Education Focus, July 2014

Appen Media Group

EDUCATION FOCUS

Back to School Special Section

2 northfulton.com

Sponsored Section • education focus

July 2014

Sponsored Section

NorthFulton.com | July 2014

Riverside Military Academy For over 107 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 2014 consisted of 86 cadets who were admitted to over 105 universities across the world and earned over $4.2 million in collegiate scholarships not including HOPE scholarship.

Two graduating seniors were appointed to the U.S. Military Academy –West Point and the United States Air Force Academy, an educational value of over $450,000 each.

Riverside Military Academy holds dual accreditation in SACS and SAIS. Our comprehensive program of rigorous 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.

July 2014

education focus • Sponsored Section

Peachtree Park Prep Rushing through your afternoon to hurry and pick up your child as early as you can from their preschool?? Not to worry if your child is a student at Peachtree Park Prep (PPP) !

A very unusual thing happens at PPP on an almost daily basis….parents arrive for pick up and leave without their child because they want to stay and continue the fun activities and exciting learning…loving to learn at PPP! Peachtree Park Prep is proud to be celebrating their 19th year of serving families of North Fulton County and surrounding communities. The advanced curriculum is enhanced by specialty instruction in Art, Music, Spanish & Chinese Language Lab, Computer, and Physical Education, offered complimentary, Toddlers through First Grade. Combining high academic standards with an outstanding, long term faculty and administrative staff, Peachtree Park Prep is the hallmark of early private education. Test scores rank students, Pre-K and Kindergarten level, “higher than most schools across the nation”, as noted by ITBS Assess-

ment Scoring Center.

Peachtree Park Prep enjoys an outstanding reputation with the area’s private and public schools. PPP is very proud to have welcomed the area’s private school Admissions Directors for their own private tour of PPP to observe the teaching methods and curriculum used due to the high academic achievements noticed and the high acceptance rate of students going into private school education.

“If parents of preschool age children only knew all the incredible things going on at PPP, you wouldn’t be able to build a school big enough to enroll everyone who wanted their child to go to Peachtree Park Prep!”.... current PPP mom Infants~Toddlers~Preschool~Kin dergarten~First Grade~After School, Morning Prep, Summer Day Camp.

Johns Creek 770-497-6680/Alpharetta Campus 770-667-8854.

LOVING TO LEARN AT PPP ~ WE’RE AS HAPPY AS CAN BE peachtreeparkprep.com

Friend us on And

facebook

stAy connected with All the news of

north fulton

facebook.com/ AppenMediaGroup

northfulton.com 3

4 northfulton.com

Sponsored Section • education focus

July 2014

Specializing in the Detection and Treatment of Pediatric Digestive Disorders

As a Board Certified pediatric gastroenterologist, Dr. Nirav Patel brings the experience and personal care every parent values when their child is suffering from digestive issues. At Atlanta Gastroenterology’s Pediatric and Adolescent Division, infants, children, ‘tweens and teens can be treated for every type of digestive and liver condition, including: • Abdominal Pain • Lactose Intolerance • Constipation/Diarrhea • Eosinophilic Esophagitis • Irritable Bowel Syndrome • Hepatitis/Liver Disease

• Feeding Difficulties • Celiac Disease • Crohn’s Disease • Ulcerative Colitis • Acid Reflux • Colic

Helping one tummy at a time

5445 Meridian Mark Road NE Suite 490 Atlanta, Georgia 30342

Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates’ Pediatric and Adolescent Division

Conveniently located next to Children's Healthcare of Atlanta at Scottish Rite

For Appointments

404.843.6320 www.atlantagastro.com/pediatrics AGA is a participating provider for Medicare, Medicaid and most healthcare plans offered in Georgia.

WHERE YOU START THE JOURNEY CAN MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE.

>

FREE REGISTRATION!* WHEN YOU MENTION THIS AD

Tour your local Goddard School and experience why it’s the best preparation for social and academic success.

Goddard Systems, Inc.’s program is AdvancED accredited.

SUWANEE (OLD ATLANTA) 770-844-6546 3710 OLD ATLANTA ROAD CUMMING 678-455-5151 5416 BETHELVIEW ROAD GoddardSchool.com

*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. 2014

When it comes to caring for children with GI issues, personal and comprehensive care is a top priority at AGA’s Pediatric and Adolescent Division.

Led by board certified pediatric gastroenterologist Dr. Nirav Patel, infants, children, ‘tweens, and teens receive the same high level of care Atlanta Gastroenterology has been providing to adults in metro Atlanta for nearly 40 years.

