Atlanta Parent_January 2022

AtlantaParent

January 2022 / atlantaparent.com

Doing Good Meet Three Individuals Making a Difference

GO SKI!

7 FamilyFriendly Destinations

We Know Schools:

Atlanta’s BEST Guide to Education

A Love of the Arts Starts at Home

Plan Your Month of FUN With Our Calendar

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MORE THAN

TO EDUCATION SINCE INCEPTION Every time you play the Lottery, you’re helping our students get one step closer to their dreams. For over 28 years, the Georgia Lottery has contributed more than $24.2 billion to education. On top of that, more than 2 million HOPE scholars have gone to college, and more than 1.6 million four-year-olds have attended a Lottery-funded Pre-K Program. That’s a lot of students, so we’ll just say “Thank You, Georgia!” for all of them.

Thank you, Georgia!

Sandy Springs / Lawrenceville-Suwanee

404-409-0827 Sandy Springs

4 Atlanta Parent January 2022

678-985-8080 Lawrenceville-Suwanee

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Inside 38 January

YEARS OF ATLANTA PARENT

Publisher’s Note / 8

Good Stuff / 10

For the Fridge / 91

10

Organizations That Do Good

14

Love of the Arts Begins at Home

18

Go Ski: Close to Home Destinations

20

Movies Made Fun

Learn about three Atlanta non-profits started by individuals who recognized a need.

Music, drama, dance and art can have a lasting effect on your child.

Plan an easy family getaway! These resorts offer skiing, tubing and more, all within a day’s drive from Atlanta.

Take your favorite family movies to a new level with themed activities, books, crafts and places to visit.

Family Fun Guide: January top events, outdoor ice skating, and last chances to see holiday lights. Plus, putt-putt golf, indoor swimming and rock climbing fun! Page 81

PAGE We Know Schools:

25

Atlanta’s Best Guide to Education Understanding learning styles, a peek at nature-based schools and lessons from virtual school. Plus, a look at Atlanta’s public and private schools.

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January 2022 Atlanta Parent 5

PUBLISHER Liz White

lwhite@atlantaparent.com ASSOCIATE Laura Powell PUBLISHER lpowell@atlantaparent.com

ACCOUNT Carolyn Haushalter EXECUTIVE chaushalter@atlantaparent.com

ACCOUNT Genie Lockeretz

EXECUTIVE glockeretz@atlantaparent.com

ACCOUNT Christy Craig EXECUTIVE ccraig@atlantaparent.com

STAFF WRITER Emily Webb and DIGITAL ewebb@atlantaparent.com CONTENT

CREATOR

COPY Mary Williams

EDITOR

EDITORIAL Sheri Taylor-Emery

ART DIRECTOR creative@atlantaparent.com

PRODUCTION Robin Mintz

MARKETING Felicia Barman MOM

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Atlanta Parent, Inc., 2346 Perimeter Park Drive, Atlanta, GA 30341. Telephone 770-454-7599, Fax 770-454-7699.

Atlanta Parent magazine is available free of charge throughout the metro area and as a digital issue at atlataparent.com Atlanta Parent magazine welcomes letters, articles, artwork and photographs from its readers and the community. Atlanta Parent magazine is not responsible for the return of unsolicited materials.

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© Atlanta Parent, Inc. 2021

6 Atlanta Parent January 2022

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Publisher’s Note

I

t hardly seems possible that the new year has arrived. I love the feeling of having a fresh start; it inspires me to get things organized at home, to regroup and think about the year ahead.

My family and I always use January as a month to reset priorities.

One item on my list of new year resolutions is to be more involved in giving back to my community. We usually think about helping others and giving back during the holidays, but there are opportunities to help all year. We spoke to three people who saw needs in their community and worked to fill them; their efforts turned into successful non-profits. Read about these inspiring women in this month’s issue.

Another thing we’re looking forward to is planning a few trips, large and small, and visiting with family and friends we haven’t seen in a while. If you’re looking for a quick family getaway, check out our roundup of ski resorts close to Atlanta. It’s a fun way to enjoy the outdoors and get in some skiing or snow tubing. Atlanta Parent’s online travel section also has plenty of inspiration on places to go near Atlanta and beyond.

When it’s chilly outside, my kids and I love snuggling up with a movie or a great book to read together. There are some great ideas for movie-themed activities in our “Watch This, Do That” story. Use the suggestions, or brainstorm with your kids to find things that go along with your family’s favorite movies.

If you’re considering a school change or looking for a preschool, our education section is a great place to start. You’ll find detailed information on Atlanta’s public and private schools, as well as hints for getting ready for preschool, and more.

There are lots of things to do this month – our Family Fun Guide is packed with fun events and happenings. We’re going to visit a couple of light displays we missed seeing over the holidays, play a few holes of mini golf, and splash in one of Atlanta’s indoor water parks (check out our summer fun in winter ideas on page 88).

The year is off to a great start!

Associate Publisher

How to Reach us: Telephone 770.454.7599

Email lwhite@atlantaparent.com

Fax 770.454.7699

Website www.atlantaparent.com

Snail Mail 2346 Perimeter Park Drive Atlanta, Georgia 30341

We welcome your views and comments. Letters that appear in the magazine may be edited for content and space.

atlantaparent.com

January 2022 Atlanta Parent 7

by Emily Webb

Good StUff

THINGS WE LIKE

, YEAR W E N YOU! W E N

Get Organized

You probably already have a planner or family calendar to keep track of you and your kid’s tasks, but get your finances in order this year with the pretty and floral 2022 Budget Planner by Katherine W. Koch. This planner gives you sections for planning a monthly budget, tracking daily and weekly expenses, setting financial goals and making lists. Available at amazon.com for $7.90.

Get Stylish

If you’re looking to make smarter and more sustainable fashion choices this year, check out alder apparel. This outdoor apparel brand works with environmentally-friendly fabrics and ethical factories to keep the outdoors a beautiful place to explore. With sizes from XS to 6X, they have fashionable items for everyone. Available at alderapparel.com for $50-$365.

Get Protected

Research shows the blue light from electronic devices can lead to changes in your skin cells. Make protecting your skin a priority by purchasing skincare products that’ll protect your skin from harmful blue light. Check out bareMinerals’ Complexion Rescue Defense Radiant Protective Veil at bareminerals.com for $39; SeneGence’s Digital Age Defense Serum at web. senegence.com for $50; BYBI’s Blueberry Booster at us.bybi.com for $15; and Solara Suncare’s Time Traveler Ageless Daily Face Sunscreen at solarasuncare.com for $42.

Get Clean

Making it a priority to clean up this year? The Just Eco Kit comes with a gallon of Just Eco Concentrate Solution and four empty 32-oz. spray bottles. This eco-friendly and non-toxic formula can clean multiple surfaces in your home including tile, counter tops, stainless steel, floors and more. Diluting the concentrate makes it easy to clean all the surfaces and items in your home. Available at justecoit.com for $45.51.

Get Fit

Make working out easier with FlexiSpot’s All-in-One Desk Bike Workstation. While doing desk work, burn calories on this bike with seat adjustments, readouts for workout time, calories burned and speed, and eight different resistance levels. Get with or without a desk and choose between black and white. Available at flexispot.com for $349.99-$449.99.

8 Atlanta Parent January 2022

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Atlanta Parent Honored for Top-Notch Content and Creativity

W

hile the annual Parenting Media Association (PMA) awards were put on hold in 2020, Atlanta Parent brought 18 awards home from the annual conference held in St. Petersburg, Fla. this year! On hand at the 2021 Conference were industry publishers and editors from across the country.

The awards are judged by the University of Missouri School of Journalism. The judges look for the best in local and regional parenting publications, special issues, websites and social media. They recognize and reward editorial, design and general excellence in local and regional parenting publications like Atlanta Parent.

Locally owned since 1983, parents have relied on our monthly magazine for nearly 40 years. We are proud to have adapted through the years, and now also provide a lively and fast-growing website and social media outlets. “I am proud to lead such an amazing team and to have been such an integral part of the Atlanta community for so long,” says owner and publisher Liz White. “The pandemic has been hard on us all, and I am truly grateful for our continued presence and ability to provide exceptional stories and practical resources that helped families during this time.” atlantaparent.com

6

GOLD AWARDS

l Headlines l Calendar of Events l Special Section:

A+ Education Guide

l Table of Contents l Single Page Design l Special Section: STEAM

9

SILVER AWARDS

l Overall Design l Cover Lines l Profile l Q&A Interview l News Feature l Service Feature l Single Page Design l Department Design l Special Section:

Stay & Play in Georgia

3

BRONZE AWARDS

l Non-Traditional Story l Front Cover l Calendar of Events

Form

January 2022 Atlanta Parent 9

Organizations That Do Good

The motivation behind some of Atlanta’s most inspiring initiatives

by Emily Webb

Starting as passion projects, these awesome Atlanta-based organizations help community members across metro Atlanta and beyond. From home makeovers to public pianos to mamas and their babies, three founders are impacting lives through their hard work and visionary ideas.

Kelly Brett Play Me Again Pianos In 2013, the Brett family took a trip to Europe. Their son, age 7 at the time, had made a commitment to practice every day that he ate, so the family tried to find pianos on their route, so he could continue to practice.

They found public pianos in London and Paris and were inspired to bring public pianos to metro Atlanta. They hope to bring 88 pianos, available year-round, to the community to inspire people and encourage connections in public art and music.

The organization started with their own piano. “Our first piano was named Janssen.

Janssen was our family piano, handed down from my mother-in-law. She had her childhood lessons on it, as did my husband and his siblings, then our son, and then, it become our first public piano,” Kelly Brett says. “Janssen is the brand name of the piano, but it became our nickname for it. That inspired us to anthropomorphize all of our pianos.”

There are currently 21 active pianos in metro Atlanta. Each piano is designed and painted by an artist, but some communities and schools have helped, including Springmont School, the Chamblee community and Midtown International School.

Some pianos stick out to Brett for their design or their location. She guesses that the piano that gets played the most is Cornelius in Ponce City Market. “It’s a fabulous piano in an equally fabulous location. Vincent is in the lobby of the Sewell Mill Library and Cultural Center in Marietta and is modeled after Vincent van Gogh’s ‘Starry Night.’ Vincent is not only gorgeous, he’s a high-quality studio piano, and he’s located indoors. Most of our pianos are outdoors, but we’d love to lean more toward indoor locations, because they’re so much easier to maintain and last a lot longer.”

Public spaces have become crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic, and Play Me Again Pianos help maintains an amazing community 10 Atlanta Parent January 2022

impact. “Piano studios have not been able to have recitals during the pandemic, since it requires lots of people to gather,” Brett says.

“We know of at least four studio recitals and one solo recital that have taken place at our outdoor pianos.”

But the pandemic has also affected the organization negatively. “We could place a lot more pianos out than we have, but we don’t have enough donations to keep them all playable, so we’ve slowed everything down.

The pandemic has really hit us hard,” she says.

You can volunteer to place and maintain a piano, paint a piano or host a piano.

Monetary donations are also appreciated.

To help and to learn more about Play Me Again Pianos, visit playmeagainpianos.org.

There are currently 21 active pianos in metro Atlanta.

Each piano is designed and painted by an artist, but some communities and schools have helped.

atlantaparent.com

Holly Ranney Sunshine on a Ranney Day Having your own space can be an important way for each family member to relax. Sunshine on a Ranney Day was created in 2012 to help children with special needs have their own unique and accessible space.

“I was in the furniture industry, and my husband was in construction. A sermon inspired us to help others,” Holly Ranney says. “We felt that we could use those skills Holly Ranney to help kids, and we gravitated to children with special needs.”

For their first project, The Brain Tumor Foundation for Children recommended 11-year-old Mathew. He wanted to be in the Air Force, so they designed and created a military bunker-themed bedroom for him.

As word got out, they started doing more room makeovers.

In 2013, they made renovations for Tripp Halstead’s home, which is how most people found out about SOARD, Ranney says. “We renovated their entire home to make it an accessible home. It helped us create a larger platform for what our mission was, and we got more into construction and creating wheelchair-accessible rooms and bathrooms.”

In 2014, the Ranneys quit their corporate jobs to take the charity on full time. Turning the charity into a full time job allowed them to take on more projects, and they eventually decided to do one special community project a year. Their first project was renovating the parents’ sleep wing at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Egleston to make it feel more like a boutique hotel. In 2022, they plan to renovate the therapy rooms at The Drake House. “For a lot of these places, the focus is on their mission, not the design and construction, so we can really come in and help with the needs they’re not able to do,” Ranney says.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, they were able to open the Sunny & Ranney Home Furnishings and Décor store.

“It’s helped us expand out to further areas,” Ranney says.

“We’re raising money more consistently, as 100% of the funds go to the charity.”

One of the best parts of the organization is the community that it created. “Even families that we’ve helped seven or eight years ago still give us updates,” Ranney says. “It turns into a really large family, where they’ll come out and help support other families. We get to see the long-term impact on these families, see where they are now, and see these kids growing into adults.”

A difficult part of the job is denying families. “We can only do so many makeovers. We’ve been around for almost 10 years and being out in the community and partnering with others, word has gotten out about us,” she says. “We get hundreds of applications, but when you can only do around 20 houses a year, it can be difficult to turn people down.”

These needs for accessible spaces for children are everywhere in the community. People can be confused if SOARD starts a renovation project in a nice neighborhood.

“You really can’t judge a book by its cover,” Ranney says.

“If the parent can’t work anymore because they’re a full time caretaker or the family is struggling financially to cover medical expenses, it can be difficult to find a reliable contractor. We do everything at no cost to the families, and we take care of them in the future if there’s a problem after we’re done.”

You can volunteer to work in the store or the warehouse, help with administration needs, or help with demolition and renovation. They prefer to work with ages 13 and older, but they can host ffamily volunteers on specific days.

In the future, SOARD hopes to perform makeovers in every state. “We want to create sunshine all around,” Ranney says. “We know the needs are out there.”

To help and to learn more about Sunshine on a Ranney Day, visit sunshineonaranneyday.com.

Cont’d on next page

“We do everything at no cost to the families, and we take care of them in the future if there’s a problem after we’re done.”

Holly Ranney

atlantaparent.com

January 2022 Atlanta Parent 11

Organizations That Do Good Jamie Lackey Helping Mamas Working as a social worker and being a mom herself, Jamie Lackey noticed there was a big gap in services. “There was no coordinated effort to get essential items to families that needed them. I had friends whose kids were outgrowing stuff, so I wanted to start collecting those items and giving them out to those in need. One in three moms have to choose between food and diapers, and I wanted to do something about that.”

She started Helping Mamas out of her garage in Jamie Lackey 2014 to help others. “It was really a grassroots effort. People understood the mission and the need, and it was a tangible way to give back to the community,” she says.

Now, they’ve served about 120,000 children and distributed 3 million essential baby items.

There is no public support for essential items, as women cannot use WIC or food stamps to purchase diapers or period products. Women were unable to attend work or school, as they didn’t have period products. Helping Mamas added period products to their donation needs in order to help. “Period products have become our second most requested item,” Lackey says. “Last year, the cost of diapers has risen drastically, so it makes it harder to get donations in for those.”

Donation items include diapers, pull-ups, wipes, clothes, books, toys and more.

Lackey loves the commitment to the cause.

“I love watching the community come together and having people show up when we show a need. Having our community support other families is huge. We get to see the best in people.”

But the knowledge that this is a national concern can be hard. “It can feel like we’ve only put a bandage on a larger problem in our country. We know how very real this problem is, and it can be hard to know families are having to use plastic bags for diapers or are washing out and reusing disposable diapers. We’re grateful we’ve come up with a way to help,” she says.

Helping Mamas has volunteer opportunities in their warehouse and mobile events; you can also donate or purchase needed items. They have six drop-off locations across metro Atlanta.

“One of our favorite things is getting kids involved,” she says. “It’s a great teaching moment and an opportunity for the child to give back and be active. Some of our best volunteers and donors are kids.”

To help and to learn more about Helping Mamas, visit helpingmamas.org.

12 Atlanta Parent January 2022

Helping Mamas has volunteer opportunities in their warehouse and mobile events; you can also donate or purchase needed items. They have six drop-off locations across metro Atlanta.

atlantaparent.com

Make Helping Others

a Family Affair Set an example. Show kids the value of volunteering, donating and helping others. n Start now. Starting something new can be daunting, but set goals for helping others in 2022. Go to your church, temple, school or a local organization to ask about how you can help, or research needs and organizations in your community. n Change it up. Take canned goods to a shelter, volunteer at a community garden, or donate unused clothes or toys. Showing kids that there are a variety of ways they can help others will demonstrate the needs and help them think of even more things they can do to help! n If they have a cause they’re interested in or passionate about, let them take the lead. Are they concerned about the environment? Do they have a love for animals? What suggestions to they have for your family about how to help? n Talk it out. Have conversations about volunteering, and when they ask questions, answer them honestly. Make it relevant to them.

They’re able to wear a coat in the winter; what does it mean for kids who don’t have a coat?

Empathetic conversations will help them start and continue thinking of others. n Reach out to local organizations to see if they have family days. In Atlanta, Pebble Tossers (pebbletossers.org) organizes volunteer opportunities for teens, kids and families. Their calendar lists a wide variety of projects, and you can choose one that suits your family. n Combine service projects with household projects. Unpacking your kids’ new toys and clothes from their Christmas haul? Ask them what old items they’re no longer interested in that they could donate to help other children. When they’re cleaning out their rooms, remind them to think of others and to donate instead of tossing items.

– Emily Webb

atlantaparent.com

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Base pay plus commission Please email cover letter and resume to lpowell@atlantaparent.com January 2022 Atlanta Parent 13

Don’t mind the mess.

“The arts are all about exploration, which can be messy,” says Robert Hindsman, Class and Camp Administrative Manager at the Alliance Theater. “Try to just go with it and allow some grace and failure.” He recommends finding a space in your home, even if it’s small, to dedicate to creative time, so that the mess can be tucked away as needed. Be sure to stock the space with plenty of supplies for creating whatever your child’s imagination can cook up. Hindsman also notes that some of the mess is noise – playing musical instruments, music for dancing or singing – and to embrace those messes as well.

Find lessons that fit.

Love of the Arts

Begins at Home

by Tali Benjamin

If drawing, painting, playing an instrument, dancing, singing or being on stage is the way your child likes to spend time, this article is for you!

Integrating their art into your home and life will not only help your child excel in their art, it can also help them regulate and express emotions more easily and feel more confident about who they are.

The arts – dance, music, theater and visual art – also help develop problem-solving skills, discipline and collaboration. Children with exposure to these creative outlets learn self-expression, risk-taking and the ability to observe and interpret the world. Arts education and experiences are just as important to raising well-rounded children as participation in academics and athletics.

No matter which part of the metro area you call home, arts opportunities abound! From large cultural institutions to the neighborhood dance studio and youth theater companies to outdoor painting classes, Atlanta’s art community has something for everyone who is interested.

In order to help your child hone his or her craft, lessons may be needed. Be sure you think about the geography and timing of those lessons and how they will impact the family schedule. It’s also important to be sure the lessons are something your budding artist actually wants to do.

“One-day workshops are a great way to get a taste of various art forms,” says Hindsman. “Then let your child choose. It will give them ownership and excitement over their craft and have a better chance of being something that sticks.” For musical instrument lessons, consider renting at first to lessen the financial strain while supporting your budding musician. Dance lessons, which teach discipline and the art of movement, are available in so many genres – ballet, jazz, tap, African, hip hop and more – you can choose what best fits your child’s personality.

Ask questions.

When you look at your child’s picture, ask about what you’re looking at – Why did they draw that? Why those colors? What are they expressing? Similarly, if your child is into performing arts, find out which genres they like most and why. Is there a certain character he or she identifies with more than others? These questions can not only help you support your child’s creativity, but they can also help you get to know your little person more completely.

Make time to explore.

Atlantans are lucky to have so many arts institutions in our backyard. “Take advantage of it!” says Hindsman. “Go see a show, go to a museum, go to a performance, find cheap tickets – they are out there.”

Many of these organizations also have programs that are specificly for children.

Cont’d on page 16

14 Atlanta Parent January 2022

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Fine Arts on Spotlight Spotlight the Arts ATLANTA BALLET CENTRE FOR DANCE EDUCATION 404-873-5811 | centre.atlantaballet.com

Atlanta Ballet Centre for Dance Education provides an opportunity for students of all ages to discover the joys of dance. Introduce your child to ballet in a fun and safe setting with classes focused on developing rhythm, flexibility, coordination and confidence.

Classes all year long at three convenient locations.

Fine Arts Spotlight DAUPHIN DANCE CENTER

678-694-8276 | DauphinDanceCenter.com Dauphin Dance Center is a neighborhood dance studio offering classes to students ages 3-18. The studio strives to create a fun environment while bringing high quality training to dancers in a variety of styles. Create lasting memories and gain valuable experience through classes, camps, and performance opportunities throughout the year at Dauphin Dance Center.

Fine Arts Spotlight

FOREFRONT ARTS CHILDREN’S THEATRE 770-864-3316 | ForefrontArts.com | Multiple Locations

Ages 3-18 can channel their talents with Forefront Arts Children’s Theatre – while boosting confidence and developing life skills in problem solving, listening and collaboration! School-year classes in Preschool Drama, Film Acting, Improv, Musical Theatre, Show Choir, Dance Technique and more. Full-scale productions – perform in “Beauty & the Beast” and other shows! Summer Camp enrollment opens February 1st! Private Vocal, Dance, & Acting Lessons.

Atlanta Parent

INTEGRITY 360 DANCE CENTER

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770-763-8525 | integrity360dancecenter.com Integrity 360 Dance Center provides a fun, safe, and encouraging environment for dance education in ballet, tap, jazz, acrobatics, and more! Enrollment is ongoing for ages 3 and older. Experienced teachers, a proven curriculum, and a service-minded administrative team support students to make friends for life and develop life skills.

