Georgia Launches Initiative for New School Models Across 10 Districts

The Georgia Department of Education has kicked off a program to help 10 school districts build fresh learning models. These models will offer more flexibility and respond to what each community wants. The program partners with the Institute for Self-Directed Learning, as public school enrollment in the state is projected to fall by 2% for FY27.

"We have seen declines in public-school enrollment nationwide, and Georgia is not exempt," State School Superintendent Richard Woods said, per Augusta CEO. "We believe in the power of public education, and we are going to meet this moment proactively. This initiative is an opportunity for districts to continue to adapt and build models that reflect the needs of their communities and prepare all students for life."

The drop in enrollment shows two things: birth rates have been falling, and families are choosing different ways to educate their kids. GaDOE plans to use what it learns from this first group to help other districts later.

Teams from each district will participate in professional learning, community engagement, and site visits to see new models in action over the course of the year. They'll create blueprints for schools that are customized to local needs.

"What excites me most about this partnership is that it gives Georgia districts practical support to create schools that truly fit their communities, where families will be able to say, 'This school feels like it was designed for us and prepares our children with real skills for real life," said Dr. Tyler Thigpen, co-founder and Head of the Institute for Self-Directed Learning.

These approaches include hybrid learning environments, microschool structures, and redesigned in-person models. Teams are working on strategies to engage families and build trust.