Complex Re-enrollment Policies Prevent Atlanta Students from Returning to School

Single mother's struggle highlights systemic issues as thousands remain out of school

Thousands of students in Atlanta have been unable to return to school due to complex re-enrollment requirements and the everyday obstacles of poverty.
Parents must present at least eight documents to enroll their children, including a notarized affidavit declaring residency and a complicated certificate evaluating a child's health.
The district can request proof of residency after an extended absence, leading to disenrollment of children whose families cannot provide the necessary documents.
Tameka, a single mother of four, has been unable to re-enroll her children since they were removed from the school rolls in fall 2021.
Critics argue that the enrollment policies, which were designed to prevent children from attending schools outside of their neighborhood, have made it difficult for the poor to attend their assigned schools.