ACPS and the Amherst Education Foundation have engaged in a community-building initiative to engage the entire Amherst community in supporting the character development of our children.  Through positive messaging that encourages mutual support of all stakeholders, we hope to model positive character traits for our students, such as civic engagement, communication skills, and collaboration.  We hope that by involving the community in the #ShowUpAmherst initiative, families and community members will come to our schools to support our students in a variety of ways - volunteering, cheering on students at sporting events, science fairs, and fine art showcases. In return, ACPS hopes to #ShowUp for the community through volunteering, community service, and supporting our business and nonprofit partners. 

The Trout in the Classroom project is a hands-on environmental science engagement activity in ACPS elementary and middle school classes.   Schools set up tanks and care for trout eggs until they hatch and the young fish are ready to be released into nature.  The project help students to gain a greater understanding of their world and the impact they have on it.