Atlanta Public Schools Salary in 2025

As we enter 2025, the salary landscape for employees of Atlanta Public Schools (APS) is shaped by various factors such as job roles, experience, education, and local market conditions. Whether you’re a current employee, a prospective job seeker, or someone simply curious about the earning potential in the education sector, understanding APS salary trends can provide valuable insight.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about salaries within Atlanta Public Schools in 2025, including the average salary range, influencing factors, salary by experience, job market trends, and certifications or education that may impact salary. We’ll also discuss benefits, job outlook, and key opportunities for growth.

1. Average APS Salary in 2025

The salary for positions within Atlanta Public Schools varies based on the role, level of experience, and department. Here’s a breakdown of salary ranges for key roles:

Teachers’ Salary

Elementary & Secondary Teachers: Teachers are among the largest group of employees within APS. In 2025, the salary range for teachers typically falls between $45,000 to $75,000 annually. New teachers typically earn at the lower end of the range, while those with more years of experience can earn higher salaries.
Specialized Teachers: Teachers in specialized fields like special education, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), or foreign languages often earn higher salaries, ranging from $55,000 to $85,000 annually.

Administrative Salaries

Principals: The salary for school principals in Atlanta Public Schools in 2025 can range from $80,000 to $120,000 per year, depending on the size and level of the school.
Assistant Principals: Assistant principals can expect to earn between $65,000 to $95,000 annually.

Support Staff Salaries

School Counselors: Counselors within APS typically earn between $50,000 and $75,000.
Bus Drivers: Bus drivers’ salaries range between $30,000 and $45,000 per year, depending on experience and route size.

Other Roles

IT Professionals: With the increasing importance of technology, IT staff within APS typically earn between $50,000 and $90,000, depending on their role and expertise.

2. Factors Influencing APS Salaries in 2025

Several factors can influence how much employees within Atlanta Public Schools earn:

Education and Qualifications

Bachelor’s Degree: Most teaching positions require at least a Bachelor’s degree in education or a specialized subject. Teachers with a Bachelor’s degree will typically earn salaries at the lower end of the salary range.
Master’s Degree or Doctorate: Teachers and administrators with advanced degrees, such as a Master’s or Doctorate, often earn higher salaries. A Master’s degree can add anywhere from $2,000 to $10,000 to the base salary, while a Doctorate may increase salary potential further.

Certifications

Teaching Certifications: Teachers with specific certifications or endorsements, such as TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) or special education certifications, often qualify for higher salaries.
Leadership Certifications: Administrative roles may require leadership-specific certifications, such as the Georgia Leadership Certificate, which can lead to higher pay.

Experience

Entry-Level Employees: New employees with little to no experience in their roles typically earn salaries closer to the lower end of the scale.
Mid-Level Professionals: Those with 5-10 years of experience usually earn salaries near the middle range. For example, a teacher with 5-10 years of experience may earn between $55,000 and $70,000 annually.
Veteran Professionals: Employees with 10+ years of experience, including senior teachers and experienced administrators, typically earn the top tier of their salary range.

3. Job Market Trends in 2025

In 2025, several key trends are shaping the Atlanta Public Schools job market:

Growing Demand for STEM Education: There is an increasing demand for qualified STEM educators, particularly in subjects like mathematics, science, and technology. As a result, specialized teachers in these fields are commanding higher salaries.
Focus on Special Education: With an ongoing commitment to inclusivity, there is a rising demand for special education teachers and related support roles. These positions often come with salary incentives.
Technological Integration: As schools continue to integrate technology into classrooms, roles related to IT support, tech training, and educational technology have seen growth. This has led to increased salaries for these positions as well.

4. Benefits and Job Outlook

While salary is important, benefits and job outlook also play a significant role in deciding whether a job is a good fit. Here’s what you can expect:

Benefits

Health Insurance: APS offers comprehensive health insurance packages, which include medical, dental, and vision plans.
Retirement Plans: Employees can participate in the Georgia Teacher Retirement System (TRS) or other pension plans that provide financial security for retirement.
Paid Time Off: Employees are entitled to vacation days, sick leave, and holidays. Teachers generally get extended breaks during the summer and holiday periods.
Professional Development: APS provides ongoing professional development opportunities, including workshops, conferences, and courses, to help employees enhance their skills and advance in their careers.

Job Outlook

The job outlook for APS employees in 2025 remains stable, with steady demand for teachers, school administrators, and support staff. The emphasis on education, particularly in STEM fields and special education, is likely to keep job openings in these areas strong. The overall demand for teachers remains positive, although job competition can be intense, especially in popular schools and high-demand subjects.

5. Conclusion

In 2025, Atlanta Public Schools salaries are competitive, particularly for positions in specialized fields and administrative roles. Salaries are influenced by factors such as experience, education, certifications, and market demand. The growing emphasis on technology and STEM education is shaping job roles and salary opportunities. Whether you’re entering the education field, looking to advance your career, or just curious about APS salaries, understanding these key factors will help you navigate your career journey effectively.

For those considering a career with APS, the comprehensive benefits, stable job outlook, and opportunities for professional development make it an attractive option for both new and experienced professionals.