Atlanta School Guide | Winter/Spring 2014 by Killam Publishing, Inc.

Atlantaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Leading Education Resource Winter/Spring 2014

Plus! Finding a School for Children With Special Needs The Benefits of Tutors and Learning Centers Important Dates, Terms and Trends

The Independent School Advantage How They Prepare Students for College and Beyond

Covering:

Contents

WINTER/SPRING 2014

32 28

Features

In Every Issue

The Independent School Advantage How metro Atlanta’s independent schools position students for success in college and beyond.

28 32

Schools for Special Needs Students

8 Critical Communication 19 Headmaster’s Corner

Tom Whitworth of Darlington School

20 Special Needs Resources

How to find the right school for your child with special needs or learning difficulties.

38 Independent School Guide

Tutors and Learning Centers

88 Public Schools by County

Learn how they can identify your child’s issues and develop a customized education plan to help them.

6 How to Use This Guide

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Boarding School Directory 78

98 Educational Resources Tutoring, summer camps and activities, field trips and more.

112 Advertiser Index

How To

Use This Guide Find an Independent School in

1 2 3 4 6

Easy Steps!

Metro Atlanta Area Map To search for independent schools by region or neighborhood, turn to page 36 and use the color-coded map to direct you to each region’s page number.

Education At-a-Glance Once you’ve selected your region of interest, the charts beginning on page 38 include a comparison of features for each school in that region, along with the page number for each school’s ad.

Region Maps and Listings Divided into regions of Atlanta, the color-coded maps beginning on page 41 provide each school’s location and page number for their ad.

Advertiser Index To find a school or resource by name, turn to the advertiser index on page 112 to find the appropriate page number.

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We graciously thank our advertisers for their support of the Atlanta School Guide. Publisher/President Patrick Killam Editor Kevin Forest Moreau Marketing & Promotions Jeff Thompson Account Director Lacey James Contributing Writers Daniel Beauregard, Ruksana Hussain, Mary Welch

TO ADVERTISE CALL

770-992-0273 Space closing for Summer/Fall 2014 issue: April 18, 2014 Atlanta School Guide, Winter/Spring 2014, Volume 9, Issue 1. Published bi-annually by Killam Publishing, Inc., 200 Market Place, Suite 230, Roswell, GA 30075. Atlanta School Guide assumes no responsibility for errors, changes or omissions. Information may have changed since press time, so please verify all information when contacting a school or educational resource. Reproduction in whole or in part of any elements of this publication is strictly prohibited without the written permission of the publisher. © 2014 Killam Publishing, Inc. For additional copies, further information or advertising, please contact:

KILLAM PUBLISHING, INC. P: 770-992-0273 F: 770-649-7463 info@killampublishing.com www.atlantaschoolguide.com

With this many seniors going to college, a high-five just wouldn’t cut it. Thanks to you, over 1.6 million Georgia high school seniors have had something more to celebrate on graduation day—the chance to go to college. Every time you play the Georgia Lottery, you help fund the HOPE Scholarship Program that provides Georgia students with financial assistance at any of Georgia’s colleges, universities or technical colleges. That’s awesome! And on top of that, you’ve helped send over 1.3 million 4-year-olds to a Lottery-funded Pre-K Program and raised more than $14.8 billion for education. That’s an A+ in our book.

galottery.com

Critical Communication

Timeline for Finding a School Prepare for enrolling your child in school KEY: I = INDEPENDENT SCHOOL, P = PUBLIC SCHOOL

6-10

5 MONTHS AWAY

4 MONTHS AWAY

3 MONTHS AWAY

2 WEEKS AWAY

1 WEEK AWAY

MONTHS AWAY • Determine your child’s needs and expectations. I,P • Research open house dates. I,P • Inquire about each school’s admissions process. I

• Schedule any required health tests or immunizations. I,P • To determine your school zone, use the county’s Web site or call the system directly. P

• Narrow down your choices. I,P • Submit application and fees by the deadline. I

• Find out what documentation is required for registration. P • Complete registration forms and file with school. P

OF 1ST DAY CLASS • Prepare your child by making sure he or she gets a good night’s sleep, adheres to the dress code and is on time. I,P

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• Make a final decision and notify the accepting school of your commitment to enroll your child. I

• Attend registration or orientation. P

Critical Communication

Important Dates Dates subject to change. Please check with your local school district for updates. T = Traditional Calendar Y = Year-round Calendar

DECFEB

Public Schools Winter Holidays Dec. 18 – Jan. 6 Hall Dec. 19 – Jan. 3 Griffin-Spalding Dec. 20 – Jan. 3 Bartow, Gainesville City Dec. 20 – Jan. 6 Forsyth Dec. 23 – Jan. 3 Cherokee, Coweta, Fayette, Paulding, Decatur City, Marietta City Dec. 23 – Jan. 6 Atlanta City (T), Atlanta City (Y), Buford City, Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry, Rockdale Jan. 20 – All Feb. 13-17 Clayton, Douglas Feb. 13-18 Cobb Feb. 14-17 Atlanta City (T), Forsyth, Fulton, Gainesville City Feb. 14-18 Fayette Feb. 17 DeKalb, Gwinnett, Hall, Atlanta City (Y) Feb. 17-18 Buford City Feb. 17-21 Coweta, Decatur City, Griffin-Spalding, Henry, Marietta City, Paulding, Rockdale

Spring Break Holidays

APR

March 31-April 4 Cherokee, Cobb, Forsyth, Marietta City April 4-11 Gainesville City April 7-11 Atlanta City (T, Y), Bartow, Buford City, Clayton, Coweta, Decatur City, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Fulton, Gwinnett, Hall, Henry, Paulding, Rockdale April 21-25 Griffin-Spalding

Last Day of School

MAY

JANJUN 10

May 16 Rockdale May 20 DeKalb May 21 Cobb, Gwinnett May 23 Atlanta City (T), Bartow, Buford City, Clayton, Coweta, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gainesville City, Hall, Henry, Marietta City, Paulding May 28 Decatur City May 29 Cherokee May 30 Atlanta City (Y) June 6 Griffin-Spalding

Testing DateS Dates apply to both public and independent schools.

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SAT SSAT Jan. 25, March 8, Jan. 4, Feb. 1, March 1, May 3, June 7 April 26, June 7 www.collegeboard.org www.ssat.org

Critical Communication

Trends and Happenings in Georgia Education What You Need to Know to Stay Up to Date With Atlanta and Georgia Education Atlanta Classical Academy to Open Atlanta Classical Academy, a tuition-free charter school, is set to open in Fall 2014 for grades K-8, and will expand a grade each year to become a K-12 academy. The enrollment process begins Jan. 1. Families must live within the Atlanta Public Schools district to attend. For more information, visit www.atlantaclassical.org. Olympians Address Middle- and High-Schoolers Former basketball star Christian Laettner and swimmer Cullen Jones were among the Olympians and Paralympians who spoke to approximately 500 students at Maynard Holbrook Jackson High School in September. The event was part of Graduation Generation, an initiative to improve academic performance and increase students’ chances for success in school. 12

Westminster Schools Names New Headmaster Keith A. Evans has been hired as president of The Westminster Schools. Evans, who comes from The Collegiate School in Richmond, Va., will succeed current president William Clarkson on July 1, 2014. Mill Springs Students Talk to Astronaut Nine students at Mill Springs Academy spoke with a U.S. astronaut aboard the International Space Station in September. Commander Chris Cassidy chatted with the students via ham radio as the station passed through the airspace over the school. State Names 2012 Schools of Excellence Schools from Clayton, Cobb, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton and Gwinnett counties were among the 28 honored by the

Atlanta School Guide Winter/Spring 2014

Georgia Department of Education’s 2012 Schools of Excellence program in August. Schools from City Schools of Decatur, Marietta City Schools and Atlanta Public Schools were also recognized. High Meadows Teacher Sets World Record High Meadows teacher Kacie Darden, Danielle Grabol and a crew that included High Meadows’ Anne Lovatt beat the world record in the Race Across America bicycling competition over the summer. The crew logged 3,000 miles in eight days, two hours and 35 minutes, beating the previous record by half a day. Forsyth County Nabs Top SAT Score Metro Atlanta school systems took the top three spots in this year’s SAT rankings, with Forsyth County students leading the state with an average

of 1580. Cherokee and Fulton counties tied for second with 1567, beating the state average of 1452 by 115 points. German Minister of Education Visits Woodward Academy Campus Saxony State Minister of Education Brunhild Kurth visited Woodward Academy in September for a roundtable discussion about education in Germany. A group of Woodward faculty, administrators and students attended the discussion. Greater Atlanta Christian Unveils New App Parents of Greater Atlanta Christian students can now keep track of school events, athletic games,

meetings, updates and more with the school’s new app for mobile devices. The app is free and is available for iOS and Android platforms. Marcus Foundation Awards $2.8 Million After-School Grant The Marcus Foundation has given a three-year, $2.8 million grant to AfterSchool All-Stars Atlanta. The grant will go toward summer programs at BEST Academy, Coretta Scott King and Harper Archer Middle Schools. AfterSchool All-Stars Atlanta provides comprehensive after-school programs for at-risk Atlanta students designed to keep them safe and prepare them for success in school and life.

Belk Foundation Awards Atlanta Grants The Belk Foundation awarded $425,000 in grants to Atlanta organizations in fiscal year 2013. The grants include $110,000 to Fulton County Schools to redesign its teacher-selection process and $20,000 to a summer program to increase reading and math skills at Holy Innocents Episcopal School. 2013 Blue Ribbon Schools Announced Nine Georgia schools were among the 286 schools named as Public and Private National Blue Ribbon Schools in 2013. The schools were Daves Creek, Fair Oaks, Middle Ridge, Mountain Park, Sugar Hill and Tritt Elementary Schools, Marietta Center for Advanced Academics, St. Catherine of Siena Catholic School and Webster County High School. Fitness Celebrity Opens Middle School Center Fitness personality Jake Steinfeld appeared at a ribbon-cutting for HarperArcher Middle School’s new Live Positively Fitness Center in September. The school was honored by the National Foundation for Governors’ Fitness Councils for its commitment to physical fitness. www.atlantaschoolguide.com

Critical Communication

Education 101

Terms to Know in Your Search for the Right Educational Experience for Your Child Charter School A tax-supported public school that is independently run, allowing for greater educational choice for parents in the community. Experiential Learning An educational approach using applied, hands-on methods of learning. INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB) A specifically designed comprehensive academic program emphasizing traditional disciplines while instilling a global perspective in its students.

Magnet School A public school that offers a specific or enhanced curriculum designed for students of special interest or ability. Montessori A school following the principles developed by Dr. Maria Montessori focusing on the unique individuality, self-reliance and independence of children. Special Needs A school or program for children who have mild-tomoderate learning differences. It usually features smaller class sizes, individualized attention and multisensory learning methods.

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Accreditation Official certification that guarantees a school provides an education of a reasonably high quality. Schools must prove levels of quality and maintain continuous standards of improvement. ACT An alternative to the SAT, this national college admissions examination consists of subject area tests in English, Mathematics, Reading and Science, with an optional 30-minute writing test. Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) A measure of year-to-year student achievement on statewide assessments as required by the No Child Left Behind Act.

