Atlanta School Guide | Summer/Fall 2016 by Killam Publishing, Inc.

Contents

summer/fall 2016

26 30

Features

In Every Issue

Teaching the Whole Child Many metro Atlanta schools go beyond academics to develop students’ social, physical and emotional growth.

Finding the Right Balance Experts share tips to help make sure your child isn’t overburdened with school and extracurricular activities—and get some important free time.

The Importance of Early Education A child’s first few years are the most critical in terms of development. Here’s what to look for in an early learning facility.

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6 How to Use This Guide 8 Critical Communication 14 Headmaster’s Corner

Jim Callis, head of school for Mt. Bethel Christian Academy.

16 Special Needs Resources 36 Independent School Guide Boarding School Directory 76 83 Public Schools by County 94 Educational Resources Tutoring, summer camps and activities, field trips and more.

105 Advertiser Index

How To

Use This Guide Find an Independent School in

Easy Steps!

Metro Atlanta Area Map To search for independent schools by region or neighborhood, turn to page 34 and use the color-coded map to direct you to each region’s page number.

Education At-a-Glance

Region Maps and Listings

4 6

Once you’ve selected your region of interest, the charts beginning on page 36 include a comparison of features for each school in that region, along with the page number for each school’s ad.

Divided into regions of Atlanta, the color-coded maps beginning on page 41 provide each school’s location and page number for their ad.

Advertiser Index To find a school or resource by name, turn to the advertiser index on page 105 to find the appropriate page number.

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We graciously thank our advertisers for their support of the Atlanta School Guide. Publisher/President Patrick Killam Editor Jacob Mitchell Marketing & Promotions Jeff Thompson Account Directors Lacey James Stephen Connor Contributing Writers DANIEL BEAUREGARD H.M. CAULEY Cady Schulman

TO ADVERTISE CALL

770-992-0273 Space closing for Winter/Spring 2017 issue: October 14, 2016 Atlanta School Guide, Summer/Fall 2016, Volume 11, Issue 2. Published bi-annually by Killam Publishing, Inc., 200 Market Place, Suite 230, Roswell, GA 30075. Atlanta School Guide assumes no responsibility for errors, changes or omissions. Information may have changed since press time, so please verify all information when contacting a school or educational resource. Reproduction in whole or in part of any elements of this publication is strictly prohibited without the written permission of the publisher. © 2016 Killam Publishing, Inc. For additional copies, further information or advertising, please contact:

KILLAM PUBLISHING, INC. P: 770-992-0273 F: 770-649-7463 info@killampublishing.com www.atlantaschoolguide.com

Critical Communication

Trends and Happenings in Georgia Education What You Need to Know to Stay Up to Date With Atlanta and Georgia Education APS Turnaround Plan Approved The Atlanta Public Schools Board of Education has approved an ambitious plan to improve underperforming schools. Under the plan, some schools will be managed by charter school groups. Hebron Names New Head of School Hebron Christian Academy has hired Dr. Tracey Pritchard as its new head of school. Dr. Pritchard comes from Liberty University, where she served as Chair of Higher Education Programs. She takes her post on July 1. Gwinnett Student Wins Volunteer Honor Devneet Singh, a junior at the Gwinnett School of Math, Science and Technology, was selected as one of Georgiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s two top youth volunteers of 2016 by The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards. 8

Atlanta School Guide

Westminster Schools Named Best in State The Westminster Schools, a Christian independent school in Atlanta, was named the top private high school in Georgia by Niche.com, a website that ranks K-12 schools and colleges. The website also ranked The Westminster Schools 27th among the top 100 independent schools in the country.

MIS Expands to High School Midtown International School, a school for gifted learners in kindergarten through 8th grade, will begin its first high school class this fall. The ninth grade class will graduate in 2020.

Cherokee Principal Honored Dr. Susan Zinkil, principal of Teasley Middle School in Cherokee County, has been named the Georgia Middle School Principal of the Year.

The Cloverleaf School has Expanded The Cloverleaf School, which serves children with learning differences, will expand to eighth grade this school year at a new Decatur location.

Woodward Student Wins Travel Award Briana Fernandez, a junior at Woodward Academy, won the 2016 Junior Travel Award for her achievement on the National Spanish Examination and for her fluency in the Spanish

Blue Cross Grant to Help Local Schools Blue Cross Blue Shield of Georgia recently awarded a grant for more than $289,000 to HealthMPowers, which promotes healthy behaviors for school children. The

Summer/Fall 2016

language. Fernandez will travel to Spain in July with the other 23 winners.

nonprofit will use the grant to provide activity trackers and other resources to students in 29 elementary schools in Atlanta Public Schools and Gwinnett County Public Schools. Holy Spirit Student Wins Academic Honor Lauren Bohling, a student at Holy Spirit Preparatory School in Atlanta, has been named a National Merit Finalist. This honor is awarded to a limited number of high school seniors each year, based on academic performance, extracurricular and volunteer activities and more.

Fulton County School Receives 500 Backpacks Americold, a food-industry warehousing company, and the charity Feed the Children recently provided 500 backpacks to students at Seaborn Lee Elementary School in Fulton County. The backpacks contained school supplies and basic hygiene essentials. GACS Coach Reaches 300 Wins Thom Jacquet, boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; soccer coach at Greater Atlanta Christian School, won his 300th game in March when BEST Academy forfeited the

game by failing to appear. Jacquet has led the GACS Spartans to 12 regional championships and five state championships. APS Hiring Police Force Atlanta Public Schools has announced the establishment of a new Atlanta Public Schools police department, which will launch in time for the start of the 2016-2017 school season on Aug. 3. The officers will provide security and serve as informal counselors and educators, following the systemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s focus on social and emotional learning.

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Critical Communication

Education 101

Terms to Know in Your Search for the Right Educational Experience for Your Child Charter School A tax-supported public school that is independently run, allowing for greater educational choice for parents in the community. Experiential Learning An educational approach using applied, hands-on methods of learning. INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB) A specifically designed comprehensive academic program emphasizing traditional disciplines while instilling a global perspective in its students.

Magnet School A public school that offers a specific or enhanced curriculum designed for students of special interest or ability. Montessori A school following the principles developed by Dr. Maria Montessori focusing on the unique individuality, self-reliance and independence of children. Special Needs A school or program for children who have mild-tomoderate learning differences. It usually features smaller class sizes, individualized attention and multisensory learning methods.

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Accreditation Official certification that guarantees a school provides an education of a reasonably high quality. Schools must prove levels of quality and maintain continuous standards of improvement. ACT An alternative to the SAT, this national college admissions examination consists of subject area tests in English, Mathematics, Reading and Science, with an optional 40-minute writing test. Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) A measure of year-to-year student achievement on statewide assessments as required by the No Child Left Behind Act.

Early Childhood Education Education that applies to children from birth to age 8, focusing specifically on their development, including physical, emotional, sensory, communicative, cognitive and social needs.

No Child Left Behind Act A federal law passed in 2001 designed to ensure that all children have a fair and equal opportunity to obtain a high-quality education and meet state academic standards of proficiency.

Georgia Milestones Tests designed to measure how well students in grades 3 through 12 acquire the skills and knowledge outlined in the state-adopted content standards.

PSAT A standardized test that offers students practice for the SAT Reasoning Test and allows them to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program.

HOPE Scholarship (Helping Outstanding Pupils Educationally) A scholarship in Georgia, funded by the Georgia Lottery, that rewards academically achieving students with financial assistance to attend a degree, diploma, or certificate program at eligible public and private Georgia colleges and universities.

SAT This standardized test measures the critical thinking, writing and mathematical reasoning skills of students planning to attend college. Secondary School Admissions Test (SSAT) The admissions test that many independent and private schools require students to take in order to be considered for enrollment.

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Critical Communication

Deciphering Associations and Organizations Many local and national organizations work to bring out the best in summer camps and public, private and boarding schools by identifying schools that meet certain standards through accreditation. These groups also set policies, research educational advancements and offer services to the educational communities both in Atlanta and in Georgia. The following are just some of the associations and organizations you should know in your search for the best educational experience for your child. AdvancED www.advanc-ed.org The parent organization for the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, AdvancED advances education excellence through accreditation and school improvement. The Association of Boarding Schools (TABS) www.boardingschools.com This organization of 300 boarding schools serves 12

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the professional development needs of boarding schools and provides information to potential students and their families. Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) www.acsi.org ACSI strives to enable Christian educators and schools worldwide to teach effectively using Christ-centered curricula and programs.

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Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) www.ami-global.org Recognizes schools that strongly adhere to Montessori principles and practices. Atlanta Area Association of Independent Schools (AAAIS) www.aaais.org Although not an accrediting agency, AAAIS is an affiliation of independent schools and operates under analogous principles and a common code of ethics. Department of Education (DOE) www.gadoe.org A statewide, policy-driven organization governing the public school system of education in Georgia for grades K-12, the Georgia DOE operates under the direction of the state superintendent of schools. Georgia Accrediting Commission (GAC) gac.coe.uga.edu GAC offers five levels of approval: provisionally accredited, accredited annually, accredited, accredited fully and accredited with quality. Georgia Association of Christian Schools (GACS) www.gacs.org Uses generally accepted indicators of quality, voluntary self-improvement and peer review to measure Christian schools.

Georgia Association of Private Schools for Exceptional Children (GAPSEC) www.gapsec.org This state organization of independent schools for students with learning disabilities maintains a code of ethics and shares information about programs at member schools.

Georgia School Boards Association (GSBA) www.gsba.com The GSBA provides leadership and services to Georgiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 180 elected boards of education, developing processes and programs to help local school boards continuously improve and use data effectively.

Georgia Charter Schools Association (GCSA) www.gacharters.org A membership organization whose mission is to be an effective advocate and service provider for all charter public schools in Georgia.

National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) www.naeyc.org The NAEYC focuses on the quality of educational and developmental services for children, from birth to age 8, including day care and pre-K centers.

Georgia Independent School Association (GISA) www.gisaschools.org An association of private, independent and parochial schools throughout the state whose mission is to advance excellence and collaboration among private, independent and parochial schools. Georgia Professional Standards Commission (PSC) www.gapsc.com A state organization responsible for setting and applying high standards for the preparation, certification and licensing of Georgia public educators, as well as conduct of teachers and staff.

National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) www.nais.org This association values and works to maintain the independent nature of each member school by promoting high standards of educational quality and ethical behavior. National Association of Private Special Education Centers (NAPSEC) www.napsec.org Represents private specialized education pro-

grams and their leaders by promoting high-quality programs and services for individuals with disabilities and their families. National Christian School Association (NCSA) www.nationalchristian.org An organization that accredits member schools, overseen by a board of administrators from Christian schools and universities. Southeastern Association of Boarding Schools (SABS) www.sabs.org An organization committed to promoting boarding education opportunities in the Southeastern United States. Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) www.sacs.org Member schools meet research-based standards and maintain continuous school improvement and quality assurance. Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS) www.sais.org Members meet quality standards, receive peer evaluation and implement a school plan focused on strategic improvement.

