Interim superintendent highlights rising graduation rates, balanced budget and partnerships in Clayton County address

The interim superintendent of Clayton County Public Schools said the district has made measurable progress while acknowledging there is more work to do. "The children eat first," the superintendent said, framing the district's mission around prioritizing students.

The superintendent pointed to an all-time graduation rate of 86.3% and said students with disabilities are graduating at a historic rate of 75.7%, presenting both figures as evidence the district is moving forward. The address also cited academic-mastery gains—elementary schools up 10.9 points and middle and high schools up 8.9 points—and noted that middle schools now exceed the state average on progress and gap-closing measures.

Advanced and gifted programs saw growth, the superintendent said: more than 400 newly qualified gifted students; seven high schools recognized as Advanced Placement honor schools; AP scholar recognitions rising from 147 to 223 students; and students earning passing AP exam scores increasing from 355 to 927. Thirteen schools were identified by the Georgia Department of Education as literacy and math leaders, and 30 elementary schools were recognized for excellence in writing as part of a districtwide literacy initiative.

On operations and finance, the superintendent described the passage of a balanced budget "that does not require us to pull money from our fund balance," identifying it as a milestone after several years of tighter finances. The address also highlighted new administrative efforts including a discipline matrix intended to increase consistency, fairness and equity, climate surveys that produced corrective action plans, and cross-functional teams focused on academics, transportation, safety and student supports.

The superintendent emphasized partnerships with outside organizations as part of workforce and opportunity-building efforts, citing collaborations with Delta Air Lines, Middle Georgia State University and Junior Achievement to create pathways into careers and entrepreneurship. The district has expanded extracurricular and credentialing opportunities—every middle school student now has access to a marching band program and students can earn industry certifications, the superintendent said.

The address also noted community supports connected to schools: more than 500 families had received coats and toys and approximately 1,500 families received food and essential resources, and several school-based health centers have opened to serve children and families.

The superintendent framed these accomplishments as steps in a longer effort, urging residents, teachers, faith leaders and business partners to continue collaborating. The address concluded by reiterating the central message: "The children eat first," and calling for sustained engagement across Clayton County.