Atlanta School Guide | Winter/Spring 2024

Winter/Spring 2024

Atlanta’s Leading Education Resource

HOW TO INTERVIEW A SCHOOL

QUESTIONS TO ASK TO FIND THE BEST FIT

EXPLORING THE CURRICULUM

THE KEY TO MAKING THE RIGHT CHOICE

SCHOLARSHIPS AND GRANTS DISCOVER ALL OF YOUR FINANCIAL AID OPTIONS

atlantaschoolguide.com

3

CONTENTS

WINTER/SPRING 2024

18

22

26

FEATURES

In Every Issue

a 18 Interviewing New School

6 How to Use This Guide

The best questions to ask faculty and staff when considering a new school for your child.

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

Exploring a School’s

26 Curriculum

Discovering more about what your child will be learning is a key step in finding the right fit for their education.

8 Critical Communication 14 Special Needs Resources 34 Independent Schools At a Glance 37 Head of School Profile Peter Rooney of Atlanta Youth Academy

67 Boarding School Directory 77 Public Schools by County 89 Educational Resources Tutoring, summer camps and activities, field trips and more.

4 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

97 Advertiser Index Winter/Spring 2024

HOW TO

Use This Guide Find an Independent School in

4

1

Easy Steps!

Metro Atlanta Area Map To search for independent schools by region or neighborhood, turn to page 32 and use the color-coded map to direct you to each region’s page number.

2

Education At a Glance

3

Region Maps and Listings

4

Once you’ve selected your region of interest, the charts beginning on page 34 include a comparison of features for each school in that region, along with the page number for each school’s ad.

Divided into regions of Atlanta, the color-coded maps beginning on page 38 provide each school’s location and page number for their ad.

Advertiser Index To find a school or resource by name, turn to the advertiser index on page 97 to find the appropriate page number.

6 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2024

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

Publisher/President PATRICK KILLAM Editor EVERETT CATTS Marketing & Promotions JEFF THOMPSON Account Directors SARAH DAVIS JACKIE PETERSON Contributing Writers H.M. CAULEY, SHEILA COSGROVE, CHRISTINE FONVILLE, LAURA RAINES

TO ADVERTISE CALL

770-992-0273 Space closing for Summer/Fall 2024 issue: April 8, 2024 Atlanta School Guide, Winter/Spring 2024, Volume 19, Issue 1. Published bi-annually by Killam Publishing, Inc., 200 Market Place, Suite 230, Roswell, GA 30075. Atlanta School Guide assumes no responsibility for errors, changes or omissions.

Information may have changed since press time, so please verify all information when contacting a school or educational resource.

Reproduction in whole or in part of any elements of this publication is strictly prohibited without the written permission of the publisher. © 2024 Killam Publishing, Inc. For additional copies, further information or advertising, please contact:

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

atlantaschoolguide.com

7

Critical Communication

Trends and Happenings in Georgia Education What You Need to Know to Stay Up to Date With Atlanta and Georgia Education Woodward Academy Launches Maymester Program Woodward Academy is launching a Maymester program for middle- and upper-school students in May. The program will take place during the last two weeks of May, after the end of the spring semester, providing students a hands-on educational experience rooted in experiential learning and real-world applications.

Students can participate in multiple settings: on campus, in the community or through a domestic or international travel experience.

Metro Schools Named Blue Ribbon Winners The U.S. Department of Education recently honored eight Georgia schools as National Blue Ribbon Schools for 2023.

Four of those schools were located in metro 8 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Atlanta: Blessed Trinity Catholic High School in Roswell, Harris Elementary School in Duluth, Pharr Elementary in Snellville and St. Jude the Apostle Catholic School in Atlanta.

Kara Loftin Named Head of Schenck School The Schenck School, an independent school for students with dyslexiarelated learning differences in Sandy Springs, recently welcomed Kara A. Loftin as its new head of school. Loftin previously served as head of school at The Craig School, an independent school for students with learning disabilities in New Jersey.

GSMST Honored

By U.S. News The Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science and Technology was recently named the No. 1 high school in the state by U.S. News and

Winter/Spring 2024

World Report for the 11th straight year. The publication also ranked it among the top 10 STEM schools in the country and the No. 19 school in the nation.

Buford City Schools, Fulton Science Academy Also Honored The education website Niche.com has also named GSMST the best public high school in the state. In addition, it named the Fulton Science Academy Private School the state’s best independent high school, and Buford City Schools the state’s best school district.

Cobb County Students are the best in Georgia Milestones Students from Cobb County Schools ranked No. 1 in the Georgia Milestones Assessment System in 2023, the district reported. Students ranked highest among all metro Atlanta counties in

the subjects of English language arts, math, science and social studies.

AIS Partners With Atlanta United Atlanta International School and Atlanta United have teamed up on an education program for high school-aged players in the Atlanta United Academy club.

AIS provides in-person learning at its Buckhead campus, at the team’s Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Training Ground and online.

Ga. Class of ’23 Tops SAT National Average Graduating seniors from Georgia high schools

scored above the national average on the SAT. The state’s average score was 1045, 42 points higher than the national average of 1003. Forsyth County Schools was the top-performing district with an average of 1177, followed by Buford City Schools with 1161.

Local Schools Observe Milestone Anniversaries Oak Meadow Montessori School in Lawrenceville is celebrating its 30th year of providing a quality Montessori education to more than 2,000 students age 3 through sixth grade. Harmony Elementary School in Buford is also marking a special

birthday, having turned 100 years old in August.

Congratulations to both schools!

Metro Counties Outperform State Graduation Rate Some local school districts have announced higher graduation rates for the 2022-23 school year than the state of Georgia. Forsyth County Schools (95.8%), City Schools of Decatur (94.1%), Buford City Schools (93.2%), the Cherokee County School District (92.2%) and Atlanta Public Schools (86.6%) all outperformed the state’s graduation rate of 84.4%.

atlantaschoolguide.com

9

Critical Communication

Education 101

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2024

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

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

ACT An alternative to the SAT, this national college admissions examination consists of subject area tests in English, mathematics, reading and science, with an optional 40-minute writing test.

COLLEGE AND CAREER READY PERFORMANCE INDEX (CCRPI) A school improvement, accountability and communication platform for all educational stakeholders that will prepare all Georgia public school students for colleges and careers.

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

EVERY STUDENT SUCCEEDS ACT (ESSA) The main federal law for K-12 general education covers all students in public schools.

GEORGIA MILESTONES Tests designed to measure how well students in grades 3 through 12 acquire the skills and knowledge outlined in the state-adopted content standards. They replaced the CRCT and involve both multiplechoice and free-response questions.

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

HOPE SCHOLARSHIP (Helping Outstanding Pupils Educationally) Funded by the Georgia Lottery since its founding in 1993, this is a scholarship in the state that rewards academically achieving students with financial

Did You Know?

Atlanta Public Schools recently announced a grading policy change, giving students a 50 instead of a zero on incomplete assignments.

assistance to attend eligible public and private Georgia colleges and universities.

MISSION/PHILOSOPHY A statement outlining the guidelines a school follows as it works to achieve its various educational goals and/or maintain its performance standards.

NOTIFICATION DEADLINE The date by which an independent school notifies families of the acceptance of a child for enrollment to the school.

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

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

REPLY DEADLINE The date by which parents must notify an accepting school of their commitment to enroll their child at the school.

SAT This standardized test, known as the Scholastic Aptitude Test, measures the reading, writing and mathematical reasoning skills of students planning to attend college.

SECONDARY SCHOOL ADMISSIONS TEST (SSAT) The admissions test that many independent schools require students take in order to be considered for enrollment.

SUMMER CAMP A common destination for children and teenagers during the summer, at which they can participate in a variety of activities or classes.

atlantaschoolguide.com

11

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 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) boardingschools.com This organization of 250 boarding schools serves 12 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

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

Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) ami-global.org Recognizes and provides support, training and development to schools that strongly adhere to Montessori method principles.

Atlanta Area Association of Independent Schools (AAAIS) aaais.org Promotes the highest standards and best administrative practices for accredited independent schools.

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

Cognia cognia.org Formed from the merger of two organizations (AdvancED and Measured Progress), it advances education excellence through accreditation and school improvement initiatives.

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

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

Winter/Spring 2024

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

Georgia Association of Private Schools for Exceptional Children (GAPSEC) gapsec.org This state organization of independent schools for students with learning disabilities maintains a code of ethics.

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

Georgia Independent School Association (GISA) gisaschools.org An association of Georgia’s private, independent

and parochial schools dedicated to serving the professional growth, advocacy and interscholastic needs of member schools.

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

Georgia Private School Accreditation Council (GAPSAC) gapsac.org Association of K-12 private schools whose students are recognized and approved by the Georgia DOE for transferring credits to public schools on the same basis as students from public schools.

National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) naeyc.org A professional membership organization working to promote high-quality early learning for all young children, birth through age 8, by connecting early childhood practice, policy and research.

National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) nais.org 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) napsec.org Represents private specialized education programs by promoting quality programs and services for individuals with disabilities and their families.

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

Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS) sais.org Provides accreditation services, professional growth opportunities and leadership development programs for 390 independent U.S. schools.

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

13

Critical Communication

Special Needs

Resources Information on Learning Disabilities, Education Options and More What is a Learning Disability?

A learning disability is a neurological disorder that affects how your child processes certain information. Children with learning disabilities are as smart as or even smarter than other children, but may face challenges with reading, writing, spelling, reasoning and other functions. As a result, they often struggle to achieve in traditional classrooms. There are many types of learning disabilities, from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and dyslexia to more serious forms such as autism.

14 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2024

What is a Special Needs School?

