Atlanta School Guide | Winter/Spring 2012

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Tips on Acing the

ADMISSIONS INTERVIEW

How to Make Your Visit Stress-Free PLUS!

Does Class Size Matter?

Steps to Prep for College Success Important Dates, Terms and Trends COVERING:

Independent | Boarding | Public | Charter | Early Education | Summer Camps | Field Trips and More

Contents

WINTER/SPRING 2012

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24 20

Features

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In Every Issue

How to Prep for College Success Four key areas to look for when searching for the right collegepreparatory high school for your child.

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4

Does Class Size Matter?

Do smaller classrooms help children learn more efficiently?

How Atlanta schools address the issue in different ways.

Acing the Admissions Interview How to prepare your child for a face-to-face conversation with a prospective new school.

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2012

6 How to Use This Guide 8 Critical Communication 15 Headmaster’s Corner

John Singleton of Brandon Hall.

31 Independent School Guide 72 Boarding School Directory 84 Public Schools by County 92 Educational Resources Early education, tutors, summer camps, field trips and more.

106 Advertiser Index

How To

Use This Guide Find an Independent School in

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1

Easy Steps!

Metro Atlanta Area Map To search for independent schools by region or neighborhoods, turn to page 28 and use the color-coded map to direct you to each region’s page number.

2

Education At-a-Glance

3

Region Maps and Listings

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Once you’ve selected your region of interest, the charts beginning on page 31 include a comparison of features for each school in that region, along with the page number for each school’s ad.

Divided into regions of Atlanta, the color-coded maps beginning on page 34 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 106 to find the appropriate page number.

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2012

AT L A N TA

GUIDE

Atlanta’s Education Resource

We graciously thank our advertisers for their support of the Atlanta School Guide.

Publisher/Editor In Chief Patrick Killam Editor Kevin Forest Moreau Marketing & Promotions Michael Thompson Administrative Assistant Julie Porter Account Director Lacey James Contributing Writers Susan Flowers Rachael Mason

TO ADVERTISE CALL

770-992-0273 Space closing for Summer/Fall 2012 issue: April 20, 2012 Atlanta School Guide, Winter/Spring 2012, Volume 7, 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. © 2012 Killam Publishing, Inc. For additional copies, further information or advertising, please contact:

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

At Andrew College, we believe that success starts with a strong academic foundation. As a private two-year college related to The United Methodist Church, Andrew offers four academic divisions and 40 different challenging programs of study:

• Fine Arts (art, drama/theatre and music programs)

• Humanities

• Math and Science

• Social Sciences

Visit us in person!

Join us for one of our Campus Visitation Days on February 4th, March 31st and April 28th.

Andrew College Office of Admissions and Financial Aid 501 College St. • Cuthbert, GA 39840

800-664-9250 • www.andrewcollege.edu

www.atlantaschoolguide.com

7

Critical Communication

Trends and Happenings in Georgia Education What you need to know to stay up to date with Atlanta and Georgia education Primrose Expands Primrose Schools is opening its first preschools in Boston, Chicago, New Jersey, Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. In addition, the Acworth-based child-care franchise announced plans to expand in California, Washington and Oregon. www.primroseschools.com.

State Appeals No Child Left Behind Georgia is one of the first states to request relief from certain requirements of the No Child Left Behind Act, having filed a formal request in September. The state seeks more leeway in determining a school’s annual progress.

Colleges Win Acclaim Several Georgia universities ranked high in U.S. News and World Report’s 2012 Best Colleges list.

Among national public and private universities, Emory ranked No. 20, 8

Atlanta School Guide

placing in the top 20 for the 19th consecutive year, while Spelman ranked first among historic black colleges for the fifth straight year. www.usnews.com/ colleges.

University System Talks Mergers The University System of Georgia is exploring the possibility of merging existing colleges as part of an effort to save money.

Chancellor Hank Huckaby has also announced a pilot program to study how efficiently the state’s 35 existing colleges and universities use existing classrooms and buildings. www.usg.edu.

DeKalb Hires Superintendent DeKalb County Schools has named Dr. Cheryl L.H. Atkinson its new school superintendent. Since taking office, Atkinson has stressed transparency, upgrading teaching ma-

Winter/Spring 2012

terials, and reestablishing relations with the public and local media. www.dekalb.k12.ga.us.

Georgia Professor Honored Georgia Tech math professor Maria Westdickenberg received the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers in September. The honor is bestowed on researchers in the early stages of their careers. Westdickenberg was the only Georgian to receive the award. www.whitehouse.gov.

Pace Senior Named Environmental Superhero Pace Academy senior Eric Estroff will receive the Captain Planet Foundation’s Young Super Hero for Earth Award for his work in raising environmental awareness in Georgia and across the country. The foundation’s annual benefit gala takes place Friday, Dec. 9 at the

Georgia Aquarium. www.paceacademy.org. www.thepowerisyours.org.

High Schools Compete for Salad Bars The Dole Food Company, Georgia 4-H and Lt. Gov Casey Cagle’s Healthy Kids Georgia have launched a “Raise the Salad Bar” contest for Georgia high schools. Three salad bars will be awarded to the schools whose students submit the best essay or video about ways their school is working to make students healthier. The contest ends Feb. 3, 2012. www.raisethesaladbar.com.

Governor Appoints Funding Commission Gov. Nathan Deal has named a Higher Education Funding Commission to recommend ways the state might fund colleges based on graduation rates and measures of success other than enrollment. The group will make its recommendations by Dec. 1, 2012. gov.georgia.gov.

Hiram High Receives Verizon Grant Hiram High School was among nine Georgia organizations to receive grants from the Verizon Foundation. The grant supports

the school’s Teen Power!

Program, which teaches students the warning signs of dating violence. www. verizonfoundation.org.

Atlanta Public Schools Need Repairs According to an October 2011 report by the Council of the Great City Schools, Atlanta requires $301.9 million to renovate, repair and modernize its public schools, and $240 million to pay for deferred maintenance. Georgia could receive $909.5 million to upgrade schools under the American Jobs Act. www.cgcs.org.

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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 a school 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 encouraging an international perspective.

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 mildto-moderate learning differences. It usually features smaller class sizes, individualized attention and multisensory learning methods.

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Atlanta School Guide

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Accreditation Official certification that guarantees a school provides an education of a reasonably high quality.

ACT An alternative to the SAT, a national college admissions examination consisting of subject area tests in English, Mathematics, Reading and Science, with an optional 30-minute writing test.

Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) A measure of student achievemen as required by the No Child Left Behind Act. Criterion-Referenced Competency Tests (CRCT) Tests to measure how well students acquire the skills and knowledge described in the Georgia Performance Standards.

HOPE Scholarship A Lottery-funded scholarship in Georgia that rewards academically achieving students with financial assistance to attend eligible Georgia colleges and universities.

No Child Left Behind Act A 2001 federal law 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.

Region TKTK TKTK TK TK

Georgia Performance Standards Statewide standards of academic content for all K-12 subjects, to which every school must adhere and on which students are annually tested.

PSAT A standardized test offering students practice for the SAT and allowing them to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship.

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, mathematical reasoning, and writing 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.

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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 setting policies, serving as advocates, researching educational advancements, identifying schools that meet certain standards through accreditation or by offering services to the educational communities both in Atlanta and in Georgia. The following are just some of the organizations you should know in your search for the best educational experience for your child.

American Camp Association (ACA) www.acacamps.org Accredits camps that meet industry-accepted and government-recognized standards, educates,and establishes guidelines.

The Association of Boarding Schools (TABS) www.boardingschools.com This organization of nearly 300 boarding schools serves the professional 12

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development needs of boarding schools and provides information to potential students and their families.

Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) www.acsi.org ACSI strives to enable Christian educators and schools worldwide to effectively teach using Christ-centered curricula and programs.

Winter/Spring 2012

Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) www.montessori-ami.org Founded in 1929, AMI recognizes schools that strongly adhere to Montessori principles and practices.

Atlanta Area Association of Independent Schools (AAAIS) 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.

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

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 schools.

Georgia Association of Educational Leaders (GAEL) www.gael.org This statewide umbrella organization of six professional associations provides unity among school leadership organizations.

Georgia Association for Private Schools for Exceptional Children (GAPSEC) www.gapsec.org This state organization is for schools that serve students with learning issues.

Georgia Independent School Association (GISA) www.gisa-schools.org Association of private, independent and parochial schools whose mission is to advance excellence and collaboration among independent schools.

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

Georgia Private School Accreditation Council (GAPSAC) www.gapsac.org Association of K-12 private schools whose students are recognized and ap-

proved 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. Preparation and conduct of public school teachers and staff.

Georgia School Boards Association (GSBA) www.gsba.com Representing Georgia’s 180 elected boards of education, GSBA provides leadership and services to local boards of education.

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 eight, including daycare and Pre-K centers.

It is a national network of over 300 local, state, and regional affiliates.

National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) www.nais.org The association values and works to maintain the independent nature of each member school by promoting high standards of educational quality and ethical behavior.

National Christian School Association (NCSA) www.nationalchristian.org Administrators from accredited schools, university educators and public schools preside over the accreditation process for NCSA. Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) www.sacs.org Member schools meet research-based standards and maintain continuous school improvement and quality assurance. Its mission is the improvement of education in the South through accreditation.

