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January 2017 / atlantaparent.com
Our Annual Education Guide Makes the Grade
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Grammy Award Winning Atlanta Boy Choir
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tinytowne.com 470-545-7227
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NOW AUDITIONING Boys ages 6-13 who love to sing Call Today TADAAtlanta.com 678-827-3737
mudmonkeyonpeachtree.com 404-812-1750
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Help Researchers Understand Cystic Fibrosis Diabetes Seeking Healthy Children Ages 1-9 for a Research Study ●
The study requires one visit at the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Research Center
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Blood glucose testing will be performed
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Compensation will be provided for time spent
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Visits will be in the morning and last approximately three hours
If your child is between the ages of 1-9, has no chronic illnesses, and has never been hospitalized, he or she may be eligible to participate in the study.
Contact Joy Dangerfield at 404-727-4786 or jdanger@emory.edu 4 Atlanta Parent January 2017
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Inside 33 January
YEARS OF ATLANTA PARENT
Vol. 34 Number 1
Features
12
Dog Loving Families
Meet some of metro Atlanta’s dog-loving families and learn what to consider when your kids are ready for a dog.
29
7 Publisher’s Note 10
Good Stuff
Things we like
114 For the Fridge
Words of humor & wisdom
16
Quit Forgetting
22
Healthy Eating
24
PAGE
Departments
Do you sometimes think you are in a parent fog? Use these memory tricks to help you remember names, to pay bills and to find missing keys.
Family Fun Guide 97
Not-to-Miss Events
A new year, a new plan for better nutrition: 10 things you can learn from adopting a healthier diet.
98 Eating Out: Star Provisions
Fearless Kids
101 Indoor
A bucket list can help kids set ambitious goals and overcome the fear of the unknown and fear of failure.
Our Annual Education Issue See what makes some schools special, (Page 30) and learn how Atlanta schools are moving classroom work outdoors, (Page 34). Plus, find out what books metro librarians recommend, tips for homework and much more.
99 Free Fun:
Storytelling
Swim Lessons
102 Play
in the Snow:
Snow Mountain, Ski Close to Home
104 Jump Places 106 January Calendar 108 MLK Events On the Cover: Cover Kid Makenna Johnson-Williams, 5, of Duluth. Photo by Laurie Sermos Photography.
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Magazine Association of the Southeast
2013 Award Winner atlantaparent.com
Like us on Facebook; facebook.com/ AtlantaParentMagazine January 2017 Atlanta Parent 5
Breathe Easy Early
An ORBEX Study of Asthma & Wheezing PUBLISHER Liz White
Your child may be eligible to participate in a clinical trial at Emory University / Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta to help prevent asthma in children PARTICIPANTS MUST: • Be 5 - 17 months old • Have eczema (atopic dermatitis), OR • Have 1 biological parent who has been diagnosed with asthma
lwhite@atlantaparent.com ASSOCIATE Laura Powell PUBLISHER lpowell@atlantaparent.com
BUSINESS Amy Smith DEVELOPMENT MGR asmith@atlantaparent.com ACCOUNT Carolyn Haushalter EXECUTIVE chaushalter@atlantaparent.com
ACCOUNT Libby Hammonds EXECUTIVE lhammonds@atlantaparent.com
Qualified participants will receive: • Compensation for time and travel
For more information, contact:
Alice Bruce 404.712.1773 alice.bruce@emory.edu
ACCOUNT Sarah Bergeron EXECUTIVE sbergeron@atlantaparent.com SPECIAL EVENTS & Jordan Lisvosky DIGITAL SALES jlisvosky@atlantaparent.com CONTRIBUTING Amanda Miller Allen EDITOR STAFF Teresa Farkas WRITER tfarkas@atlantaparent.com
EDITORIAL Sheri Taylor-Emery ART DIRECTOR creative@atlantaparent.com
PRODUCTION Robin Mintz
OPERATIONS Caroline Ward MANAGER cward@atlantaparent.com ADMINISTRATIVE Amelia Ramirez ASSISTANT
MARKETING MOM Felicia Barman
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Atlanta Parent magazine is published monthly by Atlanta Parent, Inc., 2346 Perimeter Park Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30341. Telephone 770-454-7599, Fax 770-454-7699. Atlanta Parent magazine is available free of charge at more than 1,000 locations throughout the metro Atlanta area. First class subscription only $30 per year. Subscription orders must include check or money order made out to Atlanta Parent magazine. 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. All rights reserved. Any reproduction in whole or in part, is prohibited without written permission.
© Atlanta Parent, Inc. 2017
6 Atlanta Parent January 2017
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Publisher’s Note A New Year, a Plan for Family Fun It’s a new year, and time for a new approach to “spend more time with the family” and take advantage of all that metro Atlanta offers. Your family won’t be able to do everything, so make a 2017 bucket list for family time to make sure you get out and about. The choices are never-ending, and more fun spots are opening – the newest is iFly, where kids and adults can feel the thrill of a parachuting freefall. WildWoods, recently opened at Fernbank Museum of Natural History, is an outdoor expansion featuring Fernbank Forest, playgrounds, rope bridges and a birds-eye view in tree pods. When you break down your goal of more family time into easy steps, then it becomes much more likely to happen. It might mean having a family reading night once a week or a game night once a month, visiting a new playground every month, going to a different museum every two months, planning a Saturday outing once a week or once a month, or a two-day getaway once a quarter. Some families have so many commitments, they might have to be even more specific to be successful – for instance, game night on the first Friday of every month, no exceptions! I’ve been thinking about how to “spend more time with the grandkids” this year. They are growing up so quickly – Elliot is 5, Corinne Eleanor is 3. One of my goals this year is to plan more separate play dates with both grandkids. This January, my granddaughter and I will have a tea party and my grandson and I will visit the Children’s Museum. Then we’ll pencil in days on the calendar for other adventures. I’m also making my bucket list for a few other goals I have in mind for 2017, and at year’s end, I’ll be looking back with a smile. What are your goals for the new year? Please share them with us at Facebook.com/AtlantaParentMagazine.
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.
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Nominate your pediatrician today! Finding the right doctor for your family can be challenging so Atlanta Parent is pulling together our list for 2017 of parent-tested doctors from our readers and the community.
Tell us about your favorite pediatrician. Go to atlantaparent.com/doctors January 2017 Atlanta Parent 7
BEST OF THE
WEB
n Dinner: A Love Story This site answers the vexing question “What’s for dinner?” in a conversational style with recipes that are quick and easy, healthy and quite tasty. You’ll find a list more recent suggestions for dinner, plus an archive of recipes grouped by category. The author is Jenny Rosenstrach, whose latest book is Dinner: A Love Story. dinneralovestory.com
n GPB Kids Now app Georgia Public Broadcasting’s free app GPB Kids Now has trusted PBS Kids favorites that teach reading, math and social skills, including “Curious George,” “Dinosaur Train,” “Super Why!,” “Cat in the Hat,” “Sesame Street,” “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood,” “Sid the Science Kid,” “Wild Kratts,” “Nature Cat,” “Odd Squad”» and more. The app is available for download at the Roku Channel Store and iTunes after Jan. 16. Find out more at gpb.org/apps.
n AtlantaParent.com Log on for a surprise – Atlanta Parent’s website has a whole new look, with easier navigation and new features to help you find fun events metrowide. You can download Atlanta Baby or our annual Party Guide, view information on family-friendly travel destinations, find kid-pleasing recipes and Mom-Approved Doctors, check the winners of our Best of Family Fun Awards and much more. atlantaparent.com
8 Atlanta Parent January 2017
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C
ongratulations to all the parents who will welcome new babies in February, American Heart Month, and thank you to the volunteers who knitted for hours to empower moms and children to live heart healthy lives. Learn more at www.heart.org/littlehatsbighearts
Locally sponsored by
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January 2017    Atlanta Parent 9
by Teresa Farkas
Good StUff
THINGS WE LIKE Vintage for Kids A local company, Gunner & Lux, has created a Little Lux line specific to kids. The products include reinvented vintage items, necklaces with mini figures and buttons. The full line is available at gunnerandlux.com and local retailers.
Stuffed Animal Turned Washcloth SoapSox is a fun way to get your kids excited about bath time. The stuffed animal can be filled with the liquid or bar soap of your choice and used as a washcloth. Disney characters like Nemo, Mickey and Ariel are new to the collection. Available at soapsoxkids.com for $12.99-$14.95.
Chat with your Kids No need to buy a phone for young kids – Toymail Talkies lets family members send and receive voice messages, as well as other forms of content (songs, bedtime stories, fun facts). Available at toymail.co for $59.
Learn to braid and twist A Florida dad created the Daddy Daughter Hair Factory to educate and encourage dads who are doing hair. They teach free classes nationwide and help dads learn to bond with their girls. See daddydaughterhairfactory101.com for tips and upcoming locations.
Stock up on Samoas and Thin Mints Girl Scout cookie sales begin Jan. 2 for $4 per box or $6 per box for the gluten-free variety and new S’mores cookie. Learn more about Girl Scouts by visiting girlscoutsatl.org (to find a location to buy cookies, enter your zip code for a cookie booth in your neighborhood). Girls also will be inviting friends to buy cookies online and going door-to-door. 10 Atlanta Parent January 2017
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DOG-LOVING FAMILIES Meet Some Atlantans with Four-Legged, Tail-Wagging Friends by Amanda Miller Allen
Sophie Penson has never known family life without a dog. Right now she shares her home with Bernie, an Australian shepherd, and Basket, a terrier mix, and she’s planning to adopt a border collie mix named Duckie. The Pensons are a poster family for dog lovers – among many thousands of families in metro Atlanta who can’t imagine life without at least one tail-wagger. Atlanta Parent talked with four families who give a whole new meaning to the phrase “a lick and a promise” – the promise being to care for their doggie friends all their lives. 12 Atlanta Parent January 2017
The Pensons, East Cobb n Who: Jimmy and Nicole Penson and Sophie, almost 13. n Friends with a Tail: Bernie, an 11-or 12-yearold Australian shepherd, and Basket, a 10-or 11-year-old terrier mix, and an assortment of foster dogs that have spent weeks or months with them over the years. Duckie, a 2-year-old border collie mix, will soon join the family. n Who Cares for Them: The whole family takes care of providing meals and water and occasional walks for Bernie and Basket, and for the foster dog visitors. Sophie has a small dog agility course she’s set up in the backyard to play with and train the dogs, and she hopes to move into agility sports with Duckie. n What Makes Their Dogs Special: “Well, I just love training them – they’re real lovers, best friends,” Sophie says. “They’re just there for you, they make you a little bit happier.” Jimmy Penson adds, “Having a dog with kids is a great bonding experience.” n What Dogs Can Mean for Children: “I had dogs growing up from age 10 on,” Nicole says. “It was huge for me because I was an only child and had no playmates – the dogs were my best friends! I talked to them, read to them and treated them like my BFFs!” atlantaparent.com
Is Your Family Ready for a Dog?
G
etting a dog is much like deciding to adopt a child – your family has to commit time and resources and have an open heart. A dog will quickly become part of your family and dependent upon you for love, food, shelter, training and medical care. In return, you’ll get unconditional love and a friend for life. “The idea of the child having a dog is the wrong way to look at it,” says Jimmy Penson of East Cobb, whose family has two dogs and also fosters dogs for animal rescue organizations. “This is the family’s dog and the responsibility for most of the care of the dog falls on the adults of the household. They have to make sure the dog has a good home and is treated appropriately by the kids and acts appropriately with the kids.” Questions to ask before you get a dog:
Can you really afford a dog? Pet food isn’t cheap, plus you’ll need veterinary care, heartworm and flea medicines, a dog bed, collar and leash, dog toys, and a budget for training classes and grooming. When you leave town, you’ll need to take your dog or board him (expect to pay $20 or more per day).
Who will take care of the dog? Decide on and assign family responsibilities and determine if your family really has time to feed and walk the dog daily, play with the dog and teach doggie manners. If the answer is no, consider a pet that requires less care.
Will this be your family’s first dog? Your dog will need training and so will your family. Get a book or DVD about dog care and plan to enroll in an obedience class to help you and your new friend understand each other and agree on good dog behavior.
Do you have a fenced yard? Dogs, especially young ones, need a place to run off energy. In addition to neighborhood walks, dogs love playing fetch and chasing squirrels in a fenced yard.
Where will your dog spend his time? Dogs are social creatures and want to be part of a pack, spending time with their family and sleeping indoors at night. If you’re considering adopting a dog that will stay outside in a doghouse, he’ll be barking and miserable, day and night, and you and the neighbors won’t be happy either.
What’s your family’s energy level? If you’re more sedentary, a young dog with lots of energy, no matter how cute, is not a good fit. Consider an older dog – many are already potty-trained, know basic commands and make calmer pets. Puppies and younger dogs will need training and may have accidents in the house.
Have you thought of fostering a dog? If you’re unsure whether a dog is right for your lifestyle, consider fostering first. Rescue organizations rely on foster families to help dogs who’ve been picked up as strays or turned into county animal shelters. Foster commitments can be as short as a few days or a week or two. Find a list of rescues near your area at petfinder.org, as well as photos and bios of dogs awaiting homes. Fulton and DeKalb County Animal Services allow overnight fosters – the dog gets a day out of the shelter and families get to be with a dog without a long-term commitment; visit lifelineanimal.org for information. Sources: Petfinder.com, cesarsway.com, humanesociety.org.
– Amanda Miller Allen
The Masons, Lakeside n Who: Rick and Pam Mason, and Sarah, 13, and Alexander, 10 n Friend with a Tail: Pepsi, 7, a female purebred Staffordshire Bull Terrier, who joined the household 10 months ago. Pepsi was a show dog and used for breeding, so she came housetrained and knew commands. “We did not name her,” Pam says with a laugh. “We would never name a dog for a non-Cola product!” n Who Cares for Her: Alexander feeds her and makes sure she’s let outside. Pepsi is not fond of baths, so both kids help Rick or Pam bathe her. Pam takes her on daily walks, often joined by Alexander. “Pepsi loves walks, and Alexander usually comes with me – that’s been a very nice time together for us,” Pam says. n About Life with a Dog: “I was pleasantly surprised,” says Pam, who’s never had a doggie companion and was reluctant to acquire one. “She doesn’t bark in the house; she doesn’t shed much; she’s not a puppy so she doesn’t chew on things. She’ll let you know if she needs something – when she wants out, she stands by the door.” n What Makes Their Dog Special: “She gives you so much love and companionship. I can’t imagine life without her now,” Pam says. “It’s so sweet to have a nice companion at your feet.” When the Masons acquired Pepsi, the breeders offered to take her back, no questions asked, if Pepsi didn’t work out. “That’ll never happen,” Pam says. “She’s part of our family.” atlantaparent.com
Cont’d on page 14
January 2017 Atlanta Parent 13
DOG-LOVING FAMILIES The Marks, Dunwoody n Who: Jeremy and Melanie Marks, and Jonah, 11, Jack, 8, and Garon, 6. n Friend with a Tail: Goldie, 1 ½ , a purebred Golden Doodle, adopted as a 7-week-old puppy. The boys begged for a dog, and got one after they pledged to keep their rooms tidy and their toys picked up. Melanie wanted a small, hypoallergenic dog to take with her anywhere, while Jeremy wanted a larger dog. Goldie is both – a 55-pound dog that sometimes rides on Melanie’s hip. n Who Cares for Her: Melanie taught Goldie house training and basic commands, with a little help from a trainer. Jeremy or Melanie, and sometimes Jonah, feed her. Jeremy takes her on walks, and the family goes hiking with her or to dog parks or outside to play. Everybody gives her hugs. n About Life with a Dog: Melanie describes her family as “five real people and Goldie, she’s one of the family.” Goldie goes everywhere, she rides in the carpool, goes to sporting events, visits the grandparents, hangs out with the family’s friends and neighbors and goes into stores. When Goldie sits quietly in a shopping cart, people sometimes do a double-take, at first thinking she’s a stuffed toy animal. n What Makes Their Dog Special: “She’s the best thing that ever happened to us,” Melanie says. “We have more family time, take a lot more hikes. The kids want her included in everything, they look at her as a sister, not as a dog.” Goldie also brings smiles when she’s out and about. “People come up to me and say they’ve had a really bad day and they really needed to pet a dog,” Melanie says.
The Kestertons, Sandy Springs n Who: Bill and Traci Kesterton and Ellie, 13, and Molly, almost 11. n Friend with a Tail: Finley, a 7 ½-year-old, 22-pound purebred West Highland Terrier. He joined the family at age 4 months, after the girls started asking for a puppy. They researched breeds to figure out which ones were smart and best with children. Traci, who had a dog as a child, trained Finley. n Who Cares for Him: Traci primarily feeds Finley, and takes him on long walks or runs several times a week. Ellie and Molly like to bathe him – “they get him all perfumed up, he’s like a little doll to them,” Traci says. Finley, of course, prefers his doggie smell. n About Life with a Dog: “Owning a dog is a lot of responsibility. You can’t just pick up and go, you have some lifestyle changes,” Traci says, and she hopes people consider carefully when deciding if a dog – and which dog – is right for their family. “But they give you so much unconditional love, it’s worth it.” The family loves Finley right back. n What Makes Their Dog Special: “Finley’s got a killer personality,” Traci says. “He’s really smart – that was one of the things that drew me to the breed. He tilts his head when he’s listening – he understands a lot.” He sits at Traci’s feet when she’s blow-drying her hair, then quickly leaves if the hair spray can comes out. That’s not to say Finley’s perfect – he whines in the car, he tries to take on bigger dogs and show them who’s boss, he tries to get into mischief if he thinks no one is looking. “I know what his short-comings are,” Traci says. “I accept his, and he accepts mine.” c 14 Atlanta Parent January 2017
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January 2017    Atlanta Parent 15
PAYING BILLS As soon as you open the envelope to check how much you owe (ouch!), take a look at the due date and write it on the outside of the envelope. Stop to check once a week and you’ll never miss paying a bill. If you’ve subscribed to paperless billing, as soon as the email hits your inbox, add paying the bill to your calendar (a few days before it’s due to give yourself a cushion). Or sign up for automatic bill pay and forget having to remember at all.
PICKING UP THE KIDS
If you’ve forgotten, you’re not the first. Avoid leaving your child stranded by setting an alarm on your smartphone or laptop, and give yourself extra transit minutes or time to disengage from what you’re absorbed in.
FORGETTING WHERE YOU LEFT SOMETHING
Assign a regular location for frequently lost items: a key hook on the wall for car keys, a shelf in the laundry room for your purse, a bulletin board for permission slips. For the items that move with you from place to place, consider whether you need duplicates in other parts of the house, such as a roll of tape in both the kitchen and your desk.
FORGETTING AN ERRAND
Keep a list of errands in a convenient spot at home. You could do the same digitally on your smartphone, using a notepad app. Add texts from your spouse and kids when they ask if you can grab something for them while you’re out.
TAKING OR GIVING MEDICATION
You should take your medication or give your kids their medication at the same time each day. Try incorporating the process with another regular activity, such as sitting down to breakfast or brushing your teeth. A routine activity no longer needs to be “remembered” because it becomes automatic.
16 Atlanta Parent January 2017
TELL ME THAT AGAIN?
Memory Strategies for Busy Lives by Lara Krupicka
Give your brain a break by implementing strategies in your everyday life that take the pressure off, but also help you remember. Here are some strategies related to what moms and dads forget most often.
REMEMBERING NAMES
To improve your recall, make a point of repeating the name back to the person when you meet them. As you part ways, say it again. If you’ve already forgotten, go ahead and ask them to remind you and use their name again as you say goodbye. Write it later – phonetically for difficult-topronounce names – for added retention.
TRACKING LIFE GOALS
We often recognize what we want to do in life, but our lack of focus may impact our success. Keep track of goals by writing them down. Having a written list posted where you see it regularly improves your odds of reaching those goals.
FREE APPS These free apps offer short games to improve your memory. They challenge your brain with different types of work – from concentration, to writing and listening, to memory and more. All come with paid versions, but the free version will often give you enough of a workout without having to pay. n Elevate by Elevate Inc. has 40+ activities to help train communication and analytical skills. The game-based program adjusts over time based on performance. elevateapp.com n Peak by Brainbow pushes your cognitive skills by using games that test focus, memory, problem solving and more. A built-in “coach” encourages you to try new workouts and tracks your progress. peak.net n Lumosity by Lumos Labs, Inc. has 50+ games developed to measure cognitive ability. When beginning, you take a baseline test to see how you score among other age groups. Daily workouts are then provided that adapt to your skill level, keeping you challenged. lumosity.com c
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Unplugging From Cable Service by Teresa Farkas
Signing up for expensive cable services are a thing of the past – with Netflix, Amazon, Hulu and more your family can stream shows and movies instantly. Many families have opted out of signing up for Comcast or AT&T, with prices rising well above $100 or more a month for selected channels. Here are our tips to make the switch from cable to streaming.
1
Choose a trusty internet provider Although you will have to sign away your life, the good news is that you can purchase internet starting as low as $40 per month. Make sure you don’t skip out on faster internet speed upfront, which will be beneficial in the long run when you are trying to watch hours of “Sofia the First” or “Octonauts.” Netflix and Amazon recommend 25Mbps or more.
18 Atlanta Parent January 2017
2
Choose a connecting device You will need a way to connect your service to the big screen; this can be as simple as an HDMI cable, or one of these devices to make for quick set up built right into your TV. Apple TV ($69-199): Allows for Airplay, which can directly mirror your iPhone or iPad. The new generation 4 is faster and has a touch screen remote similar to an iPhone, but the now cheaper generation 3 still serves its purpose. Amazon Fire TV ($39-99.99): Three different versions to choose from. Has a voice-activated remote and a large selection of games. Roku (from $99.99): Quickly search content by actor or series, and download the remote app on your phone for easy control. Displays the option to watch, rent or buy content all in one place. Chromecast (from $69): “Cast” TV shows or websites directly from your phone or computer to the TV. Use the Google Home app to choose content on the go. atlantaparent.com
3
Pick your streaming service With the rising trend of cutting the cord, there are several options for watching movies and TV shows. Here are a few of our favorites: Netflix (from $7.99 per month): Lower cost with lots of content. Great for wanting to watch an entire series, and allows family members to create separate profiles. Hulu (from $7.99 per month): Not a large movie collection, but large selection of current TV shows. Amazon Prime Instant Video ($99 per year): Included with other Amazon Prime benefits like 2-day shipping without an extra fee, but some movies come at an extra charge. Sling Orange ($20 per month): Cheaper than cable with the same feel, and no contract required, but you can only watch on one device at a time. PlayStation Vue ($30 per month): Must own an approved device (PlayStation, Amazon Fire TV or Roku) to use. Watch live TV without a cable subscription, and save your favorites for later. AT&T DirecTV Now ($35 per month): Stream live and on-demand movies and TV shows on your TV, phone or computer. Doesn’t require annual contracts, a dish or cable box.
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Extra Tips: n Check your internet speed during peak hours (around dinner time) and make sure your neighborhood isn’t experiencing issues. You can test internet speed with apps like Speedtest.
n Purchase a new antenna. You may have an old one, but switching it out for an HD version can allow you to still receive major TV networks like ABC and Fox.
n Consider creating a bundle. Bundling together an internet service with more than one streaming service, for example Netflix and Amazon, can allow for more shows and movies.
January 2017 Atlanta Parent 19
Bringing the Joy of Music into Your Home
In-home music lessons and music therapy services Piano • Guitar • Voice • Violin • Drums Bass • Ukulele • Saxophone and More!
www.metromusicmakers.com • info@metromusicmakers.com
678-637-7293
Why Music Lessons? by Sarah Lyons
Your child loves to sing or wants to play the piano or is crazy for drums. You may be wondering, are lessons really worth it? The answer is yes! Here’s why. n Discipline
n Teamwork
n Creativity
Learning to play beautiful music doesn’t happen overnight. All students must start from the beginning playing scales and mastering basic skills. Music teaches the value of patience and discipline because children set aside time for practice and make it part of their routine to further their skills.
Teamwork isn’t just for sports. Music students may have an opportunity to participate in a band or orchestra. This provides kids the experience of working as a team and a sense of camaraderie. Teamwork develops social skills that they will use for a lifetime.
Kids who play music are trained to think creatively. The ability to think outside of the box in many other situations is a coveted asset.
n Work ethic Music teaches children work ethic because they see the value of practice as they improve and reach new achievements. Students learn dedication leads to good results, while failing to practice results in mediocre music. These lessons carry into school studies and future employment.
n Memory Music requires kids to practice memorization. Even if sheet music is used, students memorize how to play each note and the sheet music eventually becomes a guide. Students can use their developing memorization skills in a variety of ways in school and at home. atlantaparent.com
n Confidence and
social development Kids gain confidence as they begin to perform music for an audience. This helps kids learn to face their fears and builds self esteem. As kids build confidence, they are likely to boost their communication skills and have increased social development.
n Lifelong challenge In music, there is always room for improvement. This creates the opportunity for students of any age to improve and challenge themselves for many years to come.
n Stress relief Playing an instrument can be an outlet for kids. Music can be relaxing and a form of stress relief, as well as a way to express themselves creatively.
n Improved
coordination Kids who play instruments develop hand-eye coordination. Just like in sports, playing an instrument develops motor skills.
n Higher test scores Studies show that children who are exposed to music education have higher SAT scores and better grades in school overall, according to the Children’s Music Workshop.
n Introduction to
other cultures
Through music, kids are exposed to other cultures. This helps kids become accepting and globally aware from an early age. c January 2017 Atlanta Parent 21
Most of my life I have been a healthy weight, yet never a healthy eater. Giving healthier eating a try was an eye-opening experience. For one month I cut out all sugar and only ate a limited amount of carbohydrates. I drank only water, protein shakes and almond milk. Here are a few things I learned:
1
Things You Can Learn from Eating Healthy by Cheryl Maguire
Kids eat what you eat. One of the most surprising aspects of changing my diet was when my kids wanted to eat healthy food, too. When they saw me trying new foods, they wanted to try them as well. For example, they would normally request store-bought chicken nuggets, but I learned they love plain boneless chicken breast and they didn’t even ask for ketchup.
2 You will like healthy foods and so will your kids. I am a picky eater, which means I rarely try new foods. Without realizing it, I was passing on the same poor habits to my children. I would only offer limited options of food I knew they liked. I was surprised by how many healthy foods we had never tried. For example, I don’t like turkey deli meat, but love ground turkey. Both my daughter and I liked almond milk better than milk. Changing my eating habits forced me to go outside of my comfort zone and the whole family benefited from it.
3 Mindless eating is so easy. By changing my eating habits, I paid attention to everything I ate. I never realized how many times I ate a slice of cheese while making my child’s lunch or finished a child’s meal. While attending two parties, I found myself instinctively grabbing for food because it looked good.
4 Eating healthy can be cost effective. Before I started my new eating plan, I went grocery shopping and my bill was $300! I wondered if eating healthy would be “worth it.” Part of my problem during the first shopping trip was I bought everything on the list and didn’t plan properly. I also wasn’t able to stock up on sale items (healthy food goes on sale, too). For example, I can purchase chicken on sale and freeze it, or buy oatmeal when it is on sale and use a coupon.
