OUR MISSION is to inspire students, teachers and the community to
collaborate to develop strong critical thinking, interpersonal and academic
skills in our students, which will prepare them for real-world success.

Katherine Kelbaugh (right) at The Museum School fundraiser
The Museum School of Avondale Estates is excited to introduce its new principal, Katherine Kelbaugh. A Decatur resident, Kelbaugh has a history of outstanding academic results as well as extensive experience as a school leader and a classroom teacher, including two years as assistant principal at Central Charter School in Lauderdale Lakes, Florida, and two years as the school’s lead teacher.
Kelbaugh holds a master’s degree in educational psychology with a focus on gifted and creative education. She will lead the school's efforts to develop curriculum, recruit staff, enroll students and build educational partnerships.
“We’re very excited to have Katherine as our incoming Head of School,” says Sasha Webb, chair of the Museum School’s Executive Committee. “She has extensive classroom experience as well as charter school classroom and administrative experience.”
Kelbaugh sees the school’s innovative design as the cornerstone for a strong academic program. “The Museum School philosophy centers around meeting individual student needs,” she says. “We’re also offering students a hands-on, project-based curriculum. The interactive nature of the school will challenge students beyond basic performance standards.”
Kelbaugh was hired after an extensive, national search that drew 60 candidates. In addition to the school’s design, the level of community involvement attracted Kelbaugh to the position as Head of School. We are happy to welcome her on our journey to build an innovative public charter school! Email Katherine
Welcome students, parents, staff, and community members to Georgia’s first museum school – The Museum School of Avondale Estates! It is with great pride and excitement that we welcome our first students on August 9.
We are excited to have the opportunity to provide our students with an innovative, hands-on approach to learning. Our interactive program, tailored to the varied needs of our students, offers students the opportunity to learn first-hand and through real-life experiences.
Strong parental and community involvement will undoubtedly help our students achieve far beyond basic standards. Partnerships with local museums and centers will reinforce and enhance students’ learning and will directly contribute to a greater understanding of content and material.
It’s the innovative curriculum, strong parental involvement, passionate community support, and a staff and student body full of enthusiasm and motivation that makes our school different.
Thank you for believing in our school and students. We will start school this fall full of energy, ready to inspire and to be inspired. Welcome to The Museum School of Avondale Estates!
Katherine Kelbaugh
Principal