Atlanta Parent atlantaparent.com

January 2022 atlantaparent.com Atlanta Parent 15

Love of the Arts Begins at Home According to The Georgia Council for the Arts, these are all great kidfriendly options to explore: Center for Puppetry Arts, Atlanta Music Project, Atlanta Shakespeare Company, Atlanta Young Singers of Callanwolde, Moving in the Spirit, Alliance Theatre, High Museum of Art, Synchronicity Theatre, Seven Stages, Urban Youth Harp Ensemble, and Youth Ensemble of Atlanta. You can also participate in virtual experiences; there are many virtual tours of art museums or stream a Broadway play.

Create an artful home.

While there are plenty of ways to do this, Hindsman notes that starting at an early age and giving kids the space to explore and establish their own boundaries is integral to supporting creativity. “Don’t ‘sshhh’ and say ‘no’ during artful times,” he says. “That inhibits the creativity.” You should also display your child’s creations, watch their home grown plays, and get in on the action if you can. Before you go to a show, talk about being respectful in an audience and why. You can also use nature as a way to be artful; seeing beauty in the world and things around you supports creativity and gives space for meaningful conversations.

Understand the value.

“Seventy-two percent of business leaders want to hire employees who are creative. Participating in the arts not only teaches children to be creative, it allows them to develop social skills including self-confidence, conflict resolution, collaboration, and empathy. All of these are imperative for students in any job field as well for a full and healthy life,” says Georgia Council for the Arts Executive Director Tina Lilly. Empathy is another building block supported by the arts. “Theater builds empathetic people – when you pretend to be someone else by playing a character – you are putting yourself into someone else’s shoes and that can be hard for kids,” says Hindsman. “This gives a direct line to help kids understand someone different from themselves.”

Show your appreciation.

It can be a challenge for parents who never participated in arts themselves to understand the processes of a creative kid. The most important thing? “Show up and be ready to be their biggest fan,” says Hindsman. You should also try to find resources at home to help, such as providing a practice space (if available) and quiet time. And, get in on the action; try to learn your child’s dance routine and practice with them, or create your own puppets and accompanying show. “You can help with rehearsal, provide feedback,” Hindsman says. “Even if you don’t have the expertise, your opinion matters, and you will learn along the journey as well.”

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16 Atlanta Parent January 2022

•Preschool Dance •Creative Movement CONTACT US •Musical Theater 524 Plasters Ave. •Hip-hop Atlanta, GA 30324 •Tap & Jazz 404-877-0005 •Modern atlantadanceandmusic.com •Contemporary •Teen classes – All levels •Performance Ensemble •Competition Team •Piano, Guitar Violin & Voice

Are you a top arts program?

• Dance • Music

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Learn about our 2022 digital and print opportunities.

770-454-7599 atlantaparent.com

Fine Arts on Spotlight Spotlight the Arts MOVING IN THE SPIRIT

404-624-5295| MovingInTheSpirit.org Moving in the Spirit is an award-winning creative youth development program where young people ages 3-18 study the art of dance, make friends, and develop life and leadership skills. The nurturing curriculum focuses on unity, empathy, and compassion. Sliding scale tuition is available. Join the movement at www.movinginthespirit.org!

Spotlight on the Arts THE MUSIC CLASS

770-645-5578 |8 Locations in Metro Atlanta themusicclass.com/atlanta Fun-filled, developmental, interactive music classes – both in person and online. Featuring award-winning music and led by inspiring music teachers, you and your child will be swept into playful singing and dancing in a joyful and nurturing environment. For infants, toddlers and preschoolers.

Call for class times or visit themusicclass.com/atlanta.

Spotlight on the Arts SMALL STEPS MUSIC

770-703-4577 | smallstepsmusicllc.com Give your child the gift of music! Small Steps Music supports and encourages a love of music and the development of new skills through music therapy sessions, private lessons, group classes, workshops, camps, homeschool programs, and birthday parties.

Small Steps Music programs use innovative teaching strategies and creative music activities within a therapeutic environment.

Programs available for ages 6-weeks to adult. Schedule in-home, in-clinic, or virtually. Welcoming and supporting students with special needs!

Atlanta Parent

atlantaparent.com

THE SPRUILL CENTER FOR THE ARTS 770-394-3447 | SpruillArts.org | Dunwoody

The Spruill Center for the Arts offers hands-on art classes and camps for children and teens in a range of age and skill levels. Instructors guide students through early art explorations in different mediums to portfolio development in teen studio intensives. Classes are offered several weeks each quarter, while camps are held during school holiday breaks, as well as summer break. To discover the full array of opportunities, go to spruillarts.org.

Atlanta Parent atlantaparent.com

January 2022 atlantaparent.com Atlanta Parent 17

Hit the Ski Slopes Near Atlanta Take a family trip to ski, snowboard and enjoy winter weather at these ski areas close to Atlanta.

You’ll find slopes for every experience level, plus extras like skating, snow tubing and instruction.

The season typically runs until late March.

Beech Mountain Resort 1007 Beech Mountain Pkwy., Beech Mountain N.C. 800-438-2093 beechmountainresort.com n Lift tickets: $26-$87; ages 4 and younger free with ticketed adult. n Number of slopes: 3 beginner, 7 intermediate, 4 advanced, 2 freestyle. 8 lifts. n Off the slopes: Ice skating, tubing, restaurants, two port shops. n Children’s programs: Group and private lessons available for ages 4 and older. The Snow Kamp indoor/outdoor program (ages 3-5) includes childcare and basic ski instruction.

Snowflakes Childcare serves ages 1-5, with snacks and a large playroom. Traxx (ages 6-12) offers instruction for beginner and experienced skiers. n Approximate distance from Atlanta: 5 hours.

Cataloochee Ski Area 1080 Ski Lodge Rd., Maggie Valley, N.C. 828-926-0285 cataloochee.com n Lift tickets: $26-$76; ages 4 and younger free with ticketed adult. n Number of slopes: 8 beginner, 7 intermediate, 2 advanced, 1 freestyle. 5 lifts. n Off the slopes: Snow tubing, ski shop. n Children’s programs: Private lessons for ages 3 and older; group and family lessons for ages 8 and older, Cat Trackers (ages 4-12) includes ski instruction, games and activities. n Approximate distance from Atlanta: 3 hours.

18 Atlanta Parent January 2022

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Ober Gatlinburg Ski Area 1001 Parkway, Gatlinburg, Tenn.

865-436-5423 obergatlinburg.com n Lift tickets: $30-$70; ages 5 and younger free with ticketed adult. n Number of slopes: 2 beginner, 6 intermediate, 3 advanced. 3 lifts. n Off the slopes: Snow tubing, aerial tramway, ice skating, ski mountain coaster, kids’ snow zone, wildlife encounter, shops, restaurants. n Children’s programs: Group and private lessons for ages 5 and older. n Approximate distance from Atlanta: 4 hours.

Ski Sapphire Valley 127 Cherokee Trail, Sapphire, N.C. 828-743-7663 skisapphirevalley.com n Lift tickets: $26-$83. n Number of slopes: 1 beginner, 1 main. 2 lifts. n Off the slopes: Snow tubing. n Children’s programs: Private lessons for ages 4 and older; group lessons for ages 5 and older. n Approximate distance from Atlanta: 3 hours.

Sugar Mountain Resort 1009 Sugar Mountain Dr., Sugar Mountain, N.C. 828-898-4521 skisugar.com n Lift tickets: $27-$80; ages 4 and younger free with ticketed adult. n Number of slopes: 9 beginner, 10 intermediate, 3 advanced. 8 lifts. n Off the slopes: Snow tubing, ice skating, snowshoeing. n Children’s programs: Group lessons for ages 8 and older; private lessons for all ages. Sugar Bear Ski School (ages 5-10); Polar Bear Snowboard School (ages 7-14). n Approximate distance from Atlanta: 5 hours.

Wolf Ridge Ski Resort 578 Valley View Circle, Mars Hill, N.C. 828-689-4111 skiwolfridgenc.com n Lift tickets: $23-$82; ages 4 and younger free with ticketed adult. n Number of slopes: 4 easy, 9 intermediate, 2 advanced. 4 lifts. n Off the slopes: Snow tubing, lodge with restaurant and gift shop. n Children’s programs: Snow Sports School offers private (ages 5 and older) and group (ages 8 and older). n Approximate distance from Atlanta: 3.75 hours.

Appalachian Ski Mountain 940 Ski Mountain Rd., Blowing Rock, N.C. 828-295-7828 appskimtn.com n Lift tickets: $22-$77. n Number of slopes: 3 beginner, 3 intermediate, 3 advanced, 3 freestyle. 6 lifts. n Off the slopes: Ice skating. n Children’s programs: SKIWee Camp (ages 4-10) and Cruiser Camp (ages 7-12) teaches beginner and first-time skiing and snowboarding.

Mountain Challengers (ages 7-12) teaches intermediate skiing skills.

Childcare (ages 1-4) is available in the Nursery. n Approximate distance from Atlanta: 5 hours.

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January 2022 Atlanta Parent 19

WATCH THIS. DO THAT.

by Sarah Lyons

Movie night is sure to be a hit with the whole family. You can take it to the next level by adding these activities that are both fun and educational. Here are some family-friendly movies with ideas for activities, snacks, crafts, outings and books to continue the fun. All of these movies are rated G or PG, but please use discretion and choose movies that you feel are appropriate for your family.

Watch this: Cars Famous racecar, Lightning McQueen, gets lost on his way to the big race and ends up in the small town of Radiator Springs. His first instinct is to get out of town as soon as possible but the longer he stays, the less he wants to leave. This movie has a great message about friendship and slowing down and appreciating what is important in life.

(Rated G)

candy to make a traffic light. Other ideas could include “tires” (chocolate donuts) “tractor wheels” (Oreo cookies), or “Mack” and cheese.

n Do that: Set up your very own carwash.

This can be a water table with dish soap and sponges for the kids to wash their matchbox cars, a drive through car wash for bikes and trikes on the driveway, or get the kids involved and wash the family vehicles.

n Go there: Check out the Caffeine and Octane car show, held the first Sunday of every month at Perimeter Mall (caffeineandoctane.com), or the Atlanta International Auto Show, March 16-20, at the Georgia World Congress Center (goautoshow. com). For hands-on action, try go-karting at Andretti Indoor Karting in Marietta or Nitro Zone in Peachtree Corners.

n Snack on this: Your race car drivers will want to enjoy some “Cars” themed snacks.

Make stoplights using graham crackers.

Spread frosting on the cracker and add a red, yellow and green chocolate covered

n Create that: Create your own race car using a toilet paper tube. Cover the tube in construction paper then add construction paper wheels, stickers or decorate any way you would like.

20 Atlanta Parent January 2022

Watch this: Charlotte’s Web After learning her friend, Wilbur the pig’s days are numbered, Charlotte the spider comes up with a plan to save him. This movie is based on the 1952 book “Charlotte’s Web” by EB White and is a tale of unlikely friends and is a classic adults and kids will both enjoy. (Rated G) n Do that: What words would you use to describe yourself? What about your other family members? Use a paper plate and attach eight legs (use construction paper) to create a spider.

Write your name on the “body” of the spider (paper plate) and write one descriptive word on each spider leg. n Snack on this: For a “Charlotte’s Web” themed snack, serve “farm fresh” foods such as watermelon, corn on the cob or apple pie.

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Watch this: Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs When hard times hit Swallow Falls, its townspeople are stuck eating sardines for every meal. Local inventor, Flint Lockwood, develops a machine and becomes a local hero when tasty meals start raining from the sky. But things get out of control, and Flint and his friends have to save the town. This movie will make you hungry while imagining what food you would like to see fall from the sky. (Rated PG) n Do that: Have the kids draw a picture of their own crazy weather report. What food will fall from the sky next? Take turns pretending to be the newscaster and giving their crazy weather report. n Snack on this: Make a batch of spaghetti and meatballs to enjoy before the movie. While you eat, discuss what food you would like best if it fell from the sky and what food you would least like to see. n Create that: Make a play dough thunderstorm. For this activity you will need gray, blue and white play dough and yellow pipe cleaners. Use the gray play dough to make rain clouds, the blue to make rain drops, and the white to make hail. You can use the yellow pipe cleaners to add lightning bolts. Let your child get creative and make their own thunderstorm. n Go there: The people of Swallow Falls are stuck eating only sardines.

Learn about real sardines (and lots of other aquatic animals) at the Georgia Aquarium (georgiaaquarium.org). In the movie, it snows ice cream. Head to your favorite local ice cream shop and imagine what it would be like if it snowed ice cream. What is your favorite flavor?

Watch this: Madagascar n Create that: Make a spider web craft. Cut the center out of a paper plate.

Use a hole punch to cut holes around the remaining edge of the plate. Cut a piece of yarn and tie a knot at the end.

Have the kids weave the yarn through random holes on the plate to make a spider web. To make it easier to weave, wrap a small piece of tape on the tip of the yarn. n Go there: Take a trip to Zoo Atlanta, where you can visit and learn about pigs and spiders, as well as hundreds of animal species from around the world (zooatlanta.org). Take the safari drive-through at North Georgia Wildlife Park, and get close-up and personal with miniature farm animals in the petting area (northgeorgiazoo.com).

Alex the lion is the most popular animal attraction at New York City’s zoo. Alex and his friends, Claudia, Melman and Marty, end up on Madagascar where they are no longer served daily meals. Alex’s carnivore instincts make his friends seem appetizing, and he must learn to manage his instincts on this island full of eccentric lemurs. This movie is for kids but humorous for adults as well. (Rated PG) n Do that: Have a dance party. The characters in the movie love to dance so why not get your place some music and “Move it! Move it” in the living room. n Snack on this: Since the four friends land on a tropical island, try serving fresh fruits such as pineapple, bananas and oranges.

You could also purchase pre-packaged Melman inspired zebra cakes. n Create that: Draw a circle on a yellow piece of construction paper. Add a lion face to the circle. Use a plastic fork dipped in orange paint to create a lion’s mane around the circle. n Go there: Head to Pettit Creek Farms in Cartersville and see real-life zebras, giraffes, lemurs and more (pettitcreekfarms.com), or walk the trails at the Yellow River Wildlife Sanctuary to see spider monkeys, lemurs and many more local and exotic residents (yellowriverwildlifesanctuary.com).

Cont’d on next page

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January 2022 Atlanta Parent 21

WATCH THIS. DO THAT. Watch this: Mary Poppins

Watch this: Wall-E

Jane and Michael, children of the wealthy and uptight Banks family, are assigned a new nanny. They are thrilled to see she is full of magical surprises. The movie follows their adventures with their nanny, Mary Poppins. The kids try to pass on some of the things they learn to their distracted parents. (Rated G)

Wall-E (Waste Allocation Load Earth-class) is the last robot left on Earth. He spends his days tidying the planet one piece of garbage at a time. But after 700 years, he is very lonely. When a probe named EVE arrives, he falls in love and follows her across the galaxy. This movie is heartwarming and has a good message about taking care of our planet. (Rated G)

n Do that: Chalk the walk. Use sidewalk chalk to create “Mary Poppins” inspired art. n Snack on this: Just a spoonful of sugar cake pops. To make this fun snack, you will need a cake mix, buttercream frosting, candy melts, sugar and plastic spoons. Bake the cake as directed. Once it is cooled, break it up and mix in the buttercream frosting. Roll the mixture into small balls and freeze for 20 minutes. Melt candy coating according to package directions and carefully dip cake pops. Before the coating is dry, roll it in sugar. Place a dollop of candy coating on the plastic spoon and set cake pop on top. Place in the freezer until they are set. n Create that: Make an umbrella craft. You will need a round coffee filter, washable markers and construction paper. Lay the coffee filter flat and have your child color with markers. Use a spray bottle set to mist to wet down the coffee filter and allow it to dry. Once dry, fold in half and attach a piece of construction paper in the shape of a handle. Hang in the window so the sun can shine through. n Go there: Try foods the Banks family would eat with authentic English treats from Taste of Britain in Norcross (tasteofbritain.com), or enjoy a whimsical high tea at Dr. Bombay’s Underwater Tea Party (drbombays.com). If weather allows, get outside and fly a kite!

n Do that: Walk the neighborhood and clean up trash that you find in common areas. Discuss what items can be recycled and why it is important. Consider planting a tree, plant, flowers or taking care of a garden in your yard. n Snack on this: For a healthy snack, try foods that come from the Earth. Choose fruits and veggies that your kids love and are more likely to enjoy. n Create that: Make your own robot. Gather empty cereal boxes, paper towel or toilet paper rolls, and any other found items to design and build your own robot.

What jobs would your robot do? n Go there: Visit Fernbank Museum’s WildWoods and get a closer look at nature through its interactive exhibits and walking trails (fernbankmuseum.org). Learn about conservation efforts at the Atlanta Botanical Gardens (atlantabg.org), or help the earth by picking up trash at your local park or playground.

Can’t get enough of these movies? Check out these stories for family fun at bedtime. n Fans of “Cars” will enjoy reading “If I Built a Car” by Chris Van Dusen or “My Truck is Stuck”

by Kevin Lewis. There are also several “Cars” themed books available for more stories. n A read aloud of the classic book “Charlotte’s Web” by EB White is a must before watching the movie. If you would like to try some spider themed picture books, check out “Be Nice to Spiders” by Margaret Bloy Graham and “I’m Trying to Love Spiders” by Bethany Barton. n “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs”

by Judi Barrett and the sequel “Pickles Over Pittsburgh” are obvious choices before or after enjoying the movie which is inspired by these books. For kid-friendly books about weather, check out “A Year in the Wind” by Hanna Konola or “Tap Tap Boom Boom” by Elizabeth Bluemle

22 Atlanta Parent January 2022

n “Julius: Fun Facts About LIons for Kids” by James Randall Miller is a book full of fun facts for kids interested in learning more about lions. For kids who are intrigued by zebras, check out “How the Zebra Got Its Stripes” by Ron Fontes. n “Mary Poppins” the movie is based on a series of eight books by PL Travers.

The first book in the series is titled “Mary Poppins.” n For “Wall-E” fans, try these books for young kids: “What a Waste:Trash, Recycling, and Protecting our Planet” by Jess French or “The Adventures of an Aluminum Can: A Story About Recycling”

by Alison Inches. Try “In a Nutshell” by Joseph Anthony for a book about the importance of plants for our environment.

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January 2022 Atlanta Parent 23

Atlanta Speech School Where Each Child Becomes Who They are Meant to Be At the Atlanta Speech School the mission is to help each person develop their full potential through language and literacy. Recognizing that reading proficiency is just the beginning, we strive for deep reading – where personal reflection, imagination and empathy are also nourished. In everything we do, we weave the Science of Reading with the art and soul of masterful teaching - so that each child has the tools to decide their own future.

Wardlaw School is a K-6

Anne and Jim Kenan Preschool serves

elementary school that serves bright children with dyslexia in an academically challenging language and literacy setting. Given this foundation, students leave as robust readers, writers, and thinkers.

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preschoolers who are ready to form a pre-literacy foundation. Kenan teachers prepare children for all future subjects in a setting that is joyfully challenging and always engaging.

Katherine Hamm Center

Stepping Stones

serves children who are deaf or hard-of-hearing, and develops language and pre-literacy skills through listening and spoken language in family-centered programs for children from birth through pre-K.

develops a pre-literacy base and maximizes the potential of preschool-aged children with speech and language delays. We do this through an intentional, systematic, multi-sensory and joyful approach to learning.

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404.233.5332

We Know Schools: Atlanta’s BEST Guide to Education

26 30 34

Five Skills Smart Kids Need

38 40

The Benefits of Reading Aloud

49

Virtual School: What We Learned Prepare Your Child for Preschool Success Outdoor Learning: What Some Schools are Doing Guide to Private Schools

Special Advertising Section

Volunteer Groups Make a Difference in School Programming

64 66 71

Public School Profiles A Sampling of Private Schools

Use the resources and information in our education guide to make the most of your child’s school experience.

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[ Focus on Education ]

January 2022 Atlanta Parent 25

Learning Beyond the Books: Five Skills Smart Kids Need

by Heidi Smith Luedtke

Raising smart kids isn’t about teaching to the tests, it’s about building brainpower.

Kids who can find information, connect ideas, and apply what they’ve learned aren’t just book-smart, they’re life-smart.

This past year has shown us that kids who embody these skills are more adaptable and successful in new situations and different learning environments. Cultivate your student’s progress with these skills.

26 Atlanta Parent January 2022

Growth Mindset n What it is: Smart kids define intelligence by ability to learn, not as a fixed trait. Decades of research by developmental psychologist Carol Dweck and her colleagues show kids who think in terms of a fixed trait give up quickly when challenged. They see failure as proof that they don’t have what it takes, not as a signal to invest more effort or try another approach. A growth mindset is healthier and more productive. Kids who believe intelligence is developed are not discouraged by failure; they see it as learning, Dweck explains. These learners seek challenges, think creatively and thrive despite setbacks. n How to build it: Reinforce the belief that talents are developed, not a matter of biology, Dweck says. Praise your child for their effort and persistence, rather than for their intelligence.

Say, “I’m proud of you for playing such a difficult song; you really stretched your skills” instead of “You’re a talented musician.”

Share stories of scientists, athletes and artists who model passion for learning and dedication to development. Smart kids need hard-working role models.

Meta-cognitive Understanding

n What it is: Smart kids think about their own thinking: they can take multiple perspectives and they’re aware of their biases and assumptions. “Metacognition isn’t about grades,” says Leif Gustavson, the Dean of the College of Education at Pacific University Oregon. “But it helps kids study efficiently and use knowledge effectively.” Students need to understand how and why they are learning the material in a particular class, he says. This is pedagogical intelligence. When students understand a teacher’s methods, they can direct their own learning.

