Georgia students head back to school as new year begins Monday

Children, parents and teachers have been preparing for the first day of school for weeks, and some will head back to the classroom today for the first day of the 2026-2027 academic year.

Several schools across Georgia welcome back children Monday, including Atlanta Public Schools, Cobb County Schools and Bibb County Schools.

Jennifer Rich of Centennial Academy said she has been decorating her classroom and preparing her curriculum for her new class of second graders. After teaching for 21 years, Rich said she found her sweet spot in second grade.

“I feel like it’s one of those grade levels where the students are a little more independent,” Rich said. “They can kind of do a lot more on their own, but they also want to learn more. They also want to ask more questions.”

However, Rich said many students can feel anxious on their first day of school.

Dr. Shatavia Thomas, a local family therapist, said parents can do a great deal of preparation to help their children have a great start for the school year.

“Confidence is so important,” Thomas said. “Prepping helps to lower the anxiety because you feel a little bit more prepared and a little bit more confident.”

Thomas recommends having open conversations with children about their goals, expectations and new school protocols, specifically with electronic devices.

In addition to normal nerves and anxiety, U.S. Sen. Raphael Warnock has highlighted the increased costs families are facing as they buy school supplies. Warnock told WABE that tariffs are putting additional pressure on Georgia families.

“Here’s something the Trump administration can do. They can get rid of these tariffs. They’re not working. We’re seeing the ways in which it’s increasing the price of everything,” Warnock said.

A report from Warnock’s office found that common school supplies, such as notebooks and index cards, have increased in price by more than 20%. School supplies for a single child can cost more than $130.