Atlanta School Guide | Summer/Fall 2014

Atlanta’s Leading Education Resource Summer/Fall 2014

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How to Pay for Private School and College

Fie Trip ld Fam s & il Fun y p.99

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Extracurricular Activities That Develop Your Child’s Skills

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Resources for Special Needs Students

The Parent-Teacher

ConneCtion Tips for Working With Your Child’s School

Covering:

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

Contents

summer/fall 2014

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Features

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In Every Issue

The Parent-Teacher Connection How to establish a strong partnership with your child’s school and stay involved in his or her education.

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The Extracurricular Advantage Learn how after-school activities help your child develop leadership abilities, enhance social skills, and more.

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6 How to Use This Guide 8 Critical Communication 16 Headmaster’s Corner

Dr. F. Stuart Gulley of Woodward Academy

18 Special Needs Resources 38 Independent School Guide Boarding School Directory 76

Scholarships and Grants

83 Public Schools by County

Explore financial aid options to help pay for your child’s K-12 and college education.

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

105 Advertiser Index 4

Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2014

How To

Use This Guide Find an Independent School in

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1 2 3 4 6

Easy Steps!

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

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

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

Advertiser Index To find a school or resource by name, turn to the advertiser index on page 105 to find the appropriate page number.

Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2014

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

Publisher/President Patrick Killam Editor Kevin Forest Moreau Marketing & Promotions Jeff Thompson Administrative Assistant Rebekah Finkel Account Director Lacey James Contributing Writers H.M. Cauley, Laura Raines

TO ADVERTISE CALL

770-992-0273 Space closing for Winter/Spring 2015 issue: October 17, 2014 Atlanta School Guide, Summer/Fall 2014, Volume 9, 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. © 2014 Killam Publishing, Inc. For additional copies, further information or advertising, please contact:

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

IT DOESN’T TAKE A GENIUS TO KNOW THAT WHEN YOU PLAY,

GEORGIA’S KIDS WIN.

It’s elementary, actually. See, every time you play the Lottery, you’re helping our kids get one step closer to their dreams. For over 20 years the Georgia Lottery has contributed more than $15 billion to education. On top of that, 1.6 million HOPE scholars have gone to college and 1.3 million four-year-olds have attended a Lottery-funded Pre-K Program. Add those numbers up and, well, let’s just say that’s a hair-raising number of happy kids.

galottery.com

Critical Communication

Important Dates Dates subject to change. Please check with your local school district for updates.

JULYAUG

sepoct

Nov

OctMAR OctDec 8

Public Schools First Day of School July 28 Rockdale Atlanta, Cherokee, Cobb, Decatur, Griffin-Spalding, Aug. 4 Henry, Paulding Aug. 5 Gwinnett Aug. 6 Bartow, Coweta, Douglas, Marietta Aug. 7 Buford, Clayton, Fayette, Forsyth, Gainesville Aug. 8 Hall Aug. 11 DeKalb, Fulton FALL BREAK Sept.15-19 Cherokee, Cobb,

Decatur, Paulding Oct. 6-10 Henry, Rockdale Oct. 9-10 Clayton Oct. 9-13 Atlanta Oct. 10-13 Buford, Douglas

Oct. 13 Coweta, DeKalb, Gainesville,

Gwinnett, Hall Oct. 13-14 Bartow, Fayette, Fulton Oct. 13-17 Griffin-Spalding Oct. 17 Forsyth

THANKSGIVING BREAK Nov. 24-28 Atlanta, Bartow, Buford, Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, Coweta, Decatur, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth,

Fulton, Gainesville, Griffin-Spalding, Gwinnett, Hall, Henry, Marietta, Paulding, Rockdale

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

Testing DateS

SAT Dates apply to both public Oct. 11-12, Nov. 8-9 and independent schools. For and Dec. 6-7 registration deadlines, visit the appropriate websites. www.collegeboard.org

Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2014

SSAT Oct. 18, Nov. 15 and Dec. 13 www.ssat.org

Critical Communication

Trends and Happenings in Georgia Education What You Need to Know to Stay Up to Date With Atlanta and Georgia Education APS Names New Superintendent Meria Carstarphen, superintendent of the Austin Independent School District in Texas, was named the new head of Atlanta Public Schools in late March after a year-long search.

Carstarphen will replace Erroll Davis, who took the post in July of 2011.

Landmark Christian Student Honored Kathryn Foreman, a crosscountry state champion and sophomore at Landmark Christian School, was recently honored with the Inspiration Award by USA Today High School Sports and the Army National Guard for her community volunteer work. The award is given to 15 high school student-athletes across the country who work to serve their communities.

Changes Coming to SAT The College Board has announced changes to the 10

SAT college admissions test to take effect beginning in the spring of 2016.

The test will return to a 1,600-point scale (down from the current 2,400) and make the essay portion optional. The test will also be administered both in print and online, among other changes.

Fayette Public Schools to Launch Digital Media Program Fayette County Public Schools is developing a pilot program that will create a “career pathway” for students interested in digital media and animation.

The program is designed to help students gain employment in the area’s booming film production industry, or get into college programs.

The Heritage School Names New Upper School Head Lory Pendergrast has been named the new head of

Atlanta School Guide Summer/Fall 2014

the Upper School at The Heritage School, a K-12 independent school in Newnan. Pendergrast has been with The Heritage School for 15 years and has served as a teacher in the Lower, Middle and Upper Schools.

More Georgia Students Passing AP Exams The number of Georgia high school seniors scoring a 3 or higher—a passing grade—on Advanced Placement exams has increased over last year, according to the Georgia Department of Education. In addition, Georgia’s percentage of Class of 2013 seniors scoring a 3 or higher (21.3%) exceeds the national average of 20.1%.

Classical Academy Receives 1,300 Applicants A lottery was held in February to select approximately 450 students in grades K-8 to attend

the new Atlanta Classical Academy, a tuition-free charter school scheduled to open in August. The students were chosen from among 1,341 applicants. The school plans to add about 50 students each year, eventually expanding to around 700 students in grades K-12.

Woodward Academy Named a Top Workplace Woodward Academy has been named one of Atlanta’s top workplaces by the Atlanta JournalConstitution for the fourth consecutive year.

The school, the largest independent day school in the continental United States, was named the No. 2 workplace in the large category.

Georgia to Receive $16 Million Federal Grant The state of Georgia is slated to receive $16.4 million from the U.S. Department of Education.

The grant funds are to be used for school improvement. Georgia was one of six states, along with the District of Columbia, to be awarded school improvement funds to help lowperforming schools.

Atlanta Public Schools Ends Year-Round Calendar Atlanta Public Schools voted in January to eliminate the year-round school calendars that were used at Boyd Elementary and Hutchinson Elementary.

Those schools traditionally started their school years

earlier and ended them later than other public schools. They will now follow the same calendar as the rest of the system.

STAR Awards Honor Local Students and Teachers The Professional Association of Georgia Educators Foundation recently recognized academically successful students and the teachers who contributed to their accomplishments with its Student Teacher Achievement Recognition (STAR) awards. Students and teachers from Atlanta Girls’ School, Atlanta International School, Ben Franklin Academy, Brandon Hall School, The Galloway School, North Atlanta High School, Pace Academy, The Westminster Schools and Woodward Academy were among those honored.

Sylvan Learning Plans Atlanta Expansion Sylvan Learning, a leading provider of tutoring and supplemental education resources for grades K-12, has announced plans to increase its presence in metro Atlanta. The company, which currently operates eight centers in the metro area, plans to expand to 28 centers within five years. www.atlantaschoolguide.com

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Critical Communication

Education 101

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

Experiential Learning An educational approach using applied, hands-on methods of learning.

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

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

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

Special Needs A school or program for children who have mild-tomoderate learning differences.

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

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

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

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

Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) A measure of year-to-year student achievement on statewide assessments as required by the No Child Left Behind Act. Criterion-Referenced Competency Tests (CRCT) Tests designed to measure how well students in grades 1 through 8 acquire the skills and knowledge described in the Georgia Performance Standards.

Early Childhood Education Education that applies to children from birth to age 8, focusing specifically on their physical, emotional, cognitive and social development.

GEORGIA HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION TESTS (GHSGT) A test administered to all students in the 11th grade as a prerequisite for

graduating from high school. Students who entered high school after fall 2011 are not required to take the GHSGT.

equal opportunity to obtain a high-quality education and meet state academic standards of proficiency.

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

OPEN HOUSE An event held at a school, at which parents can learn more about the school and its offerings.

HOPE Scholarship (Helping Outstanding Pupils Educationally) A scholarship in Georgia, funded by the Georgia Lottery, that rewards academically achieving students with financial assistance to attend eligible public and private Georgia colleges and universities.

No Child Left Behind Act A federal law passed in 2001 designed to ensure that all children have a fair and

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 A college admissions test that measures critical thinking, writing and mathematical reasoning skills.

Secondary School Admissions Test (SSAT) An admissions test used by many independent schools for students in grades 3 through 11.

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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.

AdvancED www.advanc-ed.org The parent organization for the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, AdvancED advances education excellence through accreditation and school improvement.

