Atlanta School Guide Summer-Fall 2023

Summer/Fall 2023

Atlanta’s Leading Education Resource

AN INSIDE LOOK AT THE JOB OF TEACHING

CONTENTS

SUMMER/FALL 2023

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FEATURES

In Every Issue

Teachers Wish 18 What You Knew

6 How to Use This Guide

Atlanta teachers share their joys, struggles and passion about education and the real job of teaching.

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Adjusting to a New School Here are some simple strategies to follow to help ensure a smooth transition for your child.

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Taking the Stress out of Tests How to help your child stay calm and focused before and during his or her tests.

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8 Critical Communication 14 Special Needs Resources 34 Independent Schools At a Glance 37 Headmaster’s Corner Daniel Wesche of Landmark Christian School.

67 Boarding School Directory 80 Public Schools by County 91 Educational Resources Tutoring, summer camps and activities, field trips and more.

98 Advertiser Index Summer/Fall 2023

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 neighborhood, turn to page 32 and use the color-coded map to direct you to each region’s page number.

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Education At a Glance

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Region Maps and Listings

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Once you’ve selected your region of interest, the charts beginning on page 34 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 38 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 98 to find the appropriate page number.

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

Publisher/President PATRICK KILLAM Editor EVERETT CATTS Marketing & Promotions JEFF THOMPSON Account Directors SARAH DAVIS KATE HARPER Contributing Writers LARRY ANDERSON, MICHELLE BOURG, E. MARCEL POURTOUT

TO ADVERTISE CALL

770-992-0273 Space closing for Winter/Spring 2024 issue: October 9, 2023 Atlanta School Guide, Summer/Fall 2023, Volume 18, Issue 2. 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. © 2023 Killam Publishing, Inc. For additional copies, further information or advertising, please contact:

KILLAM PUBLISHING, INC. P: 770-992-0273 F: 844-706-1545 info@killampublishing.com AtlantaSchoolGuide.com

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Critical Communication

Trends and Happenings in Georgia Education What You Need to Know to Stay Up to Date With Atlanta and Georgia Education APS Celebrates 150 Years With Parade Atlanta Public Schools commemorated a century and a half of educating Atlanta students in April with a parade that marched a 3-mile route and featured marching bands from every APS high school.

Elite Scholars Named School of Excellence Elite Scholars Academy, a magnet school in the Clayton County Public Schools System, was honored as a 2023 Merit School of Excellence

by Magnet Schools of America in April.

Woodward Academy Honors Arts Teacher Woodward Academy recently paid tribute to Chris Greenway, the retired head of its visual art department, with the naming of the Chris Greenway Gallery inside Richardson Hall on the upper school campus.

Chesterton Atlanta to Open in Fall 2023 Chesterton Academy of Atlanta, a new independent Catholic school, is set to open in August.

The high school will begin with ninth grade, and add an additional grade each year. For more information, visit chestertonatl.org.

Westminster Schools Named One of Nation’s Best The Westminster Schools, an independent Christian school, was recently ranked No. 19 out of the 50 best private schools in America by Niche.com, earning an A+ grade.

Amazon Scholarships Eight high school seniors from Atlanta Public Schools and Clayton and DeKalb counties were surprised with $40,000 computer science scholarships at an event at the Georgia World Congress Center in April.

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Springmont Names New Head of School Springmont School, the oldest Montessori school in the Southeast, has named Elizabeth Lener as its new head of school.

Lener comes to Springmont with more than 25 years of experience and background behind her.

Former Atlanta Falcon Volunteers at Dunbar Elementary Former Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan made a surprise visit to Dunbar Elementary School during National Volunteer Week. He and other volunteers helped Dunbar students build an outdoor learning space.

Clayton Schools Receives $8 Million Grant Clayton County Public Schools has been awarded a five-year grant of $8 million by the U.S. Department of Education, to provide extra mental health services.

Critical Communication

Education 101

Terms to Know in Your Search for the Right Educational Experience for Your Child CHARTER SCHOOL A tax-supported public school that is independently run, allowing for greater educational choice for parents in the community.

EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING An educational approach using applied, hands-on methods of learning.

INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB) A specifically designed comprehensive academic program emphasizing traditional disciplines while instilling a global perspective in its students.

MAGNET SCHOOL A public school that offers a specific or enhanced curriculum designed for students of special interest or ability.

MONTESSORI A school following the principles developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, focusing on the unique individuality, self-reliance and independence of children.

SPECIAL NEEDS A school or program for children who have mild to moderate learning differences.

It usually features smaller class sizes, individualized attention and multisensory learning methods.

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

Schools must prove levels of quality and maintain continuous standards of improvement.

ACT An alternative to the SAT, this national college admissions examination consists of subject area tests in English, mathematics, reading and science, with an optional 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 school students for colleges and careers.

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.

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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 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 12 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

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.

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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).

