Forsyth State of Schools 2018-19

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2018-19 State of the Schools Inside the

The 2018-19 State of the Schools is produced by the Forsyth County School’s Public Information and Communication Department. For information, contact jcaracciolo@forsyth.k12.ga.us.

Copyright 2018, Forsyth County Schools

Welcome from Forsyth County News.......................................... 5 Welcome from Forsyth County Schools...................................... 6 Learner Profile........................................................................................ 8 Join the FCS Family............................................................................10 Literacy Initiative................................................................................10 Food and Nutrition..................................................................... 11-12 Accountability......................................................................................14 District Highlights..............................................................................16 FCS Principals................................................................................ 18-20 2017-2018 Retirees............................................................................22 Mentoring..............................................................................................24 State and National Honors.............................................................26 Student Support.................................................................................26 Board of Education............................................................................28 School Closings and Delays...........................................................30 Sharing the Road with School Buses..........................................31 Growing Roots for Success.............................................................32 FCS Map.................................................................................................33 Special Education Programs................................................... 34-35 Campus Crime Stoppers..................................................................36 Assessments.........................................................................................38 Golden Passes......................................................................................39 FCS App..................................................................................................39 Teachers of the Year...........................................................................40 Partners in Education........................................................................41 School Calendar..................................................................................42

Forsyth County Schools’ Central Office The Superintendent’s Cabinet is responsible for assisting the superintendent in addressing the school board’s major system priorities. The cabinet provides input to the superintendent on major operational, programmatic and fiscal issues that affect the school system.

To contact a cabinet member, call 770.887.2461 or email as listed below:

Jeffrey Bearden, Superintendent jbearden@forsyth.k12.ga.us Sandi Abbott, Executive Secretary for the Superintendent and Board of Education sabbott@forsyth.k12.ga.us Valerie Bowers, Director of Food and Nutrition Services vbowers@forsyth.k12.ga.us Jennifer Caracciolo, Director of Communications jcaracciolo@forsyth.k12.ga.us Mike Evans, Chief Technology Officer mevans@forsyth.k12.ga.us Chris Griner, Chief Financial Officer cgriner48@forsyth.k12.ga.us Fonda Harrison, Associate Superintendent of Teaching and Learning fharrison@forsyth.k12.ga.us Bill McKnight, Chief Facilities Officer bmcknight@forsyth.k12.ga.us Cindy Salloum, Associate Superintendent of Human Resources and Legal Services csalloum@forsyth.k12.ga.us

About Forsyth County Schools

FCS does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability or gender in employment decisions or educational programs and activities, including athletic programs. The accuracy of the content within this publication is subject to change prior to dissemination.

Joey Pirkle, Deputy Superintendent of Schools jpirkle@forsyth.k12.ga.us Mike Satterfield, Director of Transportation msatterfield@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Stay connected

Mail: 1120 Dahlonega Highway, Cumming, Georgia 30040 Telephone: 770-887-2461 Website: www.forsyth.k12.ga.us

Todd Shirley, Chief Operations Officer tshirley@forsyth.k12.ga.us

App: Forsyth County Schools GA

Debbie Smith, Director of Student Support dsmith@forsyth.k12.ga.us

For a list of school facebook and twitter pages, visit www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/socialmedia

Sarah Taylor, Director of Special Education staylor@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Sign up to receive newsletters from FCS via email!

Join at www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/enewsletters @FCSchools

4 | State of the Schools

@ForsythCoSchoolsga 2018-2019

@FCSchoolsGA

Forsyth County Schools (Georgia)

Lanier Crossing

Welcome to the 2018-19 State of Schools magazine

“We have strived to forge a strong partnership with the local community for many years, whether it be school fundraisers, military appreciation, or just free Ice Dream for the kids. We are truly honored to serve you, and I look forward to seeing you on your next visit to Chick-fil-A Lanier Crossing.”

It is our privilege at the Forsyth County News to once again be able to partner with Forsyth County Schools to produce its annual State of Schools magazine.

We appreciate the system putting its trust in us to deliver content to the most valuable resource we have in our community – our youth.

-Mike Ridzon, Owner

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770-781-5256

Stephanie Woody, Publisher Forsyth County News

Inside these pages you will find just about everything you need to know about our top-notch school system.

From programs offered, to leaders and administration, to school district lines and bus routes, this magazine has you covered.

As residents of Forsyth County, we see what an impact the teachers and school leaders have in our community each day.

The system is one of the main components in leading our county forward and preparing our workforce for the future.

Without the effort put in by our educators, Forsyth County would not have the quality of life that we currently have.

Please take a look inside the 2018-19 State of Schools magazine and see for yourself all that our system has to offer.

Our hope is that the entire system, bus drivers, support staff, teachers, administrators and students alike have a fantastic school year. We can’t wait to see what’s in store.

We look forward to covering the great things that are sure to happen and we thank you all for allowing us to take part in the adventure.

Sincerely, Stephanie Woody Publisher

Welcome from Forsyth County Schools I hope you have had a restful and enjoyable summer. We had a great 2017-18 school year, and I am excited for the future of Forsyth County Schools. Last school year we grew 1,600 new students, making us home to 48,150 students. Our students are joining the Forsyth County School’s family from across the U.S. and the globe.

We still maintain the designation of being the 7th largest school district in the state and have 39 schools in the district.

This August we are excited to open two new high schools. The first is the Alliance Academy for Innovation, our college and career high school. It was built for 1,200 students and will have five areas of study. Our second new school this fall is Denmark HS. Located in southwest Forsyth, it is named after one of the first female physicians in Georgia, Dr. Leila Denmark. Denmark High will have the capacity for 2,500 students and is one of final projects from our 2014 bond referendum. Between the local bond referendum and state capital funding, Forsyth County School has added $247 million dollars of construction and improvements across the district over the last four years. Many of our existing schools received improvements and additions, including each of our five high schools, and in addition to Denmark HS, we built a new elementary and a new middle school.

We are grateful to the voters for approving the bond in May to continue supporting the needs of our students and staff. As the 11th fastest growing county in the nation, this bond will construct four new schools and a building for the Academies of Creative Education. Additionally, the bond will construct a performing arts center, air conditioning for buses, districtwide facility safety and technology improvements, maintenance work at 30 of our 36 existing schools, and athletic projects at the high schools.

Forsyth County Schools is proud to be one of the top districts in Georgia and the United States. This success has been accomplished with a long-standing commitment to building partnerships with staff, parents, citizens and businesses, all working to support the primary customer, the individual student. Highlights of our partnerships from 2017-18 included: • Growing Social Emotional Learning (SEL), which is the process through which children acquire and effectively apply the knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary to understand and manage emotions, set and achieve positive goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain positive relationships, and make responsible decisions. Our work with SEL directly ties to our Learner Profile, which lists the attributes we expect all students to possess by the time they graduate from one of our high schools.