22 Atlanta Parent January 2017
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While eating healthy for a month, I did not eat at a restaurant or fast-food place, which saved tons of money. By planning ahead for each meal, I never felt the need to get fast food. Another way I saved was purchasing chicken or turkey instead of ground beef. Where I live, ground beef is $3.99 per pound and chicken breasts are $2.49 per pound, a savings of $1.50 per pound.
5 Your diet may have too many carbohydrates and too much dairy. Before this program, I ate whole wheat pasta, but a lot of it. I also ate larger portions of cheese and other dairy products. I was surprised to learn that I didn’t miss the cheese I used to put on my sandwich/burger or sprinkle on my pasta.
6 Hunger should be your guide. I always thought if you are hungry you should eat. I would feed my children the minute they felt hungry. The first two days of this program, I was starving. I did
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some research and found out it is normal to feel hungry when you change your diet. After I adjusted to my new meal plan, I did feel hungry sometimes, but I stopped mindless snacking.
7 Correct portions are small. I was surprised to learn most of the portions I ate were too large. Over time, I felt full from smaller portions, or added vegetables to a meal to feel full.
8 Measuring makes it tastier. When I made oatmeal or other meals I would guess how much water or oatmeal to put in and it usually never came out just right. By taking the time to measure everything, I found food tasted better.
9 Planning is necessary for success. I don’t like to cook or plan my meals so planning was difficult, but I found it necessary. When I planned the meals and had a grocery list, I didn’t feel the need to order fast food or grab a quick snack.
1O Sugar is in everything. While I was on this program, I read product labels and was shocked at how much sugar is in almost every food, from ketchup to milk! This experience was challenging, but it changed the way I view food and eating. I still eat healthy foods, but I will eat sugar and other “non-clean” items in limited amounts. The biggest benefit was realizing my kids were willing to eat healthy, too. c
January 2017 Atlanta Parent 23
Raise Fearless Kids!
by Lara Krupicka
Do you have trouble helping your kid build confidence? A bucket list may provide a fun and motivating means for conquering a variety of fears and learning fear-busting skills. Fear of Failure The fear of failure can be debilitating, especially to kids with perfectionist tendencies. Oftentimes, kids who are afraid to fail believe failure marks them as incapable. They can’t imagine life continuing in the aftermath of defeat and they avoid risk to avoid failure. They attempt only that at which they expect they can succeed, which prevents them from growing. n How a bucket list helps: It gives them audacious goals to go after, goals frequently difficult to reach. That may mean a few missed tries before your child succeeds. The more times you allow your child to fail by encouraging them to go after big goals, the more resilient they’ll become and the less fearful they’ll be of failure. n The bucket list approach: Work with your child to pinpoint a meaningful achievement in a subject or activity he loves. It could be making the honors orchestra, pitching a perfect game, or winning a gold medal in Science Olympiad. Talk about it as a bucket list goal – something they hope to achieve once (to start). Emphasize it may take a few tries and failing is part of the process. Then help them take action on their goal. If they fail, offer support. Assist them in figuring out how to adjust their approach to succeed in the future.
Fear of the Unknown So much is new for kids that if we let them succumb to their fears of the unknown, they may never leave our home. They would never start preschool. They wouldn’t try a new sport or make new friends. n How a bucket list helps: An eagerness to reach the goal often crowds out fear of the unknown. Curiosity and enthusiasm propel kids to seek out more details and information. Their imaginations fill in the rest of the unknowns with positive expectations. When two of my daughters signed up for their bucket list goal of 24 Atlanta Parent January 2017
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learning how to fence, they didn’t worry about their lack of prior experience with the sport. Their excitement prompted them to read information on what to wear, what equipment is used and what would be provided, and how long the sessions would last, which was enough to give them courage for the first day of class. n The bucket list approach: Help your child choose a new experience from their bucket list. Encourage them to focus on what makes the goal exciting. Provide them opportunities to learn more information to fill in as many unknowns as possible. This could involve reading handouts, visiting a venue, making a schedule or timing how long it takes to complete. Narrowing the amount of unknowns and framing the experience as exciting limits the fear and equips kids with skills for handling future unknowns.
Fear of Missing Out FOMO (fear of missing out) isn’t merely an adult phenomenon created by Facebook posts. Kids can face that fear, too, especially in the tween and teen years. They lament about what “everyone else” is doing. They
compare their life to others and worry good things are happening without them. n How a bucket list helps: The
child who has opportunities to chalk up bucket-list experiences doesn’t have time to mull over what others are doing. Their own life becomes interesting enough to make the rest not matter. They also learn the value of delayed gratification when they sacrifice in the short-term for the sake of a bigger goal. n The bucket list approach:
Encourage your child to choose a big bucket list goal they can break into steps. These steps could be saving money, researching options and information, or practicing a skill. Prompt your child to do what he can to make regular progress toward the goal. When children see themselves make strides toward meeting a large goal, they overcome the sense that nothing interesting happens for them, because they have something to look forward to. Skipping an outing to the movies with friends to save money for a once-in-a-lifetime concert makes missing out a non-starter. c
The more times you allow your child to fail by encouraging them to go after big goals, the more resilient they’ll become and the less fearful they’ll be of failure.
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Innovative programs and a caring tone are often integral to learning and motivating kids to be excited about school. Here are some schools that do just that. by Amanda Miller Allen
Fulton Science Academy, Alpharetta
Sharon Elementary, Suwanee
Each month, the school has a different theme related to values. September’s theme was Childhood Cancer Awareness, and students ran with the idea of Coins4Cure, raising more than $8,000, eight times their goal, through operating lemonade stands, holding car washes and organizing other fundraisers. On “Dress Like a Pirate Day,” hundreds of students paid $5 each to wear pirate costumes instead of a school uniform, raising almost $5,000 in one day, says Megan Bowman, director of advancement, media, marketing and philanthropy.
In the DIGS outdoor area, students try gardening and learning about plants and ecosystems – and sample what they grow. Sharon recently participated in the “Feed My School” program, a year-long initiative, led by the cafeteria staff, that educated students on Georgiagrown and farm-to-table foods. Many students tried new foods. “It was a huge success,” Principal Amy Bartlett says, and won the state’s “Golden Radish” award.
North Atlanta High School and Sutton Middle School, Atlanta The Museum School, Avondale Estates “The school’s partners and curriculum concept gets the kids out into the community more than most traditional schools. This year my daughter Alice has been to the Atlanta History Center, Zoo Atlanta, the Avondale Estates Fire Department, and many local Avondale Estates businesses,” says Museum School board member Matt Spaulding. “The trip to the history center, the fire department, and the businesses were part of the kindergarten’s first thematic unit, ‘A Day in the Life.’” Each trip is tied to the unit the kids are studying. The school hosts an “Exhibit Night” to allow the students to show parents what they have learned.
30 Atlanta Parent January 2017
Through an innovative musical theater collaboration, high school students direct and produce a full length musical theater performance starring middle school actors. The collaboration was started in 2012 by two North Atlanta High students, Caroline Geckler and Parker Whitlow. This year’s production of Grease included over 24 North Atlanta students and 33 Sutton students.
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Mount Bethel Elementary, Marietta Before the first school bell rings, kids at Mount Bethel get moving. “A fantastic group of professionals in the PE department have recognized for decades how important a cardio workout is for kids,” Principal Jessica Appleyard says. Kids can learn to ride a unicycle, take advanced unicycling – some ride a seven-foot tall giraffe cycle – or join a jump rope or juggling club. Each year, the unicyclers take part in the East Cobber Parade, and the jugglers and rope jumpers put on a show for parents.
Westside Middle School, Winder “People don’t realize that some of our students prefer being at school rather than at home,” says eighthgrade teacher Cheryl D’Aloisio. “They may be going to a home with little food and no adults. We try to make our students comfortable – free breakfasts, food bags on Fridays, so they have something to eat over the weekend. We even have a teacher mentor program where students check in with their mentor daily to make sure they’ve had a good day. We don’t want them giving up in middle school because they have no support system at home.”
Arabia Mountain High School, Lithonia
Sarah Smith Elementary, Atlanta
This DeKalb County school is adjacent to the Arabia Mountain Natural Heritage Area, a beautiful and historic public recreation space, says Myriam Dormer, whose son is a freshman there. “Because of its environmental academic focus,” she says, “students here can apply for a four-week paid internship through the Nature Conservancy that sends them to live and work on nature preserves around the country.”
Before school, 110 kids on the school’s two campuses put on their running shoes and become Marathon Kids, a club started by PE teacher Daniel Sprague. Kids commit to run four marathons, or 104.8 miles. “One step at a time, kids track their progress on mileage logs. They fuel their bodies right; they get stronger; they reach their goals, and they keep on running,” Sprague says. “Our students gain self-confidence. They proudly see themselves as athletes – some maybe for the first time. They become motivated to eat (and be) healthy off the track.”
Morningside Elementary, Atlanta Morningside has developed 40 triathletes and lots of enthusiasm from students and parents since its program began last spring. Just eight kids started the program; this fall, 40 kids competed in at least one triathlon. “I had a passion for triathlons,” PE teacher Aly Nussear says, “so I thought, ‘Why not bring it to the kids?’” In competition, young triathletes typically do six laps in a pool, 4-6 miles on a bike and a 1-mile run. To get ready, Morningside’s kids work on overall fitness, and train by lying flat on a scooter to “swim” across the gym, then put on a helmet and hop on the scooter to bike, then they run laps.
The Swift School, Roswell When parents and kids pull up in the carpool lane every morning, they’re likely to see Head of School Richard Wendlek out there to greet them. “He likes to set the tone for the day by shaking each student’s hand accompanied by a warm greeting and usually a bit of innocent teasing,” says communications manager Jennifer Clark. She sees how this simple act affects the school’s dyslexic students. “Two or three weeks after enrolling … they are hopping out of the car sticking their hands out to greet Mr. Wendlek and making jokes ... They really transform into confident, young self-advocates.”
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January 2017 Atlanta Parent 31
Help Your Child Succeed at School by Sue LeBreton
Your child’s relationship with his teacher will determine if he loves or hates school and this attitude affects success. You can stack the odds in favor of “love” by cultivating an open and mutually respectful relationship with the teacher. Here’s how. Be positive. Respect the fact that this job is not easy and teachers are doing their best to meet the diverse needs of students. Your attitude toward the teacher will influence your child, so keep comments positive and thoughtful. If you have an issue with something the teacher has said or done, speak with the teacher directly. Be a communicator. Getting to know the teacher
is the first step in building a link between home and school. At the start of the school year, ask how the teacher prefers to communicate with parents over and above the regular parentteacher conferences. Many teachers are open to using email in addition to notes or calls. Be sure to send comments about successes as well as concerns. Like all of us, teachers enjoy appropriate feedback.
Be informed. When the school sends information home, read it and respond. Reading the daily agendas for students in the younger grades can help you prepare your child for the coming day. For older children, access the school website for updates so neither of you is surprised by upcoming assignments. Teachers who have spent hours writing 32 Atlanta Parent January 2017
thoughtful reports can become frustrated when parents haven’t even looked at them. At report card time, review the document with your child and discuss goals for the next term. Make these conversations a regular event.
Be a participant. You can also help teachers by participating in the school community. When you are involved in school activities it reinforces to your child that the family, the teacher and the school are working together for the student’s benefit. Be engaged. Talk to your kids about what they are doing and learning at school. What do they like best? What do they like least? Ask your child how he or she might like you to help out. And then do your best to be as active in the school community as you can be. Sometimes all a child and a teacher really need at the end of a long, busy school day is another smiling, supportive face. Make that your face and your child will benefit. c
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January 2017 Atlanta Parent 33
The Greening of Atlanta’s Schools Teachers and Families See Many Benefits as Kids Go Outdoors to Learn by Helen Newling Lawson
I Elachee Nature Academy
n Decatur, high schoolers tend to their herd of miniature goats. In Gainesville, preschoolers pump water to irrigate their garden. In Roswell, third graders build forts from sticks. And in Marietta, kids can identify birds in the woods without ever having studied a field guide. They’re all students in the growing number of Atlantaarea schools where kids go outside to learn. Moving classrooms outside isn’t exactly a new idea. High Meadows School in Roswell has made outdoor learning a core part of its program since 1973. And schools that draw on the Waldorf curriculum, like Academe of the Oaks in Decatur, have a nearly 100-year-old tradition of blending nature with teaching. Still, Jas Darland with The Garden School in Marietta acknowledges that, while Waldorf-inspired programs like theirs are not a “trend,” there has been an upsurge in interest in nature-based education. One reason? Darland believes, “Parents are noticing they feel alienated from nature and they don’t want that for their kids.”
Confidence Learned in the Woods
Elachee Nature Academy
34 Atlanta Parent January 2017
Melissa Reid, Director of Schools for Elachee Nature Academy believes starting early is key in building a connection to nature: “Between the ages of 3 and 5, children begin to develop fears of the unknown. If we get them out in the woods before these fears develop, children will cherish the outdoor world around them.” Darland also credits Richard Louv’s landmark book, Last Child in the Woods: Saving our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder, for inspiring research that encourages outdoor schooling. Jay Underwood, Head of School at High Meadows, thinks that the current research has “honed in to what our founders knew in 1973 – that kids need to experience, question, touch, smell and feel things to create lasting learning.” In his book, Louv sets out the host of issues kids face as they spend less time playing outside, including a higher risk of obesity and asthma.
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The Garden School
For families that find it tough to add more outdoor time after school, a school with outdoor learning might help lower those risks. Nature-based education can especially help with issues that affect learning, such as attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or are related to school, including childhood stress. Darland also argues that many behavior issues that have been “pathologized” in recent years are really just typical childhood behaviors that can “be healed through forest schooling.”
Don’t have a nature-based school in your neighborhood, or discouraged by long wait lists? Try these ideas: n Green your play space at home. Try planting a “green room” made from climbing vines or sunflowers, or simply leave a bare patch of soil free for digging and mud pie making. n Move homework time outside. “Bug breaks” and cloud watching allowed.
More Nature = Higher Test Scores Getting kids outside to learn can actively improve academic performance. The American Institutes for Research reported in 2005 that students in outdoor science programs improved their science testing scores by 27 percent. When Louv visited Chattahoochee Hills Charter School in Fulton County, he found, “The school is showing more academic improvement than any other school in that county.” Louv also cites a six-year study of 905 elementary schools. The ones that incorporated more nature reported higher scores on standardized testing in English and math, leading the researchers to suggest, as he says, “greening our schools may be one of the most cost-effective ways to raise student test scores.” Research shows other positive outcomes from time in nature, including: stress reduction, better social skills, improved problem solving, a better understanding of spatial relations, better coordination and motor skills, lifelong nutritious eating habits, increased physical activity, awareness and respect for the environment, and more self-control and self-discipline – all of which can help improve school performance (not to mention overall happiness). All of the schools we spoke with mentioned hands-on, or experiential, learning as a key reason their program resonates with kids. At the preschool level, Reid with Elachee Nature Academy says, “Having hands-on access to nature at an early age instills a sense of confidence to help children problem-solve without as much parent intervention.” Cont’d on page 36 atlantaparent.com
Get Kids ‘Schooled in Nature’
n Help start a garden at your child’s school. Find resources to get started from UGA Extension at extension.uga.edu/k12/ school-gardens. n Plan your own field trips. Check out state parks (gastateparks. org) near you to find great options like night-time astronomy lessons, streamside ecology activities, rock and geology exploration, wildlife encounters, and other hands-on lessons. n Nature centers are a great way to learn outdoors. Go to the Chattahoochee Nature Center in Roswell (chatnaturecenter.org) or the Elachee Nature Science Center in Gainesville (elachee.org). n Zoo Atlanta has events and programs to help kids learn about animals and their habitats, among them behind-the-scenes tours, animal encounters, Night Crawlers overnight stays and summer camps. n 4-H has plenty of options for learning about plants and animals and their environments. Find out more at 4-h.org. n Not all outdoor time has to be active time. Create a quiet space outside for reading, reflection and journaling. n Curl up in that space yourself with these books: Vitamin N: The Essential Guide to a Nature-Rich Life by Richard Louv; The Big Book of Nature Activities: A Year-Round Guide to Outdoor Learning by Jacob Rodenburg and Drew Monkman; and Moving the Classroom Outdoors by Herbert Broda.
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January 2017 Atlanta Parent 35
The Greening of Atlanta’s Schools
High Meadows School
A Big Benefit of Greening While STEM (science, technology engineering, and math) subjects may seem best suited for outdoor learning, the Children & Nature Network reports 83 percent of school garden studies found improved outcomes across many subjects, including language arts. Ford Elementary School in Acworth embraces the range of subjects that can be taught in their gardens. In addition to “Greening STEM,” the school also has a Literacy Garden and a Pathway to Freedom Word Garden. Academe of the Oaks went from planting corn to making tortillas, and learned about everything from pollination to cultural anthropology along the way. Unstructured play – and a certain degree of risk – also factor large in green schools. Darland says the adults at their school observe a “strong desire for risk and adventure” among their students, and give them space to meet that need. In return, she sees students who are, “enthusiastic, confident, happier, powerful and compliant.” That last one speaks to the low number of discipline issues at their school. “They don’t need to challenge our teachers – they’re challenging Mother Nature,” Darland explains. Outdoor learning has also been linked to a greater sense of empathy, both for the environment and for other people. One of High Meadow’s alumni took time after Harvard to work in environmental conservation in the Amazon Rainforest before starting his current position at the 36 Atlanta Parent January 2017
Getting kids outside to learn can actively improve academic performance.
The American Institutes for Research reported in 2005 that students in outdoor science programs improved their science testing scores by 27 percent. Georgia state capitol. At Arabia Mountain High School in Lithonia, students explore and study their community in the Arabia Mountain Heritage Area, 40,000 acres that encompasses not just natural areas, but schools, homes and businesses, too. Using the EIC Model™, described as “using the Environment as an Integrating Context for learning,” students participate in service-learning opportunities and community service projects that help them understand the impact they can make on their community.
Family Involvement: Key to Success Anna Doll, a teacher, Master Gardener Extension Volunteer, and leader of the Green Team at Cumming Elementary School
[ Focus on Education ]
in Forsyth County, found another way to integrate community and caring into their outdoor classroom. Sixty percent of the school’s families qualify for free or reduced school meals. She offered a plot to any family who would commit to maintaining and harvesting it over the summer. She reports, “It was a great success! Eight families farmed 30 raised beds and were able to provide hundreds of pounds of fresh, organic fruits and vegetables for their families and neighbors.” Engaging parents can be key to a school’s success with going green. Ford Elementary draws on a team of more than 50 volunteer “Earth Parents” to teach in their outdoor classrooms. Even recess is getting greener. Outdoor learning environments encourage a shift away from playspaces filled with manufactured or artificial materials in favor of natural surfaces, objects and obstacles. The Natural Learning Initiative (naturallearning.org) hopes to inspire more of these spaces, and provides information on everything from using pressure treated wood to growing edible vines. The Green Schoolyards for Healthy Communities is another initiative working toward the same goal. Andrea Timpone, president of Elachee Nature Science Center, sums it up: “A nature-based educational experience combines the very best in learning opportunities – it’s hand-on, student-driven, inquiry and problem-solving based and builds social skills including teamwork. And it builds understanding, appreciation and value of our natural world.” c atlantaparent.com
Choosing the Right PRESCHOOL by Angela Chastain
Just as every child is different, every preschool is different. One that is right for your friends’ child may not be right for your child. Keep that in mind as you navigate through the many preschool offerings in your area and be sure to weigh all your options: n Privately-owned preschools n Programs sponsored through both the public and private schools n Church-or religious-affiliated programs Granted, preschool isn’t college, but it is the first educational experience your child will have. Therefore, you want it to be a positive experience. Some children might cry the first few days (maybe even weeks), but you don’t want a bad preschool year make your child dislike school for the next 12+ years. So, what do you need to do to choose the right preschool? First, don’t go solely by a recommendation from a friend. Their convictions aren’t your convictions. Go visit the preschool – visit many different preschools, in fact. At each preschool you visit, sit in on a class, meet the teacher, wander around the classroom and see what it has to offer. When you visit a preschool take your child with you. See how the teacher reacts to your child and your child to her. Follow your child’s instincts. You may think the place is great, but if your child appears scared, unusually clingy or “out of sorts,” be willing to acknowledge and respect that.
38 Atlanta Parent January 2017
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When visiting, here are some questions to ask and things to consider: n When meeting the teacher ask yourself if her personality and teaching style are compatible with your child’s. Does she have realistic expectations for your child’s age, gender and activity level? n What is the ratio of students to staff? The lower the better. n Teacher qualifications – the head teacher should be a licensed teacher, and all staff members should have a background check on file. n What is the typical staff turnover? How long has the current staff been with the program? n Is the Director on site and involved? Is she friendly and supportive of the staff and parent participation? n What are the expectations for students – Do they expect 3-year-olds to sit at the table and do worksheets for two hours, or do they offer a variety of activities to hold a child’s interests and attention? n Is there adequate room for children to play? n Is the cost something you can afford? Do you really want to put yourself in debt for preschool? n What is the sick child policy? Do they encourage sick children to stay home? Will they notify you if a child has a communicable disease? n Cleanliness – are children encouraged to wash their hands before snack? Is the room cleaned after classes? n Safety – Are you allowed to visit anytime, unannounced? Is there limited entrance to the building, ensuring that not just anyone can walk in? Is the playground equipment well-maintained and supervised at all times? Is the staff CPR/First-aid certified? n Has the preschool program been accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children? While this is not a guarantee of an excellent program, it is one more reassurance that they are striving to be the best. Finally, don’t try to get your child into the “it” preschool unless you have done your research and are convinced that the “it” preschool is a good match. Many times families choose a preschool because that is where everyone else goes, but don’t feel pressured to follow the crowd. Every step of the way, make sure you have your child’s abilities, interests, behavioral patterns, level of maturity and activity level in mind. c atlantaparent.com
Country Brook & Covered Bridge Montessori Schools Toddler, Primary & Elementary
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Covered Bridge Montessori School 488 Hurt Road Smyrna, GA 30082 770-801-8292 coveredbridgemontessori.com
January 2017 Atlanta Parent 39
5 Easy Pre-Reading Games by Sara Marchessault
T
here’s something really cool about being a parent of a kid between ages 2 and 5: change happens quickly. It’s perfectly natural for us to think that since they just learned to count to 20, in Spanish, know all the shapes, and can name any body part we point to, they are ready to read. We introduce them to letters, sounds, and even sight words. Here are some simple ways to get your kid excited about reading. These activities are fun for parents and kids and extremely helpful for reading teachers in the not-sodistant future.
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Most kids know the basic ABC song from a very young age. Learning the song comes first, then identifying letters, and eventually letter sounds. Adding those letter sounds is how you beef up your ABC song. One example is to start each verse with a word that starts with a particular letter, say the sound, and then the letter name, doing each of these twice. The format for the letter A might be: Apple. Apple. Short a sound. Short a sound. A. A. “Apple, apple, a, a, a.” Then “Baby, baby, b, b, b.” Choose whatever tune you want or make up your own. Organizing your alphabet sound song by theme is fun, too. My kids have enjoyed a version where each letter is a food item or name of someone we know. Singing this helps commit it to memory and it’s easy to do in the car or at home.
n Rhyme game Rhymes are a popular way to introduce kids to word families and phoneme chunks. When starting out, model rhyming words by stating them in pairs. “Cat-rat.” Bat-sat.” Kids might catch on quickly and make up their own rhymes, or they might just listen and process, saving what they hear to apply at a later time. When they start to make their own rhymes, be careful not to dismiss silly sounding words. It’s tempting to correct them, but they are just getting the hang of word sounds and that some words sound like others. If you say “what rhymes with fish?” and the response is “smish” just have a good laugh and ask them what smish means.
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n Spelling Starting with their name, encourage them to start thinking about how spelling works. Try spelling names out loud. If you are writing a grocery list, or addressing a letter and your child is in the room, spell a few words aloud so they can hear you break the word into letters. Spell the names of items on the dinner table, noticing the beginning, ending and middle sounds. When they are playing with a toy or character, casually ask what letter is the first sound in the name. Encourage them to listen to the word and talk about what sounds they hear.
n Writing practice Give them lots and lots of pre-writing practice. Paper, pencils, markers, dry erase boards, chalk on the driveway, paint, etc. If you can write with it, and you can stand the mess it may make, let your child scribble to his heart’s content. Fill those pages with ink and paint and talk about letters while the writing is happening. Every scrap of paper with scribble and blobs of paint is practice for writing skills down the road. And when you talk about letters and sounds while writing, your child is soaking it all in to apply to more formal instruction later.
n Reading with a twist Read with your kids as often as possible. The twist to this old adage is for you, the reader, to leave out words and encourage your child to fill them in. Start with a story you have read over and over and leave off the word at the end of the sentence. “I do not like green eggs and ____. I do not like them Sam I __.” Give him a little nudge if he needs it, or ask him to read with you. For an added bonus, put your finger on the page under the words so he can start to make the connection that each word stands on its own. c
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January 2017 Atlanta Parent 41
A Matter of CHOICE Public or Private? Charter? Magnet?
G
by Kristy MacKaben
one are the days when every child attended a neighborhood school without a second thought. Metro area has many schools to choose from – public, charter, magnet, private, Montessori, faith-based and special area-focused. “I think all parents want the best for their children. Parents should consider the ratings of the schools, but there are many other things parents should look at when choosing a school,” said Matt Cardoza, chief communications officer for the Georgia Department of Education. High test scores, top school rankings and awards and nearly perfect graduation rates are characteristics many parents
look for in a school. Parents should also consider extracurricular activities, special services, amenities, school size, class size, location and school community. “As parents look at choices that are available it’s almost as if you’ve got knocked over by a wave at the beach,” said Jeff Jackson, president of the Georgia Independent School Association. “Concentrate on your child and your family’s values. What do you find important to your family? Then you have to look at the options that you have and say, ‘Where will my child thrive and what type of school environment fits the values we as a family hold?’” Here’s a look at the different school options available to families.
