ATHENSCITYSCHOOLS
2024-2025BYTHENUMBERS
20:1 25:1
21%ofstudentsidentifyethnicallyasHispanicorLatino.
ATHENS
CITY SCHOOLS
academics
OurStory
Mrs Beth Patton, Superintendent
Athens City Schools is a K-12 public school district serving Athens, Alabama since 1909 Our mission is to be a progressive, high-quality school system that connects students and their families to a caring, traditional community. ACS offers students the best of two worlds - a world of deep tradition and heritage and one of progress in preparation for a bright future With nine schools and low student to teacher ratios, authentic relationships are formed between teachers and students. Our students see teachers at school, at the ballparks and in our churches. Athens City is more than a school district - it is truly a community connected by education.
Every ACS school provides academically challenging learning environments to ensure students develop 21st century skills for college and career readiness.
Two Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence (iAcademy at Athens Elementary and HEART Academy at Julian Newman Elementary)
STEM Cognia Certified (SPARK Academy at Cowart Elementary)
Advanced Placement, dual enrollment and early college opportunities
Career and Technical Education Program offering multiple career pathways
traditions
For over 100 years, ACS has been the heartbeat of our community. Our rich heritage is characterized by a close-knit community with shared values and beliefs
We believe all students are valued individuals and our district promises to respect and empower them to reach their greatest possible learning goals
We believe students should develop a sense of personal and community responsibility and work to provide opportunities to develop this
We believe our schools should be connected with students and families outside the classroom and that learning is a shared responsibility
We believe in and value character, honesty, diversity, integrity, leadership, partnership, open communication and the development of the whole child
innovations
Our district is tradition-rich and future-focused in preparing students for a global society Our leadership promotes a culture of innovation, collaboration, partnership and a growth mindset.
We are a 1:1 district, meaning every student at every school has access to a personal electronic device (iPad) ensuring digital equity
We created the first fully dedicated elementary STEM program in the state of Alabama at SPARK Academy
Athens Renaissance School, our blended school serving K-12, and Renaissance Virtual, our virtual school, offers students a personalized learning experience to meet their individual academic and social needs
We implemented an elementary academy model across the district, delivering parent choice & rethinking the classroom experience of the future while honoring the best of our academic heritage
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
Athens City Schools
one spirit
One Athens is a concept that speaks to the vision, direction, mission and intention of the school system. It’s a mindset that invites collaboration between schools and with the community at large. It is the hope of ACS that by gaining greater understanding of what One Athens seeks to accomplish, you will catch the spirit of One Athens Our vision is to be a community connected by education This is the heart of the Athens City Schools story It’s the driving force that connects one to another in the system and to the greater community. It’s what it means to be a part of this family of Athenians - to be golden through and through. Put simply, it says that our hearts belong to the black and gold One vision One spirit One Athens
students in service
aboveself.
Service is a big part of student life in Athens and very important in helping students develop a sense of connection to the school and community. Students at all grade levels give back to the community in a variety of ways and, while participating, come to understand their role in making communities stronger Teachers in Athens City Schools strive to teach students empathy and caring toward others; no matter their situation in life. Through projects like the Souper Bowl of Caring in which students collect canned foods to contribute to the Limestone County Churches Involved, they learn that if everyone contributes a small amount, big things can happen. The same is true for the Full Tummy Project in which students gather snacks, juice boxes and small food items to send home to fellow students who may face hunger at home Throughout the year, students participate in recycling initiatives, blood drives, Special Olympics, American Heart Challenge, Athletes Bettering the Community, Salvation Army Christmas Angels, and other special projects to help support worthy causes in Athens.
Thebestwaytofindyourselfistoloseyourself intheserviceofothers mahatma ghandi
ATHENS CITY SCHOOLS ACADEMIES
the athens academies
inspiringdiscovery.
The Academy of Computer Science at Athens Elementary teaches through a theme that places an emphasis on coding and design process thinking with a focus on human, cultural and societal issues related to technology. At this academy, the philosophy behind computational design and inquiry-based approach supports student preparation for creative problem solving.