Special needs schools are those that serve children who struggle with learning disabilities or don’t perform well in a conventional school environment. These schools use alternative approaches to instruction in order to help children learn more effectively and also achieve success in the classroom and in social settings.

Other schools don’t specifically target those with learning disabilities, but may teach different kinds of students who have had difficulty learning in a typical class-

room setting. Others may teach average or even above-average learners while also offering additional programs and classes for students with learning differences.

ability, it’s critical to have him or her evaluated by a mental health professional. A diagnosis is necessary in order to address the child’s educational needs.

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

15

Critical Communication If you feel your local public school isn’t the right environment for your child or simply want to explore all your options, there are many quality independent schools in metro Atlanta devoted to helping children with special needs and learning issues. Visit the Georgia Association of Private Schools for Exceptional Children’s website (gapsec.org) or our listings for special needs schools on page 98 to help you with your search.

needs education. Independent special needs schools can offer more individualized instruction and a more structured and predictable environment, and are likely to address nonacademic issues such as social skills and self-esteem.

As you begin searching for the right school for your child’s situation, here are some questions to keep in mind: • Will your child fare better in a school that focuses on his or her specific learning disability, or would you rather that he or she be able to interact with students with a wide range of learning capabilities?

• Does the school serve a specific age range or work with students on all grade levels? Many students with learning disabilities have trouble transitioning to new schools.

How Do I Find the Right School?

All special needs schools are not the same. The first step is to identify those schools that can address your child’s specific learning difficulty, and offer the level of special needs instruction that you (and perhaps a professional) feel is best for your child.

You may be more comfortable enrolling your child in a school that focuses specifically on his or her needs, or you may want a more diverse environment where he or she can interact with many different kinds of students. Familiarize yourself with the different options offered by each kind of school.

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

Winter/Spring 2024

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

• Is the school accredited? If so, by which organizations?

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

• Does the school focus more on academics or on addressing the child’s therapeutic needs?

Financial Assistance Many independent special needs schools participate in the Georgia Special Needs Scholarship program (GSNS), a school choice program available to special needs students attending Georgia public schools. It offers funds to offset tuition and

fees at participating private schools authorized by the State Board of Education.

According to the Georgia Department of Education, scholarship amounts range from $2,500 to $13,500, with an average amount of around $6,000.

The Qualified Education Expense Tax Credit program provides another scholarship option. Donations are made to an organization known as a Georgia Student Scholarship Organization (GaSSO), which uses the money to award scholarships to students in pre-K through grade 12. Many schools also offer their own scholarships or tuition assistance programs as well.

Contact individual schools for details.

For more information on special needs schools and resources, please see our listings on page 98.

Jump Get a on the

competition

advertise in Atlanta School Guide and get results.

Call to reserve your spaCe in our next issue!

770-992-0273

atlantaschoolguide.com

17

HOW TO INTERVIEW A SCHOOL QUESTIONS TO ASK TO FIND THE RIGHT FIT

BY H.M. CAULEY

For parents looking for educational options for their children, one of the best developments in education is the availability of a wider range of school choices than ever before. At the same time, this abundance of choice can be a source of stress when searching for a school, as parents work to weigh a greater number of alternatives objectively.

When searching for the right school for your child, there’s no more important part 18 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2024

of the process than asking questions of the faculty and staff. From a school’s educational philosophy to its test scores and what it serves for lunch, it’s crucial to get as much information as possible to help you make the right decision. But what questions should you ask?

ACADEMICS The first thing to ask about is a school’s academics. Cory Edwards, director for the

office of student assignment and records for Atlanta Public Schools (APS), says parents should first do some online research on the schools in their prospective community before buying a home or signing a rental agreement. “After some parents move here, then they want their child to attend a particular school,” he added. Edwards encourages parents to visit not only the school district’s website, but also each individual school’s website to get a feel for each school.

And for parents who decide that they want to transfer their child to another school in the district, whether they’re new to metro Atlanta or not, the state offers a program within each district to allow that move, with each district’s website providing info.

Nicole Evans Jones, an educational consultant with 360 Strategy Consulting, encourages parents to consider just what they want their children to learn. “The course offerings and the extracurriculars may not fit your child’s needs,” she says. “Look at the course of study and talk about what the kids are learning.”

Kimbrell Smith, head of school at Atlanta Girls’ School (AGS), agrees. An Atlanta native, she has two daughters: one an eighth-grader at AGS and the other a fifth-grader at The Howard School. Prior to coming to AGS in 2021, Smith spent 12 years as an educational consultant and specialized in helping parents find the bestfitting schools for their child. “I tell parents and follow my own advice, which is to consider your child first,” she says. “What kind of school shares the values for your child?

What needs might they have that different schools could provide?”

For both students and schools, standardized test performance is only a snapshot of academic achievement, but it should be considered. Look at a school’s average test scores, and compare them to results for the

past three to five years to determine if they are trending upward or downward.

If a test area is weak, determine if there’s an underlying cause. A science and technology magnet school may score slightly lower than average in English, for example.

What’s as important as the score is what’s being done to address any deficiencies and to keep improving.

For parents of middle and high school students, college preparation is of critical importance. Asking about the percentage of students at a school that go on to college— and which colleges —can help you learn about not just a school’s academic rigor, but also how well it supports a commitment to learning in its students.

Other topics to ask about regarding academics include: How often is homework assigned and how much time does it require? Are tutoring and study assistance available? What programs and support are available for special needs or academically

atlantaschoolguide.com

19

Visiting a school can demonstrate all aspects of the school’s culture, including how open and enthused the staff and faculty are. gifted students? What extracurricular activities are offered?

It’s also important to ask about teachers.

Review the educational background and qualifications for individual teachers and note how these relate to the subjects they teach. While class size and student-teacher ratio are good indicators of how much individual attention can be expected, especially in the lower grades, how it’s computed can make a difference. For a clear picture, ask if the school includes staff such as librarians in its teacher count when determining its published ratio.

COMMUNITY, CULTURE AND COST Every school has a unique culture and its own concept of involving the family in its approach to learning. The answers to ques20 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2024

tions about a school’s recent accomplishments and outstanding features can speak volumes about a school’s mission and values, and how it might make decisions affecting your child going forward.

Cindy Kinchen, principal at Gwinnett County’s Duluth Middle School, says parents also can get a feel for a school’s culture from visiting its social media pages. She also encourages parents to ask about a school’s non-academic programs such as sports and community service.

Other questions relating to a school’s culture include: Are uniforms required? Is transportation available for students who live at a distance? What are the behavior and discipline policies?

One important topic, whether you’re interviewing a traditional public, charter or independent school, is funding. Are there

booster clubs, foundations or stakeholders that support the school?

Also, find out about tuition: what does it cover? Are there added fees for extracurricular activities, events outside of class or equipment and supplies?

VISITING IN PERSON “I think spending time in the school is the most important factor in making a good decision. I say that because to me school culture, and the look and feel of the environment, are really what makes the day-to-day experience,” Smith says, adding AGS has a student shadowing program called Hurricane for a Day, named after the school mascot. She says prospective students should go beyond school tours and check out a school’s extracurricular activities. “If they’re a soccer player, go to a soccer game. If they’re into theatre, go to a play.”

A school visit can demonstrate all aspects of the school’s culture, including how open and enthused the staff and faculty are.

“How are you welcomed at the front desk?,” Kinchen says. “Do you hear laughter?

Do you hear other languages spoken? Do you hear the whole child is being addressed other than just academic achievement?”

After discovering as much as possible about a school, the final decision about whether or not to enroll a child there comes down to one thing, says Smith, referring back to Hurricane for a Day. “We think that is the most important part: to see a mutual fit.”

1. What is the school’s educational philosophy or mission?

2. What are its safety and security procedures?

3. How does the school help students meet grade-level standards?

4. How is technology used at the school?

5. Does it offer strong arts or extracurricular programs?

6. How do students fare on the SAT and other standardized tests?

7. How does it work with students with learning difficulties or other challenges?

8. Does it have gifted/talented or other programs for exceptional students?

9. How do students get to school?

10. Is the school accredited, and if so, by which organizations?

atlantaschoolguide.com

21

FINANCIAL AID FOR INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES

BY EVERETT CATTS AND LAURA RAINES

W

hether you’re considering an independent school for your child or helping your teenager explore college options, one of your largest 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 assistance paying for education. Fortunately, there’s a plethora of scholarship programs, grants and other options that can help pay for your child’s college or K-12 education.

22 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2024

SCHOLARSHIPS FOR INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS While there are lots of top public school systems in metro Atlanta, many parents may wish to explore whether an independent school is the best fit for their child. According to Private School Review, there are nearly 900 independent schools in Georgia, and many offer some kind of need-based or merit-based financial aid. But not all of these programs are created equal.

“Different schools use different vehicles to

evaluate need, though they all use the same data,” says Mary Helen Bryant, director of admissions at Greater Atlanta Christian School (GAC), adding some schools offer a limited number of large scholarships and others provide many small scholarships.

After parents determine which schools fit their child best, they should obtain info on each one through the schools’ websites and financial aid offices.

Metro Atlanta independent schools begin accepting financial aid applications as early as October for the following school year, with deadlines in February or March.

Parents can also apply for K-12 loans to help finance their child’s independent school education via services like Your Tuition Solution or Sallie Mae. Interest rates and minimum and maximum loan amounts vary for each organization. Your Tuition Solution tops out at $50,000, and Sallie Mae does not have a limit.

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 organization (SSO), which is authorized by the state to receive donations and disburse them in the form of scholarships to independent schools. Georgia places a max of $120 million on the tax credits available through the program each year, and this year’s amount is more than double what the state offered in 2013.

