Atlanta School Guide Summer-Fall 2025

Summer/Fall 2025

Atlanta’s Leading Education Resource

PROJECTBASED LEARNING?

STUDENTS SOLVING REAL-WORLD PROBLEMS

GETTING READY FOR COLLEGE TO HELP YOUR CHILD PREPARE

STANDARDIZED TEST PREP G RD I N BOA ATION EDUCUIDE G 67 p.

THE BEST WAY PARENTS CAN ASSIST

CONTENTS

SUMMER/FALL 2025

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FEATURES

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In Every Issue

Project-Based Learning Students learn to solve problems by tackling real-world challenges in this popular teaching method.

to Prepare 22 How for College

6 How to Use This Guide 8 Critical Communication 14 Special Needs Resources 21 Head of School Profile Maria Croley Madden of St. Martin’s Episcopal School

The road to college starts early. See the three steps you can take to help your child on their way.

34 Independent Schools At a Glance

Standardized Test Prep 26 Here's how parents can help

78 Public Schools by County

their children prepare for and succeed at standardized testing.

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Boarding School Directory 67

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

97 Advertiser Index Summer/Fall 2025

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 97 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 JACKIE PETERSON VICKIE WRIGHT Contributing Writers E. MARCEL POURTOUT MICHELLE BOURG

TO ADVERTISE CALL

770-873-9390 Space closing for Winter/Spring 2026 issue: October 24, 2025 Atlanta School Guide, Summer/Fall 2025, Volume 20, 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. © 2025 Killam Publishing, Inc. For additional copies, further information or advertising, please contact:

KILLAM PUBLISHING, INC. P: 770-873-9390 info@killampublishing.com AtlantaSchoolGuide.com

Critical Communication

Trends and Happenings in Georgia Education What You Need to Know to Stay Up to Date With Atlanta and Georgia Education Dr. Gulley Retires From Woodward Academy Woodward Academy has announced that Dr. F. Stuart Gulley, the independent school’s longtime president, is retiring at the end of the 2024-2025 school year. Since becoming president in 2009, he has led Woodward Academy through an era of unprecedented growth. Dr. Chris Greer becomes the school’s president as of July 1, 2025. Congratulations to both!

Fulton Superintendent Named State’s Best Dr. Mike Looney, the superintendent of Fulton County Schools, was named Georgia’s Superintendent of the Year for 2025. The award was announced by the Georgia School Boards Association and the Georgia School Superintendents 8 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Association at their annual conference in December.

GACS Launches Light the Way Campaign Greater Atlanta Christian School announced in January that it is investing over $30 million in facilities and program improvements. The Light the Way Campaign will support a dozen renovation and building projects, from enhanced athletic facilities to innovative academic spaces, and provide financial support for five endowment funds.

APS Fourth Graders Make Major Gains Fourth graders at Atlanta Public Schools showed significant improvement in math and reading scores on the 2024 National Assessment of Educational Progress.

The percentage of fourth graders performing at

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a “basic” level or above rose by seven percentage points in reading and eight percentage points in math. APS was the only large, urban school system to show such improvement at the fourth-grade level.

Galloway School Names New Head of School District 2 Atlanta City Councilmember Amir Farokhi announced that he will be resigning his position in July to serve as the next head of The Galloway School beginning with the 2025-2026 school year. Farokhi, who graduated from The Galloway School in 1996, replaces Dr. James Calleroz-White, who has led the school since 2018.

Ludacris Launches Music Program at Morrow School The Ludacris Foundation, a nonprofit organization founded by Atlanta rapper

and actor Chris “Ludacris” Bridges, announced the launch of TechTunes, a new music initiative at the Utopian Academy for the Arts High School in Morrow. The program will familiarize students with the latest technological advances to help prepare them for careers in the music and entertainment industries.

Alisha Fisher joins The Lovett School The Lovett School welcomed Alisha Fisher as its new Head of Middle School in March. Fisher came to The Lovett School from Atlanta Heights Charter School, where she served as superintendent, winning praise for exceeding enrollment goals, improving satisfaction levels and boosting student attendance.

New Charter School Opens in Canton Cherokee Classical Academy, a new public charter school serving kindergarten through sixth grade, will open its doors for the 2025-2026 school year in August. Families residing in Cherokee, Cobb, Bartow, Fulton, Pickens and Paulding

Counties and the cities of Marietta, Cartersville and Atlanta are eligible to apply for enrollment.

Westminster Schools Hires New Football Coach The Westminster Schools announced in January that it has named Nelson Stewart the new head coach of its football program.

Stewart, who previously coached at his alma mater, the Isidore Newman School in New Orleans, La., will step into the head coaching role vacated by Gerry Romberg, who is retiring after 33 years with the school and a 239-146 record, 27 playoff berths and seven regional titles.

North Atlanta Students Play Carnegie Hall The North Atlanta High School Symphony Orchestra performed at world-famous Carnegie Hall in New York in late March. The orchestra was the only Georgia school band chosen from hundreds of high school ensembles across the country. The honor comes less than a year after the orchestra was invited to perform at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.

Buford City Schools Ranked Nation’s Best Buford City Schools is the best school district in the country, according to a new national ranking from the online tutoring platform Wiingy. Using data from Niche.com, Wiingy evaluated BCS on such factors as college prep and math and reading proficiency, awarding the district a top score of 9.31 out of 10.

Atlanta Neighborhood Charter School is Honored The Atlanta Neighborhood Charter School, a charter school serving kindergarten through eighth grade in Atlanta’s Grant Park, was recently named the Georgia Charter School of the Year by the Georgia Charter School Association. The school was chosen for its innovative education initiatives and community partnerships.

McNair Student Wins $3.4M in Scholarships Jaedin Wright, a senior and trombone player at McNair High School, earned more than $3.4 million in college scholarships after being turned down by his top choice.

Congratulations to Jaedin Wright!

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) Georgia’s annual tool for measuring how well its schools, districts, and the state are preparing students for the next educational level.

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION Education that applies to children from birth to age 8, focusing specifically on their development, including physical, emotional, sensory, communicative, cognitive and social needs.

GEORGIA 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.

HOPE SCHOLARSHIP (Helping Outstanding Pupils Educationally) A scholarship in Georgia, funded by the Georgia Lottery, that rewards academically achieving students with financial assistance to attend a degree, diploma or certificate program at eligible public and private Georgia colleges and universities.

EVERY STUDENT SUCCEEDS ACT (ESSA) A federal law passed in 2015 replacing the No Child Left Behind Act, designed to ensure that all children have a fair and equal opportunity to obtain a quality education and meet state academic proficiency standards.

PSAT A standardized test that offers students practice for the SAT Reasoning Test and allows them to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program.

SAT This standardized test measures the writing and language, reading and mathematical reasoning skills of students planning to attend college.

SECONDARY SCHOOL ADMISSIONS TEST (SSAT) Assesses the verbal, math and reading abilities of students seeking to enroll in an independent school.

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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 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, 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 (www.gadoe.org) or the U.S. Department of Education (www.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 Georgia Board of Education.

According to the Georgia Department of Education, scholarship amounts range from $2,500 to $13,500, with an average amount of about $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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HOW STUDENTS TACKLE REAL-WORLD PROBLEMS

BY SHEILA DAYTON AND EVERETT CATTS

hen we think of education, we often picture a classroom full of students sitting at their desks, watching with various levels of interest as a teacher stands in front of the blackboard discussing the day’s lesson.

But these days, there are many different education methods, including ones like Montessori and experiential learning. where students take a more hands-on approach.

One such method that has been gaining in popularity is project-based learning (PBL), in which students learn by engaging in long-term projects, developing helpful life 18 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

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skills in the process. In fact, many different metro Atlanta schools and school systems incorporate PBL into their curricula.

So what is project-based learning, and what are the advantages to this style of learning?

WHAT MAKES PBL DIFFERENT? Instead of a traditional classroom where students sit and listen to a teacher’s lecture, PBL classes feature students working together toward a common goal, developing skills such as collaboration, critical thinking,

Instead of a traditional classroom where students sit and listen to a teacher’s lecture, PBL classes feature students working together toward a common goal, developing skills such as collaboration, critical thinking, creativity and problem-solving. creativity and problem-solving.

In PBL, students work on extended projects over a period ranging from days to months, applying lessons from across different academic disciplines. And they direct their own learning by making their own decisions, rather than following a teacher’s instructions; the teacher might work as more of a facilitator or a sounding board.

At the earlier grade levels, project-based learning programs may introduce students to such concepts as collaboration and working together toward a common goal.

At Pace Academy in Buckhead, for example, second graders take part in a PBL program in which they explore the question of “How does food tell the story of past and present cultures?” says Amy Underwood, lower school director of curriculum and professional development.