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Critical Communication

Special Needs

Resources 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.

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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.

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.

How to Tell if Your Child Has After a Diagnosis: What’s Next? a Special Needs Situation If your child is diagnosed with a learning disFirst, it’s important to identify your child’s ability and attends public school, talk with specific challenges. Students who exhibit the principal, school counselor or another average or above-average intelligence but administrator about developing an Individuoften seem distracted and don’t peralized Education Program (IEP). All public schools are required to creform well in a traditional classroom setting may be ate an IEP for students with struggling with dyslexia, learning disabilities who Asperger’s syndrome, A professional meet special education requirements. An IEP is a ADHD or some other evaluation is document that specifies disorder that affects their ability to learn effeccrucial in order your child’s learning situatively. Also, disruptive or tion and educational needs to evaluate aggressive children may and outlines a course of be exhibiting frustration action for teachers and your child’s brought on by a learning other professionals to foleducational disability. low to help make sure your child learns to the best of If you suspect your child needs. his or her ability. u may have a learning disatlantaschoolguide.com

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Critical Communication 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.

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.

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 indeIdentify those pendent schools that offer special needs schools that programs as part of a can best larger curriculum can offer that kind of enviaddress your ronment, but may have larger class sizes than child’s specific schools that specialize learning in specific learning disabilities. These kinds of difficulty. schools may also focus more on academics than on the therapeutic aspects of special 16 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

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Critical Communication • 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.

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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 18 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

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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 atlantaschoolguide.com

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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.

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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. atlantaschoolguide.com

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BY E. MARCEL POURTOUT AND MICHELLE BOURG

HOW TO ENSURE A SMOOTH TRANSITION 22 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

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s 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.

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.

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-

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.

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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 24 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

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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 Start 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.

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TAKING THE STRESS OUT OF TESTS

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.

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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 atlantaschoolguide.com

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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.

28 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Summer/Fall 2023

FAITH-BASED SCHOOLS

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.

f

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.

SPECIAL PROMOTION

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29

FAITH-BASED SCHOOLS

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

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.

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

30 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

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.

SPECIAL PROMOTION

FAITH-BASED SCHOOLS

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

EASTSIDE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 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.

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.

PINECREST ACADEMY 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.

SPECIAL PROMOTION

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32 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Summer/Fall 2023

5

1

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.

2 3

REGIONS FOR INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS

metro atlanta area map

N

p.51

p.46

p.38

Ansley Park, Athens,Brookhaven, Dacula, Decatur, Midtown, Athens, Bethlehem, Collins Hill, Morningside, Northeast Atlanta Watkinsville Decatur, East Atlanta, Loganville,

REGION 3: Atlanta East

Alpharetta, Cumming, Dunwoody, Johns Creek, Peachtree Corners, Roswell

REGION 2: Atlanta North/Northeast

Buckhead, Chastain Park, East Cobb, Marietta, Roswell, Woodstock

REGION 1: Atlanta North/Northwest

Page | Region | Neighborhoods Eagles Landing, Fairburn, Fayetteville, Hapeville, Locust Grove, McDonough, Metro-Atlanta, Sharpsburg/Peachtree City

EGION 4: Atlanta South/ R Southeast/Southwest

Buckhead, Kennesaw, Powder Springs, Smyrna/Vinings

p.63 REGION 5: Atlanta West

p.57

4

p.91

p.80

p.67

Tutoring, Summer Camps and Activities, Field Trips and Education Programs.

Educational Resources

Public School County Guide

Florida, Georgia, Maine, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia

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.

•

22

325

24

•

70

270

10

250 12-18

Cherokee Christian Schools

678-494-5464

42

The Cottage School

770-641-8688

41

Eastside Christian School

770-971-2332

2

Fulton Science Academy

678-366-2555

41

The Galloway School

404-252-8389

45

High Meadows School

770-993-2940

5

Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School

404-303-2150

39 Holy Spirit Preparatory School

678-904-2811

42

770-971-0245

Mt. Bethel Christian Academy

40

Pace Academy

404-262-1345

7

Parker-Chase Preschool

770-565-2220

7

Parker-Chase Preschool of East Cobb

770-565-2220

44

Saint Francis School

770-641-8257

41

The Schenck School

404-252-2591

40

Springmont School

404-252-3910

43

The Walker School

770-427-2689

46

$17,220- 6wks– $20,220 12y $19,320- 6wks$23,880 4yr $15,000K-12th $25,000

C, ND

•

•

Appt. Rolling

•

•

Oct. Rolling Appt. Rolling

•

•

•

42

•

•

•

115

960

20

•

•

•

•

105

750

14

•

Oct.

Jan.

•

•

•

65

350

16

•

Nov.

Feb.

