May 15, 2026

Returning Student Registration (Re-Enrollment) for the 2026-2027 school year is going on now for rising 1st - 12th grade students currently enrolled in AES, BES, CES, JNES, AIS, AMS, and AHS. Please check your primary email for a snapcode from PowerSchool Registration Support and follow the instructions provided. Families will receive a separate snapcode email for each currently enrolled student. Please note, you must upload the following documents during the re-enrollment process: proof of residence and parent/guardian driver’s license or ID. Updated immunization required for rising 6th grade students. If you did not receive your snapcode or have any questions, please contact your school. For more information, visit acs-k12.org/reenrollment.

Please complete re-enrollment by Thursday, May 28. Don't delay, re-enroll today!

If you need bus service for your K-8th student this fall, you must sign up through Returning Student Registration (Re-Enrollment). Learn more at acs-k12.org/transportation. Reminder that bus service is not available for Athens High School or Athens Renaissance School students. Complete re-enrollment by Thursday, May 28.

Summer Break is just around the corner! The last day of school for ACS students is Thursday, May 21. This is a scheduled Early Dismissal Day.

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

Buses will depart at the school's early dismissal time, so please plan for your bus rider to arrive home earlier than usual. Please note, Latchkey will NOT be available. If you have any questions, please contact your school. View the academic calendar at acs-k12.org/calendar.

Summer Session registration is now open! Summer Session includes Credit Recovery (grades 9-12), Summer School (grades 6-12), and Credit Advancement (grades 9-12). Learn more about ACS Summer Session dates, fees, requirements, applications, and more at acs-k12.org/summersession. The deadline to apply is May 28.

Class of 2026 Graduation Dates:

• Athens Renaissance School May 19 | 4:00 PM | Clinton Street Campus Auditorium
  
• Renaissance Virtual School May 19 | 7:00 PM | Clinton Street Campus Auditorium
• Athens High School May 21 | 7:00 PM | Athens Stadium

Athens High School Graduation will be held on Thursday, May 21 at 7:00 PM at Athens Stadium.

Know Before You Go

Join us as we honor and celebrate the Class of 2026! We look forward to celebrating this special milestone with our students, families and community. Please review the following Guest Graduation Guidelines:

• Graduates will be seated facing the north end of the stadium/Jumbotron. Seating will be available on both the home and visitor sides. This adjustment reflects the continued growth of our community and graduating class and is designed to provide a more comfortable viewing experience for all guests.
• Gates open at 5:30 PM.
• Please enter through the front of the stadium or the visitor gate.
• ACS clear bag policy is in effect for all events.
• No airhorns or disruptive noise makers allowed.
• Aisles must remain clear at all times.
• No balloons, as they may obstruct views.
• Accessible seating is available in the front row.
• No standing along fences or in areas that block the view of others.
• Guests should not enter the field until the ceremony concludes.
• Please plan to exit the field within 30 minutes following the ceremony.

Thank you for helping us create a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience for everyone celebrating the Class of 2026!

Mark your calendars with important dates to remember:

• May 19 ARS Graduation & RenV Graduation
• May 21 Last Day of School for Students (early dismissal) & AHS Graduation
• May 22 Teacher Workday
• May 25 Memorial Day Holiday

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

ACS offices will be closed on Monday, May 25, in observance of Memorial Day. Please view the district calendar at acs-k12.org/calendar.

ACS will be open Monday through Thursday from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, beginning May 25 through July 24, except on designated holidays listed on the official school calendar. If you have any questions, please call 256.233.6600 or visit acs-k12.org.

• May 27-28 Girls and Boys Basketball Camp - Registration Now Open
• June 11-12 Soccer Camp - Registration Now Open
• June 15-16 Tennis Camp
• June 15-16 Running Camp - Registration Now Open
• June 15-17 Baseball Camp -Registration Now Open
• June 22-24 Softball Camp - Registration Now Open
• July 20-21 Volleyball Camp
• Football Camp Dates Coming Soon

Camps are open to children ages 5-14 in our community. Visit acs-k12.org/camps for registration information, camp fees, and more.

Athens City Schools is proud to join communities across Alabama in recognizing America 250, commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

This historic milestone offers our students a meaningful opportunity to honor our nation’s past, reflect on the values that unite us, and look ahead as engaged citizens and leaders. Throughout the month of May, schools across the district will participate in a variety of activities that highlight patriotism, service, creativity, and community pride.

Submit Your School/Classroom/Individual Message or Project for the Social Showcase!

