The 2025–26 school year is off to a strong start. I have enjoyed visiting schools with Gilby, our district mascot, as we welcomed our scholars back, and it has been inspiring to see the excitement across our district. From creative first-day celebrations to students already sharing their #APSForward spirit, the energy in our schools reminds us why this year holds so much promise.
As routines settle in, I want to remind families that attendance matters. Missing just two days a month adds up to 20 days in a year, which means 30 hours of math and 60 hours of reading and writing lost. By graduation, that is more than a full year of school missed. At four days a month, the loss doubles to 40 days in a year, 60 hours of math, 120 hours of reading and writing, and over two years of school missed. Every day counts toward building a strong foundation for the future.
This week’s update highlights how Akron Public Schools is opening new doors for students through the Expanded Opportunity for Each Child Grant, along with programs like Leggett Elementary’s Aviation Adventure Camp. You will also find important upcoming dates, resources to help families with back-to-school transitions, and opportunities to connect with our community over the holiday weekend.
Let us continue working together with families, staff, partners, and the community to ensure every scholar feels supported and ready to succeed. Thank you for being part of our APS family.
Mary B. Outley, Superintendent
Sept. 1 – Labor Day (Schools and offices closed)
Sept. 26 - Staff Professional Development Day (no school for students)
Oct. 10 - Parent-teacher Conferences (no school for students, contact schools for details)
Akron Public Schools Showcases Student Success Through Expanded Opportunity Grant
Akron Public Schools (APS) is celebrating the remarkable impact of the Expanded Opportunity for Each Child Grant, which has opened doors to new experiences, strengthened community partnerships, and provided hands-on learning for hundreds of students. Read more.
More district news
Enrollment for 2025-26 - Register your new student using Akron Public Schools' online registration system. Learn more.
We're Ready! The new school year kicked off with visits from Superintendent Outley and Gilby! Students loved the visits from APS' favorite pup!
Plus, high schools shared their excitement on social media by creating videos with the hashtag #APSForward. Check it out on APS social media.
More APS in the news
Akron Children's Hospital nurses collected laundry supplies for Project Rise families providing back to school support above and beyond their job duties.
The Real Back-to-School Begins Now
(Spoiler: It's Week Two)
Dr. Erich Merkle, School Psychologist, Office of Special Education
The second week of school is when the first few days' honeymoon phase ends and routines start to feel real. This is the crucial time for families to fine-tune their daily schedules, check in emotionally with their scholars who are now processing their true feelings about the transition, and address any early concerns before they become bigger problems. Our grown-up efforts should focus on establishing sustainable organized and sustainable routines and maintaining family connection time while everyone adjusts to the new reality of the school year.
2-1-1: Free, confidential and available 24/7, 211 has information on thousands of services for Summit and Medina County residents, including supplemental food and nutrition programs, prenatal care, mental health services and more. Learn more.
📆 Fun things to do!
6th Annual Akron PIZZA Fest! - August 29 and 30. PIZZA Fest is a two-day food and music festival in Akron where local pizza parlors sell slices and whole pies, giving attendees the chance to sample from multiple vendors. More information.
Made in Ohio Art & Craft Festival - Aug. 29-30. Celebrate the best of Ohio at the 2025 Made in Ohio Art & Craft Festival, showcasing Ohio artisans, local food, and the rich history of Hale Farm & Village. More information.
50th Annual East Akron Labor Day Parade - Sept. 1. This East Akron tradition along South Arlington Street features music, dance, costumes, and community fellowship. This year’s theme, “Bringing Community Together: 50 Years of Celebration,” highlights the city’s diversity and strength. More information.
Project GRAD Back to School Bash - Sept. 6, 5:30 p.m. A fun and unforgettable evening featuring a lively reception, auctions, a school store, the Homecoming Court presentation, dancing, and more! This unique event has something for everyone and supports a great cause. Proceeds benefit Project GRAD Akron’s programs, services, and Scholarship Fund for Akron Public Schools students. Learn more. Click here for Back to School Bash Lottery Raffle tickets.
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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