•

•

•

225 1,370 12-18

E

•

400

15

CC

700

18

C JC

•

• Oct. Feb. 1

•

• Appt. Rolling

C

Dec. Rolling

•

•

Oct. Feb. 1

•

•

Nov. Feb. 15

•

• Appt. Rolling

•

•

•

•

75

•

•

140 1,150

13

•

•

52

14

Ongoing Rolling Ongoing Rolling

•

233

•

37

184

15

•

140

800

14

50

250

10

• •

•

•

46

275

20

•

•

•

181

916

15:1

•

•

55

•

$42,400 K-6th $12,475- 18mo$27,000 8th $11,820- PK3$27,170 12th

•

APPLICATION DEADLINE

•

45

$28,5693K-12th $32,615 $10,000PK-12th $15,625 $29,0003-12th $32,000 $11,630K-9th $14,500 $16,000PK-12th $18,000 $19,125- PK3$32,275 12th $7,6463y-8th $23,342 $19,000- PK3$33,590 12th 6moCall 12th $13,300JK-12th $19,450 $31,970K-12th $36,800

OPEN HOUSE BEGINS

•

404-841-3840

UNIFORM

17

Atlanta International School

AP/IB COURSES

211 1,325

39

SPECIAL NEEDS PROGRAMS

•

REGION 1: ATLANTA NORTH/NORTHWEST

RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION*

AVG. CLASS SIZE

•

38

# TEACHERS

# STUDENTS

BEFORE/AFTER CARE

•

KINDERGARTEN

PHONE

PRESCHOOL

SCHOOL

GRADES/AGES

PAGE

ANNUAL TUITION

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS *KEY: Religious Affiliation: CC = Catholic C = Christian E = Episcopal J = Jewish JC = Judeo-Christian ND = Non-denominational P = Presbyterian Q = Quaker

• •

• Appt. Call • Appt. Call Appt. Feb. 1

•

•

Nov. Feb. 15

REGION 2: ATLANTA NORTH/NORTHEAST

48

The Alfred and Adele Davis Academy

770-671-0085

50

Atlanta Academy

678-461-6102

100 Endeavor International School Endeavor Montessori Dunwoody Johns Creek Montessori School 49 of Georgia

100

770-637-4737 770-637-4644 770-814-8001

47

McGinnis Woods School

770-664-7764

48

MJCCA Preschools

678-812-3800

100

Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs

770-205-6277

100

Montessori at Vickery

770-777-9131

49 Mount Pisgah Christian School

678-336-3400

13

770-772-7474

Oak Grove Academy

34 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

$17,000PK-8th $30,000 $12,410PS-8th $17,920 $16,010

•

•

•

85

500

15

J

• Appt. Feb. 15

•

•

•

77

385

16

ND

•

•

•

•

•

•

18

75 Varies

•

Call Rolling

•

•

•

60

400

15

•

Appt. Rolling

•

120

480

15

•

6-8th

$15,300- 6wks$24,360 6yrs $7508wks$1,495 6yrs $11,025- Infant$15,875 8th $5,005- 6wks$18,665 K $11,810- 13mo$18,900 12y $11,650- 13mo$20,520 9yrs $17,850- Infant$25,095 12th $10,260- 6wks$16,740 6yrs

Summer/Fall 2023

•

9

40

7

34

194

20

•

•

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26

251

23

•

•

•

21

175

29

•

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177 1,003 Varies

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142

16

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• Ongoing Rolling Ongoing Rolling

J

•

N/A Rolling

•

• Ongoing Rolling

Ongoing Rolling

C

•

• Appt. Rolling • Ongoing Rolling

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

51

REGION 3: ATLANTA EAST

54

Arbor Montessori School

404-321-9304

52

Athens Academy

706-549-9225

Atlanta Montessori International 404-325-6777 School - Cliff Valley Atlanta Montessori International 7 404-500-0501 School - Druid Hills 7

53

Bethlehem Christian Academy

770-307-1574

52

Capstone Academy

404-458-5160

54

The Friends School of Atlanta

404-373-8746

56

Heritage Preparatory School

404-815-7711

55

Loganville Christian Academy

770-554-9888

55

Montessori In Town

404-784-1038

55

Oak Meadow Montessori School

770-963-8303

56 Westminster Christian Academy 706-769-9372

$11,735- 18mo$21,995 8th $10,075K3-12th $22,395 $17,550- 8wks$24,360 5th $19,000- 8wks$24,000 6yrs $6,500K3-12th $12,500

483

15

CC

159 1,201 13-20

C

•

•

• 7:1 2,555 14

•

•

•

30

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

$12,700 5-12th $17,294PK3-8th $27,395 $9,770PreK-12 $21,500 $6,750- PK3$12,600 12th $10,800- 14mo$17,000 6th $9,000- 15mo$20,000 12yrs $5,250- PK4$11,225 12th

•

915

15

181

19

Ongoing Rolling

23

140

18

Ongoing Rolling

120

900

20

20

150

8-10

33

188

1:9

Q

Dec. Rolling

45

277

12

C

• Ongoing Feb. 1

626

18

ND

•

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•

•

•

•

51

•

•

•

22

150 Varies

•

•

•

16

150

20

•

•

•

55

400

15

•

C

ND

The Bedford School

770-774-8001 678-432-0191

Our World School

678-782-6089

60

404-767-4312

60

Strong Rock Christian School

678-833-1200

61

Trinity Christian School Sharpsburg

770-251-6770

62

Woodward Academy

404-765-4001

$17,500

63

REGION 5: ATLANTA WEST

66

Covenant Christian School

65

Hearts Academy of Excellence

770-435-1596 770-439-9235

$8,196K4-8th $13,701

$500-$700 per PreKclass annually 12th

• Nov. Call

•

Appt.