The Association of Boarding Schools (TABS) www.boardingschools.com This organization of 300 boarding schools serves 14

Atlanta School Guide

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

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

Summer/Fall 2014

Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) www.montessori-ami.org Recognizes schools that strongly adhere to Montessori principles and practices.

Atlanta Area Association of Independent Schools (AAAIS) www.aaais.org Although not an accrediting agency, AAAIS is an affiliation of independent schools and operates under analogous principles and a common code of ethics.

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

Georgia Accrediting Commission (GAC) www.coe.uga.edu/gac GAC offers four levels of approval: preparation status, provisional accreditation, accreditation and accreditation with quality.

Georgia Association of Christian Schools (GACS) www.gacs.org Uses generally accepted indicators of quality, voluntary self-improvement and peer review to measure Christian schools.

Georgia Association of Private Schools for Exceptional Children (GAPSEC) www.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 School Boards Association (GSBA) www.gsba.com The GSBA provides leadership and services to Georgia’s 180 elected boards of education, developing processes and programs to help local school boards continuously improve and use data effectively.

Georgia Charter Schools Association (GCSA) www.gacharters.org A membership organization whose mission is to be an effective advocate and service provider for all charter public schools in Georgia.

National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) www.naeyc.org The NAEYC focuses on the quality of educational and developmental services for children, from birth to age 8, including day care and pre-K centers.

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

Georgia Professional Standards Commission (PSC) www.gapsc.com A state organization responsible for setting and applying high standards for the preparation, certification and licensing of Georgia public educators, as well as conduct of teachers and staff.

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

National Association of Private Special Education Centers (NAPSEC) www.napsec.org Represents private specialized education pro-

grams and their leaders by promoting high-quality programs and services for individuals with disabilities and their families.

National Christian School Association (NCSA) www.nationalchristian.org An organization that accredits member schools, overseen by a board of administrators from Christian schools and universities.

Southeastern Association of Boarding Schools (SABS) www.sabs.org An organization committed to promoting boarding education opportunities in the Southeastern United States.

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) www.sacs.org Member schools meet research-based standards and maintain continuous school improvement and quality assurance.

Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS) www.sais.org Members meet quality standards, receive peer evaluation and implement a school plan focused on strategic improvement.

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

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Headmaster’s Corner

F. Stuart Gulley

President, Woodward Academy

What is your educational philosophy?

William Butler Yeats is credited with saying, “Education is not the filling of a bucket, but the lighting of a fire.” I couldn’t agree more. We want students to develop empathy, to work collaboratively, and to learn across disciplines. We want to form critical thinkers and ethical problem solvers whose sense of character will make them servant-leaders for our future.

What do you love most about your job?

By far, I most enjoy working with the students. To see the growth in a young child or teenager is the greatest gift an educator can experience.

How can parents best contribute to the educational process?

By providing a loving, nurturing environment that offers clear expectations for behavior and academic success that permits—even encourages—a child to fail.

Students learn best when they fail, which becomes the foundation of future success.

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PHOTO: By Billy Howard

Dr. F. Stuart Gulley has been president of Woodward Academy since 2009. Woodward Academy is the largest independent college-preparatory day school in the continental United States, serving more than 2,700 students from pre-K through 12th grade on two campuses.

How is the field of education changing?

Finding ways to use technology meaningfully, so that it becomes a means and not an end, is a great challenge. There is also a greater emphasis on working in teams.

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

Love your child. Allow your child to fail.

Insist that your child own his or her failures and challenges, and not use them as a means to blame or fault the teacher or educational process.

The Essentials: Woodward Academy Emphasis: College-preparatory Year Founded: 1900 Grades: PreK-12 Students: 2,740 Avg. Class Size: 16 Tuition Range: $14,500 - $23,840

Accreditations or Affiliations: SAIS, SACS, NAIS, GISA, NACAC, SACAC, CEEB, ACCIS Location: Two campuses: College Park and Johns Creek Contact: 404-765-4001, www.woodward.edu

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 Disorder (ADD) 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 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.

him or her evaluated by a mental health professional. A diagnosis is crucial in order to address the child’s educational needs.

After a Diagnosis: What’s Next?

How to Tell if Your Child Has a Special If your child is diagnosed with a learnNeeds Situation ing disability and attends public school, First, it’s important to identify your child’s talk with the principal, school counselor issues. Students who exhibit average or or another administrator about developabove-average intelligence but often ing an Individualized Education Program seem distracted and don’t perform well (IEP). All public schools are required to in a traditional classroom create an IEP for students setting may be struggling with learning disabilities with dyslexia, Asperger’s who meet special educasyndrome, ADHD or some A professional tion requirements. An IEP other disorder that affects is a document that specievaluation is their ability to learn effecfies your child’s learning tively. Also, disruptive or crucial in order situation and educaaggressive children may tional needs and outlines to evaluate be exhibiting frustration a course of action for brought on by a learning teachers and other proyour child’s disability. fessionals to follow to educational If you suspect your child help make sure your child may have a learning dislearns to the best of his or needs. ability, it’s critical to have her ability. u www.atlantaschoolguide.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 the metro Atlanta area devoted to helping children with special needs and learning issues. Visit the Georgia Association of Private Schools for Exceptional Children’s website (www.gapsec.org) or our listings for special needs schools on page 106 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: • W ill your child fare better in a school that focuses on his or her specific learning disability, or would you rather that he be able to interact with students with a wide range of learning capabilities?

• D oes 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 issue, 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 20

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Continued on pg. 22 u

COMMON SPECIAL NEEDS TERMS Asperger’s Syndrome: A developmental disorder on the autism spectrum, characterized by high intelligence, impaired social skills and repetitive patterns of behavior and interest.

Individualized Educational Program (IEP): A written statement that outlines the needs of a public school student with learning disabilities and creates a customized plan for meeting those needs.

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD): A strain of ADHD (see below) marked by a difficulty maintaining focus or concentration and frequent or consistent fatigue. ADD differs from ADHD in that hyperactivity or impulse-control issues are markedly decreased.

Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (IDEA): The federal law that governs how states and public education agencies who accept funding under the law address the educational needs of students with disabilities.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A chronic condition that includes hyperactivity, impulsive behavior and a difficulty keeping one’s attention focused.

Learning Disability: A neurological condition that affects how one processes information. Learning disabilities can impede reading, writing, speech, math, reason, memory, attention, coordination, social skills and emotional maturity.

Autism: A developmental disorder that affects the ability to communicate and interact with others, accompanied by rigid, repetitive behavior patterns.

Dyslexia: A learning disability that impairs one’s ability to read.

Georgia Association of Private Schools for Exceptional Children (GAPSEC): An organization of independent schools serving students with learning disabilities and differences.

Georgia Special Needs Scholarship (GSNS): A school-choice scholarship program for special needs students being served by an IEP in Georgia public schools.

Multisensory Instruction: An educational approach involving the use of all of a child’s senses, not just sight and hearing, to help with understanding concepts and solving problems.

Response to Intervention (RTI): A process used by educators to help identify and address the needs of students experiencing behavioral or educational challenges.

Student Scholarship Organization (SSO): An organization authorized by the state of Georgia to receive funds and award scholarships under the Georgia Quality Education Expense Credit program.

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Critical Communication • D oes the school offer a variety of extracurricular activities, including arts and sports programs?

• I s the school accredited? If so, by which organizations?

• I s the staff certified to instruct special needs children, or those with your child’s specific learning difficulty?

• D oes 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. The program offers funds to off-

set tuition and fees at participating private schools authorized by the State Board of Education. According to the Georgia Department of Education, scholarship amounts range from $2,500 to $13,500, with an average amount of around $6,000.

The Quality Education Expense Credit program provides another scholarship option. Donations are made to an organization known as a Student Scholarship Organization (SSO), 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 106.

“An Exceptional School for Exceptional Students”

College prep and vocational academy designed for high functioning special needs students in grades 4 to 12 and post graduate

Summer Camp ProGrAMs

• SACS & GAC Accredited • Open Enrollment • Athletics, Drama, Chess • SB10 Approved

• Social Skills • Low Student-Teacher Ratio • Special Education Teachers • Private Tours Available by Appointment

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

www.cumberlandacademy.org

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ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE Summer/Fall 2013

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How to Stay Involved in Your Child’s Education

The Parent-Teacher

CONNECTION

BY H.M. CAULEY

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For many parents, the weeknight doesn’t end until the homework is over. Then it’s on to making sure everything is ready to go in the morning, from backpacks to sneakers. But being the involved parent of a school-aged child means more than just drilling vocabulary words and getting your kids to class on time. It requires a commitment to partnering with teachers and the school to make sure that everyone is on the same page.

Getting an Early Start Just about every school hosts regular parent-teacher conferences where parents can interact with those who are educating their children. But many schools also employ built-in systems for keeping the lines of communication open, starting before the student even sets foot in the classroom.

Teachers in the Cobb County School District reach out to parents during the system’s annual meet-and-greet sessions before the school year begins. “Teachers usually give out sheets with their contact information, including an e-mail address,” says Dr. Barbara Swinney, area assistant superintendent. “It’s also the time

when they discuss their expectations for the year and solicit volunteers to help out in the classroom.”