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). www.atlantaschoolguide.com

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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. 17-Jan 1 Buford City Dec. 17-Jan. 2 Cherokee, Clayton, Fayette, Gwinnett, Hall, Henry,

Paulding, Rockdale Dec. 17-Jan. 3 DeKalb, Douglas Dec. 21-Jan. 2 Atlanta City (T) Dec. 21-Dec. 30 Atlanta City (Y) Dec. 21-Jan. 3 Forsyth, Griffin-Spalding, Decatur City Dec. 22-Jan. 2 Marietta City Dec. 22-Jan. 4 Coweta Dec. 23-Jan. 3 Fulton Dec. 23-Jan. 9 Cobb Jan. 16 All Feb. 13-Feb. 20 Decatur City Feb. 20 Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Hall,

Atlanta City (T, Y) Feb. 20-Feb. 26 Cherokee, Coweta, Douglas, Fayette, Griffin-Spalding,

Henry, Paulding, Rockdale, Buford City, Marietta City

Spring Break Holidays

APR

MAYJUN

OctFEB JANJUN 14

Mar. 31-Apr. 8 Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, Coweta, DeKalb,

Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Hall,

Henry, Paulding, Rockdale, Atlanta City (T), Buford City,

Decatur City, Marietta City Apr. 2-Apr. 6 Atlanta City (Y) Apr. 21-Apr. 29 Griffin-Spalding

Last Day of School May 17 Hall May 18 Clayton, Fulton May 22 Atlanta City (T) May 24 Cobb, DeKalb, Gwinnett, Rockdale May 25 Cherokee, Coweta, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Henry,

Paulding, Buford City, Decatur City, Marietta City May 31 Griffin-Spalding

Independent Schools Open Houses Oct. to Mar., in general Application Deadlines Late Jan. to late Feb., in general

Testing DateS

Dates apply to both public and independent schools. For registration deadlines, visit the appropriate Web sites.

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2012

SAT SSAT Dec. 3, Jan. 28, Mar. 10, Dec. 10, Jan. 7, Feb. 4, May 5, June 2 Mar. 3, Apr. 21, June 9 www.collegeboard.org www.ssat.org

Headmaster’s Corner

John Singleton Headmaster, Brandon Hall School In his second year as Headmaster of Brandon Hall, John Singleton has realized his dream of leading an independent college preparatory boarding school whose mission is rooted in a personalized educational approach. A former public school science teacher, Dr. Singleton has been a teacher and administrator in both public and private schools for 25 years.

What is your educational philosophy?

My educational philosophy begins with a personalized approach, which promotes both academic and personal growth that ensures success for college and life.

What do you love most about your job?

Interacting with our diverse population of students and faculty. Brandon Hall has 13 different countries and 12 states represented in its family.

How can parents best contribute to the educational process?

A student’s education is immensely enhanced when parents, teachers, and administrators work cooperatively. Knowing your child’s academic, social, and emotional strengths and challenges allows a parent to be an informed advocate for their child.

How is the field of education changing?

Schools are doing a better job of embracing technology, which is helping

teachers to expand beyond linear, textbased learning and to engage students who learn best in other ways.

What advice would you offer parents about their children’s education?

Parents should identify a school that prepares their child to be a productive citizen in a diverse and global society. The underpinning of the school should be anchored in the belief that a child’s education is immensely enhanced when parents, teachers, and administrators work in concert.

The Essentials: BRANDON HALL Emphasis: A college prep education enriched by passionate people with a desire to affect positive change in the world.

Year Founded: 1959 Grades: 6-12 Students: 135 Avg. Class Size: 6

Tuition Range: $23,500 - $47,000 Accreditations or Affiliations: SACS, SAIS, GAC, NAIS, AAAIS, TABS, SBSA Location: Dunwoody/ Sandy Springs Contact: 770-394-8177 www.brandonhall.org

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HOW TO PREP FOR

COLLEGE SUCCESS What to Look for in a College-Prep High School

BY RACHAEL MASON

W

hen it comes to your child’s future, you can never be too prepared. That’s especially true when it comes to selecting a high school with a college preparatory curriculum. The competition for top private and public universities is intense, so finding the school that will best position your child for college is more crucial than ever.

There are many factors that go into choosing a high school to best prepare your child for college. Here are four important questions to keep in mind.

How Does the School’s Curriculum Prepare Students for College?

Not all schools that list themselves as collegepreparatory schools are the same. Different schools take different approaches to preparing their charges for college.

Visiting school websites and following up with admissions personnel can give you a good grasp of a school’s academic focus.

The Rabun Gap Nacoochee School, a day and boarding school just north of Clayton, offers “a rigorous, traditional liberal arts-based curriculum centered on critical thinking and problem-solving skills,” says Cheryl Barber, Director of College Counseling.

At the Westminster Schools, “we prepare the students very well academically by offering a challenging curriculum in all areas,” says Tami McQueen, Marketing and Communications Specialist.

Westminster’s curriculum includes 27 Advanced Placement classes. During the 2010-11 school year, of the 1,124 stu-

dents who took the AP exams, 92 percent scored a 3 or above. Top AP scores can allow students to earn college credit while still in high school, and also look good on applications.

Charter schools, like independent schools, have varied approaches when it comes to getting students ready for college.

“It is our view that not every child learns in the same manner,” says Andrew Lewis, Executive Vice President of the Georgia Charter Schools Association. “The most powerful aspect of a charter school is that it empowers parents with the ability to have options” when it comes to a public education.

Those options include KIPP (Knowledge is Power Program) schools, which aim to provide under-served children with the skills to succeed in college and beyond. The idea at KIPP schools in metro Atlanta, Lewis says, is that every student will go to college.

The Association’s website, www. gacharters.org, is a good place to begin your search for charter schools.

Does the School Have a Strong College Counseling Program?

Many schools offer college counseling departments that work closely with students to help them develop personalized plans for college preparation, from school selection to choosing the right extracurricular activities.

“I advise parents to find a place where students can thrive, primarily in the classroom, but also in other areas of school www.atlantaschoolguide.com

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“We prepare the students very well academically by offering a challenging curriculum in all areas.”

high school experience. life,” says Gavin Brad“Our counseling approach ley, Pace Academy’s is intentionally personal Director of College and concerned about the Counseling. best fit for each student,” “Our office is open says counselor Lori Davis. during the summer, and “We also try to monitor we hold multiple essaythe stress our students are writing workshops as — TAMI MCQUEEN under during this process, well as informal meetThe Westminster Schools and keep a close eye on ings,” Bradley says. their grades.”

“We also bring seniors back to campus a few days before school starts for a half-day application workshop How Does the School Prepare during which we review the Common Students for the SAT? Application”—a free online undergradu- Students from religiously affiliated and inate application form used by more than dependent schools generally outperform 400 colleges and universities—“and dis- Georgia’s public school students on the SAT by a margin ranging from 130 to 200 cuss other application issues.”

Rabun Gap counselors meet with points, according to the 2010 College students one-on-one throughout grades Board State Profile Report. When compil9-12, and conduct weekly college semi- ing information on a prospective school, nars during junior and senior years. be sure to ask about its SAT scores and Counselors also travel with students on preparation resources.

Rabun Gap offers an SAT prep workvarious events to college fairs and camshop for a fee, and individual academic pus visits.

College counselors at Greater At- departments offer weekly tutorial seslanta Christian School work closely with sions on standardized testing. Greater students and families throughout the Atlanta Christian offers an elective SAT 18

ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2012

prep course. “We also have really strong relationships with several tutors,� says Davis, “and we try to make available to our students and families opportunities to work in group settings� as a less-costly alternative to one-on-one tutoring.

Students at Pace prepare for standardized tests by studying a wide range of subjects. “Pace students test above

WHAT YOU CAN DO Aside from lending your college-bound teen a hand with his or her homework, here are some ways you can help nudge your student in the right direction. t $IFDL JO XJUI ZPVS DIJME T DPMMFHF DPVOTFMJOH department or guidance counselor to ask about his or her progress. t &ODPVSBHF ZPVS DIJME UP QPMJTI IFS SFTVNF by pursuing community service, like a church mission trip to another country. t -JLFXJTF IFMQ ZPVS DIJME DIPPTF FYUSBDVSSJDVlar activities that complement each other and illustrate personal growth and commitment.

HELPFUL RESOURCES t XXX HBDPMMFHF PSH t XXX HPJOH DPMMFHF PSH t XXX QSJODFUPOSFWJFX DPN t XXX QFUFSTPOT DPN t XXX VTOFXT DPN DPMMFHFSBOLJOHT t XXX mTLFHVJEF DPN

the state and national averages on the SAT, so we do not incorporate formal test preparation into our daily curriculum,�

Bradley says.

What Else Does the School Do? Many schools offer specialized research labs or one-on-one programs to help give students an extra advantage.

The Academic Resource Center at Pace helps students develop strong study and time-management habits and offers extra help to those who need it. Greater Atlanta Christian offers a Learning Center staffed with research specialists who work to address students’ different learning styles. Students at Westminster can take advantage of the school’s Writing Center, a lab staffed by English teachers ready to assist with any writing assignment, including college essays.

Ultimately, a parent’s goal should be to find a school that helps the student present his or her best self to colleges and universities. “What are colleges looking for?� asks Davis of Greater Atlanta Christian. “Strong grades in a challenging curriculum; often good performance on standardized tests; personal thoughts and values expressed in their writings; recommendations from teachers and counselors; and how have they spent their time.

What matters to them? What have they done with the resources they have had?

We offer students numerous opportunities that prepare them not only for the next steps, but to live as a confident, globally aware and responsible adult. We believe that we ‌ are able to help guide them to places where they will be happy, challenged, and intellectually stimulated—where they not only succeed, but many times stand out among the best and brightest.� www.atlantaschoolguide.com

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Educators Debate the Right Mix

BY SUSAN FLOWERS

The role of class size in student success has occupied educators for years. And in the wake of a 2010 Georgia Board of Education decision lifting limits on class sizes, it continues to be a topic of discussion for teachers and administrators.