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. From its inception in 2008 through July 31, 2023, the SSO has awarded 68,853 scholarships worth $297 million to 26,661 students, according to its website.

Parents of special needs children can benefit from the Georgia Special Needs Scholarship (GSNS). Public school students on an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) —a document that outlines the needs of a child with learning disabilities and creates a plan for meeting those demands — may be eligible to transfer to a better public or private institution and counteract some of the costs with a scholarship that ranges from $2,500 to $13,500. Grants may also be available through school alumni associations, foundations, religious denominations and other organizations.

FINANCIAL AID FOR COLLEGE While lots of college scholarships are awarded to athletes and academic standouts, others are based on geographic location, ethnic background, religious affiliation, musical talent and even community service. u atlantaschoolguide.com

23

While lots of college scholarships are awarded to athletes and academic standouts, others are based on geographic location, ethnic background, religious affiliation, musical talent and even community service.

Jonathan Ferrell, Pace Academy’s director of college counseling, says students should start their college scholarship search with a large group of schools before narrowing down their choices based on academic and other interests plus financial needs to create a balanced list. “A balanced list means different types of selectivity,” he says. “If you’re looking for merit scholarships, that should be a factor in the number of schools a student is applying to.”

In addition to online research, your first stop should be your high school’s college counseling office, which has resources and specialized knowledge of local and national scholarships. Civic organizations, churches and employers may also offer scholarships or grants. Even small awards can add up.

24 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2024

Whether it’s talking to your school’s college counselor or a college’s admissions office, Ferrell says students should be open and honest. That way the counselor has a complete picture of that student and the college can answer questions that may seem silly but important to the student.

The Georgia Student Finance Commission (GSFC), a state agency that provides financial aid to Georgia students, is another valuable resource. It annually hosts outreach events at over 1,500 schools across the state to educate middle and high school students and their parents about scholarship opportunities.

And then there’s Georgia’s HOPE Scholarship. HOPE, which is funded entirely by the Georgia Lottery for Education,

has helped more than 2.1 million academic achievers attend Georgia public colleges, paying out more than $14 billion in financial assistance, according to its website.

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 $500 per semester to qualified students enrolled in private Georgia colleges.

Students are cautioned to use only legitimate websites recommended by college counselors and should never have to pay for a scholarship match program or provide personal financial information. And don’t let financial aid deadlines sneak up on your child, Ferrell says.

Early in the process, parents should have an honest conversation with their teenage children about the amount of money they can contribute to their kids’ college education, which can be difficult. “Just being honest financially about what you’re able to contribute or willing to contribute is really important,” Ferrell says.

For More Information FOR INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS: Georgia Student Scholarship Organization georgiasso.com Sallie Mae salliemae.com/K12 Your Tuition Solution yourtuitionsolution.com For more information on scholarships and a list of SSOs, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.

FOR COLLEGE: The College Board bigfuture.collegeboard.org/ scholarship-search Fastweb fastweb.com FinAid finaid.org/scholarships Georgia College 411 gafutures.org HOPE Scholarship https://bit.ly/3tbcpZr Scholarships.com scholarships.com StudentScholarships.org studentscholarships.org atlantaschoolguide.com

25

DISCOVER WHAT YOUR CHILD IS LEARNING AT SCHOOL

BY SHEILA COSGROVE AND CHRISTINE FONVILLE

here are a lot of factors parents have to consider when searching for a school for their child.

What is the school’s mission or philosophy? What is its reputation in the community? If it’s an independent school, how much is the tuition?

One thing parents may not know to ask is: What is the school’s curriculum?

Many people think of a curriculum as the subjects being taught at a particular school, and perhaps certain textbooks and other materials. But a school’s curriculum can also include the experiences students have while they’re learning the material, as well as the skills and abilities they’re expected to gain.

In short, a school’s curriculum encompasses more than simply what’s being taught at the school—it also refers to how 26 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2024

students learn those things.

For parents, having a firm idea of a school’s curriculum, and how it’s taught, can help decide whether a school is the right fit for your child.

A FOCUS ON ACADEMICS The first thing many parents look for in a school, whether it’s a public, independent or religious school, is academics. These are the core building blocks of a traditional education, subjects that tend to require a fair amount of reading, study and reasoning: English, mathematics, science and history.

Foreign languages also fall into this category.

Many Atlanta-area schools pride themselves on a strong academic focus. At Mount Paran Christian School in Kennesaw, “the curriculum standards followed vary by discipline, but most use the Georgia

Performance or Georgia Standards of Excellence,” says Assistant Head of Middle School Alison Wilbur. The Georgia Performance Standards and Georgia Standards of Excellence are academic guidelines or expectations set out by the Georgia Department of Education.

“In grades six and seven, we offer advanced courses in math and language arts,” Wilbur says. “In grade eight, we also offer advanced science.”

Woodward Academy, an independent school with campuses in College Park and Johns Creek, also boasts a strong academic program. “At Woodward students are able to mix and match the level of challenge for their courses to help them flourish in areas where they have strong aptitude and to get support in areas where they need more reinforcement,” says Nigel A. Traylor, Woodward’s vice president for academic and student life. “We take the time to get to

know every student so they can grow to their fullest potential.”

At The Walker School, an independent school in Marietta, “we begin teaching Singapore math concepts as early as Pre-K, which ensures students learn mathematical concepts, not simple memorization,” says Michael Arjona, assistant head of school for academics.

“World language instruction begins with our 3-year-olds, and four languages are offered beginning in middle school.”

As students progress, they have more choice and agency in their academic plan, Arjona says, including instruction in artificial intelligence and machine learning, multivariable calculus and forensics.

Walker students can also engage in original science research and internships through the school’s public health and engineering concentrations.

HOW WILL YOUR CHILD LEARN? But academics is only half of the equation. To help produce well-rounded students, these schools also offer robust arts and extracurricular programs. Mount Paran students, for example, have the opportunity to explore courses and afterschool participation in art, drama, dance, team sports, fitness, band, chorus and world culture and languages.

And, of course, introducing students to a broad range of subjects doesn’t guarantee that students are going to learn— and retain—what’s in those textbooks and lesson plans. That’s why most schools today combine academics with different educational philosophies and teaching methods.

“Beginning in prekindergarten, Woodward students learn skills like computer literacy, coding, robotics and digital atlantaschoolguide.com

27

citizenship,” Traylor says. “Our STEAM specialists meet with students weekly and collaborate with teachers to integrate technology into social studies, science and language arts.”

At Walker teachers focus on “critical thinking and problem-solving, which guide learning and instruction through the entire curriculum,” says Arjona. “Our intentionally structured reading and writing program, along with a consistent focus on publicspeaking skills, ensure students in all grades become effective communicators.”

ASKING THE RIGHT QUESTIONS So how does a parent know what to look for? What are the right questions to ask when exploring various curricula?

Before you begin looking at schools, it’s crucial “to understand what your individual child needs to succeed in the classroom— academically, emotionally and socially,” says Rebekka Whitehead, founder of Atlanta’s Whitehead Learning Group, which specializes in educational consulting.

Knowing what you’re looking for can help you narrow your search.

To get a sense of a school’s curriculum, Whitehead recommends asking questions 28 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2024

like: What teaching methodology does the school embrace? Does the school have a track record of showing academic progress?

What honors and Advanced Placement classes does it offer? How is technology used to support teaching and learning in the classroom? What extracurricular and enrichment activities does the school offer?

Familiarizing yourself with the different aspects of a school’s curriculum—its academic offerings, arts and physical education courses, extracurricular activities and educational methods—will give you the best tools to determine whether your child will flourish and succeed within its environment.

DIFFERENT TYPES OF CURRICULA MIGHT INCLUDE: Inquiry-based learning: The teacher poses a question or problem that the students try to answer or solve, rather than the students being “instructed to.”

An inquiry-based approach promotes curiosity, research and developing problem-solving skills.

Project-based learning: Students design and/or create something to demonstrate what they’ve learned. They work together, contributing different things they’ve learned.

Play-based learning: Children are encouraged to play with different objects or participate in different activities.

Teachers help them understand what they learn during the process.

Montessori: Children lead their own learning, choosing the lessons they want to learn, as teachers track their understanding of what they learn.

FAITH-BASED SCHOOLS

Atlanta offers a wide variety of faith-based schools to choose from, which means you can find exactly the right environment for your child’s values, academics and foundation.

Faith-based schools, or religious schools, are independent schools that are supported by or affiliated with a particular church or religious organization, and incorporate elements of that religious faith into their curriculum.

The following profiles represent some of the faith-based schools in the metro Atlanta area.

f

CHEROKEE CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS

Since 1986, Cherokee Christian Schools has sought to impart the knowledge, tools and skills that students need to walk wisely and serve redemptively in God’s world. Its approach incorporates the traditional, fiveday-a-week model to place your children in a learning environment where they can be known. Believing Christian education requires more than curricular materials, Cherokee Christian operates on a covenant agreement between its families and the school. Parents become partners and students become citizens in the work of education.

With its convictions informed by Scrip-

ture and sound doctrine, the school remains unswervingly loyal in its dedication to the clearest presentation of the Truth possible. The Bible informs everything from its discipline policies to its curricular distinctions.

Integration occurs not just as students learn, but also as they allow themselves to conform to the standards of truthful living. All of its programs provide daily Bible instruction as well as weekly corporate worship in chapel.

Cherokee Christian is located at 3075 Trickum Rd., Woodstock GA 30188.

For more information, call 678-494-5464 or visit cherokeechristian.org.

