Key Initiatives and Outcomes
The Bridge to Success plan was built around seven key initiatives, each strategically designed to address the challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and support students’ academic and social-emotional recovery. These initiatives focused on strengthening foundational skills, expanding learning opportunities, and providing targeted support to ensure every student had the resources needed to succeed.
Together, these initiatives formed a comprehensive approach that helped bridge learning gaps, promote equity, and foster long-term success across Fulton County Schools. Below are highlights of their outcomes, with more detail outlined in the End-of-Year report.
1. FOCUS – Accelerating Student Learning
Through its FOCUS initiative, FCS implemented extended learning opportunities, including summer and after-school programs that served thousands of students. High-dosage tutoring and targeted small-group instruction were provided in literacy and math, supported by frequent progress assessments. The initiative led to measurable gains in achievement scores and reduced learning gaps among student subgroups, as reflected in improved performance on Georgia Milestones assessments.
2. Every Child Reads – Literacy Transformation
This district-wide literacy reform aimed to ensure 95% of students read at or above grade level. The initiative trained over 1,000 educators in LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling), introduced a district-wide dyslexia screener, hired new K–2 literacy coaches, and adopted English/Language Arts (ELA) resources aligned to the Science of Reading. As a result, the percentage of students in the Class of 2028 reading on-grade level increased by 10.6% from 3rd to 6th grade.
3. Textbook Adoption – Aligning Instructional Resources
To support consistent, high-quality instruction, FCS adopted new K–12 English/Language Arts resources aligned with Georgia Standards. Materials like Wonders, myPerspectives, and phonics-based tools such as Heggerty and Core 95 were introduced to improve reading proficiency. Teachers also received training to effectively implement the new curriculum, ensuring a smooth transition and consistent instructional practices across classrooms. These resources have led to increased reading scores across the district.
4. Expanded Program Options – Diverse Learning Pathways
This initiative expanded access to Career Technical and Agricultural Education (CTAE), including the launch of The Promise Career Institute (TPCI) and the use of zSpace virtual reality tools in eight elementary schools. Dropout prevention efforts included In-School Academies and the expansion of SAFE Centers to three high schools. Virtual learning was broadened to cover 90% of courses for grades K–11, and cultural programs reached over 41,000 students through field trips and interactive exhibits.
5. Leadership Development – Building Capacity
In partnership with Georgia State University, FCS created a leadership certification pathway for aspiring principals and district administrators. The program features a rigorous curriculum, mentorship from experienced leaders, and full coverage of tuition and materials. Participants engage in real-world practicums and professional learning communities that align with district priorities. This initiative also strengthens the leadership pipeline by preparing candidates to meet the evolving demands of school leadership in a post-pandemic educational landscape.
6. Student Safety – Promoting Positive Learning Environments
Safe, welcoming and supportive learning environments were prioritized, with a major focus on the district-wide implementation of the Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) framework. Over 70 schools adopted PBIS practices, with 35 schools recognized for achieving “Distinguished” status due to high levels of fidelity and impact. In addition, FCS emphasized fair and restorative discipline practices, reduced suspensions, and increased the use of behavior intervention supports, particularly in middle and high schools.
7. Business Continuity – Ensuring Stability
Through Bridge to Success funding, FCS invested in personal protection equipment (PPE), mobile health units, wellness rooms, and health expos to support student and staff well-being. Operational stability has been maintained through enhanced technology infrastructure, ensuring uninterrupted learning and services throughout the pandemic and after. Additionally, the acquisition of bus driver simulators has helped train and retain drivers while also reducing reducing accidents and improving transportation safety district-wide.