Accelerated Literacy Model
The Opportunity
Moving Beyond Incremental Progress
Atlanta Public Schools continues to face long-standing challenges in early literacy outcomes. Over the past decade, third-grade GMAS ELA proficiency rates have remained largely unchanged, with current data showing 34.9% of students scoring proficient or above. While there has been some incremental progress, the data indicate that current approaches are not producing results at the scale or pace needed.
In response, APS is moving forward with a more intensive, targeted approach to early literacy. The Accelerated Literacy Model (ALM) is designed to strengthen foundational reading skills in Pre-K through third grade through concentrated instructional focus, aligned professional learning, and extended learning structures.
APS Accelerated Literacy Model
Atlanta Public Schools has identified four (4) schools to implement an Accelerated Literacy Model (ALM) beginning in August 2026. Developed in partnership with the APS Literacy Council, a group of district leaders, educators, researchers, and community partners focused on closing the early literacy gaps, the model is a research-based approach to strengthen literacy instruction. Through intentional school design and instructional focus, ALM is designed to accelerate literacy outcomes.
Following a districtwide application process, the selected schools are:
Heritage Academy, Principal Trennis Harvey
Hutchinson Elementary School, Principal Melissa St. Joy
Toomer Elementary School, Principal Caroline Brown; and
Tuskegee Airmen Global Academy, Principal Melanie Sithole
These schools will serve as the initial implementation sites as Atlanta Public Schools continues its broader commitment to strengthening early literacy across the district.
Learn More about the ALM Schools
Once you learn to read, you will be forever free.
— Frederick Douglass
Now Hiring! Accelerated Literacy Teachers
We are seeking skilled, passionate classroom teachers (Pre-K–3rd grade) to join our Accelerated Literacy Model schools, where early literacy is a top priority. In this role, teachers will deliver high-quality literacy instruction, design engaging and developmentally appropriate learning experiences, and support students in building strong foundational reading skills.