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Emotional Intelligence n What it is: Smart kids recognize and regulate their own emotions and empathize with others. “Kids who develop these skills early in life get better grades, are less susceptible to anxiety and depression, and have healthier, more fulfilling relationships,” says Linda Lantieri, director of the Inner Resilience Program and co-founder of the Resolving Conflict Creatively Program, a social and emotional learning program implemented in more than 400 schools. Kids who can self-soothe when stressed are ready and able to learn from their experiences, without emotional drama. n How to build it: Regulating emotions doesn’t mean stifling them, Lantieri says. Don’t diminish your child’s feelings; help him understand what’s causing them. Increase his emotionrelated vocabulary by introducing him to words like angry, frustrated, jealous, excited and elated. Kids should be able to describe their feelings with some specificity, Lantieri says, rather than saying they feel good or bad. Encourage your child to explore his feelings and to take others’ emotional perspective. Empathy isn’t automatic, it is learned. Use your own upsets as teaching opportunities: explain step-by-step how you stop, calm down, refocus and then act.

Self-Expression

n How to build it: When your child completes an assignment or exam, ask “How did it go? What went well? What would you do differently next time?” Also, ask kids to connect previous learning to new experiences, Gustavson says. This helps them achieve deeper understanding. Encourage your child to apply her learning, even if she feels uncomfortable. “Tolerance for ambiguity is a must,” says Gustavson. “There isn’t just one right answer in life.” Advocate for your child, not just about what she is learning, but about how she is learning.

Investigative Approach

n What it is: Smart kids can define a problem, formulate options, test potential solutions and decide on a course of action. These are important life skills. “Classroom teachers struggle with how to make science, technology, engineering and math learning more hands-on,” says Dave Hespe, former New Jersey Commissioner of Education.

Still, recent studies show the overall science literacy of Americans outpaces citizens of other nations, Hespe says. Zoos, aquariums, parks and science centers are fantastic learning laboratories. n How to build it: Teach investigative concepts and skills at each stage of your child’s development. Double your cookie recipe and let kids determine how much butter and flour you need, Hespe says. Study bridges you cross to understand their design. Ask kids how they could get over the river without a bridge. Look up cloud types online and formulate a hypothesis about tomorrow’s weather.

Engage your kids’ curiosity outside the classroom and model problem-solving strategies. Real-world research makes smart kids smarter. And, with the experience of virtual learning from during the pandemic, kids are much more familiar with online research and independent work than ever before. atlantaparent.com

n What it is: Smart kids develop a strong sense of self. They know their own strengths and challenges and make wise decisions.

Kids crave a sense of uniqueness and they may feel pressured by intense demands to get good grades, fit in socially, and grow up before they’re ready, says Brandie Oliver, assistant professor of counselor education at Butler University in Indianapolis, Ind. Finding their own identity can be awkward and frustrating. Kids are at risk from peer pressure about alcohol, drugs and sex, Oliver says. Kids need skills to stand up for themselves. n How to build it: “It is common for parents to think they are in the loop when they don’t know as much as they think,” Oliver says. “Kids share information with parents through a filter.” Sometimes they embellish or omit key details. Listen and encourage sharing. Validate your child’s perspective even when you don’t agree, Oliver says. Model the use of “I” messages, such as “I think” or “I feel.” Self-expression is crucial for personal well-being and social success. Kids who can voice their opinions respectfully become productive members of the community.

Resources for smart skills

n Retool your beliefs about intelligence Read “Mindset: The New Psychology of Success” (Random House, 2006) by Carol S. Dweck

n Self-evaluation strategies blog.montessoriforeveryone.com/student-evaluation.html

n Emotional Intelligence activities https://familyvio.csw.fsu.edu/sites/g/files/upcbnu1886/ files/2018-11/Emotional-Intelligence-Handouts.pdf

n At-home science experiments https://www.sciencefun.org/kidszone/experiments/

[ Focus on Education ]

January 2022 Atlanta Parent 27

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Walker is open for small group tours with limited spacing to keep your family safe.

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Accepting applications through mid-February.

[ Focus on Education ]

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Where will your child flourish?

There is no better place than Trinity School.

Start your child’s journey at Trinity, Atlanta’s only private elementary-only school! Serving children age three through Sixth Grade, Trinity School offers high-quality, multi-sensory differentiated learning in a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment. Strong health and safety guidelines, small class sizes, early childhood and elementary education experts, and state-of-the-art technology are just some of the reasons your child will thrive at Trinity!

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[ Focus on Education ]

January 2022 Atlanta Parent 29

VIRTUAL SCHOOL

What lessons were learned?

by Tali Benjamin

In March of 2020, metro Atlanta went into lockdown mode. For kids, that meant adjusting to learning virtually. For teachers, it meant flipping things on their head with absolutely no warning. For parents, it meant managing the regular stresses of work and home life with the added pressure of being timekeeper, tech support and assistant teacher. Most of us are very glad school is back in session.

For some, virtual learning worked well.

It allowed flexibility of schedules and location, along with more family time. So, now that we are living in a world where virtual school has been a common experience, what did we learn from it? What elements of virtual school will stick even with the majority of kids “back in the building?”

30 Atlanta Parent January 2022

Flexibility “Being able to attend school while at the beach or in an RV was something we liked about virtual learning,” notes Alpharetta mom Ashley Hake. When her family resumed in-person school in August, she was glad that Fulton County instituted the option for families to take five digital days per semester. “This way, if we want to travel on a non-holiday weekend, we can,” she says.

Schedule Setting While flexibility is nice, we also learned that kids (and adults) still need basic structure to their days and weeks. Having set schedules sets expectations and helps with time management.

For kids, it’s also about knowing that the school day will end and there will be time for fun. So, whether it’s virtual learning or in-person learning, we know that schedules are here to stay!

Teachers are Important Both in-person and online, teachers are key to successful learning and student development. While parents had to help and be more involved in their children’s education than usual, virtual learning made it very obvious how much teachers do day in and day out. “During the pandemic, teachers worked so hard to be creative and keep students engaged,” says Roni Appleby, a mother of two from Peachtree Corners. “I always appreciated my kids’ teachers, but now I am even more thankful for what they do!”

[ Focus on Education ]

Technology It’s 2022, so obviously technology in schools and as part of learning is nothing new, but virtual learning showed us that accessibility to devices is integral for student success, as is age-appropriate mastery of technological tools. “When virtual school started in 2020, my son was a first grader and we had a rough time with signing into class, managing his schedule, turning in work and all of that,” says Dunwoody mom Carey Smith.

“I am glad that now, as a third grader, he understands the platforms he needs to use and can manage most of that stuff on his own.” Many metro Atlanta school systems now provide each student with iPads or other devices. The familiarity with technology and being able to interact virtually may also help this generation of students be more prepared for the world of virtually-based jobs that is growing every year.

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Asynchronous Learning This term, which really means independent learning or work, has been used a lot over the past 18 months.

While it’s always been an educational strategy, it wasn’t as commonplace, especially with younger students. Virtual school made asynchronous learning a must. “It was not possible to manage teaching every level of student in my class in one large group via Zoom,” says a local second grade teacher. “Creating videos that children could watch on their own time and then complete an assignment became a key tool for me during the pandemic. Now that we are back in the classroom, I really still find value in giving students that independence to problem solve and then circle back with me for the support they may need.”

Embrace Demands

Socialization Matters

“The pandemic showed that the demand was there for virtual school,” says Ryan Fuller, Director of Cobb Virtual Academy, which has been serving students for 20 years. “No one wanted it to happen all of sudden like it did and across the board people were not prepared for it. However, now that we can continue virtual learning for the families and students that want it at the same quality as in-person learning, it’s great.” Choice is important for students and families, and virtual learning shows that various learning options exist.

Virtual school definitely showed us that kids crave being around their peers.

“Every morning during virtual school my child’s teacher said hello to every child, and each child got to say good morning to the class,” says Appleby. “I am sure there was a practical reason like taking attendance, but I think the social aspect of it was amazing. You could see the giant smiles on the kids’ faces.”

Be Prepared We may never be caught as off guard as a society again as we were in 2020, but that doesn’t mean we should get complacent. Many school systems didn’t have enough devices for all students, so the burden fell on families. “All involved parties – students, parents, teachers – need more training on virtual school,” says Fuller.

“There are so many positives about what virtual school has to offer, but for so many students it has a negative connotation because it’s connected to the pandemic and the chaos of those first few weeks of lockdown.”

Who knows what the future holds, but with the lessons we have learned from this collective experience, we can come out on top. Looking back, Fuller thinks we will see the pandemic as an inflection point in education and that we were able to move forward thinking more innovatively. Let’s hope he’s right!

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[ Focus on Education ]

January 2022 Atlanta Parent 31

Galloway students confidently embrace challenges while developing the knowledge, skills, and cultural competence to thrive as enlightened contributors in their chosen pathways.

PRE-K3 – GRADE 12 Schedule your family’s tour at gallowayschool.org/visit!

32 Atlanta Parent January 2022

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Fostering independence in each child through supportive relationships, joyful learning, and meaningful work in a Montessori environment. Now enrolling at our two Decatur campus locations for the 2022-23 school year.

Call 404.321.9304 for a personal tour.

2998 Lavista Road • 1434 Scott Boulevard 404.321.9304 • www.arbormontessori.org

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Arbor Montessori admits students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, family structure or sexual orientation to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities of the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, family structure or sexual orientation in the administration of its educational policies, admission policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.

[ Focus on Education ]

January 2022 Atlanta Parent 33

Prepare Your Child for Preschool

How to make the first steps on the path to school happy ones

by Denise Yearian

Preschool is a wonderful time of growth in a young child’s life – a time to broaden his horizons, develop social skills and ignite a love for learning. As with any transition, it can also be a difficult time. To help your child adjust to the new environment and ease into the routine more easily, consider these tips. n Talk it up.

Weeks before preschool begins, prepare your child by using positive and encouraging words. If you drive by the building where she will be attending school, say, “Oh, look! There’s your new school. You are going to have so much fun there!” Tell your child that she is growing up and this means she gets to spend more time learning and playing with other children her age. If you, as a parent, have any reservations, choose your words carefully. Even from a young age, children can pick up on what their parents are and are not saying!

34 Atlanta Parent January 2022

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n Stop by to visit.

If the school will allow it, take your child to the facility before school begins so he can familiarize himself with his new surroundings. If you know which classroom he will be in, stop by for a visit. If possible, let him meet the teacher and play with some of the toys in the room.

Before leaving, take him to the playground and let him spend a few minutes swinging, going down the slide and sifting sand in the sandbox. If you are unable to visit in person, ask for a virtual tour or ask for a daily schedule that you can model at home. n Invite others to play.

If your child has had little interaction with peers due to the pandemic or other concerns, invite several children over to your house to play.

It doesn’t have to be a day-long event; one or two hours is a sufficient amount of time for children to begin learning skills, such as toy sharing and peer politeness. Schedule this time when the children will be well-rested – early morning or after naptime. Also, plan a few activities but allow plenty of time for free play.

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n Introduce school materials.

Long before formal education begins, your child should become familiar with books, puzzles, games, crayons, scissors, glue and clay.

To ease into a structured environment, set aside time each day for you and your child to work on puzzles together, play games, color, cut and glue various items and mold things out of clay. Start with just a few minutes each day and gradually increase the amount of time you spend doing it. While you are participating in an activity together, tell your child that this is just one of many fun things she will be doing in preschool. Be alert for signs she is getting bored with a given activity and stop before she gets too restless. n Read all about it.

One of the best ways to prepare your child for preschool is to read juvenile materials about first-day jitters. Library shelves and bookstores are stacked high with stories of children and animals that were afraid to go to school. Through books like these, your child will learn that he isn’t the only one with worries and apprehensions about attending school. Most importantly, he will be able to see the characters to the end of the story where they meet new friends, have lots of fun and learn that their concerns were in vain. n Establish a routine.

If you haven’t already, be sure your child has a daily routine. While it need not be as rigid as a day of preschool, structured play time in the morning (see “introduce school materials”), story time after lunch and outdoor play at the same time every day will help your child establish a routine. Consistency is key.

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January 2022 Atlanta Parent 35

Prepare Your Child for Preschool

S

ince 1959 The Schenck School has successfully remediated students with dyslexia through its unique, focused, and accelerated approach which allows students to return to traditional schools.

The Dyslexia Resource, created by The Schenck School, is a community reading resource dedicated to helping students combat reading deficiencies through research, partnerships, education, and outreach programs.

For more information visit schenck.org and dyslexiaresource.org

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n Go shopping.

Nothing builds excitement quicker than taking your child out to buy a new lunch box, backpack, school clothes or other needed school items. Make a day of it by first stopping by the school, shopping a little and then enjoying a fun lunch together. n Take a dry run.

The day before school begins, get your child up and out the door at the time he will need to be ready for school. If he is attending a morning program, take him for a fun breakfast after you have made the dry run at school. If he is attending an afternoon program, stop for a special ice cream cone to celebrate his upcoming day. n Watch and wait (if necessary).

On the first day, if your child eagerly welcomes his new environment, give him a hug and tell you will be back in a little while. If, however, he seems uncertain, tell him you will stay, but only for a few minutes. During this time, introduce him to other children, show him some of the toys and pictures around the room and help him get settled. When the time limit is up, give him a hug, reassure him of your love and leave quickly. Although there may be tears, your child will more than likely stop crying and start enjoying himself soon. Be sure to check with the school on parent procedures for drop off before committing to stay. n Listen up.

At the end of each day, find a block of uninterrupted time to listen as your child shares about his experiences. Ask what she liked about school and if there were any things she didn’t enjoy. If she is having a hard time articulating details, break it down by activities – “What crafts did you do?”

“What books did you read?” What games did you play?” “Who did you sit with at lunch/snack time?” Then encourage your child to always do her best, obey the rules and be respectful of the teachers and others, and chances are, she’ll have a great time. atlantaparent.com

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January 2022 Atlanta Parent 37

Set Your Child on the Path to Success:

READING ALOUD

by Jill Morgenstern

P

arents are constantly looking for ways to help their child thrive in school: volunteering in the classroom, providing enrichment classes, teaching study skills, or quizzing them on spelling words. There are countless ways to contribute to your child’s progress. But there is an even easier way which is often overlooked – reading aloud. Reading aloud can help your child succeed in school and beyond, and even infants are not too young. Here are a few of the many benefits of reading aloud.

n Expand your child’s

vocabulary.

New research suggests that reading to children is even more effective than talking for building vocabulary. Sometimes parents will naturally explain the new words they encounter. Other times children will decipher the meaning from context. Both routes lead children to have an increased vocabulary, which plays a key role in learning to read and is critical for reading comprehension.

n Create a positive attitude

toward reading.

Learning to read can be full of anxiety and stress. Reading is pushed to lower and lower age groups, which can cause children who are not fully ready to read to feel inadequate. Reading aloud gives them the attention they crave while building a positive association with books. This can counteract the message they may be getting from school that reading is hard work or not inherently enjoyable.

n Increase fluency.

When parents read aloud, they model good reading fluency. Children hear how a text is read for best understanding. Reading fluency can enhance a child’s overall comprehension.

n Exercise memory.

Children can listen to a much more complicated story than they are capable of reading themselves. While listening to a story read aloud, children are remembering characters, the main plot and even subplots.

Children are picturing the story in their heads in a way they would not have to do for a simpler story they could read independently.

38 Atlanta Parent January 2022

n Expose children to

other cultures and ideas.

By listening to stories, children can gain knowledge of the world and learn about different time periods in history. They can learn about other countries and historical events as they listen to their favorite stories.

n Increase empathy.

According to a study by Rose Turner at Kingston University, reading can make children more empathetic. This may be because children interact with characters on a deeper level than they do when watching television or movies. As children imagine what the characters are going through, they put themselves in the character’s place, paving the way to being a better friend to the people they know in real life.

n Expose children

to early literacy.

Reading aloud provides many lessons in basic literacy. Even an infant can understand that a book is held right side up and that pages are turned one at a time.

Older children may follow along and pick up letters and words.

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n Help with specific issues.

Almost any problem or life circumstance can be found in a child’s picture book. Reading about a child experiencing the same problems can help a child feel understood and less alone.

n Teach values.

Reading aloud allows children to see the consequences of actions and provides a springboard to these types of conversations. They listen as other children make mistakes and learn the consequences of the behavior.

Children may be much more willing to discuss the meanings of the mistakes when they themselves have not committed the error.

When it comes to reading with your child, the benefits are many!

Not only do they gain solid academic and social skills, both of you gain the bonding time and cuddles. Reading to children can introduce them to a world of possibilities and set them on a path to success. atlantaparent.com

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January 2022 Atlanta Parent 39

Nature Meets Learning Bringing the Great Outdoors to Schools in Atlanta

by Tali Benjamin

Playing in the creek, counting rocks, exploring the forest, planting in the garden, feeding donkeys, sorting sticks, getting dirty – sounds fun, right? All of these kid-friendly activities are also forms of learning and ones that are embraced in outdoor learning environments.

Turns out the great outdoors make an exceptional classroom!

I

n recent months, being outside – at restaurants, for fitness classes, playdates and religious services – has become more common based on COVID research and guidelines. But physical health related to the pandemic is far from the only reason that learning outside is a focus of several schools in metro Atlanta. Prior to the pandemic, these schools understood the benefit of exposure to nature for their students’ development and academic success.

Environmental Awareness High Meadows School, located in Roswell, has been offering exposure to nature as part of their learning programs since 1973. “Our focus has always been on environmental sustainability, the life cycle, and the emotional and physiological benefits of nature for our students,” says Lori Kennedy, Lower Years Principal. “We had a stronger connection with the outdoors last year because of COVID, but it wasn’t new.” Their preschool through eighth grade students have always had daily exposure to 42 acres of land, including grassy fields, a farm and scenic woodlands as part of the private school’s immersive International Baccalaureate curriculum. “We have a

40 Atlanta Parent January 2022

strong belief in the concept of free play,” says Kennedy. “Students use the natural environment and the world around them to develop their own identity through their experiences.”

The Garden School in Marietta, now in its sixth year, was designed around a model where students were outside at least two hours per day. COVID shifted that focus and now students spend almost all day outside, unless there is inclement weather. “We have outdoor restrooms and covered pavilions for each grade,” explains Development Director Brooke Fraser. “Our kindergarteners even nap outside in their pavilion.”

The school, which is the first Forest Kindergarten in Georgia and is certified through eighth grade, currently has students through fourth grade as they add a class each year. Melissa Murray, who has been teaching at the school since the beginning, says that the more relaxed environment actually helps the students stay focused.

“Many think that the kids would be distracted outside, but they actually get really used to the noises of nature, which is far less jarring than an abrupt noise you might here in a traditional school setting,” she says.

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The Garden School

Murray also notes that her students exhibit lifelong qualities like perseverance and honoring boundaries from a young age based on their exposure to the outdoors.

“Even walking from class to class takes place outside, so students are capable of moving within their environment while understanding and honoring boundaries,” she says. “They are allowed to get dirty and wet playing in the creek, which is a safe risk for our students.”

The Garden School also prides their program on creating environmental stewards. “The kids are really living in and experiencing nature on a daily basis, so as they get older, they will want to take care of the world because they love to be in it.”

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Taking Risks Julia Hill, Environmental Educator & Mentor at Turning Sun Clairmont, echoes Murray’s sentiments. “Our students know a lot about the world around them because they live it every day,” she says. Her students are preschoolers and benefit from the school’s 8-acre outdoor campus complete with a garden paired with a Reggio-inspired curriculum.

“Being outside dictates our curriculum,” Hill notes. “We follow the lead of the children in the direction of the lesson. For instance, if a group of children finds some interesting rocks, we will stop to count and sort the rocks, which is math. Or, if

[ Focus on Education ]

we see a bug eating a plant, we can learn about the bug and also share ideas on how to keep our plants safe from pests.”

This exploration model allows the preschoolers to take risks and learn more about what interests them. “Freedom to try new things is an important part of learning,” says Hill. “Our garden gives our students the chance to try new foods.

Today for lunch, we ate bok choy that they planted a few months ago.” Students also have the opportunity to walk in the woods or play in the creek, which are safe risks that build self-confidence for the preschoolers.

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January 2022 Atlanta Parent 41

Nature Meets Learning Risk taking is also an integral part of the kindergarten experience at High Meadows.

“Our kindergarten spends 90% of their time outside,” notes Kennedy. “They have specific spots around campus dedicated for their use.” One of these locations is a covered outdoor classroom, complete with composting toilet, in the woods. This space gives the students an opportunity to take risks and accomplish tasks and challenges that are only available in the natural world.

“They will work together to find ways to cross the creek together, which includes problem solving and collaboration,” says Kennedy. “It is also independent thinking in a different way than would happen with a teacher giving an assignment in a traditional classroom setting.”

Collaborative Learning Social interactions are more prevalent and natural in outdoor learning environments as well. “Natural collaboration and peer support happen on a daily basis,” says Murray. “Our students work together to explore or create something from what they find in nature.” The same is true at Turning Sun Clairmont as well as The Children’s School (TCS), which is located in Midtown Atlanta. “Play is serious learning,” says mom of two TCS students Kerri Murphy.

“TCS focuses on letting kids learn through

High Meadows School

play, which is social and fun.”

She says her daughters – one a second grader and the other in PreK – are happy kids who care about people and the world around them. “They are joyful,” she notes.

Students at TCS move around the campus, as well as the city of Atlanta, which is an extended part of the campus. “Piedmont Park is across the street,” says Murphy.

And, while it’s fun, they are also really learning. “I love when my second grader comes home to tell me she is doing math in Piedmont Park. She is finding sets of 10 in nature. It’s clicking into place for her in a different way than it would by doing a worksheet.” At TCS, students can explore subjects that they are interested in in nature, and it’s integrated by the teachers. High Meadows’ students learn to build their names out of elements found in nature to complement the traditional kindergarten themes of letters and phonics.

