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Education Focus - Back to School 2016

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Appen Media Group

EDUCATION FOCUS

Back to School Special Section


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2 | NorthFulton.com | Back to School 2016

July 2016

Sponsored Section

Forsyth’s rapid rise in population results in growing private school Forsyth County’s population increase leads the state and is the 11th fastest growing county in the nation. As a result, King’s Ridge Christian School has felt the impact of the 21% population increase from Forsyth over the past 5 years. Four buildings have been constructed in the 10 years since the school moved to Bethany Bend, a few miles from the Forsyth County line. Growth projections for the college preparatory private Christian School indicate more students are on the way with a facility expansion for phase 2 of the High School building recently announced. What attracts students to King’s Ridge when so many people move to Forsyth for the education? “Families who tour the school report they are looking for a way to have their child prepared for college and enjoy the process along the way,” comments Shuntel Beach, community network specialist.

“They really are seeking more accessibility for their child’s involvement, an environment which supports the college search/application process, expectations for accountability, and most importantly, a place where their child will be known.” Potential students who visit for the shadow experience list school culture as a priority. “Parents of students who come for a shadow day consistently mention their child usually expresses “I love this place” before they pull out of the driveway to leave campus”, states Lisa McGuire, director of admission. “The sense of belonging and strong outcomes attracts both parents and their children to enroll.” Outcomes? To start, a 100% college acceptance rate with college scholarship offers ($4.6 M for 47 students in the class of 2016, not including HOPE or Zell Miller Scholarships). While expectations are higher, students relish

Is your child in a school where they are…

being part of a community that knows them, challenges them and ultimately empowers them to learn more about who they are, develop skills to discover their purpose and find where they will

KNOWN?

Is rapid school growth crowding the dreams you had for your child? Does redistricting provide the stability your child craves? Are you looking for an environment where students feel safe to be who they are and receive personal attention? Consider joining the 95% of King’s Ridge Christian School parents who report their child is truly KNOWN.

Personal Tours Available AdmissionAdmission Tours Available 770.754.5738 ext. 136 770.754.5738 www.kingsridgecs.org www.kingsridgecs.org King’s Ridge Christian School practices a non-discriminatory policy of admission.

go next in their JOURNEY. For more information go to www. kingsridgecs.org Personal admission tours available by appointment. Contact Kelly at 770-754-5738 x136.


July 2016

Education focus • Sponsored Section

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Anna B. Lad

BLESSED TRINITY CATHOLIC H. S., ROSWELL NATIONAL MERIT TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY SCHOLARSHIP Probable career field: Veterinary Medicine

Manu Poruthoor

Appen Media Group Congratulates the Following College-Sponsored Merit Scholarship Winners

ALPHARETTA H. S., ALPHARETTA NATIONAL MERIT UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA SCHOLARSHIP Probable career field: Computer Science

Andrew David Searles

CHATTAHOOCHEE H. S., JOHNS CREEK NATIONAL MERIT LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY SCHOLARSHIP Probable career field: Diplomatic Service

Wendy Elizabeth Zheng

ALPHARETTA H. S., ALPHARETTA NATIONAL MERIT UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO SCHOLARSHIP Probable career field: Culinary Arts

Drew A. Bryant

PINECREST ACADEMY, CUMMING NATIONAL MERIT EMORY UNIVERSITY SCHOLARSHIP Probable career field: Law

Sruthi Bayapureddy

NORTHVIEW H. S., JOHNS CREEK NATIONAL MERIT PURDUE UNIVERSITY SCHOLARSHIP Probable career field: Computer Engineering

Meghna Dash

NORTHVIEW H. S., JOHNS CREEK NATIONAL MERIT AUBURN UNIVERSITY SCHOLARSHIP Probable career field: Computer Science

Sweta Ghatti

NORTHVIEW H. S., JOHNS CREEK NATIONAL MERIT VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY SCHOLARSHIP Probable career field: Medicine

Sherry Luo

JOHNS CREEK H. S., JOHNS CREEK NATIONAL MERIT UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA SCHOLARSHIP Probable career field: Medicine

