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 to moderate learning differences. It usually features smaller class sizes, individualized attention and multisensory learning methods.
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 40-minute writing test.
COLLEGE AND CAREER READY PERFORMANCE INDEX (CCRPI) A school improvement, accountability and communication platform for all educational stakeholders that will prepare all Georgia public
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.
EVERY STUDENT SUCCEEDS ACT
(ESSA) The main federal law for K-12 general education covers all students in public schools.
GEORGIA MILESTONES Tests designed to measure how well students in grades 3 through 12 acquire the skills and knowledge outlined in the state-adopted content standards. They replaced the CRCT and involve both multiplechoice and free-response questions.
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.
HOPE SCHOLARSHIP
(Helping Outstanding Pupils Educationally)
Funded by the Georgia Lottery since its founding in 1993, this is a scholarship in the state that rewards academically achieving students with financial
Did You Know?
In May, Georgia students Aira Dani, Michelle Li, Sahil Sood and Jack Xu were recognized as U.S. Presidential Scholars.
assistance to attend eligible public and private Georgia colleges and universities.
MISSION/PHILOSOPHY A statement outlining the guidelines a school follows as it works to achieve its various educational goals and/or maintain its performance standards.
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 where 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 at the school.
SAT This standardized test, known as the Scholastic Aptitude 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 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.
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.
The Association of Boarding Schools (TABS) boardingschools.com
This organization of 250 boarding schools serves the professional development needs of boarding schools and provides information to potential students and their families.
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) ami-global.org
It recognizes and provides
support, training and development to schools that strongly adhere to Montessori method principles and practices.
Atlanta Area Association of Independent Schools (AAAIS) aaais.org
Promotes the highest standards and best administrative practices for accredited independent schools in the metro Atlanta area.
Cognia cognia.org
Formed from the merger of two organizations (AdvancED and Measured Progress), it advances education excellence through accreditation and school improvement initiatives. Department of Education (DOE) gadoe.org
A statewide, policy-driven organization governing the public school system of education in Georgia for grades K-12.
Georgia Association of Christian Schools (GACS) gacs.org
Uses generally accepted indicators of quality, voluntary self-improvement and peer review to measure Christian schools.
Georgia Association of Private Schools for Exceptional Children (GAPSEC) gapsec.org
This state organization of independent schools for students with learning disabilities maintains a code of ethics and shares information about programs at member schools.
Georgia Independent School Association (GISA) gisaschools.org
An association of Georgia’s private, independent and parochial schools, dedicated
to serving the professional growth, advocacy and interscholastic needs of member schools.
National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) naeyc.org
A professional membership organization working to promote high-quality early learning for all young children, from birth through age 8, by connecting early childhood practice, policy, and research.
National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) nais.org
A membership association
providing research, leadership and governance guidance and professional development opportunities for school and board leaders in U.S. independent schools.
National Association of Private Special Education Centers (NAPSEC) napsec.org
Represents private specialized education programs by promoting quality programs and services for individuals with disabilities and their families.
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) sacs.org
The recognized regional accrediting body for both public and private schools in the 11 U.S. Southern states.
Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS) sais.org
Provides accreditation services, professional growth opportunities and leadership development programs for 375 independent U.S. schools.
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 (gadoe.org) or the U.S. Department of Education (ed.gov).
Information on Learning Disabilities, Education Options and More
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 Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and dyslexia to more serious forms such as autism.
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 also achieve success in the classroom and in social settings. Other schools don’t specifically target those with learning disabilities, but may teach different kinds of students who have had difficulty learning in a typical class-
room setting. Others may teach average or even above-average learners while also offering additional programs and classes for students with learning differences.
How to Tell if Your Child Has a Special Needs Situation
First, it’s important to identify your child’s specific challenges. Students who exhibit average or above-average intelligence but often seem distracted and don’t perform well in a traditional classroom setting may be struggling with dyslexia, Asperger’s syndrome, ADHD or some other disorder that affects their ability to learn effectively. Also, disruptive or aggressive children may be exhibiting frustration brought on by a learning disability.
If you suspect your child may have a learning dis-
ability, it’s critical to have him or her evaluated by a mental health professional. A diagnosis is necessary in order to address the child’s educational needs.
After a Diagnosis: What’s Next?
A professional evaluation is crucial in order to evaluate your child’s educational needs.
If your child is diagnosed with a learning disability and attends public school, talk with the principal, school counselor or another administrator about developing an Individualized Education Program (IEP). All public schools are required to create an IEP for students with learning disabilities who meet special education requirements. An IEP is a document that specifies your child’s learning situation and educational needs and outlines a course of action for teachers and other professionals to follow to help make sure your child learns to the best of his or her ability. u
If you feel your local public school isn’t the right environment for your child or simply want to explore all your options, there are many quality independent schools in metro Atlanta devoted to helping children with special needs and learning issues. Visit the Georgia Association of Private Schools for Exceptional Children’s website (gapsec.org) or our listings for special needs schools on page 98 to help you with your search.
How Do I Find the Right School?
All special needs schools are not the same. The first step is to identify those schools that can address your child’s specific learning difficulty, and offer the level of special needs instruction that you (and perhaps a professional) feel is best for your child.
You may be more comfortable enrolling your child in a school that focuses specifically on his or her needs, or you may want a more diverse environment where he or she can interact with many different kinds of students. Familiarize yourself with the different options offered by each kind of school.
Traditional independent schools that offer special needs programs as part of a larger curriculum can offer that kind of environment, but may have larger class sizes than schools that specialize in specific learning disabilities. These kinds of schools may also focus more on academics than on the therapeutic aspects of special
needs education. Independent special needs schools can offer more individualized instruction and a more structured and predictable environment, and are likely to address nonacademic issues such as social skills and self-esteem.
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 rather that he or she 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.
Identify those schools that can best address your child’s specific learning difficulty.
• Does the school offer a variety of extracurricular activities, including arts and sports programs?
• Is the school accredited? If so, by which organizations?
• Is the staff certified to instruct special needs children or those with your child’s specific learning difficulty?
• Does the school focus more on academics or on addressing the child’s therapeutic needs?
Financial Assistance
Many independent special needs schools participate in the Georgia Special Needs Scholarship program (GSNS), a school choice program available to special needs students attending Georgia public schools. It offers funds to offset tuition and
fees at participating private schools authorized by the State Board of Education. According to the Georgia Department of Education, scholarship amounts range from $2,500 to $13,500, with an average amount of around $6,000.
The Qualified Education Expense Tax Credit program provides another scholarship option. Donations are made to an organization known as a Georgia Student Scholarship Organization (GaSSO), which uses the money to award scholarships to students in pre-K through grade 12. Many schools also offer their own scholarships or tuition assistance programs as well. Contact individual schools for details.
For more information on special needs schools and resources, please see our listings on page 98.
