APS Board Update – May 2025

Key Focus Areas: Strategic Plan Implementation, Literacy Proficiency, FY2026 Budget & Financial Sustainability

Accountability

Key Updates:

APS shared progress on its 4-phase Strategic Plan process, which includes community input, vision setting, initiative development, and tracking progress. The district is prioritizing six core areas: instruction, student wellness, enrichment, staff development, family partnership, and system effectiveness. They also shared literacy achievement data showing a 4.3 percentage point increase from 2022, but the district remains below its 2024 goal.

Action Items:

APS will focus on strengthening Tier I instruction, adjusting school funding formulas to support early literacy, investing in professional learning, and increasing shared accountability with families and partners.

Equity-Focused Decisions:

APS is expanding Career, Technical & Agricultural Education (CTAE) pathways in high-demand fields like phlebotomy, entertainment management, and heavy equipment operations. New programs are being added at middle and high schools, with a focus on Black and Brown student participation. They also continue to prioritize equity in facility use, safety, and resource distribution.

Impact on Students & Families:

Equity investments are designed to improve access to academic, career, and social-emotional supports—particularly for students with disabilities, English learners, and economically disadvantaged students. Expanded CTAE and improved facilities will help more students access learning environments aligned to their needs and goals.

School Choice & Options:

APS is reviewing facility utilization to ensure schools are “right-sized” and equitably resourced. This may involve merging, consolidating, or repurposing schools based on building conditions, enrollment shifts, and community input. The Facilities Task Force will have its first meeting Thursday, May 8th at 6:30pm.

Program Accessibility:

APS is expanding arts, AP/IB, CTAE, and extracurricular programs across clusters. Counseling improvements and career advising in middle school are intended to help students plan pathways earlier and better access the programs that match their interests.

Upcoming Public Hearings/Feedback Sessions:

APS is holding focus groups and public task force meetings to gather feedback on the Comprehensive Facilities Plan (CFP). Meeting information will be posted publicly, and families are encouraged to attend and participate.

How to Get Involved:

APS invites families and community members to join Comprehensive Facilities Planning focus groups, attend Board meetings, and follow school-based engagement opportunities. School program budgets are also now available via Simbli for public viewing.

APS will finalize Comprehensive Facilities Plan recommendations for the FY2026 budget.
Strategic Plan initiatives will move into implementation, with an emphasis on literacy and career readiness.
APFE (Atlanta Partners for Education) will grow its fundraising efforts to align with academic and community goals.