Greetings!

With just five days left until Winter Break—and as we close out 2025—it’s a natural moment to reflect on an important year for APS. This was our first full year under Superintendent Johnson’s leadership, marked by a community wide conversation about the future of our facilities that culminated in the passage of APS Forward. Most importantly, our students have grown, learned, and stretched themselves in meaningful ways on their educational journeys. I’m grateful for your continued engagement and partnership as we look ahead to the promise of 2026.

Let's get to the updates:

• Long Range Facility Master Plan approved: While this vote was challenging, the facilities plan will position APS to be in a place of strength in the years to come. Learn more about the approved plan here.
• Welcome new Board members: After last week's run-off election, Tony Mitchell (District 2), Patreece Hutcherson (District 6), and Kaycee Brock (District 8) will be sworn-in at our January 12, 2026 meeting, as well as returning board member Jennifer McDonald (District 4). We are thankful for the service of outgoing members Cynthia Briscoe Brown, Aretta Baldon, and Totlon Pace.
• Complete the 2025-26 Family Engagement Survey: The deadline is December 19 to ensure your feedback is included as APS looks to best support our students, schools, and parents. Find the survey here.

Hearing from students over breakfast

This week’s Breakfast with the Board featured an engaging conversation with students from Maynard Jackson High School, who shared candid insights about their school experience. They highlighted the need for greater support navigating career-related courses, the importance of school culture, and of course, the cellphone policy.

District website redesigned

With more than 50,000 webpages, this was a significant digital transition for APS. The goal is to provide families, students, and community members with an easy-to-navigate resource for district news and essential information.

Midtown HS transforms Va-Hi with "Winterland"

The Midtown High School art program created "Window Wonderland", a holiday window installation project designed and executed entirely by Midtown High students.

Students can share ideas directly with Dr. Johnson

Middle and high school students, Superintendent Johnson wants to hear from you. Share your thoughts and ideas during the upcoming virtual office hours on Thursday, December 18 at 6 p.m.

Safeguard students while they are online

Each student’s device is protected by Securly, helping keep them safe when they go online. APS also offers the Securly Home app so parents can safeguard your child’s online activity when devices come home.

Ken.Zeff@atlanta.k12.ga.us

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