This can-do attitude, sense of responsibility and inquisitive nature is

consistent across schools with a focus on outdoor learning. It comes from the natural environment and also from the type of academic curricula these schools embrace. From IB to Waldorf to Reggio, these programs focus on independent and collaborative learning, student exploration and teacher support. “Our philosophy is that the teacher is the facilitator,” says Hill. “We use what the students are doing at the moment to do to peer-to-peer learning and support.” Third graders at The Garden School are responsible for the campus farm, including feeding the animals and watering the plants. At High Meadows, multi-age learning groups allow children to learn from others; leaders naturally emerge and model appropriate behavior. “The older kids aren’t always the leaders,” says Kennedy. “Kids have different strengths and are working on a continuum, so this helps students grow in various ways – both academically and socially/emotionally.”

The Children’s School

Being responsible and inquisitive are core elements of outdoor learning.

42 Atlanta Parent January 2022

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Life Skills Being outside also boosts gross motor skills, especially for young learners. “Climbing, jumping, digging and playing are all beneficial to longterm coordination and body health,” says Hill. A group of first graders at The Garden School spent time over a week to unearth an old tire, working together, digging and then rolling it down a hill to add to their outdoor classroom space.

“They were so proud of finding it and then of being able to move it together where they wanted it to be,” says Murray. “As a teacher, it makes you so happy to see that.”

Students at TCS understand how they learn and how to learn with every experience. “They are also taught empathy, equity and diversity,” says Murphy. These types of life skills, along with collaboration, deep thinking and problem solving, not only help the students today, but are beneficial as they move into high school and the job market.

No matter where your child attends school, next time you’re in your own backyard or hiking in a local park, let your kids take the time to explore, get dirty and ask questions. It’s fun and good for their development!

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January 2022 Atlanta Parent 43

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January 2022 Atlanta Parent 45

Top Reasons Parents Choose Private Schools Ask parents why they want their child to attend a private school, and you’ll hear these responses: n Individualized Attention: With smaller teacher-to-student ratios than most public schools, many private school parents believe their children get a better education at an independent school. n Religious Principles: Many parents want an education that offers religious teachings and tenets along with the ABCs. They seek an emphasis on spiritual values, morals and faith development throughout the whole curriculum. n Personalized Learning: Every child has his or her own academic timetable, as well as talents. Parents may find that a private school can better address the child’s needs – whether he or she is a late-bloomer, gifted in math, a budding artist or proficient in foreign languages. n Innovative Teaching: Some parents may have strong feelings about teaching methods or the curriculum and textbooks used by a public school system. Private schools often offer more options and flexibility. One parent may request a more innovative approach for their child, while another might demand more traditional teaching techniques. n Nontraditional Groupings: Many private schools offer alternatives to the usual grade groupings. These frequently cater more to individual abilities in different areas, or they may allow students more fluid movement between grades, regardless of age.

n More Responsive to Parents: Private schools answer to the parents funding them. As a result, parents feel more confident that the issues and concerns that are important to them will be addressed. n Special Needs: A child with a learning disability or a behavioral problem may not do well in a traditional public school classroom. Private schools, especially those designed for a specific learning disability or special need, employ teachers and other professionals with the necessary credentials to teach and care for children with special needs.

– Elizabeth Baggett

THE

WOODWARD WAY ISN’T SIMPLY ABOUT BETTERING OURSELVES, BUT FINDING WAYS TO MAKE POSITIVE IMPACTS IN THE COMMUNITIES WE SERVE. We look forward to getting to know your child and their passions.

WOODWARD ACADEMY 46 Atlanta Parent January 2022

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2022: School Tours and Open Houses If you’re considering a private school, connecting with the school’s students and professionals by attending a school tour or an open house are great ways to see if the school is the right fit for your child. n Start by doing your research. Narrow down the options until you have a short list of schools that seem the best for your child by looking at websites, FAQs, pre-recorded videos and social media pages. n Schools may have different options that you can register to attend, with each session being important for different reasons.

Pay attention to the options offered, so you can decide what makes the most sense for you to attend. Signing up for a phone conference may be a better fit before registering for a campus tour, if you decide your family is still interested in the school. n After the school session, look at SAT scores, attendance records and grade-point averages. Follow up with phone calls and emails if you have questions. n If it’s not part of the tour, schedule a time to observe a class in session. This will give you a good idea of the teaching style and classroom setting. Are the desks arranged in groups or in rows facing the teacher? What materials does the classroom have for the students? Are the students enthusiastic about learning? n Talk to other parents about the school. Most parents are happy to share their thoughts. n Look at the big picture. You may be hoping to stay with the school through high school, so research graduation and college placement rates. This information is usually found on the school’s website.

– Emily Webb and Alexi Wilbourn

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Get the Most Up-To-Date List of SCHOOL OPEN HOUSES TO BE LISTED CALL:

770-454-7599

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January 2022 Atlanta Parent 47

bold thinking

Grades 9-12

big results Redefining High School

www.academeatlanta.org/visit

48 Atlanta Parent January 2022

academeoftheoaks

AcademeoftheOaks

404 405 2173

academeatlanta.org

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Guide to Private Schools

Finding a private school that fits your child’s learning style and personality can be a challenge.

Academic approach, environment, size and location are all factors to consider. Our guide can help you decide on the best fit for your family.

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January 2022 Atlanta Parent 49

Best Guide to Academe of the Oaks

Arbor Montessori School

ollege-preparatory by design, Academe of the Oaks’ innovative Waldorf high school curriculum includes coursework in mat he mat ic s , sc ie nce s , a nd humanities; fine and practical arts; drama and music; and environmental education. Students are given the opportunity to become compassionate thinkers, problem solvers, and global citizens.

Academics are rigorous and deliberately different, centered on primary source materials rather than textbooks, and driven by an excitement for intellectual discovery. Knowing “how to learn” means, that no matter what the subject, Academe students understand what questions to ask.

By rearticulating the meaning of a text or an experiment through speech or dramatic interpretations, students discover the truths of a lesson for themselves. In turn, each opportunity to perform builds understanding and establishes a lifelong love of learning. Students leave Academe confident in their ability to ask the essential questions and to lead others to the discovery of meaning.

Located minutes from downtown Decatur, Academe of the Oaks serves students in grades 9-12. Please visit academeatlanta.org for more information.

A

rbor Montessori School prepares c h i l d re n to go a ny w h e re .

Anywhere their interests, dreams, and passions take them. Since 1970, Arbor has been the flagship of Montessori education in Atlanta, one of the largest Montessori schools in the Southeast, and regarded as a benchmark for Montessori education worldwide.

The flagship campus sits on a 4-acre wooded lot, offering beautifully prepared indoor and outdoor environments. Arbor offers art, music, Spanish, before and after-school care, a strong athletics program, extracurriculars, and a close-knit parent community. The second campus offers a conveniently-located, smaller community of toddler and 3-6 yearold primary classes. Children benefit from intentionally-designed materials and experienced teachers.

Every day, children from 18 months to 8th grade receive individual attention from understanding, knowledgeable, experienced faculty. They learn math, science, and language so they can thrive anywhere. They learn independence, self-direction, and critical reasoning so they have the tools to make good decisions anywhere.

They learn collaboration, cooperation, and peace because children can be agents of change anywhere. Go here, then go anywhere.

For information, visit arbormontessori.org or call 404-321-9304.

Atlanta Academy

Atlanta Girls’ School

tlanta Academy, located in Roswell, serves 380 private preschool-8th grade students in North Fulton. Small classes allow teachers to understand students’ individual strengths and help them discover their unique talents. The nurturing culture fosters good character in students alongside academic s uc c e s s , we l l - b e i ng , a nd happiness – their belief in educating the whole child results in students experiencing excitement and joy in the classroom.

The forward-thinking curriculum focuses on building confidence and skills while providing students with various opportunities to succeed at prestigious private high schools and top-ranking public schools.

High-performing student achievement is nurtured in a nondenominational, family-engaged atmosphere. Teachers model and instill values such as empathy, integrity, resiliency, and honesty, and they are fully invested in helping children grow into well-educated, independent problem-solvers prepared to excel in high school and beyond. Learn more at atlantaacademy.com.

very girl is a leader at Atlanta Girls’ School.

In this small, supportive community, there’s no fear when it comes to trying something new. As the only non-sectarian all-girls school in metro Atlanta for grades 6–12, AGS’s environment is unmatched. The unique school culture helps all 185 students develop a bond they describe as “sisterhood.”

All AGS students take four Leadership Labs per year, dive into special interests during the annual Winterim, and complete two internships and a global experience before graduating—in addition to benefiting from challenging academics, an athletics program that helps students of all skill levels grow as athletes and people, and a state-championship-winning arts program.

The results? Graduates attend colleges across the country and internationally, including prestigious liberal arts colleges, state universities, and Ivy League schools. While AGS graduates take many paths, each leaves with the confidence to boldly lead a life of purpose.

Visit atlantagirlsschool.org to learn more or to schedule a visit.

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50 Atlanta Parent January 2022

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Special Advertising Section

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Atlanta Private Schools Atlanta International School

Atlanta Speech School

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T

Brandon Hall School

The Cottage School

randon Hall School’s mission as a co-educational, global boarding and day school challenges students to lead lives of leadership, scholarship, and service. Their community celebrates learning, fosters global citizenship, embraces diversity, encourages athleticism and artistic expression, and inspires students to find their path and lead the way.

An average class size of 8:1 ensures students are fully engaged learners. The wooded, 24-acre campus is a Wildlife Reserve nestled on the banks of the Chattahoochee River. Their diverse community comprises students and staff from over 30 countries. The International Baccalaureate program will graduate its first cohort in the Class of 2022. All Brandon Hall students have regular opportunities to serve local and international communities through extensive partnerships and travel opportunities.

Boarding students live and learn in a connected, caring community that prioritizes academic, personal, and socialemotional development. Every boarder benefits from a structured and organized program that teaches accountability, character, study habits, and essential life skills. Call 770-394-8177 or visit brandonhall.org.

he Cottage School ( TC S ) i s a 5 01 c 3 non-profit school with small class sizes, and work-based model for students grades 4-12 with mild to moderate learning differences. For 37 years, The Cottage School has focused on the three pillars of success; academic achievement, social skills and emotional wellness. The unique work-based model guides the students to advocate for themselves, build self-confidence, and develop leadership skills while learning to appreciate their own strengths.

By encouraging a variety of team sports such as soccer, volleyball, basketball and track, students are introduced to the fundamental life skills of teamwork and respect. The beautiful 23 acre campus with outdoor learning spaces and trails, inspires students to spend time outside in discovery.

The Cottage School – developing confident, independent and productive adults. For more information or campus tour please visit: cottageschool.org.

tlanta International School (AIS) offers the esteemed International Baccalaureate (IB) program to all of their 1,300+ students, from threeyear-old Kindergarten through Grade 12. AIS families come from the Atlanta area, the wider US and countries all over the world. Rigorous academics are enriched by a world-class language acquisition program, which begins with full immersion in French, German, Chinese and Spanish at Preschool and continues with dual (French, German and Spanish) and partial (Chinese) immersion from 5K to Grade 5. The Middle Years Program offers choice and agency for students and in High School, AIS offers STEM and STEAM-endorsed and bilingual diplomas, in addition to the prestigious IB diploma.

Beyond the classroom, AIS students participate in awardwinning performing and arts opportunities, competitive athletics, and global experiential learning. Along with the authorization to offer IB education, AIS is also accredited by: AdvanceED, Agency of French Teaching Abroad (aefe), Council for International Schools (CIS), European Council for International Schools (ECIS), and the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS). For more information, please visit aischool.org.

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h e At l a n t a S p e e c h School’s three pre-schools, K-6 elementary school for children with dyslexia, clinic with a range of services and the Rollins Center for Language and Literacy share one common goal: language and literacy for each child, to provide the strongest possible foundation to construct reading brains.

Professionals tailor the latest cutting edge research to student’s individual needs, with the relationships, respect and resources so each child can excel.

Programs include the Kenan Preschool, which develops children to be exceptionally prepared for school; Stepping Stones, a preschool and transitional kindergarten for children experiencing speech or language delays; the Hamm Center, a listening, spoken language and literacy program for children ages birth to 5 who are deaf or hard of hearing and their families and the Wardlaw School, an elementary school for bright children with dyslexia. In addition, the Rollins Center for Language and Literacy expands the walls of the school with a mission to ensure that every child has access to literacy the opportunity to decide their own future, regardless of ZIP code. atlantaspeechschool.org. 404-233-5332.

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January 2022 Atlanta Parent 51

Best Guide to Galloway School

GRACEPOINT School

ocated in beautiful Chastain Park, The Galloway School is an independent day school that serves a diverse student body of around 750 students in Pre-K3 through 12th grade. At Galloway, learning is joyful, individuals are valued, and self-discovery is encouraged. Galloway students confidently embrace challenges while developing the knowledge, skills, and cultural competence to thrive as enlightened contributors in their chosen pathways.

Galloway offers an environment of high expectations and low anxiety that encourages students to grow by teaching them to challenge themselves today and for the rest of their lives.

Throughout their time at Galloway, students not only develop an abiding love of learning but learn to embrace it as a life-long endeavor.

Graduates attest that Galloway’s focus on the journey of learning and personal development is what makes the school truly different, and the results speak for themselves. Galloway graduates are mature, independent, and confident individuals who are well prepared for college and for a life lived as enlightened citizens who think independently, care deeply, and engage responsibly. For more information, call 404-252-8389 or visit gallowayschool.org.

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Heritage Preparatory School

High Meadows School

e r ita ge P re p a rato r y School teaches from a distinctively Christ-centered worldview and embraces a classical understanding of the aim of education. The purpose of Heritage Prep is to offer an academically r igo rou s e duc at io n a l experience designed to help students know, love, and practice that which is true, good, and excellent and prepare them to live purposefully and intelligently in the service of God and man. A Heritage education is aimed at equipping students to become lovers of both learning and Truth, so they will be ready to love God and their fellow human beings as a purposeful act of Christian worship.

Heritage is a PreK-High School located in the heart of Atlanta.

Smaller class sizes are intentionally designed to foster deeper relationships and individualized attention. Heritage Prep is dually accredited by SACS and SAIS and is a member of ACSI and ACCS. The lower school campus is located at 1700 Piedmont Ave. NE, Atlanta, and the upper school campus is located at 1824 Piedmont Ave. NE, Atlanta 30324. For more information, please visit heritageprep.org.

or nearly 50 years, High Meadows has been a school where learning is an adventure.

Each day, High Meadows students age three through 8th grade learn through experiential, immersive e duc at io n a l o p p o r t u n it ie s that foster a love of learning, critical thinking, and social responsibility. Children are given voice and choice in their school experience, while being challenged to stretch, grow, and realize their true potential.

Located on 42 acres of historic farm property in Roswell, GA, High Meadows School’s campus provides the perfect landscape for connection to nature and hands-on learning. Students enjoy learning and playing in the school’s forests, meadows, cabin classrooms, and barnyard in addition to beautiful child-centered classroom spaces.

A nationally recognized and award-winning leader in progressive education, High Meadows School is an authorized International Baccalaureate (IB) World School offering its renowned Primary Years Programme for students in pre-k and kindergarten through fifth grade and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).

For more information, please visit highmeadows.org or call 770-993-2940. 1055 Willeo Rd., Roswell, GA 30075

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RACEPOINT School, a private Christian school for students with dyslexia, was founded in 2012. The school began with just four students and has steadily grown to an enrollment of 130 students in grades one through eight. Students receive a comprehensive, high-quality education program, combining remediation with enrichment and acceleration. Once remediation is complete, students transition into a more traditional educational environment at public and private schools.

GRACEPOINT utilizes the Orton-Gillingham method, a multisensory approach woven into all subject areas. Their students receive seventy-five minutes of explicit reading instruction daily by a certified Orton- Gillingham teacher. The student/teacher ratio for reading is 5:1, while all other core subjects have a student/teacher ratio of 8:1. The mission at GRACEPOINT is to equip dyslexic students with the skills needed to develop into independent and confident learners. They strive to instill a life-long desire for their students to grow in wisdom and knowledge of the Lord, so that each will fulfill God’s purpose and bring Him glory. GRACEPOINT is located in an independent building on the campus of Piedmont Church in Marietta. gracepointschool.org. 678-709-6634.

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Atlanta Private Schools Holy Spirit Preparatory School

Landmark Christian School

oly Spirit Preparatory School is focused on the future, preparing children from preschool to 12th grade with an education rooted in the Catholic faith and Christ’s promise of eternal life.

Using a Classical Catholic approach, HSP intentionally c o m b i ne s t ra d it i o n a l academic subjects with Latin, Greek, fine arts, and 21st Century technology – including engineering and coding – along with developmentally appropriate theology and philosophy. Extracurriculars including band, clubs and athletics encourage growth in virtues, such as temperance and fortitude, while forging friendships along the way. From kindergarten to graduation, children learn the value and responsibility of service to the Church, their communities, and one another.

The result is a rigorous, integrated, and purposeful program that enables students to understand their identity in Christ, and, as they grow, a discernment of their role in the world.

Each day at HSP, children grow in both faith and intellect.

At every age, they learn to use those lessons to think prudently, act compassionately, and respond to God’s call faithfully.

Call 678-761-7992 or visit holyspiritprep.org.

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anked as one of the best schools in the state and nation, serving PK3-12th with campuses in Fairburn and Peachtree City. Landmark i nve s t s i n t he s pi r it ua l , ac ade m ic a nd ove ra l l development of children with engaging academics, Christian values, and immense opportunities. 100% of graduates have college acceptances, most with scholarships and college credits.

With intentionally small class sizes and a teacher-to-student ratio of 1:8, world-class faculty offer dynamic learning environments helping students discover their passions and develop their talents to impact the world for Jesus Christ. Students are immersed in hands-on learning stimulating imagination and invention.

Innovative offerings include the Academies: Aviation, Music, Film, Leadership, Visual Arts, Engineering/STEM, Leadership, and Fashion. Dual enrollment taught uniquely on campus, AP, honors and online courses paired with numerous sporting and arts opportunities create an exceptional student experience.

TED, Spotlight Theatre, and Imagination Stations stir the minds of the youngest. A new state-of-the-art high school opened in 2021. Call 770-692-6742 to learn more, tour, or apply now at landmarkchristianschool.org.

The Lovett School

McGinnis Woods School

h e L ove t t S c h o o l i s a community of belonging that develops students of honor, faith, and wisdom with the character and intellect to thrive in learning and in life. Founded in 1926 by Eva Edwards Lovett, Lovett continues today as an Atlanta independent school serving children from Kindergarten through Grade 12.

The School’s emphasis on the whole child is nationally recognized and provides integrated experiences in academics, arts, athletics, and service through an education grounded in learning, character, and community. Lovett’s rigorous academic offerings are complemented by dynamic arts classes taught by working artists, a competitive athletics program fielding 69 teams in 16 sports, and purposeful civic engagement opportunities to foster responsible global citizens.

With a student body composed of 1,640 students from 78 different zip codes, Lovett fosters inquisitive minds as well as joyful spirits, strong bodies, good characters, and empathetic hearts.

Nurturing relationships are at the heart of a Lovett education, whether it be in the classroom, on the stage, or on the field, so the School maintains a student-teacher ratio of 7:1.

Learn more about Lovett and the admission process by visiting lovett.org.

cGinnis Woods School is a private school offering a rich Preschool through Middle School education. The beautiful school campus located in Forsyth County includes a Nature Explore certified outdoor classroom. McGinnis Woods is Cognia, GAC, and NAEYC certified and a member of the Georgia Independent School Association. McGinnis Woods offers both in person and remote learning through ClassFusion. Instruction is designed to be hands-on with a focus on STEM learning. The school is a 1:1 iPad environment that features small class-sizes with teacher assistants and superior academics that inspire a lifelong love of learning. Classes are engaging and provide for differentiation and personalized attention. Guest speakers and field trips, character education, leadership opportunities and community service round out the curriculum. Drama Club, Competitive Sports, Robotics and Science Olympiad teams train year-round. After school programs and Discovery Clubs are also available. Please visit www. mcginniswoods.org to register to attend the Virtual Open House on Saturday, January 22 from 1:00-3:00 pm or call to set up a tour at 770-664-7764. Experience the McGinnis Woods difference!

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Best Guide to Montessori School at Emory

Mount Paran Christian School

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Mount Pisgah Christian School

The Mount Vernon School

ount Pisgah Christian Sc ho ol i s a top - rate d independent Preschool-12th grade school located in the heart of North Fulton in Atlanta. Known for providing an outstanding college prep education grounded in Christian faith and values, 100% of students are accepted into a four-year college or university.

MPCS is educating with intention through personalized, student-centered learning with small class sizes brought to life in academics, athletics and spiritual life. Recognized for academic achievement, Mount Pisgah is an AP Challenge, AP Merit, AP STEM, AP STEM Achievement and AP Humanities School. The Lower and Middle Schools use the innovative MAP® Growth™ assessment.

Mount Pisgah aims to grow students’ relationships with God and each other, guided by a spiritual blueprint integrated into the curriculum. Extracurricular offerings include 46 competitive athletic programs, band, chorus, orchestra, theatre and visual arts, as well as the Mount Pisgah Arts Academy. Visit mountpisgahschool.org to learn more.

nspiring innovation in Preschool through Grade 1 2 , T h e M o u nt Ve r n o n School empowers students to discover, explore, learn, design, create, and effect change. Providing a platform for limitless possibilities where learning is amplified through real world problem solving, the School encourages constant impact. Students have big ideas and when their teachers really know each individual’s curiosities and passions, incredible things can happen.