SPECIAL PROMOTION

atlantaschoolguide.com

29

FAITH-BASED SCHOOLS

HOLY SPIRIT PREPARATORY SCHOOL

Holy Spirit Preparatory School is an independent, Catholic college-preparatory school serving preschool through 12th-grade students with a profound educational vision.

Its curriculum combines the best of classical pedagogical traditions in a joyful, engaging and thoroughly Catholic environment.

This curriculum includes STEM-based coursework, fine and performing arts and a very active athletic program. Through these means, the school seeks to enkindle in students the desire to pursue excellence in every endeavor they undertake and provide them with all the tools necessary to lead successful, rewarding lives in a manner consistent with the sublime end for which they have been created: eternal life with God. This vision deeply informs Holy Spirit Prep’s curriculum and animates its efforts to help students grow in virtue and to know and love truth, goodness and beauty, the three divine attributes upon which all authentically classical, Catholic education is grounded.

“A saint,” the beloved late Pope Benedict XVI observed, “is one who is so captivated

by God’s perfect truth and beauty as to be progressively transformed by it.” The school strives to provide a learning environment that advances this noble aspiration, so its students are fully prepared to go into the world firm in 30 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

faith, joyful in hope and active in charity.

Holy Spirit Prep’s educational competitors are few, and for many reasons including: • The freedom to design its own rigorous curriculum rather than having it mandated by other educational offices or organizations.

• The advantage of teaching and discussing the classical literature from an explicitly Catholic perspective rather than a purely secular one.

• The distinction of a vibrant fine arts program which includes concert and jazz bands, chamber ensembles and four choirs including a Schola Cantorum (sacred music choir).

• The blessing of having priest chaplains on both campuses to provide sacramental and devotional opportunities for students on a daily basis.

Do not hesitate to contact the school with your questions, and please schedule a time to visit it. Holy Spirit Prep would love to hear from you! The school is located at 4449 Northside Dr., Atlanta, GA 30327 (high school campus). For more information or to schedule a tour, call 678-904-2811 or visit holyspiritprep.org.

SPECIAL PROMOTION

FAITH-BASED SCHOOLS

WESLEYAN SCHOOL for each stage of life and provides them with the opportunity to see all the possibilities that lie before them. Wesleyan’s school motto is JOY-Jesus, Others, Yourself, and every aspect of school life is oriented to reinforce this philosophy of putting Jesus first and others ahead of yourself.

Wesleyan School believes faith and intellect are great partners with each other. At Wesleyan, it’s not a matter of choosing faith or intellect, but rather using both to create the best possible education for your child.

Its leadership and faculty work to provide students with an atmosphere that is challenging, reinforces the value of hard work and emphasizes character and integrity above accomplishment. Wesleyan prepares students

In this college-preparatory environment, students have access to a wide range of academic opportunities along with athletics, arts, service and other extracurricular activities. Wesleyan’s 85-acre campus in Peachtree Corners provides state-of-the-art academic facilities along with on-campus practice space for athletics and arts.

Located just outside of I-285 in Peachtree Corners, at the start of the 2023-24 school year Wesleyan enrolled 1,206 students in grades K-12. Morning and afternoon bus routes are available throughout the metro Atlanta area. Supervised care before school is included in the cost of tuition and after care is available (K-8) until 6 p.m. at an affordable rate.

The school is located at 5405 Spalding Dr., Peachtree Corners, GA 30092.

For more information, call 770-448-7640 or visit wesleyanschool.org.

SPECIAL PROMOTION

atlantaschoolguide.com

31

32 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2024

5

1

For features of independent schools, turn to Education At a Glance on pg. 34. For public school system information by county, turn to pg. 77.

2 3

REGIONS FOR INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS

metro atlanta area map

N

p.51

p.46

p.38

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

REGION 3: Atlanta East

Alpharetta, Dunwoody, Johns Creek, Peachtree Corners, Roswell

REGION 2: Atlanta North/Northeast

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

REGION 1: Atlanta North/Northwest

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

EGION 4: Atlanta South/ R Southeast/Southwest

Buckhead, Kennesaw, Powder Springs, Smyrna/Vinings

p.63 REGION 5: Atlanta West

p.58

4

p.89

p.77

p.67

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

Educational Resources

Public School County Guide

Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, North Carolina,Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia

Boarding Schools

Additional Education Sections

S

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

•

42

18

C, ND

•

•

•

44

287 12-18

C

•

•

•

120

960

20

•

• Appt. Rolling

•

•

•

105

750

15

•

Dec.. Jan. 26

•

•

•

48

350

18

•

•

•

216 1,395 12-18

E

•

Cherokee Christian Schools

678-494-5464

Eastside Christian School

770-971-2332

Fulton Science Academy

678-366-2555

42

The Galloway School

404-252-8389

44

High Meadows School

770-993-2940

5

Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School

404-303-2150

39 Holy Spirit Preparatory School

678-904-2811

42

Mt. Bethel Christian Academy

770-971-0245

40

Pace Academy

404-262-1345

3

Parker-Chase Preschool

770-565-2220

3

Parker-Chase Preschool of East Cobb

770-565-2220

44

Saint Francis School

770-641-8257

41

The Schenck School

404-252-2591

40 43

46

Springmont School

404-252-3910

The Walker School

770-427-2689

$19,000$33,590 $6,000$26,000 $13,300$19,450 $31,970$36,800 $17,220$20,220 $19,320$23,880 $16,500$27,000

PK312th 6mo12th

APPLICATION DEADLINE

•

45

2

OPEN HOUSE BEGINS

•

404-841-3840

280

UNIFORM

17

Atlanta International School

AP/IB COURSES

211 1,325

41

41

SPECIAL NEEDS PROGRAMS

•

REGION 1: ATLANTA NORTH/NORTHWEST $28,5693K-12th $32,615 $12,175PK-12th $15,625 $12,000K-10th $16,000 $16,000PK-HS $20,000 $19,125- PK3$32,275 12th $7,646PK3-8th $23,342

RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION*

AVG. CLASS SIZE

•

38

# TEACHERS

# STUDENTS

BEFORE/AFTER CARE

•

KINDERGARTEN

PHONE

PRESCHOOL

SCHOOL

GRADES/AGES

PAGE

ANNUAL TUITION

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

• •

•

Appt. Rolling

•

Nov. Rolling

• Appt. Rolling

Appt. Feb. 16

•

• Dec. 2 Feb. 1

•

•

60

325

12

RC

•

• Sept. Mar. 16

JK-12th

•

•

75

700

18

C

•

• Appt. Rolling

K-12th

•

•

157 1,150

12

JC

•

• Nov. Feb. 1

•

•

52

233

14

Ongoing Rolling

•

25

128

11

Ongoing Rolling

•

140

750

14

60

250

10 20

6wks– 12yrs 6wks4yrs

• •

K-12th

•

$42,400 K-6th

•

$12,475- 18mo$27,000 8th $12,710- PK3$29,210 12th

•

•

•

46

275

•

•

•

182

960 15:1

•

•

• •

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

•

•

Jan. 21 Feb. 15

REGION 2: ATLANTA NORTH/NORTHEAST

50

Atlanta Academy

678-461-6102

47

The Davis Academy

770-671-0085

100 Endeavor International School Endeavor Montessori 100 Dunwoody Johns Creek Montessori School 48 of Georgia

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

47

McGinnis Woods School

770-664-7764

48

MJCCA Preschools

678-812-3800

100

Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs

770-205-6277

100

Montessori at Vickery

770-777-9131

49 Mount Pisgah Christian School

678-336-3400

49

Wesleyan School

770-448-7640

61

Woodward Academy

404-765-4001

34 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

$12,410PS-8th $17,920 $17,120K-8th $30,690 $16,010

•

•

•

77

390

16

ND

•

Oct. Rolling

•

•

•

100

500

15

J

•

Appt. Feb. 15

•

9

40

7 20

6-8th

$15,300- 6wks$24,360 6yrs $7508wks$1,495 6yrs $11,025- Infant$15,875 8th $5,230- 6wks$18,665 K $11,810- 13mo$18,900 12yrs $11,650- 13mo$20,520 9yrs $17,850- Infant$25,095 12th $20,930K-12th $29,390 $20,600PK-12th $32,400

Winter/Spring 2024

•

•

•

34

160

•

•

•

18

75 Varies

•

•

•

60

400

15

•

120

540

15

26

200

23

175

29

•

•

• Ongoing Rolling Ongoing Rolling

•

Call Rolling

• Appt. Rolling J

•

N/A Rolling

•

•

•

•

•

•

21

•

•

•

177 1,014 Varies

C

•

•

•

•

159 1,206 13-20

C

•

•

Oct. Jan. 24

•

•

400 2,685 14

•

•

Ongoing Feb. 1

•

• Ongoing Rolling •

•

• Ongoing Rolling Oct. Rolling

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

Athens Academy

706-549-9225

Atlanta Montessori International 3 404-325-6777 School - Cliff Valley Atlanta Montessori International 3 404-500-0501 School - Druid Hills

250

25

•

•

•

125

900

16

•

•

40

181

19

Ongoing Rolling

•

•

24

140

18

Ongoing Rolling

•

•

•

Nov. Feb. 15

•

Bethlehem Christian Academy

770-307-1574

Capstone Academy

404-458-5160

56

The Children’s School

404-873-6985

54

The Friends School of Atlanta

404-373-8746

56

Heritage Preparatory School

404-815-7711

55

Loganville Christian Academy

770-554-9888

55

Montessori In Town

404-784-1038

7

Oak Grove Academy

770-772-7474

55

Oak Meadow Montessori School

770-963-8303

57

STAR Community School

404-297-8913

58

REGION 4: ATLANTA SOUTH/SOUTHEAST/SOUTHWEST

99

Acton Academy at Serenbe

770-463-0081

59

Community Christian School

678-432-0191

60 Counterpane Montessori School

770-461-2304

59

Landmark Christian School

770-306-0647

62

Oak Mountain Academy

770-834-6651

62

Our World School

678-782-6089

60

Strong Rock Christian School

678-833-1200

62

Trinity Christian School Sharpsburg

770-251-6770

61

Woodward Academy

404-765-4001

$12,700 5-12th

$11,500- 6wks$18,000 12th $9,198- 6wks$13,272 12th PK3$18,000 12th $9,000K3-12 $22,000 $5,000- PK3$15,000 12th $17,500

$20,600PK-12th $32,400

63

REGION 5: ATLANTA WEST

66

Covenant Christian School

770-435-1596

65

Hearts Academy of Excellence

770-439-9235

64

The Lovett School

404-262-3032

64

Mount Paran Christian School

770-578-0182

$8,196K4-8th $13,701 $2,500PK-12th $3,500 $30,110K-12th $34,950

$4,641$23,515

PS312th

91

945

20

20

150

8-10

370

15

•

C

• Nov. Rolling

•

• •

Dec.

