School Profile

About Ronald E. McNair Middle School

Ronald E. McNair Middle School is one of 100 schools in the Fulton County School District. The school is named in honor of physicist and NASA astronaut Dr. Ronald E. McNair, who tragically lost his life during the launch of the Space Shuttle Challenger in 1986.

Originally known as M.D. Collins High School, the school was renamed Ronald E. McNair Middle School in 1988. It is one of ten schools that make up the Fulton County Zone 1 District. Our feeder school is Banneker High School, and 100% of our student population is zoned to attend that high school.

We are proud to be a Leader in Me school, where excellence is the standard. Through this leadership model, we empower students with the skills and mindset needed to become confident, responsible, and proactive citizens. Our school culture emphasizes character development, goal setting, and student voice.

Academic Excellence and Innovation

Ronald E. McNair Middle School is committed to academic excellence and innovation. Our curriculum is designed to challenge students while providing the support they need to succeed. We offer a variety of enrichment opportunities, including STEM-focused instruction, project-based learning, and interdisciplinary units that connect classroom learning to real-world experiences.

Through a partnership with Digital Promise and Verizon, McNair is part of the Verizon Innovative Learning Schools (VILS) program. This initiative aims to close the digital learning gap in diverse middle schools across the nation. The program provides students with access to mobile learning technology both in the classroom and at home, offers educators personalized professional development, and connects all participants to a national community of practice. Our school serves as a model for innovation, with our journey fully documented to help others learn from our experiences.

Student Support and Enrichment

We believe in educating the whole child. In addition to rigorous academics, we offer a wide range of programs that support students’ social-emotional development, leadership skills, and college and career readiness.

Special Programs at McNair Middle School:

· Jr. BETA Club – Promoting academic achievement, character, and leadership.

· College Bound – Preparing students for post-secondary success through early exposure and planning.

· Future Foundations – Fostering personal growth and life skills.

· Global Studies Program – Encouraging global awareness and cultural understanding.

· McNair’s College Awareness and Leadership Program – Building leadership capacity and college readiness through mentorship and experiential learning.

Family and Community Engagement

We recognize that strong partnerships with families and the community are essential to student success. McNair Middle School actively engages parents through regular communication, family events, and volunteer opportunities. We also collaborate with local organizations and businesses to provide additional resources and experiences for our students.