“The classes partner with their families to get family recipes, and the parents come into the classroom and prepare the dishes, and the students help make them,” she says.

“They put it all together in a recipe book that will be shared with our community.”

In addition, PBL allows students to apply lessons they learn in a real-world setting.

At Wesleyan School, an independent Christian school in Peachtree Corners, students begin studying a foreign language early on, learning Spanish during their first three years of school, says Glenn Archer, chair of the school’s Bible department.

“So we’re looking at ways where students can practice that knowledge and apply it by going on a service trip somewhere around

the world and immerse themselves in that culture,” he says.

By embarking on a mission trip to a nation where Spanish is the primary language, the students interact with locals in Spanish, applying their language lessons in a real-world context that wouldn’t be possible in a classroom.

“As much as you can read an article in Spanish, if you can go somewhere where Spanish is spoken, it will accelerate the student’s learning and understanding of the material,” he says.

SOLVING PROBLEMS BEYOND THE CLASSROOM Another common component of PBL is that it encourages students to tackle problems and pursue projects outside of the classroom setting.

This approach provides students with “a framework that emphasizes real-world application, critical thinking, and hands-on experiences,” says Rebecca Williams, executive director of academic programs

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for Fulton County Schools. “It increases student engagement, and it increases collaboration, which as we know is an essential skill for work and life.”

Tommy Usher, chief of schools for Atlanta Public Schools, describes project-based learning as “an instructional approach that actively engages students in real-world projects or problems.”APS employs PBL in 31 of its more than 70 schools.

At Warren T. Jackson Elementary School in Buckhead, PBL takes the form of a program in which fourth-grade students grow thousands of trout from eggs and eventually release them into the Chattahoochee River.

The students nurture the fish from the fertilization process all the way through to adulthood, and house them in special aquamarine “labitats” on the school campus, says Usher. “Once the eggs hatch, the students care for the fish until they release them into the Chattahoochee River. This is done twice a year, once in the fall and again in the spring.”

As the students care for the eggs, they learn to problem-solve as challenges arise.

“Last fall, students had an added problem to solve,” says Usher. “they had to figure out why many of their fish were dying or missing from the labitat. After noticing lots of bird 20 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

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droppings in the area, the students deduced that birds were eating the fish. Consequently, they designed a screen to cover the labitat.”

Wildlife is also the focus of Woodward Academy’s endangered animal project, in which fourth graders use different tools including modeling clay and TinkerCad 3-D design software to design habitats and ecosystems for different animals.

“We incorporate two main types of experiences: traditional project-based learning and shorter performance tasks,” says Conne White, Woodward’s director of learning and innovation.

“Both are designed to align academic learning with real-world contexts. Students engage in learning that's set in meaningful, real-world scenarios and often target a real audience beyond the classroom,” she continues.

HOW DOES THIS APPLY TO REAL LIFE? Project-based learning, then, helps students develop critical skills they can use throughout their lives, and allows them to apply what they learn in a tangible and practical way.

“Students are always asking, ‘How does this lesson apply to real life?’ Or, ‘Why am I learning this?’,” says Jen Shepard, assistant director of Christian life at Wesleyan School.

“Project-based learning helps them answer these questions.”

Head of School Profile

Maria Croley Madden Head of School, St. Martin’s Episcopal School Maria Croley Madden became head of school at St. Martin’s Episcopal School in July 2023. She previously served as middle school head at Heathwood Hall. She holds degrees from Furman University and Kennesaw State University. She’s a runner and mother of three.

What do you love most about your job?

Seeing the joy in students’ faces every day and watching them learn and grow over time at school is incredibly fulfilling.

Witnessing their curiosity, resilience and achievements reminds me of the profound impact education has on shaping their futures.

How is the field of education changing?

Character-building is essential. A strong school culture guides moral development, decision-making and community contribution. Educators must model appropriate behavior and recognize each student’s unique strengths and challenges.

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

Look for a school that closely aligns with your family’s values and be invested in the community with trust and support.

What is your educational philosophy?

Education extends beyond academics;

teachers must nurture critical thinking, character and appreciation for the world.

Schools shape well-rounded individuals by integrating respect and dignity while fostering strong partnerships between schools and families to support students in an evolving society.

How can parents best contribute to the education process? By staying actively involved—communicating with teachers and supporting learning at home—parents become true partners in their child’s growth.

SPRINGMONT SCHOOL Emphasis: Providing a Avg. Class Size: 18 quality education of the whole person in a loving, Accreditations or Affiliations: SAIS, NAES, Christian atmosphere.

NAIS, GISA Year Founded: 1959

Students: 615

Location: 3110-A Ashford Dunwoody Rd., Brookhaven, GA 30319

Tuition Range: $20,140-$30,230

Contact: 404-237-4260, stmartinschool.org

Grades: Preschooleighth grade

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3 STEPS TO HELP YOUR CHILD PREPARE

BY MICHELLE BOURG

Attending college has long been a cornerstone of the American dream, and the majority of students hope to do so. But the path to getting there is a winding and long one: educators and college admissions officers recommend that planning for college begin when a child reaches sixth grade. For modern families, the three keys to navigating the path to college successfully are being proactive, organizational and communicative.

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Middle and Junior High School In Georgia, the concept of proactivity has been mandated with the BRIDGE (Building Resourceful Individuals to Develop Georgia’s Economy) Act, which helps students select a focused study plan by providing career counseling and regularly scheduled advisement beginning in sixth grade. (For more information,

visit the Georgia Department of Education website at gadoe.org).

Students begin by taking the Career Cluster Inventory and creating a YouScience portfolio to track their BRIDGE activities.

During the spring of their eighth-grade year, students must select a career area and draft a corresponding course of study called an IGP (Individual Graduation Plan) in consultation with parents, counselors and teachers.

Parents should communicate with their children about school performance and its impact on a future career by discussing possible career interests and helping them to develop good study habits, identifying academic areas that need improvement.

The PSAT 8/9 offers a snapshot of a child’s academic strengths and weaknesses so families can create a plan of action.

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Ninth and Tenth Grades As high school begins, parents and students should establish a good relationship with the guidance counselor and work with him or her to select prerequisite courses for advanced-level work. If any subjects are giving difficulty, additional help should be sought in order to be up to speed going forward. It’s critical to maintain grades and test performance, as colleges look at a student’s entire high school career.

Sophomore year is when the first standardized placement tests are taken; 10th-graders may take the PSAT 10 or the ACT prerequisite PreACT test. Qualified students should look into the MOWR (Move On When Ready) program, which

enables qualified Georgia high school students to take college courses and receive both high school and college credit.

Co-curricular activities are one of the most memorable parts of the high school experience and a key factor in college admissions. Students should try some out now and find one or two they will enjoy long-term. This is also a good time to begin satisfying the community service graduation requirement. Parents should monitor their child’s schedule to ensure that their academics and co-curriculars remain in balance.

While the nitty-gritty of financial planning is still in the future, during freshman year families should start to discuss

While the nitty-gritty of financial planning is still in the future, during freshman year families should start to discuss financial aid, scholarships and the student’s responsibilities, if any. atlantaschoolguide.com

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financial aid, scholarships and the student’s responsibilities, if any. A good place to start is by visiting the website of the Georgia Student Finance Commission (gafutures.org) for information.

By the end of the year, Georgia ninthgraders must complete a supervised investigation of at least three potential careers and record them in their Georgia Career Information System (GCIS) portfolio. The summer between ninth and 10th grade is when research into college options should begin, with a file kept on each school to compare later.

Over summer break, students should make a list of desired criteria to guide their college explorations and intensify their research into different schools.

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11th and 12th Grades In junior year, the pace for college-bound students intensifies dramatically, and life will seem like a non-stop parade of deadlines. Standardized tests begin with the PSAT in October, and it takes discipline to balance studying for tests, keeping up with regular coursework, extracurricular activities and volunteer or employment responsibilities. Regular family meetings will keep everyone on the same page— making a weekly pizza date to talk things over and also carve out some quality de-stressing time. Using a family organization phone app such as Cozi or even a largeformat wall calendar makes keeping track of test dates and application deadlines easier.

The summer between junior and senior year is critical; in addition to working on jobs or internships, students need to finalize their list of schools and visit as many as possible, begin crafting application essays, organize financial aid info, and consider applying early to top schools on the list.

Now is the time to begin evaluating colleges in earnest. Under BRIDGE, Georgia students must investigate at least three postsecondary institutions and record the information in their GCIS portfolio by the end of junior year. Using the list of personal criteria and the school information they’ve gathered, students should make a ranked list of potential schools and make appointments to visit several. It’s also a good point to begin requesting letters of recommendation from respected mentors. Meanwhile, parents should begin reviewing the financial picture and making a budget.

The summer between junior and senior year is critical; in addition to working on

jobs or internships, students need to finalize their list of schools and visit as many as possible, begin crafting application essays, organize financial aid info, and consider applying early to top schools on the list.

