October Special Section
EDUCATION • Sponsored Section
2 | October 2026 | AppenMedia.com
THE SAINT FRANCIS ADVANTAGE Known. Confident. Prepared.
At Saint Francis School, education is personal by design. Small classes, multiple academic pathways, structured support, and meaningful relationships allow students to be appropriately challenged while building the confidence and independence they need to succeed. And now, the Saint Francis Advantage is growing. Beginning in 2027–2028, Saint Francis will welcome 4th and 5th grades to our Milton Campus, creating an earlier pathway into our Middle School and High School programs. Founded in 1976, Saint Francis is an independent, non-sectarian, collegepreparatory school serving students across two campuses. Our Roswell Campus serves grades K–8, and our growing
Milton Campus will serve grades 4–12. From Elementary through High School, Saint Francis meets students where they are and challenges them to grow. Students benefit from strong academics and individualized support, plus opportunities in AP, Dual Enrollment, Honors, athletics, fine arts, STEM, robotics, clubs, and more. Across both campuses, students are known for who they are and how they learn. They become confident in their abilities and leave Saint Francis prepared for what comes next. ONE SCHOOL. TWO CAMPUSES. LIMITLESS POSSIBILITIES. Discover the Saint Francis Advantage. SaintFrancisSchools.com.
EDUCATION • Sponsored Section
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Change lives, change the world Brought to you by – Wesleyan School Wesleyan School believes faith and intellect are great partners with each other. At Wesleyan, it’s not a matter of choosing faith or intellect, but rather using both to create the best possible education for your child. Our leadership and faculty work to provide students with an atmosphere that is challenging, reinforces the value of hard work, and emphasizes character and integrity above accomplishment. Wesleyan prepares students for each stage of life and provides them with the opportunity to see all the possibilities that lie before them. Wesleyan’s school motto is JOY-Jesus, Others, Yourself, and every aspect of school life is oriented to reinforce this philosophy of putting Jesus first and others ahead of ourselves. A college preparatory environment, students have access to a wide range of academic opportunities along with athletics, arts, service and other extracurricular activities. Wesleyan’s 85-acre campus provides state-of-the-art academic facilities along with on-campus practice space for athletics and arts. Located just outside of I-285 in Peachtree Corners, Wesleyan enrolled 1,210 students in grades K-12 for the 2024-2025 school year. Wesleyan offers bus routes throughout the metro Atlanta area. Supervised care before school is included in the cost of tuition and after care is available (K-8) until 6 p.m. at an affordable rate. The Wesleyan School 5405 Spalding Drive, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 770-448-7640 https://www.wesleyanschool.org/
PROVIDED
Where authentic Christian mission and academic excellence aren’t mutually exclusive
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E X P L O R E W E S L E YA N AT W W W. W E S L E YA N S C H O O L . O R G / A D M I S S I O N S
EDUCATION • Sponsored Section
4 | October 2026 | AppenMedia.com
Education solutions for every mind, every age Brought to you by – Eaton Academy Eaton Academy is a small private school, offering multiple programs, both in person and online. ACCESS, Eaton’s newest program, serves students with limited verbal communication skills – including those with apraxia. Teachers provide individualized instruction and responsive guidance. Students may use AAC devices and experience time in a sensory room. Other Academic Programs The full-day K-12 school with its 5:1 student-to-teacher ratio allows instructors to address the individual learning styles of both neuro-typical and neuro-diverse students. Through the use of STEAM-related activities and multisensory instruction, students of all abilities achieve academic and personal success. The college-prep curriculum is delivered in a safe, nurturing environment. For students with more significant needs, the Pace Program customizes the curriculum to, not only meet their specific academic needs but also develop life skills and independent living strategies. This approach is perfect for students on the spectrum, those with developmental delays, and individuals with other scholastic chal-
lenges. Pace students follow the traditional school day and work to develop greater selfsufficiency and independence, on their way to earning a high school diploma. The Independent Study Program (ISP), tailored to students’ schedules and academic needs, permits individuals to work at their own pace. The tutorial setting enables students who need a more flexible approach, such as aspiring athletes and performers, to work toward graduation while following their dreams. Some students enroll in ISP to accelerate their scholastic
EATON ACADEMY NOW ENROLLING