For more information about these and other organizations and associations that ensure quality education among camps and schools, visit the websites of the Georgia Department of Education (www.gadoe.org) or the U.S. Department of Education (www.ed.gov). www.atlantaschoolguide.com

Headmaster’s Corner

Jim Callis

Head of School, Mt. Bethel Christian Academy When Jim Callis was a child, he loved going to school every day to see his heroes: his teachers. He always knew he would follow them into a career in education, and now in his fifth year as head of school at Mt. Bethel Christian Academy, he’s a hero for a new generation of students. In his alternate identity off campus, he enjoys reading, kayaking, cycling and attending sporting events.

1. What is your educational philosophy? I believe that every child deserves a rigorous, well-rounded education. Education is so vital to the growth and influence of our nation; it cannot be entrusted to anyone less than passionate, whole-heartedly committed experts. 2. How is the field of education changing? Parenting styles are changing, and this has an impact on education. I have seen more parents who are simply uncertain about how to love and support their child while holding them accountable such that they grow in their independence. And, today’s students are busier outside of school and are more tired, anxious, and stressed than ever before. 3. What advice would you offer parents about their children’s education? Your child’s education is precious and critically important. Invest in your child’s future by carefully evaluating all of your options before choosing a school. Then, take the 14

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time to get to know your child’s teachers. Take advantage of conference opportunities, volunteer, and communicate proactively when a question or concern arises. 4. How can parents best contribute to the education process? Positive engagement. Research has shown that students who excel most consistently in school are those with supportive parents who are fully engaged in their child’s learning.

The Essentials: Mt. Bethel Christian Academy Emphasis: Christian education stressing academic excellence, spiritual growth, and a lifelong love of learning.

Tuition Range: $9,900 - $13,500

Year Founded: 1998

Location: 4385 Lower Roswell Rd., Marietta, GA 30068

Grades: Pre-K thru 12 Students: 625 Avg. Class Size: 20

Accreditations or Affiliations: SAIS and SACS (AdvancED)

Contact: 770-971-0245, www.mtbethelchristian.org

An occupational therapy service

for children toddler through teen

Year-round OT. Handwriting and sensory summer camps (May through August) Check our website for more information

• Exclusive provider for OT • Goddard School Crabapple creative traditional learning ~catering to the family and the child • Learning on the Log Preschools. special needs with special care in an unique therapy gym environment Susan N. Schriber Orloff, OTR/L, FAOTA CEO/Executive Director Children’s Special Services, LLC

770-394-9791 • info@childrens-services.com

www.childrens-services.com

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Atlanta School Guide

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room setting. Others may teach average or even above-average learners while also offering additional programs and classes for students with learning differences.

him or her evaluated by a mental health professional. A diagnosis is crucial in order to address the child’s educational needs.

After a Diagnosis: What’s Next? How to Tell if Your Child Has a Special If your child is diagnosed with a learnNeeds Situation ing disability and attends public school, First, it’s important to identify your child’s talk with the principal, school counselor issues. Students who exhibit average or or another administrator about developabove-average intelligence but often ing an Individualized Education Program seem distracted and don’t perform well (IEP). All public schools are required to in a traditional classroom create an IEP for students setting may be struggling with learning disabilities who meet special educawith dyslexia, Asperger’s syndrome, ADHD or some A professional tion requirements. An IEP other disorder that affects is a document that specievaluation is their ability to learn effecfies your child’s learning tively. Also, disruptive or crucial in order situation and educaaggressive children may tional needs and outlines to evaluate be exhibiting frustration a course of action for brought on by a learning teachers and other proyour child’s disability. fessionals to follow to educational help make sure your child If you suspect your child learns to the best of his or may have a learning disneeds. her ability. u ability, it’s critical to have www.atlantaschoolguide.com

Critical Communication If you feel your local public school isn’t the right environment for your child, or simply want to explore all your options, there are many quality independent schools in the metro Atlanta area devoted to helping children with special needs and learning issues. Visit the Georgia Association of Private Schools for Exceptional Children’s website (www.gapsec.org) or our listings for special needs schools on page 106 to help you with your search.

needs education. Independent special needs schools can offer more individualized instruction and a more structured and predictable environment, and are likely to address nonacademic issues such as social skills and self-esteem. As you begin searching for the right school for your child’s situation, here are some questions to keep in mind: • W ill your child fare better in a school that focuses on his or her specific learning disability, or would you rather that he be able to interact with students with a wide range of learning capabilities? • D oes the school serve a specific age range, or work with students on all grade levels? Many students with learning disabilities have trouble transitioning to new schools.

How Do I Find the Right School? All special needs schools are not the same. The first step is to identify those schools that can address your child’s specific learning difficulty, and offer the level of special needs instruction that you (and perhaps a professional) feel is best for your child. You may be more comfortable enrolling your child in a school that focuses specifically on his or her issue, or you may want a more diverse environment where he or she can interact with many different kinds of students. Familiarize yourself with the different options offered by each kind of school. Traditional indeIdentify those pendent schools that offer special needs schools that programs as part of a can best larger curriculum can offer that kind of enviaddress your ronment, but may have larger class sizes than child’s specific schools that specialize learning in specific learning disabilities. These kinds of difficulty. schools may also focus more on academics than on the therapeutic aspects of special 18

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Continued on pg 20 u

Fulton County Schools

Preschool Special Education Services

Serving all eligible Students ages 3-5 with disabilities. Parents must live within the Fulton County Schools District.

• Diagnostic & Evaluation Services • Speech/Language Therapy • Specialized Community & School Based Special Education It is the policy of the Fulton County School System not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, or disability in any employment practice, educational program, or any other program, activity or service.

Call 470-254-0404

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Critical Communication • D oes the school offer a variety of extracurricular activities, including arts and sports programs? • Is the school accredited? If so, by which organizations? • Is the staff certified to instruct special needs children, or those with your child’s specific learning difficulty? • Does the school focus more on academics or on addressing the child’s therapeutic needs? Financial Assistance Many independent special needs schools participate in the Georgia Special Needs Scholarship program (GSNS), a school choice program available to special needs students attending Georgia public schools. The program offers funds to off-

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set tuition and fees at participating private schools authorized by the State Board of Education. According to the Georgia Department of Education, scholarship amounts range from $2,500 to $13,500, with an average amount of around $6,000. The Quality Education Expense Credit program provides another scholarship option. Donations are made to an organization known as a Student Scholarship Organization (SSO), which uses the money to award scholarships to students in pre-K through grade 12. Many schools also offer their own scholarships or tuition assistance programs as well. Contact individual schools for details. For more information on special needs schools and resources, please see our listings on page 106.

COMMON SPECIAL NEEDS TERMS Asperger’s Syndrome: A developmental disorder on the autism spectrum, characterized by high intelligence, impaired social skills and repetitive patterns of behavior and interest.

Individualized Educational Program (IEP): A written statement that outlines the needs of a public school student with learning disabilities and creates a customized plan for meeting those needs.

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD): A strain of ADHD (see below) marked by a difficulty maintaining focus or concentration and frequent or consistent fatigue. ADD differs from ADHD in that hyperactivity or impulse-control issues are markedly decreased.

Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (IDEA): The federal law that governs how states and public education agencies that accept funding under the law address the educational needs of students with disabilities.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A chronic condition that includes hyperactivity, impulsive behavior and difficulty keeping one’s attention focused.

Learning Disability: A neurological condition that affects how one processes information.

Autism: A developmental disorder that affects the ability to communicate and interact with others, accompanied by rigid, repetitive behavior patterns. Dyslexia: A learning disability that impairs one’s ability to read. Georgia Association of Private Schools for Exceptional Children (GAPSEC): An organization of independent schools serving students with learning disabilities and differences. Georgia Special Needs Scholarship (GSNS): A school-choice scholarship program for special needs students being served by an IEP in Georgia public schools.

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Teaching the

Whole C hild LEARNING THAT GOES BEYOND ACADEMICS BY H.M. CAULEY

ithout a doubt, academics form the core of any school’s mission, and they’re often the first thing parents analyze when selecting a new school for their child. But at many metro Atlanta schools, studies in such subjects as reading, writing, mathematics, science and social studies are just the foundation of a well-rounded curriculum. 22

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At these schools, teachers aim to educate the “whole child” by focusing on the development of a student’s mind, body and spirit—teaching him how to interact with the outside world, and instilling the skills and confidence necessary to continue to grow and learn throughout his life. Here are just a few of the different types of schools and philosophies that

aim to educate the whole child, going beyond facts and figures to help students grow into happy, healthy and responsible adults. A Hands-On Approach The concept of embracing a student’s whole development is key to Montessori education, focusing as much on students’ social, physical and emotional growth as on academics. Students learn at their own pace, through hands-on exploration, and also learn life skills like responsibility and respect for the environment. At Arbor Montessori School in Decatur, students are embraced as learners as well as developing personalities. “We look at each child holistically,” says Head of School Jan Deason. “That means from the time they’re little, teaching them social graces and social expectations, such

as courtesy and interacting with others. We stress an appreciation for what others before us have done.” The approach is the same at Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia, which teaches students from 15 months up to age 6. Even at such young ages, “the Montessori philosophy plays a key role in helping students develop independence and self-discipline, so that other aspects of academics come more easily,” says Director Denise Harold. “We teach them to take care of themselves and their immediate surroundings,” Harold says. “They develop a sense of ‘I can do what I need to do when I need to do it,’ and that gives the brain more bandwidth. At the same time, being able to answer their own needs gives them more energy for learning.”u www.atlantaschoolguide.com

Research supports the theory that building an independent, confident person with the skills to learn translates into a student who does better academically as well as socially, she adds. While not a Montessori school, The Children’s School, an independent elementary school in Midtown Atlanta, also focuses on hands-on learning to help teach students valuable life skills. Rather than having students memorize facts out of a textbook, this experiential approach involves students working collaboratively on projects that provide lessons in multiple subjects at once. In one such previous project, students researched and interviewed homeless veterans, and then designed and handcrafted different multimedia pieces of art representing the idea of home. The project culminated with the entire fifth grade class visiting the Veterans Empowerment Organization, which works to provide housing and other services for homeless veterans, to present the veterans with the 24

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works of art they had created. “The project helped teach students design, cooperation, and service to others,” says Christy Robinson, director of extended day and summer learning for The Children’s School. “What’s really important in terms of how we view the education of the whole child is a sense of play, passion and purpose,” Robinson says. “Those principles intersect in our programs.” The hands-on approach helps students learn “many of the basic skills children need to grow into successful adults,” she adds.