As senior year begins, students and their families have to hit the ground running. The SAT (and if applicable, the ACT) must be taken as soon as possible; it’s important to check the SAT subject test schedule, as some tests are only given on select dates. There may be final campus visits to make even as the essay and application processes are in full swing, and it’s imperative to maintain grades and class rank, as colleges scrutinize these carefully. As the year progresses, students must track acceptances, and if placed on a waitlist for their top choices, consider applying to schools with later deadlines.

Parents will also be busy, as financial aid applications are time-consuming and must be completed as soon as possible. If their son or daughter has applied to both public and private schools, it will be necessary to complete both the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and the CSS (College Scholarship Service) Profile. As acceptances are received, families will need to compare the aid packages offered as they work together toward a final decision.

It’s been a long road, but as the portfolio is finally closed with the entry “College,” at last it’s time to raise a toast at the graduation party and savor the accomplishment.

All too soon it will be time to shop for those dorm supplies. atlantaschoolguide.com

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HOW TO HELP YOUR CHILD TAKE STANDARDIZED TESTS

BY E. MARCEL POURTOUT

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tandardized tests are a fact of life for children in both public and independent schools. A standardized test is one that is administered and graded in a consistent manner, usually given to students across an entire school or school system or even nationally, as opposed to one created by a teacher for a specific class.

These tests are often used to determine whether your child passes to the next grade level, or what kind of college they will attend.

As a result, they can be a source of stress for students and parents alike. Fortunately, most schools offer programs and resources to help children prepare for these critical tests.

ELEMENTARY AND HIGH SCHOOL If your child is enrolled in a Georgia public school, there are a number of tests he or she will be required to take as part of the Georgia Milestones Assessment System. Georgia Milestones spans grade 3 through high school, and is designed to determine how well a student has absorbed the information taught in the classroom.

Students in grades 3 through 8 currently take an end-of-grade test in English, language arts and math, while those in grades 5 and 8 are also tested in science and social studies. High school students are tested at the end of each year in subjects including literature and composition, algebra, geometry, biology, physical science and U.S. history.

Students at independent schools may also be required to take standardized tests.

Springmont, a Montessori school in Sandy Springs, administers the MAP Growth test to its primary and middle-school students each year.

Another standardized test independent school students are likely to encounter is the Secondary School Admission Test (SSAT), which measures the abilities of students looking to enroll in an independent school.

COLLEGE APTITUDE TESTS Whether they’re from public or independent schools, all college-bound students are expected to take a college aptitude test like the SAT or the ACT as part of their application process. The SAT evaluates a student’s math, writing and critical reading skills, while the ACT covers English, math, reading, science and an optional writing component.

A great number of Atlanta-area public and independent schools offer prep courses or workshops, or have counselors who work with students to help them prepare for collegepreparatory testing.

Atlanta Public Schools offers test-prep opportunities “which focus on content preparation plus simulation of the testing environment,” says Seth Coleman, director of media.

At Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School, “we partner with tutoring companies to provide proctored practice leading into the junior year,” says Tyler Sant, director of enrollment management. “We also purchase access for all rising juniors and seniors to a fully-online test prep platform which allows students to prepare in a way that’s specifically tailored to their performance on each specific section of these tests.” u atlantaschoolguide.com

27

Outside of the school environment, testpreparation services like Kaplan and The Princeton Review offer instruction to help students prepare for college entrance exams.

The College Board, the organization that administers the SAT, offers a number of preparatory resources.

TutorATL is a free service that provides tutoring and homework help as well as resources for students preparing for college entrance exams. It’s available to students from Atlanta Public Schools, Cobb County Public Schools and Marietta City Schools.

TESTING TIPS One of the most important things a student can do to prepare for these tests is, of course, to absorb their lessons throughout the school year. “Learning the critical thinking skills necessary to master the curriculum sets the student up to be able to do well on the test,” says Ken Connor, director of college advising for Wesleyan School.

But parents can implement several techniques at home to help their children prepare for standardized tests, whether they’re in-school assessments or college aptitude tests.

“Parents can help students by providing them with a space that can provide parental 28 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Summer/Fall 2025

overview without becoming too invasive,” says Connor. “Creating schedules for students that provide breaks also helps the student learn how to develop strong study habits.”

“Test prep requires the same type of discipline and commitment to a schedule as any other course of study,” says Sant.

“Their outcome will directly reflect the work they’ve put in. Having a consistent appointment on the calendar helps to reinforce consistency. It’s important that the practice mirrors the testing environment.

That means sitting upright at a table or desk. No cell phone, no TV, and no other distractions.”

Above all, make sure your child maintains a positive attitude, gets enough sleep and has a proper breakfast on the day of the test.

With the right physical and mental preparation, he or she will be well on their way to acing these important tests.

Standardized Test Resources Georgia Department of Education gadoe.org Georgia Online Assessment System gaexperienceonline.com Georgia College 411 gafutures.org College Board collegeboard.org SAT sat.collegeboard.org SSAT ssat.org ACT act.org TutorATL tutor.com/clientcare/tutoratl

TOP ATLANTA SCHOOLS

Top Atlanta Schools Metro Atlanta is home to many excellent K-12 independent schools, which means you can find exactly the right environment to fit your child’s academic needs, learning style, extracurricular interests and values. The following profiles represent some of the leading independent schools serving the metro Atlanta area, each of them equipped with the staff and curriculum to provide your child a challenging and nurturing educational experience.

f

SPRINGMONT SCHOOL

gardens and farm animals afford rich outdoor experiences.

Springmont’s middle school prepares students for success in Atlanta’s premier high schools and life beyond academics. Opportunities to hone time-management skills, experience active leadership roles and work both independently and in diverse groups allow students to become engaged learners.

Springmont is located at 5750 Long Island Dr. in Atlanta. For more information, call 404-252-3910 or visit springmont.com.

As the oldest Montessori school in the Southeast, Springmont offers students 18 months through middle school an authentic Montessori education. Individualized, hands-on learning is balanced with social/emotional well-being, inspiring its diverse and inclusive community of learners to become creative, independent and globally minded.

Multi-aged classes and specially designed materials are complemented by highly experienced and caring teachers who guide students’ curiosity towards meaningful, collaborative discoveries. Large, light-filled classrooms and a beautiful campus with natural areas, class SPECIAL PROMOTION

atlantaschoolguide.com

29

TOP ATLANTA SCHOOLS

WOODWARD ACADEMY of empathy, perspective, and purpose. Programs like Maymester and Global Connections provide immersive experiences—locally and internationally—helping students translate what they learn in the classroom into the real world. Cutting-edge STEAM integration starts early with coding for kindergarteners and culminates in a unique Independent Scientific Research program, where juniors and seniors partner with university researchers on meaningful, impactful projects.

Woodward graduates don't just go to college—they go confidently, purposefully, and far. Each class typically earns $24+ million in From Pre-K to senior year, Woodward Academy is more than a school—it’s a launchpad for future global leaders. Here, students aren’t just taught; they are seen, challenged, and inspired. Whether your child is drawn to data science, robotics, creative writing, or sculpture, Woodward is a place where passions are uncovered and elevated. Located on two stunning campuses in Historic College Park and Johns Creek—and connected by an expansive transportation network—Woodward reflects the best of Atlanta: sophisticated, forward-thinking, and purpose-driven.

With 25 AP courses, 100+ student clubs, a nationally recognized Transition Learning Support Program, 75+ annual arts performances, and 18 varsity sports, this is a place where ambition is met with opportunity. But what truly sets Woodward apart is its ethos.

Here, your child will gain fluency not just in academics, but in the essential values 30 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

scholarships, serves more than 5,000 hours in the community, and matriculates to more than 100 premier colleges and universities. They’re not just prepared— they’re empowered.

If you’re seeking a school that mirrors your values of excellence, curiosity, and global citizenship, we invite you to experience Woodward Academy for yourself. Visit woodward.edu, call 404-765-4000, or email eagleinfo@woodward.edu to schedule a personal tour of Atlanta’s most dynamic learning environment.

SPECIAL PROMOTION

TOP ATLANTA SCHOOLS

ATLANTA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL Celebrating its 40th year, Atlanta International School (AIS) is an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, offering primary years, middle years, diploma, and career-related IB programs.

AIS attracts global and local families who particularly seek out the school's renowned language programs—beginning in 3K and 4K with full immersion (French, German, Chinese, and Spanish), followed by dual and partial immersion in primary school. Expert instruction in secondary school supports all language levels, from beginners to those pursuing a bilingual or even trilingual IB diploma.

Innovation is core to an AIS education, where students pursue STEM/STEAM-endorsed IB diplomas. Extracurriculars include a space program, robotics, Model United Nations, internships, and international trips.

