Annual report 2016

015 -2016 — —2

Endless POTENTIAL REPORT TO OUR COMMUNIT Y

A C O M M U N I T Y C O N N E C T E D B Y E D U C AT I O N

TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S

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SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS & MESSAGE

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FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

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.M ISSION/VISION/VALUES

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ACADEMICS

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ACADEMICS- CAREER TECHNICAL EDUCATION

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LEARNING SUPPORT SERVICES

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DISTRICT PROFILE

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INNOVATIONS

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ATHLETICS

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STAFF & OPERATIONS

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POINTS OF PRIDE

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ATHENS CITY SCHOOLS FOUNDATION

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S c h o o l B oa rd M e m b e rs

Tim Green

James Lucas

Scott Henry

Jennifer Manville

Russ Johnson

Beverly Malone

Chris Paysinger, Ed.D

Shane Black

DIRECTORY

S C H O O L B OA RD M E S SAG E

The late Henry Ford once said, “If everyone is moving forward together, then success takes care of itself.” I believe the Athens City School system is the perfect manifestation of moving forward together. We are starting to see success in our one-to-one program. While it's preparing our children to be part of an ever advancing technological society, it's also closing the gap between the children that have never had access to technology with those that have it readily available in their homes. Take the time to visit one of our kindergarten classes and get them to show you what they can do with their iPads. I promise you will be amazed.

Our Renaissance Center started small and has now grown to be its own independent school. We believe we are morally obligated to provide education to all children, regardless of the unique challenges they may face, and through the Renaissance Center we are doing that. The Renaissance Center serves children across the spectrum: Olympic athletes, musicians, students with medical

issues, home-schooled, and teen mothers. Exciting times are ahead of us also. We are breaking ground on a new, state-of-theart high school. We will be opening the SPARK academy, which is an exciting concept that will stress STEM education in our elementary schools. In four short years we plan for the SPARK Academy to be its own school and a model, not only in the state of Alabama but also across the nation. We have great teachers, administrators and staff that truly care about our children. I am constantly hearing stories about special things our teachers have done. We are truly “ A Community Connected by Education."

There are three groups of people in the world – those who make things happen, those who watch things happen, and those who wonder what just happened. Athens City Schools is making things happen!

Russ Johnson Mr. Russ Johnson President, Athens City Board of Education

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F RO M T H E S U P E R I N T E N D E N T

M I S S I O N / V I S I O N / VA L U E S

n behalf of the Athens City School Board, it is my pleasure to present to you the Athens City Schools 2015-2016 Superintendent’s Annual Report.

The goal of this publication is to provide an update on activities in our school community. Excellence in education is the keystone of the Athens City School System. From our educators and parents to our administrators and other community members, together we strive to achieve the best for our students.

One of the most exciting achievements of 2015 was the official opening of the Renaissance School. With close to 1,000 students enrolled, this personalized learning environment provides opportunities that allow students to complete their high school diploma while maintaining a job or pursuing rigorous athletic training. It also serves those students that do not thrive in a traditional school environment or who want to move more quickly through their coursework. We have seen how this differentiated approach to learning is challenging students to become successful, independent learners.

After several years of planning and in partnership with the City of Athens, this year also brought final approval to build a new high school. The new 260,000 square foot facility will be located on Highway 31 adjacent to the Central Office. This new facility will provide our students with safe access to state-of-the-art facilities, labs, and classrooms. Once complete, plans include the relocation of Athens Middle School to the existing high school facility. Our goal is to complete the building by the fall of 2018. This accomplishment is exciting for the entire community and shows the synergy created as our school system and City work together.

Ending its third year, the PowerUp Program continues to be the catalyst for integrating the use of technology into the curriculum. With the use of the devices, students are creating, communicating, and collaborating in ways that will better prepare them for their futures.

As a testimony to the success of this program, The PowerUp Program received national recognition this year by being awarded the COSN Team Award for expanding opportunities to our students.

Well-known for our students’ academic success, the school system, through our strategic planning, continues to strive for a well-rounded curriculum and instructional program. The quality of our academic program continues to attract newcomers to Athens City, as well as experienced and accomplished teachers and administrators. New programs like our Engineering is Elementary, Project Lead the Way, Robotics, and Health Sciences attract students with an interest in STEM. Excellence in education includes extra-curricular achievements as well. Our extra-curricular activities support the interests of our students. From musical or theatrical ambitions to sports, the system features award-winning teams, bands, groups and clubs. We can be proud of these extra-curricular achievements as they showcase the incredible talents of our student body.

The Athens City School System is an exciting place where students, parents, teachers, staff, and community members work together to achieve excellence in education. The pursuit of excellence is a journey, not a destination, and we are dedicated to providing the best education possible for all students.

As we reflect on the past year’s accomplishments and look forward to another successful year, sincere congratulations go to our school leaders, teachers, and business partners for the unwavering support extended to providing the very best for our students.

Sincerely,

W.L. ‘Trey’ Holladay, III, Ed.D. Superintendent of Education

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A COMMUNITY CONNECTED BY EDUCATION. Our mission is to be a progressive, high-quality school system that connects students and their families to a caring, traditional community.