Criterion-Referenced Competency Tests (CRCT) Tests designed to measure how well students in grades 1 through 8 acquire the skills and knowledge described in the Georgia Performance Standards. Early Childhood Education Education that applies to children from birth to age 8, focusing specifically on their development, including physical, emotional, sensory, communicative, cognitive and social needs. GEORGIA HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION TESTS (GHSGT) All students seeking a Georgia high school diploma must pass four content areas as well as the Georgia High School Writing Assessment. Georgia Performance Standards Statewide standards of academic content for all subjects K-12, to which every school must adhere and on which students are annually tested. HOPE Scholarship (Helping Outstanding Pupils Educationally) A scholarship in Georgia, funded by the Georgia Lottery, that rewards academically achieving students with financial assistance to attend eligible public and private Georgia colleges and universities.

Did You Know: There were 1,657,507 students enrolled in Georgia public schools during the 2012-2013 school year.

Mission/Philosophy A statement outlining the guidelines a school follows to achieve its goals or maintain performance standards. No Child Left Behind Act A federal law passed in 2001 designed to ensure that all children have a fair and equal opportunity to obtain a high-quality education and meet state academic standards of proficiency. Notification Deadline The date by which an independent school notifies families of the acceptance of a child for enrollment to the school. Open House An event held at a school, at which parents can learn more about the school and its offerings. PSAT A standardized test that offers students practice for the SAT Reasoning Test and allows them to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program. Reply Deadline The date by which parents must notify an accepting school of their commitment to enroll their child. SAT This standardized test measures the critical thinking, writing and mathematical reasoning skills of students planning to attend college. Secondary School Admissions Test (SSAT) The admissions test that many independent schools require students to take in order to be considered for enrollment. Summer Camp A common destination for children and teenagers during the summer, at which they can participate in a variety of activities or classes. www.atlantaschoolguide.com

Critical Communication

Deciphering Associations and Organizations Many local and national organizations work to bring out the best in summer camps and public, private and boarding schools by identifying schools that meet certain standards through accreditation. These groups also set policies, research educational advancements and offer services to the educational communities both in Atlanta and in Georgia. The following are just some of the associations and organizations you should know in your search for the best educational experience for your child. AdvancED www.advanc-ed.org The parent organization for the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, AdvancED advances education excellence through accreditation and school improvement. American Camp Association (ACA) www.acacamps.org Accredits camps that meet industry-accepted and 16

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Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) www.acsi.org ACSI strives to enable Christian educators and schools worldwide to teach effectively using Christcentered curricula and programs. Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) www.montessori-ami.org Recognizes schools that strongly adhere to Montessori principles and practices. Atlanta Area Association of Independent Schools (AAAIS) www.aaais.org Although not an accrediting agency, AAAIS is an affiliation of independent schools and operates under analogous principles and a common code of ethics.

government-recognized standards, educates owners and directors and establishes guidelines.

The Council of International Schools (CIS) www.cois.org The premier organization in international education for the accreditation of schools and the development of best practices.

The Association of Boarding Schools (TABS) www.boardingschools.com This organization of 300 boarding schools serves the professional development needs of boarding schools and provides information to potential students and their families.

Department of Education (DOE) www.doe.k12.ga.us A statewide, policy-driven organization governing the public school system of education in Georgia for grades K-12, the Georgia DOE operates under the direction of the state superintendent of schools.

Winter/Spring 2014

Georgia Accrediting Commission (GAC) www.coe.uga.edu/gac GAC offers four levels of approval: preparation status, provisional accreditation, accreditation and accreditation with quality. Georgia Association of Christian Schools (GACS) www.gacs.org Uses generally accepted indicators of quality, voluntary self-improvement and peer review to measure Christian schools. Georgia Association of Educational Leaders (GAEL) www.gael.org This statewide umbrella organization of six professional associations provides unity among school leadership organizations in Georgia. Georgia Association of Private Schools for Exceptional Children (GAPSEC) www.gapsec.org This state organization is for schools that serve students with learning issues. Georgia Charter Schools Association (GCSA) www.gacharters.org A membership organization whose mission is to be an effective advocate and service provider for all charter public schools in Georgia.

Georgia Independent School Association (GISA) www.gisaschools.org An association of private, independent and parochial schools throughout the state whose mission is to advance excellence and collaboration among private, independent and parochial schools.

conduct of public school teachers and staff.

Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education (GPEE) www.gpee.org This nonprofit organization of business, education, community and government leaders aims to shape policy and reform public education in the state.

National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) www.naeyc.org The NAEYC focuses on the quality of educational and developmental services for children, from birth to age 8, including day care and pre-K centers. It is a national network of more than 300 local, state, and regional affiliates, and a growing global alliance.

Georgia Private School Accreditation Council (GAPSAC) www.gapsac.org Association of K-12 private schools whose students are recognized and approved by the Georgia DOE for transferring credits to public schools on the same basis as students from public schools. Georgia Professional Standards Commission (PSC) www.gapsc.com A state organization responsible for setting and applying high standards for the preparation, certification and continued licensing of Georgia public educators, as well as

Georgia School Boards Association (GSBA) www.gsba.com Representing Georgiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 180 elected boards of education, GSBA provides leadership and services to local school boards.

National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) www.nais.org This association values and works to maintain the independent nature of each member school by promoting high standards of educational quality and ethical behavior. National Association of Private Special Education Centers (NAPSEC) www.napsec.org Represents private specialized education programs and their leaders u www.atlantaschoolguide.com

by promoting high-quality programs and services for individuals with disabilities and their families. National Christian School Association (NCSA) www.nationalchristian.org An organization that accredits member schools, overseen by a board of administrators from Christian schools and universities. National Council for Private School Accreditation (NCPSA) www.ncpsa.org A consortium of several private school organi-

Atlanta School Guide

zations dedicated to preserving the integrity of the accreditation process for thousands of private schools across the nation. Southeastern Association of Boarding Schools (SABS) www.sabs.org An association of 23 boarding schools committed to promoting and supporting boarding education opportunities in Southeastern states, including the Carolinas, Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia and Florida.

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) www.sacs.org Member schools meet research-based standards and maintain continuous school improvement and quality assurance. Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS) www.sais.org Members meet quality standards, receive peer evaluation and implement a school plan focused on strategic improvement.

For more information about these and other organizations and associations that ensure quality education among camps and schools, visit the websites of the Georgia Department of Education (www.k12.ga.us) or the U.S. Department of Education (www.ed.gov).

Winter/Spring 2014

Headmaster’s Corner

Thomas C. Whitworth III Headmaster, Darlington School Since 2005, Tom Whitworth has served as headmaster of Darlington School, an independent, coeducational collegepreparatory day and boarding school in Rome, Ga. Founded in 1905, Darlington is a culturally diverse and high-achieving learning environment.

What is your educational philosophy? My philosophy is that every decision a school makes should protect and grow the interests of the children at the school. It should be every school’s commitment to build programming and curriculum that can meet the needs of all students. What do you love most about your job? I love talking with and getting to know the students. I also love helping to grow leaders, both in our student body and in our faculty, staff and administration. How can parents best contribute to the educational process? Make connections with your child’s teachers, coaches, advisor and administrators. Allow your child to take risks and chances—this is an important part of the learning experience.

students to think critically, to communicate effectively, and to understand (but not lean on) technology, we have a good start on building 21st century learners who will be prepared for any challenges they might face. What advice would you offer parents about their children’s education? Find a school whose mission and outcomes correspond with your family’s values, expectations and, more specifically, with your child’s strengths and goals. The Essentials: The Darlington School Emphasis: Empowering students to learn with passion, act with integrity and serve with respect. Year Founded: 1905 Grades: Pre-K through 12

How is the field of education changing? We are preparing our students for jobs that don’t even exist yet. By teaching

Students: 818 Avg. Class Size: 13

Tuition Range: $10,000 - $49,200 Accreditations or Affiliations: SACS, SAIS, MSA, TABS, AAIS, GISA, CSEE, NACAC, NAIS Location: Rome, Ga. Contact: 706-235-6051 www.darlingtonschool.org

www.atlantaschoolguide.com

Critical Communication

Special Needs Resources Information on Finding a School for Children with Learning Difficulties

What is a Special Needs School? Special needs schools are those that serve children who struggle with learning disabilities or don’t perform well in a conventional school environment. These schools use alternative approaches to instruction in order to help children learn more effectively, and achieve success in the classroom and in social settings. What is a Learning Disability? A learning disability is a neurological disorder that affects how your child processes certain information. Children with learning disabilities are as smart as or even smarter than other children, but may face challenges with reading, writing, spelling, reasoning and other functions. As a result, they often struggle to achieve in traditional classrooms. There are many types of learning disabilities, from Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and dyslexia to more serious forms such as autism. If your child exhibits more intelligence than his or her schoolwork demonstrates, contact your physician or a licensed psychologist for an evaluation. How Do I Find the Right School? As you begin searching for the right school for your child’s situation, here are some questions to keep in mind: • Will your child fare better in a school that focuses on his or her specific learning disability, or would you 20

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•

• •

•

rather that he be able to interact with students with a wide range of learning capabilities? Does the school serve a specific age range, or work with students on all grade levels? Many students with learning disabilities have trouble transitioning to new schools. Does the school offer a variety of sports, after-school activities and arts programs? Is the school accredited? If so, by which organizations? Is the staff certified to instruct students with your child’s particular learning difficulty? Does the school offer financial assistance?

Where to Turn: A Directory of Special Needs Schools Atlanta and the Southeast boast many public and private schools that serve students with learning difficulties. Here are some schools to help you with your search. PUBLIC SCHOOLS H.A.V.E.N. Academy Students with emotional behavior disorders and autism. Grades 1 through 12. Two campuses in Smyrna. 678-842-6930 (Hawthorne School), 678-842-6899 (Fitzhugh Lee School). www.cobbk12.org/haven. Margaret Harris Comprehensive School Special education school for students

with severe and multiple disabilities. Pre-K through 12. 678-874-7000. www.dekalb.k12.ga.us/margaretharris. INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS

The Academy at SOAR ADHD and learning disabilities. Grades 6 through 12. 828-456-3435. www.academyatsoar.org. Alexsander Academy Students with learning difficulties. Grades 2 through 8. 404-839-5910. www.alexsanderacademy.org. The Bedford School ADD, ADHD, Asperger’s syndrome, dyslexia, central auditory processing disorder and other learning disabilities. Grades 1 through 9. 770-774-8001. www.thebedfordschool.org. u

“An Exceptional School for Exceptional Students”

College prep and vocational academy designed for grades 4-12 and postgraduate students with high functioning • SACS & GAC Accredited • Open Enrollment • Robotics, Drama, Chess

• SB10 Approved • Social Skills • Athletic Programs

• Low Student-Teacher Ratio • Summer Programs

PLEASE CALL FOR A PRIVATE TOUR

650 A Mt. Vernon Highway, NE • Atlanta, GA 30328 • 404-835-9000

www.cumberlandacademy.org

www.atlantaschoolguide.com

Center Academy ADD, dyslexia and other learning difficulties. Grades 5 through 12. 770-333-1616. www.centeracademy.com. ClearWater Academy ADD/ADHD, Aspergerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and other learning differences. Children 6 to 17. 770-631-3650. www.clearwateracademyga.org. Cumberland Academy of Georgia ADD/ADHD, autism, Aspergerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s syndrome and learning disabilities. Grades 4 through 12. 404-835-9000. www.cumberlandacademy.org. Eaton Academy Average, gifted and students with learning challenges. K through 12. 770-645-2673. www.eatonacademy.org.

