KNOWAtlanta Fall 2023

TM

Fall 2023

The Atlanta Advantage Inside: • KNOWAtlanta’s Education Guide •M etro Atlanta’s Small Business Community • Atlanta’s Best Assets • The Modern Senior Lifestyle knowatlanta.com

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CONTENTS KNOWAtlanta Fall 2023 VOLUME 37, NUMBER 4

Get to KNOW Atlanta 6 Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport Your Gateway to the World 8

The Atlanta Advantage

9

How Metro Atlanta Cities Stack Up

12 30 Home Court Advantage Metro Atlanta gives home buyers the residential edge with its new home market 33 KNOWAtlanta’s Guide to New Homes

10 KNOW Where to Go Navigating metro Atlanta’s ITP and OTP locales

37 Builder and Developer Locator Map

Get to KNOW Business

38 The Modern Senior Lifestyle Embrace your active adult lifestyle preference in these metro Atlanta communities

12 Small Business Spotlight Three metro Atlanta cities put small businesses front and center in their communities 20 Big Business in Atlanta The metro area’s Fortune 500 companies and top 20 employers 21 Atlanta: The Tech Hotspot of the Southeast

Get to KNOW Homes & Lifestyles 22 Atlanta’s Top 5 Assets These impressive attributes make the metro area one of the best places to live 27 Metro Atlanta Guide to Utilities 28 Moving to Atlanta Timeline

Get to KNOW Education 44 KNOWAtlanta’s 2023 Education Guide 46 Public School Spotlight 47 Georgia School Glossary 47 Independent School Accreditations and Memberships

48 The More You Know What you need to qualify for acceptance into one of metro Atlanta’s specialty schools 64 Fall Into STEM STEM is the key to success for students in metro Atlanta’s private middle and high schools 60 Choosing a Private School 80 Select Metro Atlanta Private Schools Map 82 The Guide to Colleges in Metro Atlanta 84 Metro Atlanta’s Colleges and Universities Map

44 2 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

85 Get to KNOW Metro Atlanta’s Counties 104 Ad Index

FROM THE EDITOR Publisher

SHERRY GASAWAY

sherry@knowatlanta.com

The Pro Con List

President

LARRY LEBOVITZ

I love a good pro con list. When I’m trying to figure something out, I just feel comforted when I have a tangible representation of my decision-making process—especially when the pro list is much longer than the con one. If you’re the same way, and you happen to be in the middle of relocating, then this is the issue of KNOWAtlanta Magazine for you. In the pages that follow, we are going to give you the 411 on the Atlanta advantage—all of those great assets within the city and its surrounding areas that give the metro area the edge when it comes to choosing a new place to call home.

As it’s the fall season, we obviously have to talk about education. This, our annual

lebovitz@knowatlanta.com Vice President JOHN HANNA

hanna@knowatlanta.com Editor

AMY MEADOWS

ameadows@knowatlanta.com Associate Editor

CORY SEKINE-PETTITE

cory@knowatlanta.com Writers

private and public K-12 schools, as well as the many higher education options avail-

KEN ABRAMCZYK, LINDSAY FIELD PENTICUFF, CHRISTINA MIMMS

able locally. Start by checking out our article about middle and high school STEM

Digital Marketing Coordinator

programs on page 54, and be sure not to miss our listing of private schools across

courtney@denimmarketing.com

education issue, will provide you with all of the information you need about the area’s

metro Atlanta starting on page 60. Of course, with so many colleges and universities, you’ll want to read our guide to metro Atlanta colleges on page 82. And if your family is considering a specialty school, we provide tips and information about finding the right fit (and navigating the application and admissions process) on page 48.

COURTNEY ROGERS

Art Director

JACK SIMONETTA

jsimonetta@knowatlanta.com Advertising Coordinator MEGAN WILLIS

This issue also will show you the many ways the metro area is ideal for building

production@knowatlanta.com

and growing a small business; look for our small business spotlight feature on page

Circulation Manager

12. We also look at Atlanta’s overall top five assets on page 22. And there’s so much

afine@knowatlanta.com

more. From our guide to new homes to our article about the senior living lifestyle and beyond, we delve into everything that gives local residents the advantage—the Atlanta advantage. If you’re ready to enjoy everything metro Atlanta has to offer, then read on!

AMY FINE

Controller

MARILYN WALKER

walker@knowatlanta.com NEW SOUTH PUBLISHING INC.

9040 Roswell Road, Suite 210 Atlanta, GA 30350 (770) 650-1102, (800) 536-5669 knowatlanta.com

Amy Meadows, Editor

Direct all advertising, circulation and editorial inquiries to sherry@knowatlanta.com, (770) 650-1102, ext. 145.

If you would like additional information from our relocation service providers, visit us online at knowatlanta.com.

knowatlanta

4 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

knowatlanta

knowatlanta

KNOW®Atlanta, Fall 2023, Volume 37, Number 4, 148th Edition. Published quarterly by New South Publishing Inc., 9040 Roswell Road, Suite 210, Atlanta, GA 30350. All information herein has been checked for accuracy to the best of the publisher’s ability. No responsibility is accepted for deletions, omissions, errors and/or inaccuracies. Unless special placement within the magazine is specifically purchased, publisher reserves the right to place any ad on a first-come, first-served basis. No materials contained herein may be reproduced without the exclusive written permission of the publisher. © Copyright 2023 by New South Publishing Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A.

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775 Juniper St NE, Atlanta, Georgia 30308 OwnJ5.com | ownj5@evatlanta.com | 470-589-5055 ©2023 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Each brokerage independently owned and operated. All information provided is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified. Engel & Völkers and its independent License Partners are Equal Opportunity Employers and fully support the principles of the Fair Housing Act.

ATLANTA

GET TO KNOW ATLANTA Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport YOUR GATEWAY TO THE WORLD

O

ne of metro Atlanta’s greatest assets is Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Serving more than 100 million passengers each year, the airport boasts nonstop flights to

over 150 domestic destinations and 70 international destinations in more than 50 countries. In 2020, the airport was recognized as the busiest airport in the world for the 22nd consecutive year.

Of course, it makes sense that Atlanta, the leading city in the Southeast, offers such an incredible facility. Just as the city itself is a diverse locale with millions of residents who hail from all over the world, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is a welcoming sight for passengers from all walks of life. Take a look at everything this outstanding airport has to offer.

AT A GLANCE 70+

international destinations in 43+ countries with nonstop service

80

percent of the U.S. population within a twohour flight

724,145 Annual flights

1,984

average daily flights

94+

million passengers annually

275,000

daily passengers

6 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

107 million

passengers annually

688,614 cargo metric tons

Seven

concourses

156

domestic gates

41

international gates

Two

terminals

Five

runways

MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE

PASSENGER AIRLINES

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is a bona fide destination thanks to ATL

In addition to being the home

Skypointe, a brand representing the world’s greatest shopping and dining experiences.

of Delta Air Lines’ corporate

Throughout the facility and across its seven concourses, there are more than 300 restaurants,

headquarters, ATL welcomes

shops and services. Some of the well-known offerings include:

flights from an array of

RESTAURANTS: • BeerCode

SHOPS: • Duty Free Americas

SERVICES: • The Chiroport

• Savi Provisions

• Brighton Collectibles

• FedEx

• Cat Cora’s Kitchen

• The Goods @ ATL

• The Club ATL

• Grindhouse Killer Burgers

• MAC

• XpresSpa

• Longhorn Steakhouse

• Brooks Brothers

• Be Relax

• Ecco

• Tumi

domestic and international airlines: DOMESTIC: • Alaska Airlines • American Airlines • Delta Air Lines • Frontier Airlines • JetBlue Airways • Southern Airways Express • Southwest Airlines • Spirit Airlines

AIRPORT ACCOLADES • #1 Busiest Airport

• United Airlines INTERNATIONAL: • Air Canada

• #1 World’s Most Efficient Airport

• Air France

• Home to the tallest air traffic control tower in North America and the fourth tallest in the world

• Copa Airlines

• British Airways • KLM Royal Dutch Airlines • Korean Air • Lufthansa German Airlines • Qatar Airways

AIRPORT CODE: ATL

• Turkish Airlines • Virgin Atlantic • WestJet

METRO ATLANTA’S ECONOMIC ENGINE Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is an economic juggernaut. It is the largest employer in Georgia and is one of the world’s most well-known global transport centers. And the economic impact can be felt throughout metro Atlanta.

• The airport boasts more than 63,000 onsite jobs.

• More than 18,000 South Fulton County residents work onsite at the airport, accounting for 28.8 percent of the county’s workforce.

• The average income for an airport-based job is $71,500.

• The airport supports more than 448,000 jobs across

the Southeast, accounting for 20 percent of the jobs in the region.

• The facility provides a $51.5 billion economic boost for metro Atlanta.

• Overall, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport generates over $82 billion in annual economic impact for the entire Piedmont Atlantic Megaregion (PAM).

• More than 103,600 jobs support the airport’s cargo activity.

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport Economic Impact Study, released in 2020

FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 7

The Atlanta Advantage: National ATLANTA

With affordable housing and a low cost of living, Atlantans get more while spending less. To understand why more than five million people call metro Atlanta home, see below how it surpasses other major cities in almost every way that counts.

Seattle Boston New York City

Chicago

San Francisco

Denver

Washington, D.C.

Atlanta

Phoenix Dallas

Atlanta

Boston

Salary

$50,000

Median Home Sale Price

$399K

Apartment Rental Price

$1,500

Salary

Chicago $75,319

Median Home Sale Price

$330K

Apartment Rental Price

$3,970

Apartment Rental Price

$1,393

Denver $51,030

Salary

$54,858

Median Home Sale Price

$436K

Median Home Sale Price

$587K

Apartment Rental Price

$1,592

Apartment Rental Price

$2,000

New York City Salary

$59,863

$830K

Dallas Salary

Salary

Median Home Sale Price

Phoenix $120,461

Salary

San Francisco Salary

$75,368

Median Home Sale Price

$745K

Median Home Sale Price

$437K

Median Home Sale Price

$1.3 mil

Apartment Rental Price

$2,049

Apartment Rental Price

$1,558

Apartment Rental Price

$2,537

Seattle Salary

$51,570

Washington D.C. $75,564

Salary

$77,712

Median Home Sale Price

$794K

Median Home Sale Price

$639K

Apartment Rental Price

$1,868

Apartment Rental Price

$1,733

Sources: NerdWallet, Redfin and RentCafe

8 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

The Atlanta Advantage: Metro Atlanta Metro Atlanta includes more than 50 cities. Compare some of these communities by median home prices, median household income, population and growth with the data below.