BY MICHELLE BOURG
AN INSIDE LOOK AT THE REAL JOB OF TEACHING
eaching has to be one of the most rewarding professions out there.
Helping to mold the next generation, seeing “the light come on” when they finally grasp an elusive concept, watching as their confidence and skills grow day by day and experiencing wonder and fascination through the eyes of a child—teachers cite all these things as inspirations to enter the field and what continues to motivate them in the classroom during every school year.
But, just like parenting, teaching doesn’t occur in a vacuum. There’s a whole world of
opinions, regulations, interruptions—in other words, life—to be negotiated. And also just like parenting, there are things about the role that teachers wish others knew, but don’t often have the opportunity to talk about. Some of these things might surprise you; others you, as a parent, will surely recognize.
One of the first things that teachers want parents to know is that they’re on the same team: both parties want kids to not only get the best education possible, but also to be well rounded and happy. Teachers know that parental involvement is crucial to this process,
One of the first things that teachers want parents to know is that they’re on the same team: both parties want kids to not only get the best education possible, but also to be well rounded and happy.
and they welcome parents’ questions and input. They stress that the lines of communication are always open, something some parents don’t always take advantage of, whether due to unfamiliarity with the process or simply discomfort with the idea of bridging a gap in communication.
“We need to understand that we need to be a united front so we can help the children,” says Kourtney Mance, who teaches sixth-grade social studies and reading at Woodward Academy. She also says when teachers contact parents to ask for help with their child, it’s after they’ve already done all they could to “address the issues multiple times and probably multiple ways.”
Also, what teachers would most like us to know is how much they genuinely care about every one of their students. And even though they might teach a class of 20 or more students each day, with a lesson plan
designed for the entire class, they are ensuring that each child in that class is attended to. Also, each child in each classroom is different and requires special care, since each one has a different personality and may learn at a different level.
Ron Clark, founder of the Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta, noted in an essay published on CNN that many teachers reported experiencing situations in which parents viewed them as an adversary: someone only looking to point out mistakes or deliver bad news when there’s a bump in their child’s educational path. But as part of your child’s education team, teachers want you to know that they always have your child’s interests at heart, even when there’s a difficult situation to discuss.
“The majority of teachers are parents,” says Chelle Wabrek, The Lovett School’s
When parents take advantage of the ways offered by teachers to communicate or proactively open a dialogue, that partnership can flourish.
associate head of school and mother of three boys. “We have these intersecting experiences. We come from so much of the same place that parents come from. We want what’s best for our kid and in this case, we have teachers who are able to shift perspectives because they’ve sat in both seats.”
Just like parenting, teaching has its stresses, frustrations and heartaches, but in the end, it’s one of the most meaningful roles in life. When parents and teachers see themselves as partners in the educational process, as opposed to “providers” and “consumers,” the relationship becomes not only more pleasant and productive, but it also builds a solid foundation for students to learn and achieve, which is the real purpose of it all.
When parents take advantage of the ways offered by teachers to communicate or proactively open a dialogue, that partnership can flourish. While time is at a premium for everyone, taking time to go beyond the “script” at a conference, such as talking about a child’s habits, peer relations and events at home can give both parties invaluable insight into the things that factor into academic performance.
One thing parents may find surprising is that teachers believe that children should be allowed, sometimes, to fail. “Childhood is the best time to make mistakes,” says Trey Veazey, assistant head of lower school at the Walker School. “It can be tough, as an educator, to watch a student grapple
with misunderstandings, but there is great triumph to be found—for both the teacher and the learner—when the picture comes into focus.”
Allison Riley, a Spanish teacher and world languages department chair at Pace Academy, agrees: “Nobody’s perfect. So as much as parents might want their children to be perfect, they know from their own experience that they’re not perfect. They need to allow their kids to fail. Getting angry would be the most detrimental thing to do.”
There are multiple ways for teachers and parents to help students overcome their failures. One is to take a different approach to studying. “Parents often focus on: ‘You got this answer wrong and you need to get it right next time,’” Riley says. “But maybe the kid didn’t study the right way, or maybe they’re lost and need to see their teacher to get their help or talk to another student to get them to explain it better.”
Another, which you as parents may be surprised with, is preparing your children for adversity by talking to them about it ahead of time. “Failure in our world isn’t something we have modeled in a way that lets them believe what we’re saying about failure,” Wabrek says. “… Kids’ fear of disappointing their parents is so real, and we want to make sure we’re talking about failure with kids before the failure happens.”
That includes dealing with the emotions that come with your child failing a test or seeing their overall grades slip. Wabrek says as parents our initial reaction is to make those emotions go away, but “if we as parents learn to deal with these emotions let them sit with them, it will help them in a world fraught with so much anxiety and depression.”
Now, as your child prepares to start another school year this fall, you have a better understanding of how his or her teachers feel on an everyday basis.
BY E. MARCEL POURTOUT AND MICHELLE BOURG
HOW TO ENSURE A SMOOTH TRANSITION
As the old saying goes, “Nothing is constant except change.” All change requires some adjustment, and a move is right up at the top of the list. This can be difficult for adults, let alone for children, who thrive on routine and have fewer coping skills.
From preschool to college, starting or changing schools is a dramatic—potentially traumatic—milestone. School is where children establish an identity and relationships outside the family; changing schools means establishing friendships all over again. When you combine this with a move, the stress levels can increase exponentially.
However, there are simple strategies you can follow to ease your family’s transition to both a new home and a new school.
BE PRESENT
One of the most important things you can do to help your children—and yourself—negotiate any life change is to maintain a calm presence. Children pick up on your feelings, so it’s important to communicate a positive attitude. If you’re anxious, young children especially may interpret this to mean that change is bad. Don’t overhype it, but convey the feeling that this is an adventure and your enthusiasm will be infectious.
A good way to help kids feel positive about the situation is to give them a voice in decisions whenever appropriate. Whether it’s about choosing a school or selecting the day’s outfit, asking their opinion on things that affect them directly lets them feel that they’re part of the process and not just pawns in the game.
School changes during middle or high school are times when this presence is especially needed, but it’s tricky to pull off unobtrusively. The situation is particularly fraught: bigger schools, new classmates, shifting social expectations and dating dy-
namics can make kids and parents feel like they’re on a new planet. There’s also increased pressure to excel academically, with students getting ready to make decisions about their futures and contending with college admissions.
Ironically, this is also the age at which your child is less likely to admit vulnerability or to confide in you. It’s crucial to “hold on loosely” while watching for warning signs such as changes in behavior, eating habits or grades before major problems develop.
LEAN ON YOUR CHILD’S NEW SCHOOL
Janie Beck, chief marketing officer at The Lovett School in Atlanta, oversees both admissions and communications. The school welcomes new students in a variety of ways, depending on the grade level, and Beck says both children and their parents should jump right into their new school to make what can be a stressful situation for both go smoother.