•

Call

• Nov. Rolling

•

•

N/A Rolling

•

•

Oct. Rolling

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

8

60

20

•

•

•

160

975

17

•

•

8

51

6

•

•

•

18

280

28

CC

•

•

•

152

954

11

C

•

•

•

173 1,689 24

ND

•

•

• 7:1 2,555 14

•

•

•

21

127

12

C

•

•

•

•

17

250

15

C

• Mar. July 15

K-12th

$8,500PK-8th $11,500 $12,165PK-12th $16,375 $3,195PK-12th $13,234 $20,600PK-12th $32,400

•

Appt. Feb. 15

Community Christian School

St. John the Evangelist Catholic School

• Appt. Rolling

•

58

61

• Appt. Feb. 1

40

58

770-461-2304

•

125

770-463-0081

770-306-0647

Oct. Jan. 24

Nov. Feb. 15

Acton Academy at Serenbe

Landmark Christian School

Oct. Feb. 15

•

25

REGION 4: ATLANTA SOUTH/SOUTHEAST/SOUTHWEST

59 Counterpane Montessori School

•

•

255

99

59

•

•

57

$10,000- 6wks$18,000 18yrs $21,7001st-9th $22,700 $9,324K3-12th $12,324 PK3$18,000 12th $9,000K3-12 $22,000

•

APPLICATION DEADLINE

65

•

OPEN HOUSE BEGINS

•

•

UNIFORM

•

AP/IB COURSES

404-765-4001

•

SPECIAL NEEDS PROGRAMS

Woodward Academy

RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION*

62

AVG. CLASS SIZE

770-448-7640

# STUDENTS

Wesleyan School

# TEACHERS

50

$10,830- PK3$21,795 12th $20,930K-12th $29,390 $20,600PK-12th $32,400

BEFORE/AFTER CARE

770-888-4477

KINDERGARTEN

PHONE

Pinecrest Academy

PRESCHOOL

SCHOOL

47

GRADES/AGES

PAGE

ANNUAL TUITION

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS *KEY: Religious Affiliation: CC = Catholic C = Christian E = Episcopal J = Jewish JC = Judeo-Christian ND = Non-denominational P = Presbyterian Q = Quaker

27

199 15-20

•

36

150 10-12

•

•

59

610 10-15 C, ND

•

•

•

•

Appt. Rolling

•

Jan. Mar. 24

•

Feb. Rolling

• Appt. Rolling C

• Sept. Call

•

July Rolling

•

Oct.

Feb.

•

•

Jan.

None

•

•

• Appt. Call

•

•

• Appt. Feb. 1 Oct. Rolling

Education At-a-Glance Continued on Page 36 u

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

•

140 1,290 12

C, ND

•

•

100+ 986 18-20

C

•

•

•

APPLICATION DEADLINE

•

OPEN HOUSE BEGINS

C

UNIFORM

12

AP/IB COURSES

67

•

230 1,640

RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION* SPECIAL NEEDS PROGRAMS

678-305-3000

AVG. CLASS SIZE

770-578-0182

Whitefield Academy

# STUDENTS

Mount Paran Christian School

•

# TEACHERS

64 65

$30,110K-12th $34,950 $4,641- PK3$23,515 12th $20,000- PK4$29,000 12th

BEFORE/AFTER CARE

404-262-3032

KINDERGARTEN

PHONE

The Lovett School

PRESCHOOL

SCHOOL

64

GRADES/AGES

PAGE

ANNUAL TUITION

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS *KEY: Religious Affiliation: CC = Catholic C = Christian E = Episcopal J = Jewish JC = Judeo-Christian ND = Non-denominational P = Presbyterian Q = Quaker

•

•

Nov.

Feb.

•

•

Oct. Rolling

•

•

Nov. Feb. 28

•

BOARDING SCHOOLS

72

Academy at SOAR

828-456-3315

$67,000 7th-12th

68

Admiral Farragut Academy

727-384-3474

$53,200

8-12th & PG

$29,3306-12th $59,400 $29,200- 6-12th $59,150 & PG $47,9009-12th $73,100

•

5+

30

2-8

60

450

13

•

Appt. Rolling

120 1,050

14

•

24

100

8

•

90

540

13

Q

•

Oct.

