It is an Excellent day in Athens ISD!

• I want to thank the entire district last week for the hard work done during the TAKS testing. Not many people realize the stress and strain of the administration of the tests in this district, but I can assure you that there is not another district in this state that administered these tests with the professionalism and dedication that was exhibited here last week. I am proud of you and the work you did.
• This week is National Teacher Appreciation Week. Teachers in Athens ISD are special to us everyday, but during this week and especially on Tuesday, May 6, we want to celebrate the excellence that makes up our teaching staff. We are blessed with some of the best teachers in this country. Our teachers have chosen to serve the students on this district with their knowledge, expertise, dedication, and compassion. Thank you to all of our teachers for being the beacon of hope for the future generations of this great community. We do appreciate you!
• Wednesday, May 7 is National School Nurse Day. We appreciate our nurses for their dedication to our schools. Our nurses have chosen to serve the students and staff members of our schools when there are so many opportunities for health care professionals in so many other areas. We are proud of our nurses and we appreciate the service they provide to our schools. Be sure to thank them this week.
• Athens has an academic state champion! Congratulations to Blake Rogers who won the state championship for “Prose Interpretation”. This is the second year in a row that Blake has earned the top award at the UIL State meet. Blake is coached by Myrna Bass. Mrs. Bass also received a prestigious award at the academic meet. We are very proud of Blake and Mrs. Bass for representing our district in this “Gold Standard”!
• The Athens Athletic Booster Club had its annual Sports Banquet on Monday evening at the Cain Center. Students and coaches were honored during the ceremony that was attended by well over 400 people. The Booster Club had an opportunity to recognize each and every student who participated in a sporting activity in the Athens High School this year. Thank you to the coaches, staff members, and volunteers that made this evening special for all of our students.
• Bel Air Elementary School hosted its annual Rhyme Time evening for students and parents. The evening was well attended and the students left with many great activities for continued learning. It was great to see the parents who participated – We are proud of this community and its dedication to the learning of all of our young people.
• South Athens Elementary hosted a pancake supper and activity evening at the campus on Monday evening. What a great time! Students, parents, and community members had an opportunity to enjoy some great pancakes cooked by an excellent crew. The families also got a chance to have some fun and learn a few things along the way. It is always great to see people having fun while they learn (it can be done).

Have an excellent day and I hope to see you soon.

Dr. Fred Hayes