Newcomer Magazine | Fall 2022

Fall 2022

AL SPECIO N: SECTI

A ATLANT ENT D N E INDEPHOOL SC ORY DIREpC. 2T9

YOUR FAMILY’S SOURCE FOR TOP SCHOOLS, EDUCATION TRENDS & MORE

CLOSE T S E R U T N E V D A 5

O H OME

How Georgia’s Schools Prepare Your Child for A Career Dealing with Bullies In Atlanta Schools LAKEFRONT LIVING

Where to Buy A Home On the Water

Check Out Atlanta’s Arts & Entertainment Guide p.16

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Fall 2022 CONTENTS FEATURES Arts & Entertainment Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Special Advertising Section: Atlanta Independent School Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

Atlanta is the undisputed cultural capital of the Southeast, with worldclass music, museums, theater and more. Our guide is your ticket to the best of the city’s thriving arts scene.

Newcomer’s 2022 Annual Education Guide . . . . . . 21

Our annual look at Atlanta education includes how schools are preparing students for a career, what schools are doing to tackle the bully problem and more.

Searching for local schools? Our list of some of Atlanta’s top independent schools will help you find the right educational environment for your child.

Unique Outdoor Adventures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 From whitewater rafting in the Smoky Mountains to hiking in the Okefenokee, these outdoor escapes are just a short drive from Atlanta.

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PHOTO: Jeremy Daniel

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DEPARTMENTS In Focus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Relocation Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

The inside scoop on news, events and happenings around Atlanta.

A guide to help you find your way before, during and after your move, including county information, neighborhoods, relocation tips and more.

Homes and Communities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Despite its status as an inland city, Atlanta’s lakefront communities offer luxurious amenities and relaxed lifestyles for those looking for a home on the water.

Upcoming Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Neighborhood Spotlight. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Hidden Atlanta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

A livable scale, forward-thinking development and a young outlook make the city of Lilburn in Gwinnett County one of the metro area’s most appealing communities.

Located in Midtown, Atlanta’s historic Fox Theatre is known for its eye-catching marquee and elaborate architecture. Delve deep into the history and culture of the theatre with one of three varied tours.

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Get caught up on the best exhibitions, theatrical productions, special events and live music across the metro area.

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We wish to thank all the people who made this publication possible through their valuable time and dedication. Many thanks to our advertisers for their support of Newcomer magazine. publisher/president

Patrick Killam

pkillam@killampublishing.com

editor

Everett Catts marketing & promotions

Jeff Thompson contributing writers

Larry Anderson, Anna Bentley, Michelle Bourg, Susan Flowers, Tony Jenkins, Laura Raines director of sales & marketing

Patrick Killam pkillam@killampublishing.com account director

Lacey James advertising@killampublishing.com

TO ADVERTISE CALL 770-992-0273 font: mawns handwriting

Scan this code to check out past issues of Newcomer.

Newcomer magazine, Fall 2022, Volume 26, Issue 3.

Submissions, photography or ideas may be sent to Killam Publishing, Inc., 200 Market Place, Suite 230, Roswell, GA 30075. Submissions will not be returned unless otherwise requested and accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope. Newcomer magazine reserves the right to revise submissions as necessary. Reproduction in whole or in part of any elements of this publication are strictly prohibited without the written permission of the publisher. © 2022 Killam Publishing, Inc.

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

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inFOCUS NEWS BITES FROM AROUND ATLANTA

LITTLE SHOP OF Shopping for clothes and toys for young children often feels like a chore as you search for hours for that perfect item. Well, not anymore!

Piggy Jo’s, a charming toy and clothing store in Buford, offers a curated selection of the best toys and clothing, with such brands as Magnolia Baby, Apple Park, The Beaufort Bonnet Company and many more! The shop also offers familyfriendly events such as story time, game nights and make-and-take activities. For more information, call 706-983-2871 or visit piggyjos.com.

OH, PRETTY WOMAN!

PHOTO: Matthew Murphy for MurphyMade

WONDERS

Get ready to fall in love with a timeless romance all over again as Pretty Woman: the Musical kicks off Regions Broadway in Atlanta’s 2022-23 season! Based on the romantic-comedy classic starring Julia Roberts, this touring production of the award-winning Broadway smash features an original score by Grammy Awardwinning pop idol Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance. Upcoming productions include “Chicago,” “Hairspray,” “Moulin Rouge” and “Wicked,” among other hit shows.

“Pretty Woman” runs Sept. 13-18 at the Fox Theatre. atlanta.broadway.com.

Two Modern-Day Classics Mickey and Minnie Mouse are your hosts on a journey through two of the most popular movies of the 21st century in Disney on Ice: Frozen and Encanto. Join Anna as she races to find Elsa and end the eternal winter, and delight in the magic of family with Mirabel, Isabela, Luisa and the rest of the Madrigals in this spectacular production filled with incredible music and dazzling ice skating. Sept. 21-25 at State Farm Arena. 800-745-3000, statefarmarena.com.

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If your kids can’t get enough of Nickelodeon’s “PAW Patrol,” Children’s Museum of Atlanta has the perfect exhibit for you! PAW Patrol: Adventure Play allows kids to assist the heroic search-and-rescue pups as they learn how to use their different skills to problem-solve and overcome challenges. This hands-on, immersive exhibit begins on Sept. 24 and runs through Jan. 8. For more information, call 404-659-5437 or visit childrensmuseumatlanta.org.

PHOTO: Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

PHOTO: Feld Entertainment

Doggone Great

PHOTO: Atlanta Botanical Garden

inFOCUS

A Spooky Celebration There’s no easier way to get into the Halloween spirit than at Scarecrows in the Garden. The Atlanta Botanical Garden’s annual fall event runs throughout October, featuring up to 100 scarecrows created by artists, designers, schools, business and families at both the Midtown Atlanta and Gainesville locations. There’s also Goblins in the Garden for the kids on Oct. 23 and the Great Pumpkin-Carving Contest on Oct. 27. For more information, visit atlantabg.org.

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HOMES

&

C O MM U N I T I E S

By Michelle Bourg

BEAUTIFUL SCENERY AND WATERFRONT AMENITIES It’s an inescapable fact: Atlanta is a landlocked city. No oceanfront beaches, no breaking waves. But while it’s true that we’re not on the coast, this doesn’t mean you’re limited to a landlocked lifestyle. The Atlanta area is blessed with many beautiful lakes, accessible to the city and offering the pleasures of boating, fishing and swimming with beautiful scenery as a bonus. There are plenty of communities to choose from that let residents take advantage of lakefront living, with extra amenities that offer an appealing combination to prospective homebuyers. The following developments offer the opportunity to get your feet wet right outside your front door.

Metro Atlanta’s Lake Lanier offers waterfront communities.

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CHESTATEE GOLF CLUB Located an hour from Atlanta, Lake Lanier is “Atlanta’s Great Lake” and a premier recreation destination, with 59 square miles of water for boating, fishing and other watersports. Hugging 2.5 miles of shoreline on the lake’s northwest side, Chestatee Golf Club combines luxurious top-tier amenities with small-town style.

“Homes inspired by turn-of-the-century architectural styles found in the South and along the East Coast,” according to Chestatee Realty’s website. “These make for streetscapes unlike anything else in Georgia. As a result, lanes, sidewalks and landscaped common areas only encourage the hospitality you feel in this quaint Southern village.”

With a private marina, boat ramp and 160 covered and uncovered slips, Chestatee makes it easy to get away for a day of boating or fishing.

For relaxing at the water’s edge, there’s a pavilion and picnic area with a stone fireplace. The lake also provides a gorgeous backdrop to the three miles of hiking trails and the award-winning par-71 championship golf course designed

by Denis Griffiths.

Chestatee’s 550 acres are home to a wealth of other recreation options, including two pools, a children’s play area, a half basketball court, lighted tennis courts, croquet facilities and the Nightfire lodge with a kitchen for social gatherings. There’s also the Heron Grille restaurant for dinner and drinks.

Of course, Chestatee’s recreational experience is matched by its homes. Residents can retreat to spacious Craftsman-style residences styled on historic architecture that evoke the feel of a quaint Southern town—complete with community square and bandstand. Prices range from the $400,000s to $1 million and up; typical home features include 10-foot ceilings, bonus

Chestatee Golf Club’s homes are connected by a tree-lined, well-lit walkway.

Chestatee’s 550 acres are home to a wealth of other recreation options, including two pools, a children’s play area, a half basketball court, lighted tennis courts, croquet facilities and the Nightfire lodge with a kitchen for social gatherings. rooms, gourmet kitchens with double ovens and covered porches or decks. New construction is underway in several neighborhoods, and prime lots are available at prices from around $50,000 to $300,000.

Away from it all yet accessible, Chestatee is just off GA 400 and 20 minutes from Alpharetta and north suburban businesses. Close to home, there’s shopping at the famous North Georgia Premium Outlets and the breathtaking beauty of Amicalola Falls State Park. 777 Dogwood Way, Dawsonville, GA. 706-216-7336, chestatee.net

BIG CANOE In Atlanta, the name Big Canoe is synonymous with luxurious outdoor living. An hour’s drive north of the city in the town of Jasper, this private gated community covers 8,000 square acres of heavily wooded foothills in the north Georgia mountains. Big Canoe has been

A private mar in located at Ches a and boat ramp tatee Golf Club .

recognized by the National Association of Home Builders with “The Nationals” Silver Award as Master Planned Community of the Year and by the Greater Atlanta Homebuilders’ Association with an OBIE award as Community of the YearMaster Plan.