Cumming

Woodstock

Median Household Income Atlanta

Hall

Forsyth

Cherokee

Bartow

Gainesville

$66,657

Alpharetta

Alpharetta

$113,802

Cumming Decatur

$59,948

Dunwoody

Cobb

Paulding

$96,057

East Point

Lawrenceville

Marietta

$106,000

Douglasville

Gwinnett

$43,453

Gainesville

$51,520

Lawrenceville

$52,585

Marietta

Suwanee

Fulton

$47,273

Dunwoody Sandy Springs

Atlanta Douglasville

$57,452

DeKalb

East Point

Fulton

Peachtree City

Rockdale

$101,121

Sandy Springs

Clayton

$78,613

Suwanee

Decatur

Douglas

Henry

Fayette

$90,436

Peachtree City

$76,191

Woodstock $0

$25000

$50000

$75000

$100000

$125000

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

Population Growth Atlanta 506,811

Median Sold Home Prices

18.7%

Atlanta

Alpharetta 67,213

17.1%

Alpharetta

Cumming 6,547

18.2%

Cumming

Decatur 25,696

30.9%

Douglasville 33,992 Dunwoody 49,356

Decatur

11.8%

Douglasville

6.3%

East Point

Gainesville 43,232 Marietta 60,867

27.0%

Gainesville

13.3%

Lawrenceville

7.8%

Marietta

Peachtree City 36,223 5.4% Sandy Springs 109,452

Peachtree City 16.7% 36.3%

Woodstock 33,039 Source: U.S. Census Bureau

Suwanee

38.8%

5%

$330,000 $300,000

10%

15%

$550,000 $249,000 $365,000 $344,000 $400,000 $457,000

Sandy Springs

Suwanee 20,907 0%

$525,000 $475,000

Dunwoody

East Point 34,875 4.3% Lawrenceville 30,834

$399,900

20%

25%

30%

35%

Woodstock

40%

$0

$599,000 $495,000 $396,000

$100000 $200000 $300000 $400000 $500000 $600000

Source: realtor.com

FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 9

CHEROKEE

KNOW Where to Go

FORSYTH

ATLANTA

NAVIGATING METRO ATLANTA’S ITP AND OTP LOCALES

D

FULTON

o you want to live ITP? Or do you prefer to be OTP? If you’re new to metro

Atlanta, you may have no idea what either of those

COBB

acronyms mean. Fortunately,

PAULDING

KNOWAtlanta can help you

Atlanta

to navigating the metro choosing the perfect place to

GWINNETT

DEKALB

be in the know when it comes area’s most-loved locales and

OTP ITP

FULTON

call home.

FAYETTE

CLAYTON

Name That Acronym!

ROCKDALE HENRY

Location is Everything Some of the most popular ITP cities, towns,

The rest of metro Atlanta’s many counties

If you’re ITP, that means

districts and neighborhoods include Midtown

fall outside the Perimeter, including Cobb,

you are Inside the

Atlanta, Downtown Atlanta, Buckhead, Decatur,

Cherokee, Forsyth, Gwinnett, Henry and

Perimeter.

Brookhaven, Chamblee, Doraville, Virginia-

several others. Sought-after OTP cities are such

Highland, Inman Park, Old Fourth Ward and

spots as Sandy Springs, Roswell, Alpharetta,

East Point, among many others. The two main

Johns Creek, Duluth, Suwanee, Cumming,

counties that fall ITP are Fulton and DeKalb

Braselton, Gainesville, Woodstock, Kennesaw,

counties, while small portions of Cobb and

Marietta, Smyrna, Fayetteville, Peachtree City

Clayton counties also fall within the Perimeter.

and McDonough.

When you’re OTP, you’re Outside the Perimeter.

So, what constitutes the Perimeter? That would be Interstate 285, or I-285, a major interstate highway

Savor Your Surroundings

loop that encircles Atlanta

The ITP lifestyle is synonymous with urban big city

Those who choose the OTP lifestyle typically

and connects I-75, I-85

life, complete with industry, entertainment, culture,

have an inclination for spacious homes with

and I-20 to the city. Any-

high-end residential offerings and more. The

yards, local parks and green space and room

thing that falls within the

bustling atmosphere inside the Perimeter is replete

to grow. And while these suburban spots often

loop is recognized as ITP.

with places to go and people to see. The area is

have been seen as providing a slower pace than

Areas beyond the borders

popular with young couples and professionals who

metro Atlanta’s core, there has been an evolution

of the loop are considered

enjoy condo and townhome living, yet single-fam-

in recent years, with many downtown areas

to be OTP.

ily homes are becoming more prevalent in the area

undergoing redevelopment efforts that mix

for those who want to enjoy the intown way of life.

small-town charm with urban convenience.

10 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

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GET TO KNOW BUSINESS

Small Business Spotlight THREE METRO ATLANTA CITIES PUT SMALL BUSINESSES FRONT AND CENTER IN THEIR COMMUNITIES

By Amy Meadows

I

n June, the Greater Eastside Chamber

addition to the 31 Fortune 500 and 1000

of Commerce (GECC) announced that

companies found in metro Atlanta, more

it had expanded its geographic reach

than 200 Inc. 5000 companies are head-

and planned to implement a regional eco-

quartered across the area, which also is

nomic stimulus model to help small busi-

home to over 100 entrepreneurial centers.

nesses across North Georgia. Initially serv-

And while the City of Atlanta is central

ing the Gwinnett County cities of Snellville,

to the startup ecosystem, cities and towns

Grayson and Loganville, the entity’s program

across metro Atlanta also boast burgeon-

now includes 10 additional cities across the

ing small business environments. Here,

four counties of Gwinnett, DeKalb, Rockdale

we look at three metro cities in particular

and Newton, including Lithonia, Stonecrest,

and their efforts to support and boost en-

Covington and Conyers, among others.

trepreneurs and their visionary ventures.

According to GECC president Derrick J. Wilson, the bold move is directly related

Decatur

to the overwhelming number of small

decaturga.com

startups serving the east, west and south

Boasting small town charm with a big

communities of North Georgia that need

city vibe, Decatur is one of DeKalb’s most

support from a Chamber of Commerce to

prominent locales. It’s lively downtown

“The City of Decatur offers several ad-

grow, scale and sustain their businesses.

square has been recognized as one of USA

vantages for small business ventures. The

It makes sense, as, for years, Georgia

Today’s “Top 10” public squares, and the

city actively promotes economic develop-

has been recognized as a hotbed of ac-

city is located just a quick trip via MARTA

ment and works closely with businesses

tivity for small business startups, thanks

from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Interna-

to facilitate growth,” Baylis notes. To start,

in large part to the thriving business

tional Airport. And according to Shirley

the city offers support and guidance on

community found in Atlanta and its

Baylis, business development manager for

obtaining the necessary permits, making

surrounding areas. In fact, according

the City of Decatur, Decatur also is known

it easier for entrepreneurs to navigate the

to data from the U.S. Census Bureau,

for its diverse mix of small businesses,

process. Additionally, Decatur takes great

metro Atlanta had the second highest

from boutique clothing and gift shops to

measure to be a business-friendly city by

number of new business applications per

restaurants, cafes, art studios, health and

encouraging new businesses to take ad-

1,000 residents in 2022. What’s more, in

wellness businesses and more.

vantage of the resources available through

12 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

Downtown Decatur

Decide DeKalb Development Authority,

commercial property owners and local

simpler projects.” Projects under this

the Small Business Development Center

businesses of ground-floor shopfronts

scope include masonry repairs, storefront

and the DeKalb’s Workforce Development

may apply for the Commercial Facade

reconstruction, exterior painting, win-

Center. What’s more, the city supports

Improvement Grant program for reno-

dow and door repairs and more.

businesses with resources, programs,

vations and repairs focused on improve-

In addition to helping businesses that

trainings and networking events through

ments and beautification of storefronts

have chosen and are settling into Decatur,

the Decatur Business Association. The

and facades. The grants cover 75 percent

the city continually strives to attract even

Decatur Development Authorities (DDA)

of the cost of any approved project, with

more businesses to the area. It does so in

also help businesses with site selection,

a minimum contribution from the DDA

several ways. As Baylis states, “The City of

business planning and grant programs.

of $2,500 and a maximum of $10,000.

Decatur continues to enhance a business

Additionally, a limited number of $1,000

friendly environment by simplifying our

microgrants will be made available for

permitting and licensing procedures, of-

For instance, Baylis explains, “Through the Decatur Development Authorities,

FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 13

BUSINESS

fering guidance and support and ensuring

Baylis concludes, “The City of Decatur is

specialty nature, as well as large grocery

timely communication. Second, the city

dedicated to supporting small businesses

store chains and home stores, both large

recognizes that community engagement

and fostering a thriving entrepreneurial

and small,” describes Jennifer Howard,

plays a vital role in small business success

ecosystem that is committed to being

economic development manager for

through campaigns to encourage commu-

business friendly, providing access and

Peachtree Corners. “The Forum shopping

nity members to support and shop locally.

direction to resources, maintaining a col-

plaza is under redevelopment by North

Examples include participation in the

laborative ecosystem, encouraging com-

American Properties, and a food hall

annual Small Business Saturday event and

munity engagement and being flexible

concept was just announced. We have a

local holiday events that showcase small

and adaptable to the continued changes

thriving brewery, a growler shop and the

businesses. Third, the city, its the DDA and

in the world of small business.”

essential services that a city needs, such

the Business Association partner with the

as dry cleaners and hair salons. We have

Decatur Tourism Bureau to create mar-

Peachtree Corners

keting materials with a broader reach that

peachtreecornersga.gov

in the tech sector. We are fortunate to

boasts Decatur’s small businesses to visi-

In recent years, Peachtree Corners has

have a startup incubator as well as an

tors. With our focus on support, resources,

grown from a small rural community

accelerator for local businesses.”

collaboration and engagement, Decatur

into a burgeoning, bustling city that’s

seeks to attract and retain a diverse range

home to more than 45,000 residents and

environment actually begins with its zero

of small businesses.”

a thriving business community, which

millage rate, which allows businesses

many small businesses and entrepreneurs

Peachtree Corners’ pro-business

With its close proximity to the City of

includes some of the world’s most disrup-

to take advantage of being in the city

Atlanta, Decatur is poised to become na-

tive technology companies, as well as a

and have access to city services and an

tionally known as one of the metro area’s

host of unique small businesses. “There

economic development office without

best destinations for small businesses. As

are several organic grocery stores of a

having to pay a separate city tax. The city

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2OO

Years Young!

Decatur’s celebrating all year.

Everyone’s invited!

Enjoy festivals and fun, learn our civil rights history, and see where the magic happens for many popular shows and movies.

We’ve got outdoor sculptures and murals, live music, critically acclaimed dining, and standout shopping, all packed into our walkable, welcoming 4.7 square miles just east of Atlanta.

Hop on MARTA to the Decatur station at our downtown square.

MAKE IT A

STAY

Leon’s Full Service

Just a block north of the square.

COURTYARD

by MARRIOTT 130 Clairemont Ave. HAMPTON INN & SUITES 116 Clairemont Ave. “What Sonia Said”

by Ellex Swavoni

See what’s happening

Wild Oats & Billy Goats

this week in Decatur.

Drop By, Say Hi! VISITORS CENTER

113 Clairemont Ave., Decatur 30030 | visitdecaturga.com

also has several organizations in place to offer support, services and networking opportunities to new and growing small businesses, including the Southwest Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce, the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce and the

BUSINESS

Peachtree Corners Business Association.

Furthermore, Howard says, “We have had a business retention and expansion program for quite some time, but we are looking to ramp it up. As far as attraction, we developed a Town Center, which has been pivotal in attracting small businesses. It has created a ripple effect and likely led to the redevelopment of the Forum shopping center. The city will soon begin

The Curiosity Lab at Peachtree Corners

focusing on the Holcomb Bridge Road corridor and Peachtree Corners Circle, where some investment is needed.”

startups: the Curiosity Lab at Peachtree

developing technologies in a real-world

Fortunately, the city already has

Corners. This 5G-enabled living lab-

testing environment. It is part of a unique

one attraction in place that has helped

oratory for startups and established

public-private partnership and features

develop it reputation as a destination for

companies allows them to deploy and test

a complete smart city infrastructure; it also is the only locale in the world with a publicly funded three-mile-long autonomous vehicle testing track on an actual city street. Howard observes, “With the Curiosity Lab and its partners, as well as the relationships we have developed in the real estate and banking sectors, there

y! t i c t r a m

is a network of support available for those

s 1 # .