Bochen Ma

NORTHVIEW H. S., JOHNS CREEK NATIONAL MERIT UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA SCHOLARSHIP Probable career field: Undecided


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July 2016

46 years of excellence in dance Brought to you by: The Dancers Studio/Backstage Entering its 46th year providing the best in performing arts instruction, The Dancers Studio/Backstage in Johns Creek keeps getting better with age. Offering classes addressing the needs of each individual student with special emphasis placed on correct technique and progress. The goal is to give each student knowledge and appreciation for the art of dance, while adequately and enthusiastically encouraging students who are striving for the next level; such as summer intensive programs with prestigious schools as well as scholarships to colleges and professional dance. Founder and Director Jonnie, received her early training in Atlanta, New York City and the National Ballet School in Canada. Having taught for over 45 years, she is the co-artistic director of Atlanta Dance Theatre, the official performing company for The Dancers Studio/Backstage in North Atlanta. She has taught for many major dance organizations and is active

in several art organizations. Her credits include: Regional Ballet, Musical Comedy Productions, Dinner Theatre and Touring groups, both as a performer and a choreographer. Past alumni inJonnie clude dancers in Carolina ballet, Ballet West, Nashville Ballet, as well as Broadway (currently performing in An American in Paris), Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines and Disney productions. Many others have majored in dance in college and are now teachers in their own schools. The Dancers Studio/Backstage offers instruction in: Ballet, Pointe, Contemporary, Jazz, Tap, Musical Theatre, Modern and Hip Hop. Atlanta Dance Theatre, an honor company with Regional Dance America/Southeastern Regional Ballet Association, performs Nutcracker in December and a family favorite in the spring. This year they will be presenting Beauty and the Beast.

Open House Saturday July 30th 10am – 4pm

*Open House attendees receive 25% off your 1st class registration

We pride ourselves in preparing our dancers for college programs, professional careers and recreation. Professional staff offering classes in: ballet, pointe, jazz, contemporary, modern, tap, musical theater, hip hop.

The Dancer’s Studio/Backstage Where amazing happens everyday

A well-established North Atlanta Dance School for over 45 years. Home of the Atlanta Dance Theatre.

Classes for all ages from 3 – Adult Free ballet classes for boys Come Visit our beautiful new location in Johns Creek

770-993-2623

Dancersstudiobackstage@gmail.com 3005 Old Alabama Rd #410, Johns Creek


July 2016

Education focus • Sponsored Section

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Montessori Kids Academy 3034 Old Atlanta Road Cumming, GA 30041 www.montessoricumming.com

678-208-0774

Accepting children 18 months to 12 years

Open Ho use J Bring in this ad and receive FREE registration!

uly 30th • Au 11 a.m. - gust 6th 2 p.m.

Tours Da ily Call for D etails.


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July 2016

678.624.7733 TheRedHoundGifts.com Like Us On

10955 Jones Bridge Rd. Suite 115 Johns Creek

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Mon.-Sat 10a.m.-6p.m.

Class of 2016 Mother’s Day is Sunday May 8th.

Checkout Our Featured Items

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any purchase of $25 or more Johns Creek • 678-624-7733

Offer good from May 1 – May 31, 2016

With this coupon. Some exclusions apply. Not valid with any other offer. Not valid on sale items. Limit 1 per person.

The Goddard School With the fall fast approaching, many parents are scrambling to find a strong early childhood education center for their young child. Look no further! The Goddard Schools located in Suwanee (corner of James Burgess and Old Atlanta Rd.) and Cumming (corner of Bethelview Rd. and Castleberry Rd.) are here to offer an outstanding, accredited environment for your children. Both schools are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS), and have classrooms for children from 6 weeks old through Kindergarten, as well as afterschool and summer camp programs for school-age children. Why choose The Goddard School? Goddard’s FLEX (Fun Learning Experience) curriculum is designed to deliver an engaging, hands-on learning experience, so that children develop a love of learning and want to be at school each day. A comprehensive approach that not only covers your standard subject areas like math, language arts and science, but builds confidence with social skills, as well as creative art, music, physical education (indoor gymnasiums at both campuses!), technology learning, foreign language, and more. Most people have heard quite a bit about “STEM” or “STEAM” learning. The Goddard School’s curriculum and learning philosophies set up perfectly for this new approach to 21st century learning. STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math, and is critical to making sure students of this modern age are prepared for success in school and beyond. Recently at The Goddard