work; others seek academic remediation. ISP arranges the one-to-one sessions on a schedule that accommodates the students’ needs for flexibility in time or delivery. Sessions can be in person or online. Post-Graduate Programs LEAP is designed to help individuals strengthen their life skills in order to achieve greater independence. Participants benefit from job readiness training at local businesses and life skill development in our model apartment. The LIFE program works with young adults living in their own apartments. Participants meet with a LIFE coach several times each week for support in areas such as meal-prep, budgeting, hygiene, roommate relations, and housekeeping. Supported Employment prepares
young adults for the workplace. Assistance is given with resume writing, applying for positions, and keeping a job. A job coach serves as a liaison between the participant and job sites. The College Foundations Program (CFP) is designed for individuals who completed high school but are not quite ready for college or to live on their own. CFP enhances students’ abilities in academics, social settings, independent living, and employment. Students receive on-the-job experience and academic enrichment to enable them to enter college and live independently. Eaton Academy is the ideal place for families to discover education options and independent living solutions. Whatever students need, Eaton works to create the perfect education solution for them.
A Challenging Approach to Education that Features: • Programs for Neurotypical & Neurodivergent Learners • Attention to Individual Needs • Customized College-Prep Programs for K-12 • 5:1 Student: Teacher Ratio • Independent Study Classes • Supportive, Nurturing Environment • Post-Graduate Options Available
CALL 770.645.2673 OR VISIT EATONACADEMY.ORG PHOTOS PROVIDED
EDUCATION • Sponsored Section
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Shaping the next generation of leaders and innovators At Woodward Academy, we believe education should prepare students for more than college—it should prepare them to lead with vision, courage, and purpose. To innovate responsibly. To create impact in a complex, everchanging world. That’s why our mission extends beyond academic excellence. We cultivate character and opportunity, shaping students not just for success, but for significance. For families who care deeply about the kind of people their children will become, Woodward offers something rare: an education designed to spark ambition, nurture integrity, and empower leadership on a global scale. The results speak for themselves Our alumni are innovators, entrepreneurs, and public servants— making their mark in Fortune 500 boardrooms, national politics, scientific research, and the arts. They lead with clarity, confidence, and conscience, often citing Woodward’s balance of challenge and care as the foundation for their success.
Programs that anticipate the future We understand that today’s solutions won’t solve tomorrow’s problems. That’s why Woodward invests in forwardthinking programs such as: • Executive Communication—teaching students to present, debate, and lead with confidence. • Artificial Intelligence & Emerging Tech—early exposure to the tools shaping the future. • Global Studies & Exchange— immersive experiences that prepare students for international collaboration. These opportunities don’t just enhance résumés. They cultivate resilient, adaptive thinkers ready for whatever comes next. A community that opens doors Our greatest strength is our people. Alumni, parents, mentors, and thought leaders form a network that creates opportunities far beyond the classroom— from internships and shadowing to partnerships and philanthropy. Woodward is not simply a school. It is a lifelong ecosystem of support and influence. For families who value purpose over prestige, the choice is clear. The world doesn’t just need achievers—it needs leaders. Their journey can begin here.
PROVIDED
EXCEPTIONAL ACADEMICS, A STRONG COMMUNITY, AND LIFELONG SUCCESS.
THAT’S WOODWARD WAY
THE
Brought to you by – Woodward Academy
woodward.edu/inquire
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EDUCATION • Sponsored Section
An exceptional start to an unstoppable future Brought to you by - The Davis Academy The years from Kindergarten Prep through 8th Grade are special, consequential, and deserving of intentional focus. These are the years when children are most open to exploring: as students, athletes, artists, friends, and leaders. It’s when students begin to set great expectations, and when they discover their inner self is as important as their academic development. It’s when children recognize their critical role within their family, their community, and the greater world. These are the formative years, and at The Davis Academy, they mean everything. As both a highly academic independent school and a Reform Jewish Day School, we are intentional about giving children an exceptional start to their school experience, providing students with individualized learning, well-rounded opportunities, and a loving community rooted in inclusive values.
