The DeKalb County School system sent a letter to parents saying that the annexation would not hurt the school system.

The annexation would not expand the boundaries of Atlanta Public Schools, meaning the approximately nine students who live there would remain in the DeKalb County Schools. The city and DeKalb County recently reached a settlement regarding the annexation proposal. DeKalb County had challenged the 744 acre annexation proposal that also includes petitions from Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Georgia Power, Villa International, Synod of South Atlantic & Presbyterian Church (USA) Inc. and the Centers for Disease Control.

The annexation still requires approval by the Atlanta City Council and there’s no word yet on when that might happen.

The school system is a separate entity from the county government.

Superintendent Stephen Green said DeKalb County Schools has reviewed the proposal.

“After reviewing the proposed annexation ordinance which maintains the current school district boundaries, DCSD believes that basic changes to the city of Atlanta’s boundaries in the area would not negatively impact DeKalb County students or schools,” Green said.

STONE MOUNTAIN, GA. – The DeKalb County School District (DCSD) is among the neighbors of an area near Emory University that is being proposed for annexation into the City of Atlanta. As an interested stakeholder, DCSD is sharing this open letter from Superintendent/CEO R. Stephen Green with the community:

“As a provider of school services in the proposed Emory annexation area, the DeKalb County School District (DCSD) has a keen interest in actions that could influence or alter the lives of our students and their families both within and outside the area proposed for annexation. It is vital that the best interest of area families is placed at the forefront of any discussion that could impact services in the area, especially the education of children.

After reviewing the proposed annexation ordinance which maintains the current school district boundaries, DCSD believes that basic changes to the city of Atlanta’s boundaries in the area would not negatively impact DeKalb County students or schools.

The proposed annexation ordinance acknowledges the rich history and character of Druid Hills, including Emory, as well as DeKalb’s historical school district lines. The DeKalb County School District believes the proposed ordinance protects relevant neighborhood and existing school character while allowing the petitioners to meet their goal of receiving city services.

These guiding principles are what should count the most, not matters of politics or personal preference, which tend to change on a frequent basis. The district believes the discussion should remain completely focused on addressing the petitioner’s request for city services without deviation into unnecessary considerations, namely the consideration of long-established school district boundaries.

The DeKalb County School District looks forward to the resolution of the proposed annexation question, and to continue serving the students and families of its current school district lines.”