HOW CLASSROOMS ARE EVOLVING IN THE DIGITAL AGE TECHNOLOGY TECHNOLOGY
By E. Marcel Pourtout
AS TECHNOLOGY
EVOLVES, it continues to change the ways that people interact with one another— and the ways in which they exchange and absorb information. That’s particularly true in today’s classrooms, where teachers incorporate technological advances to create interactive learning environments that parents are likely to find very different from their own school experiences.
The traditional classroom model is experiencing a 21st-century upgrade, with textbooks and chalkboards giving way to tablets and cutting-edge tools like 3-D printers. Technology is no longer reserved for the computer lab. Instead, students interact with technological devices on a regular basis throughout the school day.
At King’s Ridge Christian School, an independent school in Alpharetta, teachers use
Activpanel interactive displays and document cameras (devices that display objects for large audiences) in every classroom. In addition, “we heavily utilize iPads,” says Director of Communications Michelle Azzi, “and our teachers also utilize platforms like Seesaw and Spelling City.”
ROBOTS AND 3-D PRINTERS
But in today’s high-tech classroom, you’ll find much more than laptops and apps. You’re likely
Technology isn’t just changing the way students learn—it’s changing what they learn about, introducing them to tools and fields that once seemed like science fiction.
to see students learning about the fundamentals of robotics and creating prosthetic body parts with 3-D printers—machines that create threedimensional objects from digital files, layer by layer.
Technology isn’t just changing the way students learn—it’s changing what they learn about, introducing them to tools and fields that once seemed like science fiction.
“Within our curriculum, students are often allowed to use technology for class projects” such as creating websites, podcasts or infographics, says Connie White, director of learning design and innovation at Woodward Academy in College Park. Students also have access to robotics, CAD (computer-aided design) and 3-D printers. They can even reserve slots in maker spaces, special areas where they engage in collaborative, hands-on projects, using contemporary technology.
“Any type of technology we have, we try to replicate it to give students a chance to use them. In our science department in particular, we have some high-level, Omni Globe (Spherical Displays) and high-powered microscopes,” White says.
The school also has several clubs geared toward technology, such as the Aviation Club, Girls Who Code and Tech Ninjas, according to its website.
At Mount Vernon School in Sandy Springs, students also can congregate in maker spaces to let their creativity run wild.
“All four maker spaces have multiple 3-D printers, and all grade levels use them for not only maker class projects but core classroom projects, as well,” says Alexandra Blumencranz, executive director for the Mount Vernon Institute for Innovation at Mount Vernon School. “The projects range from jewelry to physical representation of architecture projects to torsion-powered cars in physics."
One early project found students working to create a prosthetic hand for teenager Alex Linkous, who was born with only part of his right hand.
“The students were led through a design thinking challenge to prototype hands that would best serve Alex and his wish to drive and hold a Coca-Cola at the same time,”
Blumencranz says.
At Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School, students in grades 1 through 3 can learn the basic building blocks of 21st-century technology in an after-school Velocity Tech program, working with tools like Lego models, robot drones and 3-D pens.
A Robotics and Programming course for fourth- through sixth-graders familiarizes students with such concepts as mechanical and electrical engineering, coding and sensors as they learn to think logically and analytically.
A 3-D printing class allows students in grades 4-8 to work hands-on with the equipment and even take home some of their creations.
Woodward’s curriculum includes a focus on STEAM (science, technology, education, arts and math), White says.
“We have things like a coding curriculum students are involved with. Teachers use technology in lots of ways, and we’re helping them to gain or increase their skills with formative learning,” she says.
Middle-schoolers at Mount Vernon can also participate in an after-school robotics course us-
ing Lego Mindstorms, kits that combine robotics technology with Lego building blocks.
Landmark Christian School offers several specialized programs, called academies, that offer in-depth instruction in different fields of interest. “Our Aviation Academy has five flight simulators,” says Director of Marketing and Communications Paula Dobbs. The Academy of Arts and Media Production uses new iMac computers and professional-level production software to help students learn about music production and digital recording, as well as drones, HD cameras and professional-grade production software for students interested in film production.
EMPOWERING STUDENTS
Students utilize technology outside of the classroom, from social media to streaming platforms to video games and tools that help them create music and make videos. So it only makes sense to incorporate it as a teaching aid. But educators are quick to point out that all of these devices and programs are just that—tools. The idea isn’t to make students dependent on technology—it’s
for them to use it to learn and present information in new and creative ways that will keep them engaged.
“We believe in a balanced approach,” Azzi says. “The students use technology, and then we also have times where we do things by hand.”
“We give students the toolsets, skillsets and mindsets to have choice and agency in their work,” says Blumencranz. “Using their creativity and curiosity, students use these classes and materials to engage deeply in their work and make an impact in their community.”
Before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, Woodward has given all its students devices such as laptops they can take anywhere and use for homework and other projects.
“During COVID, our teachers have used our tools to scale,” White said. “We feel like it’s important that we sustain those innovations that provide all young people with the skills they need for their communities. It’s an ongoing process to use technology. That’s a shift that has occurred.”
And as technology grows more and more advanced, from robots to 3-D printers, the ways in which students use it to learn and create will continue to transform, as well.
MEETING THE CHALLENGES OF A CHANGING WORLD
TCS’s intentional approach addresses the whole student by working with their social & emotional needs, in addition to their educational goals.
BLESSED TRINITY CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
Admissions Events
• Open House - Sunday, October 31, 1-3 pm.
Families can tour campus, meet our students, teachers and coaches and learn all about Blessed Trinity Catholic High School from our administration.
• Student Shadowing
Students who have applied to Blessed Trinity can schedule a day to shadow a current student. Shadowing days will begin in November.
• On Campus Tours - Thursday and Saturday
Starting in November, families can register to participate in small group tours with the Director of Enrollment and members of the admissions team.
Please visit www.btcatholic.org/admissions for more information and to register for our admissions events.
Serving Kindergarten to High School students with language, learning and social challenges.
IN-SCHOOL INSTRUCTION.
Providing a regular-education curriculum combining:
• Georgia Standards delivered by master's level certified teachers
• Differentiated Instruction
• PE, Foreign Language, Drama, Art and Culinary Arts
• Educational Technology in every classroom
REDUCE THE STRESS; INCREASE SUCCESS HOMEWORK
By Michelle Bourg
Back in the day, homework was something kids could do before dinner—a page of math problems and maybe a chapter of reading, done with the radio or TV on. Not anymore: today’s academic environment is much more challenging, designed to help students meet the demands of a rapidly changing world. Homework is an integral part of that process. In addition, students encounter more demands on their time, with sports, clubs and community service frequently on the agenda. This means that handling homework
efficiently while truly learning from it is an essential skill to learn.
“As teachers, we understand the importance of balancing the homework load for students, therefore we implore different strategies at different grade levels. At the elementary level, we use Tic-Tac-Toe boards for the week. Within this board, we are conscious to have students pick only one or two tasks per night to engage in activities that do not exceed about 30 minutes per night,” says Charell G. Coleman, a seventh- and eighth-grade literature teacher at Woodward
Academy in College Park. By taking a step-by-step approach, students can master the skills required for effective home study—skills that they’ll use throughout their lives.
The first step to productive homework management is to create a designated study area, with space to spread materials out and where parents can keep a watchful eye. Experts recommend keeping bedrooms reserved for sleep to promote good rest habits, and kids’ rooms often hold distractions such as TV or toys, so a laptop at the kitchen or dining room table may be best,
Inevitably, your child is going to need some help. When that happens, don’t lead your child down the wrong path by trying to be an expert in an unfamiliar subject.
at least for younger children.
Next, set up a study time. Some kids like to come straight home and start while they’re still in “school mode;” others need to unwind first. Whatever the preferred time is, it should be reasonably close to the same time every day; our minds learn to adapt to functions done on a set schedule, and it’s also a good way to begin to learn time management.
Within that set time, experiment with how to prioritize the work load: some kids prefer to
start with demanding subjects while they’re relatively fresh and allot extra time to them, while others want to get the easier work out of the way first. Scan the day’s assignments together and plan a schedule based on both your child’s study style and the amount of work assigned in each subject, making sure that everything is covered. Children often need guidance with this but giving them input on how they’d like to work goes a long way toward a positive attitude about the work itself.