The school boasts 40 athletic teams in 12

different sports and has a unique tennis training partnership with the esteemed Mouratoglou Academy—based at the AIS Sandy Springs campus.

The AIS Buckhead campus is located at 2890 North Fulton Drive, Atlanta, GA 30305, while the Sandy Springs campus is at 1701 Brandon Hall Drive, Sandy Springs, GA 30350. For more information, call 404-841-3840, email admission@aischool.org, or visit aischool.org.

BEN FRANKLIN ACADEMY Serving grades 9-12, Ben Franklin Academy (BFA) is a nonprofit, private high school, accredited by both the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (Cognia/SACS) and by the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS). It provides its students with a challenging, individualized college preparatory education within a caring community of learners, while advancing the knowledge and methodology of adolescent education.

The school is small by design with enrollment around 125 each year and a student/teacher ratio of about 4:1.

BFA is committed to individualized instruction and mastery learning. Students have a faculty advisor who meets with them daily and helps them plan each week’s course work. It offers three levels of instruction: College Prep, Honors and Advanced Placement.

The school also offers six foreign languages: Spanish, German, French, Russian, Latin,

and American Sign Language. BFA also offers 26 Advanced Placement courses and 25 Honors classes.

After-school activities include Drama, Jazz/Rock Music Ensemble, Cross Country, Golf, Latin Dance and Ultimate.

BFA is located at both 1585 Clifton Road, Atlanta and 752 Houston Mill Road, Atlanta.

For more information, call 404-633-7404, email bfa@benfranklinacademy.org or visit benfranklinacademy.org.

SPECIAL PROMOTION

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32 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Summer/Fall 2025

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. 78.

2 3

REGIONS FOR INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS

metro atlanta area map

N

p.51

p.47

p.38

Ansley Athens,Collins Dacula,Hill, Decatur, Midtown, Athens,Park, Bethlehem, Decatur, Morningside, NortheastMonroe, Atlanta Morningside/ Druid Hills, Loganville, Ansley

REGION 3: Atlanta East

Alpharetta, Dunwoody, Johns Creek, Peachtree Corners, Roswell

REGION 2: Atlanta North/Northeast

Alpharetta, Buckhead, Chastain Park, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Woodstock

REGION 1: Atlanta North/Northwest

Page | Region | Neighborhoods Carrollton, Eagles Landing, Fayetteville, Locust Grove, Sharpsburg/Peachtree City

EGION 4: Atlanta South/ R Southeast/Southwest

Brookstone, Buckhead, Kennesaw, Powder Springs, Smyrna/Vinings

p.63 REGION 5: Atlanta West

p.59

4

p.88

p.78

p.67

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

Educational Resources

Public School County Guide

Florida, Georgia, Maine, Maryland, North Carolina, Southern Illinois, 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.

B

•

•

•

211 1,345

17

10

20

1:1

•

•

•

36

300

20

•

•

•

125

990

•

•

•

95

•

•

•

49

•

•

•

•

•

278 1,232 16-18

C

•

•

167 1,150

12

JC

•

•

150

740

10

62

250

10 18

770-475-5762

43

Atlanta International School

404-841-3840

40

Brightmont Academy

470-381-2269

46

Cherokee Christian Schools

678-494-5464

2

Fulton Science Academy Private School

678-366-2555

43

The Galloway School

404-252-8389

44

High Meadows School

770-993-2940

100 Holy Spirit Preparatory School

678-761-7992

39

Mill Springs Academy

770-360-1336

45

The Mount Vernon School

404-252-3448

42

Pace Academy

404-262-1345

44

Saint Francis School

770-641-8257

42

The Schenck School

404-252-2591

41

Springmont School

404-252-3910

5

The Walker School

770-427-2689

47 50

$17,000- PK2$34,400 12th $35,580K-12th $40,970 $16,550K-12th $27,000

• •

•

$46,200 K-6th $13,820- 18mo$31,050 8th $19,260- PK3$31,820 12th

•

Jan Rolling

•

Appt. Rolling

•

Appt. Rolling

•

•

Nov. Rolling

20

•

•

Dec. Feb. 15

750

8:1

•

Oct.

350

16

•

Appt. Feb. 6

47

320

14

31

198

10

•

•

•

24

260

•

•

•

181

985 15:1

75

400

C

•

RC

• •

•

Call

N/A Mar. 15

• Appt. Rolling •

•

Oct.

Call

•

• Oct. Feb. 1

•

• Sept. Rolling • Appt. Call Appt. Feb. 1

•

•

Oct.

Call

REGION 2: ATLANTA NORTH/NORTHEAST Atlanta Academy

Atlanta International School 43 Sandy Springs Johns Creek Montessori School 49 of Georgia 48

McGinnis Woods School

48

MJCCA Preschools

678-461-6102 404-841-3840 770-814-8001 770-664-7764 678-812-3800

49 Mount Pisgah Christian School

678-336-3400

50

Wesleyan School

770-448-7640

Woodward Academy

404-765-4000

3

$3,000- 2yrs$12,300 5th $30,6043K-12th $71,500 $24,500- 1st$29,370 12th $9,875PK-12th $16,475 $16,250PK-HS $20,250 $22,500- PK3$35,500 12th $8,350- 3yrs$25,490 8th $8,500- 6mo$26,000 12th $35,751K-12th $36,136

APPLICATION DEADLINE

13

Alpharetta Christian Academy

OPEN HOUSE BEGINS

RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION*

289

40

UNIFORM

AVG. CLASS SIZE

52

REGION 1: ATLANTA NORTH/NORTHWEST

AP/IB COURSES

# STUDENTS

•

38

SPECIAL NEEDS PROGRAMS

# TEACHERS

•

BEFORE/AFTER CARE

•

KINDERGARTEN

PHONE

PRESCHOOL

SCHOOL

GRADES/AGES

PAGE

ANNUAL TUITION

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

$14,500- 6wks$22,300 8th $33,5157-12th $71,500 $1,000- 3mo$1,695mo 6yrs $11,900- Infant$16,875 8th $5,530- 6wks$20,665 TK $14,150- Infant$26,350 12th $24,930K-12th $32,315 $24,200PK-12th $36,350

51

REGION 3: ATLANTA EAST

54

Arbor Montessori School

404-321-9304

52

Athens Academy

706-549-9225

55

Ben Franklin Academy

404-633-7404

53

Bethlehem Christian Academy

770-307-1574

34 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

$13,000- 18mo$23,750 8th $10,675K3-12th $23,675 $29,4759-12th $37,250 $5,000K3-12th $11,000

Summer/Fall 2025

•

•

•

16

• Appt. Rolling

ND

• Varies Varies 15 •

•

•

•

•

•

Appt. Rolling

5-9 50-80 12-20

•

•

70

400

15

• Appt. Rolling

575

•

130

15

J

•

•

177 1,005 Varies

C

•

• Appt. Rolling

•

•

175 1,198 13-20

C

•

•

•

•

• 415 2,726 14

•

• Ongoing Feb. 1

•

•

•

35

255

25

•

•

•

125

875

12

•

• Appt. Rolling

30

115

5

•

Appt. Rolling

•

•

•

• 170+ 1,000 20

•

Call Rolling

•

N/A Rolling

Oct. Jan. 21

Appt. Rolling

C

•

•

Nov.

Call

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

58

Heritage Preparatory School

404-815-7711

56

Loganville Christian Academy

770-554-9888

54

Oak Meadow Montessori School

770-963-8303

$9,115PK3$15,450 12th $8,750- 15mo$19,600 12yrs

40

200

8:1

Q

Oct. Rolling

•

•

•

130

760

16

JC

•

•

42

304

12

C

•

•

•

57

538 Varies

C

•

•

•

9

150

REGION 4: ATLANTA SOUTH/SOUTHEAST/SOUTHWEST 678-432-0191

61 Counterpane Montessori School

770-461-2304

Eagle's Landing Christian Academy Faith Academy and Faith Academy Online

770-466-7872, 877-316-6925

7

Landmark Christian School

770-306-0647

60

Oak Mountain Academy

770-834-6651

62

Strong Rock Christian School

678-833-1200

99

Terra School at Serenbe

770-463-0081

62

Trinity Christian School Sharpsburg

770-251-6770

3

Woodward Academy

404-765-4000

61 56

63 40

770-957-2927

Call

Oct. Rolling

•

Oct. Feb. 1

•

Oct. Rolling

•

•

•

•

•

8

60

•

•

•

120

800 16:1

•

•

•

133

890

16

•

•

•

35

220

14

•

•

•

72

946

11:1

•

•

33

230

14

•

•

•

•

•

• 415 2,726 14

610 12-18 C, ND

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

• Nov. Rolling

•

•

Feb. Rolling

• Appt. Rolling

20

Varies Varies Varies C, ND

150 1,569 20

Call

C

N/A Rolling

C

ND

Jan. Rolling

Jan. Rolling

Jan. Rolling

•

Dec. Rolling

•

•

• Appt. Call

•

•

• Ongoing Feb. 1

REGION 5: ATLANTA WEST Brightmont Academy

64 Chesterton Academy of Atlanta

470-381-2269

$24,500$29,370

1st12th

10

20

1:1

770-635-0856

$9,185

9-12th

9

30

15

CC

25

240

18

ND

39

137

5:1

C

25

225 12-15

C

•

8

66

C

•

• Nov. Feb. 1

•

• Ongoing Rolling

•

•

•

• Appt. Call

64

Dominion Christian School

770-420-2153

$11,2006-12th $12,400

17

GRACEPOINT School

678-709-6634

$29,950 1st-8th

66

Hearts Academy of Excellence

770-439-9235

65

Learning Days - Atlanta

678-742-8004

64

The Lovett School

404-262-3032

65

Mount Paran Christian School

770-578-0182

66

Whitefield Academy

678-305-3000

67

•

3-12th

$9,900- PK3$23,000 12th $5,900- PK3$15,900 12th $13,110PK-12th $18,094 $13,400- Infant$20,000 12th $3,440PK-12th $14,315 $24,200PK-12th $36,350

•

•

Appt.