12

C

Appt. Rolling

74

Baylor School

423-267-5902

69

Brandon Hall School

770-394-8177

72

George School

215-579-6547

75

Hargrave Military Academy

434-432-2481

$39,500 7-12th

34

175

•

• June 3 Rolling

70

Kents Hill School

207-685-4914

$66,675

9-12th & PG

40

240 10-15

•

Appt. Jan. 15

76

The Linsly School

304-233-1436

68

Montverde Academy

407-469-2561

70

Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School

706-746-7720

71

Saint Mary’s School

919-424-4000

69

The Vanguard School

863-676-6091

73

The Webb School

931-380-6003

$20,7255-12th $50,825 7-12th, $55,980 PG $21,550- PK3$60,950 12th $31,6009-12th $62,850 $25,5006-12th $49,000 $51,900 7-12th

•

•

•

442 10:1

•

•

Appt. Rolling

17

•

•

Oct. Rolling

12

P

•

•

Oct.

E

•

Appt. Rolling

•

Oct.

•

•

•

•

85

680

42

300

13

14

120

6-10

•

50

425

13

•

more effectively!

• •

770-992-0273

Feb. 1

April Jan. 30

Advertise in Atlanta School Guide and get results.

Summer/Fall 2023

Feb. 1

272747

Reach youR TaRgeT MaRkeT 36 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Call

Appt. Rolling

74 23-86

•

Appt.

Feb. 1

Headmaster’s Corner

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.

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

Accreditations or Affiliations: SAIS, Cognia, NAIS

Year Founded: 1989

Location: 50 SE Broad St., Fairburn, GA 30213

Grades: PK3-12 Students: 1,000 Avg. Class Size: 16

How can parents best contribute to the education process?

Ensure that your child is at a school that

Tuition Range: $13,500-$21,700

Contact: 770-306-0647, landmarkchristianschool.org

atlantaschoolguide.com

37

ATLANTA NORTH • NORTHWEST

45

1 GION RE

2 45 44 43

42

42 41 5 40 41 39 41 40 39

Independent Schools Schools Page Atlanta International School 39 Cherokee Christian Schools 45 The Cottage School 42 Eastside Christian School 41 Fulton Science Academy 2 The Galloway School 41 High Meadows School 45

Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School Holy Spirit Preparatory School Mt. Bethel Christian Academy Pace Academy Saint Francis School The Schenck School Springmont School The Walker School

5 39 42 40 44 41 40 43

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.

38 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Summer/Fall 2023

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 atlantaschoolguide.com

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BUCKHEAD 40 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

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BUCKHEAD • EAST COBB • CHASTAIN PARK

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ROSWELL • EAST COBB 42 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

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MARIETTA

ROSWELL 44 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

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ROSWELL • WOODSTOCK atlantaschoolguide.com

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ATLANTA NORTH • NORTHEAST

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50

49

48

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49 62 50

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Independent Schools Schools Page The Alfred and Adele Davis Academy 48 Atlanta Academy 50 Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia 49 McGinnis Woods School 47

MJCCA Preschools Mount Pisgah Christian School Pinecrest Academy Wesleyan School Woodward Academy

48 49 47 50 62

NEIGHBORHOODS OF NOTE 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.

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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 atlantaschoolguide.com

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DUNWOODY 48 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

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JOHNS CREEK atlantaschoolguide.com

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ROSWELL • PEACHTREE CORNERS 50 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

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BARROW

52

52

54

ATHENS

WATKINSVILLE

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55

56 55

54

Independent Schools Schools Page Arbor Montessori School 54 Athens Academy 52 Bethlehem Christian Academy 53 Capstone Academy 52 The Friends School of Atlanta 54

Heritage Preparatory School Loganville Christian Academy Montessori In Town Oak Meadow Montessori Westminster Christian Academy

56 55 55 55 56

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. atlantaschoolguide.com

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ATLANTA EAST

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BROOKHAVEN • ATHENS 52 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

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BETHLEHEM

DECATUR 54 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

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EAST ATLANTA • COLLINS HILL • LOGANVILLE

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WATKINSVILLE • MORNINGSIDE/ANSLEY

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competition

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EAST POINT

62

60

DEKALB

Carrolton

99

59

58

61

59 58

60 61

Independent Schools Schools Page Acton Academy at Serenbe 99 The Bedford School 58 Community Christian School 58 Counterpane Montessori School 59 Landmark Christian School 59

Our World School 61 St. John the Evangelist Catholic School 60 Strong Rock Christian School 60 Trinity Christian School - Sharpsburg 61 Woodward Academy 62

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. atlantaschoolguide.com

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ATLANTA SOUTH • SOUTHEAST • SOUTHWEST

4 GION RE

FAIRBURN • EAGLES LANDING 58 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