GOAL 1: ASSURE EXCEPTIONAL LEARNING FOR EVERY STUDENT Objectives: • Ensure College and/or Career Readiness for Every Student • Provide and Effective Instructional Program • Promote Professional Learning that Supports Student Achievement

GOAL 2: PROVIDE EXCEPTIONAL RESOURCES FOR STUDENTS, STAFF, AND STAKEHOLDERS

GOAL 3: ASSURE EXCEPTIONAL LEADERSHIP AND ORGANIZATIONAL EFFECTIVENESS AND EFFICIENCY Objectives: • Ensure Leadership that Promotes Collaboration, Innovation, and Effective Teaching & Learning • Maintain an Organizational Structure that Supports a Performance-Based Culture • Promote a Decision-Making Model that Sustains a High Performance Organization

Objectives: • Ensure Financial Stability and Align Resources to Promote Quality Instruction • Provide a Comprehensive Support System with Stakeholder Involvement • Promote Human Resource Practices that Align to Our Mission and Beliefs

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ADVANCED PLACEMENT HONOR ROLL Athens City School District was named to the 5th Annual AP Honor Roll. The district was one of 547 school districts across the United States and Canada and the only school district from Alabama receiving the honor.

The district was recognized for simultaneously increasing access to Advanced Placement coursework while maintaining a high percentage of students earning scores of 3 or higher on AP Exams. Attaining this recognition indicates that Athens High School successfully inspires and academically prepares students to benefit from rigorous AP course work.

DUAL ENROLLMENT

STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT We expect all students to reach their highest potential, and the results are impressive. Athens City students have consistently scored above state and national averages on standardized assessments. The Athens City School District was named to the AP 5th Annual Honor Roll by the College Board for expanding opportunity and improving performance for Advanced Placement students. We have one of the highest high school graduation rates in the state. 99% of our students graduate and 64% go on to pursue postsecondary education.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) Athens High School has a tradition of academic excellence.

The AP program allows Athens High School to continue its dedication to promote academic excellence for students.

The AP Program allows vertical curriculum planning to prepare students better. As teachers collaborate in grades 7-12, the sequence and pacing of AP courses lead to more students being exposed to the expectation and rigor of AP courses. The AP Program provides additional resources to Athens High School teachers so that the best instruction is provided to students. Students that participate in the AP Program have opportunities to gain college course credit at many universities in the nation and/or overseas.

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The goal of The Athens City Schools Fine Arts Program is to enable each child to experience a life-long application of art through participation of personal and professional activities. The program is currently in the process of a five-year strategic plan designed to showcase student art through new and innovative experiences within the community, region, state, and nation. The mission statement of the ACS Fine Arts Program is, “to produce graduates with high integrity who understand and appreciate the arts, and who will promote the continuing development of artistic endeavors in their communities.”

The community benefits from students being exposed to academic rigor and expectations by preparing students to continue on to a post-secondary placement. Critical thinking and analytical skills will prepare students to be able to solve real-life problems within the workplace.

The AP Program supports the expectation of academic excellence that is the tradition at Athens High School.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT 2014-2015% 0F TOTAL AP STUDENTS WITH SCORES 3+

FINE ARTS Originating in the late 1940s, The Athens City Schools Fine Arts Program is an integral part of both the school system and the community. The program provides learning opportunities for over 2,500 Athens City Schools students weekly. The program is made up of elementary music, visual arts, instrumental, theatre, and choral activities that are designed to provide a comprehensive fundamental approach to each discipline. As a result, all of these programs provide tools necessary for creating an aesthetic appreciation for multi-faceted artistic concepts. Learning opportunities include • Comprehensive music program for all four elementary schools • Visual arts program opportunities for grades k–12 • Marching, jazz, and concert band opportunities for grades 6–12 • Marching band auxiliary class opportunities for grades 7–12 • A competitive percussion ensemble opportunity for grades 9–12 • Athens Middle and High School choir opportunities for grades 7–12

Athens High School has college and career partnerships with Calhoun Community College, University of North Alabama, University of Alabama in Huntsville, and Wallace State Community College. These classes are introductory level college courses. Courses will be held on the campus of the post-secondary institution, AHS campus or online.

Athens High School also participates with the University of Alabama in the Early College Program.

There are 25 dual enrollment courses offered to students at Athens High School in grades 10-12. The number of students participating in dual enrollment courses is increasing. Forty-two students participated in dual enrollment courses during 2015-2016.

BEING A WRITER The Being a Writer program provides a workshop approach to teaching writing that interweaves academic and social-emotional learning for K–6 students into daily instruction. Using authentic children’s literature, the program provides support for creating a collaborative classroom environment where teachers facilitate student discussion, provide a model for the respectful exchange of ideas, and help students develop their own voice.

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STEM +C OPPORTUNITIES STEM+C is a curriculum based on the idea of educating students in five specific disciplines — science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and computing — in an interdisciplinary and applied approach. The Athens City School System is working aggressively to expand this curriculum at all grade levels.

The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you..

B.B. King

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Engineering is Elementary (EiE) Athens City Schools offers formal engineering units in second, third, fourth, and fifth grade.