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The Hirsch Academy Children 5 to 13 with learning differences. 404-378-9706. www.hirschacademy.org. Mill Springs Academy Children with average to superior abilities who have ADHD or learning differences. Grades 1 through 12. 770-360-1336. www.millsprings.org. Porter Academy ADHD, dyslexia and other differences. Pre-K through 8. 770-594-1313. www.porteracademy.org. The Schenck School Students with dyslexia. K through 6. 404-252-2591. www.schenck.org. For an index of additional special needs schools, please turn to page 113.

INDEPENDENT

SCHOOLS HOW THEY PREPARE STUDENTS FOR COLLEGE AND BEYOND BY RUKSANA HUSSAIN

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hen parents begin considering how to prepare their children for college, one of the first topics to arise is usually whether a public or independent school will provide a better foundation. A recent College Board Group Profile Report showed that metro Atlanta independent schools boasted average SAT scores nearly 200 points higher than those of the highestachieving local public schools, although there’s no conclusive data that independent school students have a leg up when it comes to college acceptance. And the metro Atlanta area is home to many great public schools, including charter and magnet schools, which do an excellent job of preparing students for college. If you don’t have access to a quality public high school in your area, or simply want to explore other options, an independent school can position your child for success. Here are some of the ways that independent schools can lay the groundwork for excellence in college before your child even enters high school.

Curriculum and Special Programs One advantage of independent schools is that many offer a stimulating academic curriculum that challenges students from an early age. “We strive for a traditional yet innovative approach to education in the 21st century, offering diverse academic opportunities, strong art and athletic programs and state-of-the art facilities,” says F. Stuart Gulley, president of Woodward Academy, which serves more than 2,700 students from pre-K through grade 12 in College Park and Johns Creek. Atlanta Girls’ School, which serves more than 200 female students in grades 6 through 12, offers a college-preparatory curriculum designed to foster each girl’s academic and social growth. Students also participate in two customized internships and a required global travel program. “Families who choose Atlanta Girls’ School value—and are willing to pay for—particular qualities in their daughters’ educational experience that they are not able to get anywhere else in metro www.atlantaschoolguide.com

often linked to better acAtlanta,” says Academic “Independent ademic results. Dean Corinne M. Dedini. “Independent schools In addition, a number schools ensure of schools like Greater provide much lower students are Atlanta Christian School teacher-student ratios,” (GAC) and Pace Academy Lynne Floyd, direcwell prepared says offer college counseltor of development at ing programs that help for life beyond Eastside Christian School students with everything a pre-K through eighth school walls.” from developing a list of grade school in Marietta. CORINNE M. DEDINI prospective colleges to Those lower ratios proAtlanta Girls’ School preparing for the ACT and vide for more individual the SAT. GAC’s Learning attention between the Center offers individualized academic student and the teacher. assistance in core subjects, as well as an “It is the personal relationship with elective SAT-preparation course. families, and teachers knowing their students individually, that helps us meet the Smaller Class Sizes needs of students in a personal way,” she Another benefit offered by independent says. “Most families form lifetime relationschools is smaller class sizes, which are ships with staff and teachers, and we al26

Atlanta SCHOOL School GUIDE Guide Winter/Spring 2014 ATLANTA

ways hear back from them, expressing the worthiness of their investment.” Gulley at Woodward Academy echoes that sentiment. “We provide wide individual instruction at every step of the process, be it interviews, admission or college placement,” he says. “We also respect varied learning styles and accommodate children of all learning abilities, compensating for our large size with the laser focus on individual students.” During the summer of 2013, Atlanta Public Schools voted to hire additional teachers with an eye toward having class sizes as large as 25 students at the kindergarten level and as large as 35 in high school. By comparison, The Friends School, a pre-K through eighth grade school in Decatur, averages 9 students per class, while Sophia Academy, which serves preK through high school, boasts an average class size of 10 and Eastside Christian School averages 14 students per class. Character and a Global Perspective In addition to their curricula and smaller class sizes, independent schools can help instill character traits and provide a wider perspective that can greatly benefit a student in his or her college years and beyond. “Independent schools ensure students are well prepared for life beyond school walls,” says Dedini of Atlanta Girls’ School. As opposed to public schools, which mostly serve students within a set geographic boundary, independent schools attract students from across the metropolitan area. This often results in vibrant student bodies made up of many different backgrounds and nationalities. In this way, students are exposed to many different cultures, which prepares them for life in an increasingly global world.

“We have a deep respect for difference,” says Gulley with Woodward Academy. “We are diverse in that 40 percent are students of color and we cater to a 23-county area in Atlanta, which gives us a wide geographical reach.” Many independent schools also focus on “character education,” stressing such values as empathy and respect to help mold students into involved members of society. The curriculum at Atlanta Girls’ School, for example, places a special emphasis on service and leadership. “AGS graduates develop the knowledge, skills, and strength of character to realize their dreams,” Dedini says. At Eastside Christian School, “We instill personal responsibility at a young age, focusing on embracing the joy of lifelong learning and preparing for success,” says Floyd. “Children are encouraged to work together so they develop the capacity to enjoy accomplishments individually as well as that of fellow students.” By offering a stimulating academic experience with a focus on individual attention, building character and a global perspective, independent schools provide an experience well worth the financial investment: an education that will pay dividends for a lifetime. HELPFUL RESOURCES Atlanta Area Association of Independent Schools www.aaais.org Georgia Independent School Association www.gisaschools.org National Association of Independent Schools www.nais.org Southern Association of Independent Schools www.sais.org

www.atlantaschoolguide.com

Finding a

Special Needs SCHOOL SELECTING THE RIGHT FIT FOR CHILDREN WITH LEARNING DIFFICULTIES BY MARY WELCH

Finding the right school for your child’s educational needs can be a challenge. But it can be even more difficult if your child is what some educators call “nontypical,” meaning he or she struggles with learning disabilities or doesn’t perform well in a conventional school setting. 28

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Winter/Spring 2014

average intelligence but ow do you find The Atlanta don’t perform well in a the school that area is rich traditional classroom setbest meets your ting may be struggling child’s needs when you in schools with dyslexia, ADHD or don’t know what options dedicated to Asperger’s Syndrome, a are available, and may not form of know the exact nature of helping special high-functioning autism, among many other your child’s difficulties? Fortunately, the Atlanta needs children. possible diagnoses. If your child is more intelligent area is rich in schools dedicated to helping such children. Many of than his or her schoolwork demonstrates, these schools focus on children with spe- it’s critical to have the child tested by a cific disabilities such as autism, dyslexia, professional immediately. “There really needs to be an evaluattention deficit disorder (ADD) or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), ation, especially a psychology exam, so while some more traditional schools offer that the parents and the schools know help for children with learning issues in what they’re dealing with,” says Betsy Box, executive director of the Bedford School. addition to their general curriculum. If a professional diagnoses your child with a specific learning disorder, and Identify Your Child’s Issues So how do decide which school best your child is currently enrolled in a public suits your child’s educational needs? The school, an Individualized Education Profirst step is to identify his or her issues. gram (IEP) evaluation may be in order. Students who exhibit average or above- The Individuals with Disabilities Educawww.atlantaschoolguide.com

tion Act requires all U.S. public schools to develop an IEP for learningdisabled students who meet special education requirements. An IEP details how the child learns, sets measurable goals and outlines what the child’s teachers and other professionals can do to help him or her learn more successfully. Armed with information, parents can start searching for schools that cater to their child’s specific difficulties. But there’s much more to finding schools than typing a few words into a search engine. “Think about where you see your child long-term so that you can help them achieve the skills they need in order to get where you want them to go,” says Stefanie Smith, executive director of Alexsander Academy. 30

Atlanta ATLANTA School SCHOOL Guide GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2014

Know Which Questions to Ask It’s important to interview potential schools to determine their suitability. “You need to keep asking questions until you find a school that you are comfortable with that will have learning techniques that will work with your child,” says Ava White, founder of Ava White Academy and Tutorials, a learning center in Gainesville. For instance, some schools focus on a specific disability: The Schenck School caters to students with dyslexia. Schools such as Mill Springs Academy and the Howard School cater to students with learning difficulties who plan go to college. Some, like Eaton Academy, don’t specifically target those with learning disabilities, but teach students across all

sult professionals such as your family doctor, who may be aware of schools that specifically cater to your child’s needs. Then it’s time to visit the schools you’re interested in. This is crucial, as talking to the staff will give parents a sense of how they interact with students. If possible, talk to parents or students who have graduated. Ask for referrals of parents whose children exhibited learning behaviors similar to your child’s.

levels of learning who have had difficulty in a traditional classroom. “Is the school more geared for students with strong academics and poor social skills,” asks Box, “or is it more for students with learning disabilities who learn in different ways?” Other considerations include whether the school offers a variety of sports, afterschool activities and arts programs. Are there summer programs? Does it offer financial assistance? Is it accredited? And if so, by which organizations? Are the teachers certified to instruct special education or special-needs children? The transition from middle school to a new high school can be a challenging one for many students with learning difficulties. Does the school serve a specific age range, or work with students on all grade levels? After parents sort through the schools and come up with a short list of candidates, it’s time to make some calls. Con-

“Go With Your Gut” At this stage of the process, it’s important to bring as much information on your child as possible. The more the school knows about your child, the better prepared it is to assess whether it and the child are a good match. In addition to the results of a psychological exam, bring a sample of the child’s schoolwork. “That way we see where the child is academically,” says Debbie Scarborough, co-founder of the Cumberland Academy of Georgia. Once parents have done all the work and gathered all the information—having their child tested, finding schools in their area, researching and visiting them—the final choice may be easier than they think. “Parents know their children better than anyone,” says Betsy Box of the Bedford School. “There may be more than one school that could be appropriate for your child. Go with the school that you think will work best for your child. Go with your gut.” FOR MORE INFORMATION For additional information on learning disabilities and special needs resources, including tips for finding the right school and a list of schools, please see our Special Needs section on page 20, and a list of special needs advertisers in this issue on page 113.

www.atlantaschoolguide.com

S R O T TU and

g n i n Lear ters Cen TS I D E U O P L E H FINDING OOM R S S A L C E TH GARD L BEAURE BY DANIE

ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2014

very child learns differently. As a result, some students need more help than others, and may even require assistance outside of the classroom. Whether your child has trouble grasping a particular subject or just needs a hand organizing his or her study habits, help is available. From one-on-one tutors to learning centers, the Atlanta area offers resources that can help identify your child’s particular challenges and customize their instruction to fit his or her needs. Sometimes a child doesn’t know when or how to ask for help. Fortunately, there are several warning signs that can indicate that your child may be in need of extra help, the most obvious being a drop in his or her grades. “A couple of signs are consistent struggling in getting homework finished, or struggling with weekly quizzes,” says Jim Lawlor, owner of Appleton Learning, which has locations in Marietta and also Roswell. Other signs include “lack of motivation … attention problems, disorganization, procrastination or stress,” says