Big Canoe offers more than 20 miles of hiking trails, a fitness center, three pools, tennis and pickleball courts, and a 27-hole championship golf course. But the sparkling jewels in its crown are its lakes: the 111-acre Lake Petit, the tranquil Lake Sconti and Lake Disharoon with its sandy beach. Petit and Sconti are an angler’s dream with plentiful trout, bass, bluegill, newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 11

crappie and brim, while Disharoon is the place for recreation and swimming.

The community has a wide range of available property types, from wooded inland lots with access to the golf course, trails or greenspace to waterfront access.

Lots range from $40,000 to $300,000 and up. Home styles follow set architectural guidelines authentic to the region; residents can use the in-house design center to create their dream home with Big Canoe Building Group or use an approved builder. New home prices range from $400,000 to $3 million and up. Big Canoe Building Group is a member of the Greater Atlanta Home Builders Association (GAHBA), a State Certified Earth Craft Builder and National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB) Certified Green Professionals.

Sound intriguing? A great way for prospective buyers to get to know Big Canoe is the Discovery Package, which includes a three-day, two-night stay in a luxury mountain home, a $50 dining voucher for the Sconti Clubhouse, an 18-hole round of golf per couple (or two-hour pickleball/tennis reservation), a two-hour pontoon boat cruise on Lake Petit and a private tour of the community. 54 Wolfscratch Village Jasper, GA. 770-893-2733, bigcanoe.com

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C O MM U N I TI E S

A lake cottage at Big Canoe

PHOTO: Big Canoe Company, LLC

HOMES

CANOE CLUB Not all of metro Atlanta’s waterfront properties are on the north side. Just 40 minutes south of the city in Fayetteville, Canoe Club offers lakeside living with plenty of amenities in an area that is truly “up and coming.”

Canoe Club’s 600 landscaped acres are surrounded by lush woodland reflected in the waters of the community’s two lakes, Lake Menawa and Lake Senoya. Overlooking the lakes is a 5,500-square-foot clubhouse with an extensive fitness center and a gathering area with catering kitchen and coffee bar. Adjacent is a community lawn perfect for neighborhood get-togethers or games of badminton. There are also a four-lane lap pool, four lighted tennis courts and canoe storage. All these benefits helped make Canoe Club Fayette’s top-selling community for two years in a row.

Known for a welcoming atmosphere and relaxed pace, the surrounding area showcases golf, shopping at Fayette Pavilion or the Avenue at Peachtree City and concerts at the Frederick Brown Jr. Amphitheater. Awardwinning schools, Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, Trilith Studios and the Porsche Cars North American headquarters are all just minutes away.

Canoe Club homebuyers choose from 11 different plans designed by Georgia’s premier builders. All homes are set on expansive one-acre lots and filled with details that truly set them apart: smart home prewiring, elaborate moldings throughout, ceramic tile surrounds in baths and kitchens, and spacious floor plans with media rooms and large covered porches that make gracious indoor-outdoor living a reality. Homes are priced from the mid-$500s to the $900s. 110 Reflections Point, Fayetteville, GA. 770-843-1390, thecanoeclub. newhomesdivisionga.com So if you’re dreaming of a life on the water, Atlanta has much to offer. By choosing a home in a lakefront community, you can get that vacation feeling every day. newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 13

neighborhood

SPOTLIGHT Lilburn

By Michelle Bourg

I

Old Town Lilburn

f you’re looking for a community that combines big-city amenities with small-town charm, look to Lilburn. This community of 15,000 located about 25 miles northeast of Atlanta in Gwinnett County offers quality affordable housing, excellent schools, and recreation, with easy access to the metro area via Interstates 85 and 285 and Ronald Reagan Parkway. Lilburn is home to a mix of longtime residents and younger families with diverse backgrounds. With a median age of 36.2, its young outlook is reflected in the city’s forward-looking development. In 2013, Money magazine ranked Lilburn fifth on its list of Best Affordable Places to Live in America.

Housing

Culinary Treats

Lilburn has a variety of housing options for both young professionals and families. New townhomes at Old Town Lilburn (678-333-7648) start in the low $400,000s and offer plans of three and four bedrooms with two-car garages and outdoor spaces. At Townes at Greenleaf (770-330-5978), townhomes start in the low $400,000s and include three bedrooms and twocar garages. The Preserve at Killian Hill (404379-9335) offers three-bedroom townhomes with two-car garages starting at $375,000.

The 1910 Public House (770-564-6911) offers craft beer flights and specialties including roasted cauliflower steak and blackened Mississippi catfish. The elegant sesame-crusted tuna tataki or the Steak Diane at Three Blind Mice (770-696-4139) are perfect for an elegant evening. Bambinelli’s (770-717-7217) and Izzy’s NY Pizza (770-279-2943) serve up Italian favorites.

Arts and Entertainment

Lilburn Sparkle in the Park Bambinelli’s

Music on Main Street (770-609-6393) in Old Town hosts a monthly coffee house concert series and an outdoor summer weekend concert series, showcasing local and national acts.

CX, the Creative Space at The Apothecary, in partnership with the Citizen Exchange art group (770-559-8434), regularly hosts community art events. The annual Lilburn Daze Arts and Crafts Festival (678-541-8103), held Oct. 8, features local artisans as well as live music, food vendors and children’s activities plus free admission and parking/shuttles.

Local Treasures Old Town, with its shady streets and brick buildings, is a picturesque place to browse the Antiques in Old Town shop and check out the Hope Springs Distillery. Adjacent is Lilburn City Park (770-921-2210), with tennis courts, a playground and a 160-seat pavilion. It also links to the Camp Creek Greenway, a four-mile pathway offering bike rentals, a wildlife habitat and picnic areas.

Numerous other parks, aquatic centers and athletic fields are nearby. The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir (678-906-2277) is one of the largest Hindu temples of its kind in the world outside of India. N

THE INSIDE TRACK: A devastating fire in 1920 and the Great Depression in 1929 wreaked such economic damage that the city government ceased to exist and was only reinstated in 1955.

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PHOTO: (left) Steve Bach; (middle far left) Richard Ferris

Camp Creek Greenway

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ATLANTA’S

& entertainment

tions of music, theater, dance and comedy. The program’s home is the Ferst Center for the Arts, which seats nearly 1,000. The 2022-23 Georgia Tech Arts performance series showcases work created by artists from across the globe. arts.gatech.edu

ATLANTA BALLET FATD One of the country’s premier dance companies, the Atlanta Ballet has brought the power and joy of dance to Atlanta for 93 years now. Its 2022-23 season will include “Balanchine Inspired,” the holiday classic “The Nutcracker,” “Midwinter Dreams,” “Beauty and the Beast,” “Don Quixote” and “Significant Others.” atlantaballet.com

ATLANTA OPERA AD

Welcome to Atlanta! You’ve chosen a city that has it all: charming neighborhoods, quality schools, recreation options galore, exciting attractions and top-notch dining. In addition, it’s one of the nation’s leading centers of the arts, hosting the best of Broadway, a world-class symphony, a plethora of museums and galleries, rowdy standup comedy and much, much more. Our guide to the city’s arts and entertainment world is your backstage pass to something that will excite and inspire everyone in your family.

LEGEND: FAMILY: F ADULTS: A TEENS: T DATE NIGHT: D

PERFORMING ARTS ALLIANCE THEATRE FATD The Tony Award-winning Alliance continues to bring classic and groundbreaking plays to the Woodruff Arts Center. The 2022-23 productions include the Coca-Cola Stage Series’ “Everybody,” “A Christmas Carol,” “The Hot Wing King” and “Water for Elephants.” The Family Series will include “The Incredible Book Eating Boy,” “Roob and Noob” and “The Boy Who Kissed the Sky,” and the Alliance also has a series of plays for very young children. alliancetheatre.org

Anastasia, Regions Broadway in Atlanta

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AURORA THEATRE FATD Now in its 27th season, this Lawrenceville institution is the fastest-growing professional theater in the state, staging Broadway hits, contemporary theater, children’s programs and metro Atlanta’s only professional Spanish-language theatre, Teatro Aurora. Highlights for its upcoming season include “Mary Poppins,” “Kim’s Convenience,” “Summer: The Donna Summer Special” and the holiday favorite “Christmas Canteen.” auroratheatre.com

REGIONS BROADWAY IN ATLANTA FATD The best of Broadway comes to the Southeast every year with the Regions Broadway in Atlanta series. This season, the curtain goes up on “Pretty Woman,” “Chicago,” “Anastasia,” “Hadestown,” “Riverdance” and “Tina: The Tina Turner Musical,” among others. broadwayinatlanta.com

GEORGIA TECH ARTS ATD

CENTER FOR PUPPETRY ARTS FAT

Georgia Tech Arts encompasses every aspect of the arts at Georgia Tech; the performance aspect includes both student and professional produc-

The center’s 2022-23 season will include “Contemporary Spotlight on Raymond Carr,” the holiday favorite “Rudolph The Red-Nosed

PHOTO: Jeremy Daniel

YOUR GUIDE TO THE BEST OF ATLANTA’S CULTURAL SCENE

Founded in 1979, this acclaimed company presents both fresh imaginings of the classics and new works for a modern audience. For its 2022-23 season, it will stage “Bluebeard’s Castle,” “The Snowy Day,” “Madama Butterfly,” “Don Giovanni,” “Candide” and “Das Rheingold.” atlantaopera.org

Rialto Center for th e Arts

RIALTO CENTER FOR THE ARTS FATD This 833-seat venue on the campus of Georgia State University is a premier venue for jazz, world music, theatre and dance. Among this season’s offerings are Arturo Sandoval, the 25th Annual Gala Holiday Concert and “Our Town: The Opera.” rialto.gsu.edu

SCHWARTZ CENTER FOR PERFORMING ARTS AD Reindeer” and the world premiere of “Tesla vs.