PUBLIC Many families choose public schools because of a well-rounded curriculum or a philosophical support for public education. Others want their kids to attend school nearby with other children in their neighborhood. Some send their kids to public schools that have a specific focus, such as the Cobb County Center for Excellence in the Performing Arts at Pebblebrook High School. For public schools, children are required to attend the school within the boundaries of where they live. There are, however, exceptions to this. To attend a different school within the school district, parents can make a request to the district’s board of education. Many school districts also have charter, magnet or theme schools to which students can apply; these tuitionfree public schools usually have a focus (such as science, foreign language or theatre arts, for example), and students are chosen by a lottery. 42 Atlanta Parent January 2017
Henry County Schools
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CHARTER Charter schools are public schools that are allowed greater flexibility under state law, meaning they can implement programs or educational options not usually found in traditional public schools. Charter schools can be operated independently of a public
school district or be chartered by a school district. Charter schools have greater accountability to the state Board of Education – meaning they will lose funding if students do not meet their goals. “Charter schools are given an increased amount of flexibility in exchange for greater accountability and an agreement to excel academically,” said Tony Roberts, the president and CEO of the Georgia Charter School Association. “Charter schools may have longer school days, school years, smaller class sizes and themed programming.” Any child in Georgia can apply to attend any of the 106 charter schools in the state. Unlike private schools, charter schools receive funding from the state and there is no tuition. Charter schools cannot require students to pass a certain test or earn certain grades to be admitted. If there are more applicants than openings, then a lottery is held. Most charter schools focus on a certain area, such as STEM (science, technology, engineering, math), foreign language, arts or a particular teaching method. At the Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science and Technology, a public charter school within the Gwinnett County Public Schools system, the focus is on STEM. At KIPP STRIVE Academy in Atlanta, the focus is college preparation. The school, which is part of a greater network of nationwide KIPP charter schools, includes grades 5 to 8 and places a strong emphasis on reading, writing and critical thinking. Cont’d on page 44
KIPP STRIVE Academy
spirit, pride, & community
Preschool - 12
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January 2017 Atlanta Parent 43
A Matter of CHOICE PRIVATE Metro Atlanta has hundreds of private schools from preschool to high school. Many parents like the smaller environments, said Jeff Jackson, president of the Georgia Independent School Association. Private schools differ greatly in focus – some parents want a faith-based school, while others prefer college preparatory or a school hyper-focused on a specific area of interest, such as theatre arts. In some cases, parents want their children to learn under a certain teaching model, like the Waldorf method, which emphasizes the role of imagination in learning. In most instances, parents are simply looking for the right fit for their children, and they must consider location, their children’s interests, as well as strengths and weaknesses, any special services or amenities they might need, transportation, as well as expense, though most private schools offer scholarship programs or financial help to eligible families. Jackson advises starting the school search about a year in advance to give enough time to look into all options, and allow time for the application process.
MONTESSORI The Montessori method is a childcentered approach to learning that allows student independence and freedom within certain limits. Schools using this method often allow children to explore areas of their own interest, and classrooms are often mixed ages. Montessori schools began as a focus on preschool education, but in recent years many Montessori programs include middle and high school. “There’s a lot of freedom, but there are a lot of limits,” said Anu Chandra, primary and toddler coordinator at Arbor Montessori in Decatur, one of many Montessori schools in the Atlanta area. A lot of movement and socialization is allowed in the classroom, Chandra said, but it is controlled and respectful. Students also take responsibility for their work. Elementary and middle school students run the parent-teacher-student conferences, and explain their work for that particular semester. 44 Atlanta Parent January 2017
The Waldorf School
SPECIAL NEEDS SCHOOLS Many public and private schools offer extensive services for children with special needs. Some children, however, seem to find greater success when attending schools specifically catering to their special needs. In the Atlanta area, quite a few schools focus on children with specific special needs, which could be anything from learning difficulties to more severe physical, emotional or cognitive challenges. Cumberland Academy in Atlanta, for grades 4-12, gears its program specifically to students with Autism, Asperger’s syndrome and ADHD. “At our school you don’t stand out because you’re different,” said Debbi Scarborough, founding director and
headmaster at Cumberland Academy. “They’re all different and they’re all the same. They can feel very comfortable with that. It’s just a wonderful environment.” All teachers at the school are certified in special education and are trained to specifically work with children with Autism, Asperger’s syndrome and ADHD Parents of children with special needs should understand the Georgia Special Needs Scholarship Program, which helps children who were enrolled in a public school in Georgia the previous year and were utilizing an individualized education plan. If the family is eligible, a student can choose to attend a public school outside of their school district or a private school. Visit gadoe.org for more information. c
Cumberland Academy
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What’s Right for Your Child, Family?
Announcing the opening of our New Second Campus
Some factors to consider when selecting a school: n Does your child need a morestructured or less-structured environment?
at 1434 Scott Boulevard in Decatur Serving children ages 18 months to 6 years.
n Does your child need more challenging work?
Limited space available for the current school year.
n Does your child need more individual attention? n Does your child have special learning needs?
Call 404-321-9304 for more information.
n Does your child need an environment that fosters creativity?
www.ArborMontessori.org
n Does your child learn best by seeing, reading or listening to how things work? n Does your child like to participate in discussions? n Does your child like to learn through physical activity? n Is your child logical or mathematical, or musical or artistic? n Do you want your child at a school within walking distance of your home, or are you willing to drive or have your child bused to another school? n Do you want your child to go to a school near your after-school care? Near where you work? Near a close relative? Source: U.S. Department of Education
Fulton Science Academy
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January 2017 Atlanta Parent 45
A Public Service Message from Librarians Everywhere Librarians love books, everything about books, except possibly finding enough room in their homes for all the titles they’ve read and want to keep and all the ones they haven’t opened yet. Atlanta Parent asked library directors in metro Atlanta to share a list of books kids will love. Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System Executive Director Gabriel Morley
Cobb County Library Director Helen Poyer
Morley’s list offers something for all age groups, whether they are preschoolers, elementary school age or fall into the Young Adult readers category.
Poyer chose some classics she read with her children, some books she loved as a child and one book that brought back memories of her preteen years.
n Duck on a Tractor by David Shannon. “Another adventure of Duck but this time on a tractor riding through town as the lunch goers look on in amazement. David Shannon writes another smashing read aloud for the storytime audience.” n Riding Chance by Christine Kendall. “A wonderful story of perseverance and turning personal tragedy into triumph.” n Acoustic Rooster and his Backyard Band by Kwame Alexander. “A great introduction to music and a fun play on names of real jazz legends.” n Dog Man by Dav Pilkey. “This chapter book is the latest series from beloved children’s book author.” Pilkey is the author of the Captain Underpants books and was recently named the 2016 Milner Award Winner. n Ghosts by Reina Telgemeier. Two sisters who move to the coast of California, and find out about a ghostly secret as they explore their new home. “This middle grade graphic novel will keep young readers engaged in Telgemeier’s vivid storytelling.”
n The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein. “To me, this story is about unconditional love and I read this to my three children many, many times and gave copies to my daughters and son.” n Charlotte’s Web by E. B. White: “As a child, I wanted to be in this book, a favorite of my childhood in Ohio. I wanted to be on that farm and be a friend of Charlotte, Wilbur and Fern.” n The Watsons Go to Birmingham–1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis. “I was a young teen during the turbulent time this historical fiction covers, a tween, and it was a journey for me going back in history and reflecting on the life of the book’s narrator Kenny, a 10-year-old African American learning about perseverance in a tragic time.” n Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss. “One of our favorites, and our kids were delighted with learning the rhymes, and we read it aloud over and over until they were repeating the words, too.” n The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats: “I could relate, growing up in the Midwest, to the beauty and magic of that first snow fall.”
DeKalb County Library Director Alison Weissinger Weissinger selected these new picture books, which have appeared on many “best of” lists and have a Georgia connection – the authors or illustrators live or work in Georgia. These three are 2016-2017 Georgia Children’s Picturebook Award Finalists: n If You Plant a Seed by Kadir Nelson n My Pen by Christopher Myers n Swan: The Life and Dance of Anna Pavlova by Laurel Snyder The 2016 “Books All Young Georgians Should Read” list selected by the Georgia Center for the Book included these two: n More-igami by Dori Kleber n The Wheels on the Tuk Tuk by Kabir Sehgal
“Reading is the most important thing you can do for yourself. No one can ever take away from you what you learn from reading books.”
“Witnessing children and parents sharing books, words and discovering the wonders of the world is rewarding. ... It’s about developing lifelong readers.”
“As a child, I visited my hometown library once a month. My mom would let me check out whatever I wanted. ... There is no better place than the public library to get access to all the best books.”
– Gabriel Morley
– Helen Poyer
– Alison Weissinger
46 Atlanta Parent January 2017
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Gwinnett County Library Director Charles Pace Pace and his youth librarians chose these “history through story” books, which bring historical events to life. n Drum Dream Girl: How One Girl’s Courage Changed Music by Margarita Engle (grades K-3). “In this story inspired by a real musician, a young girl in 1930s Cuba dreams of playing the drums. But girls can’t be drummers, can they?” n Finding Winnie: The True Story of the World’s Most Famous Bear by Lindsay Mattick (grades K-3). “This tale is the surprising true story of a WWI soldier and the bear who inspired A.A. Milne’s Winnie-the-Pooh.
ONLY STATE CHARTER SCHOOL OF ITS KIND IN GEORGIA
n Gingerbread for Liberty! How a German Baker Helped Win the American Revolution by Mara Rockliff (grades 1-4). “This rollicking tale is of an unsung hero of the American Revolution who changed history one loaf at a time.” n Moonshot: The Flight of Apollo 11 by Brian Floca (grades 2-5). “A beautifully illustrated book that will inspire future astronauts to dream of what lies beyond the sky.” n Bomb: The Race to Build – and Steal – the World’s Most Dangerous Weapon by Steve Sheinkin (grades 5 and older). “Thoroughly researched but as gripping as any spy thriller, this story details an international race between scientists, soldiers, countries and time.”
“As a child I liked adventure stories and science fiction. The idea of traveling to exotic and distant locations or exploring strange new worlds helped expand my mind and open me up to a world of possibilities.”
SEIZE THE OPPORTUNITY!
ENROLL EARLY
ICSAtlanta is enrolling 5th & 6th grade students for its new middle school for the 2017-2018 school year. If you are looking for a free, language-focused education for your student then contact admissions@icsatlanta.org!
FEATURING: 2ND & 3RD LANGUAGE OPTIONS IN FRENCH, GERMAN, MANDARIN & SPANISH INTERNATIONALLYFOCUSED INTERDISCIPLINARY SEMINARS GLOBALLY-FOCUSED CURRICULUM
Get more info at icsatlanta.org or call 470-222-7420!
– Charles Pace
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Does Your Child Need to
Pump Iron?
Fe
Fe
Low levels of this mineral can keep kids from being their best.
Heme and Non-Heme Iron Poultry, fish and meat contain heme iron. Heme iron is absorbed two to three times faster than non-heme iron, which is found in plantbased foods. An easy way to increase absorption of iron from plant-based foods is to eat them along with foods that are high in vitamin C, or to drink orange juice with iron rich foods. Avoid drinking tea or coffee while consuming iron-rich foods – they decrease iron absorption.
by Sarah Yale
M
aking sure children get enough iron every day, throughout the day, will help them concentrate in school and perform better in sports. Ask your doctor how much iron your active child needs, then map a strategy if he needs more. Here’s what you need to know:
Choosing Iron Fortified Cereal
How Much Iron Does a Child Need? This chart of the U.S. recommended dietary allowances (RDAs) for iron, established by the Institute of Medicine of the National Academies, shows the daily iron allowance for each age group in milligrams (mg). 48 Atlanta Parent January 2017
U.S. RDAs for Iron Age (years)
Male
Female
1-3
7 mg
7 mg
4-8
10 mg
10 mg
9-13
8 mg
8 mg
14-18
11 mg
15 mg
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Iron percentage in cereal is calculated based on the nutritional needs of women of child bearing age. The U.S. recommended dietary allowance for women of child bearing age is 18 mg, which is too much iron for children and adolescents. Serving sizes vary with cereal brands and products. Be sure to read the serving size on the nutrition facts panel. You can choose to give your child a smaller serving, or choose cereal that indicates on the nutrition facts panel that it has 50 percent to 75 percent of the daily value of iron. Remember that cereal contains non-heme iron, which is not absorbed fully by the body, so the amount absorbed will probably be less than the percentage indicated on the box.
Getting Enough Iron is Easy
Choose iron-rich foods from the list to add up to the recommended dietary allowances (RDAs) of iron for your child’s age group. You will help your children do better in academics, on the playground, in the arts and in sports. c atlantaparent.com
Iron Content of Foods This list indicates the serving size and milligrams of iron per serving for non-heme and heme iron foods. Non-Heme Iron Foods
Fruits
Serving Size
Iron
Apricots, dried Blueberries Strawberries Raisins Watermelon Cherries
1 cup 1 cup 2 cup 1 box 2 cup diced 1 cup
4.5 mg 2.4 mg 1.2 mg .8 mg .8 mg .3 mg
Vegetables
Serving Size
Iron
Tomato Sauce 1 cup Corn 1 cup Peas 1 cup Red Potatoes 2 small Baked Potato (w/ skin) 1 medium Spinach 1 cup Broccoli 1 cup Carrots 1 cup of strips
2.5 mg 4.5 mg 2.1 mg 2.4 mg 1.9 mg .8 mg .7 mg .4 mg
Nuts, Seeds,Beans
Sunflower Seeds Peanuts White beans Lentils Kidney beans Pumpkin Seeds Cashews Almonds
Serving Size
Iron
1 cup 1 cup 1 cup 1 cup 1 cup 1 cup 1 oz. 1 oz.
7.4 mg 6.7 mg 6.6 mg 6.6 mg 3.9 mg 2.1 mg 1.9 mg 1 mg
Other
Serving Size
Iron
Oatmeal ½ cup Molasses 2 Tbsp. Instant Breakfast (w/ milk) Dark Chocolate 100 grams
7 mg 1.8 mg 4.5 mg 6.3 mg
Heme Iron Foods Clams Shrimp Pork chop Beef, ground Chicken Turkey Egg
Serving Size
Iron
3 oz. 3 oz. 7.7 oz. 3 oz. 3 oz. 3 oz. 1 large
14 mg 2.5 mg 1.9 mg 1.5 mg 1 mg 1.2 mg .6 mg
Delicious Iron-rich Snack Mix Combine about a cup each of dried fruit, raisins, cereal, chocolate chips, and nuts or seeds. Divide into snack size portions and store in sandwich bags. The kids will love it.
Resources To learn more about low iron or iron deficiency, visit these websites: n redcrossblood.org n uhs.uga.edu/nutrition/iron.html n usda.gov
Atlanta Country Day School (ACDS) is a private, SACS & GAC accredited, coeducational college preparatory school that serves grades 6-12. ACDS was founded in 1977. ACDS provides exceptional education in a positive environment by offering: ● Low Student: Teacher Ratio (6:1) ● 4-Day School Week ● Fridays are for tutoring and electives ● Mandatory Study Hall ● 100% College Acceptance Rate ● Award-winning PERFORMING ARTS company ● Project-Assisted Learning ● School Field Trips
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OPEN ENROLLMENT
February 1st: Kindergarten • March 1st: 1–12
OPEN HOUSE: January 29 & March 5 52 Atlanta Parent January 2017
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Choose a Montessori Education for Your Child Imagine a School Like No Other! Our schools offer individual instruction and foster a joy of learning. Serving infants, toddlers, pre-school, elementary and middle school students. We are the largest Montessori community in the United States. Choose a school in your neighborhood. Bibb
Montessori School of Macon ....................478-757-8927.........montessoriofmacon.org
Carroll Oak Grove Montessori .............................770-214-0112 .........oakgrovemontessori.com
Cobb Covered Bridge Montessori School ..........770-801-8292.........coveredbridgemontessori.com Noble World Montessori School ...............770-509-1775.........nobleworldmontessori.com Riverstone Montessori Academy ..............770-422-9194.........riverstonemontessori.com
DeKalb Arbor Montessori School...........................404-321-9304.........arbormontessori.org Atlanta Montessori International School ...404-325-6777.........amischool.com Decatur Montessori School.......................404-370-0620.........decaturmontessori.com Montessori School of Dunwoody ..............770-804-1444.........montessorischoolofdunwoody.com Montessori School at Emory .....................404-634-5777.........montessorischoolatemory.com Northwoods Montessori School ................770-457-7261.........northwoodsmontessori.org
Fayette Counterpane Montessori School ..............770-461-2304.........counterpane.org Fayette Montessori School .......................770-460-6790.........fayettemontessori.com Rising Star Montessori School..................770-461-1595.........risingstarmontessorischool.com
Forsyth Ivy League Montessori School..................770-781-5586.........ilmsnet.com Montessori Children’s House of No. Forsyth.....404-862-5437.........mchnf.org Montessori School of Cumming ...............770-205-6773.........montessorischoolofcumming.com Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs ..770-205-6277.........montessoriacademygeorgia.com Montessori at Vickery ................................770-777-9131.........montessorivickery.com Stepping Stone Montessori School...........770-614-4310.........steppingstonemontessori.com
Fulton Carlisle Montessori School .......................404-949-0053.........carlislemontessori.com Crabapple Montessori School..................770-569-5200.........crabapplemontessori.com Cross of Life Christian Montessori School 770-475-3812.........colmontessori.com Johns Creek Montessori School ...............770-814-8001.........jcmsog.com Montessori Scholars Academy .................770-754-0777.........montessorischolars.com Preston Ridge Montessori School ............770-751-9510 ...........montessori.com-schools/alpharetta-ga-7333 Springmont ................................................404-252-3910.........springmont.com Suzuki School ...........................................404-869-1042.........suzukischool.com Village Montessori School .......................770-552-0834.........vmschool.com
Gilmer Pleasant Hills Montessori School .............706-636-3354.........elijaymontessori.com
Gwinnett Country Brook Montessori School ............770-446-2397.........countrybrookmontessori.com Duluth Montessori School .........................770-476-9307.........duluthmontessori.com Four Seasons Montessori School.............404-444-1995.........4seasonsmontessori.com Harbour Oaks Montessori School.............770-979-8900.........harbouroaks.org Meadowbrook Montessori School ............770-982-3950.........meadowbrookmontessorischool.com Oak Meadow Montessori School ..............770-963-8303.........oakmeadowmontessori.com Old Peachtree Montessori School ............770-963-3052.........opmontessori.com Stepping Stone Montessori School .........770-205-0317.........steppingstonemontessori.com
South Fulton Children’s House at Serenbe ....................770-463-0081.........thechildrenshouseatserenbe.com Discovery Montessori Academy ...............404-767-5005.........discoverymontessoriacademy.com
Visit www.mariamontessori.com for more information
Soon! Coming 9 & 10 Grades 017 – Fall 2
Preschool K4 Elementary School Middle School
678-745-4121 4600 Nelson Brogdon Blvd. • Sugar Hill 30518 SugarHillChristian.org
54 Atlanta Parent January 2017
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potential. realized. watch your child do good things Beginners (3-year-olds) through 8th grade Extended-day program available
MIDDLE SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE
Wednesday, January 18, 2017 9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Rising 5th - 7th grade
STEAM SATURDAY
Saturday, January 21, 2017 10:00 a.m. - noon Ages 3 - 7
• • • • • • •
Questions? Contact the Admissions Office at 404.228.0709 or visit stmartinschool.org.
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working together for our children
3110-A Ashford Dunwoody Rd. | Brookhaven, GA 30319
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January 2017 Atlanta Parent 55
Atlanta Public Schools
Public School Profiles A snapshop of school districts in metro Atlanta
Atlanta Public Schools
404-802-3500 www.atlanta.k12.ga.us Atlanta Public Schools is the sixth largest school system in Georgia with 51,927 students. There are 3,674 teachers, of which 34 percent have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 98 learning sites and programs; 47 elementary; 10 middle; 1 high schools; 2 non-traditional; 16 charter schools. n Pupil to teacher ratios: Kindergarten, 25 to 1; Grades 1-3, 26 to 1; Grades 4-5, 33 to 1; Middle, 33 to 1; High, 33 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $12,585
56 Atlanta Parent January 2017
Bartow County School System
770-606-5800 www.bartow.k12.ga.us There are 14,000 students attending Bartow County’s 20 schools, with 67 percent of 1,069 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 n Per pupil expenditure: $7,650
Buford City Schools
770-945-5035 www.bufordcityschools.org There are 4,800 students enrolled in Buford City Schools. 80 percent of the 297 teachers have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 2 elementary; 1 middle; 1 high school. n Pupil to teacher ratio: 16 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $10,124
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Cherokee County School District
770-479-1871 www.cherokeek12.net CCSD has 41,800 students attending 41 schools and centers. There are 2,600 teachers in CCSD, of which 73 percent have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 24 elementary; 7 middle; 6 high schools; 3 alternative centers; 1 pre-K center n Pupil to teacher ratio: 16 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $8,177
Clayton County Public Schools
770-473-2700 www.clayton.k12.ga.us Clayton County has the fifth largest school system in Georgia with approximately 54,400 students. Of the district’s 3,121 teachers, 63 percent have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 2 primary; 33 elementary; 14 middle; 9 high schools; 2 K-8 schools; 1 6-12 school; alternative education center; 3 psychological education centers; 1 multi-purpose education center; 3 magnet schools; 2 magnet programs; 1 state-certified STEM program. n Pupil to teacher ratio: 14.8 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $7,894 (FY 2016)
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Cobb County School District
770-426-3300 www.cobbk12.org Cobb County has more than 113,151 students attending 114 schools. There are 10,257 certified employees with 62 percent having advanced degrees. There are also 27 National Board Certified teachers. n Number of Schools: 67 elementary; 25 middle; 16 high schools; 11 special education center; 1 adult education center; 2 virtual academies; 1 performance learning center, 1 international welcome center, 2 independent charter schools. n Pupil to teacher ratio: Varies by school. Meets or is lower than state mandated numbers. n Per pupil expenditure: $8,679
Coweta County School System
770-254-2800 www.cowetaschools.net Coweta County has 22,350 students and about 2,955 employees, 55 percent of whom are certified teaching employees. 60 percent of Coweta’s teachers hold advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 19 elementary, 6 middle, 3 high schools; 1 College and Career Academy charter school (serving grades 8-12 with a traditional and nontraditional 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: 21 to 1; Grades 4-5: 24 to 1; Grades 6-8: 29 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $8,149 (FY 2015)
City Schools of Decatur
Douglas County School System
770-651-2000 www.douglas.k12.ga.us There are approximately 26,082 students attending Douglas County’s 33 schools. 68 percent of the 1,938 certified employees have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 20 elementary, 8 middle, 5 high schools; 1 performance learning center; 1 college and career institute. n Pupil to teacher ratio: Meets or is lower than state mandated standards. n Per pupil expenditure: $8,419
City Schools of Decatur
404-371-3601 www.csdecatur.net City Schools of Decatur have 5,040 students attending nine schools. Of the district’s 436 certified teachers, over 84 percent hold advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 9 total; 1 Pre-K; 5 Kindergarten-third; 1 fourth-fifth; 1 middle; 1 high school. n Pupil to teacher ratio: Meets or is lower than state mandated standards. n Per pupil expenditure: $11,807
DeKalb County School System
678-676-1200 www.dekalb.k12.ga.us DeKalb County School District is the third largest school system with 102,000 students. More than 6,000 teachers in the system, about 65 percent hold advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 77 elementary; 19 middle; 22 high schools; 1 alternative school; 9 centers, special education and alternative schools; 10 start-up charters; 5 conversion charters. n Pupil to teacher ratios: General: 27 to 1; Gifted: 16 to 1; CTAE: 24 to 1. n Per pupil expenditure: $8,500
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Fayette County Public Schools
770-460-3535 www.fcboe.org Fayette County School System has 20,095 students. More than half of the 1,346 teachers have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 14 elementary; 5 middle; 5 high schools; 1 alternative school; 1 open campus high school. n Pupil to teacher ratio: 13 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $9,145 (FY 2016)
Forsyth County Schools
770-887-2461 www.forsyth.k12.ga.us Over 46,300 students attend Forsyth County’s 37 schools. There are over 3,000 certified employees in the system, of which 75 percent have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 21 elementary; 10 middle; 5 high schools and 1 6-12 virtual school (open to out-of-county students). n Pupil to teacher ratio: :20 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $7,597
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Fulton County Schools
470-254-3600 www.fultonschools.org Fulton County has more than 96,500 students and 7,000 certified staff members at 105 schools. Approximately 37 percent of the teachers hold advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 59 elementary (with Pre-K programs); 19 middle; 17 high schools (2 with open campuses); 10 charter schools. 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: $9,842
Gainesville City Schools
770-536-5275 www.gcssk12.net 7,993 students attend Gainesville City’s 7 schools. 522 teachers are employed by the system, and 58 percent of them have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 5 elementary; 1 middle school; 1 high school n Pupil to teacher ratios: Pre-K: 28 to 1; Grades K-5: 14 to 1; Grades 6-8: 16 to 1; Grades 9-12: 16 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $8,129
Gwinnett County Public Schools
678-301-6000 www.gwinnett.k12.ga.us With more than 179,000 students attending 139 educational facilities, Gwinnett County is the largest school system in Georgia. The average GCPS teacher holds a Master’s degree and has 14 years of experience. n Number of Schools: 80 elementary; 29 middle; 21 high schools; 9 other educational facilities. n Pupil to teacher ratio: Varies by classroom, per Investing in Education (IE2) contract. n Per pupil expenditure: $8,466 Cont’d on page 58
January 2017 Atlanta Parent 57
Public School Profiles Hall County Schools
770-534-1080 www.hallco.org There are 27,357 students and 1,980 certified staff at Hall County’s 34 schools. 69 percent of the teachers have obtained advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 20 elementary; 7 middle; 7 high schools. n Pupil to teacher ratio: 18 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $7,866
Henry County Schools
Creative. Nurturing. Unpretentious. For students who need extra help in reading GAC Accredited GA Special Needs Scholarship
SMALL CLASSES • 1st - 12th Grade • College or Tech Prep • Wilson Reading Program
Email or call today to schedule your personal tour
678-401-5855
Kim.Wigington@BrookwoodChristian.com
4728 Wood Street • Acworth 30101 At the corner of North Main St. and Wood Street, north of the Hwy 92 overpass
770-957-6601 www.henry.k12.ga.us There are 42,000 students and 2,960 certified teachers in Henry County Schools. 75 percent of the certified employees have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 26 elementary; 2 conversion charter elementary schools; 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: $7,547
Marietta City Schools
770-422-3500 www.marietta-city.org Some 8,900 students attend Marietta City’s 11 schools, 1,200 certified employees with 75 percent of certified staff holding a Master’s degree or higher. n Number of Schools: 8 elementary (one is grades 3-5 Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Magnet school); 1 6th grade academy; 1 middle; 1 high school. n Pupil to teacher ratio: 20 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $10,452
Cobb County School District
Paulding County School District
770-443-8000 www.paulding.k12.ga.us The Paulding County School District has 34 schools, 28,902 students and 1,814 teachers. 70 percent 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: 22 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $8,506
Rockdale County Public Schools
770-483-4713 www.rockdaleschools.org There are 16,575 students attending Rockdale County Public Schools. Approximately 71 percent of the 1,392 certified personnel hold advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 11 elementary; 4 middle; 3 high schools; 1 career/vocational academy; 1 alpha school; 1 open campus; 1 magnet school; 11 school choice programs. n Pupil to teacher ratio: 14 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $8,863 c
Fayette County Public Schools
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A Great Option: Going Away for School Many of America’s leaders are graduates of distinguished boarding schools. Find out more about some great schools, which emphasize academics and character building. Saint Mary’s School Since 1842, Saint Mary’s School in Raleigh, N.C., has been dedicated to academic excellence and personal achievement for girls and young women. An Episcopal boarding and day school for girls in grades 9-12, Saint Mary’s believes in the greatness of girls. The school emphasizes academics, community and spiritual growth. Its leadership and life skills curriculum combined with an academic program offering honors and AP-level courses, allow girls to develop as young women of intelligence, integrity and purpose. Girls know they are valued and respected, and in a safe place to learn, grow and thrive. sms.edu
Florida Preparatory Academy
Saint Mary’s School
Florida Prep prepares students for the unique challenges of today’s academic and business climates. Founded in 1961, the academy is in Melbourne, Fla., and serves boys and girls in grades 5-12. The curriculum focuses on the challenges students will face in today’s complex global environment, and offers a syllabus based upon a 21st century skills and values program. Students attend classes on a college-style schedule. This affords the opportunity to have adjunct professors from local colleges teach, and the opportunity for dual-enrollment or internships. Graduates of Florida Prep have a 100 percent college acceptance rate. Students leave the academy with the skills to excel as leaders and innovators. flprep.com
Christchurch School
Florida Preparatory Academy
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Since 1921, each student’s unique and infinite value has been recognized at Christchurch School, a co-ed boarding and day school for grades 9-12 in Christchurch, Va. As an Episcopal school, the goal is to inspire and guide each student’s journey toward self-confidence, purpose and identity. To help students succeed in this journey, a sound college preparatory education is provided in a caring, structured community. The school is located on the Rappahannock River, and students learn stewardship and awareness through marine science, sailing and trips, including visits to India and Guatemala. With progressive career fields and college standards, Christchurch ensures that graduates are prepared. christchurchschool.org
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Trinity-Pawling School
Trinity-Pawling School The goal of a Trinity-Pawling education is to unlock the potential for greatness that exists in each boy. Located in Pawling, N.Y., and founded in 1907, Trinity-Pawling is a boarding and day school serving boys in grades 7-12. The school has a commitment to project-based learning based on research that has identified learning paradigms successful for boys. A vigorous learning environment emphasizes 21st century skills such as creativity, collaboration and critical thinking. The “brotherhood” is enhanced by the camaraderie of educators and students who are dedicated to building a culture of honor. The Trinity-Pawling learning experience combines a timeless commitment to character with a dedication to prepare young men for an ever-changing world. trinitypawling.org
Christchurch School
Arthur Morgan School Founded in 1962, Arthur Morgan School is a progressive boarding and day school for 27 students in grades 7-9. AMS is located on one-hundred acres of farm land just north of Asheville, N.C. Students and staff live together in a creative and supportive environment, sharing both work and play. The AMS program combines Maria Montessori’s vision of a farm school along with Quaker values. Classes and field trips form an experiential education program with a commitment to social justice and environmental sustainability. House parents provide a traditional home life for four students and social advisors mentor two students each. Students thrive with the freedom to explore themselves and the world in the security of a caring community. arthurmorganschool.org
Arthur Morgan School
New York Military Academy New York Military Academy develops young leaders for success in college and in life. The academy is a college preparatory boarding school serving boys and girls in the 6-12 grades. Established in 1889, NYMA is four miles from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. The academy stresses four objectives: academics, athletics, character, and leadership. NYMA’s dedicated, classical model of education includes leadership training, athletic competition and rigorous academic inquiry to help cadets grow in mind, body and character. The sound academic preparations offered, including experiences with organizational leadership skills and business management, prepare students for success in every aspect of their lives. nyma.org Cont’d on page 62
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BOARDING SCHOOLS Riverside Military Academy
Riverside Military Academy
Riverside Military Academy produces highly educated and motivated young men of character. Established in 1907, the boarding and day school in Gainesville, Ga., serves boys in grades 7-12. RMA has earned an international reputation for excellence through the application of high, rigorous standards that focus on intellectual, physical and ethical development. Each cadet’s strengths are identified, challenged and further enhanced. Cadets take full advantage of the first-class athletic facilities and fine arts programs. The academy blends a deeply ingrained respect for tradition and patriotic values with a 21st century approach to education. Students are dedicated to the values necessary for good citizenship, and upon graduation, are prepared to succeed in college and beyond. riversidemilitary.com
The Vanguard School
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The Vanguard School is a co-educational, fully accredited (FCIS and SACS), boarding and day school for students in grades 6-12. Established in 1966 in Lake Wales, Fla., the school is one of the first to serve children who learn differently. An individualized program is provided in a nurturing environment, which enables students to develop to their fullest capability: academically, socially, and personally. The focus has always been to ensure that each student is individually prepared for life after high school. With this in mind, differentiated instruction, targeted interventions, small classes, highly qualified teachers, and innovative technology are provided. Vanguard strives to ensure each student aspires to higher educational opportunities and independent life. vanguardschool.org
Here is contact information to help with your boarding school search. n Arthur Morgan School Co-ed boarding and day school for grades 7-9. Burnsville, N.C.; arthurmorganschool.org; 828-675-4262 n Christchurch School Episcopal co-ed boarding and day school for grades 9-12 Christchurch, Va.; christchurchschool.org; 804-758-2306
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n Florida Preparatory Academy Co-ed boarding and day school for grades 5-12. Melbourne, Fla.; flprep.com; 321-723-3211 n New York Military Academy Military-style co-ed boarding and day school for grades 6-12. Cornwall on Hudson, N.Y.; nyma.org; 845-534-3710
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n Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School Co-ed boarding and day school for grades 5-12. Rabun Gap, Ga.; rabungap.org; 706-746-7467 n Riverside Military Academy Military-style boarding and day school for boys in grades 7-12. Gainesville, Ga.; riversidemilitary.com; 1-800-462-2338 n Saint Mary’s School Episcopal boarding and day school for girls in grades 9-12 Raleigh, N.C.; sms.edu; 919-424-4000 n Trinity-Pawling School Boarding and day school for boys in grades 7-12. Pawling, N.Y.; trinitypawling.org; 845-855-3100 n The Vanguard School Co-ed boarding and day school for grades 6-12 with learning differences. Lake Wales, Fla.; vanguardschool.org; 863-676-6091
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Discover the Woodward Difference. Challenging STEM Programs
25 AP Classes
86 Student Clubs and Service Organizations
75 Yearly Arts Performances and 14 Art Studios
18 Varsity Sports and 13 Intramurals
8:1 Faculty: Student Ratio
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64 Atlanta Parent    January 2017
Success Beyond Woodward
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At Woodward Academy, students of all learning styles come together from every religious, ethnic, and cultural background, making our school a microcosm of the world.