Once the books are cracked, be available to clarify instructions or suggest an approach to a problem if needed, but let your child do the work. Meanwhile, observe their progress and note what’s challenging and what’s not demanding enough. If there are consistent patterns, talk to the teacher to create a solution as a team. When study time is over, review the work with your child. Praise effort and progress, and review problem areas together to brainstorm on how to improve.
Inevitably, your child is going to need some help. When that happens, don’t lead your child down the wrong path by trying to be an expert in an unfamiliar subject. It’s tempting to just Google it, but be careful about online resources. Checking the reliability of sources not only helps your child learn to use media responsibly, but also teaches them the most important skill they can ever have: how to learn.
Possibly the hardest part of homework management for parents is to know when to stop and call for reinforcements. Dennis Freeman,
co-founder of In-Home Tutors Atlanta (inhometutors.com), says there are several scenarios in which a family can benefit from some personal help, primarily “When the child is clearly struggling and it’s gone beyond the parent’s capabilities,” noting that 7th- and 8th-grade math is typically the upper limit for many parents.
If children actively resist homework, have chronic difficulty getting organized, or are dealing with issues such as ADHD, family relationships can suffer as parents get caught in the stress. Children often respond differently to someone outside their circle, and in these cases, a homework coach helps with academics but also helps keep the child organized and on track, which can make homework less of a burden and just maybe, even fun. “Having a less emotionally attached third party can take a lot of stress out of the household,” Freeman says.
By working together with your child to create a plan and getting help when appropriate, you can make sure that he or she works smarter, not harder, to get the most out of homework. Ultimately, kids want to do well, and understand the value of homework in the process of achieving that. Says Coleman, “The most important factor in assigning homework is to only assign work necessary to a child's mastery of concepts being taught.”
TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL STUDY TIME
1. Create a designated study space where parents can keep a watchful eye.
2. Plan a daily homework routine and stick to it.
3. Prioritize the workload and determine what to do first.
4. Be available for your child to clarify instructions or suggest an approach to a problem if needed.
5. When study time is over, review your child’s work.
6. Praise effort and progress, and review problem areas together to brainstorm on how to improve.
A foundation for a lifetime...
• Pre-K4 through 8th grade
• 68 years of rigorous curriculum
• STREAM activities in all classes
• Fully certified teachers
• Computer or IPad for all students
• Before/after school care
Atlanta is home to many excellent schools and learning resources, which means you can find exactly the right environment for a challenging and nurturing education for your child. The following profiles represent a selection of independent schools and nearby boarding schools serving the metro Atlanta area. For additional information about the schools listed below, including location, tuition, class size and open house dates, turn to Beyond the Basics on page 36.
Arbor Montessori School
Arbor Montessori School prepares children to go anywhere. Anywhere their interests, dreams, and passions take them.
• The school teaches its students math, science, and language so they can thrive anywhere academically.
• It encourages independence, self-direction and critical reasoning so students have the tools to make good decisions anywhere their life takes them.
• Arbor teaches collaboration, cooperation, and peace because it knows children can be agents of change anywhere they go in the world.
Since 1970, Arbor has been the flagship of Montessori education in Atlanta. Today, it is one of the largest Montessori schools in the Southeast and regarded as a benchmark for Montessori education worldwide. Children ages 18 months through eighth grade receive
individualized attention and curricula in developmentally-appropriate environments from understanding, knowledgeable, experienced faculty. “Arbor provides an authentic Montessori education,” says Luci David, an Arbor parent. “The teachers are kind, patient, and passionate; the classrooms and play areas are beautiful and safe. Most importantly, my child is flourishing and is excited to go to school every day.”
Arbor's flagship campus sits on a 4-acre wooded lot offering students opportunities to engage in the natural world. In addition to an outstanding academic program, Arbor offers art, music, Spanish, before- and after-school care, a strong athletics program, extracurriculars, and a close-knit community.
Arbor’s second campus on Scott Boulevard offers a conveniently-located, smaller community of toddler and 3- to 6-year-old primary classes. Children benefit from intentionally-designed
materials and experienced teachers. Arbor’s teachers offer lessons promoting meaningful work, encouraging children to be the optimal version of themselves. The founders’ vision has become a reality. Go here, then go anywhere.
For more information, visit arbormontessori.org or call 404-321-9304.
Atlanta International School
Atlanta International School is an inclusive, multicultural, community providing a worldclass education to 1,307 US and international students from kindergarten (starting with 3-year-olds) to Grade 12.
The International Baccalaureate (IB) provides a rigorous academic structure that is complemented by language acquisition programs beginning with a full-immersion preschool program in French, German, Chinese and Spanish. In addition to the prestigious IB diploma, Atlanta International School offers STEM- and STEAM-endorsed and bilingual diplomas. The curriculum is further enhanced with a wide range of age-appropriate activities to help expand learning experiences beyond the
classroom. Students can participate in awardwinning performing and fine arts opportunities, competitive athletics, and an impressive range of global experiential learning options, all designed to help students realize the school’s mission: To develop courageous leaders who shape their world for the better.
Along with the authorization to offer IB education, AIS is also accredited by the following academic programs: AdvancED/Cognia, Agency of French Teaching Abroad (aefe), Council for International Schools (CIS), European Council for International Schools (ECIS), and Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS).
For more information, visit aischool.org or call 404-841-3840.
Baylor School
Located in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Baylor School is among the finest college prep schools in the country and is only two hours from Atlanta.
Academics is one constant in Baylor’s 128-year history because it provides a college preparatory program that engages, challenges, and inspires students to achieve their greatest academic potential at both Baylor and beyond.
While Baylor is first and foremost an academic institution, it believes that prepping students for college requires attention to the body and the spirit as well as the mind. That commitment is reflected in every aspect of Baylor life outside the classroom.
Its students find that balance on what is arguably the most beautiful independent school campus in the Southeast, with 690 acres along the Tennessee River and an abundance of extracurricular opportunities. The campus is home to boarding students from 15 countries and 23 states who enjoy a deep sense of community while discovering an independence most students are not able to experience until college. For more information, visit baylorschool.org or call 423-267-5902.
The Bedford School
The Bedford School offers a fresh start to students who have been frustrated in a traditional setting due to learning differences. The school serves children in grades 1-9 who have been professionally identified as having specific learning disabilities and related disorders.
The mission of The Bedford School is to maximize the potential of children with learning differences and develop foundations for success; this is accomplished through small classes (5-12 per class), a structured, multi-sensory approach and a dedicated staff. The school was established in 1985 and currently serves 150 students.
The Squirrel Hollow Camp summer program offers academic tutoring and recreational activities. The camp is open to children who need an academic boost in the summer; a student does not have to be enrolled in the school to attend summer camp. Students receive tutoring in reading, math and written expression and participate in recreational activities on its Challenge Course and its outdoor pool. Bedford is located on a 45-acre campus in Fairburn, 15 minutes south of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. For more information, contact The Bedford School at 770774-8001 or visit thebedfordschool.org
Brandon Hall School
Brandon Hall’s mission as a co-educational, global day and boarding school is to challenge students to lead lives of leadership, scholarship, and service. Its community celebrates learning, fosters global citizenship, embraces diversity, encourages athleticism and artistic expression, and inspires students to find their path and lead the way.
The school’s 24-acre campus in Sandy Springs is historically and naturally preserved, nestled on the Chattahoochee River. An average class size of 8:1 ensures that students are fully engaged learners, and its diverse community comprises 22 countries and 10 states. The IB Diploma Programme is offered to eligible students entering their junior year. Brandon Hall offers world-class arts and athletics partnerships and a variety of extracurricular clubs. All students have regular opportunities to serve local and international communities through its extensive partnerships.
The Center for Global Youth Leadership inspires students to be innovators, problem-solvers, and pioneers. Boarding students benefit from the school’s structured and organized program that teaches accountability, character, study habits, and essential life skills.
For more information, visit brandonhall.org or call 770-394-8177.
The Friends School of Atlanta
The Friends School of Atlanta (FSA) provides challenging academics in a diverse environment, drawing on values of simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality and stewardship to empower students to go out into the world with conscience, conviction and compassion.
