Atlanta Public Schools (APS) students gathered on March 7 to share their visions for the city’s future at the Future.ATL.Now event, held at the Loudermilk Center before more than 200 community members, city leaders, and educators.
The event highlighted how APS students are taking an active role in shaping Atlanta’s direction by addressing current challenges and proposing solutions for tomorrow. Students discussed topics such as climate change, political polarization, and the need for ‘third spaces’ where young people can connect outside of school and home.
Dr. Kyra Caldwell Templeton, APS program director of Student Engagement and co-advisor of the Student Advisory Council, said: “Future.ATL.Now is an initiative that was created from the brains of our APS students. It started with a connection between a student from Midtown and a student from KIPP Atlanta Collegiate who came together…to come up with this grand idea.”
Therrell High School junior Devin Mitchell spoke about creating third spaces: “We’re looking for spaces where we can explore, be ourselves, and conceive the future,” he said.
During the event, Courtney English, Chief of Staff for Mayor Andre Dickens, announced a $50,000 contribution to support a feasibility study on third spaces across Atlanta. English said: “We deeply believe in you. So, you say you need third spaces? I’ll bite. We’re going to make a $50,000 contribution help get that conversation going.”
Douglass High School junior Sonora Gaines reflected on being heard by city leaders: “I think it means that they want to have an impact, and they want us as student leaders and future leaders to make an impact on the community as well,” Gaines said. “It’s wonderful that we’re given the opportunity to present problems we think are important and to be heard.” Midtown High School junior Kai Chen addressed political polarization: “It’s very important for student voices and the next generation to start tackling issues that are going to impact the society we inherit,” Chen said.
Students also discussed environmental sustainability and affordability during their presentations.
The event concluded with a sense that Atlanta’s youth are prepared to lead discussions about their city’s future.
