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Connections

Volume 4, Issue 1 | September 2024

ConnectionsVolume 4, Issue 1 | September 2024

A Message from the Superintendent

Welcome back!

Dear ACPS Families, Students and Staff,


Welcome to the 2024-25 school year! It's hard to believe another summer has flown by.


With the start of the year, I want to bring your attention to a few new safety measure we've implemented to help keep our students safe in and out of school.


HELPme


Albemarle County Public Schools will now use the HELPme app as it's 24/7 student support system. Whether a student is facing bullying, needs help with food or shelter or is facing a personal challenge, they can report it in the app anonymously and receive support.


To learn more about the benefits of HELPme and how to use the app, visit the HELPme webpage on our website.


Student Support Alerts


This year, we are implementing new Student Support Alerts, which is software that monitors students’ online activity for signs of self-harm, suicide, drugs, and weapons. The software scans activity on school-issued devices and sends real-time notifications to safety specialists. These specialists evaluate alerts and escalate threats for immediate intervention by school safety personnel and law enforcement as needed.


To learn more about this program, visit the Student Support Alerts webpage on our website.


Wishing you a safe and happy school year,

Matthew S. Haas

Superintendent

In Case You Missed It

A lot has happened this month! Here's what we think is important to know:

ACPS In the News

Catch a roundup of our news coverage for the month of August!

2024-25 School Year Calendar

The 2024-25 School Year calendar is here! If you did not receive your calendar in the mail and would like a printed copy, contact your child's school. Or visit our School Year Calendar webpage for a printable version.

Engage ACPS! Podcast

We are thrilled to launch the ACPS Office of Community Engagement (OCE) podcast, Engage ACPS! This new podcast is designed for families and the broader school community, spotlighting ACPS initiatives, staff, and community partners. Listen on Spotify.

This Month's Video Highlight

ACPS Kicks Off 2024-25 School Year!

Monthly Calendar

Important Dates

Monday, September 2

Labor Day, all ACPS schools and offices closed

Monday, September 23

Teacher Workday, no school for students

Upcoming Events

Thursday, September 5

Virtual Welcome for Military Families, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Wednesday, September 11

Long Range Planning Advisory Committee Meeting, 6 to 8 p.m.

Thursday, September 12

Regional College Fair at MoHS, 5 to 7 p.m.

School Board Meeting, 6:30 p.m. in Lane Auditorium

Thursday, September 26

School Board Work Session, 6:30 p.m. in Lane Auditorium

Monthly Observances

September 2nd: Labor Day

September 8th through 14th: National Arts in Education Week

September 8th: International Literacy Day

September 11th: Patriot Day and National Day of Service and Remembrance

September 17th through the 23rd: Constitution Week

September 17th: Constitution Day

September 15th through October 15th: National Hispanic Heritage Month

Event Information

Back-to-School Community Information Session

This exciting virtual event is your chance to get all the essential details you need for a successful school year.


We'll cover key topics including:

  • Attendance: Learn about our new procedures and tips for staying on track

  • Instruction: Get the latest updates on curriculum changes

  • Immunizations: Important information on health requirements and how to keep your child up-to-date.

  • Mental Health: Discover resources and support available to ensure a healthy and balanced school experience like our new HELPme! App

  • Remind App: Find out how to use this tool to stay connected and informed


Don’t miss out—please be on the lookout for the Zoom link to join the session. We’re looking forward to connecting with you and setting the stage for a fantastic school year!

When?

Wednesday, Sep 25, 2024, 06:00 PM

Where?

Zoom

Opportunities for You!

Did you know?

CATEC will be celebrating its 50th anniversary as an important educational option for the Charlottesville community. Opening its doors in 1973, CATEC has provided real-world educational opportunities to thousands of Charlottesville and Albemarle area youth and adults. Join us to celebrate this important milestone as we look forward to our school's future in the community on September 28th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.!


Activities will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony to unveil our new name and signage, as well as food, activities for families, tours of the facility, and raffles.

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