Atlanta Public Schools owes a profound debt of gratitude to the late President Jimmy Carter, whose vision and leadership left an indelible mark on our district. Through his unwavering commitment to education, transparency and equality, Carter’s influence resonates in ways that continue to shape our schools and our community.
One of Carter’s most lasting contributions is his role in preserving the history of the Atlanta Public Schools. His signing of the Georgia Open Records Act in 1972 set a precedent for transparency and accountability that has been crucial for public institutions. At the time, the Atlanta Public Schools Board of Education was chaired by the iconic civil rights leader Benjamin E. Mays, who served as an adviser to Carter. Together, their commitment to preserving public records ensured that our district’s decisions, policies and stories were not lost to time. Today, Atlanta Public Schools’ archives and museum stand as a testament to their shared vision. These repositories of history offer our students and community members an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the legacy of education in Atlanta.
Credit: Handout
Credit: Handout
Carter’s foresight extended far beyond record-keeping. As the founder of the Education Department in 1980, Carter recognized the importance of addressing systemic inequities in education. He understood that improving the quality of education required more than just financial investment — it required collaboration, innovation and a commitment to equal opportunity. This philosophy has been a guiding principle for the Atlanta Public Schools as we strive to meet the needs of our diverse student population.
Another hallmark of Carter’s legacy is his work through the Atlanta Project, launched in 1992. The Atlanta Project directly targeted challenges faced by disadvantaged families in Atlanta, dividing the metro area into cluster communities supported by local institutions. For the Atlanta Public Schools, this meant meaningful partnerships, such as Emory University’s collaboration with the Booker T. Washington cluster. The Atlanta Project not only enhanced educational opportunities, but it also addressed broader community challenges, creating a stronger foundation for student success.
Carter’s lifelong commitment to civil rights also profoundly impacted Atlanta Public Schools. During his presidency, his collaboration with Mays ensured that issues of equity and justice remained at the forefront of his leadership. This partnership reinforced the Atlanta Public Schools’ role as a champion for educational equity, inspiring policies and programs that prioritize student success regardless of socioeconomic background.
Credit: APS Archives, courtesy of Cathy Loving
Credit: APS Archives, courtesy of Cathy Loving
As we reflect on Carter’s enduring contributions in the wake of his death Dec. 29, one photograph stands out — a moment captured at the Mays Home with Carter, Mays and Cathy Loving, a former Atlanta Public Schools archivist. This image is more than a keepsake; it symbolizes the intersection of leadership, history and education. It reminds us of Carter’s deep connection to Atlanta and his belief in the power of education to transform lives.
Jimmy Carter’s legacy within Atlanta Public Schools is multifaceted: He preserved our history, promoted transparency, established innovative educational frameworks and facilitated community partnerships. His leadership equipped us with the tools to honor our past while building a future that ensures every child has access to quality education.
As we continue to strive for excellence, let us remember the man who taught us the importance of looking back to move forward. Carter’s influence will forever be woven into the fabric of Atlanta Public Schools — a legacy that will inspire generations to come.
Erika Y. Mitchell is chair of the Atlanta Public Schools Board of Education.
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