While all types of digestive disorders are evaluated and treated by Dr. Patel, some more common issues seen in younger patients include colic, acid reflux, and constipation. He also specializes in diagnosing and managing more complex and chronic issues

such as celiac disease, irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, liver disease, and short bowel syndrome.

AGA’s Pediatric and Adolescent Division is conveniently located next to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Scottish Rite where outpatient diagnostic services can be performed. These include endoscopic procedures like colonoscopy and upper GI endoscopy, as well as imaging services like CT scans.

AGA’s Pediatric and Adolescent Division is located in the Meridian Mark Plaza at 5445 Meridian Mark Road, Suite 490, in Sandy Springs. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Patel, call 404.843.6320.

For more information, visit www.atlantagastro.com/pediatrics.

The Goddard Schools The Goddard Schools in Cumming and Suwanee have been providing the very best early childhood education programs in the area for many years.

It has been widely studied that the first five years of learning in a person’s life are the most important, laying the foundation for life-long learning. The SACS accredited programs at The Goddard Schools located in Suwanee and Cumming are taking amazing advantage of this principle by providing engaging, hands-on learning experiences for all of their students. Goddard’s FLEX (Fun Learning Experience) program includes math, science, language arts, as well as enrichment in Spanish, music, creative art, physical education, technology learning, and more. “The way children learn in the 21st century is much different than what was occurring even 15 years ago, so we seek to incorporate appropriate new learning concepts and curriculum each year,” says Jean Croft, Owner and Executive Director of the Cumming location.

During the 2012 – 2013 school year, 4 out of 5 Kindergarten students selected for the Horizons advanced programs at Whitlow Elementary School in Forsyth county were graduates of The Goddard School’s Pre Kindergarten program the previous year. So don’t wait, call to schedule your tour today!

July 2014

education focus • Sponsored Section

northfulton.com 5

TAX FREE

WEEKEND Woodward Academy Woodward Academy is metro Atlanta’s long-proven college-preparatory independent school for families who want the certainty of more complete preparation for college and life. Tapping into more than a century of educational wisdom, Woodward transforms each student’s experience into a tangible opportunity for learning and growth.

Woodward students develop a deep respect for difference as they collaborate with peers who come from 23 metro Atlanta counties, and from a broad array of religious, economic, and ethnic backgrounds. Woodward students find opportunities to explore and excel at every level, whatever their interests. They receive wise guidance at every step—from the first day of pre-K to senior final exams—expanding their

academic capacities through specialized instruction and individualized support. Because of the Woodward experience, Academy graduates are notably confident and well-prepared as they enter the complex and evolving world.

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.

Woodward Academy’s Main Campus Open House will take place on Sunday, November 16, from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. The Woodward North Open House will take place on Sunday, January 25, from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. Please call 404.765.4001 for more information or to make a reservation.

August 1-2

5

Stock up & save for back to school

$

OFF30

Your $ purchase*

*Must present coupon. One per family. Not good with other offers.

Exp: 08/31/14. CPNTF0814

117 70 Haynes Bridge RD. Alpharetta • 7 70.807.3245

15% off

Entire store August 1-3

6 northfulton.com

Sponsored Section • education focus

July 2014

Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia Located near the intersection of 141 and McGinnis Ferry Road in Johns Creek, Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia provides provides an authentic Montessori environment, where each individual’s needs are respected and everyone works together for the good of the community. The focus is always on helping the children to develop themselves in a caring, peaceful environment.

Each of JCMSOG’S vibrant classroom communities is outfitted with high quality Montessori materials designed to meet

each child’s individual developmental needs, so that no matter a child’s learning style

or pace, the right equipment is on hand to give him exactly what he needs.

Our JCMSOG teachers or Community guides all have one to two years of Montessori studies and certification from a MACTE-accredited organization. They are trained to work with each child individually, guiding them to the lessons or activities best suited for that child’s particular developmental needs.

The multi-age groupings in our classroom communities allow for non-competitive, mu-

tually beneficial relationships between children. The younger children learn by observing the older children. The older children test their learning by repeating lessons for their younger friends.

The Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia difference is best experienced in person. Please schedule a time to observe the “Montessori Magic” by calling 770-814-8001 or email at info@jcmsog.org.

Bridgeway makes learning fun When children are actively engaged, imaginations are awakened, critical thinking skills are developed, and a love for learning is fostered to last a lifetime. Bridgeway Christian Academy combines classroom instruction with educational games and interactive technology designed to make learning come to life. From shapes and colors, to equations and experiments, Bridgeway brings meaning and purpose to each lesson.

