Congratulations to Shannon Turick, English teacher at Buchtel CLC, on being named the Akron Public Schools 2026 Teacher of the Year. We are proud to celebrate her dedication to students and the meaningful difference she makes each day. We also thank the Akron Education Association for hosting this year’s Teacher of the Year celebration and recognizing outstanding educators across our district.
We are also proud to recognize our 2026 Scholars of the Year. These students represent the dedication, leadership, and academic excellence taking place throughout our schools every day. Their accomplishments reflect the hard work of our students, families, and staff across the district.
This week’s newsletter highlights many exciting opportunities and accomplishments happening across Akron Public Schools. Students at Miller South earned national art honors through recent competitions, while North High School students will benefit from expanded college and career connected learning opportunities through a new partnership with The University of Akron. We are also excited to continue preparing for summer learning and enrichment through our 2026 Summer Experience programs for APS students.
The Akron Board of Education also recently approved $11 million in budget reductions as part of the district’s ongoing financial planning for fiscal year 2027. While these decisions are difficult, the approved plan avoids teacher layoffs and preserves direct classroom instruction while responding to continued financial pressures facing public education.
As we approach the final days of the school year, I encourage families to continue supporting students as they finish strong and take time to celebrate all they have accomplished this year. Thank you for your continued support of Akron Public Schools and for the partnership you provide to our students, staff, and schools each day.
Congratulations to Shannon Turick, English teacher at Buchtel CLC, on being named the Akron Public Schools 2025-26 Teacher of the Year! Thank you for all of your hard work and dedication to our students in grades 9-12.
Thank you to the AEA for hosting this event and honoring our outstanding teachers!
More District News
Preschool & Kindergarten Registration - Visit the Akron Board of Education building (10 N. Main St.) to register your student for preschool or kindergarten Jun. 17, from 3:00-6:00 p.m. See flyer for details.
North High School Partners with The University of Akron - The partnership will expand college readiness, career-connected learning, and hands-on opportunities for North High School students. Learn more.
Jennings CLC Community Schoolyard Design Unveiling - Trust for Public Land, APS, and Jennings CLC will unveil the design concept for Akron’s first Community Schoolyard on May 27. Learn more.
2026 Summer Experience Registration - Enrolled APS students in grades PK-12 can explore, create, design, and learn with a variety of camps and programs this summer. Register here.
Class of 2026 Photo Submissions - The Akron Beacon Journal is inviting Class of 2026 APS graduates to submit senior or graduation photos for a chance to be featured in its graduation coverage. Learn more.
Miller South Students Win National Art Awards
Visual and performing arts students at Miller South have participated in several art competitions recently, earning top awards in the International Violin Competition and National Art Honor Society Juried Art Show. Seven students received cash prizes, and their winning pieces will be featured in a three-year traveling exhibition. Learn more.
More APS in the News
Buchtel AFJROTC Earns 2026 Distinguished Unit Award - APS is proud to announce that Buchtel CLC's AFJROTC Unit OH942 has repeated as a Headquarters AFJROTC 2026 Distinguished Unit Award (DUA) recipient! Learn more.
Firestone Senior Honored Among District Scholars of the Year - Wittman Sullivan, a Firestone CLC senior, was honored as one of three APS District Scholars of the Year during a ceremony at Ellet CLC on May 6. Read more.
APS All-Stars Attendance Challenge - Patterned after March Madness, this challenge encouraged friendly attendance competition among schools in the district. Learn more.
APS 2026 Scholars of the Year
One student from each APS school was honored for their academic excellence, dedication, leadership, and achievements throughout the 2025-2026 school year. Congratulations to all of our winning scholars! Learn more.
Finishing Strong: Supporting Your Child's Mental Health Through the Final Week of School
Dr. Erich Merkle, School Psychologist, Office of Special Education
As the school year draws to a close, our children and teens may experience a mix of excitement, anxiety about transitions, and emotional fatigue. Families might find this an ideal time to slow down, check in with their children, and celebrate the year's growth together. A few simple gestures such as a calm evening routine, an honest conversation, or simply acknowledging how hard your child has worked could go a long way in easing end-of-year stress and setting a positive emotional tone heading into summer.
2026 Summer EBT Benefits - Eligible families can apply for Sun Bucks to receive grocery benefits while schools are closed for the summer. The application deadline is Aug. 14. Apply today.
Ohio Sales Tax Days - Governor DeWine announced the sales tax holiday will be from Aug. 7-9 this year. Learn what items you can save on.
Affordable Housing RFPs- The City of Akron is seeking proposals for new construction or rehabilitation projects that create housing for low-income residents and those experiencing homelessness. Submissions are due May 22. Learn more.
Foodbank Pop-Up Pantries - In partnership with the Akron-Canton Regional Food Bank, these pantries provide families with free, nutritious food. Upcoming locations include:
North High School (985 Gorge Blvd.) - May 26, 3:00-5:00 p.m.
East CLC (80 Brittain Rd.) - May 23, 9:00-11:00 a.m.
Ed Davis Center (730 Perkins Park Dr.) - June 2, 8:00-10:00 a.m.
Things To Do!
Renaissance Faire at Akron Zoo - Enjoy live performances, a costume/cosplay contest, and more at the Akron Zoo (500 Edgewood Ave.) from May 23-25. Learn more.
End-of-School Karaoke Party - Students in grades 4-12 are invited to celebrate the end of the school year with karaoke, snacks, and friends at the Nordonia Hills Branch Library (9458 Olde 8 Rd.) on May 28 from 6:00-7:00 p.m. Learn more.
Polymer Palooza Community Day - Explore the world of polymers with hands-on activities, interactive displays, and engaging demonstrations at Akron Children's Museum and Lock 3 on Jun. 6 from 1:00-5:00 p.m. Learn more or visit Akron Children's Museum's website.
America 250 Exhibition at Stan Hywet - Celebrate Akron's people, history, and legacy through the stories of the families and communities that helped shape the city at Stan Hywet (714 North Portage Path) from May 23 - Sept. 13. Learn more.
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.
Weekly Update is sent to individuals who have opted in to receive it. Subscribe.
Akron Public Schools, 10 N. Main St., Akron, OH 44308, United States, 330.761.1661
.jpg?upscale=true&width=320&upscale=true&name=Mary%20Outley%202%20(3).jpg)
