April 2026 Newsletter (PDF)

✨ Dear Akron Prep Families,

Welcome back from Spring Break! We hope everyone had a restful and enjoyable week off.
Now that we are back in school, it’s officially test season. To support students, we will
have our Blitz Game on April 2nd from 1:00–3:00 PM, providing a fun and engaging way for
scholars to review key skills. Testing begins the week of April 6th and will conclude the first
week of May.

To help your scholar prepare at home, please:

• Encourage an early bedtime around 8:00 PM, without distractions such as TV or
  phones.
• Ensure your student is eating a balanced dinner each night—more than just chips or
  snacks.
• Students should drink plenty of water throughout the day, which directly impacts
  focus and performance.
• Teachers will provide review materials for students to reference at home.

Kindergarten Enrollment is Open! Families can now sign up their incoming Kindergarten
students for the 2026–2027 school year. Please contact the front office for enrollment
forms and information.

Proof of Residency (POR) forms must be turned in by May 11th. Students who submit these
forms will be eligible to attend Field Day on May 12 (Rain Date: May 13). POR bills must be
from March or April 2026.

Promotion Ceremonies for Kindergarten, 5th, and 8th grades are scheduled for May 14.
Please be on the lookout for additional communication from your child’s teacher regarding
forms, payments, and other details.

Track Season begins April 6th. Dean Taylor will send information home this week. There
will be two track meets this season.

We appreciate your continued partnership in supporting our students’ success this spring.
Let’s work together to make this testing season productive, safe, and enjoyable for every
scholar.

With appreciation and commitment,

Jon Thompson, Principal

Akron Preparatory School

🎯 Our Mission: The Akron Prep Promise

We are committed to growing every student:

• Academically through rigorous and engaging instruction

• Culturally through inclusive practices and meaningful traditions

• Socially through strong relationships and emotional support

Every child who walks through our doors will be seen, loved, supported, and safe.

🔔 What’s New & What’s Back

✅ PowerSchool Parent Portal – Check your students grades and attendance in real time. Information has been sent home with students. Reach out to teachers if not connected.

✅ ClassDojo and Talking Points – Make sure you are signed up. Information has been
sent home to assist with setup.

✅ State Law – Students needs to turn in their cellphones at the beginning of class. It’s a state law for them to not have a cell phone on them in class.

🌟 Expanded After-School Programming

Our after-school offerings now include Boys and Girls Club. Middle school students are
eligible to join. Families with three or more students can also enroll them in the program.

🧠 Excellence in Every Lesson

Our educators are preparing classrooms with intention and care. Through high-quality
instruction and real-time data, learning is engaging and impactful for every scholar.

📅 Important Dates to Remember

• April 2 – Blitz Game, 1:00–3:00 PM
• April 3 – No School
• April 6 – Track Season begins & testing week starts
• May 11 – Deadline to submit Proof of Residency forms
• May 12 – Field Day (Rain Date: May 13)
• May 14 – Promotion Ceremonies for Kindergarten, 5th, and 8th grades

Let’s Stay Connected
Questions or concerns? Please contact:
330-247-6232 jthompson@akronprep.org www.akronprep.org

Choosing the right kindergarten is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your child’s education. You want a school that nurtures curiosity, encourages exploration, and provides a safe, supportive environment—without the cost of tuition.

Allowing Young Learners to Fly

At our school, kindergarten is where curiosity truly takes flight. We believe young learners thrive when they are encouraged to ask questions, explore their interests, and learn through hands-on experiences.

Our kindergarten program offers:

High-quality, standards-aligned instruction that builds strong foundations in reading, writing, and math

· Safe, welcoming classrooms where children feel supported and confident

· Hands-on learning activities that spark creativity and problem-solving

· Plenty of room to play, supporting healthy social and physical development

We focus on educating the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally.

Why Choose Us?

Families choose Akron Preparatory School because we offer:

· Tuition-free enrollment

· A strong emphasis on student safety and well-being

· Engaging, developmentally appropriate learning

· A supportive school community that values family partnerships

Our classrooms are designed to help children feel excited about learning while developing independence, confidence, and strong relationships.