T

he debate has been raging since the student,” Marshall says. at least the 1980s, when Tennessee Brandon Hall’s student/teacher ratio launched Project STAR (Student- of 3-1, with classes ranging from as few as Teacher Achievement Ratio), a large-scale one student to a maximum of eight, also study of the effects of reduced class size fosters an atmosphere that encourages on children from kindergarten through participation, says Marshall. “If there’s third grade. The study concluded that a student who’s on the quiet side, that smaller classes of around 15 children re- student has more of a chance to speak sulted in “substantial improvement” in out,” she says. “The kids have to be prestudent learning. pared, because they will be participating.

At many of Atlanta’s independent There’s accountability, and that’s a life lesschools, small classes are seen as drivers son, too.” of achievement. This is in part because smaller classes allow teachers to genu- Customized Learning inely understand and connect with their At the Galloway School, small classes are students, says Diane Stinger, Assistant the rule at every level, from 3-year-olds to Principal at the Atlanta Academy.

12th-graders. Admissions Director Polly “When there are fewer kids in the Williams says that having fewer students class, the teacher has allows for a more custhe opportunity to really tomized learning style. get to know the kids,” “We can’t individushe says. “They know alize the curriculum, the students and the but we can personalize families and their pets it to some extent,” Wiland everything. It’s a liams says. “If a student great learning environneeds a more accelerment.” Classes at Atated program in a parlanta Academy average ticular subject or they around 13 students, and are very interested in Stinger says this size is a particular topic, then ideal for the school’s we can develop that workshop-style lessons, for them.” allowing students to Maximizing teacher learn independently. attention is a definite “It’s the teacher Deborah Marshall, benefit for students with that makes the Director of Institutional special needs. At the Advancement at BranBedford School, which difference.” don Hall, agrees that a focuses on learning dis— THOMAS VAN SOELEN less-crowded classroom abilities for children in City Schools of Decatur leads to better outgrades 1-9, classes have comes for young learners: “It allows the no more than 12 students, with an overall teacher to spend one-on-one time with student/teacher ratio of 8-1. the student, to help them with lessons “We use small classes because our and problems they’re having with that students need the individualized attenlesson. [They can give] more attention to tion,” Founder and Director Betsy Box www.atlantaschoolguide.com

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tells the ([SHU[H :JOVVS .\PKL adding that smaller class sizes cut down on distractibility and discipline issues.

“It helps the teacher because she can teach and not just manage the class,” she says. “In a small class, children are more willing to volunteer or take a risk. They’re not as worried about getting laughed at.

In a small class, they feel more confident and are more willing to risk being wrong.”

Approaching the issue from a different angle is Montessori. The Montessori philosophy calls for grouping students of varying ages according to their windows of development. Montessori deliberately fosters larger classes of around 25-30 students, with 25 considered the target number of children.

But a focus solely on the system’s class size is misleading, says Ernestine Morgan, Admissions Coordinator at First Montessori School of Atlanta. Throughout the Montessori experience, student/teacher ratios are kept low, with one teacher for every three to six students, and students receive a great deal of one-on-one at22

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tention at every turn. “Our philosophy is built upon following the child and delivering the lesson in ways that are meaningful to each child and would meet academic needs,” she says.

Infinity and Beyond Since the Georgia Board of Education voted to remove limits on class sizes due to a budget crisis brought on by the struggling economy, “there really aren’t [mandated] class sizes anymore,” says Thomas Van Soelen, Associate Superintendent for City Schools of Decatur. “Each school gets to decide.”

Van Soelen believes that concentrating too much on classroom size misses the bigger picture. But he’s quick to point out that City Schools of Decatur, which operates nine charter schools, works to keep its classes smaller than the law previously mandated.

“Our charter actually says that our class size can go to the state maximum, and then add two,” he says. “So technically, our class size is infinity. And since we

can go plus two, it’s sort of like Buzz Lightyear: infinity and beyond. But that doesn’t mean we’re there.”

The system’s average first grade class is 21 students, below the previous state maximum of 23. The average fourth grade class has 25 students, and the sixth-grade average is 21, below the previous limit of 28 for grades 4-8. In high school, sizes are broken down more by content than by grade level: Social Studies classes, for example, average around 25 students.

Marietta City Schools’ average elementary classroom has 20 students and its secondary school class 25, says Director of Communications Thomas Algarin.

But ultimately, Van Soelen says, the number of students in the class isn’t as important as who’s leading that class.

“We believe it’s important to point out that teacher quality is more important

than class size,” he says, adding that the system focuses more on improving the skills of its educators than reducing the number of students in her class.

“It’s the teacher,” he says, “that makes the difference.”

KNOW YOUR TERMS School literature on class size may contain some confusing terminology. Be aware of these common terms. t What is a small class? Research has shown that classes of less than 20 students can greatly affect student achievement. t What is average class size? This is the number of students in classes divided by the number of classes. t What is teacher-student ratio? This comes from dividing the number of a school’s teachers by the total number of students. A school’s teacher-student ratio is not the same as its average class size.

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A Admissions Interview +

cing the

How to Make Your Visit Stress-Free

BY SUSAN FLOWERS

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F

or parents and students alike, applying to a new school can be nerve-wracking. And no aspect of the process is more likely to produce butterflies than the admissions interview.

Many, but not all, independent schools want to meet face-to-face with prospective students and their parents, to get a sense of the student as a person and gauge how he or she might fit with the school. This can be an intimidating

Many, but not all, independent schools want to meet face-to-face with prospective students and their parents.

prospect for many, but much of the anxiety that accompanies this get-to-knowyou conversation can be easily avoided.

The first step is to take the mystery out of the process. The interview is simply a chance for the school and the child to get to know each other, says Reid Preston Mizell, Director of Admissions at the Atlanta International School. “Interviews give students a good opportunity to tell their story, to tell us about their passions, and a good opportunity for us to know them in a way we couldn’t from an application form,” he says. You should also view this as a time to ask questions of the school, he adds.

One key cause of stress is the idea that

getting into a good school means beating out your competition. Jockeying for a few coveted slots with throngs of other parents and children would make anyone uneasy. “Parents start feeling badly if their children aren’t at a particular school, when the child might be better served by being somewhere else,” says Marjorie Mitchell, Director of Admissions and Financial Aid at the Westminster Schools.

Preparing for an interview is crucial— but it may not be the kind of preparation parents have in mind. Over-preparing is a common mistake. Sitting a child down at your kitchen table and urging them to brag about themselves is unlikely to lead to a good result. But letting them chat www.atlantaschoolguide.com

25

with someone outside the family, such “It’s about the child giving a correct anas a fellow church member, can be good swer for them, and that helps the school understand the probability or likelihood practice.

Likewise, striving to produce just the of happiness [for the child].

“The trick here,” he adds, “is to make right answer to expected questions can sure that you’re practicing the interview be counter-productive. “The only thing process and not the answers. I think peowe’re looking for is an authentic sense ple who have done interviews can detect of who the child is,” Mitchell says. “What a canned response. It you really want is to comes out too quickly make sure the child and is way beyond the ends up at what I call kid’s years. This should a jump-out-of-the-carsimply be a conversation happy school. If this is that flows genuinely and not a good fit, you want naturally, and doesn’t apto find out then [during pear to be a script.” the interview], not after Both Slider and you’ve been there for Mitchell stress the imseveral months.” portance of learning a The admissions pro“Interviewers can school’s interview format cess is “not like math detect a canned beforehand. While some class, where everybody’s got to have the same response. It comes schools conduct interviews one-on-one, othanswers,” says Russell out too quickly and ers use a group process, Slider, Vice President and Dean of Admissions is way beyond the with one interviewer for three or four children. at Woodward Academy.

kid’s years.”

RUSSELL SLIDER Woodward Academy

26

ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2012

Some schools interview children alone, while at others, parents sit in on the conversation. Knowing what to expect will allow both parent and child to feel more at ease.

Debbie Lange, Director of Admission and Financial Aid at the Lovett School, says that parents shouldn’t try to take over. “During an interview, let the child be the applicant,� she says. “The child should show self-confidence, be able to speak and show genuine interest. The child should be a discerning customer and ask the questions that are important to the child.�

Remember that your goal isn’t necessarily to get into one particular school, but to find the right school for your child.

Approaching the admissions interview with the right attitude can go a long way toward ensuring a successful fit.

DO’S AND DON’TS DO: t -FBSO UIF TDIPPM T JOUFSWJFX GPSNBU beforehand. Knowing what to expect will help your child feel more at ease. t *ORVJSF BCPVU UIF TDIPPM T ESFTT DPEF and dress appropriately. t "TL RVFTUJPOT 5IJT JT ZPVS DIBODF UP learn about the school, as well.

DON’T: t 1VU BMM ZPVS IPQFT JO POF TDIPPM 3FBMJ[JOH that Atlanta has a wealth of great schools can take some of the tension out of the interview process. t "UUFNQU UP HJWF UIF QFSGFDU BOTXFST Encourage your child to be open, interested, and above all, him or herself. t 4DIFEVMF UIF JOUFSWJFX GPS UIF DIJME T first visit to the school. Let him or her get comfortable with the campus beforehand.

www.atlantaschoolguide.com

27

28

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2012

5

1

For features of independent schools, turn to Education At-a-Glance on pg. 31. For public school system information by county, turn to pg. 84.