Bridgeway utilizes outdoor environments and hands-on activities to engage students fully, feed their senses, and stimulate their minds. Smartboards are utilized in every classroom to encourage interactive learning, and students in grades sixth – eighth may bring their own device to class for note taking and e-books.

Students put their science (and math) skills to use in our science lab and organic garden.

An outdoor classroom provides

the perfect setting for children to explore God’s creation and exercise their imaginations.

Serving families with children in preschool through eighth grade, Bridgeway provides a Christ-centered learning environment that encourages parent involvement and reinforces the beliefs and values taught in the Christian home. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) and the Association of Christian

Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia 6450 East Johns Crossing • Johns Creek, GA 30097 Sowing the seeds of organic learning

Schools International (ACSI), Bridgeway utilizes proven curriculum that challenges students while emphasizing a biblical worldview.

Bridgeway is accepting applications for the 201415 school year while space allows. Personal tours are available daily. For additional information, or to schedule a school tour, contact the BCA Admissions Office at 678.942.1126, or info@ bridgewayca.org.

We Call it Learning...

They Call it Fun! • Preschool – 8th Grade • Christ-centered Philosophy

• Multi-age, vibrant learning communities with uninterrupted blocks of work time that inspire organic learning • Montessori certified teachers in every classroom • School leadership team with advanced academic degrees • Flexible academic program schedules • Nutritious lunch, organic milk, and healthy snacks offered daily • Scientifically designed, hands-on, multi-sensory learning materials • Community environment that fosters non-competitive, collaborative student relationships • Extracurricular activities including art, music, ballet and sports offered in school

• Accredited Curriculum

Enrollment Underway for 2014-2015 Please contact us at 770-751-1972 or tours@bridgewayca.org.

Facebook | JCMSOG.org

4755 Kimball Bridge Rd., Alpharetta, GA 30005 | 770.751.1972

770-814-8001

www.bridgewayca.org

July 2014

education focus • Sponsored Section

northfulton.com 7

Making that back to college move easier Kids ‘R’ Kids Schools Kids ‘R’ Kids Schools of Quality learning, located at 3036 Old Atlanta Road in Cumming, is an excellent quality childcare facility that combines learning with playing.

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 appropriate equipment, computer lab, library, water park, large covered patio, smart board

technology, and much more!

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 now includes many different electives such as ballet/ tap, soccer, playball, chess and basketball.

Regardless of your need, whether full time, part time, after school care, or seasonal camps, Kids ‘R’ Kids is the place for your child.

(NAPS)—As the new school year approaches, college students everywhere are preparing for their trip back to campus.

Whether you are a freshman making the journey into a college dorm for the first time or a senior headed to an apartment off campus, here are some tips to help ensure a smooth, easy and affordable move. They’re courtesy of the experts at Penske Truck Rental: • Go with the truck that best fits your needs. Experience has shown that in most cases the 12- or 16-foot truck is adequate for moving into a college dorm or efficiency apartment.

• Have a reservation. Fall is peak moving time for students and family, so it’s best to reserve early. You should reserve your rental truck and order any moving accessories at least two weeks in advance. At Penske, a reservation guarantees that a truck will be available.

• Using accessories can make a difference. Boxes, packing tape, Bubble Wrap, moving blankets and hand trucks are essential moving tools. Look to pack electronic items in their original cartons, and reinforce the bottoms of all boxes with extra tape for support.

• How you pack it is important. Load the heaviest items on the truck first. And to avoid in­jury, always bend your knees and lift with your legs, never your back. Better yet,

get a friend to help with any heavy lifting.

• Think safety and security. Plan on picking up your truck a day early so you can practice driving it. Remember, trucks are taller, wider, heavier and require more stopping distance than cars.

When traveling, be sure to park in welllit areas and padlock the rear door.In the unlikely event a breakdown occurs, Penske offers around-the-clock emergency roadside assistance every day.

• Sharing is a good thing. Sharing the ride with a friend can help to defer some of your truck rental costs and provide some extra help with your boxes.

• Discounts can help. When moving, costs can mount up, so every little bit of savings helps. Look for discounts that may be available through various memberships. For example, Penske Truck Rental is the exclusive truck rental partner of AAA and offers AAA members a discount.

• Keep things in easy reach. Finally, before you leave, create a travel bag for moving day to keep important paperwork, credit cards, identification, clothes, drinks and snacks close at hand.

For additional moving tips, visit www.

PenskeTruckRental.com.

Load the heaviest items on the truck first.

And to avoid injury, always bend your knees and lift with your legs, never your back.