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FAIRBURN • FAYETTEVILLE

Fairburn | Peachtree City | PK3-12

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LOCUST GROVE • HAPEVILLE 60 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

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METRO-ATLANTA

BARTOW

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65 66

65 64

FULTON

Independent Schools Schools Page Covenant Christian School 66 Hearts Academy of Excellence 65

The Lovett School Mount Paran Christian School Whitefield Academy

64 64 65

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. atlantaschoolguide.com

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KENNESAW • BUCKHEAD 64 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

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POWDER SPRINGS • SMYRNA/VININGS

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BOARDING SCHOOL DIRECTORY

T

here are many benefits of a boarding school education. Boarding schools are an option for students seeking a more independent learning experience. Because students generally live on campus, learning takes place in and out of the classroom almost on a 24-hour basis.

When selecting a boarding school, it is important to visit the school campus, but representatives from many boarding schools visit Metro Atlanta throughout the year—contact each school for specific dates.

Boarding Schools Schools Page Academy at SOAR 72 Admiral Farragut Academy 68 Baylor School 74 Brandon Hall 69 George School 72 Hargrave Military Academy 75

Kents Hill School The Linsly School Montverde Academy Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School Saint Mary's School The Vanguard School The Webb School

Top Boarding Schools: Special Advertising Section

70 76 68 70 71 69 73 77

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FLORIDA 68 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

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FLORIDA • GEORGIA atlantaschoolguide.com

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MAINE • GEORGIA 70 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

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NORTH CAROLINA

PENNSYLVANIA • NORTH CAROLINA 72 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

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TENNESSEE

TENNESSEE

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VIRGINIA

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.

SPECIAL PROMOTION

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TOP BOARDING SCHOOLS

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-

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.

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

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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.

SPECIAL PROMOTION

TOP BOARDING SCHOOLS

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

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.

THE ACADEMY AT SOAR

PHOTO: SOAR Inc.

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-

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.

SPECIAL PROMOTION

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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 gadoe.org. u 80 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

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CHARTER SCHOOLS

CHARTER SCHOOLS 82 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

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CHARTER SCHOOLS atlantaschoolguide.com

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BARTOW ADAIRSVILLE WHITE

BARTOW CARTERSVILLE EMERSON

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

CHEROKEE CHEROKEE

Number of Schools Elementary 12 Middle 4 High 3 Career Academy 1 Virtual Academy 1

2022 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 497 (M) 519 5th: (ELA) 514 (M) 513 8th: (ELA) 505 (M) 509

Total # of Students: 13,079 Student Spending: $11,470

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.

Number of Schools Elementary 23 Middle 7 High 6 Alternative 1 Centers 5 Career Academy 1 Virtual 1 Total # of Students: 41,472 Student Spending: $10,580

Board of Education 770-479-1871 cherokeek12.net

CLAYTON

CLAYTON

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

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2022 Average SAT: 1032

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 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.

Number of Schools Elementary 34 Primary 2 Middle 14 High 9 Alternative 1 Performing Arts Center 1 Adult Education 1 Charter 2 Magnet 5 Open Campus 1 Virtual 1 Total # of Students: 51,399 Student Spending: $10,929

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.

Summer/Fall 2023

COBB

Board of Education 770-426-3300 cobbk12.org

COWETA COWETA

Number of Schools Elementary 65 Primary 2 Middle 25 6th Grade Academy 1 High 10 Magnet High Schools 6 Charter 1 Learning Centers 1 Adult Education Center 1 Special Education Centers 2 Virtual Academies 1 Total # of Students: 106,141 Student Spending: $11,907

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.

Number of Schools Elementary 19 Middle 7 High 3 Charter & Career Academy 2 Alternative 2 Centre for Performing and Visual Arts 1 Special Education 1 Virtual 1 Total # of Students: 22,044 Student Spending: $11,180

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 Newnan High 1054 East Coweta High 1049

Board of Education 770-254-2800 cowetaschools.net

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.

DEKALB

Number of Schools Elementary 69 Middle 17 High 19 Charter 5 Magnet 3 Centers, Special Education and Alternative 24

DEKALB

Board of Education 678-676-1200 dekalbschoolsga.org

Total # of Students: 90,737 Student Spending: $14,670

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 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. atlantaschoolguide.com

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COBB

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

DOUGLAS

DOUGLAS

Board of Education 770-651-2000 dcssga.org

FAYETTE FAYETTE

Number of Schools Elementary 20 Middle 8 High 5 Centers 3 Charter 1 Virtual 1 Total # of Students: 25,707 Student Spending: $11,592

2022 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 491 (M) 510 5th: (ELA) 513 (M) 499 8th: (ELA) 515 (M) 498 2022 Average SAT: 1001 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.

Number of Schools Elementary 14 Middle 5 High 5 Alternative 1 Open Campus 1 Virtual 1 Total # of Students: 19,596 Student Spending: $12,155

2022 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 533 (M) 542 5th: (ELA) 543 (M) 541 8th: (ELA) 541 (M) 542 2022 Average SAT: 1132 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

Board of Education 770-460-3990 fcboe.org

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.