Founded as a model of diversity in 1991, FSA strives to address the development of the whole child and seeks to educate for peace and justice by nurturing that of goodness within each student. Offering classes for children from PreK3 through eighth grade, FSA’s program is designed to prepare students for a successful high school future and a lifetime of engagement as thoughtful citizens. Enrolling for 2021-22, class space permitting. For more information, visit friendsschoolatlanta.org, or call 404-373-8746. u
The Cottage School
Building a sense of self for students with special learning needs through academic and experiential programming, The Cottage School (TCS) prepares individuals for fulfillment of their true potential as confident, productive, and independent adults.
The Cottage School provides an educational environment for students with learning differences in grades 4-12. It prides itself in meeting the student where he or she needs to be met. It also recognizes that all students learn differently, so it teaches differently.
Based on three pillars of success: academic, social and emotional, TCS school offers:
• Small class sizes (10-student average) for individualized learning.
• Customized education plans for every student.
• A work-based, incentive-based model that teaches life skills.
• A year-round sports program that encourages all students to participate.
• A required post-secondary plan that insures. continued success after graduation (or “to insure”).
Come visit the beautiful 23-acre campus and contact the director of admissions for an appointment today. For more information, call 770-641-8688 or visit cottageschool.org
Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia
Georgia Cyber Academy
Georgia Cyber Academy is a tuition-free, online, public charter school serving students in grades K-12 throughout the state. Enjoy everything you love about traditional brick-and-mortar education, from the comfort of your own home! Once partnered with the school’s certified teachers and a Family Success liaison, your student will participate in live interactive classes and an engaging curriculum that supports their individualized learning path. Students access lessons and live classes via an online learning management system, and laptops are provided to qualifying families. During the school day, a parent or guardian acts as a learning coach to provide support and guidance to the student while in the safety and security of the home environment.
Since 2007, the school has been providing high-quality, accredited education to students throughout the state. Some of the programs and services it provides include an advanced & gifted program, English learner program, special education services, counseling, Advanced Placement courses, dual enrollment and many more. Students also have the opportunity to participate in a wide range of in-person social activities, including field trips, extracurricular clubs, sports, college visits, and even an annual Statewide Community Event Day held in several different regions throughout Georgia!
Interested in enrolling your student at GCA? The school would love for you and your family to join its community of champions. Working together, Georgia Cyber Academy can help your student Rise Up, Aim High, and Soar toward his or her bright future!
Do you have questions about the school or the enrollment process? For more information, call 404-334-4790, visit georgiacyber.org/champions or email info@georgiacyber.org
A Montessori education develops children who are responsible, creative, innovative, respectful and kind. Montessori children are truly the citizens of the future, equipped to face challenges with confidence and competence.
Located near the intersection of Hwy. 141 and McGinnis Ferry Road in Johns Creek, Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia provides excellence in Montessori education for infants, toddlers and children up to 6 years old. JCMSOG provides an authentic Montessori environment, where each individual’s needs are respected, and everyone works together for the good of the community. The focus is always on helping the children develop themselves in a caring, peaceful environment. By helping children develop independence, the school assists them in their physical and emotional development. As their sense of security in their ability to care for themselves and their environment grows, their brains have more energy or “bandwidth” for increased academic learning. Additionally, this focus on development of muscular control is a first step in developing self-discipline. The JCMSOG difference is best experienced in person. To schedule a visit with your child to observe its “Montessori Magic,” call 770-814-8001 or visit jcmsog.org
PHOTO: Provided by The Cottage School
Lyndon Academy
Linda Murdock founded Lyndon Academy in 2005 with an interest in creating an elite private educational experience for local and international students alike. Now, 16 years later, this goal has been met with flying colors. But that doesn’t mean the school is resting on its past accomplishments.
With its small classrooms and a vested interest in seeing pupils grow into leaders, Lyndon sees that its students, no matter how young, are confident and eager to engage in classroom activities. Students are taught to speak up and share what they’ve learned.
There’s a lot that goes into that level of preparedness and enthusiasm, but perhaps the biggest detail is the student teacher ratios in relation to the advanced courses offered. With a ratio of 8 to 1, students receive personal instruction in a wide range of topics, from hands-on science opportunities to immersive studies in Spanish and Mandarin. In addition to meeting local public and private institutions class for class, Lyndon offers more AP classes than the average school in the U.S.
As a family-founded school, Lyndon knows the importance of social development, and it helps to create this through athletics, special events, and extracurricular activities. The competitive sports teams have tapped into school pride and taken home local, regional, and state awards. The school is also taking strides to include a number of artistic endeavors for growing minds, including its band and choral group.
This is Lyndon’s goal in motion: preparing young minds for the rigors of higher education, from Pre-K to high school.
For more information, call 770-926-0166 or visit lyndonacademy.org
McCallie School
What if Atlanta’s best school isn’t in Atlanta? What if the best school for your son is just two hours north on I-75?
McCallie is a school built for boys. Everything at McCallie, from its curriculum to the extracurricular programs, has been designed with the
unique needs of boys in mind. Its classrooms are active and interactive because it knows boys respond better in classes where they have time to move, play, and interact with their teachers and classmates. McCallie even developed its schedule with a later start time to give boys the
rest they need to function at their best.
Not only is McCallie designed with the needs of boys in mind, but it works to customize the experience for each individual student. McCallie partners with students and their families to build a personalized experience created around students' strengths, talents, and interests.
McCallie's robust curriculum and wide variety of activities and organizations give students an opportunity to pursue their passions and discover new ones. Academically, every student will have an experience that will challenge him while also offering him the support to help him thrive.
McCallie boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including a Center for Animation, Video, and Entertainment, an Innovation and Engineering lab, an indoor golf facility, indoor tennis facilities, an outdoor lake, a Sports and Activities Center, and much more.
When you choose McCallie, you are choosing a community of faculty and peers who challenge, support, mentor, and guide your son. You are choosing to be challenged both academically and personally. You are choosing to push the limits of who you can be. Because at McCallie, you can be an athlete, a thinker, a motivator, an artist, and much more.
For more information, visit mccallie.org/inquiry or call 423-493-5848.
Porter Academy
“We are so pleased with the progress he has made so far this year. He is beaming when he reads aloud, and his confidence is soaring. He is no longer too timid to take chances and try something new. We couldn't be happier!”
—Porter Academy parent
When parents first tour Porter Academy, many of them feel heavy with frustration, anxiety, and sadness because they have fought hard for their children, but with little success to show for their efforts. These same families, within a few months of enrollment, are able to relax and feel hopeful, knowing that their children are finally happy and learning. The school's founder, Claudia Porter, didn't teach a curriculum; she taught a child. She knew each child's passions, strengths, and stumbling blocks. She knew that their past struggles had made them feel less...less capable, less important...and that these feelings had led many of them to resist trying. They had learned to slip through the cracks or to distract from the real problems by acting out behaviorally. Mrs. Porter knew that the first step to getting children to learn was to rebuild their self-confidence and self-respect. The school has grown, but the child-centered care and teaching persists, enabling each child to find joy and success in learning. For more information, call 770-594-1313 or visit porteracademy.org
The Piedmont School of Atlanta
The Piedmont School of Atlanta serves children in kindergarten through high school with challenges in the areas of learning, social skills, and social problem-solving. Typically, Piedmont students have a diagnosis of autism, learning disability, and/or attention deficit disorder. Certified, master’s-level teachers deliver differentiated instruction. The curriculum exceeds the Georgia Standards and includes PE, art, foreign language, theater, social-emotional, and ethical behavior, transition planning, job coaching, and community-based instruction when COVID-19 permits. The Piedmont School has been named a Boxlight National Demonstration School serving as a model site for incorporating technology in the classroom. For more information call The Piedmont School of Atlanta at 404-382-8200 or visit tpsoa.org
The Suzuki School
The Suzuki School is a preparatory preschool committed to providing young children with the best in early childhood education. Its belief in the innate ability and talent of every child guides them in creating an environment rich in language, discovery, and stimulation. They know that a child’s learning experience begins right away, and that every moment is an opportunity to engage and explore. Suzuki recognizes that the first years of life are the most critical in the development of an inquisitive mind and a noble heart. The Suzuki School’s faculty is comprised of well-qualified trained educators who also serve as thought leaders for other professionals in the field of early childhood education.
