Atlanta, September 8, 2025
News Summary
Atlanta Public Schools is considering closing or repurposing up to 17 schools due to a significant decline in student enrollment and approximately 20,000 empty seats. The current student count is around 50,000 against a designed capacity of 70,000, prompting school officials to rethink resource management amidst financial challenges. Community feedback is being sought before decisions are finalized by December 2025.
Atlanta
Atlanta Public Schools (APS) is evaluating the potential closure or repurposing of up to 17 schools in response to significant declines in student enrollment. The district currently operates 87 schools but finds itself with approximately 20,000 empty seats due to a student count that has dropped to around 50,000, far below its designed capacity of 70,000 students. This restructuring effort could see operational reductions of about 20% by closing these schools.
APS is also contending with a concerning trend in enrollment projections. Recent forecasts suggest student numbers could decrease to just 48,000 by the 2028-29 school year, with elementary schools bearing the brunt of this decline. This situation is prompting school officials to reconsider how resources are managed within the district.
Among the schools under evaluation is L.O. Kimberly Elementary. Local representatives have described this institution as a vital part of the community, though many schools within the district are facing similar challenges of under-enrollment. A district data analyst pointed out that some schools are struggling with student populations of as little as 150-200, complicating staffing and operational efforts.
In an attempt to gather community feedback about the proposed changes, APS is conducting meetings with parents and other stakeholders. The school district has received approximately 3,700 survey responses about its long-range facilities plan over the summer, highlighting the importance of community input in the decision-making process.
Recommendations from APS regarding which schools to close or repurpose are anticipated to be presented in November 2025, with a final decision expected by December 2025. The district aims to maintain school utilization rates at about 65% through the 2029-30 school year while addressing ongoing financial challenges stemming from underutilized facilities. A construction management firm has been engaged to assist with this planning and potential redistricting.
With an average age of nearly 60 years, many APS schools are outdated, accentuating the need for a strategic reevaluation of district resources. Financial implications are also significant, as the district reportedly misses out on approximately $350 million in funding due to the inefficiencies of underutilized school facilities. Through a streamlined structure that maximizes resources, APS aims to enhance the quality of education for its students and programs.
The current situation is not unique to APS; other school districts, like St. Louis Public Schools, are facing similar challenges with declining enrollments leading to proposed closures.
Key Details
- APS is considering closing or repurposing up to 17 schools.
- Current enrollment stands at around 50,000 students; designed capacity is 70,000.
- Approximately 20,000 empty seats are present in the district due to declining enrollment.
- Community feedback gatherings are being conducted to inform the decision process.
- A final decision on the proposed changes is anticipated by December 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is APS considering closing schools?
APS is facing a significant decline in student enrollment, resulting in approximately 20,000 empty seats. Closing under-enrolled schools would promote operational efficiency and better resource management.
What is the timeline for the decision on school closures?
Recommendations for school changes are expected to be presented in November 2025, with a final decision to be made by December 2025.
What efforts are being made to gather community input?
APS is hosting community meetings and has conducted surveys to collect feedback from stakeholders and parents regarding the proposed changes.
Key Features Summary Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Schools Under Consideration | 17 |
| Current APS Enrollment | 50,000 |
| Designed Student Capacity | 70,000 |
| Expected Enrollment by 2028-29 | 48,000 |
| Empty Seats | 20,000 |
| Final Decision Date | December 2025 |
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Additional Resources
- Fox 5 Atlanta: APS Considers Closing Up to 17 Schools
- Wikipedia: Atlanta Public Schools
- Atlanta News First: APS Mulls Possible School Closures
- Google Search: Atlanta School Closures
- K12 Dive: APS Building Closures and Redistricting Plan
- Google Scholar: Atlanta Public Schools Closures
- 11 Alive: APS to Consider School Closures Due to Declining Enrollment
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Educational System in Atlanta
- Fox 5 Atlanta: APS Holding Public Meetings on Closures
- Google News: APS Public Meetings
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
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