2 3

REGIONS FOR INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS

atlanta area map

N

Alpharetta, Gainesville, Johns Creek, Norcross, North Fulton, Roswell, Sandy Springs

Ansley Park, Athens, Dacula, Decatur, Lawrenceville, Lilburn, Midtown, Monroe, Morningside, Stone Mtn.

p.48 REGION 3: Atlanta East

p.42 REGION 2: Atlanta North/Northeast

Alpharetta, Buckhead, Marietta, North Fulton, Roswell, Sandy Springs

p.34 REGION 1: Atlanta North/Northwest

Page | Region | Neighborhoods

Atlanta South, College Park, Conyers, Eagle’s Landing, East Point, Fairburn, Locust Grove, Newnan, South Atlanta

tlanta, Collier Heights, Kennesaw, Lithia A Springs, Marietta, Powder Springs, Smyrna

p.66 REGION 5: Atlanta West

p.58 R EGION 4: Atlanta South/ Southeast/Southwest

4

Early Education, Tutoring & Learning Resources, Summer Camps, Field Trips & Outreach Programs

p.92 Educational Resources

p.84 Public School County Guide

labama, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, A Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Southeastern States, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia

p.72 Boarding Schools

Additional Education Sections

S

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

36

Atlanta International School

404-841-3870

38

Chrysalis Experiential Academy

770-649-7077

39

Creative Career Academy K-12

770- 354-6535

Cresco Montessori School Cross of Life Christian Montessori School Cumberland Academy of Georgia

678-381-0020 770-475-3812 404-835-9000

37

Eastside Christian School

770-971-2332

40

Eaton Academy

770-645-2673

37

Faith Lutheran School

770-973-8921

40

Fellowship Christian School

770-993-1650

41

First Montessori School of Atlanta

404-252-3910

36

The Heiskell School

404-262-2233

3

High Meadows School

770-993-2940

35

Mill Springs Academy

770-360-1336

38

Saint Francis Schools

770-641-8257

42

Application Deadline

Open House Begins

Uniform

AP/iB COURSES

6

SPECIAL NEEDS PROGRAMs

17

Religious Affiliation*

Avg. Class Size

404-839-5910

41

# Students

Alexsander Academy

39

5

REGION 1: ATLANTA NORTH/NORTHWEST

35

46

Before/After Care

Phone

Kindergarten

School

# Teachers

34

Preschool

PAGE

Grades/AGES

*KEY: Religious Affiliation: B = Baptist C = Christian CC = Catholic CG = Church of God E = Episcopal L = Lutheran M = Methodist ND = Non-denominational P = Presbyterian SDA = Seventh Day Adventist

ANNUAL TUITION

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS

$13,000$17,500 $18,092$20,640 $17,000$20,000 $4,500$12,000 $2,500$13,000 $4,100$7,600 $19,900$20,900 $5,335$7,524 $5,000$22,000 $3,600$6,700 $3,090$12,717 $9,820$16,910 $4,605$11,475 $5,065$15,505 $20,069$21,327 $9,500$17,250

•

7-16y 4K-12th

•

•

•

10

50

10

•

•

7

36

8

6-12th K-12th

•

•

•

50

240 5-25

15mo-K

•

•

•

2

23

11

•

10

65

9

K5-8th

•

•

50

325

12

K-12th

•

•

30

150

5

•

Appt. Rolling

•

•

•

•

• •

ND

•

•

19

230

15

•

•

•

54

721

22

18mo8th

•

•

•

19

235 Varies

2y-8th

•

•

•

26

285 14.1

PK-8th

•

•

•

55

385

•

51

305

9

•

•

95

735

14

•

•

Jan. Rolling Appt. Rolling

C

•

•

1/31

Appt. Rolling

•

2y-8th

1-12th

Dec.

•

C

K4-12th

PK-12th

Appt. Rolling

•

134 1,013 16

Infant12y 4-12th, PG

•

•

Appt. Rolling Appt. Rolling

•

L

Appt. Rolling

•

Call

Rolling

Nov. Rolling Oct.

•

ND

•

18

2/15

Appt. Rolling Nov.

2/17

•

Oct. Rolling

•

•

Oct. Rolling

REGION 2: ATLANTA NORTH/NORTHEAST

43

Ava White Academy

770-536-6898

47

Brandon Hall School

770-286-3105

46

Cresco Montessori School

678-381-0020

45

Friendship Christian School

678-845-0418

44

Lakeview Academy

770-532-4383

43

McGinnis Woods Country Day School

770-664-7764

46

Mount Pisgah Christian School

678-336-3443

44

North Georgia Christian School

770-534-1081

45

Seigakuin Atlanta International School

770-730-0045

4

18

5-7

•

•

30

130

6

•

•

•

Appt. Rolling

•

•

50

240 5-25

•

•

•

31

170

9

•

•

•

Appt.

K4-12th

•

•

•

70

518

14

•

•

•

Appt. Rolling

Infant8th

•

•

•

65

400

18

PK-12th

•

•

•

225 900+

18

•

28

220

•

16

100

$13,500 1-8th $25,000$47,000 $2,500$13,000 $2,100$8,200 $9,480$15,353 $8,500$11,500 $7,500$15,905 $5,750$7,889 $7,000$9,000

6-12th, PG Infant12y

•

K2-12th

K4-12th PK3-6th

•

Appt. Rolling

Appt. Rolling ND

•

Call

•

Appt. Rolling

ND

•

•

Appt.

16

C

•

•

12

ND

Call

Appt. Rolling Appt. Rolling

Education At-a-Glance Continued on Page 32 u www.atlantaschoolguide.com

31

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

Open House Begins

Application Deadline

12

70

17

Oct.

2/13

•

19

291

30

Nov.

2/15

•

•

130

935

19

Oct.

Call

•

•

•

24

150 9-28

Jan.

2/15

•

•

•

14

77

•

•

•

71

400 20-24

•

•

•

45

230 12-24 915

15

100

12

C

184 1,853 13

Uniform

•

AP/iB COURSES

Avg. Class Size

SPECIAL NEEDS PROGRAMs

# Students

Religious Affiliation*

# Teachers

Phone

Kindergarten

School

Before/After Care

48

Preschool

PAGE

Grades/AGES

*KEY: Religious Affiliation: B = Baptist C = Christian CC = Catholic CG = Church of God E = Episcopal L = Lutheran M = Methodist ND = Non-denominational P = Presbyterian SDA = Seventh Day Adventist

ANNUAL TUITION

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS

REGION 3: ATLANTA EAST

53

Academe of the Oaks

404-405-2173

53

Arbor Montessori School

404-321-9304

49

Athens Academy

706-549-9225

Atlanta Montessori International 51 404-325-6777 School 57

Canterbury School

404-522-5659

55

The Children’s School

404-873-6985

52

Cliff Valley School

678-302-1302

56

George Walton Academy

770-267-7578

54

Gerard Preparatory School

770-277-4722

$15,500 9-12th $7,8102.5-14y $15,430 $7,295K3-12th $14,800 $9,0152mo-9th $16,980 $10,620- Infant$15,000 6th

•

•

•

$16,590 3y-6th $3,885$15,030 $3,800$8,650 $5,392$7,590 $10,000$14,700 $5,716$7,280 $4,600$13,900

2y-7th

•

80

K-12th

•

•

12

K3-12th

•

•

K4-12th

56 Greater Atlanta Christian School

770-243-2000

50

Hebron Christian Academy

770-963-9250

Heritage Preparatory School of Georgia Hope Springs Christian Learning Center Monsignor Donovan Catholic High School

678-442-8785

$8,400

2-8th

706-433-0223

$8,500

9-12th

49 54 50

404-815-7711

K-12th PK4-8th

$4,310- PK3$8,150 8th $5,9653y-8th $13,100

•

•

•

10

Jan. Rolling Nov.

•

Oct. Rolling

•

Jan. Rolling

•

21

133

10

4

12

4-5

17

129

10

CC C

•

•

•

17

150

15

•

•

•

35

240

20

C

•

58

REGION 4: ATLANTA SOUTH/SOUTHEAST/SOUTHWEST The Bedford School

770-774-8001

$15,750

1-9th

62

Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy

770-957-2927

107

Eastminster School

770-785-6780

65

The Heritage School

770-253-9898

59

Landmark Christian School

770-306-0647

59

Peachtree Academy Private School

770-860-8900

61

Romar Academy

404-761-3388

62 South Atlanta Learning Academy 404-343-6418 64

Strong Rock Christian School

678-833-1200

64

Yes-U-Can Academy

404-564-9831

32

Atlanta School Guide

$2,680$9,945 $8,000$11,000 $6,960$13,175 $4,075$13,024 $4,500$8,500 $603$850 mo. $6,000$8,500 $4,830$9,658 $8,000$12,000

K3-12th

• •

K-10th 3y-12th

•

K4-12th

•

•

52

285

16

•

21

135

10

Oct.

•

•

145 1,120 20

•

•

23

159

•

•

57

435

•

•

80

810

18

230

18

C

170

15

ND

2/3

•

Appt. Rolling

•

•

Nov.

•

•

Dec. Rolling

•

3/1

2/10

•

Appt. Rolling

•

Feb. Rolling

•

•

Appt. Rolling

12

•

•

Appt. Rolling

16

•

•

Appt.

•

•

Jan. Rolling

•

•

Nov. Rolling

•

•

Appt. Rolling

•

Appt. Rolling

•

Appt.

Call

•

Call

Rolling

C

• C

•

•

•

24

18mo6th

•

•

•

20

PK-8th

•

•

•

5

75

14

PK312th

•

•

•

60

718

16

C

•

•

3

12

4-6

C

Winter/Spring 2012

•

•

Oct.

