Hello Ken,

As crazy as it sounds, the first day of school is just around the corner—about two weeks away. Like many of you, I’m still wondering where summer went but Day One is coming fast. Soak up these last few days of balmy July weather, because the rhythm of backpacks, bus stops, and packed lunches is right around the corner.

Let's get to the updates:

• First day of school is Monday, August 4: Note this date was pushed back at the end of last year. Check out the entire school calendar here.

• Superintendent Johnson's contract extended: Dr. Johnson's first year has been marked by budget discipline, refocus on literacy, and a back-to-basics approach. Personally, I appreciate his candor, energy, and quiet confidence so I was pleased to support the contract extension. Learn more here.
• August Board meeting will take place on the second Monday of August (August 11^th) so we do not conflict with the new first day of school.

The cellphone ban is coming to an APS school near you (all of them)

To maintain a focused and safe educational environment, APS is reinforcing its Personal Electronic Device (PED) policy for all students across the district. While individual schools will be given a measure of autonomy in how the policy is implemented, during the official school day – including lunch periods – all PEDs must be turned off and out of sight. The district is getting a head start on compliance with state law (HB340) which begins in school year 2026-27.

Everyone loves new school supplies

We encourage APS families to attend your school’s open house on Friday, August 1, 2025 to learn more about the upcoming year and receive a school supply kit. There is also an APS event at Lakewood Stadium.

Long range facilities planning is underway

A community task force is helping shape the comprehensive facilities master plan for APS. The plan will outline facilities needed to meet trends in enrollment/demographics and academic programming.

Right bus. Right stop.

Right time.

Download the app to show your child’s bus location in real time, with scheduled and actual arrival times, and receive push or email alerts when the bus is nearby.

Get registered

Check out the processes for new student enrollment, proof of residency if you are attending a new APS school, and other transfer options.

Ken.Zeff@atlanta.k12.ga.us

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