Atlanta, September 11, 2025
News Summary
Atlanta Public Schools is contemplating the closure or repurposing of 11 to 13 schools due to a significant decline in student enrollment. With only 50,000 students currently enrolled and a capacity for 70,000, APS is seeking community feedback through public meetings and surveys. Recommendations will be presented in November, with a final decision expected by December. Concerns about the impact on neighborhoods and educational resources are at the forefront of this discussion.
Atlanta
Atlanta Public Schools (APS) is considering significant changes in response to declining student enrollment, including the possibility of closing or repurposing between 11 and 13 schools. This is a part of their effort to increase operational efficiency within the district.
Currently, APS operates 87 schools but only serves an enrollment of about 50,000 students, despite having the capacity to accommodate 70,000. The situation is further complicated by the fact that approximately 10,000 students within the district are attending charter schools. As a result, official reports indicate that many APS schools are under-enrolled, causing challenges in providing adequate staffing and resources necessary for effective educational programs.
Proposals and Community Feedback
In order to address this issue, APS is exploring multiple proposals and plans to gather community feedback through a series of public meetings and surveys. There are nearly two dozen different scenarios under consideration, which could lead to the potential closure or repurposing of various schools across the district. Some schools identified as candidates for closure include L.O. Kimberly Elementary, which is recognized for its vital role in a thriving community.
Community meetings are scheduled for this week, inviting parents and other stakeholders to share their views regarding these potential changes. APS has indicated that recommendations based on community input will be presented in November, and a final plan is expected to be adopted by December 2023. Although the closures are under evaluation, APS officials have stated that it is likely changes will not take effect until after the 2027 school year.
Similar Cases and Concerns
This scenario is not unique to Atlanta, as nearby DeKalb County Schools also faces an enrollment gap, reporting approximately 18,000 missing students. Other school districts across the country, including the Austin Independent School District, are contemplating school closures due to poor performance ratings and similarly declining enrollments.
While some parents express concern over the proposed school consolidations, emphasizing the benefits of smaller schools for student learning and community involvement, there is also anxiety regarding how such changes may disrupt neighborhoods and alter school boundaries. Furthermore, the Georgia Promise Scholarship program has been introduced, providing eligible students at specific APS schools with vouchers to help cover private school or educational expenses. However, the impact of this program on overall enrollment is still uncertain.
Conclusion
As Atlanta Public Schools considers drastic measures to address declining enrollment, the focus remains on collective input from the community to ensure that any decisions made will serve the best interests of students and families. The school district is under pressure to find solutions to enhance educational experiences while managing resources effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main reason for the potential school closures in APS?
Declining enrollment, as the district has around 50,000 students compared to a capacity of 70,000.
How many schools are being considered for closure or repurposing?
A PS is contemplating the closure or repurposing of 11 to 13 schools.
What is the timeline for the decision-making process regarding school closures?
Community feedback will be gathered this week, with recommendations expected in November and a final plan anticipated by December 2023.
How will the community be involved in the decision-making process?
APS is holding public meetings and surveys to collect feedback from parents, students, and community members.
Are there other school districts facing similar issues?
Yes, nearby DeKalb County Schools also reported an enrollment gap of 18,000 students, and other districts like Austin Independent School District are considering closures for underperforming schools.
Key Features of Proposed Changes
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Schools Considered for Closure | 11 to 13 schools |
| Current School Enrollment | Approx. 50,000 students |
| School Capacity | 70,000 students |
| Charter School Enrollment | Approx. 10,000 students |
| Timeline for Recommendations | November 2023 |
| Final Plan Adoption | December 2023 |
| Possible Impact on Communities | Concerns about community separation and school boundary changes |
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Additional Resources
- K12 Dive: Atlanta Public Schools Rolls Out Scenarios for School Consolidations
- Fox 5 Atlanta: Atlanta Public Schools Considers Closing Up to 17 Schools
- WSB TV: Multiple Metro Atlanta Schools Could Close Due to Low Enrollment, Infrastructure
- 11Alive: Parents Weigh in on Options That Could Close Some Atlanta Schools
- K12 Dive: Atlanta Public Schools Building Closures and Redistricting Plan 2025-2030
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.