Call

Appt.

Call

Oct.

Call

•

•

•

55

•

•

•

40

173

1:4

Q

•

•

41

275

12

C

•

•

•

48

641

20

•

•

•

24

138

20

Oct. Feb. 1

•

•

20

142

16

• Ongoing Rolling

•

•

•

16

160

20

•

•

•

12

60

10

•

•

•

•

•

•

8

60

20

•

•

•

160

975

17

•

•

•

50

200+

14

•

•

8

51

6

•

•

•

152

963

11

C

•

•

•

150 1,630

16

ND

•

•

• 400 2,685 14

•

•

•

21

76

12

C, ND

•

•

•

1-2 10-18

14

C

•

•

196 1,640

18

C

•

•

143 1,315

11

C, ND

Oct. Feb. 1

• Nov. Rolling

•

Appt. Rolling

•

M

•

•

Dec. Jan. 8

• •

•

K-12th

$12,165PK-12th $16,795 $3,185PK-12th $13,234

APPLICATION DEADLINE

35

53

$9,770PK-12th $21,500 PK3$11,000 12th $14,000- 18mo$18,850 6th $10,260- 6wk$16,740 6yrs $10,500- 15mo$19,800 12yrs $5,630- Infants$7,140 8th

OPEN HOUSE BEGINS

•

UNIFORM

•

AP/IB COURSES

•

52

$16,036PS-8th $26,105 $17,594PK3-8th $27,695

SPECIAL NEEDS PROGRAMS

RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION*

AVG. CLASS SIZE

52

$11,735- 18mo$21,995 8th $10,075K3-12th $22,395 $17,550- 8wks$24,360 5th $19,200- 6wks$25,680 6yrs $6,450K3-12th $12,000

# STUDENTS

404-321-9304

# TEACHERS

Arbor Montessori School

BEFORE/AFTER CARE

54

KINDERGARTEN

PHONE

REGION 3: ATLANTA EAST

PRESCHOOL

SCHOOL

51

GRADES/AGES

PAGE

ANNUAL TUITION

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

21

204

12

•

110

650 14-18 C, ND

•

Feb. Rolling

Appt. Rolling

•

Feb. Rolling

• Appt. Rolling C

•

•

• Sept. Call

•

• Nov. Rolling

•

July Rolling

•

•

•

•

• Appt. Call

•

•

• Ongoing Feb. 1 •

•

Jan.

None

Oct. Rolling

•

• Mar. Rolling

•

• Nov. Feb. 1

•

•

Dec. Rolling

Education At-a-Glance Continued on Page 36 u

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

67 71

190

966 16-20

C

APPLICATION DEADLINE

RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION*

•

OPEN HOUSE BEGINS

AVG. CLASS SIZE

•

UNIFORM

# STUDENTS

•

AP/IB COURSES

# TEACHERS

$13,500PK-12th $29,500

SPECIAL NEEDS PROGRAMS

BEFORE/AFTER CARE

678-305-3027

KINDERGARTEN

PHONE

Whitefield Academy

PRESCHOOL

SCHOOL

65

ANNUAL TUITION

PAGE

GRADES/AGES

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

•

•

Oct. Jan. 27

BOARDING SCHOOLS Academy at SOAR

828-456-3435

$15,000 9th-12th

73

Baylor School

423-267-5902

$29,3306-12th $64,100

69

Brehm Preparatory School

618-457-0371

$86,346 6-12th+

75

Hargrave Military Academy

434-432-2481

$42,000

71

Kents Hill School

207-685-4914

76

The Linsly School

304-233-1436

68

Montverde Academy

407-469-2561

70

Oldfields School

410-472-4800

68

Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School

706-746-7720

72

Saint Mary’s School

919-424-4000

73

St. Andrew’s-Sewanee School

931-598-5653

74

The Webb School

931-380-6003

7-12th, PG 9-12th, $66,675 PG $20,7255-12th $50,825 $17,165- PK3-12th, PG $55,980

•

•

$51,900 7-12th

•

•

8

118 1,080

15

11

5

30

•

n/a Rolling

•

•

• •

Appt. Rolling

170

12

220

10

74

423

7

•

•

• 22-93 1,325 17

•

• Nov. 11 Rolling

14 Varies

3

•

Oct. Rolling

85

680

12

P

•

42

300

13

E

•

32

210

20

E

50

425

13

•

•

•

•

Appt. Jan. 15

•

Oct. Rolling

Oct.

more effectively!

Appt. Rolling

•

•

•

Oct.

Advertise in Atlanta School Guide and get results.

770-992-0273 Winter/Spring 2024

Feb. 1

April Jan. 30

Reach youR TaRgeT MaRkeT 36 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Call

n/a Rolling

•

B

Appt.

26

$59,000 8-12th $21,550- PK3$60,950 12th $31,6009-12th $62,850 $23,1006-12th $57,000

8

40

• •

4

Feb. 1

Head of School Profile

Peter Rooney President, Atlanta Youth Academy In his 12th year at AYA, Rooney has nearly 40 years in education, including experience in collegiate undergraduate liberal arts settings and Atlanta independent schools.

Peter has a bachelor’s degree from Rhodes College and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Kennesaw State University.

What is your educational philosophy?

I believe in an old-fashioned style of education that still focuses on reading, writing and arithmetic. The world we live in requires technology and other specialized skills, so of course we all must put some focus on those.

How is the field of education changing?

I believe there is a trend in our society to always deflect blame. Kids are learning that it’s never their fault … never their family’s fault. This is not a healthy learning environment. We must push for a true partnership of mutual responsibility for the benefit of these young ones.

How can parents best contribute to the education process?

I hope and pray that parents understand the partnership that is created between the school, the teacher, the parent and the student. It is a unique partnership that can only yield the best results when everyone is fully on board.

What do you love most about your job?

There is nothing better than walking down our hallways and seeing an interaction between a well-trained, loving teacher and an individual student.

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

Making the choice to send your child to a school like AYA often requires great sacrifice in time, effort and finances … but is well worth it!

ATLANTA YOUTH ACADEMY Emphasis: To provide an excellent, Christcentered education to low-income urban communities.

Tuition Range: not to exceed 8% of household income Year Founded: 1997 Grades: PreK–8th grade

Students: 151 Avg. Class Size: 15 Accreditations or Affiliations: GISA/ Cognia, CASE, NAIS, SAIS, AAAIS Location: 2120 Forrest Park Road, Atlanta, GA 30315 Contact: 404-370-1960, atlantayouthacademy.com

atlantaschoolguide.com

37

ATLANTA NORTH • NORTHWEST

45

1 GION RE

2 44 44 43

42 41 5 40 42 39 41 40 41

Independent Schools Schools Page Atlanta International School 41 Cherokee Christian Schools 45 Eastside Christian School 41 Fulton Science Academy Private School 2 The Galloway School 42 High Meadows School 44 Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School 5

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

39 42 40 44 41 40 43

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

38 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2024

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

BUCKHEAD

BUCKHEAD 40 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2024

BUCKHEAD • EAST COBB atlantaschoolguide.com

41

CHASTAIN PARK • EAST COBB 42 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2024

MARIETTA

ROSWELL 44 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2024

WOODSTOCK

Jump Get a on the

competition

advertise in Atlanta School Guide and get results.

Call to reserve your spaCe in our next issue!

770-992-0273

atlantaschoolguide.com

45

ATLANTA NORTH • NORTHEAST

47

50

49

47

48 61 49

48

2 GION RE

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

MJCCA Preschools Mount Pisgah Christian School Wesleyan School Woodward Academy

48 49 49 61

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

46 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2024

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

ALPHARETTA • DUNWOODY atlantaschoolguide.com

47

JOHNS CREEK • DUNWOODY 48 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2024

JOHNS CREEK • PEACHTREE CORNERS

49

atlantaschoolguide.com

ROSWELL

Reach youR TaRgeT MaRkeT more effectively!

Advertise in Atlanta School Guide and get results.

770-992-0273

50 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2024

55 53

BARROW

52

52

54

WATKINSVILLE

55

56 56 55

ATHENS

57 54

Independent Schools Schools Page Arbor Montessori School 54 Athens Academy 52 Bethlehem Christian Academy 53 Capstone Academy 52 The Children’s School 56

The Friends School of Atlanta Heritage Preparatory School Loganville Christian Academy Montessori in Town Oak Meadow Montessori STAR Community School

54 56 55 55 55 57

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

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

51

ATLANTA EAST

3 GION RE

BROOKHAVEN • ATHENS 52 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2024

BETHLEHEM

DECATUR 54 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2024

EAST ATLANTA • COLLINS HILL • LOGANVILLE

55

atlantaschoolguide.com

MORNINGSIDE/ANSLEY • MIDTOWN 56 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2024

STONE MOUNTAIN

Looking for a better way to reach your target audience?