We believe that when children are given an exceptional start to their school experience, they grow up to become: • Undeterred by academic challenge and confident in their abilities. • Understood and valued for both who they are and how they learn. • Unafraid to explore their purpose, try new things, develop their voice, advocate for themselves, and speak up for what is right. • United as part of a strong community built on L.O.V.E.—living our values every day. Our families say we’re a school with a soul. That’s because we’re not just a place for the child but for the generations. When your family joins Davis, you begin a life-changing journey together and find a support system for life. Welcome to The Davis Academy Kindergarten Prep - 8th Grade 8105 Roberts Drive, Atlanta 30350 770-671-0085 davisacademy.org
EDUCATION • Sponsored Section
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High Meadows School Baccalaureate (IB) World School offerInspiring future ing its renowned Primary Years Program students in preschool through fifth global citizens and for grade. High Meadows School’s accominnovative leaders plished and experienced faculty lead Brought to you by – High Meadows School & Camp There is no place like High Meadows School & Camp. Since 1973, High Meadows students in Pre-K through 8th grade have learned through experiential, immersive educational opportunities offered both in the school’s spacious, light-filled classrooms and across 42 acres of grassy fields and scenic woodlands. High Meadows School’s progressive curriculum is focused on developing future global citizens and innovative leaders who embrace challenge and think for themselves. High Meadows lower years classrooms offer low student-teacher ratios in which instruction emphasizes academic excellence, love of learning, critical thinking, and environmental and social responsibility. As a nationally recognized and award-winning leader in progressive education, High Meadows is an accredited International
each student on this journey. Through interactive, inquiry-based instruction, supported by of-the-moment technology and our nature-based campus, High Meadows teachers are unequaled in their intellect, passion, and compassion for these kids. Every day they inspire authentic learning opportunities that are engaging and sticky (literally and figuratively!). When children graduate from High Meadows, they are empowered with a deep respect for international perspectives, an intuitive understanding of life’s interconnectedness, and an exceedingly strong sense of self. Education is an expedition that starts from the moment we are born. When we teach children to be curious and inquiring at an early age, we create within them a love of learning that lasts an entire lifetime. What is more important than that? Please visit our website at highmeadows.org or call 770-993-2940 to learn more about High Meadows School.
High Meadows School & Camp inspires Pre-K through 8th grade students to think critically,
learn creatively, act globally and live compassionately. Applications are open now. Visit www.highmeadows.org to learn more and schedule a campus tour.
1055 Willeo Road | Roswell, Georgia | (770) 993-2940
PROVIDED
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EDUCATION • Sponsored Section
18 MONTHS – 8TH GRADE
PROVIDED
Springmont’s authentic Montessori experience balances academic learning with social/emotional well-being. Highly experienced and caring teachers guide individualized learning that inspires students to become creative, independent and globally-minded. EXTRAORDINARY BY DESIGN. Applications due Feb. 1
404.252.3910 • www.springmont.com
ATLANTA’S F I R ST MONTE S SOR I SCHO OL
Applications are due February 1 Brought to you by – Springmont School As the oldest Montessori school in the Southeast, Springmont offers students 18 months through middle school an authentic Montessori experience that is extraordinary by design. Individualized learning inspires our diverse population of students to become creative, independent, and globally minded. Classrooms are large, light-filled, and thoughtfully prepared, while the campus’ many natural areas, class gardens, and farm animals afford rich outdoor life science lessons. Specially designed Montessori materials support children’s developmental needs and offer students a wide variety of hands-on activities that concretely reinforce skills, lessons, and concepts. Highly experienced and caring teachers guide students through an individualized curriculum that develops the whole child—socially, emotionally, and academically. Multi-aged classes allow younger children to learn from older ones and older students to mentor younger classmates. Art, Music, Physical Education,
Outdoor Science Education, and Spanish are essential parts of the student experience. At Springmont, students are challenged to reach their fullest potential and empowered to help steer their own educations. Children’s innate curiosity grows into a life-long love of learning and a quest for meaningful discoveries and deeper knowledge. Middle School students run micro-economies and compete in regional academic competitions. Opportunities to hone timemanagement skills, experience active leadership roles, articulate complex ideas, and work both independently and in diverse groups make our Middle School Program a true capstone experience. Springmont graduates are confident, collaborative, engaged learners, prepared for success in Atlanta’s premier high schools as well as life beyond academics. Springmont School—Extraordinary by Design. Applications for the 2027-28 school year are due February 1! For more information or to schedule a tour, call 404-252-3910 or visit springmont.com.