Community Christian School

59

•

20

60

6wks12th PK3$18,000 12th $10,000PK-12th $16,000

APPLICATION DEADLINE

•

59

$9,949$13,727

OPEN HOUSE BEGINS

N/A Rolling

•

UNIFORM

Varies Varies Varies C,ND

•

AP/IB COURSES

678-635-3800

SPECIAL NEEDS PROGRAMS

George Walton Academy

3-12th

RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION*

57

Call

$17,900PK3-8th $28,500 $8,000- PK3$17,000 12th $11,500PK-12th $26,500

AVG. CLASS SIZE

404-373-8746

# STUDENTS

The Friends School of Atlanta

# TEACHERS

55

BEFORE/AFTER CARE

770-466-7872, 877-316-6925

KINDERGARTEN

PHONE

Faith Academy and Faith Academy Online

PRESCHOOL

SCHOOL

56

GRADES/AGES

PAGE

ANNUAL TUITION

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

$1,500PK-12th $3,500 $8,320- 6wks$15,340 12yrs $31,920K-12th $37,050 $8,360- PK3$24,950 12th $15,400PK-12th $32,500

• •

•

•

•

•

Appt. Rolling

• •

•

• Nov. Rolling • Appt. Call • Appt. Rolling •

10

•

• 230 1,640 18

•

•

•

125 1,315 12:1 C, ND

•

•

•

140

Oct. Rolling

•

950 16-20 C, ND

July

Call

Oct. Feb. 27

BOARDING SCHOOLS

73

Baylor School

423-267-5902

$32,6506-12th $66,000

118 1,100

15

71

Brehm Preparatory School

618-457-0371

$93,000 6-12th

10

4-5

30

•

Appt. 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.

Kents Hill School

225

10

77

The Linsly School

304-233-1436

•

74

442

10

69

Montverde Academy

407-469-2561

•

72

Oldfields School

410-472-4800

69

Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School

706-746-7720

71

Riverside Preparatory Academy

770-532-6251

73

Saint Mary’s School

919-424-4000

74

St. Andrew’s-Sewanee School

931-598-5651

76

St. Margaret's School

804-443-3357

70

Tallullah Falls School

706-754-0400

75

The Webb School

931-389-5788

36 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

$22,4005-12th $55,175 $13,532- PK3$58,815 PG $31,0008-12th $59,000 $11,900- PK3$65,000 12th $19,8006-12th $68,000

• •

• •

•

Summer/Fall 2025

•

Oct. Jan. 15

•

Oct. Rolling

•

•

104 1,408 17

•

•

15

•

30

5

85

680

12

40

205

6

35

300

14

E

30

210

14

E

22

80

12

E

•

53

505

14

•

63

420

13

$65,200 9-12th $24,5006-12th $60,400 $22,260- 8-12th, $62,000 PG $13,9004-12th $58,000 $25,9006-12th $54,900

•

P

APPLICATION DEADLINE

RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION*

E

36

OPEN HOUSE BEGINS

AVG. CLASS SIZE

11

9-12th, PG

UNIFORM

# STUDENTS

450

$71,900

AP/IB COURSES

# TEACHERS

100

207-685-4914

BEFORE/AFTER CARE

$74,900 9-12th

72

KINDERGARTEN

703-933-3000

PRESCHOOL

PHONE

Episcopal High School

GRADES/AGES

SCHOOL

76

ANNUAL TUITION

PAGE

SPECIAL NEEDS PROGRAMS

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

Appt. Rolling Oct. Rolling Sept. Rolling

•

•

Oct.

•

•

Nov. Rolling

•

Feb. 1

Nov. 10 Call Oct. 1 Feb. 1

• •

•

•

Oct. Rolling

•

•

Appt. Feb. 1

•

•

Dec. Rolling

ATLANTA NORTH • NORTHWEST

46

1 GION RE

39 40 40

2

44 44 5

45 41 43 42 42 43

100

Independent Schools Schools Page Alpharetta Christian Academy 40 Atlanta International School 43 Brightmont Academy 40 Cherokee Christian Schools 46 Fulton Science Academy 2 The Galloway School 43 High Meadows School 44

Holy Spirit Preparatory School 100 Mill Springs Academy 39 Mount Vernon School 45 Pace Academy 42 Saint Francis School 44 The Schenck School 42 Springmont School 41 The Walker School 5

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

38 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Summer/Fall 2025

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

ALPHARETTA

ALPHARETTA 40 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Summer/Fall 2025

BUCKHEAD

BUCKHEAD 42 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Summer/Fall 2025

BUCKHEAD • CHASTAIN PARK atlantaschoolguide.com

43

ROSWELL 44 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Summer/Fall 2025

SANDY SPRINGS

WOODSTOCK

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Advertise in Atlanta School Guide and get results.

Call to reserve your space in our next issue!

770-873-9390

46 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Summer/Fall 2025

ATLANTA NORTH • NORTHEAST

48

50

49

49 3

43 48

50

2 GION RE

Independent Schools Schools Page Atlanta Academy 50 Atlanta International School 43 Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia 49 McGinnis Woods School 48

MJCCA Preschools Mount Pisgah Christian School Wesleyan School Woodward Academy

48 49 50 3

NEIGHBORHOODS OF NOTE Norcross Founded in the late 1800s as a resort town for wealthy Atlantans, Norcross is Gwinnett County’s second oldest city. Today, with over 18,000 residents, it is a quiet city filled with upscale yet charming residential and retail developments.

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

47

DUNWOODY • ALPHARETTA 48 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Summer/Fall 2025

JOHNS CREEK atlantaschoolguide.com

49

ROSWELL • PEACHTREE CORNERS 50 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Summer/Fall 2025

55 54 53

BARROW

52

ATHENS

56

54

WATKINSVILLE

57

55

56

58 55

Independent Schools Schools Page Arbor Montessori School 54 Athens Academy 52 Ben Franklin Academy 55 Bethlehem Christian Academy 53 Faith Academy and Faith Academy Online 56

The Friends School of Atlanta George Walton Academy Heritage Preparatory School Loganville Christian Academy Oak Meadow Montessori School

55 57 58 56 54

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

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

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ATLANTA EAST ATLANTA EAST

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ATHENS

BETHLEHEM

DECATUR • COLLINS HILL 54 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

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DECATUR • DRUID HILLS atlantaschoolguide.com

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LOGANVILLE 56 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

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MONROE

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MORNINGSIDE/ANSLEY

EAST POINT

3

DEKALB

Carrollton

60 99

56 7 61 60

61 62

62

Independent Schools Schools Page Community Christian School 60 Counterpane Montessori School 61 Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy 61 Faith Academy and Faith Academy Online 56 Landmark Christian School 7

Oak Mountain Academy 60 Strong Rock Christian School 62 Terra School at Serenbe 99 Trinity Christian School - Sharpsburg 62 Woodward Academy 3

NEIGHBORHOODS OF NOTE Newnan Established in 1828 and home to more than 46,000 residents, Newnan is one of the fastest-growing cities in Georgia. It has many new residential developments and boasts six historic districts on the national register filled with stately Southern homes.

College Park College Park is home to a small-town main street and the busiest airport in the world—Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. The city is attracting young professionals and families by combining the historic elements with new developments. atlantaschoolguide.com 59

ATLANTA SOUTH • SOUTHEAST • SOUTHWEST

4 GION RE

EAGLES LANDING • CARROLTON

GOT A Fabulous

FIELD TRIP? Let teachers and parents know how to find it!

Call today to advertise in our next issue.