“One of the pieces of advice I give parents is for their kids to plan on getting involved in the first semester by picking up a new sport or joining a new club or joining a play,” she says, adding service opportunities is another good way to meet new people. “Being new is hard for a lot of folks, but I
often find that for kids that have a sense of their interests or things they want to explore further, that’s such a natural way to make connections.”
Beck also recommends students not worry so much about “getting settled immediately,” adding that between homeroom and other classes, they’ll make connections “organically.”
“I think another great piece of advice is for parents to get involved, whether it’s joining the PTA or volunteering for interests they may have,” she says.
VISITING THE SCHOOL
Regardless of whether your child will be attending an independent or public school, you’ll want to pay a visit to the campus and attend an orientation to help your child get acclimated.
“Anxious kids really need orientation to the school,” says Dr. John Lochridge, a child, adult and family psychiatrist. “They may have difficulties with things like the lockers, cafeteria and playground. The parents and students should do a full tour of everything and discuss things such as
seating with the teachers.”
This applies even to middle and high school students who move to different classrooms throughout the day, Lochridge says.
Preparation is also the key to making this transition a smooth one. Particularly if you’re changing school systems or transferring to a private school, the curriculum and culture are likely to be slightly different. Find out what’s been covered, and if there are areas that your child is unfamiliar with, arrange for extra study or tutoring so he or she won’t be behind. The best source of inside information is someone who’s been there, so reach out to other parents. They’ll have useful insights to share, and talking about kids and schools is a surefire icebreaker when you’re new in the neighborhood.
While your child is adjusting to changes at school, try to maintain a home routine as similar as possible to the one you’re used to. When other areas of life are in flux, a familiar routine is reassuring for everyone and shifts the focus to the things that need to be relearned. Maintaining a set bedtime is especially important; tired kids (and adults) have a harder time dealing with stress.
WORK WITH YOUR CHILD
Lochridge also recommends having a talk with your child to address any concerns they might have.
“The children may have additional questions after orientation, so it's important to go over every aspect of it,” he says. “Try to get their feelings about it and let them lead the conversation.”
After spending the previous months in the summer with a less-structured schedule, they may take some time to adjust.
“They’re used to a summertime schedule, which may mean waking up later in the morning,” says Lochridge. “I believe in the parents sitting down with their children and setting up a structured situation about a week in advance of the school year. You want the children waking up early and starting a morning routine—having breakfast, getting dressed and going someplace.”
Have a regular conversation with your child as the school year approaches and as it begins. And check in with their teachers as well. Showing interest and maintaining open communication will have you well on the way to helping them adapt to their new surroundings.
Where to S tart
There are a few steps parents must go through to make sure their children are properly enrolled at their new school.
• First, if your child is attending a public school, be sure they’re properly enrolled with the right school by visiting the Georgia Department of Education (GDOE) website (gadoe.org) and even your county or city school system's website to get more info.
• Second, parents interested in homeschooling may submit a declaration of intent form online through the GDOE.
• Third, make sure your child has had his or her most recent eye, ear and dental exams, and obtain a certificate of immunization. The state law also requires all students, including foreign exchange students, to be immunized with the required vaccines at the time of their first entry in school. Forms can be found on the GDOE website.
• Fourth, You’ll also be required to provide proof of birth for your child, like an original or state-certified birth certificate. Your school or school system may accept other items. Check your school or school system’s website for details. Your child’s proper photo identification may also be required.
TAKING STRESS TESTS THE OUT OF
BY LARRY ANDERSON
TIPS TO HELP YOUR CHILD COPE
ny student can tell you: Tests cause stress. That stress can come from many places. Most students want to perform well on tests, so a little anxiety is natural. On top of that, children—especially teenagers—can be subject to a swirling mass of emotions, causing them to doubt and criticize themselves. They may feel pressure to perform as well as their friends. And then they may feel pressure from their parents, especially when it comes to the SAT, which many colleges and universities use to measure a student’s readiness for college.
The type of test can matter a great deal.
Standardized tests can be especially stressful. They’re different from typical tests, with rigid rules and timing. The teacher may act differently on the day of a standardized test, as they’re allowed less flexibility than they might use in a normal classroom setting. Midterms and final exams also carry more importance and expectation, and therefore more stress, than other tests.
Whatever the reason, tests—and the stress they can cause—are a reality in school environments, and at every grade level. A little stress can play a positive role in test-taking when it motivates a child to push toward a positive outcome. But too much
stress can negatively affect a student’s performance, not to mention the effect it can have on his or her health. So what can parents do to help children deal with test-related stress?
TALK ABOUT THE PROBLEM
The first thing to remember is that stress is contagious. As the parent of a child facing a test, try not to stress out about that test yourself. Children take cues from their parents all the time, and sensing your stress and anxiety can add to their own.
Instead, talk to your child about the pressure they may be facing. Ask them how they’re dealing with it, and ask follow-up questions. Do they know what specifically is making them anxious about this test? Is it a lack of preparation and planning that
caused a bad outcome on the test? Does the student feel extra stress because of the high expectation of others? Is the student trying too hard to compete with their peers? The more a child understands the source of their anxiety, the easier it is for them to put those fears in perspective and work to overcome them.
Talking about stress with parents or others can help. Stress-related anxiety does the most harm when kept bottled up inside. Encourage your child to share his or her feelings about stress.
WAYS TO WORK THROUGH STRESS
It’s possible to help your child work through some of his or her stress. But first, you need to recognize the signs.
The first thing to remember is that stress is contagious. As the parent of a child facing a test, try not to stress out about that test yourself. Children take cues from their parents all the time, and sensing your stress and anxiety can add to their own.
Does he or she quickly change the subject or grow irritated when you ask about upcoming tests? Does he or she display a loss or lack of appetite? Headaches? Stomach issues?
If your child is dealing with stress while studying, allow him or her to pause, relax, take some deep breaths and then push on with the job at hand. A variety of activities can help to push stress to the side, whether listening to classical music, taking a walk or even petting the family dog or cat. And believe it or not, dark chocolate has been shown to fight the stress hormone cortisol, to release endorphins, and to have an overall relaxing effect. u
BE PREPARED
No matter what test your child is preparing to take, there are some things he or she can do to make the experience easier and less intimidating.
It may sound obvious, but preparation is key. Keeping up with schoolwork and homework in the days and weeks leading up to a test can help reduce a child’s fear that he or she is not ready. “Cramming,” or trying to catch up on a ton of information immediately before a test, can be ineffective, and only cause more stress.
Help your child maintain good study habits, which can strip away the stress of testing and replace it with confidence. Encourage him or her to manage his or her study time effectively, review his or her basic skills and work on improving his or her vocabulary. Avoid distractions and don’t try to multitask: Think of the brain as a spotlight that can only focus on one thing at a time.
Determine what will be covered on the test. The more a student knows about what to expect from a test, the less anxiety he
or she is likely to feel. Always go to review sessions, and try not to miss class the last day before the test.