At Atlanta Girls’ School, a Buckhead independent school for girls in grades 6 through 12, “We start each school year with grade-level meetings, and each grade has a dean who also gets to know the students and families,” says Dean of Students Peggy Hasty.

Patsy Ward, lower school principal at The Children’s School in Midtown, says her staff starts off each school year by calling every family individually to discuss their expectations and goals.

“We encourage parents to share what their hopes and dreams are for the comwww.atlantaschoolguide.com

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ing year and to tell us what their vision is,” she says. “It’s also a good time to talk about a child’s special learning needs or style or strengths. The more insight a parent can provide, the better for us. And it’s important to know that well before the first parent-teacher conference.”

Keeping Parents Up to Date As the parent of an elementary-aged student, Cobb County’s Swinney sees firsthand how effectively the school system maintains a consistent and informative relationship with parents.

“First, school communication comes home every night, and I have to sign it,” she says. “Teachers write notes, and I can write notes back. On Friday, I get a folder of all the assignments, parents can always apand there’s usually a teacher proach teachers directly. newsletter in there, too.

We constantly work to help The teachers also create parents understand where videos and post them on their student is in her learnthe school’s website as reing and social developsources for parents to work ment.” with children. Teachers will The school has an exalso call up to remind about Volunteering tensive website where events and invite parents to is a great way homework assignments come to the school. It is and grades are posted, definitely well beyond just to establish so parents can monitor going to a parent-teacher conference.” relationships. progress. It’s also a tool for keeping everyone up Similarly, Hasty says that at Atlanta Girls’ School, the goal is to to date on activities and events for both make parents team players in their chil- parents and students. When parents get to know what’s going on and what dren’s success.

“We help our parents to be partners resources are available, it enhances the with us so we can provide the very best learning experience, Hasty says.

“Of course, online [communication] learning environment,” she says. “All students also have an advisor who is never replaces a relationship with a stuthe student’s advocate, and that person dent’s teacher, dean or advisor,” she is in contact with parents monthly. And notes. “But it’s another way to make par26

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ents partners with us so everything works so much more smoothly. It’s hard to think of situations we can’t overcome when we’re all on the same page. And if we’re all talking to each other, that also means that students can’t play one against the other.”

“I always say we can solve any problem as long as we can talk about it,” says Ward, whose school serves students from age 3 through sixth grade. “If a child comes home and reports something that happened, and it doesn’t seem right, I tell parents to call us right away. But I also discourage teachers from having lengthy conversations via email; it’s really hard to read someone’s tone. I tell teachers if they use email, it should be to set up a good time to call.”

Getting Involved Another way for parents to achieve a better understanding of what’s going on in

their child’s education is to volunteer at the school. It’s a great way to establish relationships with staff members and other school officials and get a better look at how the school operates, says Cobb County’s Swinney.

“When I was a principal, we had parents in the building all the time,” she says. “Being there gives them the chance to develop relationships not only with their own child’s teachers but with everyone. As children get older, it seems there are fewer opportunities to get involved, and you have to make more of an effort, but I feel the older they get, the more they need you there.”

The bottom line, says Ward, is that a strong relationship with a school or a particular teacher helps to establish a parent’s trust in their child’s education, which can be especially helpful if there’s bad news or a behavioral issue.

“If a teacher has difficult information to deliver, parents are more receptive if there’s already a trusting relationship,” she says. “They know the teachers have the child’s best interests at heart. There’s no question that the relationship between the school and families is essential to a child’s success.”

TIPS FOR BUILDING A GOOD WORKING RELATIONSHIP 1. Ask Questions: Ask for regular updates on your child’s academic, social and behavioral progress, and how you can help at home.

2. Follow Up: In addition to parent-teacher conferences, ask the teacher which method of communication works best for regular feedback: phone calls? Emails? Monthly visits?

3. Other Ways to Get Involved: Helping out an hour a week can provide valuable insight. But even just chaperoning a field trip or dropping by to donate supplies is a great way to establish a connection and show you’re involved.

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EXTRACURRICULAR

Activities

After-School Programs That Give Your Child an Edge

BY H.M. CAULEY

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F

or thousands of students across the metro Atlanta area, the school day doesn’t end with the final bell. In fact, that’s when the fun begins. Sports, drama club, the French conversation group—all of these and more get going once the traditional school day is over.

Extracurricular activities, which are offered in addition to a school’s regular curriculum and usually take place after school, serve to enhance classroom instruction by encouraging students’ interests and fostering teamwork and social skills.

While sports teams, intramural leagues and marching bands are often the most visible offerings, many schools provide an extensive range of activities and organizations, including the yearbook committee, Key Club and the National Honor Society, as well as competitive teams like chess,debate, math, robotics and glee clubs, designed to help students develop skills they might not otherwise learn.

Building New Skills “[Extracurricular] activities help students identify their strengths and allow them to take risks and challenges, either artistically, academically or athletically,” says Lory Pendergrast, upper school dean of student support at The Heritage School in Newnan. “That’s important, because when they get to college and beyond, they’ll have learned how to stretch, to take risks in an environment that may not be as safe as high school.”

As the marketing manager—and a parent—at Landmark Christian School, Paula Dobbs has seen firsthand the key role that programs outside the classroom play in a child’s development. She currently has one child on the volleyball team and involved in theater, while another is on the leadership council, in the praise band and on several sports teams.

About 865 students at the school’s two campuses in Fairburn and Peachtree City enjoy access to a wide range of activities.

“Our philosophy is to develop the mind, body and soul to make a wellwww.atlantaschoolguide.com

29

hanced. Clubs also enrounded student, and Extracurricular courage members to exwhatever your child’s perience and understand dream is, we’re able to activities how collaborative efforts help them develop it and are important in the decistill get a great educaprovide sion-making process and tion,” says Dobbs. students an give students opportuni“We have more than ties to find their niche.”

120 organizations, clubs, avenue for The DeKalb County theater groups, bands, School District offers a choral groups, competition growth outside range of academic, culteams, honor boards and a the classroom. tural and service clubs leadership academy,” she that expand students’ continues. “About 85 percent of our athletes are in the fine arts horizons and introduce them to new concepts. And the public school system’s programs, too.”

John Braswell, dean of students and sports programs do the same thing, says sponsor of clubs at Mount Paran Chris- Horace Dunson, the district’s executive tian School, agrees that extracurricular director for athletics. About 6,000 stuactivities provide students an avenue for dents take part in the system’s 17 varsity and five middle school sports programs, growth outside the classroom.

These programs “allow students to he says, and not just to build their physiexperience many other things that meet cal skills.

“There’s a very, very strong relationthe needs of the whole student,” he says.

“Socialization and communication skills, ship between kids who learn how to parlike sharing your opinion while consid- ticipate in sports and kids who learn time ering others’ opinions, are fine-tuned. management,” says Dunson. “Obviously, Leadership skills are discovered and en- we encourage kids to participate from a 30

ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Summer/Fall 2014

wellness standpoint so they can get physically fit. But participating in athletics can also develop skill sets such as team-building, which are very important, not only in college but in the workplace. And sports offer some great opportunities for leadership. Sports really aren’t about how good a kid is. It’s about having the opportunity to be part of something.”

Developing Future Leaders Athletics aren’t the only extracurricular offering that emphasize teamwork and leadership skills.

At The Heritage School, which serves more than 400 students from pre-K through high school, students partake in a variety of service organizations, athletic and intramural programs and student government organizations, along with activities centered around most academic subjects. These groups provide leadership roles that allow students to learn to speak in front of their peers, to serve

as ambassadors to people who visit the campus, and to learn skills that will serve them well when interviewing for college, jobs and internships.

“Leadership roles show that you are stretching yourself,” says Pendergrast.

“You’re independent, you’ve been given a role that peers recognize and respect. That’s important for college applications. Colleges aren’t looking so much for people who have done everything but for those who have shown a commitment beyond the classroom. That can come in many forms— as a mentor, as part of a youth group, as a camp counselor. It could be someone who is dedicated to service in their community, or someone who’s a fine artist.”

College admissions officers often look for these kinds of skills in addition to strong academic performance when reviewing applicants.

What’s more, involvement in such activities and organizations indicates an active and engaged student who is likely to continue to participate in groups and events in college, thus adding to the richness of the university experience.

“Students who are involved in extracurricular activities are likely to do the same in college,” says Stephanie Caine, a counselor at Mount Paran Christian School in Kennesaw. “Colleges believe they will contribute to a lower attrition rate at their institutions.”

“That extracurricular could make a difference,” says Pendergrast. “It’s something that sets you apart.” www.atlantaschoolguide.com

31

&

SCHOLARSHIPS GRANTS FINDING FINANCIAL AID FOR INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES

BY LAURA RAINES 32

ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Summer/Fall 2014

W

hether you’re investigating an independent school for your child or helping your teenager explore college options, one of your biggest challenges is likely figuring out how to pay for it.

With tuition steadily rising at colleges and independent K-12 schools across the country, more families need help paying for education. Fortunately, there are plenty of financial aid options, including scholarships and grants, that can help pay for your child’s college or K-12 education.