Now Accepting Applications Main Campus Pre-K to 12 College Park Woodward North Pre-K to 6 Johns Creek
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Where children will go to school is one of the most important decisions a family makes. Use our guide to learn about the academic approach and environment that’s right for your child.
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Atlanta
Private Schools Academe of the Oaks
Arbor Montessori School
he world is exciting, complicated, and changing fast. At Academe of the Oaks, this global reality inspires a radical and relevant educational approach, emphasizing active involvement, experiential learning, imagination and creative consideration. Learning at Academe is centered on lived experience. The r ig or ous W a l do r f h i g h s c h o o l c u r r i c ul um immerses students in the sciences, in mathematics, and in the humanities. Students learn from the original writings of great thinkers and leaders, writing and illustrating their own textbooks that incorporate material from a variety of classic and contemporary sources. Students learn to think and to connect academic work to real world issues. Art, music, physical education, gardening, extensive trips, and community service balance academic work. A diverse student body, a vibrant foreign exchange program, interfacing with schools in other countries and extracurricular activities like Model U.N. contribute to the strong international atmosphere of our high school. At Academe, students become well rounded human beings who care about others and the world. Located just east of downtown Decatur, Academe of the Oaks serves students in grades nine through twelve. Please call to schedule a visit or see the website for more information. www.academeatlanta.org
ounded in 1970, Arbor is one of the largest and oldest Montessori schools in the Southeast, serving 300 students from ages 18 months to 14 years. Arbor is one of only two Montessori schools in Georgia accredited by AMI, SACS and SAIS. In August 2016, Arbor opened a second campus at 1434 Scott Blvd. in Decatur and is now enrolling children ages 18 months to 6 years. For over 100 years, the hallmarks of a Montessori education have been creativity and innovation; critical thinking and problemsolving; communication; collaboration; and focus on character. Montessori is the originator of project-based learning. An Arbor Montessori education cultivates concentration, motivation, self-discipline and love of learning in every child. This is accomplished through specially designed sensorial materials, multi-age classrooms, and teachers who are specifically trained to put the child in touch with exactly what he or she needs at that very moment to learn. In addition to an outstanding academic curriculum, Arbor offers art; music; Spanish; a before and afterschool program; clubs and teams; and a close-knit community of families. Schedule a personalized tour by calling 404-321-9304 or emailing us at to info@arbormontessori.org. More information at www.ArborMontessori.org.
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Atlanta Academy
Atlanta Country Day School
t Atlanta Academy, we see the extraordinary promise of each and every young mind, and work hard to help our students reach their highest potential, both in the classroom and outside of the classroom. Located in Roswell, Ga., Atlanta Academy is an accredited private school, serving children in grades K-8, as well as preschool. The school was founded on the goal of providing an exceptional and well-rounded education for its students. We work vigorously to meet the educational, physical and emotional needs of all of our individual students. The challenging academic curriculum builds a strong foundation for future success. A highlight of the curriculum is the STEAM program, helping improve critical thinking/problem solving skills and creativity. Student life at Atlanta Academy is very important. The visual and performing arts programs encourage creativity and the athletic program promotes character and school spirit. Atlanta Academy prides itself on its community service efforts and inspires students to participate in a number of service projects. For more information, please visit www.atlantaacademy. com or call at (678) 461-6102.
lazing into the future of education and technology while holding onto the cornerstones of traditional teaching, new Headmaster, Honará Turner is eager to “Motivate ACDS students to achieve their intellectual best while preparing them for college and to be ethical, responsible, and confident young adults.” Ms. Turner has been in the field of education for over 10 years now with experience in education, school management, counseling, leadership, life coach planning, college counseling and more. ACDS is a college preparatory – independent school that has been providing stellar academic services to Atlanta youth since 1977. Currently in the process of becoming a STEAM (Science Technology Engineering Art and Math) and IB (International Baccalaureate) school ACDS is making great strides in winning academic and artistic competitions. With the niche of providing excellent education (honors and Advanced Placement) in a positive environment with low student: teacher ratio (6:1), 100% college acceptance rate and subject application ACDS students graduate with more than enough credits to qualify to receive the HOPE scholarship and to be successful in college and or post high school endeavors. For more information, visit atlantacountrydayschool.com or call 770-998-0311.
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Atlanta Girls’ School
The Bedford School
tlanta Girls’ School offers girls in grades 6 through 12 a college-preparatory curriculum of the highest standards. Graduates attend Ivy League schools, prestigious liberal arts colleges, leading southeastern universities, and respected research institutes. Atlanta Girls’ School was custom-built for one purpose: girls’ achievement and success. Girls attending AGS learn to take appropriate risks, be courageous leaders, give back to their communities, and project personal confidence and competence in all they do. Through their classrooms, sports, stage, and community involvement, AGS leverages the legacy and experience of girls’ schools all across the country, preparing girls to be respected leaders in every field. With access to real-world experiences, AGS students complete two customized internships with local, national, or global organizations. These unique internships are unmatched opportunities that—combined with the school’s signature Winterim minisemester, community service projects at every grade level, and global travel program – fuel extracurricular learning that culminates in each student’s Senior Speech to the entire school. For girls entering grades 1 through 9, AGS also offers SMART Girls Summer Camp. This weeklong day camp offers courses in science, math, art, and real technology. For more information, call 404-845-0900 or visit www.atlantagirlsschool.org.
he Bedford School is located on Milam Road in Fairburn, Georgia. The school serves children with learning disabilities in grades 1-9. Students are grouped by skill levels in classes of 12 or less. At Bedford, students receive the proper academic remediation,as well as specific remedial help with physical skills, peer interaction and self-esteem. Students must be diagnosed professionally as having specific learning disabilities. The Bedford School is based on the idea that every human being should have the opportunity to become the very best person possible. For the child with the learning disability, this is difficult without proper intervention. The goal of the school is to help each child maximize his potential through a combination of teamwork, structured materials, organized activities and a dedicated staff. Extracurricular activities include basketball, soccer, volleyball and track and field. A four-week summer program is available through Squirrel Hollow, where children can receive tutoring in the areas of Language Arts, Math and written expression in a camp-like setting. The summer program is open to students in grades 1-9 who need an academic boost. For more information, call Betsy Box at 770-774-8001 or visit the website at www. thebedfordschool.org.
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The Children’s School
Covenant Christian School
he Children’s School is a vibrant, collaborative community of learners where masterful teaching meets the magic of childhood. They currently serve ages three through grade six – expanding to seventh grade in fall 2017 and eighth grade in fall 2018. Throughout the school, you’ll see evidence of their character education program, “Building Character and Community.” They embed four key mindsets into everything they do: caring and respect for ourselves, others, our space and the environment. These values are visible in every classroom and throughout lessons and projects, include a deep commitment to diversity and inclusion, social justice, sustainability and environmental advocacy. During their TCS journey, through project-based learning, robust academics, the arts, technology and exciting enrichment and after-school opportunities, their students become compassionate, community-minded global citizens who are strong, adaptive learners. TCS graduates are confident, skilled young people who value diversity in its many forms and are equipped with the skills to make a difference in the world. Learn more at tcsatl.org!
stablished in 1975, Covenant Christian School (CCS) in Smyrna celebrates a long history of Christian education. CCS is committed to partnering with Christian families in the nurture and education of their children by providing a distinctly classical and Christ-centered academic program. Our teaching is intentionally founded upon biblical truth, and our methodology is based upon the Trivium of a classical liberal arts education: Grammar, Logic, and Rhetoric. CCS serves students from K4-8th grade. The experienced faculty and staff bring many years of committed Christian teaching to our students every day. They are personally devoted to applying Christian principles in all areas of teaching as they lead students to grow in knowledge, understanding, wisdom, and virtue. CCS students also have opportunities to broaden interests outside the classroom by offerings in athletics, music, drama, dance, and various clubs. Service opportunities are also a part of the CCS experience. Covenant invites Christian parents to come learn about the benefits of classical Christian education by attending our next Open House on January 10 at 9:30am. For more information or to request a personal tour, visit www. ccssmyrna.org, or call Admissions Director, Barbara Hines, at 770-435-1596, ext. 1116.
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Atlanta
Private Schools The Cottage School
Cresco Montessori School
he Cottage School marks its 32nd year of providing a comprehensive educational program for middle and high school students with learning differences and ADHD. In August 2016, TCS expanded its program to 4th and 5th grades. The school’s 23-acre campus in Roswell includes a state of the art media center, computer and science labs, a multi-purpose athletic and performing arts facility, outdoor classrooms, and trails for mountain biking and cross-country. AdvancEd accredited for the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, and the Southern Association of Independent Schools, TCS provides an academic college preparatory curriculum that meets Georgia high school graduation standards and HOPE scholarship requirements. Career centered courses assist students in post-secondary planning. Experiential classes and clubs include drama, forensics, horticulture, computer literacy, yoga, chess, photography, journalism/yearbook, Interact, and culinary skills. Ten-to-one student/teacher class sizes accommodate various learning styles. TCS’ athletic program offers a wide range of sports and provides opportunities to develop a positive competitive spirit, learn self-discipline, and foster teamwork and sportsmanship. TCS offers an after school program as well as summer academic programs and sports camps. Visit cottageschool.org.
resco Montessori School is a year-round GAC certified private school, and full-service childcare center. Serving families in Marietta, Buford, Johns Creek and Woodstock for over 10 years. Cresco Montessori School is open 6:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m., for children from 6 weeks old to 6 years old. Students can attend for a half day, school day or full day. Cresco Montessori offers free Georgia Pre-K, scholarships and a GA Tax Redirection Program. Cresco also provides an afterschool and summer camp program along with many enrichment activities for children up to 12 years old. A focus on family is an important component of the school. Each year, Cresco Montessori hosts fall flings and spring carnivals for students, parents and siblings to enjoy. Each Montessori classroom is prepared with a range of materials to allow children to progress through the curriculum as their skills develop. Montessori classrooms intentionally include a mix of ages, so that younger children can learn from older children, and older children develop leadership skills and confidence. Visit www.crescomontessori.com for more information. Daily tours are available at each location from 9:30-11:30 am.
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Fulton Science Academy
The Galloway School
ulton Science Academy Private School (FSAPS) serves advanced and gifted students using an awardwinning STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) curriculum. Now enjoying its fifth year as a private school and its second year at a beautiful new campus in Alpharetta, FSAPS proudly represented the state of Georgia in five national and international academic competitions in 2016. This year, the school received a prestigious STEM Education Excellence Award by the Technology Association of Georgia and was recognized as the Best Private School and Best Private Primary School by Appen Media. Fulton Science Academy is a small school with a big heart. The student body is diverse and reflects award-winning academic teams, competitive athletes, personal entrepreneurs, professional working actors, and award-winning critical thinkers. There is no “one size fits all” mentality at FSAPS. Uniqueness is embraced and small class sizes ensure a level of individualized attention and care that students and faculty have come to know and love. FSAPS also provides students beginning in Pre-K with courses in physical education, music, robotics, computer science, art, and foreign language. Visit fultonscienceacademy.org for more details or call 678-366-2555 to schedule a tour.
ocated in beautiful Chastain Park, The Galloway School is an independent day school that serves a diverse student body of around 750 students age 3 through grade 12. Guided by a unique approach to teaching and learning, Galloway offers students daring, deliberate, and dynamic learning experiences that inspire them to become fearless learners for life. The Galloway School’s educational philosophy and approach stem from the belief that learning should be an experience of discovery that is both challenging and joyful. It is only then that students develop an abiding love of learning and embrace it as a life-long endeavor. The Galloway School offers an environment of high expectations and low anxiety that challenges students to grow by teaching them to challenge themselves today and for the rest of their lives. 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 the website at www.gallowayschool.org.
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GRACEPOINT School
Greater Atlanta Christian School
ounded in 2012, GRACEPOINT was formed when two families believed that there must be something better for their children with dyslexia. Beginning with a mere four students, GRACEPOINT has steadily grown to an enrollment of more than 70 students. To accommodate this growth, GRACEPOINT began its 5th year at a new location on the campus of Piedmont Church in Marietta. Students in grades one through eight receive a comprehensive, high quality education program that combines remediation with enrichment and acceleration. Students typically complete remediation in three to four years allowing them to transition into a more traditional educational environment. 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. All other classes have a student/teacher ratio of no more than 8:1. The mission at GRACEPOINT is to equip 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. gracepointschool.org. 678-709-6634.
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AC offers a dynamic experience to 1,800 students (infants through 12th). GAC never stands still, and consistently adopts new learning strategies to better prepare students for collegiate experiences at top universities. The 88-acre campus provides resources from state-of-the-art facilities to new programs with a focus on STEAM-learning and personalized and project-based learning: Brand new middle school and high school facilities, new learning spaces dedicated to STEAM, new Art & Design Center, and construction of a newly designed Performance Hall for fine arts. Whether your child excels in academics, arts, or athletics, they have access to endless opportunities on one campus. Offerings include dance classes, music lessons, drama groups, over 70 athletic teams (youth through varsity levels), in-school swim lessons, over 20 annual mission trips annually, an Environmental Center, international study abroad programs, 22 AP classes and 21 Honors classes. See why kids come from 90 zip codes to be at GAC. Call Mary Helen Bryant in Admissions at 770-2432274 or mbryant@greateratlantachristian.org. Visit www. greateratlantachristian.org.
Hebron Christian Academy
Heritage Preparatory School
onveniently located in North Gwinnett, Hebron Christian Academy rejoices in the privilege to serve over 900 students. HCA partners with parents to provide a Christcentered, K – 12 college preparatory program of uncompromising quality. HCA offers small class sizes with a challenging curriculum including AP and Dual Enrollment classes, integrated one-to-one technology instruction, and an award-winning fine arts program. In addition to rigorous academics, HCA’s athletic program offers over 50 sports teams with appearances and wins in numerous regional and state finals and championships. Hebron continues to plan for the future as construction is underway on a 28,000 square-foot state-of-the-art Middle School and Fine Arts Facility. Opening August 2017, this addition will house classrooms, Science Labs, Fine Arts, and a Student Services Center. Continuing this momentum, HCA will break ground on a new Elementary School in August 2017. Head of School, Dr. Tracey Pritchard, believes, “God is asking us to reach out to the community, make a difference for His kingdom and solidly impact the world by investing in the lives of our students and families.” Please visit hebronlions.org or contact the Admissions Department at info@hebronlions.org to discover why HCA is the right choice for your family!
eritage is a distinctive classical Christ-centered PK-8 school located on a beautiful twelve-acre campus in Midtown Atlanta. Classes are small, ensuring that each student receives individual attention. Class days are shorter in the Lower School to ensure the development of habits and discipline and allow for quality time at home. The content of Heritage’s curriculum is “classical” in that it emphasizes timeless works of literature, music, art, drama, history, Latin, logic, science, and mathematics. Teachers incorporate the methodology of the educator Charlotte Mason by focusing on good habits, nature studies, and joyful discovery in learning. Heritage teachers are gifted professionals who are committed followers of Jesus Christ. Heritage believes that early development of a disciplined lifestyle provides a solid foundation for a responsible and productive life in a complex modern world. Heritage graduates have a proven track record of being accepted into Atlanta’s top private high schools. Heritage is dually accredited by SACS, SAIS, a member of ACSI, ACCS and National Junior Honor Society and participates in Duke TIP. Heritage is located at 1700 Piedmont Ave. NE, Atlanta 30324. For more information, please call 404-815-7711 or visit www.heritageprep.org.
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January 2017 Atlanta Parent 69
Atlanta
Private Schools High Meadows School
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ince 1973, High Meadows School has inspired children in Preschool through Eighth Grade to think critically, learn creatively, act globally and live compassionately. Ours is a school where adventure, play, and discovery go hand in hand with extraordinary academic preparation and exemplary student outcomes. We know that there is time in each school day for intellectual challenge and fresh air, for authentic learning and physical movement.
High Meadows School’s progressive education approach encourages children to ask the next question, to embrace intellectual challenge, to consider multiple perspectives and to discover the wonders of life though experience. Our curriculum is shaped around respect for the capabilities of children, best practices in education, clear learning objectives, and the belief that education should (and can) be joyful, meaningful, and
powerful. It’s no wonder that our graduates go on to achieve amazing things and have fun along the way. Our International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum helps prepare students for participation in a global community in which so much is interrelated and the ability to consider multiple perspectives is essential. High Meadows students are easily recognized as confident, creative problemsolvers, acco m p lish ed speakers, critical thinkers and enthusiastic learners. Our graduates stand out not only as excellent students, but also as exceptional thinkers and community members. High Meadows School is located on 42 acres of woods and meadows near historic downtown Roswell. We hope you’ll come experience what school should be. For more information, please visit www.highmeadows.org or call 770-993-2940.1055 Willeo Rd., Roswell, GA 30075
Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School
Holy Spirit Preparatory School
oly Innocents’ Episcopal School is Atlanta’s only comprehensive Episcopal school, with 1,376 students ages 3 years old through 12th grade. On its 43-acre campus, HIES has a standalone Primary School, Lower School, Middle School and Upper School, as well as a Fine Arts Building, two modern gymnasiums and four expansive athletic fields. And the campus flagship building – a new, state-of-the art, three-story STEM Building – includes a robotics lab, greenhouse and cutting-edge broadcast studio. The HIES college-prep curriculum challenges students, encourages collaboration and inspires creative thinking. Course offerings include acclaimed reading and writing programs, foreign language classes for all ages, handson science programs, robotics, engineering, film and TV production classes and the Program for Global Citizenship. Students can discover their artist within at HIES, and the school has a proud athletic tradition, with many regional and state championships. The HIES campus is located just north of Atlanta’s Chastain Park and inside the Perimeter. For more information, visit hies.org
oly Spirit Preparatory School is a remarkable institution among the many independent schools in the Atlanta market. The young, accomplished school is one of the few independent Catholic schools in the Atlanta metro area. It serves students from 6 months all the way through 12th grade, so is perfect for families. Its high school keeps getting named one of the top Catholic high schools in the country by the Catholic Education Honor Roll. Their AP scores are way above state and national averages (in the hardest AP tests, like Chemistry and Calculus, their students average over a 4 out of 5, which is incredible), and their alumni get accepted to Ivy League schools, military academies, top 25 schools, and universities across the world. But, really, it’s all about fit. Because they maintain a smaller enrollment than most independent schools, they find the right place for each student - channeling them to the right club, the right gifted classes, the right team - and the right college fit after HSP. This school is all about personalized learning, small class sizes, and forming students in “mind, body, and soul” in a family of faith and learning. For more information, you can visit www.holyspiritprep.org or call or text them at 678-761-7992.
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McGinnis Woods Country Day School
cGinnis Woods Country Day School is a private, non-parochial school offering a challenging Preschool, Elementary and Middle School education. The beautiful school is located in Alpharetta on the border of Forsyth and North Fulton counties. The Preschool accepts children as young as 6 weeks and the Elementary and Middle School teaches students in PreK 4 through 8th grade. McGinnis Woods Country Day School is GAC (Georgia Accrediting Commission), SACS (Southern Association of Colleges and Schools), and NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children) accredited. McGinnis Woods is also a member of the Georgia Independent School Association (GISA). Classes with low student teacher ratios, provide for frequent one to one learning. The students learn through a variety of groupings including class lessons, small group activities, hands-on STEM activities, and “buddy” classes which encourage multi-age groupings. The school is equipped with an in-house broadcast system, computer labs, tablets, wireless laptop labs, interactive whiteboards, two STEM labs and robotics. Frequent guest speakers and monthly field trips reinforcing classroom l e a r n i n g round out the classroom experience. A n n u a l overnight class trips are offered for students in 1st-8th grade. The mission of McGinnis Woods is to inspire students with the passion to excel. This is accomplished by providing superior hands-on, minds on academics and inspiring a lifelong love of learning. An academic support teacher provides extra strategies for success including Orton-Gillingham instruction. Classroom curriculum includes: The Letter People, Saxon Phonics and Math, Wordly Wise, McGraw Hill, Pearson, Harcourt, Glencoe, and Core Essentials. The excellent curriculum provides students with a strong framework on which to develop academically, socially and emotionally. All classes have daily study skills and tutoring opportunities. The entire school community is committed to atlantaparent.com
helping each student achieve their full potential. Students at McGinnis Woods enjoy many enrichment classes as part of their curriculum including library and computer skills, Spanish, character education, health, music, art, band and chorus, physical education and quarterly electives for students in 5-8th grade. Community Service projects are emphasized throughout the year. Specials classes are taught by specialists and provide opportunities for students to explore and discover talents and strengths. Competitive sports, robotics, and drama teams train year round. Athletic teams include: soccer, volleyball, cross country, basketball, tennis, and track and field. Fine Arts offerings include: drama, chorus, band, visual arts, and special performances providing an avenue for creative expression. Elementary school hours are 8:30 a.m.- 3:00 or 3:30 pm with Before and After School programs available for families needing extended hours. Discovery Clubs are offered during After School and include an impressive variety of choices including drama, band club, robotics, STEM club, Science Olympiad, Oratorical Club, ballet, chess, cheerleading, football, tennis, and cooking. The Preschool and After School programs are available from 6:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. Exciting Summer Camps are also available. Junior and Senior Summer Camp Programs include a variety of theme based activities featuring fun field trips, enriching educational opportunities and on-site water activities. The school encourages all prospective parents to tour the beautiful campus and review the curriculum. Parent involvement is strong and parents are invited and encouraged to take an active role in their child’s education. McGinnis Woods is known as a wonderful, caring school where community is strongly valued and nurtured. An open house will be held on Saturday, January 28, 2017 from 1 p.m.-3 p.m. To experience the McGinnis Woods difference, visit www.mcginniswoods.org and set up a tour online or call 770-664-7764 to arrange a personal tour.
