The new school year is right around the corner. Let’s make sure your child is ready to show up strong!
Whether your child attends Atlanta Public Schools (APS) or Fulton County Schools (FCS), we’ve got you covered. These two districts have different calendars, events, and websites, so it’s important to find out which school district you are zoned for.
#1: Mark Your Calendar for These Dates!
- First Day of School (Fulton County and Atlanta Public Schools)
Monday, August 4th - Atlanta Public Schools Open House Day
Friday, August 1st
Elementary Schools: 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Middle Schools: 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
High Schools: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. - Atlanta Public Schools Back-to-School Festival
Saturday, August 2nd
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Lakewood Stadium
This outdoor festival is a new back-to-school celebration for students and families to connect to district services, receive back-to-school resources (while supplies last) and celebrate the start of a new school year! Click here to register (required).
#2: Find Out What School Your Child Should Attend
First, confirm your school district. APS and Fulton County Schools have different zoning.
- For Atlanta Public Schools: Contact the Department of Student Assignment at placements@atlanta.k12.ga.us or 404-802-2233; you can also reach out to Facility Services at vvakili@atlanta.k12.ga.us or 404-802-3731 to confirm. Note: APS’s online address locator may not reflect the ‘25-’26 school year.
- For Fulton County Schools: Use this link to find your zoned schools.
#3: Make Sure Your Child Is Enrolled
New student? Starting kindergarten? Switching schools? Make sure enrollment is complete.
- Fulton County Schools: Click here
- Atlanta Public Schools: Click here
Your school social worker can assist with registration, transfers, or grade concerns. If you’re experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity, you’re not alone—and there’s help:
- Fulton County McKinney-Vento Contact: Cindy Fonder | 470-254-0469
- Atlanta Public Schools Contact: Sana Ali | 404-802-2245
#4: Attend Open House
Get to know your school and your child’s teachers, and ask questions. Here are some helpful ones:
- What time does the school open?
- What is the latest arrival time before being marked late?
- What’s the bus schedule?
- Are uniforms required?
- What supplies do we need for Day 1?
- How can I contact the teacher?
#5: Confirm Immunizations Are Up to Date
Both APS and FCS require an updated immunization form (Form 3231) to enroll.
Need a copy? Request it through the GA Department of Public Health.
For students who need back-to-school immunizations, the Fulton County Board of Health is hosting a resource fair on August 23rd.
#6: Check Your Child’s Bus Route
- Atlanta Public Schools: Click here for transportation information or contact your child’s school for the most up-to-date information.
- Fulton County Schools: Click here to find your nearest bus stop or contact your child’s school.
- Download the Here Comes the Bus app to track your child’s bus in real time!
If you have any issues, reach out to APS and FCS Transportation Department early to avoid transportation-related absences.
#7: Know the Start Time
Each school starts at a different time. Be sure to:
- Ask during Open House
- Plan morning routines early
- Organize outfits and backpacks the night before.
Check out these helpful tips for getting to school on time!
#8: Gather School Supplies & Backpacks
- Supply lists will be available from your child’s school.
- APS and Fulton County back-to-school fairs offer free supplies on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Many other local organizations also offer back-to-school drives; click here for dates and times.
- Check if your school requires a clear backpack (some do for safety).
#9: Stay Connected All Year Long
Starting strong is important, but staying involved matters even more.
Keep track of your child’s:
- Attendance – every day counts!
- Grades – ask questions and check in.
- Well-being – let your school know if you need help.
Truancy Intervention Project (TIP) is here all year long to support families facing barriers to school attendance—from free legal support to housing to transportation, basic needs, and more.
Wishing you a wonderful ‘25-’26 school year!
