About Athens City Schools - Job Fair 2024

ATHENSCITYSCHOOLS

2023-2024BYTHENUMBERS 8

5,034

STUDENTDIVERSITY

20:1 25:1

21%ofstudentsidentifyethnicallyasHispanicorLatino.

ATHENS

CITY SCHOOLS

academics

Mrs. Beth Patton, Superintendent

OurStory

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 eight 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)

SPARK Academy at Cowart is STEM Cognia Certified 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 virtual and blended school serving K-12, 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

AthensCitySchools

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

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 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.

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

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 Togetherand 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 mindsetone that keeps our school growing, passionate about learning, and will do whatever it takes to ensure success.

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!"

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.

OurMission&Vision ATHENS INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL

At AIS, we prepare students for success in secondary school and beyond Our foundation is grounded in instruction, culture, leadership, and systems.

We are Growing our Leadership, Determination, and Empathy Now! Whatever It Takes!

WHAT MAKES US SPECIAL

We are an AVID Elementary School. AVID Elementary is a foundational component of the AVID College Readiness System, and supports AVID's mission to close the opportunity gap by preparing all students for college readiness and success in a global society. AVID Elementary's implementation resources, professional development, and philosophy are all grounded in the idea that the growth mindset can be taught to students, and it is through the growth mindset that AVID students succeed in following their dreams and fulfilling their aspirations.

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 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 serves students in grades 6-8 With low student-to-teacher ratios, students personally know their teachers and their classmates. This allows for a deeper relationship between our students and their teachers and creates an atmosphere of trust among students Our school reflects the attitude of this community, which is one of caring and nurturing We offer a complete academic program for your student as they transition from elementary to high school. Our goal is to provide students with the challenge of a viable curriculum to meet the required course selection In addition, we also expose our students to an array of elective choices that are aligned to the academic elective pathways that they may choose in high school. We work diligently so that every student transitions into the high school curriculum prepared to become an Athens High School graduate. Dedicated teachers and staff, combined with involved parents and a supportive community, contribute to the success achieved by our students. Quality, academic achievement, and sportsmanship are woven throughout all school-related activities.

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 PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Collaboration and teamwork are essential to success, and we support and sustain the One Athens philosophy as individual educators and as a school family.

We intentionally foster a learning culture and team atmosphere through purposeful professional development, including coaching, feedback, and reflection.

ADVANCEMENT VIA INDIVIDUAL DETERMINATION

AVID prepares our students for success in high school, college, and career. Emphasis is placed on organization, study skills, critical thinking, enrichment, motivation, and more.

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 has a long and rich history as a school of tradition and excellence. Year after year, AHS is recognized by multiple publications and organizations as one of Alabama's best high schools. We believe in teaching above and beyond the standards to build well-rounded students who are prepared for success after high school in academics, career, and life. Character, integrity, perseverance, and compassion are core qualities exemplified in our classrooms and the ideals toward which we strive in the development of our students. Athens High School is proud to offer our students a variety of opportunities in Advanced Placement, Dual Enrollment, Honors, Foreign Language, Fine Arts, Career and Technical Education, AVID, Athletics, and 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.

ADVANCEMENT VIA INDIVIDUAL DETERMINATION

AVID prepares our students for success in high school, college, and career. Emphasis is placed on organization, study skills, critical thinking, enrichment, motivation, and more.

ATHENS RENAISSANCE SCHOOL

ABOUT US

Athens Renaissance School is a K-12 blended and virtual studentcentered educational institution that offers students a personalized learning experience to meet their individual academic and social needs. ARS students benefit from a structured, challenging and personalized program designed to prepare students for college and career goals. ARS implements a progressive education model to develop students to reach their highest potential while producing college and career-ready individuals.

SAME STANDARDS, Different Delivery

APAthens Renaissance students pursue the same rigorous curriculum and standards as any Alabama public school student. However, the delivery of that curriculum is packaged in a flexible, customized format While the delivery is customized, the quality is consistent. Certified, experienced administrators and teachers are committed to excellence, just like any brick and mortar school Students participate in various hands-on, crosscurricular, project-based learning units throughout the year. Our goal is to build and provide a tailor-made curriculum that reflects our students’ needs along with our instructional beliefs These rigorous, content-rich academic programs meet or exceed state standards across all subject areas. ARS strives to deliver flexibility without compromising integrity.

Athens Renaissance students are able to take the majority of school coursework online with some courses and academic support provided on-site at the school Students can study independently with the full confidence of knowing there is caring, conscientious academic support available as needed. The student support staff is a dedicated, hardworking team of professional school educators and mentors The ARS family welcomes questions and concerns. The support staff has one sole purpose - to ensure students are achieving the learning objectives for each course while making smooth progress toward graduation.

GOLDEN EAGLE ATHLETICS

Athens City Schools Athletics has a long and proud tradition of success. We are committed to high standards as we strive to be a championship institution Our mission is to promote the education and development of students through healthy, balanced and constructive competition. We promote an attitude of discipline, sportsmanship, integrity and leadership to our student-athletes Our players, coaches and support staff dedicate themselves in making the athletic program a source of pride for the students and the entire Athens community As a part of Athens City Schools, we are committed to the vision of being a community connected by education. In this spirit of One Athens, we sincerely hope our students, boosters, fans and community members will enjoy the journey of Athens Athletics with us season after season

TRANSPORTATION

Student Transportation provides safe and compliant transportation for Athens City Schools students in Kindergarten through 8th Grade. It is the mission of the Athens City Schools Transportation Department, in accordance with federal, state and local regulations, to provide safe and efficient transportation to students of Athens City Schools. Our department follows the Alabama State Department of Education's Pupil Transportation guidelines and best practices. The ACS Transportation Department works to ensure that all bus drivers have the knowledge and resources necessary to provide safe transportation for the students each

CHILD NUTRITION PROGRAM

The goal of the Child Nutrition Department is to provide affordable and nutritious meals to students of our school system. Athens City Schools deliver healthy and delicious school meals based on the USDA’s nutrition guidelines so that students are engaged and ready to learn in school. All meals include a variety of fresh fruit and vegetable choices and a variety of chilled non-fat or low-fat milk.

EXCEPTIONAL SERVICES

Athens City Schools is committed to supporting each of our students in achieving the highest potential possible.

Athens City Schools recognizes the unique learning and social characteristics of each student and provides a comprehensive array of services to meet the needs of students, ages three through twenty-one, who have been identified as disabled. Special education services are designed to provide the supports necessary to allow a child to derive meaningful benefit from his or her educational experience. Services provided are based upon that child's individual needs and are delivered in a safe and nurturing environment to address the academic, physical, social, behavioral, and emotional needs of every child.

The Facilities & Maintenance Department oversees the management and functions of the infrastructure of Athens City Schools. This includes overseeing 10 school district facilities totaling over 500,000 sq ft.

The Facilities & Maintenance Department is divided into the following areas to make sure that everything functions within and around these facilities:

Our Facilities & Maintenance Department works daily to ensure that all activities are kept running smoothly. This includes any and all maintenance on buildings, equipment and grounds.

Our Custodial Department works diligently to maintain excellent standards and provide a clean and safe learning environment for students and staff.

Construction Management coordinates the renovation and new construction at schools throughout the community

Keeping Athens City Schools safe, clean and running smoothly.