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Atlantaʼs Leading Education Resource

EAGLES LANDING • FAYETTEVILLE

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SHARPSBURG/PEACHTREE CITY • LOCUST GROVE

BARTOW

ATLANTA WEST

5 GION RE

65

64

64 65 17

66 40

66 64

FULTON

Independent Schools Schools Page Brightmont Academy 40 Chesterton Academy of Atlanta 64 Dominion Christian School 64 GRACEPOINT School 17

Hearts Academy of Excellence Learning Days - Atlanta The Lovett School Mount Paran Christian School Whitefield Academy

66 65 64 65 66

NEIGHBORHOODS OF NOTE Kennesaw Home to the popular Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, the city of Kennesaw takes pride in its excellent recreation opportunities and parks, rich history and thriving downtown. Kennesaw State University is well known for academic programs in business, education, and nursing.

Smyrna With its unique charm, the city of Smyrna offers many fresh, trendy lifestyle options, and the Market Village plays host to numerous restaurants, bars and upscale shops. Known as the “Jonquil City,” because of the thousands of jonquils that flourish in gardens and along the streets in early spring. atlantaschoolguide.com

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KENNESAW • BROOKSTONE • BUCKHEAD 64 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

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KENNESAW atlantaschoolguide.com

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SMYRNA/VININGS • POWDER SPRINGS 66 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

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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 Baylor School 73 Brehm Preparatory School 71 Episcopal High School 76 Kents Hill School 72 The Linsly School 77 Montverde Academy 69 Oldfields School 72

Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School Riverside Prep Saint Mary's School St. Andrew’s-Sewanee School St. Margaret's School Tallullah Falls School The Webb School

69 71 73 74 76 70 75

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VIRGINIA • GEORGIA

TOP BOARDING SCHOOLS

TALLULAH FALLS SCHOOL Tucked away in Tallulah Falls, Georgia, Tallulah Falls School is bursting with opportunities for day and boarding students.

It has champion athletic programs, 21 college classes on campus, a 100% college acceptance rate, a culture that celebrates the arts, and numerous experiential learning and service opportunities. Its 500-acre campus, featuring 35 buildings, is a hidden

gem nestled in the pristine mountains of northeast Georgia.

Tallulah Falls School is an independent, coeducational boarding and day school serving students in grades four through 12, with boarding available for grades seven through 12. The school is a thriving international community comprising students from 31 different countries.

Tallulah Falls School prepares students to thrive in life by elevating character and intellect in a challenging and diverse college preparatory environment. Since 1909, TFS has established a culture where students serve others, demonstrate empathy, and build friendships that foster a strong sense of community.

Tallulah Falls School is located at 201 Campus Drive, Tallulah Falls, GA. For more information, call 706-754-0400, email admissions@tallulahfalls.org, or visit tallulahfalls.org.

EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL One can’t help but be captivated by the enthusiasm, curiosity, creativity and genuine warmth of the very talented group of adults and students from around the world who live and learn together in this 100% boarding community located in Alexandria, VA. Episcopal High School, serving students in grades 9–12, is uniquely positioned to prepare its students not just to excel in outstanding colleges and universities, but also to take their place as caring and gifted leaders on both local and global levels.

For more than 175 years, its students have thrived in the school’s rich array of academic offerings, embraced its commitment to personal honor, ethical leadership and spiritual growth, and been guided and inspired by the close and caring relationships they develop with the adults there. The school’s innovative approach to curriculum and programming— deeply rooted in the opportunities and global

68 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

connections of Washington, D.C.—sets it apart and offers its students an educational experience unlike any other.

Episcopal is located at 1200 North Quaker Lane, Alexandria, VA. 22302. For more information, call 703-933-4062 or visit episcopalhighschool.org.

SPECIAL PROMOTION

FLORIDA • GEORGIA atlantaschoolguide.com

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GEORGIA

GEORGIA • SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

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NORTH CAROLINA • TENNESSEE

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TENNESSEE

TENNESSEE

VIRGINIA 76 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

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WEST VIRGINIA atlantaschoolguide.com

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PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

SPOTLIGHT ON METRO ATLANTA’S SCHOOL SYSTEMS

A

variety of improvements and innovative programs in Georgia’s public school systems have resulted in many stellar elementary, middle and high schools across the metro area. Different school systems feature specialized programs and academic opportunities, such as magnet, charter, vocational or alternative schools, to suit their respective students, parents and communities. However, despite variations in programming and academic offerings, all public schools must offer instruction aligned with standards approved 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 78 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

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CHARTER SCHOOLS atlantaschoolguide.com

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CHARTER SCHOOLS

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Summer/Fall 2025

ADAIRSVILLE

BARTOW

WHITE

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

2024 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 502 (M) 526 5th: (ELA) 521 (M) 520 8th: (ELA) 514 (M) 535

Total # of Students: 14,019 Student Spending: $18,115

Top 3 Schools by Average 2024 SAT Score Adairsville High 1061 Cass High 1041 Woodland High 1032

What’s New: Three of the district’s high school students earned seats in the prestigious Georgia Governor’s Honors Program at Georgia Southern University, running June 15 to July 12. The finalists are Cass High juniors Charlotte Langhans, Emma Brown and Woodland High junior Maka Messier.

Number of Schools Elementary 23 Middle 7 High 6 Alternative 1 Centers 2 Career Academy 1 Virtual 1 Total # of Students: 42,031 Student Spending: $19,707

Board of Education 770-479-1871 cherokeek12.net

CLAYTON

CLAYTON

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

2024 Average SAT: 1044

2024 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 517 (M) 533 5th: (ELA) 536 (M) 533 8th: (ELA) 523 (M) 540 2024 Average SAT: 1083 Top 5 Schools by Average 2024 SAT Score Creekview High 1101 Sequoyah High 1098 Woodstock High 1092 Cherokee High 1078 River Ridge High 1075

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

BARTOW

What’s New: In March the district acknowledged educators at the 2025 Legacy Makers: CCSD Teachers of the Year Celebration, where Lisa Spence of Hasty Elementary School Fine Arts Academy was named the district’s Teacher of the Year.

Number of Schools Elementary 37 Primary 2 Middle 16 High 10 Alternative 1 Performing Arts Center 1 Adult Education 1 Charter 2 Magnet 5 Open Campus 1 Virtual 1 Total # of Students: 51,055 Student Spending: $18,497

2024 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 471 (M) 497 5th: (ELA) 492 (M) 485 8th: (ELA) 499 (M) 496 2024 Average SAT: 901 Top 5 Schools by Average 2024 SAT Score Elite Scholars Academy 1131 M. E. Stilwell School of the Arts 1015 Morrow High 935 Riverdale 917 Jonesboro High 909

What’s New: Chandaranita Phe of M.E. Stilwell School of the Arts was a gold medalist at the National Scholastic Art and Writing Awards. atlantaschoolguide.com

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PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

COBB

COBB

Number of Schools Elementary 65 Primary 1 Middle 26 High 16 Magnet High Schools 7 Charter 1 Learning Centers 1 Adult Education Center 1 Special Education Centers 2 Virtual Academies 1 Total # of Students: 105,738 Student Spending: $18,314

2024 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 520 (M) 530 5th: (ELA) 532 (M) 524 8th: (ELA) 531 (M) 537 2024 Average SAT: 1105 Top 5 Schools by Average 2024 SAT Score Walton High 1249 Alan C. Pope High 1194 Lassiter 1182 Wheeler High 1167 Kennesaw Mtn. High School 1143

Board of Education 770-426-3300 cobbk12.org

What’s New: Three Cobb high schools rank among Georgia’s top 20 high schools, according to U.S. News and World Report: Walton (ranked fourth), Lassiter (10th) and Pope (20th).

COWETA

Number of Schools Elementary 19 Middle 8 High 3 Charter & Career Academy 2 Alternative 2 Centre for Performing and Visual Arts 1 Special Education 1 Virtual 1

COWETA

Total # of Students: 23,064 Student Spending: $17,077

2024 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 519 (M) 530 5th: (ELA) 530 (M) 522 8th: (ELA) 521 (M) 520 2024 Average SAT: 1062 Top 3 Schools by Average 2024 SAT Score Northgate High 1090 East Coweta High 1058 Newnan High 1039

Board of Education 770-254-2800 cowetaschools.net

What’s New: Moreland Elementary School first-grade teacher Ashley Linch was chosen as the 2025 Coweta County Teacher of the Year in March at the annual Coweta Teacher of the Year ceremony.