Scholarships for Independent Schools While there are many great public school systems in the metro Atlanta area, many parents may wish to explore whether an independent school is the best fit for their child. There are roughly 2,000 independent schools in Georgia, and many offer some kind of need-based or meritbased financial aid. But not all of these programs are created equal.

“The amount of financial aid funding for students differs tremendously” from school to school, says David Fincher, president of Greater Atlanta Christian School.

Metro Atlanta independent schools like Woodward Academy and The Lovett School begin accepting financial aid applications in November or December for the following school year, with deadlines in February or March.

One increasingly popular source of funding is the Qualified Education Expense Tax Credit program. Donors can receive a tax credit for every dollar they contribute to a student scholarship orga-

nization (SSO), which is authorized by the state to receive donations and disburse them in the form of scholarships to independent schools.

The program “has empowered more Georgia families to be able to choose private K-12 schools by removing some of the financial barriers,” says Lisa Kelly, president of the Georgia GOAL Scholarship Program. In six years, she says, her SSO has awarded $88 million in scholarships to 30,000 students.

Parents of special needs children may benefit from the Georgia Special Needs Scholarship (GSNS). Public school students on an Individualized Education Plan may be eligible to transfer to a betwww.atlantaschoolguide.com

33

“You can’t receive ter public or private institu“You can’t money if you don’t aption and offset some of the ply,” says Nancy T. Beane, costs with a scholarship receive college counselor for The that ranges from $2,500 to money if you Westminster Schools. $13,500.

“Be proactive and don’t Grants may also be don’t apply.” wait until the last minute. available through school Scholarship deadlines are alumni associations, founNANCY T. BEANE, often earlier than college dations, religious denomicollege counselor for admission deadlines, so nations and other groups.

The Westminster Schools get serious about your The schools themselves search in your junior year.” are the best source of Your first stop should be your high scholarship and grant information, says Mark Kantrowitz, a national expert on school’s guidance office, which has restudent financial aid and vice-president sources and specialized knowledge of loand publisher of Edvisors, a network of cal and national scholarships. Civic orgawebsites that offer educational resources nizations, churches and employers may for students and parents. Financial aid also offer scholarships or grants. Even can be very competitive, he says, so it’s small awards can add up.

“Contact the financial aid office of wise to apply early. each prospective college to ask about all of their needs-based and merit scholarFinancial Aid for College While many college scholarships are ships,” advises Jean P. Hague, an Atlanawarded to athletes and academic stars, ta-based independent college consulothers are based on a student’s geo- tant. “They don’t always publicize every graphic location, ethnic background, opportunity on their websites.”

The Georgia Student Finance Comreligious affiliation, musical talent and mission, a state agency that provides even community service.

34

ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Summer/Fall 2014

financial aid to Georgia students, hosts more than 1,500 information sessions at schools across the state each year, “to talk to parents and their high school and middle school students,” says president Tracy Ireland.

And then there’s Georgia’s HOPE Scholarship. HOPE, which is funded entirely by the Georgia Lottery for Education, has helped approximately 2 million academic achievers attend Georgia public colleges, paying out more than $7.2 billion in tuition, according to Ireland.

The HOPE Grant, a separate program from the HOPE Scholarship, helps pay for diploma and certificate programs at Georgia technical colleges. Another grant, the Georgia Tuition Equalization Grant, pays $350 per semester to qualified students enrolled in private Georgia colleges and universities.

While there is definitely money to be had for qualified applicants, Beane urges students to use caution. “Choose legitimate sites recommended by your counselor,” she says. “Beware of scams. Never pay for a scholarship match or give out personal financial information. There’s plenty of free information available.”

ONLINE RESOURCES FOR INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS: For more information on scholarships and a list of SSOs, visit the Georgia Department of Education at www.gadoe.org.

FOR COLLEGE: Fastweb www.fastweb.com FinAid www.finaid.org/scholarships HOPE Scholarship www.gacollege411.org Scholarships.com www.scholarships.com The College Board www.bigfuture.collegeboard.org

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35

36

ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Summer/Fall 2014

5

1

For features of independent schools, turn to Education At-a-Glance on pg. 38. For public school system information by county, turn to pg. 83.

2 3

REGIONS FOR INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS

metro atlanta area map

N

p.57

p.50

p.41

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

REGION 3: Atlanta East

Alpharetta, Brookhaven, Cumming, Duluth, Dunwoody, Johns Creek, Northeast Atlanta, North Fulton

REGION 2: Atlanta North/Northeast

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

REGION 1: Atlanta North/Northwest

Page | Region | Neighborhoods

p.70

p.64

Kennesaw, Lithia Springs, Marietta, Smyrna

REGION 5: Atlanta West

Atlanta South, Altanta Southeast, College Park, Eagle’s Landing, East Point, Fairburn, Locust Grove, South DeKalb

REGION 4: Atlanta South/ Southeast/Southwest

4

p.93

p.83

p.76

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

Educational Resources

Public School County Guide

Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, 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.

•

25

226

13

210 1,160 16

Application Deadline

6-12th

Open House Begins

5

Uniform

20

AP/iB COURSES

7

SPECIAL NEEDS PROGRAMs

•

Religious Affiliation*

Avg. Class Size

404-839-5910

43

Atlanta Girls’ School

404-845-0900

43

Atlanta International School Cross of Life Christian Montessori School Cumberland Academy of Georgia

48 22

404-841-3840 770-475-3812 404-835-9000

47

Eastside Christian School

770-971-2332

48

Eaton Academy

770-645-2673

47

Faith Lutheran School

770-973-8921

2

Fulton Science Academy Private School

678-366-2555

3

High Meadows School

770-993-2940

42

Mill Springs Academy

770-360-1336

46

Mt. Bethel Christian Academy

770-971-0245

44

Pace Academy

404-262-1345

44

Peachtree Presbyterian Preschool

404-842-5809

45

Porter Academy

770-594-1313

45

Shreiner Academy

770-953-1340

49

Springmont School

404-252-3910

$9,000$16,500 $20,600$21,100 $20,143$22,995 $4,225$7,855

3K-12th

•

•

•

15mo6y 4-12th $22,100 & Post $5,680K5-8th $8,228 $5,000K-12th $23,000 $4,875- 18mo$7,435 8th

•

•

•

4

• •

•

•

$9,800

PK-8th

•

•

PK-8th

•

•

$8,040$17,250 $21,611$22,966 $10,370$14,500 $21,000$24,200 $2,889$7,080 $18,959$19,784 $11,930$14,140 $8,590$18,990

28

14

16

92

8-10

58

360

12

30

150

5

•

21

223

15

•

35

262

18

•

55

395

18

•

63

346

9

•

•

50

549

18

•

•

165 1,080 15

•

74

• •

1-12th K-9th

•

PK-12th 18mo6y

•

380

14

•

Appt.

Call

•

•

Oct.

Feb. 4

•

Oct. Jan. 31

C

• ND

Call

Rolling

•

Appt.

Call

•

Oct. Rolling

•

Appt. Rolling

L

•

Nov. Rolling

•

Call

Rolling

Appt. Rolling

• •

ND

•

Sept. Rolling

•

Nov. Rolling

• P

Nov. Feb. 15

•

Oct.

•

Appt. Rolling

Call

PK-8th

•

•

•

21

70

12

2K-8th

•

•

•

25

200

12

Call

18mo14y

•

•

•

24

280

18

Appt. Rolling

•

5

80

16

•

35

185

6

150

18

Rolling

REGION 2: ATLANTA NORTH/NORTHEAST Atlanta North School of Seventh-day Adventists

53

770-316-9297

79

Brandon Hall School

770-394-8177

53

Duluth Adventist Christian School

770-476-8607

51

# Students

Alexsander Academy

54

1-12th

REGION 1: ATLANTA NORTH/NORTHWEST

42

50

Before/After Care

Phone

Preschool

School

# Teachers

41

Kindergarten

PAGE

Grades/AGES

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

ANNUAL TUITION

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS

Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia McGinnis Woods Country Day School

52

Montessori Kids Academy

770-814-8001 770-664-7764 678-208-0774

55

Mount Pisgah Christian School

678-336-3443

55

Northwoods Montessori School

770-457-7261

54

Perimeter School

678-405-2300

51

The Piedmont School of Atlanta

404-382-8200

38

Atlanta School Guide

$4,850$7,800 $29,750$57,500 $465$590 mo. $5,500$11,400 $7,950$10,900

PK4-8th

•

•

5th12th

K-8

15mo6y Infant8th 18mo$8,500 12y $12,900- 6wk$19,365 12th $7,555- 12mo$11,145 12y $5,282K-8th $8,550 $22,500K-6th $30,000

Summer/Fall 2014

•

•

•

8

•

•

•

9

40

11

•

•

•

58

475

15

•

•

•

25

135 17-20

•

•

•

225 1,042 18

•

•

•

•

8

160

25

•

•

52

545

14

•

•

8

24

8

• • SDA

•

•

ND

Appt. Rolling

•

Oct. Rolling

•

Aug.

•

Appt. Rolling

•

Appt. Rolling

•

July Rolling

•

Jan. Rolling Feb.