• Working with the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office and first responders on the School Safety Task Force to complete a comprehensive safety assessment of all Forsyth County school campuses/facilities and procedures. Recommendations were divided into three areas: facilities, staffing and prevention/training, and implementation will begin this school year.

6 | State of the Schools

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• We continued to utilize itslearning, our learning management platform, throughout the school day, to extend learning on nights and weekends, and for the fourth year, for days schools were closed due to inclement weather. Last school year we had 11 million logins for online learning and 600,000 assessments were administered digitally. In partnership with the Morrow Community Foundation we provided close to 500 mifis to our students for home connectivity.

• We are also continued our partnership with the business community by extending our PROPEL high school graduation initiative. Beyond PROPEL focuses on all school levels to create schools that meet the needs of all Forsyth County Schools students and will prepare them for the life beyond the K-12 experience.

Additionally, to reach children prior to their enrollment in our district, we partnered with several community agencies, including the Forsyth County Public Library, to create a new early learning program called “leap into literacy”.

• Lastly, we partnered with the state to provide Dual Language Immersion at three elementary schools this August. Called DLI for short, it is not a traditional world language class but an instructional model where students starting in Kindergarten, are taught academic content for 50% of their day in the target language, such as Spanish and 50% of their day is spent in English. DLI students will acquire solid bilingual and biliterate language skills upon high school graduation.

I thank you for this opportunity to share with you just a glimpse into the many ways we are growing leaders for success. If you are a new or returning student, parent/guardian or employee, we are glad to have you be a part of the FCS family!

Jeff Bearden, Superintendent

Forsyth County Schools'

Learner Profile Pursue Continuous Learning

• • • •

Master and apply academics for college and career success Make connections to discover new knowledge and ideas Develop talents, interests, and passions Use technology effectively to access information and to display learning

Exhibit Strong Personal Qualities

• Display integrity. perseverance, and drive to achieve personal goals • Accept responsibility for personal actions • Advocate for self. others, and the community • Maintain wellness and balance in life

Utilize Creative and Critical Thinking

• Define problems and create solutions • Apply knowledge and skills to real-world situations • Embrace innovation to adapt to an ever-changing world

Growing Leaders for Success

Engage and Contribute

• Connect to be a world-wise person • Develop relationships across boundaries and cultures • Interact in a multilingual community • Demonstrate civility and respect differences in others

Interact Effectively

• Communicate responsibly through reading, writing, listening, and speaking • Work collaboratively with others • Cultivate and maintain positive relationships

C> 2016, FCS Department of Public lnfonmatlon and Communications

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Join the FCS Family!

The Forsyth County Schools Human Resources Department has been extremely busy recruiting and onboarding high quality teachers and support staff for the new school year. With over 5,300 employees, FCS hires throughout the school year to fill positions open due to retirements and resignations. Openings are posted at www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/careercenter. Annually, we hire close to 400 new teachers and other positions to accommodate student growth. Compensation and benefits are competitive, and opportunities for growth and development are provided for employees to reach their professional goals.

We also have a need for bus drivers throughout the school year.

This is a great opportunity to work part-time and receive excellent wages and full-time benefits.

Substitute positions are available in FCS for teachers, paraprofessionals, food service, transportation and nurses. If you are an RN or LPN and would like to work a few days a week as a sub, please contact Connie Trent at ctrent@forsyth.k12.ga.us For other positions, please visit www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/subs

FCS K-12 Literacy Initiative The K-12 Literacy Beliefs serve as the foundation for all literacy initiatives in the system. Forsyth County believes that literacy supports every aspect of the FCS Learner Profile and is at the heart of all learning, in all classrooms and content areas. Schools address literacy in a multitude of ways, but share the common goal of developing a highly literate graduate.

We believe . . .

• all students are entitled to be literate learners who can critically and confidently engage in reading, writing, viewing, listening, and academic discourse. Through these literacies, students will deepen and transform their own thinking in pursuit of continuous learning.

• literacy serves as the foundation for effective communication and enables students to engage and contribute effectively.

• literacy cultivates, nurtures, and sustains the social emotional development and well-being of all learners.

• all leaders and teachers create a learning culture that nurtures students in the beliefs, behaviors, and practices of a literacy-rich environment.

• the partnership of schools, families, and community is essential for developing students as literate learners.

• all students will read and write proficiently.

• all graduates will have mastered and refined the literacy skills necessary to succeed in future endeavors.

10 | State of the Schools 2018-2019

Food & Nutrition Services: Food for Thought Forsyth County’s Food and Nutrition Services offers kid tested, great tasting, nutritional meals for breakfast and lunch.

Our meals offer students a variety of 5 different meal components which include: - Protein-rich entrees - 100% whole grain-rich foods - Fruit or juice, often Georgia Grown - A wide variety of vegetables - 1% and skim or fat-free flavored milk A full lunch consists of: - 1 Entrée with a grain component - Up to 3 fruit or vegetable servings in elementary and middle schools, and 4 in high school - Milk Students may choose a lighter meal consisting of any 3 components as long as one component is a fruit or a vegetable side.

Students who do not want milk do not have to take it as part of their meal. We often offer 100% juice and cups are always available for water. Bottled water and other juice options are also available for purchase.

Because your child’s health is important to us, we also work with students and their families who have food allergies or other medical concerns to provide them a safe and nutritious meal. Contact your school’s cafeteria manager about any food related medical concerns your child may have. The manager, school nurse and our on-staff registered dietitian will work as a team to be sure your child’s nutritional needs are addressed.

2018-2019

State of the Schools | 11

Food & Nutrition Services: Continued Meal Payment Options: For pre-set meal payments and faster meal lines, we recommend www.mypaymentsplus.com and using their convenient mobile app. As a reminder, menus are available on school websites and also https://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/menus. FCS also uses www.mealviewer.com and the MealViewer mobile app, which allows parents/guardians to view menus, set allergen alerts and view nutrition calculators.

2018-19 Meal Prices LUNCH Daily Elementary $2.60 Middle $2.70 High $2.70 High School Grill $3.75 Reduced (all grade levels) $0.40 Guest $3.75 Guest Grill $4.75 Employee $3.10 Employee Grill $4.25

BREAKFAST Daily Elementary $1.50 Middle $1.60 High $1.70 Reduced (all grade levels) $0.30 Employee $2.10 Guest $2.50

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Accountability - CCRPI The College and Career Ready Performance Index – CCRPI – is Georgia’s annual tool for measuring how well its schools, districts, and the state itself are preparing students for the next educational level. It provides a comprehensive roadmap to help educators, parents, and community members promote and improve college and career readiness for all students.