Developed by the Museum of Science, Boston, EiE introduces elementary age students to different types of engineering and engineering challenges through literature. Students then work in teams to design, test, and redesign solutions to the characters’ problems.

FIRST LEGO League (FLL) Athens Intermediate School currently has two Lego teams - one of fifth grade students and one of sixth grade students. These teams compete in the FIRST LEGO League Robotics tournaments. The basis of FLL is a robotics tournament where students must solve a tricky “mission” with the help of a robot. The students research a given topic within a team; they plan programming and testing an autonomous robot to solve the mission. The FLL Teams take the opportunity to experience all steps of a real product development process: solving a problem under time pressure with insufficient resources and unknown competitors.

LEGO Robotics Club In addition to the First Lego League, fifth and sixth graders may participate in one of three after school LEGO Robotics Clubs. Each club allows students to work in pairs on building and programming LEGO Ev3 robots for 90 minutes, four times a week, for three weeks. Students learn basic programming skills while participating in high energy challenges.

Project Lead the Way (PLTW) At the middle school level, students may participate in two Project Lead the Way courses – Automation and Robotics and Design and Modeling. These courses provide a gateway, which leads into the Engineering Courses offered at Athens High School.

In the Automation and Robotics course, students trace the history, development, and influence of automation and robotics as they learn about mechanical systems, energy transfer, machine automation, and computer control systems. Students use the VEX Robotics platform to design, build, and program (RobotC), real-world objects such as traffic lights, toll booths, and robotic arms.

Design and Modeling, allows students to apply the design process to solve problems and understand the influence of creativity and innovation in their lives. They work in teams to design a playground and furniture, capturing research and ideas in their engineering notebooks. Using Autodesk® design software, students create a virtual image of their designs and produce a portfolio to showcase their innovative solutions.

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NASA’s B.E.S.T is a semester long course for 8th graders designed to develop their understanding of engineering design through the use of hands-on, NASA education products. The course is focused on the use of the NASA’s B.E.S.T. (Beginning Engineering, Science and Technology) curriculum materials.

These materials take students through a progression of engineering design challenges mimicking the design process from initial remote sensing to robotic exploration and eventual human exploration of a celestial body. Throughout the course, students use a six step engineering cycle and record information in engineering notebooks to provide evidence of their progress.

Coding Students at every grade level participate in writing computer code. Using the website code.org, and apps like Scratch Jr, Kodable, and Tynker, students work through tutorials on writing code and then create their own animations and creations.

AMSTI All K-8th grade teachers participate in the Alabama Math, Science, and Technology Initiative. AMSTI provides teachers with professional development training and materials support for both math and science instruction.

Teachers then transfer those skills to students through hands-on activities.

SPARK ACADEMY Beginning with the 2016-2017 school year, approximately 100 students from kindergarten, first, and second grade will spend their days exploring science, engineering, and mathematics using the latest technologies though the SPARK Academy. The students will research and solve real-world problems while learning important interpersonal skills, such as teamwork and compromise.

DID YOU KNOW? Our on-site preschool and before-and after-school child care programs help prepare early learners for school and provide support for working families.

EAGLE’S NEST PRE-SCHOOL PROGRAM Research shows that quality preschool provides a foundation for future success in school. Athens City Schools Preschool Program, Eagles Nest, helps prepare students to enter kindergarten and uses developmentally appropriate curriculum that addresses the whole child in a positive environment.

Children, ages 3-5, are served within our two inclusive preschool classes, as well as, the OSR (Office of School Readiness) Preschool program, all housed at Athens Elementary. Students with and without special needs have access to a quality, early learning program, equipped with highly qualified teachers. The program prepares students for Kindergarten and is aligned with the skills included in the Alabama Courses of Study (COS). Activities are embedded daily to make this program a language-enriched environment. For children with special needs, special education and related services are provided within the preschool setting. An Autism/Behavior Specialist, certified to provide ABA interventions and services for students across the district, is on sight,

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C A R E E R T E C H N I C A L E D U C AT I O N MISSION VISION

CERTIFICATIONS & CREDENTIALING

The mission of Career and Technical Education (CTE) is to empower students to be successful citizens, workers, and leaders in a global economy. We want to ensure all students graduate from high school ready for college, careers, and life.

Credentials provide students with the documented skills they need to compete in today’s economic environment. Many CTE students pursue college where their credentials may increase their opportunities for articulated college credit. Credentialing supports the public schools by providing globally competitive students with 21st Century skills. During 2014-2015, 40 certifications were earned by Athens High School students.

The vision for CTE is to prepare students to be employable upon graduation and armed with credentials, certifications, and knowledge that will lead them into the next phase of their lives.

CTE thrives to provide relevant curriculum in the classroom as well as opportunities for internships, apprenticeships, academies, community college opportunities, and real-world experiences.

