As we begin October, I am excited to share the launch of the Superintendent’s Book Club. This is a chance for our students, families, and community members to come together through reading and conversation. I invite you to learn more about this initative here. .
On October 9, Akron Public Schools will take part in Breast Cancer Awareness Day as we join the national “Making Strides Against Breast Cancer” campaign. This is an important moment to raise awareness and show support for individuals and families affected by this disease.
October is also National Principal Appreciation Month, a time to recognize the hard work and dedication of school leaders everywhere. You can show your support with a simple thank-you, a note of appreciation, or by acknowledging the difference principals make in the school community.
In addition, October is National Bullying Prevention Month. To show our commitment to kindness and respect, we will join schools across the country in observing National Unity Day on Wednesday, October 16. I invite you to join me in wearing orange that day as a powerful symbol of support for bullying prevention and unity.
This week’s update highlights the upcoming APS Community Showcases and our 2025 Athletics Hall of Fame inductee, John Tillman. You’ll also see students speaking out to save the GEAR UP program, and I want to thank the many community members who joined them in that effort. In addition, you’ll find family resources, mental health tips from Dr. Merkle, and community events happening throughout Akron this month.
Thank you for staying connected with Akron Public Schools. Your support and involvement make a difference in the lives of our students every day.
Mary B. Outley, Superintendent
Oct. 10 - Parent-teacher Conferences (no school for students; contact schools for details)
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! Read more.
More district news
Enrollment for 2025-26 - Register your new student using Akron Public Schools online registration system. Learn more.
Akron Public Schools Athletics Hall of Fame Feature - John Tillman
John Tillman was a quiet, unassuming student-athlete during his years at North High School in the 1960s. In the heyday of rock and roll, he was more of a cool jazz type, just chilling even when things heated up. Read more.
More APS in the news
Akron Students Speak Out to Save GEAR UP - Darshawn McCraney, a North CLC junior, may not understand why Akron Public Schools stands to lose $3.6 million in federal funding for the district’s GEAR UP program. Yet, he’s come to grips with the fact that the potential cuts could severely impact his classmates’ academic futures. Read more.
Mental health takes center stage at UN this week
Dr. Erich Merkle, School Psychologist, Office of Special Education
This week marked a historic turning point for mental health as the United Nations General This week, the UN General Assembly held its first-ever meeting on mental health, addressing a crisis affecting over 1 billion people worldwide—including one in seven teens. A global declaration on mental health will be considered for approval in October 2025.
Key Actions for Families and Children
Watch for warning signs like mood changes, sleep disruptions, social withdrawal, or declining grades. Early intervention matters.
Foster open dialogue. Make emotional check-ins as routine as homework discussions, creating a judgment-free space.
Model healthy coping. Demonstrate stress management through exercise, breaks, and seeking support when needed.
Guide technology use. Rather than restricting screens entirely, discuss online experiences and set boundaries together.
Know your resources. Before crisis strikes, identify school counselors, local clinics, your pediatrician's referral network, and crisis hotlines.
Prioritize connection. Strong relationships protect mental health more than perfect grades or busy schedules.
Care for yourself. Your mental health directly impacts your children—self-care enables you to support your family.
2025 Fall Foliage - Check the 2025 Fall Foliage Map to find peak leaf-peeping season across the U.S. Explore 21 destinations, from New England to the Smoky Mountains, and get tips for catching the best colors at just the right time. More information.
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.
📆 Fun things to do!
John S. Knight Lecture with Connie Chung - Oct. 2, 7:30 p.m. at The University of Akron. Join pioneering news anchor Connie Chung in conversation with UA President R.J. Nemer. Free and open to the public. More information.
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.
Akron Children's Museum Hands-On Halloween - Oct. 25 from 10:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Take a break from trick-or-treating and come experience a Not-So-Spooky Monster Course thrill, Parade March excitement, Spooky Snacks, and creative Halloween STEM adventures to remember! More information.
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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