S .

U

looking to launch, especially those in technology and bioscience.”

In fact, over the years, Peachtree Corners has received national and international recognition for its dedication to being a pioneering technology hub—an effort that has created more than 45,000 jobs for residents throughout the city and across the area. It’s an impressive feat for a city that formed just over a decade ago and has become one of the best places in metro Atlanta not only to start and manage a small business, but also

no municipal property taxes business incentives space available high quality of life ptccity.com/business 16 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

to make global connections in a wide array of flourishing industries.

Marietta mariettaga.gov Located northwest of Atlanta, Marietta is a lively community with a vibrant

history. The heart of the downtown area is Marietta Square, which is home to a wide variety of much-loved small businesses, from quaint shops and excellent eateries to theaters and more. “The City of Marietta is home to a diverse blend of small businesses that contribute to our robust business climate,” explains Rachel Langelotti, economic development project manager for the City of Marietta.

“In fact, the overwhelming majority of businesses within our city are small businesses, emanating from our town square and reaching throughout the city. From downtown retail boutiques to specialty food manufacturers to locally owned

Marietta Square

restaurants to independent professional services, Marietta’s small business landscape provides high-quality products and

this well-established community and help

business owners through partnerships

services that enhance our community

them grow, the City of Marietta’s Office of

with the Cobb Chamber of Commerce,

while serving far beyond its borders.”

Economic Development provides direct

the Marietta Business Association and

support to new, existing and prospective

WorkSource Cobb, all of which give

To continue to bring small businesses into

CITY OF MARIETTA Welcome Home,

Where Opportunity Meets Community Marietta is a city people have loved calling home for nearly 200 years. Rich in diverse culture and historic charm, Marietta offers a thriving scene with an abundance of parks, safe and welcoming neighborhoods, a vibrant town square, and an awardwinning school district. Come see us; you will find out why Marietta just feels like home. www.MariettaGa.gov

FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 17

streamlined process for both opening and

Cobb County and so close to the City

local resources and agencies that serve

operating a small business within the city.

of Atlanta, Marietta truly is ideally

their individual efforts and needs. The

And that starts at the local government

situated to provide small businesses with

specialized attention small businesses

level. “We strive to take the mystery out

everything they need from a logistical

receive in Marietta include help iden-

of doing business in the city by being an

and infrastructure standpoint. And

tifying incentives, low-cost financing

accessible government, readily available

with so many incentives and opportu-

and other cost-saving programs that a

to serve,” Langelotti says. “We want to

nities available, Marietta has become

company may uniquely benefit from

keep the ease of doing business within

a go-to spot for startups, shops and all

receiving, among other services. As Lan-

our city just that: easy. The city also pro-

kinds of small businesses. That, in turn,

gelotti notes, “Not only do our businesses

vides business support services through

attracts residents and visitors alike. It’s a

receive a welcoming reception from the

its Office of Economic Development,

reciprocal relationship in which everyone

city government, but our community

such as site selection assistance, guid-

wins. Langelotti concludes, “The City of

also embraces and supports them like

ance through the city’s efficient business

Marietta is dedicated to attracting and

no other. Companies can depend on

opening processes and connecting

supporting growth of businesses that

Marietta’s pro-business climate, a healthy

businesses to local resources. Our team

contribute to a high-quality of life that is

and diverse local economy, accessibility

of professionals are always eager to help

authentic and experiential for our com-

to an educated workforce and reliable

potential and existing small businesses

munity members. Our small businesses

infrastructure. These factors, in combina-

in their pursuit of operating a successful

are a core part of our community in pro-

tion with a high-quality of life, foster an

venture. We aim to ensure that Marietta

viding local jobs, revenue, products and

environment that facilitates growth and

continues to be the city businesses choose

services. In return, the community really

overall success for our businesses.”

to call home.”

takes pride in supporting our local small

For Marietta, the goal is to provide a

•

tst Ou

With its location in the heart of

anding S er

vic

businesses as clients and neighbors.”

es

Co

ibr

•

ar

y

mm

CITY OF

VISIT US AT SMYRNAGA.GOV

18 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

uni t y •

• Par k s • L

BUSINESS

small businesses access to a network of

@CityofSmyrnaGA

@SmyrnaNews

@CityofSmyrnaGA

n

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Big Business in Atlanta BUSINESS

THE METRO AREA’S FORTUNE 500 COMPANIES AND TOP 20 EMPLOYERS

A

tlanta, which has a reputation for being one of the most business-friendly cities in the nation, is proud to be a popular destination for many renowned companies that appear

on the annual Fortune 500 list. In 2023, metro Atlanta boasted 19 Fortune 500 companies and 16 Fortune 1000 businesses. The attraction to the city and its surrounding areas makes sense, as Atlanta offers access to a booming economy, a low corporate tax structure, a highly educated and skilled workforce, one of the world’s largest travel hubs, a right-to-work status, a growing innovation ecosystem and much more. And every day, numerous companies are either launching in or relocating to the metro area.

The metro area also continues to draw many other top businesses in the nation, including State Farm, IHG, Porsche Cars North America and Mercedes-Benz, all of which have established headquarters here and often appear on the list of metro Atlanta’s top employers. Their dedication to being a part of the metro area’s business community, as well as ensuring solid job opportunities for the local workforce, is a testament to the city and its ongoing efforts to create a welcoming and robust economic climate.

Atlanta Fortune 500 Companies

Atlanta’s Top 20 Employers Company

Full-Time Employees

Delta Air Lines

39,550

Emory University

33,497

Company

Rank

Piedmont Healthcare

25,110

The Home Depot

20

Northside Hospital

24,500

United Parcel Service

37

Publix Super Markets, Inc.

22,390

Delta Air Lines, Inc.

85

The Home Depot

21,310

The Coca-Cola Company

100

AT&T

11,000

The Southern Company

138

Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta

10,027

Genuine Parts Company

179

Cox Enterprises

8,146

WestRock

183

Grady Memorial Health

7,600

Aflac

207

Wellstar Health System

7,200

PulteGroup, Inc.

259

Georgia State University

7,000

Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.

268

Georgia Institute of Technology

6,541

Norfolk Southern

320

Kennesaw State University

5,581

AGCO

324

Bank of America

5,100

Mohawk Industries

351

Lockheed Martin

5,000

Argenbright Holdings Group

4,843

Assurant

384

Verizon

4,800

Intercontinental Exchange

401

Georgia Power Company

4,555

Newell Brands Inc.

408

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

4,500

Graphic Packaging Holding Co.

409

Global Payments

425

NCR Corporation

474

Source: Fortune 2023

20 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

Source: Metro Atlanta Chamber, August 2023

Atlanta: The Tech Hotspot of the Southeast

O

ver the last several years, Atlanta has garnered a reputation as one of

The Rankings Atlanta is racking up an impressive list of

#4 BEST PLACE FOR TECH JOBS

accolades and acknowledgements in the tech

(CompTIA, 2023)

ogy hubs. Forbes Magazine

arena. Here are just a few:

#11 STARTUP ECOSYSTEM IN THE U.S.

named the metro area as one

#2 FASTEST GROWING TECH HUB

(StartupBlink, 2023)

of the world’s elite tech towns,

FOR IT TALENT (CIO, 2022)

Atlanta also has the 4th largest tech space in

#1 BEST CITY FOR TECHIES (Livability,

the United States with the Atlanta Tech Village.

the country’s fastest growing and most prolific technol-

placing it in the number three spot of cities poised to become tech meccas in the near future. Cushman & Wakefield included Atlanta on its list of

2023) #9 BEST TECH CITY IN THE U.S. (PropStream, 2023)

America’s 25 leading high-tech metro areas. The city has even been called the “Silicon Valley of the South.” And that’s just

Metro Atlanta Incubators

the beginning of Atlanta’s

Finding success in Atlanta’s

Information Technology Programs

story as it continues its rise to

tech sectors begins with finding

In recent years, students have

becoming one of the nation’s

the best place to plant roots.

flocked to metro Atlanta

top tech destinations.

The metro area is home to an

to study a wide array of

array of incubators that are fos-

subjects under the technology

tering the development of the

umbrella. Here’s where they

city’s standout startups. Check

go to access some of the best

out these innovative spaces:

information technology and

Atlanta’s Tech Hot Spots While the entire metro Atlanta area has the distinction of being integral to the growth of the local tech industry, there are a few locales that truly stand out.

Atlanta Tech Village

Midtown Atlanta: Home to Technology Square, Midtown has

Located in Buckhead

become one of the key districts of the local technology commu-

atlantatechvillage.com

nity. The area boasts 15 corporate innovation centers, several tech incubators and accelerators and more than 150 startups.

Buckhead: Anchored by Atlanta Tech Village, a renowned technology incubator complex that is recognized as the fourth largest tech space in the nation, Buckhead is a major driver of Atlanta’s success in the tech arena.

Alpharetta: Located 30 miles north of Atlanta, Alpharetta has emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the tech space. The metro city is home to 700 technology companies and has been called “The Technology City of the South.”

Peachtree Corners: One of the first suburban areas to be

Atlanta Technology Development Center (ATDC) Located at Georgia Tech in Midtown Atlanta atdc.org The Farm Located at The Battery Atlanta thefarmatl.com

recognized for its technology opportunities, Gwinnett County’s

The Circuit

Peachtree Corners is home to such innovative spots as Atlanta

Located in Woodstock

Tech Park, which features space for more than 100 companies.

circuitwoodstock.com

computer science programs in the country: Georgia Institute of Technology: gatech.edu Morehouse College: morehouse.edu Emory University: emory.edu Georgia State University: robinson.gsu.edu Kennesaw State University: ksu.edu University of Georgia: uga.edu Gwinnett Technical College: gwinnetttech.edu n

FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 21

GET TO KNOW HOMES & LIFESTYLES

Atlanta’s Top 5 Assets THESE IMPRESSIVE ATTRIBUTES MAKE THE METRO AREA ONE OF THE BEST PLACES TO LIVE

By Christina Mimms

A

tlanta has long been considered

city one of the country’s top five moving

tries, technology (including fintech and

the capital of the South. It is a

destinations, according to Penske Truck

cleantech), life sciences and healthcare.

cultural hub as well as a thriving

Rental. Here, KNOWAtlanta Magazine

The city also draws up-and-comers on a

business center. It’s an education

looks the top five assets that give Atlanta a

regular basis; in fact, more than 200 start-

epicenter and a geographically

major advantage for relocators, residents,

up companies have planted their roots in

visitors and everyone in between.