With a full-time program for infants, toddlers, and preschoolaged children, the Suzuki School has been built upon these Five Foundations: Love of Learning, Respect for Nature, Culture and Tradition, A Noble Heart, and Talent Education. For more information, call 404-841-3939 or visit suzukischool.com u
Springmont School
Springmont, the oldest Montessori school in the Southeast, offers students 18 months through middle school an authentic Montessori experience that is extraordinary by design. Individualized learning inspires students to become
creative, independent, and globally minded. Classrooms are large, light-filled, and thoughtfully prepared while the campus’ many natural areas, class gardens, and farm animals afford rich outdoor life science lessons.
St. Joseph Catholic School
Celebrating 68 years of Catholic education as a pre-K4-8th-grade school within the Archdiocese of Atlanta, St. Joseph Catholic School is a twice-recognized National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence! Located in Marietta, a few blocks north of the historic Marietta Square, the school draws students from Cobb, Cherokee, Paulding, and Fulton counties and focuses on educating the whole child through its curriculum.
One key to the school’s success is the dedicated, certified faculty and staff. By continuing to use new methods of instruction, combined with programs such as Orton-Gillingham, Wilson Language, Touch Math, and STREAM activities, St. Joseph offers an outstanding curriculum for its students. Each student has a computer or iPad and receives instruction on the Google, Microsoft, and Apple platforms. In addition to the core area subjects, students receive instruction in the fine arts, and for students who need extra support in school, the school offers a guidance counselor, learning specialist, and speech and language pathologist.
The school offers an extended care program, as well as extracurricular activities for its students. It has a rigorous curriculum, certified teachers, and a supportive environment—as one of its parents stated, “How wonderful to drop your child off at school and know that she is being cared for by such a lovely, capable teacher!” Come experience St. Joseph Catholic School — “Educating the mind… Expanding the heart.” For more information, call 770-428-3328, or visit stjosephschool.org. Follow the school at Facebook/sjcs.marietta, Twitter/SJCS_ MariettaGA, or Instagram/sjcs_marietta
Specially designed Montessori materials support children’s developmental needs and offer students a wide variety of handson activities that concretely reinforce skills, lessons and concepts. Highly-experienced teachers guide students through an individualized curriculum that develops the whole child—socially, emotionally, and academically. Multi-aged classes allow younger children to learn from older ones and older students to mentor younger classmates.
Art, music, physical education, and Spanish are important parts of each student’s experience. At Springmont, each student is challenged to reach his or her fullest potential and is empowered to help steer his or her own education. Students’ innate curiosity grows into a lifelong love of learning and a quest for meaningful discoveries and deeper knowledge.
Middle school students run micro-economies, participate in internships, and compete in regional academic competitions. They have opportunities to hone time-management skills, experience active leadership roles, articulate complex ideas, and work both independently and in diverse groups.
Springmont graduates are confident, collaborative, engaged learners, prepared for success in Atlanta’s premier high schools as well as life beyond academics. Springmont School—Extraordinary by Design. For more information, call 404-252-3910 or visit springmont.com
The Quadrilingual Academy
Language is so important in today’s world. Imagine the global opportunities available to a child if he or she knows four of the world’s top languages. The Quadrilingual Academy is the first school in the area (and possibly the nation) that immerses children in four different languages at once. Students learn Spanish, French, Mandarin Chinese, and English.
The school, which celebrated its one-year anniversary Aug. 1, offers classes for toddlers, pre-K, and elementary students through first grade, with plans to expand into a full-service elementary school. Unlike schools that ask children to choose one language track, Quadrilingual strives to make kids lifelong learners of all four languages. This year it became accredited for its Pre-K and Elementary program with the Georgia Accrediting Commission (GAC) and is a candidate school teaching the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum.
The owner and her husband, Jessa and Jim Depew, started the school after identifying a need for a place for their own children to learn. When Jessa studied abroad in France while in high school, she saw firsthand the impact of speaking another language. “It’s the difference between communicating and connecting,” she says. “Once they learned I spoke French, the local people and culture opened up in ways that wouldn’t have happened with a language barrier. I want to open up the world for my children and our students.”
For more information, call 404-777-QUAD (7823) or visit thequadacademy.com
Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School
Founded in 1903 and located just two hours north of Atlanta, Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School prepares young people for college, career, and a lifetime of leadership and service. On its beautiful mountain campus, Rabun Gap inspires students to grow in character, intellect, and spirit. The school values educational accessibility and fosters a community of learners whose diversity is honored and reflects the world. Rabun Gap-Nacoochee is the most geographically diverse boarding school in the nation, made up of a student body from 56
different countries and 15 states.
The 1,400-acre mountain campus provides many opportunities for hands-on learning, as well as arts and athletic activities. Rabun Gap students graduate ready for college: 100 percent attend the top colleges and universities in the U.S. and around the world. Rabun Gap makes a boarding school education a reality for families, with more than 75 percent of students receiving financial aid and merit scholarships. For more information, call 706-746-7720 or visit rabungap.org
Still Waters International Academy
If you're looking for a place to call home, Still Waters International Academy (SWIA) serves children from day care through 12th grade. With students and staff from many nations, Still Waters is a community that provides students with an excellent education with Scripture at its center.
Its goal is to prepare students to succeed in competitive environments and develop their unique abilities to the fullest to show forth God’s glory. The school believes small class-size ratios create the most effective classroom environments for students to learn, be challenged, and develop positive relationships.
SWIA is a private Christian school located in Norcross. Its families love the convenience
of a day care and K-12 school in one location. SWIA has a ST2E2AM internship program where middle and high school students work alongside industry leaders to create engineering solutions. ST2E2AM stands for Science, Technology, Theology, Engineering, Entrepreneurship, Art, and Math.
The core curriculum is Abeka Book, and Spanish and Chinese are a part of the curriculum as well. K-12 students participate in project-based learning within a grade-level context. The school’s joy is to see each child grow to become lifelong lovers of learning for the purpose of serving God's people.
For more information, call 770-449-4125 to schedule a tour or visit stillwaters.academy u
PHOTO: Rabun
Gap-Nacoochee School
Vanguard School
Vanguard School, located in Lake Wales, Florida, is a learning environment that addresses student strengths and challenges to build self-confidence and learning skills. The school works with students through academics and residential settings to provide mentors, athletics and clubs, community service opportunities, and goal attainment for students in sixth through 12th grades with learning challenges.
Students can qualify for dual enrollment in postsecondary schools, complete college and career preparation, and internships in fields of their interest. Vanguard is a co-educational boarding and day school where students overcome past hurdles and gain a wide spectrum of skills to discover their potential.
For more information, call 863-676-6091 or visit vanguardschool.org. You may also visit the school for a personal tour: 22000 U.S. 27, Lake Wales, FL 33859.
Wesleyan School
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. The school 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 for each stage of life and provides them the opportunity to see all the possibilities that lie before them.
The school is located just outside of I-285 in Peachtree Corners. Wesleyan started the 2021-22 school year with 1,171 students enrolled in grades K-12. Wesleyan offers bus routes throughout the metro Atlanta area and has morning and afternoon options. For more information or to schedule a campus tour, call 770-448-7640 or visit wesleyanschool.org
The Walker School
At The Walker School, the infinite worth and dignity of each student define its approach to learning. Walker is the top pre-K3-12th-grade school open to all faiths in metro Atlanta. At Walker, students engage in advanced academics taught by dynamic faculty. With an average class size of 15 students, each child is challenged, supported and encouraged to explore all opportunities on its campus.
At Walker, you can star in the fall musical, represent your school on the soccer field and design your own genetic research project. Upper school students are able to customize their high school experience, choosing from a wide range of academic offerings, including 26 of the 31 College Board Advanced Placement courses. Most of all, your child is known.
One hundred percent of graduates are accepted to fouryear colleges and universities. Walker students are excited and confident about college and beyond. Walker is located 2 miles from the Marietta Square, and it offers more than 20 bus routes in the metro area. At The Walker School, tuition assistance is available to bridge the gap between the cost of tuition and a family’s ability to pay. For more information about the wonder of Walker, visit thewalkerschool.org/admission/why-walker
Whitefield Academy
Whitefield Academy’s college-preparatory education is built on Christ-centered values and beliefs, enabling students to succeed in both college and life. Whitefield teachers engage deeply with their students in the pursuit of knowledge and truth with shared experiences, grace and accountability. And because students are known, valued, and loved, they thrive academically and are equipped to face the challenges of the future.
