AASDAA History
AASDAA Establishment
The Atlanta Area School for the Deaf Alumni Association (Inc) was officially recognized by the State of Georgia on January 14, 2025. Although alumni had been reconnecting and supporting one another for many years, this date marks the formal establishment of AASDAA as a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the legacy, traditions, and community spirit of AASD.
Our Purpose & Legacy
The Atlanta Area School for the Deaf Alumni Association (Inc) was created to preserve the legacy, traditions, and community spirit of the Atlanta Area School for the Deaf. For generations, AASD has been a cornerstone of Deaf education in Georgia, shaping the lives of students through language, culture, and connection.
AASDAA was formed by dedicated alumni who recognized the importance of keeping the AASD community united beyond graduation. Through reunions, events, and ongoing support for current students, the association ensures that the history of AASD continues to be honored and remembered.
Our history reflects:
The strength of the Deaf community
The impact of AASD on generations of students
The commitment of alumni to support one another
The importance of preserving Deaf culture and identity
AASDAA continues to grow as alumni come together to celebrate their shared experiences and support the future of AASD.
AASD History
Founding Years (1971–1972)
The Atlanta Area School for the Deaf was built in 1971 and officially opened its doors to students in the fall of 1972. In the earliest years, AASD served only preschool and primary‑aged children, forming the foundation of what would later become a full K–12 educational program.
Original Campus Layout
When AASD opened in 1972, the campus consisted of three main buildings:
Preschool & Kindergarten Building
Primary / Early Middle School Building
Administration Building — located on the right side as you entered the property, a location that remains the same today.
These were the only buildings available during the early years. Many students — including those from the 1972–1976 era — attended AASD until they aged out of the available grade levels and were then required to transition to public schools.
Campus Growth & Expansion
As enrollment increased, AASD added a new building behind the original structures, expanding the school to include middle school programs. Over time, the campus continued to grow, eventually adding:
A high school program
A large library
A full auditorium
A basketball‑court gym
Additional classrooms and specialized spaces
These facilities were not part of the original campus. Their addition reflects the dedication of families, educators, and the Deaf community who worked to expand opportunities for future generations.
First High School Graduation (1983)
AASD’s first high school graduation took place in 1983, marking a major milestone in the school’s development. The graduating class was small — only five students — reflecting how new the high school program was at the time. This first class paved the way for future generations of Deaf students in Georgia to complete their education at AASD rather than being required to transfer to public schools.
Mascot & Color Evolution
AASD’s original school colors were blue and gold, chosen to represent pride, tradition, and unity. In the mid‑1970s, students voted for the Apache as the school’s first mascot. Years later, out of respect for Native communities, the mascot was changed to the Panther, and the color black was added to represent the new mascot.
Blue and gold remained the official school colors, with black serving as a modern accent tied to the Panther identity.
55th Anniversary (2027)
AASD will celebrate its 55th anniversary in 2027, marking fifty‑five years since the school first opened its doors to students in the fall of 1972.