Try to determine the test format in advance. How long will it be? Will there be an essay portion? What’s allowed and what’s not? Will he or she lose points for a wrong answer?
If your child is facing a standardized test, the student should take one or more practice tests if possible, reading each question carefully and identifying key words so that he or she understands exactly what the question is asking. Encourage your child to evaluate multiple-choice questions, eliminating each answer until only the correct one remains.
Above all, make sure your child maintains a positive attitude, gets enough sleep and has a proper breakfast on the day of the test.
Excessive stress is not inevitable when students face a test. With the right physical and mental preparation, your child can process his or her stress, minimize its effects and put it in its place.
DURING THE TEST
On the day of a test, make sure your child keeps these tips in mind.
• Come prepared. Bring the proverbial No. 2 pencil (or better yet, two!), and a calculator or whatever else he or she will need.
• Stay relaxed. Don’t panic. Take deep breaths to relax and maintain a positive attitude.
• Have a plan, and execute it. Go through and answer the easiest questions first, or the ones that have the highest point value. Then come back to the rest as time permits. Read questions carefully and pay attention to details.
• Use all the time. Don’t compete to finish first, or worry about when others finish. Don’t rush, but pace yourself. If you have extra time at the end, use it to check over your work to avoid careless mistakes.
Atlanta offers a wide variety of faith-based schools to choose from, which means you can find exactly the right environment for your child’s values, academics and foundation.
Faith-based schools, or religious schools, are independent schools that are supported by or affiliated with a particular church or religious organization, and incorporate elements of that religious faith into their curriculum.
The following profiles represent some of the faith-based schools in the metro Atlanta area.
CHEROKEE CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS
Since 1986, Cherokee Christian Schools has sought to impart the knowledge, tools and skills that students need to walk wisely and serve redemptively in God’s world. Its approach incorporates the traditional, fiveday-a-week model to place your children in a learning environment where they can be known. Believing Christian education requires more than curricular materials, Cherokee Christian operates on a covenant agreement between its families and the school. Parents become partners and students become citizens in the work of education. With its convictions informed by Scrip-
ture and sound doctrine, the school remains unswervingly loyal in its dedication to the clearest presentation of the Truth possible. The Bible informs everything from its discipline policies to its curricular distinctions. Integration occurs not just as students learn, but also as they allow themselves to conform to the standards of truthful living. All of its programs provide daily Bible instruction as well as weekly corporate worship in chapel. Cherokee Christian is located at 3075 Trickum Rd., Woodstock GA 30188. For more information, call 678-494-5464 or visit cherokeechristian.org
COVENANT CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
Established in 1975, Covenant Christian School is committed to partnering with Christian families in the nurturing and education of their children by providing a stimulating academic program in a distinctly Christ-centered environment.
CCS believes strongly in the benefits of the classical Christian model of education. Having a solid foundation in the fundamentals, students develop strong language, math and science skills through the classical approach combined with its spiritual methodology to glorify God by educating future generations in reformed faith; that is, the Bible is the inspired and authoritative Word of God, sufficient in all matters of faith and practice.
God is in control of all things and God, by His grace and mercy, has chosen to redeem people to Himself, giving students a scriptural
THE DAVIS ACADEMY
From kindergarten prep – eighth grade, The Davis Academy teaches to the whole child, creating compassionate leaders and equipping them with skills they will use for the entirety of their academic careers and beyond. The school teaches life skills, instills Jewish values and provides remarkable learning experiences so its students become well-rounded
basis on which they can use to discern the ever-changing world around them. Thus, the school develops them into future Christian leaders who strive to honor God with their lives and boldly proclaim the Gospel to all nations.
CCS is located at 3130 Atlanta Road, Smyrna, GA 30080. For more information, call 770-435-1596, email ccs-admissions@ ccssmyrna.org or visit ccssmyrna.org.
and self-confident individuals. Students learn amongst a warm and supportive community that shares common values and visions. Davis celebrates both the ways its diversity makes its school vibrant and the individual differences that make its school community so unique. With a retention rate of 97%, Davis’ community is comprised of families from across the globe, nation and 31 metro Atlanta zip codes. Davis graduates attend the most prestigious public and private high schools in Atlanta, they know who they are and continuously make a difference in their communities and the world.
Davis offers many options for prospective families to learn about the school and its community. In addition, families can engage in wonderful Nurture events that are free and open to the community. For more information, call 678-527-3300 or visit davisacademy.org/admissions
WHITEFIELD ACADEMY
Whitefield Academy, a Christ-centered college-preparatory school, exists to bolster Christian families in rearing young people who go on to college and life with a passion for learning, for others ahead of self and for the living and active Jesus.
Located in Smyrna, Georgia, its 100acre campus serves just over 950 students
in grades PreK-12. As a covenant Christian school, Whitefield encourages students to pursue academic excellence taught from a Biblical worldview, providing a framework for understanding the world and their place in it. Students learn to see God’s hand in history, science, literature, math and all aspects of life.
In addition to the academic experience, Whitefield also provides opportunities for growth in arts, athletics and service to others. Relationships are at the core of its community’s identity, and the school believes all these opportunities play a key role in keeping that part of who it is as a school.
Prospective families are invited to visit the campus to learn more about Whitefield. The school is located at 1 Whitefield Dr., Smyrna, GA 30126. For more information, visit whitefieldacademy.com or call 678-305-3027.
EASTSIDE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL PINECREST ACADEMY
Celebrating its 40th year of Christ-centered educational excellence in East Cobb, Eastside is looking ahead with an eye on growth, including the addition of a high school beginning this fall, while maintaining its commitment to teaching from a Biblical worldview.
Eastside offers a robust educational program incorporating academics, the arts, athletics and community service. Through these opportunities, students discover their passions while developing character and leadership skills for the future. Students are nurtured in a close-knit community while challenged to develop their God-given gifts within the school’s small classroom environment.
For more information, visit eastsidechristianschool.com or call 770-971-2332.
Pinecrest Academy is a PreK3-12 Catholic school providing an atmosphere of academic rigor and critical thinking. Rooted in Catholic tradition and inspired by the goodness, beauty and truth of the Christian worldview, its whole-person approach helps children discover their God-given gifts. A Cardinal Newman Society Catholic School of Excellence, Pinecrest is the No. 1 Catholic High School in Georgia by Niche.com. Average class size is 15 students. Athletics and fine arts are part of the student experience. Students participate in service projects, supporting Pinecrest’s mission to form Christian leaders who will transform society. For more information, call 770-888-4477 or visit pinecrestacademy.org.
area map
REGIONS FOR INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS N
For features of independent schools, turn to Education At a Glance on pg. 34. For public school system information by county, turn to pg. 80.
3 3
2
2
1 1
5 5
Boarding Schools Florida, Georgia, Maine, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia
Public School County Guide
Educational Resources Tutoring, Summer Camps and Activities, Field Trips and Education Programs.
