REPORT TO OUR COMMUNITY A COMMUNITY CONNECTED BY EDUCATION
2016-2017
MESSAGE FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT On behalf of the Board of Education and the employees of the Athens City School System, it is with pleasure that I submit to you an update on some of the activities and initiatives of our school district. As we reflect on the many accomplishments of our students and staff, we are again reminded of the uniqueness of Athens City Schools. We have strong parental and community support, professional and accomplished teachers, and students that are engaged in community service. Athens City is the best of public education. I have defined this year as one of “Growth and Discovery.” Our enrollment continues to climb in all of our
schools, bringing exciting new challenges to our school leaders and the community. Our grade realignments scheduled for fall 2018 will help with the crowding at our four K-3 schools, and the move of the middle school to the high school campus will provide more room for that student body. The completion of the new high school is not far away and will stand as one of the premier schools in Alabama. These challenges are all positive, reflecting parents’ desires to provide their children with access to a progressive education curriculum while also experiencing the quality of life offered in Athens. We are redefining the “tra-
ditional school” as we experience continued interest in our online and blended school. Our elementary academies, combined with the shift in grade realignments, will not only address space issues within the buildings but will, more importantly, allow our elementary students the opportunity to experience more hands-on learning where they connect academic work with real-world applications. Of last year’s graduating class at Athens High School, 54% were awarded scholarships totalling four million dollars. Our students are sought by colleges from across the county. They are prepared. They have a good work ethic. They have good
morals. We only have them with us for a short period of time, and we take that responsibility very seriously. Our teachers work tirelessly to ensure that students are prepared for their next step in life. Wayne Gretzky, a noted hockey legend, said that “A good hockey player plays where the puck is. A great hockey player plays where the puck is going to be.” Education is facing this challenge today. We must progress in a manner that addresses the needs of today’s students and families while also assuring that students are equipped with the knowledge and skills they need to face the future. I hope this report provides
you with a glimpse into the lives of our teachers and students and affirms for you that the Athens City School System continues to be one of the best school systems in Alabama. We thank you for the support that continues to be extended by this community. We are truly a community connected by education. Sincerely,
WL Holladay III, Superintendent of Education
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BOARD OF EDUCATION L-R: Jennifer Manville, Scott Henry, Russell Johnson, Tim Green, Trey Holladay, James Lucas, Beverly Malone, Shannon Hutton, Shane Black
DIRECTORY OF SCHOOLS Athens Elementary School Cindy Davis, Principal 515 N. Madison St. Athens AL 35611 256.233.6609 www.acs-k12.org/aes
Athens Intermediate School Mitzi Dennis, Principal 1916 US Hwy. 72 W. Athens AL 35611 256.230.2880 www.acs-k12.org/ais
Brookhill Elementary School Jeff Mathheus, Principal 320 Brookhill Dr. Athens AL 35611 256.233.6603 www.acs-k12.org/bes
Athens Middle School Kerry Donaldson, Principal 605 S. Clinton St. Athens AL 35611 256.233.6620 www.acs-k12.org/ams
Julian Newman Elementary School Sharla Birdsong, Principal 517 Julian Newman Dr. Athens AL 35611 256.233.6630 www.acs-k12.org/jes
Athens High School Travis Schrimsher, Principal 100 Hwy. 31 N. Athens AL 35611 256.233.6613 www.acs-k12.org/ahs
SPARK Academy at Cowart Beth McKinney, Principal 1701 W. Hobbs St. Athens AL 35611 256.233.6627 www.acs-k12.org/ces
Athens Renaissance School Nelson Brown, Principal 405 South St. E. Athens AL 35611 256.771.7147 www.acs-k12.org/ars
NEW BOARD MEMBER The Board of Education welcomed Mrs. Shannon Hutton as the newest member of the board in May 2017. Hutton was appointed by the Athens City Council. Hutton’s appointment completes the term of former board member Dr. Chris Paysinger who recently resigned from service. At the completion of the term in May 2018, Hutton will be up for reappointment for a five year term. Hutton is married to Ben Hutton, is an Athens graduate and a mother to four children in the ACS system. She has served the Athens schools and community in an unofficial capacity for over a decade as a dedicated volunteer and advocate for Athens students. Her willingness to serve on the Board of Education is a natural progression and expression of her commitment to the Athens community. “We are excited to welcome Mrs. Hutton to the board,” said Dr. Trey Holladay. “The students are always our top priority, and I believe Shannon brings that same sensibility. I know she’ll be an excellent addition to the board.”
