Atlanta Schools Face Possible Closures Amid Enrollment Decline
APS Considers School Closures to Address Low Enrollment
Atlanta Public Schools (APS) is reviewing the future of up to 13 schools as part of an effort to improve district efficiency. Officials confirmed that between 11 and 13 campuses may be closed or repurposed, following ongoing discussions and evaluations.
Currently, APS operates 87 schools, but enrollment figures remain well below full capacity. Although the district is structured to serve around 70,000 students, only 50,000 are enrolled, with approximately 10,000 of those attending charter schools.
Multiple Scenarios Under Review
District leaders revealed that nearly two dozen different scenarios are being analyzed, each involving potential school closures or repurposing. These options are intended to address challenges in staffing and resource allocation caused by under-enrollment.
Matt Sachs, a district data analyst, explained the problem:
“From a program perspective, we have schools that are very under-enrolled, and it’s hard to staff them appropriately and offer our programs in a school that has 150 or 200 students in the building.”
Community Impact and Response
Among the schools listed for possible changes is L.O. Kimberly Elementary in southwest Atlanta. Jason Allen, a member of the school’s Go Team, emphasized the importance of the community’s involvement in shaping the outcome.
“Kimberly could be affected. It is on the list of proposed changes. However, this is a thriving community, a growing community,” Allen stated. “I believe that with innovation and the support of the Go Team and many others here at the school that it will continue to thrive.”
Community Meetings and Next Steps
APS has scheduled community meetings throughout the week to gather public input. District officials expect to present formal recommendations in November and adopt a finalized plan by December.
Residents are encouraged to attend these meetings and provide feedback on the future of their local schools.