The Academy of Fine Arts at Brookhill Elementary integrates the arts within and through the curriculum in a way that uses arts processes. The philosophy is simple; tap a child's creativity and curiosity for the arts while building student confidence and knowledge of artistic skills It fosters respect for others and enhances cognitive development
The Julian Newman Elementary Health and Medical Academy provides a place where students explore health and wellness within a supportive and challenging environment while integrating math, science and technology It embraces the education of the whole child, employs the scientific process and promotes personal connections to wellness
SPARK Academy at Cowart Elementary teaches through the lens of science, technology, engineering and math. This STEM approach encourages students to experiment, create and discover their own learning through a STEM rich curriculum and a culture that promotes taking chances and failing forward toward success
mRS. Amanda Tedford principal Mrs. Amy Williams, principal mrs. sharla birdsong, principal Mrs Lorian Charles, principal
ELEMENTARY EDUCATION
Our Mission & Vision
Our mission and vision is to empower all students for lifelong success in a rapidly changing world. One system, one heartbeat, one Athens.
PORTRAIT OF A GRADUATE
This is the district's stated goal and "North Star" that drives strategic planning as we work to empower all students for success in the 21st century
COLLABORATIVE TEAMS
Collaboration and teamwork are essential to success, and we support and sustain the One Athens philosophy as individual educators and as a school family.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
We intentionally foster a learning culture and team atmosphere through purposeful professional development including coaching, feedback and reflection.
ATHENS ACADEMIES
The academies are an innovative approach to increasing engagement, deepening learning and enriching the student experience in a meaningful way for every child.
PROJECT-BASED LEARNING
The Athens Academies and Athens Intermediate School use a student-centered, project-based learning approach to teach the Alabama standards.
STANDARDS-BASED REPORTING
Our elementary schools use standards-based reporting to measure student progress & success in a project-based learning environment.
Fine Arts Meets Education
FAME Academy at Brookhill is a fine arts academy that integrates the arts within and through the curriculum in a way that uses art processes. The philosophy is simple; tap a child's creativity and curiosity for the arts while building student confidence and knowledge of artistic skills. It fosters respect for others and enhances cognitive development.
OUR VISION
FAME Academy at Brookhill is a creative, high-energy, learning-driven school that engages students' minds by exploring, expressing, and applying knowledge through fine arts.
WHAT MAKES US SPECIAL
At FAME Academy, we strive to inspire a love of learning as we engage our students in deep, authentic learning experiences that integrate the arts. We do this in within the context of a team environment that is often referred to as a family. We come across FAME Academy at Brookhill alumni who echo the familiar sentiment "There's no place like Brookhill." We agree. Brookhill holds a special place in the hearts of many.
WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A PART OF FAME AT BROOKHILL
We opened our doors in 1989 to welcome students into a warm family of educators. We not only meet the educational needs of students, but love each student as our very own. The family atmosphere continues to this day We love each other, respect each other and take care of each other. Making each individual a top priority is our main focus.
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM US
Our job is to support our teachers and staff with quality professional development and resources that will give teachers the tools to be successful within the vision of Athens City Schools.
WHAT WE EXPECT FROM YOU
We are about family first! We expect all teachers to be dependable, growers, and learners for high-quality instruction centered around the vision of Athens City Schools. We work as a team to do “what is best” for our students.
THREE WORDS TO DESCRIBE US
Student-centered. Creative. Uplifting.
Our Mission
is to provide and create an environment where we are
HELPING EVERYONE ACHIEVE RESULTS TOGETHER.
OUR VISION
A community empowering students in a collaborative learning environment offering a rigorous core curriculum emphasizing mind, body, and character.
WHAT MAKES US SPECIAL
HEART Academy at Julian Newman provides a place where students explore health and wellness within a supportive and challenging environment while integrating math, science, and technology. We embrace the education of the whole child, employ the scientific process and promote personal connections to wellness. HEART Academy seeks to nurture the seeds of talent and curiosity that exist within a child naturally.
WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A PART OF HEART ACADEMY
Being a part of HEART Academy at Julian Newman means being part of a family that cares for the academic and social-emotional needs of students. Students instantly feel a part of our community because all teachers know them by name and greet them with a smile. We respect, celebrate, and care for each other's values. We are a home away from home and are fortunate to have support throughout our community. Here at our school, we truly encompass what HEART stands for, Helping Everyone Achieve Results Together - and we do just that! To be a part of our school is to be a part of our hearts.
WHAT OUR TEACHERS SAY ABOUT US
"Being part of HEART Academy means I am a part of a small town with big hopes and dreams for their students. We set the bar high and help students achieve their goals.”
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM US
You will most definitely be welcomed with open arms! The teachers and staff take pride in building relationships at our school and creating a warm and inviting culture within our building. We are truly a family with HEART!