CURRICULUM OFFERINGS

EMPOWERING STUDENTS to be SUCCESSFUL CITIZENS, WORKERS and LEADERS

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Management and Administration

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Career Development Education

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Family and Consumer Sciences

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Health Science Education

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Marketing, Sales and Service

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Technology Engineering and Design Education

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Education and Training

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Computer Science

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Army JROTC

RECOGNITIONS State Awards – Athens High School FBLA Chapter • Blueprint for Success – Outstanding Level • 100% Class Participation – 2 CTE Classes • Gold Seal Chapter Award • Outstanding Chapter Pending State Leadership Conference April 7-8, 2016 • March of Dimes $1,000 Contribution Award • Lori Jones appointed State Admin Board Member FBLA State Leadership Conference April 7-8, 2016 Competitive Awards: • Partnership with Business Project Team Event • Social Media Campaign Team Event • Introduction to Business Communication Individual Event • Business Communications Individual Event • Computer Problem Solving Individual Event

The Youth Apprenticeship/Internship program allows selected students to participate as apprentices or interns in the workplaces

National Awards – Athens High School FBLA Chapter • Chapter Challenge »» Super Sweeps – October 2015 »» Non-Stop November – November 2015 »» Action Awareness – March 2016 • Recognition in the FBLA “Tomorrow’s Business Leader” Magazine, Spring 2016 • Seven-Up Membership Challenge • Outstanding Chapter Recognition

of local businesses and industries. Students receive an excellent education; businesses receive well-trained employees; schools serve motivated students; and communities realize multiple benefits from every dollar invested.

JROTC North Alabama JROTC Drill Competition held at Sparkman High in September: • 1st Place Armed Platoon Regulation Drill

APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM

• 3rd Place Armed Color Guard

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CAREER TECHNICAL ACADEMIES The CTE Academy Program was created to enhance standard curricula, introduce students to the broad career opportunities in industry, and equip them to make sound choices in the future. The CTE Academy Program is comprised of the following eight academies: MEDICAL ACADEMIES: Health Science Pathway Foundations of Health Science Medical Terminology Sports Medicine Fundamentals Health Science Internship II (2 credits) Project Lead the Way Biomedical Science Pathway Principles of Biomedical Science Emergency Medical Technician Emergency Medical Technician (Dual Enrollment) ENGINEERING ACADEMY: Project Lead the Way Engineering Pathway Introduction to Engineering Design Principles of Engineering PLTW Computer Science and Software Engineering Engineering Design and Development (Capstone Project) BUSINESS ACADEMY : Business Management and Administration Pathway IT Academy Multi-Media Design Multi-Media Publications MARKETING ACADEMY : Marketing Sales and Service Pathway IT Academy Marketing Principles Sports and Entertainment Marketing Fundamentals

Teaching II Education and Training Internship (2 credits) HUMAN SERVICES ACADEMIES: Fashion Pathway

Family and Consumer Science

Fashion

Fashion Design

Fashion Merchandising

Food and Dietetics Pathway

Family and Consumer Science

Food and Nutrition

Parenting

Sports Nutrition

COMPUTER SCIENCE ACADEMIES: Software Development Pathway Introduction to Computer Science/ Information Technology Fundamentals Computer Science I/Software Development

Project Lead the Way Computer Science PLTW Computer Science and Software Engineering

GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION ACADEMY: ARMY JROTC Army JROTC Leadership Army JROTC Leadership Army JROTC Leadership Army JROTC Leadership Army JROTC Drill 1 Army JROTC Drill 2 Army JROTC Drill 3 Army JROTC Drill 4 ARMY Rifle Team

and and and and

Training, Training, Training, Training,

LET LET LET LET

I II III IV

EDUCATION ACADEMY: Education and Training Pathway Education and Training Teaching I

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AVID AVID (Advancement via Individual Determination) is a college-readiness system for elementary through postsecondary designed to increase school wide learning and performance. AVID accelerates student learning, uses research-based methods of effective instruction, provides meaningful and motivational professional learning, and acts as a catalyst for systemic reform and change.

AVID is currently being implemented in the following schools: Athens Intermediate, Athens Middle, and Athens High.

SAFE AND CIVIL SCHOOLS INITIATIVE Athens Middle School has adopted the Safe and Civil Schools program to promote a culture of higher learning for our students and staff. The primary components for the program are the Foundations for Learning and CHAMPS (Conversation, Help, Activity, Movement, Participation, and Success) models. These models provide a high level of structure in both daily school operations and class instruction. The increased structure has aided in eliminating many variables that would interfere with the school’s primary purpose, which is to provide our students with a safe and secure learning environment. Since their implementation, these two models have generated a richer experience for all AMS students and staff, with a drastic improvement in the 2015-2016 school year learning environment. Phase one has been implemented this year, with additional phases to be added over the next two years. Our goal is to create a dynamic at Athens Middle School that is like no other.

With a highly qualified and motivated staff, and exceptional students, the AMS Safe and Civil Schools program adoption team is excited about the future impact that our school will have on our community!

SAFE/CARE PROGRAM The goal of this program is to provide a positive, rewarding educational experience for all students. In the event that a student has academic or behavioral difficulties which prohibit him/her from fully participating in the traditional school setting, we provide a SAFE (Students Alternative for Excellence) program for students in grades 9-12 or CARE (Classroom for Alternative and Remedial Education) program for students in grades 5-12.

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Students have access to highly qualified teachers, both in content area and special education. The programs provide academic support, as well as behavioral support specific to individual students. Short-term or long-term placement may be provided, based on individual student needs.