As a co-educational day school for more than 1,200 students, Mount Vernon is a destination for students who will design a better world. Celebrating its 50th year while graduating its 15th class, Mount Vernon is expanding its footprint with acceptances to schools such as Harvard University, Stanford University, United States Military Academy, Barnard College, American University, University of California- Santa Barbara, Georgetown College, Swarthmore College, University of Colorado, and all 14 universities in the Southeastern Conference.

“We don’t have to wait and see what the future holds. We can design a better world together, today.”

Visit mountvernonschool.org/admissions to learn more.

ontessori School at Emory was founded more than 25 years ago b e c o m i n g a c c re d ite d as a Montessori School in 1993. With over 175 students, from 15 months through 14 years, the Monte s sor i Sc ho ol at Emory supports the whole child and prepares them for life through accredited, authentic quality Montessori programs. Children are given one-on-one instruction from their teacher which creates an individualized program that engages their interests and skill levels.

Montessori School at Emory offers several options. Full day, half day, 10 month or year round formats are available.

Afternoon enrichment programs are also offered from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., in which children enjoy experiences in the creative arts and sciences such as music, art and foreign language. Also, early morning drop-off is available at 7 a.m. For more information about the Montessori School at Emory, call 404-634-5777 or visit MontessoriSchoolatEmory.com.

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ount Paran Christian School exists to provide a stellar academic experience in a Christian environment.

It’s crucial to guarantee a moral and faith foundation through everything your child learns at school. Through curricular Bible classes, weekly chapel, discipleship groups, and service, faith becomes integrated into who they are. Within small class sizes, MPCS offers 59 AP/honors courses, instructional support, robotics, Spanish and STEAM starting in PK3, and a 1:1 device program.

MPCS’s job is to prepare servant-leaders – in the classroom, on the ball field, on the stage, and ultimately in the community.

Mount Paran Christian School is a PreK3-12th grade private Christian, non-denominational, college-preparatory school. MPCS is committed to excellence in academics, award-winning arts, and championship athletics. Founded in 1976, MPCS is fully accredited (SAIS/Cognia) and located in the shadow of Kennesaw Mountain on a 68-acre collegiate-like campus. MPCS unites with home and church to prepare servant-leaders to honor God, love others, and walk in Truth. Experience the difference an MPCS education can make for your family at an Open House or Tuesday Tour. Sign up at mtparanschool.com/experience.

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Atlanta Private Schools Mt. Bethel Christian Academy

North Cobb Christian School

t. Bethel Christian Academy is the school of choice for Cobb families and beyond desiring a JK-12th Christ-centered education.

T h rou gh a re l at io n s h i p centered approach to teaching, MBCA students are equipped to succeed as they learn, lead, and serve. At MBCA, students are known and loved, and individual strengths are celebrated.

Mt. Bethel’s curriculum challenges students with a STEM program, honors/AP classes, robotics, world languages, domestic and international mission trips, plus digital/fine arts opportunities.

A 1:1 laptop program allows students to access textbooks and reference material online, and includes a communication tool to connect students, parents, and teachers. MBCA’s class of 2021 saw 45 graduates earn more than $6.7 million in scholarships.

The two campuses include performing arts, visual arts and video production studios, learning commons with student collaboration space, a fitness center, and athletic facilities. Beyond the classroom, championship athletics and robotics programs provide opportunities for growth.

Bus service is available to the Lower & Middle Campus (JK-8) at 4385 Lower Roswell Road and Upper Campus (9-12) at 2509 Post Oak Tritt Rd. Email admission@mtbethelchristian.org to learn more.

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orth Cobb Christian School partners with parents of over 1,000 students in preschool K3 through 12th grade to inspire the pursuit of wonder, safeguard innocence, and discover the truth of God. This is school ... the way it should be. Since its founding in 1983, NCCS remains true to the calling of providing an authentically Christian, academically excellent education that honors each student’s unique genius. Students thrive amidst a strong family culture with a 10:1 student-to-teacher average ratio.

Limitless opportunities to shine include 54 championshipcaliber athletic teams, 17 award-winning arts ensembles, 5 Academies (magnet programs), and a robust array of activities, clubs and enrichment programs. Proactive college counseling results in top scholarships and a 100% college acceptance rate. Plus, weekly chapel, discipleship groups, fall retreat, and Spring Term trips encourage solid biblical foundations. In fact, an independent school consulting firm recently reported that “the strength of NCCS is their Christian mission. Of all the schools we have worked with nationally and globally, NCCS’s Christian mission is the strongest we have seen.” For a personal tour: 770-975-0252, ncchristian.org/ admissions, admissions@ncchristian.org.

Pace Academy

Sage School

n 1958, an interfaith group of community leaders envisioned a learning environment open to fresh ideas and debate. Pace Academy today is exactly what its founders had in mind.

Wit h 1 , 1 1 5 s t ude nt s i n Pre - Fi r s t through 12th grade, Pace strives to create prepared, confident citizens of the world.

Student-teacher relationships are at the heart of the Pace experience, so the school maintains a student-teacher ratio of 9:1 and an average class size of 12.

Pace develops children’s passions and strengths through academics, athletics and the arts, while providing global perspectives in the classroom and an integrated experience after the bell rings.

Through the Isdell Center for Global Leadership (ICGL), Pace students come to view the world through a global lens. The ICGL builds on an innovative academic curriculum and explores an annual, school-wide theme. Curricular and co-curricular activities, scholars in residence, fellowships, internships and international study tours support education around these themes.

Through the ICGL, Pace students, guided by an outstanding faculty, develop a deep understanding of the world and the people around them. Pace graduates want to be successful and realize that true success means making a difference.

For more information, visit paceacademy.org.

earning how to learn is one of the greatest gifts a child can receive. At Sage School, students are presented with tools and strategies to unlock the code of English language. Language instruction and Orton-Gillingham remediation form the core of the education of a Sage School student. The instruction is multisensory, direct and explicit.

Orton-Gillingham remediation, the best education a student with dyslexia can receive, is a multi-sensory approach to teaching children to read and write. While the approach at Sage School is structured, sequential, and cumulative, it is also individualized to meet the needs of the learner. Rather than rote learning, instructors address the language cognitively, teaching students how language works.

A Sage School classroom provides individualized instruction to meet the students’ needs in the areas of encoding, spelling, handwriting, written expression, vocabulary and reading comprehension. Learn more about Sage and schedule a tour today at sageschool.com.

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Best Guide to Saint Francis School

The Schenck School

aint Francis School is an independent, not for profit, college preparatory program, without any religious affiliation, serving the Atlanta Metro area since 1976. The mission of Saint Francis School is to provide a college preparatory program to s t u d e nt s w it h d ive r s e academic ability in a structured environment that is challenging and supportive. Kindergarten – 8th grades are located on the 24-acre Roswell Campus while the High School is located on the 47-acre Milton campus. The school’s commitment to small class sizes, low pupil-to-teacher ratio, and a strong emphasis on structure and organization allows students to enjoy success in academic areas and develop the self-confidence necessary to be successful in college. Curriculum offerings include AP, Honors, Traditional, Support classes and Academic Enhancement courses..

Specialized reading programs offered include Fundations®, Wilson Reading System®, Just Words® and supplemental support from Cars ® and Stars ® Reading Comprehension. Sports are offered at Grades 5 - 8 and high school (GHSA) including football, soccer, baseball, track, swimming, wrestling, softball, volleyball and equestrian.

Visit saintfrancisschools.com to learn more.

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he Sc he nc k Sc ho ol ’ s mission is to build a solid educational foundation for students with dyslexia and to develop their rich potential.

Founded by David Schenck in 1959, The Schenck School is widely regarded as one of the top elementary schools in the U.S. for dyslexic students.

The Schenck School focuses on an accelerated remediation of dyslexia using The Schenck School’s reading model, a highly diagnostic and prescriptive application of the Orton-Gillingham Approach with small group instruction across all subjects. Critical to student’s success is a specialized, intensive yet nurturing learning environment for students to take risks, read and succeed. While at the School, students learn to advocate for themselves and to celebrate their dyslexia.

The Dyslexia Resource is a non-profit launched by The Schenck School to share the expertise of the School with others in the community who work with struggling readers. Their mission is to empower communities to serve dyslexic learners through training, tutoring, and education.

For more information about the school, visit schenck.org.

For more about tutoring, training and education opportunities, visit dyslexiaresource.org.

Springmont School

St. Benedict’s Episcopal School

s the oldest Montessori school in the Southeast, Springmont offers students 18 months through M idd le S c ho o l a n aut he nt ic Montessori education. Individual, hands-on learning is focused not only on academics but also on so c ia l / e mot iona l wel l - b e i ng inspires Springmont’s diverse and inclusive community of learners to become creative, independent thinkers.

Multi-aged classes and specially designed materials are complemented by highly experienced teachers who guide students’ curiosity towards meaningful, collaborative discoveries. Large, light-filled classrooms and a beautiful outdoor campus with many natural areas, class gardens and farm animals afford rich outdoor experiences.

Springmont’s Middle School prepares students for success in Atlanta’s premier high schools as well as life beyond academics.

Students run micro-economies, participate in internships, and compete in regional academic competitions. Opportunities to hone time-management skills, experience active leadership roles, and work both independently and in diverse groups allow students to become engaged learners. Springmont School – Extraordinary by Design. Learn more at springmont.com.

ocated in Smyrna, St. Benedict’s Episcopal School is a tight-knit community focused on academic excellence with the open and inclusive values of Episcopal education. Small class sizes mean each child is known by their teachers and peers.

The infant – 8th grade model allows students to learn at an age-appropriate level in an environment where older students experience leadership opportunities and serve as role models for younger students. Beginning in preschool, an introduction to phonemic awareness provides the foundational building block to literacy.

In the lower school, focus on mastery of skills rather than memorization of facts gives St. Benedict’s students the time to think, discuss, process and apply their knowledge in a collaborative learning environment. Middle school students are immersed in coursework which inspires them to think critically, problem solve and collaborate.

Students go on to the high school of their choice and are skilled in time management, organization, notetaking and study skills.

Spanish and STEAM are part of the core curriculum for all grades and ages, along with weekly music, art and Chapel. Learn more about the St. Benedict’s difference at stbs.org.

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Atlanta Private Schools St. Martin’s Episcopal School

Swift School

t. Martin’s Episcopal School is At la nta ’ s pre sc ho ol t h rough 8th-grade experience dedicated to graduating well-rounded individuals ready to wholeheartedly embrace life.

St. Martin’s serves 650 students and offers a challenging curriculum, outstanding facilities and many opportunities for students to learn about the world and themselves through intellectual adventures, extracurricular opportunities and spiritual formation.

St. Martin’s Early Childhood Learning Center features state-ofthe-art classrooms, a STEAM village and an outdoor learning space all geared to foster engagement and collaborative learning among young children.

Elementary School at St. Martin’s is a vibrant community with a focus on a loving structure balanced with high academic expectations grounded in a STEAM-based education. The Middle School has a traditional structure designed to prepare students for academically rigorous high schools while also meeting the unique developmental needs of early adolescents.

As an Episcopal School, students’ spiritual growth is an important part of St. Martin’s mission. Students are inspired to be good citizens, to serve the community and to love and respect oneself and others.

To learn more, please contact the Admission Office at 404-228-0709 and visit stmartinschool.org.

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wift School is an independent school serving students in grades K–8 with dyslexia and ot he r la nguage - ba se d learning differences. Swift’s programming is designed to remediate the language learning challenges faced by these students while capitalizing on the strengths of dyslexic learners. At Swift, dyslexia is viewed through the lens of leading-edge brain science and seen as a brain type with great advantages.

Swift uses the Orton-Gillingham approach to teach students how to decode and understand language and helps students develop interpersonal skills that will allow them to thrive in life beyond Swift. With small class sizes, Swift’s Lower Division provides students a high degree of individualized instruction. The Middle Division offers a challenging program to prepare students for high school. In addition to classroom instructors, the Director of Learning Support and speech-language pathologists support Swift students. Swift offers after school clubs for Lower Division students and interscholastic sports for Middle Division students.

Swift School is located in Roswell off GA-400 at exit 7. Contact them at 678-205-4988 or visit theswiftschool.org to learn more.

Tabula Rasa – The Language Academy

Trinity School

a bu l a Ra s a , T he L a ng u a ge Academy Total Immersion School started in 2001 with a desire to create a family-like environment where babies through 5th grade become fluent in a second language (Spanish), become familiar with a third language (French) and learn the culture of the countries speaking that language. A strong aspect of the daily programs and activities involves diversity, respecting the environment and each other.

The students come from a variety of backgrounds and countries and the teachers are native-speakers, all of which adds to the diversity and enrichment of the learning experience. Preschool instruction is all in the foreign language. Elementary School is bilingual Spanish/English, with a third language of French at the Sandy Springs campus continued in the afternoons.

Tabula Rasa has an enrollment of 350 with a low student/ teacher ratio, and helps students with their Spanish homework in the Afterschool program. Both locations are now accepting applications.

For more i n for mat ion or to tou r t he ca m pu s a nd see reasons why students love the program, please call 404-409-0827, or visit trlanguages.com.

stablished in 1951, Trinity School is Atlanta’s only private elementary-only school and serves children age three through Sixth Grade. Students enjoy small class sizes, low student-toteacher ratios, state-of-the-art technology, and flexible indoor and outdoor learning spaces on a beautiful 43-acre campus.

Offering high-quality, multisensory differentiated learning in a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment, Trinity is known for its challenging academics, amazing arts program, and community that cares like no other.

The magic of childhood is cherished, encouraging students to try things they never imagined and cheering mightily when they succeed. Students have ample opportunity to follow their interests and find their passions. In addition to strong foundations in math, language arts, science, and social studies, they are given an abundance of choice — in art, community service, engineering and design, technology, World Languages, music, and physical education. With the support of teachers who are experts in elementary education, Trinity students gain a lifelong love of learning, confidence in their abilities, and strategies to adapt to new situations and an ever-changing world.

Discover more at trinityatl.org.

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Best Guide to The Walker School

Wesleyan School

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Westminster

Whitefield Academy

e s t m i n s te r i s a coeducational Christian, independent school serving bright and motivated students, who are curious by nature and nurtured by challenge. The School was founded in 1951 to develop leaders of conscience who will be a positive force in the world.

With an enrollment of 1,896 students in grades Pre-first through 12, Westminster fulfills its mission through a curriculum that engages children across the key dimensions of their growth – academic, physical, and spiritual.

The School’s dynamic curricular offerings are complemented by extracurricular opportunities including unique service learning projects that partner the students with nonprofit organizations locally and abroad; a dynamic arts program that includes music, visual arts, and drama; a nationally recognized athletic program with more than 84 teams across 17 sports; and interdisciplinary global programs spanning five continents. Westminster students are encouraged to deeply investigate and explore their passions under the guidance of gifted faculty members.

Learn more about Westminster’s academics, faculty, extracurricular activities, and admissions process at westminster.net.

hitefield Academy is a Christ-centered, collegepreparatory school serving more than 850 students in grades PreK through 12. Located just off I-285 in Smyrna, Whitefield maintains a solid academic reputation with its numerous AP and honors courses, and a curriculum that sets the framework for 100 percent of its graduates to matriculate to colleges and universities. In fact, graduates from the past three years have averaged more than $9 million in scholarships, annually. The Whitefield learning environment facilitates discovery of student talents and interests that might have otherwise gone unnoticed. With more than 50 sports teams, including 20 varsity teams, Whitefield athletes have multiple opportunities for both participation and success – over 100 Whitefield alumni have moved on to NCAA competition in their chosen sport. In addition to academic and athletic prowess, Whitefield’s award-winning fine arts programs and first-rate Innovation Lab are allowing students to explore and develop their passions in theater, music, and visual arts, as well as STEM subjects such as engineering and robotics. For more information, visit whitefieldacademy.com.

t The Walker School, the infinite worth and dignity of each student defines the approach to learning. Walker is the top PK3-12th grade school open to all faiths in metro Atlanta. With an average class size of 16 students, each child is challenged, supported and encouraged to explore all opportunities on the campus. Upper School students are able to customize their high school experience, choosing from a wide range of academic offerings, including 26 of the 31 College Board AP courses. Most of all, your child is known. One hundred percent of graduates are accepted to four-year colleges and universities. Walker students are excited and confident about college and beyond. Walker is located two miles from the Marietta Square, and offers more than 20 bus routes in the metro area. At The Walker School, tuition assistance is available to bridge the gap between the cost of tuition and a family’s ability to pay. For more information about the wonder of Walker visit thewalkerschool.org/admission.

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esleyan 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. The 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 School has made a commitment, in the midst of a rapidly changing culture, to never waiver on the core principle of dedication to Jesus Christ.

This is at the heart of everyday life at Wesleyan as students learn and faculty strive to model the school J.O.Y. motto – Jesus, others, and then yourself.

Enrolling grades K-12, Wesleyan School prepares students for each stage of life and provides them the opportunity to see all the possibilities that lie before them. Located just outside of I-285 in Peachtree Corners, Wesleyan offers bus routes throughout the metro Atlanta area. Application deadlines along with information about admissions events and campus tours can be found online at wesleyanschool.org.

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Atlanta Private Schools The Wood Acres School

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Woodward Academy

he Wood Acres School, located in the heart of East Cobb, is an affordable option for families looking for an exceptional private school experience for Preschool (2s-4s), Grammar School (K-5) and Upper School (6-8). Wood Acres is well known in the community for its accelerated curriculum, integration of STEM and STEAM activities, and teaching Spanish as a second language.

The Wood Acres School believes in high expectations for all students while recognizing that like the school’s gingko leaf logo, each child is unique. Situated on nine spacious acres, students enjoy daily recess and outside exploration along with academic rigor. Small class sizes of 13-15 students enable the dedicated and experienced faculty to challenge their students and provide an outstanding education.

In today’s uncertain world, Wood Acres continues to be relevant by staying true to the ideals that have brought success for many while evolving to meet the changing needs of today’s students. Visit woodacresschool.org to schedule a personal tour.

Come see why #woodacresistheplacetobe!

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ith 2,525 students across two campuses spanning133-acres, c o m p le me nte d by the intimacy of a 6:1 studentteacher ratio, Woodward offers the vast resources and opportunities of a c o l l e ge o r u n ive r s i t y coupled with the intimacy and attention of home. Students learn how to think about and engage in the world outside of themselves, making a commitment to do their best, and gaining the confidence to make a difference. This shared purpose is something they call The Woodward Way. Woodward challenges its students to explore new academic frontiers and reach their fullest potential. What does success look like? Look no further than the 25 AP classes, renowned Transition Program for students with mild learning differences, 86 student clubs, 75 yearly arts performances, and 18 varsity sports.

Woodward’s Global Connections Program offers extensive international study abroad programs, and its innovative STEAM programs are woven into the curriculum—from coding for kindergartners to the Independent Scientific Research program, which pairs juniors and seniors with university professors to work on real-world problems. Learn more at woodward.edu.

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CONNECTING LEARNING TO LIFE AT EVERY LEVEL.

paceacademy.org/admissions

Educating the

whole child learn how at www.lovett.org

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Open Doors.

Endless Opportunities.

St. Benedict's offers small class sizes, affordable tuition and an inclusive community.

We are accepting applications for all grades infant - 8th grade.

Join us for our Open House on January 23.

STEAM curriculum is integrated every classroom infant - 8th grade.

2160 Cooper Lake Rd. Smyrna, GA 30080 stbs.org | 678.279.4300 atlantaparent.com

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Where authentic Christian mission and academic excellence aren’t mutually exclusive

WHY WESLEYAN?

EXPLORE WESLEYAN AT WWW.WESLEYANSCHOOL.ORG/ADMISSIONS 62 Atlanta Parent January 2022

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January 2022 Atlanta Parent 63

2 Cool 4 School: Awesome School Programs in Metro Atlanta

by Emily Webb

It should come as no surprise that students in school are learning, but some metro Atlanta programs take traditional classroom learning to the next level. These organizations partner with schools to teach students life skills.

Riding Along with All Kids Bike The Strider Education Foundation’s All Kids Bike wants to help every kid in America learn how to ride a bicycle.

Implemented in kindergarten, their online curriculum features lesson plans and resources, and the program is taught in eight lessons. All Kids Bike places Strider 14x Bikes into the class and includes necessary items, such as pedal conversion kits and helmets.

“My favorite part is seeing the pure joy that kids have when the bikes are revealed to them and seeing their confidence and

Building a Toolbox with Toolbox

64 Atlanta Parent January 2022

belief in themselves continue to grow as they progress from balancing on a bike to proficiently pedaling,” says Lauren Tadlock, Project Manager.

Kids’ screen time has increased, and families may not be able to prioritize exercise. “Seventy-five percent of American kids won’t ride a bicycle even one time this year. For many, it is simply because they don’t know how to ride,” she says. “Riding a bike is a developmental milestone that introduces a lifetime of confidence, mobility, joy and overall wellbeing.”

Remember your high school’s shop class?

Jeffrey “J” Prothero was inspired to help students start learning woodworking and electrical skills at a younger age. Called the Young Apprentice Construction Club, it exists in all six schools which feed into Roswell’s two middle schools and completes the first elementary to high school construction technology pipeline in Georgia.

“The first project they build is a toolbox, and this toolbox is a metaphor for life skills,” says Prothero, Founding Volunteer. “We’re giving them tools they can use in life. We’re working on the kids in every category we can possibly impact.”

The students learn how the skills relate to their future, as Prothero explains that what they’re learning will help them if they’re ever homeowners. But they also practice life skills. At the start of each meeting, students and volunteers shake hands, learning how to greet others politely. Students also work in buddy teams, making them better peers.

“When they start building and you see these kids’ faces, it’s mind blowing to see them light up the way they do,” he says. “We’re impacting how kids feel about school and impacting their happy meter.”

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Bringing Food to the Table with the Wylde Center Food and nature equal fun with the Wylde Center’s Farm to School education programs in City Schools of Decatur and Atlanta Public Schools.