PCA

• •

•

Call

Call

Call Feb. 28 Oct. Rolling

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

$8,710- 18mo$17,450 14y $8,100K3-12th $16,450

•

•

•

29

300

28

•

•

•

123

956

18

$18,800 3y-6th

•

•

•

54

400

22

$16,150$18,600 $2,995$9,500 $3,900$8,125 $4,995$14,950 $8,850$9,650

PK4-8th

•

•

•

33

197

11

PK312th

•

•

18 71

57

REGION 3: ATLANTA EAST

59

Arbor Montessori School

404-321-9304

58

Athens Academy

706-549-9225

62

The Children’s School

404-873-6985

60

The Friends School of Atlanta

404-373-8746

60

Gerard Preparatory School

770-277-4722

59

Hebron Christian Academy

770-963-9250

58

Heritage Preparatory School

404-815-7711

•

K-12th PK4-8th

•

•

•

• •

234 12-15

C

•

935

19

C

24

156

11

C

16

C

•

30

367

K-8th

•

•

16

100 10-12

$9,870K-12th $14,670

•

•

75

632

61

Killian Hill Christian School

770-921-3224

Midtown International School

404-542-7003

$16,250

61

Providence Christian Academy

770-279-7200

64

REGION 4: ATLANTA SOUTH/SOUTHEAST/SOUTHWEST

67 69 66

The Bedford School Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy Greenforest-McCalep Christian Academic Center Landmark Christian School

770-774-8001 678-818-1072 404-486-6737 770-306-0647

66 Little Scholars Academy of Atlanta

404-761-9026

65

The Ron Clark Academy

678-651-2100

68

St. Stephen Christian Academy

404-305-0161

69

Strong Rock Christian School

678-833-1200

67

Woodward Academy

404-765-4001

70

$17,750

1-9th

$3,069K3-12th $11,028 $6,790- 6wk$8,400 12th $4,585K4-12th $14,475 12mo$4000 5y Sliding 5-8th Scale $7,000K-8th $10,000 $5,000- PK3$11,000 12th $14,500PK-12th $23,840

16

•

25

99 1,107 20

•

•

•

•

• 25-30 409

16

•

•

•

16

•

77

860

•

8

75

15

110

25

Call

Rolling

•

Oct. Rolling

•

Dec.

Call

•

•

Feb. Rolling

•

•

Jan. Rolling

•

Oct.

•

Feb. 6

Jan. Rolling Appt. Rolling

C

•

•

•

150 10-12

•

Appt. Rolling

Appt. Mar. 1 Q

K5-12th

• •

Nov. Rolling

63

68

• •

Application Deadline

ND

678-684-2030

Open House Begins

RC

15

Victory World Christian School

Uniform

17

120

56

$6,880- PK3$14,900 12th $6,275PK4-5th $6,392

AP/iB COURSES

805

15

770-888-4477

SPECIAL NEEDS PROGRAMs

# Teachers 105

•

Phone

Pinecrest Academy

Avg. Class Size

Before/After Care

•

•

School

52

# Students

Preschool

Kindergarten

•

•

PAGE

Grades/AGES

•

ANNUAL TUITION

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

Religious Affiliation*

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS

•

Oct. Rolling

•

Jan. Rolling

B

•

•

•

Appt. Rolling

B

•

•

•

Feb. Rolling

•

•

Oct. Feb. 13

•

Feb.

Mar.

•

Oct.

Nov. 1

•

•

10

•

•

12

50

10

C

•

•

•

•

69

762

15

ND

•

•

•

•

300 2,740 18

• Ongoing Rolling •

•

Appt. Rolling

•

•

Jan.

•

Appt. Rolling

•

•

Jan. Rolling

•

•

•

Nov. Rolling

•

•

•

Appt. Rolling

•

Call

Mar. 1

REGION 5: ATLANTA WEST

75

Center Academy

770-333-1616

73

Colonial Hills Christian School

770-941-6342

71

Mount Paran Christian School

770-578-0182

5

The SAE School

678-239-3202

72

St. Catherine of Siena Catholic School

770-419-8601

$5,0004-12th $14,680

•

6

51

17

ND

285

$6,200 K3-12th

•

•

•

30

15

B

$5,148- PK3$14,881 12th $8,000PK-9th $12,000 $7,150K-8th $7,650

•

•

•

100 1,190 18

ND

•

•

•

34

300

15

•

•

26

432

24

RC

•

Call

Education At-a-Glance Continued on Page 40 u

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

23

The Academy at SOAR

828-456-3435

$48,000 12-18yr

81

Asheville School

828-254-6345

$47,375 9-12th

•

$29,750$57,500 $31,500$33,000 $5,000$9,000 mo.

•

79

Brandon Hall School

770-394-8177

78

Florida Air Academy

321-723-3211

23

The King’s Daughter’s School

931-388-3810

82

Massanutten Academy

540-459-2167

81

Oneida Baptist Institute

5th12th 6-12th

•

7-30yr

CC

136

986

17

12

125 8-10

•

3

24

8

•

43

280

13

•

Jan. Feb. 13

•

Appt. Rolling

• •

Nov.

35

185

6

275

13

ND

5-8

C

Feb.

Appt. Rolling

•

26

Application Deadline

27

Open House Begins

•

490

Uniform

•

54

AP/iB COURSES

boarding schools

•

SPECIAL NEEDS PROGRAMs

76

•

Religious Affiliation*

678-290-8591

Avg. Class Size

678-581-6891

Westridge Christian Academy

•

# Students

The Walker School

73

•

# Teachers

74

$6,145K-8th $7,989 $8,8203y-12th $20,010 $6,0006-12th $10,000

Before/After Care

770-428-3328

Kindergarten

Phone

St. Joseph Catholic School

Preschool

School

75

Grades/AGES

PAGE

ANNUAL TUITION

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS

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

Nov.

Feb.

•

•

•

• Monthly Call

•

Oct. Rolling

•

Appt. Rolling

•

Appt. Rolling

10

100

$31,500 7-12th

25

110 8-10 C, ND

•

606-847-4111

$6,500

40

263

10

B

•

•

51

400

16

P

•

65

257 8-13

140

480

15

•

• Monthly Rolling

25

152

11

•

Appt. Rolling

42

412

15

6-12th

79

Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School

706-746-7467

$16,8105-12th $44,820

77

The Rectory School

860-928-1328

$50,350 PK-9th

80

Riverside Military Academy

770-538-2938

82

Salem Academy

336-721-2643

80

Tallulah Falls School

706-754-0400

$19,3257-12th $32,300 $20,9809-12th $42,980 $9,2006-12th $26,250

•

•

•

•

•

Appt.

Call

Appt.

Call

Nov. Rolling

•

Oct.

Call

Are You New to Atlanta or Relocating Soon?

Magazine Relocation, Lifestyle

& Living in Atlanta.

View the digital version online now!

Get your copy today! 770-992-0273 www.newcomeratlanta.com 40

Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2014

48 45

42 2 48

3

47 46 47 45

22 49

43 44 44 43

Independent Schools Schools Page Alexsander Academy 42 Atlanta Girls’ School 43 Atlanta International School 43 Cross of Life Christian Montessori School 48 Cumberland Academy of Georgia 22 Eastside Christian School 47 Eaton Academy 48 Faith Lutheran School 47

Fulton Science Academy Private School 2 High Meadows School 3 Mill Springs Academy 42 Mount Bethel Christian Academy 46 Pace Academy 44 Peachtree Presbyterian Preschool 44 Porter Academy 45 Shreiner Academy 45 Springmont School 49

NEIGHBORHOODS OF NOTE Marietta Beautiful parks, charming streets, 19th-century Victorian homes and historic sites make Marietta a desirable place to call home. Residents enjoy the vibrant downtown square, with its many restaurants, antique shops and happenings.

Woodstock Located in Cherokee County, Woodstock is, as locals say, “where modern amenities meet old Southern charm.” Historic Olde Towne pays a continual tribute to Woodstock’s pioneers through vintage shops and good old-fashioned Southern hospitality. www.atlantaschoolguide.com

41

ATLANTA NORTH • NORTHWEST

1

42

GION RE

alpharettA

Mill Springs Academy “I’ve always believed that if a student can’t learn the way we teach…we should teach the way a student can learn.”

TWEETIE L. MOORE, Founder

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

770.360.1336

www.millsprings.org/VisitUs OPEN HOUSE: Sept. 10, 2014 | Oct. 8, 2014 | Nov. 12, 2014 Jan. 21, 2015 | Feb. 11, 2015 | Mar. 18, 2015 | Apr. 15, 2015 | May 13, 2015

R.S.V.P. 770.360.1336

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Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2014

13660 New Providence Rd. Alpharetta, GA 30004-3413

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

buckhead www.atlantaschoolguide.com

43

buckhead 44

Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2014

Crabapple • east cobb www.atlantaschoolguide.com

45

marietta

marietta www.atlantaschoolguide.com

47

roswell

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

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

48

Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2014

w

sandy springs Wishing a genie will bring you success in 2014?

We’ve got a better way!

Advertise in Atlanta School Guide and get results!