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DISTRICT PROFILE
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2016-2017 FIRSTS: NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR STUDENTS CREATIVE EXCHANGE The Athens Creative Exchange is a project based learning academy that focuses on student interest and development of real-world skills. The premise is to engage students in a medium that blends skill development with academic achievement. Students develop projects based on their interest and choice. Students also engage in city and organization projects that better the community in which they live. In all of these activities, research and writing are a primary focus, with special attention on business development in regard to accounting, marketing, branding, and fiscal policy. The Exchange partners with local businesses and organizations which teach skills. Our educational partner is First State Bank of the South. The Exchange will work with The Greater Limestone Chamber of Commerce, the Athens High School Football program, the Limestone County Archives, local Athens merchants, Mainstreet Athens, among many. The Exchange will be located at 111 Marion Street in a beautiful historic building in downtown Athens. The Exchange building will make it possible to work closely with local businesses and organizations. The space will also be available for schools to use for special events from ACT tutoring sessions to fundraisers and for community teaching and engagement events. It is currently being renovated with a possible completion date of October. Currently 14 students are enrolled in the program. Dr. Chris Paysinger is the innovate programs teacher at the Exchange.
Creative Exchange students on a walking tour of downtown Athens inside U.G. White.
THE EAGLETTES: NEW DANCE TEAM AT AHS
In the spring of 2017, a new team was formed. The Eaglettes are the first-ever AHS dance team. Sponsored by Kristie Murphree, the team will be performing at AHS basketball games beginning in the fall.
30 POINT CLUB
The AHS 30 Point Club were recognized at the Board of Education in Spring 2017
ACS fundamentally believes our students are much more than a score. Each student is unique and has specific talents, gifts and a story that is all his own. ACT scores have become the basis for college admission and merit scholarships, and therefore are a de facto basis for opportunity. Athens wants our students realize every opportunity that is possible. Because of a deep commitment to supporting all students in achieving
their goals, this means mitigating any obstacles that could stand in the way of opportunity. This is why everyone at AHS works hard every day to close the opportunity gaps for all of our students. The 30 Point Club seeks to honor and recognize the outstanding accomplishments of students who earn a score of 30 or greater on the ACT. The hope is the presence of the club will inspire goal setting for other stu-
dents. The members receive an exclusive tee shirt and certificate upon membership. They are honored with their names on a plaque housed in the trophy case at the entrance to AHS. The highest possible ACT score is 36. The average national ACT score is 21. The top 25 percent of ACT takers score 24 or higher. The 27 AHS students in The 30 Point Club represent the top 5% nationally and the top 1% in the state.
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ZEUS
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INTERACT
Interact Club officers were recognized at an Athens Rotary Club meeting.
Zeus is a therapy dog working to improve the lives of students at AIS. Zeus works alongside his owner, sixth-grade teacher Megan Dillard. Together they are honoring the mission of the system to be progressive and caring. Zeus assists Dillard in her classroom and across AIS every day. He teaches responsibility to her students, from feeding and watering to walking Zeus. Zeus shows students that it is ok to be different. Dillard works with other teachers to incorporate Zeus into behavior plans at AIS. For students who struggle with behavior, Zeus helps teach selfcontrol. Students with specialized behavior plans are rewarded with time with Zeus for achieving their behavior goals. ACS utilizes self-contained classrooms to foster enhanced support for special needs students. Zeus spends time visiting these students to provide emotional support. He gives love to students who need that boost in their day. Zeus even promotes exercise during P.E. class. The students are encouraged to run and play with him. Dillard is creating a plan for Zeus to help struggling readers and speech therapy students. Zeus enjoys listening to people read. She plans to create a schedule for students that need practice reading and speaking aloud. These students will have time alone with Zeus to read to him. Studies show that when students feel like they are not being judged, their reading skills improve.