Atlanta over the last number of years. The

desirable destination. It’s residential, commercial, industrial and rural, all at the

growing fintech industry, for example,

same time. People travel to Atlanta and

The Business Community

through Atlanta every day, and there’s no

In addition to the 31 Fortune 500 and

in 200 companies in Atlanta and gen-

escaping the allure or the necessity of the

1000 companies headquartered in Atlanta,

erates annual revenues of $42 billion in

ATL. In fact, anyone who has lived in met-

the metro area is home to more than 330

mobile banking, investing, digital lending

ro Atlanta for any length of time knows

global and North American headquar-

and payment processing services.

that the city is home to a wide array of no-

ters, with more relocating every year,

In recent years, Georgia also has

table assets. However, there are five particu-

according to the Metro Atlanta Chamber.

become known as the number one state

lar attributes that really put Atlanta and its

The city serves as a hub for supply chain

for film production, home to three million

surrounding areas on the map, making the

and manufacturing, creative indus-

square feet of sound stages with a total

22 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

employs more than 42,000 professionals

of seven million square feet estimated by

Statistics. The state’s largest employers are

Vegas and right above Pittsburgh. New

2024. Georgia offers one of the most ag-

Delta, Home Depot, UPS and Randstad

York, San Francisco, Washington, D.C.,

gressive tax rebates of any state in the U.S.

North America. Additionally, Harts-

Seattle and Boston round out the top

for film productions, as well as relatively

field-Jackson Atlanta International Airport,

five. Atlanta’s cost of living is just slightly

mild weather and readily available trans-

which is recognized as the world’s busiest

higher than the national average—about

portation, all of which appeal greatly to

airport and allows more than 110 million

1.8 percent higher. When compared to

Hollywood producers. They can relocate

passengers each year take advantage of trav-

that of New York or San Francisco, which

their actors for a short time and often hire

el opportunities through the city, employs

are 149 percent and 96 percent higher

local crew members for set building and

63,000 workers in 383,000 jobs, creating

than the national average, respectively,

other tasks. “The Walking Dead,” “Stranger

$51.5 billion in economic impact for metro

Atlanta is one of the most attractive lo-

Things” and “Avengers: Endgame” are just

Atlanta, according to Aviation Pros.

cales financially for both individuals and

a few of the television shows and movies proudly filmed in Georgia.

Jobs across all industries keep the state’s

The Cost of Living

families. Those figures undoubtedly play a major role in the number of transplants

The Council for Community and

who continue to move to Atlanta from the

unemployment rate at a low 2.9 percent,

Economic Research reveals that Atlanta

West Coast and the Northeast each year.

well below the national average of 3.7

ranks 16th on the list of top 25 largest

Housing costs in the metro area also

percent, according to the Bureau of Labor

metros for cost of living, just below Las

attract many coming from larger markets.

FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 23

The May 2023 Market Brief, compiled by First Multiple Listing Service, provides a

HOMES & LIFESTYLES

regionally focused synopsis of monthly sales and home prices for residential properties in 11 of Metro Atlanta’s counties: Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Fayette, Paulding and Rockdale. In May of 2023, the number of residential sales totaled 5,486. The average and median sales prices continued to outpace 2022’s figures with positive gains; the median sales price in May was $420,000, a decrease of 2.3 percent from May 2022, while the average sales price was $523,500, up 1.2

The city serves as a hub for supply chain and manufacturing, creative industries, technology (including fintech and cleantech), life sciences and healthcare.

percent. While some residents may have seen increasing home sale prices in their neighborhoods, the state’s housing costs

and the working world. With a highly

sity, Georgia State University (with seven

actually run 26 percent lower than the na-

ranked public school system and a wide

campuses throughout the area), Georgia

tional average, according to Bankrate.com.

array of private school options, there is

Tech, Kennesaw State University, More-

For those who aren’t quite ready to

something for every family’s need. That

house College, Oglethorpe University,

purchase a home, the average rent in

extends to higher education as well. In

Savannah College of Art & Design and

Atlanta is between $1,790 and $2,473

fact, the metro area gives 250,000 stu-

Spelman College.

depending on the size of the rental unit.

dents access to 57 colleges and universi-

Studio apartments saw rents rise the

ties. Atlanta has the seventh highest level

vibe, from the quaint neighborhoods

most over the past year—around eight

of student enrollment among America’s

of Druid Hills surrounding Emory or

percent—while larger apartments saw

largest urban areas, according to the

the hip Midtown scene near Georgia

shrinkage in rental costs during that time.

Atlanta Regional Council for Higher

Tech to the many offerings for foodies

Each college campus offers a different

In terms of taxes, Georgia has a

Education, and has been ranked as the

and book lovers in Decatur near Agnes

graduated state income tax rate that

number one large college city in America,

Scott. On-campus and rental housing

ranges from one percent to 5.75 percent,

as well as the number two metro area

is available for students throughout the

according to the Tax Foundation. With

for quality of engineering universities.

metro area, along with ample sports and

a four percent sales tax and a max local

Some of the area’s colleges include Agnes

entertainment options, making it a great

sales tax of five percent, the state’s tax

Scott College, the Art Institute of Atlanta,

place to both live and study.

system ranks 32nd on the State Business

Clark Atlanta University, Emory Univer-

Tax Climate Index. Additional daily costs, such as food, place Georgia in the middle compared to the rest of the country; local food costs are slightly lower (four percent) than the national average. In 2022, a family of four spent an average of $9,507 on food, assuming all food was purchased at grocery stores and prepared at home.

The Educational Opportunities According to Education Week, Georgia’s K-12 education system ranks number one in the nation in making the connection between early learning, higher education 24 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

Atlanta is one of the most attractive locales financially for both individuals and families.

Any field of study is available on

Atlanta college campuses, whether it is engineering, art, business, law or medicine. With myriad large companies located in the city and surrounding areas, students also can pursue intern-

Any field of study is available on Atlanta college campuses, whether it is engineering, art, business, law or medicine.

ships or co-op work experiences while they continue their college coursework.

Those opportunities allow them to create connections for their future careers. As APD Urban Planning notes, 77 percent of college graduates in metro Atlanta decide to stay and pursue their professions with companies located in the area. Only New York outpaces Atlanta in this arena.

The Sports Scene With Atlanta being recognized as one of only 14 cities in the country to host four

in Georgia who play on 441 tennis court

Atlanta alone, with 35 more courses (both

or more major sports teams, it’s no won-

locations throughout the city.

public and private) within a 20-mile

der why sports enthusiasts choose to call the city home. Atlantans have the chance

For those who prefer golf over tennis, there are 23 golf courses in the City of

radius. Golf clubs in the area, including East Lake Golf Club, regularly host golf

to show their support for professional teams including the Atlanta Braves (baseball), the Atlanta Falcons (football), Atlanta United (soccer), the Atlanta Hawks and the Atlanta Dream (basketball). Most recently, professional volleyball has come to town with the Atlanta Vibe. Additionally, two minor league teams—the Gwinnett Stripers (baseball) and the Gwinnett Gladiators (ice hockey)—make their home in the metro as well. These various teams play at facilities across the metro area, from Mercedes-Benz Stadium and State Farm Arena in downtown Atlanta

Why a hotel room when you can have an apartment home?

W

ith a minimum 14-day stay, TP Corporate Lodging residents enjoy all the amenities of a full-size apartment home that costs less than a hotel room.

to Truist Park in Cobb County and Gas South Arena in Duluth. The Falcons alone averaged 69,583 in attendance in 2022 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, while the Braves welcomed 38,641 during their season at Truist Park.

Opportunities to enjoy sports is not limited to professionals in Atlanta.

Sports recreation is one of the area’s most beloved opportunities, particularly when it comes to tennis. The Atlanta Lawn Tennis Association (ALTA) boasts 80,000 members, while the U.S. Tennis Association has 40,000 adult members

W

hether a small or large company, Business Professional or Family; we can accommodate your requests.

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800-428-9997 tpcorporatelodging.com FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 25

events, and the PGA Tour Championship

With Atlanta being recognized as one of only 14 cities in the country to host four or more major sports teams, it’s no wonder why sports enthusiasts choose to call the city home.

at the East Lake in August attracts spec-

HOMES & LIFESTYLES

tators from all over to see the world’s top professional players in action.

Runners can take their pick from trails all around the city, from the Beltline to Piedmont Park to the Silver Comet Trail.

While the Peachtree Road Race draws local and international guests, runners don’t have to wait until July for a major competition. In September alone, more than 30 race events are scheduled around town. And athletes of all levels can also participate in recreational leagues for flag football, softball, soccer, basketball, kickball, volleyball, pickleball, Ultimate Frisbee and even cornhole. The Atlanta

flight from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta

fewer than five hours or to the Florida

Sport & Social Club is a great place to

International Airport. Yet, locals don’t

panhandle in less than six. Areas such

start to find all types of offerings.

even have to hop on an airplane to get to

as Tybee Island, Hilton Head and Seaside

some of the most coveted locales in both

remain popular destinations for Georgians

the region and the entire country.

to visit for a weekend or longer to enjoy

The Location Atlanta’s geographic location is an-

There are more than 30 lakes around

golf, tennis, boating and much more.

other asset that allows people to make

Atlanta, giving residents many places to

When the weather turns crisp, the

their permanent home within the city

spend a day or a long weekend boating or

mountain call metro Atlantans. North

or surrounding areas while having the

fishing. For some, adding a second home

Georgia’s trails and the allure of fall colors

option to travel to other locations with

on a lakefront provides the opportunity

beckon, and a short two-hour drive can

ease. To start, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta

for lake life at any time, plus the potential

transport locals to nearby Blue Ridge,

International Airport, the home base of

for rental income. Also, tubing down the

Brasstown Bald or even Chattanooga,

Delta Air Lines, offers nonstop flights

Chattahoochee River is a rite of passage

Tennessee, to enjoy beautiful views,

to more than 160 domestic and over 75

for many. Naturally, others may prefer

hiking and biking trails aplenty and clean

international destinations. In fact, 80 per-

larger bodies of water. Fortunately, beach

mountain air. These locations also host a

cent of U.S. metros are within a two-hour

lovers can zip to the Georgia coast in

wide variety of festivals throughout the year, with the fall season being one of the best times to partake of these fun and

Eighty percent of U.S. metros are within a two-hour flight from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

family-friendly local events.

If city vacations are more appealing, Atlanta has some excellent nearby neighbors with their own cultural, athletic and recreational offerings. Nashville is within three hours and Jacksonville within six. To the west, locals easily can get to Birmingham and Huntsville; to the east, a drive to Savannah or Charleston in five to six hours allows for a quick weekend getaway. Heading north leads travelers to Asheville, only a three-hour drive away.

Of course, wherever an Atlanta resident goes, the metro area always calls them home.

26 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

n

Prep Your Home for Fall in 4 Easy Steps

By SCANA Energy

F

all in Atlanta doesn’t mean chilly weather right away. We’ll start getting cooler tempera-

tures, and then we’ll be back to scorching…and then cool again.

Make sure your home is ready for fall in the South with these simple tips from SCANA Energy.

1. Ideal Thermostat Settings Your thermostat plays a big role in preparing for fall. Since you’ll likely be switching between heat and air conditioning, it’s great to know which temperature settings are best to save energy. When using AC, keep it set to 78°F (or as close as you can while still being comfortable).

When it’s time for heat, go down to 68°F. In the winter, you can even go down to 60°F to maximize those savings.

