November 2026

• Mark Your Calendars: November Dates to Remember, Fall Back, Veterans Day, Progress Report, Thanksgiving Break, One Last Walk, Teacher Appreciation Month
• Teachers of the Year
• Transportation
• Mental Health Connector Newsletter
• Join Our Team
• Child Nutrition Program: November Menus
• Fundraisers & School Spirit Gear: Legacy Bricks, Field of Flags, Flip the Script, Power for Students
• Athletics: Winter Schedules, Basketball Passes
• Community: Toys for Tots, Christmas Parade Applications, Down Syndrome Alabama Family Summit, Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Transition Nights, Partners in Education
• And more!

Mark your calendars with important dates to remember:

• November 4 - Progress Report Day (AHS & AMS)
• November 11 - Veterans Day (school closed)
• November 23-27 - Thanksgiving Break (school closed)

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

Daylight Saving Time ends at 2:00 AM on Sunday, November 1. Don't forget to "fall back" this Saturday night/Sunday morning!

AMS & AHS Progress Reports will be available on Wednesday, November 4. View the ACS progress and report card schedule at acs-k12.org/reportcards.

The United States Marine Corps and United Way of Athens-Limestone County will accept applications for the Toys for Tots program on Wednesday, November 4. Apply between 9:00 AM and 12:00 PM or 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM at the United Way of Athens-Limestone County, located at 419 South Marion Street. This program is for children ages 12 and under. Parents/guardians must bring proof of income, proof of residency, a photo ID, a Social Security card, and a birth certificate for each eligible child. If you have any questions about Toys for Tots, please contact 256-233-2323.

Alumni, coaches, staff, families, friends, fans, and community members are invited to join us on Sunday, November 8, at 1:00 PM at the Clinton Street Campus for “One Last Walk: A Golden Eagle Farewell to Ferman Elmore Field” (please note new date).

Generations of Golden Eagles have competed, performed, and made memories on this field. From football games and band performances to assemblies, field day, practices, soccer, graduation, celebrations, and traditions, the field has played an important role in Athens City Schools and our community. Trinity School and many youth sports teams have also used the field, making it a special place for generations of local students and athletes.

This brief farewell gathering will celebrate the field’s history and memories, recognize the legacy of Coach Ferman Elmore, and invite attendees to take one last walk together on the field before the site begins its transformation.

Ferman Elmore Field will soon make way for the new Athens Renaissance School. The site has a long tradition of serving our students and has been home to Athens High School, Athens Middle School, Athens Elementary School, and Julian Newman Elementary School. It is currently home to Athens Renaissance School. Planning the new school is still in the early stages, but we look forward to celebrating this next chapter with a groundbreaking in the spring. While the landscape will change, the site will continue to be a place where students learn, grow, build friendships, and make memories.

We hope you can join us for this special farewell as we come together to honor the past, celebrate the memories, and walk toward the future.

November is Thank Alabama Teachers Month, and we’re celebrating the amazing educators who make a difference every day in Athens City Schools! To our dedicated teachers, THANK YOU for your passion, commitment, and the countless ways you inspire, encourage, and empower our students each and every day. ❤️ Join us in celebrating by taking a moment this month to #ThankATeacher who has made a lasting impact on your life. A simple thank-you can mean so much!

ACS will be closed on Wednesday, November 11, as we observe and honor Veterans Day. View the ACS academic calendar at acs-k12.org/calendar.

Thanksgiving Break will be held November 23 - 27. Classes will resume on Monday, November 30. View the full academic calendar at acs-k12.org/calendar.

As Athens continues to grow, so do the needs of our students and families. Athens City Schools recognizes that transportation can be a challenge for many high school families and the importance of exploring potential solutions.

During the 2025–2026 school year, district leaders began discussing the possibility of expanding bus transportation services to Athens High School students. As part of this ongoing feasibility study, ACS is gathering feedback from families to better understand their transportation needs, challenges, and interest in potential services. Survey responses are an important part of the feasibility study, but represent only one component of the district’s overall evaluation.

As we explore the feasibility of expanding transportation services, our priority remains making informed, data-driven decisions that balance the needs of our growing community with student safety and the responsible use of district resources. We look forward to sharing more information as the school year progresses. Click on the link below for more information and check back for updates.

Congratulations to the 2026-2027 Teachers of the Year! What a special honor to be selected by your peers. The Athens City Schools Foundation looks forward to celebrating these teachers at the annual Teacher of the Year Gratitude Banquet in November.

