One Athens Connects

Mark your calendars with important October dates to remember:

• October 3 Grading Period Ends
• October 6-10 Fall Break (school closed)
• October 15 Report Card Day
• October 22 Parent Conference Day (early dismissal)

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

Athens City Schools Fall Break will be held October 6-10. Classes will resume on Monday, October 13. View the full academic calendar at acs-k12.org/calendar. We hope that everyone in #oneAthens has a wonderful Fall Break!

ACS Report Cards will be available on Wednesday, October 15. View ACS progress and report card schedule at acs-k12.org/reportcards.

Parent Conference Day Early Dismissal Schedule:

• 10:45 AM Pre - K
• 11:15 AM K-3
• 11:20 AM AIS
• 11:30 AM AMS
• 11:45 AM AHS

Buses will depart at the school's early dismissal time. Latchkey will NOT be Available. If you have any questions, contact your school.

October is National Principals Month. We are thankful for our amazing school leaders who serve our students, schools, and community with integrity, character, and heart. Be sure to take a moment this month to #thankaprincipal!

• Amanda Tedford, Athens Elementary School
• Crystal McNeal, FAME Academy at Brookhill Elementary School
• Lorian Charles, SPARK Academy at Cowart Elementary School
• Sharla Birdsong, Julian Newman Elementary School
• Jake Herrera, Athens Intermediate School
• Kim Moore, Athens Middle School
• Willie Moore, Athens High School
• Gia Russell, Athens High School Freshman Academy
• Catherine Preston, Athens Renaissance School
• Nelson Brown, Renaissance Virtual School

The Athens City Schools Teacher of the Year Gratitude Banquet would not be possible without the generous support of our 2025 sponsors:

PRESENTING SPONSOR

Martin & Cobey

BLACK & GOLD SPONSORS

RJ Young

McKee & Associates

Morell Engineering

Trustmark Bank

Athens State University

Goodwyn Mills Cawood

SILVER SPONSORS

First State Bank of the South

North Alabama Educators Credit Union

Redstone Federal Credit Union

Hand, Arendall Harrison Sale

CONTRIBUTING SPONSORS

First National Bank

National School Bus Safety Week is October 20-24. Our ACS bus drivers complete annual training & work vigilantly to provide the highest standard of care for the students they transport. Our entire transportation team performs vital functions in assuring the safe operation of our school buses. #Thankabusdriver for their dedication to student safety each and every day!

October is Dyslexia Awareness Month. Please join us in raising awareness about dyslexia. Learn more at dyslexia.yale.edu/dyslexia/what-is-dyslexia/

Thank you for your hard work and dedication in keeping our facilities clean and beautiful. We appreciate you each and every day!

We are thankful for the impact our wonderful teachers make on our students each and every day!

Special thank you to all of our coaches for the time, dedication, and inspiration you share with our students.

Join us on Friday, October 10, at 6:30 PM as we proudly honor the 1975 Athens High School State Championship Football Team during pregame at Athens Stadium - Home of the Golden Eagles! Fifty years ago, this legendary team etched its name in Golden Eagle history by capturing the Class 3A State Championship, the first-ever for AHS. Led by Coach Larry McCoy and his dedicated staff, the 1975 team battled through a tough schedule with unmatched grit, resilience, and teamwork, finishing with a 12-1-1 record. Their legacy still inspires our Golden Eagles today. We are thrilled to welcome back players, coaches, cheerleaders, band, and more for this special tribute. Let’s pack the stands as we celebrate our Golden Eagle Legends! Athens High School will take on Hartselle at 7:00 PM. Tickets are available on the GoFan App or at gofan.co/app/school/AL109. Reminder that ACS has a Clear Bag Policy and Golden Guidelines for all athletic events. Learn more at acs-k12.org/athletics.

Athens City Schools invites you to a special ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating our beautiful new Julian Newman Elementary School! This special event will be held on Sunday, October 26, at 2:00 PM in the new JNES gymnasium. Students, families, faculty, staff, and community members are invited to join us as we formally dedicate and celebrate this beautiful new campus. Following the ceremony, guided tours of the school will be available. We hope that you will be able to join us for this momentous occasion!

The Pride of Athens Golden Eagle Band has two exciting performances coming up — don’t miss your chance to see them in action!

Pride of Athens Marching Band Contest

Saturday, October 25, 2025 at 1:00 PM

Larry McCoy Field at Athens Stadium

Tickets are $7.00 each and available on the GoFan app or at https://gofan.co/app/school/AL109.

