Atlanta Classical Academy in Atlanta

Category	Rating	Details
Test Scores	9/10	The Test Score Rating examines how students at this school performed on standardized tests compared with other schools in the state. The Test Rating was created using 2025 Georgia Milestones End-of-Course (EOC) Assessment data from Georgia Governor's Office of Student Achievement, and using 2025 Georgia Milestones End-of-Grade (EOG) Assessment data from Georgia Governor's Office of Student Achievement.
College Readiness	10/10	The College Readiness Rating uses this high school's graduation rates, college entrance exam participation and performance, or AP, IB, or Dual Enrollment participation to determine how well schools are preparing students for success in college and beyond. The College Readiness Rating was created using the following data from the 2021 Civil Rights Data Collection: percentage of students enrolled in IB, AP or Dual Enrollment classes in grades 9-12, using 2024 Average SAT score data from Georgia Governor's Office of Student Achievement, using 2024 Average ACT score data from Georgia Governor's Office of Student Achievement, using 2025 4-year high school graduation rate data from Georgia Governor's Office of Student Achievement, and using 2026 demographic data from Georgia Governor's Office of Student Achievement.
Student Growth	5/10	The Student Progress Rating measures whether students at this school are making academic progress over time based on student growth data provided by the Department of Education. Specifically, this rating looks at how much progress individual students have made on state assessments during the past year or more, how this performance aligns with expected progress based on a student growth model established by the state Department of Education, and how this school's growth data compares to other schools in the state. The Growth Rating was created using 2025 Student growth data from Georgia Governor's Office of Student Achievement.

Posted: June 24, 2026

ACA has grown the intellect and knowledge to a degree I thought unimaginable. The teachers, leaders, counselors, and staff as a whole are the best you will find.

Posted: June 24, 2026

Posted: February 19, 2026

Our family is so grateful to be at ACA. We have two children in middle and high school - they've been students since early elementary. The teachers are kind and supportive, and they are committed to growing our children into men and women of intellect and character. They care deeply about imparting knowledge to our children AND about instilling virtues like courage, integrity and service. The leadership team is accessible, and our Head of School is absolutely outstanding. I wish every child could experience an education like ACA. I've also had many friends whose children have benefited from the special education services at ACA. They have felt so well cared for!

Posted: February 19, 2026

We love Atlanta Classical Academy! The classical curriculum is a beautiful and rigorous education. The teachers and staff are wonderful! We have four kids across elementary, middle, and high school and we are so pleased with the school.

Posted: February 19, 2026

Posted: December 13, 2025

My family has been at ACA for all 12 years it has been open. We wouldn't dream of moving our children elsewhere. Having seen my oldest child grow from a kindergartener into a high school junior, I can say ACA has delivered on its promise of building knowledgeable, virtuous citizens:

The students are challenged academically by a rigorous curriculum taught by educators who care deeply about their students. For example, by the time they are in high school they are able to lead their own discussions of great books -- I am talking about books such as Homer's Iliad and Dante's Inferno -- with minimal prompting from the teacher. It's essentially a college-level class.

The virtues of ACA are more than window dressing. They are infused into everything the school does, and students are recognized for exhibiting them. For example, although ACA very obviously stresses academics, the highest honor given to a student each quarter is for living out the school's virtues.

Finally, ACA students are being carefully, intentionally prepared to be good citizens. Their interactions with one another and with their leaders -- by which I mean their teachers and administrators -- reflect an impressive sense of community and mutual respect. There is room for diversity of thought, but debates are handled respectfully and civilly. We need a thousand more ACAs.

I have read some of the negative comments, and while I acknowledge the reality of different experiences, I don't believe they represent the mainstream of how people experience ACA. As a public charter school, it is a school of choice; no child attends ACA because he or she was assigned to it. The fact that ACA maintains full enrollment and a far larger waitlist of families who would jump at the chance to send their children there -- at a time when some nearby, highly touted public schools are experiencing enrollment shortfalls -- should tell you everything you need to know about its performance.

