AES Press

September 2026

Referendum 2026: A Request to Replace Local Funding

The School District of Athens is asking voters to replace operational funding to maintain current educational programs and services. The request is $600,000 per year for four years - less than the District’s 2023 request.

What voters are being asked: To allow the district to exceed the state revenue limit for operational purposes.

Amount: $600,000 per year, 4 years, non-recurring

Election date: November 3, 2026

What it is: Funding to maintain the day-to-day operations of our schools.

What the Funding Does: Stabilize the operating budget to maintain current educational programs and student support services.

Referendum information will be shared through mailings, the district website, and social media, as well as during community engagement meetings held over the next several months. These efforts will provide residents with information about the operational referendum, including context and background, potential tax impacts, and important voting information.

Andrea Sheridan

Superintendent

Principal's Pen ~ Mrs. Redmann

Welcome back, AES families!

Our Open House drew a wonderful turnout and it was truly heartwarming to see both familiar and new faces in the building! Walking through the halls that evening as excited students showed off their new classrooms, proud parents met teachers, the smell of new shoes and school supplies filled the air, and the twinkled smiles during school photos were perfect reminders of why we love our school community. Your presence set the tone for a great year ahead.

This year we are focused on an important goal: 100% of students achieving significant growth in ELA. We believe every child is capable of meaningful progress, and our teachers are committed to providing the instruction, support, and encouragement needed to make that growth happen. Following the guidance of Act 20 and the Science of Reading, this will be our second year implementing the Open Court reading. A continued focus will also be using student assessment data to directly align reading interventions during our What I Need to Grow (WING) time. We're very excited to launch 4K Family Focus Fridays, a new way for our youngest learners' families to connect with the classroom and school community.

I encourage you to explore becoming involved with our Youth Education Supporters (YES) Group this year. YES is responsible for ensuring our students participate in unique learning experiences as well as have memorable participation in school events. Please consider sharing your time and talents as this group is expanding this year to include middle and high school student supports and will need more hands to do great work!

As we welcome veteran and new staff to the school year, I wish to thank you for being part of our school family. Your continued support and engagement in your children’s education matters!

Welcome back,

Mrs. Redmann

✨ Superintendent Connection

As a valued partner in your child’s education, I’m committed to keeping you informed about the priorities that drive our efforts to support every student’s success. My goal is to ensure clear, consistent communication and to strengthen the relationship we share with families, because when schools and parents work together, students thrive.

The Superintendent Connection is designed to communicate important district updates, highlight key events, initiatives, and decisions that may impact our schools, students, staff, families, and the broader community.

This month, I want to highlight the upcoming Annual Meeting & Budget Hearing scheduled for September 21, 2026, at 5 PM. This important event offers an opportunity to learn more about current initiatives within our school district, and the proposed budget for the 2026–27 school year. Your attendance at this meeting is a valuable way to stay informed, engage in meaningful dialogue, and show your support for our students, staff, and the school district.