Annual Athens-Limestone County Night of the Bands

Tuesday, October 28, 2025 at 6:00 PM

Cavnar Field at East Limestone High School

Tickets are $5.00 each and available from any band member or Dr. Parker.

Come cheer on our Golden Eagles and enjoy music, spirit, and community!

The Salvation Army Christmas Assistance Program will accept applications IN PERSON ONLY on Wednesday October 15, and Wednesday, October 22, from 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM at the Salvation Army Family Thrift Store, located at 17837 Highway 72 West. Applications must be submitted by the head of household. No phone applications will be accepted. Required documents include a valid photo ID (for the head of household), proof of income, proof of residency, and a birth certificate for each eligible child (ages 12 and under). See flyer for details.

Check out the September 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.

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.

October 13-17 is National School Lunch Week. This year’s theme is “Taste The World: Your School Lunch Passport”. Healthy school lunches can make a big impact on student success 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.

View the 2025-2026 district calendar at acs-k12.org/calendar.

• August 5 - First Day Of School For Students

• September 1 - Labor Day Holiday

• October 6-10 - Fall Break

• October 15 - e-Learning For AHS Only (All Others In Session)

• October 22 - Early Dismissal/Parent Conference Day

• Nov 11 - Veterans Day Holiday

• 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.

Due to changes in Alabama laws, including the FOCUS Act, Athens City Schools has revised the 2025-2026 Student-Parent Handbook. Changes are highlighted in yellow. If you have any questions, please reach out to Mike.Orear@acs-k12.org.

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.

Check out the Athens High School Varsity Football schedule along with the school spirit themes.

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

Single Tickets:

• Football/$11
• 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 High School Wrestling is excited to host the annual Father-Daughter Dance on Saturday, October 25, from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM in the Athens High School Cafeteria. This fundraising event is open to princesses in PreK - 6th Grade. Dust off your dancing shoes and grab your tickets on the GoFan app or at gofan.co/app/school/AL109. Tickets are $45/couple (princess & escort) and $10 for additional princesses. For more information, contact andrew.campbell@acs-k12.org.

AHS Student Council Association Spirit Shirt Fundraiser is underway. Show your Golden Eagle spirit in style!

Athens Golden Eagles Cotton Tees (white)

• Youth - $20

• Adult - $25

Athens Golden Eagles Drifit Tees (white)

• Youth - $30

• Adult - $35

Athens Golden Eagles Hoodies (white)

• Youth - $40

• Adult - $45

Athens Golden Eagles Mockneck Sweatshirt (white)

• Adult - $55

Download an order form and place your order by Wednesday, October 15. If you have any questions, contact Nicole Taylor, SCA Sponsor, at Nicole.Taylor@acs-k12.org.

Athens High School Choir invites you to a musical preview concert on Thursday, October 2 at 6:00 PM in the AHS Courtyard. Bring a blanket or chair and enjoy an evening of music under the stars. Tickets are $5 and available on the GoFan app or at gofan.co/app/school/AL109. For questions, contact teresa.edwards@acs-k12.org.

RenV DECA students are collecting nonperishable food items to stock Connie's Cabinet, a self-serve food pantry located at the Athens-Limestone Public Library. Items can be dropped off at Renaissance Virtual School or Athens City Schools Central Office. If you have any questions, contact shaneka.harris@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!"

• Place your order at bricksrus.com/donorsite/jneslegacybrickproject.
• Place your payment at athenscityal.csiepay.com/Views/Payment/Pay.aspx
• Select Julian Newman Elementary
• Under Fee Items, Select Legacy Brick Fundraiser
• Select brick size(s) and make payment
• 
  

Thank you for supporting Julian Newman Elementary School!

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.

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

• 2025-2026 Veterans of Foreign Wars Grades Voice of Democracy Competition and Scholarship Program - open to students in grades 9-12
• 2025-2026 Veterans of Foreign Wars Patriot's Pen Essay Competition - open to students in grades 7-8
• 2025-2026 Smart/Maher Veterans of Foreign Wars National Citizenship Education Teacher of the Year - nominate K-12 educators

Entry deadline for all is October 31, 2025

If you have any questions, please contact Jeannie Terrell, Junior Vice Commander of the VFW Post 4765, at cptterrell2011@gmail.com or (407) 443-4540

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.

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.