Latonya’s Story

When One Child Thrives, an Entire Community Changes

When LaTonya Gates Johnston speaks about the power of education, she isn't speaking in theory. She is speaking as a mother.

For years, Johnston has dedicated her life to serving children and families, believing that every child deserves the opportunity to become everything God created them to be.

But that conviction became deeply personal as she watched her own son struggle in school. At just 8 years old, he had fallen behind academically. Like many parents, Johnston worried not only about his grades, but about his confidence.

"As a parent, it's heartbreaking to watch your child begin to question their own potential," she said.

Everything changed when he entered an environment where teachers believed in him. Surrounded by educators who invested in his success, encouraged him daily, and refused to let him give up, he began to flourish. The child who once struggled to keep up is now thriving.

His story is one reason Johnston believes so deeply in the mission of City School Atlanta.

"It's amazing what can happen when just one person believes in a child," she said. "One teacher. One mentor. One coach. One school. One opportunity can change the direction of an entire life."

That philosophy is at the heart of City School Atlanta. More than a place for academics, the school strives to create an environment where students feel seen, valued, loved, and capable of achieving greatness. Johnston believes education is about far more than preparing students for the next grade level—it is about breaking cycles, creating hope, and helping children realize a future beyond their circumstances.

"The world may try to define our children by their neighborhood, their family history, or their circumstances," she said. "But God never does."

Drawing from Romans 12:2, Johnston emphasized that transformation begins with a renewed mind.

"Education renews the mind. Love heals the heart. Faith strengthens the spirit. When those three things come together, lives are transformed."

She also praised the teachers and staff who make that transformation possible every day.

"Every encouraging word, every lesson you teach, every extra hour you give, and every hug you offer matters more than you may ever know," she said. "You are helping rewrite family stories one child at a time."

For Johnston, investing in children creates a ripple effect that extends far beyond the classroom.

"When we change a child, we don't just change one life," she said. "We change a family. We change a community. And eventually, we change the world."

As City School Atlanta continues to equip students from diverse backgrounds with the support and opportunity they need to succeed, Johnston hopes every child who walks through its doors leaves knowing one thing: they have a future filled with hope.