DEKALB

Number of Schools Elementary 71 Middle 18 High 21 Charter 8 Magnet 12 Centers, Special Education and Alternative 4

DEKALB

Board of Education 678-676-1200 dekalbschoolsga.org

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Total # of Students: 91,752 Student Spending: $18,472

2024 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 488 (M) 506 5th: (ELA) 508 (M) 499 8th: (ELA) 506 (M) 503 2024 Average SAT: 994 Top 5 Schools by Average 2024 SAT Score Chamblee Charter High 1174 DeKalb School of the Arts 1138 Lakeside High 1132 DeKalb Early Coll. Acad. 1121 Dunwoody High 1108

What’s New: Cedar Grove Elementary won the School Engagement category (Elementary) at the Association for Positive Behavior Support Film Festival at the annual APBS conference in St. Louis. Tucker High won in the Instruction category (High School).

Summer/Fall 2025

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: 25,521 Student Spending: $16,880

2024 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 493 (M) 508 5th: (ELA) 510 (M) 502 8th: (ELA) 516 (M) 508 2024 Average SAT: 983 Top 5 Schools by Average 2024 SAT Score Alexander High 1045 Douglas County High 1004 Chapel Hill High 991 Lithia Springs High 938 New Manchester High 921

What’s New: Factory Shoals Middle School media specialist Katrina Barnett was named the 2025 Douglas County School System Library Media Specialist of the Year. She has been an educator for more than 20 years, the past seven as a library media specialist.

Number of Schools Elementary 14 Middle 5 High 5 Alternative 1 Open Campus 1 Virtual 1 Total # of Students: 19,800 Student Spending: $17,741

2024 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 539 (M) 545 5th: (ELA) 550 (M) 542 8th: (ELA) 552 (M) 561 2024 Average SAT: 1116 Top 5 Schools by Average 2024 SAT Score McIntosh High 1180 Starr’s Mill High 1170 Whitewater High 1098 Sandy Creek High 1050 Fayette County High 1010

Board of Education 770-460-3990 fcboe.org

What’s New: Fayette County students won a combined 17 medals in the 2025 Georgia Student Technology Competition at the Academy for Advanced Studies in McDonough.

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: 54,864 Student Spending: $16,224

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

2024 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 533 (M) 551 5th: (ELA) 546 (M) 557 8th: (ELA) 542 (M) 567 2024 Average SAT: 1174 Top 5 Schools by Average 2024 SAT Score Lambert High 1256 Alliance Academy 1245 South Forsyth High 1221 Denmark High 1180 West Forsyth 1125

What’s New: Forsyth County Schools was named one of America’s Best Large Employers by Forbes, a top national ranking that highlights organizations fostering exceptional workplace environments. The ranking is based on an independent survey of employees across the country. atlantaschoolguide.com

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PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

DOUGLAS

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

FULTON

ATLANTA

Number of Schools Elementary 57 Middle 19 High 20 Charter 7 Virtual Campus 1

2024 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 522 (M) 538 5th: (ELA) 538 (M) 529 8th: (ELA) 533 (M) 538

Total # of Students: 87,019 Student Spending: $20,281

Top 5 Schools by Average 2024 SAT Score Northview High 1286 Johns Creek High 1218 Chattahoochee High 1197 Alpharetta High 1185 Cambridge High 1165

FULTON

Board of Education 470-254-3600 fultonschools.org

GRIFFINSPALDING

Board of Education 770-229-3700 gscs.org

GWINNETT

GWINNETT

What’s New: Cambridge and Global Impact Academy high schools came in first and second places, respectively, at the district level at the Helen Ruffin Reading Bowl Competition, and advanced to the regional event.

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

2024 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 468 (M) 492 5th: (ELA) 493 (M) 490 8th: (ELA) 495 (M) 497

Total # of Students: 9,350 Student Spending: $17,164

Top 2 Schools by Average 2024 SAT Score Spalding High 983 Griffin High 886

84 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

2024 Average SAT: 937

What’s New: The Griffin-Spalding County district shined in the results for the College and Career Ready Performance Index (CCRPI), which is used by the Georgia Department of Education to measure preparation of students for college and careers. The data showed that the district improved in eight of the 13 components.

Number of Schools Elementary 81 Middle 29 High 23 Alternative 4 Charter 1 Open Campus 1 Virtual School 1 Special Education 2 Center 1 Career/Technical 4 Total # of Students: 182,518 Student Spending: $16,953

Board of Education 678-301-6000 gcpsk12.org

2024 Average SAT: 1063

2024 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 508 (M) 528 5th: (ELA) 526 (M) 523 8th: (ELA) 525 (M) 545 2024 Average SAT: 1016 Top 5 Schools by Average 2024 SAT Score Gwinnett School of Math, Science, and Technology 1370 North Gwinnett High 1150 Brookwood High 1100 Mill Creek High 1094 Paul Duke STEM High 1072

What’s New: Six Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS) students received the 2024-25 GCPS Caring Award, sponsored by the GCPS Office of Counseling, College and Career Services.

Summer/Fall 2025

HALL

Number of Schools Elementary 15 Middle 7 High 7 Magnet 12 Alternative 1 Career 2 Virtual 1 Total # of Students: 27,257 Student Spending: $18,303

2024 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 488 (M) 514 5th: (ELA) 501 (M) 502 8th: (ELA) 506 (M) 521 2024 Average SAT: 1049 Top 5 Schools by Average 2024 SAT Score North Hall High 1094 Flowery Branch High 1050 East Hall High 1048 Cherokee Bluff High 1037 Chestatee High 1029

Board of Education 770-534-1080 hallco.org

What’s New: Six Hall County students placed in the top three in their respective categories at the annual State of Georgia Technology Consortium competition held in Henry County.

HENRY

Number of Schools Elementary 29 Middle 12 High 11 Charter 0 Alternative 1 Career Academy 1 Virtual School 2

HENRY

Total # of Students: 43,012 Student Spending: $17,752

2024 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 486 (M) 504 5th: (ELA) 506 (M) 496 8th: (ELA) 508 (M) 501 2024 Average SAT: 984 Top 5 Schools by Average 2024 SAT Score Ola High 1051 Union Grove 1048 Woodland High 993 Dutchtown 981 Eagle’s Landing High 964

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

What’s New: Pleasant Grove Elementary School mental health and wellness facilitator Cleo Canty was named Henry County Schools’ 2024 Educational Support Person of the Year.

PAULDING

Number of Schools Elementary 19 Middle 10 High 5 Alternative 1 Career 1 Virtual 1

PAULDING BRASWELL

278

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

Total # of Students: 31,426 Student Spending: $17,237

2024 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 506 (M) 523 5th: (ELA) 519 (M) 507 8th: (ELA) 520 (M) 520 2024 Average SAT: 1020 Top 5 Schools by Average 2024 SAT Score North Paulding 1040 Paulding County High 1034 East Paulding High 997 Hiram High 997 South Paulding High 993

What’s New: State Superintendent Richard Woods has named all five Paulding district high schools to the list of Advanced Placement (AP) Honor Schools for 2025. The schools—East Paulding, Hiram, North Paulding, Paulding County and South Paulding—all received honors in multiple AP categories. atlantaschoolguide.com

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HALL

LE CK DA RO

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

ROCKDALE

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: 15,342 Student Spending: $17,574

2024 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 482 (M) 501 5th: (ELA) 505 (M) 491 8th: (ELA) 515 (M) 509 2024 Average SAT: 980 Top 3 Schools by Average 2024 SAT Score Rockdale High 1034 Heritage High 948 Salem High 904

What’s New: The graduation rate for Rockdale district students involved in Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) programs increased to an all-time high of 99.49% for 2024, continuing above the statewide rate, which rose to 98.24%.

Board of Education 404-802-3500 atlantapublicschools.us

Number of Schools Elementary 39 Intermediate 3 Middle 9 High 9 Charter 17 Alternative 2 Virtual 1 Total # of Students: 49,945 Student Spending: $29,194

2024 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 496 (M) 514 5th: (ELA) 510 (M) 501 8th: (ELA) 507 (M) 503 2024 Average SAT: 921 Top 5 Schools by Average 2024 SAT Score Atlanta Classical Academy 1181 Midtown 1166 Charles R. Drew Charter High 1001 North Atlanta High 995 KIPP Atlanta Collegiate Academy 909

What’s New: Atlanta Public Schools students are making progress and in some instances outpacing their peers in other large urban districts, according to the results of the 2024 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), also known as “the nation’s report card.”

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: 6,007 Student Spending: $23,815 2024 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 553 (M) 556 5th: (ELA) 550 (M) 551 8th: (ELA) 557 (M) 574 2024 Average SAT: 1141

What’s New: Buford City Schools Superintendent Melanie Reed announced she will retire at the end of the 2024-25 academic year.

Her departure will mark the end of an education career that lasted 33 years, 31 of which were with the Buford district.

86 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Summer/Fall 2025

3rd-5th Grade Academy 1 4th & 5th Grade Academy 1 High 1 Early Learning Center 1 Virtual 1

5th: (ELA) 565 (M) 560 8th: (ELA) 560 (M) 563

2024 Average SAT: 1169

What’s New: Starting in August, the district will start charging tuition for K-5 students who live outside its typical attendance zone. The tuition of $7,883 will only be charged to out-of-district students.