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Atlanta
Private Schools The Lovett School
Midtown International School
he Lovett School, founded in 1926 by Eva Edwards Lovett, is an Atlanta independent school serving children in Kindergarten through Grade 12. Lovett seeks to develop young men and women of honor, faith, and wisdom with the character and intellect to thrive in college and in life. Lovett provides integrated experiences in academics, arts, athletics, and service. Lovett’s reach extends beyond the Buckhead neighborhood – students come from 70 zip codes across Atlanta – and even into South America, where Lovett maintains 825 acres of Ecuadoran cloudforest as a preserve and research center. Exclusive research partnerships with the Georgia Aquarium and Atlanta Botanical Garden give Lovett students authentic research and lab experiences in marine biology, botany, and genetics. Lovett’s curriculum includes a required year of American Studies, options for African and Asian studies, multivariable calculus and linear algebra, and organic and biochemistry. Lovett was one of the first schools in Georgia to offer AP Chinese, the culmination of a Chinese program that begins in the Lower School. Additionally, makerspace labs, which includes access to the school’s theater set workshop, modeling software, 3D printers, laser cutter, and a lathe, allow students to tackle real world problems. For more information, visit www.lovett.org or call 404-262-3032.
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t Midtown International School, diverse and i nq ui si ti ve stud ents i n grades K-10 (and growing!) yearn to engage in a world bigger and infinitely more complex than themselves. Through world languages and course-embedded travel, students quench their thirst for connecting intellectual, cultural, political, and artistic experiences. It is the unique combination of gifted education and global learning that sets the school apart. MIS is a school for ambitious, accelerated learners; the students thrive in settings where personal interaction drives breakthroughs, where challenge ignites creativity and invention, and where problem-based learning leads to the next exciting discovery. So what happens in a school designed for such curious, globally minded learners? No one waits to learn. With writing labs for dissecting writing, computer science instruction, diverse after school programs, competitive and award winning robotics, and the focus on moving every child forward, MIS has created an environment where students take ownership of their learning. Call 404-542-7003 or email admissions@ midtowninternationalschool.com to schedule a tour!
Mill Springs Academy
Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs Montessori at Vickery
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ill Springs Academy is an SACS/SAIS accredited college preparatory, independent school community dedicated to the academic, physical and social growth of those students who have not realized their full potential in the traditional classroom setting. Since 1981 Mill Springs has been supporting student learning by raising expectations and developing self motivation, while providing skills and values for life. The school is a not-for-profit 501(c)3 organization governed by a board of trustees. The population consists of average to superior ability students in grades 1-12. Small classes and an individualized curriculum help them to capitalize on their strengths while learning compensatory strategies. Mill Springs offers a broad range of college preparatory and fine arts options, along with college placement support. A variety of sports and an extended day program are also available. In the summer months, summer school, summer camp and sport workshops are offered. The 85-acre campus is nestled in the beautiful rolling hills and pasture land of Alpharetta. For more information, please visit www.millsprings.org/visitus or call (770) 360-1336. Mill Springs is a participant of the Georgia Special Needs Scholarship program (SB10). Follow us on Twitter (@millspringsacad) and Facebook. Mill Springs Academy, 13660 New Providence Road, Alpharetta, GA 30004. 72 Atlanta Parent January 2017
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Montessori education creates independent, well-rounded, confident children. They are self-sufficient, globally aware, environmentally conscious, and respectful of themselves and others. Carefully prepared indoor and outdoor environments rich in learning materials and experiences are offered to children ages 14 months-15 years. The Montessori approach includes mixed-age classrooms that allow students to interact on a variety of levels, learning social, academic, and leadership skills. Teachers facilitate the learning process by guiding students toward meaningful activity, and the children discover and develop their own interests and abilities. Montessori truly helps children develop a lifelong love of learning. Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs and Montessori at Vickery are accredited by the American Montessori Society (AMS) and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) which affirms schools meet a standard of excellence recognized by Montessori educators worldwide. Please visit to see how Montessori schools can benefit your child. Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs Open House Dates: Thurs., Jan. 26 from 6-8 PM and Sat., Jan. 28 from 10 AM-Noon. Montessori at Vickery Open House Dates: Saturday, January 7th from 10 AM-Noon. For information, MontessoriAcademySharonSprings.com or MontessoriVickery.com
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Montessori School at Emory
Mount Paran Christian School
ontessori School at Emory was founded over 22 years ago becoming accredited as a Montessori School in 1993. With over 175 students, from 15 months through 14 years, the Montessori School 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 www.MontessoriSchoolatEmory.com.
hristian young people grow into thriving Christian adults only with extraordinary intentionality. When knowledge and biblical principles are intertwined in every aspect of a child’s development, the acquisition of state-ofthe-art knowledge and development of biblical literacy prepare young learners to be grounded, confident, Christian adults who understand joy-filled purpose and calling. That is why Mount Paran Christian School exists. And that is why an MPCS education is so profoundly meaningful – for college, life, and eternity. MPCS is a preschool age three through grade 12 private Christian, non-denominational, college preparatory school committed to excellence in academics, athletics, and the arts. Founded in 1976, MPCS is fully accredited (SAIS/AdvancED) and located in Cobb County, GA. MPCS unites with home and church to prepare servant-leaders to honor God, love others, and walk in Truth. Students thrive through the process of becoming well-educated, responsible, Christian young people. Consider giving your child the gift of a lifetime of opportunity. Come experience the difference. Visit mtparanschool.com and schedule a time to see our campus and our community.
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Mount Vernon Presbyterian School
Mt. Bethel Christian Academy
ocated in the heart of Sandy Springs, MVPS is a school of inquiry, innovation, and impact. Grounded in Christian values, Mount Vernon prepares all students to be college ready, globally competitive, and engaged citizen leaders. We inspire young minds. By designing learning experiences with and for children, we connect foundational skills to realworld opportunities. We believe students have big ideas, and we empower them to make a difference in their world now. Leading the national conversation around K-12 design thinking, students identify real world issues, collaborate through research, test results and ultimately produce solutions with an impact. Grades 9-12 offer a dynamic opportunity called Interim Term. Students travel the globe or engage in internships around the city. Partnering with the local community, MVPS students perform more than 10,000 hours of community service. Rounding out the experience, 90% of students participate in one more of the School’s 51 sports teams. Explore more at mountvernonschool.org to learn about our inquisitive students and devoted faculty, our innovative approach to learning, and the expanding impact of our community.
or nearly twenty years, Mt. Bethel Christian Academy has been the school of choice for families from East Cobb and beyond desiring a JK-12th grade, Christ-centered, education for their children. College-preparatory in its approach, Mt. Bethel’s curriculum challenges students with rigorous studies that include a dual track STEM program, honors and AP opportunities. A one-toone laptop program (5th through 12th) allows students to access their textbooks and reference material online and includes a communication tool connecting students and parents to teachers. With two campuses in East Cobb County, the combined facilities include spacious classrooms, performing arts, visual arts and video production studios, dining halls, learning commons with dedicated student collaboration space, an 1800 sq. ft. fully equipped fitness center, two indoor gymnasiums, a 6-lane, 25-yard year-round swimming pool, an outdoor pavilion covering a regulation-size basketball court, lighted tennis courts, athletic fields, and two recreational lakes. Beyond the classroom, a championship athletic program includes volleyball, soccer, basketball, swimming, crosscountry, baseball, golf, tennis, lacrosse, clay targets, archery, cheerleading, and an equestrian team. Bus service is available to the Main Campus (Jr. Kindergarten-8), located at 4385 Lower Roswell Road, and the North Campus (9-12), located at 2509 Post Oak Tritt Rd. Visit their website at www.mtbethelchristian.org for further information and Open House dates.
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January 2017 Atlanta Parent 73
Atlanta
Private Schools Northwoods Montessori School
Pace Academy
o see the joy of learning in action, come visit Northwoods Montessori School! The school offers innovative early childhood education programs catering to the needs and abilities of children at each stage of their development – from toddler care and primary (preschool) through elementary levels. There is also a robust extended-day program and a Montessori summer camp for the students. Northwoods enrolls preschool children from 12 months to three years of age. It has long been recognized at the highest level of excellence by the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), and has served the Atlanta area for over 40 years. Northwoods teaches with traditional Montessori methods, providing a unique combination of philosophy, educational theory, and instructional materials – all guided by a deep understanding of childhood development. Visit the website at www.northwoodsmontessori.org or call 770-4577261 to schedule a private observation visit. Location: 3340 Chestnut Drive, Atlanta GA, 30340: Hours of operation: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday-Friday.
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. With 1,105 students in Pre-First 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 program information, visit www.paceacademy.org.
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Pinecrest Academy
Porter Academy
inecrest Academy is a PreK3-12th grade, college preparatory Catholic school, located in Cumming, Georgia, a northern suburb of Atlanta. Pinecrest is a 2014 National Blue Ribbon School and has been a Cardinal Newman Society Catholic School Honor Roll School of Excellence for nine consecutive years. The school provides an atmosphere of academic rigor and critical thinking, while offering personalized attention in a Christ-centered environment. Pinecrest prepares students to become Christian leaders, eager to transform society. This mission is accomplished in a gender-specific environment on a co-ed campus. Following the educational philosophy of the Legionaries of Christ, Pinecrest implements Integral Formation® to develop the intellectual, human, spiritual and apostolic dimensions of the whole person. Students are challenged to identify and use their gifts in service to others. Recognizing the parent as the primary educator of the child, the school’s mission embraces the entire family. Pinecrest provides a safe, moral, spiritual environment which leads to positive peer groups and joyful, caring and confident students. For more information, visit pinecrestacademy.org or call 770-888-4477.
e are so pleased with the progress he has made so far this year. He is beaming when he reads aloud and his confidence is soaring. He is no longer too timid to take chances and try something new. We couldn’t be happier!” - Porter Academy Parent When parents first come tour Porter Academy, many of them feel heavy with frustration, anxiety, and sadness because they have fought hard for their children, but with little success to show for their efforts. These same families, within a few months of enrollment, are able to relax and feel hopeful, knowing that their children are finally happy and learning. The school’s founder, Claudia Porter, didn’t teach a curriculum, she taught a child. She knew each child’s passions, strengths, and stumbling blocks. She knew that their past struggles had made them feel less...less capable, less important... and that these feelings had led many of them to resist trying. They had learned to slip through the cracks or to distract from the real problems by acting out behaviorally. Mrs. Porter knew that the first step to getting children to learn was to rebuild their self confidence and self respect. The school has grown, but the child-centered care and teaching persists, enabling each child to find joy and success in learning. For more information, visit www.porteracademy.org or call 770-594-1313.
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St. Joseph Catholic School
St. Martin’s Episcopal School
JCS, a 2003 and 2016 National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence, is accredited by AdvancEd, the parent company of SACS. Established in 1953, it is part of the educational system of the Archdiocese of Atlanta. With a current enrollment of 475 in grades Kindergarten through eight, St. Joseph School prides itself on the spiritual growth and academic excellence of both students and teachers. Catholic faith is front and center at St. Joseph School. Religion classes are part of the academically challenging curriculum. SJCS’s upper building’s dedicated space is used for middle school and for supporting classes in Spanish, computer science, art, physical education and music. Students enjoy enriching experiences such as weekly mass, community service, field trips, choir, band, student council, sports, drama productions and art festivals. The middle school offers elective classes in a variety of areas including Lego Robotics, yearbook and newspaper production. Graduates continue their academic excellence by attending rigorous high school programs at Catholic and private schools and also IB and magnet programs in the public school systems. For more information, visit St. Joseph Catholic School on the web at www.stjosephschool.org.
t. Martin’s Episcopal School is a place where each child can discover his or her unique gifts. Serving over 600 students from 3 years old through 8th grade, St. Martin’s has offered a quality education in a loving, Christian environment for more than 50 years. Every parent knows that the ability to learn, create, lead and serve is as individual as each child. With small classes and a nurturing community, students can safely explore, take risks, face challenges and celebrate each other’s success. They are not only well-prepared to be high achievers and strong leaders during high school, they also build a foundation that encourages lifelong learning. Students’ spiritual growth remains an important part of the school’s mission. While St. Martin’s is a Christian school with an Episcopal identity, children of all faiths are welcomed. Students also enjoy a variety of extracurricular opportunities in upper Elementary School and throughout Middle School in athletics, fine arts, journalism, science and more. Open House events will be held on Jan. 18 and Jan. 21. St. Martin’s invites you to tour the campus to learn more. For more information, contact Director of Admission Blythe Marsau at (404) 228-0709 or visit www.stmartinschool.org.
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Sugar Hill Christian Academy
Swift School
ugar Hill Christian Academy currently serves students 12 months through 8th grade and enrolling grades 9 and 10 for Fall 2017. Their mission is to offer an excellent academic and Christian education, while developing a lifelong relationship with Jesus Christ. At Sugar Hill Christian Academy they believe a successful education is only met by partnering with the parents during these important formative and academic years. Together, they will pray for, lift up and support your child to grow in character and faith and to be successful in the modern world while living as Disciples of Christ. Students begin each day by raising their hearts and voices to God in praise and worship. Character education and devotions are combined with song and prayer to start the day. Students also have a daily enrichment period that rotates weekly through the following subjects: art, computer lab, music, physical education and Spanish. Academy students also visit the school library weekly and are encouraged to participate in Accelerated Reader. SHCA middle school students compete with area schools in basketball, soccer, cross country, tennis and volleyball through the North Atlanta Metro League (NAML). Students also participate in flag football and cheerleading. Visit sugarhillchristian.org or schedule a tour at 678-745-4121.
wift School is an independent school serving students with dyslexia and language-based learning differences in grades 1-8. We specialize in multisensory teaching strategies to engage the whole child. An individualized program is designed to enhance each student’s unique strengths and provide tools to address specific challenges. Swift supports every student in becoming a confident self-advocate for life-long learning, success, and personal fulfillment. At Swift, dyslexia is viewed through the lens of leading-edge brain-science and seen as a brain-type with great advantages. Swift helps shape dyslexic students not only by teaching them to decode and understand language, but by developing interpersonal skills that will allow them to adapt to and thrive in a life beyond Swift. The school offers a challenging Middle School program to prepare for high school and provides frequent assessment of children with clear and constructive reporting to parents. Swift School is conveniently located in Roswell right off of GA – 400 at exit 7. Contact us today at 678-205-4988 to learn more or visit us at theswiftschool.org.
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January 2017 Atlanta Parent 75
Atlanta
Private Schools Tabula Rasa - The Language Academy
The Waldorf School of Atlanta
abula Rasa, The Language 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 or Chinese) 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, the third language (French at the Sandy Springs campus and Chinese at the Lawrenceville campus) is continued in the afternoons. Tabula Rasa has a low student/teacher ratio, and helps students with their Spanish homework in the Afterschool program. Their new Lawrenceville location opened August 2015 and is now accepting applications. For more information or to tour the campus and see reasons why students love the program, please call 404409-0827, or visit www.trlanguages.com
hildhood First. Celebrating 30 years, The Waldorf School of Atlanta offers a revolutionary notion – that in the midst of a highspeed world, children should be provided a timeless space to do their sacred work. The school nurtures within students the will to become life-long learners by fostering their ability to think with clarity, feel with compassion, and act with purpose in the world. The Waldorf curriculum is rich in every branch of academics and enlivened with the arts and practical skills. As such, it honors children at each stage of their development, nurturing their current capacities and preparing them for new learning to come. Located in Decatur, with a satellite location in Inman Park, The Waldorf School of Atlanta serves children from age 2 through 8th grade. Aligned with the ideals of Waldorf education – a century-old approach to learning, carried on by 1,000 schools worldwide – The Waldorf School invites you to learn more at www.waldorfatlanta.org!
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The Walker School
The Weber School
he Walker School is Metro Atlanta’s college-preparatory school for families seeking an engaging, perspectivewidening academic program within an intimately scaled, caring environment where meaningful relationships inspire transformative learning. Walker’s dedicated teachers exude contagious intellectual energy, demonstrate authentic interest in the life of the mind that extends beyond their core subject areas, and model genuine respect for students and each other. Through their actions and interactions, Walker teachers cultivate students’ spirit of wanting to learn in every setting – the classroom and the library, the laboratory and the art studio, the stage and the playing field. Walker students, feeling known and encouraged by their teachers and classmates, come to value the experience over the applause, developing the confidence to explore new avenues of thinking, the wisdom to articulate meaningful insights, and the fortitude to act with integrity and honor. At the culmination of this carefully guided, increasingly independent journey from pre-K through grade 12, Walker graduates have evolved from curious young learners into young adults thoroughly prepared for the challenges of college and life. To learn more about the wonders of Walker, please visit thewalkerschool.org or call 678-581-6891.
he Weber School, Atlanta’s only high school serving students from all Jewish backgrounds, offers a robust advanced academic and co-curricular program. The Program: Weber’s collaborative and creative faculty lead a powerful learning community where student initiative and intellectual inquiry is encouraged and fostered. The rich interdisciplinary Jewish and General Studies program features a variety of opportunities for advanced academic work including AP and honors courses, a year-long Senior Capstone project with Honors diploma, and academic electives in math and science, the humanities, and technology. Full-time and adjunct faculty direct their innovative visual and performing arts program. Many Weber students participate in a highly competitive athletics program which includes interscholastic, intramural, and wellness options. The Mission: The Weber School prepares its students for success in college and in life, inspiring them to be knowledgeable, thinking, responsible Jewish adults, by weaving together the pursuit of academic excellence; a commitment to Jewish values, the Jewish people and Israel; and a responsibility to serve the community and improve the world. Words can’t describe it. A visit will. Rise Arkin, Director of Admissions! (404) 917-2500 x117 risearkin@weberschool.org
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The Westminster Schools
Whitefield Academy
estminster is a coeducational Christian preparatory school which seeks to serve students who are bright, motivated, and curious by nurturing them through challenge. The environment develops leaders of conscience who will be a positive force in the world. The School was founded in 1951, guided by a mission to prepare students for college and for life. With an enrollment of approximately 1,860 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. Learn more about Westminster’s academics, faculty, and extracurricular activities, or find more information about the admissions process, at westminster.net.
hitefield Academy is a Christcentered, college-preparatory school serving more than 800 students from Smyrna, Vinings, Buckhead and beyond, in grades pre-K4 through 12. Located just off I-285 on a beautiful, 100-acre campus, Whitefield maintains a solid academic reputation with its numerous AP and honors courses, and a rigorous 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 $6.1 million in scholarships, annually. Twelve percent of the 2016 senior class achieved National Merit® recognition. The Whitefield learning environment facilitates discovery of students’ 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 ninety 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 department has produced many successful artists who honed their skills at both the collegiate and professional levels. For more information, visit whitefieldacademy.com.
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Woodward Academy
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oodward Academy is the largest independent school in the continental U.S., with 2,700 students spanning two campuses on 133 acres in metro Atlanta. With an average class size of only 8:1, teachers, coaches, and counselors provide wise, individual guidance at every step, mentoring students, instilling qualities of good character, and helping them reach their fullest potential. Students develop a deep respect for difference as they collaborate with peers from more than 20 metro-Atlanta counties and a broad array of religious, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Woodward offers prolific opportunities to triumph, including 25 AP courses, a Transition Program for students with mild learning differences in grades two through eight, and a wide range of clubs, arts programs, and athletic options. The Global Connections Program offers extensive international study abroad programs. MakerSpaces, Collaboratories, and innovative classroom technologies allow students to embrace STEM fields at every step of their education. A typical Woodward Academy graduating class attends more than 100 different colleges and universities, devotes 5,000 hours to community service projects, and earns more than $14 million in collegiate scholarship awards. Discover the Woodward Difference today at woodward.edu. atlantaparent.com
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78 Atlanta Parent January 2017
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character REVEALED
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— Kendall (MPCS first-grader)
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At school, I learned that God loves me.
sn’t that what it’s all about — reaching the heart of a child? Mount Paran Christian School provides exemplary PK3-12 academics in small classes, and we do it all with Christ at the center. Our job is to prepare servant-leaders — in the classroom, on the ball field, on the stage, and ultimately in our community. Visit us at an open house or on a personal tour! RSVP at www.mtparanschool.com.
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1275 Stanley Road, Kennesaw, GA 30152, 770.578.0182
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...a place where faith and intellect grow as one
January 2017 Atlanta Parent 79
10 Ways to Make the Most of School
for Your Child with Special Needs by Melanie Marlowe
As a teacher and mom of a child with special needs, I’m acutely aware of the balancing act parents and teachers perform to maintain positive educational experiences for kids. After eight years as a parent in special needs education, I’ve learned a few strategies that work.
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Be present. When my son transitioned from
Be supportive. Always ask the teacher
preschool to elementary, his case manager stressed the need for me to hang around his school. “It’s important that you volunteer,” she said. Unsaid: You can more effectively support your child’s experience if you’re physically onsite. Teachers often have the best intentions, but they get busy like the rest of us. If they see you at school, they’re more likely to communicate and remember your child’s specific goals.
Be prepared. Before any parent-teacher
how you can support your child’s goals at home. Can you reward your child for good behavior at school? Can you discuss a behavioral misstep? Can you augment your child’s learning with flashcards, organizational aids or extra study?
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conference, look over your child’s records and refresh your understanding of his goals. Make notes of topics you wish to discuss and the way you’d like to discuss them. If it’s a yearly meeting, request a advance copy of the proposed document and compare it to last year’s plan. What’s changed? Your child’s teacher should point out and explain changes but if she doesn’t, come in knowing what they are.
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Be pleasant. No matter how you feel about your child’s teachers, an “us vs. them” mentality will not serve your child’s needs. Remember, teachers and parents share the same goal: encouraging the most effective behaviors for maximum learning. Choose your words and tone carefully.
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Learn the lingo. If your child is in a special
Be assertive. Being pleasant doesn’t mean you don’t advocate for your child. Teachers are experts in education; you are the expert on your child. If there’s a social or academic issue, don’t be afraid to communicate. The teacher’s job is to educate ALL students up to national and statewide standards. Your job is to make sure YOUR child gets what he needs.
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Be grateful. Don’t forget to let teachers know what they’re doing right. Children with special needs come with their own sets of gifts and challenges, so be vocal about what’s working. Teachers benefit from positive reinforcement as much as their students.
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Choose your battles. At any school, public or private, your child’s experience won’t be perfect. While you must persistently (and pleasantly!) insist on the best, be realistic about what’s important. For example, if your child is being unfairly singled out or falling behind academically, address this. But if the teacher
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asks him not to wear light-up shoes or a hoodie because they’re too distracting, maybe you need to let that go. If you feel uncomfortable addressing negative aspects of your child’s experience, consider taking an advocate with you to parent-teacher meetings. Advocates can be educational consultants, social workers, or lawyers and generally charge an hourly fee. Effective advocates can address your child’s needs without the emotional attachment that can derail parents.
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Be consistent. Check in with your child’s teachers periodically. A quick informal meeting over a lunch or planning period is a great tool for updating, problem solving, and maintaining services. Email is also effective. In addition to quick meetings with teachers, drop by for lunch with your child if the school allows. Just like extended care facilities, the patrons who get the best service tend to be the ones whose relatives drop by at both regular and random times.
[ Focus on Education ]
needs program, learn the terminology. Your child may have an Individual Education Plan (IEP), an Individualized Health Plan (IHP) or a 504 Plan. Research exactly what these plans cover. The modifications your child receives are called services. Services are based on goals outlined in your child’s IEP or other document. Goals drive your child’s placement in an educational setting. Strategies or modifications are the methods used to help your child stay on track with typically functioning peers. Use “we” rather than “you” whenever possible. Maybe your child with dyslexia feels rushed to complete her work. So you ask, “How can we help her feel less anxiety with time limits?”
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Remember the big picture. Like parents, teachers juggle many demands – shifting educational standards, limited budgets, class sizes, disparate learning styles and schedules. Remind yourself: teachers are doing the best they can. c Melanie Marlowe is a writer and teacher in the Atlanta area and the proud mom of two boys, one of whom has Asperger’s syndrome.
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1-12 Coed - Small Classes Competitive Athletic Programs College Preparatory Laptop Program Extended Day Program Art, Band, Chorus, Drama Summer Programs SACS/SAIS Accredited
2017 Open Houses - Wednesdays at 9:00 a.m. January 18 • February 8 • March 8 • April 12 • May 10 “I’ve always believed that if a student can’t learn the way we teach ... we should teach the way a student can learn.” Tweetie L. Moore, Founder
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770.360.1336 | www.millsprings.org/VisitUs 13660 New Providence Road, Alpharetta, GA 30004-3413 [ Focus on Education ]
January 2017 Atlanta Parent 81
Spelling S-U-C-C-E-S-S
GRACEPOINT School A School for the Dyslexic Learner
MISSION: Equip dyslexic students with the skills needed to develop into independent and confident learners, through sequential, systematic and multisensory instruction.
GOAL: Instill in each child a lifelong desire for growing in wisdom and gaining knowledge of the Lord so that each may fulfill God’s purposes and bring glory to Him.
NEW LOCATION
Tours Available by Request
570 Piedmont Road, Marietta 30066 678-709-6634 | gracepointschool.org
Porter Academy Enabling Children with Learning Differences to Succeed
Helping kids learn spelling words can be b-o-r-i-n-g for everyone. Some parents coach kids to read the words over and over. Others ask kids to write their words 10 times each. These strategies may make the grade if your child is a quick study, but they don’t help him notice patterns or make connections with other knowledge. And that kind of deeper learning turns spelling sessions into higher-level brain training. Studies show multi-sensory techniques that use seeing, hearing, touching and moving simultaneously lead to more efficient and effective learning. Try these strategies to amp up learning and make spelling fun. n Play Scrabble. Get out the board
game and ask your child to create a Scrabble setup using only the words from the spelling list. Making the words is an active, tactile and visual learning process that keeps kids engaged. Add math practice by calculating which word scores the most points.
n Categorize. Make a chart with columns for each kind of word in the spelling list, and let learners put each one in its place. You might have columns for words with “er” or “ir” or for “objects,” “actions” and “adjectives.” Our brains like to store information in categories, so this task helps kids remember words.
n Alphabetize. Instead of writing the list
in the same order repeatedly, re-organize it each time. First, copy the list as provided. Then, write words in alphabetical order. On the next round, write them in order from shortest to longest. Capturing information in several ways forces kids to really think about each word instead of copying mindlessly.
• Pre-K–8th • Small Groups • Individualized programs • Hands-on learning activities
770-594-1313 | www.porteracademy.org | 200 Cox Rd., Roswell 82 Atlanta Parent January 2017
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AN EXCEPTIONAL SCHOOL FOR EXCEPTIONAL STUDENTS
n Make up mnemonics. Some
words are so hard to spell that the only way to remember them is to make up a memory aid. You’re probably familiar with rhymes such as “‘i’ before ‘e,’ except after ‘c,’ or when sounding like ‘a’ in neighbor and weigh.” Encourage kids to make up their own silly sayings or simple songs to remember tricky spellings. The best memory aids are the ones kids create for themselves.