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If your child will be entering kindergarten in Fall 2026, now is the time to apply. Kindergarten seats are limited and tend to fill quickly!

September 2025 Newsletter (PDF)

✨ A Warm Welcome from Principal Thompson

Dear Akron Prep Families,

Dear Akron Prep Families, A very warm welcome to the 25/26 school year here at Akron Preparatory School—where every student is nurtured to become a scholar and thrive academically, socially, and culturally.

It’s been a pleasure speaking with and getting to know all the students. We’re even more excited to getting to know each one of you parents as well.

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🎯 Our Mission: The Akron Prep Promise

We are committed to growing every student:

• Academically through rigorous and engaging instruction
• Culturally through inclusive practices and meaningful traditions
• Socially through strong relationships and emotional support

Every child who walks through our doors will be seen, loved, supported, and safe.

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🔔 What’s New & What’s Back

✅ No Hoodies!
Students are not permitted to wear hoodies in school. They can wear sweatshirts or a crew neck that are AKP colors. Students will be instructed to take off hoodies once they arrive to class.

Full guidelines available in the Family Handbook.

✅ Universal Permission Slips
Sign all universal permission slips for students. and sign up for class dojo (k-2) or talking points (3-8).

Culture Camp

Culture Camp is something that we do for the students the first couple of weeks of school. Culture Camp is designed to teach and demonstrate the expectations of the school culture. The existence and use of culture depends upon an ability possessed by the building as a collective. Everyone did amazing adjusting!

🌟 Expanded After-School Programming
Boys & Girls Club will be starting soon!

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🧠💡 Excellence in Every Lesson

Our passionate educators are already preparing classrooms with intentionality and care. With high-quality instruction and real-time data, we’re making learning exciting—and helping students reach their full potential.

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📅 Important Dates to Remember

No School September 1st, 2025 Labor Day

September 8th, 2025 Staff Professional Dev. Day

September 26th, 2025 Staff In Service Day

Bussing

Students are still getting routed, expect a phone call from the front office once we have your scholar routed. Thank you for patience last week and this week.

Arrival & Dismissal
School starts at 730 am and dismissal begins at 315.

Early dismissal stops at 245. anything after 245 will have to wait until 315.

Use Kelly Ave to pick up scholars at the end of the day. do not come in on Market. Stay in line during arrival and dismissal. Do not cut the line. We expect dismissal to be a lot smoother next week.

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💬 Let’s Stay Connected

Questions or concerns? Contact me anytime:
📞 330-247-6232
📧 jthompson@akronprep.org
🌐 www.akronprep.org

July 2025 Newsletter (PDF)

✨ A Warm Welcome from Principal Thompson

Dear Akron Prep Families,

Can you believe we’re less than 40 days away from the first day of school? We’re counting down the days with excitement as we prepare for another amazing year of learning, growth, and community.

We’re especially thrilled to welcome our new families into the AKP family—you are joining a school filled with care, commitment, and pride. And to our returning families, we can’t wait to see your smiling faces back in the building.

This year holds so much promise, and we are honored to walk this journey with you. We will start to send out communication every week until school starts. If you have any questions, feel free to call us. Enjoy these last few weeks of summer—we’ll see you very soon!

With excitement,

Jon Thompson

Principal

Akron Preparatory School

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🎯 Our Mission: The Akron Prep Promise

We are committed to growing every student:

• Academically through rigorous and engaging instruction
• Culturally through inclusive practices and meaningful traditions
• Socially through strong relationships and emotional support

Every child who walks through our doors will be seen, loved, supported, and safe.

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🔔 What’s New & What’s Back

✅ Free Uniforms for New Students
Stop by or call the front office for details!

✅ Updated Uniform Guidelines
Full guidelines available in the Family Handbook.