The Athens City Schools Foundation is excited to host the 11th annual Teacher of the Year Gratitude Banquet on November 17! This special evening would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsors.

The Athens City Schools Teacher of the Year Gratitude Banquet would not be possible without the generous support of our 2026 sponsors:

PRESENTING SPONSOR

Trustmark Bank

BLACK & GOLD SPONSORS

Goodwyn Mills Cawood

Morell Engineering

SILVER SPONSORS

Alabama Veterans Museum

Athens State University

Lathan Mckee Architects

Martin & Cobey Construction

North Alabama Educators Credit Union

Velocity1

CONTRIBUTING SPONSORS

Cast Products Inc.

Collateral Education Services

First State Bank of the South

Ridgeline Construction

Learn more about the Foundation at acsf.acs-k12.org. We are truly grateful for your support!

Explore the possibilities of joining the #oneAthens family! Athens City Schools is hiring for substitute teachers, substitute bus drivers, custodians, special education teachers, and more! Learn more and apply at acs-k12.org/careers.

Athens High School students are coming together to honor local veterans through the annual Field of Flags and Poppy Commemorative, sponsored by the Rho Kappa Social Sciences Honor Society and the National Art Honor Society. This meaningful initiative allows students, staff, and community members to show appreciation for those who have served our country while supporting a local cause. Starting October 19, participants may sponsor a flag for a minimum donation of $2, or purchase a handmade ceramic poppy keepsake for $5. Each poppy is individually crafted and kiln-fired by AHS art students and will be delivered once completed. All proceeds from this project will directly benefit VFW Post 4765 in Athens, helping support local veterans and their families. The sponsored flags will be proudly displayed outside the AHS Arena leading up to the school’s Veterans Day Celebration, creating a powerful visual tribute to the courage and sacrifice of America’s heroes. If you have any questions, contact amanda.gudmundsson@acs-k12.org. Quantities are limited. See a Rho Kappa member or contact Mrs. G to place your order.

The annual Athens Basketball Flip the Script will be held on Friday, October 30 at 9:30 PM in the Athens High School Arena. This special event will be held after the Athens High School Varsity Football game. Come out and join the fun as parents lace up their sneakers and hit the court while students take charge as coaches. Get ready to see your favorite players (aka parents) run through drills and go head-to-head in a friendly match. Tickets are available on GoFan.

Your support of the Athens City Schools Foundation (ACSF) makes a lasting impact on the lives of students - today, tomorrow, and for years to come. Donations help ACSF support annual programs such as the Third Grade Violin Program, Teacher Classroom Grants, and Teacher of the Year recognition. Visit acsf.acs-k12.org to donate, purchase a brick, and explore other ways to give. Together, we can truly make a difference. Thank you for supporting the Athens City Schools Foundation!

Make a lasting impact on Athens City Schools students and teachers by joining the Athens City Schools Foundation Power for Students program. Giving is simple! You can add a monthly donation of any amount to your Athens Utilities bill, and 100% of your contribution goes directly to supporting Athens City Schools. Your gift helps fund valuable initiatives such as Teacher Classroom Grants, the Third Grade Violin Program, and many other opportunities that enrich student learning. Getting started is easy. Complete the enrollment form and submit it:

• Through your child's school or teacher
• In person at the ACS Board of Education Central Office
• By email to foundation@acs-k12.org
• By mail to Athens City Schools Foundation, 455 U.S. Highway 31 N., Athens, AL 35611

Every gift, no matter the amount, helps provide meaningful opportunities for our students and teachers. Thank you for supporting the Athens City Schools Foundation and investing in the future of #oneAthens. Learn more at acsf.acs-k12.org/power.

Help fuel our Athens Golden Eagles football team! Feed the Eagle is a food and nutrition program that provides meals and nutritional support to help keep our student-athletes fueled, focused, and ready to compete throughout the football season. Community support makes this program possible. Individuals, families, businesses, and organizations are invited to make a donation and help provide the nutrition our Golden Eagles need as they prepare, practice, and compete. Every contribution makes a difference! Learn more or donate at feedtheeagles.org.

Athens Elementary School invites you to become a permanent part of their 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 www.bricksrus.com/donorsite/athenses.
• To pay for your brick, either drop off payment at Athens Elementary School or visit our website at aes.acs-k12.org and click the "Pay Fees" button.

Thank you for supporting Athens Elementary School!