College prep academics and vocational academy designed for grades 4-12 and postgraduate students with high functioning Autism, Asperger’s, ADD, ADHD and other learning differences. Open Enrollment. 650-A Mt. Vernon Hwy NE • Atlanta 30328 cumberlandacademy.org • 404-835-9000
The Bedford School accepts students in grades one through nine. Students receive proper academic remediation in a small class setting, as well as specific help with physical skills, peer interaction and self-esteem. The Bedford School also offers Squirrel Hollow Camp, a remedial summer camp program.
n Feel it out. Fill a cookie sheet with
sand and have your child write out her words with her fingertip. Or – for some good clean fun – let her finger paint spelling words on the bathtub walls using shaving cream. Tactile sensations form an additional memory trace learners can use during recall. Kids can retrace movements on the desk top during the spelling test.
n Highlight the hard parts.
Prompt kids to write words with colored markers and bold strokes, putting additional emphasis on troublesome letters or syllables. For instance, your child might write mOnkey to remind herself that the first vowel in this word is “o,” not “u.” Vivid visual features stand out in our memories. Adding ears and a mouth to turn the “O” into a monkey face would make this even more effective.
n Write five phrases. Use each
For Children With Learning Differences
770-774-8001 5665 Milam Rd. Fairburn, Georgia 30213 www.thebedfordschool.org
Wednesday, February 15, 2017 9:00 am (Begins at 9) Thursday, March 23, 2017 9:00 am (Begins at 9)
The Bedford School maintains a non-discriminatory policy concerning admissions, scholarships, use of facilities and employment on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex or creed.
Fulton County Schools
Is Here To Help…
word to create five alternate phrases. Writing “block of ice” and “around the block” connects the word block to other things your child already knows. Putting words into context also gets kids to think about the sound and meaning of the words, rather than copying letters.
The school system can evaluate any child age 3 or older for a suspected disability, at no cost.
➢ Diagnostic and Evaluation Services ➢ Speech/Language Therapy ➢ Specialized Community and School-Based Education We serve students with disabilities such as developmental delays, speech/language delays, autism spectrum disorders, hearing and vision impairments, orthopedic impairments who are three to five years of age and reside within the Fulton County School District.
n Draw a doodle. Let little artists
create custom doodles that bring words to life on the page. Turn individual letters into symbols – like a snake in place of the “s” or a boomerang in place of a “v” – or draw the word’s meaning in the spaces around the letters themselves. – Heidi Smith Luedtke
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Open Houses Sunday, January 29, 2017 1-3 pm (drop-in)
Call or visit for more information: 470-254-0404 fultonschools.org 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.
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January 2017 Atlanta Parent 83
Homework Help
Questions to Keep Your Child on Track
by Heidi Smith Luedtke
When it comes to homework help, asking the right questions is more important than knowing the answers. Use these prompts to direct your child’s work and teach important learning-management skills. n Do you have a written (or online) assignment to follow? Students may struggle with homework because they don’t recall what they were assigned. Make sure your child is using the guidance his teacher provided, so he completes all the objectives. Encourage him to track his progress by crossing off items as he finishes.
n Do you understand what your teacher is asking you to do? Even a detailed assignment won’t help if your child doesn’t understand it. Make sure your child grasps the particulars before he begins, so he doesn’t waste time doing the wrong things. Consult with the teacher if unclear expectations are a perennial problem. 84 Atlanta Parent January 2017
n What materials will you need?
n Did you do similar problems in class?
Tracking down materials creates unnecessary distractions. Encourage kids to gather supplies before starting a project, so their work isn’t interrupted by a frantic search for the calculator, scissors or glue stick. Keep frequently needed items in a homework caddy for easy access.
Most homework assignments are opportunities to practice skills kids learned at school. Direct your child to class notes and worksheets for examples and review them together to refresh his memory. Kids should repeat the in-class procedures to solve homework problems. Shortcuts may lead to omissions or errors; teachers often require students to show work step-by-step.
n Are there words or ideas you don’t know? Your child may get stuck because he doesn’t understand one or more crucial concepts. Help him identify these obstacles and search for information. Encourage kids to find answers in their textbooks or online, rather than offering your interpretation. Students who can find information on their own become empowered learners.
[ Focus on Education ]
n What is the timeline for completing this assignment? Are there milestones you’ll have to accomplish? Kids may fail to finish big projects because they wait until the last minute to begin. “Older children with assignments that atlantaparent.com
will take several days or weeks to complete will need help in learning to manage those assignments,” says Donna Elder, a senior literacy specialist with the National Center for Family Literacy. Clarify steps your child must accomplish and write due dates on the calendar. Kids should make their own deadlines for initial steps, like buying supplies or doing library research. Project planning reduces stress for everyone.
n How can we break this assignment or project into smaller chunks? Breaking assignments into segments can help kids maintain momentum. Divide a long list of objectives into subsets and use a timer to stay on task. It’s easier to read social studies for 15 minutes than to plod through an entire 35-page chapter. Short breaks between work periods let kids stretch and refresh.
n Where can you find the answer to the question? Textbook authors use section headings, bold words, text boxes, graphics and summaries to present material in an accessible way. Smart students use these
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Your child may get stuck because he doesn’t understand one or more crucial concepts. Help him identify these obstacles and search for information.
tools to locate answers quickly and to organize information. Help your child use textbook cues to hone his search skills, take notes, and create his own study guides. Structured material is much easier to learn and remember than unrelated ideas.
n How did you get your answer? Why did you answer this way? Monitor the homework process by checking kids’ work. “If there are errors, help kids self-correct by asking them to explain their logic or to show you what source of information they used,” says educational psychologist Jennifer Little, creator of Parents Teach Kids (parentsteachkids.com), a collection of modules that show parents how to teach
[ Focus on Education ]
foundational learning skills at home. If your child insists his wrong answer is right, Little says, “Let it go.” Errors show the teacher what needs to be covered (again) in class.
n Where can you go to get extra help? Your child may be anxious that there isn’t an instructor standing by during homework. Let him know it is okay to reach out if he’s stuck. There’s no such thing as a stupid question. Do your best to keep a positive attitude during study time. “Homework is not a punishment,” says Elder, “It takes practice to learn new skills. Reinforce that message by rewarding progress.” A hug or an encouraging word can make all the difference. c
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86 Atlanta Parent January 2017
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A Sampling of 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, religious-affiliated, Montessori and special needs school. Tuition prices are approximate.
Lovett School
Non-Sectarian Schools 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. 94 students. $17,500/yr. academeatlanta.org. Atlanta Girls’ School. 3254 Northside Pkwy., Atlanta (Fulton). 404-845-0900. 6th-12th. 260 students. $23,330/yr. atlantagirlsschool.org. Atlanta Country Day School 8725 Dunwoody Place., Atlanta (Fulton). 770-998-0311. 6th-12th. 25 students. $13,000-$18,000/yr. atlantacountrydayschool.org Atlanta International School. 2890 N. Fulton Dr., Atlanta (Fulton). 404-841-3840. K3-12th. 1194 students. $21,000-$24,000/yr. aischool.org.
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Brandon Hall School. 1701 Brandon Hall Dr., Dunwoody (Fulton). 770-3948177. 6th-12th. 170 students. $31,940/yr. brandonhall.org. Cambridge Academy. 2780 Flat Shoals Rd., Decatur (DeKalb). 404-241-1321. 2yrs.-8th. 225 students. $7,280-$8,000/yr. acambridgeacademy.org.
The Cottage School. 700 Grimes Bridge Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 770-641-8688. 4th-12th. 165 students. $24,200-$24,950/yr. cottageschool.org. Eaton Academy. 1000 Old Roswell Lakes Pkwy., Roswell (Fulton). 770-645-2673. K-12th. 150 students. $12,000-$22,000/yr. eatonacademy.org.
The Children’s School, 345 Tenth St. NE, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-873-6985. 3yrs.-8th. 370 students. $19,990/yr. tcsatl.org.
Foundations for the Future. 1500 Stanley Rd., Kennesaw (Cobb). 770-429-4799. 6wks.-6th. 202 students. $7,200-$9,800/yr. foundationsschool.com.
Cliff Valley School. 2426 Clairmont Rd., Atlanta (DeKalb). 678-302-1302. 3yrs.8th. 316 students. $7,260-$18,180/yr. cliffvalleyschool.org.
Fulton Science Academy. 3035 Fanfare Way, Alpharetta (Fulton). 678-366-2555. PreK-12th. 450 students. $11,000-$13,000/yr. fultonscienceacademy.org.
Cornerstone Schools. 4888 Browns Bridge Rd., Cumming (Forsyth). 770-205-8202. PreK-12th. 350 students. $8,000-$11,000/yr. cornerstonesch.com.
Galloway School. 215 W. Wieuca Rd., Atlanta (Fulton). 404-252-8389. K3-12th. 750 students. $12,500-$26,000/yr. gallowayschool.org.
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January 2017 Atlanta Parent 87
A Sampling of Atlanta’s Private Schools George Walton Academy. 1 Bulldog Dr., Monroe (Walton). 770-267-7578. K4-12th. 840 students. $4,500-$11,000/yr. gwa.com. Gracepoint School. 570 Piedmont Rd., Marietta (Cobb). 678-709-6634. 1st-8th. 76 students. $20,500/yr. gracepointschool.org. The Heritage School. 2093 Hwy. 29 N, Newnan (Coweta). 770-253-9898. 4yrs.-12th. 450 students. $7,500-$14,950/yr. heritageschool.org. High Meadows School. 1055 Willeo Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 770-993-2940. 3yrs.-8th. 400 students. $6,300-$18,750/yr. highmeadows.org. Lakeview Academy. 796 Lakeview Dr., Gainesville (Hall). 770-532-4383. PreK312th. 592 students. $6,372-$16,560/yr. lakeviewacademy.com. Lovett School. 4075 Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-262-3032. K-12th. 1678 students. $22,520-$26,650/yr. lovett.org. McGinnis Woods Country Day School. 5380 Faircroft Drive., Alpharetta (Forsyth). 770-6647764. Infant-8th. 400 students. $9,150-$12,600/ yr. mcginniswoods.org. Pace Academy. 966 W. Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta (Fulton). 404-262-1345. Pre1-12th. 1102 students. $21,800-$25,100/yr. paceacademy.org. The Paideia School. 1509 S. Ponce de Leon Ave., Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-377-3491. 3yrs.12th. 1005 students. $12,507-$22,521/yr. paideiaschool.org. Peachtree Academy Private School. 1801 Ellington Rd., 1760 Ebenezer Rd., and 14101 Hwy. 278, Conyers and Covington (Rockdale) and (Newton). 770-860-8900. Infants-12th. 700 students. $5,500-$7,500/yr. peachtreeacademy.com.
Trinity School
Piedmont Academy. 126 Hwy. 212 West, Monticello (Jasper). 706-468-8818. K3-12th. 295 students. $4,780-$6,660/yr. piedmontacademy.com. Rivers Academy. 38 North Main St., and 1934 Cliff Valley Way, Alpharetta and Atlanta (Fulton) (Dekalb). Alph: 770-475-0081, Atl: 404-4585160. 4th-12th. 300 students. $8,900-$9,500/yr. riversacademy.com. The SAE School. 6688 Mableton Pkwy. Mableton (Cobb). 678-239-3200. Preschool-11th. 375 students. $8,750 - $10,500/yr. SAEschool.org.
Saint Francis Schools. 13440 Cogburn Rd. and 9375 Willeo Rd., Alpharetta and Roswell (Fulton). 678-339-9989. K-12th. 800 students. $14,000$21,000/yr. saintfrancisschools.com. Tabula Rasa Language Academy. 5855 Riverside Dr., and 1430 Riverside Pkwy., Atlanta and Lawrenceville (Fulton) and (Gwinnett). 404-4090827. Preschool-5th. 200 students. $7,000-$15,000/ yr. trlanguages.com. Trinity School. 4301 Northside Pkwy., Atlanta (Fulton). 404-231-8100. 3yrs.-6th. 606 students. $17,250-$23,500/yr. trinityatl.org. The Waldorf School of Atlanta. 827 Kirk Rd., Decatur (DeKalb). 404-377-1315. 2yrs.-8th. 240 students. $3,500-$15,760/yr. waldorfatlanta.org. The Walker School. 700 Cobb Pkwy., Marietta (Cobb). 770-427-2689. 3yrs.-12th. 925 students. $12,000-$21,790/yr. thewalkerschool.org. Wesleyan School. 5405 Spalding Dr., Peachtree Corners (Gwinnett). 770-448-7640. K-12th. 1146 students. $16,455-$22,425/yr. wesleyanschool.org. Westminster Schools. 1424 W. Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta (Fulton). 404-609-6202. Pre 1st-12th. 1862 students. $23,120-$26,815/yr. westminster.net. Whitefield Academy. 1 Whitefield Dr., Mableton (Cobb). 678-305-3000. PreK4-12th. 808 students. $9,950-$21,750/yr. whitefieldacademy.com. The Wood Acres School. 1772 Johnson Ferry Rd., Marietta (Cobb). 770-971-1880. 2yrs.-8th. 500 students. $3,850-$11,400/yr. woodacresschool.org. Woodward Academy. 1662 Rugby Ave. and 6565 Boles Rd., College Park and Johns Creek (Fulton) and (Gwinnett). 404-765-4001. PreK-12th. 2703 students. $16,000-$25,800/yr. woodward.edu.
Woodward Academy
88 Atlanta Parent January 2017
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Religious-Affiliated Schools 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.
Alpharetta Christian Academy. 44 Academy St., Alpharetta (Fulton). 770-475-5762. 18mos.6th. 350 students. $180-450/mo -$9,000/yr. alpharettachristianacademy.com. Annunciation Day School. 2500 Clairmont Rd. NE, Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-565-2850. 18mos.-8th. 115 students. $1,985-$9,923/yr. annunciationdayschool.org. Arlington Christian School. 4500 Ridge Rd., Fairburn (Fulton). 770-964-9871. K4-12th. 225 students. $5,775-$9,125/yr. arlingtonchristian.org. The Atlanta Academy. 2000 Holcomb Woods Pkwy., Roswell (Fulton). 678-461-6102. Infants-8th. 300 students. $3,000-$14,000/yr. atlantaacademy.com.
Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy
Atlanta Jewish Academy. 5200 Northland Dr. and 3120 Raymond Dr., Atlanta (Fulton) and (DeKalb). 404-843-9900. Infants12th. 500 students. $14,835-$22,767/yr. atljewishacademy.org.
Blessed Trinity Catholic High School. 11320 Woodstock Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 678-277-9083. 9th-12th. 1010 students. $11,850/yr. btcatholic.org.
Cherokee Christian Academy and Cherokee Christian High School. 3075 Trickum Rd., Woodstock (Cherokee). 678-494-5464. K-12th. 380 students. $6,500-$12,200/yr. cherokeechristian.org.
Bible Baptist Christian School. 2780 Mount Carmel Rd., Hampton (Henry). 770-946-4700. K4-12th. 175 students. $3,610-$6,644/yr. biblebaptistministries.com.
Bridgeway Christian Academy. 4755 Kimball Bridge Rd., Alpharetta (Fulton). 770-751-1972. K3-8th. 170 students. $2,940$11,375/yr. bridgewayca.org.
Christ the King School. 46 Peachtree Way, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-233-0383. K-8th. 560 students. $8,750$12,060/yr. christking.org.
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Cont’d on page 90
January 2017 Atlanta Parent 89
A Sampling of Atlanta’s Private Schools Collins Hill Christian School. 1612 Collins Hill Rd., Lawrenceville (Gwinnett). 770-9620642. K4-8th. 155 students. $2,100-4,600/yr. chcscrusaders.org. Colonial Hills Christian School. 7131 Mt. Vernon Rd., Lithia Springs (Douglas). 770-9416342. K3-12th. 245 students. $6,395-$8,020/yr. chrams.org. Community Christian School. 2001 West Jodeco Rd., Stockbridge (Henry). 678-432-0191. 6wks.-12th. 800 students. $4,600-$8,300/yr. communitychristianschool.net. Cornerstone Christian Academy. 5295 Triangle Parkway NW, Peachtree Corners (Gwinnett). 770-441-9222. K-8th. 320 students. $9,734$12,392/yr. cornerstonecougars.org. Covenant Christian Academy. 6905 Post Rd., Cumming (Forsyth). 770-674-2990. K4-12th. 260 students. $7,500-$7,950/yr. covenantrams.org. Covenant Christian Academy. 3425 Hwy. 20, Loganville (Gwinnett). 770-466-7890. K3-12th. 235 students. $7,000-$8,000/yr. covenantcougars.org. Covenant Christian School. 3130 Atlanta Rd. Smyrna (Cobb). 770-435-1596. K4-8th. 212 students. $5,000 - $9,000/yr. ccssmyrna.org. Creekside Christian Academy. 175 Foster Dr., McDonough (Henry). 770-961-9300. K3-12th. 775 students. $3,800-$5,800/yr. creeksideacademy.org. Cumberland Christian Academy. 2356 Clay Rd., Austell (Cobb). 678-426-1600. PreK3-12th. 447 students. $3,890-$7,780/yr. cumberlandchristian.org. The Davis Academy. 8105 Roberts Dr., Atlanta (Fulton). 770-671-0085. Kprep-8th. 550 students. $18,973-$22,757/yr. davisacademy.org.
Inspiring Students
Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy. 2400 Hwy. 42 North, McDonough (Henry). 770-9572927. K3-12th. 1100 students. $3,312-$11,064/ yr. elcaonline.org.
Excel!
WITH THE PASSION TO
• Private, non-parochial education for infants through 8th grade • Nurturing environment featuring small class sizes, hands-on academics, STEM, and monthly field trips • Middle School
Join us for an OPEN HOUSE
Sat., Jan. 28 • 1–3 PM | Wed., Feb. 15 • 9:30-10:30 AM | Wed., Mar. 15 • 9:30-10:30 AM 770-664-7764 • 5380 Faircroft Drive • Alpharetta, GA 30005 • www.mcginniswoods.org
90 Atlanta Parent January 2017
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The Friends School of Atlanta
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Eastside Christian School. 2450 Lower Roswell Rd., Marietta (Cobb). 770-9712332. K-8th. 320 students. $5,165-$8,800/yr. eastsidechristianschool.com. The Epstein School. 335 Colewood Way NW, Sandy Springs (Fulton). 404-250-5600. 18mos.-8th. 550 students. $6,195-$20,850/yr. epsteinatlanta.org. Excel Christian Academy. 325 Old Mill Rd., Cartersville (Bartow). 770-382-9488. K-12th. 275 students. $9,540-$10,200/yr. excelca.org. Faith Lutheran School. 2111 Lower Roswell Rd., Marietta (Cobb). 770-973-8921. 18mos.-8th. 200 students. $5,000-$8,500/yr. faithmarietta.org Fellowship Christian School. 10965 Woodstock Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 770-993-1650. PreK12th. 808 students. $3,714-$15,486/yr. fellowshipchristianschool.org. The Friends School of Atlanta. 862 Columbia Dr., Decatur (DeKalb). 404-373-8746. PreK-8th. 173 students. $16,900-$20,300/yr. friendsschoolatlanta.org. Grace Christian Academy. 355 McDonough Rd., Fayetteville (Fayette). 770-461-0137. K3-12th. 189 students. $4,765-$6,706/yr. gracechristian.info. Greater Atlanta Christian School. 1575 Indian Trail Rd., Norcross (Gwinnett). 770-243-2000. K3-12th. 1800 students. $15,930-$20,100/yr. greateratlantachristian.org.
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Holy Spirit Preparatory School
Greenforest-McCalep Christian Academic Center. 3250 Rainbow Dr., Decatur (DeKalb). 404-486-6737. K-12th. 223 students. $6,790-8,390/yr. greenforestacademy.org. Harvester Christian Academy. 4241 Central Church Rd., Douglasville (Douglas). 770-942-1583. K4-12th. 385 students. $4,491-$7,689/yr. harvesteracademy.com.
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Hebron Christian Academy. 2975 Old Peachtree Rd. and 775 Dacula Rd., Dacula (Gwinnett). 770-963-9250. K-12th. 900 students. $6,500-$8,125/yr. hebronlions.org. Heritage Preperatory School. 1700 Piedmont Avenue, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-815-7711. PreK-8th. 140 students. $5,300-$15,750/yr. heritageprep.org. Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School. 805 Mt. Vernon Hwy., Atlanta (Fulton). 404-255-4026. 3yrs.-12th. 1375 students. $9,760-$25,520/yr. hies.org. Cont’d on page 92
January 2017 Atlanta Parent 91
A Sampling of Atlanta’s Private Schools
Landmark Christian School
Holy Redeemer Catholic School. 3380 Old Alabama Rd., Johns Creek (Fulton). 770410-4056. K-8th. 478 students. $7,795/yr. hrcatholicschool.org. Holy Spirit Preparatory School. 4465 and 4449 Northside Dr.; 4820 Long Island Dr., Atlanta (Fulton). 678-904-2811. 6mos.-12th. 575 students. $6,130-$23,365/yr. holyspiritprep.org. Horizon Christian Academy. 1270 Sawnee Dr., Cumming (Forsyth). 678-947-0711. K-12th. 230 students. $9,100-$10,300/yr. hcaga.org. Immaculate Heart of Mary. 2855 Briarcliff Rd. NE, Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-636-4488. K-8th. 500 students. $7,350-$9,775/yr. ihmschool.org. Intown Community School. 2059 Lavista Rd., Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-633-8081. K-8th. 229 students. $6,400-$10,000/yr. intownschool.org. Killian Hill Christian School. 151 Arcado Rd., Lilburn (Gwinnett). 770-921-3224. K5-12th. 370 students. $6,125-$10,225/yr. khcs.org. King’s Ridge Christian School. 2765 Bethany Bend, Alpharetta (Fulton). 770-754-5738. PreK-12th. 850 students. $6,500-$18,637/yr. kingsridgecs.org. Landmark Christian School. 777 Robinson Rd. and 50 SE Broad St., Peachtree City and Fairburn (Fayette) and (Fulton). 770-306-0647. K4-12th. 805 students. $4,900-$15,375/yr. landmarkchristianschool.org. Loganville Christian Academy. 2575 Hwy. 81, Loganville (Walton). 770-554-9888. PreK-12th. 545 students. $4,125-$9,850/yr. lcalions.com. Marist School. 3790 Ashford-Dunwoody Rd., Atlanta (DeKalb). 770-457-7201. 7th-12th. 1095 students. $18,650/yr. marist.com. Midway Covenant Christian School. 4635 Dallas Hwy., Powder Springs (Cobb). 770-5901866. K3-8th. 300 students. $1,600-$6,500/yr. midwayschool.org.
92 Atlanta Parent January 2017
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Mount Carmel Christian School. 6015 Old Stone Mnt. Rd., Stone Mountain (DeKalb). 770279-8443. K3-8th. 140 students. $6,900-$7,950/ yr. mccsch.org. Mount Paran Christian School. 1275 Stanley Rd., Kennesaw (Cobb). 770-578-0182. K3-12th. 1115 students. $3,090-16,095/yr. mtparanschool.com. Mount Pisgah Christian School. 9820 Nesbit Ferry Rd., Johns Creek (Fulton). 678-336-3443. 6wks.-12th. 1000 students. $14,750-$19,600/yr. collegepreplifeready.org. Mount Vernon Presbyterian School. 471 and 510 Mt. Vernon Hwy. NE, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-252-3448. 6wks.-12th. 945 students. $7,920-$21,010/yr. mountvernonschool.org. Mt. Bethel Christian Academy. 4385 Lower Roswell Rd., and 2509 Post Oak Tritt Rd., Marietta (Cobb). 770-971-0245. PreK-12th. 650 students. $9,900-$14,500/yr. mtbethelchristian.org.
Mount Paran Christian School
Our Lady of Mercy Catholic High School. 861 Hwy. 279, Fayetteville (Fayette). 770461-2202. 9th-12th. 400 students. $11,600/yr. mercycatholic.org.
Peoples Baptist Academy. 850 Mill Rd., McDonough (Henry). 770-914-7388. K312th. 215 students. $5,300-$6,050/yr. peoplesbaptistacademy.org.
Notre Dame Academy. 4635 River Green Pkwy., Duluth (Gwinnett). 678-387-9385. PreK3-11th. 580 students. $3,940-$15,005/yr. ndacademy.org.
Our Lady of the Assumption School. 1320 Hearst Dr., Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-364-1902. PreK4-8th. 500 students. $8,500-$10,000/yr. olaschool.org.
Perimeter Christian School. 9500 Medlock Bridge Rd., Duluth (Fulton). 678-405-2300. K-8th. 562 students. $5,493-$10,461/yr. perimeterschool.org.
Old Suwanee Christian School. 4118 Old Suwanee Rd., Buford (Gwinnett). 770-9455451. K4-12th. 180 students. $6,000-$6,200/yr. oldsuwanee.org.
Our Lady of Victory Catholic School. 211 Kirkley Rd., Tyrone (Fayette). 770306-9026. K-8th. 225 students. $8,423/yr. olvcatholicschoolk-8.org.
Pinecrest Academy. 955 Peachtree Pkwy., Cumming (Forsyth). 770-888-4477. PreK312th. 825 students. $6,580-$15,950/yr. pinecrestacademy.org. Cont’d on page 94
North Cobb Christian School. 4500 Eagle Dr., Kennesaw (Cobb). 770-975-0252. K3-12th. 915 students. $4,600-$14,725/yr. ncchristian.org.
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January 2017 Atlanta Parent 93
A Sampling of Atlanta’s Private Schools Providence Christian Academy. 4575 Lawrenceville Hwy., Lilburn (Gwinnett). 770-2797200. K-12th. 667 students. $8,400-$16,710/yr. providencechristianacademy.org. Queen of Angels Catholic School. 11340 Woodstock Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 770-518-1804. K-8th. 504 students. $7,825/yr. qaschool.org. Shiloh Hills Christian School. 260 Hawkins Store Rd. NE, Kennesaw (Cobb). 770-9267729. K3-12th. 175 students. $3,695-$8,595/yr. shilohhills.com. Southwest Atlanta Christian Academy. 3911 Campbellton Rd., Atlanta (Fulton). 404-346-2080. Preschool-12th. 200 students. $6,850-$10,000/yr. sacanet.com. St. Benedict’s Episcopal Day School. 2160 Cooper Lake Rd., Smyrna (Cobb). 678-279-4300. Preschool-8th. 440 students. $6,800-$10,300/yr. stbs.org. St. Catherine of Siena Catholic School. 1618 Ben King Rd., Kennesaw (Cobb). 770-419-8601. K-8th. 385 students. $7,550/yr. scsiena.org. St. John Neumann Regional Catholic School. 791 Tom Smith Rd., Lilburn (Gwinnett). 770-381-0557. K-8th. 305 students. $7,700-$10,000/yr. sjnrcs.org. St. John the Evangelist Catholic School. 240 Arnold St., Hapeville (Fulton). 404-7674312. PreK-8th. 315 students. $7,200-$8,600/yr. sjecs.org. St. Joseph Catholic School. 81 Lacy St., Marietta (Cobb). 770-428-3328. K-8th. 480 students. $6,519-$8,476/yr. stjosephschool.org. St. Jude the Apostle Catholic School. 7171 Glenridge Dr., Atlanta (Fulton). 770-394-2880. K-8th. 503 students. $8,345/yr. saintjude.net. St. Martin’s Episcopal School. 3110-A AshfordDunwoody Rd., Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-237-4260. PreK3-8th. 635 students. $11,250-$18,900/yr. www.stmartinschool.org. St. Paul Lutheran School. 700 Ardenlee Pkwy., Peachtree City (Fayette). 770-486-3545. 12mos.8th. 190 students. $1,525-$6,600/yr. stpaulptc.com. St. Pius X Catholic High School. 2674 Johnson Rd., Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-636-3023. 9th-12th. 1100 students. $12,670/yr. spx.org. St. Thomas Moore Catholic School. 630 W. Ponce de Leon Ave. Decatur (DeKalb). 404-373-8456. K-8th. 482 students. $7,560-$10,403/yr. stmga.org. St. Timothy School. 5365 Memorial Dr., Stone Mountain (DeKalb). 404-297-8913. 6 wks-5th. 117 students. $4,790-$5,820/yr. sttimothyschool.com. Strong Rock Christian School. 4200 Strong Rock Pkwy., Locust Grove (Henry). 678-833-1200. PreK3-12th. 870 students. $5,746-$11,719/yr. strongrockchristianschool.com. Sugar Hill Christian Academy. 4600 Nelson Brogdon Blvd., Sugar Hill (Gwinnett). 678-7454121. K4-8th. 300 students. $2,400-$8,032/yr. sugarhillchristian.org.
