Citing financial woes, Atlanta Girls’ School set to close in May 

Parents of students attending the Atlanta Girls’ School are facing unexpected challenges as school officials announced the impending closure of the institution. The decision, communicated to families through a letter, follows a significant decline in re-enrollment numbers for the upcoming academic year, coupled with unsustainable financial projections.

The closure marks the end of the school’s 20th year since its inception in 2000, leaving behind a legacy of educating and inspiring girls. The school has 199 students in grades 6-12, 46 faculty members, and more than 400 graduates. 

According to the school’s statement, the Board of Trustees has concluded that closing at the end of the current academic year, in May 2024, is the only viable option. Despite efforts by the Head of School, Kimbrell Smith, and her team to explore alternative solutions, including cost-cutting measures and intensified fundraising endeavors, the economic challenges proved insurmountable.

School leaders say they are committed to assisting families in finding alternative educational options for the next academic year. They have scheduled two town hall meetings on Tuesday, March 19, at the school to address questions and concerns from parents.

Affected families, who have already made deposits or payments for the 2024-2025 school year, can expect refunds in the coming days. 

The Atlanta Girls’ School, which boasts a diverse student body from various ZIP codes across the city, has been a cornerstone in providing independent, nonsectarian, college-preparatory education for girls in Georgia. Despite its closure, the school’s impact on its students and graduates remains a testament to its mission of preparing young women for their future endeavors.

School officials say re-enrollment numbers for next year declined drastically, and after carefully looking at financial data, the board determined there is no sustainable way to move forward financially.