ADVISORY PROGRAM The Advisory Program (CONNECT) is a student advising system for all students. Students will receive school, career, and personal advising through a developmentally appropriate curriculum. CONNECT is not a separate program, but instead a system’s change that brings students, school staff, parents, the community, and other organizations together to improve each student’s educational experience by connecting rigor, relevance, relationships and results. ACS CONNECT provides each student with an adult advisor who takes an interest in the student’s successful learning, an interest in the student’s successful goal setting, career planning, and personal growth. CONNECT is a way to meet many parts of Alabama’s Plan 2020, especially life skills. These life skills include leadership, teamwork, ethics, accountability, adaptability, personal productivity, personal responsibility, people skills, self-direction, and social responsibility.

SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES The Exceptional Services Program serves the school district’s 11% of students with special needs. Equitable services are offered across the district to children in all schools to support their academic, functional, and behavioral needs. Services are provided utilizing the expertise of our staff, as well as working with outside agencies, which results in the ongoing development and refinement of best educational practices for all.

In the past year, the Athens City Schools Exceptional Services Department has implemented effective co-teaching and inclusion practices. The department has also provided increased support for preschool students with autism and developmental delays. We continue to increase staff development opportunities so that special education staff are equipped with the latest best practices for working with students with special needs.

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6TH 9TH

AVERAGE YEARS of TEACHING EXPERIENCES

56%

1ST 4TH 7TH

TOTA L

10TH

2ND

HIGH

5TH

I N T E RM E D I AT E

FIVE YEAR K-12 ENROLLMENT

Have advanced degrees

235

11-12

12-13

13-14

14-15

15-16

3,125

3,179

3,241

3,375

3,994

Total Number Teachers

12 National Board Certified

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95 274 348 291 286 290 266 278 296 308 367 348 285 234

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L EA RN I N G S C H O O L

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BLEN D ED

ENROLLMENT

BY GRADE LEVEL *As of April 2016 2015-2016

3RD

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12TH

Today, Full Tummy Project depends on support from the community, churches, and schools to fill tummies and change lives. Friendship United Methodist Church, First United Methodist Church, and First Baptist Church have made commitments to provide weekend meal bags every week of the school year. The Athens Rotary Club and Athens High School have also been major supporters of Full Tummy Project by providing bags for one month of the school year for several years in a row.

Additionally, The Athena League chose Full Tummy Project as one of their 2014-2015 Apple Annie Charities. Athens Middle School and Lindsay Lane Christian Academy have also held numerous food drives to support the project. We have even had children collect donations for Full Tummy Project rather than receiving gifts at their birthday parties and ask Santa Claus to bring a gift for Full Tummy Project, too. Finally, there are numerous businesses, clubs, and individuals who support the project through financial gifts. We truly could not feed these students without each of these sponsors!

E L E M E N TA RY

of

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NUMBER

Full Tummy Project was started in the 2011-2012 school year by a small group of volunteers from several area churches who recognized that hunger was holding some students back from success. These volunteers believed that filling children's tummies could change their lives. What began as a relatively small undertaking of providing meals for approximately 50 students at our four elementary schools soon grew to providing meals for over 200 students in grade K-8. Full Tummy Project provides weekend meal bags of non-perishable, easy to prepare foods to each of these 214 students. Every student who receives a meal bag has been identified by his or her school counselor as at-risk for hunger, and participation in the program is kept confidential. Meal bags are sent home discreetly each Friday afternoon so that these students have access to nutrition over the weekend and are able to come back to school on Monday ready to learn.

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FULL TUMMY PROJECT

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STUDENT RACIAL DIVERSITY 60%

White

23%

African American

15%

Hispanic

1%

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The 2016-2017 school year was the first year for every Athens City School student to be PoweredUP. Although it was the second year for every student in grades 7-12 to be issued a MacBook Air, it was the first year for all students in grades K-6 to be issued an iPad. More importantly, teaching and learning is beginning to occur in ways that have never been possible before.

COMMUNICATE

See more examples of Power Up engagement activities at

#EVERYDAYACS #ACSPOWERUP

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Students are able to use technology tools to have online discussions on topics presented by the teacher or pertaining to subject content using online tools like Canvas or Google Classroom.

Students post presentations and share ideas online using apps that allow other students in the class to leave comments or expand further on ideas.

The four walls of the classroom no longer limit our learning. We can Skype with classes anywhere in the world to learn about cultural differences. Also, by using the digital tools, we are no longer limited to submitting paper and pencil assignments.

For example, an assignment in a foreign language class may include submitting an audio or video to demonstrate proper pronunciation.

The PowerUp Program continues to be the catalyst for integrating the use of technology into the curriculum.

COLLABORATE Another great opportunity available to Athens City students and teachers enhanced by the PowerUP program is the use of technology tools to facilitate collaboration. We are a Google Apps for Education district which means it is easy to share calendars, documents, and presentations. Teachers can work collaboratively to write lesson plans while being on different campuses. Students can each create individual slides all in one presentation at the same time. Using these collaboration tools, it is also possible to peer edit or build upon ideas from within the same classroom or with students from a different country. Teachers can share ideas and build upon them through their Professional Learning Networks any hour of the day or night. There is no longer the need to wait for professional development to be scheduled. By using hashtags such as #kinderchat and #edchat, teachers are collaborating every minute of every day.