📚Book Bag Giveaway

We’re excited to share that during our Back-to-School Night, we will be hosting a bookbag giveaway for our students! Stop by to pick up supplies and get everything you need to start the year strong.

🌟 Expanded After-School Programming
Now featuring:

• Academic tutoring
• Student enrichment clubs
• Social-emotional support groups
• Mentorship for both boys and girls

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🧠💡 Excellence in Every Lesson

Our passionate educators are already preparing classrooms with intentionality and care. With high-quality instruction and real-time data, we’re making learning exciting—and helping students reach their full potential.

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📅 Important Dates to Remember

🎈 Kids Fest Akron

Friday, July 19th @ Hawkins Park

• Free Haircuts & Braiding
• Free Back-to-School Supplies
• Bounce houses and Game Truck
• Food

🏫 Meet the Teacher & Back-to-School Bash

Thursday, August 14, 2025 | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM

• Meet your child’s teacher
• Tour the building
• Get excited for the year ahead!

📚 First Day of School

Monday, August 18, 2025 | 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Be sure your child arrives on time, ready to learn, lead, and shine!

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💬 Let’s Stay Connected

Questions or concerns? Contact me anytime:
📞 330-247-6232
📧 jthompson@akronprep.org
🌐 www.akronprep.org

June 2025 Newsletter

✨ A Warm Welcome from Principal Thompson

Dear Akron Prep Families,

Welcome to another exciting school year at Akron Preparatory School—where every student is nurtured to become a scholar and thrive academically, socially, and culturally. Whether you’re a returning family or joining us for the first time, we’re so glad you’re here. Our building will soon come alive again with the joyful sounds of learning, laughter, and leadership—and we can’t wait to welcome you.

🎯 Our Mission: The Akron Prep Promise

We are committed to growing every student:

• Academically through rigorous and engaging instruction
• Culturally through inclusive practices and meaningful traditions
• Socially through strong relationships and emotional support

Every child who walks through our doors will be seen, loved, supported, and safe.

What’s New & What’s Back

✅ Free Uniforms for New Students
Stop by or call the front office for details!

✅ Updated Uniform Guidelines
Students may now wear Bermuda shorts (khaki or black). Full guidelines available in the Family Handbook.

🎨 Enhanced Arts Program
We continue to offer one of the most vibrant and engaging arts programs in the region! We Offer a great Dance Program with performances each quarter.

🎓 Celebrating Ms. Williams
After over 50 years in education, Ms. Williams will be retiring this year. We are grateful for her service and legacy!

🌟 Expanded After-School Programming
Now featuring:

• Academic tutoring
• Student enrichment clubs
• Social-emotional support groups
• Mentorship for both boys and girls

🧠💡 Excellence in Every Lesson Our passionate educators are already preparing classrooms with intentionality and care. With high-quality instruction and real-time data, we’re making learning exciting—and helping students reach their full potential.

📅 Important Dates to Remember

🎈 Kids Fest Akron

Friday, July 19th @ Hawkins Park

• Free Haircuts & Braiding
• Free Back-to-School Supplies

🏫 Meet the Teacher & Back-to-School Bash

Thursday, August 14, 2025 | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM

• Meet your child’s teacher
• Tour the building
• Get excited for the year ahead!

📚 First Day of School

Monday, August 18, 2025 | 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Be sure your child arrives on time, ready to learn, lead, and shine!

💬 Let’s Stay Connected

Questions or concerns? Contact me anytime:
📞 330-247-6232
📧 jthompson@akronprep.org
🌐 www.akronprep.org

May 2025 Newsletter

ARRIVAL!

Arrival time is 7:30am After 8am they are tardy!!!
Instructional time is very crucial to a successful education. They have to be present and on time in order to succeed!

DISMISSAL!

Any transportation changes need to be called in to the school
by 2:30pm. If we do not get a call, we will assume they will be getting home the way they came to school.

OST TESTING!

Finally, It’s Over!
Scholars did a wonderful job testing. They really put their all into concentrating and doing their best. Thank you, parents, for all of your help with their success.