Carol Chandler-Wood, founder and CEO of Total Learning Concepts, a tutoring service with three metro Atlanta locations. Once you’ve determined that your child needs help, the next step is figuring out the best way to help them. C2 Education, a national chain of learning centers with 16 locations in metro Atlanta, administers tests to evaluate what the students know. “Then, the parent, student and a C2 program director review the results and discuss the student’s goals—what they and the parent want to get out of the experience,” says Jessica Stephens, C2’s marketing manager. Maureen Sullivan, director of the Dunwoody location of Mathnasium, a learning center specifically dedicated to mathematics, speaks to students about their favorite and least favorite parts of math to figure out why they’re struggling. “They might say, ‘I loved math up until last year and I hate it now,’ and that’s a red flag that something went wrong last year,” she says. u www.atlantaschoolguide.com

Customized Instruction Appleton Learning takes a different approach. Its “geniuStyle” program identifies a child’s learning style, including “how they like to receive information, process information and organize information,” says Lawlor. Students are classified as belonging to one of eight different learning styles—each named for a famous thinker or artist such as Aristotle, Da Vinci, Plato or Socrates—and instruction is customized accordingly. Heather Love, associate director for Atlanta Tutors, speaks with parents and administers practice tests to gain insight into a student’s particular strengths and challenges, and tailors her approach to meet those needs. “If a student is more of a visual learner, then a tutor can take the time to draw diagrams or use instructional videos,” she says. “For the auditory learner, a tutor can teach the student songs that incorporate math facts or grammar rules.” Customization is also a key component at Total Learning Concepts. “We 34

Atlanta ATLANTA School SCHOOL Guide GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2014

tailor our work very specifically to each student, rather than plugging them into pre-existing, ‘canned’ programs of study,” Chandler-Wood says. At Appleton, a large part of tailoring instruction to each student is frequent communication between all parties involved. “We are constantly in communication with parents, students and teachers,” Lawlor says. Likewise, Stephens says communication with parents is “a key part” of the C2 Education process. The benefits of supplemental instruction aren’t limited to children who are having trouble with a particular subject. Tutors and learning centers like Kaplan and Applerouth can also help students prepare for standardized tests such as the SAT, ACT, CRCT and SSAT. Enhancing Classroom Learning In addition, some learning centers offer students the chance not just to catch up to their classmates, but to enhance their current coursework. Centers like C2, Mathnasium and Appleton even offer

different summer programs to help students prepare for the coming school year or gear up for standardized tests. “Summer sessions at Total Learning Concepts may involve enrichment work, such as previewing material for the next school year in subjects the student believes will present him or her with the most challenges,” says Chandler-Wood. The goal, says Stephens, isn’t just to help students with their current classes, but to prepare them for the future by teaching them how to become independent learners who can succeed on their own outside of school. “We don’t want students to just come in and memorize everything and then regurgitate those facts onto a test,” she says. “We want them to take this knowledge and these abilities with them on to college and beyond.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION Applerouth Education 404-728-0661, www.applerouth.com Appleton Learning 770-971-1500 (Marietta), 770-998-1500 (Roswell), www.appletonlearning.com Atlanta Tutors 678-412-5457, www.atlantatutors.net C2 Education 888-901-4755, www.c2educate.com Kaplan 954-515-3993, www.kaplan.com Mathnasium 877-601-6284, www.mathnasium.com Total Learning Concepts 770-381-5958 (Lilburn), 770-466-8282 (Loganville), 770-271-7544 (Dacula), www.totallearningconcepts.com

www.atlantaschoolguide.com

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2014

For features of independent schools, turn to Education At-a-Glance on pg. 38. For public school system information by county, turn to pg. 88.

2 3

REGIONS FOR INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS

metro atlanta area map

Alpharetta, Cumming, Duluth, Dunwoody, Johns Creek, Northeast Atlanta, North Fulton, Sandy Springs, Suwanee

Ansley Park, Athens, Dacula, Decatur, Druid Hills, Lawrenceville, Lilburn, Midtown

p.56 REGION 3: Atlanta East

p.50 REGION 2: Atlanta North/Northeast

Alpharetta, Buckhead, East Cobb, Marietta, Roswell, Sandy Springs

p.41 REGION 1: Atlanta North/Northwest

Page | Region | Neighborhoods

Atlanta South, Altanta Southeast, College Park, Downtown McDonough, Eagleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Landing, East Point, Fairburn, Kedron area, Locust Grove, Newnan

Kennesaw, Lithia Springs, Marietta, Powder Springs, Smyrna/Vinings Area

p.71 REGION 5: Atlanta West

p.63 R EGION 4: Atlanta South/ Southeast/Southwest

utoring, Summer Camps and Activities, T Field Trips and Outreach Programs.

p.98 Educational Resources

p.88 Public School County Guide

Connecticut, Georgia, Florida, Illinois, Kentucky, New York, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia,

p.78 Boarding Schools

Additional Education Sections

Education At-a-Glance This information reflects the latest available data at publication time. Please confirm with each individual school.

6-12th

•

223

•

156 1,150 16

•

Application Deadline

Open House Begins

AP/iB COURSES

•

Uniform

SPECIAL NEEDS PROGRAMs

Religious Affiliation*

Avg. Class Size

404-839-5910

Atlanta Girls’ School

404-845-0900

Atlanta International School

404-841-3840

Casa Montessori School

770-973-2731

Chrysalis Experiential Academy

770-649-7077

Cross of Life Christian Montessori School Cumberland Academy of Georgia

48 21

770-475-3812 404-835-9000

Eastside Christian School

770-971-2332

Eaton Academy

770-645-2673

Faith Lutheran School

770-973-8921

Fulton Science Academy Private School

678-366-2555

The Heiskell School

404-262-2233

High Meadows School

770-993-2940

Mill Springs Academy

770-360-1336

Mt. Bethel Christian Academy

770-971-0245

Peachtree Presbyterian Preschool

404-842-5809

Shreiner Academy

770-953-1340

Springmont School

404-252-3910

$9,000$23,000 $19,800$20,500 $19,652$22,434 $7,500$11,000 $10,500$20,000 $4,225$7,855

3K-12th

•

2.5y6th

•

150

8-10

•

6-10

•

365

•

150

•

225

•

192

•

219

•

387

•

351

•

513

•

380

5-12th

15mo6y 4-12th $21,500 & post $5,680K5-8th $8,228 $5,000K-12th $22,000 $4,430PK2-8th $7,185 $9,250PK-8th $10,000 $4,8002y-8th $14,200 $5,400PK-8th $16,510 $21,0841-12th $22,406 $9,730K-8th $11,050 $2,754- 18mo$6,741 6y $11,9302K-8th $14,140 $8,110- 18m$18,530 14y

•

Appt.

Call

•

Oct.

Feb. 3

Oct. Jan. 31 Appt.

•

Appt. Rolling

•

• •

Call

•

Call

Rolling

Call

Rolling

Oct. Rolling Appt. Rolling

•

Call

•

Nov. Feb. 14

•

Appt. Rolling

•

Sept. Rolling

•

Jan. Rolling

• •

Rolling

Jan. Rolling

•

Oct.

Call Rolling

•

200

Call

•

280

Oct. Rolling

REGION 2: ATLANTA NORTH/NORTHEAST

Atlanta North School of Seventh-day-Adventists

770-316-9297

Brandon Hall School

770-394-8177

Bridgeway Christian Academy

770-751-1972

Duluth Adventist Christian School

# Students

Alexsander Academy

6-18y

REGION 1: ATLANTA NORTH/NORTHWEST

Before/After Care

Phone

Kindergarten

School

# Teachers

Preschool

PAGE

Grades/AGES

*KEY: Religious Affiliation: B = Baptist C = Christian CC = Catholic E = Episcopal L = Lutheran M = Methodist ND = Non-denominational P = Presbyterian PCA = Presbyterian Church in America RC = Roman Catholic Q = Quaker SDA = Seventh Day Adventist

ANNUAL TUITION

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS

Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia McGinnis Woods Country Day School

770-476-8607 770-814-8001 770-664-7764

Mount Pisgah Christian School

678-336-3443

Northwoods Montessori School

770-457-7261

Omega Private Academy Suwanee

770-932-8363

Atlanta School Guide

$4,100$7,500 $28,750$55,500 $5,200$10,600 $465$590 mo. $5,000$10,550 $7,900$10,600 $14,900$17,385 $7,055$10,185 $7,900plus fees

PK4-8th PK4

•

5-12th

•

160

•

PK-8th

•

200 Varies ND

K-8

•

150

18mo6y Infant8th 6wk12th 12mo12y

•

400

•

225

995

•

180

8:1

K-12th

Winter/Spring 2014

•

Appt. Rolling

•

Appt. Rolling

•

• Ongoing Rolling •

SDA

Aug.

Call

Appt. Rolling

•

Appt. Rolling

•

Jan. Rolling Appt. Rolling

•

June Rolling

Education At-a-Glance This information reflects the latest available data at publication time. Please confirm with each individual school.

Avg. Class Size

Religious Affiliation*

SPECIAL NEEDS PROGRAMs

PCA

•

118

$8,450- 18mo$16,735 14y $7,800K3-12th $15,945

•

302

•

123

948

$18,110 3y-6th

•

400

$15,400$17,800 $2,995$7,500 $11,540$16,960 $6,100$7,850 $4,850$14,600

PK-8th

•

190

PK312th

•

234 12-15

•

Feb. Rolling

K3-12

•

195 1,775 20

•

Oct. Rolling

•

926

•

Jan. Rolling

•

156

•

Oct.

Pinecrest Academy

770-888-4477

Victory World Christian School

678-684-2030

REGION 3: ATLANTA EAST

Arbor Montessori School

404-321-9304

Athens Academy

706-549-9225

The Children’s School

404-873-6985

The Friends School of Atlanta

404-373-8746

Gerard Preparatory School

770-277-4722

61 Greater Atlanta Christian School

770-243-2273

Hebron Christian Academy

770-963-9250

Heritage Preparatory School

404-815-7711

$5,067K-8th $9,649 $6,775- PK3$14,200 12th $6,033PK4-5th $6,145

K-12th PK4-8th

The Hirsch Academy

404-378-9706

$28,500

5-13y

•

Intown Community School

404-633-8081

$4,000$9,000

K-8th

•

Midtown International School

404-542-7003

$15,500

5-12y

•

770-279-7200

$9,400K-12th $14,000

•

240

•

119

620

•

ClearWater Academy

770-631-3650

Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy

770-957-2927

The Heritage School

770-253-9898

Landmark Christian School

770-306-0647

65 Little Scholars Academy of Atlanta

404-761-9026

66 McDonough Methodist Academy

770-957-4131

The Ron Clark Academy

678-651-2100

St. Stephen Christian Academy

404-305-0161

Strong Rock Christian School

678-833-1200

Woodward Academy

404-765-4001

$16,950

$4000 $2,100$3,900 Sliding Scale $7,000$10,000 $5,000$11,000 $13,500$22,950

1-9th

•

150 10-12

6-17y

•

108 1,100 20

PK412th

•

428

K4-12th

•

861

12mo 5y

•

PK3-5th

•

150

110

•

PK312th PK-12th

•

Jan. Rolling

•

Oct.

Appt.

Oct.

Mar. 1

Dec.