CCRPI includes five main components each scored on a scale of 0 to 100: Achievement, Progress, Closing Gaps, Readiness, and Graduation Rate. These components, encompassing multiple indicators, are combined for a total CCRPI score on a scale of 0 to 100.

CCRPI is intended to provide meaningful data to guide school improvement plans and aid in communicating public information about student performance. The goal is to support students and to prepare them to graduate high school ready for college, career, and lifelong learning.

Questions regarding CCRPI can be directed to local school administration or Forsyth County Schools Assessment Department (770-887-2461).

2018 CCRPI Indicators

Content Mastery

Progress

CCRPI Score

Closing Gaps

Readiness

Graduation Rate 14 | State of the Schools

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• English language arts achievement • Mathematics achievement • Science achievement • Social studies achievement

• English language arts growth • Mathematics growth • Progress towards English language proficiency (EL students)

• Meeting achievement improvement targets

• Elementary: Literacy, student attendance, beyond the core • Middle: Literacy, student attendance, beyond the core • High: Literacy, student attendance, accelerated enrollment pathway completion, college and career readiness

High School Only • 4-year adjusted cohort graduation rate • 5-year adjusted cohort graduation rate

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2017-18 District Highlights Georgia Highest ACT Score Highest Credit Rating from Moody’s (1 of 77 in U.S.) 3 of 6 National Blue Ribbon Schools Top 10 Digital District 2 Nationally Accredited STEM Schools AP District Honor Roll Metro-Atlanta and Large Districts Highest CCRPI* Highest County Graduation Rate (Highest in FCS history) Highest SAT Score Highest Financial Efficiency Rating (5/5 Stars)** Lowest millage rate Lowest per pupil expenditure * Only district in Georgia to score above 90 on the CCRPI for three consecutive years. ** Only district to maintain rating for three consecutive years.

For a full list of state, national and international honors earned by our students, staff and schools, visit www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/honors

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2018-2019

Forsyth County School Principals FCS is home to 39 schools: • 21 elementary • 10 middle • 6 traditional high schools • 1 college and career high school • 1 virtual high school

Additionally, FCS has two programs under the Academies of Creative Education (A.C.E.), Forsyth Academy (9-12) and Gateway Academy (6-12 alternative), to support students enrolled at traditional schools.

Elementary Schools Photographed left to right, beginning with the front row: Carla Gravitt, Charlley Stalder, Lee Anne Rice, Polly Tennies, Jan Munroe, Alyssa Degliumberto, Sarah Von Esh, Laura Webb, Lynne Castleberry, Kimberly Davis, Eric Ashton, Barbara Vella, June Tribble, Kristan Riedinger, Derrick Hershey, Eileen Nix, Amy Barlett, Ron McAllister, Tracey Smith and Paige Andrews. Todd Smith not photographed.

Carla Gravitt, Mashburn ES cgravitt@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Laura Webb, Big Creek ES lwebb@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Derrick Hershey, Shiloh Point ES dhershey@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Charlley Stalder, Matt ES cstalder@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Lynne Castleberry, Whitlow ES lcastleberry@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Eileen Nix, Sawnee ES ecnix@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Lee Anne Rice, Cumming ES lrice@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Kimberly Davis, Coal Mountain ES kdavis@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Amy Barlett, Sharon ES abartlett@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Polly Tennies, Chestatee ES ptennies@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Eric Ashton, Daves Creek ES eashton@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Ron McAllister, Kelly Mill ES rmcallister@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Jan Munroe, Midway ES jmunroe@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Barbara Vella, Chattahoochee ES bvella@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Tracey Smith, Brookwood ES tbsmith@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Alyssa Degliumberto, Johns Creek ES adegliumberto@forsyth.k12.ga.us

June Tribble, Haw Creek ES jtribble@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Paige Andrews, Silver City ES pandrews@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Sarah Von Esh, Settles Bridge ES svonesh@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Kristan Riedinger, Vickery Creek ES kriedinger@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Todd Smith, Brandywine ES tsmith@forsyth.k12.ga.us

18 | State of the Schools

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Middle Schools Photographed left to right, beginning with the front row: Cheryl Riddle, Kim Head, Todd McClelland, Pam Bibik, Terri North, Scott Feldkamp, Pam Pajerski, Connie McCrary, Sandy Tinsley and Steve Miller

Cheryl Riddle, Liberty MS criddle@forsyth.k12.ga.us Kim Head, Lakeside MS khead@forsyth.k12.ga.us Todd McClelland, North Forsyth MS tmcclelland@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Scott Feldkamp, Vickery Creek ES sfeldkamp@forsyth.k12.ga.us

From the 2018 bond referendum, the following new schools* and additions are projected to open:

2020: Pooles Mill ES & West Forsyth HS Addition 2021: East Forsyth HS and Middle School #11 2022: Elementary #23 Pam Pajerski, Piney Grove MS ppajerski@forsyth.k12.ga.us Connie McCrary, Little Mill MS cmccrary@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Pam Bibik, Riverwatch MS pbibik@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Sandy Tinsley, South Forsyth MS stinsley@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Terri North, DeSana MS tnorth@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Steve Miller, Otwell MS stmiller@forsyth.k12.ga.us

*Unnamed schools are pending landing purchase

2018-2019

State of the Schools | 19

Forsyth County School Principals Continued

High Schools Photographed left to right, beginning with the front row: Brandi Cannizzaro, Laura Wilson, Jeff Cheney, Heather Gordy, Drew Hayes, Gary Davison, Karl Mercer and Mitch Young

Brandi Cannizzaro, Alliance Academy for Innovation bcannizzaro@forsyth.k12.ga.us Laura Wilson, South Forsyth HS lawilson@forsyth.k12.ga.us Jeff Cheney, North Forsyth HS jcheney@forsyth.k12.ga.us Heather Gordy, Denmark HS hgordy@forsyth.k12.ga.us Drew Hayes, Academies of Creative Education dhayes@forsyth.k12.ga.us Gary Davison, Lambert HS gdavison@forsyth.k12.ga.us Karl Mercer, West Forsyth HS kmercer@forsyth.k12.ga.us Mitch Young, Forsyth Central HS myoung@forsyth.k12.ga.us 20 | State of the Schools

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Last year Forsyth County Schools was the seventh largest of 181 school districts in Georgia and is projected to grow to over 50,000 students in 2018-19.