END OF YEAR IS HERE!!!!

Graduation is Thursday May 15th, 2025

8th Grade Graduation will be located at Goodyear Theatre.
I know this is an exciting time for your scholars and families. Unfortunately, there are a limited amount of seating we are able to accommodate for the graduation.

THERE ARE NO EXTRA TICKETS
AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE!

LAST DAY FOR SCHOLARS IS MAY 22ND. FIELD DAY IS FRIDAY MAY 16TH 2025

PARENT PORTAL

You will need the student code from your school office to sign up.

• Check your child’s grades
• Communicate with teachers
• Update personal information

Sign up using an internet browser! Access the Parent Portal

Download Flyer (PDF)

Download Full Newsletter (PDF)

ARRIVAL!

We have a lot of kids getting here late every day. Instructional time is very crucial to a successful education. They have to be present and on time in order to succeed!
Arrival time is 7:30am. After 8am they are tardy!

OST TESTING!

Testing begins April 1st for grades 3-8!
Please make sure your scholars get a good night’s rest, a good breakfast (provided), and be here on time.

END OF YEAR IS NEAR!!!!!!

Kindergarten, 5th grade, & 8th grade Graduation 2025!

Graduation will be Thursday May 15th, 2025

Be on the lookout for more information to come!

No School 4/18/25- Good Friday

DISMISSAL!
Any transportation changes need to be called in to the school
by 2:30pm. If we do not get a call, we will assume they will be getting home the way they came to school.

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Dear Akron Preparatory Families,

I am excited and honored to introduce myself as the new principal of Akron Preparatory School. My name is Jon Thompson, and I am thrilled to join this wonderful school community in the middle of the school year. I want to take a moment to share a little about myself and my vision for our school moving forward.

I bring over a decade of experience in education, having had the privilege of serving scholars in Cleveland, Nashville, and Tampa. Throughout my career, I have learned that the key to a school’s success is the collaboration and partnership between educators, families, and the community. I firmly believe that when we work together as a team, we can better support our students and help them succeed in school and in life.

Over the years, I have had the opportunity to work with families in a variety of capacities, and I am deeply committed to continuing that partnership here at Akron Prep. I am eager to serve this community, and I look forward to getting to know each of you as we work together to create the best possible learning environment for our children.

We will have Parent Teacher Conferences and a Meet the Principal Dinner on February 13th, and I would love the opportunity to meet as many of you as possible. It will be a great time to connect, share thoughts, and discuss how we can work together to support our students’ success.

I look forward to an exciting and productive journey ahead as we continue to make Akron Prep a place where every student feels valued, supported, and inspired.

Warmly,
Jon Thompson
Principal, Akron Preparatory School

January is School Board Appreciation Month

As we celebrate School Board Appreciation Month, we want to take a moment to recognize the invaluable contributions of our dedicated Board of Directors. Their unwavering commitment to our charter school community has been instrumental in shaping our school into a thriving hub of learning and growth.

Why Charter Schools Matter

Our charter school offers a unique educational experience that is:

• Tuition-Free: Accessible to all families in our community, regardless of their financial situation.
• Safe and Secure: Providing a nurturing and supportive environment where students can learn and thrive.
• Community-Focused: Partnering with parents, teachers, and the broader community to create a strong educational foundation for our students.

The Role of Our Board

Our Board of Directors plays a crucial role in ensuring the success of our school. They:

• Set the Vision: Establish a clear and inspiring vision for our school’s future.
• Make Informed Decisions: Carefully consider all options and make sound decisions that benefit our students.
• Provide Oversight: Monitor the school’s operations and financial health.
• Advocate for Our Students: Represent our school’s interests at the local, state, and federal levels.
• Recruit and Support Quality Staff: Help attract and retain talented educators who are passionate about our mission.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our Board members for their tireless efforts. Their dedication and expertise have made a significant impact on the lives of our students.

Let’s take a moment to thank our Board members for their invaluable contributions. Their commitment to our school’s mission is truly inspiring.

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