Call

Feb. 7

Oct. Rolling Nov. Rolling

•

Oct. Rolling

•

Jan. Rolling

• B

•

Appt. Rolling

•

Appt. Rolling

•

Appt. Feb. 15

• • M

•

762

•

280 2,740 18

5-8th K-8

K3-12th

•

Appt. Mar. 1

REGION 4: ATLANTA SOUTH/SOUTHEAST/SOUTHWEST $20,000$25,000 $2,790$10,344 $7,485$14,180 $4,375$13,975

Jan. Rolling

•

770-774-8001

Call Feb. 28

•

Providence Christian Academy

The Bedford School

•

Nov. Feb. 15

•

Application Deadline

# Students

790

678-405-2300

Open House Begins

# Teachers

546

Phone

Perimeter School

Uniform

Before/After Care

•

School

AP/iB COURSES

Kindergarten

•

PAGE

Grades/AGES

• •

ANNUAL TUITION

Preschool

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS

•

Oct. Feb. 14

•

Feb.

•

Appt.

Call

•

Oct.

Nov. 1

Mar.

• Ongoing Rolling •

•

Appt. Rolling

•

Feb.

Mar. 1

Education At-a-Glance Continued on Page 40 u www.atlantaschoolguide.com

Education At-a-Glance This information reflects the latest available data at publication time. Please confirm with each individual school.

300

•

100 1,190 18

•

300

K-8th

•

437

K-8th

•

490

Preschool

770-941-6342

$6,200 K3-12th

•

Midway Covenant Christian School

770-590-1866

K4-8th

•

Mount Paran Christian School

770-578-0182

The SAE School

678-239-3200

•

St. Catherine of Siena Catholic School

PK312th Infant9th

•

770-419-8601

St. Joseph Catholic School

770-428-3328

The Walker School

770-427-2689

Whitefield Academy

678-305-3000

$2,645$5,700 $5,148$14,881 $7,850$9,800 $6,970$7,620 $5,966$7,756 $10,730$19,190 $9,920$19,800

Application Deadline

•

Colonial Hills Christian School

Open House Begins

•

Uniform

SPECIAL NEEDS PROGRAMs

$5,0005-12th $14,680

Phone

AP/iB COURSES

Religious Affiliation*

285

770-333-1616

School

Avg. Class Size

Center Academy

# Students

Before/After Care

•

PAGE

# Teachers

Kindergarten

• •

Grades/AGES

ANNUAL TUITION

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS

REGION 5: ATLANTA WEST •

•

Appt. Rolling

•

Jan. Rolling

•

Feb.

•

Nov. Rolling

•

Appt. Rolling

•

Jan. Feb. 7

•

Jan. Rolling

•

Call

PK-12th

•

115

986

•

PK412th

•

687 14-20 ND

•

750

•

Appt. Rolling

5-12th

•

160

•

Appt. Rolling

6-12th

•

275

100

5-8

110 8-10 C, ND

• •

Appt.

•

Sept. Jan. 15

Nov. Feb. 12

Jan. Feb. 14

boarding schools

The Academy at SOAR

828-456-3435

$45,000

12-18

Ben Lippen School

803-807-4000

$33,470

K-12

Brandon Hall School

770-394-8177

Brehm Preparatory School

618-457-0371

Florida Air Academy

321-723-3211

$28,750$55,500 $41,400$66,900 $31,500$33,000 $5,000$9,000 mo.

6-12th

The King’s Daughter’s School

931-388-3810

Massanutten Academy

540-459-2167

Oneida Baptist Institute

606-847-4111

Pomfret School

860-963-6100

Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School

706-746-7467

Riverside Military Academy

800-462-2338

Saint Mary’s School

919-424-4000

Salem Academy

336-721-2643

$41,300 9-12th

St. Margaret’s School

804-443-3357

$45,400 8-12th

The Stony Brook School

631-751-1800

Tallulah Falls School

706-754-0400

Atlanta School Guide

7-30y

•

$31,500 7-12th $6,500 $33,000$52,175 $16,320$48,190 $18,600$31,000 $22,950$45,670

6-12th

263

9-12th

356 8-10

403

7-12th

440+

9-12th

263 12.5

5-12th

$46,7007-12th $25,300 $9,2006-12th $34,125

Winter/Spring 2014

•

• C, ND

Appt. Rolling

• •

•

Appt. Rolling

• Monthly Call •

Appt. Rolling

•

Appt. Rolling Call

•

• Monthly Rolling

•

Oct. Jan. 30

•

152

121

•

332

•

410

•

Oct.

Call

March Rolling

•

Appt.

Call

Oct. Rolling

•

Oct.

Call

48 42 47 2 48 3 45

46 47 46 45 43

21 49 44 43 44

Independent Schools Schools Page Alexsander Academy 42 Atlanta Girls’ School 43 Atlanta International School 43 Casa Montessori 45 Chrysalis Experiential Academy 47 Cross of Life Christian Montessori School 48 Cumberland Academy of Georgia 21 Eastside Christian School 46 Eaton Academy 48

Faith Lutheran School Fulton Science Academy Private School The Heiskell School High Meadows School Mill Springs Academy Mount Bethel Christian Academy Peachtree Presbyterian Preschool Shreiner Academy Springmont School

46 2 44 3 42 47 44 45 49

Neighborhoods of Note Alpharetta Once a small farming community, Alpharetta’s growth has exploded in recent years and is now one of Atlanta’s most affluent neighborhoods, creating the perfect mix of country living and city amenities.

Buckhead A development group is currently creating what is being referred to as the Rodeo Drive of the South, where luxury retailers and high-end restaurants will be the feature. Luxury condos offer residents city living at its finest. www.atlantaschoolguide.com

ATLANTA NORTH • NORTHWEST

gion Re

alpharettA

Mill Springs Academy “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

• 1-12 Coed - Small Classes • Structured, Supportive Environment • College Preparatory • Laptop Program • Competitive Athletic Programs • Extended Day Program • Art, Band, Chorus, Drama • Summer Programs • SACS/SAIS Accredited

770.360.1336

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2014

13660 New Providence Rd. Alpharetta, GA 30004-3413

Mill Springs Academy maintains a non-discriminatory admissions policy in regard to race, creed, color, sex, religion, national or ethnic origin.

buckhead www.atlantaschoolguide.com

buckhead

The Heiskell School The Heiskell School’s accelerated academic program and its focus on building Godly character have had a life-changing impact in the lives of children for more than 60 years.

OPEN HOUSE December 6, 2013 January 17, 2014 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Campus Tour and Information Session

2 Years - 8th Grade Georgia 30305 3260 Northside Drive NW, W A W, Atlanta, Geo

404-262-2233 • www.heiskell.net

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2014

east cobb www.atlantaschoolguide.com

Marietta 46

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2014

marietta â&#x20AC;˘ roswell www.atlantaschoolguide.com

roswell

Cross of Life Christian Montessori School Growing in Spirit and Intellect Serving children ages 15 months-6 years Since 1994

770-475-3812 | colmontessori.com | 1000 Hembree Rd. | Roswell, GA 30076

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2014

sandy springs www.atlantaschoolguide.com

ATLANTA NORTH • NORTHeast

51 54

81 52

53 54

Independent Schools

Schools Page Atlanta North School of Seventh-day Adventists 53 Brandon Hall School 81 Bridgeway Christian Academy 51 Duluth Adventist Christian School 52 Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia 53

2 gion Re

McGinnis Woods Country Day School 51 Mount Pisgah Christian School 9 Northwoods Montessori School 54 Omega Private Academy - Suwanee 55 Perimeter School 54 Pinecrest Academy 52 Victory World Christian School 55

Neighborhoods of Note Duluth A successful mix of small-town charm and booming economic growth, Duluth plays host to many major corporations and is also home to numerous golf clubs, private tennis clubs and parks. The city prides itself on accommodating a growing, diverse population. 50

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2014

Dunwoody A popular community among young and established professionals alike, Dunwoody is often referred to as the “tennis set” neighborhood because of its numerous recreational outlets. Its location provides suburban living close enough to the city.

alpharetta

BRIDGEWAY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

Open House: February 8, 2014, 2 - 4 p.m.

Preschool - 8th Grade

• Christ-centered Program • ACSI and SACS Accredited • Small Class Sizes DAILY TOURS AVAILABLE

678.942.1126 or bridgewayca.org

Come See What Other Families Have Discovered InspIrInG students WIth the passIon to excel

We strive to help children reach their highest potential, while developing a life-long love of learning in a warm and nurturing environment where students matter most. • Private non-parochial Preschool, Elementary and Middle Grades • Challenging Hands On Academics • SACS, GAC and NAEYC accredited

u New Student Open House | January 25 from 12 p.m. - 2 p.m. Learn More, visit www.McGinnisWoods.org 5380 Faircroft Drive, Alpharetta, GA 30005 • 770-664-7764 www.atlantaschoolguide.com

duluth • cumming

Pinecrest AcAdemy A PreK-12th grade, Catholic School

• 20 Ap classes offered • Co-ed campus with gender separated classes • Rated as a top 50 Catholic high school in the nation • Highest sAT scores in Forsyth County and in all Georgia public school districts

770-888-4477 | www.pinecrestacademy.org 955 peachtree parkway | Cumming, GA 30041

Open HOuse

Jan. 12, 2014 1 to 3 pm

Duluth Adventist Christian School Intentionally… G od-Centered

Results-Oriented Environment That Nurtures Aligned with National Standards Team Effort • National Council for Private School Accreditation • SACS accredited • Gymnastics, sports, orchestra, karate and more • Winner of the 2013 TSA TEAMS Competition

2959 Duluth Hwy 120, Duluth | 770-497-8607 | dacschool.com 52

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2014

Preparing Children for God’s Kingdom through Christian Education Atlanta North School is committed to the provision of a stimulating, happy and safe environment where each child has the opportunity to fully develop spiritually, academically, socially, emotionally and physically.

Challenging Academic Curriculum Small Class Sizes Quality Leadership Up-to-Date Technology Music Program Fully-equipped Science and Art Studio

(770) 316-9297 www.atlantanorthschool.com 5123 Chamblee-Dunwoody Rd. Dunwoody, GA 30338

ANS 1990

SDA Accredited by: (SACS), (NCPSA), (GAPSAC), Adventist Edge School of Excellence, Adventist Accrediting Association (AAA)

Finally,

authentic Montessori

right in Johns Creek!

• Children ages 18 months to 6 years • Montessori-certified teachers • Developmentally appropriate, high quality materials • Vibrant classroom communities

• Child-centered, holistic Montessori education “Education should no longer be mostly imparting of knowledge, but must take a new path, seeking the release of human potentialities.” – Dr. Maria Montessori

Call to sCheDule a tour!

Johns Creek Montessori sChool of GA Excellence in Montessori Education

6450 East Johns Crossing • Johns Creek, Georgia 30097 (770) 814-8001 • www.johnscreekmontessorisog.org

www.atlantaschoolguide.com

DUNWOODY • JOHNS CREEK

ATLANTA NORTH SCHOOL

Northeast Atlanta • JOHNS CREEK

With Parents and Teachers after hearts and not just minds, a school day can be your best day.