Infancy—at no other stage of life does learning, with the proper stimulation, occur so rapidly. With the security of knowing he is loved, your infant can settle down to learn about the world around him. The Kids ‘R’ Kids Infant curriculum was specially written with the baby’s development and happiness in mind: • Lots of hugs & love • Personal attention • Individualized learning activities • Sensory stimulation • Specialized care • Indoor learning environment • Outdoor time • Daily reports

Bring in this ad and receive FREE registration

OPEN HOUSE August 2nd 11am – 2pm

3036 Old Atlanta Road Cumming, GA 30041

(678) 648-3175 www.kidsrkidscumming.com

8 northfulton.com

Sponsored Section • education focus

July 2014

Chrysalis Experiential Academy is a community of achievers “Inspiring A Student’s Vision for Their Future Then Developing A Strategy & Plan To Achieve It” Individualized Learning Paths Flexible Class Schedules Building Confident Learners 1:5 Teacher/Student Ratio Internships/Dual Enrollment Average Class Size: 4-8 Rigorous College Preparatory SAIS/SACS Accredited Social Thinking Skills Accelerated Graduation Specializing in Learning Differences Non-Traditional Learning Environment Dr. Roy Alexander, Head of School

Office: 770-649-7077 Cell: 404-513-9914

www.chrysalis-academy.org

Dr. Roy Alexander Head of School, Chrysalis Experiential Academy www.Chrysalis-Academy.org Chrysalis Experiential Academy believes in the power of experiential learning students in grades 6 to 12.

Known for its rigorous curriculum and impactful multi-sensory experiences, the school is fully committed to building on the legacy of: • Customized curriculum aligned with students’ creative interests • Small class sizes for individualized teaching of the whole child • Real world applications and experiences in pursuit of each student’s dreams Chrysalis is a progressive educational center that provides a safe, structured educational environment serving the needs of students with learning differences, high-functioning Autism, Asperger Syndrome, and language learning disabilities who may benefit from social and transitional skills development.

We maximize personal achievement and foster independence through academics, social thinking skills, self-advocacy, and community involvement. With the careful guidance of our exceptional teachers, students discover their individual passions while learning to embrace multiple perspectives and

to work with people who have diverse points of view. Our students are problem solvers: they learn to evaluate and research what they hear, read or see, and in the process they take control of their learning foundation, becoming both self-confident and competent.

Come and see why there is no other learning environment quite like Chrysalis!

A center of lifelong learning Programs for 2, 3 & 4 Year Olds

OPEN ENROLLMENT FALL 2014 The Preschool Place provides a quality, developmentally appropriate preschool that continues to challenge each child in a warm, nurturing Jewish environment.

• Jewish learning with our clergy • Small class size • Loving teachers • Multi-child discounts *Mother’s Morning Out Program for 15 months - 24 months

★OPEN HOUSE & ICE CREAM SOCIAL★ Wednesday August 6 at 4:30 p.m.

Pre-K Scholarships $115 Registration Fee per Child

Monthly Payments

Mon-Fri Member $150* Nonmember $250* *Price reflects a $340 a month/$3060 a year savings with the Alef Fund!

GENEROUS SCHOLARSHIPS ARE AVAILABLE NOW! Please inquire today!

11165 Parsons Rd • Johns Creek, GA 30097 • 770-623-8849 preschoolplace@dortamid.com • www.dortamid.org

Our Adult Education offerings have Congregation Dor Tamid provides expanded in frequency and content. educational opportunities for all ages.

Between classes and courses on hisThe Preschool Place at CDT, oftorical events, cultural experiences, the fers our youngest learners -- ages 2-4 Jewish calendar, and Jewish values, -- an experiential, exciting, and engagwe know that all of our adult ing environment with loving students will enjoy Jewish teachers, strong academics, learning. music, and arts.

Congregation Dor The Preschool Place Tamid is a Reform has Generous Scholarsynagogue in Johns ships Available for Creek, Georgia under Pre-K through the the direction of Rabbi AleF Fund!

Michael Weinstein.

This year, our own CDT’s Director of clergy will be teachLifelong Learning, Rabbi ing Judaics and we are Lauren Cohn holds a proud to introduce our Master of Hebrew Letters “Adopt a Bubbie/Zaydie and a Master of Jewish EduProgram.” cation from the Hebrew Union Join us for an Ice Cream College – Jewish Institute of Religion Social and Open House on Wednesand as the title of Reform Jewish Eduday, August 6th at 4:30 pm. cator from the Reform Jewish EducaOur Religious School students, tor Title Granting Commission. Mike PreK-12th grade, will enjoy a new curZuspan serves as Cantorial Soloist. riculum from the Goldring/Woldenberg For more information about CDT, Institute for Southern Jewish Life. We membership, or educational programs, are pleased to offer a developmentally Place provides a quality, devel call 770-623-8860 or www.dortamid.org. appropriate curriculum thatThe catersPreschool to a variety of learners with a focus on a 11165 Parsons Road, Johns Creek, GA preschool 30097 that continues to challenge each c multitude of content areas.

