📢 **ATTENTION 5TH & 6TH GRADE PARENTS!** 🥎
Registration forms for the Alcorn Central Youth Softball Fall League were sent home with students! Check those backpacks! 🎒
💰 **Cost:** $45 (covers jersey, practices, and games)
📍 **Location:** Alcorn Central Softball Field
🗓️ **Forms Due:** October 2nd
If your player misplaced their paper form, you can print the image attached to this post.
📧 Questions? Contact Coach Dylinn Rowland at `dylinnrowland@alcornschools.org`.
See you on the dirt! 🥎🔥
Registration forms for the Alcorn Central Youth Softball Fall League were sent home with students! Check those backpacks! 🎒
💰 **Cost:** $45 (covers jersey, practices, and games)
📍 **Location:** Alcorn Central Softball Field
🗓️ **Forms Due:** October 2nd
If your player misplaced their paper form, you can print the image attached to this post.
📧 Questions? Contact Coach Dylinn Rowland at `dylinnrowland@alcornschools.org`.
See you on the dirt! 🥎🔥
🌟 **ADMIN SPOTLIGHT: Get to know our Assistant Principal!** 🌟
📚 **Educational Background**
**Where did you go to college, and what degrees/certifications did you earn?**
* B.S. Elementary Education — Mississippi State University
* M.S. Educational Leadership — Western Governors University
**What subjects or grade levels did you teach before moving into administration?**
* 2nd (ELA & Math), 3rd (Math), 4th (ELA & Math), Library K-4
**What other roles or schools were you at prior to joining us at [School Name]?**
* Anderson Elementary
**What inspired you to make the leap from classroom teaching into school leadership?**
> What inspired me to make the leap from classroom teaching into school leadership was my desire to help teachers make a difference in the lives of students every single day. I love being able to give a teacher something they can use or just be able to offer them encouragement and support. For me, school leadership is about serving others, building people up, and helping create a school where everyone feels valued, supported, and capable of making a difference and I wanted the opportunity to do just that.
---
💙 **The Heart & Purpose**
**What originally drew you to a career in education?**
> Honestly, my path into education was a God moment. I was originally on a completely different career path. I was finishing my bachelor’s degree with plans to go on and specialize in another area and pursue something entirely different. But while I was completing some classroom hours and spending time with students, God made it very clear to me: “This is your mission field. Every day. Every classroom. Reach kids.”
**What is your favorite thing about being part of the AC community?**
> My favorite thing about being part of the AC community is, without a doubt, the people—our students, our faculty and staff, and our leadership. There is something really special about being part of a community that loves its people, believes in its kids, and works together to make a difference. I am so thankful to be a part of AC.
**If you could share one key piece of advice with our students, what would it be?**
> Every day is a day you will never get back, so make it count; Every day is a new day—you can always choose to start again; Every day be someone who makes others feel loved and valued.
**Is there a specific moment in your career that always brings a smile to your face?**
> It’s hard to pick just one moment, but anytime I’ve witnessed a student realize they have accomplished more than they ever thought they could and you can see that genuine pride on their face, watching them discover, “I can do this,” is one of the best parts of education.
---
**The Fun Stuff**
**Tell us about yourself outside of school!**
> Outside of school, I love spending time outdoors and with my family. You can usually find me kayaking on a river, hiking in the woods or mountains, biking a trail, running, or getting in a workout at the gym. I also love family game nights and football Sundays at my house – Go Bills! 🦬
**If you weren't in education, what would be your dream career?**
> If I weren’t in education, I think I could really thrive working with the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit. I think working on solving cases would be pretty fascinating.
**How would your former teachers describe you when you were a student?**
> I think my former teachers would describe me as sweet, hard-working, and maybe a little shy. I was also pretty athletic and loved being involved. I was a pretty good kid! I saved all my sass for home time.
**What is your go-to morning caffeine order to get through a busy school day?**
> My go-to morning caffeine is usually coffee, followed by Alani or loaded tea.
**If you had to step up to a karaoke mic right now, what song are you singing?**
> Sweet Caroline every time. It reminds me of one of my favorite memories with my son at a Red Sox game. Also, everyone ALWAYS gets on board and sings along.
---
⚡ **Rapid Fire ⚡**
**Early bird or night owl?**
> Night owl for sure, but I have to make myself go to bed b/c I have to wake before the birds to get it all done.
**Podcasts or playlists?**
> Podcasts are wonderful and I love them, but my go to is a good playlist! I must have these playlists on hand at all times: worship, workout, running, fun/sing along, and calming. A good playlist can fix a lot!