Located just off I-285 in Smyrna, Whitefield maintains a solid academic reputation with its numerous Advanced Placement and honors courses, and a rigorous curriculum that sets the framework for 100 percent of its graduates to matriculate to colleges and universities. With more than 50 sports teams, including 20 varsity squads, Whitefield athletes have multiple opportunities for both participation and success.
Woodward Academy
Whitefield’s award-winning fine arts programs and newly debuted Innovation Lab are allowing students to explore and develop their passions in theater, music, and visual arts, as well as STEM subjects, such as engineering and robotics. For more information about Whitefield Academy or to register for a virtual tour, visit whitefieldacademy.com
With renowned college-preparatory academics and a community defined by its geographic, racial, spiritual, economic, and cognitive diversity, Woodward Academy is Atlanta at its best. From pre-K through 12th grade, Woodward is a place where a child can study Gauguin and golf, Copernicus and coding, rhetoric and robotics—all in one day.
With 2,500 students across two campuses spanning 133 acres, complemented by the intimacy of a 6:1 student-teacher ratio, Woodward offers the vast resources and opportunities of a college or university coupled with the intimacy and attention of home. Students learn how to think about and engage in the world outside of themselves, making a commitment to do their best, and gaining the confidence to make a difference. This shared purpose is something the school calls The Woodward Way. Woodward challenges its students to explore new academic frontiers and reach their fullest potential. What does success look like? Look no further than the 25 AP classes, renowned Transition Program for students with mild learning differences, 86 student clubs, 75 yearly arts performances, and 18 varsity sports. Woodward’s Global Connections Program offers extensive international study abroad programs, and its innovative STEAM programs are woven into the curriculum—from coding for kindergarteners to the Independent Scientific Research program, which pairs juniors and seniors with university professors to work on real-world problems.
At Woodward, students don’t just gain knowledge. The Woodward Way imbues them with skills and traits such as respect, social awareness, empathy, open-mindedness, accountability, and dedication to service, which will serve them throughout their lives and enable them to make their mark in the world. A typical Woodward Academy graduating class attends more than 100 different colleges and universities, devotes 5,000 hours to community service, and earns more than $15 million in scholarship awards. For more information, visit woodward.edu or call 404-765-4001. u
BE YOND T HE BASICS
BE YOND T HE BASICS
HILTON HEAD ISL AND!
PLAN A FALL GETAWAY TO RECHARGE YOUR BATTERIES
By Patrick Killam
AS THE CRAZINESS OF SUMMER FADES
and daily routines click into place, an autumn retreat is the perfect way to recharge your batteries before the winter holidays. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, is your dream destination, wrapping you in balmy beach weather but with fewer crowds and lower lodging rates than the tourist season. And it’s less than five hours from Atlanta by car—far enough to leave your cares behind but close enough to make a weekend trip doable.
The 12 miles of beautiful beaches along Hilton Head’s perimeter cannot be ignored. Coligny Beach Park is a popular launching point for all things sand and surf, and includes the convenience of outdoor showers, changing rooms and restrooms. Lounge in a rented beach chair in the sand or enjoy a swing in the shady
gazebo. Just across the way is Coligny Plaza, where a stroll among the boutiques can provide some retail therapy.
Fish Haul Beach offers a more intimate ocean experience. A short walk through the quiet woods and marshland set the stage for this hidden gem which features an observation deck, a covered picnic pavilion and plenty of sand from which to enjoy the view of Port Royal Sound.
There is no need to be confined to the land, however. Soak in the serenity of calm water kayaking or paddle boarding among the dolphins, or book one of several boat excursions to see more of the Atlantic Ocean. One HHI has an extensive roster of daily guided water adventures and rentals of jet skis, boats, skiffs and more.
Moving inland, you’ll find over 120 miles of
well-maintained paths for refreshing exploration. Make a reservation with The Bike Doctor to tour at your own pace. Adult and youth bikes, covered trailers for transporting kids or pets, child seats and tandem bikes are also available.
The Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge is a wonderful place to commune with nature. Covering 4,053 acres, the preserve is home to more than 250 species of birds, as well as white-tailed deer, red fox, bobcat and American alligator. Have your camera with you as you lose yourself among the vibrant salt marshes, forest lands and freshwater ponds, taking the time to enjoy the self-guided interpretive exhibits along the way.
Gentle breezes and balmy temperatures make Hilton Head’s pro-designed championship golf courses a favorite fall attraction.
Coligny Beach
One HHI dolphin tour
Hilton Head Island offers many boat excursions.
Bicycling is one of the many activities offered on Hilton Head Island.
The Robert Trent Jones Course at Palmetto Dunes offers sweeping views of the Atlantic amidst wide fairways and challenging bunkers, and the elevated green of the par-5 10th hole is a stunning experience no player will forget.
If you prefer more structured events, Hilton Head is not lacking in fall festivals and celebrations. The week-long Historic Bluffton Arts and Seafood Festival happens every October, pairing the rich history, culture and art of the area with delicious Low Country cuisine and Southern hospitality. In November, the Concours d’Elegance celebrates the legacies
of automobiles and aviation over three days of upscale exhibition and fine dining.
For an opportunity to get your heart racing, visit the Escape Room Hilton Head. With only one hour on the clock, adults and teens are plunged into a themed room with a mystery to solve. Uncover hidden clues, crack tough codes and unravel challenging puzzles before time runs out. Choose from one of three intense missions, or tackle them all.
Your outdoor jaunts will require you to fuel up, and the more than 250 eateries on Hilton Head ensure that you can start and end your
day with a variety of delicious bites.
Ease into your morning at the Corner Perk Brunch Café. Luxuriate in the homey atmosphere as you sip a specialty coffee, or choose a treat from their artfully crafted selection of breakfast skillets, artisan toasts, sandwiches, salads and wraps for adults and kids alike.
Lunch and dinner will find you riding the wave of fresh seafood so abundant on Hilton Head. Oysters, shrimp, bass and blue crab are just some of the island’s specialties served up with tasty Southern flair.
The Old Oyster Factory encompasses the
YOUR OUTDOOR JAUNTS WILL REQUIRE YOU TO FUEL UP, AND THE MORE THAN 250 EATERIES ON HILTON HEAD ENSURE THAT YOU CAN START AND END YOUR DAY WITH A VARIETY OF DELICIOUS BITES.
The Old Oyster Factory
Historic Bluffton Arts and Seafood Festival
Concours d’Elegance
Corner Perk Brunch Café is one of over 250 restaurants the Hilton Head area has to offer.
PHOTOS: Hilton Head Island Visitor & Convention Bureau
gentle sophistication of Hilton Head Island, with its gorgeous panoramic marshland views and delectable seafood dishes. The raw oyster bar serves up an ample variety, or enjoy a selection from the elegant entrée menu. For a down-home meal, follow the line of locals to The Sea Shack. This no-frills eatery features the hugely popular “catch of the day” blackboard specials, along with hearty Po’ Boy sandwiches and sizeable seafood platter options.
For a change of pace, The Sandbar Beach Eats’ casual fare puts Southern and Caribbean comfort food in the spotlight, like Jamaican Jerk Pasta and Lowcountry Pulled Pork Sandwiches. Or enjoy Crane’s Tavern’s famous flavorful prime rib and award-winning wine selection. The crisp white tablecloths, pillowed window seats and rich dark wood features add coziness to this friendly upscale steakhouse.
As you wind down your island explorations, stop by The Frozen Moo and indulge in a scoop of their 92 flavors of super-premium ice cream. It’s an island tradition.
Intimate cottages, luxurious suites, cozy guestrooms and spacious village homes are all
available through the many resort communities on and near the island, making it easy to tailor your home-away-from-home to fit your vacation needs. Palmetto Dunes Resort offers stunning rental accommodations featuring from one to six bedrooms, fully equipped kitchens and laundry rooms and pet-friendly options.
