Strategic Plan

Together, we are building a stronger, more responsive, and more unified APS — one that delivers on the commitment of excellence for every child.

Dr. Bryan Johnson, Superintendent

What is the Strategic Plan?

The APS Roadmap to Excellence

The APS Strategic Plan, Back to the Basics 2030, is our roadmap to excellence, anchored by six focus areas that guide our daily work. Simply put, it is the district’s achievement plan, outlining the objectives, strategies, and key performance indicators that will move every student, every classroom, and every school forward.

Progress reports are provided monthly on at least two objectives at the Atlanta Board of Education meetings. For the most recent progress reports for each focus area, click "See Our Progress" below.

Back to the Basics 2030

2025-2030 Strategic Plan for Atlanta Public Schools

Back to the Basics 2030 is the result of deep listening, honest dialogue, and shared commitment from every part of the Atlanta Public Schools community. Over the past year, we’ve engaged thousands of voices — students, families, educators, school leaders, staff, alumni, partners, and neighborhood advocates — all united around one belief: every child in Atlanta deserves a strong foundation and expansive opportunities.

Schools are the anchor of thriving communities, and Back to the Basics 2030 is designed to strengthen that foundation. This plan elevates rigorous instruction, ensures equitable access to advanced learning opportunities, and deepens our investment in student well-being — all to ensure that every APS student, in every school, has the tools, experiences, and support needed to pursue a future full of possibility.

We are a Community of Believers getting Back to the Basics!

"Community of Believers"

Honoring Our Roots: Dr. Alonzo A. Crim

The spirit of our Community of Believers is grounded in the legacy of Dr. Alonzo A. Crim, the first Black superintendent of Atlanta Public Schools and a national pioneer in educational excellence. Dr. Crim believed deeply in the collective power of educators, families, and communities to transform outcomes for children. His vision—that every child can succeed when surrounded by adults who believe in their brilliance—continues to guide APS today. Our work stands on the shoulders of his transformational leadership and enduring commitment to excellence, hope, and possibility.

APS Strategic Goals

Why We Exist

Educating and Empowering Atlanta Public Schools' Students to Shape the Future.

How We Will Get There

Galvanizing a Community of Believers and Getting Back to Basics.

20% by 2030: Our Path to Progress

Literacy is the Foundation

Numeracy is the Gateway

College and Career Readiness is the Launchpad

By 2030: APS will achieve

Universal Pre K

$100,000 Average Teacher Salary

Individual Student Success Plan

Community Hubs

2025-2026 Mid-Year Report

January 12, 2026

Key Performance Indicators

Focus Area 1

Our Strength is Our Team

See Our Progress

Focus Area 2

Our Responsibility is Shared

See Our Progress

Focus Area 3

Our System is Efficient and Effective

See Our Progress

Focus Area 4

We are Strengthening Our Instructional Core

See Our Progress

Focus Area 5

We Are Caring for Every Child

See Our Progress

Focus Area 6

We Are Sparking Student Curiosity

See Our Progress

Upcoming Events

Calendar RSS Feeds

May 4 2026

Strategic Plan Updates Monthly Strategy Update

2:30 PM - 4:30 PM

Progress Updates

Monthly progress updates are available here.

2025-2026

August 2025

Performance Update
Dr. Kathy Howe

We Are Strengthening Our Instructional Core
Implement high-quality, relevant, and engaging instructional materials and professional learning in all core content areas
Mr. Tommy Usher and Dr. Shakeatha Butler

Our Strength Is Our Team
Increase concentration of highly-effective teachers and leaders
Felecia Lester and Tommy Usher

Our System Is Efficient and Effective
Leverage Data to Drive Strategic Financial Investment
Dr. Lisa Bracken

Our System Is Efficient and Effective
Maximize facility usage for the student and community good
Dr. Kenneth Bradshaw

September 2025

We Are Caring For Every Child
Expand strategies that reduce chronic absenteeism and disproportionate discipline
Dr. Patricia Ford

Our System Is Efficient & Effective
Maximize facility usage for the student and community good
Dr. Adam Danser and Dr. Chelsea Montgomery

Our System Is Efficient & Effective
Leverage data to drive strategic financial investments
Dr. Lisa Bracken

October 2025

Our System If Efficient & Effective
Implement sustainability initiatives
Dr. Kenneth Bradshaw

We Are Caring For Every Child
Implement systematic culture and climate strategies
Mr. Tommy Usher

Our System If Efficient & Effective
Leverage data to drive strategic financial investments
Dr. Lisa Bracken

Our System Is Efficient & Effective
Maximize facility usage for the student and community good
Matt Sachs, HPM

November 2025

We Are Sparking Student Curiosity
Expand access to high-interest and workforce-ready offerings

Dr. Tasharah Wilson | Dr. Dwionne Freeman | Jennifer Wilson

Expand Atlanta Partners for Education (APFE) Impact
Katie Post

Leverage data to drive strategic financial investments
Dr. Lisa Bracken

APS Forward 2040

December 2025

We Are Sparking Student Curiosity
Explore specialized and innovative school models
Shelly Goodrum

Our Responsibility Is Shared
Increase access and engagement for families and communities
Crystal Serracin

Our System Is Efficient & Effective
Leverage data to drive strategic financial investments
Dr. Lisa Bracken

January 2026

Mid-Year Strategic Plan Update
Travis Norvell

NWEA/MAP Assessment: Mid-Year Update | Winter 2026 | Grades 3-8
Tommy Usher
Dr. Kathy Howe
Will Melton

We Are Strengthening Our Instructional Core
Implement high-quality, relevant, and engaging instructional materials and professional learning in all core content areas; and
Accelerate Early Learning

We Are Sparking Student Curiosity
Explore specialized and innovative school models
Dr. Shavaun Mincey

Our System Is Efficient & Effective
Leverage data to drive strategic financial investments
Dr. Lisa Bracken

February 2026

We Are Strengthening Our Instructional Core
Accelerate early learning
Joanne Wyckoff

Our Strength Is Our Team
Grow and promote strong teachers, leaders, and staff
Felecia Lester

Our System Is Efficient & Effective
Leverage data to drive strategic financial investments
Dr. Lisa Bracken

March 2026

Our Responsibility Is Shared
Build meaningful partnerships
Carl Hill and Keith I. Glass, Jr.

We Are Caring For Every Child
Increase student access to trusted and reliable adults
Dr. Veneschia Bryant
Dr. Kyra Caldwell Templeton
Gregory Goodwin

Our System If Efficient & Effective
Leverage data to drive strategic financial investments
Dr. Lisa Bracken

April 2026

We Are Sparking Student Curiosity
Promote robust arts, world language, and enrichment offerings
Dr. Anyee' Payne

Our Strengths Is Our Team
Prioritize engagement and retention for staff
Felecia Lester

Our System Is Efficient & Effective
Leverage data to drive strategic financial investments
Dr. Lisa Bracken