Programs for 2

OPEN ENROLL FALL 2014

Jewish environment.

• Jewish learning with our clergy • Loving teachers

• Sm •M

*Mother’s Morning Out Program for 15 m

Rabbi Lauren Cohn, RJE. – Director of Lifelong Learning

★OPEN HOUSE & ICE CREA

Wednesday August 6 at 4:

July 2014

education focus • Sponsored Section

northfulton.com 9

Showing a love of science can pay off NAPS)—Statistics indicate that the U.S. is falling behind in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education and careers. With that in mind, National 4-H Council and HughesNet® have partnered to introduce more American youths to hands-on, community-based STEM learning.

The partnership is designed to demonstrate the excitement and opportunities of STEM through several programs, including “Tech Takeover Days” at national 4-H camps; science events at local fairs; and 4-H National Youth Science Day—a national science experiment that engages young scientists around the country.

The organizations recently kicked off their “Inspire a Future Scientist” contest to spark interest in STEM learning and careers. The contest encourages young people to use their creativity to connect science to everyday things they experience and enjoy.

Kids between 13 and 19 submitted 15-second videos that showed their love of science and demonstrated how science is connected to their everyday lives.

From launching spaceships and maneuvering robots to a look at science throughout history, dozens of American youths entered the contest to show how science could be creative and fun.

The top 10 finalist videos have been selected, and Americans will vote to choose the winner!

The winning child will receive a $1,000 cash prize, a 4-H science kit and a trip to participate in the 4-H National Youth Science Day event on October 8, 2014 in Washington, D.C. If ever there were a contest where every participant is a winner, this is that contest! Through “Inspire a Future Scientist,” every participant can experience firsthand the excitement of science. Visit www.4-h. org/4hfuturescientist today to view

McGinnis Woods Country Day School

all the creative entries and pick your favorite. You can vote once per day, and the voting ends August 1, 2014.

Why Science Education Matters According to a recent study, 2.8 million STEM jobs will be created and ready for skilled employees by 2018.

That’s an encouraging statistic for today’s youth, as they stand to benefit from their love of science.

HughesNet and 4-H serve small, local, rural and exurban communities across the country and are passionate about STEM education.

“It’s critical that we get more young people interested in pursuing STEM education and careers. We can capture and hold their interest through hands-on learning with traditional instruction,” said Jennifer Sirangelo, president & CEO, National 4-H Council. “For over 100 years, 4-H has used its proven, successful methods to do just that—allowing young people to use their hands, as well as their minds, to learn how exciting and rewarding a STEM education can be. We’re proud to partner with Hughes, a company on the cutting edge of technology, to help make this contest a reality.”

McGinnis Woods Country Day School is a private, non-parochial school offering a challenging Preschool, Elementary and Middle Grades Education. The school is located in Alpharetta on the border of Forsyth and North Fulton counties.

The Preschool cares for children as young as 6 weeks and the Elementary and Middle School teaches students in PreK 4th through 8th grade. McGinnis Woods Country Day School holds top accreditations, including GAC, SACS and NAEYC and is a member of GISA (Georgia Independent School Association).

The mission of McGinnis Woods is to inspire students with the passion to excel. This goal is accomplished each day by providing superior academics through hands-on, minds-on

approaches which inspire a lifelong love of learning. Dedicated, certified teachers lead small classes with low student-teacher ratios, allowing for frequent one-to-one learning. Superior educational resources and technologies are used to maximize the classroom experience of our diverse student population.

Guest speakers, monthly field trips, projects, and an emphasis on character education and community service round out the curriculum. Competitive Sports and Robotics teams train and compete year round. After school programs, Discovery Clubs including drama and chess are also available.

Please visit www.mcginniswoods.org to learn more or call 770-664-7764 to set up a tour and experience the McGinnis Woods difference.