Zeus, AIS Therapy Dog and AIS students
In an effort to empower young people in our community to take action, become leaders and develop a global perspective, our local Athens Rotary Club initiated the sponsorship of the Interact Club. Interact clubs are an extension of Rotary specifically designed for young people. The newly formed Athens Interact club brings together high school students to develop strong leadership skills while discovering the power of the Rotary
motto, Service above Self. Interact was officially introduced to students in the spring of 2017. It received a tremendous response, and over 60 students have since joined Interact. In April, the club selected their first slate of officers. These students will benefit from the leadership of Interact Advisors, counselor Shannon Carter and business teacher Lori Jones. The club members will be mentored and guided by the Interact Board of Di-
rectors, a group of active Athens Rotarians who are invested in the success of these students. The Interact Club will organize at least two projects annually – one that helps ACS or the community and one that promotes international understanding. The sky is the limit for these students and the projects they will develop. We look forward with great anticipation to see the good works of these new Interactors.
FIRST COMMENCEMENT FOR ARS
Athens Renaissance School Class of 2017
Athens Renaissance School began a new tradition by celebrating their first ever graduation ceremony and commencement for the senior class of 2017. Twenty-two graduates participated in the ceremony with the majority being blended students. Graduates from across the state travelled to Athens to be a part of the ceremony held in McCandless Hall on the campus of Athens State University. The Reverend Kenny Baskins of Athens First United Methodist Church (the ARS Partner in Education) delivered the commencement address. Graduating ARS senior Courtney Franklin gave a short motivational address. Ryan Nix from AHS performed the traditional graduation march music “Pomp and Circumstance.”
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ATHENS ACADEMIES The Athens City School board approved a plan to designate themed academies at the system’s four elementary schools. Beginning fall 2017, Cowart Elementary became SPARK Academy at Cowart. Every elementary will be a themed academy beginning fall 2018. Athens Elementary will be designated as a computer science academy. Brookhill will focus on fine arts and Julian Newman will target health and medical. SPARK Academy is a STEM school. A fourth theme, Environmental Studies, will remain open for future development should another K-3
New Logos for Academies
school be built in Athens. Students will receive the same excellent instruction they have come to expect from ACS teachers with the added bonus of having projects and activities focused on the theme of their school. Each school will continue to teach to the Alabama standards. The difference is that the standards will be taught through academy specific themes. Each academy will form a community council that will work together to contribute to the creation of a clearly defined vision and specific details that
align with the academy’s theme. Along with this change, Athens will see a school realignment. Beginning fall 2018, all elementary academies will be K-3. Fourth and fifth grades will become Athens Intermediate School. Athens Middle School will consist of grades 6-8 and will be moved to the current AHS building. Grades 9-12 will be at the new AHS currently under construction. Three public meetings regarding the academies will be held over the course of the 2017-2018 school year; one in fall, winter and spring. These townhall
meetings will be a valuable source of information for parents, teachers and the community. As part of this year of growth and discovery, and given the changing climate in public education, ACS is taking the initiative and meeting the challenge of providing school choice within the existing public education framework by developing the Athens Academies. ACS believes in the merits of choice and the subsequent strengthening of our schools through the embrace of progressive options offered to our students and community.
