As we move into the final month of the school year, there is a strong sense of momentum across Akron Public Schools. Classrooms remain focused, events are bringing our community together, and we are seeing the results of the hard work our students and staff have invested all year.
This week’s spotlight on McEbright CLC’s Reading Literacy Parent Night is a great example of what meaningful family engagement looks like in action. Opportunities like this, where students and families learn together in creative and engaging ways, continue to strengthen both academic growth and school connections.
We also recognize our bus drivers during Bus Driver Appreciation this week. They play an essential role in our school community, ensuring students arrive safely each day. We are grateful for their care and commitment.
As we look ahead, we are preparing to celebrate some of the people who make our district exceptional. Next week, we will recognize our Employee of the Year and Scholar of the Year honorees, followed by our Teacher of the Year celebration. These moments give us the opportunity to pause and recognize the dedication, talent, and care that define Akron Public Schools.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Across APS, we will show our support by wearing green on May 1 as a visible reminder of the importance of mental health and well-being. Supporting our students and staff in this area remains a priority, and I encourage our community to take advantage of the resources shared in this week’s update.
We also encourage you to support May Day for Mental Health, a community event focused on raising awareness and connecting families with helpful resources.
With just a few weeks left in the school year, attendance and engagement continue to be critical. Finishing strong now sets the foundation for success in the year ahead. Thank you for continuing to partner with us and for the role you play in supporting our students every day.
With appreciation,
Mary B. Outley
May 5 - Employee of the Year Ceremony
May 5 - All Staff Professional Development Day (NO SCHOOL)
Join us on May 5 at Garfield CLC from 5:00-8:30 p.m. for the second annual Employee of the Year Awards Ceremony. APS will honor teachers and staff members who make a lasting impact on the lives of our students. Learn more.
More district news
Summer Youth Employment Program - Youth ages 16-18 are eligible to earn up to $2,400 this summer while gaining real-world job experience. A parent or guardian must apply. Spots are limited. Learn more.
Summer Lifeguard Opportunity - Akron Recreation & Parks is hiring youth lifeguards for the summer. Students must be 15 years or older to apply, and free training and certifications will be provided. Learn more.
Now Enrolling For Preschool, Pre-K, and Kindergarten - Help your child build confidence, friendships, and a love for learning from day one. APS is now offering both half-day and full-day pre-K options. Learn more.
McEbright CLC Reading Literacy Parent Night
Students and parents enjoyed doing several camping-themed activities together, including flashlight reading in the library, marshmallow word games, and compound word puzzles. Learn more.
More APS in the news
Locker Room Experience - High school students are transforming school culture through student-led newsletters that showcase their leadership and commitment to fostering positive, inclusive environments across the district. Read the newsletters here:
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 Dawn Harper, Principal at Jennings CLC for Akron Public Schools. Watch Now.
LaMonica Davis is a Real Leader with Real Results
LaMonica Davis, principal at Helen Arnold Elementary, shared how she helps students thrive by prioritizing relationships, building a strong school culture, and implementing structured literacy. Her story showcases how leadership that owns the problem, invests in people, and refuses to settle can drive lasting change—and sustain it. Watch Real Leaders, Real Results now.
May Is Mental Health Awareness Month - "More Good Days, Together"
Dr. Erich Merkle, School Psychologist, Office of Special Education
May is a wonderful time to reflect on the mental health and well-being of the children and families in our community. Every May, we recognize Mental Health Awareness Month with this year's national theme, More Good Days, Together, reminding us that small moments of connection and support could make a meaningful difference in young people's lives, and that seeking help should always be seen as a sign of strength, not struggle. Throughout the month, we invite students, staff, and families to wear green, the color of mental health awareness, symbolizing hope, strength, and renewal, as a visible reminder that no one has to face challenges alone. We encourage families to explore the resources below and consider how we might all contribute to a more mentally healthy school and Akron community.
Free Legal Help -VisitSummit County Courthouse Annex (209 S. High St.) on May 1 from 9:00-11:00 a.m. for guidance on issues including child support, custody and visitation, collections, driver’s license suspensions, evictions/foreclosures, and expungements. Learn more.
May Day for Mental Health Symposium - The free Suicide Prevention Symposium will feature panel discussions and youth breakout sessions on May 1 from 3:00-5:00 p.m. Learn more.
Senior Farmers Market Program - Eligible seniors in Ohio can apply online or call 1-866-243-5678 for $50 to spend on fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and honey at approved farmers markets and vendors. Learn more.
Foodbank Pop-Up Pantries- In partnership with the Akron-Canton Regional Food Bank, these pantries provide families with free, nutritious food. Learn more and see upcoming dates and locations:
Buchtel Cluster at the Ed Davis Center (730 Perkins Park Dr.) from 8:00-10:00 a.m. on May 5.
Things to do!
YMCA Healthy Kids Day - Visit Camp Y-Noah (815 Mount Pleasant Rd.) on May 3 from 1:00-4:00 p.m. for a free, family-friendly event featuring activities focused on active play, nutrition, STEM, and the arts. Learn more.
State of the City Address - All Akron residents are invited to attend the address at Akron Civic Theatre (182 S. Main St.) on May 19 from 5:00-6:30 p.m. Register and learn more here.
Annual Mother's Day Luncheon - Pregnant and postpartum moms and their families are invited to enjoy a complimentary lunch, raffles featuring baby essentials (including car seats and breastfeeding supplies), and valuable community resources on May 16 from 12:00-3:00 p.m. Learn more or register online.
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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