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One Athens Connects

September 2025

One Athens Connects   September 2025
One Athens Connects September 2025

One Athens Connects Family Newsletter One Athens Connects Family Newsletter

September 2025 September 2025

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Mark your calendars with important September dates to remember:


  • September 1 - Labor Day Holiday (closed)
  • September 5 - Early Release for Homecoming Parade
  • September 17 - Progress Report Day

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

Labor Day Holiday - September 1 Labor Day Holiday - September 1

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ACS will be closed on Monday, September 1, in observance of Labor Day. View the full academic calendar at acs-k12.org/calendar.

Homecoming 2025 Homecoming 2025

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September 1-5

Welcome "home" to parades, football, floats, friends, and all of the festivities that encompass Athens High School Homecoming Week. We truly hope you catch and share that Golden Eagle spirit of community, connections, and traditions. Learn more at acs-k12.org/homecoming.

Homecoming Parade Early Dismissal - September 5 Homecoming Parade Early Dismissal - September 5

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The annual Homecoming Parade will be held on Friday, September 5, at 2:00 PM. Make plans to come out and cheer on all of our Golden Eagles in this cherished tradition of floats, music, spirit, royalty, and more!

Homecoming Parade Early Dismissal Schedule

  • 11:30 AM - Pre-K
  • 11:45 AM - Athens High School
  • 12:00 PM - Elementary (K-3)
  • 12:10 PM- Athens Intermediate School
  • 12:10 PM - Athens Renaissance & RenV
  • 12:20 PM - Athens Middle School

Buses will be released according to the school's early dismissal time. Please make plans for your bus rider to arrive home earlier than usual. Latchkey will NOT be available.


Learn more at acs-k12.org/homecoming.

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Homecoming Parade Route

The parade will step off from Athens High School and travel down Pryor Street to Shaw Street, to Hobbs Street, to Jefferson Street. It will loop around The Square via Market Street, Marion Street, Washington Street, and back to Jefferson Street. The parade will then continue down Jefferson Street and end near the Athens Public Library and Hometown Grocery.

Homecoming Spirit Week September 1 - 5 Homecoming Spirit Week September 1 - 5

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Show your Golden Eagle Spirit during Homecoming Week!


  • Monday - Labor Day Holiday
  • Tuesday - Twin Day
  • Wednesday - Country vs Country Club
  • Thursday - Throwback/Decades
  • Friday - Black & Gold


Learn more at acs-k12.org/homecoming.

Black Light Pep Rally - September 4 Black Light Pep Rally - September 4

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Come out and cheer on your Golden Eagles at the Black Light Pep Rally on Thursday, September 4 at Athens Stadium - Home of the Golden Eagles! This special event will be held at 7:30 PM after the Flag Football game. Dress in neon and/or white!


Learn more at acs-k12.org/homecoming.

Homecoming Alumni Tailgate - September 5 Homecoming Alumni Tailgate - September 5

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We are looking forward to having our AHS Alumni back in the Athens Stadium for Homecoming! We have something extra special planned for the class of 1965, 1975, 1985, 1995, 2005 & 2015. If your class is interested in participating, please contact Nicole.Taylor@acs-k12.org.


Learn more at acs-k12.org/homecoming.

Homecoming Game - September 5 Homecoming Game - September 5

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Our Athens Golden Eagles will take on Cullman at 7:00 PM on Friday, September 5. Pregame will feature a performance by the Athens High School Golden Eagle Marching Band, followed by special recognition of our 2025-2026 Mr. & Miss Athens High School and '65, '75, '85, '95, '05, and '15 alumni. Halftime will include the presentation of the Homecoming Court and the crowning of the 2025-2026 Athens High School Homecoming Queen. Postgame will feature a performance by our Athens High School Golden Eagle Marching Band. Tickets are available on the GoFan App or at gofan.co/app/school/AL109.


Learn more at acs-k12.org/homecoming.

ACSF Grants 2025-2026 ACSF Grants 2025-2026

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Fifty ACS teachers are starting the 2025-2026 school year with a boost to bring their big ideas to life! Thanks to the Athens City Schools Foundation, $18,000 in grants, including 10 individual classroom grants and 14 teacher team grants, will fuel creativity and hands-on learning across our district. From forensic kits and pollination stations to iPad styluses, video production tools, field trips, fine arts supplies, Ozobots, cooking gear, and more, these projects will spark curiosity, inspire innovation, and open doors for students in every grade. Since 1997, Athens City Schools Foundation has been connecting community support with classrooms, funding programs like the Third Grade Violin Program, the Teacher of the Year Gratitude Banquet, Teacher Classroom Grants and more. Visit www.acsf.acs-k12.org to learn more about the Athens City Schools Foundation.