Posted: December 13, 2025

Posted: December 9, 2025

Incredibly grateful for this school and especially the faculty. My children have a variety of different learning needs and abilities, and they've been met where they are by each of their teachers. This is genuinely a special place.

Posted: December 9, 2025

Posted: December 3, 2025

Having kids at Atlanta Classical Academy has been a gift for our entire family. The work is hard, but the teachers are committed to seeing their students succeed. One of our kids at the school has a 504 plan and we have been pleased with the support the school and individual teachers have been able to provide. It has been a true partnership to see our child succeed and the insight into him that the teachers have observed is invaluable. We love that the school is invested in each student as a whole, note just academically. They are striving to form virtuous citizens and we have so much hope for the future because of their investment in this generation.

Posted: December 3, 2025

We have three children currently at ACA (7th, 5th, and Kindergarten) and another who will join in a few years. We truly could not be happier with this school. A few years ago, we considered moving to the Atlanta suburbs, but ultimately decided against italmost entirely because of how much we love ACA.

We feel incredibly fortunate to be part of such an outstanding institution. The education is rigorous, and thats exactly what we want for our children. ACA is preparing students not just for the next grade, but for life. It offers the quality of a private school education at the cost of a public school.

The teachers are deeply committed and invested in their students success, and the administration works tirelessly to make the school better every single day. What we love most is that ACA focuses not only on academics, but also on the intangiblesdeveloping students of strong character. The schools diversity and inclusive culture are another reason we are so proud to be part of this community.

Posted: July 22, 2025

At first glance, ACA presents itself as a place built on pillars of virtue, humility, honesty, and other admirable qualities. From day one, students, parents, and staff are immersed in these words, creating the impression of a deeply rooted theology and a time-tested educational philosophy.

In reality, this approach seems to work well for elementary-aged children. However, by the time students reach middle school, the cracks begin to show. The culture shifts from fostering growth to enforcing control through an ever-changing set of rules. This years example: no hoodies. On the surface, that might sound minor, but every year brings another restriction, reminders that autonomy is not valued here.

There appears to be little strategy beyond leading through fear and rigid compliance. Students quickly learn that succeeding means constantly walking on eggshells. Outside of school, conversations with these kids often reveal a troubling lack of optimism compared to their peers.

Bottom line: If youre considering this school, it can be a good option for elementary years. But strongly reconsider staying past that point.

Posted: July 22, 2025

Posted: May 15, 2025

ACA has been a great fit for our family. The school is a wonderful community, a way to make this very big city smaller. It is full of families who are willing to commit to the virtues of the school. (However, if your family isn't aligned with the school's virtues, no problem, you should seriously consider whether this is the place for you.) The student body in my children's grades is fairly diverse. When we pull up in the carpool line, teachers (even those they've never had!) know my children and say hello. The teachers are amazing and truly invested in their students. Academically, it is rigorous, and sometimes the homework feels like a little too much. Athletics, the arts and clubs have greatly improved over the last two years, and the new AD will hopefully continue the upward trajectory. I am thankful for the early families who have created this amazing place, and for the current families who continue to improve it. The administration is easy to contact and generally responsive with any questions or concerns. Three drawbacks: first, the facility is old (although buildings are clean, repairs have always been made and it is well-kept), second the parking is a mess, and third, the classes in grades 3-5 are very large (but the teachers seem to manage very well). Overall we are very pleased! Thank you, ACA!

Posted: May 8, 2025

We have loved our years at ACA. The school is the perfect balance of a rigorous education and a warm, welcoming community. I appreciate the casual and low-key environment of ACA from a social perspective. In my experience, the community is friendly and open.

I have yet to find a place where the faculty is more dedicated to seeing their students succeed, not only in the classroom but also in sports, relationships and in the community. With students from every zip code in ATL, I love that my children are building relationships all over the city. It is also a testament to the leadership that each graduating class is larger than the last!

The emphasis on fine arts is another reason we love the school! The Fine Arts Department at ACA is unmatched and the students are being introduced to all aspects of the arts. I love that they provide dedicated and uninterrupted time during the school day for this. Many of the fine arts teachers were professionals in their discipline before joining the faculty, it is special to see them share their unique gifts!