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RENAISSANCE SCHOOL ED U C ATIO N IS

VIRTUALLY E VERY WH ER E! Athens Renaissance School offers virtual learning options for home, private, and public school students in the Tennessee Valley area.

Virtual schooling meets the demands of today’s digital learners through individualized instruction that moves beyond four walls and a clock. All students now have more options than ever when deciding how and where to meet their educational needs.

RENAISSANCE INNOVATION Athens Renaissance School is a blended/virtual student-centered educational option that offers students the opportunity to have a personalized learning experience to meet their academic and social needs. ARS provides over 500 students an innovative, personalized learning experience that equips each student to excel in high school and be college and career-ready.

Athens Renaissance School keeps students ‘FIRST’ by utilizing a customized personalized learning plan (PLP) and the following framework: Flexibility: Time – the PLP allows varied time models from fulltime face-to-face (students meet daily on a regular schedule) with Highly Qualified Teachers (HQT), to a blended model in which students can meet with HQT during scheduled times, to a home-based model in which parents support the learning process away from school and the student “drops by” for mastery assessment or whenever additional support is needed.

Innovation: Non-traditional model – students progress at the pace they desire using the optional curriculum delivery models.

Through the school system’s learning management system, students customize their experience by choosing face-to-face, blended (facilitator + online), or online + available support instruction.

Responsiveness: Personalized learning – the entire program is structured to meet the individual student’s needs. ARS has:

Ambassadors – Students that are serious about their

academic work and desire an individual or small learning

community focus in preparing for college. individual

sports that require extended training and a strong prepa-

ration for college.

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Home-Option – Students that desire to learn from home with parental support now have this option through strong curriculum and technology.

Operative – Students that have the desire to graduate high school but may be in unusual or uncontrollable circumstances that make timely completion a challenge may choose to opt for this pathway. Students can recov- er credits if they have fallen behind or expedite core sequenced classes and electives.

Home education and private school students in grades K-12 can attend the Renaissance Virtual School full-time as part of the instructional program. These students pursue school-work at home but are classified as public school students. Students attending Athens Renaissance School can also blend their face-to-face classes with virtual classes. This provides flexibility and additional course options!

Every student and situation is unique. To find the best approach for your situation visit www.athensrenaissance.org

Sustainability: College and career preparation – In order to help students succeed in whatever path they choose to take, classes are available in the following subjects: Advanced Placement (AP) program, college preparatory, standard core, career tech, remedial, foreign language, and specialized interest.

Transformation: Unconstrained time, non-traditional models, and personalization – All of these qualities make the Renaissance School an innovative and effective new way to provide public education. The research-backed and proven curriculum, learning management system, high level of student and parent engagement, and utilization of Highly Qualified Teachers make the Renaissance School experience a model for transformational student success!

Our students are our primary goal as we hope to • Strengthen student’s critical thinking and analysis skills • Prepare each student for success in a variety of life situations • Create in students a sense of personal and civic responsibility • Help each student gain competence in written communication skills

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AT H L E T I C S

In a community with one middle and high school, becoming a Golden Eagle athlete is a goal of many students. Organized athletics offer students a structured group in which to be involved and teach many important life-lessons about team-work and sportsmanship.

In grades K-6 our students participate in physical education activities as part of their regular school calendar. Beginning in the seventh grade, organized athletics is available.

At the middle school, students may try-out to participate on the school’s football, baseball, basketball, soccer, volleyball, softball, and cheerleading teams. The middle school has a long history of athletic success of introducing students to interscholastic sports, which teach technical and tactical skills and many life lessons.

IT’S GREAT TO BE A

GOLDEN EAGLE!

Athens High School supports football, baseball, basketball, soccer, volleyball, softball, track, cross-country, wrestling, swimming, golf, tennis, and cheerleading. Since the Alabama State Football Champions in 1975, Golden Eagle Football is an exciting part of high school life. Over the recent years, Athens has won state championships in Football (2006), Soccer (2013), Girls Basketball (2002, 2003) as well as many individual state championships.

Athens High School prides itself in preparing student athletes for their future, including collegiate athletics as well. Numerous students have gone on to pursue college and professional level athletics. In 2015-2016 Golden Eagles signed athletic scholarships to University of Tennessee, Southern Mississippi University, Martin Methodist College, Berry College, Huntington College, Southern Prep, and New Mexico Military Institute.

Highlights from the 2016 athletic season include fall sports of swimming and cross country qualifying athletes to the AHSAA State Championships. The swimming relay team and individuals earned bronze medals. In the winter season, girls basketball won an area championship and qualified for the AHSAA Regional Championships. Wrestlers took a second place trophy in the AHSAA Super Regional Championships and finished third place at the AHSAA State Championships. The wrestling team qualified 11 individuals to the championships with 6 finishing in the top 8 in their respective weight classes. In the spring season, both boys and girls soccer teams qualified for the AHSAA State Championships playoffs. Softball won an area championship and qualified to compete in the AHSAA Regional Championships. Girls track qualified 6 individuals to the AHSAA State Championships earning one silver medal in the 100m run. The boys golf team qualified for the AHSAA Sub State Championships, and the girls team qualified for the AHSAA State Championships earning a 4th place finish and an individual runner-up.

