One Athens Connects February 2026

Mark your calendars with important dates to remember in February:

• February 4 - Early Dismissal Day
• February 16 - Presidents' Day Holiday
  
• February 25 - Progress Report Day/AHS & AMS

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

Athens City Schools will dismiss early on Wednesday, February 4, as scheduled in the 2025-2026 ACS Academic Calendar. Buses will depart at the school's early dismissal time. Please plan for your bus rider to arrive home earlier than usual. Latchkey will NOT be available. If you have any questions, please contact your school.

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

View the academic calendar at acs-k12.org/calendar.

ACS will be closed on Monday, February 16, in observance of the Presidents’ Day holiday. View the academic calendar at acs-k12.org.

Preparing children for success begins early. Athens City Schools is proud to offer two Pre-K programs:

• Alabama First Class Pre-K
  
• Eagles Nest Inclusion Pre-K

Each program has its own unique admission requirements, application, tuition, and selection process. Application window closes on March 9. Learn more about each program and apply at acs-k12.org/prek.

ACS Progress Reports will be available on Wednesday, February 25. View ACS progress and report card schedule at acs-k12.org/reportcards.

We are so thankful for our amazing ACS Counselors who advise, guide, support, and care for all of our students and families across #oneAthens each day.

• Melitta Malone, Counselor/FAME Academy at Brookhill Elementary
  
• Robin Holland, Counselor/Julian Newman Elementary School
  
• Renee Kennedy, Counselor/Athens Elementary School
  
• Stacy Hart, Counselor/SPARK Academy at Cowart Elementary
• Lilah Johnston, Counselor/Athens Intermediate School
• Jonathan Barnett, Counselor/Athens Middle School
  
• Shana Winter, Counselor/Athens Middle School
  
• Shannon Carter, Counselor/Athens High School
  
• Michael Pettey, Counselor/Athens High School
• Laura Lou Smith, Counselor / Athens High School
• Julie Meals, Counselor/Athens High School
• Lorri Haynes, Counselor/Renaissance Virtual School
• Autumn Rowe, Counselor/Athens Renaissance School
• Kathryn Lyons, Counselor/Athens Renaissance School
• Ramona Malone, Career Coach/District
• Michael Ross, Mental Health Services/District

Take a moment to #thankacounselor!

We celebrate our SROs and APD Officers and the positive impact they make in our school community. From protecting our students and staff to building positive relationships, we thank you for your commitment to safety, mentorship and making a difference.

February is Black History Month and we celebrate the contributions and achievements of African Americans throughout history and their influence on shaping our nation.

February is Career and Technical Education Month. CTE opens the doors to opportunity by empowering our students with real-world skills, industry certifications, hands-on experience for high-wage and and high-demand careers. ACS is proud to offer Career and Technical Education opportunities to prepare the workforce of tomorrow. Let's celebrate the students, educators, and professionals who make CTE a pathway to success!

Kindergarten Registration for the 2026-2027 school year opens on February 23. Visit acs-k12.org/kindergarten to learn more and complete the online enrollment process. Computers, assistance, and assistance in Spanish are available at the ACS Central Office on Mondays - Fridays from 8:00 AM - 3:30 PM. If you have any questions about Kindergarten Registration, please call (256) 233-6600.

We are so proud of our talented #goldeneagles whose artwork was selected for display in the State Superintendent's Visual Arts Exhibit! Catch these amazing pieces at the Old Supreme Court Library in Montgomery on the following dates:

• Elementary Division: February 2-25
• Secondary Division: March 2-27

Congratulations to our ACS artists!

• Alice Gibson, Athens Elementary School
• Evelyn Hambright, Julian Newman Elementary School
• Thea Pate, SPARK Academy at Cowart Elementary
• Hattie Smith, Athens Intermediate School
• Evelyn Mathis, Athens Intermediate School
• Sheberlyn Theodore, Athens Middle School
• Melody Batchelor, Athens Middle School
• Angelina Galavez, Athens High School
• Tilly Holt, Athens High School
• Mildriana Dempsey, Athens High School
• Joanna Newborn, Athens High School
• Cecelia McFadden, Athens High School
• Madelyn Oltmans, Athens Renaissance School

And a special shoutout to their amazing art teachers: Tavia Slaton, Katie Blair, Valarie Alexander, Ashley White, Leah Pierce, Parker Sutton & Linda Wheeler.

This certification is one of the most respected professional certifications available in K-12 education. National Board certification is available in 25 certificate areas, spanning 16 disciplines from Pre-K through 12th grade. National Board Certified teachers demonstrate a deep understanding of their students, content knowledge, use of data and assessments, and teaching practice.