In 2008, the Wylde Center teamed up with parent activists who wanted fresher, nutritious food in City of Decatur Schools to form Decatur Farm to School. The Wylde Center provided education in the classrooms and school gardens. The Atlanta Farm to School program brings the same model to 10 different Title I Atlanta Public Schools.

“Our programs are standards-based, and we work with our partner schools to follow their pacing calendar, so our programs generally expand upon what students are learning in the classroom,” says Andrea Blanton, Farm to School Manager. “For example, kindergarten students receive a three-class unit on rocks and soils, and first grade students learn about George Washington Carver by growing, harvesting and tasting sweet potatoes.”

Students gain hands-on experience in environmental science, sustainability, gardening, health and nutrition. “Our goal, first and foremost, is that students develop a love and appreciation for nature and a sense of ownership over their food choices. We want to give them the tools to make decisions about what they eat, and expose them to as many options as we can,” she says. “Seeing connections click in a child’s eyes is an incredible moment. We love tasting food with children, and hearing them say that they love something they were resistant to even trying before.”

How Can You Help?

There are so many ways to support schools through volunteer work or donations. n Donate or find volunteer opportunities at toolbox.life. n Donate unused technology items to Inspiredu, or volunteer at a workshop or in the warehouse. Find out more at iuatl.org. n Support All Kids Bike with a donation. Every $10 donation teaches one child how to ride a bike. Find out more at allkidsbike.org. n Donate or find volunteer opportunities at wyldecenter.org.

Get Technical with Inspiredu Inspiredu’s mission is to help underserved youth develop the technology-based skills needed for education and career success.

“In March of 2020, when schools started to close, we were getting calls to see how can we help get devices into the homes of children,” says Oneisha Freeman, the Director of Partnerships & Programs. “We were fortunate that we were being proactive about getting devices into homes of students.”

With the COVID-19 pandemic, many schools moved to a virtual learning model.

This hurt students who did not have access to technology at home. “The pandemic atlantaparent.com

has exacerbated the need but propelled the understanding of digital inclusion and equity forward immensely,” Freeman says.

As part of their Family Learning program, families attend a workshop where they’ll learn how to leverage technology and digital platforms, safety, digital citizenship and troubleshooting. “We help a family unpack all that: Here’s how you can support a 21st century learner, and it’s not what you had in school,” she says. “Parents can get so left out. We can help our school partners and parents feel a little bit more comfortable engaging with the system, so they’re empowering themselves and their kids.”

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n Email your school principal to see what opportunities are available as a parent volunteer. n Metro Atlanta has many opportunities for programs that you may be interested in or have talents in.

Research volunteer programs to find something you are passionate about.

Have an instrument your child is no longer using? Donate it to The Gift of Music; giftofmusic.org. Hands On Atlanta can connect you to schools in need; find details at handsonatlanta.org. n Volunteer to help plan or chaperone school events.

January 2022 Atlanta Parent 65

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

A Snapshot of School Districts in Metro Atlanta Atlanta Public Schools 404-802-3500 www.atlantapublicschools.us Atlanta Public Schools is one of the largest school districts in the state of Georgia, serving approximately 51,000 students across 87 schools and 5 programs. n Number of Schools: 64 traditional schools; 19 charter schools; 6 partner schools; 2 alternative schools; 5 alternative programs n Pupil to teacher ratios: 13 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $16,524

Bartow County School System 770-606-5800 www.bartow.k12.ga.us There are approximately 13,400 students attending Bartow County’s 20 schools (K-12), with 58% of 1,119 PSC certified teachers holding advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 12 elementary; 4 middle; 3 high schools; 1 college and career academy n Pupil to teacher ratio: 18 to 1 (average) n Per pupil expenditure: $10,500

Buford City Schools 770-945-5035 www.bufordcityschools.org There are 5,708 students enrolled in Buford City Schools. 83% percent of the 367 teachers have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 3 elementary; 1 middle; 1 high school n Pupil to teacher ratio: 14.8 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $10,243

Cherokee County School District 770-479-1871 www.cherokeek12.net CCSD has 42,000 students attending 40 schools and centers. There are 2,800 teachers in CCSD, of which 70% have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 23 elementary; 7 middle; 6 high schools; 1 virtual high school; 2 alternative centers; 2 preschool centers n Pupil to teacher ratio: 16 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $11,379

Clayton County Public Schools 770-473-2700 www.clayton.k12.ga.us Clayton County has the fifth largest school system in Georgia with more than 50,000 students. Of the district’s 3,191 teachers, 63% have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 38 primary/elementary; 15 middle; 12 high schools; 2 District-approved charter schools; 1 psychological education center; 1 multi-purpose education center; included are: 19 Special Programs/Magnet Opportunities n Pupil to teacher ratio: 16.42 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $9,145.08

66 Atlanta Parent January 2022

Bartow County School System

Cobb County School District 770-426-3300 www.cobbk12.org Cobb County has about 107,379 students attending 112 schools.

There are 10,160 certified employees; 65% have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 67 elementary; 26 middle; 17 high schools; 1 special education center; 1 adult education center; 1 performance learning center; 6 Magnet programs; 1 charter school n Pupil to teacher ratio: Varies by school. Meets or is lower than state mandated numbers n Per pupil expenditure: $9,643 (3-year average)

Coweta County School System 770-254-2800 www.cowetaschools.net Coweta County has 22,700 students and about 3,150 employees, 55% of whom are certified teaching employees. 60% of Coweta’s teachers hold advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 19 elementary; 7 middle schools; 3 high schools; 1 College and Career Academy charter school (serving grades 8-12 with traditional and non-traditional learning models); and the school system’s Donald W. Nixon Centre for the Performing and Visual Arts n Pupil to teacher ratios: Kindergarten: 20 to 1 with paraprofessional; Grades 1-3: 20 to 1; Grades 4-5: 24 to 1; Grades 6-8: 28 to 1. n Per pupil expenditure: $9,999.43 (FY2020)

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City Schools of Decatur 404-371-3601 www.csdecatur.net City Schools of Decatur have 5,792 Pre-K-12 students attending 10 schools. Of the district’s 553 certified teachers, more than 81.6% hold advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 10 total; 1 early childhood learning center; 5 kindergarten-second; 2 third-fifth; 1 middle; 1 high school n Pupil to teacher ratio: Meets or is lower than state mandated standards n Per pupil expenditure: $11,326

DeKalb County School District 678-676-1200 www.dekalbschoolsga.org DeKalb County School District is the third largest school system in Georgia with more than 93,000 students and more than 6,600 teachers. n Number of Schools: 139 schools. School choice options are available in nearly 50 schools to include theme, magnet, IB, charter and Montessori options n Pupil to teacher ratios: Varies by grade/course; based on the district’s state waiver n Per pupil expenditure: $12,398.67 (FY2020)

Douglas County School System

770-651-2000 www.dcssga.org There are approximately 26,075 students enrolled in Douglas County School System’s 36 schools. 69% of the 1,898 certified teaching staff have advanced degrees. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, students have the option to attend school digitally from home or face-to-face in schools. The One-to-One technology initiative provides an individual learning device (Chromebook or laptop) for each student and teacher. n Number of Schools: 20 elementary; 8 middle; 5 high schools; 1 Success Center; 1 College & Career Institute; 1 FLEX Academy n Pupil to teacher ratio: Elementary: 11.2 to 1; Middle: 13.8 to 1; High: 15.7 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $9,892

Fayette County Public Schools 770-460-3535 www.fcboe.org Fayette County Public Schools has 19,979 students. 76% of the 1,454 teachers have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 14 elementary; 5 middle; 5 high schools; Fayette LIFE Academy; 3 nontraditional schools for middle and high school students n Pupil to teacher ratio: 19.63 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $10,999 (based on 2020)

Forsyth County Schools 770-887-2461 www.forsyth.k12.ga.us More than 51,000 students attend Forsyth County’s 41 schools.

There are over 3,700 certified employees in the system. n Number of Schools: 22 elementary; 11 middle; 7 high schools and one 9-12 college and career academy n Pupil to teacher ratio: 20 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $9,607

Fulton County Schools 470-254-3600 www.fultonschools.org Fulton County has more than 90,000 students and 6,900 certified staff members at 108 schools. 65.48% of the staff have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 59 elementary (many with Pre-K programs); 19 middle; 19 high schools (2 with open campuses); 10 charter schools; 1 full-time virtual school n Pupil to teacher ratios: Kindergarten, 22 to 1 with paraprofessional; Grades 1-3, 23 to 1; Grades 4-5, 30 to 1; Middle, 30 to 1; High, 32 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $11,360 (estimated)

Gainesville City School System

Gainesville City School System 770-536-5275 www.gcssk12.net 7,725 students attend Gainesville City’s eight schools. 513 teachers are employed by the system, and 58% of them have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 6 elementary; 1 middle school; 1 high school n Pupil to teacher ratios: Pre-K, 21 to 1; Grades K-5, 13 to 1; Grades 6-8, 15 to 1; Grades 9-12, 18 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $9,376.73

Gwinnett County Public Schools 678-301-6000 www.gcpsk12.org With close to 180,000 students attending 141 educational facilities, Gwinnett County is the largest school system in Georgia. The average GCPS teacher holds a Master’s degree or higher advanced degree and has 13 years of experience. n Number of Schools: 81 elementary; 29 middle; 23 high schools; 8 other educational facilities n Pupil to teacher ratio: Varies by classroom, per Strategic Waivers School System contract n Per pupil expenditure: $10,253

Hall County Schools 770-534-1080 www.hallco.org There are 27,119 students enrolled in Hall County’s 37 schools. There are 2,194 certified staff, and 69% of those have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 20 elementary; 8 middle; 7 high schools; 1 college & career academy; 1 alternative learning center n Pupil to teacher ratio: 14 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $8,813.41

Henry County Schools

770-957-6601 www.henry.k12.ga.us There are 43,000 students and 2,960 certified teachers in Henry County Schools. 75% of the certified employees have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 28 elementary; 11 middle; 10 high schools; 1 alternative school; 1 charter college and career academy; 1 6-12 online school (Impact Academy) n Pupil to teacher ratios: Kindergarten, 24 to 1; Grades 1-3, 25 to 1; Grades 4-8, 32 to 1; Grades 9-12, 34 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $9,016 Cont’d on next page

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January 2022 Atlanta Parent 67

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

A Snapshot of School Districts in Metro Atlanta Marietta City Schools 770-422-3500 www.marietta-city.org Some 8,700 students attend Marietta City’s 12 schools. There are 1,400 employees with 75% of certified staff holding a Master’s degree or higher. n Number of Schools: 1 preschool; 8 elementary (one is grades 3-5 Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM) Magnet school); 1 6th grade academy; 1 middle; 1 high school n Pupil to teacher ratio: 13 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $13,300

Paulding County School District 770-443-8000 www.paulding.k12.ga.us The Paulding County School District has 34 schools, 30,135 students and 2,462 teachers. 71% of the teachers hold advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 19 elementary; 9 middle; 5 high schools; 1 alternative learning center n Pupil to teacher ratio: Kindergarten, 20.6 to 1; Grades 1-3, 21.6 to 1; Grades 4-5, 27.6 to 1; Grades 6-8, 27.6 to 1; Grades 9-12, 21.5 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $10,410

Cobb County School District

Rockdale County Public Schools 770-483-4713 www.rockdaleschools.org There are 15,573 students attending Rockdale County Public Schools.

Approximately 71% of the 1,377 certified personnel hold advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 11 elementary; 4 middle; 3 high schools; 1 college and career academy; 1 alpha school; 1 open campus; 1 magnet school; 11 school choice programs n Pupil to teacher ratio: 11.3 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $11,003.78

Gwinnett County Public Schools

K-5 Japanese-English Dual Language Immersion State Charter School

ICAGeorgia aims to broaden the horizons of students so they may become global citizens who promote peace around the world. Students have opportunities to participate in local and global-level service learning projects and Japanese cultural events.

CALL TODAY: 770.604.0007 3705 Engineering Drive | Peachtree Corners 30092 InternationalCharterAcademy.org Facebook: InternationalCharterAcademyOfGeorgia 68 Atlanta Parent January 2022

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saint francis school Specialized Reading Programs

N O U O Y E AR LIST? THE Sign up for our newsletter atlantaparent.com

Grades K-8 Wilson Reading System® Fundations® Just Words® Cars and Stars®

Academic Subjects Reading/English, Math, Writing, Science, History, Organizational skills, Sports, Theatre, Fine Arts, Clubs, and more.

Imagine if there was a school where the students who have difficulty in Reading, could receive help they need and be in a regular private school environment.

That school exists!

Call 770-641-8257, ext. 51 to set up a tour today!

Saint Francis School • 9375 Willeo Road • Roswell 30075 • saintfrancisschools.com

Monthly Homeschool Workshop Weekly Preschool Program Virtual Outreach Field Trips A SMITHSONIAN AFFILIATE

All aboard for museum fun!

SouthernMuseum.org • 770-427-2117 atlantaparent.com

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January 2022 Atlanta Parent 69

A child's day is meant to be filled with wonder, discovery and joy.

School should not be the exception.

Winter Open House Sunday, January 23, 2022 Visit our website to register.

Individual tours by appointment.

Learning should be an

70 Atlanta Parent January 2022

Adventure!

Age 3 through Eighth Grade | Roswell, GA 770.993.2940 | www.highmeadows.org An International Baccalaureate® School

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THE LIST: Atlanta’s Private Schools Start your search for the right private school for your child with our listings.

Schools are divided into four categories: non-sectarian, religiousaffiliated, Montessori and learning differences. Tuition prices are approximate.

Non-Sectarian Schools listed below offer classes at least through the third grade. They include the largest in the metro area, as well as Atlanta Parent magazine advertisers

Academe of the Oaks. 146 New St., Decatur (DeKalb). 404-405-2173. 9th-12th. 85 students. $21,500/yr. academeatlanta.org.

Atlanta Girls’ School. 3254 Northside Pkwy. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-8450900. 6th-12th. 184 students. $27,890/yr. atlantagirlsschool.org.

Atlanta International School. 2890 N. Fulton Dr., Atlanta (Fulton). 404-841-3840.

K3-12th. 1,315 students. $25,947-$29,621/yr. aischool.org.

Brandon Hall School. 1701 Brandon Hall Dr., Atlanta (Fulton). 770-394-8177.

6th-12th. 130 students. $30,000/yr. (day)$59,000/yr. (boarding). brandonhall.org.

Brandon Hall School

Foundations for the Future School. 1500 Stanley Rd., Kennesaw (Cobb).

770-429-4799. 6wks.-5th. 207 students. $17,472 -$25,941/yr. foundationsschool.com.

Lyndon Academy. 485 Toonigh Rd., Holly Springs (Cherokee). 770-926-0166.

PK4-12th. 211 students. $11,400-$15,500/yr. lyndonacademy.org.

Fulton Science Academy. 3035 Fanfare Way, Alpharetta (Fulton). 678-366-2555. PreK12th. 878 students. $13,000-$14,750/yr. fultonscienceacademy.org.

McGinnis Woods Country Day School. 5380 Faircroft Dr., Alpharetta (Forsyth). 770-6647764. infant-8th. 300 students. $10,525-$14,875/ yr. mcginniswoods.org.

The Galloway School. 215 W. Wieuca Rd. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-252-8389. PreK312th. 750 students. $17,500-$29,950/yr. gallowayschool.org.

Midtown International School. 1575 Sheridan Rd., Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-542-7003.

K-12th. 200 students. $24,000-$25,200/yr. midtowninternationalschool.com.

The Heritage School. 2093 Hwy. 29 N, Newnan (Coweta). 770-253-9898. PreK312th. 465 students. $5,350-$18,950/yr. heritageschool.com.

Pace Academy. 966 W. Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-262-1345. Pre1-12th. 1,115 students. $28,460-$32,760/yr. paceacademy.org.

High Meadows School. 1055 Willeo Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 770-993-2940. 3yrs.8th. 340 students. $7,070-$21,580/yr. highmeadows.org.

The Paideia School. 1509 Ponce de Leon Ave. NE, Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-377-3491.

3yrs.-12th. 1,034 students. $13,143-$27,831/yr. paideiaschool.org.

The Children’s School. 345 Tenth St. NE, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-873-6985. 3yrs.-8th.

375 students. $14,478-$23,569/yr. tcsatl.org.

Lakeview Academy. 796 Lakeview Dr., Gainesville (Hall). 770-532-4383. PreK312th. 525 students. $7,405-$18,790/yr. lakeviewacademy.com.

Cliff Valley School. 2426 Clairmont Rd., Atlanta (DeKalb). 678-302-1302. 3yrs.-8th.

375 students. $7,500-$18,980/yr. cliffvalley.org.

Peachtree Academy. 1801 Ellington Rd., 1760 Ebenezer Rd., 10125 Hwy. 142, and 14101 Hwy. 278, Conyers and Covington (Rockdale); (Newton). 770-860-8900.

PreK-12th. 352 students. $5,800-$9,000/yr. peachtreeacademy.com.

Lovett School. 4075 Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-262-3032. K-12th.

1,660 students. $27,675-$32,130/yr. lovett.org.

Rivers Academy. 38 North Main St., Alpharetta (Fulton). 770-475-0081. 5th-12th. 261 students. $11,240/yr. riversacademy.com.

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January 2022 Atlanta Parent 71

THE LIST: Atlanta’s Private Schools The SAE School. 6688 Mableton Pkwy., Mableton (Cobb). 678-239-3200. Preschool-8th.

340 students. $11,400-$13,200/yr. saeschool.org.

Saint Francis Schools. 13440 Cogburn Rd., and 9375 Willeo Rd., Alpharetta and Roswell (Fulton). 770-641-8257. K-12th. 850 students. $15,500-$25,000/yr. saintfrancisschools.com.

The Stonehaven School. 1480 Joyner Ave., and 1650 Old Concord Rd., Marietta (Cobb).

770-874-8885. K5-11th. 216 students. $2,400$11,800/yr. stonehavenschool.org.

Tabula Rasa The Language Academy.

5855 Riverside Dr., and 1430 Riverside Pkwy., Atlanta and Lawrenceville (Fulton); (Gwinnett).

404-409-0827. 2mos.-5th. 350 students. $12,000-$16,500/yr. trlanguages.com.

Trinity School. 4301 Northside Pkwy. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-231-8100. 3yrs.-6th. 588 students. $19,350-$28,550/yr. trinityatl.org.

The Waldorf School of Atlanta. 827 Kirk Rd., Decatur (DeKalb). 404-377-1315. PreK-8th.

210 students. $12,865-$19,185/yr. waldorfatlanta.org.

The Walker School. 700 Cobb Pkwy., Marietta (Cobb). 770-427-2689. PreK3-12th. 900 students. $11,280-$25,940/yr. thewalkerschool.org.

The Wood Acres School. 1772 Johnson Ferry Rd., Marietta (Cobb). 770-971-1880.

PreK2-8th. 325 students. $7,500-$13,600/yr. woodacresschool.org.

Woodward Academy. 1662 Rugby Ave., and 6565 Boles Rd., College Park and Johns Creek (Fulton). 404-765-4001. PreK-12th. 2,525 students. $19,050-$29,950/yr. woodward.edu.

Religious-Affiliated Schools listed below offer classes at least through the third grade. These listings include the largest religious-affiliated schools in the metro area, plus Atlanta Parent Magazine advertisers.

Annunciation Day School. 2500 Clairmont Rd. NE, Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-565-2850.

Preschool-8th. 165 students. $4,000-$12,00/yr. annunciationdayschool.org.

Atlanta Academy. 2000 Holcomb Woods Pkwy., Roswell (Fulton). 678-461-6102.

Preschool-8th. 380 students. $11,600-$17,310/ yr. atlantaacademy.com.

Atlanta Jewish Academy. 5200 Northland Dr., Atlanta (Fulton). 404-843-9900. 3mos.12th. 486 students. $16,640-$30,1600/yr. atljewishacademy.org.

72 Atlanta Parent January 2022

Trinity School

Blessed Trinity Catholic High School. 11320 Woodstock Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 678-2779083. 9th-12th. 1,000 students. $13,600/yr. btcatholic.org.

Cherokee Christian Schools. 3075 Trickum Rd., Woodstock (Cherokee). 678-494-5464.

K5-12th. 376 students. $11,250-$14,300/yr. cherokeechristian.org.

Christ the King School. 46 Peachtree Way, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-233-0383. K-8th. 570 students. $9,550-$13,030/yr. christking.org.

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Community Christian School. 2001 Jodeco Rd., Stockbridge (Henry). 678-432-0191.

6wks.-12th. 800 students. $5,498-$11,017/yr. communitychristianschool.net.

Cornerstone Christian Academy. 5295 Triangle Pkwy. NW, Peachtree Corners (Gwinnett). 770-441-9222. K-8th. 450 students. $12,468-$16,093/yr. cornerstonecougars.org.

Covenant Christian Academy. 6905 Post Rd., Cumming (Forsyth). 770-674-2990. K4-12th.

254 students. $8,200-$8,700/yr. covenantrams.org.

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Creekside Christian Academy. 2455 Mt. Carmel, 175 Foster Dr., Hampton and McDonough (Henry).

770-961-9300. K3-12th. 825 students. $6,850-$8,700/ yr. creeksideacademy.org.

Cumberland Christian Academy. 2356 Clay Rd., Austell (Cobb). 678-426-1600. K3-12th. 230 students. $6,550-$9,495/yr. cumberlandchristian.org.

The Davis Academy. 8105 Roberts Dr., Atlanta (Fulton). 770-671-0085. PreK-8th. 560 students. $19,250-$27,970/yr. davisacademy.org.

Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy. 2400 Hwy. 42 North, McDonough (Henry). 770-957-2927. K3-12th.