I also love that the students are well-known by the faculty and staff. This is not a place where students slip through the cracks. The faculty makes it a point to know students, their families, and their interests. I also feel supported and known as a parent.

Posted: May 8, 2025

Posted: May 7, 2025

This place is special! Ive never seen such level of care from the staff and faculty. Feel so grateful my five kids get to be apart of this place thats shaping them into virtuous people!!!

Posted: May 7, 2025

Posted: January 20, 2025

Atlanta Classical Academy offers a unique approach for APS on paper, but there are several concerns families should carefully consider before enrolling.

One significant factor is the influence of the Heritage Foundation and Hillsdale College in shaping the schools development and curriculum. These organizations are known for promoting specific ideologies, which are evident in the schools approach to education and culture. This influence often creates a a difficult environment to speak out or ask questions. Many viewpoints are sidelined, which may not align with the expectations of all families seeking a public school education.

Student retention is another area of concern. While ACA often advertises high test scores and accolades, these numbers can be misleading. Senior graduation classes average only around 30 students, suggesting a significant number of students leave before reaching their final year. Instead of fostering an environment where all students excel, many families find the school unsuitable and choose to leave, which raises questions about the overall success rate and inclusivity of the program.

The school culture also reflects strong religious and conservative undertones, evident in the attitudes of administrators, the student body, and families. This environment can feel exclusionary for students and parents who do not share these beliefs. It is worth noting that this atmosphere extends beyond the classroom, influencing school events, policies, and interactions among students.

For families whose values align with ACAs culture, the school may be a good fit. However, for those seeking a more balanced and inclusive public school environment, it is important to carefully evaluate whether ACAs approach aligns with your expectations.

Transparency regarding these aspects is limited in the schools materials, so prospective families should take the time to ask questions and research thoroughly.

Posted: January 20, 2025

Posted: November 19, 2024

My family has been a part of Atlanta Classical Academy since 2018. Before this, I was not familiar with a classical education. The more I learn and understand the foundations of a classical education, the more I am convinced of the benefits and advantages it brings to our childrens generation and society as a whole. Behind the doors of ACA you will not only observe teacher led classrooms with tidy desks in neat rows, but you will quickly begin to recognize a community of servant hearted, deeply respected, and extensively supported students, teachers, and staff. Whether that is through a student eagerly holding the door open, or a staff member introducing themselves to an unfamiliar face and going out of their way to help the visitor find what they need. The mission of ACA to develop students in mind and character can be seen throughout the campus from the top down. I choose to spend time weekly in the classroom because of the positive influence the teachers and staff have had on my family. It is a place full of genuine, kind-hearted, honorable teachers working towards a bigger goal than just good grades. I personally have children with cognitive struggles and am choosing a classical education for them because I know my children are seen and praised for more than just their grades. I am choosing ACA so that my children can learn the same way so many of our greatest leaders learned; how to think for themselves, how to have civil discourse, and how to be a beneficial member to society. I highly recommend this school to anyone who shares these same values.

Posted: November 11, 2024

Atlanta Classical Academy has been an answer to so many parenting prayers. With 3 kids at ACA we have experienced kindness, empathy, love and compassion that all parents wish for their kids to have at school. ACA has created an environment for students to be unapologitically themselves. This school has encouraged my children to even be the best version of themselves inside and outside the classroom. I couldn't be happier with the level of education they are receiving. My children come home teaching me valuable lessons they have learned just through a passage they read in literature that day.
I will forever be in debt to the teachers and administration of ACA for facilitating an environment of desired space and for the love of learning.

Posted: November 11, 2024

I have three children at ACA and could not be more pleased with the education, care, and learning environment. ACA is a truly special place that develops children both academically and in character virtues. My kids are being formed to be lifelong learners and to understand the importance of service and community engagement. Their teachers have all been incredible and I am deeply grateful for the administration, educators and families that I get to partner with in helping my children grow and develop. I would highly recommend Atlanta Classical to any and all Atlanta families.

Posted: November 11, 2024

Posted: June 27, 2024

So grateful for this school and the community it offers. My kids are developing the core skills to prepare them for success in college, but they're also reading great works of history, philosophy, and literature that are shaping their character. We're proud to be part of ACA!

