One Athens Connects February 2026

• March 13 3rd 9 Weeks Grading Period Ends
  
• March 16-20 Spring Break (School Closed)
  
• March 23 4th Nine Weeks Grading Period Ends
  
• March 25 Report Card Day
  

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

Kindergarten Registration for the 2026-2027 is now open through March 13! 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.

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.

Thank you to our ACS Maintenance Team! We appreciate all you do for Athens City Schools!

Daylight Saving Time begins on Sunday, March 8, at 2:00 a.m. Remember to move your clocks forward by one hour!

ACS will be closed March 16-20 for the Spring Break. View the full academic calendar at acs-k12.org/calendar.

Third Nine Weeks Grading Period ends on March 13. Report Cards go home on Wednesday, March 25. View the ACS report card and progress report schedule at acs-k12.org/reportcards.

Did you know that individuals with Down Syndrome have an extra copy of chromosome 21, making them truly one of a kind. That's why we celebrate on March 21 - to recognize the three copies of the 21st chromosome that make individuals with Down syndrome unique. Let's continue to champion the importance of inclusion, kindness, and respect and create an environment where everyone is valued and supported.

• Sue Noah, ATHENS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
• Kasey Starnes, FAME ACADEMY AT BROOKHILL
• 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

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 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.

Show your #goldeneaglespirit in style! The official Athens Golden Eagles BSN spirit wear store is open for a limited time only. Don’t miss your chance to get your game day gear. View the store at bsnteamsports.com/shop/aRdVKNR5vs. All orders are due by April 21.

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.

• 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

Your quest for a strong start begins with BREAKFAST - the most important meal of the day for growing minds. ACS is proud to offer a healthy school breakfast to keep our students fueled and ready for learning. A nutritious breakfast can help students with their focus, memory, and academic achievement! Take a look at our breakfast menus at acs-k12.org/menu. Special thanks to our CNP department for ensuring our students are nourished and ready to learn.

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 www.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 by March 2.

Check out the March 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.

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.

• 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.

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.

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.

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.

We are thrilled to launch the Athens Limestone CEO program this fall, an innovative, community-driven entrepreneurship experience for high school students. We are seeking a dynamic, organized, and passionate Facilitator to lead this program and help shape the next generation of business and community leaders right here in Limestone County. CEO is a nationally recognized community-driven model that brings schools and business partners together to transform high school students into tomorrow's business and thought leaders. This hands-on program empowers students through real-world experiences, mentorship, and more. Learn more about the Facilitator position at athenslimestonealceo.com/facilitator. To apply, please email your cover letter and resume (PDF) to robin.thompson@acs-k12.org. This is an incredible opportunity to shape the next generation of entrepreneurs and make a lasting impact in our community. Students will receive more information about the program and enrollment details in the upcoming weeks. #athenslimestoneCEO #futureready

Our Athens High School Golden Eagles have done it AGAIN! For the second year in a row, Athens Wrestling stands on top of the state as AHSAA 6A STATE CHAMPIONS! Athens High School Wrestling also took top honors in the 2026 AHSAA State Duals. This team brings the grit. The grind. The GOLD. We are #athensproud of these student-athletes and coaches who continue to build a championship culture. Congrats on an incredible season. Way to go Eagles!

Athens Cheer brought home top honors after bringing all of their Golden Eagle Spirit to the mat! The Athens Cheer Program sent 50 student-athletes to Orlando to compete in the Universal Cheer Association National High School Cheerleading Championship and International Cheer Union World Cheerleading Championship, premier competitions for high school cheerleaders across the country and around the world. Athens Cheer, composed of two teams, earned the following honors:

Athens High School Varsity Cheer

• 1st Place - Super Varsity Traditional, International Cheer Union World Cheerleading Championships (Gold Medal and Championship Jacket)

Athens Middle School Junior Varsity Cheer

• 1st Place - Junior Varsity Traditional, International Cheer Union World Cheerleading Championship (Gold Medal and Championship Jacket)

• 3rd Place Junior Varsity Non-Tumbling Division II Game Day, Universal Cheer Association National High School Cheerleading Championship (bronze medal and trophy)

• Athens JV Cheer also holds the title of 2025 AHSAA 6A Junior Varsity Coed State Champion

We are incredibly proud of all our cheerleaders and coaches for their dedication, teamwork, and Golden Eagle spirit!

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.

Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful invites our students to participate in the annual Earth Day Art Contest. This creative competition is open to students in Athens and Limestone County in grades K-12. This year's theme is "You Belong Among the Wildflowers". All mediums are accepted and the use of recycled or natural materials is encouraged. All work will be displayed at the Earth Day Expo on April 25. All submissions are due by April 17. If you have any questions, contact kalbcares@gmail.com.

Students, are you interested in pursuing a career in one of the high-demand fields of Healthcare, Manufacturing, Construction, or Information Technology? Take the time to complete the Limestone County Economic Development Association Scholarship. Deadline to apply is April 3.

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

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.

Spectrum Family Fest will be held on April 4th from 4:00–7:00 PM on Marion Street in downtown Athens. This event is in honor of Autism Acceptance Month and is designed to provide an inclusive, welcoming space for Autism families to gather, connect, and celebrate. The entire street will be blocked off to create a safe, family-friendly environment filled with activities, resources, and community support.

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!

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.