Atlanta Public Schools – Headquarters

The imposing brick building with its iconic clock tower stands tall and proud on Trinity Avenue Southwest. This is the headquarters of Atlanta Public Schools, a cornerstone of education in the city. It has a rich history, serving as a beacon of learning and cultural vibrancy for over a century. The first three grammar schools in Atlanta actually opened in 1872. They served only white students. It wasn’t until 1952 that the system expanded to include 38 public schools previously under Fulton County. However, it wasn’t until 1961 that there was a shift towards integration.
On August 30, 1961, nine black students bravely took the first step towards true equality, becoming the first to attend previously all-white high schools in Atlanta. The city then became a model for peaceful integration in the South. Today, the Atlanta Public Schools system is one of the largest in the state, boasting a vibrant community of students, teachers, and administrators. You can see this commitment to education all around the city, in the dedicated educators and the diverse learning experiences offered to all students. It’s a testament to the vision that started right here with this headquarters.