Advertise in Atlanta School Guide and get results.

Call to reserve your space in our next issue!

770-992-0273

atlantaschoolguide.com

57

ATLANTA SOUTH • SOUTHEAST • SOUTHWEST

4 GION RE

EAST POINT

61

DEKALB

Carrollton

62 99

59

62

60 59

60 62

Independent Schools Schools Page Acton Academy at Serenbe 99 Community Christian School 59 Counterpane Montessori School 60 Landmark Christian School 59

Oak Mountain Academy 62 Our World School 62 Strong Rock Christian School 60 Trinity Christian School - Sharpsburg 62 Woodward Academy 61

NEIGHBORHOODS OF NOTE Newnan Established in 1828 and home to more than 30,000 residents, Newnan is one of the fastest-growing cities in Georgia. It has many new residential developments and boasts six historic districts on the national register filled with stately Southern homes.

58 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2024

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

EAGLES LANDING • FAIRBURN

Fairburn | Peachtree City | PK3-12

atlantaschoolguide.com

59

LOCUST GROVE • FAYETTEVILLE 60 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2024

METRO-ATLANTA

CARROLLTON • MCDONOUGH • SHARPSBURG 62 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2024

BARTOW

ATLANTA WEST

5 GION RE

64

65 66

65 64

FULTON

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

The Lovett School Mount Paran Christian School Whitefield Academy

64 64 65

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

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

atlantaschoolguide.com

63

KENNESAW • BUCKHEAD 64 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2024

POWDER SPRINGS • SMYRNA-VININGS

65

atlantaschoolguide.com

SMYRNA-VININGS

Jump Get a on the

competition

advertise in Atlanta School Guide and get results.

Call to reserve your spaCe in our next issue!

770-992-0273

66 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2024

BOARDING SCHOOL DIRECTORY

T

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

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

Boarding Schools Schools Page Academy at SOAR 71 Baylor School 73 Brehm Preparatory School 69 Hargrave Military Academy 75 Kents Hill School 71 The Linsly School 76

Montverde Academy Oldfields School Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School Saint Mary's School St. Andrew’s-Sewanee School The Webb School

68 70 68 72 73 74

atlantaschoolguide.com

67

GEORGIA • FLORIDA 68 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2024

BREHM PREPARATORY SCHOOL At Brehm Preparatory School, the mission is to empower students with learning disabilities and differences to recognize and optimize their potential throughout their lives. Serving grades 6-12, the school understands that every student is unique and adopts an empathetic approach to support their academic, social, and emotional needs.

Every Brehm student has access to quality education.

Through personalized instruction, the school adapts its teaching methods to meet individual needs to cater to diverse learning styles.

Similarly, the renowned cognitive training program, Arrowsmith, which is rooted in neuroplasticity, targets and strengthens weak cognitive areas to enhance memory, attention, processing speed, and executive functioning skills; its speech-language pathologists work closely with students to target their communication needs; Brehm’s counselors teach safe and productive emotional processing strategies; and its boarding program focuses on independent living skills to prepare students for life beyond the classroom.

Equipping students with essential life skills, including time management, organization, self-advocacy, and personal responsibility, the school’s students gain the confidence and independence that they need to succeed.

Brehm is located in Carbondale, Illinois.

For more information, call 618-457-0371 or visit brehm.org.

SPECIAL PROMOTION

atlantaschoolguide.com

69

ILLINOIS

TOP BOARDING SCHOOLS

MARYLAND

TOP BOARDING SCHOOLS

OLDFIELDS SCHOOL Founded in 1867, Oldfields School is a private, college-preparatory boarding school for girls in grades 8-12. Located north of Baltimore, on 140 acres in the heart of Maryland horse country, Oldfields’ nurturing environment and purposely small enrollment allows students to be well-known, develop genuine friendships, take risks and be valued for who she is as much as who the school believes she can become.

Oldfields’ collaborative, individually-tailored curriculum fosters both academic and personal growth. Its curriculum combines the traditional areas of liberal arts studies: science, math, history, English, world languages and the arts with innovative signature programs that provide relevant learning to explore a passion and expand students’ knowledge.

Signature programs include an arts

70 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

concentration as well as a comprehensive riding program. The arts concentration provides a focused yet flexible program for students at all levels.

The Oldfields riding program supports riders from novice to ultra-competitive and includes an equine science concentration for post-graduation pursuits.

Each girl is encouraged to find and pursue her passion, all the while receiving a complete academic and practical grounding.

For more information, email Admissions Coordinator Ashley Cares at caresa@oldfields school.org, or visit oldfieldsschool.org.

SPECIAL PROMOTION

MAINE • NORTH CAROLINA atlantaschoolguide.com

71

NORTH CAROLINA

TENNESSEE atlantaschoolguide.com

73

TENNESSEE

VIRGINIA

WEST VIRGINIA

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 gadoe.org. u atlantaschoolguide.com

77

CHARTER SCHOOLS

CHARTER SCHOOLS atlantaschoolguide.com

79

CHARTER SCHOOLS 80 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2024

CHARTER SCHOOLS

Looking for a better way to reach your target audience?

Advertise in Atlanta School Guide and get results.

Call to reserve your space in our next issue!

770-992-0273

atlantaschoolguide.com

81

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

BARTOW ADAIRSVILLE WHITE

BARTOW CARTERSVILLE EMERSON

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

CHEROKEE CHEROKEE

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

2023 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 498 (M) 524 5th: (ELA) 509 (M) 511 8th: (ELA) 508 (M) 512

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

Top 3 Schools by Average 2023 SAT Score Woodland High 1058 Adairsville High 1019 Cass High 1011

What’s New: The Bartow County Schools four-year graduation rate has reached 95%, an all-time high for the district. This exceeds the Georgia state rate by more than 10%. Adairsville High leads the county with a graduation rate of 98.6%, including a 96.3% rate for students with disabilities.

Number of Schools Elementary 23 Middle 7 High 6 Alternative 1 Centers 8 Career Academy 1 Virtual 1 Total # of Students: 41,472 Student Spending: $10,580

Board of Education 770-479-1871 cherokeek12.net

CLAYTON

CLAYTON

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

82 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

2023 Average SAT: 1027

2023 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 517 (M) 537 5th: (ELA) 524 (M) 535 8th: (ELA) 519 (M) 526 2023 Average SAT: 1094 Top 5 Schools by Average 2023 SAT Score Sequoyah High 1112 Creekview High 1102 Woodstock High 1098 Cherokee High 1092 River Ridge High 1081

What’s New: Hasty Elementary School Fine Arts Academy received a $5,000 grant from the newly opened Burlington store at Canton Marketplace. The national discount retailer donated the money through its partnership with AdoptAClassroom.org.

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

2023 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 467 (M) 495 5th: (ELA) 486 (M) 476 8th: (ELA) 495 (M) 483 2023 Average SAT: 919 Top 5 Schools by Average 2023 SAT Score Elite Scholars Academy 1123 M. E. Stilwell School of the Art 980 Morrow High 959 Jonesboro High 928 North Clayton High 922

What’s New: As part of increased security protocols, Clayton County Public Schools is now issuing student identification cards.

Winter/Spring 2024

COBB

Number of Schools Elementary 65 Primary 2 Middle 26 High 10 Magnet High Schools 6 Charter 1 Learning Centers 1 Adult Education Center 1 Special Education Centers 2 Virtual Academies 1 Total # of Students: 106,141 Student Spending: $11,907

2023 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 518 (M) 527 5th: (ELA) 523 (M) 522 8th: (ELA) 524 (M) 524 2023 Average SAT: 1104 Top 5 Schools by Average 2023 SAT Score Walton High School 1255 Wheeler High 1184 Lassiter High 1183 Alan C. Pope High 1179 Kell High School 1063

Board of Education 770-426-3300 cobbk12.org

What’s New: Two Cobb middle schools, Griffin and Palmer, were were among those awarded the title of America’s Healthiest Schools by the Alliance for a Healthier Generation.

COWETA

Number of Schools Elementary 19 Middle 7 High 3 Charter & Career Academy 2 Alternative 2 Centre for Performing and Visual Arts 1 Special Education 1 Virtual 1

COWETA

Total # of Students: 22,044 Student Spending: $11,180

2023 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 519 (M) 530 5th: (ELA) 521 (M) 519 8th: (ELA) 520 (M) 518 2023 Average SAT: 1068 Top 3 Schools by Average 2023 SAT Score Northgate High 1105 East Coweta High 1057 Newnan High 1055

Board of Education 770-254-2800 cowetaschools.net

What’s New: The Coweta County School System Transportation Department has replaced their older Bus Status system with the new Bus Bulletin notification system.

DEKALB

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

DEKALB

Board of Education 678-676-1200 dekalbschoolsga.org

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

2023 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 489 (M) 508 5th: (ELA) 500 (M) 492 8th: (ELA) 504 (M) 493 2023 Average SAT: 993 Top 5 Schools by Average 2023 SAT Score Chamblee Charter High 1176 DeKalb School of the Arts 1131 Dunwoody High 1109 Lakeside High 1100 Druid Hills High 1095

What’s New: The Local Initiatives Support Corporation presented Stone Mountain High and the DeKalb County School District with a $250,000 grant to complete the artificial surface at Stone Mountain High’s practice football field. atlantaschoolguide.com

83

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

COBB

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

DOUGLAS

DOUGLAS

Board of Education 770-651-2000 dcssga.org

FAYETTE FAYETTE

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

2023 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 498 (M) 511 5th: (ELA) 506 (M) 496 8th: (ELA) 517 (M) 500 2023 Average SAT: 984 Top 5 Schools by Average 2023 SAT Score Alexander High 1026 Chapel Hill High 1004 Douglas County High 996 Lithia Springs High 944 New Manchester High 928

What’s New: The Carrollton Douglasville alumni chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. and the Community Diamonds Foundation presented Douglas County Schools with a check for $15,800 earmarked for paying school lunch balances.

