ATLANTA — On Tuesday, August 13, Equity in Education (EiE) released its Atlanta School Quality Data Map. Distinct from other publicly available data, the interactive map allows for Atlanta Public Schools stakeholders to easily identify their cluster and explore relevant data on all schools within that cluster—including charter, state charter, partner and non-traditional schools. Stakeholders have the option to compare year-to-year data across clusters allowing for a more complete picture of a school’s quality. For greater accessibility, EiE has limited the data captured to graduation rates, reading and math proficiency rates, student demographic data, and suspension rates.  

When EiE reviewed the discipline data, we found that 63% of disciplinary incidents resulted in out-of-school suspension (OSS)—meaning that more often than not, students are sent home rather than receiving in-school suspension (ISS). Furthermore, subgroup data exposed that Black students are disproportionately disciplined more than other racial groups at 90.8% with Black boys making up 56% of the OSS population and Black girls at 39%. OSS for elementary-aged children have long-lasting negative effects on their academic performance, social development, and overall well-being. Considering this data, EiE recommends to the Atlanta Board of Education to ban OSS for K-5, develop a comprehensive discipline matrix, and ensure training for teachers and staff on restorative justice practices.  

As AP courses in the state are being discussed, we are using data to analyze equitable access and the impact on student achievement, graduation, and college acceptance. While the District offers opportunities to enroll in Advanced Placement (AP) courses, options are limited based on a student’s cluster. Currently, North Atlanta provides 24 AP class options and Midtown lists 26 AP courses for enrollment. However, if you’re a student at Carver STEAM, there is only one AP class option and Therrell and Douglass offer two AP courses for enrollment. Research shows that taking AP classes impacts college access, can determine college and career pathways, and reduces overall student debt. EiE recommends that the District provide hybrid access to AP courses for all students, automatic enrollment for students who are eligible, and require communication of AP opportunities for all families in the District.

With the launch of the Atlanta School Quality Data Map, EiE hopes to contribute to increasing awareness of the quality of Atlanta’s schools and how we can leverage policy in producing equitable outcomes for every student in Atlanta.

About Equity in Education

Equity in Education (EiE) exists to ensure equity is the foundation for every stakeholder in Atlanta so that all young people have access to a high-quality education and the opportunity to live full lives. We empower communities, advance equitable policies and invest in bold leaders.