PK-12th

K-8th

Appt. Rolling

•

404-377-1315

63

• •

•

770-279-8443

K512th

• •

C

The Waldorf School of Atlanta

$6,405$9,828

2/3 Jan.

967 16-25 ND

Mount Carmel Christian School

770-964-9871

Oct. Sept.

75

57

Arlington Christian School

•

3/1

•

53

63

•

•

• •

•

Call

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

37

422

20

SDA

•

•

Aug.

7/30

•

Appt. Rolling

REGION 5: ATLANTA WEST

67

Atlanta Adventist Educational Complex

404-799-0337

71

Center Academy

770-333-1616

70

Colonial Hills Christian School

770-941-6342

67

Imhotep Academy

404-586-9595

68

Mount Paran Christian School

770-578-0182

70

Praise Academy

770-943-2484

69

St. Joseph Catholic School

770-428-3328

$5,100$6,050 $9,000$14,680 $6,395$8,020 $6,500$7,800 $2,857$13,220 $2,800$4,800 $5,791$7,528

5-12th

•

6

48

16

•

K4-12th

•

•

•

30

290

18

PK-8th

•

•

•

16

250

15

PK312th

•

•

•

99 1,200 18-20 ND

•

K3-12th

•

•

•

20

281

15

M

•

•

•

53

490

28

CC

5-6

K-8th

68

TLE Christian Academy

770-218-1790

$8,500

6-12th

•

3

19

71

Trinity Chapel Academy

678-831-1062

$6,300$8,500

K-12th

•

•

•

35

280 15-20

PK-12th

•

•

•

64

385

•

13 50-80 8-12

72

Application Deadline

•

Open House Begins

Religious Affiliation*

•

Uniform

Avg. Class Size

•

AP/iB COURSES

# Students

18mo12th

SPECIAL NEEDS PROGRAMs

# Teachers

Phone

Before/After Care

School

Kindergarten

66

Preschool

PAGE

Grades/AGES

*KEY: Religious Affiliation: B = Baptist C = Christian CC = Catholic CG = Church of God E = Episcopal L = Lutheran M = Methodist ND = Non-denominational P = Presbyterian SDA = Seventh Day Adventist

ANNUAL TUITION

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS

•

B

C

•

Jan.

•

Appt. Rolling

•

Nov. Rolling

Call

•

Appt. Rolling

•

Jan.

2/10

•

•

•

Appt. Rolling

•

•

•

Oct. Rolling

•

Oct. Rolling

•

Call

Rolling

Call

Rolling

boarding schools

74

Admiral Farragut Academy

727-384-5500

79

The American Boychoir School

888-269-2464

$11,050$36,850 $21,000$29,000 $19,985$40,705 $39,600$64,900

4-8th

148 1,070 15

•

•

25

90

5

•

•

Appt. Rolling

4

40

10

•

•

Appt. Rolling

82

Baylor School

423-267-5902

78

Brehm Preparatory School

618-457-0371

75

Eckerd Academy of the Blue Ridge

800-914-3937

$6,600 mo 5-12th

78

Garrison Forest School

410-559-3111

$34,6008-12th $43,860

68

349 5-15

79

The Gow School

716-652-3450

$53,375 7-12th

47

140

6

73

Lyman Ward Military Academy

800-798-9151

$18,500 6-12th

17

140

14

82

Marine Military Academy

956-423-6006

$33,000 8-12th

24

250

12

19

120

12

845-534-3710

$15,000$35,210 $16,650$38,300 $29,143$31,200 $12,000$44,000 $17,150$28,600 $16,800$43,200

6-12th

•

6-12th

•

•

•

80

New York Military Academy

76

Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School

706-746-7467

83

Randolph-Macon Academy

800-272-1172

73

The Rectory School

860-928-1328

77

Riverside Military Academy

800-462-2338

83

St. Margaret’s School

804-443-3357

81

The Stony Brook School

631-751-1800

$39,900 7-12th

44

74

Tallulah Falls School

706-754-0400

$8,7006-12th $29,500

36

7-12th

•

17

•

•

•

Call

Rolling

•

Call

Rolling

•

•

Appt. Rolling

•

•

Appt. Rolling

ND

•

•

Aug. Rolling

•

6-12th

49

340

16

P

•

•

Appt.

Call

6-12th, PG

38

367

17

M

•

•

Oct.

Call

•

•

70

250

10

7-12th

42

360

14

ND

•

•

Call

Rolling

8-12th

33

120

6

E

•

•

Call

2/15

314

14

C

330

12

•

Jan.

K-9th

Nov. Rolling

•

• •

July Rolling

www.atlantaschoolguide.com

2/15

33

ATLANTA NORTH • NORTHWEST

46

1 gion Re

35

38 39

40 35 38 40 39 3 46 37

37

38

41 41 36 36

Independent Schools Schools Page Alexsander Academy 35 Atlanta International School 36 Chrysalis Experiential Academy 38 Creative Career Academy K-12 39 Cresco Montessori School 46 Cross of Life Christian Montessori School 39 Cumberland Academy of Georgia 41 Eastside Christian School 37

Eaton Academy Faith Lutheran School Fellowship Christian School First Montessori School of Atlanta The Heiskell School High Meadows School Mill Springs Academy Saint Francis Schools (2 locations)

40 37 40 41 36 3 35 38

Neighborhoods of Note Roswell With its mix of stately neighborhoods and new developments, its quaint downtown area and miles of trails through forests and along the Chattahoochee River, Roswell attracts many families and nature-loving residents to its city limits.

34

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2012

Sandy Springs Newbie, Sandy Springs became its own city in 2005, and multitudes of boutiques, bars and restaurants line Roswell Road, its main thoroughfare. Residents also enjoy the community’s many family-centered events held throughout the year.

alpharetta

Alexsander Academy

Where all students are academically challenged regardless of their differences • Ages 7-15 • Academically

rigorous Elementary and Middle School programs

• Academic

remediation/life skills Middle and High School programs

• Reasonable

tuitions SBIO and scholarship funding available

• Tutoring

and summer programs

Alexsander Acadthat does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, sex, or national origin.

1090 Powers Place • Alpharetta, GA 30009 404-839-5910 • 770-777-0475 • www.alexsanderacademy.org

www.atlantaschoolguide.com

35

buckhead 36

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2012

marietta www.atlantaschoolguide.com

37

roswell • Alpharetta 38

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2012

roswell

Serving children ages 15 months - Kindergarten since 1994 Limited openings for the Spring Semester

770-475-3812 | colmontessori.com 1000 Hembre Road | Roswell, GA 30076 www.atlantaschoolguide.com

39

roswell 40

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2012

sandy springs www.atlantaschoolguide.com

41

ATLANTA north • nortHEAST

44 43 44

43

45 46

46 46

2 gion Re

47 45

Independent Schools Schools Page Ava White Academy 43 Brandon Hall School 47 Cresco Montessori School 46 Friendship Christian School 45 Lakeview Academy 44

McGinnis Woods Country Day School 43 Mount Pisgah Christian School 46 North Georgia Christian School 44 Seigakuin Atlanta International School 45

Neighborhoods of Note Norcross Founded in the late 1800s as a resort town for wealthy Atlantans, Norcross is Gwinnett County’s second oldest city. Today, with over 8,000 residents, it is a quiet city filled with upscale residential and retail developments.

42

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2012

Cumming Called the “Gateway to Leisure Living,” Cumming offers the best of small-town living, but in recent years, it has seen rapid commercial and residential development, attracting residents with its prime location near Lake Lanier.

alpharetta • gainesville

Ava H. White ACADEMY Serving Students with Special Needs

• Georgia (GA) Special Needs Scholarship • Small, Structured Supportive Classes • Individualized Programs - ADHD/LD • Highly Qualified, Certified Teachers • ESY Services and Specialized Assessments • Focus on Skill Remediation • Wilson Reading g System/ y Proven Curriculums • GAC Accreditation

332 Washington Street, Suite 109 • Gainesville, GA

770.536.6898 • www.avawhiteacademy.com www.atlantaschoolguide.com

43

gainesville 44

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2012

johns creek • norcross www.atlantaschoolguide.com

45

north metro atlanta • north fulton

,, L 2 9 - 7Y .(

-\SS` ,X\PWWLK 4VU[LZZVYP *SHZZYVVTZ (JJLW[PUN 0UMHU[Z ¶ @LHYZ 4 ¶ - ! (4 ¶ ! 74 @LHY 9V\UK 7YVNYHT *LY[PÄLK HUK ,_WLYPLUJLK ;LHJOLYZ -\SS 7HY[ [PTL WS\Z 4V[OLY 4VYUPUN 6\[ -\U :\TTLY *HTW -PLSK ;YPWZ )HSSL[ 2HYH[L 4\ZPJ 7PHUV :WHUPZO *OPULZL

*4: -YHUJOPZPUN 6WWVY[\UP[` 5V^ (]HPSHISL PU @V\Y (YLH Marietta/Roswell 770-992-8031 3001 Johnson Ferry Rd. Marietta, GA 30062

46

Atlanta School Guide

www.CrescoMontessori.com

Johns Creek / Suwanee 678-381-0020 4040 Johns Creek Pkwy.