• Sue Noah, ATHENS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
• Kasey Starnes, FAME ACADEMY AT BES
• Sonja Truesdell, FAME ACADEMY AT BROOKHILL
• Erica Hand, ATHENS RENAISSANCE SCHOOL
• Paige Hicks, ATHENS HIGH SCHOOL
• Summer Neely, RENAISSANCE VIRTUAL SCHOOL

• Kara Crumbley, ATHENS INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL

• Benitha Mass, ATHENS INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL
• Ashley White, ATHENS INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL
• Leslie Sedberry, ATHENS MIDDLE SCHOOL
  
• Sadie Shannon, ATHENS MIDDLE SCHOOL
• Karen Clem, ACS BOARD MEMBER and our first ACS NBCT

We are so proud of our #oneAthens NBCTs and their hard work, dedication, and commitment to students and the teaching profession.

Students, are you interested in being a part of sports and extracurricular activities at Athens Middle School and Athens High School during the 2026-2027 school year? If so, be sure to mark your calendars for important dates related to tryouts. More team dates coming soon. View acs-k12.org/athletics for updates. Please note, all forms must be up to date in DragonFly Max. If you have any questions, please reach out to Linda.Moore@acs-k12.org.

The Athens-Limestone County Track and Field Special Olympics will take place on Friday, March 27, at Athens Stadium. Help support this special event through the Special Olympics T-Shirt Fundraiser. Scan the QR code to place your order or visit https://specialolympics-trackandfield.sp101-online.com. All orders must be submitted by Sunday, March 8. If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact Charity Rogers at charity.rogers@acs-k12.org. Thank you for supporting our athletes!

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.

The Renaissance Virtual School National Honor Society is collecting new and slightly used jeans for the Athens-Limestone Family Resource Center. All sizes and colors are welcome. Jean can be dropped off at any of our ACS locations. This drive will run through February 23.

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.

Check out the February 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.

Scholarship opportunity to attend a full week of Space Camp for Leading Students in Alabama (SALSA). Open to students ages 12-14. Apply now through April 5. Learn more at link below.

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.

• Call Athens City Schools at (256) 233-6600 for assistance with the ACS Free and Reduced Lunch Application.

• Call the Child Nutrition Program at (334) 694-4656 for free interpretation or translation services, including non-English languages and American Sign Language (ASL).
• For relay or speech services, dial 711 or visit alabamarelay.com.

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.

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 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.

In order to comply with the Code of Alabama, Section 16-6B-7 Accountability Law, Athens City Schools is making available financial, student achievement and school safety/discipline reports. Click below to view each report:

• Financial
• Student Achievement
• School Safety and Discipline

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.

• 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.

👑The Miss Spirit of Athens Pageant will be held on Saturday, April 11, at 11:00 AM in the Athens Middle School Theater. This pageant is open to Athens/Limestone County residents and offers categories for ages birth through 12th grade. Pageant registration deadline is March 15. For more information, including registration, visit the Miss Spirit of Athens Facebook page at facebook.com/missspiritofathenspageant. If you have any questions, please email Dr. Parker at tyler.parker@acs-k12.org.

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

Single Tickets:

• Football/$8
• All other sports/$8

Season Passes

• 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.

Are you interested in a career in construction? Then take a moment to complete the ABC North Alabama Scholarship application.

Are you passionate about making a difference in your community? Join the National Civics Bee and showcase your knowledge of civics, leadership, problem solving and more. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation 2026 National Civics Bee Contest is open to students in grades 6-8. Entry is free. All submissions are due by February 3, 2026. Learn more at civics.uschamberfoundation.org/national-civics-bee.

Lots of youth sports opportunities for the Spring through the City of Athens Parks and Recreation. Learn more at https://www.athensalabama.us/192/Athletics.

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.

Turn everyday items into something special for the JNES campus. Bottle caps will be reused, recycled, and repurposed to create new benches for the JNES playground. Every cap makes a difference. Drop off caps at Julian Newman Elementary School or Athens High School. If you have any questions, email jnesptf@gmail.com Thank you for your support!

The City of Athens Safe Streets for All (SS4A) Draft Transportation Safety Action Plan is open for public comment through Feb. 23. This is your chance to help shape safer streets for everyone who lives, works and travels in our beautiful city. This plan focuses on:

• Reducing serious injuries and fatalities • Improving safety for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers

•Identifying high-risk locations and priority projects

• Creating a safer, more connected transportation network

• Whether you walk, bike, drive or simply care about the future of our community-your feedback matters.

View the entire plan at https://www.athensalabama.us/489/Athens-SS4A-Safe-Streets-and-Roads-for-A.

With winter weather is upon us! Check out these reminders to ensure you are prepared for the cold temperatures.

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.