Atlanta Public Schools’ $1.3 Billion Budget: Cuts, Shifts, and a “Back to Basics” Focus

JB Quinnon
Jun 5
2 min read

Atlanta Public Schools’ $1.3 Billion Budget: Cuts, Shifts, and a “Back to Basics” Focus

In a move signaling both fiscal restraint and renewed academic priorities, Atlanta Public Schools (APS) has approved a sweeping $1.3 billion budget for the 2026 fiscal year. At the heart of this decision lies a controversial shift: the elimination of 135 central office positions.

The changes are part of a broader strategic plan to close financial gaps while placing more resources directly in classrooms. According to APS officials, this “back to basics” approach aims to refocus spending on core instruction and student achievement rather than administrative overhead.

Key Budget Highlights

135 Central Office Jobs Cut: The district will save approximately $25 million through this reduction, which will be redirected to support schools more directly.
$45 Million Boost to School Budgets: The majority of this funding is aimed at elementary schools, where foundational learning begins.
$11 Million More for Core Instruction: Classroom instruction will see an increase in funding to ensure stronger educational outcomes.
Step Raises and Benefits Increases:
- $8.8 million set aside to fund employee step raises to help with retention and recruitment.
- $26 million increase in employee benefits to cover a 5% hike in Teachers' Retirement System costs and higher state health benefit rates.
Elimination of $15 Million School Nutrition Transfer: APS will stop transferring general funds to the nutrition program, a move expected to free up additional resources for academic use.

Superintendent Dr. Bryan Johnson stated the intent of the budget is to fund what works and cut what doesn’t. “This budget reflects a commitment to doing more of what drives student success—and less of what doesn’t,” Johnson said.

The Atlanta Board of Education endorsed the plan, framing it as a step toward both greater transparency and long-term financial stability. While the board has yet to specify which positions are being eliminated, the consensus is clear: instructional impact takes priority over administrative layers.

As school districts across the nation grapple with post-pandemic adjustments, APS’s fiscal strategy may serve as a blueprint for others looking to balance efficiency with educational quality.