Posted: June 27, 2024

Posted: October 17, 2023

In our experience, you either love or loathe this school. Unfortunately, our children fall into the latter category they absolutely detest going to class. Its unbelievable how frequently they're reprimanded for the actions of other children. Every day seems to be a lesson in memorization. It can be tedious and joyless. The way boys/administration speak to girls at this school is worth listening to. The administration constantly scrutinizes the girls' clothing choices, making them feel like second-class citizens. It's disheartening to see that they do nothing to address this issue. In fact, the administration seems to be fixated on skirt lengths, school dance female attire, which is quite distasteful. It appears as though their objective is to have every student attend Hillsdale College and create additional Classical Schools. However, before achieving this goal, they request a considerable monetary donations that doesn't appear to be allocated to the school. Furthermore, the state of the physical buildings are in disarray. It's all rather peculiar. As my middle school daughter states they are creating robots, that must only think and act like them.

Posted: October 17, 2023

Posted: September 26, 2023

As a parent of three children at ACA, we initially fell in love with the school. The idea, concepts, structure and overall smaller footprint spoke to us. Unfortunately, as our children become older and more involved in the school, our love has waned. The school's Classical approach to education leaves very little room for creativity, critical thinking and is so dominant on educating students about European leaders that you would be hard pressed to find a single unit that genuinely focuses on other viewpoints. Students are told how to think and the love of learning and engaging in concepts beyond the classroom is snuffed out. Extra-curriculars in the older grades are extremely lacking and mismanaged. Discipline is not consistent and often confusing to parents, (IE: a child can receive the same punishment for acting out, not wearing a belt or talking in the hallways). Teacher turnover is very high. Parent demands for money for their Cavalier Fund is frustrating as hundreds of thousands is raised each year, yet no one understands where it goes There is concern that these fundraising efforts actually fund an organization looking to build more Classical schools. Transparency is lacking.

Lastly, as a charter school the school is required to focus on a broad level of socio-economic diversity. Unfortunately cultural perspectives from any other lens (besides that of a European lens), is just not part of the curriculum. As another poster mentioned, you will not find photographs, teachers, or viewpoints of alternative leaders, unless it is a holiday. Children do not see a reflection of the world around them. It is a conscious effort to leave those viewpoints out of the conversation, which the school is not secretive of. It is Classical education after all. Yet, they are dependent on socio-economic diversity to remain functional. Essentially, they want your student to fill a quota but that student will only see a world in which they are not represented.

We have chosen to move our older kids to another school which embraces technology, critical thinking and robust learning opportunities. It is sad because Atlanta could really use a strong public education that ACA appears to provide. But once you are admitted and you move beyond lower grade levels, the school is not what they sell.

Posted: September 26, 2023

Posted: September 12, 2023

We have been at ACA for 4 years and couldn't be happier! A special quality about ACA is their attention to character. They understand and value that education is far more encompassing than head knowledge. They are passionate about shaping students into successful, thoughtful, contributing members of society. One of our children has a 504 for dyslexia, and our family as a whole has been supported by teachers and staff. They want our son to succeed and feel confident in the midst of working through his learning differences. We are so grateful for this school.

Posted: September 12, 2023

Posted: September 11, 2023

Atlanta Classical Academy is truly one of a kind. It not only highly values excellent teaching and education but also focuses on growing each student in virtue. Over the six years we've been at the school, we've watched thoughtful teachers come alongside our children and not only support them academically but also call them to grow as friends and members of a greater community. Different than many established schools in the Atlanta area, ACA is just 10 years old and has really come into its own these past couple of years. We've seen the leadership solidify and intentionally grow ACA into a successful K-12 school.

Posted: September 11, 2023

Posted: September 10, 2023

Atlanta Classical's exceptional teachers and rigorous curriculum make it a standout educational institution. The faculty's dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to student success create an environment where intellectual growth thrives. The curriculum challenges students, encouraging critical thinking and fostering a love for learning that extends beyond the classroom. Teachers take a genuine interest in their students and the small size of the school ensures that no student gets overlooked.