Edison.” The Worlds of Puppetry Museum has puppets from theatre, TV and film, while the Jim Henson Collection is home to the beloved Muppets. The center also offers kids’ workshops that will turn your child into a budding puppeteer. puppet.org

Emory University’s Schwartz Center features an 800-seat concert hall that hosts eclectic music, dance and theater performances.

This year’s series includes Music by Copland House featuring Susan Graham, Urban Bush Women: Legacy + Lineage + Liberation and the Maria Schneider Orchestra. arts.emory.edu

FOX THEATRE FATD

THE SHAKESPEARE TAVERN PLAYHOUSE ATD

This Midtown landmark, a former 1920s movie palace known for its Moorish and Egyptian architecture, hosts performances in old-school grandeur. Daily tours showcase the venue’s history and must-see details – from Mighty Mo, the world’s largest working Moller theatre organ, to the lounges featuring the original furniture chosen by the wife of movie mogul William Fox, to the crystal “stars” twinkling overhead in the auditorium’s trompe l’oeil sky. foxtheatre.org

PHOTOS: Matthew Murphy (top); CatMax Photography (right)

GEORGIA BALLET FATD For its 63rd season, the Marietta-based Georgia Ballet presents “Peter Pan,” a holiday presentation of “The Nutcracker” and “Carmen Suite.”

At The School of the Georgia Ballet, the company offers classes in three divisions: Primary Ballet Division, Recreational Division and PreProfessional Ballet Division. georgiaballet.org

Shakespeare Tavern presents Shakespeare and other classics, mounted as closely as possible to the versions in which they were originally presented. Café-style food and drinks are available before each performance. Upcoming productions include “Much Ado About Nothing,” “Macbeth,” “The Tempest” and Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.” shakespearetavern.com

SPIVEY HALL AD Renowned for its exceptional acoustics, this 400-seat space on the campus of Clayton State

University in Morrow is a great setting for live jazz and classical music. The upcoming season includes performances by the Georgia Musicale Group, violinist Joshua Bell and pianist Peter Dugan, Europa Galante with violinist Fabio Biondi and Wycliffe Gordon and the International All-Stars. spiveyhall.org

VISUAL ARTS ATLANTA CONTEMPORARY FATD This influential gallery spotlights important local, national and international contemporary artists in addition to commissioning new works. The center hosts lectures and events throughout the year, including the Contemporary Cocktails series and Contemporary Kids, a free interactive program that introduces children to art and artists. atlantacontemporary.org

HIGH MUSEUM OF ART FATD The High is renowned for its notable architecture, its extensive collection and largescale exhibits by Warhol, Monet and others.

Upcoming exhibits include “Stephen Burks: Shelter in Place,” “Deanna Lawson” and “Rodin in the United States: Confronting the Modern.”

High Frequency Fridays, held the first Friday of each month, feature music by the city’s top DJs, food and drink, art creation opportunities and docent-led tours, while Second Sundays include free admission and family-friendly programming. Summer art camps and monthly Toddler Thursdays let kids have fun discovering their inner artist. high.org u

High Museum of Art

MARIETTA’S NEW THEATRE IN THE SQUARE FATD This landmark theatre presents established and new plays, comedy and films in Marietta’s historic Square district. Productions include “Little Shop of Horrors, “The Gift of the Magi 2.0” and “Frozen Jr.” The Summer Film Camp and Summer Performing Arts Camp introduce young people to the world of theatre and film. theatreinthesquare.net newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 17

JACKSON FINE ART AT

m Children’s Museu of Atlanta

THE HUDGENS CENTER FOR ART AND LEARNING FATD Gwinnett County’s showcase for the visual arts, the center has presented exhibi-

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This Buckhead gallery specializes in contemporary photography by leading national and international artists; past exhibits have showcased works by Elliot Erwitt, Henri Cartier-Bresson, Michael Kenna and many more. jacksonfineart.com

LIVING WALLS FAT Throughout Atlanta, this nonprofit has curated intentional, thought-provoking public art to drive social and economic change in the city’s urban spaces. Over 100 murals are scattered throughout the metro area from local, national and international artists. livingwallsatl.com

MUSEUMS & SPECIAL ATTRACTIONS CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF ATLANTA F Atlanta’s premier museum designed expressly for children offers innovative programming that sparks imagination and inspires discovery through play. The “Paw Patrol: Adventure Play” exhibit lets kids explore their unique talents, surmount challenges and help friends. childrensmuseumatlanta.org

FERNBANK MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY FATD Fernbank brings science to life. Here you can experience the prehistoric, view cultural artifacts and participate in hands-on science. Take the adventure outside as you explore WildWoods and Fernbank Forest, and explore the amazing world in 2D and 3D at Fernbank’s Giant Screen Theater. On the second Friday of each month, Fernbank After Dark offers a changing variety of afterhours experiences, including exhibitions, live

PHOTO: Jeff Roffman

tions by masters such as Picasso, Rauschenberg and Miro, as well as new and local artists. The Children’s Art Zone invites handon participation with big, bright exhibits that blend art, music and science. Classes and workshops are available for all ages, and the Passport Adventures in Art Summer Camp offers sessions throughout the season. thehudgens.org

music, full bars, tapas menus, giant-screen films and all-new science demonstrations. fernbankmuseum.org

Museum Gone with the Wind

Interactive Neighb orhood

For Kids

Located in Marietta’s historic Brumby Hall, this museum is the only location known to display an original costume worn by Vivien Leigh as Scarlett O’Hara: the stunning silk bengaline gown worn in the honeymoon scene. Other items include Margaret Mitchell’s personal copies of the novel, items from the production of the film, and a display dedicated to the film’s African-American cast members. gwtwmarietta.com

INTERACTIVE NEIGHBORHOOD FOR KIDS F Visitors to INK find a child-sized village designed for immersive, hands-on play. The younger crowd can choose roles to play in realworld situations, created on a small scale with authentic props and costumes that make the experience come to life. In addition, there are arts

Fernbank Mus eu of Natural His m tory

and crafts, play spaces, a music room and the Born Learning Trail for outside exploration. inkfun.org

LEGOLAND DISCOVERY CENTER ATLANTA F A dream come true for kids, and fun for parents, too! Peek behind the scenes in the Lego factory, pick up building tips from the Master Builder Academy, ride a chariot at Kingdom Quest or become part of the story

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Alliance Theatre

The 54th Alliance Theatre season starts on The Coca-Cola Stage with the acclaimed play “Everybody” (Sept. 2 – Oct. 2). With “Everybody,” Pulitzer Prize finalist and Obie Award-winning playwright Branden Jacobs-Jenkins has created an irreverent, uproarious ride that asks BIG questions of all who see it.

For the holidays, the Alliance will present

the timeless family story “A Christmas Carol” (Nov. 12 – Dec. 24) for the second time with its elaborate new production design and staging, and the one-man show “Club Hertz: A Gift of Love with Adam L. McKnight” (Dec. 7 – 23) featuring original songs and holiday favorites.

Other season highlights include the regional premiere of “The Hot Wing King” (Feb. 10 – March 5), a fierce new comedy about the risks and rewards of celebrating who you are and winner of the 2021 Pulitzer Prize for Drama; and the world premiere musical, “Water for Elephants,” an adventure filled with romance, deception and a little bit of magic, all under the big top of a traveling circus and based on the critically acclaimed and best-selling novel by Sara Gruen.

Founded in 1968, the Alliance Theatre is the leading producing theater in the Southeast, reaching more than 165,000 patrons annually.

The Alliance has premiered more than 120 productions including nine that have transferred to Broadway. In 2007, the Alliance received

the Regional Theatre Tony Award for sustained excellence in programming, education and community engagement.

Tickets and season membership packages are available now. The Alliance is located at 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta, GA 30309. For more information, call 404-733-4600 or visit alliancetheatre.org.

PHOTOS: Courtesy of Alliance Theatre

PHOTOS: (top left) Connie Sutherland; (far right) Ashleigh N. Croft Photography

GONE WITH THE WIND MUSEUM AT

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Legoland Discovery Center at the 4D Cinema. Everyone will be intrigued by Miniland, a miniature Atlanta complete with tiny versions of the Fox Theatre, Stone Mountain and Centennial Olympic Park that even light up at night. legolanddiscoverycenter.com/atlanta

SOUTHEASTERN RAILWAY MUSEUM F The colorful story of the railroad in Atlanta and North Georgia history is on display here at Georgia’s official transportation history museum. Located in Duluth next to an active rail line, the 35-acre museum is home to historic railroad equipment, and many pieces are open for guests to climb aboard and explore. Buy a ticket to ride on a train made up of vintage cabooses or try a cab ride and join the engineer as he operates the train around the property. train-museum.org

COMEDY ATLANTA COMEDY THEATRE AD Atlanta’s only upscale comedy club and venue, this intimate club in Norcross brings the best in standup to the ’burbs, with an executive chef menu on Friday and Saturday nights and upcoming acts like Michael Rappaport and D.L. Hughley onstage. atlantacomedytheater.com

LAUGHING SKULL LOUNGE AD

THE PUNCHLINE AD The Punchline, Atlanta’s longest running and continuously operated comedy club, opened in 1982 and has hosted legends including Eddie Murphy, Jeff Foxworthy and Jerry Seinfeld. punchline.com

DAD’S GARAGE ADT Founded in 1995, Dad’s Garage is located in the historic Old Forth Ward neighborhood and is home to the best improv comedy Atlanta has to offer. Offering shows each weekend, it’s a great option for some latenight entertainment. dadsgarage.com 20 | Newcomer Magazine | newcomeratlanta.com

PHOTO: Photo Courtesy of Legoland Discovery Center

This staple in Atlanta comedy is located inside Midtown’s edgy Vortex Bar and Grill has brought international touring comedians but still features open mic nights for local talent. Past acts include Emo Philips and Rachel Feinstein, and future acts include Jim Florentine. laughingskulllounge.com

2022 EDUCATION GUIDE Your Resource for Making Decisions About Your Children’s Education

22 Helping Students Prepare for a Career

29 Atlanta Independent School Directory

26 How Schools are Tackling the Bully Problem

38 Beyond the Basics Independent School Chart newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 21

STUDENTS FOR A CAREER

By Anna Bentley

HOW SCHOOLS HELP LEAD THE PATH TO A BRIGHT FUTURE

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F

or many high school students, deciding on a possible career can be a daunting decision. The options seem almost endless, and it can be hard to successfully translate interests into viable career options. Luckily, Georgia’s public and independent schools are dedicated to helping students wade the sometimes-murky waters of career preparation. By implementing special programs, offering enriching co-curricular activities and developing personal connections with students, Georgia’s schools are committed to getting students on the path to a bright future.