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CONGRATULATIONS AND THANK YOU TO OUR 2017-18 RETIRING EMPLOYEES! Darlene Alberson, Secretary Terri Almand, Language Arts Teacher Jeanne Angel, Language Arts Teacher Antonia Bonilla, Custodian Eileen Bottinick, Parapro Lisa Bradley, Secretary Robert Branch, SSB Coordinator Glenda Branham, Bus Driver Tom Braun, Health & PE Teacher Tracy Braun, Math Teacher Paula Brooks, Bus Driver Deborah Buice, Food Service Assistant Lisa Burks, EIP Teacher George Bygrave, Bus Driver Karen Bythewood, Special Ed Teacher Tommy Carney, Electrician Michele Carter, Grade 2 Teacher Janet Clack, Payroll Coordinator Dennis Cormier, Special Ed Facilitator Roger Cox, Custodian Joyce Crawford, Custodian Mary Currie, Nurse Gerald DeStefano, Spanish Teacher Bridget deTurck, Grade 1 Teacher Dawn Dirst, Gifted Teacher Mary Doherty-Pollack, Food Service Assistant Laura Dooley, Secretary Lisa Echols, Nurse Tammie Eley, Science Teacher Jocelyne Elmore, Parapro Sylvia Everson, German Teacher Wanda Fields, Bus Monitor Jenny Forester, English Teacher Kathy Forsthoff, IRR Teacher Kim Fox, Assistant Principal Sylvia Gates, Kindergarten Teacher Ima Jean Griggs, Food Service Assistant Debra Grogan, Bus Driver William Gunn, Chief Financial Officer Jeremy Hamm, ITS Roberta Hanlon, ESOL Teacher Jacquelyn Henry, Kindergarten Teacher Linda Holcombe, Gifted Teacher Fran Hollifield, Visually Impaired Teacher Pamela Holtzclaw, Secretary Janet Jacobs, Parapro Mary Jane James, Special Ed Parapro Joan Jennings, IRR Teacher Tarris Johnson, Special Ed Parapro Mary Kennedy, Teacher Math Maryellen Kenny, Parapro Michael King, Math Teacher 22 | State of the Schools

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Patricia Kirchner-Smudde, SLP Gail Lindstrom, Teacher Pam Little, Secretary Thomas Long, Social Studies Teacher Mary Lott, Grade 5 Teacher Darlene Marionneaux, Secretary Barbara Martin, Food Service Manager Gail Maston, Special Ed Teacher Sarah McGinnis, Bus Monitor Susan McNeese, Math Teacher Clarissa Miller, Food Services Assistant Katrina Misko, Grade 2 Teacher Debra Notarnicola, SLP Diane Orado, Counselor Susan Osborne, Grade 3 Teacher Marcia Outler, Food Service Manager Christi Phillips, Gifted Teacher Barbara Pierce, Food Service Lori Porter, Counselor Michael Prather, Custodian Jody Price, EIP Teacher Frances Pruitt, Food Services Assistant Robin Pugh, Food Services Assistant Anna Quinones, ESOL Teacher Mary Louise Rainey, SLP Paulette Ramsey, Custodian Margaret Reddin, Food Service Asst Pam Reed, Warehouse Worker Stephanie Reis, ESOL Teacher Patricia Reynolds, Grade 5 Teacher Wanda Rickett, Secretary Martha Rodriguez-Gregg, Spanish Teacher Sheila Shields, Sign Language Parapro Judy Sigmund, Parapro Ruth Smith, Food Services Assistant Linda Stewart, Secretary Robin Sweat, Assistant Principal George Taylor, Technology Connections Allan Torres, Bus Driver Rita Truelove, Language Arts Teacher Jeffry Vidd, Health & PE Teacher Susan Voshell, Gifted Teacher Tammy Waddell, Grade 2 Teacher Cecilia Weldy, Parapro Special Ed Phillip Westray, Health & PE Teacher Kathryn Wigley, Counselor Mike Woodard, Assistant Administrator David Zink, Teacher

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From our super fun place spaces to our specially trained Family Orthodontics 203 Pirkle pediatric dentists, everything we do revolves aroundFerry kids. Rd. Cumming, GA 30041 678-212-1151 We’ll care for their teeth from tot to teen and keep them www.d4c.com www.WeFixYourSmile.com smiling every step of the way. So when your child needs to see the dentist, bring them here. No one knows growing

Mentoring The experts all agree: any effort to help the next generationespecially children at risk-must include mentoring. Mentoring is one of the key activities included in a comprehensive violence prevention and healthy development program approach.

Mentoring can help young people change direction and do better academically and socially.

Unable to attend a training? Would you like to have a training during the day or at your organization or worksite? No problem Mentor training is available upon request for groups of 10 or more.

Last year training was held at churches, civic groups, mortgage companies, schools, and many other locations.

Learn more and contact us at www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/mentor

A mentor is an adult who, along with parents, provides young people with support, friendship, reinforcement and constructive example. Mentors are good listeners, people who care, and want to help young people develop existing strengths.

How do you become a mentor? Becoming a mentor requires attending one two-hour training session, completing an application and a background check. Becoming a mentor also involves committing to spending 30 minutes per week during school hours with a student for the school year and hopefully the following year. We need individuals, businesses, church organizations, and community members to become involved in the mentoring program.

UPCOMING TRAININGS

Tuesday, August 21, 2018 • 6:00-8:00pm Forsyth County Board of Education 1120 Dahlonega Highway, Cumming, GA 30040

Tuesday, September 18, 2018 • 6:00-8:00pm Forsyth County Board of Education 1120 Dahlonega Highway, Cumming, GA 30040

Tuesday, October 23, 2018 • 6:00-8:00pm Forsyth County Board of Education 1120 Dahlonega Highway, Cumming, GA 30040

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2018-2019

July-November Playhouse Presentations

Camelot July 12 August 5, 2018

Thursday-Saturday | 8 PM Sunday | 3 PM

Peppino ‘d Agostino & Carlos Reyes August 11, 2018 Saturday | 3 PM & 8 PM

The Return August 18, 2018

Saturday | 3 PM & 8 PM

Smoke on the Mountain September 6-30, 2018 Thursday-Saturday | 8 PM Sunday | 3 PM

Redembption Song August 19, 2018 Sunday | 7 PM

Annie October 19 November 11, 2018 Thursday-Saturday | 8 PM Sunday | 3 PM

101 School Street | Cumming, GA 30041

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Student Support Forsyth County Schools’ district and school leaders continue to work collaboratively toward the implementation of Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) in all Forsyth County classrooms. Through a variety of programs and learning strategies aligned with the CASEL Competencies of Self-Awareness, Self-Management, Social Awareness, Responsible Decision-Making, and Relationship Skills, we will continue to build foundational skills that not only increase academic achievement, but also prepare students for successful, healthy, and happy lives, personally and professionally. Research clearly shows an 11% increase in academic achievement, and an $11 return for every $1 invested in SEL implementation in the classroom.

