Atlanta School Board Unanimously Approves New Superintendent to Lead APS

Diverse school board meeting.

Atlanta School Board Unanimously Approves New Superintendent to Lead APS

ATLANTA, Ga. (Here News) – The Atlanta Board of Education made its final vote Monday on its next superintendent to lead the district. The board voted 9-0 to make Dr. Bryan Johnson the superintendent. Board members announced Johnson as the sole finalist back in mid-June. But due to state laws, they were required to wait at least 14 days before making a final decision.

“I truly believe that Dr. Johnson truly understands the emergency of the moment and I’m excited to embark on his work together,” APS Board of Education Member Alfred “Shivy” Brooks said.

Getting Started

Dr. Johnson has been in the community for a series of meet and greets over the past few weeks. During the events, parents, teachers, and community members have been able to ask Dr. Johnson about his vision for the district. The new superintendent says he is ready to get started.

“The board is focused on the right work, the community is engaged at a really deep level, and so I’m excited about the possibility of what we could do for these children,” sole APS superintendent candidate Dr. Bryan Johnson said. “We’ll have a 100-day plan where we’ll really have a chance to share what we’re reviewing and what we’re listening to and what we’re learning and gathering.”

Community Concerns

During Monday’s public comment section of the board meeting, one community member stated they had reservations, concerned Johnson doesn’t know the city. However, Board members reiterated Johnson’s accolades, which include being named the 2021 Tennessee Superintendent of the Year, and a National Superintendent of the Year Finalist. They also talked about how he’s invested in the community being a parent in the district.

Johnson said despite any concerns, he believes he’s a good fit for the job. “I’m absolutely invested. So first of all, I appreciate the reservations. I understand that I’m new to the community, but people have to understand who I am and what I’m about. I have history and a track record of success, and I have a history and a track record of doing this work and I have a diverse track record,” Johnson said.

Transition Plan

Interim Superintendent Dr. Danielle Battle will support Dr. Johnson’s transition with his first official day in office on Aug. 5, according to the board. “I think the thing that has resonated with me the most is that there is a real opportunity for me serving as superintendent to partner deeply with the community. This community from being in those meetings needs a superintendent that is on the ground, listens authentically, but then responds,” Johnson said.

Dr. Johnson is the district’s fourth superintendent in ten years.

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