Call today for more information or to reserve your space!

770.992.0273 www.atlantaschoolguide.com

49

ATLANTA NORTH • NORTHEAST

52 52 51

54

54

55

79 53

53 55

56

51

Independent Schools

Schools Page Atlanta North School of Seventh-day Adventists 53 Brandon Hall School 79 Duluth Adventist Christian School 53 Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia 54 McGinnis Woods Country Day School 51

2 GION RE

Montessori Kids Academy Mount Pisgah Christian School Northwoods Montessori School Perimeter School The Piedmont School of Atlanta Pinecrest Academy Victory World Christian School

52 55 55 54 51 52 56

NEIGHBORHOODS OF NOTE Alpharetta Offering exceptional shopping, entertainment and dining, Alpharetta also boasts many awardwinning parks and numerous housing options.The city is also home to a 12,000-seat outdoor concert venue, the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre.

50

ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

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Chamblee This DeKalb County suburb attracts diverse residents, thanks to its International Village, a 394-acre neighborhood that is home to people representing more than 30 countries.

Chamblee’s Antique Row is the South’s largest antiques area.

Inspiring students with the passion to excel

We strive to help children reach their highest potential, while developing a life-long love of learning in a warm and nurturing environment where students matter most.

• Private non-parochial Preschool, Elementary and Middle School • Challenging Hands On Academics • SACS, GAC and NAEYC accredited

u New Student Open House | October 15 from 9:30-10:30 a.m., November 12 from 9:30-10:30 a.m.

Learn More, visit www.McGinnisWoods.org 5380 Faircroft Drive, Alpharetta, GA 30005 • 770-664-7764

The PiedmonT School of ATlAnTA Serving children K-6 with autism

Integrating

Academics, Friendships & Life Skills The curriculum integrates academic, social-emotional, and life skills using: • Individualized goals and Georgia Standards • “Best practices” • Highly trained learning specialists • Community based instruction

Limited Space • Apply now for 2014-2015 School Year 1330 N. Druid Hills Rd. | Atlanta, GA 30319 • www.thepiedmontschoolofatlanta.org For information or a personalized tour, call: Catherine Trapani, Ph.D., 404-382-8200 www.atlantaschoolguide.com

51

alpharetta • brookhaven

Come See What Other Families Have Discovered

cumming

“Cultivating the Desire to learn” COME VISIT OUR ART STUDIO & SCIENCE LAB Call to schedule a tour, mention this ad and you will receive FREE REGISTRATION

Montessori certified and college educated teachers Traditional Montessori student focused curriculum SACS/CASI accredited Members of the American Montessori Society Low student to teacher ratios Spanish, Chinese, P.E., art, cooking, yoga, and music lessons included in tuition

NOw ENROLLING children ages 18 months through 6th grade!

open house

July 19, 2014 & August 2, 2014

Montessori Kids Academy

3034 Old Atlanta Road • Cumming, GA 30041 678-208-0774 • www.montessoricumming.com

Pinecrest Academy A PreK-12th grade, Catholic School

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

770-888-4477 | www.pinecrestacademy.org 955 Peachtree Parkway | Cumming, GA 30041 52

Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2014

Call for a Tour 770-888-4477

duluth • dunwoody

ATLANTA NORTH SCHOOL

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

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

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

ANS 1990

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

53

johns creek

Johns Creek Montessori sChool of GeorGia Excellence in Montessori Education

Multiage, vibrant learning communities Montessori certified teacher in every classroom School leadership team with advanced academic degrees Flexible academic program schedules • Scientifically designed, hands-on, multi-sensory learning materials • Uninterrupted blocks of work time that inspire organic learning • Extracurricular activities including art, music, ballet and sports offered in school

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

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

• Very small classes – broad engaging curriculum • Shared biblical faith and values • Building strong student and family community • Preservation of childhood experiences • Outdoor exploration and nature study • Extensive Sports and Arts participation

Call to schedule your tour today!

Contact Lori Azemar at 678-405-2307, lazemar@perimeter.org www.perimeterschool.org 54

Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2014

P.s.weAREdifferent.™

north fulton • northeast atlanta

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

Call for a tour 770-457-7261

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

3340 Chestnut Drive • Atlanta, GA 30340 www.atlantaschoolguide.com

55

northeast atlanta

Victory World Christian School is a multicultural community of learners committed to Christian discipleship, academic excellence & world transformation.

1 Pre-K (4) through 5th grade elementary program 1 High curriculum standards & creative learning environments 1 Interactive Technology in every classroom (whiteboards & laptops) 1 Rosetta Stone Spanish in all classes 1 Extracurricular Activities (ballet, jazz, chorus, drama, Tai-Kwon-do, piano)

5905 Brook Hollow Parkway, Norcross, Ga 30071

Phone: 678.684.2030 Fax: 678.684.2031 www.vwcs.org

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Atlanta School Guide

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59 60

ATHENS

58

61 62 59 58 62 63

MONROE

60

Independent Schools Schools Arbor Montessori School Athens Academy The Children’s School The Friends School of Atlanta Gerard Preparatory School

Page 59 58 63 60 60

Hebron Christian Academy Heritage Preparatory School Killian Hill Christian School Midtown International School Providence Christian Academy

59 58 62 62 61

NEIGHBORHOODS OF NOTE Decatur A great mix of history and modernity, Decatur is home to more than 200 shops, restaurants, galleries and performance venues located along tree-lined streets. Events take place throughout the year at the city’s historic downtown square.

Stone Mountain With a revitalized downtown and a variety of familyoriented activities, Stone Mountain has much to offer. The city’s four city parks, as well as Stone Mountain Park, make this one of the cleanest and “greenest” areas in Metro Atlanta. www.atlantaschoolguide.com

57

ATLANTA EAST

3 GION RE

athens • ansley park 58

Atlanta School Guide

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Dacula • decatur www.atlantaschoolguide.com

59

Lawrenceville • decatur

Gerard Preparatory School

1288 Braselton Hwy. Lawrenceville Established 1989

Instill Inspire Ignite

Fully Accredited

770.277.4722 • www.gerardprep.com Recommended on PrivateSchoolReview.com 60

Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2014

lilburn

midtown • lilburn

MidtowN i N t E r N At i o N A l school

ExcEptional Education for innovativE lEarnErs For gifted students grades K-7 who thrive in a problem-based learning environment.

Grades K-7 500 Amsterdam Ave NE | Atlanta, GA 30306 | 404-542-7003 www.midtowninternationalschool.com | admissions@midtowninternationalschool.com

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Atlanta School Guide

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midtown

ATLANTA SOUTH • SOUTHEAST • SOUTHWEST

4 GION RE

EAST POINT

68

65

67

69

DEKALB

66 66 68

67

69 66

Independent Schools Schools Page The Bedford School 68 Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy 67 Greenforest-McCalep Christian Academic Center 69 Landmark Christian School (2 locations) 66

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

66 65 68 69 67

NEIGHBORHOODS OF NOTE East Point The up-and-coming East Point area combines the charm of a small town with conveniences of a big city. Residents enjoy the city’s prime location near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, MARTA and Downtown Atlanta.

64

ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE Summer/Fall 2014

Fairburn Less than half an hour from Atlanta, Fairburn is filled with historic buildings and boasts a peaceful, smalltown atmosphere. The city is home to the annual Georgia Renaissance Festival and the local campus of Georgia Military College.

Altanta Southeast

college park • atlanta south

Constructing a Strong Foundation for the Future Welcome to a place where every child is an explorer. We provide a clean, safe, nurturing and intriguing environment for your child.

• • Preschool Curriculum ages 2-6 • Two Lottery Funded Georgia Pre-K Programs 2014-2015.

REGISTRATION HAS STARTED!

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

www.littlescholars-daycare.com 66

Atlanta School Guide

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college park • Eagle’s Landing

67

www.atlantaschoolguide.com

Fairburn • east point

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

Now Accepting applications for enrollment

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

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Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2014

Locust Grove • South DeKalb

GREENFOREST-McCALEP CHRISTIAN ACADEMIC CENTER

Kindergarten through 12th Grade Early Learning Center (ELC) 6 Weeks to 4 Years Old Empowering students to thrive intellectually, spiritually, emotionally, and physically in a loving Christian atmosphere College Entrance Exam Preparation (Middle/High School) Athletics, Fine Arts, Clubs and More 3250 Rainbow Drive • Decatur, Georgia 30034 Academy (404) 486-6737 • ELC (404) 486-6763 • www.greenforestacademy.org www.atlantaschoolguide.com

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BARTOW

ATLANTA WEST

5 GION RE

72 71

73 75 74

75

5

FULTON

73

Independent Schools Schools Center Academy Colonial Hills Christian School Mount Paran Christian School The SAE School

Page 75 73 71 5

St. Catherine of Siena Catholic School St. Joseph Catholic School The Walker School Westridge Christian Academy

72 75 74 73

NEIGHBORHOODS OF NOTE Acworth Just 35 miles northwest of Atlanta, Acworth is convenient to the city while offering its own unique smalltown appeal. Its historic downtown is a charming mixture of past and present.

