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Dekalb County School District

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Our Community

 

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DeKalb County is one of the most populous and diverse counties in Georgia. Located in the Atlanta metropolitan area, it plays a vital role in the state's economy, culture, and history. 

The county encompasses the incorporated cities of Avondale Estates, Brookhaven, Chamblee, Clarkston, Decatur (the county seat), Doraville, Dunwoody, Lithonia, Pine Lake, Stone Mountain, Stonecrest, Tucker, and parts of Atlanta (link to their official city website). Established in 1822, DeKalb County spans 271 square miles and shares borders with Fulton, Gwinnett, Rockdale, Henry, and Clayton counties. 

Major transportation routes include Interstates 20, 85, 285, and 675, as well as numerous state highways, offering convenient access to Interstate 75 and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport — the busiest airport in the world. Public transit is provided by the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA), which operates both rail and bus services throughout the area. 

Home to more than 770,000 residents who speak over 60 languages, DeKalb County is a vibrant community with a median household income exceeding $77,000. Over 90% of residents are high school graduates, and nearly 50% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. View recent census data. The county is a hub for higher education, featuring institutions such as Emory University, Mercer University, Agnes Scott College, Georgia Piedmont Technical College, Georgia State University Perimeter College, Columbia Theological Seminary, DeVry University (Atlanta-Decatur), Interactive College of Technology (Chamblee), Luther Rice College and Seminary (Lithonia), Oglethorpe University (Brookhaven), and South College. 

Renowned for its rich cultural diversity, DeKalb County offers an array of cultural attractions, including art centers, museums, theaters, and festivals. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the county’s extensive network of parks, trails, nature preserves, and recreational facilities — including the world-famous Stone Mountain Park. The area is also a prominent player in Georgia’s booming film and television industry, home to four major soundstages. 

DeKalb County is a leader in healthcare, with world-class institutions such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Emory Healthcare, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, and Kaiser Permanente serving the community. 

Living and working in DeKalb County offers a balanced lifestyle with a strong sense of community and opportunity. The county is known for its scenic landscapes, welcoming neighborhoods, and affordable cost of living, making it an ideal place for families and individuals alike. With access to quality schools, a variety of job opportunities, recreational facilities, and local events, residents enjoy a vibrant yet relaxed pace of life. Whether you're starting a career or settling down, DeKalb County provides a supportive and fulfilling environment. 

DeKalb County Chambers