PROVIDING INDIVIDUALIZED GUIDANCE One of the biggest advantages of independent schools is their smaller size, which allows counselors and advisors to make personal connections with students, helping to inform conversations about possible careers, college majors and college selections.

“This is addressed in several different ways,” says Krista Parker, the Atlanta Girls’ School’s middle and upper school director. Beginning with their junior year, students at the school go through a threestep process that starts with meetings with the college counselor to determine what their interests are and the colleges that could match them.

“Secondly, we require all of our students to complete two 70-hour internships while enrolled at AGS. These internships help students to see what the ‘real world’ looks like and helps them to not only see what careers they may want to pursue but also which ones they don’t! Third and probably most importantly is our commitment to establishing partnerships with organizations outside of the classroom. We connect our students with professionals in the science and technology field as well as the business and finance community.”

Small school sizes also help advance the counseling process. At Pace Academy, for instance, preparations can begin as early as ninth and 10th grade, with informational meetings for parents and students. And at the Atlanta Girls’ School, the college counseling process begins in 10th

grade with small group meetings with college representatives.

Students are encouraged to explore academic interests both inside and outside the classroom, by either doubling up on core classes like math, science or English or exploring interests through electives or co-curricular/extracurricular activities.

At the Atlanta Girls’ School, weekly assemblies can host guest speakers ranging from lawyers to dog sled racers so students can learn more about careers they may or may not have considered.

Similarly, “Pace Academy’s mission is to ‘create prepared, confident citizens of the world,’ which means that we offer academic, co-curricular and extracurricular programs that expose students to many areas of study and related professional opportunities,” says Caitlin Jones, Pace’s director of communications. “… For example, upper school students interested in social innovation, global health or arts and urban life may choose to become involved in our Isdell Center for Global Leadership Fellows program, a two-year, co-curricular, team-based leadership program.”

At Cristo Rey Atlanta Jesuit High School, students get hands-on experience as they ponder future careers. Each student goes through a corporate work study program in which they work at local companies five days per month “to fund the majority of their education, gain job experience, grow in self-confidence and realize the relevance of their education,” according to its website.

OFFERING PROGRAMS FOR SUCCESS Providing individualized options for students is a priority in Georgia’s public schools, as well. The Georgia Department of Education (GDOE)’s Career, Technical and Agricultural Education (CTAE) program offers students specialized instruction in more than 120 subjects, letting them explore careers before graduation—and even earn technical certifications, in some cases. The DOE’s website (gadoe.org) has entire web pages devoted to this program.

In this program, pathways are arranged in broad career clusters (for example, students can follow a graphic design pathway in the arts, A/V technology and com-

Students are encouraged to explore academic interests both inside and outside the classroom, by either doubling up on core classes like math, science or English or exploring interests through electives or co-curricular/extracurricular activities. munications cluster). Each pathway has its own sequence of three specialized courses, followed by an end-of-pathway assessment.

Students can pick from more than 120 pathways in 17 clusters, including finance; IT; transportation, distribution and logistics; education and training; and agriculture, food and natural resources.

Though students pick their pathways in eighth grade, the program starts early, with career awareness lessons beginning in the first grade. Later in middle school, students take a career development inventory to help drill down into careers that might interest them before developing their personal graduation plan with input from their school counselor and parents.

“Middle-school students can learn about a variety of careers through exploratory courses, and CTAE has program of study documents available to assist students with mapping their course of study in high school and postsecondary enrollment,” says Meghan Frick, the GDOE’s director of communications. “These documents also assist with providing more information on careers associated with the Career Pathway the student is pursuing.”

And if students want to get a jump start on their college education (and career), the state also allows them to dual enroll in both high school and college classes if they qualify. u newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 23

WHAT PARENTS CAN DO The path might seem clear for students who have solid ideas about their futures. But what about those who don’t know what they want to do?

Gaela Peters, school counselor and learning specialist at the Atlanta Girls’ School, says it has a weekly Education for the Development of Leadership and Service to expose students to different careers.

The school also hosts annual special events where metro-area professionals speak about their industries.

Pace has similar programs in which it invites guest speakers and alumni to “discuss a variety of topics, with the goal of introducing students to global issues and a variety of career opportunities,” Jones says. “…

Several club offerings also connect students to professionals in the Atlanta community.” But, she added, “The path toward an eventual career, however, truly starts with the college counseling process.”

Whether your child has a clear plan for what he or she wants to do, or is still struggling to figure it out, your involvement is crucial. Be involved in their education and maintain an open dialogue about their goals. Together with specialized school programs and guidance, strong parental support can help students set and achieve career goals that perfectly fit their skills and interests.

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BULLY PROBLEM TACKLING THE

HOW ATLANTA SCHOOLS DEAL WITH THE ISSUE

By Laura Raines The educational experience is constantly changing, as technology and teaching methods evolve.

But one aspect of school life remains as present as reading, writing and arithmetic—bullying.

It’s a problem that torments many children, and can have long-lasting effects long beyond a child’s school years. Fortunately, public and independent Atlanta schools have procedures in place to deal with the issue, and aim to tackle the problem through their curricula as well.

WHAT IS BULLYING? About 20 percent of U.S. high school students reported being bullied in school in 2021, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Bullying continues to make the news—and awareness is critical, says Maurice 26 | Newcomer Magazine | newcomeratlanta.com

Granger, coordinator of student discipline for Atlanta Public Schools (APS).

“We have to make sure that students, parents and all stakeholders are aware of bullying and of the impact bullying has on our community at large,” he said. “Through awareness, we’ve learned we can intervene and therefore decrease the number of bullying incidences we have by teaching individuals who learn from their behavior.”

Attacking the problem begins with having a clear definition. The website StopBullying.gov defines bullying as “unwanted, aggressive behavior among school-aged children that involves a real or perceived power imbalance.” Examples of bullying include making threats, spreading rumors and either verbal or physical abuse.

The website also provides information on bullying warning signs and how parents and educators can help prevent bullying.

APS has a zero-tolerance policy regarding bullying, from its board of education to its code of conduct, which is included in its student handbook. “It makes it very clear that bullying will not be tolerated and there will be consequences for bullying,” Granger said. “There are consequences ranging from one day of out-ofschool suspension to expulsion.”

APS maintains an anti-bullying page on its website, with multiple resources for students, teachers and parents. Last year the district added to its website a code of conduct video, which it also shows students in class. The video includes bullying scenarios to educate

them on the issue.

The Georgia Department of Education’s website (doe.org) has a webpage devoted to bullying prevention. It includes information on the state’s bullying law plus bullying prevention resources, which includes links to other helpful websites.

TEACHING POSITIVE BEHAVIORS Curtailing negative behaviors is necessary, but educators are finding that teaching positive behaviors and creating inclusive, supporting school environments can make a bigger impact.

About 250 metro Atlanta public and independent schools have adopted No Place for Hate campaigns, sponsored by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL). Melissa Licali, associate director of No Place for Hate for the ADL’s Southern division, which includes Georgia, said any K-12 school can sign up for the campaign, which is free. She said the key to the campaign’s success is it addresses bullying or cyberbullying “through the lens of identity and bias,” adding it focuses on “the root of bullying and not just the behaviors or the symptoms.”

“We were able to look at (each school) and ask, ‘Why is this student doing this to another student?’” Licali said. “We can always look at bullying as a piece of identity, whether it’s ableism, race or ethnicity, maybe physical appearance. I know a lot of our data is anecdotal, and at the school I was in, we saw our bullying incidents decrease, we saw more student engagement and teachers were getting more

valuable time back because students were now self-directing.”

The ADL’s website (adl.org) provides information on bullying and cyberbullying statistics and statutes, resources for educators and administrators and resources for both students and families/caregivers.

The Ambassadors 4 Kids Club (a4kclub.org), an Atlanta-based organization, partners with schools across the country to prevent and stop bullying and other forms of abuse in schools and communities. It offers students the chance to start clubs at their schools, where they can take the pledge to stand up to and speak out against bullying and other forms of violence.

Teaching responsibility and respect for others begins early at Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia, where students range in age from 15 months to 6 years old. As a result, the school has no bullying issues because of its preventative measures, including teaching conflictresolution skills.