For quiet rejuvenation, prepare to be pampered at The Inn and Club at Harbour Town, where you’ll received personalized and attentive butler service, Frette Italian linens and terry towels and room service around the clock.
The Holiday Inn Resort Beach House keeps you near the action with easy access to sand volleyball courts, Coligny Plaza and the waterfront. The cozy coastal-themed rooms promote tranquility, and amenities like a mini-fridge, flat-screen TV and internet access provide the comforts of home.
Many resorts offer fall and winter getaway packages that include lower lodging rates, complimentary meals, discounts on equipment rentals, preferred golf rates and more,
so be sure to ask what’s available.
There are no neon signs on the island, no billboards, no amusement parks or high-rise hotels. Instead, Hilton Head Island, modern in amenities yet in harmony with nature, offers a quiet reprieve from the cacophony of everyday life, a place to relax and recharge at your own pace ... your perfect autumn retreat.
SAVOR THE SEASONS
GETTING STARTED TO HERE THERE
Mass Transit
One way to avoid long commutes is to take advantage of the city’s local transit system, the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA). Offering both train and bus service, MARTA is a convenient way to travel to downtown or the airport. The fee for traveling one way is $2.50 including transfers, and payment is even easier now with the Breeze limited-use and extendeduse cards. Weekly and monthly passes can be obtained at discounted rates. For fares, schedule and route information call 404848-5000 or visit itsmarta.com.
Vehicle Emission Inspection
Vehicles that are 24 model years old and later (except the three years prior to the current year) must be checked yearly for emission standard compliance. Visit a statedesignated inspection station for the service. Call 800-449-2471 or visit cleanairforce.com.
Driving Tips
The Georgia DOT provides daily updates of road work, road closings and traffic delays, which are helpful when commuting Updates can be obtained by calling (toll free) 877694-2511, by dialing 511 or by visiting dot.ga.gov.
MARTA
MARTA Rail Service
COUNTY INFORMATION
EDUCATION
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Cherokee County Schools
Board of Education 770-479-1871 cherokee.k12.ga.us
Elementary Schools 23
Middle Schools 7
High Schools 6
Centers 4
Per-pupil expenditures $9,149
School & bus information 770-720-2112
Avg. SAT Scores
Cherokee Co. 1115
Georgia 1048
National 1039
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Visit our website at newcomeratlanta.com for a list of private schools in this county.
UTILITIES & CONTACTS
ELECTRICITY
Amicalola EMC 706-253-5200
Cobb EMC 770-429-2100
Georgia Power 888-891-0938
Sawnee EMC 770-887-2363
GAS
Georgia’s natural gas market is deregulated. For a list of providers for this county, visit newcomeratlanta.com.
TELEPHONE/INTERNET/TV
AT&T att.com
Cobb EMC cobbemc.com
Comcast (Xfinity) xfinity.com
Direct TV directv.com
Dish Network dish.com
ETC Communications etcnow.com
Spectrum spectrum.com
TDS Telecom tdstelecom.com
Windstream windstream.com
WATER
Cherokee County Water Authority 770-479-1813
City of Ball Ground 770-735-2123
City of Canton 770-704-1500
City of Waleska 770-479-2912
City of Woodstock 770-592-6006
HOSPITALS
Northside Hospital-Cherokee 770-224-1000
Wellstar Kennestone Hospital 770-793-5000
Cherokee County QUICK INFO
Located northwest of Atlanta, Cherokee County gets its name from the original inhabitants of the area, the Cherokee Indians. The county seat, then called Etowah, was established in 1833 and renamed Canton in 1834. Today, the city is enjoying its greatest economic boom in its history since more than $60 million was invested in residential and commercial development in 1998. Despite developing its own industrial base, Cherokee County remains idyllic and serene. Farming, especially poultry processing, remains a leading industry.
Canton and the neighboring community of Woodstock have seen tremendous growth as subdivisions crop up to accommodate newcomers. In fact, nearly 60 percent of the county’s population are commuters. According to Zillow.com, the median value of homes is $283,573. Homes for well over $1 million can be purchased in such neighborhoods as Bradshaw Farm, BridgeMill and Towne Lake Hills.
Interstate 575 and Ga. Highway 92 traverse the county, affording residents easy access to Atlanta and the nearby attractions of Town Center Mall, Lake Allatoona and the North Georgia Mountains. Other great places
County cherokeega.com
Neighborhoods cantonga.gov woodstockga.gov cityofballground.com hollyspringsga.us cityofwaleska.com
Median household income: $75,477
Median age of residents: 38
Population: 235,896
Sales tax: 6%
Chamber of Commerce
Cherokee County 770-345-0400, cherokeechamber.com
Property Taxes
Per $1,000 of assessed value is: Unincorporated Cherokee County, $21.46; Incorporated Cherokee County, $21.46. Tax Commissioner: 678-493-6400
to live, work and play in Cherokee County include the cities of Ball Ground, Holly Springs and Waleska.
Neighborhoods
Canton
Canton was incorporated in 1833 and renamed in 1834 at the request of two founding fathers who had visions that the town might become a silk center similar to what existed in Canton, China. Canton did become famous for its “Canton Denim,” known worldwide for the high-quality denim produced by Canton Cotton Mills.
Today, Canton is attracting new industry and residents. As a result, the city is reinvesting in its downtown. As part of its Streetscapes program, downtown Canton will be restored to its historic look and features a newly designed theater on Main Street. Located at the foothills of the Blue Ridge
Mountains and along the banks of the Etowah River, Canton is a prime location for development.
Woodstock
Located 12 miles south of Canton, Woodstock is one of Georgia's top 10 fastest-growing cities and a community recently named one of the Top 50 Cities Places to Live in the U.S. by Money magazine.
Residents also enjoy easy access to 575 and 92, allowing short commutes to Cobb and Fulton counties.
While affording convenience to big-city attractions, Woodstock still maintains its small-town appeal. Buildings dating back to 1879 characterize the downtown area, where antique and other specialty shops are located.
Various golf courses are located in Woodstock, including Arnold Palmer’s Eagle Watch, a course with wooded countryside views that is considered to be one of the top places to play in Atlanta. The 11,860-acre Lake Allatoona provides additional recreation. Woodstock is also convenient to more than 13 state parks. N
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Old Sixes Mill
COUNTY INFORMATION
Cobb County
Cobb County came into being in 1832 when the state redistributed land once part of the Cherokee Nation. Named after Thomas Willis Cobb, the county experienced a devastating setback during the Civil War when most of it was destroyed during the famous Battle of Kennesaw Mountain.
QUICK INFO
County cobbcountyga.gov Neighborhoods austellga.org mariettaga.gov smyrnaga.gov kennesaw-ga.gov cityofpowdersprings.org smyrnacity.com
Median household income: $75,654
Median age of residents: 36.6
Today, Cobb County, located northwest of Fulton County, is one of the state's most thriving counties. With a diverse economic base that includes jobs in the service, retail, aerospace and technology sectors, Cobb County offers a quality of life unsurpassed in the Southeast. Nearly $900 million has been spent on transportation improvements in recent years, allowing residents easy access to Atlanta and the commercial districts of Vinings Overlook, Cumberland Parkway and the prestigious Platinum Triangle in the popular Galleria area.
Population: 755,754 Sales tax: 6%
Chamber of Commerce Cobb County 770-980-2000, cobbchamber.org
Property Taxes
The property tax is $33.84 per $1,000 of assessed value. Tax Commissioner: 770-980-2000
Neighborhoods Kennesaw
One of Family Circle magazine’s Ten Best Towns for Families, Kennesaw takes pride in its smalltown atmosphere and boasts abundant parks and greenspace, exceptional recreational programs and top-notch schools, including Kennesaw State University. Kennesaw’s historic downtown features shopping, dining and attractions such as the Smithsonianaffiliated Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History, the Smith-Gilbert Gardens and nearby Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park.
Smyrna
A variety of housing options exist in Cobb County, including luxury apartments and condos near
Cumberland Mall, secluded subdivisions in East Cobb and horse ranches in the northwest corner of the county. The small towns of Marietta, Vinings, Smyrna and Austell still retain their Southern charm amidst urban settings. According to the Census Bureau, the median value of homes in 2018 was $237,800.
