Atlanta, GA, July 24, 2025
News Summary
Atlanta Public Schools has shifted its start date for the upcoming school year to better prepare educators and announced the elimination of 135 central office jobs to reinvest in classroom resources. The district is also implementing new policies, including a no cell phone usage rule during school hours and a focus on foundational literacy within its curriculum. In an effort to attract quality educators, an 11% salary increase for teachers and a 10% increase for support staff has been approved, enhancing the overall educational environment for students.
Atlanta, GA — The Atlanta Public Schools (APS) will begin the 2025-2026 school year on Monday, August 4, 2025. This date was shifted from the original plan of Friday, August 1, which is now designated as a teacher pre-planning day. This adjustment is part of the district’s efforts to better prepare educators before the school year kicks off.
In addition to the calendar changes, the Board of Education announced the elimination of 135 jobs at the APS Central Office in accordance with the approved 2026 budget. This decision is intended to “eliminate redundancies,” with the funds saved from these positions being redistributed to classrooms and school budgets to enhance educational resources directly. As a result, stakeholders may see improvements in school facilities and support services.
The first long weekend for families following the return to school will coincide with Labor Day on September 1, 2025. APS has various start times across grades and schools, a practice that has been in place since February 2024, aiming to optimize the schooling experience for different age groups.
The district maintains a strict mobile device policy, prohibiting cell phones during school hours except in emergencies or with teacher permission. Alongside this, APS implements a clear bag policy primarily focused on safety during athletic events, allowing only one large clear bag and one small clutch per ticket holder. Clear backpacks may also be required depending on individual school regulations.
Personnel Changes and Pay Raises
In preparation for the upcoming school year, APS has welcomed over 270 new employees, which includes 180 new teachers. The district approved an 11% pay raise for teachers, increasing starting salaries to approximately $61,000. Other staff members, including bus drivers, custodians, and paraprofessionals, have received a 10% salary increase. Superintendent Dr. Bryan Johnson outlined a long-term goal to raise the average teacher salary to $100,000 by 2030, emphasizing the importance of attracting and retaining quality educators.
New Policies and Curriculum
The APS is reinforcing its no cell phone policy, requiring devices to be stored away during school hours. Furthermore, a newly enacted Georgia law mandates the installation of mobile panic alert systems in public K-12 schools across the state, enhancing safety measures for students and staff.
Academically, APS is placing a strong emphasis on improving student achievement, particularly in literacy. To support this objective, the district is implementing a new tier-one foundational literacy curriculum. This year will also see the introduction of 20 new principals who will lead various schools throughout the district, fostering new leadership and educational strategies.
Morningside Elementary School’s new hire, teacher Radonte White, expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to rejoin the district and make a significant positive impact in students’ lives.
Summary of Key Points
- First day of school: August 4, 2025
- Job cuts: 135 positions eliminated
- Pay raises: 11% for teachers, 10% for support staff
- New school policies: No cell phone usage during school
- Curriculum focus: New literacy program implementation
- New hires: 270 employees including 180 teachers
- Superintendent’s goal: Average teacher salary of $100,000 by 2030
Upcoming School Year Overview
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Start Date | August 4, 2025 |
| Job Cuts | 135 positions eliminated |
| Teacher Salary Increase | Starting salaries approx. $61,000 |
| Staff Raise | 10% for bus drivers, custodians, and paraprofessionals |
| New Curriculum Focus | Foundational literacy |
| New Principals | 20 new principals |
FAQ
Atlanta Public Schools 2025-2026 School Year FAQs
When does the 2025-2026 school year start?
The first day of school is Monday, August 4, 2025.
What changes are being made to school staff?
135 jobs are being cut at the APS Central Office as part of budgetary changes.
What is the new pay raise for teachers?
Teachers will see an 11% pay raise, raising starting salaries to about $61,000.
What new policies will be enforced?
A no cell phone policy during school hours and the introduction of mobile panic alert systems across the district.
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Additional Resources
- 11Alive
- Streetz 94.5
- Atlanta News First
- Fox 5 Atlanta
- Rough Draft Atlanta
- Wikipedia: Atlanta Public Schools
- Google Search: Atlanta Public Schools 2025
- Google Scholar: Atlanta Public Schools salary increase
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Atlanta Public Schools
- Google News: Atlanta Public Schools 2025
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