School in Cumming, several of the older classrooms built robots out of recycled materials, showcasing skills in multiple disciplines such as creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, problem solving, and caring for the environment. A perfect example of our hands-on learning that keeps students excited about school and wanting more. “If kids love school, they are eager to learn and absorb so much more. With our play-based learning environment, we are passionate about cultivating a life-long love of learning. As an early childhood educator for more than 40 years, I can say without a doubt that The Goddard School has the best approach to early childhood education and it’s a joy to see their beautiful faces each day,” says Jean Croft, owner of The Goddard School in Cumming. Both campuses also have a wide array of part-time schedules, so parents that don’t need full time care can still take advantage of half days, or use us for 2, 3 or 4 days per week. This is true all the way through our Pre K classrooms, something the state Pre K program doesn’t offer. There’s also no risk in losing your spot if you miss a few days, or take a vacation, so you can have the scheduling flexibility you need. Finally, with over 200 school days between August 1st and the end of May, we don’t follow the public school calendar (applies to adverse weather conditions, as well), making it much more economical for working parents. So what are you waiting for? Call to schedule your tour today and start your child on an unforgettable journey!


July 2016

Education focus • Sponsored Section

The Goddard School® uses its play-based F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) to introduce STEAM concepts (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) to help children develop a strong foundation for their future education and a

passion for STEAM learning.

Enroll today!

FREE REGISTRATION!* SUWANEE (OLD ATLANTA) • 770-844-6546 (Corner of James Burgess & Old Atlanta Road)

CUMMING • 678-455-5151 (Intersection of Bethelview Road & Castleberry Road) GoddardSchool.com INFANT THROUGH PRE-K • KINDERGARTEN • KIDS CLUB: AFTER-SCHOOL *Offer valid for new Goddard families at the above location only. Some program restrictions apply. Not valid with any other offer. The Goddard Schools are operated by independent franchisees under a license agreement with Goddard Systems, Inc. Programs and ages may vary. Goddard Systems, Inc. program is AdvancED accredited. © Goddard Systems, Inc. 2016

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July 2016

Woodward North embraces tradition and innovation With more than 25 years of proven success, Woodward North—the satellite campus of Woodward Academy—continues its strong traditions of excellence while embracing innovative programs for students in Pre-K through sixth grade. Its convenient location is in Johns Creek, on a 33-acre wooded campus with a nature trail. STEM Woodward North has a dedicated learning space that serves as the center for STEM programming and design thinking. Learning labs, computers, and the latest in student-centered learning tools and applications are utilized to challenge students and prepare them for real-world experiences in college and life. Students in Pre-K through grade three enjoy weekly classes where they are taught foundational skills in technology, robotics, coding, and general computer skills. Students in fourth through sixth grades take advanced classes in these subjects, with additional emphasis on engineering, design

thinking, research, media production, and life skills to encourage and inspire critical thinking, problem-solving, and engaged collaboration. Wise Guidance With a student-teacher ratio average of only 8:1, students receive wise guidance at every step, discover their greatest strengths, and build life-shaping qualities of good character. In addition to its rigorous academic program for mainstream students, Woodward North also offers its acclaimed Transition Program for students with diagnosed learning disabilities in third through sixth grades. Prolific Opportunities to Try and Triumph The school offers a wide range of clubs, arts opportunities, and intramural sports. Students also can choose from horseback riding, fencing, golf, tap class, jump rope club, and a competitive chess club. The Odyssey of the Mind program has reached the World Championships multiple times. Deep Respect for Difference

Students at Woodward North develop a deep respect for difference in a community where diversity is more than skin deep. Peers from a broad array of religious and ethnic backgrounds come together to find opportunities to explore and excel at every level. At Woodward North, students not only are educated about other cultures but experience them daily in their interactions with friends. Discover the Woodward Difference The majority of Woodward North students continue their education at Woodward’s Main Campus in College Park beginning in seventh grade, where they join peers from 23 metro Atlanta counties. The Academy provides bus transportation, and many students choose to ride MARTA, in designated Woodward cars with assigned security officers. A typical Woodward Academy graduating class attends more than 100 different colleges and universities, devotes 5,000 hours to community service projects, and earns more than $13 million in scholarship awards.