The Athens community wears gold and black with great pride and supports our student athletes as they work to achieve success both on and off the field. No matter the age, it’s great to be an Athens Golden Eagle.

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S TA F F & O P E RAT I O N S

TRANSPORTATION SERVICES The primary goal of the ACS Transportation Department is to transport students to and from school safely each day. The department is committed to maintaining a safe environment for all students while riding school buses and ensuring that the highest standards are adhered to by those who utilize ACS student transportation services.

The ACS Transportation Department employs approximately 30 individuals. The team has a total of 26 buses. Twenty routes are run daily, and approximately 1250 students are transported each day.

Appromimately 208,842 miles are traveled each school year. In 2015, excellent evaluations were recieved from the state audit and bus inspections.

The Transportation Department conducts School Bus Evacuation Drills twice annually. This ensures that our students and drivers are aware and in compliance. In addition, students in grades K-6 are provided “Buster the Bus” safety classes.

CHILD NUTRITION PROGRAM The Child Nutrition Program is dedicated to providing high quality, nutritious meals to the students in Athens City School System so they can learn and develop for their future. All student meals must meet the federal guidelines for types and amounts of food offered. In addition, they must be appealing to students so they are consumed.

DID YOU KNOW? Regardless of family income or background, students with involved parents are more likely to earn higher grades and test scores, enroll in higher-level programs/courses, attend school regularly, have better behavior and, graduate and go on to college.

The department’s services include breakfast, lunch, after school snacks and meals, and summer feeding meals, catering as needed. During an academic year, the department staff serves over a half million breakfasts and lunches, over 49,000 after school meals, over 16 ,000 summer lunches.

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P O I N T S O F P RI D E

DISTRICT AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS Advanced Accreditation

76¢ is spent on teaching, transporting, supervising and counseling students.

Consortium of School Networking (COSN), “Team Award” for PowerUp Program

6¢ goes toward central and fiscal services and general administration

CoSN’s Team Award recognizes an exceptional district team for its transformative impact on education technology and its work to improve student learning, opportunities, and access. This award dovetails closely with CoSN’s unique focus on the district leadership team as the key to ed tech transformation.

7¢ is used for technology for students and staff The district maintains high standards of efficiency in its financial, environmental, nutritional, and transportation departments. Our operations are led with the expectation that every dollar saved through efficiencies and cost reductions can be reinvested into our students and our classrooms.

11¢ goes toward central and fiscal services and general administration

POINTS OF PRIDE

FACILITIES & STUDENT NEEDS

SAFE LEARNING & WORKING ENVIRONMENTS

The aim of the district’s capital plan program is to supply sustainable and efficient high-quality school facilities with the best educational environment for students, staff, and the public. The school system’s five year capital plan, developed by the Capital Planning Committee , includes updating each elementary school; building a new high school; and moving the middle school students to the existing high school - including renovations to the building to accommodate 900 students. The plan also includes building safe rooms at each school for use during severe weather threats.

Athens City Schools is committed to providing a safe learning and working environment for its students, employees, parents, and visitors The school system believes that a safe environment is critical to successful learning and student success and works toward that end on a daily basis. The school system is constantly evaluating its safety processes and finding ways to improve school safety programming.

The new high school will be built adjacent to the Central Office Building on Highway 31 North and is slated to open fall 2018.

The new school will include classroom spaces, updated labs for science, engineering, technology, and career and technical education programs. It will have an 800 seat auditorium, outdoor classroom spaces, a competition gymnasium, and state-of-theart equipment.

School principals, working in tandem with their School Safety Team, the school district’s School Safety Department, and local law enforcement focuses on prevention and early intervention strategies to reduce the risk of safety and security incidents. New visitor management procedures and training have been implemented at each school, allowing for better control of visitors entering the buildings. In addition, our middle and high school have Resource Officers (SRO) on site daily. The SRO’s are an effective resource in reducing campus disruptions and in enhancing educators’ and students’ feelings of safety while at school. They are also a critical element in developing school safety plans and responses.

HUMAN RESOURCES The mission of the Department of Human Resources is to recruit, develop, and retain outstanding employees committed to fostering educational excellence. Athens City Schools strive for excellence and encourage a collaborative and professional working environment that results in high achievement scores, professional growth opportunities, and innovative practices to support its learners.

The human resources staff provides technical assistance to employees and other departments regarding employment processes, fingerprinting, background checks, benefits planning, insurance enrollment, teacher credentialing and licensing, substitute teacher services, employee recruitment and retirement.

The turnover rate in Athens City Schools is very low, with the average number of teaching years at fifteen. Employees that begin work here, rarely leave. This professional commitment, combined with the excellent community in which we are located, makes employment with Athens City Schools very desirable.