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NEW HIGH SCHOOL
The site of the new Athens High School looks very different than it did at the groundbreaking on August 4, 2016. After site work was completed in mid January 2017, progress has been made every week with the building currently 45% complete. Approximately 200 workers are on site each day as they work to finish the 285,000 square foot facility for the completion date of November 2018. The new school will offer students state-of-the art classrooms and labs, new gymnasium facilities, a safe room for severe weather and a multi-use auditorium. It will be a premier school in Alabama and will serve Athens well for years to come.
Progress of New High School:
Rendering of the new AHS under construction
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STUDENTS IN SERVICE Service is a big part of student life in Athens and very important in helping students develop a sense of connectedness 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, Jump Rope for Heart, Salvation Army Christmas Angels, and other projects to help support worthy causes in Athens.
Walk for St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital
Honoring our Veterans
Athens City Schools is truly
“A Community Connected by Education.”
Full Tummy Project
SOAR Christmas Party
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FINE ARTS ONE ATHENS CHRISTMAS
THINGS IN COMMON
Things in Common, the AHS Choir
The Athens High School Choir, Things in Common, is working hard to develop strong ties in the community. The Spirit of Athens provided opportunities to perform at the Sipping Cider Festival in December and the Relay for Life Luncheon hosted by the Limestone Cattlemen's Association in March. The Southside Church of Christ provided the opportunity to perform in the Von Braun Civic Center before an audience of 1000 individuals in the spring of 2017. Lead by director John Malone, this talented group of student musicians never ceases to amaze.
THE BANDS
Elementary choir at One Athens Christmas 2016
The Athens City Schools Fine Arts Department presented the inaugural One Athens Christmas Showcase in December 2016 at AMS. This collaborative event was an opportunity for the Athens community to see, hear and experience all the student accomplishments in the fine arts. All schools were represented in music and visual arts, and students from every school performed throughout the evening. The showcase ended with a full holiday concert featuring the AHS Concert Jazz Band. It is estimated over 1000 were in attendance at the event. One Athens Christmas is a valuable experience for students. Elementary students get a glimpse of what they have to look forward to as they move forward through the system. Older students are given the opportunity to exercise leadership. Exposure for their talents helps develop confidence in their abilities. Family, friends and community members are enriched and encouraged by a renewed sense of Athenian spirit and connection.
The Golden Eagle Marching Band proudly donned their new uniforms for what turned out to be an awardwinning 2016-2017 season. They competed in 3 competitions in Northern Alabama, which is the most competitive area in the state. Each category of the Golden Eagle Marching Band earned superior ratings at all 3 competitions. They also earned several best in class distinctions, which are as follows: 1 Best in class Drum Major, 3 Best in Class Color Guard, 3 Best in Class Majorette, 2 Best in Class Percussion, 2 Best in Class Band. The Band also won the Overall most-entertaining award at the Tennessee Valley Marching Invitational in Muscle Shoals. The spring concert band received all excellent ratings at the Symphonic Band received an overall Superior Ratings at State Music Performance Assessment. The Jazz Band held a “Dinner and a Show” fundraiser where the band performed one and a half hours of music while the ticket buyers ate a catered dinner by 306BBQ. We also had a guest guitar player, Barry Kay, rehearse and perform with the band.