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. Your commemorative brick could recognize a family name, student or graduate, 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. Thank you for supporting Julian Newman Elementary School!

Mark your calendars with important dates for 2026-2027. You can also view the academic calendar at acs-k12.org/calendar.

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 schedules and more. You can access Parent Portal from any device or download the free app. Learn more about PowerSchool Parent Portal at acs-k12.org/powerschool. If you have any questions, please contact your school.

The following bags are permitted inside Athens City Schools athletic facilities:

• Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC that do not exceed 12" x 6" x 12" (tote bags, fanny packs, crossbody bags, etc.)
  
• One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags
  
• 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.

• All children in 8th grade and below and non-school age children must be accompanied and supervised by an adult.
• All students are expected to be seated and in the stands unless visiting the concession stands or restrooms.
• Students are not permitted to loiter in groups outside of the seating area.
• Students who do not follow the ACS athletic facility guidelines will be required to sit with the adult they arrived with or asked to leave the game.

Our goal is to always have a safe and enjoyable environment at our stadium, gymnasiums, fields and more. We appreciate your cooperation.

Watch our Athens Golden Eagles HOME games this fall on the NFHS Network. A subscription is 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 on the NFHS Network website. 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.

Families must submit a new application each school year to be considered for benefits. Only one application per family is required. Please note that unless you receive an email confirming that your student has been approved for free or reduced-price meals, your child will be charged the full meal price. If you need assistance with the application, contact Dr. Tandy Blackwell, Child Nutrition Program Coordinator, at tandy.blackwell@acs-k12.org.

An easy way to add money to your student’s lunch account is through MySchoolBucks. Create an account or log in at myschoolbucks.com to view your student’s account balance and purchases. You can also download the MySchoolBucks 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. Need help? Contact tandy.blackwell@acs-k12.org.

2026-2027 Child Nutrition Program meal prices and a la carte pricing. Learn more at acs-k12.org/nutrition.

The Athens-Limestone County Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade applications are now open. This annual community tradition will be held on Saturday, December 5, at 5:00 PM. Application deadline is November 20. Click here to learn more and apply. If you have any questions, contact Casey Mays at casey@alcchamber.org or (256) 232-2600.

Scouts BSA Troop 7240 invites you to join the fun, build new skills, make friends, and experience exciting adventures. Troop 7240 meets every Tuesday night at 6:30 PM in the Youth Building at Athens First Methodist Church. For more information, contact information@troop240athensal.org.

Facebook: Friends of Troop 7240 and Pack 7024

Website: troop240athensal.org

We are grateful to all our Partners in Education and appreciate their commitment to supporting #oneAthens through their time, service, talent, and resources.

• Athens High School - First Metro Bank
• Athens Middle School - Griggs Orthodontics
  
• Athens Intermediate School - Ridgeline Construction
  
• Athens Elementary School - Innovative Realty Solutions
  
• 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 - Asahi Kasei Engineering Plastics

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.

Down Syndrome Alabama is partnering with the National Down Syndrome Congress to host a Family Summit. This event will be held on Friday, January 22, 2027 at the Trussville Civic Center. The Family Summit is open to parents, caregivers, advocates, families of children and teens, families navigating adulthood and new and expectant families and will include family-focused sessions as well as expert guidance and practical resources. Click on the link below to purchase your tickets.

Transition Night for Juniors and Seniors - November 5

Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services will host a Transition Night for Juniors and Seniors on Thursday, November 5, from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM in the Athens Renaissance School Auditorium at the Clinton Street Campus. All juniors and seniors attending any Athens City Schools or Limestone County Schools and their parents/guardians are invited to attend and learn more about resources and services available to students graduating high school, including jobs, scholarships and vocational training. Download the attachment to scan and register.

Transition Night for High School Students - November 12

Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services will host a Transition Night for high school students on Thursday, November 12, from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM in the Athens Renaissance School Auditorium at the Clinton Street Campus. All students in grades 9-12 and exiting AAA students attending any Athens City Schools or Limestone County Schools and their parents/guardians are invited to attend and learn more about resources and services available, including vocational rehabilitation, Social Security, mental health services, Disability Resource Network and more. Download the attachment to scan and register.

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 involving an individual or school, including suspicious activity, bullying, and other student-related safety issues. This tip line is monitored by ACS Administration. Dial or text (256) 206-3065 or visit acs-k12.org/tip.

There are lots of exciting things going on in ACS! Be sure to follow ACS and your school on social media and download the free ACS app!

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