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• Athens Elementary, Department of Education, Blue Ribbon School of Excellence • Athens Elementary School, CLAS Banner School • Athens High School, One of Newsweek’s top 500 schools in nation in preparing low-income students for college • Athens High School FBLA Organization, Blueprint for Success – Outstanding Level • Athens High School FBLA, Most Outstanding State Chapter • Athens High School ROTC, 1st Place, Armed Platoon Regulation Drill and 3rd Place, Armed Color Guard • Athens High School, National, State, and Local • Award Winning Art and Band Program • Athens High School, Engineering Teacher Michael May selected as the Air Force Association Teacher of the Year • Athens Middle School, National, State, and Local Award Winning Art and Band Programs • Schools participated in various service projects such as Jump Rope for Heart, St. Jude’s Math-O-Thon, Keep Athens Beautiful, Community Can Drive, and Athens Recycling Initiatives.

• Athens Intermediate School, launched the LEGO League and LEGO Robotics Club • Julian Newman, teacher Ms. Abbi Griffin selected as VP Aerospace Education, AFA Chapter 335, Air Force Association, Teacher of the Year, for grades K-8.

Michael May, Athens High Teacher, received this same award for grades 9-12. He was also selected as the chapter and state AFA Overall Teacher of the Year.

Team Members: Dr. Trey Holladay, Dr. Chris Hamilton, Dr. Beth McKinney, and Mr. Garner Ezell

Education is the key to success in life, and teachers make a lasting impact in the lives of their students..

Solomon Ortiz

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AT H E N S C I T Y S C H O O L S F O U N D AT I O N

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A NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION

SUPPORTING TEACHERS & STUDENTS

DISTRICT OFFICES Julian Newman Elementary

Curriculum & Instruction: 256-233-6625

Principal: Sharla Birdsong

Accounts Payable: 256-233-6626

Counselor: Robin Holland

Realizing that the cornerstone of an economically strong community is quality public education, a group of community leaders established the The Athens City Schools Foundation in 1994 to support the teachers and students in this school district.

As a 501 (c) non-profit organization, the volunteer board works to raise funds that can be used in our classrooms for supplies and equipment that support the academic goals of the school system.

The Foundation also works to help expand or offer new programming and supports emergency student financial needs of students. Funds are generated through personal contributions and grants. The primary goal of the Foundation is to impact the lives of students and support the efforts of teachers.

Since its inception, The Foundation has impacted hundreds of teachers and students through its programming support. Having just completed a three year strategic plan, the Board has exciting plans for increased involvement and support that are aligned with the needs of the school system.

Payroll: 256-233-6635

517 Julian Newman Dr., Athens, AL 35611

Special Education Services: 256-232-0212

Phone: 256-233-6630

Communications: 256-771-7145

Fax: 256-230-2864

Current Board Members include Ms. Marcia Day, President; Ms. Trisha Black; Mr. Derrick Blackwell, Mr. Jackie Greenhaw; Ms. Clare Grisham; Ms. Claire Jones; Mr. Guy McClure; Mr. Ray Neese; Ms. Joan Orman; Mr. Brian Patterson, Ms. Susan Trent; Mr. Charles Woodroof; and Ms. Whitney Young. These individuals give of their time to help employees of the Athens City School district meet the needs of our students.

Counselor: Lori Thompson

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Superintendent: 256-233-6601

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Technology: 256-771-7144 Transportation Services: 256-233-6637

Athens Intermediate

Attendance & Student Services: 256-771-7138

Principal: Mitzi Dennis

Food & Nutrition Services: 256-233-8771

Counselor: Kelly Crutcher

Maintenance: 256-233-6637

1916 US Hwy. 72 W., Athens, AL 35611

Insurance & Benefits: 256-233-6635

Phone: 256-230-2880

Student Health Services: 256-771-7138

Fax: 256-230-9593

Language Services: 256-771-7140 Employment: 256-233-6601

Athens Middle

Pre-School Program: 256-232-0212

Principal: Melanie Barkley Counselor: Lou Ann O’Rear

SCHOOLS Athens Elementary Principal: Scott Sutton

WE NEED

YOU.

515 N. Madison St., Athens, AL 35611 Phone: 256-233-6609 Fax: 256-230-2861 Brookhill Elementary Principal: Phillip Jarmon Counselor: Susan Wales 320 Brookhill Dr., Athens, AL 35611 Phone: 256-233-6603 Fax: 256-230-2871 Cowart Elementary Principal: Kim Moore

605 S. Clinton St., Athens, AL 35611 Phone: 256-233-6620 Fax: 256-233-6623 Athens High Principal: Travis Schrimsher Counselor: Cliff Smith, Laura Smith, Shannon Carter 100 Hwy. 31 North, Athens, AL 35611 Phone: 256-233-6613 Fax: 256-233-6617 Athens Renaissance School Principal: Joanna May Counselor: Lorri Haynes 405 E. South St., Athens, AL 35611 Phone: 256-614-3708 Fax: 256-771-7146

Counselor: Stacey Hart 1701 W. Hobbs St., Athens, AL 35611 Phone: 256-233-6627 Fax: 256-230-2884

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455 US Highway 31 North, Athens, Alabama 35611 (256) 233-6600 • www.acs-k12.org