Investigating Perimeter School: • Friday, January 24th from 6:30 to 9:30 P.M. • Friday, February 21st from 6:30 to 9:30 P.M. Call to schedule your tour today! Contact Sue Fowler at 678-405-2307 sfowler@perimeter.org www.perimeterschool.org

P.s.weAREdifferent.™

Northwoods Montessori School ildren 12 months to 12 years of age Serving ch

Call for a tour 770-457-7261

www.northwoodsmontessori.org A.M.I.-AccredIted

Atlanta School Guide

3340 Chestnut Drive • Atlanta, GA 30340 Winter/Spring 2014

Northeast Atlanta â&#x20AC;˘ Suwanee

Victory World Christian School is a multicultural community of learners committed to Christian discipleship, academic excellence & world transformation. 1 Pre-K (4) through 5th grade elementary program 1 High curriculum standards & creative learning environments 1 Interactive Technology in every classroom (whiteboards & laptops) 1 Rosetta Stone Spanish in all classes 1 Extracurricular Activities (ballet, jazz, chorus, drama, Tai-Kwon-do, piano)

5905 Brook Hollow Parkway, Norcross, Ga 30071

Phone: 678.684.2030 Fax: 678.684.2031 www.vwcs.org

770-932-8363

3429 Lawrenceville Suwanee Rd. Suwanee, GA 30024

www.omegaprivateacademy.com www.atlantaschoolguide.com

ATLANTA EAST

3 gion Re

58 60

ATHENS

58 60 57 62 62

monroe

59 59

Independent Schools Schools Page Arbor Montessori School 58 Athens Academy 57 The Children’s School 62 The Friends School of Atlanta 59 Gerard Preparatory School 60 Greater Atlanta Christian School 61

Hebron Christian Academy 58 Heritage Preparatory School of Georgia 57 The Hirsch Academy 59 Intown Community School 60 Midtown International School 62 Providence Christian Academy 61

Neighborhoods of Note Decatur The county seat of DeKalb County, Decatur’s small-town charm revolves around the Courthouse Square, which features trendy restaurants and shopping, entertainment options and special events, including its annual summer beach bash. 56

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2014

Lawrenceville Located in the heart of Gwinnett County and known as “Crepe Myrtle City,” Lawrenceville is Atlanta’s second oldest city. Its historic downtown square, which has been revitalized, is home to a variety of shops, restaurants and community events.

ansley park â&#x20AC;˘ athens www.atlantaschoolguide.com

decatur â&#x20AC;˘ dacula 58

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2014

decatur MEETING THE DEVELOPMENTAL AND EDUCATIONAL NEEDS OF CHILDREN WITH LEARNING DIFFERENCES

• Individual Academic Programs for ages 5-13 • Full-time emphasis on critical thinking • Consulting Occupational and Speech Therapists • Therapeutic Recreation Program • Social and Emotional Support/Floortime Therapy • Serving students to include: ADHD, Sensory Processing Disorder, PDD-NOS, Autism • Open Enrollment

705 S. Candler Street, Decatur, Georgia 30030

404-378-9706 • www.hirschacademy.org www.atlantaschoolguide.com

lawrenceville â&#x20AC;˘ druid hills

Inspiring for Life

Intown Community School excels at promoting a Christian worldview, creating a nurturing environment and achieving academic excellence. GRADES K-8 GAC ACCREDITED

Inviting our students on a journey of discovery that will last a lifetime. For More Information:

404-633-8081 www.intownschool.org pmeans@intownschool.org

OPEN HOUSES: January 28, 2014 @ 7 p.m.

Gerard Preparatory School

1288 Braselton Hwy. Lawrenceville Established 1989

Instill Inspire Ignite

Fully Accredited

770.277.4722 â&#x20AC;˘ www.gerardprep.com Recommended on PrivateSchoolReview.com 60

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2014

lilburn www.atlantaschoolguide.com

midtown

Exceptional Education for Innovative Learners

Midtown International School is uniquely designed for gifted, high-achieving, and twice exceptional students. Serving Grades K-6 • Small class sizes with 12 students per class • Curriculum infuses critical thinking and problem-solving across all disciplines • STEAM Integration (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) • Foreign language instruction (Spanish, French, Chinese)

www.midtowninternationalschool.com | 404.542.7003 62

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2014

EAST POINT

DEKALB

65 65 68 70

66 69

69 65

Independent Schools Schools Page The Bedford School 68 ClearWater Academy 69 Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy 67 The Heritage School 70 Landmark Christian School (2 locations) 65

Little Scholars Academy of Atlanta McDonough Methodist Academy The Ron Clark Academy St. Stephen Christian Academy Strong Rock Christian School Woodward Academy

65 66 64 68 69 66

Neighborhoods of Note McDonough One of the fastest-growing neighborhoods South of Atlanta, McDonough is the county seat of Henry County and features many historic structures around its town square. The city has ample green space and is a favorite destination for antique shoppers.

Peachtree City A master-planned city comprised of several smaller villages, Peachtree City’s many amenities include golf courses, lakes and an amphitheater. The city is renowned for its network of golf paths connecting its neighborhoods. www.atlantaschoolguide.com

ATLANTA SOUTH • SOUTHEAST • SOUTHWEST

4 gion Re

ATLANTA SOUTHEAST

atlanta south • college park

Constructing a Strong Foundation for the Future Welcome to a place where every child is an explorer. We provide a clean, safe, nurturing and intriguing environment for your child. • • Preschool Curriculum ages 2-6 • Two Lottery Funded Georgia Pre-K Programs 2013-2014.

REGISTRATION HAS STARTED!

Call: 404-761-9026 2591 Jerome Road College Park, Georgia 30349

www.littlescholars-daycare.com www.atlantaschoolguide.com

downtown McDonough â&#x20AC;˘ college park 66

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2014

Eagle’s Landing • east point www.atlantaschoolguide.com

fairburn • east point

“We Enter to Achieve; We Depart To Succeed and Serve” Addressing the whole child and promoting his spiritual and moral growth, academic and intellectual progress, physical and social development. d Serving grades K-8 d Core curriclulum includes: English, Literature and Creative Writing, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Word Building, Foreign Language, Arts & Crafts, Music and Physical Education d Individualized Instruction d Accredited Curriculum (A.C.E.) d Tuition assistance / Scholarships available

Now Accepting applications for enrollment

2670 Hogan Road, East Point, GA 30344 • Ph. 404-305-0161 • Fax: 404-305-0016

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2014

Kedron Area â&#x20AC;˘ Locust Grove www.atlantaschoolguide.com

Newnan

THE HERITAGE SCHOOL What school can be

The Heritage School is an independent, college preparatory school that serves students ages 4 through twelfth grade. At Heritage, we strive to create enthusiasm for learning and are committed to the development and success of each child, every day.

Call for a personal tour today 770.253.9898 www.heritagehawks.org 2093 HIGHWAY 29 NORTH â&#x2014;? NEWNAN, GA 30263

BARTOW

atlanta west

5 gion Re

73 72 74 75 76 76

FULTON

Independent Schools Schools Page Center Academy 76 Colonial Hills Christian School 73 Midway Covenant Christian School 76 Mount Paran Christian School 72

The SAE School St. Catherine of Siena Catholic School St. Joseph Catholic School The Walker School Whitefield Academy

5 73 74 75 77

Neighborhoods of Note Acworth Surrounded by two lakes and 12 parks, Acworth offers plenty of recreation opportunities, including the Cobblestone Golf Course, one of Golfweek’s 2010 Best Municipal Courses. Located 35 miles northwest of Atlanta, the town is convenient to both I-75 and Highway 41. Acworth is designated as a Georgia Main Street City.

Douglasville A quick trip west of Atlanta on I-20, Douglasville has easy access to all that Atlanta offers—including Six Flags, 10 minutes away—but plenty of its own charm, too. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Downtown Douglasville’s historic district is an outstanding example of a turn-ofthe-century southern railroad town. www.atlantaschoolguide.com

Kennesaw

kennesaw â&#x20AC;˘ lithia springs www.atlantaschoolguide.com

marietta

smyrna â&#x20AC;˘ powder springs 76

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2014

Smyrna-Vinings Area Wishing a genie will bring you success in 2014?

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got a better way! Advertise in Atlanta School Guide and get results! Call today for more information or to reserve your space!

770.992.0273 www.atlantaschoolguide.com

Boarding School Directory

here are many benefits of a boarding school education. Boarding schools are an option for students seeking a more independent learning experience. Because students generally live on campus, learning takes place in and out of the classroom almost on a 24-hour basis. When selecting a boarding school, it is important to visit the school campus, but representatives from many boarding schools visit Metro Atlanta throughout the year—contact each school for specific dates.

Boarding School Schools Page The Academy at SOAR 22 Ben Lippen School 86 Brandon Hall School 81 Brehm Preparatory School 83 Florida Air Academy 80 The King’s Daughter’s School 22 Massanutten Academy 87 Oneida Baptist Institute 83 78

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2014

Pomfret School Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School Riverside Military Academy Saint Mary’s School Salem Academy St. Margaret’s School The Stony Brook School Tallulah Falls School

79 81 82 85 84 87 84 82

Connecticut

Florida

georgia www.atlantaschoolguide.com

georgia 82

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2014

Illinois • kentucky

These are the faces of success Is your teenager having...

• trouble in school? • negative influences? • conflicts at home? • a need to start over?

Oneida Baptist Institute may be the answer.

We are a Christian boarding school for students in grades 6-12. The school offers an 11:1 student/teacher ratio, a Tutoring Lab, Advanced Placement courses, multiple cocurriculars, and a student work program.

P.O. Box 67 Oneida, KY 40972 • 606-847-4111 • www.oneidaschool.org www.atlantaschoolguide.com

north carolina â&#x20AC;˘ new york 84

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2014

north carolina www.atlantaschoolguide.com

south carolina

Ben Lippen School A Christian, coed, college and calling preparatory boarding and day school for 7th-12th grade students

Join our globally diverse community instilling respect, responsibility, and integrity in the lives of young people. Stretch yourself academically as you develop your interests and pursue Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s calling for your life. Located on th e campus of C olumbia International U niversity in Col umbia, SC

www.BenLippen.com â&#x20AC;˘ (803) 807-4145

virginia

www.militaryschool.com

Massanutten acadeMy 614 S. MAin Street • WoodStock, VirginiA 22664 • (540) 459-2167 ext. 1

www.atlantaschoolguide.com

public school county guide

Spotlight on Metro Atlanta’s School Systems

variety of improvements and innovative programs in Georgia’s public school systems have resulted in many stellar elementary, middle and high schools across the Metro area. Different school systems feature specialized programs and academic opportunities, such as magnet, charter, vocational or alternative schools to suit their respective students, parents and communities. However, despite variations in programming and academic offerings, all public schools must offer the core curriculum as determined by the Georgia Board of Education. Here is a county-by-county guide to Metro Atlanta’s public school systems. For more information about the Georgia Department of Education, call 404-656-2800 or visit www.gadoe.org. u 88

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2014

public school county guide

Charter Schools

ccording to the Georgia Department of Education, a charter school operates according to the terms of a charter, or contract, that has been approved by the local and state boards of education. The school is held accountable by the state for meeting the performance-based objectives laid out in the charter, as well as state curriculum standards; however, students, parents and teachers enjoy more decision-making freedom.

