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Celebrating Learning and Community This October

As we move more solidly into fall, our schools will be filled with opportunities to celebrate, learn, and grow together. October is an especially meaningful month, as it highlights many important themes that speak to who we are as a community. From National Hispanic Heritage Month to National Bullying Prevention Month, we have the chance to honor culture, build understanding, and strengthen the inclusive spirit that defines Albemarle County Public Schools.

We will also take time in October to recognize the people who make our schools such special places. National Principals Month reminds us of the vision and dedication of our school leaders, and on National Custodian Day, we will thank the staff who work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep our schools safe and welcoming. National School Lunch Week gives us an opportunity to celebrate our food service professionals who nourish both body and mind for thousands of students each day.

In addition, October highlights our shared responsibility for creating safe, supportive environments. During Digital Citizenship Week, students will explore how to use technology responsibly and safely. National School Bus Safety Week allows us to recognize the drivers who safely transport our children and reminds us all to practice safe habits on the road. And throughout National Learning and Disabilities Month, we recommit ourselves to meeting every child where they are, ensuring that each student has the resources they need to succeed.

These observances, and many others throughout the month, provide valuable opportunities for us to celebrate, reflect, and grow together. I am grateful to all of you—students, families, staff, and community partners—for helping make October a month that reflects our shared values of respect, inclusion, and excellence in education.

Warmly,

Matt

Dr. Matthew S. Haas

Superintendent

A lot has happened this month! Here's what we think is important to know:

ACPS In the News

Catch a roundup of our news coverage in the month of September.

Mountain View Upper Elementary Tops Out

ACPS marked a major milestone in the construction of Mountain View Upper Elementary with a topping out ceremony celebrating the placement of the school’s highest beam. Watch our video to learn more!

Community Information Session - September 30

You’re invited to join us for a virtual Community Information Session on Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) on Tuesday, September 30, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Learn more about this session in our Community Message.

Important Dates

Throughout October

Schools will be holding fall parent conferences. Visit our Important Dates webpage to find your school's date.

Monday, October 13

Teacher workday, no school for students.

Tuesday, October 14

Reserved for training or professional development, no school for students.

Upcoming Events and Meetings

Tuesday, October 7

Special Education Advisory Committee meeting, 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, October 9

School Board meeting, 6:30 p.m., Lane Auditorium

Wednesday, October 15

Family Council meeting, 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday, October 17

Long Range Planning Advisory Committee meeting, 6 p.m.

School Health Advisory Board meeting, 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, October 23

Talent Development Advisory Committee meeting, 5:30 p.m.

School Board meeting, 6:30 p.m., Lane Auditorium

Monthly Observances

October is National Bullying Prevention Month, National Principals Month, and National Learning Disabilities Awareness Month.

September 15 to October 15 is National Hispanic Heritage Month.

October 2 is National Custodian Day.

October 8 is Walk & Roll to School Day.

October 13 to October 17 is National School Lunch Week.

October 14 is Indigenous Peoples' Day.

October 20 to October 24 is Digital Citizenship Week and National School Bus Safety Week.

October 22 is School Bus Transportation Employees Appreciation Day.

October 27 is National Mentoring Day.

Thrive Studio

Thrive Studio is designed for students who want to help others reach their full potential. With Pathways in Teaching and Human Development, students will explore psychology, sociology, and careers in teaching, counseling, and social work.

Learn more on our Scholars Studios webpage.

NextGen Skilled Trades Day on October 4, 2025, to Inspire Future Builders and Makers

NextGen Skilled Trades Day will take place Saturday, October 4, 2025, from 10 AM to 2 PM at Piedmont Virginia Community College. This free, hands-on community event welcomes all attendees, with a special emphasis on high school students and their families, and offers an engaging introduction to the exciting and high-demand world of skilled trades. Learn more here!

Race Matters in School Communities Series: Join the Conversation

The Counseling Alliance of Virginia (CAVA), in collaboration with the Office of Community Engagement and the ACPS Family Council, invites ACPS educators, support staff, administrators, and families to participate in the Race Matters Series for the 2025–26 school year. Learn more here!

Albemarle County Public Schools

Email: superintendentoffice@k12albemarle.org
Website: k12albemarle.org
Location: 401 McIntire Road, Charlottesville, VA, USA
Phone: (434) 296-5820
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/K12Albemarle
Twitter: @k12albemarle

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