Atlas Public Schools

Atlas was founded in 2021 for curious, creative, and compassionate kids.  We are located next to Union Station, in the racially and socioeconomically diverse, accessible, and resource-rich St. Louis Central Corridor. We are free, public, and open to all. 

Our team works to instill a love of learning in our students while empowering them to build a healthy future for themselves, our community, and the world. Atlas currently serves 312 students in kindergarten through third grade. We will add a grade level each year (i.e. 4th grade for 2024-25) and plan to evolve into a comprehensive K-8 school.

At Atlas, we leverage the unique resources of our amazing city to provide unforgettable learning opportunities for our kids through place-based learning. Our school model is designed to ensure that our students are academically exceptional, creative and critical thinkers, lifelong learners, culturally competent citizens, well-rounded individuals, and collaborative team members.

The Atlas Difference

We are reimagining education in St. Louis thanks to a variety of programs and priorities:  

-Co-Teacher Model: At Atlas, we believe all students should receive the personalized instruction they need to thrive. Each classroom is staffed with two educators to more effectively support our students and meet their individual needs. 

-Investment in Educators: In addition to the co-teacher model, teachers have 30 days of professional development built into the school calendar, and our year-round model allows for more frequent breaks. As a result, teacher retention is 95% with nearly 90% of teachers having 3+ years of experience.

-Year-Round Education: At Atlas, we create an equitable learning environment that prepares all students for success. Our year-round model is divided into seven academic sessions, each consisting of approximately five weeks of instruction followed by a two-week intersession break. During intercession breaks, students can participate in free enrichment programs.

-Diverse-by-Design: Atlas' staff and student population reflects the diversity of our city across race, income, and cultural backgrounds. Our commitment to diversity extends beyond recruitment to our anti-bias, anti-racist approach to curriculum and instruction, school-wide practices that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion and ongoing professional development for our team.

As a result of our innovative school model, not only do Atlas kids love coming to school but they are equipped with the critical thinking and problem-solving skills needed to thrive in the 21st century. Our students flourish because we focus on educating the whole child, and are committed to recruiting, developing, and retaining highly effective educators.