Surrounded by Lake Acworth and Lake Allatoona, this thriving city is a popular destination for fishing, boating and many other recreational activities.

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ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

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

kennesaw

kennesaw

Kennesaw • Lithia Springs www.atlantaschoolguide.com

73

Marietta

Marietta • smyrna www.atlantaschoolguide.com

75

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 School Schools Page The Academy at SOAR 23 Asheville School 81 Brandon Hall School 79 Florida Air Academy 78 The King’s Daughter’s School 23 Massanutten Academy 82

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Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2014

Oneida Baptist Institute Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School The Rectory School Riverside Military Academy Salem Academy Tallulah Falls School

81 79 77 80 82 80

Connecticut Est. 1920

At The Rectory School, we celebrate the Individual and develop proficiencies in academics, the arts, athletics, and citizenship.

Familial Community with a Supportive Learning Environment Student:Teacher Ratio: 4:1 Average Class Size: 10 An Independent, Coed Junior Boarding (5–9) and Day School (K–9)

Now eNRollINg foR 2014-2015

THE RECTORY SCHOOL

Located in Beautiful Pomfret, CT on 138 Rural Acres www.rectoryschool.org | 860-928-1328

Florida

georgia www.atlantaschoolguide.com

79

georgia 80

Atlanta School Guide

Summer/Fall 2014

Is your teenager having...

• trouble in school?

• negative influences?

• conflicts at home?

• a need to start over?

Oneida Baptist Institute may be the answer.

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

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

www.atlantaschoolguide.com

81

kentucky • north Carolina

These are the faces of success

VIRGINIA • NORTH CAROLINA

www.militaryschool.com

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

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Atlanta School Guide

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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 the core curriculum as determined by the Georgia Board of Education.

Here is a county-by-county guide to Metro Atlanta’s public school systems. For more information about the Georgia Department of Education, call 404-656-2800 or visit www.gadoe.org. u www.atlantaschoolguide.com

83

Charter Schools

Charter Schools • public schools

85

www.atlantaschoolguide.com

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

bartow ADAIRSVILLE WHITE

BARTOW CARTERSVILLE EMERSON

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

Cherokee CHEROKEE

Number of Schools Elementary 12 Middle 4 High 3 1 Career Academy Total # of Students: 13,947 Spending per Student: $8,390

2013 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 850.42 (M) 846.52 5th: (R) 837.19 (M) 845.18 8th: (R) 841.01 (M) 823.34 2013 Average SAT: 1440 Top 3 Schools by Average 2013 SAT Score Cass High 1465 Woodland High 1459 Adairsville High 1387

What’s New Two Woodland High School teachers won honors from the Georgia Science Teachers Association in April. Brandie Freeman received a grant and funds to purchase equipment, and Heather Carter took home the Teachers of Promise Award.

Number of Schools Elementary 24 Middle 7 High 6 Alternative 1 1 Evening Virtual School 1 Centers 1 Total # of Students: 39,269 Spending per Student: $7,432

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

What’s New Board of Education Cherokee High School Principal Debra Murdock was recently 770-479-1871 named Georgia’s High School Principal of the Year. She is the www.cherokee.k12.ga.us first Cherokee County principal to receive the honor.

Clayton

CLAYTON

Number of Schools Elementary 34 Primary 2 Middle 15 High 9 Transition 1 2 Charter Special Education Centers 1 Magnet 1 1 Open Campus Total # of Students: 51,658 Spending per Student: $6,915

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

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Atlanta School Guide

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

What’s New Jonesboro High School earned its sixth state championship at the Georgia High School Mock Trial competition in Lawrenceville in March.

Summer/Fall 2014

COBB

Number of Schools 59 Elementary Primary 4 Intermediate 3 Middle 25 High 15 Magnet 6 5 Charter Special Education Centers 2 Virtual Academies 2 Total # of Students: 109,935 Spending per Student: $8,096

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

COWeta COWETA

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

Spending per Student: $7,730

dekalb

DEKALB

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

2013 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 850.00 (M) 844.45 5th: (R) 839.76 (M) 846.37 8th: (R) 846.43 (M) 838.88 2013 Average SAT: 1475 Top 3 Schools by Average 2013 SAT Score 1501 Northgate High Newnan High 1473 East Coweta High 1457

What’s New Thanks to a $60,000 donation from AT&T, East Coweta High School will host the school system’s first Communities in Schools coordinator beginning with the 2014-15 school year.

The position works to help at-risk students.

Number of Schools Elementary 71 Middle 18 High 19 Charter 12 4 Magnet Centers, Special Education 10 and Alternative Total # of Students: 98,555 Spending per Student: $8,154

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

2013 Average SAT: 1515

What’s New Cobb County third, fifth and seventh graders scored above the national average on the new Iowa Assessments, a set of tests that compare students’ performance to that of their peers across the country.

Total # of Students: 22,287

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

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

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

What’s New The DeKalb County School District recently launched an official app for smartphones and tablets, to keep parents informed about school notifications, news and more. www.atlantaschoolguide.com

87

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

Cobb

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

douglas

Number of Schools Elementary 20 Middle 8 High 5 2 Centers Total # of Students: 25,364

DOUGLAS

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

Fayette FAYETTE

Spending per Student: $8,136

Forsyth FORSYTH

2013 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 860.75 (M) 861.55 5th: (R) 849.95 (M) 865.82 8th: (R) 853.45 (M) 855.89

Total # of Students: 20,357

Top 5 Schools by Average 2013 SAT Score McIntosh High 1644 1622 Starr’s Mill High Whitewater High 1516 1459 Sandy Creek High Fayette County High 1454

Atlanta School Guide

2013 Average SAT: 1554

What’s New Fayette’s alternative education program was named an Exemplary Practices Pilot School by the National Alternative Education Association in March.

Number of Schools Elementary 20 Middle 9 High 5 Alternative 1 Charter 1 Virtual 1 Evening 1

Spending per Student: $7,157

88

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

Number of Schools Elementary 14 Middle 5 5 High Alternative 1 Open Campus 1

Total # of Students: 39,126

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

2013 Average SAT: 1338

What’s New Chapel Hill High School junior Justin Bell participated in the Disney Dreamers Academy, an education and mentoring program, at Walt Disney World Resort in early March. Steve Harvey and Magic Johnson were among Bell’s mentors.

Spending per Student: $8,450

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

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

2013 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 864.98 (M) 870.27 5th: (R) 853.76 (M) 875.42 8th: (R) 857.08 (M) 862.811 2013 Average SAT: 1580 Top 5 Schools by Average 2013 SAT Score South Forsyth High 1668 Lambert High 1618 1550 West Forsyth High North Forsyth High 1524 Forsyth Central 1509

What’s New Forsyth County Schools scored the top graduation rate among Georgia’s 20 largest school districts, with a 2013 graduation rate of 89.5%.

Summer/Fall 2014

Number of Schools Elementary 57 Middle 17 High 16 Charter 12 Alternative Schools 3 Virtual Campus 1 Total # of Students: 93,357 Spending per Student: $9,561

FULTON

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

GriffinSpalding

Gwinnett

GWINNETT

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

Number of Schools Elementary 11 4 Middle High 2 Alternative 2 Center 1

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

Total # of Students: 10,154

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

2013 Average SAT: 1331

What’s New Griffin High School and Spalding High School were both named 2014 Advanced Placement (AP) STEM schools by the Georgia Department of Education in February based on STEM test scores.

Number of Schools Elementary 77 26 Middle High 18 2 Alternative Charter 3 1 Open Campus 1 Virtual School Special Education 4 Total # of Students: 167,815 Spending per Student: $7,600

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

2013 Average SAT: 1567

What’s New Thirty-nine Fulton County students won first place awards at the 2014 Georgia Educational Technology Fair, held in Macon in March. Eighteen Fulton schools were represented by the first-place winners.

Spending per Student: $8,085

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

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

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

What’s New Gwinnett County Public Schools will launch dual language immersion programs with the 2014-15 school year. Annistown and Bethesda Elementary will offer Spanish, and Trip Elementary will offer a French program. www.atlantaschoolguide.com

89

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

FULTON

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

HALL HALL

Number of Schools Elementary Middle High Charter

12 6 5 11

Total # of Students: 27,351

Henry

HENRY

What’s New Spout Springs School of Enrichment Principal Steve McDaniel was named the Georgia Association for Gifted Children’s Leader of the Year in March.

Number of Schools Elementary Middle High Charter Alternative Career Academy Virtual School

28 11 10 1 1 1 1

Total # of Students: 40,336 Spending per Student: $7,874

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

Paulding PAULDING BRASWELL

278

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

90

Atlanta School Guide

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

Spending per Student: $7,626

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

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

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

What’s New Henry County’s newest school, Hampton High School, will open in August 2014. It will be the county’s 10th public high school. The principal is Todd Finn.

Number of Schools Elementary Middle High Alternative Total # of Students: 28,532 Spending per Student: $7,189

19 9 5 1

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

What’s New The Paulding County School District was recently granted AdvancED school system accreditation, due to its high standards of quality, continuing process of improvement and quality assurance program.

