As we move toward the Thanksgiving holiday, I want to share my gratitude for the many people who make our district strong. From the energy in our schools to the community partners who show up for our students, there is so much to appreciate this season.
One of the most exciting areas of progress right now is the ongoing construction and renovation work across Akron Public Schools. New buildings and refreshed learning spaces are taking shape, and families can follow along through the Construction Projects page on our district website. These updates help our community see how these projects are moving forward and what they will mean for students in the years ahead.
This past week we also welcomed hundreds of visitors for Akron in Action. Educators and district leaders from across the country spent time in our classrooms and met our students and staff. Their interest in learning from our work speaks to the dedication of everyone here who brings the College and Career Academies of Akron to life each day. Thank you to all who helped host and guide our guests.
As a reminder, November is Homeless Awareness Month. Through Project RISE, our district supports students who are experiencing homelessness by helping them stay connected to school and essential resources. If you would like to support this work, Project RISE is accepting donations of hygiene items, laundry detergent, gift cards, and community experiences for students. Every contribution directly supports families in need.
As we look ahead to Thanksgiving break next week, I hope you are able to enjoy time with the people who matter most to you. Thank you for the kindness, pride, and support you continue to show our students and staff.
Akron in Action Site Visit at NIHF STEM High School
Akron in Action Site Visit at Buchtel CLC
Akron in Action
Akron in Action brought hundreds of educators and district leaders from across the country to APS to see the College and Career Academies of Akron in action. Visitors spent time in our classrooms, met our students and teachers, and saw how real world learning and strong community partnerships shape the work happening across our high schools.
The event was a major success and we are grateful to everyone who helped plan, host, and guide our guests throughout the week. We also want to thank the national teams who traveled to Akron to learn from our staff and students. We hope they left inspired to take new ideas back to their own districts.
OHSAA policy oversees student athlete transfers
By Ralph N. Paulk, APS Storyteller
It’s been more than three decades since an Akron Public Schools student athlete reportedly transferred twice during the school year to compete for three different high schools. At that time, it was relatively easy to manipulate a system that, at best, winked curiously at intra-district transfers among student athletes. Read more.
More district news
Community Showcase Events - Join us and discover what's happening at Akron Public Schools! Whether you're a current student (of any age), a former student, a prospective family, a neighbor, a friend, a community member, or a business partner — you're invited!
Nov. 20 - Community Showcase: Buchtel Harvest Festival Community Showcase, 5-8 p.m.
Homeless Awareness Month - November is Homeless Awareness Month and a reminder that many of our students and families are facing challenges that are often unseen. Through Project RISE, Akron Public Schools provides support for students who are experiencing homelessness, including help with transportation, school supplies, meals, and access to resources that keep them connected to learning.
If you would like to support this work, Project RISE is accepting donations of hygiene items, laundry detergent, gift cards for groceries and gas, and community experiences that bring joy to our students. Every contribution goes directly to families. For more information or to offer support, please contact Project RISE at 330 761 2969 or projectrise@apslearns.org
Construction Projects - APS posts regular updates on construction and renovation work across the district. The Construction Projects page includes timelines, design updates, and progress photos so families and the community can see what is happening now and what is coming next. Find it under Facility Services or through the Construction Projects link on the main page.
Buchtel's AFJROTC drill team wins at the 2025 Parkersburg HS NJROTC drill meet
Buchtel's AFJROTC drill team wins at the 2025 Parkersburg HS NJROTC drill meet in West Virginia on Saturday, November 15th!
Congratulations to the Junior Varsity Armed and Unarmed team for placing first and second place, and to the Varsity Color Guard for placing 3rd! The drill team's next competition is on Saturday, December 6 at East CLC, where we are last year's defending champions!
More APS in the news
Fall Driving Scholarship Opportunity - Akron Public Schools is offering 25 partial-tuition scholarships for driver education classes through the Ohio Drive to Succeed Program. Read more.
More Connected, Yet More Alone: Addressing Youth Loneliness in 2025
Dr. Erich Merkle, School Psychologist, Office of Special Education
Former U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy declared loneliness an epidemic in 2023, and research shows that 70% of Americans feel some degree of loneliness as the holidays approach. Young people are particularly vulnerable, with 17–21% of individuals aged 13–29 reporting loneliness. During the holiday season, shorter days and cultural expectations can intensify these feelings. The good news? Families, schools, and communities can make a real difference through face-to-face connections, meaningful conversations, and participation in school and community events. Our district offers clubs, holiday events, and supportive programming to foster connection. If your family needs support, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7.
Free METRO Rides for SNAP Recipients - Starting November 1, METRO RTA is waiving fares on all routes for Ohio Direction, SNAP, and EBT cardholders. More information.
Youth Basketball Registration - Akron Recreation & Parks Youth Basketball is back! Conditioning is free, and registration runs Oct. 1 - Dec. 1. Games begin Jan. 21 in partnership with the University of Akron. Players receive a jersey and a chance to attend a Zips game. More information.
211 Summit County - Call 2-1-1 or visit 211summit.org to find local food pantries and meal sites.
Signal Akron: Where to get a free Thanksgiving meal in Akron - Local organizations will provide take-home meals, free turkeys and sit-down dinners for the holiday. More information.
📆 Things to do!
Year of Literacy - Every Wednesday at 7:00 p.m., a guest reader brings stories to life for our Pre-K to 3rd grade students. This week our reader was Dr. Walter Noland, East CLC Campus Principal.
The Jingle and Mingle Market - APS Holiday & Craft Fair, 10 N Main St.10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Nov. 22.
Project Grad Breakfast with Santa - Bring the whole family for breakfast, crafts, games, family pictures, and parent resources. Buchtel CLC, Dec. 6, 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. More information.
Hands-On Holidays & Hotcakes at the Akron Children's Museum - This exciting event combines seasonal traditions—including Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and Christmas—with interactive activities and delicious treats for an unforgettable day of family fun. Sunday, December 7 from 10 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. More information.
We’re always looking to spotlight the people, programs, and moments that make our district shine. Whether you are a parent, staff member, student, or community partner, if you've seen something inspiring, share it with us! Click here to share your story.
What stories interest you? 📣
What kinds of stories do you want to see in our district newsletter? Do you want to hear more about classroom innovations? Student achievements? Staff spotlights? Community partnerships? Let us know what matters most to you! Click here.
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Akron Public Schools, 10 N. Main St., Akron, OH 44308, United States, 330.761.1661
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