2. Clean Your Fireplace

4. Weatherstrip Your Home

When it’s not cold enough to turn on the heat but your home

In addition to the start of unpredictable temperatures, fall is

still feels a little chilly, you’ll likely be inclined to start up the

also storm season in Atlanta, which means rain and warring

fireplace. Cleaning your chimney annually can reduce buildup

temperature fronts. One thing many people don’t consider

that could cause fires (that is, fires you didn’t intend). All fire-

when prepping their homes for fall is weatherstripping. Check

places, including those powered by natural gas, need ventilation,

to make sure that all your windows and doors are completely

so making sure your chimney is clean is an important step in

sealed. Small leaks can let in hot air during warm weather, cool

fireplace safety. So, get it swept and fresh. Then break out the hot

air during cool weather and water from the rain. Avoid these

cocoa and blankets to enjoy a cozy fire at home.

energy-sucking issues by ensuring your weatherstripping is up

3. Clean Your Gutters

to par. An easy way to test is by using a lighter: hold one up to the seal you’re testing and if the flame flickers, you’ve got a leak.

Get ready for leaves! Georgia is green and beautiful with trees

Weatherstripping your home will help you stay comfortable and

everywhere—but that means an abundance of falling leaves come

save on your energy bills.

autumn. Get those gutters cleaned out before your trees lose their leaves to avoid any clogging issues or costly repairs, such as

If you want more energy-saving tips from a trusted natural gas

damage to your fascia or a cracked foundation.

provider here in Georgia, visit scanaenergy.com today.

FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 27

HOMES & LIFESTYLES

Moving to Atlanta Timeline

T

here’s a lot of work that goes into coordinating an organized move, and it’s

smart to get a head start on planning before the moving truck arrives at your door.

Here’s a handy guide to help you streamline some of the most important activities associated with your move to Atlanta.

TWO MONTHS BEFORE n Research your options for

moving or truck rental companies. Get onsite, written estimates and references from multiple companies — for moving and storage, if necessary. n Take inventory of every-

thing in your home, room by room. Decide what you’d like to get rid of and determine what’s worth keeping, and make a list of all of the items you plan to take with you. n Start a binder of all

paperwork, estimates and receipts related to your move. These costs can later be taken as tax credits and deductions.

SIX WEEKS BEFORE

FOUR WEEKS BEFORE

n Schedule a moving date

n Send your new address

or reserve a truck if you’re

to friends and family

moving yourself.

members.

n Complete a change of

n Notify important par-

address with your local

ties of your move and

post office, or do it online

provide your new address,

at usps.gov.

including your bank, your

n Start packing seasonal

clothing and any other items not in immediate use. n Use up or give away food

and supplies that can’t be moved, like frozen or perishable foods and cleaning supplies. n Host a garage or moving

sale for the items you decide not to keep, and give n Collect necessary records

from your child’s school and your pet’s veteri-

28 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

away leftovers to charitable organizations.

employer’s HR department, magazines and subscription services, credit card, insurance and utility companies. n Schedule disconnection

of services at your current home and reconnection at your new house, including phone, cable and internet. n Contact insurance com-

panies to obtain moving coverage and to transfer policies to your new home. n Research new medical

narian, as well as family

professionals for you and

medical, dental and legal

your family, including

documents and keep them

family doctors, dentists

organized together.

and veterinarians.

ONE DAY BEFORE

MOVING DAY

n Finalize all packing. Dou-

n Verify the moving truck

ble-check that all closets,

that shows up is the one

garage, attic and basement

you hired. The USDOT

are cleared.

number on the side of the

n Complete a house check.

Defrost the freezer, drain the water hose, disconnect and prepare any major appliances you’re planning to move. n Pack a “First Open/Load

Last” box. Include items you’ll need on the first day in your new home. n Confirm hotel or tempo-

rary accommodations, if

2-3 WEEKS BEFORE

ONE WEEK BEFORE

n Don’t leave it in the

n Confirm dates and time

landfill. Research how you

of packing and moving if

can recycle old electron-

you’re using a mover. If

ics, plastics, metals and

you’re moving yourself,

anything else you won’t

confirm moving truck

be bringing with you that

arrangements.

won’t naturally decompose. n Transfer your automobile

for you and your family members with whatever

out of state.

you need, including cash,

your house for the next homeowner. Be sure to

pet services.

confirmation paperwork.

Scams can happen! n Sign the bill of lading/

inventory list before the movers leave, making sure to check boxes and note any missing items or damage. Keep a copy in a safe place. n Be on hand for movers to

answer questions and show where furniture and boxes should go. n Be prepared to pay the

mover and have cash on hand to tip workers.

ments and pack a travel kit

license if you’re moving

ant information about

n Arrange for childcare and

number on the estimate/

n Confirm travel arrange-

registration and driver’s

n Create a folder of import-

needed.

truck should match the

credit cards, travel documents, medications, etc.

Don’t forget activities and toys for the kids!

include your new address so that future residents can forward any mail.

Welcome to Atlanta Save money on your natural gas with SCANA Energy.

Schedule your new service up to 90 days in advance by calling 1.866.280.6236, or visit scanaenergy.com/MOVER60.

1.866.280.6236

FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 29

HOMES & LIFESTYLES

Home Court Advantage

METRO ATLANTA GIVES HOME BUYERS THE RESIDENTIAL EDGE WITH ITS NEW HOME MARKET

T

here are so many reasons

Atlanta has experienced

to love living in metro

significant growth in the past

Atlanta, but one stands

few years. With the increase

out at the top of the list.

in home prices closer to

Before you even move to this

the city of Atlanta, we are

fair city or its surrounding

seeing a trend of home buyers

areas, the residential choices

considering suburban and

available are virtually endless

exurban areas. In response to

thanks to a robust roster of

this urban sprawl, builders are

single-family homes, townhomes, condos

increased demand and a renewed sense of

now building in new communities farther

and apartments. And when it comes to

urgency among buyers.

from the city center, where buyers can

purchasing a new home, that’s where

often find more affordable single-family

Atlanta really has the edge. While there

What do people need to know about the

homes while still enjoying access to ur-

are challenges in today’s home buying

costs of the new home market in Atlanta?

ban amenities. Of course, buyers should

market, Atlanta has a wide array of

It’s important to note that while prices

always consider a careful balance of

unmistakable advantages in terms of its

have been on the rise, Atlanta’s real estate

factors, including affordability, commut-

booming new home market. Here, Lori

market has remained relatively more

ing considerations, community amenities

Lane, president of Berkshire Hathaway

affordable compared to other major cities

and schools.

HomeServices Georgia Properties’ New

across the country. This affordability factor

Homes Division, shares her insights

serves as a significant draw for a diverse

What do new homebuilders in metro

about the local market and its many

range of home buyers, especially those

Atlanta bring to the local market?

opportunities.

relocating from areas with substantially

Atlanta homebuilders have played a

higher housing prices. The affordability of

pivotal role in addressing the shortage of

How do you describe today’s new home

the market allows individuals and families

housing inventory. Many of the builders

market in metro Atlanta?

to make their homeownership dreams a

and communities I represent – including

The prevailing theme of metro Atlanta’s

reality without the exorbitant costs often

prominent names such as Patrick Malloy

current new home market is one of low

associated with larger urban centers.

Communities. JW Collection Homes, Da-

inventory levels coupled with the rise in

vid Patterson Homes, Loudermilk Homes,

interest rates. The scarcity of available

Where are the best places to consider pur-

Southwyck Homes, Trilith and Homestead

homes for sale, especially in the entry-level

chasing a new home in metro Atlanta?

at Milton – have each taken proactive

segment, has created a competitive land-

steps to alleviate the inventory shortage.

scape where buyers find themselves vying

By contributing to the expansion of avail-

for limited options. Despite these chal-

able new homes, they have been crucial in

lenges, an intriguing trend is the resur-

helping to meet the demands of a growing

gence of buyer activity. Rather than wait-

population and diverse housing needs.

ing for interest rates to decrease, buyers are recognizing the value in entering the

For more information, visit Berkshire

market now. This shift in buyer behavior

Hathaway HomeServices Georgia

indicates a growing understanding of the

Properties’ New Home Division at

importance of timing and seizing opportu-

BHHSgaNewHomes.com.

nities. As a result, the market is witnessing 30 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

Lori Lane

Follow Lori@the_lorilane

n

Make the home of your dreams a reality.

Select one of these palatial homesites and begin the journey to design and build your personal homestead.

The Homestead at Milton is a new luxury community featuring estate-sized homesites in Milton, Georgia. This gated neighborhood is a rare, once in a generation opportunity to design and build a custom homestead of your own.

Julie Gentry 770-855-6964 | Office 678-578-6740 | TheHomesteadatMilton.com | 15135 Hopewell Rd., Milton, GA 30004 Remaining 4-10 acre homesites from $900s to $1 million+ | Current custom homes from $4 million to $11 million+

©2023 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire HathawayHomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. Information presented is deemed reliable, but is not warranted. If your property is currently listed, please disregard.

It is not our intention to solicit properties that are already represented by another broker. Equal Housing Opportunity.

buy

from

one

of

our

awa r d - w i n n i n g

builders

a n d m o v e i n to yo u r n e w h o m e b y t h e e n d o f t h e y e a r CHEROKEE COUNTY

WEST COBB COUNTY

FORSYTH

CANTON HORIZON AT LAUREL CANYON Patrick Malloy Communities Homes from the $700’s - $1M+ The Cottages from the $400’s

ACWORTH THE ARTISAN AT VICTORY Southwyck Homes Active Adult from the High $400’s

N. FULTON COUNTY

CUMMING KELLY MILL RESERVE David Patterson Homes From the $800’s

ROSWELL HILLANDALE Patrick Malloy Communities From $1M+

THE HERITAGE AT ACWORTH JW Collection From the $500’s

FIRESIDE FARMS David Patterson Homes From the High $600’s

RIVER GREEN – LAKESIDE JW Collection Active Adult from the $500’s

POWDER SPRINGS KYLE FARM Patrick Malloy Communities From the $600’s - $1M+

RIVER GREEN – THE RETREAT JW Collection From the $400’s SOLEIL AT BELMONT PARK Patrick Malloy Communities Active Adult from the $500’s

COWETA COUNTY

WOODSTOCK COOKS FARM Southwyck Homes Active Adult from the High $500’s SOUTH ON MAIN JW Collection From the High $600’s - $900’s

KENNESAW THE TRADITIONS OF KENNESAW JW Collection | Coming Soon MARIETTA EAST HAVEN TOWNHOMES The Avid Collection Active Adult from the Mid $800’s MOUNTAIN WALK TOWNHOMES Cornerstone Associates, Inc. From the Mid $600’s

LONG HOLLOW LANDING David Patterson Homes From the $700’s - $1M+ SUWANEE LAUREL VIEW JW Collection | Coming Soon

NEWNAN THE GARDENS AT ARBOR SPRINGS McKinney Builders Active Adult from the $700’s

N. FULTON COUNTY

SENOIA GIN PROPERTY Senoia Enterprises Single family homes from Low $800’s

MILTON CROSSROADS AT BIRMINGHAM Southwyck Homes Village homes from High $800’s Estate Homes from $1.5M+

DEKALB COUNTY

COBB COUNTY

GAINESVILLE

TUCKER THE ENCLAVE ON LAVISTA JW Collection | From the Mid $800’s

FAYETTE COUNTY FAYETTEVILLE THE CANOE CLUB Reynolds Development Group From the Mid $500’s - $900’s

THE HOMESTEAD AT MILTON Vision Development Partners From $4M - $11M+ THE MANOR GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Loudermilk Homes From $2.6M - $10M+

GWINNETT COUNTY SNELLVILLE SOLEIL SUMMIT CHASE Patrick Malloy Communities Active Adult from $400’s

HALL COUNTY GAINESVILLE THE LAKE SOCIETY Southwyck Homes Active Adult on Lake Lanier From the $600’s

PAULDING COUNTY ACWORTH THE RESERVE AT GOVERNORS TOWNE CLUB Patrick Malloy Communities From the $600’s DALLAS THE FARM AT EDENWOOD Vine Creek Residential From the Mid $600’s

TRILITH Multiple Builders From the $500’s - $4M+

Proud to work with some of the most respected builders in Atlanta

Lori Lane | President New Homes Division | Senior Vice President of Luxury and Global Contact us at 404.671.4195 | visit BHHSGANewHomes.com | follow Lori @ the_lorilane ©2023 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. Information presented is deemed reliable, but is not warranted. If your property is currently listed, please disregard. It is not our intention to solicit properties that are already represented by another broker. Equal Housing Opportunity.