REGION 4: Atlanta South/ Southeast/Southwest Eagles Landing, Fairburn, Fayetteville, Hapeville, Locust Grove, McDonough, Metro-Atlanta, Sharpsburg/Peachtree City p.63
REGION 5: Atlanta West Buckhead, Kennesaw, Powder Springs, Smyrna/Vinings
REGION 2: Atlanta North/Northeast Alpharetta, Cumming, Dunwoody, Johns Creek, Peachtree Corners, Roswell
REGION 1: Atlanta North/Northwest Buckhead, Chastain Park, East Cobb, Marietta, Roswell, Woodstock p.46
REGION 3: Atlanta East Athens, Bethlehem, Brookhaven, Collins Hill, Decatur, East Atlanta, Loganville, Watkinsville
REGION 3: Atlanta East Ansley Park, Athens, Dacula, Decatur, Midtown, Morningside, Northeast Atlanta p.38
Education At a Glance
INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS
REGION 1: ATLANTA NORTH/NORTHWEST
REGION 2: ATLANTA NORTH/NORTHEAST
Education At a Glance
INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS
51 REGION 3: ATLANTA EAST
57 REGION 4: ATLANTA SOUTH/SOUTHEAST/SOUTHWEST
REGION 5: ATLANTA WEST
Education At a Glance
This information reflects the latest available data at publication time. Please confirm with each individual school.
INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS
67
BOARDING SCHOOLS
Daniel Wesche
Head of School, Landmark Christian School
Wesche has engaged broadly in Christian education in a variety of roles, as well as extracurricular involvement such as coaching soccer. Wesche, who has bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees, has served as Landmark’s head of school since January 2022.
What is your educational philosophy?
We value every student by providing a rich, relevant and rewarding education that fosters the discovery and development of each student’s unique gifts and talents in preparation for a life of impact.
How is the field of education changing?
The need to move beyond content to critical thinking and character development has never been greater. This change creates opportunities to invest more specifically in the lives of each student.
What do you love most about your job?
I get to help prepare the next generation to impact the world for Christ, ensuring that we are a place that comes together in a Christ-centered community, while equipping our kids with a world-class education.
How can parents best contribute to the education process?
Ensure that your child is at a school that
partners with you as parents. Know the teachers, mentors and coaches surrounding your child, and make sure you are all pulling in the same direction. Invest your time, talents and resources, being involved in your school to help make it the best educational option.
What advice would you offer parents about their children’s education?
Be involved. Volunteer. Embody the culture that you want your child to be surrounded with on a daily basis.
LANDMARK CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
Emphasis: Christian, academic excellence, extracurricular variety
Year Founded: 1989
Grades: PK3-12
Students: 1,000
Avg. Class Size: 16
Tuition Range: $13,500-$21,700
Accreditations or Affiliations: SAIS, Cognia, NAIS
Location: 50 SE Broad St., Fairburn, GA 30213
Contact: 770-306-0647, landmarkchristianschool.org
REGION 1
ATLANTA
Independent Schools
NEIGHBORHOODS OF NOTE
Marietta Beautiful parks, charming streets, 19th-century Victorian homes and historic sites make Marietta a desirable place to call home. Residents enjoy the vibrant downtown square, with its many restaurants, antique shops and happenings.
Woodstock Located in Cherokee County, Woodstock is, as locals say, “where modern amenities meet old Southern charm.” Historic Olde Towne pays a continual tribute to Woodstock’s pioneers through vintage shops and good old-fashioned Southern hospitality.
BUCKHEAD
BUCKHEAD • EAST COBB
CHASTAIN PARK
ROSWELL • EAST COBB
ROSWELL
ROSWELL • WOODSTOCK
Independent Schools
NEIGHBORHOODS OF NOTE REGION
Alpharetta Offering exceptional shopping, entertainment and dining, Alpharetta also boasts many awardwinning parks and numerous housing options.The city is also home to a 12,000-seat outdoor concert venue, the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre.
Chamblee This DeKalb County suburb attracts diverse residents, thanks to its International Village, a 394-acre neighborhood that is home to people representing more than 30 countries. Chamblee’s Antique Row is the South’s largest antiques area.
ALPHARETTA • CUMMING
DUNWOODY
JOHNS CREEK
ROSWELL • PEACHTREE CORNERS
ATLANTA EAST REGION
Independent Schools
NEIGHBORHOODS OF NOTE
Decatur A great mix of history and modernity, Decatur is home to more than 200 shops, restaurants, galleries and performance venues located along tree-lined streets. Events take place throughout the year at the city’s historic downtown square.
Stone Mountain With a revitalized downtown and a variety of family oriented activities, Stone Mountain has much to offer. The city’s four city parks, as well as Stone Mountain Park, make this one of the cleanest and “greenest” areas in Metro Atlanta.
DECATUR
EAST ATLANTA • COLLINS HILL •
WATKINSVILLE • MORNINGSIDE/ANSLEY
Independent Schools
NEIGHBORHOODS OF NOTE
East Point The up-and-coming East Point area combines the charm of a small town with conveniences of a big city. Residents enjoy the city’s prime location near the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, MARTA and Downtown Atlanta.
Fairburn Less than half an hour from Atlanta, Fairburn is filled with historic buildings and boasts a peaceful, smalltown atmosphere. The city is home to the annual Georgia Renaissance Festival and the local campus of Georgia Military College.
FAIRBURN • EAGLES LANDING
FAIRBURN • FAYETTEVILLE
LOCUST GROVE •
METRO-ATLANTA
FULTON
Independent Schools
NEIGHBORHOODS OF NOTE
Acworth Just 35 miles northwest of Atlanta, Acworth is convenient to the city while offering its own unique smalltown appeal. Its historic downtown is a charming mixture of past and present.
Surrounded by Lake Acworth and Lake Allatoona, this thriving city is a popular destination for fishing, boating and many other recreational activities.
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.
ATLANTA WEST
KENNESAW • BUCKHEAD
POWDER SPRINGS •
SMYRNA-VININGS
There 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 Schools
FLORIDA
FLORIDA • GEORGIA
MAINE • GEORGIA
NORTH CAROLINA
TENNESSEE
Looking for a better way to reach your target audience?
WEST VIRGINIA
TOP BOARDING SCHOOLS
The following profiles represent a variety of boarding school options to allow you to find the best fit for your child.
HARGRAVE MILITARY ACADEMY
Founded in 1909, Hargrave Military Academy has provided a top college-preparatory education to boys in grades 7-12, fostering academic excellence, character development, and leadership skills.
Located in Chatham, Virginia, Hargrave’s 200-acre campus includes state-of-the-art facilities to help guide students in their academic and personal growth. Its faculty and staff are dedicated to inspiring young men to reach their fullest potential by providing a rigorous curriculum emphasizing critical thinking, problem-solving and communication skills.
