This week, I want to begin by congratulating the newly elected members of the Akron Board of Education, Gregory Harrison, Karmaya Kelly, Nathan Jarosz, and Phil Montgomery, who will begin serving in January 2026. I look forward to working with each of them as we continue our shared mission of serving students, supporting staff, and strengthening our schools.
I also want to thank Dr. Carla Jackson, Diana Autry, and Bruce Alexander for their dedicated service on the board. They will continue through the end of the year to ensure a smooth transition, and I am deeply grateful for their leadership and lasting contributions to Akron Public Schools.
The spirit of connection and pride is stronger than ever across our district. From the success of our Community Showcases to the generosity of Swensons Drive-In and their recent fundraiser supporting APS classrooms, I continue to be inspired by how this community comes together for our students.
With a strong second half performance last Friday, East CLC defeated Cleveland Benedictine 19–7 at Ellet. The Dragons now advance to the second round of the Division III playoffs at Gates Mills Hawken this Friday, November 7, at 7 p.m. I encourage everyone to support the team and cheer them on. Go East!
We also celebrate Antonio Duncan, a fifth grader at Betty Jane CLC, who is training for a national boxing title while showing remarkable focus and discipline both in and out of the ring.
There are even more opportunities this month to see student talent in action. I invite you to attend Miller South’s Soundscapes, November 13–15, and Akron School of the Arts’ Macbeth, November 13–16. Both productions highlight the creativity and dedication of our students and staff. You can also stop by the Ellet Band Craft Show this Saturday, November 8, to support students and enjoy a day of music and local crafts.
As we approach Thanksgiving Break, November 26–28, I hope you find time for rest and reflection. Thank you for supporting our students and schools. Together, we continue to build something truly special in Akron — a community that lifts up its children and believes in their limitless potential.
East CLC Dragons Triumph in Comeback Victory, Advance to Second Round of OHSAA Playoffs
Akron Public Schools is thrilled to announce that the East CLC Dragons (9-2 overall record) football team has advanced to the second round of the Ohio High School Athletic Association playoffs after a stunning victory in the first round. The City Series Champions defeated Cleveland Benedictine with a final score of 19-7 on Friday, October 31, 2025, at Ellet CLC. Read More. Click here to purchase tickets.
Akron Public Schools Receives Significant School Supply Donation Following Highly Successful Swensons Fundraiser
Akron Public Schools (APS) was the beneficiary of a highly successful community fundraiser held at the West Akron Swensons Drive-In. During the event, Swensons demonstrated their support by donating 20% of their event sales to the cause. 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.
Learning Between the Ropes | Betty Jane 5th Grader Seeks National Boxing Title
By Ralph Paulk, APS Storyteller
Antonio Duncan puts on a pair of black boxing gloves that appear to overwhelm his 65-pound frame. Then, he proceeds to furiously jab and hook a speed bag strapped to the ceiling of Rodriquez Boxing Club, a quaint, throw-back gym tucked away in the corner of Rocco Plaza in Tallmadge. Read more.
Garfield CLC Students Learn and Grow in Year-Round Structure: The Geodome is a Unique Teaching Magnet
By Marilyn M. Paulk, APS Storyteller
The well-lit new geodesic dome or GeoDome centered on the parking lot of Garfield CLC has already impacted students with unique opportunities. Read more.
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.
Don't Lose Sleep Over It: Your Guide to Daylight Saving Survival
Dr. Erich Merkle, School Psychologist, Office of Special Education
Daylight saving time ended this past Sunday, November 3 at 2 a.m. While young children may wake up an hour earlier than usual, most kids adjust within about a week. Help ease the transition by encouraging extra physical activity during the day, shutting down devices at least one hour before bedtime, and maintaining a consistent sleep routine. Getting morning sunlight exposure, even on overcast days, can help reset your family's internal clocks. Be patient with a few extra tantrums as everyone adjusts!
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.
📆 Things to do!
Once Upon a Storytime - As part of our Year of Literacy initiative, join us every Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. for storytime with an APS guest reader. Click here to hear this week's story read by Grace Tome, Glover CLC principal.
Ellet Band Craft Show - Shop local and support the Ellet Music Programs at this beloved community craft show featuring more than 100 crafters, raffles, food, and fun. Admission is free, and donations are welcome. Nov. 8 - 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Akron School of Arts Presents Shakespeare's Macbeth - The Akron School of the Arts (ASA) theatre group is proud to announce its upcoming production of William Shakespeare's timeless tragedy, Macbeth. The play will be performed at The Linda B. Kersker Auditorium from November 13 to 16. Read more.
Miller South's Production of Soundscapes - Experience the “Magic of Miller South” through Soundscapes, a visually stunning, multi-disciplinary production that tells the story of Iris, a young artist with synesthesia who learns to embrace her unique way of experiencing the world. Featuring theatre, dance, live music, art, and live painting, this immersive performance brings Iris’s colorful perspective to life. Tickets are $10 at the door. Nov. 13 - 15, 7:00 p.m.
The Soul of Philanthropy Akron Awards - Join this inspiring celebration honoring eight local Black philanthropists whose generosity and leadership uplift Greater Akron. The event launches The Soul of Philanthropy exhibit and benefits The Black Giving Collective Fund of the Akron Community Foundation. Nov. 14, 5:30 - 9:00 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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