Suwanee, GA 30024

Winter/Spring 2012

Promotion Rates Buford Woodstock 678-765-3028 770-751-1736 1980 Buford Hwy. 9880 Hickory Flat Hwy. Buford, GA 30518 Woodstock, GA 30188

sandy springs

ATLANTA EAST

3 gion Re

50 54 54

50 ATHENS 49

56

51 52

53

57

monroe

56

49

57 55

53 53

Independent Schools Schools Page Academe of the Oaks 53 Arbor Montessori School 53 Athens Academy 49 Atlanta Montessori International School 51 Canterbury School 57 The Children’s School 55 Cliff Valley School 52 George Walton Academy 56

Gerard Preparatory School 54 Greater Atlanta Christian School 56 Hebron Christian Academy 50 Heritage Preparatory School of Georgia 49 Hope Springs Christian Learning Center 54 Monsignor Donovan Catholic High School 50 Mount Carmel Christian School 57 The Waldorf School of Atlanta 53

Neighborhoods of Note Stone Mountain More than just a mountain park, Stone Mountain also refers to a charming community of antique shops, art galleries and restaurants. Residents of Stone Mountain enjoy the miles of walking and biking paths available in the nearby park.

48

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2012

Lawrenceville Strolling the brick-paved sidewalks in the revitalized historic downtown of Lawrenceville, you’ll feel instantly at home. Chartered in 1821, the city has gone through many changes over the years but has maintained its small-town Southern charm.

ansley park • athens www.atlantaschoolguide.com

49

dacula • athens 50

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2012

decatur

decatur

decatur www.atlantaschoolguide.com

53

lawrenceville

Hope Springs

CHRISTIAN LEARNING CENTER

! SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS WITH LEARNING DIFFICULTIES (Dyslexia, ADHD, ADD and processing difficulties).

p ND TH GRADES p 3MALL CLASS SIZE PLUS .),$ EDUCATIONAL THERAPY p 7HERE STUDENTS CAN REALIZE THEIR TRUE POTENTIAL p 0AY IT &ORWARD 3CHOLARSHIP PROGRAM p !CCREDITED THROUGH '!#

1239 Braselton Highway, Lawrenceville GA 30043 p HOPESPRINGS BELLSOUTH NET p WWW HOPESPRINGSSCHOOL ORG 54

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2012

midtown

monroe • lilburn 56

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2012

morningside • stone mountain

s for accuracy of content and general display. This proof is printed at a reduced resolution. Color, while representative of approximate, as is the size of the ad which may appear larger or smaller than in the final publication.

www.atlantaschoolguide.com

57

ATLANTA SOUTH • SOUTHEAST • SOUTHWEST

4 gion Re

61 64

EAST POINT

62

107

59

63 59 63

62

65 64 59

Independent Schools Schools Page Arlington Christian School 63 The Bedford School 63 Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy 62 Eastminster School 107 The Heritage School 65

Landmark Christian School (2 locations) Peachtree Academy Private School Romar Academy South Atlanta Learning Academy Strong Rock Christian School Yes-U-Can Academy

59 59 61 62 64 64

Neighborhoods of Note Newnan Established in 1828 and home to more than 30,000 residents, Newnan is one of the fastest-growing cities in Georgia. It has many new residential developments and boasts five historic districts filled with stately Southern homes.

58

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2012

College Park College Park is home to a small-town main street and the busiest airport in the world—Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. The city is attracting young professionals and families by combining the historic elements with new developments.

atlanta south • conyers www.atlantaschoolguide.com

59

college park

east point www.atlantaschoolguide.com

61

eagle’s landing • east point

Academic Excellence with Character Emphasis Pre-K through 9th Grade Morning Care and Aftercare Tutoring • College Prep Uniforms • Fieldtrips Student –Teacher Ratio 1:14 Individualized Curriculum Georgia Special Education Scholarship High School, Night Classes, and Adult Ed Available

OPEN HOUSE: April 28 (12-3pm)

May 24 (4-6pm)

Or call for individual tours/interviews 2691 Jefferson Terrace, East Point, GA 30344 Located off of Cleveland Avenue directly across from South Fulton Medical Hospital.

http://southatlantalearningacademy.com • 404-343-6418

62

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2012

fairburn

Arlington

Christian School

Changing the world for Christ…one child at a time.

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4500 Ridge Road, Fairburn, GA 30213 ‡ ZZZ DUOLQJWRQFKULVWLDQ RUJ

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www.atlantaschoolguide.com

63

south atlanta • locust grove 64

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2012

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68

68 69

71 71

70 70

FULTON 67

67

Independent Schools Schools Page Atlanta Adventist Educational Complex 67 Center Academy 71 Colonial Hills Christian School 70 Imhotep Academy 67 Mount Paran Christian School 68

Praise Academy St. Joseph Catholic School TLE Christian Academy Trinity Chapel Academy

70 69 68 71

Neighborhoods of Note Kennesaw This city is home to the popular Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, as well as Kennesaw State University. Arts, education and culture play a prevalent role in a community that continues to preserve its rich history while looking to the future.

66

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2012

Smyrna With its unique charm and progressive government, Smyrna offers many fresh, trendy lifestyle options— the city’s popular Market Village is home to numerous restaurants, bars and upscale shops.

atlanta â&#x20AC;˘ collier heights www.atlantaschoolguide.com

67

kennesaw 68

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2012

MARIETTA

POWDER SPRINGS â&#x20AC;˘ lithia springs 70

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2012

powder springs â&#x20AC;˘ SMYRNA www.atlantaschoolguide.com

71

BOARDING SCHOOL DIRECTORY

TA ATLAN E’S L GUID SCHOO

RE FEATU OL SCHO 6

RABUN GAP-NACOOCHEE SCHOOL

PAGE 7

R a b u n G a p, G E O R G I A

T

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. X

Boarding Schools Schools Page Admiral Farragut Academy 74 The American Boychoir School 79 Baylor School 82 Brehm Preparatory School 78 Eckerd Academy of the Blue Ridge 75 Garrison Forest School 78 The Gow School 79 Lyman Ward Military Academy 73 Marine Military Academy 82 72

ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2012

New York Military Academy Rabun Gap-Nacoochee Gab-Nacoochee School Randolph-Macon Academy The Rectory School Riverside Military Academy

80 76 83 73 77 Southeastern Boarding Schools (SABS) 81 St. Margaret’s School 83 The Stony Brook School 81 Tallulah Falls School 74

ALABAMA â&#x20AC;˘ Connecticut www.atlantaschoolguide.com

73

GEORGIA • FLORIDA 74

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2012

GEORGIA

GEORGIA

GEORGIA

For over 100 years Riverside Military Academy has produced young men of purpose, integrity, and character. As one of the nation’s leading military academies, we prepare young men for success in premier colleges, universities, and WKH ÀYH VHUYLFH DFDGHPLHV + Educating young men in grades 7-12 + Four week summer academic program + 350+ cadets from 25 states and 16 countries + Visual & performing arts programs + Day and boarding opportunities + Aviation education program + AP and honors courses + 12 varsity athletic teams + SAIS/SACS accredited + ESL programs Riverside Military Academy admits students of any race, religion and national or ethnic origin, and is committed to the enrollment of a widely diverse student body.

770-538-2938 www.riversidemilitary.com 2001 Riverside Drive Gainesville, GA 30501

For over 100 years, Riverside Military Academy has produced young men of purpose, integrity, and character. As one of the nation’s leading milRiverside Military Academy admits students of any race, religion and national or ethnic

maryland â&#x20AC;˘ Illinois 78

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2012

new jersey â&#x20AC;˘ new york www.atlantaschoolguide.com

79

new york

new york â&#x20AC;˘ southeastern states

81

www.atlantaschoolguide.com

texas â&#x20AC;˘ Tennessee 82

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2012

virginia www.atlantaschoolguide.com

83

public school county guide

Spotlight on Metro Atlanta’s School Systems

A

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 84

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2012

charter schools

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

Cherokee CHEROKEE

Number of Schools Elementary Intermediate Middle High Alternative Evening Centers

23 1 7 6 1 1 1

Total # of Students: 38,294 Spending per Student: $7,498

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

Clayton

CLAYTON

Number of Schools Elementary 36 Middle 14 High 10 Alternative 1 Private Charter 1 LEA Charters 2 Special Education Centers 3 Center for Learning 1 Magnet Schools 2

Spending per Student: $8,635

Cobb

COBB

Number of Schools Elementary Middle High Magnet Charter Special Education Centers Virtual Academies

Spending per Student: $8,567

86

Atlanta School Guide

Top 5 Schools by Average 2011 SAT Score Etowa High 1608 Creekview High 1586 Cherokee High 1559 Sequoyah High 1542 Woodstock High 1529

2011 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 829.59 (M) 823.79 5th: (R) 823.20 (M) 825.79 8th: (R) 830.12 (M) 815.76 2011 Average SAT: 1258 Top 5 Schools by Average 2011 SAT Score 1315 Mount Zion High Lovejoy High 1274 North Clayton High 1273 1241 Mundy’s Mill High Morrow High 1205

What’s New Four Clayton County public school teachers have earned the 2011 Georgia Master Teachers certification: Neva Seldon, AveMaria Tatum, Sarah Tate, and Tonya Clarke.

Total # of Students: 106,509

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

2011 Average SAT: 1559

What’s New The average 2011 Cherokee County SAT score was 59 above the national average and 114 points above the state average.

Three schools ranked in the state’s top 10 percent.

Total # of Students: 50,256

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

2011 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 853.23 (M) 846.82 5th: (R) 843.14 (M) 846.39 8th: (R) 844.49 (M) 837.84

69 25 16 6 7 2 2

2011 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 845.07 (M) 842.52 5th: (R) 839.17 (M) 850.31 8th: (R) 842.68 (M) 834.91 2011 Average SAT: 1522 Top 5 Schools by Average 2011 SAT Score Walton High 1725 Pope High 1676 Lassiter High 1634 Wheeler High 1620 Harrison High 1578

What’s New The average SAT score for Cobb’s graduating seniors is 1522, topping the national and state averages.

