Oglethorpe Elementary School is named after the legendary founder of the state of Georgia, General James Edward Oglethorpe. The building was constructed in 1958 by Edwards and Portman Architects of Atlanta, Georgia. The school was dedicated and opened for enrollment during the 1959-1960 school year.

Evelyn Ross-Robinson was the first principal of Oglethorpe School, followed by Dr. Hill-Miles, Dr. McDaniel and Dr. Tolbert. Ms. Diana Quisenberry is the current principal of Oglethorpe Elementary.

Oglethorpe is uniquely located within the northeast boundary of the Atlanta University Center. The building has undergone renovation, which has resulted in eight additional classrooms.