933 students. $4,968-$14,405/yr. elcaonline.org.

Eastside Christian School. 2450 Lower Roswell Rd., Marietta (Cobb). 770-971-2332. K-8th. 223 students. $10,160-$10,725/yr. eastsidechristianschool.com.

The Epstein School. 335 Colewood Way NW, Sandy Springs (Fulton). 404-250-5600. 3mos.-8th. 450 students. $8,050-$25,900/yr. epsteinatlanta.org.

Fellowship Christian School. 10965 Woodstock Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 770-993-1650. PreK12th. 957 students. $4,413-$19,188/yr. fellowshipchristianschool.org.

George Walton Academy. 1 Bulldog Dr., Monroe (Walton). 678-635-3800. K3-12th. 750 students. $5,000-$14,500/yr. gwa.com.

Atlanta Girls’ School

Grace Christian Academy. 355 McDonough Rd., Fayetteville (Fayette).

770-461-0137. K3-12th. 200 students. $5,300-$7,200/yr. gracechristian.info.

Harvester Christian Academy. 4241 Central Church Rd., Douglasville (Douglas). 770-9421583. K4-12th. 284 students. $4,520-$9,830/yr. harvesteracademy.com.

Greater Atlanta Christian School. 1575 Indian Trail Rd., Norcross (Gwinnett). 770243-2000. K3-12th. 1,806 students. $16,360$25,300/yr. greateratlantachristian.org.

Hebron Christian Academy. 775 Dacula Rd., Dacula (Gwinnett). 770-963-9250. PreK4-12th.

1,150 students. $6,500-$13,800/yr. hebronlions.org.

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Empowering the Future. One Student at a Time.

NOW ENROLLING PRESCHOOL8TH GRADE

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2000 Holcomb Woods Pkwy.

Roswell, GA 30076 678.461.6102 www.atlantaacademy.com

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January 2022 Atlanta Parent 73

THE LIST: Atlanta’s Private Schools Heritage Preparatory School. 1700 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta (Fulton). 404-815-7711. PreK-10th.

216 students. $9,100-$19,200/yr. heritageprep.org.

Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School. 805 Mt. Vernon Hwy. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-2554026. PreK3-12th. 1,380 students. $12,620$30,530/yr. hies.org.

Holy Redeemer Catholic School. 3380 Old Alabama Rd., Johns Creek (Fulton). 770-4104056. K-8th. 475 students. $9,200-$10,700/yr. hrcatholicschool.org.

Holy Spirit Preparatory School. 4465 and 4449 Northside Dr., and 4820 Long Island Dr., Atlanta (Fulton). 678-904-2811. 6mos.-12th. 450 students. $3,655-$24,780/yr. holyspiritprep.org.

Horizon Christian Academy. 1270 Sawnee Dr., Cumming (Forsyth). 678-947-0711. K-12th. 256 students. $9,500-$11,800/yr. hcaga.org.

Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic School.

2855 Briarcliff Rd. NE, Atlanta (DeKalb). 404636-4488. K-8th. 500 students. $8,500-$10,920/ yr. ihmschool.org.

Intown Community School. 2059 Lavista Rd., Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-633-8081. K-8th. 200 students. $8,100-$11,800/yr. intownschool.org.

Landmark Christian School

Killian Hill Christian School. 151 Arcado Rd., Lilburn (Gwinnett). 770921-3224. K4-12th. 430 students. $6,000$12,900/yr. khcs.org.

King’s Ridge Christian School. 2765 Bethany Bend, Alpharetta (Fulton).

770-754-5738. PreK-12th. 838 students. $6,500-$22,600/yr. kingsridgecs.org.

Landmark Christian School. 400 Windgate Rd., Peachtree City (Fayette), and 50 SE Broad St., Fairburn (Fulton). 770-306-0647. PreK3-12th.

1,040 students. $9,000-$20,700/yr. landmarkchristianschool.org.

Loganville Christian Academy. 2575 Hwy. 81, Loganville (Walton). 770-554-9888. PreK3-12th. 566 students. $5,400-$11,250/yr. lcalions.com.

Safely Providing a Montessori Education

Montessori School at Emory

a school where your child learns

• By Individual Instruction • A Love of Learning • To Think Outside the Box

An Authentic AMI Accredited Montessori School

• Independence HALF OR FULL DAY, YEAR ROUND PROGRAMS 7 am - 6 pm

• Respect for Others • A Solid Foundation • Foreign Language, Music, Cooking, Gardening and More

Montessori School at Emory

3021 N. Decatur Road • Decatur, GA 30033 MontessoriSchoolatEmory.com • 404-634-5777

Accredited Toddler Through Middle School Programs 74 Atlanta Parent January 2022

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Marist School. 3790 Ashford Dunwoody Rd. NE, Atlanta (DeKalb). 770-457-7201. 7th-12th.

1,100 students. $21,1800/yr. marist.com.

GREAT MINDS THINK

Midway Covenant Christian School. 4635 Dallas Hwy., Powder Springs (Cobb). 770-5901866. PreK-8th. 280 students. $3,338-$7,824/ yr. midwayschool.org.

differently.

Mount Paran Christian School. 1275 Stanley Rd. NW, Kennesaw (Cobb). 770-578-0182.

PreK3-12th. 1,250 students. $4,130-$20,929/ yr. mtparanschool.com.

With over 37 years of success stories, we know how to teach differently too.

Mount Pisgah Christian School. 9820 Nesbit Ferry Rd., Johns Creek (Fulton). 678-3363400. infant-12th. 955 students. $15,800$22,575/yr. mountpisgahschool.org.

The Mount Vernon School. 471 and 510 Mt. Vernon Hwy. NE, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-2523448. PreK-12th. 1,213 students. $13,000$27,500/yr. mountvernonschool.org.

Mt. Bethel Christian Academy. 4385 Lower Roswell Rd., and 2509 Post Oak Tritt Rd., Marietta (Cobb). 770-971-0245. PreK-12th.

687 students. $12,270-$17,500/yr. mtbethelchristian.org.

school sampling

North Cobb Christian School. 4500 Eagle Dr., Kennesaw (Cobb). 770-975-0252. PreK3-12th.

1,010 students. $4,090-$17,035/yr. ncchristian.org.

Notre Dame Academy. 4635 River Green Pkwy., Duluth (Gwinnett). 678-387-9385.

K-12th. 313 students. $12,300-$17,310/yr. ndacademy.org.

Our Lady of Mercy Catholic High School.

861 Hwy. 279, Fayetteville (Fayette).

770-461-2202. 9th-12th. 225 students. $13,300-$14,300/yr. mercycatholic.org.

Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic School. 1320 Hearst Dr., Atlanta (DeKalb).

404-364-1902. PreK4-8th. 567 students. $9,875-$11,375/yr. olaschool.org.

WE INVITE YOU TO BE PART OF OUR STORY Building a sense of self for students with special learning needs through academic and experiential programming, The Cottage School (TCS) prepares individuals for fulfillment of their true potential as confident, productive, and independent adults.

Learn more at www.cottageschool.org.

Perimeter School. 9500 Medlock Bridge Rd., Johns Creek (Fulton). 678-405-2300.

K-8th. 519 students. $6,877-$14,885/yr. perimeterschool.org.

Pinecrest Academy. 955 Peachtree Pkwy., Cumming (Forsyth). 770-888-4477. PreK12th. 440 students. $9,640-$19,400/yr. pinecrestacademy.org.

Providence Christian Academy. 4575 Lawrenceville Hwy., Lilburn and Suwanee (Gwinnett); (Forsyth). 770-279-7200. PreK12th. 740 students. $6,300-$19,000/yr. providencechristianacademy.org.

Queen of Angels Catholic School.

11340 Woodstock Rd., Roswell (Fulton).

770-518-1804. K-8th. 490 students. $9,200-$10,700/yr. qaschool.org.

Cont’d on next page

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January 2022 Atlanta Parent 75

THE LIST: Atlanta’s Private Schools Saint Jude the Apostle Catholic School.

7171 Glenridge Dr. NE, Atlanta (Fulton).

770-394-2880. K-8th. 499 students. $9,535-$11,595/yr. saintjude.net.

Saint Thomas More Catholic School.

630 W. Ponce de Leon Ave., Decatur (DeKalb).

404-373-8456. K-8th. 489 students. $8,800-$12,120/yr. stmga.org.

Shallowford Presbyterian School.

2375 Shallowford Rd., Atlanta (DeKalb).

404-321-3061. 2yrs.-7th. 250 students. $2,205-$10,000/yr. shallowfordschool.com.

St. Benedict’s Episcopal School. 2160 Cooper Lake Rd., Smyrna (Cobb). 678-279-4300. infant8th. 570 students. $7,913-$14,276/yr. stbs.org.

St. Catherine of Siena Catholic School. 1618 Ben King Rd., Kennesaw (Cobb). 770-419-8601.

K-8th. 295 students. $8,390-$9,214/yr. scsiena.org.

St. John Neumann Catholic School. 791 Tom Smith Rd., Lilburn (Gwinnett). 770-381-0557.

PreK-8th. 310 students. $8,780-$11,445/yr. sjnrcs.org.

St. John the Evangelist Catholic School. 240 Arnold St., Hapeville (Fulton). 404-767-4312.

PreK-8th. 283 students. $8,580-$10,230/yr. sjecs.org.

North Cobb Christian School

St. Joseph Catholic School. 81 Lacy St., Marietta (Cobb). 770-428-3328. PreK4-8th. 425 students. $7,568-$9,840/yr. stjosephschool.org.

St. Martin’s Episcopal School. 3110-A Ashford-Dunwoody Rd., Atlanta (DeKalb). 404237-4260. 8wks.-8th. 661 students. $13,550$24,350/yr. stmartinschool.org.

St. Paul Lutheran School. 700 Ardenlee Pkwy., Peachtree City (Fayette). 770-486-3545.

12mos.-8th. 240 students. $1,825-$7,400/yr. stpaulptc.org.

St. Pius X Catholic High School. 2674 Johnson Rd. NE, Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-636-3023. 9th12th. 1,090 students. $14,500-$16,200/yr. spx.org.

Brandon Hall School CONVENIENTLY LOCATED IN SANDY SPRINGS OFF SPALDING DRIVE

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Brandon Hall School

76 Atlanta Parent January 2022

@BrandonHall_Atl

@brandonhall_atl @BHallAthletics

770.394.8177 • admissions@brandonhall.org

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Strong Rock Christian School. 4200 Strong Rock Pkwy., Locust Grove (Henry). 678833-1200. PreK3-12th. 826 students. $7,273$14,797/yr. strongrockchristianschool.com.

Sugar Hill Christian Academy. 4600 Nelson Brogdon Blvd., Sugar Hill (Gwinnett).

678-745-4121. Preschool-12th. 510 students. $2,383-$10,751/yr. sugarhillchristian.org.

Torah Day School of Atlanta. 1985 Lavista Rd. NE, Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-982-0800.

K-8th. 350 students. $13,000-$15,000/yr. torahday.org.

The Weber School. 6751 Roswell Rd. NE, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-917-2500. 9th.-12th.

272 students. $31,900/yr. weberschool.org.

Wesleyan School. 5405 Spalding Dr., Peachtree Corners (Gwinnett). 770-448-7640.

K-12th. 1,173 students. $18,560-$26,500/yr. wesleyanschool.org.

Westminster. 1424 W. Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-355-8673. Pre1st12th. 1,900 students. $28,520-$32,700/yr. westminster.net.

Notre Dame Academy

Montessori Montessori schools use the teaching technique developed by Dr. Maria Montessori.

Schools listed below have elementary classes through at least the third grade.

Whitefield Academy. 1 Whitefield Dr., Mableton (Cobb). 678-305-3000. PreK12th. 850 students. $10,000-$24,000/yr. whitefieldacademy.com.

Arbor Montessori School. 2998 Lavista Rd., and 1434 Scott Blvd., Decatur (DeKalb).

404-321-9304. 18mos.-8th. 245 students. $10,850-$20,950/yr. arbormontessori.org.

Atlanta Montessori International School.

1970 Cliff Valley Way NE, and 1215 S. Ponce de Leon Ave. NE, Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-325-6777. 8wks.-12yrs.

160 students. $16,000-$22,000/yr. amischool.com.

Cont’d on next page

Grades K - 12

K-12th grade courses

2022

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January 2022 Atlanta Parent 77

THE LIST: Atlanta’s Private Schools Crabapple Montessori School. 12387 Crabapple Rd., Alpharetta (Fulton). 770-569-5200.

15mos.-12yrs. 180 students. $8,740-$14,000/yr. crabapplemontessori.com.

International Montessori Academy.

1240 Euclid Ave. NE, Atlanta (DeKalb).

404-474-6375. 8wks.-6th. 115 students. $13,900$21,500/yr. imontessoriacademy.com.

Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs.

2830 Old Atlanta Rd., Cumming (Forsyth). 770205-6277. 18mos.-13yrs. 140 students. $8,650$13,050/yr. montessoriacademygeorgia.com.

Montessori Academy at Vickery. 6285 Post Rd., Cumming (Forsyth). 770-777-9131.

13mos.-9yrs. 170 students. $9,800-$15,000/yr. montessorivickery.com.

Montessori School at Emory. 3021 N. Decatur Rd., Decatur (DeKalb). 404-634-5777.

15mos.-8th. 170 students. $10,200-$17,100/yr. montessorischoolofdecatur.com.

Montessori In Town. 1192 Arkwright Place SE, Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-784-1038. 14mos.-6th. 125 students. $10,000-$17,000/yr. montessoriintown.com.

Riverstone Montessori. 455 Casteel Rd., Marietta (Cobb). 770-422-9194. 2.5yrs.-9th. 120 students. $9,955-$17,473/yr. riverstonemontessori.com.

Carlisle Montessori

Springmont School. 5750 Long Island Dr. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-252-3910. 18mos.8th. wa275 students. $10,7700-$23,420/yr. springmont.com.

AN EXCEPTIONAL SCHOOL FOR EXCEPTIONAL STUDENTS

Village Montessori. 1610 Woodstock Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 770-552-0834. 18mos.8th. 200 students. $6,100-$16,450/yr. vmschool.com.

Looking for more information on schools?

WE’RE EXCEPTIONAL . . .

Pick Up

“At Cumberland, we study college prep academics or prepare for a vocational career, try a sport or a club for the first time – ever. We learn we’re not so different after all.”

Atlanta Parent’s

Education Viewbook or read it online at atlantaparent.com

650-A Mt. Vernon Hwy NE • Atlanta 30328 cumberlandacademy.org • 404-835-9000 78 Atlanta Parent January 2022

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Brought to you by the experts at Atlanta Parent atlantaparent.com

Porter Academy

Special Needs The Bedford School. 5665 Milam Rd., Fairburn (Fulton). 770-774-8001. 1st-9th. 143 students. $20,050-20,450/yr. thebedfordschool.org.

Enabling Children with Learning Differences to Succeed

Brookwood Christian School for Dyslexia.

4728 Wood St., Acworth (Cobb). 678-4015855. 1st-12th. 70 students. $19,500/yr. brookwoodchristian.com.

• Pre-K–8th • Small Groups • Individualized programs

The Cottage School. 700 Grimes Bridge Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 770-641-8688. 4th-12th. 260 students. $27,000-$29,000/yr. cottageschool.org.

• Hands-on learning activities

Cumberland Academy of Georgia. 650-A Mt. Vernon Hwy. NE, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-8359000. 4th-12th. 100 students. $25,000-$26,000/ yr. cumberlandacademy.org.

770-594-1313 | www.porteracademy.org | 200 Cox Rd., Roswell

GRACEPOINT. 570 Piedmont Rd., Marietta (Cobb). 678-709-6634. 1st-8th. 131 students. $24,000/yr. gracepointschool.org.

The Howard School. 1192 Foster St., Atlanta (Fulton). 404-377-7436. K-12th. 344 students. $35,990-$37,990/yr. howardschool.org.

Serving students with Dyslexia

Mill Springs Academy. 13660 New Providence Rd., Alpharetta (Fulton). 770-360-1336. K-12th.

274 students. $20,888-$26,780/yr. millsprings.org.

Porter Academy. 200 Cox Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 770-594-1313. 4yrs.-14yrs. 70 students. $20,476/yr. porteracademy.org.

Sage School. 800 Satellite Blvd. NE, Suwanee (Gwinnett). 678-318-3588. K-6th. 80 students. $24,000/yr. sageschool.net.

The Schenck School. 282 Mt. Paran Rd. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-252-2591. K-6th. 250 students. $38,300/yr. schenck.org.

Swift School. 300 Grimes Bridge Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 678-205-4988. 1st-8th. 180 students. $32,555-$33,030/yr. theswiftschool.org.

l

l Grades 1-12 Wilson Reading & Fast Forward Programs l Small Class Sizes l Customized Instruction l College Prep and Tech Programs

678-401-5855

Office@BrookwoodChristian.com

4728 Wood Street • Acworth 30101 At the corner of North Main St. and Wood St., north of the Hwy 92 overpass

APS is caring Caring for parents and students.

Do you know a child who resides within the city of Atlanta in need of special education services?

APS Department of Special Education services can open a window of hope for a brighter future for children and young adults identified with a disability or developmental delay.

For more information, call the Dept. of Special Education.

Ages 3-5: 404-802-1690 Ages 6-21: 404-802-2636

The Wardlaw School of the Atlanta Speech School. 3160 Northside Pkwy. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-824-7622. K-6th. 189 students. $39,890/yr. atlantaspeechschool.org.

Fulton County Schools’ Services for Exceptional Children offers free diagnostic evaluations for children, three and older, with a suspected disability. Using research-based strategies, the district provides a continuum of services to meet students’ individual educational needs. The district provides services for students with disabilities – including but not limited to developmental, speech and language delays, autism, hearing, vision and orthopedic impairments – who are parentally placed in private school or homeschooled, and who attend a private school or reside within the Fulton County School District. The district provides workshops for families and private schools to help students reach their full academic potential.

It is the policy of the Fulton County School System not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, or disability in any employment practice,educational program, or any other program, activity, or service.

Cumberland Academy of Georgia

Call or visit for more information: 470-254-0404 • fultonschools.org

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January 2022 Atlanta Parent 79

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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The BEST place to have a birthday party fit for a princess. Choose between a spa, dance, or art party. We can customize any birthday package. Pick a theme and leave the rest to us.

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Zone of Light is THE place for any kind of party, you tell us what you want – we’ll make it a party! Plus, we have the coolest Black Light room. Check us out – we put the ART in parties!

Tiny Towne – Drive Safely

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Drive a car at your next party! Choose from three different size cars, ride the train, play in the Arcade and eat at the Grill. Book your party today and let Tiny Towne take care of the planning! Call or Text 470-265-6665.

We are located in Buckhead. With our private parties you get the entire facility. We have more than 300 costumes and 30 performers. Circus, Sports, Superheros, Princesses, Ninja Warrior and much, much more.

EPIC Parties happen here! We do all the work, while you have all the FUN. Activities for all ages – Roller Skating, Laser Tag, Playground and Arcade. Call 770-943-4446 or book online today!

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A Birthday Concert for Your Child. Interactive live kids music for all occasions. Performing classics and new favorites, percussion jams, singing, dancing and more. Options for every budget. Easy set-up, best for ages 1-8.

Costumed, live, custom and themed entertainment for kids, adults and corporate events. Your child’s favorite character or theme at your location. Let us bring your Dream Event to life! Atlanta Based Since 2001.

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IT’S ALWAYS SOMEONE’S BIRTHDAY! Make sure party-planning parents know about your business.

80 Atlanta Parent January 2022

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Be a part of our Birthday Party Planner. In print, 24/7 and online for a full year.

For more info, contact Genie Lockeretz at 678-938-8116 or glockeretz@atlantaparent.com

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JANUARY: Things to do this month

Top Events l Honoring MLK Jr l Ice Skating Last Chance for Holiday Lights l Summer Fun Indoors atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide

January 2022 Atlanta Parent 81

JANUARY TOP EVENTS

Due to COVID-19 safety precautions, most places are requiring advanced ticket purchase. Call or check websites for procedures.

Events may be cancelled or changed after our deadline. Please check before visiting to confirm. Full calendar online at atlantaparent.com

Wonderland: Alice’s Rock & Roll Adventure

Synchronicity Theatre Through Jan. 2 This rock concert and theatrical experience follows young Alice as she goes on an adventure inspired by Lewis Carroll’s beloved story. 1545 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta.

404-484-8636. $25; ages 3-18, $15; ages 2 and younger, free. synchrotheatre.com

Junior Astronomy Workshop Tellus Science Museum Jan. 7, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Introduce your young scientist to the wonders of astronomy with a tour of Bentley Planetarium, instructions on a rotary star chart and observe the sky through telescopes. For ages 5 and older. Registration required. 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville. 770-606-5700. $30. tellusmuseum.org Wonderland: Alice’s Rock & Roll Adventure

Shen Yun

Travel back to the magical world of ancient China with this performance featuring classical Chinese dance, stunning costumes, high-tech back drops and a live orchestra.

Atlanta Symphony Hall: Jan. 7-8, 7:30 p.m. and Jan. 8, 2 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-5000. $85+. aso.org Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center: Jan. 11-15, 7:30 p.m. and Jan. 15, 2 p.m. 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy., Atlanta. 770-916-2800. $85-$220. cobbenergycentre.com

The Snowy Day

The Snowy Day

Center for Puppetry Arts / Jan. 14-30. See website for showtimes.

Peter and his friends celebrate the first snowfall of the year with play, snowball fights and snow angels in this puppet musical based on Ezra Jack Keats’ story. 1404 Spring St. NW at 18th, Atlanta. 404-873-3391. $22; ages 1 and younger, free. puppet.org

The Obama Portraits Tour

Shen Yun

Repticon

Gwinnett County Fairground Jan 8-9. Sat. 9 a.m.-12:45 p.m. and 1:15-4 p.m. and Sun. 10 a.m.-12:45 p.m. and 1:15-4 p.m.