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PowerUP Program - Success Continues The PowerUP Program was launched in the summer of 2013 with the goal of providing a challenging, dynamic academic program that integrates the best of traditional education with new and emerging technologies. The goal was to empower students by combining creative teaching strategies with engaging technology tools to help students reach the highest standards of educational excellence. This goal is being achieved and continues today. Rather than teaching technology as a discrete subject, the Athens City School district uses a holistic approach in which the technology skills and related computer projects are integrated throughout the daily curriculum to foster active, student-centered, hands-on learning. During the first year of the program, all teachers in grades 7-12 received a 13” Apple MacBook Air combined with an abundance of professional development training. Laptop carts were added at the high school and middle school allowing teachers to take the skills learned during their professional development training and immediately apply the knowledge with their students. Additionally, all teachers in grades K-6 received an iPad. Years two and three of the project
continued to focus heavily on teacher professional development. Laptops were issued to students in grades 7-12 and iPads to students in K-6. Focus was placed on embedded professional development supported by the placement of Instructional Partners in every school. In March of 2015, the PowerUP was recognized by the National Consortium of School Networking (COSN) as the recipient of the “Team Award.” 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. This fall, the system begins the fourth year of the initiative, and 1500 new MacBooks have just been distributed to students in grades 10-12 and iPads in all K-6 classrooms. In addition, MacBooks have been issued to all K-6 teachers. The most exciting characteristic of the PowerUP program is the wide selection of tools that are now offered to students to demonstrate learning through creativity. Students are creating and sharing iMovies based upon the information they are learning in class. Even the youngest of our students can demonstrate concepts learned by using puppet or storytelling apps. Mind mapping websites or apps help everyone to organize thoughts, concepts, or characters in a story in
Team Members: Dr. Trey Holladay, Dr. Chris Hamilton, Dr. Beth McKinney, and Mr. Garner Ezell
an easily shared and editable format. These maps may be changed readily as more concepts are added or information is more deeply explored. One of the most exciting aspects of our creativity is not only the digital content our students have created but also the digital commands created that control the behaviors of mechanical or virtual objects. Coding is one of the most important emerging skills of this century, and many of our students are coding as early as kindergarten. 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 com-
ments 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. It is a very exciting time to be involved in the lives of our youngest citizens. ACS is very fortunate to be able to provide our students access to these digital tools as we work together to prepare our youth for a future filled with jobs that have not yet been created. They will leave Athens with the confidence and skills needed for the workforce of the future.
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NEW WAYS TO CONNECT As we move swiftly into the full swing this school season, we want to share all the ways the community can stay connected to the exciting things happening in our schools. Informed communities build successful schools. Research shows that student achievement is directly influenced by parent involvement and community engagement. The new ACS website solutions introduced this summer share student specific information, relevant news and timely updates with family and community members so that together we can create a positive and supportive learning environment for every student. The district site features a new superintendent’s page. Dr. Trey Holladay writes a blog in his own words, shares his personal Twitter connection and offers a channel for direct questions from the public. While school websites are an important resource, parents are on the move more than ever. To meet the these mobile needs, the new sites are easily accessible on devices such as smartphones and tablets. It is important that our community have the ability to connect at anytime, from anywhere. To this end, ACS released a district mobile app. It integrates all the tools a parent needs to stay connected. Users select only the schools relevant to their
needs. Parents can access grades, calendars, homework and schedules. It offers a push notification feature that allows for important messages like emergency alerts and school closings. It is a streamlined way to deliver information you want most when you need it. You can find it in the App Store for Apple products and in Google Play for Android devices. The app operates in concert with the new mass notification system. This replaces the previous call system. It allows us to reach anyone, anytime for more effective communication. District officials and principals can send calls, SMS text messages, emails and push notifications in multiple languages. When every second counts, we want to connect with confidence. When it comes to breaking news in ACS, Twitter is the place to be. To get the most reliable news from the best sources the fastest way possible, follow us on Twitter. You do not have to have an account to follow. By way of SMS on any phone, you can get alerts from anyone on
Twitter. Text “follow @AthensALSchools” to 40-404 to get real time updates. Digital communication is essential. However, there is no substitute for faceto-face interaction. In August, Dr. Holladay attended the first “Coffee with the Super.” This will be an ongoing, monthly informal discussion time with the superintendent. There will be no agenda. This
is a great chance for the public to get to know Dr. Holladay and chat with him about topics of interest. Look for more dates to follow. In addition to all these new ways to connect, ACS will host three evening townhalls over the course of the school year to discuss the coming Athens Academies. Look for information regarding dates for fall, winter and spring.