“I think the hallmark is respect for the child,” said Debra Markham, the school’s director, referring to Montessori school founder Maria Montessori’s teachings. “One of Maria Montessori’s biggest inspirations was the idea that children have a great capacity for learning if you prepare their environment. … The classroom is designed and set up so the children can learn in every function of the classroom, not just academics. … They’re taught how to care for themselves.”

The Lovett School also believes that creating

the right school atmosphere is most important.

It has a no-tolerance policy and addresses any reports of bullying. Every student also signs a character pledge that says he will honor the values of honesty, respect, responsibility and compassion. And counselors visit classes regularly for guidance sessions. “In kindergarten, we talk about valuing the differences in others,” says Gayle Greenwood, director of lower school counseling. “In fourth and fifth grades, when peer pressure kicks in, we discuss what it means to be a friend.”

In middle school, counselors meet with sixth-grade boys and girls separately in small groups to address bullying, body image and online etiquette. “The point is to get them thinking and talking to each other about topics that are important to them,” says middle school counselor Sara Friedman.

Character and values are also reinforced in class through book discussions, papers and projects. “Anti-bullying can’t just be a sign or a slogan,” says counselor Chase Jones. “It has to be in the fabric of your school culture.”

WHAT PARENTS CAN DO ABOUT BULLYING 1. If you suspect your child is being bullied, ask him—he may not volunteer the information.

2. Look for warning signs. He may show decreased interest in school, have angry outbursts or even hurt himself.

3. If he tells you he’s being bullied, listen calmly, without getting upset, and offer your support.

4. Help him figure out appropriate responses to the bullying behavior.

It’s important that he feel as if he’s handling the problem himself, rather than you “solving” it for him.

5. If the bullying behavior is severe enough, contact the child’s teacher, counselor or principal and work with them to determine what next steps may need to be taken. newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 27

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2022

E D U C AT I O N

G U I DE

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 38.

Atlanta Academy

Atlanta International School

Atlanta Academy, located in Roswell, serves 375 private preschool through eighth-grade students in surrounding North Fulton communities. Small class sizes allow teachers to understand students' strengths and help them discover their unique talents. This warm, nurturing culture fosters good character alongside academic success, and research shows that this learning environment enriches students' academic performance, well-being and happiness.

The school’s forward-thinking curriculum focuses on building confidence and skills while providing various opportunities for students to succeed at public and prestigious private high schools. Its graduates thrive in a range of exceptional college-preparatory high schools, with over 96 percent of Atlanta Academy graduates being accepted into their top choice high school.

High-performing student achievement is nurtured in the school’s inclusive, non-denominational, family-engaged atmosphere. Teachers model and instill values encouraging social and emotional development, such as empathy, integrity, resiliency and honesty. The Atlanta Academy faculty ranks among some of the industry's best educators. The school is fully invested in helping children grow into well-educated, independent problem solvers prepared to excel in high school and beyond. To schedule a tour, call 678-461-6102 or visit atlantaacademy.com.

Atlanta International School (AIS) is an inclusive multicultural community providing a world-class education to 1,319 US and international students from kindergarten (starting with 3-year-olds) to Grade 12.

The International Baccalaureate (IB) program provides a rigorous academic structure that is complemented by language acquisition programs beginning with a full-immersion preschool program in French, German, Chinese or Spanish.

In addition to the prestigious IB diploma, AIS offers STEM- and STEAM-endorsed and bilingual diplomas. The curriculum is further enhanced with a wide range of activities to help expand learning experiences beyond the classroom. Students can participate in award-winning 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. u

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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 129-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.

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 eight students 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 Bedford School The mission of The Bedford School is to maximize the potential of children with learning differences and develop foundations for success. Bedford offers a fresh start to students who may have been frustrated in a traditional setting due to learning differences and provides them opportunities for success. The school serves children in grades 1-9 who have been professionally identified as having specific learning disabilities such as dyslexia and related disorders. This is accomplished through small classes (5-12 per class), a structured, multi-sensory approach and a dedicated staff. Grade-level, college prep curriculum is taught with appropriate accommodations for learning disabled students such as math and English taught twice daily and all material read aloud in class. The school was established in 1985 and currently serves 150 students. Bedford is located on a 45-acre campus in Fairburn, 15 minutes south of HartsfieldJackson Atlanta International Airport. For more information, call 770-774-8001 or visit thebedfordschool.org.

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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.

It provides an educational environment for students with learning differences in grades 3-12. TCS meets the student where they are today and recognizes that all students learn differently. TCS teaches differently. Based on three pillars of success: academic, social, and emotional, TCS school offers: • Experiential learning • Small class sizes (10-student average) for individualized learning • Customized education plans for every student • A business-based, incentive-based model that teaches life skills • Year-round athletic programs that encourage all students to participate • Post-secondary planning that ensures continued success after graduation Come visit the school’s 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.

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 the 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 2022-23, class space permitting. For more information, visit friendsschoolatlanta.org or call 404-373-8746. u

Georgia Cyber Academy Georgia Cyber Academy (GCA) is a tuition-free, online, public charter school serving students in grades K-12 throughout the state. Students can enjoy everything they love about traditional brick-and-mortar education, from the comfort of their own homes.

Once partnered with the school’s certified teachers and a family success liaison, students 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 their bright future!

If anyone has questions about the school or the enrollment process or needs more information, call 404-334-4790, visit georgiacyber.org/champions, or email info@georgiacyber.org.

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Heritage Preparatory School Heritage Preparatory School is a classical, Christ-centered school that equips students to think with excellence, believe with confidence, and live with character. The school’s purpose is to offer an academically rigorous experience designed to help students know, love, and practice that which is true, good, and excellent and prepare them to live purposefully and intelligently in the service of God and man.

A Heritage education is aimed at equipping students to become lovers of both learning and Truth. To that end, the school cultivates lifelong learners that think critically and communicate eloquently. It develops graduates who serve the kingdom of God and engage culture faithfully. Heritage believes the purpose of education is not the transfer of information, but the preparation of a mind, nurturing of a heart, and development of a soul to live and think with truth, wisdom, and excellence.

Heritage serves students in Pre-K through high school. The school is dually accredited by SAIS and Cognia and is a member of ACSI and ACCS. The lower school campus is located at 1700 Piedmont Ave. NE, Atlanta, and the upper school is located at 1824 Piedmont Ave. NE, Atlanta. For more information, visit heritageprep.org or call 404-815-7711.

High Meadows School Since 1973, High Meadows School has inspired children to think critically, learn creatively, act globally, and live compassionately. High Meadows is about learning and laughter, exploration and discovery, and friendship and connection.

The school was built on 42 acres of historic farm property in Roswell, Georgia, and students from age 3 through eighth grade experience a school environment where adventure and play go hand in hand with extraordinary academic preparation and exemplary student outcomes. From the outstanding faculty and breathtaking campus to the small class sizes and acclaimed International Baccalaureate curriculum, a High Meadows education is unlike any other. Visit the campus, located at 1055 Willeo Rd., Roswell, GA 30075, to experience its magic. For more information, visit highmeadows.org or call 770-993-2940.

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, 17 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.

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Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia 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 the school’s “Montessori Magic,” call 770-814-8001 or visit jcmsog.org. u

Enabling Children with Learning Differences

to Succeed ✔ Pre-K through 8th Grade ✔ Small group instruction using multi-sensory techniques ✔ Academic programs matched to individual’s strengths Phone: 770-594-1313 I 200 Cox Rd. Roswell

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Oak Meadow Montessori School Oak Meadow Montessori School (OMMS) has been awakening children’s natural desire to learn since 1993. Its high-fidelity Montessori environments serve children ages 15 months to 12 years old. Well-equipped Montessori classrooms and the school’s dedicated, experienced staff combine to cultivate a nurturing, inclusive, and vibrant school experience that fosters independence, self-motivation, and a lifelong love of learning. Exploration of its classroom and outdoor environments ignites students’ natural curiosity, and its guides (or teachers) fan their flames of interest, allowing students to maximize their potential.

OMMS is accredited by both the American Montessori Society and SACS/Cognia, ensuring the highest of Montessori and academic standards are met. Come, see what the excitement is all about!

For more information, visit oakmeadowmontessori.com or call 770-963-8303.

The Piedmont School of Atlanta The Piedmont School of Atlanta serves students 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. Piedmont has been named a Boxlight National Demonstration School serving as a model site for incorporating technology in the classroom. For more information, call 404-382-8200 or visit tpsoa.org.

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.

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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 is the most geographically diverse boarding school in the nation, made up of a student body from 56 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% 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 projectbased 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, visit stillwaters.academy or call 770-449-4125.

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.

Specially designed Montessori materials support children’s developmental needs and offer students a wide variety of hands-on 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. u SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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The Walker School

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 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 preschool-aged children, Suzuki 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 404-8413939 or visit suzukischool.com.

36 | Newcomer Magazine | newcomeratlanta.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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 four-year 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 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.

Woodward Academy 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 24 AP classes, renowned Transition Program for students with mild learning differences, more than 100 clubs and cocurriculars, 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.

Whitefield Academy

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 at Peachtree Corners.

Wesleyan started the 2022-2023 school year with 1,207 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.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Whitefield Academy’s college-preparatory education is built on Christcentered 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.