PRIVATE NON-PAROCHIAL PRESCHOOL

Infants - Pre-Kindergarten

ELEMENTARY & MIDDLE SCHOOL Kindergarten - 8th Grade

Private Non-Parochial Education • GAC, SACS & NAEYC Accredited • Challenging Hands-on Academics, STEM • Low Student/Teacher Ratio • Advanced Technologies • Foreign Language/Music, Band, Chorus/Physical Education, Health

• Outdoor Classroom, Cafe and Wooded Trails • Monthly Field Trips • Involved Parent Association • Afterschool Clubs • Competitive Teams, Robotics Club and Drama

New Gym and Middle School Building fall of 2014!

Tours welcome by appointment: 5380 Faircroft Drive, Alpharetta, Georgia

“Inspiring students with the passion to excel”

770-664-7764

Visit us online at www.mcginniswoods.org

10 northfulton.com

Sponsored Section • education focus

July 2014

Helping local schools survive the arts budget cuts Over the past few years, several Georgia counties including Fulton County have had to make budget sacrifices.

Unfortunately, one of the first programs that schools cut spending on are the music programs. We, at North Fulton School of Music, cannot sit idle

as music programs suffer. In order to help combat this, we are reaching out to various local schools to see how we can help offset the cuts by providing help not only financially but through our experienced musicians offering their time to help. Because school teachers don’t have the

time to commit instruction to the individual student, they count on schools like ours to help with one-on-one private lessons for their students in order to make for a better music program at their respective schools. Our instructors teach students how to play instruments, sing, sight-

read, prepare for auditions or All-State competitions, understand music theory, and how to perform in public on stage. We are proud to see our students progress and excel in music and promise to continue to support music education in our community.

Fellowship Christian School congratulates our

2014 Graduates

Fellowship Christian 2014 Graduates

10965 Woodstock Rd, Roswell, GA 30075 770-993-1650 FellowshipChristianSchool.org

Ian Berryman Western Carolina Emily Bird GA Southern Dylan Borst GCSU Kendrick Brock GA State Hunter Bryant Alabama Michael Burlas LSU Jake Chandler North GA Amanda Cochran Clemson Taylor Cookston UGA Baylee Corbett GCSU Jessica Daniel KSU Katie Doremus Berry Alex Edmonds UGA Anna Edmonds Alabama Taylor Ezell KSU Sarah Finch GCSU Amanda Floyd North GA

Casey Foster Auburn Maddie Harrison GCSC Chris Hays Auburn Jacqueline Hopkins UGA Clay Hostetter Baylor Lauren Hurney Auburn Brittany Jenkins UGA Mitchell Johnson GCSU Travis Kinney Auburn Mikal Lake Taylor U Daniel Ledet KSU Sloan Lewandoski Alabama Zoe Lukashevich GCSU Kendall Mansfield Auburn Connor McAdams UGA Katie McCrory Samford John McCusker Chattahoo Tech

John Murphy North GA Connor Nelson USCGA Avery Orlans UGA Daniel Ostenson Auburn Sydney Partain GA Tech Cameron Petrovich Clemson Madison Pope GCSU Hannah Posthauer GCSU Ashley Priddy Samford Katelyn Pulvino YWAM/UGA Kirtland Purdy Samford Zach Ramsey Georgia Regents Robert Redding GCSU Alec Remington KSU Roger Rickman Troy U Abby Rozeboom GA Southern Lindsey Sawyer GA Southern

Ross Schoendorf North GA Kasey Shannon Auburn Anna Soderlund YWAM/KSU/GCSU Alex Spiegel University of Virginia Caroline Stroud UGA Josh Stutler GCSU James Thornwell Southern Poly Elizabeth Tribble UGA Sam Tuten UGA Dariean Ward Lander U Jake Wiley GA Perimeter James Wilson UGA Andrew Wise UGA Caroline Wise UGA Jack Wise UGA

Music and Voice Lessons for All Ages and Styles Piano • Voice • Guitar • Violin • Drums • Brass • Woodwinds • Accordian • Organ

We have over 30 experienced and talented instructors. We offer many performance opportunities throughout the year including 4 standard recitals and one advanced recital, community festivals, open mics, internal practical assessment, and student album projects recorded in our very own professional recording facility, Lucky Dog Studios.

3-0322 Call (770) 75 ur today for yo

FR.EleEsson

30 min

formerly known as Peggy Still School of Music

Mon-Fri 12pm - 9pm • Sat 9am - 3pm | 11775 Northfall Ln, Ste 203, Alpharetta, GA 30009 009 | www.northfultonschoolofmusic.com www w northfultonschoolofm | (770) 753-0322

July 2014

education focus • Sponsored Section

northfulton.com 11

When is the best time to get braces?

By: Dr. Jeffrey Jordan www.JWJordan.com 770-751-1240 Orthodontic treatment today is about faces not just braces.