Winter/Spring 2012

COWETA

Number of Schools Elementary 20 Middle 7 High 3 Central Education Center 1 Alternative 1

2011 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 842.74 (M) 841.53 5th: (R) 834.18 (M) 836.97 8th: (R) 841.02 (M) 830.35

Total # of Students: 22,506

Top 3 Schools by Average 2011 SAT Score Northgate High 1524 Newnan High 1508 East Coweta High 1478

Spending per Student: $7,783

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

dekalb

What’s New Georgia’s 2011 CRCT results show Coweta students outperforming Georgia students. Dr. Bob Heaberlin, principal of Lee Middle School, was selected as Georgia’s 2011 National Distinguished Principal.

Number of Schools Elementary 77 Middle 19 High 20 Center, Special Education and Alternative 13 Start-up Charter Schools 7 Total # of Students: 98,592

DEKALB

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

douglas

Spending per Student: $7,859

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

2011 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 832.10 (M) 822.45 5th: (R) 828.27 (M) 827.11 8th: (R) 831.57 (M) 813.75 2011 Average SAT: 1334 Top 5 Schools by Average 2011 SAT Score Chamblee High 1626 Lakeside High 1609 DeKalb School of the Arts 1555 Dunwoody High 1515 Druid Hills High 1415

What’s New As part of new DeKalb Superintendent Cheryl L.H. Atkinson’s 90-Day Entry Plan to identify and correct critical issues facing DeKalb Schools, the school system has announced a series of initiatives to ensure transparency, accountability and effectiveness.

Number of Schools Elementary Middle High Total # of Students: 24,250

DOUGLAS

2011 Average SAT: 1485

Spending per Student: $7,469

21 8 5

2011 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 838.80 (M) 839.13 5th: (R) 832.64 (M) 834.85 8th: (R) 837.76 (M) 815.48 2011 Average SAT: 1352 Top 5 Schools by Average 2011 SAT Score Robert S. Alexander Comprehensive High 1406 Douglas County High 1406 Chapel Hill High 1325 Lithia Springs High 1260 New Manchester High 1248

What’s New Douglas County’s fifth high school, New Manchester High School, opened this year with a state-of-the-art facility including an athletic complex and Performing Arts Center. The 102-classroom school has a capacity of 1,975 students. www.atlantaschoolguide.com

87

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

COWeta

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

Fayette FAYETTE

Number of Schools Elementary Middle High Alternative Open Campus

17 6 5 1 1

Spending per Student: $8,318

Forsyth FORSYTH

What’s New Coweta-Fayette EMC, the member-owned electrical cooperative that supplies power to Coweta and Fayette Counties, awarded nearly $14,000 to 11 Fayette County Public School teachers to fund innovative classroom ideas.

Number of Schools Elementary Middle High Alternative School Charter Virtual (6-12)

19 9 5 1 1 1

Total # of Students: 35,953 Spending per Student: $7,868

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

FULTON

Number of Schools Elementary Middle High Charter High

Spending per Student: $8,797

Board of Education 404-768-3600 www.fulton.k12.ga.us

88

Atlanta School Guide

2011 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 861.44 (M) 856.05 5th: (R) 853.26 (M) 874.67 8th: (R) 851.26 (M) 855.30 2011 Average SAT: 1562 Top 5 Schools by Average 2011 SAT Score South Forsyth High 1639 Lambert High 1594 1564 West Forsyth High North Forsyth High 1518 Forsyth Central 1515

What’s New According to the Georgia Department of Education’s revised Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) reports, Forsyth County Schools made AYP for 2011, meeting all academic indicators and with a graduation rate of 91%. in other news, Big Creek Elementary was named a 2011 national Blue Ribbon School.

Total # of Students: 92,818

FULTON

2011 Average SAT: 1550 Top 5 Schools by Average 2011 SAT Score McIntosh High 1630 Starr’s Mill High 1611 Whitewater High 1506 Fayette County High 1491 Sandy Creek High 1423

Total # of Students: 21,120

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

2011 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 858.37 (M) 861.02 5th: (R) 850.89 (M) 863.95 8th: (R) 847.81 (M) 845.10

58 19 16 9

2011 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 846.43 (M) 853.56 5th: (R) 840.07 (M) 852.84 8th: (R) 842.99 (M) 840.80 2011 Average SAT: 1560 Top 5 Schools by Average 2011 SAT Score Northview High 1751 Chattahoochee High 1694 Alpharetta High 1679 Milton High 1659 Riverwood International Charter School 1652

What’s New Six Fulton County high schools are among the top 20 in the state in terms of average 2011 SAT results, more than any other district in the state. Fulton students surpassed the state average by 115 points and the national average by 60 points.

Winter/Spring 2012

Number of Schools Elementary Middle High Learning Centers

11 4 2 3

Total # of Students: 10,823

Gwinnett

GWINNETT

What’s New Jackson Road Elementary School and Cowan Road Middle School both received the Alliance for a Healthier Generation’s Bronze National Recognition Award for their efforts to offer students and staff nutritious meals and a variety of physical activity opportunities.

Number of Schools Elementary Middle High Alternative Charter Special Education Virtual

77 26 19 2 4 3 1

Total # of Students: 161,000 Spending per Student: $7,549

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

HALL HALL

2011 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 844.87 (M) 849.33 5th: (R) 838.84 (M) 852.44 8th: (R) 842.04 (M) 838.40 2011 Average SAT: 1511 Top 5 Schools by Average 2011 SAT Score Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science, and Technology 1914 Brookwood High 1610 Parkview High 1596 North Gwinnett High 1557 Collins Hill High 1547

What’s New Three Gwinnett educators were named among the state’s top counseling professionals: David Young of Mountain Park Elementary School, Principal Dorothy Parker-Jarrett of Summerour Middle School, and Director of Advisement and Counseling Dianne Thompson.

Number of Schools Elementary Middle High Charter Career Academy Total # of Students: 25,706 Spending per Student: $8,221

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

2011 Average SAT: 1328 Top 2 Schools by Average 2011 SAT Score Spalding High 1372 Griffin High 1284

Spending per Student: $7,919

Board of Education 770-229-3700 www.spalding.k12.ga.us

2011 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 834.60 (M) 831.90 5th: (R) 827.51 (M) 833.01 8th: (R) 830.25 (M) 812.38

20 6 6 1

2011 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 837.47 (M) 838.31 5th: (R) 831.08 (M) 833.87 8th: (R) 835.21 (M) 820.90 2011 Average SAT: 1442 Top 5 Schools by Average 2011 SAT Score North Hall High 1615 Chestatee High 1451 West Hall High 1442 Flowery Branch High 1438 Johnson High 1364

What’s New Governor Nathan Deal awarded a $50,000 Race To The Top Innovation Venture Grant in October 2011 to a consortium comprised of Hall, Lumpkin and White County School Districts, in conjunction with North Georgia College and State University. www.atlantaschoolguide.com

89

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

GriffinSpalding

29 11 9 1

Total # of Students: 40,000

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

Paulding PAULDING

CK

DA LE

Rockdale

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

90

Atlanta School Guide

2011 Average SAT: 1374

What’s New Union Grove High School was one of three Henry County schools to mark an increase in composite SAT scores over 2010. In addition, Union Grove scored above state and national averages in in composite scoring.

Number of Schools Elementary Middle High Alternative

20 8 5 3

Total # of Students: 27,890 Spending per Student: $7,141

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

2011 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 843.35 (M) 840.66 5th: (R) 836.98 (M) 837.48 8th: (R) 839.84 (M) 825.00

Top 5 Schools by Average 2011 SAT Score Union Grove High 1516 Eagle’s Landing High 1481 Ola High 1415 Dutchtown High 1379 Patrick Henry High 1379

Spending per Student: $7,358

RO

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

HENRY

Number of Schools Elementary Middle High Alternative School

2011 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 844.05 (M) 844.88 5th: (R) 836.89 (M) 840.40 8th: (R) 836.63 (M) 820.25 2011 Average SAT: 1347 Top 5 Schools by Average 2011 SAT Score North Paulding High 1380 East Paulding High 1367 Hiram High 1361 South Paulding High 1321 Paulding County High 1281

What’s New A new middle school is currently under construction and is scheduled to open in August 2012. Due to the opening of the new middle school, the Paulding County School District will be redistricting middle attendance zones schools for the 20122013 school year.

Number of Schools Elementary 11 Middle 4 High 3 Career Academy 1 Science and Technology Magnet 1 Open Campus 1 Virtual School 1 Total # of Students: 15,635 Spending per Student: $8,269

2011 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 840.89 (M) 842.91 5th: (R) 834.40 (M) 841.90 8th: (R) 837.81 (M) 822.51 2011 Average SAT: 1349 Top 5 Schools by Average 2011 SAT Score Rockdale Magnet School for Science and Technology 1733 Rockdale Career Academy 1447 Heritage High 1400 Salem High 1328 Rockdale County High 1286

What’s New Davis Middle School was the only school in the state to receive the Green Ribbon Schools 2010-2011 Award, honoring schools that promote environmental awareness.

Winter/Spring 2012

City Public Schools

Henry

Board of Education 404-802-3500 www.atlanta.k12.ga.us Number of Schools Elementary Middle High

2011 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 833.48 (M) 827.33 5th: (R) 827.09 (M) 829.93 8th: (R) 830.16 (M) 814.97

55 16 22

Total # of Students: 43,440 Spending per Student: $13,463

2011 Average SAT: 1269 Top 5 Schools by Average 2011 SAT Score Henry W. Grady High 1455 North Atlanta High 1439 Carver Early College 1398 Mays High 1354 South Atlanta Law High 1271

City Public Schools

Atlanta City What’s New Seven APS schools have earned 21st Community Center Learning Center grants worth up to $350,000 each to be used for academic enrichment and tutoring services in 2012.

