Posted on April 24, 2007

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Gates Foundation Gives $10 Million to Support High School Reform in Atlanta

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has announced a $10.5 million grant to Atlanta Public Schools to accelerate and expand its high school transformation initiative.

The Atlanta school system is working to transform all of its large, traditional high schools into small schools or learning communities over the next five years. The first two schools to be redesigned are South Atlanta High School and D.M. Therrell High School, both of which are scheduled to open in the fall of 2007. Each will comprise four small, theme-based schools that emphasize a personalized and academically rigorous learning environment. "We have a unique opportunity in Atlanta to create a culture of high expectations and high achievement for our students," said APS superintendent Beverly L. Hall.

To implement changes at the two schools, the district's newly created Office of High School Redesign will partner with the Institute for Student Achievement, which works with school districts around the country to transform large, underperforming high schools into academically rigorous and personalized small learning communities that improve academic performance, raise graduation rates, and cultivate a college-going culture. In 2005, ISA helped the Atlanta school system remake George W. Carver Senior High School into the New Schools at Carver, which today comprises five small schools with a college prep focus.

"We know that with rigorous and challenging coursework, along with the supportive relationships with teachers and adults needed to meet high standards, all students can achieve at high levels," said ISA president and CEO Dr. N. Gerry House. "We look forward to building on our progress and our strong and productive partnership in Atlanta to ensure that every young person can thrive in a high-quality high school."

“Atlanta Public Schools to Accelerate High School Reform Efforts, Prepare All Students for Success in College and Work.” Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Press Release 4/08/07.

Primary Subject: Education
Location(s): Atlanta, Georgia, Seattle, Washington

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