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FOCUS Zone FOCUS Zone

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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.

FOCUS Act - Athens City Schools

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Free and Reduced Lunch Application - Apply By September 16! Free and Reduced Lunch Application - Apply By September 16!

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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.

AMS & AHS Progress Report Day - September 17 AMS & AHS Progress Report Day - September 17

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AMS & AHS Progress Reports will be available on Wednesday, September 17. View ACS progress and report card schedule at acs-k12.org/reportcards.

ACSF - Give Through Athens Utilities ACSF - Give Through Athens Utilities

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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.

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View all of the Golden Eagle Spirit on ACS Youtube! View all of the Golden Eagle Spirit on ACS Youtube!

Pep Rally on the Square Pep Rally on the Square

Pep Rally on the Square, what a super special #oneAthens tradition! It’s great to be a Golden Eagle!


Athens High School Pep Rally on the Square 2025

Institute Day 2025 Institute Day 2025

2025 Institute Day Video - Golden Eagle Spirit Pep Rally

Breakfast, Lunch and Snack Menus Breakfast, Lunch and Snack Menus

Check out the September 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.

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PreK Breakfast Menu

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K-5th Grade Breakfast Menu

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AMS/AHS/JNES Breakfast Menu

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PreK- 8th Grade Lunch Menu

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AHS Lunch Menu

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ACS Snack Menu

Free Breakfast Free Breakfast

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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.

My School Bucks My School Bucks

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An easy way to add lunch money to your student account is through MySchoolBucks. 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.

CNP Meal Prices CNP Meal Prices

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

CNP Family Lunch Budget CNP Family Lunch Budget

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Parents are encouraged to pay for student meals by the week or month. Funds can be collected in the lunchroom or submitted online at www.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.

Academic Calendar Academic Calendar

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Mark Your Calendars!

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

  • August 5 - First Day Of School For Students

  • September 1 - Labor Day Holiday

  • October 6-10 - Fall Break

  • October 15 - e-Learning For AHS Only (All Others In Session)

  • October 22 - Early Dismissal/Parent Conference Day

  • Nov 11 - Veterans Day Holiday

  • Nov 24 - e-learning/No In-Person Classes For Students

  • Nov 25 - Teacher Workday/No School For Students

  • Nov 26-28 - Thanksgiving Break

  • Dec 19 - 1st Semester Ends/Early Dismissal

  • Dec 22 - Jan 2 - Christmas Break

  • Jan 5-6 - Staff Pd/Workday

  • Jan 7 - Students Return For 2nd Semester

  • Jan 19 - Martin Luther King Holiday

  • Feb 4 - Early Dismissal/ Parent Conference Day

  • Feb 16 - Presidents Day

  • Mar 10 - e-Learning For AHS Only (All Others In Session)

  • Mar 16-20 - Spring Break

  • 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

PowerSchool Parent Portal PowerSchool Parent Portal

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For Grades 6-12

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.

2025-2026 Revised Student-Parent Handbook 2025-2026 Revised Student-Parent Handbook

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Grades 6-12

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Grades PreK-5

Due to changes in Alabama laws, including the FOCUS Act, Athens City Schools has revised the 2025-2026 Student-Parent Handbook. Changes are highlighted in yellow. If you have any questions, please reach out to Mike.Orear@acs-k12.org.

2025-2026 Student Parent Handbook - Athens City Schools

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Golden Eagle School Spirit Themes Golden Eagle School Spirit Themes

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It's almost time for Friday Night Lights! Check out the Athens High School Varsity Football schedule along with the school spirit themes.

Event Ticket Pricing Event Ticket Pricing

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Get ready to cheer on your Golden Eagles! Passes are available now on the GoFan app or at gofan.co/app/school/AL109.


Single Tickets:

  • Football/$11
  • All other sports/$8

Season Passes

  • Single Sport Season Pass/$60
  • All Sports Season Pass (Student) /$40
  • All Sports Season Pass (Adult)/$80


Passes are good for both AHS and AMS HOME events. Purchase at GoFan app or at gofan.co/app/school/AL109.

Let's Go Eagles! Let's Go Eagles!

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Varsity Football

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Flag Football

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AHS Swim

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AHS Cross Country

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AHS Varsity, JV & 9G Volleyball

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AHS JV Football

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AMS Football

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AMS Volleyball

Know Before You Go Know Before You Go

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

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Clear Bag Policy

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.

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Golden Guidelines

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!

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Livestream Our Golden Eagles

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.