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

2023 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 535 (M) 544 5th: (ELA) 538 (M) 542 8th: (ELA) 544 (M) 553 2023 Average SAT: 1123 Top 5 Schools by Average 2023 SAT Score McIntosh High 1175 Starr’s Mill High 1164 Whitewater High 1115 Sandy Creek High 1063 Fayette County High 1027

Board of Education 770-460-3990 fcboe.org

What’s New: Fayette County Public Schools is offering helpful parenting education tips and resources on its website. Topics covered include sleep, structure, chores, discipline and screen time.

FORSYTH

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

FORSYTH

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

2023 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 537 (M) 557 5th: (ELA) 541 (M) 562 8th: (ELA) 538 (M) 554 2023 Average SAT: 1177 Top 5 Schools by Average 2023 SAT Score Lambert High 1254 Alliance Academy 1239 South Forsyth High 1218 Denmark High 1168 Forsyth Central 1133

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

What’s New: SPARK! 4 Kids is a free, federally funded program facilitated by Forsyth County Schools. SPARK! seeks to support the growth and success of all learners through weekly sessions with families and their child(ren) ages birth to 5, at-home resources and activities, and technology training for parents.

84 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2024

ATLANTA

Number of Schools Elementary 59 Middle 19 High 19 Charter 7 Alternative Schools 3 Virtual Campus 2 Total # of Students: 88,326 Student Spending: $13,019

FULTON

Board of Education 470-254-3600 fultonschools.org

GRIFFINSPALDING

Board of Education 770-229-3700 gscs.org

GWINNETT

GWINNETT

2023 Average SAT: 1085 Top 5 Schools by Average 2023 SAT Score Northview High 1263 Chattahoochee High 1225 Johns Creek High 1219 Alpharetta High 1214 Milton High 1163

What’s New: Fulton County Schools has launched a program for its educators to further their careers through a partnership between the district and Georgia State University. This professional learning opportunity prepares participants for higher roles.

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

2023 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 474 (M) 498 5th: (ELA) 484 (M) 482 8th: (ELA) 490 (M) 489

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

Top 2 Schools by Average 2023 SAT Score Spalding High 1006 Griffin High 929

2023 Average SAT: 970

What’s New: The Griffin-Spalding County School System and Caterpillar Inc. have announced a pilot program called Train, Learn, Grow. The program will offer opportunities to high school juniors and seniors to work side by side with industry professionals and mentors with practical, hands-on training at a Caterpillar facility, gaining invaluable experience in industrial maintenance.

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

Board of Education 678-301-6000 gcpsk12.org

2023 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 525 (M) 540 5th: (ELA) 529 (M) 528 8th: (ELA) 529 (M) 520

2023 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 513 (M) 530 5th: (ELA) 519 (M) 524 8th: (ELA) 520 (M) 526 2023 Average SAT: 1091 Top 5 Schools by Average 2023 SAT Score Gwinnett School of Math, Science, and Technology 1393 North Gwinnett High 1192 Brookwood High 1135 Paul Duke STEM High 1135 Mill Creek High 1134

What’s New: Stripling Elementary students will participate in STEM activities utilizing the engineering design process to contribute to the design, build and functionality of a community garden. atlantaschoolguide.com

85

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

FULTON

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

HALL HALL

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

2023 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 485 (M) 511 5th: (ELA) 498 (M) 503 8th: (ELA) 501 (M) 506 2023 Average SAT: 1040 Top 5 Schools by Average 2023 SAT Score North Hall High 1085 Flowery Branch High 1085 Chestatee High 1021 Cherokee Bluff High 1016 East Hall High 1012

Board of Education 770-534-1080 hallco.org

What’s New: Da Vinci Academy at South Hall Middle School completed a $1.75 million renovation and expansion of its Museum of Inspired Learning in time to celebrate its 15th anniversary.

HENRY

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

HENRY

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

2023 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 489 (M) 508 5th: (ELA) 501 (M) 491 8th: (ELA) 507 (M) 495 2023 Average SAT: 990 Top 5 Schools by Average 2023 SAT Score Union Grove High 1048 Ola High 1044 Eagle’s Landing High 994 Dutchtown High 980 Woodland High 976

Board of Education What’s New: The Henry County Board of Education has 770-957-6601 implemented a layered weapons detection system for all 10 high schoolwires.henry.k12.ga.us school stadiums for home events.

PAULDING PAULDING BRASWELL

278

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

2023 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 504 (M) 521 5th: (ELA) 514 (M) 512 8th: (ELA) 516 (M) 509

Total # of Students: 30,913 Student Spending: $10,373

Top 5 Schools by Average 2023 SAT Score Paulding County High 1038 North Paulding High 1030 East Paulding High 1000 South Paulding High 996 Hiram High 996

2023 Average SAT: 1017

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

What’s New: Construction continues on Paulding County’s 10th middle school. Built to alleviate capacity issues at McClure Middle School, the facility will be located on property between Seven Hills Boulevard and Westbrook Creek Road and Garnet Drive in northeast Paulding County. The new building is slated to open in August.

86 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2024

LE RO CK DA

Board of Education 770-483-4713 rockdaleschools.org

ATLANTA PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Number of Schools Elementary 11 Middle 4 High 3 Alternative 1 Career Academy 1 Magnet 1 Open Campus 1 Virtual School 2 Total # of Students: 15,203 Student Spending: $13,712

2023 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 480 (M) 501 5th: (ELA) 501 (M) 483 8th: (ELA) 513 (M) 496 2023 Average SAT: 969 Top 3 Schools by Average 2023 SAT Score Rockdale High 1001 Heritage High 962 Salem High 911

What’s New: Rockdale County Public Schools has announced a new app for parents and students. This free app manages notifications, events, grades, bus routes, job opportunities, school lunch payments and more.

Board of Education 404-802-3500 atlantapublicschools.us

Number of Schools Elementary 42 Intermediate 4 Middle 10 High 10 Charter 19 Alternative 4 Virtual 1 Total # of Students: 48,707 Student Spending: $21,766

2023 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 492 (M) 511 5th: (ELA) 503 (M) 498 8th: (ELA) 501 (M) 494 2023 Average SAT: 949 Top 5 Schools by Average 2023 SAT Score Atlanta Classical Academy 1133 Midtown 1121 North Atlanta High 1070 KIPP Atlanta Collegiate Academy 1044 Charles R. Drew Charter High 999

What’s New: Deerwood Academy has opened up a new outdoor learning space, which includes seating for one class, a white board and two vegetable beds. The space was made possible by donations from Atlanta United and Royal Foods, and is a joint effort between Atlanta Public Schools and Out Teach.

BUFORD CITY SCHOOLS

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

Total # of Students: 5,742 Student Spending: $11,776 2023 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 548 (M) 557 5th: (ELA) 545 (M) 554 8th: (ELA) 551 (M) 572 2023 Average SAT: 1161

What’s New: Buford City Schools remains the No. 1 public school system in Georgia according to Niche for 2024. This is Buford’s ninth consecutive year receiving this distinction. Niche determines rankings based on many factors. atlantaschoolguide.com

87

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

ROCKDALE

PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNTY GUIDE

Board of Education Total # of Students: CITY 404-371-3601 5,477 csdecatur.net Student Spending: SCHOOLS OF $15,089 Number of Schools Elementary 5 2023 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: DECATUR Middle 1 3rd: (ELA) 549 (M) 559 3rd-5th Grade Academy 1 4th & 5th Grade Academy 1 High 1 Early Learning Center 1 Virtual 1

5th: (ELA) 551 (M) 558 8th: (ELA) 547 (M) 537

2023 Average SAT: 1147

What’s New: CSD ranks in the top five school districts in Georgia for average SAT scores and highest in the Metro Resa region for the fifth consecutive year. Additionally, CSD’s class of 2023 achieved an average ACT composite score of 25.1, which is higher than both the state and national averages.

of Education Total # of Students: GAINESVILLE Board 770-536-5275 7,530 gcssk12.net Student Spending: CITY $11,678 Number of Schools Elementary 6 2023 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: SCHOOLS Middle High

2 1

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

2023 Average SAT: 955 What’s New: Gainesville City Schools aims to assist two unique groups of students with its new Horizon Academy program: those who are new to the country and acclimating to American schools, as well as seniors who are behind in credits and need support to graduate. Over 150 students enrolled for the 2023-24 school year.

MARIETTA CITY SCHOOLS

Board of Education 770-422-3500 marietta-city.org Number of Schools Elementary 7 Sixth Grade 1 Middle 1 High 1 Alternative 1 Magnet 1 Early Learning 1

Total # of Students: 8,558 Student Spending: $14,571 2023 Mean Georgia Milestone Scores: 3rd: (ELA) 518 (M) 534 5th: (ELA) 516 (M) 521 8th: (ELA) 509 (M) 506 2023 Average SAT: 1052

What’s New: Marietta City Schools (MCS) has welcomed Barney, a crisis response canine, as an emotional and sensory support for students in need. The canine will work alongside Officer Paul Hill, MCS’s elementary school resource officer.

