Back To School: What’s New in Georgia Schools This Year?

From cell phones to security checkpoints, students and parents across Georgia will see big changes as the new school year begins. Districts are adjusting to new state laws, tightening security, opening new buildings—and, in some cases, banning phones altogether. Here’s what to expect this fall.

Statewide phone policy takes hold
Georgia’s new “Distraction-Free School Act” takes effect this year. It bans student use of phones during class unless a teacher gives permission. Each district must now come up with its own enforcement policy. Some are going much further.

Fulton County Schools
Cell phones are prohibited in middle and high schools throughout the county. Evolv weapons detectors powered by AI remain in place at high schools and some middle schools. The systems rotate between schools. The district is also opening a new high school: Briar Hills Elementary School in East Point.

Cobb County Schools
All middle and high schools now have Evolv scanners installed.

Gwinnett County Public Schools
Every high school is now equipped with AI-powered weapon detectors.

Cherokee County Schools
Evolv weapons detectors are being added to all middle and high schools.

Clayton County Schools
New elementary school buildings are opening in Riverdale and Lovejoy, both built on the sites of the old campuses.

DeKalb County Schools
Several campuses are undergoing repairs and upgrades following complaints over building conditions.

Atlanta Public Schools
Coretta Scott King Young Women’s Leadership Academy moves into a new building this year. The school system is also planning renovations at several other schools across the district.

Other metro districts
Many other systems—including Coweta, Henry, Forsyth and Fayette—are investing in school security with new surveillance cameras, secured entrances and updated safety drills. Several are also adopting stricter phone policies, launching new STEM initiatives or adjusting school start times.