KNOWAtlanta’s Guide to New Homes

Toll Brothers

Paran Homes

From the Mid $300s-$700s+

Boasting nearly a century of combined experience in new home construction and an award-winning team of industry veterans at the helm, Paran Homes builds homes of uncompromised quality in many of Atlanta’s most sought-after locations while delivering a stellar home buying experience. Buyers can select from an array of move-in ready homes. Schedule an appointment and tour one of our models today!

Toll Brothers has you covered in Atlanta’s most coveted neighborhoods. An award-winning Fortune 500 company founded in 1967, Toll Brothers is the nation’s leading builder of luxury homes. Our locations offer residents access to amenities including the Atlanta BeltLine, parks, local restaurants, shops, entertainment venues and public transportation. Toll Brothers is currently building throughout the Greater Atlanta area including Morningside, Decatur and Grant Park.

(678) 726-9646

(855) 229-5676

From the Mid $300s-$600s

paranhomes.com/know

J5

tollbrothers.com/KNOWAtlanta

From $409,900

Artisan Built Communities

Located in Midtown’s Garden District, our condominiums set the standard for urban living. From quality construction to curated amenities, J5 is perfect for intown buyers looking for a refined living space. High ceilings, a range of floor plans, livable indoor-outdoor spaces and natural light ensure your home feels bright and spacious. Close proximity to celebrated Midtown establishments grants unrivaled access to your destination. Welcome to contemporary Atlanta living.

We want you to live a healthy, active lifestyle without even having to leave your community. We want you to have everything you want within walking distance, and we want this to be the best home you’ve ever owned. That’s why Artisan Built is simply a cut above the rest. Choose between 55+ active adult ranch plans and single-family two-story homes and townhomes.

(470) 589-5055

(678) 515-9526

ownj5.com

From the High $300s

discoverartisan.com FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 33

HOMES & LIFESTYLES The Homestead at Milton From the $900s-$1M+

Lake Arrowhead From the $300s-$800s

Select one of these palatial home sites and begin the journey to design and build your personal homestead. The Homestead at Milton is a new luxury community featuring four to 10-acre home sites in Milton. This gated neighborhood is a rare oncein-a-generation opportunity to design and build a custom homestead of your own. Current custom homes range in price from $4 million to over $11 million.

Welcome to Lake Arrowhead, a gated mountain, lake and golf community outside of Canton. The private lake features 21 miles of shoreline, a marina, boat rental program, disc golf, 17 miles of hiking trails, pickleball and more. Long-range lake, golf and mountain views await you, and single-family ranch homes, lakeview townhomes and lakeside and golf villas offer something for everyone. Come see why Lake Arrowhead was voted the Best Place to Live in America.

(678) 578-6740

(770) 720-2700

thehomesteadatmilton.com

Davidson Homes

From the High $300s-$1.5M

lakearrowheadga.com

Lennar

From the $300s-$800s

Builder Magazine’s Biggest Mover in 2021, Davidson Homes is proud to offer homebuilding expertise to the fast-growing Atlanta market with a variety of incredible home plans in Bartow, Cherokee, East Cobb, East Paulding, Gwinnett, Henry and West Forsyth counties. Davidson Homes builds where you want to be. Enjoy professionally designed selections or customize your home with quality design options and upgrades, making it your dream home. Call or visit the website today!

Find a Lennar home you’ll love in Atlanta! Lennar builds safe, amenity-rich communities all around the metro Atlanta area, and we have the perfect home for you! Enjoy our single-family or townhome designs with open-concept layouts and plenty of indoor/outdoor living space. Our Everything’s Included® package offers upgrades and appliances at no additional cost to you. We also offer a simplified homebuying experience through Lennar Mortgage, enabling you to make your lifestyle leap with ease.

(404) 999-1579

(404) 931-7432

davidsonhomesllc.com 34 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

lennar.com/atlanta

Fischer Homes

Rocklyn Homes

From the Low $300s-$1.5M Rocklyn Homes is an award-winning, family-owned company with a unique vision and passion to build beautiful, awardwinning, single-family homes and townhomes at great prices in some of the most sought-after locations in Atlanta. Backed by years of experience, they will deliver quality, value and reliability in every home they build. Visit a Rocklyn community and discover the Rocklyn difference: “The Most Important Home We’ll Build Is Yours.”

(770) 817-2185

rocklynhomes.com

Mid $300s-$500s

Fischer Homes now offers low-maintenance homes in Dallas at the new 55+ community Poplar Place. Ranch homes range from 1,501 to 2,500 square feet with two to five bedrooms, two to 4.5 baths and two-car garages. Options include covered patios, loft spaces and side-entry garages. The brand new amenity center includes a clubhouse with a fitness center, outdoor living space and flex room for activities, as well as a gated entrance, walking paths, a pickleball court and bocce ball.

(404) 620-6814

fischerhomes.com/find-new-homes/ atlanta/georgia/communities

ENJOY YOUR DAILY DRIVE.

Exceptional homes in an array of architectural styles and price points.

From low maintenance, ranchstyle living to spacious two- and three-story homes or even custom home offerings Traditions has it all.

• 18-Hole Golf Course & Clubhouse • Private Owner’s Clubhouse with Catering Kitchen • 24/7 Access to Fitness Center • Six Lighted Tennis Courts with Stadium Seating • Pickle Ball & Sports Court • Junior-Olympic sized pool with zero-entry splash zone • Open Green for Outdoor Events • Sidewalks throughout

DiscoverTraditionsBraselton.com/KNOW I 706.684.0450

Monday- Saturday: 11 am - 6 pm & Sunday: 1 pm - 6pm I 401 Delaperriere Loop, Jefferson, GA 30549

From the Mid $400s - $900s *Prices, features and incentives are subject to change without notice. Certain other restrictions may apply. ©2022 Traditions of Braselton.

FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 35

HOMES & LIFESTYLES

Traditions of Braselton

Soleil Belmont Park

Welcome to Traditions of Braselton! Brimming with scenic beauty, this 1,140-acre master-planned community in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains features an 18-hole championship golf course, opulent clubhouse, junior Olympicsized pool, six lighted tennis courts, an active HOA, highly revered schools, convenience to I-85 and more! Stunning new homes crafted by the South’s finest builders are priced from the low $400s to $900s. Traditions has it all!

Soleil Belmont Park is a 55+ community from Patrick Malloy Communities. Located between Milton and Canton, it will feature 471 low-maintenance homes situated on large home sites. Soleil offers resort-style amenities, including a 9,800-square-foot clubhouse with a coffee and cocktail bar, health and fitness center, arts and crafts studio and community post office, as well as a pool, tennis and pickleball courts, bocce ball, a community garden and walking trails.

(706) 684-0450

(770) 635-4080

From the Mid $400s-$900s

discovertraditionsbraselton.com/KNOW

From the $500s-$800s

soleilbelmontpark.com

Need more information when making your move?

Visit knowatlanta.com to learn more about metro Atlanta, including information on healthcare, housing options, educational opportunities, city and county details and maps to help navigate your way around the area.

JW Collection

From the $400s-$900s For more than half a century, the name John Wieland has been synonymous with excellence in neighborhood design and homebuilding. The JW Collection is the legacy business of John Wieland and represents his 50-year commitment to building better homes—a promise he has kept for more than 30,000 homeowners and continues to uphold. New homes and townhomes by the JW Collection are ideally located in many of Atlanta’s best neighborhoods and most sought-after destinations.

(770) 809-6010

jwcollectionhomes.com 36 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

KNOWAtlanta.com

DAWSONVILLE

Pickens

KNOWATLANTA GUIDE TO NEW HOMES BUILDER AND DEVELOPER MAP Dawson

BALLGROUND 23

4

Bartow

WALESKA

27

22 35

Cherokee

18 19

37

OAKWOOD

7

17

21

Paulding

ROSWELL

POWDER SPRINGS

6

HIRAM

SMYRNA BUCKHEAD

AUSTELL

1

DOUGLASVILLE

EAST POINT

PALMETTO

Carroll

3

FAIRBURN

Clayton TYRONE

DECATUR

39

8

36

Walton

LITHONIA

41

Rockdale STOCKBRIDGE

SOCIAL CIRCLE

40 42

COVINGTON

Newton MCDONOUGH

SHARPSBURG

Henry HAMPTON

LOCUST GROVE 25

26

Artisan Built Communities 1. The Georgian 2. NatureWalk 3. Serenity 4. Salacoa Davidson Homes 5. The Village at Shallowford 6. Riverwood 7. Mountainbrook 8. Kelly Preserve 9. The Village at Towne Lake Fischer Homes 10. The Reserve at Liberty Park 11. Crossvine Estates 12. Poplar Place

MONROE 30

CONYERS

FAYETTEVILLE

PEACHTREE CITY

MORLAND

WINDER

SNELLVILLE STONE MOUNTAIN

DeKalb

Fayette NEWNAN

Barrow

GRAYSON

JONESBORO

Coweta

Jackson

Gwinnett

FOREST PARK

UNION CITY

14

LAWERNCEVILLE

LILBURN

HAPEVILLE

COLLEGE PARK

Fulton

46

11 47

13

20

45

DACULA

NORCROSS

CLARKSTON

38 Atlanta 16

Douglas

JOHNS CREEK DULUTH

CHAMBLEE TUCKER

43 44

31

SUWANEE

DORAVILEE

33 29

Fulton

10

BUFORD

ALPHARETTA

DUNWOODY SANDY SPRINGS

MARIETTA

12

34

Cobb

KENNESAW

SUGAR HILL

MTN PARK

5

ACWORTH

28

2

MILTON

WOODSTOCK

9

24

FLOWERY BRANCH

15

CARTERSVILLE

DALLAS

Hall

CUMMING

HOLLY SPRINGS

32

GAINESVILLE

Forsyth

CANTON

SENOIA

13. Sweetbay Farm 14. Twin Lakes 15. Homestead at Milton 16. J5 JW Collection 17. South on Main 18. The Retreat at River Green 19. Lakeside at River Green 20. The Enclave on LaVista 21. The Heritage at Acworth 22. Lake Arrowhead Lennar Atlanta 23. Creekside at Farmers Crossing 24. Towns at Glen Abby

25. Heritage Point 26. Twelve Parks 27. Hickory Bluffs Paran Homes 28. Oakleigh Pointe 29. Creekwood 30. Seaboard Junction 31. Traditions of Braselton 32. High Shoals Patrick Malloy Communities 33. Kyle Farm 34. Hillandale 35. Soleil Belmont Park 36. Soleil Summit Chase 37. Horizon at Laurel Canyon