Bank and a school in Zambia that is part of our international effort,” Gulley says.

Stressing Service to Others Woodward Academy, with campuses in College Park and Johns Creek, seeks to serve the whole child with a well-rounded curriculum that balances rigorous academics with opportunities for its 2,700 students to develop interests in the arts, athletics and community awareness. “While we have a prescribed curriculum and a commitment to academics, we are also working to see that students develop their physical bodies and an understanding of themselves through character and faith,” says Woodward President F. Stuart Gulley. Toward that goal, Woodward requires its high school students to participate in community-service projects that develop their sense of social awareness. Students must perform 20 hours of service a year in order to graduate, and the school offers a variety of service options, including a chapter of the Boys & Girls Club of Atlanta located on campus. “We also work closely with the Atlanta Community Food

“Everything Is Interconnected” For the 1,160 students at Atlanta International School, serving others is just one facet of the school’s International Baccalaureate model, which strives to prepare students for life in an increasingly global world. “In the primary grades, each different area of learning has a personal development piece,” says Jessi Heneghan, an upper school counselor. “That may be developing critical thinking that requires self-awareness and awareness of the community. But it’s not a separate lesson—it’s interwoven, so we consider how it plays into a math, geography or English lesson.” This approach, Heneghan says, is a natural extension of how we grow and process information. “It’s not just teaching math or science,” she says. “It’s also about creating a community and contributing to others. Everything is interconnected. Here, students can practice that and see what the real world is like. It’s a natural extension of who humans are. That’s really how we learn.” FOR MORE INFORMATION Arbor Montessori School 404-321-9304 arbormontessori.org Atlanta International School 404-841-3840 aischool.org The Children’s School 404-873-6985 thechildrensschool.com Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia 770-814-8001, jcmsog.com Woodward Academy 404-765-4000, woodward.edu

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Finding the Right

Balance

HELPING YOUR CHILD JUGGLE SCHOOL AND OUTSIDE ACTIVITIES BY H.M. CAULEY

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e live in a fast-paced world, with many parents struggling to balance the demands of home life and a busy career. And that world is increasingly affecting our children, who are enrolled in extracurricular activities and organized sports in an effort to help them become well-rounded individuals and increase their chances of getting into a good college. On top of that, changing to a new school can bring the added pressures of fitting in and making new friends. The result can be a crushing weight of activities that keeps students rushing from one to another at breakneck speed. Too often, this hectic approach can backfire, creating stressed-out students who can suffer both academically and socially. Striking the right balance is crucial for kids’ health. So how can parents keep their children from feeling overloaded and overwhelmed with all they have going on?

ESTABLISH COMMUNICATION The struggle to find the right mix of activities and the amount of hours to spend on those activities should never take a backseat to academics, cautions Jennifer Diaz, school counselor at White Oak Elementary in Sugar Hill. “Yes, children benefit from sports or dance, but schoolwork is more important,” she says. “So many of our students are overcommitted, because there’s a lot of societal pressure to keep kids busy. But if you’re so tired you’re not able to get your schoolwork done, then it defeats the idea of doing well.” “I have seen kids with busier calendars than I have!” says Natasha Moon, head counselor at Tucker Middle School in DeKalb County. “Some of them do not do so well, which is not surprising. Some of us adults don’t really multitask well, either. I tell parents if they’re feeling haggard taking their children to all these www.atlantaschoolguide.com

Letting kids be kids can be even more important when those children are dealing with learning difficulties.

activities, imagine how the child feels having to participate in all of them.” At Tucker Middle, students can sign up for academic clubs that focus on robotics, languages, science and reading, as well as off-campus activities. Moon encourages them to find a balance by communicating their schedules with teachers and staff. She also works with them to establish a calendar that assigns specific times to each activity, including homework and studying. “They all have their phones, so we use them to come up with a calendar that helps them focus on the classes that need the most attention. We even talk about how to use time wisely while just driving in the car.” LET KIDS BE KIDS While communication and time-management skills are important, it’s essential that children be given time to just be themselves. As with academics, “let them pick one or two things they’re very interested in and just do those,” Moon 28

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advises. Allowing children to choose an activity they’re excited about can help ensure that they stick with it, and spur their personal growth. Letting kids be kids can be even more important when those children are dealing with learning difficulties. Parents of children with special needs can feel compelled to push their kids further than is helpful, says Catherine Trapani, head of school at The Piedmont School of Atlanta, which serves children with autism. “We have students putting in more than 40 hours a week, going to school and

tive experience they’ll gain a combination of therapies,” from it, not because they she says. “Parents of children think it will look good to a with autism are constantly college.” afraid they’re not doing Part of the problem, enough, when sometimes, Reilly says, is the mistoo many things are torture.” conception that all those Trapani says parents juggled activities are the absorbed in meeting a key to being accepted child’s special needs often into college. “The truth is, overlook a key point. colleges accept more kids “I tell them, ‘Your child Colleges want than they reject. But many is still a child.’ They need to learn on their own, and kids to pursue parents and students still work themselves into a they can do that by allowwhat they really frenzy, thinking they have ing them to be like other to do it all. children—to fall down, enjoy with “We find even eighthget hurt, get dirty and exintegrity and grade parents want to perience negotiating and know what their students playing with other kids.” commitment. should do to prepare for What’s more, children need unstructured time to just play, relax, college, when they really should be askor socialize—and to process what they’ve ing, ‘What is my child interested in?’” Reilly says. “Look at their strengths and learned and experienced. let them increase their level of commitment so they can really make an impact WHAT COLLEGES REALLY WANT Juggling school and extracurricular ac- in that area, whether it’s sports, student tivities can be stressful enough for kids. government or academics.” By having realistic expectations for But that stress can multiply when parents push them to take on more projects and your children, making sure they don’t activities in the hopes of getting into take on too many extracurricular activities a good college. For many parents, it’s at the expense of schoolwork, and allownever too soon to start building a child’s ing time for them to be themselves, you can best help position them for success in resume for higher education. “Kids think they have to be good at ev- school and beyond. erything,” says Susan Reilly, director of colTIPS FOR KEEPING BALANCE lege counseling at Mount Pisgah Christian School in Johns Creek. “But often, that’s • Set limits on the number of activities your not what colleges are looking for. Colleges child should be involved in. want them to pursue what they really en• Figure out how many hours in a week your joy with integrity and commitment. The child can safely spend on outside activities big word right now is ‘authentic’—they while still keeping up with schoolwork. want their applicants to be who they are, • Check in with your kids often. Are they and not present themselves as someone enjoying their current activities? Do they they think that college is looking for. They feel overwhelmed? should pick an activity because of the posiwww.atlantaschoolguide.com

THE IMPORTANCE OF EARLY EDUCATION BY DANIEL BEAUREGARD

n decades past, it was common to leave a child at a day care or preschool and expect little more than that the staff keep him or her occupied while the parents were at work. But as educators learn more about what and how children learn in their first few years, early education has come to mean much more than

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simply dropping a child off at the doorstep of a day care center. Many experts consider the early years, from birth to age 4, to be the most important developmental phase of a child’s life. “The human brain never grows any faster making any more connections than during the early years of life,” says Kristin

“Children are happier at school when they’re learning.”

Bernhard, deputy commissioner for system reform for Bright from the Start, the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning. “Anyone who’s been around infants knows they are not the same two days in a row. Even babies are learning so much every day.” Many early education facilities develop programs that take advantage of a young child’s natural curiosity. At The Goddard School on Windward Parkway in Alpharetta, children learn colors, letters and how to take direction, among other things. And these lessons are presented in a way that engages and also excites young minds. “It’s extremely important to start a love of learning at a young age,” says Jenna Ellis, the school’s director. “If a child is stagnant in their learning environment, typically a child doesn’t love coming to school. They’re not learning new things. They’re not excited. They’re not passionate. We want to make sure

children feel nurtured, and feel love and passion from our teachers. They’re happier at school when they’re learning.” That emphasis on excitement extends to the teachers, who are given the freedom to create their own lesson plans. Without that input, “our teachers won’t be passionate,” Ellis says. Education and early childhood experts say parents should start looking for an early care center as soon they’re expecting, so they can get on the waiting list of a high-quality program. Many early care centers take children as young as six weeks, which is usually when parents are returning to work after maternity leave. Stages of Development There are four stages of development children go through that both parents and educators should watch for. The curriculum of quality early care or pre-K program should feature learning activities www.atlantaschoolguide.com

ing a back-and-forth interaction between the child’s gestures and the teacher’s responses. With toddlers, this form of interaction may look different. At that age, the social domain of learning focuses more on teaching them how to get along with preschoolers and to take turns and positively engage with each other. Emotional: Teachers give positive feedback to young children or toddlers and teach them words that validate their emotions: If a child or toddler is crying, teachers can help them understand the words—such as sadness or loneliness— behind their feelings. Physical: To encourage healthy living from an early age, teachers engage with their students in activities that hone fine motor skills and teach them how to use their fingers to develop writing skills. Toddlers engage in activities such as running outside, jumping and throwing balls to further Teachers develop motor skills.

engage with students in activities that hone fine motor skills.

that correspond to these varied stages. Cognitive: Teachers read to children, sounding out the words and showing them objects to illustrate their meaning. With toddlers, the teacher may help them with hands-on problemsolving activities, such as putting blocks through a cube sorter, or asking openended questions and coaxing them along the way, which improves literacy and problem-solving skills. Social: Facilitating a child’s social learning can be as simple as looking into his or her eyes and mirroring the emotions they’re experiencing. The teacher can engage directly with the child, elicit32

ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Summer/Fall 2016

Accreditation Although each program is different, many agencies, such as Georgia’s Bright from the Start or the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), support programs with a rigorous curriculum and a list of definitive yardsticks, including ratings systems to make sure each program is highly maintained. Early care and pre-K facilities follow minimum state requirements, but both NAEYC and Bright from the Start take those one step further, ensuring parents get the best early education possible for their child and remain well-informed along the way. Bright from the Start, which oversees

approximately 5,000 child care centers throughout the state, uses a Quality Rated certification program to give parents detailed information on different locations. Child care centers that receive Quality Rated certification adhere to such standards as a lower teacher-to-student ratio, higher credentials and qualifications for teachers, and regular assessments. They also place an emphasis on health, safety and physical activity. By submitting to the Quality Rated program, these centers “are agreeing to participate in rigorous coaching for teachers” and offer “better classroom materials,” Bernhard says, adding that 950 child care centers in Georgia have been rated through the program. But those aren’t the only rigorous accreditation programs available. The Primrose Schools, with child care educa-

tion centers open or in development in 23 states, are accredited by the North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement or, here in the South, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement (SACS CASI), which also accredits public schools, independent schools and colleges. The Goddard School is also accredited by SACS CASI. When searching for an early education facility for your child, take note of each school’s different accreditations. Paying close attention to curriculum, staff and certifications will help you get a clear picture of each school’s strengths—and help ensure that your child is enrolled in a safe, positive environment with the tools to help him or her learn and develop to the best of their ability.

www.atlantaschoolguide.com

Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2016

For features of independent schools, turn to Education At-a-Glance on pg. 36. For public school system information by county, turn to pg. 85.