WHAT WE EXPECT FROM YOU
We want team members who have a growth mindset - one that keeps our school growing, passionate about learning, and will do whatever it takes to ensure success.
We Believe
Curiosity sparks exploration. Exploration sparks ownership. Ownership sparks empowerment. At SPARK, we experiment, we create and we discover. SPARK stands for
SCIENTIFIC PROJECT-BASED RESEARCH BY KIDS
A CULTURE OF IMAGINATION
SPARK Academy is a Cognia STEM Certified school that teaches elementary curriculum through the lens of science, technology, engineering and math. We encourage students to experiment, create and discover their own learning through a STEM-rich curriculum and a culture that promotes exploration, taking chances and problem solving while learning the fundamental skills necessary to become a lifelong learner. We believe that play is learning, struggle may be productive, learning and mastery may be demonstrated in multiple ways, students should be creators as well as consumers and that our community is our classroom.
WHAT OUR STUDENTS SAY ABOUT US
"We are so excited to tell you about the amazing learning happening here. SPARK Academy is a STEM themed school. That means we learn everything through science, technology, engineering and math. We all get to do projects in our classrooms. During our projects we do research on our own, talk with experts in person or through a video chat, go on field research trips and present what we have learned to our community. We use robots, green screen videos and things we build and test to show what we have learned and discovered. This is our best way of making what we read and write about important to us. We are very proud of our school!"
Making a Difference EVERY CHILD. EVERY DAY.
WHAT MAKES US SPECIAL
iAcademy at Athens Elementary School has a longstanding tradition of excellence and a bright future as we embrace the ever changing world in which we live! ACS prides itself on being "A Community Connected by Education." In this spirit, we encourage the support of all our iAcademy families and community members in order for our students to make the most progress possible. We maintain high academic expectations and help your child reach their educational goals. We truly value the development of the whole child and seek out opportunities for learning everywhere we go! The iAcademy at AES motto is "Making a Difference - every child, every day." We work to inspire our students and teachers to be difference makers and empower them to work toward achieving their goals every day. What truly matters at iAcademy is our students, and we work hard to cultivate long standing relationships. We invite you to learn more about our special school and join us in our effort to "Make a Difference!"
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM US
We can’t wait to welcome new team members to our iAcademy family! Your success is our success and we partner with you in whatever role you are filling. We provide a system of support including mentoring, collaborative teams, administrative support, and instructional coaching to help our faculty and staff continue to grow as professionals.
WHAT WE EXPECT FROM YOU
We want team members to join our team who are willing to jump in and be a part of our family! We pride ourselves on our culture and our deep commitment to students. Relationships with each other as adults and relationships with our students and their families are key elements of our school and we want new team members who are willing to join us in fostering these relationships. We want employees who are committed to being a “difference maker” in the lives of every child, every day!
WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A PART OF IACADEMY
Being a part of iAcademy means joining our family! We truly love each other and support each other each day.
ATHENS INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL
Our Mission & Vision
At AIS, we prepare students for success in secondary school and beyond. Our foundation is grounded in instruction, culture, leadership, and systems.
Be Golden!
We are Growing our Leadership, Determination, and Empathy Now! Whatever It Takes!
ABOUT US
Athens Intermediate School caters to students in grades 5 and 6, offering an educational experience that eases the shift from elementary to middle school. At AIS, we prioritize creating a positive, safe, and nurturing learning atmosphere where students are motivated to achieve their full academic, social, and emotional potential. Our institution is recognized for its committed staff and initiatives aimed at providing an engaging and positive experience for all students. We place a strong emphasis on character development, equipping students for both academic success and personal growth, as well as fostering responsible citizenship.
WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A PART OF AIS
We are the bridge from the younger elementary years into adolescence. This is the stage where kids find out who they are, what they are passionate about, and what to do with that knowledge.
INSTRUCTION AT AIS
Our teachers collaboratively create learning targets, lesson plans, and assessments aligned to the Alabama Course of Study Standards. They work together to design engaging lessons and incorporate instructional strategies that engage all students in learning. Teachers use research-based, high-yield instructional strategies to help students learn. They monitor student learning and adjust instruction to address individual learning needs. Collaborative teams analyze assessment results and adjust instruction accordingly.
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM US
We will build and support a learning culture for adults and students.
WHAT WE EXPECT FROM YOU
We are looking for educators who have a passion for instruction demonstrated by increasing the conceptual understanding, honing the competencies of skills, and building character in their students.