Hargrave’s military program helps mold students into effective leaders, first by teaching them to follow first and then develop as leaders in the chain of command, where they exercise real responsibility and authority in the day-today leadership of the corps of cadets.
But the school emphasizes much more than just its military program. Hargrave has a faculty and staff that truly care about its students, building relationships that last for decades. The school has a rigorous academic curriculum that includes a How to Study program and supervised study halls to prepare students for
a lifetime of learning. For over fifteen years, Hargrave has achieved a 100% college acceptance rate, including some of the nation’s top colleges, universities and United States service academies.
Faith is a hallmark of Hargrave, with spiritual growth being central to the school’s experience as boys start to understand their place in God’s world. Chapel services, devotion time, Christian-based organizations and the personal witness of faculty and staff are all part of the faith journey.
Hargrave also emphasizes character development with its Honor Code and Character Across the Campus program. Character Across the Campus focuses on one of Hargrave’s core values each month in classrooms, on playing fields, in chapel and in the dorms, helping boys understand, for example, what living a life of integrity looks like and how it influences many of the decisions they will face.
The school also has a diverse student body hailing from around the world and fostering a culturally rich and inclusive environment. Discover the Hargrave difference and join its legacy of excellence and leadership. For more information, call 434-432-2481 or visit hargrave.edu
KENTS HILL SCHOOL
Located on 400 acres in central Maine, Kents Hill School is an independent, coeducational boarding and day school for grades 9-PG, attracting 240 students from Maine, the United States and around the world. Its community of students is growing and so are its offerings – from exciting new courses in technology and engineering to a Nordic ski program that will expand its already strong list of extracurricular offerings.
The school values diversity, equity and belonging for all, and fosters an environment where students can truly be themselves and excel at what they love inside and outside the classroom. Kents Hill students are encouraged to explore new interests, and will be challenged to grow through Kents Hill's 4D curriculum as well as engagement with each other and the school's dedicated faculty and staff.
As Kents Hill School celebrates its bicen-
THE LINSLY SCHOOL
Founded in 1814, the Linsly School is a private, independent day and boarding school for students in grades 5 through 12. Located in Wheeling, West Virginia, it offers collegepreparatory classes that combine the traditional values of hard work, respect, honor, honesty and self-discipline within a challenging academic program designed to unlock the potential of each student.
The family-like atmosphere at Linsly helps students grow under the guidance of faculty
tennial, it is anchored in the pioneering spirit, reputation for innovation, and core values that are so deeply woven in their DNA, while at the same time looking boldly ahead to provide a fresh, relevant and impactful experience for each student.
Kents Hill is located at 1614 Main St., Kents Hill, ME 04349. For more information, visit kentshill.org or call 207-685-4914.
members who know them and care about their future. Its strong academic program emphasizes foundational skills, a collegepreparatory curriculum and a commitment to lifelong learning.
With 100% college placement, Linsly's record as an excellent college-preparatory school speaks for itself. Every day, its students live many of life's most important principles: responsibility, commitment, time management, sportsmanship, maturity and even disappointment.
The most comprehensive Linsly experience is one lived by its boarding school students. Providing a warm, supportive, and structured environment for students in grades 7-12, the Linsly residential community is a home away from home.
For more information, visit linsly.org or contact the admissions office at admit@linsly.org or 304-233-1436.
MONTVERDE ACADEMY
At Montverde Academy (MVA), its mission is to inspire students to become leaders with a passion for knowledge, global vision and innovation while developing character in a nurturing and diverse community.
When you become a student at MVA, you become a part of a community of unique, diverse people whose character plays a vital role in the Academy experience. Students are motivated to succeed through challenging academics, taught by an engaging, experienced staff who educate students to make positive change through critical thinking, global perspective, and community involvement.
Founded in 1912, Montverde Academy is a college-preparatory, boarding and day school serving grades pre-K3-12 and post-graduate studies. The boarding program serves boys and girls in grades 7-12 and post-graduates.
Academics are the foundation at Montverde Academy. The Upper School experience focuses on a comprehensive collegepreparatory curriculum. Its distinct program emphasizes small class sizes, advisories, indepth support of learning specialists, guidance
THE ACADEMY AT SOAR
The Academy at SOAR serves students in seventh to 12th grade with ADHD and other learning disabilities (LDs), including but not limited to dyslexia, dysgraphia and execu-
counselors and a department solely focused on finding resources and the best university/ college for its graduates starting in grade 9.
Montverde Academy is located at 17235 Seventh St., Montverde, FL 34756. For more information, call 407-469-2561, or schedule your private tour today at admissions@montverde.org.
tive functioning challenges. The Academy is an adventure-based private boarding school located in Western N.C. Students rotate between campus and expedition field study, a unique model to engage them in the learning experience. Its student-centered model promotes active learning through instruction in academics, adventure, self-advocacy, independent living skills, experiential learning, field studies, community and empowerment. Many of its students are kinesthetic or experiential learners and benefit from a hands-on approach to learning.
The school is located at 112 Virginia Ave., Waynesville, NC 28786. For more information, visit soarnc.org or call 828-456-3315.
SPOTLIGHT ON METRO ATLANTA’S SCHOOL SYSTEMS
Avariety 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 gadoe.org. u
CHARTER SCHOOLS
CHARTER SCHOOLS
CHARTER SCHOOLS
BARTOW
Board of Education
770-606-5800
bartow.k12.ga.us
CHEROKEE
Number of Schools
2022 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores:
3rd: (ELA) 497 (M) 519
5th: (ELA) 514 (M) 513
8th: (ELA) 505 (M) 509
Academy 1
Total # of Students: 13,079
Student Spending: $11,470
2022 Average SAT: 1032
Top 3 Schools by Average 2022 SAT Score
Woodland 1079
Adairsville High 1034
Cass High 995
What’s New: Fourteen Bartow County schools have earned the title of Model Professional Learning Community (PLC). PLCs are schools and districts that demonstrate a commitment to offering continuing education for the teaching staff over at least three years.
2022 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores:
3rd: (ELA) 517 (M) 535
5th: (ELA) 525 (M) 538
8th: (ELA) 520 (M) 527
2022 Average SAT: 1091
Top 5 Schools by Average 2022 SAT Score
Board of Education
770-479-1871
cherokeek12.net
CLAYTON
Total # of Students: 41,472
Student Spending: $10,580
River Ridge High 1102
Sequoyah High 1101
Creekview High 1099
Woodstock High 1093
Etowah High 1081
What’s New: Cherokee County high school athletic and arts programs will benefit from the more than $180,000 raised by this year’s annual Shottenkirk Jeep Wrangler Raffle. Schools sell tickets throughout the fall and winter.