2 3

REGIONS FOR INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS

metro atlanta area map

Alpharetta, Brookhaven, Cumming, Duluth, Dunwoody, Flowery Branch, Johns Creek, Northeast Atlanta, Peachtree Corners

Carrollton, Fairburn, Fayetteville, Locust Grove, Metro-Atlanta, Newnan, South Fulton Acworth, Forest Hills, Kennesaw, Marietta, Smyrna

p.72 REGION 5: Atlanta West

p.67 R EGION 4: Atlanta South/ Southeast/Southwest

Ansley Park, Athens, Candler Park, Dacula, Decatur, Midtown, Morningside, N. Druid Hills, NE Atlanta, Stone Mountain

p.59 REGION 3: Atlanta East

p.51 REGION 2: Atlanta North/Northeast

Alpharetta, Buckhead, Crabapple, East Cobb, Marietta, Roswell, Sandy Springs

p.41 REGION 1: Atlanta North/Northwest

Page | Region | Neighborhoods

utoring, Summer Camps and Activities, T Field Trips and Education Programs.

p.94 Educational Resources

p.85 Public School County Guide

Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Missouri, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Virginia

p.76 Boarding Schools

Additional Education Sections

Education At-a-Glance This information reflects the latest available data at publication time. Please confirm with each individual school.

•

Application Deadline

Open House Begins

Uniform

AP/iB COURSES

SPECIAL NEEDS PROGRAMs

Avg. Class Size

Religious Affiliation*

# Students

•

REGION 1: ATLANTA NORTH/NORTHWEST

Alexsander Academy

404-839-5910

Atlanta Country Day School

770-998-0311

Atlanta Girls’ School

404-845-0900

Casa Montessori

770-973-2731

The Cottage School

770-641-8688

Cumberland Academy of Georgia Fulton Science Academy Private School

20 2

404-835-9000 678-366-2555

High Meadows School

770-993-2940

Holy Spirit Preparatory School

678-761-7992

Johnson Ferry Christian Academy

678-784-5231

Kids ‘R’ Kids of East Roswell

770-993-8684

Kids ‘R’ Kids of Historic Roswell

770-642-1900

Kids ‘R’ Kids at Sandy Plains

770-552-8877

Mill Springs Academy

770-360-1336

Mt. Bethel Christian Academy

770-971-0245

Pace Academy

404-262-1345

Porter Academy

770-594-1313

Saint Francis School

770-641-8257

Swift School

678-205-4988

Village Montessori School

770-552-0834

The Walker School

770-427-2689

The Weber School

404-917-2500

Before/After Care

Phone

Kindergarten

School

# Teachers

Preschool

PAGE

Grades/AGES

*KEY: Religious Affiliation: B = Baptist C = Christian CC = Catholic E = Episcopal J = Jewish J = Judeo-Christian ND = Non-denominational P = Presbyterian PR = Protestant Q = Quaker RC = Roman Catholic

ANNUAL TUITION

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS

$12,500K-8th $18,500 $18,0006-12th $21,000

•

$23,330 6-12th $9,600- 18mo$11,700 6th $18,5004-12th $25,450

•

$23,400 4-12th $11,000$12,250 $6,300$18,750 $2,705$23,365 $3,850$4,500 $5,148$14,820 $12,320$14,000 $10,920$12,480

246

140

•

157 8-10

•

8-10

•

• •

Appt. Rolling

• Monthly Feb. Appt. Rolling Appt. Rolling

•

Appt. Rolling

•

Dec. Rolling

PK-9th

•

440

PS3-8th

•

390

6mo12th

•

525

K-12th

•

340+ 12-16

6wks10y 8wks12y 6wks13y

•

300 12-22

Appt. Rolling

•

175

Appt. Rolling

•

190 8-18

•

350

625

$22,926 1-12th $9,900 $13,500 $22,720$26,180 $19,046$19,871 $16,000$21,000 $25,290$25,715 $5,000$13,000 $9,600$21,790

• •

Appt. Rolling

•

157 1,100 12

•

1-12th

•

100

785

1-8th

•

253

K-12th 4-14y

18mo8th PK312th

•

Jan.

•

Appt.

•

• •

•

• •

•

165 Varies

•

126

950

224

•

170

•

200 Varies ND

•

324 12-18

•

6-25

•

208

Oct.

Call

Sept. Rolling

•

Call

Sept. Rolling

Appt. Feb. 1

•

Call

Oct. Rolling

• Weekly Rolling

•

$25,675 9-12th

•

PK-12th

• CC

•

Oct.

•

Appt. Rolling

March

Oct. Rolling

•

Call

•

Appt. Rolling

•

• Monthly Rolling

•

• Ongoing Rolling

Call

REGION 2: ATLANTA NORTH/NORTHEAST

Brandon Hall School

770-394-8177

Bridgeway Christian Academy

770-751-1972

Cornerstone Christian Academy

770-441-9222

Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia

770-814-8001

Kids ‘R’ Kids of Alpharetta

770-442-3400

Atlanta School Guide

$31,940$69,354 $6,000$11,500 $9,734$12,392 $460$1,275 $5,200$14,820

6-12th

PK-8th

•

K-8th 8wks6y 6wks12y

Summer/Fall 2016

• •

•

Oct. Rolling

•

Appt. Rolling Appt. Rolling

Education At-a-Glance This information reflects the latest available data at publication time. Please confirm with each individual school.

770-476-3877

Kids ‘R’ Kids of Milton

770-518-6868

Kids ‘R’ Kids of Pleasant Hill Academy

770-813-9600

Kids ‘R’ Kids of Suwanee

770-945-8400

Lanier Christian Academy

678-828-8350

McGinnis Woods Country Day School

770-664-7764

MJCCA Preschools

678-812-3833

Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs

770-205-6277

Montessori at Vickery

770-777-9131

Northwoods Montessori School

770-457-7261

Notre Dame Academy

678-387-9385

Perimeter School

678-405-2300

The Piedmont School of Atlanta

404-382-8200

Pinecrest Academy

770-888-4477

Victory World Christian School

678-684-2030

Wesleyan School

770-448-7640

Application Deadline

Open House Begins

SPECIAL NEEDS PROGRAMs

•

250

•

285 4-18

•

230

288

•

Appt. Rolling

•

Appt. Rolling

•

Appt. Rolling

6wks12y 6wks12y 6wks12y 6wks13y 6wks12y Infant$11,000 7th $4,000- 6wks$12,000 12y $4,085K-12th $9,590 $9,200- Infant$12,900 8th $3,500- 6 wks$14,500 PK $7,000- 14mo$11,000 15y $7,000- 14mo$10,000 9y $11,110- 12mo$15,635 12y $3,865- PK3$14,705 10th $5,808K-2nd $11,089

•

250

•

250 Varies

•

246 10-15

•

425

•

475

•

115

350

• • •

Uniform

$10,000

$5,148$12,480 $4,940$9,880 $5,670$13,260 $12,336$13,500

AP/iB COURSES

Avg. Class Size

770-751-3900

# Students

33 33

770-622-2900

# Teachers

Kids ‘R’ Kids of Duluth/ Suwanee Kids ‘R’ Kids of Johns Creek/ Morton Road Kids ‘R’ Kids of Johns Creek Parkway

Before/After Care

404-629-5437

Kindergarten

Phone

Kids ‘R’ Kids of Cascade

Preschool

School

Grades/AGES

PAGE

ANNUAL TUITION

Religious Affiliation*

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS

Appt. Rolling n/a

•

Appt. Rolling

•

n/a

•

Rolling

•

Nov. Rolling

•

Call

•

Rolling

Appt. Rolling

•

220 18-30

• Ongoing Rolling

•

165 18-30

• Ongoing Rolling

•

557

575

•

$24,000

K-9th

•

$6,580$15,950 $6,526$6,647 $15,975$21,770

PK312th

•

810 18-20

PK4-5th

•

103

•

K-12th

Appt. Rolling

•

Appt.

•

Nov. Feb. 16

•

Nov. Rolling

•

Oct. Rolling

•

Oct. Feb. 12

•

• •

138 1,132 16

C,ND

Call

•

Feb.

Rolling

REGION 3: ATLANTA EAST

Arbor Montessori School

404-321-9304

Athens Academy

706-549-9225

Atlanta Montessori International 64 404-325-6777 School

$9,325- 18mo$18,500 8th $8,500K3-12th $17,500 $11,0008w -15y $18,000 Infant$900$1300/mo. PK

•

295

•

130

960

•

220 18-30

•

Ongoing

$19,990 3yr-6th

•

400

•

Appt. Feb. 17

•

Nov. Rolling

•

Canterbury School

404-522-5659

The Children’s School

404-873-6985

The Cloverleaf School

404-474-3904

$26,000

•

The Drake School

770-879-0313

$546 mo PK-5th

•

$16,900PK-8th $20,300 $12,070- K3$18,795 12th

•

198 1,800 11

The Friends School of Atlanta

404-373-8746

Greater Atlanta Christian School

770-243-2000

Varies 15 173

Call

Ongoing Rolling

K-7th

Nov.

•

Call

Appt. Rolling

•

Appt.

Call

Dec.

Call

•

Monthly Rolling

• •

Education At-a-Glance Continued on Page 38 u

Education At-a-Glance This information reflects the latest available data at publication time. Please confirm with each individual school.

770-963-9110

Kids ‘R’ Kids of Lawrenceville

770-513-2222

Kids ‘R’ Kids of Medlock Bridge

770-446-8700

Kids ‘R’ Kids of Oakbrook

770-279-8500

152

8-12

•

250

•

270

Ongoing Rolling Appt. Rolling

27 10

•

353

•

226

•

Appt. Rolling

•

216

•

Appt. Rolling

•

190

•

250

Appt. Rolling Appt.

770-339-1300

Midtown International School

404-542-7003

Mount Carmel Christian School

770-279-8443

REGION 4: ATLANTA SOUTH/SOUTHEAST/SOUTHWEST

•

Arlington Christian School

770-964-9871

$5,500K4-12th $8,850

The Bedford School

770-774-8001

$18,750

Counterpane Montessori School

770-461-2304

$12,000 3y-18y

•

$7,850PK-12th $15,975 $11,000- 6wks$12,700 12y 6wks$8,840 12y $3,832- PK3$12,987 12th $5,746- PK3$11,719 12th $16,000 PK-12th $25,800

•

770-631-3555

Kids ‘R’ Kids of South Fulton

770-774-0206

Oak Mountain Academy

770-834-6651

Strong Rock Christian School

678-833-1200

Woodward Academy

404-765-4001

Appt. Rolling

•

770-979-6767

770-253-9898

Feb.