While SEL, beginning in PreK and continuing through grade 12, is a proactive and integral approach in meeting the goals of our Forsyth County Learner Profile, the Student Support Services Department continues to work with schools and community members to address the issues and concerns related to suicide, substance abuse, and mental health. Through our Prevention Services program, and in conjunction with FCS’ Department of Safety, our team is working to provide resources and education for students and parents related to these issues. During the 2018-19 school year, we will continue to implement two new programs, Signs of Suicide in middle and high school, and Sources of Strength in high school, to educate students, parents, and educators about suicide prevention. Our Suicide Prevention Team continues to research educational resources for our schools, as well as resources to support our families.

26 | State of the Schools

2018-2019

FCS is an active member of our Forsyth County Drug Awareness Council. We continue to work with this team to ensure we are communicating and educating our community on substance use issues. For the 2018-19 school year, and in conjunction with our Department of Health and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, our school nurses will be trained in the use of Naloxone to treat any person(s) who may be suffering from an opioid overdose. Naloxone will be stored in all Forsyth County school clinics.

Our social workers continue to work with our law enforcement officials, judicial system, and health care professionals to address the needs of our students and our Forsyth County families. For the first time, we have been able to designate one of our social workers, trained in Mental Health procedures and practices, to work as our Mental Health Services Coordinator. It will be the goal of this coordinator to support school leaders, teachers, and counselors in dealing with mental health concerns, and begin building a strong mental health program that addresses the needs of our students and families.

Please continue to check www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ss as we continue to update and provide information to educate and support our students, teachers, and parents.

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Board of Education The Forsyth County Board of Education consists of five members who are elected by district to staggered, four-year terms. The primary role of the board is the legislation of the school system policies, which are executed under the direction of the school superintendent.

Comcast Channel 23. 2017 monthly meetings are held at 6:00 p.m. on the following Tuesdays: August 21, September 18, October 16, November 13 and December 11. Work sessions and called meetings are also posted on the district website. Meetings are open to the public and held at 1120 Dahlonega Highway, Cumming.

Meetings of the board are held monthly, with agendas and meeting minutes available for review at www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/boe.

Video broadcasts of the meetings are available at www.forsyth. k12.ga.us the Thursday after each meeting and also on TV Forsyth,

Communicate with your Board of Education at the email addresses listed at www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/boe or by mail to Board of Education, Forsyth County Schools, 1120 Dahlonega Highway, Cumming, GA 30040.

Highlights of Board of Education work sessions and regular meetings are communicated to staff, parents and the public in Board Briefs, which is sent by email monthly. To subscribe visit www.forsyth.k12. ga.us/enewsletters

28 | State of the Schools

2018-2019

School Closing and Delay Information To ensure the safety of our students and staff FCS has a comprehensive plan that is executed when there is consideration of a school closing or delay due to inclement weather.

WHO IS WATCHING THE WEATHER? The superintendent and administrative staff carefully monitor weather conditions during seasons of inclement weather.

WHERE DO THEY GET THEIR INFORMATION? The school district staff listens to weather forecasts. The director of transportation monitors and tests road conditions on bus routes and our maintenance departments checks school power conditions. Local and state law enforcement agencies and neighboring school systems are consulted about road conditions. Careful consideration is given to the most dangerous bus routes in the district.

WHAT FACTORS ARE CONSIDERED WHEN MAKING THE DECISION TO CLOSE SCHOOL? The safety of all Forsyth County children is the primary concern. Even if it looks clear on your street, dangerous conditions may exist in some other part of the district. In deciding whether the children will be safe, the following factors are considered:

• Information on road conditions from the director of transportation and law enforcement agencies,

including whether roads are iced or icing;

• Time snow or ice starts and the amount;

• Weather predictions;

• Building conditions (e.g., whether we have power and heat);

• Parking lot and sidewalk conditions; and

• Temperature and wind-chill factor.

WHO MAKES THE DECISION? The superintendent of schools is responsible for making the final decision, based on the above factors and recommendations from the district staff.

WHEN IS THE DECISION MADE? The superintendent tries to make the decision by 5:30 a.m. so that the broadcast media can be notified.

HOW IS THE PUBLIC NOTIFIED? Forsyth County school closings will be announced on the local and metro broadcast media outlets, the school system website, www.forsyth.k12.ga.us, and on the automated voice service at (770) 887-2461. Subscribers to FCS’ enewsletters will also receive an email notifying them on closings or delays. Additionally, closings are posted on www.facebook.com/FCSchools and www.twitter.com/ FCSchoolsGA. Please note that you should verify the information by checking two sources, especially when relying on social media for information. Fake social media accounts with school and/or the district names and logos violate copyright laws but unfortunately are common. FCS’ official social media accounts have been in existence since 2009 and therefore have a long list of tweets and followers, while fake accounts have significantly less tweets and followers.

IF THERE IS NO CLOSING MESSAGE ON FCS’ WEBSITE, MAIN VM GREETING OR SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS, THEN SCHOOL IS OPEN. WHAT IF SCHOOL CLOSES DURING THE DAY? If school closes during the school day all students will be sent home in the usual manner (bus, day-care van, etc.) unless other directions are on file with the teacher. It is impossible for the school staff to accept phoned directions during emergency closures. Parents should plan in advance for early school closings. Make sure that the child knows where to go, how to get there and what to do upon arrival. The public will be notified by the same methods listed above.

WHAT IF SCHOOL OPENING IS DELAYED? If school opening is delayed, please follow the same routine/schedule as normal, but push back the start time by two hours.

ARE THERE INCLEMENT WEATHER DAYS BUILT INTO THE CALENDAR? No, FCS recovers lost instructional time due to school closings by using itslearning, the district’s learning management system, for an online learning day. Teachers will have scheduled office hours to assist students as needed. A complete review of the plan can be found at www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/onlinedays 30 | State of the Schools

2018-2019

Sharing the Road with School Buses The Forsyth County school bus stop arm enforcement will continue into the 2018-19 school year. This camera system captures vehicles illegally passing stopped school buses that have their stop sign extended to load and unload students. Violators who are caught on camera receive a citation from the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office, a $300 fine for the first offense.

In most cases, all drivers are required to stop when meeting or overtaking a stopped school bus that has its red lights flashing and its stop arm extended when loading or unloading passengers. The only exception to this rule is when highways are separated in the center by a dirt, grass or concrete median. In this situation, only vehicles following or traveling alongside a school bus in the same direction must stop.

unpredictable. Once the bus is fully stopped, the flashing red lights will activate, and the stop arm will deploy. Vehicles must stop and should remain stopped until all loading students are aboard in the morning or all unloading passengers have cleared 12 feet off the roadway in the afternoon. Motorists should proceed with caution, only after passengers have cleared the roadway, the stop arm is cancelled, and the flashing red lights are deactivated.