As part of the celebration, schools, classrooms, and/or students are encouraged to create short patriotic video messages, photos, artwork, celebrations, performances, songs, and other creative expressions that reflect what America means to them, celebrating freedom, gratitude, service, school spirit, community pride, honoring those who serve, and more. Selected videos will be featured on Athens City Schools’ social media platforms during the week leading up to Independence Day, showcasing our students and schools as we celebrate this important milestone. Submit your items to comms@acs-k12.org.

The America 250 celebration aligns with Athens City Schools’ commitment to developing well-rounded students through our Portrait of a Graduate, emphasizing character, communication, collaboration, and citizenship. By connecting learning to real-world history and civic engagement, this initiative helps students understand their role in shaping the future. We look forward to celebrating together as One Athens, honoring the past, celebrating the present, and inspiring the future.

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 May 25 at 4:30 PM. Please include student name, age, grade level, school, and telephone number on the back of artwork. If you have any questions, reach out to hhollman@athensal.us.

Athens City Schools Board of Education is excited to announce the appointment of Leslie Sedberry as the next Principal of Athens Middle School, effective July 2026! This announcement was made during the May 7 ACS Board of Education Meeting.

Mrs. Sedberry brings nearly two decades of educational experience and has proudly served as Assistant Principal at Athens Middle School since 2023. During her time at AMS, she has helped lead initiatives focused on strengthening instruction, supporting teachers, improving student achievement, and building meaningful connections with students and families.

Before joining Athens City Schools, Mrs. Sedberry served as an Instructional Coach and English Language Arts teacher in neighboring districts. She is a National Board Certified Teacher and National Board Mentor who is deeply committed to excellence in education and professional growth. Mrs. Sedberry brings a strong instructional background, a student-centered leadership approach, and a passion for supporting students, staff, and families. We are excited to see her continue building on the success of Athens Middle School and leading with excellence for every student.

We also extend our sincere appreciation to Mrs. Kim Moore for her years of dedicated service to Athens Middle School and Athens City Schools and wish her the very best in her well-deserved retirement.

Please join us in congratulating Mrs. Sedberry on this exciting new chapter!

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. Questions? Contact linda.moore@acs-k12.org.

• AHS Boys Golf Tryouts: May 19 & 20
• AHS & AMS Baseball AHS Tryouts May 18 | AMS Tryouts May 19-20
• AMS & AHS Flag Football Tryouts: May 20
• AMS & AHS Softball Tryouts: May 20 & 22
  
• AHS Girls Golf Interest - Contact Coach Campbell at andrew.campbell@acs-k12.org

Congrats to the ACS Artists of the Month! Special thanks to our awesome Athens City Schools Fine Arts teachers who encourage and inspire these young artists!

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.

Get a jump start on the school year by ordering your Back-to-School Supplies from EPI. To place your order, visit educationalproducts.com and enter the school code below.

• AES ID: ATH029
• AIS ID: ATH031
• CES ID: SPA062
• JNES ID: JUL010

Deadline approaching. Visit acs-k12.org/supplies Order today!

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

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!

Check out the May 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.

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.

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.

Looking for some FUN and FREE events this summer? Check out the Athens-Limestone Public Library Summer Program!

Support Athens Cheer all month long! From May 1–31, purchase a Golden Eagles Mango Fruit-N-Ice at Scooter's Coffee and $1 from every drink sold will be donated to Athens Cheer! Stop by, cool off, and help support our Golden Eagles!

Athens Dance Team fundraiser going on now! Check out the Golden Eagle Spirit Shop at

bsnteamsports.com/shop/VJgk2uPvsh. Store closes June 2....ORDER TODAY!

Athens High School Color Run will now be held on Saturday, May 16, at Athens Middle School (behind tennis courts). Arrival time is 8:00 AM with race time at 8:30 AM. To pre-register or make a donation, please scan the QR Code or visit ahs.acs-k12.org/epayment. Race fee is $25. Select “AHS”, “CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS”, and “INTERACT CLUB COLOR RUN”. Proceeds will benefit the Abundant Life Well Construction Project. If you have any questions, please contact zoe.porter@acs-k12.org.

The Calhoun Community College Women’s Basketball Team is excited to host the annual Little Warhawks Basketball Camp this summer. This camp will be held June 10-11. Learn more and register below.

Athens Limestone Hospital invites you to a Community Movie Night on Friday, May 15, on the Square in celebration of 75 years of ALH. This fun evening will feature Disney’s Zootopia, food trucks, and fellowship. Food Trucks open at 6:00 PM with the movie starting at 7:15 PM.

Bring your family, grab your friends, wear your red, white, and blue, and experience one of most exciting traditions in Athens. Celebrate America 250 at the annual Red, White and Boom event at the Athens Sportsplex. It’s a full day of patriotic celebration, hometown pride, and summer magic.

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.

Mark your calendars for Fall Friday Night Lights!

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.

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.

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.