According to the district’s website, 63 seats in K-2 schools and 76 seats in grade 3-5 schools will be available in the 2025-26 academic year.

Total # of Students: of Education GAINESVILLE Board 770-536-5275 8,480 gcssk12.net Student Spending: CITY $18,421 Number of Schools Elementary 6 2024 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: SCHOOLS Middle High Non-Traditional

2 1 1

3rd: (ELA) 475 (M) 501 5th: (ELA) 487 (M) 491 8th: (ELA) 493 (M) 490

2024 Average SAT: 987 What’s New: Gainesville High School named Mercy Rico as its STAR Student and Chandra Karnati as its STAR Teacher. Both were honored for their academic success at the annual Student Teacher Achievement Recognition Banquet at First Baptist Church.

MARIETTA CITY SCHOOLS

Board of Education 770-422-3500 marietta-city.org Number of Schools Elementary 8 Sixth Grade 1 Middle 1 High 1 Alternative 1 Magnet 1 Early Learning 1

Total # of Students: 8,664 Student Spending: $22,433 2024 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 512 (M) 531 5th: (ELA) 520 (M) 522 8th: (ELA) 515 (M) 522 2024 Average SAT: 1063

What’s New: Marietta City Schools is one of three districts in Georgia chosen for the prestigious Georgia ACRE Collective’s Local Foods Incentive School Pilot Program. This program paves the way for the Marietta district to provide fresh, locally sourced food in school cafeterias. Now in its second year, the district’s program has received nearly $40,000 in funding, enhancing school meals while supporting minority farmers across the state. “This program is transformative,” said Cindy Culver, director of nutrition. atlantaschoolguide.com

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PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

Board of Education Total # of Students: CITY 404-371-3601 5,367 csdecatur.net Student Spending: SCHOOLS OF $20,710 Number of Schools Elementary 7 2024 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: DECATUR Middle 1 3rd: (ELA) 550 (M) 554

EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES

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

Index 88 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Tutoring 90 Tutoring & & Study Study Skills Skills 89 Summer 90 Summer Camps Camps & & Activities Activities 89 Field Field Trips Trips & & Education Education Programs Programs 91 91

Summer/Fall 2025

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FIELD TRIPS & EDUCATION TUTORING • SUMMER CAMPS &PROGRAMS ACTIVITIES

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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SUMMER CAMPS & ACTIVITIES

FIELDTRIPS TRIPS & EDUCATION PROGRAMS FIELD & EDUCATION PROGRAMS

FIELD TRIPS & EDUCATION PROGRAMS

FIELDTRIPS TRIPS & EDUCATION PROGRAMS FIELD & EDUCATION PROGRAMS

FIELD TRIPS & EDUCATION PROGRAMS

FIELDTRIPS TRIPS & EDUCATION PROGRAMS FIELD & EDUCATION PROGRAMS

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FIELD TRIPS & EDUCATION PROGRAMS

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

96 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Summer/Fall 2025

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

ADVERTISER INDEX Boarding Schools

Baylor School......................................................73 Brehm Preparatory School.................................71 Episcopal High School.......................................76 Kents Hill School.................................................72 The Linsly School................................................77 Montverde Academy..........................................69 Oldfields School.................................................72 Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School.........................69 Riverside Prep.....................................................71 Saint Mary’s School.............................................73 St. Andrew’s Sewanee School............................74 St. Margaret’s School..........................................76 Tallulah Falls School...........................................70 The Webb School...............................................75

Heritage Preparatory School.............................58 Holy Spirit Preparatory School................IBC, 100 Landmark Christian School..................................7 Loganville Christian Academy...........................56 The Lovett School...............................................64 MJCCA Preschools.............................................48 Mount Paran Christian School...........................65 Mount Pisgah Christian School.........................49 The Mount Vernon School.................................45 Saint Francis School.....................................11, 44 Strong Rock Christian School............................62 Trinity Christian School - Sharpsburg................62 Wesleyan School.................................................50 Whitefield Academy...........................................66

Children’s Resources

Field Trips & Education Programs

ArtsBridge Foundation.......................................96 Atlanta Ballet Centre for Dance Education......91 Atlanta History Center........................................92 Children’s Museum of Atlanta...........................96 Christy Haffner Pediatric Dentistry....................13 In-Home Tutors of Atlanta ................................89 Michael C. Carlos Museum................................96 Museum of Illusions............................................95 Zoo Atlanta..........................................................90

Early Education

Athens Academy.................................................52 Atlanta Academy................................................50 Atlanta International School..............................43 Cherokee Christian Schools...............................46 Counterpane Montessori School......................61 The Friends School of Atlanta...........................55 Fulton Science Academy............................. IFC, 2 Heritage Preparatory School.............................58 High Meadows School.......................................44 Holy Spirit Preparatory School................IBC, 100 Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia....49 Learning Days - Atlanta......................................65 McGinnis Woods School....................................48 Mount Pisgah Christian School.........................49 Pace Academy....................................................42 Saint Francis School.....................................11, 44 Springmont School.............................................41 The Walker School................................................5

Faith-Based Education

Alpharetta Christian Academy..........................40 Bethlehem Christian Academy..........................53 Cherokee Christian Schools...............................46 Chesterton Academy of Atlanta........................64 Community Christian School.............................60 Dominion Christian School................................64 Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy..................61 Faith Academy....................................................56 GRACEPOINT School........................................17 Hearts Academy of Excellence..........................66

ArtsBridge Foundation.......................................96 Atlanta Ballet Centre for Dance Education......91 Atlanta History Center........................................92 Atlanta Symphony Orchestra.............................95 Children’s Museum of Atlanta...........................96 The Fox Theatre..................................................93 Michael C. Carlos Museum................................96 Museum of Illusions............................................95 National Center for Civil and Human Rights....94 National Infantry Museum Foundation.............96 Zoo Atlanta..........................................................90

Independent Schools

Alpharetta Christian Academy..........................40 Arbor Montessori School...................................54 Athens Academy.................................................52 Atlanta Academy................................................50 Atlanta International School..............................43 Baylor School......................................................73 Ben Franklin Academy.......................................55 Bethlehem Christian Academy..........................53 Brightmont Academy.........................................40 Cherokee Christian Schools...............................46 Chesterton Academy of Atlanta........................64 Community Christian School.............................60 Counterpane Montessori School......................61 Dominion Christian School................................64 Eagle’s Landing Christian School......................61 Faith Academy....................................................56 The Friends School of Atlanta...........................55 Fulton Science Academy............................. IFC, 2 The Galloway School..........................................43 George Walton Academy..................................57 GRACEPOINT School........................................17 Hearts Academy of Excellence..........................66 Heritage Preparatory School.............................58 High Meadows School.......................................44 Holy Spirit Preparatory School.................BC, 100 Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia....49 Landmark Christian School..................................7 Learning Days - Atlanta......................................65 Continued on Next Page u atlantaschoolguide.com

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ADVERTISER INDEX (Continued from Previous Page)

Montessori Schools

Loganville Christian Academy...........................56 The Lovett School...............................................64 McGinnis Woods School....................................48 Mill Springs Academy........................................39 MJCCA Preschools ...........................................48 Mount Paran Christian School ..........................65 Mount Pisgah Christian School ........................49 The Mount Vernon School.................................45 Oak Meadow Montessori School .....................54 Oak Mountain Academy ...................................60 Pace Academy ...................................................42 Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School.........................69 Riverside Prep ....................................................71 Saint Francis School ....................................11, 44 The Schenck School ..........................................42 Springmont School ...........................................41 Strong Rock Christian School ...........................62 Tallulah Falls School ..........................................70 Terra School at Serenbe.............................IBC, 99 Trinity Christian School - Sharpsburg................62 The Walker School................................................5 Wesleyan School.................................................50 Whitefield Academy...........................................66 Woodward Academy............................................3

Counterpane Montessori School......................61 Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia....49 Oak Meadow Montessori School......................54 Springmont School.............................................41

Public & Charter Schools

The Anchor School.............................................80 Brookhaven Innovation Academy.....................79 Centennial Academy..........................................79 International Charter School of Atlanta............79 Ivy Prep Academy...............................................80

Special Needs & Learning Difficulties

GRACEPOINT School........................................17 Mill Springs Academy........................................39 The Schenck School...........................................42

Summer Camps & Activities

ArtsBridge Foundation.......................................96 Children’s Museum of Atlanta...........................96 Saint Francis Summer Camp.............................89 Zoo Atlanta..........................................................90

Tutoring & Study Skills

In-Home Tutors of Atlanta.................................89

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98 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Summer/Fall 2025