One Athens Connects
November 2025
PreK Breakfast
K-5th Grade Breakfast
AMS/AHS/JNES Breakfast Menu
PreK- 8th Grade Lunch Menu
AHS Lunch Menu
ACS Snack Menu
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.
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 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.
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 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.
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.
Mark Your Calendars!
View the 2025-2026 district calendar at acs-k12.org/calendar.
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
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.
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.
AMS Basketball
AHS Basketball
AHS Girls Basketball
AMS Girls Basketball
AHS Boys Basketball
Border Wars
Indoor Track and Field
Athens Wrestling
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.
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!
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.
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 www.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.
About Kids and Kin
Kids and Kin Fall Schedule
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.
Sunday, December 14 at 2:00 PM
In the spirit of Charles Dickens, award winning storyteller Tim Lowry interprets the world’s most beloved ghost story, “A Christmas Carol,” with heartfelt sincerity and his signature side wit. In his interpretation of the story, Lowry addresses the importance of family, the pleasure of music, and the joy of feasting on delicious food.This special event will be held on Sunday, December 14 at 2:00 PM at McCandless Hall, located on the beautiful Athens State University Campus. This event is FREE to the public thanks to the generosity of Soule Medical and Soule Packaging. Experience why audiences describe this storytelling event as “unlike any other” and leave feeling uplifted, inspired, and ready to embrace the season. Seating is limited so reserve your spot NOW. Click HERE to grab your tickets or visit https://www.athensstorytellingfestival.com/shop/tim-lowry-presents-dickens-a-christmas-carol?mc_cid=2c10ac6873&mc_eid=8fb2b25c11 and follow the prompts.
Scan the QR code or visit https://feedingalabama.org/need-help/ for local food pantries and resources.
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
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 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.