ACS COMMUNICATION QUICK REFERENCE Twitter @AthensALSchools • https://twitter.com/AthensALSchools • Text “follow @AthensALSchools” to 40-404 to receive updates.
The Ledger Newsletter A quarterly digital publication of Athens City Schools • https://athensledger.wordpress.com/
Facebook • https://www.facebook.com/AthensALSchools/
Superintendent’s Blog • www.acs-k12.org/leadership
ACS App - Download the in the App Store for iPhones or Google Play for Androids.
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ATHENS ATHLETICS ACCOMPLISHMENTS 2016-2017
Athens has a proud athletic tradition that dates back almost a century. Because of this rich heritage, becoming a Golden Eagle athlete is a goal of many students. Organized athletics offer students a structured group in which to be involved and learn many important life lessons about teamwork, sportsmanship and perseverance. Athens City Schools supports football, baseball, basketball, soccer, volleyball, softball, track, cross country, wrestling, swimming, golf tennis
and cheerleading. Since the Alabama State Football Championship in 1975, Golden Eagle Football has been an exciting part of high school life. During recent years, Athens has won state championships in football (2006), soccer (2013), girls basketball (2002, 2003) as well as many individual state championships. AHS takes great pride in preparing student athletes for the future including collegiate athletics. Many students have gone on to pursue college and
professional level athletic competition. In 2016-2017, Golden Eagles signed athletic scholarships to The University of Alabama, University of North Alabama, University of West Alabama, Alabama A&M University, University of Mobile, Martin Methodist College, Snead State, Gadsden State, Calhoun and Hinds Community College. Last year was an exciting time for our student athletes. We are proud of their dedication, determination, hard work and accomplishments.
Here are the highlights from the 2016-2017 athletic seasons for our Golden Eagles: • Mallory Underwood and Kobie Melton are state champions in swimming. • Grace Martin, Kobie Melton, Madelyn Farmer, Mallory Underwood, Emma Preston and Connor Hill competed at the state swimming championships in Auburn. • Caroline Matthews was a National Merit Scholar finalist and student athlete. • Baseball won Area 16 and made the second round of state playoffs. • Girls varsity basketball made it to the regional finals and finished with a 31-4 record. • Girls varsity basketball players Alexis Woods and Tionna Moore made the all-regional team. • Alexis Woods made first team all-state basketball and was chosen to play in the north south all-star game. • Wrestling finished fifth in the state. • Trent Young and Thomas Carter are state wrestling champions. • Boys soccer made it to the state playoffs. • Mary Arlin Bunnell and Sean O’Connor were chosen to play in the north-south all-star soccer games in Montgomery. • Softball finished runner-up in the area and advanced to the north sectionals. • Boys golf advanced to sub-state. • Ally Williams won sub-state in girls golf and was the runner-up at the state golf championships. • Athens had 17 students qualify for state competition in track. • Japera Harris, Lavendar Bailey, Karsynn Crutcher and Malaysia Smith are state champs in the 4X100. • Chase Irland, Natalie Albritton and Sydney Johnson qualified for state in cross country.
Thank you to our community who with great pride supports our student athletes as they work to achieve success on and off the field. No matter the age, it’s great to be a Golden Eagle.
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PARTNERS IN EDUCATION Partners in Education is an invaluable program organized by the Athens Limestone Chamber of Commerce. The program creates a close, working relationship between a partner and a school while also enriching the educational opportunities of Athens City students. These partnerships create a spirit of in-
volvement that has a positive impact on the entire city. This involvement helps develop the local school environment into a powerful educational setting where community members are working actively with students. This is another example of how our community is truly connected by education.
Our partners are very important to the life of our schools and are greatly appreciated!