These schools are Carter G. Woodson, Cook, Dunbar, and Dobbs Elementary, Burgess Peterson Academy, and Bunche and Sylvan Hills Middle schools.

Buford City Board of Education 770-945-5035 www.bufordcityschools.org

Total # of Students: 2,933 Spending per Student: $10,198

Number of Schools Elementary Middle High Academy

2011 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 846.39 (M) 853.72 5th: (R) 833.32 (M) 847.39 8th: (R) 845.00 (M) 844.78

1 1 1 1

What’s New Buford High School was named a 2011 AP Honor School in three categories: AP Challenge Schools, AP Stem Schools and AP Stem Achievement Schools.

2011 Average SAT: 1570

Decatur City Board of Education 404-370-4400 www.csdecatur.net Number of Schools Elementary Middle High Career Academy Early Learning

Total # of Students: 2,900 Spending per Student: $12,850 4 1 1 1 1

2011 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 857.84 (M) 852.43 5th: (R) 846.35 (M) 854.36 8th: (R) 853.01 (M) 850.18

What’s New City Schools of Decatur now has a CSD Facebook Fan Page used to highlight programs, make announcements, and celebrate students and teachers.

2011 Average SAT: 1518

Marietta City Board of Education 770-422-3500 www.marietta-city.org

Total # of Students: 8,000 Spending per Student: $9,240

Number of Schools Elementary 7 Sixth Grade 1 Middle 1 High 1 Elementary (3-5) Magnet 1

2011 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 840.02 (M) 842.47 5th: (R) 833.49 (M) 838.35 8th: (R) 833.00 (M) 811.68 2011 Average SAT: 1482

What’s New Marietta City School District is an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School district. In 2010, US News & World Report listed Marietta High School as one of the best high schools in the nation for the fifth consecutive year.

www.atlantaschoolguide.com

91

Educational Resources

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

Index 92

Atlanta School Guide

Early Education Tutoring & Learning Resources Summer Camps Field Trips & Outreach Programs

Winter/Spring 2012

93 94 96 98

early education www.atlantaschoolguide.com

93

TUTORING & learning resources â&#x20AC;˘ early education

Academic Advantage Tutoring Visit our Center or Our Tutors come to You for In-Home Tutoring

Homework Help & Remediation Programs Math, Phonics, Reading, AP Courses, Final Exam Prep Test Prep: SAT, ACT, PSAT, SSAT, ITBS (Iowa), GA High School Grad Test, End of Course Test, GACE, GRE, GMAT, ASVAB, GED Summer Prep Academy: May 30-August 6

CRCTp Pre ns begi

Study Skills Courses: Math, Study Skills, Writing In-Home Tutoring h

6t

Jan 1

Homeschool Academy: Aug. 8- May 24

AFTER SCHOOL TUTORING PROGRAM 94

Atlanta School Guide

770.908.0398

www.aadvantagetutoring.com

Winter/Spring 2012

tutoring & learning resources

Why Tutor in One Subject,

Our Methods Teach You to Learn for LIFE! A Subsidiary of Camp Academia, Inc.

UTILIZING BRAIN SCIENCE TO FACILITATE LEARNING

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Poor comprehension ability?

WE CAN HELP! It’s easier than you think.

1-888-7 I-LEARN (1-888-745-3276)

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AT L A N TA

CO LU M B U S

LAGRANGE

www.atlantaschoolguide.com

95

summer camps

summer camps www.atlantaschoolguide.com

97

summer camps â&#x20AC;˘ field trips 98

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2012

Field Trips & Outreach Programs

99

www.atlantaschoolguide.com

Field Trips & Outreach Programs 100

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2012

Field Trips & Outreach Programs

101

www.atlantaschoolguide.com

Field Trips & Outreach Programs 102

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2012

Field Trips & Outreach Programs

Field Trips & Outreach Programs 104

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2012

Field Trips & Outreach Programs

ADVERTISER INDEX Boarding Schools

Admiral Farragut Academy........................................... 74 The American Boychoir School.................................... 79 Baylor School................................................................. 82 Brehm Preparatory School............................................ 78 Eckerd Academy............................................................ 75 Garrison Forest School.................................................. 78 The Gow School............................................................ 79 Lyman Ward Military Academy..................................... 73 Marine Military Academy.............................................. 82 New York Military Academy.......................................... 80 Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School.................................... 76 Randolph-Macon Academy ......................................... 83 The Rectory School....................................................... 73 Riverside Military Academy ......................................... 77 Southeastern Association of Boarding Schools.......... 81 St. Margaret’s School . .................................................. 83 The Stony Brook School................................................ 81 Tallulah Falls School ..................................................... 74

Charter Schools

Imagine Schools............................................................ 85

Early Education

Bright Horizons.............................................................. 93 Kids ‘R’ Kids.................................................................... 93 Montessori Unlimited.................................................... 94

Field Trips and Outreach Programs

Atlanta Cyclorama......................................................... 98 Atlanta Shakespeare Company.................................... 99 Biltmore Estate............................................................ 105 DeSoto Caverns........................................................... 100 Georgia Aquarium....................................................... 100 Interactive Neighborhood for Kids ........................... 104 Lookout Mountain Attractions.................................... 101 Pine Mountain Gold Museum...................................... 99 Sandy Springs Hospitality and Tourism....................... 30 The Southern Museum................................................ 104 Spivey Hall Education.................................................. 101 Turner Field Braves Museum and Hall of Fame........ 102 Waycross & the Okefenokee Swamp......................... 102 Young Audiences, Woodruff Arts Center ................. 104 Zoo Atlanta ................................................................. 103

Higher Education

Andrew College............................................................... 7 Atlanta Metropolitan College......................................... 7 Piedmont College......................................................... 11 SAE Institute..................................................................... 9

Independent Schools

Academe of the Oaks .................................................. 53 Alexsander Academy.................................................... 35 Arbor Montessori School.............................................. 53 Arlington Christian School ....................................... 5, 63 Athens Academy .......................................................... 49 Atlanta Adventist Educational Complex..................... 67 Atlanta International School ........................................ 36 Atlanta Montessori International School..................... 51 Ava White Academy...................................................... 43 The Bedford School ..................................................... 63 Brandon Hall School . ................................................... 47 Brookstone Montessori................................................. 94 Canterbury School......................................................... 57 Center Academy . ......................................................... 71 The Children’s School . ................................................. 55 Chrysalis Experiential Academy .................................. 38 Cliff Valley School ......................................................... 52 Colonial Hills Christian School..................................... 70

106

Atlanta School Guide

Winter/Spring 2012

Creative Career Academy K-12.................................... 39 Cresco Montessori School............................................ 46 Cross of Life Christian Montessori School................... 39 Cumberland Academy of Georgia............................... 41 Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy............................. 62 Eastside Christian School ............................................ 37 Eastminster School .............................Inside Back Cover Eaton Academy ............................................................ 40 Faith Lutheran School .................................................. 37 Fellowship Christian School . ....................................... 40 First Montessori School of Atlanta .............................. 41 Friendship Christian School.......................................... 45 George Walton Academy ............................................ 56 Gerard Preparatory School........................................... 54 Greater Atlanta Christian School.................................. 56 Hebron Christian Academy ......................................... 50 The Heiskell School ...................................................... 36 Heritage Preparatory School of Georgia..................... 49 The Heritage School .................................................... 65 High Meadows School ................................................... 3 Hope Springs Christian Learning Center ................... 54 Imhotep Academy......................................................... 67 Lakeview Academy........................................................ 44 Landmark Christian School........................................... 59 McGinnis Woods Country Day School ....................... 43 Medlock Bridge Montessori......................................... 94 Mill Springs Academy .................................................. 35 Monsignor Donovan Catholic High School................. 50 Mount Carmel Christian School................................... 57 Mount Paran Christian School ..................................... 68 Mount Pisgah Christian School ................................... 46 Nesbit Ferry Montessori................................................ 94 North Georgia Christian School................................... 44 Peachtree Academy Private School............................. 59 Praise Academy ............................................................ 70 Preston Ridge Montessori............................................. 94 Romar Academy............................................................ 61 Saint Francis Schools..................................................... 38 Seigakuin Atlanta International School ...................... 45 South Atlanta Learning Academy................................ 62 St. Joseph Catholic School .......................................... 69 Strong Rock Christian School ...................................... 64 Sugarloaf Montessori.................................................... 94 TLE Christian Academy................................................. 68 Trinity Chapel Academy................................................ 71 The Waldorf School of Atlanta..................................... 53 Yes-U-Can Academy...................................................... 64

Neighborhoods

City of College Park ..................................................... 60 City of East Point........................................................... 61

Resources & Services

The Capital Grille Restaurant....................................... 23 Pay it Forward Scholarships........................... Back Cover Radio Disney....................................... Inside Front Cover The School Box . ........................................................... 27

Summer Camps

Atlanta Ballet ................................................................ 97 High Meadows Summer Day Camp ........................... 96 Roswell Budokon........................................................... 98 Squirrel Hollow Camp .................................................. 98 U.S. Space and Rocket Center..................................... 97

Tutoring & Learning Resources

Academic Advantage Tutoring..................................... 94 Brainjogging.................................................................. 95 In-Home Tutors of Atlanta ........................................... 95