A warning that a bus stop is about to take place will always be given with the flashing amber lights on the front and rear of the school bus. Upon seeing these flashing amber lights, vehicles approaching the school bus from both the front and rear should immediately slow down and prepare to stop. All drivers must pay special attention to children, be focused and exercise caution when near a school bus stop, as student riders can sometimes be

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Growing Roots for Success!

In July 2015, the FC Board of Education approved the creation of the Forsyth County Education Foundation. The foundation is an opportunity for the community to partner with FCS to support innovative teaching and increased student achievement. The first grants from the foundation, funded by inaugural sponsor RBM of Alpharetta, were distributed in September, 2016. The second round of grants were awarded in September 2017 to 9 schools and impacted over 6,000 students. The third grants were given in February 2018, sponsored by Beaver Toyota. Focusing on STEM and Social Emotional Learning, Beaver Toyota’s $100,000 impacted 13 schools and close to 18,000 students.

For the fall of 2018-19, the foundation is excited to award $40,000 in grants. These have been funded by FCS employee payroll deductions and sponsorships from: Patron - Beaver Toyota Contributor- RBM of Alpharetta Provider- Manley Spangler Smith Architects Supporters- LOCKSTEP Technology Group and TechOptics, Inc. Partners- Clark Patterson Lee, Georgia United Credit Union, James W. Buckley & Associates, Renasant Bank and Synergy Automation Inc. Friends- Cliff’s Fire Extinguisher Co., Inc., Jim Dickman Grading and Kajeet Brian and Allyson Richey

The foundation has set a goal of raising $1 million in three years.

Opportunities include: • School grants: Enhance the academic experience for students in FCS by providing opportunities that would not otherwise be available, such as social and emotional programs to prepare students for life success • Scholarships: Individuals/families may establish scholarships for FCS students or staff How Can I Support?

• Monetary Donation: All donations to the FC Foundation are tax deductible.

• Payroll Deduction: FCS employees may request monthly deductions at www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/payrolldeduction • Matching Gift Programs: Please contact your employer’s benefits office to request a matching gift form to increase your personal contribution.

• Planned Giving: Please remember the FC Education Foundation with annuities, insurance policies, trusts or bequests.

To learn more about donating visit www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/foundation 32 | State of the Schools

2018-2019

2018-2019

State of the Schools | 33

Special Education Forsyth County Schools’ Special Education Department developed six strategic or target initiatives that partner with and support the FCS Learner Profile: ASPIRE, Assistive Technology, Co-Teaching, DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), SEE-KS (Social Emotional Engagement-Knowledge and Skills), and Visual Supports.

Working within our department vision of “Making A Difference,” the six targets were identified so that collaborating departments could easily recognize and remember the focus. In addition, departments are encouraged to include the 6 as tools that can also address cross-functional target areas and monitor progress.

ASPIRE ASPIRE stands for “‘Active Student Participation Inspires Real Engagement.” The focus of ASPIRE is to develop student’s selfawareness and increase student self-determination and advocacy skills. Research shows that self-advocacy and self-determination are critical for any student’s success in life and work. During student conferences or IEP meetings, students proudly discuss their strengths, personal challenges, things or experiences that make them happy, and people who can help them achieve their goals.

Eventually, students begin to take ownership and view the IEP meeting as a “support team” or group effort in assisting them with accomplishing their academic and personal goals. Students gain the confidence to advocate and speak about themselves as well as to practice the critical skills of problem solving. Ultimately, these skills lead to potential good choice-making in all aspects of life.

Assistive Technology

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a research based framework that provides flexibility in curriculum design which can be adjusted based on individual learning needs. Often times student learning materials need to be provided in alternative format due to learning differences. Providing flexibility within the classroom will allow students to access materials equally. During the 2017-2018 school year, the FCS Teaching and Learning Department introduced a reading and writing support which is accessible to all students enrolled in Forsyth County Schools called Read and Write for Google. The Read and Write extension provides learning supports across academic content areas which helps support flexibility with curriculum access. The Assistive Technology team continues to support the rollout of Read and Write for Google across academic settings through a UDL framework which allows for independence and equal access with learning materials.

Co-Teaching

Last school year our system-wide data showed that nearly 67% of our special education students aged 6-21 were served in the general education classroom 80% of the school day, which exceeds the state target. We are also proud to share that 89% of our total special education population aged 6-21 are served in the general education classroom at least 40% of the school day. With the majority of our students having their IEP’s served through general education, the Special Education Department has invested in a renewed focus on supporting co-teaching and inclusion strategies in our schools. Highlights of our 6 Making a Difference Plan include a team of educators from across all grade levels who developed and are in the process of implementing the following: • A district co-teaching training manual with resources for schools • Resources for elementary, middle, and high School co-teaching teams • Highly trained co-teaching teams at each level to serve as coaches for schools as requested

34 | State of the Schools

Ongoing development and evaluation are also an integral part of this process. We are excited about the strides we continue to make in serving our students in the general education/inclusion environment.

2018-2019

DBT

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a type of cognitive behavior therapy. The focus of DBT is to teach students to: practice awareness of themselves and others to improve focus and identification of potential problems, identify emotions and ways to manage difficult emotions, tolerate distressing situations, build skills specific to getting through a crisis without making it worse, and develop skills to keep effective relationships, without losing self-respect. In addition, DBT is support-oriented and helps others identify their strengths and then capitalize on those strengths. The DBT plan is focused on the overall social emotional well-being of students, families, and school staff supporting them. It also helps strengthen understanding and generalization of emotional regulation strategies in and outside of school. This results in an increase in the students’ academic engagement and achievement while decreasing negative behaviors.

SEE-KS

The Social-Emotional Engagement supports Universal Design for Learning (UDL) in the specialized instruction Preschool and Autism settings by providing a focus on social emotional engagement, knowledge, and skill development. With coaching and support from Dr. Emily Rubin for the first two years of the plan, utilizing the SEEK-S (Social Emotional Engagement, Knowledge and Skills) model for UDL design, teachers will be able to implement strategies designed to target three outcomes: fostering motivation and getting student ‘buy-in,’ providing information in multiple ways to enhance comprehension, and allowing multiple options of expression for students to show what they know. Through professional development for all preschool and autism teachers, direct observation and video-taping, and follow up coaching and supports, teachers will increase overall classroom engagement with strategies designed to support varying language levels of students.