•

Kids ‘R’ Kids of Snellville

The Heritage School

Nov.

Appt. Rolling

•

Kids ‘R’ Kids of Sugarloaf

Kids ‘R’ Kids of North Peachtree City

• •

Oct. Rolling

•

Application Deadline

Kids ‘R’ Kids of Grayson

6wks12y Birth$10,400 12y $7,800- 6wks$8,840 14y $1,210- 6wks$11,960 15y $2,860- 6wks$10,400 12y 6wks$10,400 12y $4,732- 6wks$9,724 12y $17,400K-9th $18,400 $7,870 PK–8th $9,325

Open House Begins

•

Uniform

706-546-9400

•

939

•

AP/iB COURSES

Kids ‘R’ Kids of Bogart/Athens

•

K-12th

SPECIAL NEEDS PROGRAMs

PK4-8th

Religious Affiliation*

404-378-2219

•

Avg. Class Size

404-815-7711

Horizons School

•

# Students

Heritage Preparatory School

K-12th

# Teachers

$7,975$9,750 $5,300$15,750 $10,000$34,000 $3,640$9,880

Before/After Care

770-963-9250

Kindergarten

Phone

Hebron Christian Academy

Preschool

School

Grades/AGES

PAGE

ANNUAL TUITION

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS

•

200

•

100

•

225

•

158

•

100

N/A

•

1-9th

•

430

•

230

•

250

212

821

• •

•

• •

May Rolling

Call

•

Appt. Rolling

•

Appt. Rolling

•

Jan.

•

Appt. Rolling

•

Nov.

Open

Feb.

Appt. Rolling

•

365 2,700 16

•

210

•

240 Varies

•

200 Varies

•

102 1,190 18

•

Appt. Rolling

•

Ongoing Rolling

•

Appt. Rolling

•

Oct. Feb. 28

•

Appt. Rolling

•

Appt. Rolling

•

Oct.

•

Appt. Rolling

•

Nov. Rolling

REGION 5: ATLANTA WEST

Benjamin Preparatory School

770-436-5200

Center Academy

770-333-1616

Covenant Christian School

770-435-1596

Kids ‘R’ Kids of East Cobb/ Johnson Ferry

770-565-2220

Kids ‘R’ Kids of Mableton

678-213-2184

Mount Paran Christian School

770-578-0182

Atlanta School Guide

$7,800$14,500 $5,000$14,680 $5,460$8,990 $11,000$15,000

6wks2nd 4-12th K4-8th

•

InfantPre-K Infants$10,000 2nd $14,698- PK3$16,889 12th

•

Summer/Fall 2016

•

Call

Appt. Rolling

•

Education At-a-Glance This information reflects the latest available data at publication time. Please confirm with each individual school.

76 21

915

•

325 12-15

•

402

•

470

•

Appt. Rolling

$52,000 7-12th

•

$31,940$69,354 $19,000$48,000 $10,760$54,860 $57,680$70,555 $37,700$55,600 $41,600$55,300

•

Application Deadline

•

Open House Begins

•

Uniform

770-428-3328

•

$4,600- PK3$14,725 12th $8,750PK-12th $12,250 $7,350K-8th $7,850 $6,519K-8th $8,476

AP/iB COURSES

St. Joseph Catholic School

Religious Affiliation*

Avg. Class Size

770-419-8601

# Students

678-239-3200

# Teachers

The SAE School St. Catherine of Siena Catholic School

Before/After Care

5 74

Kindergarten

770-975-0252

Preschool

Phone

North Cobb Christian School

Grades/AGES

School

ANNUAL TUITION

PAGE

SPECIAL NEEDS PROGRAMs

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS *KEY: Religious Affiliation: B = Baptist C = Christian CC = Catholic E = Episcopal J = Jewish J = Judeo-Christian ND = Non-denominational P = Presbyterian PR = Protestant Q = Quaker RC = Roman Catholic

•

Call

Rolling

•

Appt. Rolling

•

Appt.

•

Call

boarding schools The Academy at SOAR

828-456-3435

Brandon Hall School

770-394-8177

Chatham Hall

434-432-2941

Darlington School

706-235-6051

Forman School

860-567-8712

George School

215-579-6547

Lake Forest Academy

847-615-3210

Missouri Military Academy

573-581-1776

The Outdoor Academy Semester School

828-877-4349

Riverside Military Academy

770-538-2938

The Stony Brook School

631-751-1800

St. Margaret’s School

804-443-4457

Tallulah Falls School

706-754-0400

Trinity-Pawling School

845-855-4825

The Vanguard School

863-676-6091

6-12th 9-12th

•

170

140

8 14

153

781

9-12th & PG

218

9-12th

540

PK-12th

•

Appt. Rolling

•

• Monthly Rolling Appt. Jan. 25

•

Appt. Feb. 15

•

Oct. Rolling

•

Oct. Jan. 15

9-12th

435

•

$36,300 7th-PG

250

•

7-12th

530

7-12th

360

•

Bi• Monthly Rolling • Oct. Call

8-12th

130

•

Appt. Rolling

5-12th

430

•

Jan. Feb. 15

7-12th & PG

300

•

Jan.

103

4-8

•

Appt. Rolling

$21,046 $15,600$34,840 $23,600$51,400 $18,400$47,900 $10,100$37,600 $27,250$56,500

•

9-11th

$46,000 6-12th

•

Nov.

Feb. 1

Call

Rolling

Appt. Rolling

•

Call

Are You New to Atlanta or Relocating Soon? , Lifestyle Relocation

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Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2016

ATLANTA NORTH • NORTHWEST

gion Re

49 44

47 3 48 48 49 46 45

47 45 47

50 20

43 43 44

Independent Schools Schools Page Alexsander Academy 42 Atlanta Country Day School 49 Atlanta Girls’ School 43 Casa Montessori 45 The Cottage School 47 Cumberland Academy of Georgia 20 Fulton Science Academy Private School 2 High Meadows School 3 Holy Spirit Preparatory School 43

Johnson Ferry Christian Academy Mill Springs Academy Mt. Bethel Christian Academy Pace Academy Porter Academy Saint Francis School Swift School Village Montessori School The Walker School The Weber School

45 42 47 44 44 48 48 49 46 50

Neighborhoods of Note Roswell With its mix of stately neighborhoods and new developments, its quaint downtown area and miles of trails that meander through forests and along the Chattahoochee River, Roswell attracts many families and nature-loving residents to its city limits.

Sandy Springs newbie, Sandy Springs became its own city in 2005, and multitudes of boutiques, bars and restaurants line Roswell Road, its main thoroughfare. Residents also enjoy the community’s many family-centered events held throughout the year. www.atlantaschoolguide.com

Alpharetta

Mill Springs Academy “I’ve always believed that if a student can’t learn the way we teach…we should teach the way a student can learn.” TWEETIE L. MOORE, Founder

• 1-12 Coed - Small Classes • Structured, Supportive Environment • College Preparatory • Laptop Program • Competitive Athletic Programs • Extended Day Program • Art, Band, Chorus, Drama • Summer Programs • SACS/SAIS Accredited

770.360.1336

www.millsprings.org/VisitUs

OPEN HOUSE: Wednesdays at 9 a.m. 9/14/16, 10/19/16, 11/9/16, 1/18/17, 2/8/17, 3/8/17, 4/12/17, 5/10/17

R.S.V.P. 770.360.1336

Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2016

13660 New Providence Road Alpharetta, GA 30004-3413 Mill Springs Academy maintains a non-discriminatory admissions policy in regard to race, creed, color, sex, religion, national or ethnic origin.

BUCKHEAD www.atlantaschoolguide.com

crabapple â&#x20AC;¢ buckhead 44

Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2016

east cobb www.atlantaschoolguide.com

marietta

marietta â&#x20AC;˘ roswell www.atlantaschoolguide.com

roswell 48

Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2016

roswell • sandy springs

“Free a child’s potential and you will transform him into the world.” - MARIA MONTESSORI

We are committed to: Fostering independence, self-discipline, and responsibility Maintaining traditional AMI principles and curriculum Nurturing your child from toddler through the adolescent years Treating parents as partners in education AMI CERTIFIED, SACS ACCREDIATED 18 MOS. - MIDDLE SCHOOL HALF-DAY & ALL-DAY CLASSES - AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS

Open House first Wednesday of each month October-March 9:30-10:30.

1610 Woodstock Rd. • Roswell, GA 30075 • www.vmschool.com • 770-552-0834

‘A small school... with a big heart’ SACS Accredited college preparatory school (Grades 6-12)

Atlanta Country Day School offers admission on a rolling basis throughout the year. Student Teacher Ration 6:1

Call now for an individualized school tour! (770) 998-0311 • www.atlantacountrydayschool.com 8725 Dunwoody Place, Sandy Springs, Georgia 30350 www.atlantaschoolguide.com

sandy springs

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Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2016

ATLANTA NORTH • NORTHeast

53 55 53 53

56 54

56 78

54 57

Independent Schools

Schools Page Brandon Hall School 78 Bridgeway Christian Academy 11 Cornerstone Christian Academy 58 Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia 56 Lanier Christian Academy 55 McGinnis Woods Country Day School 52 MJCCA Preschools 54

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Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs 53 Montessori at Vickery 53 Northwoods Montessori School 57 Notre Dame Academy 54 Perimeter School 56 The Piedmont School of Atlanta 52 Pinecrest Academy 53 Victory World Christian School 57 Wesleyan School 58

Neighborhoods of Note Norcross Founded in the late 1800s as a resort town for wealthy Atlantans, Norcross is Gwinnett County’s second oldest city. Today, with over 8,000 residents, it is a quiet city filled with upscale yet charming residential and retail developments.

Cumming Called the “Gateway to Leisure Living,” Cumming offers the best of small-town living, but in recent years, it has seen rapid commercial and residential development, attracting many new residents with its prime location near the magnificent Lake Lanier. www.atlantaschoolguide.com

brookhaven • alpharetta

THE PIEDMONT SCHOOL OF ATLANTA

Serving bright children K-9 with autism and other developmental issues Schedule a Tour!