2022 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores:
3rd: (ELA) 458 (M) 485
5th: (ELA) 484 (M) 472
8th: (ELA) 494 (M) 479
2022 Average SAT: 939
Top 5 Schools by Average 2022 SAT Score
Elite Scholars Academy 1099
M. E. Stilwell School of the Arts 1034
Morrow High School 965
North Clayton High School 943
Charles R. Drew High School 921
What’s New: The School-Based Health Center (SBHC) at North Clayton High School is now open, providing on-site care.
Board of Education
770-426-3300 cobbk12.org
COWETA
2022 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores:
3rd: (ELA) 517 (M) 529
5th: (ELA) 525 (M) 523
8th: (ELA) 523 (M) 524
2022 Average SAT: 1111
Top 5 Schools by Average 2022 SAT Score
Walton High School 1255
Wheeler High School 1211
Lassiter High School 1186
Alan C. Pope High School 1178
Sprayberry High School 1070
What’s New: Pine Mountain Middle School has set up a game center on site, equipped with a variety of games.
2022 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores:
3rd: (ELA) 518 (M) 529
5th: (ELA) 524 (M) 519
8th: (ELA) 520 (M) 521
2022 Average SAT: 1070
Top 3 Schools by Average
2022 SAT Score
Northgate High 1117
Board of Education
770-254-2800
cowetaschools.net
DEKALB
Total # of Students: 22,044 Student Spending:
Newnan High 1054 East Coweta High 1049
What’s New: Coweta County Schools and the University of West Georgia are partnering to offer employees the opportunity to earn advanced educational degrees at no personal cost in fields of need.
of Schools
2022 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores:
3rd: (ELA) 482 (M) 502
5th: (ELA) 500 (M) 491
8th: (ELA) 503 (M) 495
2022 Average SAT: 1000
Top 5 Schools by Average 2022 SAT Score
PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE
Board of Education
678-676-1200 dekalbschoolsga.org
Total # of Students:
Chamblee Charter High 1200
DeKalb School of the Arts 1123
DeKalb Early College Academy 1115
Dunwoody High 1108
Lakeside High 1108
What’s New: The DeKalb County School District has unveiled its Student Success Mobile Center, a renovated school bus redesigned for outreach. The center, outfitted with high-tech media equipment, will travel to schools and neighborhoods.
PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE
DOUGLAS
Board of Education 770-651-2000 dcssga.org
Board of Education
770-460-3990 fcboe.org
FORSYTH
Number of Schools
2022 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores:
3rd: (ELA) 491 (M) 510
5th: (ELA) 513 (M) 499
8th: (ELA) 515 (M) 498
2022 Average SAT: 1001
Board of Education
770-887-2461 forsyth.k12.ga.us
Total # of Students: 25,707
Student Spending: $11,592
Top 5 Schools by Average 2022 SAT Score
Douglas County High 1022
Alexander High 1021
Chapel Hill High 1012
Lithia Springs High 990
New Manchester High 947
What’s New: Douglas County High School, Lithia Springs High School, and Turner Middle School have all been named Recognized American School Counselor Association (ASCA) Model Programs.
2022 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores:
3rd: (ELA) 533 (M) 542
5th: (ELA) 543 (M) 541
8th: (ELA) 541 (M) 542
2022 Average SAT: 1132
Total # of Students: 19,596
Student Spending: $12,155
Top 5 Schools by Average 2022 SAT Score McIntosh High 1183 Starr’s Mill High 1151 Whitewater High 1122
Sandy Creek High 1080
Fayette County High 1049
What’s New: The Trail, the student news site at McIntosh High School, was honored at the 2023 Georgia Scholastic Press Association Awards, winning 11 accolades.
Number of Schools
2022 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores:
3rd: (ELA) 535 (M) 557
5th: (ELA) 543 (M) 561
8th: (ELA) 537 (M) 554
2022 Average SAT: 1172
Top 5 Schools by Average 2022 SAT Score
Total # of Students: 52,347 Student Spending: $9,776
Lambert High 1240
Alliance Academy 1232
South Forsyth High 1216
Denmark High 1177
West Forsyth 1128
What’s New: Forsyth County Schools opened the Georgia Highlands Medical Center at Cumming Elementary. As the first school-based clinic in Forsyth, the location will provide on-site medical and mental health services to students, staff, and their families with the goal of keeping kids healthy and in school.
DOUGLAS
Board of Education 470-254-3600
Board of Education
770-229-3700
spalding.k12.ga.us
Board of Education
678-301-6000
gcpsk12.org
Total # of Students: 88,326
Student Spending: $13,019
2022 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores:
3rd: (ELA) 518 (M) 536
5th: (ELA) 526 (M) 524
8th: (ELA) 528 (M) 521
2022 Average SAT: 1101
Top 5 Schools by Average 2022 SAT Score
Northview High 1298
Chattahoochee High 1247
Alpharetta High 1223
Johns Creek High 1214
Milton High 1178
What’s New: Fulton County Schools celebrated the grand openings of two SAFE Centers in the district. The centers connect students and families with the things they need to succeed, including groceries, clothing, shoes and other items.
2022 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores:
3rd: (ELA) 466 (M) 497
5th: (ELA) 492 (M) 485
8th: (ELA) 489 (M) 481
2022 Average SAT: 970
Top 2 Schools by Average
1013
917
What’s New: Griffin-Spalding County Schools (GSCS) hosted its second annual district-wide Real Men Read event. Nearly 100 men from the community read at all 11 GSCS elementary schools. This district-wide literacy activity furthers the system’s instructional vision that students will Read, Write, Speak and Solve grade-level texts and tasks daily.
2022 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores:
3rd: (ELA) 513 (M) 527
5th: (ELA) 521 (M) 522
8th: (ELA) 522 (M) 520
2022 Average SAT: 1097
Top 5 Schools by Average
2022 SAT Score
Gwinnett School of Math, Science, and Technology 1386
North Gwinnett High 1193
Brookwood High 1136
Mill Creek High 1132
Peachtree Ridge High 1115
What’s New: Several students from Maxwell High School of Technology’s manufacturing program are finalists in NASA’s High Schools United with NASA to Create Hardware program.
PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE
PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE
Board of Education
770-534-1080 hallco.org
HENRY
Board of Education
770-957-6601
schoolwires.henry.k12.ga.us
PAULDING
Number of Schools
2022 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores:
3rd: (ELA) 484 (M) 509
5th: (ELA) 503 (M) 504
8th: (ELA) 500 (M) 505
2022 Average SAT: 1041
Top 5 Schools by Average 2022 SAT Score
Board of Education
770-443-8000 paulding.k12.ga.us
Total # of Students: 26,713
Student Spending: $10,785
North Hall High 1083
Flowery Branch High 1082
Chestatee High 1050
Johnson High 1021
Cherokee Bluff High 1014
What’s New: The Hall County School District recently broke ground for Sandra Dunagan Deal Elementary, scheduled to open in the fall of 2024. It was named after the late First Lady of Georgia.