94 Atlanta Parent January 2017
Montessori In Town
Torah Day School of Atlanta. 1985 Lavista Rd., Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-982-0800. K-8th. 325 students. $12,000-$14,000/yr. torahday.org. The Weber School. 6751 Roswell Rd., Atlanta (Fulton). 404-917-2500. 9th-12th. 238 students. $26,700/yr. weberschool.org.
Montessori Montessori schools use the teaching technique developed by Dr. Maria Montessori. Schools listed below have elementary classes through at least the third grade.
Arbor Montessori School. 2998 Lavista Rd. and 1434 Scott Blvd., Decatur (DeKalb). 404-3219304. 18mos.-14yrs.. 293 students. $9,325$18,500/yr. arbormontessori.org. Atlanta Montessori International School. 1970 Cliff Valley Way NE, Atlanta (DeKalb). 404325-6777. 8wks.-15yrs. 200 students. $11,000$17,000/yr. amischool.com. Casa Montessori. 150 Powers Ferry Rd., Marietta (Cobb). 770-973-2731. 18mos.-6th. 150 students. $9,100-$11,000/yr. casamontessori. com. The Children’s House at Serenbe. 10636 Serenbe Ln. Palmetto (Fulton) . 770-4630081. 3yrs.-7th. 40 students. $6,300-$8,250/yr. thechildrenshouseatserenbe.com.
Covered Bridge Montessori School. 488 Hurt Rd., Smyrna (Cobb). 770-801-8292. 18mos.-5th. 100 students. $6,200-$10,500/yr. coveredbridgeacademy.com. Crabapple Montessori School. 12387 Crabapple Rd., Alpharetta (Fulton). 770-5695200. 18mos-12yrs. 160 students. $7,000$12,000/yr. crabapplemontessori.com. Discovery Montessori. 1453 East Cleveland Ave., East Point (Fulton). 404-767-5005. 4wks.-12yrs. 115 students. $6,100-10,020/yr. discoverymontessoriacademy.com. The Duluth Montessori School. 2997 Main St., Duluth (Gwinnett). 770-476-9307. 14mos.-12yrs. 140 students. $8,456-$12,507/yr. duluthmontessori.com. Fayette Montessori. 190 Weatherly Dr., Fayetteville (Fayette). 770-460-6790. 20mos.-6th. 78 students. $2,624-$8,160/yr. fayettemontessori.com. Harbour Oaks Montessori. 1741 Athens Hwy., Grayson (Gwinnett). 770-979-8900. 18mos.-12th. 130 students. $6,600-$9,000/yr. harbouroaks.org. Ivy League Montessori School. 1791 Kelly Mill Rd., Cumming (Forsyth). 770-781-5586. 18mos.-12yrs. 100 students. $165-$890/mo. ilmsnet.com.
Counterpane Montessori . 839 Highway 314, Fayetteville (Fayette). 770-461-2304. 3yrs.-12th. 100 students. $12,000/yr. counterpane.org.
Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs. 2830 Old Atlanta Rd., Cumming (Forsyth). 770-2056277. 18mos.-15yrs.. 220 students. $8,000 $12,000/yr. montessoriacademygeorgia.com.
Country Brook Montessori School. 2175 N. Norcross-Tucker Rd., Norcross (Gwinnett). 770-446-2397. 18mos.-3rd. 75 students. $7,000$10,400/yr. countrybrookmontessori.com.
Montessori Academy at Vickery. 6285 Post Road Cumming (Forsyth). 770-777-9131. 18mos.-9yrs. 162 students. $8,000-$12,000/yr. montessorivickery.com.
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Montessori Children’s House of North Forsyth. 7395 Brown’s Bridge Rd., Gainesville (Forsyth). 404-862-5437. 2.5yrs.-3rd. 50 students. $7,340-$8,750/yr. mchnf.org. Montessori In Town. 678 Moreland Ave., Atlanta (Fulton). 404-784-1038. 14mos.12yrs. 103 students. $9,000-$11,800/yr. montessoriintown.com. Montessori Scholars Academy. 13100 Morris Rd., Milton (Fulton). 770-754-0777. 6mos.-12yrs. 100 students. $550-$1,100/mo. montessorischolars.com. Montessori School at Emory. 3021 N. Decatur Rd., Decatur (DeKalb). 404-634-5777. 15mos.-14yrs. 190 students. $920-$1,540/mo. montessorischoolofdecatur.com. Montessori School of Cumming. 4601 Post Rd., Cumming (Forsyth). 770-205-6773. 15mos-12yrs. 60 students. $4,450-$10,700/yr. montessorischoolofcumming.com. Noble World Montessori School. 2502 East Piedmont Rd., Marietta (Cobb). 770-509-1775. 6wks.-5th. 75 students. $6,000-$9,000/yr. nobleworldmontessori.com. Northwoods Montessori. 3340 Chestnut Dr. Doraville (DeKalb). 770-457-7261. 12mos.12yrs. 100 students. $8,330-$12,285/yr. northwoodsmontessori.com. Oak Meadow Montessori School. 2145 Collins Hill Rd., Lawrenceville (Gwinnett). 770-9638303. 15mos.-5th. 130 students. $6,000-$9,500/ yr. oakmeadowmontessori.com. Old Peachtree Montessori. 33 Hills Shop Rd., Hwy. 324, Auburn (Gwinnett). 770-963-3052. 8wks.-8th. 100 students. $2,925-$9,800/yr. opmontessori.com. Rising Star Montessori School. 440 E Lanier Ave., Fayetteville (Fayette). 770-461-1595. 18mos.-6th. 75 students. $5,050-$9,900/yr. risingstarmontessorischool.com. Riverstone Montessori. 455 Casteel Rd., Marietta (Cobb). 770-422-9194. 2.5yrs.9th. 120 students. $8,716-$15,265/yr. riverstonemontessori.com.
Springmont. 5750 Long Island Dr., Atlanta (Fulton). 404-252-3910. 18mos.-14yrs. 250 students. $9,500-22,600/yr. springmont.com. Village Montessori. 1610 Woodstock Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 770-552-0834. 18mos.-8th. 150 students. $5,100-$14,000/yr. vmschool.com.
Special Needs Schools Atlanta Speech School. 3160 Northside Pkwy., Atlanta (Fulton). 404-233-5332. Infants-6th. 375 students. $6,772-$36,004/yr. atlantaspeechschool.org. Bedford School. 5665 Milam Rd., Fairburn (Fulton). 770-774-8001. 1st-9th. 148 students. $18,250/yr. thebedfordschool.org. Brookwood Christian School. 4728 Wood St., Acworth (Cobb). 678-401-5855. 1st-12th. 60 students. $14,500/yr. .brookwoodchristian.com. Center Academy. 3499 South Cobb Dr., Smyrna (Cobb). 770-333-1616. 4th-12th. 50 students. $16,295/yr. centeracademy.com.
Children’s Special Services, LLC
MATH & SCIENCE TUTORING PhD Prof. (retired) GA Tech Grades 3-12
Handwriting and Homework Skill Specialist
ADD, ADHD, ASD, Autism, Sensory Integration, Dyslexia, Dyspraphia, LD ...and more
Individual & Group therapy sessions available
Comprehensive Evaluations Addressing Sensory Motor • Visual Motor • Coordination Visual Processing • Handwriting • Autism Organizational Skills • ADD • ADHD • PDD OCD • Behavior Disorders • Sensory Integration
Susan N. Schriber Orloff, OTR/L, FAOTA Director, Occupational Therapy
• Over 35 years experience • 2006 Georgia OT of the Year
770-394-9791
www.childrens-services.com The Adaptive Learning Center Building Communities Through The Inclusion of Children With Special Needs & Their Families
Cumberland Academy of Georgia. 650-A Mt. Vernon Hwy. NE, Atlanta (Fulton). 404835-9000. 4th-12th, post grad. program. 100 students. $23,400/yr. cumberlandacademy.org. Heart of Hope Academy at the Elaine Clark Center. 5130 Peachtree Ind. Blvd., Chamblee (DeKalb). 770-458-3251. 6yrs.-22yrs. 70 students. $18,000/yr. elaineclarkcenter.org. The Howard School. 1192 Foster St., Atlanta (Fulton). 404-377-7436. K-12th. 271 students. $29,980-$31,460/yr. howardschool.org. Jacob’s Ladder Neurodevelopmental School and Therapy Center. 407 Hardscrabble Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 770-9981017. PreK-12th. 110 students. $33,080/yr jacobsladdercenter.com.
Inclusive Preschool ALC offers an inclusive preschool program in partnership with 9 Community Preschools around the Atlanta area. Atlanta • Buckhead • Dunwoody • Druid Hills Marietta • Roswell • Sandy Springs
www.adaptivelearningcenter.org
770.509.3909
Joseph Sams School. 280 Brandywine Blvd., Fayetteville (Fayette). 770-461-5894. Birth-22yrs. 80 students. $9,100-$21,200/yr. josephsamsschool.org. Mill Springs Academy. 13660 New Providence Rd., Alpharetta (Fulton). 770360-1336. 1st-12th. 340 students. $22,926/yr. millsprings.org. Porter Academy. 200 Cox Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 770-594-1313. 4yrs.-14yrs. 71 students. $19,460/yr. porteracademy.org. The Schenck School. 282 Mt. Paran Rd., Atlanta (Fulton). 404-252-2591. K-6th. 250 students. $31,150/yr. schenck.org. Sophia Academy. 2880 Dresden Dr., Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-303-8722. K-12th. 100 students. $15,000-$23,500/yr. sophiaacademy.org.
Sophia Academy
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The Swift School. 300 Grimes Bridge Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 678-205-4988. 1st-8th. 270 students. $24,790-$25,215/yr. theswiftschool.org. c
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For more information, call Dept. of Special Education at 404.802.1690 or 404.802.2613
January 2017 Atlanta Parent 95
DAY CAMPS • OVERNIGHT CAMPS • SUMMER PROGRAMS
Presented by
2 017 Atlanta Parent – the trusted source for day & overnight camp information for more than 30 years January 21
Saturday, 11 am - 4 pm North Point Mall Alpharetta
February 25
Saturday, 11 am - 4 pm Town Center Mall Kennesaw
DAY CAMPS
OVERNIGHT
March 18
Saturday, 11 am - 4 pm Perimeter Mall Atlanta
To exhibit or for info call Jordan Lisvosky at 678-222-1911
or JLisvosky@atlantaparent.com • atlantaparent.com/campexpo
Family Fun Guide * Eating Out
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Free Fun
n
Exhibits
n
Playground
Not-to-miss events for January
n
Calendar
r Indoom Swi ns Lesso
101 Page
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The Little Mermaid
Fox Theatre Jan. 12-15. See foxtheatre.org for showtimes. Meet Ariel and Sebastian and watch their adventures under the sea. Sing along to your favorite songs like “Kiss a Girl” and “Under the Sea.” 660 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-881-2100. $33.50-128.50. foxtheatre.org
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The Little Mermaid
Atlanta Parent Magazine’s Camp EXPO
Night at the Museum
North Point Mall Jan. 21. 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Visit the museum after hours and see how exhibits come alive after dark. Participate in a mystery museum tour, listen to historic stories around a campfire and conduct magic lab experiments. 2020 Clean Water Dr., Buford. 770-904-3500. $8; 2 and younger, free. gwinnettehc.org
Don’t miss Atlanta Parent’s 21st annual Camp Expo at North Point Mall. Get ready for camp before it’s too late. Meet camp representatives from Atlanta and beyond and choose where your child will make lasting summer memories. 1000 North Point Cir., Alpharetta. 770-454-7599. Free. atlantaparent.com
Family Fun Guide
Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center Jan. 27. 5-9 p.m.
January 2017 Atlanta Parent 97
Family Fun Guide EATING OUT Star Provisions
1198 Howell Mill Rd., Atlanta 404-365-0410 ext. 130; starprovisions.com Mon.-Sat., To-Go counter service: 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Star Provisions is not only an easy spot to grab breakfast, lunch or dinner, but also features individual markets for baked goods, cheese, wine, meats, seafood, locally roasted coffee, and other gourmet food items and an array of gifts and cookware. It’s a fun, order-from-the-counter restaurant with a nice open seating area with tables between the shops and an outdoor dining space. n What’s on the menu: Delicious sandwiches like the Shrimp Po’ Bo ($11.95), muffaletta ($8.95) or roast beef ($9.95) can be paired with a variety of sides like potato salad or hummus ($2). Menu also includes salads, hot lunch items like skillet fried chicken, a vegetable plate and many additional options. Breakfast includes omelets, biscuit and bagel sandwiches and a yogurt bowl. n Why kids will like it: The peanut butter and marshmallow sandwich ($4.95) hands down will be your kid’s favorite. If they are allergic to peanuts, order a strawberry preserve version. This gooey, messy sandwich will make their eyes light up. Other typical kids fare includes a grilled cheese or hot dog (also $4.95). n Why parents will like it: It’s an easy order-at-the-counter option in a fun, trendy spot. The food is delicious and there is good adult and kid shopping nearby. – Laura Powell
Attention Campers and Parents! Atlanta Parent’s Camp Expo 2017
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
It’s time to think about how your kids will make lasting memories at summer camp. Registration is under way and spaces are filling up quickly – let Atlanta Parent be your guide. Don’t miss our Camp Expos, where you can gather information and plan your camper’s summer. Meet camp directors and former campers, watch camp videos and load up on brochures from programs suited for any interest. Grab the latest issue of Atlanta Parent, our annual Camp Guide and other Atlanta Parent annuals.
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Presents Circus Xtreme Philips Arena, Feb. 15-20; Infinite Energy Center, Feb. 23-March 5 Be amazed by exotic animals and international performers. High-wire wizards, powerful strongmen, BMX trick riders, trampoline daredevils, inconceivable contortionists, a high-flying human cannonball, a bungee aerial skydiving display and more. ringling.com Groundhog Day Juggling Festival
Camp Expo Dates:
Yaarab Shrine Center. Feb. 3-5.
North Point Mall: Jan. 21, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Jugglers, unicyclists, hoopers, live music, juggling workshops and more fun for all ages. atlantajugglers.org
Town Center Mall: Feb. 25, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Perimeter Mall: March 18, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
98 Atlanta Parent January 2017
Family Fun Guide
atlantaparent.com
Free Fun: Hear a Great Tale Every child loves a good story. The addition of special guests, costumed characters or music adds to the fun. Visit one of these locations to hear a free, engaging story. Barnes and Noble 13 Atlanta locations Storytelling Saturdays 11 a.m. barnesandnoble.com
Brilliant Sky Toys & Books Sandy Springs Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. brilliantskytoys.com
Crabapple Kroger Grandma Snazzy’s Storytime. Alpharetta Every Monday, Thursday and Friday 10 a.m. 770-740-2050
FoxTale Book Shoppe Woodstock Saturdays 11 a.m. 770-516-9989
Learning Express Alpharetta; Marietta; Woodstock Alpharetta and Marietta: Mondays at 11 a.m. Woodstock: Thursdays at 11 a.m. learningexpress.com
Little Shop of Stories Decatur Tuesdays 11 a.m.; Thursdays 7 p.m. (wear your PJs); Sundays at 3 p.m. littleshopofstories.com
Learning Express
Pottery Barn Kids
Library Systems
Lenox Square Mall Avalon Every Tuesday 11 a.m. potterybarnkids.com
Every library system offers themed monthly storytelling, often with crafts and songs to go along. Check with your local branch for upcoming dates and times.
Seed Factory
n Atlanta-Fulton (34 branches) afpls.org
Atlanta seedfactoryatlanta.com 404-355-2043
n Clayton County (6 branches) claytonpl.org n Cobb County (16 branches), cobbcat.org n Coweta County (4 branches), cowt.ent.sirsi.net n DeKalb County (22 branches), dekalblibrary.org n Forsyth County (4 branches), forsythpl.org n Gwinnett County (15 branches), gwinnettpl.org n Henry County (5 branches), henry.public.lib.ga.us n Conyers-Rockdale County (1 branch), conyersrockdalelibrary.org
Mark your calendar Take the opportunity to hear storytellers at one of these annual festivals: n Azalea Storytelling Festival March 3-5 LaGrange College in LaGrange n Southern Order of Storytellers Peach State Storytelling Festival Fall 2017 Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Atlanta
Atlanta-Fulton Library System
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Family Fun Guide
January 2017 Atlanta Parent 99
IN A DOGEAT-DOG WORLD, BEARS RULE.
To learn more, visit mercer.edu.
100 Atlanta Parent January 2017
Family Fun Guide
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GET IN THE SWIM Swim Atlanta
These indoor swim locations allow for year-round lessons, and some have family swim times to grow on what’s learned. Practice your strokes and kicks inside before moving on to the beach or pool this summer.
Atlanta Swim Academy Lessons from ages 3 months-adult. Marietta. atlantaswimacademy.com
Dynamo Swim School Lessons for ages 6 monthsadult. 5 Atlanta locations. dynamoswimschool.com
Goldfish Swim School Lessons for ages 4 months12 years. Johns Creek. goldfishswimschool.com
Sea Ventures Lessons for ages 10 months to adult. Alpharetta. seaventures.com
Skarkie’s Swim and Scuba Academy Lessons for ages 2 months-adult. Smyrna. sharkiesswimandscubaacademy.com
Swim Atlanta Lessons for ages 6 months-adult. 7 Atlanta locations. swimatlanta.com
Swim with a Purpose (SWAP) Swim School Lessons for ages 6 months-adult. Held at the Highland Athletic Club. Atlanta. swimwithapurpose.com
Swim Revolution Lessons for ages 6 months-15 years. Vinings. theswimrevolution.com
YMCA of Atlanta Lessons for ages 6 months-adult. 18 Atlanta locations. ymcaatlanta.org. Prices vary depending on swimming level and number of lessons. See websites for charts detailing price per lesson and lesson schedules. Goldfish Swim School
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Family Fun Guide
January 2017 Atlanta Parent 101
Play in the Snow! The Verdict on Snow Mountain: Let’s Do It Again
“T
his is awesooooooome!” screamed my 10-year-old daughter as she flew down “Avalanche Alley” in a six-person-tube at Snow Mountain. We all felt a rush of adrenaline as the attendant pushed our tube forward and we sailed straight down and bumped and turned along the path. My 6-year-old nephew, Jordan, was initially reluctant to tube but yelled, “I wanna do that again!” after we slid to a stop at the bottom of the hill. So we grabbed more tubes and did just that over and over again in single, double and large tubes during our two-hour tubing time. In the SnowZone snow play area, we gathered buckets and shovels and other snow-building tools provided and got to work on snowmen and igloos. A group next to us was busy creating a 6-foot rocket ship out of snow! Snow machines constantly blow fresh snow so the area never gets too icy or slushy. The play zone also features a snowball shooting gallery, Penguin Run with midsized slides, and a Little Angels area with small hills and slides for toddlers and small children to try sledding and tubing on a calmer terrain. While our children played together, I chatted with a mom originally from Canada who mentioned Snow Mountain gives her
family a “fix” of the snow she remembers from childhood, since snow is not common in Georgia’s warmer climate. To cap off our day, we bought $4 s’mores kits and roasted marshmallows over small fire pits. Bottles of water, hot chocolate, popcorn and other snacks are also available for hungry kids and parents coming in from the snow. Overall, Snow Mountain was a wonderful active way for my family to spend time together on a winter day. Know Before You Go: Be sure to take waterproof gloves, snow or rain boots and
an extra pair of socks or a change of clothes for the end of the day. Lockers are available for rent ($5 for large, $3 for small.) Avalanche Alley family tubes require a minimum height of 36 inches tall; Tube Runners (single tubes) require a minimum height of 42 inches tall. Little Angels play area in SnowZone is designed for children ages 3 and younger, and maximum height is 42 inches; Penguin Run snow sliding in SnowZone has a maximum height of 54 inches. – Becky Cooper
The Details
Snow Mountain at Stone Mountain Park 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd., Stone Mountain n Hours: Through Feb. 26. For full operating schedule and to reserve tickets, visit stonemountainpark.com or call 800-401-2407. n Admission: $28 per person, plus a $15 parking pass; free for children age 2 and younger. Admission includes a reserved two-hour tubing time and all day access to the snow play area.
102 Atlanta Parent January 2017
Family Fun Guide
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Hit the Slopes Several ski areas are just a few hours north of Atlanta with slopes for beginners to experts. Also go snow tubing at most locations. The season runs until late March. Beech Mountain Resort Beech Mountain, N.C. beechmountainresort.com; 800-438-2093
Cataloochee Ski Area Maggie Valley, N.C. cataloochee.com; 828-926-0285
Cloudmont Ski Resort Mentone, Ala. cloudmont.com; 256-634-4344
Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort Gatlinburg, Tenn. See obergatlinburg.com for opening schedule after wildfires. 800-251-9202.
Sapphire Valley Ski Area Sapphire, N.C. skisapphirevalley.com; 828-743-7663
Sugar Mountain Resort Sugar Mountain, N.C. skisugar.com; 828-898-4521
Wolf Ridge Ski Resort Mars Hill, N.C. skiwolfridgenc.com; 800-817-4111
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Sugar Mountain Resort
Tips for a good run n Choose the right gear: Make sure boots and bindings are properly fitted; each family member is dressed in warm layers and is wearing goggles or sunglasses. n Take a ski lesson: Trained instructors know the best way to teach the skills. It will save both kids and parents the frustrations of learning from a family member. n Learn the Code: Be sure everyone skiing (or snowboarding) in your family learns the “Your Responsibility Code,” which lists the seven rules of the slopes. Visit nsaa.org, then click on the “safety” tab and then “responsibility code.” n Stay hydrated: Keep a water bottle and a granola bar or small snack in a pocket. n Use the buddy system: Establish a place to meet in case the family gets separated on the slopes, and always ski with a partner. n Take extra precautions: Kids should have parents’ cell phone numbers and the name and phone number of your lodging/hotel written down and placed in a waterproof pocket.
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Jump Jump
6315 C. Spalding Dr., Peachtree Corners. 770-558-1525; jump-jump.com n Cost: Ages 3-12, $9; ages 1-2, $5; younger than 1, free. n Hours: Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
JUMP to New Heights by Teresa Farkas
In the middle there is a large, open play area for easy supervision, and a new trampoline area for jumping. Parent Night Out every Fri. 6-9 p.m. Separate jump area for ages 2 and younger.
Kid’s Paradise
5050 Jimmy Carter Blvd., Norcross. 404-445-7786; kidsparadiseparty.com n Cost: Mon.-Thurs., 3 and older, $9.99; 2 and younger, $5.99; Fri.-Sun., ages 3 and older, $12.99; 2 and younger, $6.99. n Hours: Mon.-Thurs., noon-8 p.m.; Fri., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Jump or climb on the obstacle courses. Separate toddler area and adult lounge.
Leapin’ Lizards
North DeKalb Mall, Decatur. 404-537-3030; leapinlizardsplay.com n Cost: Ages 3 and older, $8; ages 2 and younger, $5 n Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Offers parents’ night out and two large rooms with inflatables for all ages, especially for ages 4 and older.
Grab some socks and let the kids get their jump on. These indoor play places and trampoline parks will keep the kids bouncing.
Bounce Places Catch Air
Cumming; Johns Creek; Marietta; Sandy Springs; Midtown; Snellville; catchairparty.com n Cost: Varies by location, $7-$12. n Hours: Vary by location. Let the kids out on the dance floor or enjoy activities by age group. See each location’s Facebook for discounts.
Leapin’ Lizards
Fun Forest
1630 Pleasant Hill Rd. Ste. 110, Duluth. 678-648-6655; funforestduluth.com n Cost: Ages 3 and older, $10; ages 2 and younger, $7; additional cost for Parents’ Night Out and drop-off. n Hours: Mon.-Fri., 1-7 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Inflatable farm house for ages 3 and younger, basketball area, arcade and drop-off hours. Parents’ Night Out: Fri.-Sun. until 11 p.m.
HippoHopp
1936 Briarwood Ct. NE, Atlanta. 404-634-4964; hippohopp.com n Cost: Ages 3-10, $9; ages 1-2, $5; younger than 1, free. n Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Eco-friendly indoor play areas, a café with healthy choices, a reusable discount card and a large toddler area.
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Fun Forest
Family Fun Guide
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Monkey Joe’s
Atlanta; Cumming; Duluth; Marietta; Newnan; Roswell; Tucker; monkeyjoes.com n Cost: Varies by location, $8-$13; discount for ages 2 and younger. n Hours: Vary by location. Designated play areas by age featuring jumps, slides and games; a mini monkey zone for ages 3 and younger.
Woody’s Jump n Play
1300 McDonough Pl., McDonough. 770-914-2973; woodysjumpnplay.com n Cost: Mon.-Thurs., ages 4-12, $9; ages 1-3, $6; Fri.-Sun., ages 4-12, $9.50; ages 1-3, $6.50; 1 and younger, always free. n Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m. A designated play area for ages 3 and younger located near the parents’ lounge for easy supervision. Woody’s Jump n Play
Trampoline Parks Get Air
Stone Mountain; Johns Creek. stonemountaingetair.com; getairjohnscreek.com n Cost: Big Air, first hour, $14; second hour, $8; Small Air (under 46 inches), first hour, $10; second hour, $6 n Hours: Vary by location. Small Air is available for kids under 46 inches on the “kiddie court.” Big Air includes the ninja course, dodge ball and basketball and foam pit.
Jumping World 4200 Wade Green Rd. NW, Kennesaw. 770-672-7616; jumpingworldusa.com/Kennesaw n Cost: Fri. after 3 p.m.-Sun., holidays and school vacations. See website for prices. n Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri. 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Ages 13 and older from 9 p.m.-midnight Fri. and Sat. In addition to trampolines, the area has two huge dodgeball courts, an arcade and a concession area, plus a jumping house for toddlers.
JumpStreet
5900 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Lawrenceville. 678-847-0123; gotjump.com n Cost: Pricing varies by time. Ages 8 and older, $12-$14; ages 4-7, $8; 3 and younger, $5. n Hours: Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., noon-6 p.m. Older kids can climb on the tall climbing tower or ride on a mechanical bull, while the younger kids have a play area to themselves.