We invite you to visit us at woodward.edu and Discover the Woodward Difference today. Dr. Mark Crawford, renowned Atlanta psychologist, will be the keynote speaker at a Woodward North event open to the public on October 4, 2016, at 6 p.m. His presentation, “Preparing Our Children for Today’s World: Helping Them to Develop the Skills and Traits to Succeed in School and Beyond,” will be held at the Woodward North campus located at 6565 Boles Road in Johns Creek.

The sky’s the limit You’ve probably seen the construction site – the new preschool building really does look like a castle! But it is not just for looks. The exterior plays an integral role in the curriculum which is inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach and uses the environment as the “third teacher.” The LSP facility was thoughtfully designed in accordance with the philosophy that “Children learn best and develop to their fullest potential through active participation in a variety of activities which take place in a safe, nurturing and creative environment.” Many of those activities are experienced outside of the classroom!

LSP has customized playgrounds designed to stimulate children’s imagination, creativity, engagement and sense of wonder. LSP educators purposefully plan curriculum units that can be brought outdoors each day, opening up a new world for learning, alongside a healthy dose of fresh air. With hands-on activities, playing sports and caring for nature, children at LSP explore with all their senses! The LSP facility features an outdoor nature center, tricycle track, activity tables and a safe, one-of-a-kind tree house for kiddos to explore! … And that is just the exterior!

Now Enrolling Infants through Pre-K! Distinctive services including:

Kiddie Cams™ • Red Carpet Service™ • LuvNotes™

12385 Morris Road, Alpharetta, GA 30005

www.LittleSunshine.com • 770.545.6160


July 2016

Education focus • Sponsored Section

Big School Opportunities, Small School Feel Challenging STEM Programs

75 Yearly Arts Performances and 14 Art Studios

20+ AP Classes

18 Varsity Sports and 13 Intramurals

86 Student Clubs and Service Organizations

8:1 Faculty: Student Ratio

Global Connections

Success Beyond Woodward

Travel Abroad Experiences in 23 Countries

100% Acceptance to Colleges and Universities

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At Woodward Academy, students of all learning styles come together from every religious, ethnic, and cultural background, making our school a microcosm of the world. Discover the Woodward Difference at woodward.edu.


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July 2016

Life University Life University (LIFE) offers undergraduate and graduate programs rooted in innovation and purpose, along with the world’s largest single-campus chiropractic college. The mission of LIFE is to empower each student with the education, skills and values needed for career success and life fulfillment based on a vitalistic philosophy – the recognition and respect that all organic systems in the universe are conscious, self-developing, self-maintaining and self-healing. From day one on campus, students are challenged to explore Vitalism, health and wellness and other non-traditional ideas that confront belief systems and break barriers. Life University is founded on a set of values that collectively create a culture that is unique to LIFE. The University was founded on the ethos of Lasting Purpose: “To Give, To Do, To Love, To Serve – Out of a Sense of Abundance.” Students are service-driven, seeking out opportunities to serve the community. LIFE is concerned with character development as well as granting degrees and has designed Eight Core Proficien-

cies and their skill sets: Integrity and Citizenship; Critical Thinking; Belief Systems and Performance; Communication and Relationship Theory; Contemporary Scientific Paradigms; Leadership and Entrepreneurship; Philosophy and Healthcare Policy; and Integrative Change. Small classrooms and unique educational environments allow students to receive one-on-one mentorship from industry thought leaders. As an international institution, LIFE is committed to advancing the vital health revolution through education, social and clinical research, and serving as a think tank for global conversations enhancing the human experience. Located in Marietta, a suburb of Atlanta, LIFE offers proximity to a big city while fostering a small-school environment of health and wellness, study and personal growth within a serene landscape. Within the metro-Atlanta community, LIFE’s sustainable campus features LEED-certified housing, ample green space and a preserved 19th century village – all of which nod to the past while looking to the future.

