Atlanta Public Schools was recognized on May 13 as a “District on the Rise” in the 2026 Education Scorecard, a joint initiative led by Harvard University’s Center for Education Policy Research and Stanford University’s Educational Opportunity Project.
The recognition highlights that students in Atlanta Public Schools are improving in both math and reading at a faster rate than similar districts. This distinction matters because it points to measurable academic progress following pandemic-related learning disruptions.
“In both math and reading, students in Atlanta Public Schools have improved by more than .4 grade equivalents since 2022, while similar districts in Georgia continued to decline. Atlanta is demonstrating that parents don’t have to accept the pandemic losses in achievement and that recovery is possible,” Professor Dr. Thomas Kane, Faculty Director at Harvard University Graduate School of Education, said.
The study cited several APS initiatives contributing to this progress: expanding literacy and math supports, strengthening instructional practices aligned with Georgia standards, investing in educator coaching, using student data for targeted interventions, and increasing access to summer learning opportunities. The district has also earned other recognitions recently: 34 Governor’s Office of Student Achievement “Beating the Odds” awards; 11 Single Statewide Accountability System awards for academic growth; the Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award; a teacher retention rate exceeding 90 percent; and single-digit teacher vacancies over three consecutive years.
“It’s not just about the numbers for us, it’s bigger than the numbers. This is about kids and their future, their ability to thrive and to find their voice,” according to a statement from an APS case study included in the report.
Superintendent Dr. Bryan Johnson thanked educators, staff, students, families, and community partners for their commitment. He said APS will continue its Back to the Basics strategic plan through 2030 with a focus on literacy improvement, math achievement gains, strong student support systems, and high-quality instruction.