2022 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores:
3rd: (ELA) 490 (M) 509
5th: (ELA) 503 (M) 491
8th: (ELA) 504 (M) 495
2022 Average SAT: 996
Top 5 Schools by Average 2022 SAT Score
Total # of Students: 42,435
Student Spending: $10,422
Union Grove High 1076 Ola High 1066 Luella High 993
Locust Grove High 990
Dutchtown High 987
What’s New: Henry County Schools has partnered with Piedmont Henry Hospital and Gordon State College to provide a special medical-related academic program.
Number of Schools
2022 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores:
3rd: (ELA) 505 (M) 521
5th: (ELA) 515 (M) 511
8th: (ELA) 517 (M) 514
2022 Average SAT: 1032
Total # of Students: 30,913
Student Spending: $10,373
Top 5 Schools by Average 2022 SAT Score
Paulding County High 1052
South Paulding High 1035
North Paulding High 1034
East Paulding High 1022
Hiram High 1000
What’s New: All five Paulding County high schools have been named AP Honor Schools for 2023 by the Georgia Department of Education. Each school received the designation in multiple categories that recognize schools for excellence in Advanced Placement courses and performance.
HENRY
HALL
ROCKDALE
Number of Schools
ROCKDALE
Board of Education
770-483-4713
rockdaleschools.org
ATLANTA PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Total # of Students: 15,203
Student Spending: $13,712
2022 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores:
3rd: (ELA) 482 (M) 500
5th: (ELA) 502 (M) 485
8th: (ELA) 515 (M) 499
2022 Average SAT: 980
Top 3 Schools by Average 2022 SAT Score
Rockdale High 1032
Heritage High 956
Salem High 903
What’s New: Rockdale County Public Schools has increased its number of OpenGate weapons detection systems. With the new additions, the middle and high schools now each have their own system.
Board of Education
atlantapublicschools.us
BUFORD CITY SCHOOLS
Total # of Students: 48,707
Student Spending:
$21,766
2022 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores:
3rd: (ELA) 483 (M) 503
5th: (ELA) 497 (M) 490
8th: (ELA) 503 (M) 494
2022 Average SAT: 947
Top 5 Schools by Average
2022 SAT Score
Midtown High 1132
Atlanta Classical Academy 1119
North Atlanta High 1026
KIPP Atlanta Collegiate Academy 1006
Charles R. Drew Charter High 980
What’s New: Atlanta Public Schools offers the official Grow with Google Certificate e-courses. This online training program provides professional certificates in high-demand technology fields. The self-paced courses typically take three to six months to complete, and are available to students, parents and alums.
Board of Education
770-945-5035
bufordcityschools.org
Number of Schools
Total # of Students: 5,742
Student Spending: $11,776
2022 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores:
3rd: (ELA) 543 (M) 551
5th: (ELA) 543 (M) 544
8th: (ELA) 549 (M) 563
2022 Average SAT: 1133
What’s New: The Buford Academy Parent Resource Center is open from 8:20 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Parents can access leveled books, learning games and other resources to help raise and guide their children.
PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE
CITY SCHOOLS OF DECATUR
Board of Education
404-371-3601
csdecatur.net
Total # of Students: 5,477
Student Spending: $15,089
2022 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores:
3rd: (ELA) 553 (M) 560
5th: (ELA) 560 (M) 570
8th: (ELA) 549 (M) 542
2022 Average SAT: 1196
What’s New: After a unanimous vote, Gyimah Whitaker has been contracted as City Schools of Decatur’s new superintendent. Whitaker earned her doctorate in educational leadership and administration from Georgia State University. She has over two decades of leadership experience.
GAINESVILLE CITY SCHOOLS
Board of Education
770-536-5275
gcssk12.net
of Schools
Total # of Students: 7,530 Student Spending: $11,678
2022 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores:
3rd: (ELA) 477 (M) 506
5th: (ELA) 495 (M) 500
8th: (ELA) 491 (M) 486
2022 Average SAT: 976
What’s New: Plans have been unveiled for renovations to the City Park stadium, which hosts Gainesville High School football games. Changes will include a two-story press box, concession stands, ticket booths, archways at the home and visitor entrances and doubled bleacher capacity. Construction is scheduled to be completed in August 2024.
MARIETTA CITY SCHOOLS
Board of Education
770-422-3500
marietta-city.org
Total
of
2022 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores:
3rd: (ELA) 498 (M) 523
5th: (ELA) 516 (M) 524
8th: (ELA) 513 (M) 514
2022 Average SAT: 1084
What’s New: Marietta High School and IT company Apto Solutions are providing post-secondary job training to students with disabilities. Within a newly-converted, high-tech lab space, students learn how to safely and effectively dismantle and dispose of electronic devices, sending sorted components back to Apto for recycling.
EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES
Ways to Enhance your Child’s or Student’s Learning
FIELD TRIPS & EDUCATION PROGRAMS
FIELD TRIPS & EDUCATION PROGRAMS
FIELD TRIPS & EDUCATION
FOX IN A BOX, THE FOX THEATRE
Fox in a Box is a free, interactive school program that focuses on how important events in the Fox Theatre’s timeline intersect with key classroom lessons, from American history and the Civil Rights Movement to economics and historic preservation, and the importance of community building.
This interactive presentation tells the Fox Theatre’s story, from inception to current day, using historic and modern images, videos, music and dialogue. Student activities include creative drawing, trivia, matching, math problems and a crossword puzzle. A comprehensive Teacher Guide is also available to connect the exhibit’s content to current Georgia Performance Standards and contextual history.
There are two versions of Fox in a Box. The in-person version is available for metro Atlanta elementary students and includes an interactive discussion, multimedia presentations, historic and modern images and video content. Grade-appropriate student activity materials are provided and can be delivered or downloaded at no charge. Since 2014, this version has supported education in over 189 metro Atlanta elementary schools and over
37,750 children and nearly 2,124 educators have participated.
The virtual version is available for Georgia’s elementary students, and the experience is a 20-minute recorded version of the same content as the in-person offering. Since 2021, the virtual version of Fox in a Box has been shared with over 62 schools and 59 homeschool families, including more than 15,950 students and 1,500 educators.
For more information about Fox in a Box, contact Maggie Fuller at Maggie.Fuller@foxtheatre.org or 404-8812023 or visit foxtheatre.org/fox-in-a-box
CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF ATLANTA
As Atlanta’s premier destination for learning through play, Children’s Museum of Atlanta offers a wide range of programs geared toward students in pre-K through third grade.
Led by the museum’s professionally trained educators to support your curriculum, its programs bring learning through play to your students in fun, hands-on, immersive ways.
Whether it’s on the museum floor or delivered directly to your classroom or child development center, CMA offers a variety of opportunities to spark the imaginations of your students through the power of play!
Call 404-6595437 for more information, or visit childrensmuseum atlanta.org.
FIELD TRIPS & EDUCATION PROGRAMS
ADVERTISER INDEX
