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Metro Atlanta Schools Unveil Literacy Plans, Attendance Goals for 2026
Education leaders across Atlanta Public Schools and neighboring districts describe upcoming changes to instruction, facilities and classroom rules as classes resume this week.
How we reported this
Atlanta Public Schools officials report they are opening one new school and one fully remodeled building for the 2026 school year that begins this week for many metro Atlanta districts.
The timing aligns with state-mandated shifts in how early reading is taught and with efforts to reduce missed school days after the pandemic years.
Literacy Changes Draw on State Requirements
Atlanta Public Schools is rolling out a new literacy plan that centers on the science of reading, with explicit attention to phonics, fluency, vocabulary and comprehension. District leaders tie the approach directly to the Georgia Early Literacy Act passed by state lawmakers. Officials note the plan will guide classroom materials and teacher training across elementary grades in the coming months.
Neighboring districts are also adjusting schedules and materials to match the same state expectations. The coordinated rollout means students moving between systems will encounter similar reading instruction methods.
Cellphone Limits and Attendance Data Cited
Atlanta, Decatur and DeKalb County school officials describe new rules that require students to store phones in locked pouches during class periods. Leaders say the policies aim to reduce distractions and support in-person learning time. The same districts point to Georgia’s chronic absenteeism rate, which fell to 19.5 percent, the lowest level recorded since before the 2019-20 school year.
That attendance figure comes from statewide tracking released in recent weeks and covers all metro systems. Officials note the improvement provides a baseline for measuring whether reduced phone access and stronger reading supports further lift daily participation.
Atlanta Public Schools has also confirmed that the George Washington Carver STEAM Academy will close after the 2026-2027 year under a restructuring plan approved in December 2025. District leaders state families will receive transition support and placement options at other APS sites during the 2026-2027 school year.
Parents can review individual school calendars and supply lists on district websites for the first week of classes. Transportation and meal program details remain available through each district’s main office.