Gator News
August 2026
August 2026
Letter from the Principal
Dear Arbor Springs Families,
What an incredible start to the 2026–2027 school year!
Our hallways have been filled with smiling faces, eager learners, and the excitement that only comes with the beginning of a new school year. It has been such a joy to watch our Gators reconnect with friends, welcome new classmates, and jump right into learning. Thank you for helping make our first days so successful by ensuring students arrived ready to learn and excited for the year ahead.
As I've visited classrooms over the past several days, I've been amazed by what I've seen. Students are already asking thoughtful questions, working collaboratively, and embracing new challenges. Our teachers and staff have worked tirelessly to create engaging learning environments where every child feels welcomed, supported, and inspired to do their very best.
One of the things that has stood out to me most is the kindness our students have shown one another. Whether helping a new friend find their classroom, encouraging a classmate, or simply sharing a smile in the hallway, our Gators are already demonstrating what it means to be part of the Arbor Springs family.
This week, we officially introduced our school-wide theme, The Power of the Next Move. Throughout the year, we'll continue reminding students that every choice matters. Every lesson learned, every act of kindness, every challenge overcome, and every positive decision is another step toward becoming the best version of themselves.
Our promise remains the same:
Dream Big. Work Hard. Make It Happen.
These aren't just words on a wall—they're becoming part of who we are as a school community. We're committed to helping every student believe in their potential while providing the support and encouragement they need to reach it.
Thank you for the warm welcome you've extended to me during these first days as principal. I have enjoyed meeting so many of you during arrival, dismissal, and around campus. The partnership between our school and our families is one of Arbor Springs' greatest strengths, and I look forward to continuing to build those relationships throughout the year.
As we settle into our routines, I encourage you to keep asking your child about their day. Celebrate their successes, encourage them through challenges, and remind them that each new day brings another opportunity to make their next move a great one.
Thank you for sharing your amazing children with us each day. We are off to a fantastic start, and I know this is just the beginning of an incredible year together.
With Gator Pride,
Dr. Adrienne Kocin
Principal, Arbor Springs Elementary School
Save the Dates!!
August 11: Independence Day! (Wear red, white, and blue) All students will walk independently to class. Also, school will dismiss normal time today (2:30) and the rest of the year. Please plan to be at bus stops at normal time and download the Where's the Bus app (more information below). Buses should depart tomorrow at 2:35. Thank you for your flexibility as drivers learn their new routes!
August 27: Cub Scout Sign Up Night
August 28: Picture Day
September 13-18: Book Fair
September 10: Annual Title I & Curriculum Night
September 11: Starlight Spirit Night
September 16: Grandparents’ Day (K,1st, 3RD, 5TH)
September 17: Grandparents’ Day (PREK, 2ND, 4TH)
October 2: Gator Run
October 5: FAll Picture Day Retakes
October 13: Chick Fil A Spirit Day
October 29: Literacy Family Fun Night
*All dates may be subject to change. Always check monthly newsletters for updated dates and/or times.
All students walk to class tomorrow INDEPENDENTLY!
Car Rider Drop Off Reminders
Dress Code
☀️ A Quick Dress Code Reminder! 👗🩳
As we settle into the school year, we wanted to share a friendly reminder about our dress code expectations—especially when it comes to the length of shorts, dresses, and skorts.
We know mornings are busy, kids are growing fast, and sometimes those shorts that fit perfectly last week suddenly seem a little shorter! 😊 Please take a quick look at our flyer for a helpful reminder of what’s appropriate for school.
Our goal is simple: keep students comfortable, confident, and ready to learn while following our school expectations. 💛
Thank you, families, for partnering with us and helping our students start each day ready for a great day at school! 🍎📚
🛡️ Officer Jacob’s Gator Safety Corner 🐊
Welcome Back, Gator Families!
As we begin a new school year, let’s work together to keep our students safe. Please slow down in school zones, stay off your phone while driving, follow staff directions, and remind your child to use crosswalks and be aware of their surroundings.
Let’s make this a safe and successful school year for every Gator!
– Officer Jacob, School Resource Officer
T-Shirt Order Form
Picture Day is August 28!
From our School Counselor, Mrs. Virgil:
Gifted Referral Period
From our Literacy Coach, Mrs. Key:
Book Fair is coming Sept 13-18!
Chromebook Updates
*This will go into effect when we get our chromebook charging carts!
Attendance and Transportation Changes
Repeat Information
PLEASE REVIEW
Attendance Matters!
The Arbor Way: Show Up. Dream Big. Work Hard. Make it Happen.
Every day at Arbor Springs is another opportunity to learn, grow, and take the next step toward success. Being at school every day helps students build strong habits, meaningful friendships, and the confidence to reach their full potential. We know life happens, but whenever possible, please schedule appointments and family trips during school breaks. Every day matters because every day is another chance to make your next move count.
Cell Phone & Personal Electronics Policy
Transportation
School Nutrition
We use SchoolCafé to:
- Make Payments
- Set up Auto Pay
- Set Purchase Restrictions
- Get Low Balance Alerts
- Submit Meal Applications
- View Letters
- View Purchases
- View Menus
What is a Free and Reduced Lunch Application?
What is an FRL Application? Application provided to families for school meal assistance and access to quality school meals
What is the purpose of the FRL Application?
-help economically challenged families
-helps Georgia students get maximum funding through the Federal Title 1 Program. These applications provide data on the poverty % for each school. Title 1 school allocations are dependent on these applications.
Who might contact parents: Cafeteria Manager, CCSS School Nutrition Program, Title 1 Family Engagement Person (Open House)
Where are the applications? QR Code (School websites)
STUDENT ACCIDENT INSURANCE (optional)
Because medical costs can be expensive, Coweta County School System does provide families the opportunity to purchase student accident insurance on their student through Student Assurance Services, Inc.
This supplemental policy would assist with your out-of-pocket medical expenses (i.e. deductible) should your student sustain an accidental injury while coverage is in effect. Also, if you do not have any insurance on your student, this would be primary for accidental injuries. There are a variety of coverage options and premiums are a one-time payment for the school year.
Please review the short video link below as well as the attached forms regarding student accident insurance.
Student Accident Insurance - YouTube
If you have any questions about this coverage, please contact Student Assurance Services directly at (800) 328-2739.
FY 27 Title I Resources and Documents
2026-27 CCSS School Calendar
Arbor Springs Elementary School
Principal: Dr. Adrienne Kocin
Assistant Principal: Lynne Pence
School Counselor: Jazmin Virgil
Literacy Coach: Rebecca Key
Email: adrienne.kocin@cowetaschools.net
Website: arbor.cowetaschools.net
Address: 4840 US-29 Newnan, GA 30265
Phone: 770-463-5903
Facebook: Arbor Springs Elementary