**Sweet or salty snacks?**
> Why are we choosing just one? Sweet if I can’t have both!
📚 **Educational Background**
**Where did you go to college, and what degrees/certifications did you earn?**
* B.S. Elementary Education — Mississippi State University
* M.S. Educational Leadership — Western Governors University
**What subjects or grade levels did you teach before moving into administration?**
* 2nd (ELA & Math), 3rd (Math), 4th (ELA & Math), Library K-4
**What other roles or schools were you at prior to joining us at [School Name]?**
* Anderson Elementary
**What inspired you to make the leap from classroom teaching into school leadership?**
> What inspired me to make the leap from classroom teaching into school leadership was my desire to help teachers make a difference in the lives of students every single day. I love being able to give a teacher something they can use or just be able to offer them encouragement and support. For me, school leadership is about serving others, building people up, and helping create a school where everyone feels valued, supported, and capable of making a difference and I wanted the opportunity to do just that.
---
💙 **The Heart & Purpose**
**What originally drew you to a career in education?**
> Honestly, my path into education was a God moment. I was originally on a completely different career path. I was finishing my bachelor’s degree with plans to go on and specialize in another area and pursue something entirely different. But while I was completing some classroom hours and spending time with students, God made it very clear to me: “This is your mission field. Every day. Every classroom. Reach kids.”
**What is your favorite thing about being part of the AC community?**
> My favorite thing about being part of the AC community is, without a doubt, the people—our students, our faculty and staff, and our leadership. There is something really special about being part of a community that loves its people, believes in its kids, and works together to make a difference. I am so thankful to be a part of AC.
**If you could share one key piece of advice with our students, what would it be?**
> Every day is a day you will never get back, so make it count; Every day is a new day—you can always choose to start again; Every day be someone who makes others feel loved and valued.
**Is there a specific moment in your career that always brings a smile to your face?**
> It’s hard to pick just one moment, but anytime I’ve witnessed a student realize they have accomplished more than they ever thought they could and you can see that genuine pride on their face, watching them discover, “I can do this,” is one of the best parts of education.
---
**The Fun Stuff**
**Tell us about yourself outside of school!**
> Outside of school, I love spending time outdoors and with my family. You can usually find me kayaking on a river, hiking in the woods or mountains, biking a trail, running, or getting in a workout at the gym. I also love family game nights and football Sundays at my house – Go Bills! 🦬
**If you weren't in education, what would be your dream career?**
> If I weren’t in education, I think I could really thrive working with the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit. I think working on solving cases would be pretty fascinating.
**How would your former teachers describe you when you were a student?**
> I think my former teachers would describe me as sweet, hard-working, and maybe a little shy. I was also pretty athletic and loved being involved. I was a pretty good kid! I saved all my sass for home time.
**What is your go-to morning caffeine order to get through a busy school day?**
> My go-to morning caffeine is usually coffee, followed by Alani or loaded tea.
**If you had to step up to a karaoke mic right now, what song are you singing?**
> Sweet Caroline every time. It reminds me of one of my favorite memories with my son at a Red Sox game. Also, everyone ALWAYS gets on board and sings along.
---
⚡ **Rapid Fire ⚡**
**Early bird or night owl?**
> Night owl for sure, but I have to make myself go to bed b/c I have to wake before the birds to get it all done.
**Podcasts or playlists?**
> Podcasts are wonderful and I love them, but my go to is a good playlist! I must have these playlists on hand at all times: worship, workout, running, fun/sing along, and calming. A good playlist can fix a lot!
**Sweet or salty snacks?**
> Why are we choosing just one? Sweet if I can’t have both!
📢 Stay in the know! Here’s how to make sure you’re receiving important ASD messages.
#WeAreASD #LearnLeadEXCEL
A Quick Note About ASD Attendance Notifications
You may have noticed that you’re receiving attendance notifications even when your child’s absence was excused.
We want you to know why—and why we see this as a good thing!
A new Mississippi law requires schools to notify families when a student reaches three cumulative absences, whether excused or unexcused.
This notification does not mean your child’s absence was unexcused. Properly documented excused absences remain excused.
While these communications are now required by the state, we welcome the opportunity to keep our families informed about their child’s attendance. The sooner we communicate, the sooner we can work together to support our students.
More communication. More connection. More support for our students. That’s a good thing.
#WeAreASD #LearnLeadEXCEL
You may have noticed that you’re receiving attendance notifications even when your child’s absence was excused.
We want you to know why—and why we see this as a good thing!
