October 3, 2024

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Secure Firearm Storage

Research shows that secure firearm storage practices are associated with up to an 85 percent reduction in the risk of unintentional firearm injuries among children and teens. On December 6, 2021, the Atlanta Board of Education passed a resolution promoting safe and responsible storage of firearms by parents and families. Since the passage of that resolution, the Board and District Administration have collaborated with law enforcement agencies, health agencies, and non-profit organizations to inform stakeholders about the importance of secure storage of firearms in their homes. We have partnered with Be SMART (Besmartforkids.org) to share information on safe storage with every school.

Safety is always an adult responsibility and it takes all of us to create safe environments. Here is what you can do to BE SMART!

Secure all guns in your home and vehicles; 

Model responsible behavior around guns; 

Ask about the presence of unsecured guns in other homes; 

Recognize the role of guns in suicide; and 

Tell your peers to be SMART.

Here are best practices for secure gun storage and additional resources below to assist you as you and your family become more committed to safe gun storage. We are in this together!

Talking to Your Children about Guns

Keeping Your Home Safe with Secure Storage 

Unload, Lock, and Separate: Secure Storage Practices to Reduce Gun Violence

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

The APS Department of Health and Physical Education invites everyone to wear pink on the remaining Wednesdays in October to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month. By participating, we honor survivors, remember those we've lost, and support the ongoing fight against this disease. Don’t forget to engage with us online using the hashtag #APSGoesPink! Together, we can raise awareness and advocate for progress in breast cancer prevention and care.

We Need Your Help: Share Your Appreciation

On October 21, we will celebrate Georgia Bus Driver and Monitor Appreciation Day! Bus drivers and monitors do much more than transport our children; they foster a sense of community, provide emotional support, and set the tone for a positive school day. We invite you to join us in expressing your appreciation. Please take a moment to leave a heartfelt thank-you message for a bus driver or monitor who has made a difference in your or your child’s life. We'll share them during a special breakfast in their honor!

Join Team APS as a Bus Driver

Are you seeking a full-time position with a flexible schedule and great benefits? Join the APS team as a bus driver and become the inspiration our students need! Attend Transportation Thursdays at Thirkeld, a monthly job fair for bus driver positions, held on the second Thursday of each month from October through December. The first fair kicks off on October 10. We’re eager to expand our team and continue building a strong pipeline of dedicated drivers!

We Want You to Be A Part of the Plan

Join Superintendent Dr. Bryan Johnson at Sylvan Middle School today, October 3, for the next Community Listening Session. Everyone will have the opportunity to share their voice and ideas to create a stronger foundation for our schools and community. Spanish translation will be available. Click HERE to register.

Rescheduled: Hispanic College and Career Event

The APS Hispanic College and Career Event at Agape Youth and Family Center has been rescheduled for Saturday, October 5, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. This event will provide valuable resources and information to students and families about college admissions, scholarships, and career opportunities specifically tailored to support our Hispanic community. To register for this free event, click HERE.

APS Marching Band Showcase

All ten APS high school bands will showcase their school spirit and perform their halftime routines for a panel of judges at the annual Marching Band Showcase, held at Lakewood Stadium. The event starts at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, October 9, featuring a special performance by the Clark Atlanta University Mighty Marching Panthers. Tickets are available on GoFan. Don’t miss the chance to cheer on our talented students!

Atlanta PRIDE Parade

Are you joining us on Sunday, October 13 for the Atlanta PRIDE Parade? Meet us at 9 a.m. at the Hyatt Regency Atlanta to pick up your swag bag, and then head to Piedmont Park to celebrate diversity and support LGBTQIA+ students and staff. Be sure you save the date and complete the Participant Consent Form. See you there!

Emergency Management Resources

Attention APS Parents and Families: In light of recent events, we want to make sure you have the resources you need to stay informed in case of an emergency. Visit our Office of Safety & Security Parent's Guide to Emergencies for information and links to available resources.

If you see something, Say Something. APS student safety is of paramount concern. Everyone can report bullying or any safety concern anonymously online using the Say Something website, app, or hotline (1-844-5-SayNow).

We want to hear from you and are committed to creating an atmosphere of respect. Let’s Talk is an important platform that allows us to address your questions or needs. Contact us.

APS CARES is available to students and families who need medical care, financial assistance, access to food pantries, or other free or reduced-cost assistance. Visit APS CARES to connect to resources.