2016-2017 PARTNERS Athens Elementary School Lawler’s Barbecue Express 3 Brookhill Elementary School First National Bank of Athens Julian Newman Elementary Athens-Limestone Hospital SPARK Academy at Cowart Regions Bank Athens Intermediate School Athens Health & Rehabilitation Athens Middle School Dr. Henry G. Griggs, Jr. Athens High School BBVA Compass
SPARK Academy and Regions Bank
Julian Newman and Athens-Limestone Hospital
Athens Renaissance School Athens First United Methodist Church Athens Creative Exchange First State Bank of the South
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ATHENS CITY SCHOOLS FOUNDATION A nonprofit organization supporting teachers and students in Athens City Schools Purpose of the Foundation
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 from the public 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. Current Board Members include: Ms. Marcia Day, President; Ms. Trisha Black; Mr. Derrick Blackwell; Ms. Clare Grisham; Mr. Barry Hamilton; Ms. Claire Jones; Mr. Ray Neese; Ms. Joan Orman; Mr. Brian Patterson, Ms. Susan Trent; and Mr. Charles Woodroof. These individuals give of their time to help employees of the Athens City School district meet the needs of our students.
Teacher Classroom Grants The Foundation supports the school system’s instructional program by awarding teacher classroom grants each year. This year, due to increased
giving by the community, the Foundation board was able to award approximately $20,000 in teacher grants. The grants provide teachers with financial resources to purchase instructional items for use with their students. The teacher grants have proven to be a source of funds for teachers that allow them to provide unique and worthwhile experiences for students.
Violin Program
ing his death in 2010, his family and friends established the Ralph Brett Fund to support those students in financial need. His wife, Lib was a longtime school teacher who shared Ralph’s love of students and impacted the lives of many students who attended Athens City Schools. The support offered to students through this fund can range from paying field trip fees to buying needed school materials or personal items.
November 20, at 6:00 p.m. in the Ballroom of Athens State University. Tickets can be purchased on the foundation’s website at www.acsf.acs-k12.org
Elementary Teacher of the Year, Michelle Smith
Teacher of the Year Gratitude Banquet
In partnership with the Huntsville Symphony School, the 3rd Grade Violin Program was established in 1997. Although the Athens City School System has long supported music education, instrumental programming is not available in the elementary schools. Most public school students rarely have the opportunity to touch, much less learn to play a string instrument. This program allows students of all ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds to receive training from highly skilled members of the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra School and to be involved in performances and orchestral field trips.
Ralph & Lib Brett Fund Ralph Brett was the Principal of Athens Elementary from 1990-1997. Mr. Brett loved the students in Athens City Schools and believed in the potential held within every student. Follow-
The Teacher of the Year Gratitude Banquet was initiated in 2016 for the purpose of publicly acknowledging and thanking the Teachers of the Year selected at each of our schools. The Teacher of the Year Program is a statewide program that seeks to honor and recognize excellence in the teaching profession by identifying outstanding Alabama classroom teachers at local, district, and state levels. The selection process for the Alabama Teacher of the Year begins at the school level with the selection of a Teacher of the Year to represent each school. Each nominee is then interview by a system-level committee who selects an Elementary (PK-6) and Secondary (&-12) Teacher to represent the school system. Those two winners are then forwarded to the Alabama State Department of Education where they compete with other teachers from across the state for the Alabama Teacher of the Year Award. The Athens City Schools Foundation recognizes all eight of our selected teachers at a dinner held in their honor. This year’s event will be held Monday,
Secondary Teacher of the Year, Andrew Risner
Athens High School Brick Legacy Project Beginning in September 2017, the Foundation will launch a brick campaign for the new Athens High School. Alumni and community members are invited to become a permanent part of the new Athens High School by purchasing a commemorative brick. The bricks will be displayed at the entrance area of the beautiful gymnasium and auditorium on the west side of the school. History is in the making. Every brick has a story and the foundation encourages you to write yours. Proceeds will go to support teachers and students in the school system. Join the legacy by ordering your brick at https://www.bricksrus.com/donorsite/a hslegacybrickproject
“Love begins by taking care of the closest ones - the ones at home.” — Mother Teresa