Integrating

Academic, Social, and Life Skills Certiﬁed teachers deliver a regular-education curriculum combining: • Georgia Standards • Differentiated and group instruction • Community-based instruction • PE, art, foreign language, and culinary arts

Rolling Admissions. Fully Accredited GAC. Accepting applications for 2016-17 1330 N. Druid Hills Rd. | Atlanta, GA 30319 • www.tpsoa.org For information or a personalized tour, call: Catherine Trapani, Ph.D., BCBA, 404-382-8200

Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2016

cumming www.atlantaschoolguide.com

dunwoody â&#x20AC;¢ duluth 54

Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2016

Flowery Branch

johns creek

Johns Creek Montessori sChool of GeorGia Sowing the Seeds of Organic Learning

Multiage, vibrant learning communities Montessori certified teacher in every classroom School leadership team with advanced academic degrees Flexible academic program schedules • Scientifically designed, hands-on, multi-sensory learning materials • Uninterrupted blocks of work time that inspire organic learning • Extracurricular activities including art, music, ballet and sports offered in school

6450 East Johns Crossing • Johns Creek, GA 30097 770-814-8001 • www.johnscreekmontessorisog.org

With Parents and Teachers after hearts and not just minds, a school day can be your best day.

Perimeter School is a covenant Christian community, where students know they are loved, love to learn, and learn to serve. Call to register for a tour, a classroom visit or for our Investigating Perimeter School Class and begin exploring why Perimeter School is the best choice in private, Christian education.

Contact Lori Azemar at 678-405-2307, lazemar@perimeter.org www.perimeterschool.org 56

Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2016

P.s.weAREdifferent.™

northeast atlanta

Victory World Christian School is a multicultural community of learners committed to Christian discipleship, academic excellence & world transformation. 1 Pre-K (4) through 5th grade elementary program 1 High curriculum standards & creative learning environments 1 Interactive Technology in every classroom (whiteboards & laptops) 1 Rosetta Stone Spanish in all classes 1 Extracurricular Activities (ballet, jazz, chorus, drama, Tai-Kwon-do, piano)

5905 Brook Hollow Parkway, Norcross, Ga 30071

Phone: 678.684.2030 Fax: 678.684.2031 www.vwcs.org www.atlantaschoolguide.com

Peachtree Corners 58

Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2016

ATHENS

62 63 64 19 60

monroe

63 61

Independent Schools Schools Page Arbor Montessori School 62 Athens Academy 60 Atlanta Montessori International School 64 Canterbury School 64 The Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s School 63 The Cloverleaf School 19 The Drake School 65

The Friends School of Atlanta Greater Atlanta Christian School Hebron Christian Academy Heritage Preparatory School Horizons School Midtown International School Mount Carmel Christian School

62 65 61 60 61 63 66

Neighborhoods of Note Stone Mountain More than just a mountain park, Stone Mountain also refers to a charming community of antique shops, art galleries and restaurants. Residents of Stone Mountain enjoy natural scenery and miles of walking and biking paths available in the nearby park.

Lawrenceville Strolling the brick-paved sidewalks in the revitalized historic downtown of Lawrenceville, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll feel instantly at home. Chartered in 1821, the city has gone through many changes over the years but has maintained its gracious small-town Southern charm. www.atlantaschoolguide.com

ATLANTA EAST

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athens â&#x20AC;˘ ansley park 60

Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2016

candler park â&#x20AC;¢ Dacula www.atlantaschoolguide.com

decatur 62

Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2016

midtown www.atlantaschoolguide.com

North Druid Hills â&#x20AC;˘ morningside 64

Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2016

Northeast Atlanta â&#x20AC;˘ Stone Mountain

www.atlantaschoolguide.com

stone mountain

MOUNT CARMEL CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

NOW ENROLLING PRE K THROUGH 8TH GRADE

emic A qualit y ioancaind a educat ir onment C hr ist ian env

W Small Class Sizes and Certified Teachers W Outstanding Art and Music Program W Enrichment Classes W S.T.E.M.

Accredited by the Georgia Accrediting Commission

Call 770-279-8443 to schedule a private tour www.mccsch.org â&#x20AC;¢ 6015 Old Stone Mountain Rd., Stone Mountain, GA 30087

Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2016

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EAST POINT

DEKALB

Carrolton

68 68

Independent Schools Schools Page Arlington Christian School 71 The Bedford School 68 Counterpane Montessori School 69

The Heritage School Oak Mountain Academy Strong Rock Christian School Woodward Academy

71 68 69 70

Neighborhoods of Note Newnan Established in 1828 and home to more than 30,000 residents, Newnan is one of the fastest-growing cities in Georgia. It has many new residential developments and boasts six historic districts on the national register filled with stately Southern homes.

College Park College Park is home to a small-town main street and the busiest airport in the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. The city is attracting young professionals and families by combining the historic elements with new developments. www.atlantaschoolguide.com

fairburn â&#x20AC;˘ Carrolton 68

Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2016

Fayetteville â&#x20AC;˘ Locust Grove www.atlantaschoolguide.com

Metro-Atlanta

Newnan â&#x20AC;¢ South Fulton www.atlantaschoolguide.com

BARTOW

atlanta west

5 gion Re

74 74

75 73

FULTON

Independent Schools Schools Page Benjamin Preparatory School 7 Center Academy 75 Covenant Christian School 73 Mount Paran Christian School 74

North Cobb Christian School 73 The SAE School 5 St. Catherine of Siena Catholic School 74 St. Joseph Catholic School 75

Neighborhoods of Note Kennesaw Home to the popular Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, the city of Kennesaw takes pride in its excellent recreation opportunities and parks, rich history and thriving downtown. Kennesaw State University is well known for academic programs in business, education, and nursing.

Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2016

Smyrna With its unique charm, the city of Smyrna offers many fresh, trendy lifestyle options, and the Market Village plays host to numerous restaurants, bars and upscale shops. Known as the “Jonquil City,” because of the thousands of jonquils that flourish in gardens and along the streets in early spring.

acworth â&#x20AC;˘ forest hills www.atlantaschoolguide.com

kennesaw 74

Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2016

marietta â&#x20AC;˘ smyrna

1968

www.atlantaschoolguide.com

Boarding School Directory

here are many benefits of a boarding school education. Boarding schools are an option for students seeking a more independent learning experience. Because students generally live on campus, learning takes place in and out of the classroom almost on a 24-hour basis. When selecting a boarding school, it is important to visit the school campus, but representatives from many boarding schools visit Metro Atlanta throughout the year—contact each school for specific dates.

Boarding Schools Schools Page The Academy at SOAR 19 Brandon Hall School 78 Chatham Hall 83 Darlington School 78 Forman School 77 George School 83 Lake Forest Academy 80

Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2016

Missouri Military Academy 80 The Outdoor Academy Semester School 82 Riverside Military Academy 79 The Stony Brook School 81 St. Margaret’s School 84 Tallulah Falls School 79 Trinity Pawling School 82 The Vanguard School 77

Connecticut â&#x20AC;˘ florida www.atlantaschoolguide.com

georgia 78

Atlanta School Guide

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georgia www.atlantaschoolguide.com

missouri â&#x20AC;˘ illinois 80

Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2016

new york

north carolina â&#x20AC;˘ new york 82

Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2016

pennsylvania â&#x20AC;˘ Virginia www.atlantaschoolguide.com

virginia

Jump Get a on the

competition

advertise in Atlanta School Guide and get results. Call to reserve your spaCe in our next issue!

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Atlanta School Guide

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public school county guide

Spotlight on Metro Atlanta’s School Systems

variety of improvements and innovative programs in Georgia’s public school systems have resulted in many stellar elementary, middle and high schools across the Metro area. Different school systems feature specialized programs and academic opportunities, such as magnet, charter, vocational or alternative schools to suit their respective students, parents and communities. However, despite variations in programming and academic offerings, all public schools must offer the core curriculum as determined by the Georgia Board of Education. Here is a county-by-county guide to Metro Atlanta’s public school systems. For more information about the Georgia Department of Education, call 404-656-2800 or visit www.gadoe.org. u www.atlantaschoolguide.com

Charter Schools

ADAIRSVILLE WHITE

BARTOW CARTERSVILLE

Number of Schools Elementary 12 Middle 4 High 3 Career Academy 1 Total # of Students: 13,731 Student Spending: $8,616

EMERSON

Board of Education 770-606-5800 www.bartow.k12.ga.us

Cherokee CHEROKEE

2015 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 502.2 (M) 513.9 (S) 507.8 (SS) 502.4 5th: (ELA) 502.9 (M) 513.0 (S) 499.9 (SS) 500.6 8th: (ELA) 509.7 (M) 509.6 (S) 497.1 (SS) 505.0 2015 Average SAT: 1439 Top 3 Schools by Average 2015 SAT Score Adairsville High 1454 Woodland High 1450 1411 Cass High

What’s New Woodland High School Teacher Brandie Freeman was given the 2016 PASCO STEM Educator Award. Freeman received $5,000 in PASCO scientific lab equipment for her school as well as a check for $500 and $1,000 to cover expenses for the National Science Teachers Association National Conference. Number of Schools Elementary 24 Middle 7 High 6 Alternative 1 Evening 1 Virtual School 1 Centers 4 Total # of Students: 40,733 Student Spending: $7,866

2015 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 515.7 (M) 520.1 (S) 512.5 (SS) 508.0 5th: (ELA) 516.0 (M) 523.2 (S) 515.7 (SS) 508.6 8th: (ELA) 524.8 (M) 529.2 (S) 513.6 (SS) 514.4 2015 Average SAT: 1560 Top 5 Schools by Average 2015 SAT Score Cherokee High 1588 Woodstock High 1587 Sequoyah High 1564 Creekview High 1564 Etowah High 1550

What’s New Teasley Middle School is the first middle school in Board of Education the nation to have all its teachers become Microsoft Innovative 770-479-1871 Educator certified. The MIE program requires 16 hours of training www.cherokee.k12.ga.us for teachers on Microsoft’s suite of computer-based resources.

