One Athens Connects

District-Wide Growth & Achievement:

• Overall District Score: 88/B, up 2 points compared to last year!

This improvement reflects stronger academic achievement, growth, and collective commitment across the district.

School-by-School Highlights:

• Athens Elementary: 90/A - steady excellence maintained!

• FAME Academy @BES: 97/A - consistent excellence!

• SPARK Academy @ CES: 81/B - improved +7 points!

• Julian Newman Elementary: 95/A - continuing excellence!

• Athens Intermediate: 91/A - significant +8 point jump!

• Athens Middle: 79/C - gain of +3 points!

• Athens High: 84/B - up +1 point!

• Athens Renaissance: 92/A - holding strong at a high level!

• Renaissance Virtual: 69/D- notable for being a first-year school. Key metrics weren’t included this year. Significant growth is expected as full data becomes available.

Celebrations:

• Students: Your hard work, resilience, and growth made this year’s success possible. We see your effort- and we’re proud of you!

• Teachers: Your expertise, creativity, and belief in students continue to raise the bar across our district. You make learning come alive! We’re so proud of your hard work and commitment to improvement and excellence!

• Staff: From our bus drivers to cafeteria teams, office staff to instructional aides- YOU keep our schools running and our students thriving!

• THANK YOU to every student, teacher, staff member, board member, parent, and community partner. Let’s celebrate our progress and keep pushing forward!

Next Steps:

We will continue to focus on rigorous and engaging Tier I classroom instruction, targeted academic interventions, and strategic use of data to ensure that district-wide growth continues and all students are supported to reach their full potential.

View all Athens City Schools State and Federal Report Card details at acs-k12.org/statereportcards.

• November 24 - eLearning Day (no in person classes)
  
• November 25-28 - Thanksgiving Break (school closed)

November is Thank Alabama Teachers Month and we celebrate our amazing educators in Athens City Schools. Thank you for the impact you make on our students each and every day. Take a moment this month to #thankateacher for the impact that they have made on your life!

The Athens City Schools Foundation was thrilled to celebrate all of these special teachers at the 10th annual Teacher of the Year Gratitude Banquet. Congrats to all!

• REBECCA GLADNEY, Athens Elementary School
  
• KATIE WALKER, FAME Academy at Brookhill Elementary School
  
• RACHAEL KNOX, SPARK Academy at Cowart Elementary School
  
• KATIE DEEN, Julian Newman Elementary School
  
• ASHLEY BOUTWELL, Athens Intermediate School
  
• BEN TUCKER, Athens Middle School
  
• KENNEDY LEOPARD, Renaissance Virtual School
  
• JENNY LIND JOHNSTONE, Athens Renaissance School
  
• MICHAEL MAY, Athens High

This special evening would not be possible without the generous support of the 2025 sponsors:

PRESENTING SPONSOR

• Martin & Cobey

BLACK & GOLD SPONSORS

• RJ Young
  
• McKee & Associates
  
• Morell Engineering
  
• Trustmark Bank
  
• Athens State University
  
• Goodwyn Mills Cawood

SILVER SPONSOR

• First State Bank of the South
  
• North Alabama Educators Credit Union
  
• Redstone Federal Credit Union
  
• Hand Arendall Harrison Sale

CONTRIBUTING SPONSORS

• First National Bank

Special congrats to our Athens City Schools District Teachers of the Year! We wish Mrs. Gladney and Mr. May the best of luck as they represent Athens City Schools in the State Teacher of the Year competition.

Check out the December 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.

Our Athens High School Band invites you to the annual “Christmas Spectacular” on Saturday, December 6, at 7:00 PM in the Athens Performing Arts Center. For admission, please bring a toy for the Lincoln-Bridgeforth Park Committee Toy Drive. If you have any questions, email Dr. Ty Parker at tyler.parker@acs-k12.org.

The Full Tummy Project of Athens-Limestone County is currently collecting hygiene items for students who may not always have access to basic personal care items at home. Let's help Full Tummy by donating travel size items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, hairbrushes, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, body wash and more. Items can be dropped off at the Athens City Schools Central Office, 455 US Highway 31 North. The Full Tummy Project is a non-profit organization working to combat youth hunger in our community. Full Tummy connects schools with churches, businesses, and organizations that purchase, pack, and fill weekend food bags for children throughout the school year. If you have any questions, reach out to The Full Tummy at hello@fulltummyal.org. Learn more about Full Tummy at fulltummyal.org.

Athens High School Dance Team will host the annual Mini Dance Camp on Tuesday, December 9, from 4:00 PM-7:00 PM in the Athens High School Auxiliary Gym. This camp is open to children ages 4-12. Campers will have the opportunity to perform during halftime at the AHS Varsity Girls Basketball game on Friday, December 19. Camp fee is $45 if paid before December 1. If you have any questions, please contact Kristie.Murphree@acs-k12.org. Scan the QR code or visit https://forms.gle/6RQT7Us6Q1AzeAAy7 and register today.

Athens High School JROTC will host the Jingle Bell Jog Fun Run on Saturday, December 6, at 8:00 AM. For more information, including registration, visit the link at https://runsignup.com/.../AthensHighSchoolJROTCJingleBell.... If you have any questions, email james.chambers@acs-k12.org

Athens High School Interact Club is collecting items for the Long Way Home Animal Rescue. Any dog food is welcome with open paws. Donations can be dropped off at Athens High School Main Office, Freshman Office or Mrs. Porter's room. If you have any questions, contact zoe.porter@acs-k12.org.

The Full Tummy Project of Athens and Limestone County invites children, families, and the community to a special Christmas Breakfast on Saturday, December 6. This special event will be held from 8:30 AM -10:30 AM at Discovery Church, located at 100 US Highway 31 Suite K. The Full Tummy Project is a non-profit organization working to combat youth hunger in our community. Full Tummy connects schools with churches, businesses, and organizations that purchase, pack, and fill weekend food bags for children throughout the school year. Learn more about Full Tummy at fulltummyal.org. If you have any questions, email hello@fulltummyal.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! 🎶🎨🥁🎺🎷🎭

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.

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

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.

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

Single Tickets:

• Basketball/$8
• All other sports/$8

Season Passes

• Basketball Season Pass/$60
• All other 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.

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

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

Lots of holiday cheer in our community! Check out all the special events sponsored by Athens Main Street, Athens-Limestone Chamber of Commerce and Limestone County Tourism Association.

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.

The Trash Pandas Foundation is proud to announce our second scholarship opportunity for the 2025-26 school year! We will be awarding three (3) $2,000 scholarships to local high school seniors (Greater Tennessee Valley Region) who will be attending a Trade School, Junior College, or 4-year University! Apply by Friday, November 21 at https://www.milb.com/rocket-city/community/foundation/scholarship.

American Education Week is a nationwide event that honors the dedication and hard work of educators and education support professionals. Thank you for all you do each and every day

We appreciate our ESPs for their dedication to our students, schools, and communities. Our schools wouldn't be complete without you!

Happy Substitute Educators Day! Be sure to take a few moments to thank all of the subs that work to fill critical roles in our schools.

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.