News Summary
Atlanta Public Schools has shifted the start date for the upcoming academic year to August 4. In addition, the district has appointed 20 new principals, including notable leaders with strong backgrounds in education. The changes aim to enhance the quality of education and provide more flexibility for families. APS also announced Gregory Goodwin as the new Executive Director of Athletics, bringing expertise to improve extracurricular programs. These leadership changes come at a critical time as the district prepares for the new school year.
Atlanta – Atlanta Public Schools (APS) has announced that the first day of school for the 2025-2026 academic year will take place on Monday, August 4, marking a change from the previously scheduled date of Friday, August 1. This shift reflects the district’s ongoing efforts to provide a more flexible academic calendar for students and families.
In addition to the new start date, APS has appointed a total of 20 new principals, effective July 1. This includes a recent announcement of 13 new principals, alongside seven additional principals who were introduced earlier in May. The new appointments underscore APS’s commitment to strengthening leadership across its schools.
List of New Principals
The newly appointed principals include:
- Chante’ Blackwell
- Phillip Braziel
- Holly Brookins
- Chendra Dupree
- Dante Edwards
- Octavius Harris
- Keenya Jackson
- Kimberly Latchman
- Gerard Latimore
- Langston Longley
- Lami Ojezua
- Stacey Welsh Perot
- Heather P. Stephenson
The group also includes previously announced principals such as Brian Baron at Morningside Elementary School and Summer Clayton at E. Rivers Elementary School, among others. These leaders possess a wealth of experience, with many coming from within the APS district itself, which benefits the continuity and culture of the schools.
Background on New Leadership Appointments
One notable appointment is Chendra Dupree, who previously served as the principal of Central High School in Bibb County. Dupree is known for her strong leadership abilities, achieving high graduation rates, and creating safe, supportive learning environments. Her move to APS has generated mixed feelings among parents and staff at Central High, as many express pride in her accomplishments while also feeling sadness over her departure.
To fill the vacancy at Central High School left by Dupree’s exit, APS has posted the position with an application deadline of June 8. The district aims to find a candidate who can continue the positive trajectory established under Dupree’s leadership, with hopes of maintaining the academic excellence and community engagement she fostered.
New Executive Director of Athletics
In a related announcement, Gregory Goodwin has been appointed as the new Executive Director of Athletics for APS. Goodwin brings over 30 years of experience in educational athletics, which is expected to enhance the athletic programs within the district. His leadership role is critical as APS strives to improve both academic and extracurricular offerings for students.
Looking Ahead
The changes within APS leadership come at a pivotal time as the district prepares for the upcoming school year. The appointment of new principals and the strategic shift of the school start date reflect a broader effort to enhance the quality of education within the Atlanta area. As the first day of school approaches, both parents and educators look forward to the positive impacts these new leadership appointments will bring to the students and the community.
In conclusion, the 2025-2026 school year is poised to commence with renewed energy and direction, as Atlanta Public Schools welcomes a new wave of leadership dedicated to fostering an enriching educational environment.
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Additional Resources
- WSBTV: Atlanta Public Schools Announces New First Day of School, 13 New Principals
- Atlanta News First: 20 New Principals Take Helms at APS Schools for 2025-26 Year
- AJC: APS Settles Claim About Racial Grouping of Students
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education
- Google Search: Atlanta Public Schools 2025