Clayton

CLAYTON

Number of Schools Elementary 35 Primary 2 Middle 15 High 9 Virtual 1 2 Alternative Performing Arts Center 1 Adult Education 1 Charter 2 Magnet 1 Open Campus 1 Total # of Students: 53,408 Student Spending: $7,661

Board of Education 770-473-2700 www.clayton.k12.ga.us

2015 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 478.6 (M) 489.8 (S) 488.7 (SS) 485.7 5th: (ELA) 490.6 (M) 486.3 (S) 481.3 (SS) 487.3 8th: (ELA) 495.4 (M) 490.2 (S) 472.4 (SS) 489.5 2015 Average SAT: 1251 Top 5 Schools by Average 2015 SAT Score Elite Scholars Academy 1394 M.E. Stilwell School of the Arts 1369 Forest Park High School 1303 Riverdale High School 1264 Lovejoy High 1261

What’s New This year, Rex Mill Middle School opened a new student-designed science, technology, engineering, and mathematics lab offering learning resources to all RMMS students. www.atlantaschoolguide.com

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

bartow

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

Cobb

COBB

Board of Education 770-426-3300 www.cobbk12.org

COWeta COWETA

Number of Schools Elementary 63 Primary 2 Intermediate 2 Middle 24 6th Grade Academy 1 High 10 Magnet High Schools 6 Charter 2 1 Learning Centers Special Education 1 Virtual Academies 2 Adult Education Center 1 Total # of Students: 113,451 Student Spending: $8,343

Number of Schools Elementary 19 Middle 6 High 3 Charter & Career Academy 1 Alternative 3 Centre for Performing and Visual Arts 1 Total # of Students: 21,875 Student Spending: $8,149

Board of Education 770-254-2800 www.cowetaschools.org

dekalb

DEKALB

Board of Education 678-676-1200 www.dekalb.k12.ga.us

Atlanta School Guide

2015 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 516.5 (M) 516.6 (S) 510.9 (SS) 504.4 5th: (ELA) 524.6 (M) 518.0 (S) 512.6 (SS) 506.6 8th: (ELA) 524.4 (M) 527.2 (S) 513.3 (SS) 512.0 2015 Average SAT: 1516 Top 5 Schools by Average 2015 SAT Score Walton High 1748 1656 Lassiter High Pope High 1647 1617 Wheeler High Kennesaw Mountain High 1588

2015 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 507.9 (M) 516.7 (S) 511.6 (SS) 510.0 5th: (ELA) 512.4 (M) 518.5 (S) 513.2 (SS) 504.6 8th: (ELA) 516.9 (M) 520.8 (S) 507.7 (SS) 510.4 2015 Average SAT: 1496 Top 3 Schools by Average 2015 SAT Score East Coweta High 1503 Northgate High 1497 Newnan High 1483

What’s New East Coweta High School senior Jasmine Guy was chosen to participate in this year’s Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. commemorative events held in January at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta. Guy spoke about justice and perseverance at the annual King Sunday services. Number of Schools Elementary 76 Middle 19 High 22 Charter 14 4 Magnet Centers, Special Education and Alternative 11 Total # of Students: 101,551 Student Spending: $8,813

2015 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 488.6 (M) 498.0 (S) 495.0 (SS) 490.4 5th: (ELA) 499.8 (M) 497.4 (S) 486.8 (SS) 490.0 8th: (ELA) 497.0 (M) 492.5 (S) 475.9 (SS) 485.4 2015 Average SAT: 1331 Top 5 Schools by Average 2015 SAT Score DeKalb School of the Arts 1722 Chamblee High 1663 Lakeside High 1560 Dunwoody High 1550 DeKalb Early College Academy 1450

What’s New More than 230 Chamblee Middle School sixthgraders attended JA BizTown at the Junior Achievement Chickfil-A Foundation Discovery Center recently, working with a simulated economy and learning how to grow a business. Summer/Fall 2016

DOUGLAS

Board of Education 770-651-2000 www.douglas.k12.ga.us

Fayette FAYETTE

Number of Schools Elementary 20 Middle 8 High 5 Centers 2 Total # of Students: 26,145 Student Spending: $8,133

2015 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 500.6 (M) 512.1 (S) 509.5 (SS) 502.3 5th: (ELA) 508.2 (M) 512.7 (S) 513.5 (SS) 509.8 8th: (ELA) 509.3 (M) 505.8 (S) 492.4 (SS) 498.9 2015 Average SAT: 1358 Top 5 Schools by Average 2015 SAT Score Douglas County High 1447 Alexander High 1369 Chapel Hill High 1357 1287 Lithia Springs High New Manchester High 1278

What’s New Chapel Hill High School Principal Sean Kelly was named a finalist for Georgia Principal of the Year. Kelly was one of six finalists selected from a large pool of applicants. Finalists were extensively reviewed and had to go through an interview in Athens. Number of Schools Elementary 14 Middle 5 5 High Alternative 1 Open Campus 1

2015 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 527.3 (M) 530.6 (S) 524.0 (SS) 522.7 5th: (ELA) 529.2 (M) 534.4 (S) 543.7 (SS) 522.5 8th: (ELA) 537.9 (M) 546.7 (S) 527.7 (SS) 526.8

Total # of Students: 20,127 Student Spending: $8,572

Top 5 Schools by Average 2015 SAT Score 1624 McIntosh High Starr’s Mill High 1609 Whitewater High 1528 Sandy Creek High 1464 Fayette County High 1379

2015 Average SAT: 1537

Board of Education 770-460-3535 www.fcboe.org

What’s New Peeples Elementary School fifth-grade teacher Leigh Anne Borders was the first recipient of the Outstanding Cooperative Teacher Award for supervising student teachers.

Forsyth

Number of Schools Elementary 21 Middle 10 High 5 Non-Traditional 2 Virtual 1 Charter/Evening 1

FORSYTH

Total # of Students: 42,693 Student Spending: $7,598

Board of Education 770-887-2461 www.forsyth.k12.ga.us

2015 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 544.8 (M) 549.3 (S) 533.0 (SS) 532.3 5th: (ELA) 546.7 (M) 557.9 (S) 542.5 (SS) 531.3 8th: (ELA) 541.9 (M) 560.8 (S) 532.4 (SS) 540.2 2015 Average SAT: 1577 Top 5 Schools by Average 2015 SAT Score 1626 South Forsyth High Lambert High 1618 West Forsyth High 1550 North Forsyth High 1534 Forsyth Central 1503

What’s New South Forsyth Middle School Teacher Dr. Andrew Poor was named the 2016 Forsyth County Teacher of the Year. Poor received a one-year car lease from Andean Chevrolet, the first time such an award has been given. www.atlantaschoolguide.com

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

douglas

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

FULTON

Number of Schools Elementary 57 Middle 19 High 17 Charter 8 Alternative Schools 3 Virtual Campus 1 Total # of Students: 94,976 Student Spending: $9,535

FULTON

Board of Education 470-254-3600 www.fultonschools.org

GriffinSpalding

Board of Education 770-229-3710 www.spalding.k12.ga.us

Gwinnett

GWINNETT

Board of Education 678-301-6000 www.gwinnett.k12.ga.us

Atlanta School Guide

2015 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 515.8 (M) 524.5 (S) 514.8 (SS) 511.4 5th: (ELA) 521.4 (M) 523.7 (S) 512.6 (SS) 508.2 8th: (ELA) 521.0 (M) 523.1 (S) 508.4 (SS) 508.1 2015 Average SAT: 1558 Top 5 Schools by Average 2015 SAT Score Northview High 1784 Alpharetta High 1689 Johns Creek High 1678 Chattahoochee High 1669 Milton High 1668

What’s New In August 2016, the Academy of Film Production and the Academy of Aviation Sciences will open as a new Career and Technical Education Center on the Banneker High School campus. Number of Schools Elementary 11 4 Middle High 2 Alternative 2 Center 1

2015 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 485.9 (M) 505.4 (S) 498.5 (SS) 495.6 5th: (ELA) 498.7 (M) 501.4 (S) 504.6 (SS) 496.7 8th: (ELA) 494.6 (M) 500.6 (S) 475.7 (SS) 487.0

Total # of Students: 10,011 Student Spending: $8,766

Top 2 Schools by Average 2015 SAT Score Spalding High 1401 Griffin High 1251

2015 Average SAT: 1324

What’s New The Griffin-Spalding County School System Communications Department received five Silver Awards of Merit at the Georgia School Public Relations Association annual conference in Helen.

Number of Schools Elementary 79 Middle 29 High 20 Alternative 4 Charter 4 Open Campus 1 1 Virtual School Special Education 4 Total # of Students: 177,219 Student Spending: $7,968

2015 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 514.3 (M) 520.9 (S) 514.1 (SS) 511.0 5th: (ELA) 521.2 (M) 523.9 (S) 514.7 (SS) 510.6 8th: (ELA) 519.5 (M) 527.2 (S) 511.0 (SS) 520.2 2015 Average SAT: 1497 Top 5 Schools by Average 2015 SAT Score Gwinnett School of Math, Science, and Technology 1848 North Gwinnett High 1654 Brookwood High 1579 Mill Creek High 1570 Parkview High 1562

What’s New Six Gwinnett County High School students performed at Carnegie Hall in February for the 2016 High School Honors Performance Series. Summer/Fall 2016

HALL

Number of Schools Elementary 14 Middle 5 High 6 12 Charter Total # of Students: 27,832 Student Spending: $7,893

2015 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 500.2 (M) 507.2 (S) 500.5 (SS) 495.1 5th: (ELA) 505.8 (M) 507.0 (S) 497.0 (SS) 497.9 8th: (ELA) 515.3 (M) 516.5 (S) 511.0 (SS) 510.1 2015 Average SAT: 1404 Top 5 Schools by Average 2015 SAT Score North Hall High 1551 1428 Chestatee High Flowery Branch High 1426 West Hall High 1337 1332 Johnson High

Board of Education 770-534-1080 www.hallco.org/boe

What’s New Chestatee High School Senior and Hall County STAR Student Andrew Hathcock was named the Region 2 STAR Student after competing against STAR students from 13 other systems.

Henry

Number of Schools Elementary 26 11 Middle High 10 Charter 2 Alternative 1 Career Academy 1 Virtual School 1

HENRY

Total # of Students: 41,540 Student Spending: $8,018

2015 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 502.9 (M) 508.4 (S) 505.3 (SS) 504.4 5th: (ELA) 513.5 (M) 506.9 (S) 506.4 (SS) 501.8 8th: (ELA) 510.3 (M) 506.7 (S) 492.3 (SS) 496.1 2015 Average SAT: 1382 Top 5 Schools by Average 2015 SAT Score Union Grove High 1553 1452 Ola High Eagles Landing High 1440 Woodland High 1409 1396 Locust Grove High

Board of Education 770-957-6601 www.henry.k12.ga.us

What’s New Dutchtown High School was one of five Georgia schools named an AP Champion; its AP Day promotes awareness of AP classes.