Consequently, facial esthetics dictates the proper timing for treatment.

While treatment can contribute to the physical and psychological development of patients young and old,

some patients require early intervention.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial visit to an orthojordan dontist at age 7 for this reason. Most patients do not need early treatment, but if neces-

sary, amazing improvements in facial esthetics and function can be accomplished.

The majority of patients benefit from a single treatment during adolescence, as the last few primary teeth are lost and the second molars erupt.

The exact age varies, but most teens are in a rapid growth phase at this time.

As a result, dramatic results can be achieved with improved facial esthetics and

function. For example, the smile can be made wider, the lower jaw can be advanced, or a gummy smile can be eliminated.

These changes can be life altering for some patients during the teen years.

Of course, adults want to look good too, and orthodontic treatment for adults is more popular than ever! Invisalign, clear braces, and improvements in surgical techniques make having a fantastic smile easier too.

School Of Rock – Johns Creek We believe the best way to learn music is to play music. We take students from the lesson room to the stage, developing both their confidence and musicianship with programs designed for all skill levels. School of Rock teaches guitar, bass, vocals, keyboards, drums and combines weekly private music lessons and group rehearsals to prepare students to take the stage in front of live audiences in an authentic

concert setting.

We have programs suited for all ages. From our classroom based programs, Little Wing® (for Pre-K students), and Rookies® to our performance based programs - Rock 101, Performance and Grad School for adults. Now Enrolling! For more information contact us at 678-580-1882 or email us at johnscreek@schoolofrock.com.

Professional Result s ... that give our patients something to smile about.

Braces • Invisalign • Retainers

FREE Consultation

4205 North Point Pkwy., Bldg. B, Alpharetta, GA 30022 | (770) 751-1240 | www.JWJordan.com

North Point Pkwy.

GA 400

Old Milton Pkwy.

12 northfulton.com

Sponsored Section • education focus

July 2014

Johns Creek HS named ‘Most Positive’ school in metro area Honors also include local athletes recognized for top attitude

By CANDY WAYLOCK candy@northfulton.com JOHNS CREEK, Ga. – Four area high school athletes, along with Johns Creek High School, were recognized at the recent Georgia Positive High School Athlete Awards. The inaugural event, which will be held annually, was hosted June 14 on the campus of Georgia Tech and designed to promote the benefits of being positive for high school athletes.

Alpharetta, Milton and Roswell high schools also took home awards.

Six hundred nominations, representing 65 different metro Atlanta area high schools, were submitted from coaches, principals, athletic directors, teachers and parents for the 2013-2014 awards. From that list, Johns Creek High School

emerged at the top of the list of schools with the most positive attitude among its athletes.

“Johns Creek High School exemplifies excellence in so many ways,” said newly appointed Principal Gail Johnson. “Being recognized as a school that epitomizes a positive spirit reinforces our school culture. We believe in developing student athletes and all students to approach their pursuits with a mindset that focuses on a positive perspective.”

Positive Athlete is a subsidiary of Celebrate Positive, a group of professional athletes who have teamed up to promote the benefits of positivity to young athletes around the world.

In addition to excellence on the field, each nominated Positive Athlete was required to show characteristics such as

Johns Creek High School. an optimistic attitude, teammate encouragement, servant leadership, heart for others, ability to admit imperfections, giving 100 percent all the time and realizing the team as more important than the individual.

In all, 22 athletes were honored as the “Most Positive” athletes from 22 differ-

ent sports, with four coming from the Fulton County School System.

At the June 14 awards reception, Hines Ward, the former Georgia Bulldogs star and Super Bowl XL Most Valuable Player from the Pittsburgh Steelers, served as the event host.

He was joined by Homer Rice, former head coach of the Cincinnati Bengals and former Georgia Tech athletic director; Brian Jordan, former Atlanta Braves outfielder who also played in the NFL for the Falcons; and Brian Finneran, former wide receiver for the Atlanta Falcons.

Secular homeschooling in North Atlanta Do you homeschool? Need help with composition, math, science labs and activities? Need help with educational planning, standardized testing, homework and play supervision, and student accountability? Looking for extracurricular classes and activities?

Lifelong Educational Opportunities (LEO) is a trusted homeschool resource center partnering with parents to help students learn through hands-on classes and lively, small group discussions in a fun and safe environment. LEO also offers educational and entertaining activities, clubs, and events for the entire family. Join us for parties, fairs, and parent support meetings. Sign up for one class or a full schedule. You may drop off your student or stay and visit. We have space for parents to socialize, and we offer quiet areas for work. Free WiFi. Sample of classes offered: • Philosophy for Children • Logic • The Bible for Cultural Literacy • Civics

• World Civilizations • Road Trip! An Adventure in U.S. Geography Conceptual Physics • Hands-on Math • Public Speaking • SAT Prep • Hunger Games - Literary Influences LEO provides all your educational needs, grades K-12!