Officer Hill will utilize Barney’s skills for various functions, including calming children experiencing behavioral or emotional concerns.

88 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2024

FIELD TRIPS & EDUCATION EDUCATIONAL RESOURCESPROGRAMS

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

Index

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

90 90 91

atlantaschoolguide.com

89

SUMMER CAMPS & ACTIVITIES • TUTORING

TUTORING IN YOUR OWN HOME!

all subjects, all gr ades

hand-picked tutors

no contract, no registra on fee

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

770-645-8750

inhometutors.com

90 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2024

FIELD TRIPS & EDUCATION PROGRAMS

FIELD TRIPS & EDUCATION PROGRAMS

FIELD TRIPS & EDUCATION PROGRAMS

93

atlantaschoolguide.com

FIELD TRIPS & EDUCATION PROGRAMS

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

94 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2024

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

PHOTO: Alliance Theatre

ALLIANCE THEATRE

The Alliance Theatre provides educational programming for infants to age 18. From classes and camps to professional productions specifically designed for every age group, families will learn, grow, and create together.

In addition, the Alliance Theatre offers

developmentally appropriate field trips for preschool through 12th grade. Working with the country's top theater talents, these world-class productions create the powerful shared experience of theater for a diverse audience. Independent research from the University of Arkansas' National Endowment for the Arts Research Lab showed students who attend multiple arts field trips have higher levels of social-emotional skills, stronger school engagement, and higher standardized test scores. Title I and group discounts are available.

The Alliance Theatre is located at 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta, GA 30309. To book a field trip, call 404-733-4690 or email allianceschoolday@ woodruffcenter.org. For more information, visit alliancetheatre.org/education or alliancetheatre.org/fieldtrips.

MUSEUM OF ILLUSIONS ATLANTA In a world of endless distractions, the Museum of Illusions Atlanta offers a unique opportunity to foster curiosity, ignite imagination and encourage students to think outside the box.

Located in Midtown’s Atlantic Station, the museum’s more than 80 interactive exhibits and hands-on activities create an inspiring learning environment for students in grades 3-12.

Students will be mesmerized by visual illusions, mystifying puzzles, holograms and gravitydefying spaces with educational opportunities.

• Engage in critical and creative thinking • Discover the science behind optical phenomena • Be guided by inquiry-based questions The museum’s accompanying curriculum provides educators with resources to maximize their museum visit to create a memorable experience for all.

Georgia Elite Taekwondo said, “The staff is amazing! Very patient with the kids and very knowledgeable of all the exhibits. I had kids

ranging from age 4 to 14 and all of them had a blast.”

To book your visit, contact Julissa.Noyola@ moiatlanta.com or visit moiatlanta.com/fieldtrips. Field trip discount rates are available for camps, homeschool groups and public, private and Title I schools in Georgia.

Get ready for a journey of discovery, where the impossible becomes possible and learning becomes an adventure!

SPECIAL PROMOTION

atlantaschoolguide.com

95

FIELD TRIPS & EDUCATION PROGRAMS

TOP FIELD TRIPS

FIELD TRIPS & EDUCATION PROGRAMS

TOP FIELD TRIPS

MICHAEL C. CARLOS MUSEUM: FACE THE WORLD WITH CURIOSITY observation, analysis, communication and critical thinking. Embark on a captivating journey across cultures throughout time at the Carlos Museum.

The museum is located at 571 S. Kilgo Circle, Atlanta, GA 30322. For more information, visit carlos.emory.edu/tours or call 404-727-3187.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of art and culture at Emory University's Michael C. Carlos Museum. Through interactive and interdisciplinary thematic tours, students explore Africa; ancient Egypt, Nubia and the Near East; ancient Greece and Rome; the Indigenous Americas; and South Asia. Highly trained docents facilitate inquiry and discussion by encouraging

Reach youR TaRgeT MaRkeT more effectively!

Advertise in Atlanta School Guide and get results.

770-992-0273

96 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

SPECIAL PROMOTION

ADVERTISER INDEX Boarding Schools

Academy at SOAR..............................................71 Baylor School......................................................73 Brehm Preparatory School.................................69 Hargrave Military Academy...............................75 Kents Hill School.................................................71 The Linsly School................................................76 Monteverde Academy........................................68 Oldfields School.................................................70 Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School.........................68 Saint Mary’s School.............................................72 St. Andrew's-Sewanee School...........................73 The Webb School...............................................74

Early Education

Atlanta Academy................................................50 Atlanta Montessori International Schools Cliff Valley..............................................................3 Atlanta Montessori International Schools Druid Hills..............................................................3 Counterpane Montessori School......................60 Endeavor Montessori Dunwoody.............BC, 100 The Friends School of Atlanta...........................54 Fulton Science Academy............................. IFC, 2 MJCCA Preschools.............................................48 Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs...........................................BC, 100 Montessori at Vickery................................BC, 100 Mount Paran Christian School...........................64 Oak Grove Academy............................................7 Parker-Chase Preschool.......................................3 Strong Rock Christian School............................60

Faith-Based Education

Bethlehem Christian Academy..........................53 Cherokee Christian Schools...............................45 Community Christian School.............................59 Covenant Christian School................................66 The Davis Academy............................................47 Eastside Christian School...................................41 Hearts Academy of Excellence..........................65 Heritage Preparatory School.............................56 Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School.......................5 Holy Spirit Preparatory School..........................39 Landmark Christian School................................59 Loganville Christian Academy...........................55 The Lovett School...............................................64 MJCCA Preschools.............................................48 Mt. Bethel Christian Academy...........................42 Mount Paran Christian School...........................64 Mount Pisgah Christian School.........................49 Saint Francis School...........................................44 Strong Rock Christian School............................60 Trinity Christian School - Sharpsburg................62 Wesleyan School.................................................49 Whitefield Academy...........................................65

Field Trips & Education Programs

Alliance Theatre..................................................93

ArtsBridge Foundation.......................................94 Children’s Museum of Atlanta...........................94 College Football Hall of Fame..........................91 The Fox Theatre (Virtual Fox in a Box)..............92 Interactive Neighborhood for Kids (INK)..........94 Michael C. Carlos Museum................................94 Museum of Illusions............................................93 Zoo Atlanta .........................................................90

Independent Schools

Acton Academy at Serenbe.......................IBC, 99 Arbor Montessori School...................................54 Athens Academy.................................................52 Atlanta Academy................................................50 Atlanta International School..............................41 Atlanta Montessori International Schools Cliff Valley..............................................................3 Atlanta Montessori International Schools Druid Hills..............................................................3 Bethlehem Christian Academy..........................53 Capstone Academy............................................52 Cherokee Christian Schools...............................45 The Children’s School.........................................56 Community Christian School.............................59 Counterpane Montessori School......................60 Covenant Christian School................................66 The Davis Academy............................................47 Eastside Christian School...................................41 Endeavor Montessori Dunwoody.............BC, 100 Endeavor International School.................BC, 100 The Friends School of Atlanta...........................54 Fulton Science Academy............................. IFC, 2 The Galloway School..........................................42 Hearts Academy of Excellence..........................65 Heritage Preparatory School.............................56 High Meadows School.......................................44 Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School.......................5 Holy Spirit Preparatory School..........................39 Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia........48 Landmark Christian School................................59 Loganville Christian Academy...........................55 The Lovett School...............................................64 McGinnis Woods School....................................47 MJCCA Preschools.............................................48 Mt. Bethel Christian Academy...........................42 Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs...........................................BC, 100 Montessori In Town............................................55 Montessori at Vickery................................BC, 100 Mount Paran Christian School...........................64 Mount Pisgah Christian School.........................49 Oak Meadow Montessori School......................55 Oak Grove Academy............................................7 Oak Mountain Academy....................................62 Our World School...............................................62 Pace Academy....................................................40 Parker-Chase Preschool.......................................3 Saint Francis School...........................................44 Continued on Next Page u atlantaschoolguide.com

97

ADVERTISER INDEX (Continued from Previous Page) The Schenck School...........................................41 Springmont School.............................................40 STAR Community School...................................57 Strong Rock Christian School............................60 Trinity Christian School - Sharpsburg................62 The Walker School..............................................43 Wesleyan School.................................................49 Whitefield Academy...........................................65 Woodward Academy..........................................61

Montessori Schools

Atlanta Montessori International Schools Cliff Valley..............................................................3 Atlanta Montessori International Schools Druid Hills..............................................................3 Counterpane Montessori School......................60 Endeavor Montessori Dunwoody.............BC, 100 Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia........48 Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs...........................................BC, 100 Montessori In Town............................................55 Montessori at Vickery................................BC, 100 Oak Meadow Montessori School......................55 Springmont School.............................................40

Public & Charter Schools

The Anchor School.............................................80

98 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE

Winter/Spring 2024

Brookhaven Innovation Academy.....................79 Fulton Academy of Science & Technology (FAST)..............................................80 Georgia Connections Academy........................79 Georgia Cyber Academy...................................78 International Charter School of Atlanta............81 Ivy Prep Academy...............................................81 The Main Street Academy.................................80

Special Needs & Learning Difficulties

Academy at SOAR..............................................71 Brehm Preparatory School.................................69 Our World School...............................................62 The Schenck School...........................................41

Summer Camps & Activities

Alliance Theatre..................................................93 ArtsBridge Foundation.......................................94 Children’s Museum of Atlanta...........................94 Interactive Neighborhood for Kids (INK)..........94 Michael C. Carlos Museum................................94 Museum of Illusions............................................93 Zoo Atlanta..........................................................90

Tutoring & Study Skills

In-Home Tutors of Atlanta.................................90