THREE WORDS TO DESCRIBE US
Friendly. Energetic. Progressive.
ATHENS MIDDLE SCHOOL
Our Mission & Vision
Our mission is to be a progressive, high-quality school system that connects students and their families to a caring, traditional community. Our vision is to be a community connected by education. One system, one heartbeat, one Athens.
Athens Middle School caters to students in grades 6-8. With small student-to-teacher ratios, students develop personal connections with both their teachers and classmates. This fosters deeper relationships and cultivates an atmosphere of trust among students. Our school embodies the caring and nurturing spirit of the community. We provide a comprehensive academic program to support your child's transition from elementary to high school. Our aim is to offer a challenging curriculum that meets necessary course requirements. Additionally, we present a variety of elective options that align with the academic pathways available in high school. We are committed to ensuring that every student is wellprepared for the high school curriculum, paving the way for them to graduate from Athens High School. The dedication of our teachers and staff, along with the involvement of parents and the support of the community, contributes significantly to our students' success. Excellence, academic achievement, and sportsmanship are integrated into all aspects of school life.
This is the district's stated goal and "North Star" that drives strategic planning as we work to empower all students for success in the 21st century.
PORTRAIT OF A GRADUATE COLLABORATIVE TEAMS
Collaboration and teamwork are essential to success, and we support and sustain the One Athens philosophy as individual educators and as a school family.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
We intentionally foster a learning culture and team atmosphere through purposeful professional development, including coaching, feedback, and reflection.
OPEN EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES
Curated resources and high-quality units that are aligned to standards and our ACS vision. These resources are shared openly for use by other teachers.
ATHENS HIGH SCHOOL
Athens High School boasts a rich and illustrious history, marked by tradition and excellence. Each year, AHS earns recognition from various publications and organizations as one of the top high schools in Alabama. Our mission is to teach beyond standard expectations, fostering well-rounded students who are equipped for success in academics, careers, and life after graduation. We emphasize core values such as character, integrity, perseverance, and compassion in our classrooms, guiding the development of our students. Athens High School proudly provides a wide array of opportunities, including Advanced Placement, Dual Enrollment, Honors, Foreign Language, Fine Arts, Career and Technical Education, Athletics, and much more!
PORTRAIT OF A GRADUATE
This is the district's stated goal and "North Star" that drives strategic planning as we work to empower all students for success in the 21st century.
COLLABORATIVE TEAMS
Collaboration and teamwork are essential to success, and we support and sustain the One Athens philosophy as individual educators and as a school family.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
We intentionally foster a learning culture and team atmosphere through purposeful professional development, including coaching, feedback, and reflection.
OPEN EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES
Curated resources and high-quality units that are aligned to standards and our ACS vision. These resources are shared openly for use by other teachers.
ATHENSRENAISSANCESCHOOL LEARNING Reimagined
School (ARS) is a K-12 blended educational option that t-centered learning, providing a personalized experience tailored to each student's academic and social needs. ARS students engage in a structured, challenging, and customized program aimed at preparing them for future college and career aspirations. Blended learning combines online and in-person attendance, ensuring that all classes are delivered by certified teachers regardless of the format. This approach offers flexibility and a wider variety of course options, catering to the demands of today's digital learners through individualized instruction that transcends traditional classroom settings. With more choices than ever for meeting their educational requirements, Athens Renaissance recognizes that each student and circumstance is distinct. The school offers the flexibility, solutions, and support necessary for every student and situation.
AP
SAME STANDARDS, DIFFERENT DELIVERY
Students at Athens Renaissance engage with the same rigorous curriculum as their peers in Alabama public schools. However, this curriculum is delivered in a flexible, customized format. While the delivery method is tailored to individual needs, the quality remains consistent. Certified and experienced administrators and teachers are dedicated to maintaining excellence, similar to any traditional brick-and-mortar school. ARS provides flexibility without sacrificing integrity. The structured, challenging, and personalized program is designed to equip students for their college and career goals. Each student’s coursework is meticulously crafted to help them achieve their specific academic and personal objectives. Collaboratively designed around each student's unique interests, the individual curriculum plan plays a crucial role in enabling students to realize their full potential, serving as the foundation for their success.
