October 16, 2026
May 2026
Mark your calendars with important dates to remember in October. View the ACS district calendar at acs-k12.org/calendar.
Hope for Athens will be held this Saturday, October 17 starting at 9:00 AM in the Athens Middle School Gymnasium. This special event, sponsored by the Athens-Limestone Ministerial Alliance, will feature FREE resources & activities including groceries, health services, haircuts, children’s shoes, community resources, family fun zone, and more. No ID required. For more information, visit Hope for Athens on Facebook.
McKenzie Thomas
Athens Elementary School
Emma Holland
FAME Academy at Brookhill Elementary School
Diane Trout
Julian Newman Elementary School
Brooke Jaep
SPARK Academy at Cowart Elementary School
Abigail Archer
Athens Intermediate School
Joseph Illg
Renaissance Virtual School
Allie Barnes
Athens Middle School
Jillian Chappell
Athens Renaissance School
Canna Ricketts
Athens High School
Sponsorship Opportunity - ACSF Teacher of the Year Banquet
The Athens City Schools Foundation is excited to host the 11th annual Teacher of the Year Gratitude Banquet on November 17! This special evening would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsors. We hope you will consider helping us celebrate the outstanding teachers of Athens City Schools by becoming a sponsor today! To sponsor the event, please contact Leigh Ann Todd, ACSF President, at leiann16@yahoo.com. Learn more about the Foundation at acsf.acs-k12.org. We are truly grateful for your support!
VFW Post 4765 invites you to participate in the following 2026-2027 programs:
- Veterans of Foreign Wars Voice of Democracy Competition and Scholarship Program - Open to students in grades 9-12
- Smart/Maher Veterans of Foreign Wars National Citizenship Education Teacher of the Year - Nominate an outstanding K-12 educator
Learn more and apply at bit.ly/4f094jG or submit entries to vfwpost4765@gmail.com and randy.welcher@outlook.com. The application deadline is October 31.
October is Dyslexia Awareness Month. Dyslexia is a learning difference that primarily affects reading, spelling, and writing, but does not reflect a student's intelligence or potential. Approximately one in five children displays characteristics of dyslexia. Through effective instruction, appropriate resources, and strong partnerships among families, teachers, and schools, we can help students build confidence, strengthen literacy skills, and reach their full potential. Please join us in raising awareness, promoting understanding, and supporting students with dyslexia. Learn more at al.dyslexiaida.org.
Athens Cheer will host the annual Mini Cheer Camp October 19-23! This camp is open to children ages 4-12. Campers will perform during pregame activities at the Athens vs. Muscle Shoals football game on Friday, October 23. Registration is now open at acs-k12.org/cheer. Early-bird registration is $75 per camper if received by October 16. After October 16, registration increases to $90 per camper. Athens City Schools employees are eligible for a $10 discount. If you have any questions, please email gia.russell@acs-k12.org. #goldeneaglespirit
Athens High School Pride of Athens Golden Eagle Marching Band will host a Cadet Colorguard Clinic for students in 4-8 on October 19-22. Come learn the basics of colorguard, build new skills, and experience what it’s like to be part of the Pride of Athens! Sign up at forms.gle/1xRawp7wHSgcdMgd9. If you have any questions, contact rachel.bobo@acs-k12.org.
Your support of the Athens City Schools Foundation (ACSF) makes a lasting impact on the lives of students - today, tomorrow, and for years to come. Donations help ACSF support annual programs such as the Third Grade Violin Program, Teacher Classroom Grants, and Teacher of the Year recognition. Visit acsf.acs-k12.org to donate, purchase a brick, and explore other ways to give. Together, we can truly make a difference. Thank you for supporting the Athens City Schools Foundation!
Make a lasting impact on Athens City Schools students and teachers by joining the Athens City Schools Foundation Power for Students program. Giving is simple! You can add a monthly donation of any amount to your Athens Utilities bill, and 100% of your contribution goes directly to supporting Athens City Schools. Your gift helps fund valuable initiatives such as Teacher Classroom Grants, the Third Grade Violin Program, and many other opportunities that enrich student learning. Getting started is easy. Complete the enrollment form and submit it:
- Through your child's school or teacher
- In person at the ACS Board of Education Central Office
- By email to foundation@acs-k12.org
- By mail to Athens City Schools Foundation, 455 U.S. Highway 31 N., Athens, AL 35611
Every gift, no matter the amount, helps provide meaningful opportunities for our students and teachers. Thank you for supporting the Athens City Schools Foundation and investing in the future of #oneAthens. Learn more at acsf.acs-k12.org/power.
Help fuel our Athens Golden Eagles football team! Feed the Eagle is a food and nutrition program that provides meals and nutritional support to help keep our student-athletes fueled, focused, and ready to compete throughout the football season. Community support makes this program possible. Individuals, families, businesses, and organizations are invited to make a donation and help provide the nutrition our Golden Eagles need as they prepare, practice, and compete. Every contribution makes a difference! Learn more or donate at feedtheeagles.org.
Athens Elementary School invites you to become a permanent part of their 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, either drop off payment at Athens Elementary School or visit our website at aes.acs-k12.org and click the "Pay Fees" button.
Thank you for supporting Athens Elementary School!
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. Your commemorative brick could recognize a family name, student or graduate, 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. Thank you for supporting Julian Newman Elementary School!
Mark your calendars with important dates for 2026-2027. You can also view the academic calendar at acs-k12.org/calendar.
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 schedules and more. You can access Parent Portal from any device or download the free app. Learn more about PowerSchool Parent Portal at acs-k12.org/powerschool. If you have any questions, please contact your school.
