A Guide to Some of the Best Schools in Atlanta

Updated January 15, 2024

A School for Every Child

Susie Chow, Tomo’s Lead Writer & Atlanta resident, combines exclusive on the ground local insights with real estate expertise and economic data from Greg Schwartz, Tomo CEO & former Zillow President; Emanuel Santa-Donato, Head of Capital Markets & Interest Rate Forecaster; and Joel Monge, Head of Digital Production.

If you’re moving to Atlanta with the kids in tow, no doubt you have two very important things on your mind: safety and education. In this article, we’ll help you navigate the best public schools in Atlanta. From robust academic curriculums to a kaleidoscope of extracurricular opportunities, we’ll uncover why some of these Atlanta public schools have earned their status as the Peach City’s crème de la crème. So don’t let the stress of choosing schools overwhelm you, especially if you’re just moving to Atlanta. Grab a coffee and let us take you on a journey through some of the best schools in Atlanta.

Best Atlanta School for Diversity & Academics: North Atlanta High School

“Home of the Warriors”, North Atlanta High School is a shining example of academic excellence right in the heart of the city. This school consistently ranks among the top public high schools in Atlanta, and for good reason. With a rigorous curriculum, highly qualified teachers, and a commitment to pushing students to their fullest potential, North Atlanta High School sets the bar high for educational achievement. The school offers a wide range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, ensuring students have the opportunity to challenge themselves and prepare for college-level coursework. If you’re looking for a one of the best high schools in Atlanta, North Atlanta High School is a top choice — with an exceptional track record in basketball and baseball to boot.

State Academic Readiness Scores – CCPRI

Indicator	2022 Score (out of 100)
Content mastery	77
Progress & proficiency	66.92
Closing gap	–
Readiness	85.4
4 Year HS Graduation rate	91.3

Best Atlanta School for Community & Inclusivity: Decatur High School

Located in the charming city of Decatur, Decatur High School is just east of Atlanta, and is celebrated for its strong sense of community and commitment to academic excellence. With a wide range of extracurricular activities, including clubs, sports, and community service opportunities, Decatur High School ensures students have a well-rounded education. Perhaps most notably, Decatur High School is renowned for its outstanding drama and theater program, offering students a vibrant platform to explore their passion for the performing arts and a first-class opportunity to refine their acting skills, participate in top-notch theater productions, and proudly display their talents on stage. Decatur High School also has a robust and extensive athletic program, with the “Decatur Bulldogs” being known to boast a competitive soccer team.

State Academic Readiness Scores – CCPRI

Indicator	2022 Score (out of 100)
Content mastery	88
Progress & proficiency	–
Closing gap	–
Readiness	91.4
4 Year HS Graduation rate	96.9

Best Atlanta School with a Global Perspective: Riverwood International Charter School

For those seeking a public high school with a global outlook, Riverwood International Charter School is an exceptional choice in the convenient suburb of Sandy Springs, right on the outskirts of metro Atlanta. This school offers a challenging International Baccalaureate (IB) program that prepares students for success with a global perspective. With a diverse student body and a strong emphasis on cultural awareness, Riverwood encourages students to become savvy and internationally-competitive citizens of the world. The school’s commitment to academic excellence, combined with a supportive community, makes it a standout option for families seeking a well-rounded education through a global lens. The “Riverwood Raiders” comprise a well-rounded and competitive athletic department with notable success in both boys and girls’ soccer.

State Academic Readiness Scores – CCPRI

Indicator	2022 Score (out of 100)
Content mastery	72
Progress & proficiency	46.27
Closing gap	–
Readiness	82.4
4 Year HS Graduation rate	97

Best Atlanta School for Creativity & Academics: North Springs High School

Also situated in Sandy Springs is the North Springs High School — “a school of higher learning” and a haven for budding artists, musicians, and actors. Students have the opportunity to explore their creative passions in theater, music and visual arts, while also excelling in their academic pursuits. In addition to a renowned theater program, North Springs is also known for its strong emphasis on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). This dual focus on the arts and sciences truly sets North Springs apart as an institution that provides exceptional opportunities for ambitious students, allowing them to excel in a wide range of academic and creative disciplines. The “North Springs Spartans” shine in a variety of athletic programs and may be best known for their basketball achievements over the years.

State Academic Readiness Scores – CCPRI

Indicator	2022 Score (out of 100)
Content mastery	77
Progress & proficiency	66.92
Closing gap	–
Readiness	85.4
4 Year HS Graduation rate	91.3

Best Atlanta School for Community & Extracurriculars: David T Howard Middle School

DT Howard Middle School, recognized by the Georgia Department of Education as one of the state’s premier middle schools, is nestled in the vibrant community of Old Fourth Ward. Committed to fostering academic excellence, Howard Middle School consistently stands out due to its dedicated faculty and robust academic offerings. Beyond academics, however, the school places a strong emphasis on character education, and instilling values of empathy, integrity, and responsibility in students. With a strong educational and “whole-child” approach, and a welcoming tight-knit community, Howard Middle School is recognized as one of the best middle schools in Atlanta to prepare students for high school and beyond.

State Academic Readiness Scores – CCPRI

Indicator	2022 Score (out of 100)
Content mastery	77
Progress & proficiency	66.92
Closing gap	–
Readiness	85.4
4 Year HS Graduation rate	91.3

Best Atlanta School for Literacy & Enrichment: Morningside Elementary School

For families with young children, Morningside Elementary School offers a stellar start to their academic journey. This highly regarded public elementary school, located in the charming Morningside neighborhood of Atlanta, combines a nurturing environment with a strong focus on academic achievement with exceptional literacy programs. In fact, the school has a research-based approach to literacy instruction, which includes specialized reading programs, individualized support for struggling readers, and a strong emphasis on fostering a love for reading. Morningside Elementary’s commitment to literacy is reflected in its impressive reading scores and the high percentage of students who meet or exceed grade-level reading benchmarks. This dedication to literacy sets Morningside apart as one of the best elementary schools in Atlanta for fostering essential reading skills.

State Academic Readiness Scores – CCPRI

Indicator	2022 Score (out of 100)
Content mastery	77
Progress & proficiency	66.92
Closing gap	–
Readiness	85.4
4 Year HS Graduation rate	91.3

Best Atlanta School for Diversity & Journalism: Midtown High School

Formerly known as Grady High School, Midtown High School is situated in the heart of Atlanta’s vibrant Midtown neighborhood with prime location near the city’s iconic Piedmont Park. Known for its diverse student body and strong academic programs, Midtown High School offers unique opportunities for students interested in journalism and media through its award-winning student newspaper, The Southerner. With a storied history of producing talented journalists, the school’s commitment to fostering media skills truly stands out. In addition to its strong journalism program, Midtown High School boasts a competitive athletics program — with a particularly strong “Midtown Knights” track and field team that has competed on the local and regional levels over the years.

State Academic Readiness Scores – CCPRI

Indicator	2022 Score (out of 100)
Content mastery	77
Progress & proficiency	66.92
Closing gap	–
Readiness	85.4
4 Year HS Graduation rate	91.3

What’s Next?

For those of you looking to buy a home near one of these best schools, Tomo.com provides free access to the most up to date real estate listings, and can connect you with a home search advisor by phone or text. 

You also may find our popular guides helpful:  7 Best Neighborhoods in Atlanta & 7 Best Atlanta Suburbs.