While the school excels academically, there is room for improvement in supporting students' social-emotional health. Implementing more comprehensive counseling and emotional support programs could further enrich the overall educational experience. By focusing not only on academics but also on the well-being of each student, the school can better prepare them for the challenges they'll face in life. Nevertheless, it remains a place where young minds flourish, setting a high standard for what K-12 education can be.

Posted: September 5, 2023

Excellent teachers and responsive leadership. We are very pleased with the quality of this education.

Posted: September 5, 2023

Posted: August 24, 2023

This charter school is associated with Hillsdale College. Your child will learn Bible stories, be taught modified history through a Christian bent and hear teachers personal beliefs. However, parents are not made aware of this prior to enrollment or even throughout the year. It will be realized as your child becomes more articulate and questioning. It is believed that the staff is only hired if they have a faith based background. Large photos of men who have achieved hang in the walls. No women. Only MLK is represented as diversity. Discipline is handled with unrelenting silent lunches and the loss of recess time. However, the punishment rarely fits the crime. IE: you smiled at silent lunch. You now dont get recess.
The school is ultimately a small Christian private using the Charter system as a means to provide free education. While they are unable to promote themselves as this there is a community that is aware hence the long waitlist.

This review is for those who are unaware and perhaps want a different direction.

Posted: August 24, 2023

Posted: August 18, 2023

The combination of rigorous academics and principled character education ACA provides are exceedingly rare today. ACA delivers on it like no other K-12 that I am aware of. We looked at all the best privates and public schools near Atlanta, and found this gem. Our kids are thriving and love the teachers, the "House System" (think Harry Potter), and the academic environment that keeps them engaged and continuously challenged.

This is not a school for kids who just want to get by and earn an easy "A." Those don't exist at ACA. However, the teachers are fair and raise the bar for what is expected of their students. The students respect their teachers and look up to them as examples of learning, and just as important, character. Students are expected to live up to the school's virtues (Courage, Courtesy, Honesty, Perseverance, Self-Government, and Service). We find ourselves having great discussions around the dinner table about what these mean when confronted by difficult situations in daily life.

The thousand-plus person wait list speaks to the relevance of this model. If you are frustrated with what education has turned into in this country, ACA shows the way we can learn from the past without throwing away the great achievements of Western Civilization.

Posted: August 18, 2023

Posted: July 31, 2023

Administration is highly lacking. They give a good appearance, but its all for appearances. Money is the driving force. Save your child from this cult like experience.

This is their third year and the teacher and staff turnover is astronomical. Administration has no respect for anyone unless they are a white male.

This environment is not what it appears to be. Send your child elsewhere.

Posted: July 31, 2023

Posted: July 30, 2023

Atlanta Classical Academy has a rich culture of learning and developing the character of the students. Our students have experienced great growth, our family has been included in community, and our children with disabilities have been accommodated. We have been extremely pleased and are thankful for such a wonderful educational experience for our children.

Posted: July 30, 2023

Posted: January 22, 2023

This school is exceptional. The staff are all very engaged and inspiring and willing to do whatever it takes to help the students succeed. I am so thankful my daughter got in to ACA.

Posted: January 22, 2023

Posted: December 5, 2022

The people running this school are the worst part. There are some good teachers and families, but this is the type of place big donors have far more of a say than other families. There is a clique and families outside it won't be able to get quick or reliable responses. If you want a school that is anti-"woke", this strives for that, but not sure why it doesn't become a fully private institution.

Posted: December 5, 2022

Posted: October 7, 2021

Love this school; my two children are getting a better education here that at most local private school; and the students are not troubled with any CRT nonsense. Teachers are very responsive; administration is no nonsense and all about business. Free lunches too - for now.

Posted: October 7, 2021

Posted: May 22, 2020

This is an amazing school! Yes, the academics are tough and the teachers want to be sure the children have mastery of subjects, but that's what I want for my children. (For that reason, it does require more work than the "average" school.) Teachers are well-educated, articulate and care deeply for their students. My two (small) issues are: the facility is admittedly not as nice as some other area schools, and the parking situation is tough. The quality of education my children are receiving more than makes up for that. We are so thankful for ACA!

