Every week, I am reminded how much pride I have in Akron Public Schools. From the classrooms to the sidelines, I see students who are eager to learn, families who show up, and staff who pour their hearts into making each day meaningful. Together, we are building something extraordinary.
This week’s stories reflect that spirit. We are welcoming new principals at Litchfield, Findley, and Schumacher CLCs, leaders who already know our families and are ready to continue the work of shaping safe, supportive, and thriving schools. You will also meet Alan Jones, our director of safety and security, whose deep understanding of APS and our neighborhoods has strengthened the safety plan for athletic events across the district. His leadership ensures that families can come together to cheer on their teams with confidence and pride.
As part of our Year of Literacy initiative, I invite you to join Once Upon a Storytime every Wednesday at 7 p.m. for a read-aloud with an APS guest reader. I was honored to be the first guest reader last week and hope you will tune in to see which familiar face will be reading next. You can visit the APS YouTube channel to watch past storytimes and share them with your family.
As we move through October, there are many ways to stay connected. I hope you will join us for events such as the APS Talent Fair, National Unity Day on October 16 where everyone is asked to wear orange, and the Athletics Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. Later this month, I am especially looking forward to the Garfield Fall Fest and grand opening of the Rooted Ram greenhouse, a wonderful example of learning and community coming together.
This week’s update also features community resources, including information about early voting, the Take Me Home Program, and Every Kid Outdoors, which offers free national park access for fourth graders and their families. Each opportunity reminds us that learning extends far beyond the classroom.
Thank you for sharing in this journey and for believing, as I do, in the limitless potential of every child in Akron Public Schools.
Mary B. Outley, Superintendent
Oct. 1- Dec. 15, 2025 - Open Enrollment
Oct. 9 - North High School Replacement Project community meeting, North Auditorium, 5 -7 p.m.
Oct. 10 - Parent-teacher Conferences (no school for students; contact schools for details)
Alan Jones is very familiar with Akron Public Schools athletics. More importantly, he knows the people and he understands the communities of all six clusters. The Buchtel graduate, an All-City Series athlete, was considered the perfect fit when he assumed the role as the district’s director of safety and security nearly a year ago. So, his district familiarity has enabled Jones to craft a robust plan to protect both athletes and fans during APS athletic events. Read more.
More district news
Now open enrolling for 2026-27 - The open enrollment process is now active for the 2026-27 school year. Applications are required during this period for families looking to enroll in a specialty school or program, or those wishing for their child to attend a school other than their assigned neighborhood school. Deadline for ALL schools and specialty programs is Dec. 15. Learn more and apply today!
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!
Garfield Fall Fest – Oct. 23, 5:00–6:30 p.m. Join Garfield CLC for an evening of family fun at the Garfield Fall Fest! Explore our Career Pathways, enjoy pumpkin decorating, and take part in Trunk-or-Treat activities. Don’t miss the grand opening of our brand-new greenhouse, the Rooted Ram. Bring your family and friends for a festive fall celebration! Part of our 2025 APS Community Showcases.
Three New School Leaders
By Marilyn Miller, APS Storyteller
It’s familiar territory for the new Akron Public Schools principals. Litchfield, Findley and Schumacher CLCs have new building principals. Already, they know many of the families in their clusters. 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.
Buchtel CLC Partnership Announcement - Join Principal LaCresia Denson on Oct. 15 at BluJazz+ as she announces Buchtel CLC’s new partnership with the scholarship program during a special live concert featuring Kofi B., Larry Nance Jr., and DJ Lily Jade.
National Bullying Prevention Month: Creating Safer Communities Together
Dr. Erich Merkle, School Psychologist, Office of Special Education
October is National Bullying Prevention Month, uniting communities worldwide to educate and raise awareness about bullying prevention. Throughout the month, schools, families, and organizations are coming together to create kinder, safer environments for all students through educational programs, support initiatives, and community events.
Families can play a crucial role by maintaining open communication with children, teaching empathy and respect, recognizing warning signs of bullying, and partnering with schools to address concerns promptly. Join the movement by learning about prevention strategies, supporting those affected, and promoting kindness and inclusion in your community all month long.
Every Kid Outdoors - Fourth graders and their families can explore America’s national parks, lands, and waters for free through the Every Kid Outdoors program. The pass provides access to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites across the country and is valid for an entire year. Learn more and get your free pass here
Voting Information – Early voting is now underway in Ohio. For details on polling locations, hours, and ballot information in Summit County, visit the Summit County Board of Elections. More information.
Take Me Home Program - A countywide initiative to support individuals with communication difficulties and their families. More information.
📆 Things to do!
Family Sing-Along at House Three Thirty - Oct. 10, 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Bring the whole family for a music-filled afternoon featuring songs from Taylor Swift and the exciting new sensation KPOP Hits! Free & fun for parents, staff, and students More information.
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 from our first guest reader Superintendent Mary B. Outley.
Ohio State Fire Marshal announces ‘Fire Safety Poster Contest’ - Oct. 3–11. Ohio elementary students can enter the annual poster contest to promote fire prevention. Entries are due to local fire departments by Oct. 3, with posters displayed during Fire Prevention Week, Oct. 5–11. More information.
World Premiere: Homicide & Suicide in the Black Community - Oct. 18, 2025, 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m., House Three Thirty (Cabaret Room). Grace Academy of Small Wonders presents Homicide & Suicide in the Black Community, featuring a film screening, panel discussion, and community resources.
City of Akron’s annual Halloween Trick or Treat - Oct. 25. Participate in “Trick or Treat” by turning on your porch or front lights between the hours of 5 p.m. and 7 p.m.
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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