Inspiring Students with the Passion to Excel

• Nurturing environment featuring small class sizes, differentiated, hands-on academics, STEM, leadership opportunities, and monthly field trips • Private non-parochial education for infants through 8th grade • Middle School • After school, competitive sports, and robotics teams SACS, GAC and NAEYC accredited

Please call to set up a tour. 5380 Faircroft Dr., Alpharetta, GA 30005

www.McGinnisWoods.com • 770-664-7764

McGinnis Woods Country Day School McGinnis Woods Country Day School is a private, non-parochial school which offers a challenging Preschool, Elementary and Middle School Education. The beautiful school campus located in Alpharetta, recently opened a new state of the art Middle School building and Gym. The Preschool enrolls children as young as 6 weeks and the Elementary/Middle School teaches students in PreK 4 through 8th grade. McGinnis Woods Country Day School holds top accreditations, including GAC, SACS, and NAEYC and provides students with an exceptional learning environment. The mission of McGinnis Woods is to inspire students with the passion to excel. This is accomplished through hands-on, minds-on academics which foster self-confidence and inspire a lifelong love of learning. Small class sizes with low student-teacher ratios and individualized attention is a McGinnis Woods distinctive. Students learn through a variety of engaging teaching techniques and technologies, emphasis is placed on differentiated groupings, STEM curriculum and unique projects which make each day memorable. Engaging guest speakers, monthly field trips, community service, and

leadership opportunities round out the curriculum. Drama, Science Olympiad, Competitive Sports, and Robotics teams train year round. After school programs and Specialty Clubs are also available. Please visit www.mcginniswoods. org to learn more. Private tours are also available, call 770-664-7764 to schedule one today. Experience the McGinnis Woods difference!


July 2016

Education focus • Sponsored Section

LIFE U

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LIFE.EDU LIFERUNNINGEAGLES.COM

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MASTER’S DEGREES

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CLINICAL NUTRITION POSITIVE PSYCHOLOGY SPORT HEALTH SCIENCE

DOCTOR OF CHIROPRACTIC

SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE MEN’S SPORTS: Basketball • Bowling Rugby • Soccer • Swimming • Wrestling WOMEN’S SPORTS: Basketball Bowling • Cross Country • Rugby Soccer • Swimming • Track • Volleyball Wrestling CO-ED SPORTS: Competitive Cheer


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July 2016

Riverside Military Academy For over 109 years Riverside Military Academy has produced young men of purpose, integrity, and character. We offer a traditional, American-style education where personal values, honor, and love of country still matter. Riverside is not owned or operated by any particular religious denomination, but supports the spiritual and educational goals of all families. Upon graduation, a Riverside cadet has experienced the challenges of the military model of education and is completely prepared for the rigors of college. He is poised, polite, and confident in any social environment. Riverside cadets stand tall, offer a firm handshake, respect authority, and display a level of confidence that parents may not have observed previously. Cadets of Riverside Military Academy attend grades 7 through 12 and benefit from a small class size and a

15:1 student teacher ratio. Our entire educational program centers around the way young men learn best. Riverside's College Center assists cadets in preparing for and placing their college applications each year. The graduating class 2016 consisted of 130 cadets who were admitted to over 100 universities across the world

and earned over $4 million in collegiate scholarships not including HOPE scholarship. Two graduating seniors were appointed to the U.S. Military Academy –West Point and the U.S. Air Force Academy. Riverside Military Academy holds dual accreditation in SACS and SAIS. Our comprehensive program of rigor-

ous academics, athletics and leadership development sets the stage for a lifetime of success. Riverside Military Academy is located on 206 acres on the shores of Lake Lanier in Gainesville, GA. For more information please visit our web site at www.riversidemilitary.com or contact our admissions office at 770-538-2938.

Riverside Military Academy For over 109 years Riverside Military Academy has remained one of the nation’s preeminent college preparatory academies educating young men in grades 7-12. The 2015-16 Corps of Cadets consisted of over 530 cadets from 26 countries and 30 states. Call today to schedule your personal tour of our beautiful 206-acre campus.

