Written by: APS Office of Communications
Atlanta Public Schools (APS) has reached a major financial milestone with the tentative adoption of its FY2027 budget by the Atlanta Board of Education, marking the district’s first balanced budget since 2023 that does not rely on the use of fund balance. This means APS is now operating fully within its annual revenue, a key sign of long-term financial strength and stability.
This achievement reflects a deliberate focus on fiscal discipline, strategic prioritization, and long-term sustainability, while continuing to invest in the core areas that drive student success.
“Balancing this budget required tough decisions, but it positions us to move forward with strength and stability,” said Superintendent Dr. Bryan Johnson. “We are staying focused on what matters most: Our people, our instructional core, and the success of every student.”
Guided by nearly 3,000 survey responses and direct student feedback, APS is directing its investments toward the priorities that matter most to its community.
Investing in Our People: APS Remains the Top Payor for Teachers
APS continues to lead metro Atlanta and the southeastern region in teacher compensation, reinforcing its commitment to attracting and retaining high-quality educators. The FY2027 budget includes a $19 million investment in employee compensation, including step increases, cost-of-living adjustments, and targeted salary enhancements.
Strengthening the Instructional Core
Aligned to the district’s “Back to the Basics” strategic plan, APS is investing $37 million in literacy, curriculum, and academic programming. These investments support early literacy, middle grades interventions, and access to high-quality instructional materials and innovative programs designed to accelerate student achievement.
Supporting Every Child
APS continues to expand its commitment to exceptional education. Since 2022, funding in this area has more than doubled—from approximately $60 million to over $120 million—ensuring students receive the services, staffing, and resources necessary to meet their individual needs.
Providing Tax Relief for Atlanta Homeowners
The FY2027 budget also includes a proposed millage rate reduction from 20.5 to 20.3 mills, delivering approximately $10 million in tax relief for residential homeowners, one of the few such actions among metro Atlanta school districts.
A Sustainable Path Forward
Using $0 in fund balance means APS is not relying on savings or one-time solutions to move the district forward.
The FY2027 budget reflects APS’ commitment to responsible financial management while advancing its long-term goals for student achievement and operational excellence.
A full breakdown of the FY2027 tentative budget, including investment areas, community feedback, and financial assumptions, is available in the May Board presentation.
Board Chair Jessica Johnson emphasized the importance of both stewardship and impact.
“This budget reflects our commitment to responsible governance and doing what is right for Atlanta’s students and families,” she said. “We made disciplined choices to ensure long-term stability while continuing to invest in our educators, strengthen our classrooms, and provide meaningful relief to our community. This is how we build trust and deliver results.”
As APS continues its work toward its 2030 goals, the district remains committed to delivering high-quality education while maintaining transparency, accountability, and fiscal responsibility.
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