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 or to register for a virtual tour, visit whitefieldacademy.com. u

Beyond the Basics School chart on page 38 and 39

Newcomer Magazine | 37

BEYOND THE BASICS SCHOOL

PHONE

COUNTY

NEIGHBORHOOD

ANNUAL TUITION

AVG. CLASS SIZE

RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION

ACCREDITATIONS OR AFFILIATIONS

OPEN HOUSE DATES

Atlanta Academy

678-461-6102

North Fulton

Roswell

See website

16

NonDenominational

AAAIS, GISA, Bright from the Start, SAIS

1/21/23; call for a tour

Atlanta International School

404-841-3840

Fulton

Buckhead

$26,725 $30,510

17

N/A

AdvanceED, aefe, CIS, ECIS, SAIS

Call the school

Baylor School

423-267-5902

Hamilton County, Tennessee

Chattanooga

Day: $28,310, Boarding: $57,340

14

NonDenominational

NAIS, SAIS, TAIS

10/28, 11/11

The Bedford School

770-774-8001

Fulton

Fairburn

$20,650 $21,050

10-12

N/A

AdvancEd, GAC, SAIS

Check website

Brandon Hall School

770-394-8177

Fulton

Sandy Springs

$29,200 $59,150

8

None

IB World School, NAIS, SAIS, SBSA, TABS

Call to schedule a tour

The Cottage School

770-641-8688

Fulton

Roswell

$25,000 $29,000

10

N/A

GISA, SAIS

Call for appt.

The Friends School of Atlanta

404-373-8746

DeKalb

Decatur

$16,502 $26,140

9

Quaker

AAAIS, FCE, NAIS, SACS-SAIS, GISA

Call the school

Georgia Cyber Academy

404-334-4790

Throughout entire state

Throughout entire state

Tuition-free school

Varies per grade level

N/A

Cognia

View virtual information sessions on website

Heritage Preparatory School

404-815-7711

Fulton

Ansley/ Morningside

$9,300 $19,900

12

Christian

SAIS, Cognia, ACSI, ACCS, MAAC, GIAA

11/2 (MS/US); 11/3 (LS); 12/7 (MS/US); 12/8 (LS); 1/26 (LS)

High Meadows School

770-993-2940

Fulton

Roswell/ East Cobb

$7,070 $21,580

18

N/A

AAAIS, International Baccalaureate, SAIS

Weekly tours

Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia

770-814-8001

Fulton

Johns Creek

$8,300 $17,500

20

N/A

AMI, AMS, PAMS

Call the school

Lyndon Academy

770-926-0166

Cherokee

Holly Springs

$12,500 $17,000

12

N/A

Cognia, GISA

Every day is an open house

Oak Meadow Montessori School

770-963-8303

Gwinnett

Collins Hill

$8,300 $14,580

20

N/A

American Montessori Society (AMS) and Cognia/SACS

Call the school

The Piedmont School of Atlanta

404-382-8200

DeKalb

Brookhaven

$28,400

4-8

N/A

GISA

Call the school

Porter Academy

770-594-1313

Fulton

Roswell

$20,476 $21,301

12

N/A

AAAIS, GAC, GAPSEC, GISA, SAIS

Call for appt.

Rabun Gap

$10,500$23,400 (day); $59,200 $61,500 (boarding)

12

Presbyterian

NAIS, NCISAA, SAIS, SABS, SACS, TABS

11/6

Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School

706-746-7720

Rabun

38 | Newcomer Magazine | newcomeratlanta.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

BEYOND THE BASICS SCHOOL

PHONE

COUNTY

NEIGHBORHOOD

ANNUAL TUITION

AVG. CLASS SIZE

RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION

ACCREDITATIONS OR AFFILIATIONS

OPEN HOUSE DATES

Springmont School

404-252-3910

Fulton

Sandy Springs

$11,550 $25,000

16

N/A

AAAIS, AMI, Cognia/SAIS, GISA, NAIS

1/23/23

Still Waters International Academy

770-449-4125

Gwinnett

Norcross

$8,000 $10,700

12

Christian

Bright from the Start, Cognia

Call the school

The Suzuki School

404-841-3939

Fulton

Two campuses in Buckhead, one at Ponce City Market

Call

Varies

N/A

AMS, SACS

Call the school

The Walker School

678-540-7229

Cobb

Marietta

$11,280 $25,940

12-15

Open to all faiths

AAAIS, GHSA, GISA, NAIS, SAIS

Visit website for tour information

Wesleyan School

770-448-7640

Gwinnett

Peachtree Corners

$19,560 $27,930

16

Christian (nondenominational)

AAAIS, CESA, GHSA, GISA, SAIS, The College Board, NACAC

Check Website

Whitefield Academy

678-305-3000

Cobb

Smyrna

$10,000 $25,000

18

Christian

AAAIS, NAIS

Call the school

Fulton

College Park (main); Johns Creek (Woodward North)

$19,800 $31,150

Main Campus, 14; Woodward North, 11

N/A

AAAIS, GISA, NAIS, SAIS

Call the school

Woodward Academy

404-765-4001

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 39

R

HE GREA T G IN T

EXP

LO

The Chattooga River is one of the popular spots for water sports in the South Carolina Upcountry.

5 ADVENTURES JUST A SHORT DRIVE FROM ATLANTA

By Tony Jenkins and Susan Flowers ow that you’ve completed the adventure of moving to your new city, you’re probably ready for an all-new adventure that’s less stressful, but just as rewarding. Fortunately, there are numerous adventure-filled vacations within an easy drive of Atlanta. From whitewater rafting in the Smokies to hiking in the Okefenokee Swamp, exciting opportunities abound.

UPCOUNTRY SOUTH CAROLINA

If you just can’t wait to get outside, head to the Upcountry region of South Carolina, home to some of the state’s most gorgeous scenery and most exciting outdoor fun, just slightly over a 40 | Newcomer Magazine | newcomeratlanta.com

two-hour drive from Atlanta.

The six-county area spans 3,954 square miles and includes 80,000 acres of national forest, 50 hiking trails and 13 state parks, with the closest ones from Atlanta being Lake Hartwell State Park and Sadlers Creek State Park. Activities range from hiking and mountain biking to hunting and fishing to swimming, boating, canoeing and kayaking. You can even scuba dive at Lake Jocassee, says Tim Todd, executive director of Upcountry SC, the tourism organization promoting the area.

The Upcountry also includes the Chattooga River, a whitewater rafting haven with Class III to V rapids that was the site for the film “Deliverance,” and the Cherokee Foothills National

Scenic Byway (Hwy. 11), where you will find the state’s tallest mountain, Sassafras Mountain (about 3,500 feet). The area also boasts American Revolution and Native American historic sites to visit. There are numerous spots for a picnic, and both trailside and paved campsites for those who want to stay a while, plus cabins and other homes to rent. Meanwhile, downtown Greenville is a stone’s throw away for those who prefer urban comforts.

SEVIERVILLE, TENNESSEE Known as the birthplace of Dolly Parton, Sevierville is a picturesque getaway less than four hours from Atlanta. Sevierville offers many activities that will please both adrenaline junk-

OU T S I D E

AT L AN TA

Whitewater rafting on the Chattooga River, Upcountry South Carolina.

campsites located throughout the refuge.

If you’re looking for something less taxing, guided boat tours are available, including a 90-minute trip through the Suwannee Canal and Chesser Prairie. You can also arrange for an extended or overnight excursion.

Hikers can enjoy many different trails.

Take in nature’s wonders as you observe birds and other wildlife in their natural habitat, and enjoy plant life that surrounds you at every step.

Walk the Upland Discovery Trail and photograph a colony of red-cockaded woodpeckers.

You may also enjoy cycling on the swamp’s paved roads, although bicycles are not permitted on hiking trails.

Fishermen can enjoy the refuge throughout the year—but you may have to compete with an alligator for your catch! The refuge features shallow water prairies, lakes and ponds, and fishing from a boat, kayak or canoe is permitted in various areas.

PHOTOS: (Top) Joe Mullinax, UpcountrySC.com

TOWNS COUNTY/ LAKE CHATUGE ies and nature enthusiasts. Start with fishing, camping and canoeing at Douglas Lake. Then check out the views of sparkling formations, grottos and a crystal-clear stream in the Forbidden Caverns. Next, take a rafting tour through the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. And that’s just the beginning.

The town is only minutes away from America’s most visited national park: the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is free to enter. Serious hikers will find plenty of options for challenging all-day or overnight adventures on more than 850 miles of maintained trails, while beginners will love the quick and easy choices. Whichever approach, the park has a universal appeal: sights that are better experienced than described.

For even more thrills, visit one of Sevierville’s several zip-lining companies for breathtaking mountain views as you zip along, hundreds of feet above the trees and streams.

10,000 years old and teeming with deer, mink, otters, bobcats, tortoises, storks—oh, and a few larger animals as well. Paddle your canoe through the swamp and you might glimpse an alligator or a bear.

Of course, wilderness canoeing is an experience best reserved for those who can take on a challenge, so come prepared for strenuous paddling or pushing canoes at some points, as well as extreme temperatures and precipitation.

Canoeists can camp at any of the designated

If you’re looking for a mountain getaway close by, Towns County/Lake Chatuge is your place. Located on the Appalachian Trail and less than two hours from Atlanta, the lake has 132 miles of shoreline, some of which is in North Carolina.

Mary Ann Miller, the Lake Chatuge Chamber of Commerce’s membership and marketing coordinator, said the lake’s beauty is what sets it apart. While Chatuge offers boating, canoeing, kayaking, swimming and fishing, hiking may be

OKEFENOKEE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE With more than 400,000 acres of exotic wildlife and lush vegetation, the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is an adventure-lover’s paradise only a five-hour drive from Atlanta.

Meaning “land of the trembling Earth,” the refuge was established in 1936 to conserve the Okefenokee Swamp, thought to be about

The Visitor’s Center at Okefenokee Swamp Park newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 41

OUT S I D E

AT L AN TA

African animals at Chehaw Park & Zoo its biggest draw. There are a handful of trails near the lake on both the Georgia and North Carolina sides.