Sky Zone
Kennesaw; Roswell; Suwannee; McDonough; Newnan; coming soon: Decatur; skyzone.com n Cost: Pricing varies by time, $10-$21 (pre-purchased tickets recommended). n Hours: Vary by location. Play basketball and jump into the large foam pit. Toddler time offered during the school year. All jumpers will be separated by age and size.
X-drenaline
1611 Roswell Rd., Marietta; coming soon: Milton; Alpharetta; Cumming. 770-604-1367; xdrenaline.com n Cost: Pricing varies by time, $15-$33 (pre-purchased tickets recommended) n Hours: Closed Mon. and Tues.; Wed. and Thurs. 4-8 p.m.; Fri. noon-10 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun. 1-7 p.m. Expanded holiday hours. Open jump, foam pit and ninja obstacle course. Toddler time available for ages 5 and younger, Fri. 10 a.m.-noon; Sat. 9-10 a.m. $7 per toddler.
Sky Zone
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Family Fun Guide
January 2017 Atlanta Parent 105
Calendar
January S M T W TH F S
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Visit our Calendar at atlantaparent.com for calendar updates and ongoing events and attractions in Atlanta.
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Events may be canceled or changed after our deadline.
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Submit your family-friendly Calendar event at least 8 weeks prior to the event by visiting atlantaparent.com/event/submit.
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Photo by Greg Mooney
PLAY THE PLAY WITH CAT THE CAT
classes Turtle Tours. Heritage Sandy Springs Museum. Museum mascots Sandy the chipmunk and Spring the turtle introduce history through stories, hands-on exhibits and crafts. Second Wed. of each month. 11 a.m. 6075 Sandy Springs Cir., Sandy Springs. 404-851-9111. Recommended for ages 2-5. Free. Donations encouraged. Mommy and Me Preschool Program. Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History. Different activities each week. Every Thurs. 10 and 11:30 a.m. 2829 Cherokee St., Kennesaw. 770-427-2117. Recommended for ages 3-5. Adults, $7.50; ages 4-12, $5.50; 3 and younger, free. Toddler Thursdays. High Museum of Art. Create masterpieces to compliment the museum’s current exhibits. Ages 2-4. Every Thurs. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404733-4400. Free with admission. 6 and older, $14.50; 5 and younger, free. Drop-In Art Classes. Treehouse Kid & Craft. Enjoy weekly activities including painting, drawing and sculpting. Every Sat. 10 a.m. (ages 2-4) and 11 a.m. (ages 5-10). 533 W. Howard Ave., Ste. A, Decatur. 470-355-8305. $12. Crafts at Lakeshore Learning. Lakeshore Learning. Make a different craft each week. Every Sat. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 4287 Roswell Rd., Marietta. 770-578-3100. Free. Drop-In and Draw. Gas-Art Gifts at North DeKalb Mall. Make a different project each week. Any time between noon-3 p.m. Sat. and Sun. 2050 Lawrenceville Hwy., Decatur. 404-801-4926. $5. Saturday Morning Art Classes. Vinings School of Art. Drawing, painting or pottery classes. Supplies included. Ages 2-12. Every Sat. 10 and 11 a.m. 1675 Cumberland Pkwy., Smyrna. 678-213-4278. Pre-register. $15, siblings $12. INK Craft Weeks. Interactive Neighborhood for Kids. Enjoy different themed crafts each week. Check inkfun.org for schedule and times. $1 with museum admission. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 999 Chestnut St., Gainesville. 770-5361900. Mon.-Sat., $8; Sun., $6.
Alliance Theatre JAN. 10-FEB. 19. SEE ALLIANCETHEATRE.ORG FOR SHOWTIMES. The Theatre for the Very Young brings the Cat the Cat series to the stage. Identify Cat the Cat’s parade of animal friends and mimic their animal sounds. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-5000. Adults, $10; ages 6-17, $5; 5 and younger, free. alliancetheatre.org. Home Depot Kids Workshop. All locations. Learn tool safety and make a craft. Jan. 7. 9 a.m.noon. Homedepot.com. Ages 5-12. Free. Toddler Time. Georgia Aquarium. Meet and learn about a marine animal, enjoy a costumed character appearance, story time, craft activities and a small snack. Jan. 2. 10-11:30 a.m. Reservations required. Ages 0-3. 225 Baker St., Atlanta. 404-581-4000. $8/person. Does not include aquarium admission. Adults, $39.95; ages 3-12, $33.95; ages 2 and younger, free. Mice Tours. Marietta Museum of History. Mascots Murray and Etta mouse introduce history through tours, storytime and crafts for ages 3-5. Jan. 11. 10:30 a.m. 1 Depot St., Marietta. 770794-5710. Reservations required. $5.
Indoor Basic Archery. Panola Mountain State Park. Release your inner Katniss while learning archery basics. All equipment provided. Ages 9 and older. Every Sat. and Sun. 10 a.m.-noon. Pre-register. 2620 Highway 155 SW, Stockbridge. 770-389-7801. $15; parking, $5.
Second Thursday Program. Southeastern Railway Museum. Parents and tots program includes circle time, an activity and craft. Ages 2-4. Jan. 12. 10:15 a.m.-12:05 p.m. Check-in before 10:20 a.m. 3595 Buford Hwy., Duluth. 770-495-0253. $10 per child, one adult free, additional adult, $12.
Kids Kitchen. Bellina Alimentari at Ponce City Market. Hands-on pasta making class with an Italian chef for kids ages 8-12 and an adult. Jan. 4. 3-4 p.m. Pre-register mercatodibellina. com. 675 Ponce de Leon Ave., Atlanta. 404900-7900. $45 per child and adult pair.
Car Seat Class. Dunwoody Police Department. Families who are expecting or currently using a rear-facing car seat can learn how to properly install. Must pre-register. Jan. 28. 9:30-11:30 a.m. 41 Perimeter Center East Suite 100, Dunwoody. 678-382-6918. Free.
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Family Fun Guide
exhibits The World’s Largest Dinosaurs. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. See the greatest, most massive dinosaurs ever discovered as they would have looked hundreds of millions of years ago. Touch fossils, dinosaur teeth and greet a 60-ft. Mamenchisaurus. Through Jan. 2. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Adults, $18; ages 3-12, $16; ages 2 and younger, free. TINKERTOY: Build Your Imagination. Tellus Science Museum. Design TINKERTOY structures, experiment with renewable energy and create your own inventions. Through Jan. 2. Mon.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville. 770-606-5700. Adults, $14; ages 3-17, $10; ages 2 and younger, free. The Games: Ancient Olympia to Atlanta to RIO. Millennium Gate Museum. Features Ancient Greek artifacts, which tell the history of the Olympic Games and Ancient Olympia. Examine the impact the modern Olympics had on Atlanta. Through Jan. 2. Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 395 17th St. NW, Atlanta. 404881-0900. Adults, $12; 8 and younger, free.
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SCHOOL HOUSE ROCK LIVE!
Ocean Bound. Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center. Hands-on exhibit that takes visitors on a journey through watersheds to see how our actions on land affect our oceans. Through Jan. 4. Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 2020 Clean Water Dr., Buford. 770-904-3500. $13; ages 3-12, $10; 2 and younger, free.
Infinite Energy Center JAN. 12-13. 7 P.M. The North Metro Academy of Performing Arts will perform classic acts like “Conjunction Junction” and “Three is the Magic Number.” 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 770-626-2464. $12.50-22. infiniteenergycenter.com
I See a Story: The Art of Eric Carle. High Museum of Art. Features more than 80 collages from 16 of Carle’s most popular books that span his 50-year career, including many original works rarely on view. Through Jan. 8. Tues.-Thurs. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Fri. 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. noon5 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-4400. 6 and older, $14.50; 5 and younger, free. Kids Cowboy Up! Booth Western Art Museum. Staff members of the museum paired with the Cartersville Boys and Girls Club to create artwork in a variety of media. On display through Jan. 8. 501 Museum Dr., Cartersville. 770-387-1300. Adults, $10; 12 and younger, free. Winter Wonderland. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. An exhibit showcasing different holiday displays from cultures across the globe. Through Jan. 8. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Included with museum admission. Adults, $18; ages 3-12, $16; ages 2 and younger, free. Magic Tree House. Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Based on the popular children’s books, hop inside Jack and Annie’s magical tree house and explore American history through a time-traveling adventure. Through Jan 16. Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-659-5437. $14.95; younger than 1, free.
PHILIPS ARENA
FEB 15 – 20
Food by Design. Museum of Design Atlanta. Discover the process of feeding and how the farm of the future might operate. Jan. 22-May 7. Tues., Wed., Fri. and Sun. noon6 p.m., Thurs. noon-8 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 1315 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-9796455. Adults, $10; ages 6-17, $5; 5 and younger, free. From Here to There. Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Explore different methods of movement. From using simple machines to move objects to see how air pressure moves a hovercraft. See what it takes to power cars, airplanes and snow blowers.
Jan. 28-May 29. Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-659-5437. $14.95; younger than 1, free. Abracadabra! Every Day Magic. Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center. An interactive exhibit to learn the science and math behind magic. Demonstrate a chemical reaction using body heat; decode secret messages using pressure and more. Jan. 30-April 30. Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 2020 Clean Water Dr., Buford. 770-904-3500. $13; ages 3-12, $10; 2 and younger, free.
INFINITE ENERGY ARENA
FEB 23 – MAR 5 All trademarks shown are property of their respective owners.
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Photo by Christ Bartelski
Remembering MLK Celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with these activities, events and service projects planned throughout Atlanta. n The Mountaintop. Aurora Theatre. A re-imagined story of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his final moments. The play takes place after Dr. King delivers his memorable “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop” speech and retires to his room at the Lorraine Hotel. Jan. 12-Feb. 17. Tues.-Fri. 8 p.m.; Sat. 2:30 and 8 p.m.; Sun. 2:30 p.m. 128 E. Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-6222. $20-$55. n Day of Service. Throughout Atlanta. Join Hands-On Atlanta’s efforts to serve the local community at various schools, libraries and other nonprofits. Over 1,500 volunteers will continue King’s idea of service. Jan. 16. Visit handsonatlanta.org for a complete list of opportunities and times. n MLK Park Day. Enjoy free entrance day at the National Parks in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Sites include Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area and Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site. Jan 16. Location times vary. nps.gov/findapark n Martin Luther King Jr. 5K Walk/Run. Piedmont Park. Walkers and runners join together for a race through Piedmont Park. A drum line plays along the race. Jan. 16. Music, 8 a.m.; line up, 8:45 a.m. 400 Park Dr., Atlanta. 404889-1142. $35. n Commemorative Service. Ebenezer Baptist Church Horizon Sanctuary. The commemorative service features tributes to the life and achievement of King from national and international leaders. Jan. 16. 10 a.m. 101 Jackson St. NE, Atlanta. 404-688-7300. Free. n Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Birthday. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Activities throughout the day. Make a dream mobile; enjoy a storytime and music, a parade and more. Jan. 16. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr. NW, Atlanta. 404-659-5437. $14.95; younger than 1, free.
Aurora Theatre
n MLK Museum Day. Atlanta History Center. Free admission in honor of MLK and special activities and performances. Special guest Frye Gaillard, author of children’s book, Go South to Freedom, will read. Jan. 16. 10 a.m.5:30 p.m. 130 West Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta. 404-814-4000. n Gwinnett County MLK Parade and Celebration. Lawrenceville Hwy. Bands, community groups and more to celebrate the life of Martin Luther King Jr., Jan 16. 11 a.m. Begins 75 Langley Dr., Lawrenceville and continues down Lawrenceville Hwy. gwinnettmlkparade.com. Free. n 50 Years Later: Believe it, Achieve it. Turner Chapel Church. The Cobb County Branch of the NAACP and Cobb County Government present a program to honor Dr. King. Jan 16. 10 a.m. 492 N. Marietta Pkwy., Marietta. 770-425-5757. Free. Check with your local library for storytelling and special events to honor MLK.
THE DREAM LIVES! Martin Luther King, Jr. Day January 16th 10am–5:30pm
Enjoy free admission to the Atlanta History Center and the Margaret Mitchell House in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, and featuring special programming that highlights the contributions of African Americans in Atlanta. atlantahistorycenter.com
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Family Fun Guide
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Child Models PIRATE DAY
We’ve booked kids for $2,000 per day and more, others at $50 - $60 per hour.
Fernbank Museum of Natural History JAN. 14. 10 A.M.-2 P.M. Set sail for a swashbuckling adventure. A day of pirate-themed activities including costumed pirates, pirate games, a museum scavenger hunt and more. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Adults $18; ages 3-12, $16; ages 2 and younger, free. fernbankmuseum.org.
Mach Speed: MiG-21 Jet Cockpit. Tellus Science Museum. Get a peek inside the cockpit of a MiG-21 and imagine what it was like to fly the jet fighter at supersonic speeds. See a Soviet flight suit and an interactive control panel. Through March 26. Mon.Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville. 770-606-5700. Adults, $14; ages 3-17, $10; ages 2 and younger, free. From Clay to Copper. Tellus Science Museum. Learn about the mineral exploration, craftsmanship and extensive trade networks of the Etowah Valley Indians. Through Oct. 1. Mon.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville. 770-606-5700. Adults, $14; ages 3-17, $10; ages 2 and younger, free. Where the Wild Things Are. The Breman Museum. The exhibit features drawings, artifacts and biographical information as well as fun, interactive activities, which all include your child’s favorite storybook characters. Sun.-Thurs. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Fri. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Closed Sat. 1440 Spring St. NW, Atlanta. 678-222-3724. Adults, $12; ages 3-6, $4; younger than 3, free.
ice skating Centennial Olympic Park. Skating in the park with views of the holiday lights. Sessions run 90 minutes. Through Jan. 8. Mon.-Thurs. 4:30-10 p.m.; Fri. 4:30-11 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.- 10 p.m. Holiday hours may differ. 265 Park Ave., Atlanta. 404-223- 4412. $12/person including skate rental. Avalon on Ice. Lace up your skates and glide on the ice. Through Jan. 22. Mon.-Fri. 3-10 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. and Sun. noon-7 p.m. Holidays 10 a.m.-10 p.m. 2200 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta. 770765-1000. Adults, $18; 9 and younger, $14; season pass, $175. All include skate rental. SKATE Atlantic Station. A 10,000-square-foot, openair ice skating rink. Through Feb. 14. Mon.-Thurs. 4-10 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. noon-11 p.m.; Sun. noon-9 p.m.; Holidays 3-11 p.m. 17th St., Atlanta. 404-4104010. Adults, $13; 12 and younger, $10.
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The Ice Rink at Sugar Hill. Practice your ice skating moves on this real ice outdoor rink. Through Feb. 19. See icerinkatsugarhill.com for schedule. 5039 West Broad St., Sugar Hill. 770-554-7506. Adults, $12; 8 and younger, $10. The Rink at Park Tavern. Heated tent, stateof-the-art sound system and rink-side dining. Through Feb. 20. Mon.-Fri. 4:30-8 p.m.; Sat. and Sun. 11:30 a.m.-8 p.m. 500 10th St. NE, Atlanta. 404-249- 0001. $15$20, all day skate for all ages until 8 p.m.; after 8:30 p.m. must be 16 or older. Ice Days Ice Skating Rink. Olde Town Conyers Pavilion. Indoor/outdoor rink in a botanical setting with real ice. Through Feb. 26. See icedaysconyers.com for schedule. 949 S. Main St. NE, Conyers. 678-3747655. Adults, $10; ages 7 and younger, $8. Skate rental included.
Could your baby, toddler or kid be one?
Atlanta, New York, LA
404-636-1974
www.williamreynoldsagency.com
SUMMER IN SPAIN
Language and cultural immersion program. More than a summer camp. Discover Spanish Life offers boys and girls 11 and older three weeks in Spain. Young travelers will broaden their horizons, grow in self-confidence, and gain experiences and friends that will last a lifetime. Group departure with Discover Spanish Life directors from Atlanta Hartsfield Int’l. Airport: June 17 – July 8. www.discoverspanishlife.com info@discoverspanishlife.com 1-866-980-9526
Marietta Square. Historic Marietta Square will transform into a Winter Wonderland with an open air ice skating rink. Through Feb. 26. Visit winterwonderlandmarietta. com for schedule. 205 Lawrence St. NE, Marietta. 770-429-1115. $12, including skate rental.
music First Friday Concert. Norcross Community Center. Different concert first Friday of the month. 10 College Street NW, Norcross. Call 678-421-2048 for reservations, seating is limited. Free. Music for the Very Young: Meet the Percussions. Woodruff Arts Center. Your family will learn about the Woodwind, Brass, String and Percussion families during this series performed by the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. Jan. 7. 9:30, 10:30 and 11:30 a.m.; Jan. 8. 1:30, 2:30 and 3:30 p.m. 280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-5000. Adults, $15; ages 6-17, $8; ages 3-5, free.
Family Fun Guide
January 2017 Atlanta Parent 109
Calendar Music for the Very Young: Meet the Woodwinds. Woodruff Arts Center. Your family will learn about the Woodwind, Brass, String and Percussion families during this series performed by the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. Jan. 21. 9:30, 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. Jan. 22. 1:30, 2:30 and 3:30 p.m. 280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-7335000. Adults, $15; ages 6-17, $8; ages 3-5, free. “The Raiders of the Lost Ark” with live Orchestra. Atlanta Symphony Hall. Watch the classic movie while the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra performs the score live. Jan. 27 and 28, 8 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-5000. Tickets, $20.25-$125.
movies The Search for Life in Space. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. The film takes audiences from the surface of Mars and the icy moons of Jupiter and Saturn, to the extreme lava fields of Hawaii and beneath the sea. Through Jan. 2. See fernbankmuseum.org for showtimes. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6400. IMAX tickets: Adults, $13; ages 3-12, $11; ages 2 and younger, free.
nature First Day Hike. Panola Mountain State Park. Start the New Year off right with a hike up the mountain and finish with s’mores and hot chocolate around a campfire. Jan. 1. Hikes every hour from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. 2620 Hwy. 155 SW, Stockbridge. 770-389-7801. $5; Parking, $5.
110 Atlanta Parent January 2017
PETER AND THE WOLF Georgia State University Clarkston Campus Gym JAN. 22. 3 P.M. Children’s concert presented by the DeKalb Symphony Orchestra and narrated by WSB TV’s Jovita Moore. Dancers from Decatur School of Ballet will accompany the performance. 555 North Indian Creek Dr., Clarkston. 678-8913565. $5 per ticket. dekalbsymphony.org
Feeding Time. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Join a naturalist for an in-depth look at one of the resident animals as the Wildlife Dept. feeds them. Every Tues. and Sat. 4 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-9922055. Adults, $10; 3-12, $6; ages 2 and younger, free.
Family Fun Guide
Discover Georgia’s Native Mammals. Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center. Explore Georgia’s native mammals and see how they survive the winter months. Guided forest hike, crafts and a class on animal and plant adaptations. Jan. 16. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 2020 Clean Water Dr., Buford. 770-904-3500. $8; 2 and younger, free.
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special events
Monster Jam. Georgia Dome. See massive trucks speed around and launch into the air. Jan. 14. Gates open 5 p.m.; pit party, 2:305:30 p.m.; show 7 p.m. 1 Georgia Dome Dr., Atlanta. monsterjam.com. Tickets start at $20.
Family Fun. Woodruff Arts Center. As a part of CREATE ATL, activities include art making, interactive musical story times, composers-in-training sessions, instrument making, drop-in acting classes and more. Every Sun., 1-4 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4200. Free.
Callanwolde Arts Festival. Callanwolde Fine Arts Center. Two-day indoor festival featuring artists, live music, dance performances and more. Jan 20-22. Fri. 6-9 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 980 Briarcliff Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-873-1222. $5 per person for both days.
Three Kings Day. Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Alma Mexicana will present Mexican dances. There will be a special storytime and a Three Kings Day parade. Jan. 7 and 8. 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-659-5437. $14.95; younger than 1, free.
Meet the Holidays: Chinese New Year. Children’s Museum of Atlanta. The Atlanta Chinese Dance Company will give a special performance and dance with kids. Create a dragon craft and build a Chinese drum. Jan. 21 and 22. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-659-5437. $14.95; younger than 1, free.
Repticon. Gwinnett County Fairgrounds. Explore thousands of reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, spiders and small exotic animals. Jan. 7 and 8. Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 2405 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Lawrenceville. 863-268-4273. Adults, $10$15; 5-12, $5; 4 and younger, free. Atlanta Boat Show. Georgia World Congress Center Hall C. Nautical fun for all ages, including fishing demonstrations, a sailing simulator and a kids’ zone. Family Day is Jan. 12 with prizes and discounts. Jan. 1215. Thurs.-Fri. 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.9 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 280 Northside Dr. NW, Atlanta. 401-651-3220. Adults, $14; ages 15 and younger, free with an adult.
Southeastern Stamp Expo. The Hilton Atlanta Northeast. Activities for young stamp collectors and free stamps for kids. Jan. 27-29. Fri. and Sat. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 5993 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Norcross. 770-314-4502. $5 per family, no limit on number of family members. Trains, Trains, Trains. Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History. See a model train expo and railroad artifacts, make crafts, watch moving trains run through villages and over bridges. Jan. 28-29. 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. 2829 Cherokee St., Kennesaw. 770-427-2117. Adults, $7.50; ages 4-12, $5.50; ages 3 and younger, free.
Party with the Penguins. Georgia Aquarium. Learn more about the research and conservation efforts to help preserve African penguins, an endangered species, while enjoying penguinthemed activities. Jan. 21. 9 a.m.-9 p.m. 225 Baker St., Atlanta. 404-581-4000. Adults, $39.95; ages 3-12, $33.95; ages 2 and younger, free.
storytelling Wren’s Nest Storytelling. The Wren’s Nest. Ramblers host storytelling each Sat. 1 p.m. 1050 Ralph D. Abernathy Blvd., Atlanta. 404753-7735. Adults, $9; ages 4-12, $6 ages 4 and younger, free. Price includes storytelling. Storytime by the River. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Join the volunteer librarian as she uses books, puppets and songs to share stories about nature. Ages 3-5. Jan. 4. 10:30-11:30 a.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; 2 and younger, free. Small, Small World: Exploring Art around the Globe. Spruill Oaks Branch Library. Explore the world through music, stories and art. Jan. 5. 10:30 a.m. 9560 Spruill Rd., Johns Creek. 770360-8820. Free. Magic Monday: Welcome to Atlanta. Atlanta History Center. Travel through the Gatheround: Stories of Atlanta exhibit, and participate in interactive activities as well as a craft. Jan. 9. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 130 W. Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-814-4000. Adults, $6.50; ages 5 and younger, $5.50.
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WILD KRATTS LIVE! Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre JAN 27 AND 28. FRI. 6:30 P.M.; SAT. 1 AND 4:30 P.M. Based on the hit animated television series “Wild Kratts,” the brothers show off the amazing abilities of animals and their inventions to help save the creature world. 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy., Atlanta. 770-916-2800. $27-97. cobbenergycentre.com
Happy Tails/READing Paws. East Roswell Branch Library. Children can work on reading skills by reading to Bentley, a trained and registered therapy dog. Jan. 14, 10:30-11:30 a.m.; Jan. 19, 3:304:30 p.m. 15-minute sessions. Ages 5 and older. 2301 Holcomb Bridge Rd., Roswell. 404-613-4050. Free.
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Tadpole Tales. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Preschoolers will enjoy a story with a Fernbank educator along with an activity or song. Jan. 14, 11:15 a.m.; Jan. 21, 11:30 a.m. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Free with admission. Adults $18; ages 3-12, $16; 2 and younger, free.
Storybook Time. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Listen to stories about bees, butterflies, frogs and flowers in the Turner Broadcasting Garden Theater. Jan. 11. 10:30-11 a.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404876-5859. Included with admission. Adults, $21.95; ages 3-12, $15.95; ages 2 and younger, free.
theater The True Story of the Three Little Pigs by A. Wolf. Center for Puppetry Arts. Mr. A. Wolf tries to explain what really happened to the houses made of straw, sticks and bricks, along with the three little pigs. Jan 3-22. No shows Jan. 10 and 17. See puppet.org for showtimes. 1404 Spring St. NW, Atlanta. 404-8733391. $20.50 per ticket; 1 and younger, free.
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Calendar Shen Yun. Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. Featuring classical Chinese dance, live music, elaborate costumes and animated backdrops to illustrate 5,000 years of Chinese civilization. Traditional Chinese instruments blend with a Western orchestra and dancers depict myths, legends and moments in history. Jan. 12-15. Thurs. and Fri., 7:30 p.m.; Sat. 2 and 7:30 p.m.; Sun. 1 p.m. 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy., Atlanta. 770-916-2800. $70-200. The Three Billy Goats Gruff. Aurora Theatre. With food becoming scarce, three Billy goats cross a bridge to the other side of the valley, where lush green grass awaits. They soon meet a troll that lives under the bridge. Jan 21. 10 and 11:30 a.m. 128 East Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-6222. $7. The Adventures of Mighty Bug. Center for Puppetry Arts. Watching over the ants, crickets, beetles and bees is Mighty Bug, a superhero with super strength, smelling, hearing and flying abilities. Jan. 24-March 12. See puppet. org for showtimes. 1404 Spring St. NW, Atlanta. 404-873-3391. $6.75-20.50; 1 and younger, free. Lazy Louie’s Lucky Day. Aurora Theatre. With puppets, props and lots of participation, storyteller Barry Stewart Mann will have everyone jumping, running and more. Jan. 28. 10 and 11:30 a.m. 128 East Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-6222. $7.
beyond atlanta Historic Trolley Tour. Downtown Augusta. Take the Lady Libby Trolley for a kid-friendly ride to see some of Augusta’s most famous homes and the Augusta Canal. Hear a historical story and head to the James Brown exhibit at the Augusta History Museum. Saturdays. 1:30-3:30 p.m. 560 Reynolds St., Augusta. 706-724-4067. Pre-register. $15 per person, includes admission to the museum. The Amazing Castle Exhibit. Creative Discovery Museum. Explore eight themed areas, and seven storybook characters who are part of the castle community. From the carpenter to the seamstress, each character has a special role. Through Jan 2. 321 Chestnut St., Chattanooga, Tenn. 423-756-2738. $13.95; younger than 1, free. Fantasy in Lights. Callaway Gardens. Drive through more than eight million twinkling lights and a garden decorated for the season. Through Jan. 7. Opens at 6 p.m. Hwy. 27, Pine Mountain. 800-225-5292. Adults, $21-$28; ages 6-12, $10.50-$14; ages 5 and younger, free. Full-Moon Suspension Bridge Hikes. Tallulah Gorge State Park. A 1-mile hike down the gorge steps, across the suspension bridge to the gorge. Jan. 12 and 13. Thurs. 6:15-7:45 p.m.; Fri. 7:20-8:50 p.m. 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Rd., Tallulah Falls. 706-754-7981. Advance registration required. $5; parking, $5. Monster Fish: In Search of the Last River Giants Exhibit. Tennessee Aquarium. Take a deeper dive into the hidden world of freshwater fish that grow to enormous proportions in the wild. Through March 1. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. One Broad St., Chattanooga, Tenn. 800-262-0695. Adults, $29.95; 3-12, $18.95; 3 and younger, free. c
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