A new Mississippi law requires schools to notify families when a student reaches three cumulative absences, whether excused or unexcused.
This notification does not mean your child’s absence was unexcused. Properly documented excused absences remain excused.
While these communications are now required by the state, we welcome the opportunity to keep our families informed about their child’s attendance. The sooner we communicate, the sooner we can work together to support our students.
More communication. More connection. More support for our students. That’s a good thing.
#WeAreASD #LearnLeadEXCEL
We loved seeing all of our Cubs dressed up in their Career & College Day outfits! From future teachers to doctors, athletes, and everything in between, our students showed us that the possibilities are endless! We are so proud of their big dreams and bright futures!
Friday, September 11, was a day full of patriotism, grandparents, and fun-filled events at ACES! 🇺🇸❤️ Our students made wonderful memories, and we are so grateful to everyone who helped make the day so special.
A very special shout-out to our amazing teachers, cafeteria ladies, and grandparents for all the love, time, and effort you poured into making it such a memorable day for our Cubs! 🐻💛
A very special shout-out to our amazing teachers, cafeteria ladies, and grandparents for all the love, time, and effort you poured into making it such a memorable day for our Cubs! 🐻💛
🇺🇸 **Remembering September 11th** 🇺🇸
Tomorrow, we invite our ACES family to wear **red, white, and blue** as we remember September 11, 2001, and honor the lives lost, the heroes who served, and the courage shown by so many.
**We remember. We honor. We will never forget.** 🇺🇸❤️🤍💙
Tomorrow, we invite our ACES family to wear **red, white, and blue** as we remember September 11, 2001, and honor the lives lost, the heroes who served, and the courage shown by so many.
**We remember. We honor. We will never forget.** 🇺🇸❤️🤍💙
📸 **Picture Day Reminder!** 📸
We loved seeing all those bright smiles yesterday and today! Just a quick friendly reminder that picture money is due tomorrow, **9/11**, for students who have already had their photos taken.
If your child missed it, don't worry at all! We will announce makeup picture days as soon as we have a date scheduled so everyone gets a chance to shine.
Have a wonderful day! 🌟
We loved seeing all those bright smiles yesterday and today! Just a quick friendly reminder that picture money is due tomorrow, **9/11**, for students who have already had their photos taken.
If your child missed it, don't worry at all! We will announce makeup picture days as soon as we have a date scheduled so everyone gets a chance to shine.
Have a wonderful day! 🌟
📚🐻 Progress Reports Are Coming Home! 🐻📚
Progress Reports went home with students this afternoon! Please take a few minutes to review your child’s progress with them, sign the report, and return it to school tomorrow.
We are so thankful for the trust you place in us to care for, teach, encourage, and love your kiddos each and every day. We are grateful to be part of their journey and even more grateful to have you as partners along the way! 💜💛
Thank you for being part of the ACES family! 🐻✨
Progress Reports went home with students this afternoon! Please take a few minutes to review your child’s progress with them, sign the report, and return it to school tomorrow.
We are so thankful for the trust you place in us to care for, teach, encourage, and love your kiddos each and every day. We are grateful to be part of their journey and even more grateful to have you as partners along the way! 💜💛
Thank you for being part of the ACES family! 🐻✨
📸🐻 **SAY CHEESE, GOLDEN BEARS!** 🐻📸
It's almost time for **school pictures at ACES!** These photos will be featured in our **2026–2027 yearbook**, so we're ready to see those big smiles, best poses, and plenty of Golden Bear personality! 😁
📅 **Wednesday, September 9:** Pre-K–2nd Grade
📅 **Thursday, September 10:** 3rd–6th Grade
So comb that hair, straighten that collar, practice your best cheesy grin, and **bring your A-game!** 📸✨
**Let's make this year's yearbook one to remember!** 🐻💜💛
PTO Thursday
Homecoming 2026 Dress Up Days!
🏥 Calling all math surgeons!
Mrs. Carlie’s 5th graders spent the week tackling the order of operations, and the classroom transformed into a full operating room yesterday! 🏥✨ Students put their skills to the test by completing 10 surgery-themed math challenges to solve expressions and save the day! 📐🩺
Mrs. Carlie’s 5th graders spent the week tackling the order of operations, and the classroom transformed into a full operating room yesterday! 🏥✨ Students put their skills to the test by completing 10 surgery-themed math challenges to solve expressions and save the day! 📐🩺
**Star Screener Reports Coming Home Today!** 🌟📚
Today, your student will be bringing home their **Star Screener** report!
These universal screeners give us a great baseline to understand where your child is starting this school year and help us tailor our support to ensure they thrive.