Rapidly defining what’s new and progressive in quality of life and citizen services, Smyrna delivers an amazing sense of style and love of life. The Market Village district, home to fabulous restaurants, bars and upscale shops and services, is the final piece of a master plan for success. Call it “Main Street USA” or “Disneyland,” but don’t overlook its charm and ability to offer the best in fresh, trendy lifestyle options. N
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Truist Park
COUNTY INFORMATION EDUCATION
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Fulton County Schools
Board of Education 470-254-3600 fultonschools.org
Elementary Schools 59
Middle Schools 19
High Schools 18
Charter 10 Centers 4
Per-pupil expenditures
$10,609
School & Bus Information North 470-254-2970 South 470-254-6060
Atlanta Public Schools
Board of Education 404-802-3500 atlantapublicschools.us
Elementary Schools 49
Middle Schools 12
High Schools 14
Charter 18
Alternative 4
Per-pupil expenditures $11,263
School & bus information 404-802-5500
Avg. SAT Scores
Fulton Co. 1086
Atlanta Public Schools 944
Georgia 1048
National 1039
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Visit our website at newcomeratlanta.com for a list of private schools in this county.
UTILITIES & CONTACTS
ELECTRICITY
City of College Park 404-669-3759
City of East Point 404-270-7010
City of Fairburn 770-964-2244
City of Palmetto 770-463-3322
Georgia Power 888-891-0938 GAS
Georgia’s natural gas market is deregulated. For a list of providers for this county, visit newcomeratlanta.com.
TELEPHONE/INTERNET/TV
AT&T att.com
Comcast (Xfinity) xfinity.com
Direct TV directv.com
Dish Network dish.com
WATER
Fulton County 404-612-6830
HOSPITALS
Atlanta Medical Center 404-265-4000
Atlanta VA Medical Center 404-321-6111
Center for the
Visually Impaired 404-875-9011
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Hughes Spalding 404-785-9500
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Scottish Rite 404-785-2273
Emory University
Hospital Midtown 404-686-4411
Grady Memorial Hospital 404-616-1000
WellStar North Fulton
Regional Hospital 770-751-2500
Northside Hospital 404-851-8000
Piedmont Hospital 404-605-5000
Shepherd Center 404-352-2020
Emory St. Joseph's Hospital 678-843-7001
Fulton County
Fulton County serves as the center of the metro Atlanta area. With 90 percent of the city of Atlanta, including the state’s capital building, located within its borders, it sits at the hub of the area’s financial, transportation, retail, communications and cultural services. A number of Fortune 500 companies, including the Coca-Cola Company, Delta Air Lines and UPS, are headquartered here.
More than one million people live in Fulton County, drawn by its convenience to Interstates 75, 85 and 285 and Georgia State Route 400. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median value of homes in the county is $290,400.
Fulton is home to many of Atlanta’s signature neighborhoods, including its bustling downtown district. Older neighborhoods like Inman Park, Grant Park, Candler Park and Virginia-Highland offer affordable housing, pedestrianfriendly layouts and plentiful parks and recreational options. Midtown is the heart of Atlanta’s cultural scene, with the Woodruff Arts Center (home to the Alliance Theatre, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and the High Museum of Art) and the historic Fox Theatre, as well as a host of art galleries. Midtown’s Piedmont Park, the city’s most popular greenspace, hosts many outdoor festivals and concerts.
Neighborhoods
Buckhead
sion, the historic Swan House and the Atlanta History Center.
Buckhead is also an entertainment and dining hotspot. With luxury hotels, shops, bars and more than 250 restau rants, the Buckhead area is a magnet for young profession als.The neighborhood also offers numerous antique stores, art galleries and mall shopping at both Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza.
QUICK INFO
County co.fulton.ga.us Neighborhoods alpharetta.ga.us buckhead.net cityofmiltonga.us virginiahighland.com collegeparkga.com eastpointcity.org hapeville.org johnscreekga.gov roswellgov.com sandyspringsga.gov
Median household income: $65,037
Median age of residents: 35.5
Population: 1,050,114
Sales tax: 7.75%, Atlanta City: 8.9% Chamber of Commerce
Greater North Fulton 770-993-8806, gnfcc.com
Metro Atlanta 404-880-9000, metroatlantachamber.com South Fulton 770-964-1984, southfultonchamber.com
Buckhead is “where old money lives and new money parties,” according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. With its mixture of mansions and uniquely styled homes, Buckhead is a favorite among architecture and history buffs. Convenient to Georgia 400, Interstate 85 and MARTA, it’s filled with high-rises, upscale restaurants, the Governor’s Man-
Property Taxes
is home to about 64,000 residents, drawn to its affordable housing, parks, shopping at North Point Mall and concerts at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre. The city's historic downtown boasts an appealing town square. Called Alpharetta City Center, it features locally owned shops and restaurants, and hosts events year round.
Johns Creek
Incorporated in 2006, this thriving community of 84,000 was ranked fourth among 50 Best U.S. Cities to Live In by USA Today. It boasts a diverse economic base, coupled with a peaceful environment: the city contains over 400 acres of parkland and nature reserves and contains five access points to the Chattahoochee River.
Milton
The property tax rate per $1,000 of assessed value is: $40.92 for the City of Atlanta; $29.18 for incorporated Fulton County; $40.76 for unincorporated Fulton County; $33.54 for Johns Creek; $33.91 for Sandy Springs. Tax Commissioner: 404-613-6100
Alpharetta
One of metro Atlanta’s most vibrant and affluent cities, Alpharetta
Also incorporated in 2006, Milton combines a pastoral setting with forward-thinking city planning that offers what's been called "The best quality of life in Georgia." N
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Piedmont Park
Gwinnett County
Originally part of Georgia’s Native American territory, Gwinnett County was created by the State Legislature in 1818 and named after Button Gwinnett, one of Georgia's three signers of the Declaration of Independence and a former governor.
While the county was once largely rural with small towns, country stores, farms and forests, today it is home to about 600 international companies and 450 high-tech firms. With an average of 21 new professional and industrial companies relocating to the county each year, attracting almost 21,000 new jobs, Gwinnett County remains in the top 10 ranking for growth nationwide. The county supports many cultural events, restaurants and shopping opportunities, including the Mall of Georgia in Buford.
Gwinnett County remains affordable for renters and firsttime home buyers, many of whom find homes in the communities of Doraville, Lawrenceville and Snellville. The median value of homes in 2018, according to the Census Bureau, was $200,400.
Neighborhoods
Duluth
Amidst the pristine setting
QUICK INFO
County gwinnettcounty.com
Neighborhoods cityofbuford.com duluthga.net cityoflilburn.com snellville.org suwanee.com
Median household income: $68,914
Median age of residents: 35.3
Population: 920,260
Sales tax: 6%
Chamber of Commerce
Gwinnett County, 770-232-3000, gwinnettchamber.org
Property Taxes
railroad aficionado.
Some of Duluth’s neighborhoods include Edgewater Estates, Sweet Bottom Plantation and Riverbrooke. Affluent estates with antebellum architecture can be found as well as apartment communities, older brick, ranch-style homes and subdivisions. Duluth still retains some of its original small-town businesses, along with chain businesses, many accessible by Ga. 400 and I-85.
Suwanee
Suwanee is named after the Shawnee Indians who settled here in the latter part of the 18th century. Following the official founding of the city in 1837, Suwanee became a railroad stop along the Southern Railroad route. It remained a small country town well into the ’70s when construction of I-85 and U.S. 23 brought easy access to the region.
The property tax in unincorporated Gwinnett County is $28.84 per $1,000 of assessed value.
Tax Commissioner: 770-822-8800.
of Gwinnett County, Duluth has some of the most exclusive neighborhoods in metro Atlanta and is home to some of the best golf courses and private tennis clubs. There are numerous parks for recreation and participatory sports, including Bunten Road Park and Shorty Howell Park. North Point Mall, a major shopping center, is located near Duluth. The Southeastern Railway Museum, which preserves and operates old railroad equipment, is a must-see for any
Since then, Suwanee has experienced tremendous growth, from 2,412 residents in 1990 to more than 20,000 today. To help manage growth, the city has developed a comprehensive development plan that promotes pedestrianoriented development and mixed-use zoning. The city was designated a Tree City USA for 29 years for its commitment to preserving 27 percent of its land as greenspace.
