Progress Report
Huntsville City Schools News & Updates: October 23, 2026
Magnet Applications Now Open for 2027–2028 School Year
Magnet applications are now open for rising Kindergarten through 12th-grade students seeking admission to a magnet program for the 2027–2028 school year.
Visit the Magnet Programs page for more information and to apply.
Virtual Magnet Info Sessions
Families interested in learning more about high school magnet programs are encouraged to attend a mid-day virtual information session. At this event, parents will learn about the various high school magnet programs, application requirements, the evaluation and audition process, eligibility criteria, and important application deadlines. Families will also have the opportunity to ask questions and gain a better understanding of the magnet application process to help them make informed decisions about their students’ educational options.
Meeting Registration:
- New Century HS Virtual Information Session – Nov. 16th @ 12:30pm
- Lee HS Magnet Virtual Information Session – Nov. 17th @ 12:30pm
- College Academy Magnet Virtual Information Session– Nov. 18th @ 12:30pm
New Principal at Chapman Middle School
Congratulations to Marquetta Gradford-Hope on being board approved as the new principal of Chapman Middle School!
A veteran educator, Gradford-Hope brings extensive experience in classroom instruction, curriculum development, and school leadership. She most recently served as assistant principal at Columbia High School.
Federal Impact Aid Survey Window Now Open
Huntsville City Schools is asking eligible families to complete the Federal Impact Aid Survey Form electronically starting October 22, 2026 through December 17, 2026. Spanish Versions of the form are available at each school. Impact Aid provides school districts with additional federal dollars to help support resources in classrooms.
Who is Eligible to Complete the Impact Aid Form?
Parents/Guardians who work/live on Redstone Arsenal or other federal properties.
Parents/Guardians on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces.
Parents/Guardians who live in federal/public housing communities.
How to Complete Impact Aid Form Electronically?
Login to the Powerschool Parent Portal or use the Powerschool App.
Click on Forms, then click on Huntsville City Impact Aid.
A form should be completed for each student attending Huntsville City Schools.
A Spanish version of the form is available at each school.
How to Set up an Account in PowerSchool?
Parent/Guardian can create an account by following these steps:
Access the Student and Parent Sign In page.
Click the Create Account Tab.
Click Create Account.
Enter your first name, last name, and email address.
Enter the student's name, access ID, and access password, and the parent’s relationship to the student (access ID and access password is provided by the school).
Click Enter.
Once the account is created, follow the above directions on how to complete Impact Aid Form electronically.
Need to Request a Spanish Version of the Impact Aid Form?
If a parent/guardian needs a Spanish version, copies are available at each school.
Deadline to Complete Impact Aid Form:
Impact Aid Forms are due by Thursday, December 17, 2026.
Questions?
If you have any questions, please contact the Student Welfare office at 256-963-9806.
DAC Application Window Open
Huntsville City Schools and the United States Department of Justice are now seeking applications from parents, guardians, and students to serve on the 2026-27 Desegregation Advisory Committee (DAC).
For more information, visit the 2026-27 DAC Applications page.
Pre-K Classrooms Closed October 26-30
Huntsville City Schools Pre-K classes will be closed Monday, October 26, 2026, through Friday, October 30, 2026, while our teachers attend the Alabama Early Childhood Education Conference.
This professional development opportunity provides our educators with valuable training, resources, and strategies to strengthen their teaching practices and continue providing high-quality learning experiences for your child. Pre-K classes will resume on Monday, November 2, 2026.
We appreciate your understanding and continued support as our educators take this time to learn, grow, and strengthen their ability to support your child’s learning and development.
HCS Parent Connections Sessions
Parents are invited to attend virtual parent training sessions on a variety of topics. Parents will need to register using the Parent Connections Registration Form and an email will be provided for them to attend the training session prior to the training session.
For session dates and topics view: Parent Connections 26-27.
Schools & Offices Closing on Nov. 11 for Veterans Day
HCS honors military veterans of the United States Armed Forces and would like to express a heartfelt thank you for their service.
Schools and offices will be closed on Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2026 in observance of Veterans Day. Classes will resume on Thursday, Nov. 12.
HCS Announces Schedule for 2027 Graduation Ceremonies
Thursday, May 27
11:30 AM: Artemis Virtual Academy
1:00 PM: New Century Technology High School
3:00 PM: Lee High School
5:30 PM: Huntsville High School
Friday, May 28
1:00 PM: Jemison High School
3:00 PM: Columbia High School
5:30 PM: Grissom High School
View open positions and apply now by visiting huntsvillecityschools.org/jobs.
First Student is Hiring Bus Drivers
NOW HIRING: School Bus Drivers & Monitors!
Looking for a meaningful way to make an impact in your community? First Student is hiring!
- Paid CDL training
- Starting pay: $21.85/hr (Driver) | $13.50/hr (Monitor)
- 4-hour daily guarantee + weekly pay
- Child ride-along program
- Extra earning potential
WALK-IN WEDNESDAY:
- Every Wednesday | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- 2906 McJohn Circle SW, Huntsville, AL 35805
Apply, interview, and take the first step toward a rewarding career! Apply now: First Student.
City of Huntsville Hiring Safety Patrol Aides
The City of Huntsville’s Public Safety division is seeking qualified applicants to fill part-time Safety Patrol Aide positions. Safety Patrol provides crossing guards for schools. Crossing guards help ensure the safety of school children each day at hazardous or congested school crossing locations. This is responsible work in expediting the safe movement of pedestrians and vehicular traffic in school zones or during special events.
Huntsville City Schools
The mission of Huntsville City Schools is to provide a safe and supportive learning environment characterized by quality staff, rigorous academic instruction, innovative programs, outstanding extracurricular opportunities, and exceptional resources.
Connect with HCS
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