belong Among the Wildflowers". All mediums are accepted and the use of recycled or natural materials is encouraged. All work will be displayed at the Earth Day Expo on April 25. All submissions are due by April 17. If you have any questions, contact kalbcares@gmail.com.

Two $1,000 scholarships will be awarded. Apply by May 1.

Athens Legendary Pearls Scholarship Opportunity for Athens High School Seniors. To apply, scan the QR code or complete the application. If you have any questions, email athenslegendarypearls@gmail.com.

Students, are you interested in pursuing a career in one of the high-demand fields of Healthcare, Manufacturing, Construction, or Information Technology? Take the time to complete the Limestone County Economic Development Association Scholarship. Deadline to apply is April 3.

Are you interested in a career in construction? Then take a moment to complete the ABC North Alabama Scholarship application.

Mark your calendars for the FAME Academy at Brookhill Elementary Theater production of The Sweet Escape! This original play was written by Nathan Woolard, FAME Academy Arts Integration Lab Instructor. Students spend countless hours preparing and practicing for these special productions that celebrates both student and teacher creativity and talent. Performances will be held on May 1-2 n the FAME Theater, located at 320 Brookhill Drive. Purchase tickets on the Brookhill Elementary GoFan page or visit gofan.co/app/school/ALEL960. All proceeds will go to the FAME theater program. Don’t miss out on what is sure to be a fun evening featuring our students.

Scholarship opportunity to attend a full week of Space Camp for Leading Students in Alabama (SALSA). Open to students ages 12-14. Apply now through April 5. Learn more at link below.

ALL Kids Alabama is a low cost-comprehensive healthcare coverage program available to children under 19. Benefits include checkups, immunizations, sick child doctor visits, prescriptions, vision and dental care, hospitalization, mental health, substance abuse services and more. ALL Kids is Alabama's Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and is administered by the Alabama Department of Public Health. Learn more at alabamapublichealth.gov/allkids.

National Security Insurance Company offers affordable Student Accident Insurance Coverage. Click here to learn more or visit https://www.acs-k12.org/athletics/insurance.

Did you know that many families can get free help filing their taxes? The IRS offers programs like the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, which helps people prepare and file their taxes at no cost. The IRS is can help help families with young children and college students understand the tax credits and benefits they may qualify for, such as:

• Child Tax Credit

• Additional Child Tax Credit

• Earned Income Tax Credit

These credits can make a big difference for families by putting money back in your pocket when you file your return. By spreading the word, we can help ensure that every eligible family takes advantage of these valuable benefits. To learn more or to find a free tax preparation site near you, visit irs.gov/vita.

We are so grateful to all our partners and appreciate their commitment to supporting #oneAthens through time, service, talent, and more!

*Athens High School - First Metro Bank

*Athens Middle School - Griggs Orthodontics

*Athens Intermediate School - Ridgeline Construction

*Athens Elementary School - Pinnacle Financial Partners

*FAME Academy at Brookhill Elementary School - First National Bank

*Julian Newman Elementary School - Athens-Limestone Hospital

*SPARK Academy at Cowart Elementary School - Friendship Methodist Church

*Athens Renaissance School - T-Mobile

ACS has implemented an extra measure of safety for students and parents. The "See Something, Say Something" Tip Line is a new way for students and families to anonymously share a potential safety concern toward an individual or school, including suspicious activity, bullying, and other student-related issues and safety concerns. This tip line is monitored by ACS Administration. Dial or text (256) 206-3065 or visit acs-k12.org/tip.

Lots of exciting things going on in ACS! Be sure to follow ACS and your school(s) on Social Media and download the free ACS app!

988 is now the active phone number that will route callers to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Call, text or chat 988 to be connected to trained counselors who will listen and help, 24/7. This confidential support is for anyone in emotional distress or crisis. Learn more at 988lifeline.org. *The previous Lifeline phone number (1-800-273-TALK) will always remain available for people in emotional distress or suicidal crisis.

Do you have something you would like to see in a future newsletter? Please contact Christy.Hubbard@acs-k12.org.

View the latest edition of the One Athens Family Newsletter and other school newsletters across the district at acs-k12.org/news.