Learn more at www.lifelongeducationalopps.com.

We are located at EPIC Family Life Center, 2650 Olde Towne Pkwy., Duluth, 30097. Need more info? Contact Teresa Stanton, 770-329-9915 or teresastanton@notnats.com.

Golden Key Education International Language School 410 Prospect Place, Alpharetta, GA 30005

Chinese & Spanish Immersion Program

“Preparing Children to Spread Their Wings”

Open House: 8/2 Saturday 1-5 PM Arts and Crafts Lessons for All Ages Math Enrichment Classes

6 weeks and up Afterschool care available Small attentive classes Limited openings now available

For Ages 2 and Up

(770) - 296-5438

770-329-9915

Precocious Kids Kid Childcare

info@ goldenkeyeducation.com www.goldenkeyeducation.com

2 Locations Serving Alpharetta for over 15 years Marietta and Thompson Street

770-569-2283

July 2014

education focus • Sponsored Section

northfulton.com 13

School gets hands-on with gardening By: James Carr The future of the sustainable revolution isn’t really up to us. At worst, we can get in the way and try to slow down the momentum. At best, we can help put the next generation in a position to thrive.

This process is taking place in schools throughout North Fulton.

Amana Academy – a relatively new charter school, which occupies a former grocery store – is one of the schools taking their own measures to improve the viability of the farm-to-school movement.

Amana doesn’t have the resources of a private school, nor do they have the power of associating with public school funding.

Though they still have to follow the guidelines set out by city and state governments, Amana is often squeezed into a place where they have to get creative in order make strides toward their goal of providing fresh, local food for their students – a goal established in the early planning stages of the school itself.

“There’s just a lot of red tape that you have to go through,” said Ehab Jaleel, executive director at Amana Academy. “They don’t make it easy.

From a pricing perspective, there’s limits as to how much we can charge for certain things, and as a charter school, we’re not a big bulk buyer, so we’re kind of being squeezed into a place that makes it difficult to do what we want to do.”

This difficulty became a source of frustration for institutional advancement specialist and leader of the Gardening Club Niki Fox. One day, she wanted to improve the frontage of the school with useful plants.

Students at Amana Academy, a charter school in Alpharetta, plant a community garden.

“Niki came up to me and said, ‘We’ve got a bunch of bushes in the front yard, can we just get rid of them all?’”

Jaleel said. “Because I want to use that as a starting point for the garden.”

Shortly after, she did exactly that as a part of Amana’s farm-to-school expedition program. In this program, students visit local farms, discuss where their food comes from and study the entire food process.

This year, the process had

even deeper meaning for the students.

“This year, they were actually able to plant it, grow it, harvest it, make salads and eat them, and really see that process from seed to table,” said Fox. “It was really powerful for them to see what they did and watch it grow, to understand how much work goes into that. To actually get to eat the fruits of their labor was really rewarding.”

They also hope to open the eyes of a few parents, too. The

garden is right in front of the building, immediately in front of the drop-off and pick-up zone.

Jaleel, a former marketing executive at Coke, likened it to certain types of marketing that break through norms and capture people’s attention for the sheer fact that isn’t not supposed to be there.

“When [parents] see it, that’s when they become engaged,” said Jaleel. “When I see it on television, I see it at Wills Park, but here, it’s interrupt-

MOUNT PISGAH CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

Isn’t she

worth it?

A Pisgah education is an investment in your child’s future.

Ages six weeks to 12th grade Request your FREE parent packet at experiencepisgah.org/info • 678.335.2145

That’s what we asked ourselves as we considered the investment in a Pisgah education.

Sure, there were some free options in our neighborhood, but we discovered those “free” schools came with hidden “costs” such as less personal attention, overcrowded classrooms, limited offerings in arts and a one-size-fits-all approach.”

ing you. It’s right there. You have to force people to see it in unexpected areas.”

That is certainly what Amana is doing – all, ironically, from an old grocery store.

When you consider that sustainable wave coming over us, they aren’t likely to be the last to flip the script on today’s social norms.

James Carr is working on a book about the local, sustainable movement called “The Jig Is Up.” For more information, visit thejigisup89.com.

14 northfulton.com

Sponsored Section • education focus

July 2014