Still enrolling cadets for the Fall semester which begins August 18th! Gainesville, Georgia

www.cadet.com • 770.538.2938


July 2016

Education focus • Sponsored Section

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Celebrating a successful first year in business Local entrepreneurs and long-time residents of the area, Travis and Becky Howe, opened an Experimac franchise in Cumming in June 2015. Experimac is a unique business concept that specializes in Premium Apple® products without the premium price including iMacs®, MacBook Pros®, MacBook Airs®, iPads®, iPhones® and Accessories. Experimac SELLS, BUYS, TRADES and UPGRADES all Apple® products.. Knowing the value of quality customer service and how important it is to be true to your word, the Howes know that giving their customers what they are promised can make all the difference in the success of any business. In the short time the store has been open, they have been welcomed with open arms by the residents and business owners of the area. Every one of the 45 customer reviews on their Facebook page, rate their store with 5 stars with one reviewer saying, “These guys are the real deal. No need to look for the mall Genius Bar for Apple help, they are right in our Cumming backyard.” We all know that Apple® makes a great product and is one of the most

innovative technology companies in the world. Experimac of Cumming has been able to bring high-quality, preowned products to a retail environment where you can come in and touch and feel the right product for you. No more ordering on-line and hoping you get what you ordered. Experimac of Cumming offers top-notch customer service with open communication, fast turnaround time, and no need for an appointment. This brings our customers back again and again. Our highly trained and skilled technicians at Experimac work hard to exceed your expectations. Experimac has become well known for working on not only the newer Macs® but the older vintage models that Apple® no longer works on.. To make it easier for you to own that right Apple® device, Experimac of Cumming, is offering 0% financing for 3, 6 or 12 months to spread your payments out over time. All of our products are backed up by our 90 day warranty and extended warranties can be purchased for 1,2 and 3 years. The technicians at Experimac are experts in repairing iPhones no matter how bad your cracked screen looks.

Most iPhones can be repaired within 30 minutes while you wait. Experimac also has a great selection of pre-owned iPhones at affordable prices for you to upgrade or simply replace that old phone. As the summer quickly flies by, back to school is becoming the reality

once again. Experimac will not miss out on this chance to offer you the best tools in computer devices for your high school or College students. Before making any repair or purchasing decision, stop by Experimac of Cumming at 1586 Market Place Blvd. to look at what they have to offer.

Back to School Technology Solutions MacBooks® MacBook Pro’s® starting at $399.99 starting at $599.99 0% Financing

up to 24 mo. on any device over $500. Other options available.

i-Pads® starting at $199

BRING THIS AD TO RECEIVE UP TO $50 OFF $25 off purchases under $500 • $50 off purchases over $500 Expires 8/31/16 Includes Computers and iPads only

We Buy Used Apple Devices

1586 Market Place Blvd., Cumming, Ga. 30041 (Next to Provinoʼs Restaurant) • 678-845-6977 • experimac.com/cumming-ga facebook.com/ExperimacCummingGA • Mon. - Sat. 10am-7pm The use of the Apple Inc. logo of trademarks does not represent an endorsement by Apple Inc. of Experimac or United Franshise Group. Apple®, Mac®, iPhone® and iPad® are registered trademarks of Apple Inc. Each Experimac locationis independently owned and operated. For franshise information visit www.esperimacfranchise.com


