This week, Akron Public Schools is reminding everyone to “Stay in the Game.” Daily attendance makes a difference for learning, for building friendships, and for shaping a bright future. I encourage you to watch our new video with Akron Mayor and proud APS graduate Shamus Malik as we kick off this important message together.
We also received this year’s state report cards from the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce. Akron Public Schools earned an overall rating of 3.5 stars with strong growth in student progress and in college, career, workforce, and military readiness. These results reflect areas where we are moving forward as well as places where we must do more, especially in early literacy and graduation.
I am also proud to share that Akron Public Schools received the highest overall rating among Ohio’s Big 8 urban districts. Akron Early College High School continues to shine as well, earning a five-star rating for the third year in a row since the state introduced this system. Report cards provide important information, but they do not capture the full story of our students’ creativity, resilience, and determination.
Thank you for all that you do to support our schools. When students show up, when families stay engaged, and when we all work together, every child has the chance to succeed.
Superintendent Mary Outley is kicking off the year with a simple but powerful message: Stay in the Game! Joined by Akron Mayor and proud APS graduate Shamus Malik, the video reminds us that showing up every day matters—for learning, for building friendships, and for shaping a bright future.
Let’s make this school year one of strong attendance, unity, and success. Together, we can stay in the game and keep moving APS forward! Watch the video here.
More district news
State Report Card Release - The Ohio Department of Education and Workforce has released the 2025 State Report Cards for school districts across the state, including Akron Public Schools. You can view Akron’s results and explore details on student progress, achievement, and readiness for the future at the official site.
Enrollment for 2025-26 - Register your new student using Akron Public Schools online registration system. Learn more.
Thank You for Supporting APS at Swensons
On Saturday, September 13, the Akron community came together at Swensons Drive-In on South Hawkins Avenue to support Akron Public Schools. Cleveland Cavaliers player and Akron native Larry Nance Jr. joined Swensons staff as a guest server, helping to raise funds for classroom supplies. Read more.
More APS in the news
College Access Week - We are excited to get you geared up to join us for Akron Public Schools’ College Access Week, September 22nd through the 25th! We’ll be celebrating all things college and career with a fun theme each day. Our Akron School Counseling and Student Wellness team has planned spirit days to get everyone involved and show off your future goals! Read more. Watch video.
Unidos en Bienestar: Mental Health During Hispanic Heritage Month
Dr. Erich Merkle, School Psychologist, Office of Special Education
From September 15 to October 15, we celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month, honoring the rich cultural contributions of Hispanic and Latino families in our communities. While celebrating these achievements, we also recognize that Hispanic and Latino families often face barriers accessing mental health services. Connecting families with culturally responsive resources that respect their values, language, and traditions is essential for supporting overall wellbeing. Below are several national resources providing culturally sensitive mental health support for Hispanic and Latino families.
Ohio Drug and Alcohol Treatment Guide - RehabNet offers a comprehensive guide to drug and alcohol treatment programs across Ohio. The directory provides families and individuals with access to treatment options and support resources statewide. More information.
📆 Fun things to do!
2025 Annunciation Greek Festival - Sept. 18 to 20 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, 129 S. Union St. in University Park. More information.
Paul Tazewell at Kent State University - Sept. 18 at 6:00 p.m. Akron native and Buchtel High graduate Paul Tazewell, an Emmy, Tony, and Oscar-winning costume designer, returns to Kent State for a public conversation and exhibit of his award-winning Wicked costumes. More information.
Tiretown Junior Golf Fundraiser - Sept. 20 at 10:00 a.m. Tiretown Golf Club & Charities will hold its 6th annual Junior Golf Club Fundraiser at Mud Run Golf Course. Proceeds support more than 60 juniors in First Tee of Akron programs and enrichment activities, including a trip to the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C. More information.
Akron Latin Festival - Sept. 20 from 2:00 - 9:00 p.m. at Lock 3. Celebrate with 20+ food and retail vendors, nonprofit booths, crafts, and all-day entertainment including Grupo Fuego, Herencia Norteña, DJ LOLO Knows, Conjunto Guarachando, plus wrestling, stilt walkers, piñatas, face painting, and more. 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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