See exotic reptiles and animals from all around the world.

2405 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Lawrenceville. 863-628-4273. $10; ages 5-12, $5; ages 4 and younger, free. repticon.com

82 Atlanta Parent January 2022

High Museum of Art / Jan. 14-March 20 See the official portraits of former President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama from the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery. Reservation required. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4400. $16.50; ages 5 and younger, free. high.org

Storyland: A Trip Through Childhood Favorites Children’s Museum of Atlanta / Jan. 15-May 30 This exhibit features book-based experiences based on “The Tale of Peter Rabbit,” “The Snowy Day,” “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie” and more. Reservation required. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr. NW, Atlanta. 404-659-5437. $11.95-$22; ages 11 months and younger, free. childrensmuseumatlanta.org

Family Fun Guide

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Justin Chan Photography

Do You Love the Dark?

Alliance Theatre Jan. 20-Feb. 27. See website for showtimes.

During a sleepless night, a young girl tries to conquer her fear of the dark. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4600. $10; ages 6-17, $5; ages 5 and younger, free. alliancetheatre.org

Pirate Day

Fernbank Museum of Natural History Jan. 22, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Set sail on a swashbuckling adventure with pirate-themed crafts and games, pirate costumes and more. Reservation required. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300. $20; ages 3-12, $18; ages 2 and younger, free. fernbankmuseum.org

PRISM: Winter Lights

Woodruff Park Through Jan. 31 This outdoor exhibit features light-based artworks from artists around the country. 91 Peachtree St. NW, Atlanta. 404-658-1877. Free admission. atlantadowntown.com

Pirate Day

PRISM: Winter Lights

Enchanted Woodland Trail

Chattahoochee Nature Center / Through Feb. 28 See if you can spot all the whimsical winter homes the fairies and gnomes have built on this path. Reservation required. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. $10; ages 13-18, $7; ages 3-12, $6; ages 2 and younger, free. chattnaturecenter.org

Dino Safari

North Point Mall / Through April 8 See more than 30 giant moving dinosaurs in this walk-thru safari adventure for an up-close look at prehistoric creatures and their natural habitats.

1000 North Point Cir., Alpharetta. 855-372-3274. $15; ages 2 and younger, free. dinosafari.com

Winter Fun at Margaritaville Lanier Islands

Enjoy the winter season with a visit to License to Chill Snow Island and the Lakeside Lights Spectacular at Margaritaville Lanier Islands for a time of wintry fun! Create special memories for the whole family with snow tubing, amusement rides, ice skating, and playing in the snow.

Lakeside Lighrt!s Spectacula

For more details visit MargaritavilleAtLanierIslands.com atlantaparent.com

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January 2022 Atlanta Parent 83

WINTER WONDERLAND Show off your awe-inspiring moves (or learn how to glide!) at these seasonal rinks. See websites for hours.

Skate the Sky.

The Roof at Ponce City Market. Through Jan. 9. poncecityroof.com

Athens on Ice.

The Classic Center.

Through Jan. 9. classiccenter.com

Skate the Station.

Atlantic Station.

Through Jan. 17. atlanticstation.com

Skate On The Square.

Colony Square. Through Jan. 17. colonysquare.com

Avalon On Ice. Avalon. Through Jan. 17.

Atlantic Station

experienceavalon.com

Holidays at Sweetland.

Sweetland Amphitheatre. Through Feb. 14. sweetlandamp.com

The Rink. Park Tavern. Through Feb. 21. parktavern.com

The Ice Rink at Sugar Hill.

Sugar Hill. Through Feb. 20. haidrink.com

Olde Town on Ice. Olde Town Conyers Pavilion. Through Feb. 21. icedays.com

Ice Days Ice Skating Rink.

Legion Field Fair Grounds. Through Feb. 21. icedays.com

License to Chill Snow Island.

Margaritaville at Lanier Islands. Through Feb. 27. margaritavilleresorts.com

Colony Square

WHAT TO DO AT LICENSE TO CHILL SNOW ISLAND

Really looking for a winter thrill? Head to Margaritaville at Lanier Islands for tons of excitement.

1 2 3 4

Slipping Down the Slide: Besides ice skating on Frosty’s Ice Rink, they also have loads of snow! Try snow tubing – daredevils will love Parrot Mountain, a 575-foot-long, eight-story snow slide.

In the Snow: Looking to stay on the ground? Stop by Snowball Alley for a chance to play in the snow, have a snowball fight, and make snow angels.

Amusing Activities: The whole family will love the Snow Island Amusement Rides featuring a carousel, bumper cars and Ferris Wheel.

Good Eats: When you need a place to chill, enjoy the spectacular snow views at Glacier Café while enjoying food for even the pickiest of eaters.

They have cheeseburgers, chicken tenders, hot cocoa and more. n 7650 Lanier Islands Pkwy., Buford. 470-323-3440. $49.99; ages 3-7, $39.99; ages 2 and younger, free. margaritavilleresorts.com

84 Atlanta Parent January 2022

Family Fun Guide

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LAST CHANCE FOR HOLIDAY LIGHTS

Can’t get enough of the Christmas spirit? These spots let you celebrate the holidays in January.

Holiday Road

The Horse Mansion at Bouckaert Farm Through Jan. 2 This walk-through trail reveals thousands of illuminated lights, larger-than-life installations and iconic scenes of different winter holiday celebrations. Reservation required. 10045 Cedar Grove Rd., Fairburn. $24.99-$29.99; ages 2 and younger, free. holidayroadusa.com

Winterland

Illuminarium / Through Jan. 2 Discover a winter palace featuring holiday traditions, a snowy paradise, the Northern Lights, an original soundtrack and more. 550 Somerset Terrace NE, Atlanta. 404-341-1000. $35-$50; ages 3-12, $30$45; ages 2 and younger, free. illuminarium.com

Winter Wonderland

Fernbank Museum of Natural History Through Jan. 9 Celebrations from around the world are honored with decorated trees and displays, and walk through the outdoors for festive snow globes. Reservation required. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300. $20; ages 3-12, $18; ages 2 and younger, free. fernbankmuseum.org

Winter Wonderland

atlantaparent.com

Holiday Road

Winter WonderLights

State Botanical Garden of Georgia Through Jan. 9 This walk-through light show extravaganza features 11 illuminated displays, a multi-colored light tunnel, a Candy Cane Lane and more. 2450 S. Milledge Ave., Athens. 706-542-1244. $15; ages 3 and younger, free. botgarden.uga.edu

Garden Lights, Holiday Nights

Atlanta Botanical Garden Through Jan. 15 Countless bulbs light up the garden with themed displays, a colorful Glowing Grove, oversized lighted sculptures, a miniature town with model trains and more. Reservation required.

1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-876-5859. $24.95-$44.95; ages 3-12, $21.95-$41.95; ages 2 and younger, free. atlantabg.org

IllumiNights at the Zoo

Zoo Atlanta Through Jan. 16 Wildlife lights up the night at this Chinese lantern festival with more than 80 animal lanterns. Reservation recommended. 800 Cherokee Ave. SE, Atlanta. 404-624-9453. $20.99-$24.99; ages 3-11, $17.99-$19.99; ages 2 and younger, free. zooatlanta.org

Lakeside Lights Spectacular

Margaritaville at Lanier Islands Through Feb. 27 Go on a magical walk through an amazing light show set to festive music. 7650 Lanier Islands Pkwy., Buford. 470-323-3440. $19.99; ages 3-7, $14.99; ages 2 and younger, free. margaritavilleresorts.com

IllumiNights at the Zoo

Family Fun Guide

January 2022 Atlanta Parent 85

DINO SAFARI – A WALK-THRU ADVENTURE

CELEBRATE THE CHINESE NEW YEAR In 2022, the year of the tiger begins on Feb. 1. Major celebrations occur from Jan. 31 through Feb. 6.

According to legend, the tiger was confident that no one could compete with its speed and vigor, only to come in third in the celestial race, behind the rat and ox. People born in a year of the tiger are considered vigorous, ambitious, daring, courageous, enthusiastic, generous and self-confident. Learn more at chinesenewyear.net.

Check out these ways to celebrate:

Lunar New Year For all the budding paleontologists and dinosaur lovers out there, Dino Safari is for you! Located at North Point Mall, the walk-through adventure is both educational and fun. You’ll visit the various areas of Pangea to see about 30 dinosaurs. My The Details 8-year-old loved reading the signs and learning Dino Safari: about the various species, locations and time A Walk-Thru Adventure periods of the “Age of the Dinosaurs.” The signs North Point Mall, 1000 North hold a lot of information but are presented and Point Circle, Alpharetta written in a kid-friendly way. dinosafari.com The lighting of the exhibit, as well as the n Hours: Wed.-Thurs., 11 sounds and movement of the dinosaurs, give a.m.-7 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.-8 the experience a realistic feel, especially for p.m.; Sun., noon-7 p.m. preschool-aged children. We saw younger n Dates: Through April 8. n Tickets: $15; ages 2 and kids having fun as they explored the hands-on younger, free. experiences like digging for fossils, sliding down a dino tail, and playing games in the “fun zone” at the end of the exhibit.

Know Before You Go: Once inside the exhibit, guests can stay as long as SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION they like, but plan on spending about an hour at Dino Safari. The exhibit is on the upper level of North Point Mall. A timed ticketing system keeps each area from becoming too crowded, so families can get up close and personal with their favorite dinosaurs.

– Tali Benjamin

Early Education Showcase

Children’s Museum of Atlanta Jan. 29, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and 1:30-4:30 p.m.

Celebrate with a storytime with “Bringing in the New Year” by Grace Lin, a performance and dance lesson by the Atlanta Chinese Dance Company and a special craft. Reservation required. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr. NW, Atlanta. 404-659-5437. $19.95; ages 11 months and younger, free. childrensmuseumatlanta.org

Celebrating Lunar New Year at The Atlanta Hawks Game

State Farm Arena / Feb. 1, 7:30 p.m.

The Atlanta Hawks will recognize the Lunar New Year with a variety of events. 1 State Farm Dr., Atlanta.

866-715-1500. $15-$259+. nba.com/hawks

Chinese New Year 2022 Sunday Performances

Feb. 6. See website for schedule.

The Chien Hong School of Kung Fu will be performing the lion dance, dragon dance and kung fu at various businesses around the Chinese community at Orient Center and Asian Square. See website for locations and addresses. 404-525-3226. Free admission. chienhong.com

Early Education Showcase SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Early Education Showcase Contact Genie at glockeretz@atlantaparent.com to advertise on this page.

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86 Atlanta Parent January 2022

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Family Fun Guide

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Atlanta Let Atlanta Families KnowLet About YourFamilies Know About Your

BIG WORDS. BIG IMPACT. Martin Luther King Jr.’s words inspired thousands and left a lasting impression on our country. “Love is the key to the problems of the world,” he said. As society continues to evolve, his words still ring true.

On January 17, we honor his memory and all that he did to make our world a better place. What will your family do to keep King’s words and dreams alive?

The King Center / Jan. 10-17. See website for schedule.

Honor Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy with a virtual series on nonviolence, youth summits, service projects and more.

449 Auburn Ave. NE, Atlanta. 404-526-8968. See website for pricing. thekingcenter.org

Hands On Atlanta / Jan. 10-21 Help build Dr. King’s beloved community with Hands On Atlanta.

600 Means St. NW, Atlanta. 404-979-2800. handsonatlanta.org

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Atlanta History Center / Jan. 16-17, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. King with virtual and in-person educational activities, including simulations, crafts, story times and more. Registration required. 130 W. Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta. 404-814-4000. Free admission. atlantahistorycenter.com

MLK Day 5K Freedom Run

First Baptist Church of Doraville / Jan. 17, 9 a.m.

Walk or run this 5K to celebrate the spirit of sisterhood and brotherhood with fellowship and fitness. Music starts at 8 a.m. 5935 New Peachtree Rd., Doraville. 404-889-1142. $30. mlkday5k.com

MLK Day Parade

Moore Middle School / Jan. 17, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Organized by the United Ebony Society, this parade celebrates the legacy of Dr. King. 1221 Lawrenceville Hwy., Lawrenceville.

678-856-7602. Free admission. unitedebonysociety.org

MLK Day of Service

King Holiday Observance

MLK Days of Service

Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Jan. 17 Find a volunteer opportunity with AmeriCorps to participate in a day of service in honor of Dr. King. 800-942-2677. americorps.gov

Martin Luther King Day Celebration and Day of Service

Acworth Community Center / Jan. 17 The Acworth Parks, Recreation and Community Resource Department will host the 9th annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration and 11th annual Day of Service. 4361 Cherokee St., Acworth. 770-917-1234. Free admission. acworth.org

Family Fun Guide

January 2022 Atlanta Parent 87

BRING THE SUMMER FUN INDOORS

The weather outside may be frightful, but these spots are a delightful way to enjoy summer activities during the coldest season.

MAKE A SPLASH Bring back sunny summer days by playing at these indoor water parks. Prices range from $3.25-$8.25. n For winter, Bethesda Park Aquatic Center’s leisure play pool is open on Sundays with a leisure pool, giant waterslide, river channel, water play structures, water vortex, ceiling spray, hydrotherapy benches and a wet classroom. Reserve your spot 24 hours in advance for a scheduled day of fun. Lawrenceville. gwinnettcounty.com n Bogan Park Aquatic Center features an indoor leisure pool with zero-depth entry, a giant waterslide and water play structures. The Leisure Play Pool is open on Saturdays, but you can practice your swim skills in the lap pool from Mondays to Fridays.

Buford. gwinnettcounty.com n Splash down the spiraling enclosed slide at South Cobb Aquatic Center. The facility’s winter schedule is through Feb. 5, and open for lap swim from Mondays to Fridays and open swim the entire week. Austell. cobbcounty.org

88 Atlanta Parent January 2022

Bethesda Park Aquatic Center

Worth a Weekend Getaway: Go on a road trip to these fun destinations. Access to the water park is available with room packages; prices vary. n The Wild WaterDome Indoor Waterpark at Wilderness at the Smokies features the Storm Chaser thrill ride, Great Wave wave pool, Smokies Surf Rider, indoor tube slides, Magnolia Grove hot spa, Runaway Canyon family thrill slide and Washout Mountain play and spray structure.

They also have a 25,000 square-foot indoor family entertainment center with a ropes course, laser tag, arcade, bowling, mini golf and more.

Sevierville, Tenn. wildernessatthesmokies.com n Check out SoundWaves at Gaylord Opryland Resort for an exciting aquatic Wilderness at the Smokies experience with water rides, slides, rafts, pools, coves and more in this 111,000 square-foot space. Raft with the family on the Rapid Remix, slide down Stage Dive with LED lights, surf on the Crowd Surfer, zip along the 36-foot Up Tempo Rapids River and more. Need a break?

Stop by Decibels for appetizers, entrees, desserts, cocktails or mocktails. Nashville, Tenn. soundwavesgo.com n Great Wolf Lodge in LaGrange, Georgia makes for a closer getaway with water slides, rafts, pools and water playgrounds. Locations feature thrills for the whole family, including the four-story water treehouse Fort Mackenzie, the Slap Tail Pond, the Totem Towers water slides, the family raft River Canyon Run and more. LaGrange. greatwolf.com

Family Fun Guide

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PLAY A ROUND OF PUTT PUTT Show off your skills at these golf and mini golf spots. Prices may vary by age; range from $5-$52, depending on the attraction. n Puttshack’s golf balls automatically track your gameplay, so no one in your family can cheat as you conquer their themed holes. Themed holes include air hockey, a prize wheel, the ring of fire and more, and you can get more points at the Supertubes.

When you get hungry, stop for a bite, which includes crab dip, meatballs, potstickers, flatbreads, sodas, coffees and more. After 8 p.m., you must be 21 or older to enter this location. Atlanta. puttshack.com n Play the outdoor course featuring Miner Jim or make your way through the black light indoor course at Lakepoint Station. As you play, learn more about Emerson’s deep roots in mining and railroads, including the Great Locomotive Chase.

They also have bowling, rock climbing, laser tag, a lazer maze and more. Cartersville. lakepointstation.com n With two locations, kids will love playing glow-in-the-dark mini golf at these spots with black lights at Lunar Golf. Admission includes two rounds for a total of 36 holes or miniature golf and a shot at the prize hole. You can also purchase a glowing necklace for even more glow-in-the-dark shenanigans. Kennesaw and Lawrenceville. glowminigolf.com n Head to Monster Mini Golf for a game of glow-in-the-dark mini golf featuring a virtual canvas with pop culture artwork, animated monsters and new and vintage music for the whole family to enjoy. Play in the arcade with skee ball, air hockey, basketball hoops, prize cranes and more, and explore virtual reality with monstrously entertaining adventures. Marietta. monsterminigolf.com n Reserve a time to stop by Glow Galaxy for entertainment for ages 2-12. Enjoy inflatables, a ball blaster game, nine holes of mini golf, basketball, an interactive game floor and more for tons of glow-in-the-dark fun. Norcross. glowgalaxy.com n Head to one of Topgolf’s three locations for covered hitting bays and a sports entertainment complex with a high-tech golf game. The technology tracks your golf ball to see how accurately each shot lands. Enjoy an Angry Birds game, full-service restaurants and bars, TVs, a rooftop terrace and free wi-fi. Each location also offers half price Tuesdays. Atlanta, Alpharetta and Buford. topgolf.com

Puttshack

GO ROCK CLIMBING You’ve seen it in the movies; now, try rock climbing for yourself for a daredevil adventure! Prices range from $13-$25; gear rentals may be extra. n Escalade Indoor Rock Climbing Gym has two locations with a two-story bouldering wall and lots of different structures to explore. The Kennesaw location offers a family-themed climbing area called Climbtopia with 10 different challenges for ages 5 and older. They also offer a Homeschool Day every month on the third Thursday for a fun spin on a P.E. class. Kennesaw and Peachtree City. escaladegym.com n Try auto belay climbing, top rope climbing, the treadwall and more at Adrenaline Climbing. First time visitors will receive a short auto belay orientation or a 20-minute top rope belay orientation. Kids ages 12 and younger will love using the climbing wall to access the slide, and they also offer Youth Classes for ages 4-14 to learn the fundamentals of rock climbing. Suwanee. adrenalineclimbing.com n Wall Crawler Rock Club has more than 8,800 square feet of indoor rocking climbing surfaces for new and experienced climbers. Take indoor climbing classes, and kids ages 3-13 can join the Kids Climb Program for an introduction to rope climbing and climbing techniques.

Atlanta. wallcrawlerclimbing.com n Stone Summit has three locations with bouldering, climbing and fitness equipment. Take a belay lesson for beginners ages 12 and older. Kids ages 6-14 can participate in camps where they learn to climb, play games, and have fun. At the Midtown location, climbers ages 12-15 can only boulder after receiving a bouldering orientation; climbers ages 11 and younger may not boulder. Midtown, Kennesaw and Atlanta. ssclimbing.com

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Family Fun Guide

January 2022 Atlanta Parent 89

n A Puzzling Contest You’ll need two 100-piece jigsaw puzzles.

Spread each puzzle out on a large surface; the first person to complete theirs wins the Top Puzzler award.

n Build It Start with an appliance-sized box. Design a house, castle, puppet theater or anything else the kids can imagine. Use markers, paint, paper towel tubes and smaller boxes to add to the creation.

n Hunting High and Low Hide small items around the house and write down riddles and creative clues on where each is located. The last item on the scavenger hunt list could be something special, like a favorite treat or book.

NO MORE WINTER BLUES:

n Ice Painting Fill an ice cube tray with water, add a drop of food coloring to each section and mix. Place a short craft stick into each color (lean the stick on the edge of the tray). Freeze and have fun “painting” on heavy paper or poster board.

Indoor Fun for Kids

Hearing the “I’m bored” blues? Keep kids occupied with these creative indoor activities.

n Popping Fun January 31 is National Bubble Wrap Day! Turn on the music and get moving with a bubble wrap dance fest, or dip a square of bubble wrap in paint and stamp designs on paper.

n Word Search Have kids design their own word search.

They can choose a theme, like favorite foods, animals or movie titles. Give the puzzle to a sibling or friend to solve.

n Tissue Paper Stained Glass

n Paper Snowflake Blizzard

Tear colored tissue paper into pieces. Mix two parts craft glue with one part water, and brush it over a piece of wax paper. Place the tissue pieces on the paper and brush again with glue mixture. Let dry and hang in a sunny window.

Get out paper and scissors and start folding and cutting. Look for printable templates online, or see who can create the best freeform snowflake.

n Sock Puppet Play Gather a few mismatched socks. For eyes, glue on shapes cut from felt, or sew on buttons. Add yarn hair, eyes, pipe cleaner glasses, bow ties and whatever silly features you can think of.

n The Best Pet These retro pets rock! Find smooth round or oval rocks outside. Give each a coat of craft paint, then add silly features with paint or permanent markers, or glue on googly eyes.

n Birds of a Feather

Celebrate National Bird Day on January 5 with DIY feeders: spread pine cones with peanut butter, roll them in birdseed and hang outdoors on a tree branch. See how many birds you can identify at your feeder.

90 Atlanta Parent January 2022

n Confetti Cookie Bars

Knead 2 tbsp. candy sprinkles into a roll of refrigerated sugar cookie dough, press it into an 8” pan and bake. Cool, then add white chocolate drizzle and more sprinkles. Visit pillsbury.com for complete instructions.

n Take a (Toy) Car Ride Use low-tack masking tape to create a racetrack on the floor. Get creative by adding cardboard ramps, LEGO bridges and tunnels made from cardboard tubes, and take toy cars for a few spins around the track.

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How to stay on top of the laundry when you have 2 or more kids: 1. You can’t 2. Find a new dream macgyveringmom22