Paulding

Number of Schools 19 Elementary Middle 9 High 5 Alternative 1

PAULDING BRASWELL

278

Board of Education 770-443-8000 www.paulding.k12.ga.us

Total # of Students: 28,649 Student Spending: $7,902

2015 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 511.4 (M) 522.2 (S) 511.9 (SS) 509.8 5th: (ELA) 513.7 (M) 513.0 (S) 506.3 (SS) 504.9 8th: (ELA) 512.6 (M) 518.6 (S) 506.6 (SS) 521.8 2015 Average SAT: 1386 Top 5 Schools by Average 2015 SAT Score North Paulding High 1439 1416 East Paulding High 1352 Hiram High South Paulding High 1347 Paulding County High 1339

What’s New Four Paulding County high schools were named AP Honor Schools. East Paulding, Hiram, North Paulding and Paulding County high schools won awards in various categories.

www.atlantaschoolguide.com

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

HALL

LE RO CK DA

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

Rockdale

Number of Schools Elementary 11 Middle 4 High 3 Alternative 1 Career Academy 1 Charter 1 Magnet 1 Open Campus 1 Virtual School 1 Total # of Students: 16,223 Student Spending: $8,761

2015 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 504.8 (M) 513.0 (S) 507.3 (SS) 499.8 5th: (ELA) 511.0 (M) 514.0 (S) 513.6 (SS) 501.2 8th: (ELA) 508.4 (M) 504.1 (S) 501.6 (SS) 504.6 2015 Average SAT: 1332 Top 3 Schools by Average 2015 SAT Score 1358 Rockdale High Heritage High 1346 Salem High 1277

Board of Education 770-483-4713 www.rockdale.k12.ga.us

What’s New Heritage and Rockdale County High Schools were named 2016 AP Honor Schools by Georgia State School Superintendent Richard Woods.

Atlanta Public Schools

Board of Education Total # of Students: 404-802-3500 50,435 www.atlanta.k12.ga.us Student Spending: $14,571 Number of Schools 2015 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: Primary 5 3rd: (ELA) 493.1 (M) 503.7 (S) 498.9 (SS) 498.9 Elementary 45 5th: (ELA) 503.5 (M) 499.6 (S) 493.8 (SS) 497.1 Intermediate 3 8th: (ELA) 498.4 (M) 495.1 (S) 479.3 (SS) 494.0 Middle 10 6th Grade Academy 1 2015 Average SAT: 1332 High 12 Charter 18 Top 5 Schools by Average Alternative 1 2015 SAT Score Evening School 1 1494 Grady High Open Campus 1 Adult Education Center 1 North Atlanta High 1447 1360 Carver Early College South Atlanta School of Law and Social Justice 1321 South Atlanta School of Health 1294 and Medical Science

Buford City Schools

Board of Education Total # of Students: 770-945-5035 4,229 www.bufordcityschools.org Spending per Student: $9,372 Number of Schools 2015 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: Elementary (K-1) 1 3rd: (ELA) 532.9 (M) 529.1 (S) 515.8 (SS) 517.2 Academy (2-5) 1 5th: (ELA) 524.3 (M) 530.9 (S) 536.9 (SS) 510.0 Middle 1 8th: (ELA) 530.8 (M) 539.7 (S) 527.5 (SS) 528.5 High 1 2015 Average SAT: 1524 What’s New The Buford High School Varsity Quiz Bowl took 2nd Place in the Georgia Academic Team Association State Championship in March. Also in March, the school’s Bass Fishing Team competed in its first tournament.

Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2016

Board of Education 404-371-3601 www.csdecatur.net Number of Schools Elementary 5 Middle 1 4th & 5th Grade Academy 1 High 1 Career Academy 1 Early Learning Center 1

Total # of Students: 4,385 Student Spending: $11,487 2015 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 547.8 (M) 538.3 (S) 541.4 (SS) 536.0 5th: (ELA) 553.1 (M) 548.6 (S) 547.5 (SS) 537.4 8th: (ELA) 542.9 (M) 532.0 (S) 522.1 (SS) 526.8 2015 Average SAT: 1581

What’s New The Decatur High School team took second place in the National Economics Challenge Quiz Bowl in March. The team received the highest individual scores in the school’s division.

Gainesville City Schools

Board of Education 770-536-5275 www.gcss.k12.net Number of Schools Elementary 5 Middle 1 High 2

Total # of Students: 8,256 Student Spending: $7,836 2015 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 476.7 (M) 497.8 (S) 492.3 (SS) 491.3 5th: (ELA) 491.9 (M) 499.5 (S) 488.2 (SS) 497.4 8th: (ELA) 496.7 (M) 506.1 (S) 481.6 (SS) 497.7 2015 Average SAT: 1353

What’s New Gainesville Exploration Academy received an Honorable Mention for the 2016 Georgia High Flying Awards. GEA is a NASA Explorer School that uses NASA content and programs in the classroom in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Marietta City Schools

Board of Education Total # of Students: 770-422-3500 9,042 www.marietta-city.org Student Spending: $9,734 Number of Schools 7 2015 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: Elementary Sixth Grade 1 3rd: (ELA) 502.5 (M) 519.4 (S) 510.2 (SS) 509.2 1 5th: (ELA) 514.7 (M) 517.6 (S) 516.6 (SS) 509.2 Middle 1 8th: (ELA) 503.2 (M) 503.3 (S) 501.6 (SS) 505.1 High Alternative 1 Magnet 1 2015 Average SAT: 1476 What’s New Marietta High School’s Air Force Junior ROTC cadets won two state championship titles, four 3rd place state titles and one 4th place state title at the Georgia State Drill Meet in Jefferson City in March. The team received one award in the Unarmed Drill Division and also won four awards in the Armed Drill Division. www.atlantaschoolguide.com

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

City Schools of Decatur

Educational Resources

Educational Resources Ways to enhance your child’s or student’s learning

Index 94

Atlanta School Guide

Tutoring & Study Skills 95 Summer Camps & Activities 96 Field Trips & Education Programs 99

Summer/Fall 2016

tutoring Do you have a

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Call today to advertise in our next issue.

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Summer Camps & Activities

Summer Camps & Activities 98

Atlanta School Guide

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Field Trips & Education Programs

Field Trips & Education Programs 100

Atlanta School Guide

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Field Trips & Education Programs

101

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Field Trips & Education Programs 102

Atlanta School Guide

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Field Trips & Education Programs

103

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Field Trips & Education Programs 104

Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2016

ADVERTISER INDEX Boarding Schools The Academy at SOAR......................................21 Brandon Hall School...........................................78 Chatham Hall......................................................83 Darlington School...............................................78 Forman School ...................................................77 George School....................................................83 Lake Forest Academy.........................................80 Missouri Military Academy.................................80 The Outdoor Academy Semester School.........82 Riverside Military Academy ..............................79 St. Margaret’s School..........................................84 The Stony Brook ................................................81 Tallulah Falls School ..........................................79. Trinity-Pawling School........................................82 The Vanguard School.........................................77

Field Trips & Education Programs Alliance Theater................................................104 Center for Civil and Human Rights.................100 Children’s Museum of Atlanta.........................104 College Football Hall of Fame..........................99 DeSoto Caverns Family Fun Park....................100 Georgia Aquarium............................................101 Interactive Neighborhood for Kids (INK)........104 LEGOLAND Discovery Center Atlanta...........101 Lookout Mountain Attractions.........................102 Mayfield Dairy Farm.........................................102 Pine Mountain Gold Museum.........................103 Southeastern Railway Museum........................104 The Southern Museum of Civil War & Locomotive History ......................................103

Independent Schools Alexsander Academy.........................................42 Arbor Montessori School...................................62 Arlington Christian School.................................71 Athens Academy.................................................60 Atlanta Country Day School..............................49 Atlanta Girls’ School...........................................43 Atlanta Montessori International School..........65 The Bedford School...........................................68 Benjamin Preparatory School..............................7 Bridgeway Christian Academy..........................11 Canterbury School..............................................64 Casa Montessori.................................................45

Center Academy ................................................75 The Children’s School.........................................63 The Cloverleaf School........................................19 Cornerstone Christian Academy.......................58 The Cottage School...........................................47 Counterpane Montessori School......................69 Covenant Christian School................................73 Cumberland Academy of Georgia....................20 The Drake School...............................................63 The Friends School of Atlanta...........................62 Fulton Science Academy Private School............2 The German School of Atlanta............................9 Greater Atlanta Christian School.......................65 Hebron Christian Academy ...............................61 Heritage Preparatory School.............................60 The Heritage School...........................................71 High Meadows School.........................................3 Holy Spirit Preparatory School..........................43 Horizons School..................................................61 Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia....56 Johnson Ferry Christian Academy....................45 Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy........................33 Lanier Christian Academy..................................55 McGinnis Woods Country Day School ............52 Midtown International School...........................64 Mill Springs Academy .......................................42 MJCCA Preschools.............................................54 Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs .........53 Montessori at Vickery.........................................53 Mount Carmel Christian School........................66 Mount Paran Christian School...........................74 Mt. Bethel Christian Academy...........................47 North Cobb Christian School............................73 Northwoods Montessori School........................57 Notre Dame Academy.......................................54 Oak Mountain Academy....................................68 Pace Academy....................................................44 Perimeter School................................................56 The Piedmont School of Atlanta.......................52 Pinecrest Academy.............................................53 Porter Academy..................................................44 The SAE School....................................................5 Saint Francis School...........................................48 St. Catherine of Siena Catholic School.............74 St. Joseph Catholic School ...............................75 Strong Rock Christian School............................69 Continued on Next Page u www.atlantaschoolguide.com

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ADVERTISER INDEX (Continued from Previous Page) The Suzuki School.................................................9 Swift School.........................................................48 Victory World Christian School..........................57 Village Montessori School.................................49 The Walker School..............................................46 The Weber School..............................................50 Wesleyan School.................................................58 Woodward Academy..........................................70

Montessori Schools Arbor Montessori School...................................62 Atlanta Montessori International.......................65 Casa Montessori.................................................45 Counterpane Montessori School......................69 Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia....56 Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs .........53 Montessori at Vickery.........................................53 Northwoods Montessori School........................57 Village Montessori School.................................49

Public Schools & Charter Schools Cherokee Charter Academy..............................86 Coweta Charter Academy..................................86 Fulton County Schools: Special Education Services...19

Resources & Services Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates...............40 Georgia Lottery........................ Inside Back Cover Pay it Forward Scholarships............... Back Cover The School Box...................................................66

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Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2016

Special Needs & Learning Difficulties The Academy at SOAR......................................21 Alexsander Academy.........................................42 The Bedford School...........................................68 Center Academy.................................................75 Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Special Services.................................15 Circus Arts Therapy............................................19 The Cloverleaf School........................................19 The Cottage School...........................................47 Cumberland Academy of Georgia....................20 Fulton County Schools: Special Education Services...19 Mill Springs Academy........................................42 The Piedmont School of Atlanta.......................52 Porter Academy..................................................44 Squirrel Hollow Day Camp.................................98 Swift School.........................................................48

Summer Camps & Activities Atlanta Ballet Centre for Dance Education......15 Atlanta Riding Club............................................96 Circus Arts Institute............................................19 High Meadows Summer Day Camp..................97 LEGOLAND Discovery Center Atlanta...........101 McGinnis Woods Country Day School Summer Camp....98 Squirrel Hollow Day Camp ................................98 U.S. Space & Rocket Center: Space Camp......40

Tutoring & Study Skills Alexsander Academy Tutoring..........................95 In-Home Tutors of Atlanta.................................95

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