FORSYTH

Number of Schools Elementary 23 Middle 11 High 7 Non-Traditional 2 Virtual 1 Charter/Evening 1 Career Academy 1

FORSYTH

Total # of Students: 52,347 Student Spending: $9,776

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 Lambert High 1240 Alliance Academy 1232 South Forsyth High 1216 Denmark High 1177 West Forsyth 1128

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

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.

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ATLANTA

Number of Schools Elementary 59 Middle 19 High 19 Charter 9 Alternative Schools 3 Virtual Campus 2 Total # of Students: 88,326 Student Spending: $13,019

FULTON

Board of Education 470-254-3600 fultonschools.org

GRIFFINSPALDING

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

GWINNETT

GWINNETT

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.

Number of Schools Elementary 11 Middle 4 High 2 Alternative 2 Career Academy 1

2022 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 466 (M) 497 5th: (ELA) 492 (M) 485 8th: (ELA) 489 (M) 481

Total # of Students: 9,075 Student Spending: $12,348

Top 2 Schools by Average 2022 SAT Score Spalding High 1013 Griffin High 917

2022 Average SAT: 970

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.

Number of Schools Elementary 80 Middle 29 High 21 Alternative 4 Charter 2 Open Campus 1 Virtual School 1 Special Education 2 Center 1 Career/Technical 4 Total # of Students: 178,363 Student Spending: $11,112

Board of Education 678-301-6000 gcpsk12.org

2022 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 518 (M) 536 5th: (ELA) 526 (M) 524 8th: (ELA) 528 (M) 521

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. atlantaschoolguide.com

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FULTON

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

HALL HALL

Number of Schools Elementary 11 Middle 6 High 6 Magnet 12 Alternative 1 Career 2 Virtual 1 Total # of Students: 26,713 Student Spending: $10,785

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 North Hall High 1083 Flowery Branch High 1082 Chestatee High 1050 Johnson High 1021 Cherokee Bluff High 1014

Board of Education 770-534-1080 hallco.org

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.

HENRY

Number of Schools Elementary 26 Middle 11 High 10 Charter 2 Alternative 1 Career Academy 1 Virtual School 1

HENRY

Total # of Students: 42,435 Student Spending: $10,422

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 Union Grove High 1076 Ola High 1066 Luella High 993 Locust Grove High 990 Dutchtown High 987

Board of Education What’s New: Henry County Schools has partnered with Piedmont 770-957-6601 Henry Hospital and Gordon State College to provide a special schoolwires.henry.k12.ga.us medical-related academic program.

PAULDING PAULDING BRASWELL

278

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

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Number of Schools Elementary 19 Middle 9 High 5 Alternative 1 Career 1

2022 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 505 (M) 521 5th: (ELA) 515 (M) 511 8th: (ELA) 517 (M) 514

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

2022 Average SAT: 1032

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.

Summer/Fall 2023

LE RO CK DA

Board of Education 770-483-4713 rockdaleschools.org

ATLANTA PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Number of Schools Elementary 11 Middle 4 High 3 Alternative 1 Career Academy 1 Magnet 1 Open Campus 1 Virtual School 2 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 404-802-3500 atlantapublicschools.us

Number of Schools Elementary 42 Intermediate 4 Middle 10 High 10 Charter 19 Alternative 4 Virtual 1 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.

BUFORD CITY SCHOOLS

Board of Education 770-945-5035 bufordcityschools.org Number of Schools Elementary (K-1) 1 1st-3rd Grade Academy 1 4th-5th Grade Academy 1 Middle 1 High 1

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. atlantaschoolguide.com

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ROCKDALE

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

Board of Education Total # of Students: CITY 404-371-3601 5,477 csdecatur.net Student Spending: SCHOOLS OF $15,089 Number of Schools Elementary 5 2022 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: DECATUR Middle 1 3rd: (ELA) 553 (M) 560 3rd-5th Grade Academy 1 4th & 5th Grade Academy 1 High 1 Early Learning Center 1 Virtual 1

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.

of Education Total # of Students: GAINESVILLE Board 770-536-5275 7,530 gcssk12.net Student Spending: CITY $11,678 Number of Schools Elementary 6 2022 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: SCHOOLS Middle High

2 1

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 Number of Schools Elementary 7 Sixth Grade 1 Middle 1 High 1 Alternative 1 Magnet 1 Early Learning 1

Total # of Students: 8,558 Student Spending: $14,571 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.