We are ready to cheer on our Golden Eagles! Join the fun by participating in our Football Friday Dress-Up Days throughout the season. Check out the schedule, plan your outfits, and show your Golden Eagle Spirit each Friday!
AHS Varsity Football
AHS Volleyball
Flag Football
Athens High School Cross Country
AHS Swim
AHS Basketball
AMS Basketball
AHS Indoor Track & Field
Headed to Athens Stadium for Friday night football? Please review the Athens Stadium Traffic Flow Map before arriving and note the following important traffic information:
- Philip Rivers Drive – Stadium parking lot entrance. At the conclusion of the game, right turn only when exiting.
- Black & Gold Drive – No entrance from Highway 31. Exit only.
- Athletic Facility Parking Lot – When exiting, right turn only onto Highway 251.
Thank you for helping us keep traffic moving safely and efficiently on game nights. We look forward to seeing you at Athens Stadium!
The following bags are permitted inside Athens City Schools athletic facilities:
- Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC that do not exceed 12" x 6" x 12" (tote bags, fanny packs, crossbody bags, etc.)
- One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags
- 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.
- All children in 8th grade and below and non-school age children must be accompanied and supervised by an adult.
- All students are expected to be seated and in the stands unless visiting the concession stands or restrooms.
- Students are not permitted to loiter in groups outside of the seating area.
- Students who do not follow the ACS athletic facility guidelines will be required to sit with the adult they arrived with or asked to leave the game.
Our goal is to always have a safe and enjoyable environment at our stadium, gymnasiums, fields and more. We appreciate your cooperation.
Watch our Athens Golden Eagles HOME games this fall on the NFHS Network. A subscription is 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 on the NFHS Network website. 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.
Lots of delicious options are available at Athens Stadium! Reminder that the Pride of Athens Golden Eagle Band Concession Stand is cashless (card payment only). Thank you for your support!
Families must submit a new application each school year to be considered for benefits. Only one application per family is required. Please note that unless you receive an email confirming that your student has been approved for free or reduced-price meals, your child will be charged the full meal price. If you need assistance with the application, contact Dr. Tandy Blackwell, Child Nutrition Program Coordinator, at tandy.blackwell@acs-k12.org.
Breakfast Pre-K AES & CES
Breakfast AES, AIS, CES
Breakfast AHS, AMS, BES, JNES, ARS
Lunch Pre-K - 8
Lunch AHS
Snacks
October 12-16 is National School Lunch Week. Healthy, nutritious meals play an important role in helping students learn, grow and succeed both inside and outside the classroom. We are grateful to our CNP team for going above and beyond to serve our students and employees nutritious and delicious meals each day.
An easy way to add money to your student’s lunch account is through MySchoolBucks. Create an account or log in at myschoolbucks.com to view your student’s account balance and purchases. You can also download the MySchoolBucks 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. Need help? Contact tandy.blackwell@acs-k12.org.
2026-2027 Child Nutrition Program meal prices and a la carte pricing. Learn more at acs-k12.org/nutrition.
Our Golden Eagles will take the lanes at the annual Athens-Limestone County Bowling Special Olympics on Friday, October 23, at Bowl Madison. We look forward to seeing our athletes shine! A big thank you to all who help make this special day possible!
The Athens-Limestone County Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade applications are now open. This annual community tradition will be held on Saturday, December 5, at 5:00 PM. Application deadline is November 20. Click here to learn more and apply. If you have any questions, contact Casey Mays at casey@alcchamber.org or (256) 232-2600.
Join the adventure!
Scouts BSA Troop 7240 invites you to join the fun, build new skills, make friends, and experience exciting adventures. Troop 7240 meets every Tuesday night at 6:30 PM in the Youth Building at Athens First Methodist Church. For more information, contact information@troop240athensal.org.
Facebook: Friends of Troop 7240 and Pack 7024
Website: troop240athensal.org
The Alabama State Department of Education Special Education Services will host an IDEA Bootcamp on Tuesday, October 27, at the Athens State Regional Inservice Center. Designed for parents and educators, the training will provide a practical look at the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), including common areas of conflict and strategies to support effective implementation for children with disabilities.
Down Syndrome Alabama is partnering with the National Down Syndrome Congress to host a Family Summit. This event will be held on Friday, January 22, 2027 at the Trussville Civic Center. The Family Summit is open to parents, caregivers, advocates, families of children and teens, families navigating adulthood and new and expectant families and will include family-focused sessions as well as expert guidance and practical resources. Click on the link below to purchase your tickets.
Transition Night for Juniors and Seniors - November 5
Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services will host a Transition Night for Juniors and Seniors on Thursday, November 5, from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM in the Athens Renaissance School Auditorium at the Clinton Street Campus. All juniors and seniors attending any Athens City Schools or Limestone County Schools and their parents/guardians are invited to attend and learn more about resources and services available to students graduating high school, including jobs, scholarships and vocational training. Download the attachment to scan and register.
Transition Night for High School Students - November 12
Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services will host a Transition Night for high school students on Thursday, November 12, from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM in the Athens Renaissance School Auditorium at the Clinton Street Campus. All students in grades 9-12 and exiting AAA students attending any Athens City Schools or Limestone County Schools and their parents/guardians are invited to attend and learn more about resources and services available, including vocational rehabilitation, Social Security, mental health services, Disability Resource Network and more. Download the attachment to scan and register.
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There are lots of exciting things going on in ACS! Be sure to follow ACS and your school on social media and download the free ACS app!
