Resources
for Our Community
We equip community members with the knowledge and skills to effectively support and advocate for children and families.
Atlanta Thrive is committed to helping families navigate the education system with confidence. This page brings together the resources our community has told us matter most: federal and state guidance on special education, direct contacts at Atlanta Public Schools, and tools for understanding and choosing schools. Whether you are advocating for your child's services, looking for the right person to call, or weighing school options for next year, the resources below are a starting point. We will continue to update this page as new tools and contacts become available.
Federal and State Special Education
Understanding the laws and supports available for students with disabilities.
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) – U.S. Department of Education
The federal law that guarantees students with disabilities the right to a free appropriate public education. This page from the U.S. Department of Education explains the law, parent rights, and how IDEA shapes services in your child's school.
https://www.ed.gov/laws-and-policy/individuals-disabilities/idea
Georgia Department of Education, Special Education
The state's central hub for special education programs, policies, and family supports in Georgia. Use this site to find guidance documents, contact information, and resources specific to public schools in our state.
https://gadoe.org/special-education/
A Parent's Guide to Understanding Rights and Responsibilities
A plain-language guide from the Georgia Department of Education that walks parents through their rights in the special education process. Helpful if your child has an IEP or you are starting the evaluation process.
https://lor2.gadoe.org/gadoe/items/c4fa3d92-4677-4921-85ce-bfa6da82b91d/1/viewcontent
Parent Information Fact Sheets
A collection of short, topic-specific fact sheets covering common questions about special education in Georgia. A good place to start when you need quick answers on a specific issue.
https://lor2.gadoe.org/gadoe/items/557864be-c8ac-4971-b1de-ca40c6b0db65/1/viewcontent
Georgia Department of Education Outreach
Connect with the state's family outreach team for direct support, training opportunities, and answers to questions about your child's services. This is the right starting point if you need someone to talk to.
Atlanta Public Schools Contacts
Direct lines to district leadership and safety services.
APS Police Department
Information about the Atlanta Public Schools Police Department, including their role in school safety and how to reach them. Use this page if you have safety concerns or need to report an incident on a school campus.
https://www.atlantapublicschools.us/about/departments/operations/safety-security/services/police
APS Superintendent and Leadership
The official page for the APS superintendent's office, with background on district leadership and ways to share feedback. A useful contact point if you want to raise a concern at the district level.
School Choice and Data Tools
Compare schools and explore options across Atlanta.
RedefinED Atlanta Schools Data Project
An interactive tool that lets parents compare Atlanta schools using performance, demographic, and growth data. Useful for families weighing school options or trying to better understand their current school.
https://redefinedatlanta.org/atlanta-schools-data-project/
Charter School Options Map
An interactive map of charter school options across Atlanta, showing locations and key information for each school. A helpful starting point if you are exploring schools beyond your neighborhood zone.