Visual Supports Because communication skills impact social interactions, comprehension, behavior, self-efficacy, and independence, the Visual Supports focus is to provide information and resources to school staff, parents, and students in order to enhance student communication skills at all levels, by pairing specific visuals with verbal language. This multi-year initiative includes explicit teacher trainings on strategies to support communication for students at various developmental language stages including pre-symbolic, emerging, and conversational stages. The team will be introducing a “Visual Supports Resource Binder” to special education teachers at all grade levels in the fall of 2018. The resources are designed to support expressive communication, behavioral expectations, daily routines and transitions, comprehension of instruction, and social-emotional regulation. The team has also partnered with the transportation department to provide training and visuals for each special education bus in order to promote communication between students with limited verbal language and the drivers and monitors working with those students.

Join us at the upcoming Parent Summits!

Find out more about these initiatives as well as other helpful information by attending one of our Special Education Parent Summit series this school year!

The Parent Summit sessions are planned for Saturday, September 15, 2018 and Saturday, February 23, 2019.

Information on specific locations and times will be coming soon. We look forward to seeing you there!

2018-2019

State of the Schools | 35

Campus Crime Stoppers The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office School Resource Officer Unit and Forsyth County Schools’ Safety Department work together to provide Campus Crime Stoppers, which provides an avenue for students to submit anonymous tips about non-urgent illegal activities such as unsolved cases, vandalism, theft, the sale and distribution of drugs, possession of weapons or information about crimes that are being planned on their schools’ campus.

Submit a Campus Crime Stopper Anonymous Tip by: • TEXT to CRIMES (274637), Start message with FCSS • CALL: 770.888.3466 (x 1 or 3) Please do your part to assure the safety of yourself and your classmates. If someone brings alcohol, drugs, a gun, knife or any other weapon to school, we want to know.

You can remain completely anonymous while furnishing information that could prevent someone from harming themselves or others.

Don’t miss out on your opportunity to advertise in this lifestyle and leisure magazine in 2018!

THE LIFE

Reserve your space today!

Call 770.887.3126 or email marketing@forsythnews.com 400 The Life features community members, local businesses and Don’t miss out on your opportunity to charity profiles along with interesting articles on cooking, recreation this lifestyle and interest, leisure and advertise healthful living, in while striving to keep a diverse with a main focus on affluent lifestyle and luxury living. magazine in 2018!

36 | State of the Schools

2018-2019

400 The Life features community members, local

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Assessments: Georgia Milestones End of Grade (EOG) and End of Course (EOC) assessment administration went well in the 2017-2018 school year! With the support of the FCS Technology Department, schools received ten Chromebooks per classroom as well as updates to their wireless arrays. Students’ use of Chromebooks in the classroom for instructional purposes made the transition to using Chromebooks for state assessments very smooth. All of this greatly aided in the success of our Georgia Milestones testing!

Per state guidelines, all schools across Georgia should be prepared for 100% online state testing in the 2018-2019 school year. Forsyth County Schools is ready! Stakeholders can explore the Experience Online Testing Georgia website at http://gaexperienceonline. com/to get a sense of what students experience when taking the Georgia Milestones online assessments.

Parents are notified via the FCS Website and via Messenger in Parent Portal about specific events along the way: • Testing dates in April • EOC grade conversion score availability in May • Scale score availability in June • Individual Student Report availability in July Questions regarding Georgia Milestones testing can be directed to local school administration or Forsyth County Schools Assessment Department (770-887-2461).

A benefit of online testing is receiving test results a bit earlier than paper pencil scores. The Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE) prioritizes the return of results based on EOCs counting 20% of a student’s grade as well as Promotion Retention grades (3, 5 and 8); therefore, EOG and EOC results roll in at varying times throughout the spring.

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38 | State of the Schools

2018-2019

Golden Pass Forsyth County residents who will be 65 years of age during the 2018-19 school year and Forsyth County Schools (FCS) retirees are eligible to receive a Golden Pass.

A Golden Pass provides: Half-price admission to FCS home athletic events, musicals, band concerts and other special school-sponsored activities.

Half-price admission does not extend to play-off games, graduation or PTO/A sponsored events.

Golden Passes are issued at the Forsyth County Board of Education/Professional Development Center at 1120 Dahlonega Highway, Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

FCS App With Forsyth County Schools’ free mobile app, your school district comes alive with the touch of a button. Easily connect to itslearning and ParentPortal or navigate through current news, social media and calendar events.

Users can customize information and calendar feeds by school selection.

Search Forsyth County Schools GA in the App Store/Play Store.

2018-2019

State of the Schools | 39

Teachers of the Year JONAS STRECKER 2018 Forsyth County Schools Teacher of the Year 2018 FCS High School Teacher of the Year Jonas was named and honored at the annual Celebration of Excellence along with the 36 other school level Teachers of the Year, Partners in Education, and Parent Leaders. In February, he was named one of the top three finalists with Becky Morris from Shiloh Point ES and Julie Stephens from Lakeside MS. Jonas received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Bamberg, Germany and master’s degree from West Virginia University. He began teaching German at Bethany College in 2000. He joined the FCS family in 2014 at South Forsyth HS. Jonas’ students have a 100% pass rate on AP and IB exams and have won more awards on the National German Exam than any other school in Georgia. Many of his students have swept the awards at the State German Convention, won the PAD Travel Award and have been named the state German Student of the Year. Jonas has received a free two-year lease from Andean Chevrolet and will represent FCS in the Georgia Teacher of the Year competition.

Becky Morris 2018 FCS Elementary School Teacher of the Year

Becky received her bachelor’s degree from Kennesaw State University. She began her teaching career in 2006 at Shiloh Point ES, where she currently teaches third grade. She has taught second, third and fourth grade.

Julie Stephens 2018 FCS Middle School Teacher of the Year

She received her bachelor’s degree from Florida State University and master’s degree from Grand Canyon University.

Julie began her teaching career at Mashburn ES in 2011 teaching third grade. She then came to Lakeside MS as an interrelated special education teacher in 2016.

Maleah Stewart 2018 FCS Teacher of the Year Runner-up This honor is the first in the history of the school district. Maleah was the 2017 FCS Teacher of the Year and 2017 Middle School Teacher of the Year. She received her bachelor’s degree from Oglethorpe University and master’s degree from Georgia State. Maleah began her teaching career in Fulton County Schools in 2000 then joined FCS in 2006. She came to North Forsyth MS as a speech pathologist in 2014.