EDUCATION • Sponsored Section
A commitment to excellence! Brought to you by – Dunwoody UMC Preschool Dunwoody UMC Preschool and Kindergarten earned the prestigious “Accredited with Merit” status from Cognia, a global school improvement organization. This top-tier designation recognizes early childhood education programs that exceed standard requirements by demonstrating highly effective leadership, consistent teaching practices, and strong learning cultures. Serving local families for over 60 years, the school continues its tradition of providing trusted early childhood education in the Dunwoody community. During the rigorous evaluation, Cognia reviewers observed classrooms, gathered feedback from families, and evaluated the learning environment. Evaluators highlighted the school’s joyful atmosphere, strong community relationships, and commitment to age-appropriate instruction. The program serves children from toddlers through kindergarten. Its curriculum prioritizes academic readiness alongside social, emotional, and spiritual growth. Key components of the experience include:
• Low student-teacher ratios: Classrooms are intentionally structured to ensure individual attention and tailored early instruction. • Play-based & academic curriculum: To foster a love of learning, the multi-sensory curriculum blends structured academics with creative play to build language, math, and motor skills. • Comprehensive kindergarten preparation: The specialized, half-day program ensures smooth transitions to local public or private elementary schools. • Flexible extended day programs: Families can utilize early drop-off and afternoon extensions to accommodate busy schedules. “This honor reflects the dedication of our teachers and the meaningful partnership between our families and church,” said Director Amy Rohan. “It affirms that our school is a safe, enriching environment and a true benchmark of educational quality for our preschool and kindergarten students.” For registration inquiries, visit www.dumcp.org or contact the administration team at preschool@ dunwoodyumc.org or (770) 394-2555.
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EDUCATION • Sponsored Section
PROVIDED
It’s time to dance
Brought to you by – Decatur School of Ballet Decatur School of Ballet is in its 79th season of teaching dance to the greater DeKalb County community. While the school started strictly as a
ballet school for children, it has evolved into a comprehensive dance school which teaches not only classical ballet and pointe, but also modern dance, jazz/hip hop, tap dance, swing, and lyrical, to dancers of all ages. Decatur School of Ballet is home to Decatur
City Dance, a not-for-profit dance company which reflects the nature of our school. Both Decatur School of Ballet and Decatur City Dance give back to the community by offering need based and merit based scholarships, providing residency programs for
GRACE FORM & FUNCTION
up and coming choreographers, supporting after school classes at a local elementary school, and presenting various performances for our community. Please visit our website decaturballet.com to learn more about us and to register!
We’ve been teaching and exploring the art of movement in Downtown Decatur since 1947, helping our community expand our collective horizons as we create art in motion. From Classical Ballet to Jazz, Modern, Swing, Tap, Hip Hop, and more, we have laid the foundations for exciting performances and helped our dancers move on to prestigious colleges, universities, professional companies, and careers all over the country. Stop in today and find out how Decatur School of Ballet can help you become even more of the you you’ve always wanted to be!