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EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES

EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES Ways to Enhance your Child’s or Student’s Learning

Index

Tutoring & Study Skills Summer Camps & Activities Field Trips & Education Programs

92 92 93

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SUMMER CAMPS & ACTIVITIES • TUTORING

TUTORING IN YOUR OWN HOME!

all subjects, all gr ades

hand-picked tutors

no contract, no registra on fee

ADHD "homework coach" program SAT/ACT, Georgia Milestones test prep

770-645-8750

inhometutors.com

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FIELD TRIPS SUMMER CAMPS & EDUCATION • FIELD TRIPS PROGRAMS & EDUCATION PROGRAMS

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FIELD TRIPS & EDUCATION PROGRAMS

FIELD TRIPS & EDUCATION PROGRAMS

FIELD TRIPS & EDUCATION PROGRAMS

TOP FIELD TRIPS

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 96 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

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.

SPECIAL PROMOTION

CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF ATLANTA

PLAY. LEARN. GROW. childrensmuseumatlanta.org Major funding for this organization is provided by the Fulton County Board of Commissioners

Major support is provided by the Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs

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.

SPECIAL PROMOTION

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TOP FIELD TRIPS

ADVERTISER INDEX Boarding Schools

Academy at SOAR..............................................72 Admiral Farragut Academy................................68 Brandon Hall.......................................................69 Baylor School......................................................74 George School....................................................72 Hargrave Military Academy...............................75 Kents Hill School.................................................70 The Linsly School................................................76 Montverde Academy..........................................68 Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School.........................70 Saint Mary’s School.............................................71 The Vanguard School.........................................69 The Webb School...............................................73

Field Trips & Education Programs

ArtsBridge Foundation.......................................97 Center for Puppetry Arts......................................3 Children’s Museum of Atlanta...........................97 College Football Hall of Fame..........................94 The Fox Theatre (Virtual Fox in a Box)..............95 Interactive Neighborhood for Kids (INK)..........17 Louisiana Northshore / St. Tammany Parish.....93 The Southern Museum.......................................97 Zoo Atlanta..........................................................93

Independent Schools

Acton Academy at Serenbe...............................99 The Alfred and Adele Davis Academy..............48 Arbor Montessori School...................................54 Athens Academy.................................................52 Atlanta Academy................................................50 Atlanta International School..............................39 Atlanta Montessori International Schools..........7 The Bedford School...........................................58 Bethlehem Christian Academy..........................53 Brandon Hall.......................................................69 Capstone Academy............................................52 Cherokee Christian Schools...............................45 Community Christian School.............................58 The Cottage School...........................................42 Counterpane Montessori School......................59 Covenant Christian School................................66 Eastside Christian School...................................41 Endeavor Montessori Dunwoody.............BC, 100 Endeavor International School ................BC, 100 The Friends School of Atlanta...........................54 Fulton Science Academy............................. IFC, 2 The Galloway School .........................................41 Hearts Academy of Excellence..........................65 Heritage Preparatory School.............................56 High Meadows School.......................................45 Holy Innocents' Episcopal School.......................5 Holy Spirit Preparatory School..........................39 Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia....49 Landmark Christian School................................59 Loganville Christian Academy...........................55 The Lovett School...............................................64 McGinnis Woods School....................................47 MJCCA Preschools.............................................48

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Mt. Bethel Christian Academy...........................42 Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs....BC, 100 Montessori In Town............................................55 Montessori at Vickery................................BC, 100 Mount Paran Christian School...........................64 Mount Pisgah Christian School.........................49 Oak Grove Academy..........................................13 Oak Meadow Montessori School......................55 Our World School...............................................61 Pace Academy....................................................40 Parker-Chase Preschool.......................................7 Pinecrest Academy.............................................47 St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church..........60 Saint Francis School...........................................44 The Schenck School...........................................41 Springmont School.............................................40 Strong Rock Christian School............................60 Trinity Christian School - Sharpsburg................61 The Walker School..............................................43 Wesleyan School.................................................50 Westminster Christian Academy.......................56 Whitefield Academy...........................................65 Woodward Academy..........................................62

Montessori Schools

Atlanta Montessori International Schools..........7 Counterpane Montessori School......................59 Endeavor Montessori Dunwoody.............BC, 100 Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia....49 Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs....BC, 100 Montessori In Town............................................55 Montessori at Vickery................................BC, 100 Oak Meadow Montessori School......................55 Springmont School.............................................40

Public & Charter Schools

Brookhaven Innovation Academy.....................82 Georgia Connections Academy........................82 Georgia Cyber Academy...................................81 International Charter School of Atlanta............83 Ivy Prep Academy...............................................83 The Main Street Academy.................................83

Resources & Services

Dynamo Swim School.........................................66 Special Olympics Georgia...................................9

Special Needs & Learning Difficulties

The Bedford School...........................................58 The Cottage School...........................................42 Our World School...............................................61 The Schenck School...........................................41

Summer Camps & Activities

Center for Puppetry Arts......................................3 Squirrel Hollow Day Camp.................................92 Zoo Atlanta..........................................................93

Tutoring & Study Skills

In-Home Tutors of Atlanta.................................92