Mini Cheer Camp Mini Cheer Camp

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Athens High School Cheer will host the annual Mini Cheer Camp on September 29-October 2. This camp is open to children ages 4-12. Campers will perform at the Athens vs Muscle Shoals Pre-Game on Friday, October 2. Early bird registration price is $65 (if received by September 26). Regular Registration Fee is $75/camper. Please note that if you are an Athens City Schools Employee, you are eligible for a $10 discount (include your ACS email on your registration form). For more information, including registration and payment links, visit acs-k12.org/cheer. If you have any questions, please contact gia.russell@acs-k12.org

Attendance Awareness Month Attendance Awareness Month

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September is Attendance Awareness Month. Let’s help our students build a habit of being on time and in school each and every day. Learn more about the ACS attendance policy at acs-k12.org/handbook

Leave a Lasting Legacy! Leave a Lasting Legacy!

Athens High School Commemorative Bricks Athens High School Commemorative Bricks

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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 www.acsf.acs-k12.org/bricks. Thank you for supporting the Athens City Schools Foundation!

iAcademy at Athens Elementary School Commemorative Bricks iAcademy at Athens Elementary School Commemorative Bricks

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

Thank you for supporting iAcademy at Athens Elementary!

Julian Newman Elementary School Commemorative Bricks Julian Newman Elementary School Commemorative Bricks

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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!"


  • Place your order at bricksrus.com/donorsite/jneslegacybrickproject.
  • Place your payment at athenscityal.csiepay.com/Views/Payment/Pay.aspx
    • Select Julian Newman Elementary
    • Under Fee Items, Select Legacy Brick Fundraiser
    • Select brick size(s) and make payment

Thank you for supporting Julian Newman Elementary School!

Progress and Report Card Schedule Progress and Report Card Schedule

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

ACS Fine Arts Spotlight ACS Fine Arts Spotlight

Meet ACS Fine Arts

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Meet our ACS Fine Arts Team!

  • Dr. Ty Parker, AHS Band Director
  • Mr. Ronny Griffin, AHS Assistant Band Director
  • Mrs. Teresa Edwards, AHS Choir
  • Ms. Chandler Greer, AHS Theatre
  • Mrs. Tavia Slaton, AHS Advanced Art & AP Studio
  • Ms. Parker Sutton AHS Visual Art 1
  • Mr. Bryan Pigg, AMS Band
  • Ms. Stacy Owens, AMS Choir/Music
  • Mrs. Linda Wheeler, AMS Visual Art

  • Mrs. Erica Hand, ARS Music, Choir & Theatre
  • Ms. Rebecca Croomes, ARS Visual Arts & Theatre
  • Mr. Matthew Hendrix, ARS Band
  • Mrs. Ashley White, AIS Fine Arts

  • Mrs. Allison Pigg, AIS Band & Music

  • Mr. Aaron Freeman, AES Music
  • Mrs. Katie Blair, AES Art
  • Mr. Nathan Woolard, FAME at BES Theatre
  • Ms. Yulia Weston, FAME at BES Art
  • Mrs. Cherilyn Pryor, FAME at BES Music
  • Mrs. Leah Pierce, SPARK at CES Art
  • Ms. Hannah Watson, SPARK at CES Music
  • Mrs. Valerie Alexander, JNES Art
  • Mrs. Jill Runne, JNES Music

Learn more about our ACS Fine Arts Team.

Kids and Kin Kids and Kin

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About Kids and Kin

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Kids and Kin Fall Schedule

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 www.familyguidancecenter.org. Kids and Kin is provided by the Family Guidance Center of Alabama and funded by the Alabama Department of Human Resources.

Free Tax Help Free Tax Help

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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.

Boy Scout Cub Pack #24 Boy Scout Cub Pack #24

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Cub Scout #24 is open to children in Kindergarten through 5th grade. Meetings are held on Monday nights at 6:00 PM at Emmanuel Baptist Church located at 1917 US Highway 72. If you have any questions, email Cub Master Charles McMurtrey at pack24ebc@gmail.com.

Tip Line Tip Line

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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.

Stay Connected Stay Connected

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Like Us, Follow Us, Download Us and Visit Us on the Web!

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 - Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Quick Dial 988 - Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Quick Dial

Suicide and Crisis Line
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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.

Other Links of Interest Other Links of Interest

ACS Mental Health Connector Newsletter
ACS Board Meeting Schedule
ACS Student Handbook

Newsletter Content Newsletter Content

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

Miss an Edition of the ACS Family Newsletter? Miss an Edition of the ACS Family Newsletter?

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

One Athens Family Newsletter
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Athens City Schools
One System | One Heartbeat | One Athens
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