141 Sam’s Street • Suite C • Decatur, GA 30030 404.377.6927 •decaturballet.com
EDUCATION • Sponsored Section
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Montessori for every stage of life Brought to you by – Arbor Montessori School Arbor Montessori School believes that children thrive when educators respect their individuality, nurture their development, and provide meaningful opportunities to grow. Founded in 1970 by ten AMItrained Montessori teachers, Arbor first earned recognition from the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) in 1971. Today, Arbor is one of only six schools in the country to be recognized by AMI at every level, from toddler through high school. Montessori education that grows with the child Dr. Maria Montessori understood that children move through distinct stages of development, each with unique needs. Arbor honors this journey through programs serving students from 18 months to 18 years: Toddler, Primary, Elementary, and Adolescent (Junior & Senior High School). Throughout every stage, Arbor faculty provide carefully prepared environments, purposeful work, and supportive relationships that help
students develop confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong love for learning. Toddlers discover the satisfaction of working independently. Elementary students explore connections across cultures, histories, and the natural world. Adolescents learn to contribute meaningfully to a community. Each stage builds on the last, preparing students not simply for the next grade, but for life. A legacy of Montessori excellence Arbor's AMI recognition reflects a commitment that has guided the school since its founding. That dedication extends to school leadership, where AMItrained faculty comprise half of the Board of Trustees, keeping Montessori expertise and the needs of children central to its governance. Generations of children have grown through Arbor's classrooms. While our programs and campus have grown and evolved, our commitment to following the child remains unchanged. Arbor is dedicated to providing a Montessori education that gives children roots to grow and wings to soar, carrying forward the vision of our founders. Go here, then go anywhere.
Fostering Joyful & Lifelong Learning From 18 Months to 18 Years Old Arbor Montessori School is proud to be one of only six schools in the nation to hold AMI recognition for all school levels, from Toddler to High School. Since 1970, Arbor has developed the unique abilities of every child through supportive relationships, joyful learning, and meaningful work in an authentic Montessori environment.
Admissions Open House: Saturday, January 23rd 2027, 10am - 12pm Accepting applications for ages 18 months to 10th grade for the 2027-2028 school year. 2998 Lavista Road, Decatur GA 30033 • 404-321-9304 • www.arbormontessori.org
EDUCATION • Sponsored Section
12 | October 2026 | AppenMedia.com
The Paideia School provides a challenging and joyful education Brought to you by – The Paideia School From the moment students step onto campus, there is a deep excitement for learning that compels them to feel somewhat reluctant to leave at the end of the day. Our student-centered approach to learning from early childhood (ages 3-5) through elementary (K-6), junior high (7-8) and high school (9-12) meets students where they are, reflecting individual value, strengths, and needs. What truly defines Paideia is its commitment to blending academic rigor with whole-hearted support. Our philosophy is built on the belief that students thrive when they are both encouraged and challenged; we emphasize team-taught classes, hands-on discovery, and a curriculum that elevates creative expression. In the classroom and beyond, Paideia fosters intentional connections rooted in joy; communities within a community where students see their teachers and peers as collaborators. Extracurricular offerings, from student-run clubs and travel experiences to athletics and urban agriculture, provide abundant avenues to find one’s voice and passion. Set in the Druid Hills neighborhood of Atlanta, Paideia’s campus is alive with creativity and communal purpose. Paideia is more than a school– it’s a place where joy, curiosity, and belonging converge to shape thoughtful, lifelong learners. Please visit us at www.paideiaschool.org/ admissions
AT PAIDEIA, CURIOSITY DRIVES EVERYTHING. Upcoming Admissions Events
Open House (November 12) Half Day Program Open House (November 18)
| Druid Hills, Atlanta www.paideiaschool.org/admissions
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EDUCATION • Sponsored Section
START HERE.
GO ANYWHERE. ST M A R T I N S C H O O L .O R G
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DISCOVER DAYS Early Childhood - Oct. 29 Kindergarten - Nov. 5 Lower School - Nov. 12 Middle School - Dec. 2
t p p Su EDUCATION • Sponsored Section
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U R O N J A L
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