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July 2016

Change Lives: Become a Teacher (NAPSI)—The nation is in the midst of a critical teacher shortage1 that is affecting the lives of students everywhere. The retirement of baby boomers is a contributing factor in the shortage the teaching profession is facing. However, with the advances in the way technology is used in the classroom and shifts in strategies to educate students for the 21st century workforce, the K-12 classroom is becoming more dynamic and innovative every day. If you have ever considered becoming a teacher, now might be a good time to enter the profession. “It has always been a great time to be a teacher, but there is more opportunity in the classroom than ever before,” said Pam Roggeman, Ed.D., academic dean for College of Education at University of Phoenix. “At a time when many schools are facing critical teacher shortages while trying to stay competitive in areas such as STEM education, all stakeholders must do their part to highlight the unique opportunity teachers have to shape tomorrow’s leaders and positively impact their communities.” A large majority of K-12 teachers (92 percent) indicate satisfaction with their career choice, and more than twothirds would recommend the profession to others2, according to a 2016 University of Phoenix online survey of teachers conducted by Harris Poll. Additionally, 78 percent of the teachers say seeing students grow is what they enjoy most about teaching. “Teaching is one of the most important, honorable and intrinsically rewarding professions,” adds Dr. Roggeman. “The College’s survey found that more than a quarter of teachers switched careers to join the profession. People who switch careers and choose to teach bring rich, unique perspectives that can motivate students by tying real-world experience to learning in the classroom.” Pathways to the classroom Today, there are many diverse paths to the classroom. Here are some ways to get started: • Become a substitute teacher. This is a great way to get engaged in K-12 schools and determine which level you feel most suited to teach. • Volunteer in a school or with community youth organizations. This can help you better understand how children learn and stay engaged. • Research alternative licensure pro-

grams. Explore the programs that lead to licensure. There are many options for those who want to make career changes and are working full-time. • Do informational interviews. Talk to teachers and administrators about the field, and the qualities and preparation that lead to fruitful teaching careers. • Find a mentor. Once you’ve decided you want to pursue teaching, seek out a mentor who can provide coaching and feedback about what it is like to be in a classroom. Learn More For more information about K-12 education careers and programs, visit www.phoenix.edu/education. For more information about each of these programs, including on-time completion rates, the median debt incurred by students who completed the program and other important information, please visit www.phoenix.edu/ programs/gainful-employment. Survey Methodology This survey was conducted online within the United States by Harris Poll on behalf of University of Phoenix between April 14 and 27, 2015. Respondents included 1,002 U.S. residents employed full-time as teachers in grades K-12 who have at least an undergraduate degree. For complete survey methodology, including weighting variables, please contact Tanya Burden at tanya.burden@apollo.edu. 1 https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ope/pol/tsa.pdf 2 http://www.phoenix.edu/news/ releases/2015/05/top-reasons-to-jointhe-education-profession.html

Montessori Kids Academy Montessori Kids Academy is located at 3034 Old Atlanta Road in Cumming, next to the Publix shopping center. We are a SACS/CASI accredited school and a member of the American Montessori Society. We pride ourselves on having highly qualified, experienced teachers who are passionate about the Montessori philosophy and guiding children along their journey of learning. We currently participate in the Georgia Student Scholarship Program, a tax-savings program created to enable parents to use their money tax-free for education. Montessori Kids Academy offers a traditional Montessori student-focused constructivist teaching style. Our growing school teaches children from 18 months to 3 years of age in our preprimary classroom, 3 years to 6 years of age in our primary classrooms, and 6 to 12 years of age in our elementary classrooms. We strive to maintain a low student to teacher ratio in each classroom. The school is housed in a 20,000 square foot, state-of-the-art building complete with a children’s garden, outdoor classroom, spacious library, learning kitchen, computer lab, indoor café, outside picnic patio, two music rooms, and traditional Montessori furnishings. The following daily enrichments are offered as part of our Montessori curriculum at no additional cost: Coding and Robotics, Spanish, Music, Art, Cooking, Physical Education, Tai Chi and Organic Gardening. Even our Pre-Primary students participate in

Physical Education, art and Spanish. Transportation to and from regular field trips is provided by the new Montessori Kids Academy school bus. In addition to regular field trips that are off-site, we have many different visitors such as the Forsyth County firefighters, police and K-9 unit, Recycling Center, the Reptile Man and many other people who help complement our curriculum. Students enjoy daily yoga and journal writing in their classrooms as well as the computer lab. Montessori Kids Academy gives parents quarterly reports of their child’s progress, as well as frequent parent education nights, student presentations, and school social events. We want our families to feel like they are part of our school family. Montessori Kids Academy also offers an academic summer camp where students can learn while having fun. While at camp, the students will continue with Montessori Language Arts and Mathematics materials and lessons. The students will also participate in weekly field trips, either in-house for our youngest campers or off-site for the older students. Every day has an exciting new activity and each week’s theme will bring new excitement to the students as they learn about the world around them as well as tap into their creativity and imagination. We invite you to our upcoming open houses, July 30th and August 6th from 11:00-2:00, or schedule a tour to see our traditional Montessori School that makes a difference around the world as well as at home.