Time-tested approach. Brand new choice. Atlanta Classical Academy is a tuition-free public charter school opening for the 2014-2015 school year for grades K - 8 (scaling to K-12). Content-rich, liberal arts approach emphasizing virtuous living, traditional learning, and civic responsibility Open enrollment process begins January 1, 2014. Families must reside within the Atlanta Public Schools district to attend.

Learn more! www.atlantaschoolguide.com

public school county guide

Gainesville City Schools A Georgia Charter School System Celebrating

120

years

AcAdemics Arts Athletics ArtisAns Alumni Open to parental choice Non-resident students accepted

770-536-5275 â&#x20AC;˘ www.gcssk12.net 90

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2014

ADAIRSVILLE WHITE

BARTOW

Number of Schools Elementary 12 Middle 4 High 3 1 Career Academy Total # of Students: 13,937

CARTERSVILLE EMERSON

Board of Education 770-606-5800 www.bartow.k12.ga.us

Cherokee CHEROKEE

Spending per Student: $8,311

Number of Schools Elementary 24 7 Middle High 6 Alternative 1 1 Evening Virtual School 1 Centers 1

Spending per Student: $7,744

Clayton

CLAYTON

Top 3 Schools by Average 2013 SAT Score Cass High 1465 Woodland High 1459 Adairsville High 1387

2013 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 858.60 (M) 850.94 5th: (R) 845.16 (M) 850.35 8th: (R) 850.46 (M) 845.72 2013 Average SAT: 1567 Top 5 Schools by Average 2013 SAT Score 1595 Etowah High Cherokee High 1590 1585 Creekview High Sequoyah High 1562 1556 Woodstock High

What’s New Bascomb Elementary’s Kim Hellenga and Hasty Elementary’s Sarah Weiss were awarded $1,000 worth of classroom supplies by OfficeMax and AdoptaClassroom.org. Number of Schools Elementary 34 Primary 2 Middle 15 High 9 Transition 1 Charter 2 Special Education Centers 1 Magnet 1 Open Campus 1 Total # of Students: 51,052 Spending per Student: $7,579

Board of Education 770-473-2700 www.clayton.k12.ga.us

2013 Average SAT: 1440

What’s New The Adairsville High School SkillsUSA Team took home the national championship in the TeamWorks competition over the summer. The competition tested their carpentry, masonry, electrical wiring and plumbing skills.

Total # of Students: 38,679

Board of Education 770-479-1871 www.cherokee.k12.ga.us

2013 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 850.42 (M) 846.52 5th: (R) 837.19 (M) 845.18 8th: (R) 841.01 (M) 823.34

2013 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 832.55 (M) 820.74 5th: (R) 829.79 (M) 832.86 8th: (R) 834.12 (M) 821.09 2013 Average SAT: 1271 Top 5 Schools by Average 2013 SAT Score 1680 Fine Arts Magnet North Clayton High 1348 Riverdale High 1301 1300 Morrow High Forest Park High 1271

What’s New The Elite Scholars Academy charter school was named a 2012 Georgia School of Excellence by the Georgia Department of Education in August. www.atlantaschoolguide.com

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

bartow

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

Cobb

COBB

Number of Schools Elementary 59 Primary 4 Intermediate 2 25 Middle High 15 6 Magnet Charter 5 Special Education Centers 2 Virtual Academies 2 Total # of Students: 108,496 Spending per Student: $8,240

Board of Education 770-426-3300 www.cobb.k12.ga.us

COWeta COWETA

dekalb

DEKALB

Atlanta School Guide

Top 5 Schools by Average 2013 SAT Score Walton High 1741 1680 Pope High Wheeler High 1651 1636 Lassiter High Kennesaw Mountain High 1571

Number of Schools Elementary 19 Middle 6 High 3 Charter 4 Alternative 3 Special Education 1

2013 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 850.00 (M) 844.45 5th: (R) 839.76 (M) 846.37 8th: (R) 846.43 (M) 838.88

Total # of Students: 22,038

Top 3 Schools by Average 2013 SAT Score Northgate High 1501 Newnan High 1473 1457 East Coweta High

2013 Average SAT: 1475

What’s New Coweta County’s three high schools achieved average 2013 SAT scores higher than the state average. The district’s average score of 1475 beat the state average of 1452 by 23 points. Additionally, Northgate High’s average of 1501 outscored the national average of 1498. Number of Schools Elementary 71 Middle 18 High 19 Charter 12 Magnet 4 Centers, Special Education and Alternative 10 Total # of Students: 97,297 Spending per Student: $9,417

Board of Education 678-676-1200 www.dekalb.k12.ga.us

2013 Average SAT: 1515

What’s New Keheley Elementary School was one of only 267 schools honored by the Alliance for a Healthier Generation for its focus on health and wellness for students and staff. Keheley is the first Cobb County school to receive the award.

Spending per Student: $7,751

Board of Education 770-254-2800 www.cowetaschools.org

2013 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 853.32 (M) 848.56 5th: (R) 842.43 (M) 854.01 8th: (R) 848.01 (M) 844.40

2013 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 838.92 (M) 825.32 5th: (R) 830.94 (M) 830.59 8th: (R) 834.68 (M) 819.24 2013 Average SAT: 1341 Top 5 Schools by Average 2013 SAT Score 1619 Chamblee High Lakeside High 1602 DeKalb School of the Arts 1581 1540 Dunwoody High DeKalb Early College 1439

What’s New Sureka Taylor of The Champion School was one of three Georgia teachers selected as finalists for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. The winners will be announced in the summer of 2014. Winter/Spring 2014

Number of Schools Elementary 20 Middle 8 High 5 Centers 2 Total # of Students: 24,885

DOUGLAS

Board of Education 770-651-2000 www.douglas.k12.ga.us

Fayette FAYETTE

Spending per Student: $8,214

What’s New Lithia Springs High School’s Reading Bowl team took home top honors at the Helen Ruffing Reading Bowl State Championship in the high school division. Number of Schools Elementary Middle High Alternative Open Campus

14 5 5 1 1

Spending per Student: $9,018

Forsyth FORSYTH

2013 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 860.75 (M) 861.55 5th: (R) 849.95 (M) 865.82 8th: (R) 853.45 (M) 855.89 2013 Average SAT: 1554 Top 5 Schools by Average 2013 SAT Score 1644 McIntosh High Starr’s Mill High 1622 1516 Whitewater High Sandy Creek High 1459 Fayette County High 1454

What’s New The school system and the Fayette County Chamber of Commerce have implemented V.I.T.A.L. (Volunteer Initiative To Assist Learning) to attract volunteer help to county schools. Number of Schools Elementary 20 Middle 9 High 5 Alternative 1 Charter 1 Virtual 1 Evening 1 Total # of Students: 37,518 Spending per Student: $7,254

Board of Education 770-887-2461 www.forsyth.k12.ga.us

2013 Average SAT: 1338 Top 5 Schools by Average 2013 SAT Score Alexander High 1414 Douglas County High 1404 Chapel Hill High 1358 New Manchester High 1247 Lithia Springs High 1227

Total # of Students: 20,534

Board of Education 770-460-3535 www.fcboe.org

2013 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 846.38 (M) 845.63 5th: (R) 838.37 (M) 848.46 8th: (R) 841.05 (M) 824.17

2013 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 864.98 (M) 870.27 5th: (R) 853.76 (M) 875.42 8th: (R) 857.08 (M) 862.81 2013 Average SAT: 1580 Top 5 Schools by Average 2013 SAT Score South Forsyth High 1668 1618 Lambert High West Forsyth High 1550 North Forsyth High 1524 Forsyth Central 1509

What’s New Forsyth Central High School’s STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Academy was honored as Georgia’s best high school STEM program during the second annual Georgia STEM Education Awards. www.atlantaschoolguide.com

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

douglas

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

FULTON

Number of Schools Elementary 58 Middle 19 High 17 Charter 8 Centers 2

2013 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 852.52 (M) 852.43 5th: (R) 842.91 (M) 854.14 8th: (R) 847.28 (M) 842.50

Total # of Students: 91,682

Top 5 Schools by Average 2013 SAT Score Northview High 1773 Johns Creek High 1707 Milton High 1697 1672 Alpharetta High Chattahoochee High 1667

Spending per Student: $9,237 FULTON

Board of Education 404-768-3600 www.fultonschools.org

GriffinSpalding

What’s New McClarin High School, an open-campus, non-traditional school, has been awarded a $3.4 million School Improvement Grant by the Georgia Department of Education to help student achievement and improve the school environment. Number of Schools Elementary 11 4 Middle High 2 Alternative 2 Center 1

2013 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 841.47 (M) 836.66 5th: (R) 830.05 (M) 840.13 8th: (R) 832.37 (M) 816.93

Total # of Students: 10,211

Top 2 Schools by Average 2013 SAT Score Spalding High 1402 Griffin High 1248

Spending per Student: $8,440

Board of Education 770-229-3710 www.spalding.k12.ga.us

Gwinnett

GWINNETT

Atlanta School Guide

2013 Average SAT: 1331

What’s New Spalding High teacher Lindsey McDaniel received a $1,000 New Teacher Assistant grant in October courtesy of Georgia Power. The grant is designed to recognize and encourage new teaching talent and goes toward classroom supplies and materials. Number of Schools Elementary 77 Middle 26 High 18 Alternative 2 3 Charter Open Campus 1 1 Virtual School Special Education 4 Total # of Students: 164,455 Spending per Student: $8,099

Board of Education 678-301-6000 www.gwinnett.k12.ga.us

2013 Average SAT: 1567

2013 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 853.01 (M) 854.67 5th: (R) 843.18 (M) 857.77 8th: (R) 848.37 (M) 848.36 2013 Average SAT: 1513 Top 5 Schools by Average 2013 SAT Score Brookwood High 1612 North Gwinnett High 1512 Parkview High 1578 Peachtree Ridge High 1572 Mill Creek High 1546

What’s New Gwinnett County’s 2013 SAT scores outshone both the state and national averages. The district’s average score of 1513 is 15 points above the national average of 1498 and 61 points above the state average of 1452. Winter/Spring 2014

HALL

Number of Schools Elementary Middle High Charter

12 6 5 11

Total # of Students: 26,740

Henry

HENRY

What’s New Hall County Schools received the 2013 Safe School Leadership Award from the National Association of School Resource Officers over the summer. Number of Schools Elementary Middle High Alternative Career Academy Virtual School

29 11 9 1 1 1

Total # of Students: 39,973 Spending per Student: $7,666

Board of Education 770-957-6601 www.henry.k12.ga.us

Paulding PAULDING BRASWELL

278

Board of Education 770-443-8000 www.paulding.k12.ga.us

2013 Average SAT: 1399 Top 5 Schools by Average 2013 SAT Score North Hall High 1519 Flowery Branch High 1414 Johnson High 1375 1372 West Hall High Chestatee High 1365

Spending per Student: $7,796

Board of Education 770-534-1080 www.hallco.org/boe

2013 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 842.14 (M) 833.54 5th: (R) 833.17 (M) 836.85 8th: (R) 838.69 (M) 829.52

2013 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 847.31 (M) 838.71 5th: (R) 840.02 (M) 846.63 8th: (R) 843.43 (M) 831.70 2013 Average SAT: 1376 Top 5 Schools by Average 2013 SAT Score Union Grove High 1556 Eagles Landing High 1504 Ola High 1433 1369 Woodland High Dutchtown High 1350

What’s New Unity Grove Elementary teacher Amanda Cavin was awarded a $2,000 prize, and the school system a $5,000 grant, through the state’s Innovation in Teaching competition. Number of Schools Elementary Middle High Alternative Total # of Students: 28,309 Spending per Student: $7,190

19 9 5 1

2013 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 853.21 (M) 853.46 5th: (R) 840.93 (M) 849.57 8th: (R) 842.29 (M) 835.67 2013 Average SAT: 1354 Top 5 Schools by Average 2013 SAT Score North Paulding High 1404 East Paulding High 1356 Hiram High 1345 Paulding County High 1340 South Paulding High 1317

What’s New Paulding County Schools has announced a new school safety initiative designed to improve schools’ current procedures. School visitors and volunteers will be registered and issued a photo ID when they are on school grounds. www.atlantaschoolguide.com

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

HALL

LE RO CK DA

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

Rockdale

Board of Education 770-483-4713 www.rockdale.k12.ga.us

Atlanta Public Schools

Number of Schools Elementary 11 Middle 4 High 3 Alternative 1 Charter 1 Magnet 1 Open Campus 1 Virtual School 1 Total # of Students: 15,309 Spending per Student: $9,282

2013 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 845.68 (M) 843.41 5th: (R) 837.60 (M) 848.11 8th: (R) 842.93 (M) 831.56 2013 Average SAT: 1378 Top 3 Schools by Average 2013 SAT Score Heritage High 1426 1375 Rockdale High Salem High 1312

What’s New Rockdale County elementary and middle schools scored above the state average in the 2013 Georgia College and Career Ready Performance Index.

