Georgia Milestones test scores show significant increases for Fulton County Schools students in grades 3 and 4, and district officials tout “marked improvement” for chronically underperforming schools.

Math scores for elementary and middle schools improved for all but grade 7, with grades 3 and 8 seeing testers rated proficient and above up more than 3 percentage points.

The scores on the standardized state exams break down by learning levels. The lowest is beginning learners, who don't demonstrate proficiency at grade level and require substantial academic support to be ready for the next grade level. Developing learners demonstrate partial proficiency but still need additional academic support. Proficient learners demonstrate proficiency in the knowledge and skills necessary, and distinguished learners demonstrate advanced proficiency.

According to the district, 10 of the 14 schools labeled “chronically underperforming” by the Governor’s Office of Student Achievement showed an increase in the overall percentage of students scoring in the developing learner category or above. Superintendent Jeff Rose said resources are being shifted to help those schools continue improving.

“Our new Strategic Plan will address how we support schools that need additional strategies to continue their improvement,” he said. “We also are continuing to place resources closer to these schools to better ensure success.”

Check out critical information on specific schools such as graduation rates and teacher experience in the Ultimate Atlanta School Guide.

Back to school shopping can be taxing for parents and the supply lists seem to grow every year. Here is a sample of one school’s requirements for new kindergartners. Parents can order a prepacked box or shop on their own.

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Carden Wyckoff speaks to media members during a press conference outside Five Points station on Thursday, June 25, 2025. (Miguel Martinez/AJC)

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In this file photo from October 2024, Atlanta Braves outfielder Jorge Soler and teammates react after losing to the San Diego Padres 5-4 in San Diego. The Braves and Soler, who now plays for the Los Angeles Angels, face a lawsuit by a fan injured at a 2021 World Series game at Truist Park in Atlanta. (Jason Getz/AJC)

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