But Towns County, which also includes Blairsville, Hiawassee and Young Harris, has plenty more to offer, including golf, horseback riding, arts and crafts, antiquing, concerts, fairs and festivals. Lodging choices range from RV campgrounds to cabins and B&Bs to full-service resorts, such as Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa. Brasstown Valley includes luxurious lodge guest rooms, a golf course, tennis courts, a spa, horseback riding and other activities.

CHEHAW PARK & ZOO Chehaw Park & Zoo in Albany bills itself as “nature’s playground,” and it definitely lives up to the nickname. The park was founded on the principles of conservation, preservation and education, and it continues this mission with about 800 acres of unspoiled conservation land, a wild animal park and the state’s only accredited zoo besides Zoo Atlanta.

Chehaw boasts more than 10 miles of 42 | Newcomer Magazine | newcomeratlanta.com

mountain bike trails, designed in loops of one mile or less in length so riders can create their own routes. For BMX racers, there’s a racing track open to the public that hosts sanctioned races, along with an adjacent practice track.

Disc golfers will want to try the 18-hole, par-54 disc golf course. If you’re feeling more sedate, hop aboard the Wiregrass Express for a scenic tour of the native South Georgia landscape, or the African Veldt ride to view the seven species of animals that roam the 40-acre exhibit in natural herds.

The Veldt is part of the zoo at Chehaw, housing more than 230 specimens representing more than 73 species, including cheetahs, meerkats, lemurs, camels and more. Participate in a feeding or chat with a keeper as part of your weekend visit.

There’s so much to do that you’ll want to spend more time, so camp out at one of the park’s 40 RV sites, 18 tent sites or airconditioned camper cabins, accessible to laundry and dump facilities and equipped with hookups and a fire ring to grill the fish you catch in the lake.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Chehaw Park & Zoo 229-430-5275 chehaw.org Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge 912-496-7836 fws.gov/refuge/okefenokee Sevierville, Tennessee 888-738-4378 visitsevierville.com Towns County/Lake Chatuge 800-984-1543 golakechatuge.com Upcountry, South Carolina 800-849-4766 upcountrysc.com

GETTING STARTED

GETTING STARTED

HERE TO THERE MARTA

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.

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.

Driving Tips

MARTA Rail Service

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.

newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 43

COUNTY INFORMATION EDUCATION PUBLIC SCHOOLS Cherokee County Schools Board of Education 770-479-1871 cherokee.k12.ga.us Elementary Schools Middle Schools High Schools Centers Per-pupil expenditures School & bus information

Cherokee County QUICK INFO

23 7 6 4 $9,149 770-720-2112

Avg. SAT Scores Cherokee Co. Georgia National

County cherokeega.com Neighborhoods cantonga.gov woodstockga.gov cityofballground.com hollyspringsga.us cityofwaleska.com

1115 1048 1039

Median household income: $75,477 Median age of residents: 38 Population: 235,896 Sales tax: 6%

PRIVATE SCHOOLS Visit our website at newcomeratlanta.com for a list of private schools in this county.

Chamber of Commerce Cherokee County 770-345-0400, cherokeechamber.com

UTILITIES & CONTACTS

Property Taxes Per $1,000 of assessed value is: Unincorporated Cherokee County, $21.46; Incorporated Cherokee County, $21.46.

Tax Commissioner: 678-493-6400

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

Old Sixes Mill

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

44 | Newcomer Magazine | newcomeratlanta.com

Mountains and along the banks of the Etowah River, Canton is a prime location for development.

Woodstock

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

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 For more counties and neighborhood information, visit our Website at newcomeratlanta.com

COUNTY INFORMATION EDUCATION

PUBLIC SCHOOLS Cobb County Schools Board of Education 770-426-3300 cobbk12.org Elementary Schools 67 Middle Schools 25 High Schools 17 Magnet 6 Charter 1 Per-pupil expenditures $8,833 School and bus information 678-594-8000 Marietta City Schools Board of Education

Cobb County

Photo: Shutterstock.com

Truist Park

Neighborhoods

Kennesaw

One of Family Circle magaCobb County came into zine’s Ten Best Towns for Families, being in 1832 when the state Kennesaw takes pride in its smallCounty cobbcountyga.gov redistributed land once part town atmosphere and boasts Neighborhoods austellga.org of the Cherokee Nation. abundant parks and greenspace, mariettaga.gov Named after Thomas Willis exceptional recreational programs smyrnaga.gov Cobb, the county experiand top-notch schools, includkennesaw-ga.gov enced a devastating setback ing Kennesaw State University. cityofpowdersprings.org during the Civil War when Kennesaw’s historic downtown smyrnacity.com most of it was destroyed features shopping, dining and attractions such as the Smithsonianduring the famous Battle of Median household income: $75,654 Median age of residents: 36.6 affiliated Southern Museum of Kennesaw Mountain.

Population: 755,754 Civil War and Locomotive HisToday, Cobb County, Sales tax: 6% located northwest of Fulton tory, the Smith-Gilbert Gardens County, is one of the state's and nearby Kennesaw Mountain Chamber of Commerce Cobb County most thriving counties. With National Battlefield Park.

770-980-2000, cobbchamber.org a diverse economic base that includes jobs in the service, Property Taxes retail, aerospace and techRapidly defining what’s new The property tax is $33.84 per $1,000 of assessed value. Tax Commissioner: 770-980-2000 nology sectors, Cobb County and progressive in quality of life offers a quality of life unsurand citizen services, Smyrna passed in the Southeast. Nearly delivers an amazing sense of style $900 million has been spent and love of life. The Market Village Cumberland Mall, secluded subon transportation improvements in district, home to fabulous restaurants, divisions in East Cobb and horse recent years, allowing residents easy bars and upscale shops and services, access to Atlanta and the commercial ranches in the northwest corner is the final piece of a master plan for of the county. The small towns districts of Vinings Overlook, Cumsuccess. Call it “Main Street USA” or berland Parkway and the prestigious of Marietta, Vinings, Smyrna and “Disneyland,” but don’t overlook its Platinum Triangle in the popular Austell still retain their Southern charm and ability to offer the best in Galleria area. charm amidst urban settings. Acfresh, trendy lifestyle options. N A variety of housing options cording to the Census Bureau, the For more counties and neighborhood exist in Cobb County, including median value of homes in 2018 information, visit our Website at newcomeratlanta.com luxury apartments and condos near was $237,800.

QUICK INFO

Smyrna

770-422-3500 marietta-city-org Elementary Schools 8 Middle Schools 1 High Schools 1 Sixth-Grade 1 Magnet 1 Per-pupil expenditures $10,542 School and bus information 770-429-3110 Avg. SAT Scores

Cobb Co. Marietta City Georgia National

1114 1056 1048 1039

PRIVATE SCHOOLS Visit our website at newcomeratlanta.com for a list of private schools in this county.

UTILITIES & CONTACTS ELECTRICITY Acworth Power 770-917-8903 Cobb EMC 770-429-2100 Georgia Power 888-891-0938 GreyStone Power Corp.

770-942-6576 Marietta Power 770-794-5150 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 Spectrum spectrum.com WATER Austell Water Cobb County Water System Marietta Water Powder Springs Water Smyrna Water

770-944-4300 770-419-6200 770-794-5150 770-943-8000 678-631-5338

HOSPITALS WellStar Cobb Hospital 470-732-4000 WellStar Kennestone Hospital 770-793-5000 WellStar Windy Hill Hospital 770-644-1000

newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 45

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 cension, the historic Swan House ter of the metro Atlanta area. With 90 and the Atlanta History Center.

Buckhead is also an enterpercent of the city of Atlanta, including the state’s capital building, lotainment and dining hotspot. cated within its borders, it sits at the With luxury hotels, shops, bars hub of the area’s financial, transporand more than 250 restautation, retail, communications and rants, the Buckhead area is a cultural services. A number of Formagnet for young professiontune 500 companies, including the als.The neighborhood also Coca-Cola Company, Delta Air Lines offers numerous antique and UPS, are headquartered here. stores, art galleries and mall More than one million people shopping at both Lenox live in Fulton County, drawn by its Square and Phipps Piedmont Park convenience to Interstates 75, 85 and Plaza. is home to about 64,000 residents, 285 and Georgia State Route 400. drawn to its affordable housing, According to the U.S. Census Bureau, parks, shopping at North Point Mall the median value of homes in the and concerts at Ameris Bank Amphicounty is $290,400.

Fulton is home to many of Attheatre. The city's historic downtown lanta’s signature neighborhoods, boasts an appealing town including its bustling downtown square. Called Alpharetta district. Older neighborhoods like City Center, it features County co.fulton.ga.us Inman Park, Grant Park, Candler locally owned shops and Neighborhoods alpharetta.ga.us Park and Virginia-Highland offer restaurants, and hosts buckhead.net affordable housing, pedestrianevents year round. cityofmiltonga.us friendly layouts and plentiful virginiahighland.com parks and recreational options. collegeparkga.com Incorporated in 2006, Midtown is the heart of Atlanta’s eastpointcity.org this thriving community of cultural scene, with the Woodruff hapeville.org 84,000 was ranked fourth Arts Center (home to the Alliance johnscreekga.gov among 50 Best U.S. Cities Theatre, the Atlanta Symphony roswellgov.com sandyspringsga.gov to Live In by USA Today.

Orchestra and the High Museum It boasts a diverse ecoof Art) and the historic Fox TheMedian household income: $65,037 atre, as well as a host of art gallernomic base, coupled with Median age of residents: 35.5 ies. Midtown’s Piedmont Park, the a peaceful environment: Population: 1,050,114 Sales tax: 7.75%, Atlanta City: 8.9% city’s most popular greenspace, the city contains over 400 hosts many outdoor festivals and acres of parkland and naChamber of Commerce ture reserves and contains concerts.

