Atlanta Public Schools wants to raise $2 million to celebrate its 150th anniversary.
The district, which enrolls about 50,000 students across 87 schools, was established in 1872. Officials are planning numerous events over the next year to celebrate the milestone, including a parade, gala celebration, prayer breakfast and other activities.
Joi Hunter, executive director of the district’s partnerships and development office, said the festivities will be paid for with private and corporate donations. Some events also will double as fundraisers.
”This is an opportunity for our students to see what APS is,” Hunter said at a recent joint committee meeting of city council and school board members.
Credit: Atlanta Public Schools
Credit: Atlanta Public Schools
The district’s notable graduates over the years include basketball star Walt Frazier, civil rights leader the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and singer Gladys Knight.
Hunter and Pierre Gaither, the school board’s executive director, will serve as co-chairs of the anniversary celebration.
“We really worked to make sure there was an activity that everyone can participate in,” Gaither told the committee.
Details are still being organized. Officials said events include an April 22 parade, a gala celebration on Sept. 16, 2023, and a 5-kilometer run and walk.
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