Posted: May 22, 2020

The most amazing teachers can be found at ACA! They truly care and help the students, and are amazing role models.

Posted: May 22, 2020

Posted: November 3, 2018

Jury is still out. Hopeful about the new principal, although he needs to clean up the current trifecta leadership team and remove the oldest, dead wood.
This school has the potential to be really great and it starts from the top.

Posted: November 3, 2018

In the elementary grades, homework is set an appropriate rate. High school may be a different story but our children are not there yet.

Posted: November 3, 2018

Teachers are passionate and supportive of student. More teacher training would keep their interest high.

Posted: November 3, 2018

With the new principal in place, students have a stronger chance of experiencing and creating a positive feedback loop for integrity, empathy, compassion and respoect.

Posted: November 3, 2018

The prior principals (there were two) were nothing but bullies. The past leadership was condescending toward students and their parents and bullying fell in rivulets down from the leadership team. More changes need to happen in the leadership team to purge the bad apples.
Seeing great improvement with the new principal and will reserve room to adjust this rating.

Posted: November 3, 2018

Teachers need to be given more tools to understand learning differences and help sight issues in students with earlier intervention. Support is there but only if you ask for it.

Posted: November 3, 2018

The past leadership team were unfit for leading an organization of children. They themselves fed a culture of bullying, intimidation and creating scare tactics to supress children's growth.
The new principal can make easy steps to improve upon the old, unacceptable culture.

Posted: April 3, 2018

The students are very respectful and well-behaved. The curriculum is very challenging, but there is a tremendous student support system. This school will NOT pass students without students fully understanding and comprehending ALL materials/courses. This is where as parents you will have to make a decision if this school works for your family.

Posted: April 3, 2018

Posted: February 1, 2018

The teachers at this school are very ineffective for children who do not learn like others. All they are seen to be doing is standing at a board and talking and that is not effective!

Posted: February 1, 2018

When I went to observe the school the students were very kind but it wasnt so much the students who showed lack of virtue and was a member of the admin (The dean of students) was very disrespectful (harsh, absurd behavior) toward a large amount of the students!

Posted: February 1, 2018

My child has a learning disability does all of her work (we do it together every night) and is still struggling!

Posted: February 1, 2018

This school does not deal with bullying well at all! My child spent days afraid of going to school to the point where she was taken out of school for almost a week!

Posted: February 1, 2018

Honestly I wish I could say I enjoyed it but I didnt the dean of students showed a lack of respect for anyone and in my personal opinion abused his power. The principal was great in my opinion as well. The teachers were very nice but as I said standing at a board and talking is not teaching.

Posted: January 18, 2018

The school is a very inclusive to children with learning differences. There is no bullying and all the teachers love to teach. A truly caring place and I have watched my child grow so much both intellectually and socially. Great parents and great children. This young school will become one of the best in the state.

Posted: January 11, 2018

Both of my children have been at ACA since the school opened and are now in high school. We are thrilled with the challenging curriculum and are confident that our children are being very well prepared for college and for life. The standards at the school are high but the faculty, staff and administration rally around every student to encourage success.

Posted: December 10, 2017

I abosolutley hate this school I would suggest that you never send your kid to this school. My kids go there and they are going to transfer because out of their 7 friends from last year only one of them came back if thats saying something

Posted: December 10, 2017

Posted: June 21, 2016

The mission of the school is to develop students in mind and character through a classical content-rich curriculum that emphasizes the principals of virtuous living, traditional learning and civic responsibility.

Amazing administration, caring teachers who are subject matter experts and great communication with student body and their families.

#	Name	Type	City	State	Overall Rating	Distance
1	Garden Hills	Condominium/Townhouse	Atlanta	GA		1.7 mi
2	Heritage Farms	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Marietta	GA		14.8 mi

Base	Distance
Dobbins ARB	8 mi.
Fort Gillem	16 mi.

Atlanta Classical Academy

Atlanta, GA 30305

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Atlanta Classical Academy

Atlanta, GA 30305

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