Such foresight has allowed Suwanee to retain its old-fashioned charm while providing contemporary convenience. Only 35 miles from downtown Atlanta, Suwanee is close to big-city attractions, business districts and shopping. Many antique shops and historic structures, including several Victorian and regional farm-style homes, are located near downtown Suwanee. N
City Hall and the Town Green in downtown Duluth
Theater & Concerts
Song and Dance, Aurora Theatre
Aurora Theatre stages a special limited-run production of the Andrew Lloyd Webber classic. The first act is told entirely in song (featuring India Tyree) while the second is told through dance (featuring cellist Noah Johnson and choreography by Angela Harris). Through Sept. 12, 678-226-6222, auroratheatre.com.
Daryl Hall & John Oates, Ameris Bank Amphitheatre
The hitmaking duo behind such hits as “Private Eyes,” “Maneater” and more performs. Sept. 24, 404-733-5000, livenation.com.
Hamilton, Fox Theatre
The national touring production of the Tony Award-winning musical returns to the Fox thanks to Fifth Third Bank Broadway in Atlanta. Through Sept. 26, 855-285-8499, atlanta.broadway.com.
Marvel Studios’ Black Panther in Concert, Atlanta Symphony Hall
Enjoy a screening of the smash-hit 2018 film, with the musical score performed live by the award-winning Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. Oct. 1-3, 404-733-4900, aso.org.
The Monkees Farewell Tour With Michael Nesmith & Micky Dolenz, Atlanta Symphony Hall
Michael Nesmith and Micky Dolenz of the
Monkees commemorate 55 years of hits such as “I’m a Believer,” “Last Train to Clarksville” and “Pleasant Valley Sunday.” Oct. 8, 404-733-4900, aso.org.
Judas Priest, Ameris Bank Amphitheatre
The award-winning heavy metal band performs in celebration of its 50-year anniversary. Oct. 22, 404-733-5000, livenation.com.
Harry Styles, State Farm Arena
The actor and musician, formerly of the boy band One Direction, performs. Oct. 27 and 28, 800-745-3000, statefarmarena.com.
Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas in Concert, Symphony Hall
Conductor Lawrence Loh leads the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra performing composer Danny Elfman’s musical score live during a screening of the beloved hit film. Oct. 29 and 30, 404-733-4900, aso.org.
Stewart Copeland: Police Deranged for Orchestra, Atlanta Symphony Hall
The drummer of legendary band the Police performs that band’s classic hits (including “Roxanne” and “Message in a Bottle”) with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, along with three singers and a guitarist. Nov. 7, 404-733-4900, aso.org.
Exhibits & Events
Marietta Art in the Park, Marietta Square
Browse handcrafted works by 175 artists from all over the country, including paintings, photography, pottery, graphic arts, sculptures, jewelry, woodworking and much more at this free festival. Sept. 4-6, artparkmarietta.com.
Thomas Edison’s Secret Lab, Children’s Museum of Atlanta
This sensational exhibit highlights exciting forces like electricity, magnetism and sound waves while shining a spotlight on some of history’s most inspiring and celebrated scientists and innovators and their discoveries. Through Sept. 7, 404-659-5437, childrensmuseumatlanta.org.
Monster Jam, Gas South Arena
The action-packed motorsports extravaganza returns with the most famous trucks in the world for a weekend of high-octane fourwheel excitement. Sept. 10-12, gassouthdistrict.com.
Fridays N Duluth, Downtown Duluth
Experience exotic flavors from amazing local food trucks while enjoying live music. The last Friday of each month brings Block Party on Main, offering a festive, street fair atmosphere that’s both family-friendly and free. Sept. 17, duluthga.net.
Screen on the Green, Lyndon Academy
Enjoy the experience of watching a film on a large outdoor screen. Sept. 17, 770-926-0166, lyndonacademy.org.
Rock the Park, Lilburn City Park
Georgia Players Guild presents Georgia Rhythm, a revue of Peach State music history performing songs from such artists as Little Richard, Ray Charles, the Allman Brothers, the B-52s, R.E.M., Collective Soul, Outkast, Jason Aldean and Luke Bryan. Lilac Wine opens. Sept. 18, oldtownlilburnga.com.
Calder-Picasso, High Museum of Art
This touring exhibit showcases more than 100
Monster Jam, Gas South Arena
Hamilton, Fox Theatre PHOTO:
paintings, sculptures and works on paper by Alexander Calder and Pablo Picasso. Through Sept. 19, 404-733-5000, high.org.
Super Natural: Aerial Art in Motion, Atlanta Botanical Garden
Patrick Shearn’s “Dream Flora” features a 12,500-square-foot “skynet” of multicolored nylon streamers attached to webs of nylon fishing net, creating a mesmerizing river of color above Storza Woods. Through Sept. 19, 404-876-5859, atlantabg.org.
Trunk or Treat, Lyndon Academy
Stroll among creatively decorated cars at this all-ages Halloween-themed event. Call for date and other details. 770-926-0166, lyndonacademy.org.
Cyclorama: The Big Picture, Atlanta History Center
This multimedia experience spotlights showcases the fully restored cyclorama painting “The Battle of Atlanta,” which stands 49 feet tall, is longer than a football field and weighs 10,000 pounds. Ongoing, 404-814-4000, atlantahistory.com.
Fundamentally Food, Children’s Museum of Atlanta
Children up to 8 years old will love this handson exhibit. Select produce from the farm, climb on a John Deere tractor, milk Buttercup the milking cow, shop at a grocery and enjoy a pretend meal at the museum’s play diner. Ongoing, 404-659-5437, childrensmuseumatlanta.org.
Locomotion: Railroads and the Making of Atlanta, Atlanta History Center
This new exhibition explores the role that railroad travel played in the formation of Atlanta. Climb aboard the cab of the restored locomotive Texas and view the Zero Mile Post, the famous railroad marker around which the city of Atlanta was built. Ongoing, 404-814-4000, atlantahistory.com.
A Short Drive Away
75th North Carolina Apple Festival, Hendersonville, N.C.
This family-friendly celebration of harvest season features arts and crafts vendors, children’s activities, fresh apples and apple confections like doughnuts, turnovers, and pies. On Labor Day, the King Apple Parade winds down Mainstreet with floats, antique cars, fire trucks and marching bands. Sept. 3-6, ncapplefestival.org.
SEPTEMBER
Fridays-N-Duluth
Flicks on the Bricks (Wizard of Oz)
Fridays-N-Duluth
9/11 Tribute
Duluth Fall Festival Concert feat. Elton Live
Fridays-N-Duluth
Duluth Fall Festival
Duluth
hidden ATLANTA
Porsche Experience Center
A SPORTS CAR FAN’S DREAM COME TRUE
By Karin Pendley Koser
Sports car aficionados know that multiple Porsche vehicles rank high each year on lists of American consumer’s top choices, but did you know that, since 2015, Atlanta has been home to Porsche’s North American headquarters and to the Porsche Experience Center Atlanta, the latter of which is open to the public?
To feast your eyes on its meticulously landscaped and sculpted track is a beauty to behold. The center’s track offers 1.6 miles of skill-focused, purpose-built driving designed to test drivers’ skills, as well as vehicle functionality. Drivers 21 and older can choose from over 30 driving experiences with different Porsche models ranging in price from $400 to $1,500, lasting from 90 minutes to four hours.
THE DETAILS
LOCATION: One Porsche Drive, Atlanta, GA 30354
HOURS: Tuesday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. by reservation only
TICKETS: $40-$1,500 depending on activity
PHONE NUMBER: 888-204-7474
WEBSITE: porschedriving.com/atlanta
A popular activity is the center’s Young Driver Experience, aimed to give licensed drivers between 16 and 24 better awareness, hazard recognition and strategic responses.
For either experience, each patron will have a personalized driving coach who is always in the car with you, with a goal to get you driving as soon as it’s safe.
Not ready to get behind the real wheel? The next best thing is the center’s indoor Simulator Labs where you can choose from multiple models and races and either a 30- or 60-minute experience, starting at $40.
The venue is also home to much more including its Heritage Gallery, the Carrera Café and Restaurant 356 for fine dining.
Photo: Grandad’s Apples