ABOUT US
The term Renaissance signifies renewal or rebirth, and Renaissance Virtual School represents a transformative learning experience for each student. The "V" stands for virtual, reflecting our commitment to providing options and flexibility, enabling students to learn anytime and anywhere. Renaissance Virtual or as we like to call it, RenV, emerged from the same roots as its sister institution, Athens Renaissance School. While Athens Renaissance focuses exclusively on blended learning for grades K-12, RenV caters to students virtually in grades 4-12. Although our students have achieved remarkable success under the Renaissance brand, we believe this is just the beginning. We reject the mindset of "doing things the way they’ve always been done." As the world evolves rapidly, RenV is dedicated to being a flexible choice that empowers students to become change-makers.
WHAT MAKES US SPECIAL
AP
At Renaissance Virtual School, students can engage in their learning from home or any location with internet access. Each enrolled student receives a digital device free of charge for their studies. RenV students master the same standards as any Alabama public school. However, the delivery of the curriculum is packaged in a flexible and customized format utilizing animation, interactive games, video, text, and other online experiences. While the delivery is flexible, the quality is consistent. Students can work independently and progress through their coursework at a pace that suits them. Our caring and supportive teachers are available to monitor progress, deliver lessons, and provide academic assistance through video conferencing. Additionally, we offer in-person meetings for students who need help with assignments, technical support, or who wish to participate in social activities. We meet students in the following locations: Athens, Decatur, Huntsville, Madison, and Monrovia. Enjoy real support without the hassle of a long commute! The team at RenV is dedicated to helping students master essential standards while paving a smooth path toward graduation.
GOLDEN EAGLE ATHLETICS
Athens City Schools Athletics boasts a rich and esteemed tradition of excellence. We are dedicated to maintaining high standards as we aim to be a championship institution. Our mission focuses on fostering the education and growth of students through healthy, balanced, and constructive competition. We instill values of discipline, sportsmanship, integrity, and leadership in our student-athletes. Our players, coaches, and support staff are committed to ensuring that the athletic program serves as a source of pride for both students and the wider Athens community. As part of Athens City Schools, we embrace the vision of a community united through education. In the spirit of One Athens, we genuinely hope that our students, boosters, fans, and community members will enjoy the journey of Athens Athletics with us, season after season.
TRANSPORTATION
Student Transportation ensures safe and compliant transport for Athens City Schools students from Kindergarten to 8th Grade. The mission of the Athens City Schools Transportation Department is to deliver secure and efficient transportation in alignment with federal, state, and local regulations. We adhere to the Pupil Transportation guidelines and best practices established by the Alabama State Department of Education. The ACS Transportation Department is dedicated to equipping all bus drivers with the knowledge and resources required to provide safe daily transportation for students.
CHILD NUTRITION PROGRAM
The Child Nutrition Department's mission is to provide affordable and nutritious meals for students in our school system. Athens City Schools serves over 4,000 delicious and healthy meals each day, following the USDA's nutrition standards. Every school day, we offer free breakfast to all students, ensuring they begin their day nourished and ready to learn. Each meal includes a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, along with options for chilled non-fat or low-fat milk. Our ACS Child Nutrition Program has received the 2024 Healthy Meals Incentives Recognition Award from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), in partnership with Action for Healthy Kids. This Innovation in Nutrition Education Award highlights our CNP's commitment to advancing nutrition education. We promote wellness and nutrition awareness through various initiatives, such as sourcing local produce from Alabama farmers, conducting student surveys, and organizing taste-testing events. These efforts empower students to make healthier decisions and develop lifelong healthy habits.
EXCEPTIONAL SERVICES
Athens City Schools recognizes the distinct learning and social traits of every student and offers a wide range of services tailored to meet the needs of students aged three to twenty-one who have been identified as disabled. The special education services aim to provide the necessary support for each child to gain meaningful benefits from their educational journey. These services are customized to fit the individual needs of each child and are provided in a secure and supportive environment that caters to their academic, physical, social, behavioral, and emotional needs.
Athens City Schools is committed to supporting each of our students in achieving the highest potential possible.
FACILITIES AND MAINTENANCE
The Facilities & Maintenance Department manages and oversees the infrastructure of Athens City Schools, which encompasses 10 school district facilities covering over 500,000 square feet.
To ensure the smooth operation of these facilities, the department is organized into the following areas:
The Facilities & Maintenance Department operates daily to keep all functions running efficiently, including maintenance of buildings, equipment, and grounds.
Our Custodial Department works tirelessly to uphold high standards, ensuring a clean and safe learning environment for both students and staff.
The Construction Management team oversees renovations and new construction projects at schools throughout the community.
Keeping Athens City Schools safe, clean and running smoothly.