**How you can help:**
* 📝 Please review the report with your student.
* ✍️ **Sign and return** the report to your child's teacher so we can keep a copy on file.
Thank you so much for partnering with us to help your student achieve their very best this year!
We are AC 💜💛
Today, your student will be bringing home their **Star Screener** report!
These universal screeners give us a great baseline to understand where your child is starting this school year and help us tailor our support to ensure they thrive.
**How you can help:**
* 📝 Please review the report with your student.
* ✍️ **Sign and return** the report to your child's teacher so we can keep a copy on file.
Thank you so much for partnering with us to help your student achieve their very best this year!
We are AC 💜💛
We just completed our first fire drill of the school year, and it went great! The kids did a wonderful job following procedures quickly and safely—we are super proud of them!
We are AC !💜💛
We are AC !💜💛
🌟 **A Quick Car Line Update & Thank You!** 🌟
Parents, we want to start by saying a huge thank you for your continued support and patience as we work out the bugs in our car line routines. The safety and well-being of our students is always our number one priority!
To help keep things safe, secure, and running smoothly for everyone, we ask that you please review these quick updates:
☀️ **Morning Drop-Off:**
* **Form Multiple Rows:** To keep the morning line moving as efficiently as possible, please make sure we are forming multiple rows in the gravel pit as we wait to enter the elementary carline.
🚗 **Afternoon Pick-Up:**
* **Stay in Your Vehicle:** Please remain in your cars at all times during dismissal. We promise we are working hard to bring your kiddos out to you quickly!
* **No Waiting Inside:** For security reasons and to keep the hallways clear, parents should not wait inside the school foyer for students to walk out at 2:50 PM.
* **Urgent Needs:** If you have an urgent situation and need your child early, please do not approach the cafeteria or ask teachers directly. Our teachers need to keep their full attention on the dismissal flow to keep every child safe. Instead, please wait for Ms. Vandiver or Mr. Knight, and they will gladly retrieve your child for you.
* **High School Drivers:** If a high school sibling is driving their younger sibling home and walking down to pick them up, please remind them to use the sidewalks and never walk down the road.
Thank you for teaming up with us to keep our daily routines safe and efficient. We appreciate our amazing school community! 💙📚
✏️ Reminder: PTO Meeting Tonight!
We are meeting tonight at 6:00 PM in the ACES Cafeteria. Come learn about upcoming events and how you can get involved. We hope to see you there!
We are meeting tonight at 6:00 PM in the ACES Cafeteria. Come learn about upcoming events and how you can get involved. We hope to see you there!
Now that our little ones have had a few days to adjust, car line drop-off is in full swing! Just a friendly reminder that to keep our campus safe and secure, the building is now closed to visitors during the morning, and all parents must remain in their vehicles.
Please don't worry—our amazing staff is out there smiling and ready to greet your kiddos right at the car! We will help them safely inside and make sure they get exactly where they need to be. We promise to take wonderful care of them. Thank you for an amazing start to the year!
—Mr Knight :)
Please don't worry—our amazing staff is out there smiling and ready to greet your kiddos right at the car! We will help them safely inside and make sure they get exactly where they need to be. We promise to take wonderful care of them. Thank you for an amazing start to the year!
—Mr Knight :)
ACES Families: Just a quick reminder that today is the last day for Pre-K parents to drop off students inside the building. Beginning tomorrow, Thursday, 8/4, access to the building will be strictly limited to students and staff. This policy is in place to prioritize the safety and security of our entire campus. We appreciate your cooperation and support!
🌟 **Good Morning, ACES Families!** 🌟
Today is **Day 2 of our Pre-K staggered start**, and we are excited to welcome our **Pre-K students with last names M–Z**!
To help ensure a safe and smooth morning, **only Pre-K parents are permitted inside the elementary building during drop-off.** After walking your child to the classroom, we ask that you please exit the building so our staff can prepare for the school day.
Thank you for your patience, flexibility, and support as we help our youngest Golden Bears have a great start to the school year. We can't wait for another fantastic day at ACES! 🐻💛
Today is **Day 2 of our Pre-K staggered start**, and we are excited to welcome our **Pre-K students with last names M–Z**!
To help ensure a safe and smooth morning, **only Pre-K parents are permitted inside the elementary building during drop-off.** After walking your child to the classroom, we ask that you please exit the building so our staff can prepare for the school day.
Thank you for your patience, flexibility, and support as we help our youngest Golden Bears have a great start to the school year. We can't wait for another fantastic day at ACES! 🐻💛