Board of Education 404-802-3500 www.atlanta.k12.ga.us Number of Schools Elementary 52 Middle 14 High 20 Charter 15 Alternative 6 Total # of Students: 49,217 Spending per Student: $13,576

2013 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 839.45 (M) 827.83 5th: (R) 831.67 (M) 834.43 8th: (R) 835.57 (M) 820.72 2013 Average SAT: 1335 Top 5 Schools by Average 2013 SAT Score Grady High 1515 North Atlanta High 1441 Carver Early College 1371 South Atlanta High School of Law and Social Justice 1327 Carver School of the Arts 1237

What’s New Nine Atlanta Public Schools high school students were recently named National Merit Semifinalists. These academically gifted students will learn in February whether they are finalists in the running for prestigious National Merit Scholarships.

Buford City Schools

Board of Education 770-945-5035 www.bufordcityschools.org Number of Schools Elementary (K-1) Middle High Academy (2-5)

1 1 1 1

Total # of Students: 3,509 Spending per Student: $9,588 2013 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 853.24 (M) 863.91 5th: (R) 838.46 (M) 850.08 8th: (R) 847.81 (M) 857.47

2013 Average SAT: 1495 What’s New Buford High School was named one of Newsweek’s 2013 top high schools in the nation. The list recognizes public schools that have proven most effective in producing college-ready graduates.

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2014

Board of Education 404-370-4400 www.csdecatur.net Number of Schools Elementary 4 Middle 1 High 1 Intermediate 1 Early Learning Center 1

Total # of Students: 3,304 Spending per Student: $12,427 2013 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 875.38 (M) 874.22 5th: (R) 852.92 (M) 858.91 8th: (R) 854.77 (M) 844.86

2013 Average SAT: 1528 What’s New Oakhurst Elementary was named a 2012 Georgia School of Excellence by the Georgia Department of Education in August for being the fourth-highest ranked school on the state’s College and Career Ready Performance Index. .

Gainesville City Schools

Board of Education 770-536-5275 www.gcss.k12.net Number of Schools Elementary 5 1 Middle High 1 1 Magnet (6-12)

Spending per Student: $7,897 2013 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 832.92 (M) 821.09 5th: (R) 828.72 (M) 842.17 8th: (R) 837.63 (M) 836.96 2013 Average SAT: 1364

Total # of Students: 7,352 What’s New Students of the Fair Street School moved into their new campus in October, after being housed at Wood’s Mill Academy during construction. The previous Fair Street building was demolished in 2012.

Marietta City Schools

Board of Education 770-422-3500 www.marietta-city.org Number of Schools Elementary 7 Sixth Grade 1 Middle 1 1 High Alternative 1 Magnet 1

Total # of Students: 8,459 Spending per Student: $9,530 2013 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 846.24 (M) 849.10 5th: (R) 841.86 (M) 854.65 8th: (R) 840.12 (M) 822.91 2013 Average SAT: 1456

What’s New The Marietta Center for Advanced Academics was one of 236 high schools in the nation recognized as a 2013 National Blue Ribbon School. The STEM-focused magnet school serves students in grades 3 through 5. www.atlantaschoolguide.com

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

City Schools of Decatur

Educational Resources

Educational Resources Ways to enhance your child’s or student’s learning

Index 98

Atlanta School Guide

Tutoring & Study Skills 99 Summer Camps & Activities 102 Field Trips & Outreach Programs 107

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tutoring 100

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Summer Camps & Activities

Summer Camps & Activities www.atlantaschoolguide.com

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Summer Camps & Activities

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Summer Camps & Activities

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Field Trips & Outreach Programs

107

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Atlanta School Guide

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Field Trips & Outreach Programs

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ADVERTISER INDEX Boarding Schools The Academy at SOAR......................................22 Ben Lippen School.............................................86 Brandon Hall School...........................................81 Brehm Preparatory School.................................83 Florida Air Academy...........................................80 The King’s Daughter School..............................22 Massanutten Academy.......................................87 Oneida Baptist Institute.....................................83 Pomfret School...................................................79 Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School.........................81 Riverside Military Academy ..............................82 Salem Academy..................................................84 Saint Mary’s School ............................................85 St. Margaret’s School .........................................87 The Stony Brook School.....................................84 Tallulah Falls School ..........................................82

Early Education Little Scholars Academy of Atlanta...................65 Medlock Bridge Montessori..............................35 Montessori at Brookstone..................................35 Montessori Unlimited.........................................35 Nesbit Ferry Montessori.....................................35 Peachtree Presbyterian Preschool ....................44 Preston Ridge Montessori..................................35 Sugarloaf Montessori.........................................35

Field Trips & Outreach Programs Atlanta Cyclorama............................................111 Atlanta Symphony Orchestra...........................111 Coca Cola Space Science Center...................107 DeSoto Caverns Family Fun Park....................107 Foxfire Museum................................................111 Georgia Aquarium............................................108 Interactive Neighborhood for Kids.................108 Legoland Discovery Center Atlanta................109 Pine Mountain Gold Museum.........................109 Sandy Springs Hospitality & Tourism................11 Spivey Hall.........................................................110 Zoo Atlanta........................................................110

Higher Education Project Identity at Morehouse College...........114 SAE Institute........................................................23

Independent Schools Alexsander Academy.........................................42

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Atlanta School Guide

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Arbor Montessori School...................................58 Athens Academy.................................................57 Atlanta Girls’ School...........................................43 Atlanta International School .............................43. Atlanta North School of Seventh-day Adventists....53 The Bedford School ..........................................68 Bridgeway Christian Academy..........................51 Casa Montessori.................................................45 Center Academy ................................................76 Chrysalis Experiential Academy........................47 The Children’s School.........................................62 ClearWater Academy.........................................69 Colonial Hills Christian School..........................73 Cross of Life Christian Montessori School........48 Cumberland Academy of Georgia....................21 Duluth Adventist Christian School....................52 Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy..................67 Eastside Christian School ..................................46 Eaton Academy .................................................48 Faith Lutheran School .......................................46 The Friends School of Atlanta...........................59 Fulton Science Academy Private School......................... Inside Front Cover Gerard Preparatory School................................60 Greater Atlanta Christian School.......................61 Hebron Christian Academy ...............................58 The Heiskell School ...........................................44 Heritage Preparatory School.............................57 The Heritage School ..........................................70 High Meadows School ........................................3 The Hirsch Academy..........................................59 Intown Community School.................................60 Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia....53 Landmark Christian School................................65 Little Scholars Academy.....................................65 McDonough Methodist Academy.....................66 McGinnis Woods Country Day School ............51 Medlock Bridge Montessori..............................35 Midtown International School...........................62 Midway Covenant Christian School..................76 Mill Springs Academy .......................................42 Montessori at Brookstone..................................35 Montessori Unlimited.........................................35 Mount Bethel Christian Academy.....................47 Mount Paran Christian School .........................72 Mount Pisgah Christian School...........................9 Nesbit Ferry Montessori.....................................35

Northwoods Montessori School........................54 Omega Private Academy - Suwanee................55 Peachtree Presbyterian Preschool.....................44 Perimeter School................................................54 Pinecrest Academy.............................................52 Preston Ridge Montessori..................................35 Providence Christian Academy.........................61 The Ron Clark Academy.....................................64 The SAE School....................................................5 Shreiner Academy .............................................45 Springmont School.............................................49 St. Catherine of Siena Catholic School.............73 St. Joseph Catholic School ...............................74 St. Stephen Christian Academy.........................68 Strong Rock Christian School............................69 Sugarloaf Montessori.........................................35 Victory World Christian School..........................55 The Walker School..............................................75 Whitefield Academy...........................................77 Woodward Academy ........................................ 66

Montessori Schools Arbor Montessori School...................................58 Casa Montessori.................................................45 Cross of Life Christian Montessori School........48 Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia....53 Medlock Bridge Montessori..............................35 Montessori at Brookstone..................................35 Montessori Unlimited.........................................35 Nesbit Ferry Montessori.....................................35 Preston Ridge Montessori..................................35 Springmont School.............................................49 Sugarloaf Montessori.........................................35

Gainesville City Schools.....................................90

Resources & Services Georgia Lottery.....................................................7 Gwinnett Online Campus..................................18 Kroger.................................................. Back Cover Radio Disney............................ Inside Back Cover The School Box...................................................49

Special Needs & Learning Difficulties The Academy at SOAR......................................22 Alexsander Academy.........................................42 The Bedford School ..........................................68 Brehm Preparatory School.................................83 Center Academy ................................................76 ClearWater Academy.........................................69 Cumberland Academy of Georgia....................21 Eaton Academy .................................................48 The Hirsch Academy ..................................59 The King’s Daughter School..............................22 Mill Springs Academy .......................................42 Squirrel Hollow Day Camp ..............................105

Summer Camps & Activities Alexsander Academy Summer Camp.............106 Atlanta Girls’ School Summer Camp..............103 Gwinett County Parks and Recreation............104 High Meadows Summer Day Camp................102 Massanutten Academy Summer Programs......87 McGinnis Woods Summer Camp...................... 105 Midtown Athletic Club – Tennis Explorers.....106 Squirrel Hollow Day Camp ..............................105 Valley View Ranch.............................................106

Neighborhoods

Tutoring & Study Skills

City of East Point................................................67 Sandy Springs Hospitality & Tourism................11

Appleton Learning............................................100 Atlanta Ballet Centre for Dance Education....103 C2 Education.......................................................99. Eye Level...........................................................100. In-Home Tutors of Atlanta...............................101 Total Learning Concepts..................................101

Public Schools & Charter Schools Atlanta Classical Adademy................................89. Atlanta Public Schools........................................90

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