July 2016

Education focus • Sponsored Section

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Your decision today will influence the next decade Brought to you by: Kids ‘R’ Kids Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy, located at 3036 Old Atlanta Road in Cumming, is an excellent quality childcare facility that combines learning with playing. At every stage of your child’s journey, Kids ‘R’ Kids develops new and challenging ways to open the mind and expand the imagination – it’s what we call Smart Fun. Our foundation of love and trust is accompanied every step of the way by our teachers, parents and peers. Kids ‘R’ Kids has been educating children from ages 6 weeks to 12 years for the past 10 years. Each summer we host the most popular summer camp in Cumming, Ga. This summer, we will be lighting the torch for the gold medal summer games of 2016. Campers will experience a global adventure in the cities and countries participating in the 2016 Summer Olympic Games. Campers will learn Olympic size facts and participate in great indoor and outdoor games. This year’s summer camp will foster Olympic values of friendship, sportsmanship, and fair play while having a summer full of high energy activities and good old fashioned fun!

From the well-trained staff members to the innovative school, children are given the opportunity to explore the world around them, establishing the basis for their future learning experiences. Infants through school age children can learn and play in the spacious school which includes: a cafeteria, playgrounds with age appropri-

ate equipment, computer lab, library, water park, large covered patio, smart board technology, and much more! We have both a Jr. and Senior aftercare program. We service 6 local Elementary Schools. We are proud to support Toys for Tots, Wounded Worriers, St. Joseph's Food Pantry, and Dawsonville No kill Animal Shelter.

Education Focus

Specializing in the Detection and Treatment of Pediatric Digestive Disorders

Special Section

Advertising DEADLINE: October 11, 2016 5 of the top 10 wealthiest communities in Georgia are in our distribution area. With our Education Focus special sections you reach the targeted communities of your choice.

Call to reserve your advertising now. 770-442-3278

We are open for care from 6am to 6:30pm. Please feel free to stop by for a complimentary tour between the hours of 10am and 4pm, or call to schedule a tour at any other time. Regardless of your need, whether full time, part time, after school care, or seasonal camps, Kids ‘R’ Kids is the place for your child.

Expert GI Care for Your Children At Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates, our Board Certified pediatric gastroenterologists care for infants, children,‘tweens, and teens with any type of digestive or liver condition, including: • Abdominal Pain • Acid Reflux • Celiac Disease • Colic • Eosinophilic Esophagitis • Feeding Difficulties • IBS / IBD • Lactose Intolerance • Constipation / Diarrhea • Hepatitis / Liver Disease

For appointments: 404.843.6320 ALPHARETTA 3300 Old Milton Pkwy | Suite 225 DULUTH 2660 Satellite Blvd SANDY SPRINGS 5445 Meridian Mark Rd NE | Suite 490

www.AGApediatrics.com

AGA is a participating provider for Medicare, Medicaid and most healthcare plans offered in Georgia.


16 northfulton.com

Sponsored Section • education focus

July 2016

Catch the Spirit! Campers... take your mark, get set, go. Summer Camp - Enroll May 31st - Aug 3rd The ALL NEW Kids ‘R’ Kids Summer Games is the ideal destination for 5 to 12 year old boys and girls. By providing a global view of Rio 2016 Olympic Games, campers will experience an interactive peek inside participating countries’ cultures, customs, cuisine and more! Add to that our own unique twist on the games themselves, and campers will experience 9 fabulous weeks designed to instill confidence, encourage teamwork and foster FUN! After 30 years of providing unforgettable summer camp experiences for children, Kids ‘R’ Kids has found that whenever you combine physical activity, interactive learning and good old-fashioned fun - everybody WINS!

USA Strong!

Mighty

Africa Rio de

Janeiro in 2016

The Pride of

The

Brits

Spain

The

Greek Story Catch the Spirit

Italy Competes

Hola

Mexico

6:00am - 6:30pm M-F • 3036 Old Atlanta Road • Cumming, GA 30041 • www.krk52.com • 678-648-3175


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