Summer/Fall 2014

LE RO CK DA

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

Atlanta Public Schools

Number of Schools Elementary 11 Middle 4 High 3 1 Alternative Charter 1 Magnet 1 Open Campus 1 Virtual School 1 Total # of Students: 15,649 Spending per Student: $8,749

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

What’s New Rockdale Career Academy and all three Rockdale County high schools—Heritage, Salem and Rockdale County High—were recently named 2014 Advanced Placement Honor Schools for the fourth consecutive year.

Board of Education 404-802-3500 www.atlanta.k12.ga.us Number of Schools Primary 5 Elementary 46 Intermediate 2 Middle 14 High 20 Charter 15 Alternative 6 Total # of Students: 48,831 Spending per Student: $13,070

2013 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 839.45 (M) 827.83 5th: (R) 831.67 (M) 834.43 8th: (R) 835.57 (M) 820.72 2013 Average SAT: 1335 Top 5 Schools by Average 2013 SAT Score Grady High 1515 North Atlanta High 1441 Carver Early College 1371 South Atlanta High School of Law and Social Justice 1327 Carver School of the Arts 1236

What’s New The Carver School of Technology was recently awarded a $20,000 grant from Google RISE (Roots In Science and Engineering) to implement Girls Achieving Excellence Through Technology, an after-school enrichment program.

Buford City Schools

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

1 1 1 1

Total # of Students: 3,861 Spending per Student: $9,023 2013 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 853.24 (M) 863.91 5th: (R) 838.46 (M) 850.08 8th: (R) 847.81 (M) 857.47

2013 Average SAT: 1495 What’s New Buford High School’s wrestling team won the 2013-14 Class AAA state championship in February. The school’s literary team also won the AAA state championship in March. www.atlantaschoolguide.com

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City Schools of Decatur

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

Total # of Students: 3,695 Spending per Student: $11,503 4 1 1 1 1

2013 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 875.38 (M) 874.22 5th: (R) 852.92 (M) 858.91 8th: (R) 854.77 (M) 844.86

2013 Average SAT: 1528 What’s New CSD schools received $17,372 in grants from the Decatur Education Foundation, including $1,500 to purchase eight robots for the Renfroe Middle School STEMCELL club for STEM students. .

Gainesville City Schools

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

Spending per Student: $7,679

5 1 1 1

2013 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 832.92 (M) 821.09 5th: (R) 828.72 (M) 842.17 8th: (R) 837.63 (M) 836.96 2013 Average SAT: 1364

Total # of Students: 7,748 What’s New Gainesville City Schools was recently presented with the Learning Supports for Students Leadership Award by the American Association of School Administrators for implementing a collaborative learning program.

Marietta City Schools

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

Total # of Students: 8,613 Spending per Student: $9,483 7 1 1 1 1 1

2013 Average CRCT Scores 3rd: (R) 846.24 (M) 849.10 5th: (R) 841.86 (M) 854.65 8th: (R) 840.12 (M) 822.91 2013 Average SAT: 1456

What’s New The Board of Education of the City of Marietta was recently named as a Quality School Board by the Georgia School Boards Association for best practices in school governance and leadership.

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EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES

EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES Ways to enhance your child’s or student’s learning

Index

Tutoring & Study Skills 94 Summer Camps & Activities 95 Field Trips & Outreach Programs 99 www.atlantaschoolguide.com

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Summer Camps & Activities

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Atlanta School Guide

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Field Trips & Outreach Programs

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www.atlantaschoolguide.com

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ADVERTISER INDEX Boarding Schools The Academy at SOAR......................................23 Asheville School..................................................81 Brandon Hall School...........................................79 Florida Air Academy...........................................78 The King’s Daughters’ School............................23 Massanutten Academy.......................................82 Oneida Baptist Institute.....................................81 Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School.........................79 The Rectory School............................................77 Riverside Military Academy ..............................80 Salem Academy..................................................82 Tallulah Falls School ..........................................80

Early Education Little Scholars Academy of Atlanta...................66 Medlock Bridge Montessori .............................35 Montessori at Brookstone..................................35 Montessori Unlimited.........................................35 Nesbit Ferry Montessori.....................................35 Peachtree Presbyterian Preschool ....................44 Preston Ridge Montessori..................................35 Sugarloaf Montessori.........................................35 The Suzuki School...............................................13

Field Trips & Outreach Programs Atlanta Cyclorama............................................104 Cobb Energy Center..........................................99 Coca Cola Space Science Center.....................99 CNN Studio Tour..............................................104 DeSoto Caverns Family Fun Park....................100 Georgia Aquarium............................................100 High Museum of Art.........................................104 Interactive Neighborhood for Kids (INK)........104 LEGOLAND Discovery Center Atlanta......... 101 Lookout Mountain Attractions.........................102 Pine Mountain Gold Museum.........................102 Sandy Springs Hospitality & Tourism..................9 Spivey Hall.........................................................103 Zoo Atlanta........................................................103

Independent Schools Alexsander Academy.........................................42 Arbor Montessori School...................................59 Athens Academy.................................................58 Atlanta Girls’ School...........................................43 Atlanta International School .............................43 Atlanta North School of Seventh-day Adventists....53

The Bedford School ..........................................68 Center Academy ................................................75 The Children’s School.........................................63 Colonial Hills Christian School..........................73 Cross of Life Christian Montessori School........48 Cumberland Academy of Georgia....................22 Duluth Adventist Christian School....................53 Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy..................67 Eastside Christian School ..................................47 Eaton Academy .................................................48 Faith Lutheran School .......................................47 The Friends School of Atlanta...........................60 Fulton Science Academy Private School......................... Inside Front Cover Gerard Preparatory School................................60 Greenforest-McCalep Christian Academic Center.......69 High Meadows School....................................... 3 Hebron Christian Academy ...............................59 Heritage Preparatory School.............................58 Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia....54 Killian Hill Christian School................................62 Landmark Christian School................................66 Little Scholars Academy of Atlanta...................66 McGinnis Woods Country Day School ............51 Medlock Bridge Montessori .............................35 Midtown International School...........................62 Mill Springs Academy .......................................42 Montessori at Brookstone..................................35 Montessori Kids Academy.................................52 Montessori Unlimited.........................................35 Mount Bethel Christian Academy.....................46 Mount Paran Christian School...........................71 Mount Pisgah Christian School.........................55 Nesbit Ferry Montessori.....................................35 Northwoods Montessori School........................55 Pace Academy....................................................44 Peachtree Presbyterian Preschool.....................44 Perimeter School................................................54 The Piedmont School of Atlanta.......................51 Pinecrest Academy.............................................52 Porter Academy..................................................45 Preston Ridge Montessori..................................35 Providence Christian Academy.........................61 The Ron Clark Academy.....................................65 The SAE School....................................................5 Shreiner Academy .............................................45 Springmont School.............................................49 St. Catherine of Siena Catholic www.atlantaschoolguide.com

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ADVERTISER INDEX (Continued from Previous Page) St. Joseph Catholic School ...............................75 St. Stephen Christian Academy.........................68 Strong Rock Christian School............................69 Sugarloaf Montessori.........................................35 The Suzuki School...............................................13 Victory World Christian School..........................56 The Walker School..............................................74 Westridge Christian Academy...........................73 Woodward Academy ........................................ 67

Montessori Schools Arbor Montessori School...................................59 Cross of Life Christian Montessori School........48 Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia....54 Medlock Bridge Montessori .............................35 Montessori at Brookstone..................................35 Montessori Kids Academy.................................52 Montessori Unlimited.........................................35 Nesbit Ferry Montessori.....................................35 Northwoods Montessori School........................55 Preston Ridge Montessori..................................35 Springmont School.............................................49 Sugarloaf Montessori.........................................35

Gwinnett Online Campus..................................23 Kroger.................................................. Back Cover Project Identity at Morehouse College.............17 Radio Disney............................ Inside Back Cover Sandy Springs Hospitality & Tourism..................9 The School Box...................................................56

Special Needs & Learning Difficulties The Academy at SOAR......................................23 Alexsander Academy.........................................42 The Bedford School ..........................................68 Center Academy ................................................75 Cumberland Academy of Georgia....................22 Eaton Academy .................................................48 Georgia Association for Play Therapy...............13 The King’s Daughters’ School............................23 Mill Springs Academy .......................................42 The Piedmont School of Atlanta.......................51 Porter Academy..................................................45

Summer Camps & Activities

Atlanta Public Schools........................................85 Cherokee Charter Academy..............................84 Coweta Charter Academy..................................84 International Academy of Smyrna.....................85

Atlanta Ballet Centre for Dance Education......96 Atlanta Girls’ School Summer Camp................96 Georgia Ballet Summer Camp..........................98 High Meadows Summer Day Camp..................95 Massanutten Academy Summer Programs......97 McGinnis Woods Country Day School Summer Camp ...97 Midtown Athletic Club – Tennis Explorers.......98 Squirrel Hollow Day Camp ................................98

Resources & Services

Tutoring & Study Skills

Georgia Association for Play Therapy...............13 Georgia Lottery.................................................... 7

Alexsander Academy Tutoring..........................94 In-Home Tutors of Atlanta ................................94

Public Schools & Charter Schools

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