40 | State of the Schools

2018-2019

School-Level Teachers of the Year SCHOOL TEACHER NAME Big Creek Elementary....................................................................Megan Bass Brandywine Elementary.......................................................... Katie Bennett Brookwood Elementary..............................................................Angie Sarno Chattahoochee Elementary.....................................................Paige Bidwell Chestatee Elementary............................................................. Julie Hubbard Coal Mountain Elementary........................................................Anna Wildes Cumming Elementary.......................................................Amanda Denmon Daves Creek Elementary......................................................Vicky Creighton Desana Middle................................................................................ Lisa Arends Forsyth Central High...................................................................... Dawn Dirst Haw Creek Elementary.................................................................... Kim Arant Johns Creek Elementary......................................................... Karen Ledford Kelly Mill Elementary.......................................................... Deidra Chadwick Lakeside Middle........................................................................ Julie Stephens Lambert High.........................................................................Janet Standeven Liberty Middle........................................................................... Sherrie O’Hara Little Mill Middle.................................................................Jennifer Burnham Mashburn Elementary......................................................... Jessica Stanford Matt Elementary.....................................................................Gina Thompson Midway Elementary......................................................................Sandy Lippe North Forsyth High................................................................... James Bassett North Forsyth Middle..............................................................Brandy Gibson Otwell Middle..................................................................................Natalie Pass Piney Grove Middle..............................................................Dr. Ryan Bartlett Riverwatch Middle...................................................................... Ward Prather Sawnee Elementary....................................................................Jessica Plouff Settles Bridge Elementary............................................................ Erin Martin Sharon Elementary.......................................................................Jessica Wutz Shiloh Point Elementary............................................................Becky Morris Silver City Elementary............................................................... Aislinn Brison South Forsyth High...................................................................Jonas Strecker South Forsyth Middle.............................................................. Hannah Miller Vickery Creek Elementary.........................................................Tiffany Mello Vickery Creek Middle............................................................Mary Cartenuto West Forsyth High......................................................................... Kathy Evans Whitlow Elementary........................................................... Jackie Crumpton

Partners in Education Opportunities Educator Discounts: Show your support for our 5,000 employees and submit your discount at www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/discount Become a Partner in Education!

Submit an interest form at www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/pie for the opportunity to: • Take an active role in the vital business of educating our students.

• Gain a working knowledge about public education today.

• Insure a brighter economic future for our students, Forsyth County and the nation.

At the 2018 Celebration of Excellence, sponsored by Northside Hospital-Forsyth, the following Partners in Education were recognized for their commitment to Forsyth County Schools: Don Hendricks Partnership Award- Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office Gold Programs of the Year- Modern OB/GYN and Vertical Earth Silver Program of the Year- NCR Friend of the School- American Proteins Volunteers of the Year- Juanita Doorley and Matt Meyer Mentor of the Year- John Goode

A COMMITMENT TO CARE SERVING SERVING THE THE COMMUNITY COMMUNITY SINCE 1979 SINCE 1979

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2018-2019

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State of the Schools | 41

FORSYTH COUNTY SCHOOLS

Early Release Days End of Semester First/Last Day of School

2018-2019 STUDENT CALENDAR July

August

26-31 30 31

Preplanning Open House MS Open House ES

1

Preplanning

2

First Day of School

31

Early Release/Prof. Dev. (K-12)

September

October

3

Labor Day (No School)

17-18

Early Release/Parent Conf. (K-8)

24-28

Fall Break (No School)

19

Prof. Dev. (Student Holiday)

November

December

19-23

20

End of 1st Semester (89 Days)

21-31

Holiday Break (No School)

Thanksgiving Holiday (No School)

January

February

1-3

15

Student/Staff Holiday

18

Presidents' Day (Student/Staff Holiday)

19

Prof. Dev. (Student Holiday)

Holiday Break (No School)

4-7

Prof. Dev. (Student Holiday)

21

MLK Day (No School)

March 8

April Early Release/Parent Conf.

(K-12)

1-5

May 24

Last Day of School

24

End of 2nd Semester (90 Days)

27

Memorial Day

28-29

Post Planning (Prof. Dev.)

SCHOOL HOURS Elementary I Elementary II Middle High

Begin 7:40 a.m.

8:20 a.m.

9:00 a.m.

8:25 a.m.

Spring Break (No School)

S 1 8 15 22 29

M 2 9 16 23 30

T 3 10 17 24 31

TOTAL DAYS 179 - Students 190 - Staff

End 2:20 p.m.

3:00 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

3:40 p.m.

2018-2019

Early/Release 11:50 a.m.

12:30 p.m.

1:30 p.m.

12:55 p.m.

W 4 11 18 25

SEPTEMBER 2018

TH 5 12 19 26

F 6 13 20 27

M

T

W

TH

F

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

NOVEMBER 2018 S

M

T

W

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

JANUARY 2019 S

M

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

T 1 8 15 22 29

MARCH 2019

W 2 9 16 23 30

S 7 14 21 28

14 Days

S

S 1 8 15 22 29

17 Days

TH 1 8 15 22 29

F 2 9 16 23 30

S 3 10 17 24

17 Days

TH 3 10 17 24 31

F 4 11 18 25

S 5 12 19 26

21 Days

S

M

T

W

TH

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

MAY 2019

Approved: 11/14/2017

42 | State of the Schools

JULY 2018

F 1 8 15 22 29

S 2 9 16 23 30

18 Days

S

M

T

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

W 1 8 15 22 29

TH 2 9 16 23 30

F 3 10 17 24 31

S 4 11 18 25

Elementary I – 7:40 a.m.

Big Creek, Brandywine, Brookwood, Chattahoochee, Chestatee, Coal Mountain, Cumming, Haw Creek, Kelly Mill, Matt, Settles Bridge, Sharon, Shiloh Point and Vickery Creek

Pre/Post Planning/Prof. Dev. Prof. Dev. (Student Holiday) Student/Staff Holidays

AUGUST 2018 S

M

T

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

22 Days

W 1 8 15 22 29

OCTOBER 2018 S

7 14 21 28

M 1 8 15 22 29

T 2 9 16 23 30

W 3 10 17 24 31

DECEMBER 2018

TH 2 9 16 23 30

F 3 10 17 24 31

22 Days

TH 4 11 18 25

F 5 12 19 26

M

T

W

TH

F

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

M

T

W

TH

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

S

7 14 21 28

M 1 8 15 22 29

T 2 9 16 23 30

JUNE 2019

S 1 8 15 22 29

17 Days

S

APRIL 2019

S 6 13 20 27

14 Days

S

FEBRUARY 2019

S 4 11 18 25

F 1 8 15 22

S 2 9 16 23

17 Days

W 3 10 17 24

TH 4 11 18 25

F 5 12 19 26

S 6 13 20 27

S 1 8 15 22 29

S

M

T

W

TH

F

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

Elementary II – 8:20 a.m.

Daves Creek, Johns Creek, Mashburn, Midway, Sawnee, Silver City and Whitlow

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