Greater North Fulton 770-993-8806, gnfcc.com five access points to the Metro Atlanta Chattahoochee River.

QUICK INFO

Johns Creek

Neighborhoods

Buckhead

404-880-9000, metroatlantachamber.com South Fulton 770-964-1984, southfultonchamber.com

Milton

Also incorporated Property Taxes Buckhead is “where old in 2006, Milton comThe property tax rate per $1,000 of assessed value is: money lives and new money bines a pastoral setting $40.92 for the City of Atlanta; $29.18 for incorporated parties,” according to the Atwith forward-thinking Fulton County; $40.76 for unincorporated Fulton lanta Journal-Constitution. With city planning that offers County; $33.54 for Johns Creek; $33.91 for Sandy its mixture of mansions and what's been called "The Springs. Tax Commissioner: 404-613-6100 uniquely styled homes, Buckbest quality of life in head is a favorite among archiGeorgia." N tecture and history buffs. Convenient to Georgia 400, Interstate 85 and For more counties and neighborhood One of metro Atlanta’s most MARTA, it’s filled with high-rises, upinformation, visit our website at newcomeratlanta.com scale restaurants, the Governor’s Man- vibrant and affluent cities, Alpharetta

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Alpharetta

upcomingEVENTS

Panic! At the Disco, Gas South Arena The pop-rock band performs in support of its latest album, “Viva Los Vengeance.” Oct. 7, 770-626-2464, gassouthdistrict.com.

Bluebeard’s Castle, Kennesaw State University The Atlanta Opera presents a new staging of Béla Bartók’s one-act opera. In a departure from the original material, a husband and wife deal with the implications of dementia. Performances take place in Morgan Hall at the Dr. Bobbie Bailey & Family Performance Center

Monster Jam, Gas South Arena

Theater & Concerts Robert Plant and Alison Krauss, Cadence Bank Amphitheatre Former Led Zeppelin singer Plant and veteran country and roots artist Krauss perform songs from 2007’s “Raising Sand” and 2021’s “Raise the Roof.” Sept. 6, livenation.com.

Outlaw Music Festival, Ameris Bank Amphitheatre This all-star festival features performances from Willie Nelson, Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, and more. Sept. 9, livenation.com.

Collective Soul, Cadence Bank Amphitheatre The multiplatinum alternative rock band, originally hailing from Stockbridge, performs with Switchfoot. Sept. 10, livenation.com.

Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band, Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre The rock and roll supergroup led by former Beatle Ringo Starr performs. Sept. 19,

body must go on a journey to find what has had lasting significance in his lifetime.

48 | Newcomer Magazine | newcomeratlanta.com

foxtheatre.com.

The Smashing Pumpkins and Jane’s Addiction, State Farm Arena The popular alternative rock bands perform songs from throughout their careers. Oct. 11,

Elton John: Farewell Yellow Brick Road: The Final Tour, Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Stevie Nicks, Ameris Bank Amphitheatre

The legendary performer performs on his worldwide final tour. Sept. 22, 800-745-3000, mercedesbenzstadium.com.

An Evening With Melissa Etheridge, Atlanta Botanical Garden The legendary singer-songwriter performs songs from throughout her long career. This concert takes place under the stars on the Great Lawn. Sept. 30, atlantabg.org.

R.E.M. Explored, Atlanta Symphony Hall This world premiere features the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra performing songs by the famous Athens-based band, as well as R.E.M.’s Mike Mills performing “Concerto for Violin, Rock Band and Orchestra” with violinist Robert McDuffie. Sept. 30 and Oct. 1, 404-733-5000, aso.org.

The legendary singer-songwriter, known for her solo career as well as her work with Fleetwood Mac, performs. Oct. 12, livenation.com.

The Polar Express in Concert, Atlanta Symphony Hall The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Georgia Tech choirs perform the score to the beloved holiday classic The Polar Express, which will be alongside a screening of the popular film.

Nov. 26-27, 404-733-5000, aso.org.

A Christmas Carol, Alliance Theatre The Alliance Theatre’s adaptation of the classic Charles Dickens tale returns with new set design and stunning new costumes. Nov. 12-Dec. 24, alliancetheatre.org.

Exhibits & Events PAW Patrol: Adventure Play, Children’s Museum of Atlanta

PHOTO: Atlanta Botanical Garden

The Grammy Award-winning singer and songwriter performs. Sept. 22, 855-285-8499,

Everybody is a happy person, a free person, a person who believes nothing but the best lies ahead. Then Death comes calling, and Every-

The hit classic rock combo celebrates its 50th anniversary with former member Michael McDonald along for the ride. Oct. 11, 855-285-8499,

800-745-3000, statefarmarena.com.

Brandi Carlisle, Fox Theatre

Everybody, Alliance Theatre

The Doobie Brothers, Fox Theatre

Sept. 2-Oct. 2, alliancetheatre.org.

800-745-3000, cobbenergycentre.com.

foxtheatre.com.

PHOTO: Feld Entertainment

Oct. 7-9, 404-881-8885, atlantaopera.org.

Help the heroic PAW Patrol pups in Adventure Bay. You and your family will join Marshall, Chase, Skye, Rubble, Everest, Rocky, Zuma and Tracker as you explore your unique abilities, overcome challenges, and help friends. Sept. 24-Jan. 8, 404-659-5437, An Evening With Melissa Etheridge, Atlanta Botanical Garden

childrensmuseumatlanta.org.

Monster Jam, Gas South Arena The action-packed, family-friendly motorsports spectacular returns for two days of intense automotive competition. These 12,000-pound trucks push all limits.

Sept. 10-11, 770-626-2464, gassouthdistrict.com.

Duluth Farmers & Artisan Market, Duluth Town Green Shop locally grown produce, baked goods and other homemade items like candles, soaps and pottery at this monthly event showcasing local farmers and vendors on the second Sunday of each month from 2 to 6 p.m. Sept. 11, Oct. 9 & Nov. 13, duluthga.net.

Food Truck Tuesday, Lilburn City Park Choose from a variety of food trucks and enjoy live entertainment from the City Park bandshell on the second Tuesday of each month through October. Sept. 13 & Oct. 11, cityoflilburn.com.

Fridays-N-Duluth, Duluth Town Green Odd-numbered Fridays bring Food Truck Fridays, offering live music and the best local food trucks and vendors, while evennumbered Fridays mean it’s time for Block Party on Main, an open-air extravaganza with a different theme every time. Fridays from 6 to 9 p.m. Through Sept. 16. duluthga.net.

Screen on the Green, Lyndon Academy This September, enjoy a movie projected onto a large outdoor screen, along with a cookout and inflatables for kids. Film begins at sundown. Call for date and other details. 770-926-0166, lyndonacademy.org.

Origami in the Garden, Atlanta Botanical Garden This eye-popping exhibition features dozens of visually striking origami-inspired metal sculptures of birds, butterflies, blooming flowers and other flora and fauna. Through Oct. 16, 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.

Giants of the Mesozoic, Fernbank Museum of Natural History This exhibition recreates life in the badlands of Patagonia, Argentina, where the largest dinosaurs in the world were unearthed. Ongoing, 404-929-6300, fernbankmuseum.org.

newcomeratlanta.com | Newcomer Magazine | 49

hiddenATLANTA The Fox Theatre’s auditorium

An Egyptian-style organ chamber

Co-organist Ken Double with the Mighty Mo organ

Fox Theatre Tours

By Everett Catts

L THE DETAILS LOCATION: 660 Peachtree St., Atlanta, Ga. 30308 HOURS: each tour lasts about an hour, and participants are asked to plan to arrive 10 minutes early so they can start on time.

COST: $15 for architecture and history tour (held three days a week); $25 for Mighty Mo and behind-the-scenes tours (held monthly); ghost tour info TBA; tickets must be purchased online; private and group tours are also available.

CONTACT INFO: tours@foxtheatre.org or 404-881-2052 WEBSITE: foxtheatre.org/tours

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ocated in Atlanta’s Midtown community, the historic Fox Theatre is known for its eye-catching marquee on Peachtree Street and as the place to go for concerts, movies, Broadway and comedy shows and more. But the theatre, which opened in 1929, is so much more, and its tours showcase all the Fox has to offer. The venue hosts three regular tours—architecture and history, Mighty Mo organ and behind the scenes—and a special ghost tour in October.

The venue was originally designed as the mosque-like headquarters for Atlanta’s Shriner’s organization, which was inspired by Spanish and Egyptian architectural treasures. Because the building was so ornate, the Shriners couldn’t afford it, so right before it opened, they leased it to William Fox, who transformed it into a movie palace. The architecture and history tour pays homage to the theatre’s origins and more.

The Mighty Mo tour is named for the nickname of the 3,634-pipe Möller Opus 5566 theatre organ, the second largest theatre organ in the world behind Radio City Music Hall in New York City. The behind-thescenes tour gives visitors a glimpse at places they’ll never normally see while at a Fox live event, including how the stage is lifted and lowered.

Finally, the ghost tour provides visitors with plenty of tales of apparitions roaming the Fox halls. “It’s interesting to see the hospital room and hear the ghost stories from tour guides, who have heard them firsthand from others who have worked at the Fox,” says Aly Grubb, the theatre’s director of marketing.

PHOTOS: (left) Alive Coverage; (top right) Jonathan Phillips Photography; (bottom right) Michael Boatwright

PROVIDING AN INSIDE LOOK AT THE HISTORIC VENUE

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