There is nothing like the first day of school in Atlanta Public Schools.
All around the district, teachers, staff and administrators excitedly welcomed all scholars back to school for Day One.
After a summer of preparation, professional development, and some time off in-between, each APS school was ready to receive their students for another school year.
Several schools even received visits from board members and associate superintendents who were eager to greet students and observe the excitement of the first week of school.
The elementary students at West Manor Elementary School were greeted at the front doors with music and smiling staff members ready to welcome them into the building. A Social Emotional Learning (SEL) strategy that helps West Manor educators identify any potential issues before class.
West Manor Principal Dr. Reginald Lawrence was especially happy to see his returning students escort their younger siblings to their classrooms.
“This time of the year is always exciting for me. I love to see the kids when they come back. I love to see the excitement on their face,” he said.
The halls of North Atlanta High School were buzzing throughout the day as students reunited with classmates as they navigated through the school to find their classrooms.
“We’re just happy that Day One is here and look forward to a great day,” North Atlanta Principal Curtis Douglass said. “We want to continue what we’ve started throughout the years; academic excellence, students getting into the college of their choices, learning about the careers they want to get into, and just being successful as they matriculate through North Atlanta.”
The start of a new school year is promising and the eagerness to get started was evident throughout the district. APS is eagerly anticipating a year filled with exponential growth, building up the momentum of the progress made last year.
“We’re focused on making sure our students are learning in a loving environment,” Harper-Archer Elementary School Principal Dr. Crystal January said. “Ultimately, we want them to achieve so they’re ready to have all those post-graduate opportunities and be ready for middle school, high school and be a better part of our community.”