Rocklyn Homes 38. Hawthorne Station 39. Beverly Heights 40. Old Salem Crossing 41. Riverside 42. Shoals Crossing Toll Brothers 43. Beckham Place at Morningside 44. Eloise at Grant Park 45. New Talley Station 46. Park 108 47. Traditions of Braselton

FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 37

HOMES & LIFESTYLES

The Modern Senior Lifestyle EMBRACE YOUR ACTIVE ADULT LIFESTYLE PREFERENCE IN THESE METRO ATLANTA COMMUNITIES

38 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

By Amy Meadows

I

f you’re at all like today’s active adults,

nity’s numerous hiking and jogging trails,

you have no plans to slow down now

which cover more than 16 miles in total

that you have an empty nest. In fact,

and range in length and terrain, taking

for many people over the age of 55, this

walkers, runners and hikers of all levels

is an era of reawakening, adventure and

through woodlands, along creek beds and

fun. And the home and neighborhood in

much more, giving them a chance to get

which you live must support that desire

out there and explore. While some of the

to enjoy a dynamic and energetic life.

trails require a community membership,

Fortunately, there are numerous active

others are open to the public.

adult communities across metro Atlanta

Walking and jogging will also take

that cater to a variety of modern senior

center stage at Soleil Belmont Park from

lifestyle preferences. Here, we look at

Patrick Malloy Communities. Situated

two specific lifestyle categories and the

on more than 400 acres conveniently

neighborhoods that could be the perfect

located between Canton and Milton, the

one for you to call home.

community soon will be home to a paved

The Outdoor Enthusiast

five-mile walking trail, which will feature fitness stations along the way. What’s

Metro Atlanta is known for offering res-

more, a community garden will give

idents access to some of North Georgia’s

home horticulturists a chance to flex their

most incredible outdoor amenities. From

green thumbs right in the heart of the

mountains to lakes and so much more,

community. These amenities are current-

the area is replete with opportunities to

ly under construction, which officially got

get outside and commune with Mother

underway this past summer.

Nature. If this is what speaks to you most

Also coming soon is Lakeside at River

during your golden years, then you have

Green, located in Canton’s renowned

a number of active adult communities

master-planned community. Lakeside,

to consider as you search for your new

developed by The JW Collection, will

home—ones that not only boast excep-

feature a wide array of onsite amenities,

tional residences, but also gateways to

including a number of walking trails

unparalleled outdoor adventure.

perfect for today’s active adult. What’s

To start, Lake Arrowhead, a gated

more, the property features access to the

mountain, lake and golf master-planned

Etowah River, as well as Legacy Lake,

community located just outside of Canton,

which is a great spot for catch-and-re-

has become one of the area’s most popu-

lease fishing from sun up to sun down.

lar destinations for home buyers 55 and

On the other side of metro Atlanta,

older, thanks in large part to its natural

Southwyck Homes is just starting to

environment and outdoor appeal. At the

develop a first-of-its-kind active adult

heart of the community is a 540-acre lake

community on Lake Lanier: The Lake

with over 21 miles of shoreline, a mari-

Society. Avid boaters undoubtedly will

na, lakeside park and more. Boating and

love not only the lakeside and lakeview

fishing are popular activities throughout

homes available within the community,

the year, while swimming fills those hot

but also unfettered access to two com-

summer days. Of course, the fall season

munity docks that will include a total of

is an ideal time to check out the commu-

130 boat slips (as well as a 40,000-squareFALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 39

foot self-storage facility for boats and recreational vehicles). Getting out on

HOMES & LIFESTYLES

the lake at any time will be a breeze for active adults in Gainesville thanks to the 211-acre Lake Society, which is being developed on a heavily wooded peninsula on the northern side of Lake Lanier.

For those local residents who really want to get out into nature, each of these communities also are a short drive from the North Georgia Mountains. Hopping on I-75, I-575 or even State Route 400 and heading north opens the door to both the Appalachian Mountains and the Blue Ridge Mountains, where hiking, fishing,

Lake Arrowhead

mountain biking, horseback riding, tubing, kayaking and much more await.

director who works onsite to maintain a bustling event calendar that includes

The Social Butterfly

everything from fitness class options

Staying close to home doesn’t

like Tai Chi to fishing and hiking clubs.

mean that you’re a hermit. In fact,

What’s more, Lake Arrowhead offers easy

if you decide to become a resident

access to the championship Highlands

of one of these metro Atlanta’s

Course, which is considered one of the

communities, then your social life just

to a 10,000-square-foot clubhouse with

best golf courses in Georgia and a great

might skyrocket as soon as you move in,

indoor and outdoor dining. Residents

place to gather with friends for a friendly

thanks to the many onsite amenities and

also have access to Red Cloud Park’s

round of golf. Furthermore, Lake Arrow-

activities available for active adults today.

swim and tennis facilities and the 40-acre

head is adding a dog park, an event lawn

Great Festival Park, which also includes

adjacent to the lake, a corn hole lawn and

homeowners often spend their days and

a swimming pool, open fields for frisbee

more.

evenings at the Lake Arrowhead Yacht

and football and much more. The com-

& Country Club, which provides access

munity also boasts a full-time lifestyle

For instance, Lake Arrowhead

The clubhouse at Soleil Belmont Park is one of the most highly anticipated amenities for the community. It is slated to include a resort-style pool, a coffee and cocktail bar, tennis and pickleball courts, bocce ball courts, an arts and crafts studio, a gourmet catering kitchen and more. Construction on the clubhouse began in May, and once it is completed, it will be home to a lifestyle and travel director who will help residents continue to build the impressive social network that has already started to develop throughout the new community.

There are also plans to provide residents of Lakeside at River Green with a

The Lake Society 40 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

central location to meet with neighbors for a wide range of activities. In fact, the

Lake Life

R E L A X . R E F R E S H . R E N E W.

A Magical Quality of Life.

Concierge Level Service. A Lifetime of Memories.

All waiting for you in our captivating, Gated, Golf, Lake, Mountain community.

NEW DOG PARK NOW OPEN! RANCH STYLE HOMES | MARINA PARC VILLAS | WATERVIEW TOWNHOMES GOLF VIEW VILLAS | RED CLOUD CABINS | Priced from the $300s–$800s 2419 Lake Arrowhead Drive Waleska 30183 Information is believed accurate but not warranted and is subject to changes, omissions, errors, prior sales and withdrawal without notice.

770-720-2700 LakeArrowheadGA.com

For more information, visit:

HOMES & LIFESTYLES

• The JW Collection, jwcollectionhomes.com • Lake Arrowhead, lakearrowheadga.com • Patrick Malloy Communities, pmcommunities.com • Southwyck Homes, southwyckhomes.com

clubhouse with a restaurant, a pool with Soleil Belmont Park

cabana gathering areas and more.

Whichever community—or lifestyle option—speaks to you the most, you can

community will not only allow home-

residents will be able to play tennis

expect to enjoy the hustle and bustle of

owners to enjoy the already established

and pickle ball, swim and enjoy a host

an active adult lifestyle, complete with

10,000-square-foot Heritage Club, but

of events throughout the year. Simi-

new neighbors and friends, a full social

also the Evermore clubhouse for those 55

lar opportunities will be found at The

calendar and a sense that the best is yet to

and older. Between these two facilities,

Lake Society, which features plans for a

come.

Amenity Center Now Open!

DALLAS, GEORGIA Amenities include a clubhouse with fitness center, outdoor living space, flex room for activities, gated entrance, walking paths, pickleball court, and bocce ball.

Offering the Patio Home Collection in Poplar Place, a low-maintenance, 55+ Active Adult Community.

Featuring ranch-style designs. Personalize your floorplan with flexible living spaces and open-concept options. Click here to take 360° virtual tours.

Located close to GA-120 E and US-278 for easy access to downtown Atlanta. © 2023 Fischer Homes, Inc.

42 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

Scan or Click to Learn More!

n

Resort Style Amenities Now Under Construction NOW SELLING PHASE III

THIS IS IT RESORT LIVING FOR 55+ AND BETTER

This is it. The community you’ve been waiting to call home. Here, breathtaking homes on large home sites with resort-level amenities are all right outside your door. Easy access to Milton, Alpharetta and Canton.

Luxury Resort Living from the $500s-$700s • SOLEILBP.COM • 305 Belmont Park Ct, Canton, GA • 770.635.4080

» NEW Soleil Summit Chase • From the $400s • 3465 Rosebud Rd. SW, Snellville, GA • 770.262.0444 « ©2023 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. Information presented is deemed reliable, but is not warranted.

If your property is currently listed, please disregard. It is not our intention to solicit properties that are already represented by another broker. Equal Housing Opportunity.

GET TO KNOW EDUCATION

KNOWAtlanta’s 2023 Education Guide

M

etro Atlanta’s education community has become one of the region’s biggest draws. From nationally ranked

public school systems and highly respected private and independent schools to prestigious institutes of higher education, students of all ages, as well as their families, have a wide array of choices, allowing them to identify and select the best possible learning environment for their needs.

In the pages that follow, KNOWAtlanta’s Education Guide will provide you with all of the information you need to navigate the ATL’s first-class educational offerings.

Get ready to make the grade.

44 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

46 Public School Spotlight 47 Georgia School Glossary 47 Independent School Accreditations and Memberships 48 Specialty Schools 54 Fall Into STEM

STEM is the key to success for students in metro Atlanta’s private middle and high schools

60 Choosing a Private School 80 Select Metro Atlanta Private Schools Map 82 The Guide to Colleges in Metro Atlanta 84 Metro Atlanta’s Colleges and Universities Map

JOIN US FOR AN OPEN HOUSE Preschool November 2 November 30 January 25

Lower School October 12 November 7 December 14 January 16

Middle School October 17 November 9 December 5 January 11

Upper School October 24

At Mount Vernon, learning is amplified through real-world problem solving. Your student will be empowered to explore, discover, learn, design, create, and effect change.

November 14 December 7 January 29

The Mount Vernon School prepares learners and leaders from Preschool to Grade 12 to be impact ready.

Graduates go on to attend some of the most prestigious colleges and universities including Brown, Columbia, Cornell, Dartmouth, Harvard, Morehouse, Stanford, the US Naval Academy, Wake Forest, Yale, and many more.

Plan Your Visit

|

www.mountvernonschool.org

Schedule a Call With Admissions

PUBLIC SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT

P

arents want the best education possible for their children. When they choose the community in which to live, the academic reputations of the schools their children will attend are a critical part of that decision. We’ve highlighted metro Atlanta area schools and how they are ranked by Niche.com, which profiles and lists rankings of schools and colleges to help families decide which school

districts and schools best fit their needs. Niche.com gathers information from public data sources, including the U.S. Department of

EDUCATION

Education, the U.S. Census and the FBI. There must be at least 80 percent of the school or place’s data available and collected to receive a ranking. For more information, visit niche.com.

COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTS Bartow

bartow.k12.ga.us Ranking in Best Schools in Atlanta Area: 18 Number of Students: 13,607 students Student-Teacher Ratio: 18-to-1 Overall Niche Grade: B

Cherokee

cherokeek12.net Ranking in Best Schools in Atlanta Area: 12 Number of Students: 42,049 students Student-Teacher Ratio: 17-to-1 Overall Niche Grade: A-

Clayton

clayton.k12.ga.us Ranking in Best Schools in Atlanta Area: not ranked Number of Students: 52,335 students Student-Teacher Ratio: 19-to-1 Overall Niche Grade: C-

Cobb

cobbk12.org Ranking in Best Schools in Atlanta Area: 16 Number of Students: 106,970 Student-Teacher Ratio: 18-to-1 Overall Niche Grade: A

DeKalb

dekalbschoolsga.org Ranking in Best Schools in Atlanta Area: not ranked Number of Students: 93,473 Student-Teacher Ratio: 17-to-1 Overall Niche Grade: C+ 46 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

Douglas

Hall

Buford City Schools

Fayette

Henry

Cartersville City Schools

dcssga.org Ranking in Best Schools in Atlanta Area: 20 Number of Students: 25,890 Student-Teacher Ratio: 1 8-to-1 Overall Niche Grade: B fcboe.org Ranking in Best Schools in Atlanta Area: 4 Number of Students: 19,941 Student-Teacher Ratio: 16-to-1 Overall Niche Grade: A

Forsyth

forsyth.k12.ga.us Ranking in Best Schools in Atlanta Area: 2 Number of Students: 52,757 Student-Teacher Ratio: 20-to-1 Overall Niche Grade: A+

Fulton

fultonschools.org Ranking in Best Schools in Atlanta Area: 11 Number of Students: 90,335 Student-Teacher Ratio: 16-to-1 Overall Niche Grade: A-

Gwinnett

gcpsk12.org Ranking in Best Schools in Atlanta Area: 10 Number of Students: 181,541 Student-Teacher Ratio: 20-to-1 Overall Niche Grade: A-

hallco.org Ranking in Best Schools in Atlanta Area: 16 Number of Students: 27,105 Student-Teacher Ratio: 17-to-1 Overall Niche Grade: B+ henry.k12.ga.us Ranking in Best Schools in Atlanta Area: not ranked Number of Students: 42,792 Student-Teacher Ratio: 19-to-1 Overall Niche Grade: B-

Paulding

paulding.k12.ga.us Ranking in Best Schools in Atlanta Area: 22 Number of Students: 31,129 Student-Teacher Ratio: 19-to-1 Overall Niche Grade: B

Rockdale

rockdaleschools.org Ranking in Best Schools in Atlanta Area: not ranked Number of Students: 15,601 Student-Teacher Ratio: 15-to-1 Overall Niche Grade: C+

CITY SCHOOL DISTRICTS Atlanta Public Schools

atlantapublicschools.us Ranking in Best Schools in Atlanta Area: not ranked Number of Students: 49,994 Student-Teacher Ratio: 15-to-1 Overall Niche Grade: B-

bufordcityschools.org Ranking in Best Schools in Atlanta Area: 1 Number of Students: 5,759 Student-Teacher Ratio: 19-to-1 Overall Niche Grade: A+

cartersvilleschools.org Ranking in Best Schools in Atlanta Area: 11 Number of Students: 4,477 Student-Teacher Ratio: 18-to-1 Overall Niche Grade: A

City Schools of Decatur

csdecatur.net Ranking in Best Schools in Atlanta Area: 3 Number of Students: 5,637 Student-Teacher Ratio: 14-to-1 Overall Niche Grade: A

Gainesville City Schools

gcssk12.net Ranking in Best Schools in Atlanta Area: not ranked Number of Students: 7,799 Student-Teacher Ratio: 17-to-1 Overall Niche Grade: B-

Marietta City Schools

marietta-city.org Ranking in Best Schools in Atlanta Area: 15 Number of Students: 8,690 Student-Teacher Ratio: 15-to-1 Overall Niche Grade: A- n

GEORGIA SCHOOL GLOSSARY The following school-related terms are often used throughout the state’s public schools.

Accelerated and Gifted Education: Programs that challenge students academically and that stress various areas including research and reference skills, accelerated learning and communication skills.

Alternative Education Program: A state program designed to give local school districts flexibility in various areas including inschool suspension, a school/community guidance center and a community-based alternative education program.

Attendance Zones: Areas in which students attend certain public schools based on their home address.

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ACCREDITATIONS AND MEMBERSHIPS It is important to know that the independent school you choose has been evaluated and endorsed by one or more accreditation agencies and/or member organizations committed to holding private educational institutions to high standards. In Atlanta, you’re likely to come across several of the following terms in your search. Use this guide as a reference and look up these organizations via their websites for more information.

AAAIS

GISA

The Atlanta Area Association of Independent Schools

The Georgia Independent School Association

aaais.org

gisa-schools.org

ACSI

JATP

The Association of Christian Schools International

The Joint Admissions Testing Program

Charter School: A public school that operates with freedom from several regulations that apply to traditional, sectarian public schools in Georgia.

acsi.org

jatp.org

AdvancED/SACS

NAIS

Advanc-ed.org

College and Career Ready Performance Index (CCRPI): The Georgia Department of Education’s accountability system.

Public schools are graded on a 100-point scale in three major areas: achievement, progress and the achievement gap.

sacs.org

The National Association of Independent Schools

Blue Ribbon School: School enrollments must include at least 40 percent of their students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Additionally, these public schools must meet their state’s annual objectives in each of the two years prior to receive a nomination for this designation, then again the year in which a school is nominated.

Georgia School of Excellence: Every year, one public school from each district ranked in the top 10 percent of Georgia schools with the greatest gain in student achievement is selected by the Department of Education to be a Georgia School of Excellence. In addition to these criteria, the schools must meet Adequate Yearly Progress for a minimum of three consecutive years, offer at least two Advanced Placement courses and be in existence for five years.

GAC Georgia Accrediting Commission coe.uga.edu/gac GAPSAC

nais.org SAIS The Southern Association of Independent Schools sais.org

The Georgia Private School Accreditation Council gapsac.org

IB Program: International Baccalaureate strives to help students develop multiple skills, including intellectual, personal and social, to live and work in our globalizing world.

Magnet School: A public school that offers students a distinctive curriculum. Magnet schools may emphasize a variety of subjects including visual and performing arts, math, science and technology.

Move On When Ready: A program that allows students to complete high school on a college campus while earning college credit.

Special Education and Psychological Services: Programs that focus on providing services and meeting needs of special education students.

Virtual Campus: Gives students the opportunity to take online courses that can be accessed anywhere at any time.

FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 47

EDUCATION

The More You Know WHAT YOU NEED TO QUALIFY FOR ACCEPTANCE INTO ONE OF METRO ATLANTA’S SPECIALTY SCHOOLS

By Amy Meadows

N

o matter what age you are, school can be challenging. Of course, there are students who find the traditional classroom even more formidable and overwhelming than their peers for a variety of reasons. Fortunately, metro Atlanta is home to an array of specialty schools that cater to those with academic, social and emotional challenges, from autism and dyslexia to a range of other learning

differences. For parents who feel their child may need a particular type of learning environment, it’s important to know what’s available, as well as what qualifies a child to be accepted into a specialty school. Here, we look at several local options that may provide the perfect place for a student who needs that extra something special to make school an outstanding experience.

The Howard School

of these diagnoses. Many of the students

the team to determine whether a pro-

howardschool.org

struggle with attention or need specific

spective student will be well served by the

The Howard School is the only K-12

strategies for building executive function-

unique and tailored education provided

school for children with language-based

ing skills and academic independence.

at The Howard School. The commit-

learning differences in Atlanta. According

Some applicants may demonstrate mild

tee uses a holistic approach to evaluate

to Sandy McCauley, director of marketing

symptoms of withdrawal, depression or

every potential student’s needs, carefully

and communications, “Our environment

anxiety due to their current struggle in the

reviewing both professional evaluations

is designed to nurture confidence and

classroom. These symptoms often decrease

and classroom observations. According to

success while providing individualized

substantially once students begin to expe-

McCauley, “We understand how important

academic support. Higher-order thinking

rience success in The Howard School en-

it is to find the right educational setting

skills are naturally woven into the cur-

vironment, where children are encouraged

for your child. We recognize and celebrate

riculum, and proven classroom strategies

to rediscover the joy of learning.

each learner’s passions and strengths while

support executive functioning develop-

It is important to note that The How-

addressing their learning differences.”

ment. Hands-on activities foster deeper

ard School is not a therapeutic school

learning and expand critical thinking

and does not have specialized programs

tour the school to see the students and

skills. Our students celebrate their

primarily for behavioral/psychiatric or

teachers in action. They also are invited

strengths and differences while becoming

social/emotional diagnoses; it also does

to complete an online application process

independent problem solvers and grow to

not specifically serve children diagnosed

and provide the recent psychoeducational

advocate for their unique learning needs.”

with autism spectrum disorder or social

evaluation to begin the process. Students

communication disorder.

whose learning profiles fall within the

Eligibility:

Prospective parents are encouraged to

school’s mission are typically invited

Students who attend The Howard School

Application and Admissions Process:

to spend a day in the classroom, giving

may have diagnostic labels such as dys-

The admissions committee requires a re-

the child the chance to experience The

lexia, a receptive/expressive language dis-

cent psychoeducational evaluation paired

Howard School firsthand and allowing

order, executive dysfunction, an auditory

with school records, teacher observations

the staff an opportunity to get to know

processing disorder or some combination

and therapist reports. These reports allow

the child. The Howard School’s team

48 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 49

of admissions professionals, teachers and specialists collaborate to determine whether the educational setting is the best fit for that child’s individual needs.

Did You Know?

EDUCATION

McCauley notes, “Scheduling and completing a psychoeducational evaluation takes time. We recommend that families contact a licensed psychologist and complete this required step as soon as they consider applying to The Howard School.” Additionally, if your child is currently served in the public schools under

The Howard School

an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 plan, you may be eligible for a Georgia Special Needs Scholarship.

The Cottage School

academic college preparatory curriculum

staff of The Cottage School believe that

for students in grades 3 through 12 with

a significant number of students, grades

cottageschool.org

mild to moderate learning differences.

3 through 12, are not achieving their

The Cottage School (TCS), established in

Amani Patterson, advancement asso-

potential due to a lack of individualized

1985 in Roswell, offers a comprehensive

ciate, explains, “The board, faculty and

attention and environmental structure, low self-esteem, skill-related weaknesses and psychological issues which have not been addressed by traditional educational systems. TCS believes that by keeping teacher/student ratios low and staff com-

Bringing out the

petence high, it can provide students with

Brilliance

a curriculum which capitalizes on their strengths while improving weak areas.

The Cottage School emphasizes goal setting, financial literacy and life skills to

of the dyslexic learner in a Christ-centered environment

ensure a student’s future success.”

Eligibility: TCS accommodates a broad range of learning differences. Admission is more of a process than it is based on eligibility.

Most of the parents who inquire about TCS have seen their student significantly struggle in school, not just with academics, but also with the social and emotional piece of the educational experience. TCS looks at many different aspects of the

Now accepting applications for the 2023-2024 school year

Schedule your personalized tour today!

678-756-8897 gracepointschool.org

50 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

student to help determine if the school is Scan QR code for a look inside GRACEPOINT!

the next best step.

Application and Admissions Process: The Cottage School has a pre-screen-

Atlanta Speech School: Serving the Community Atlanta Speech School’s mission is to help each person develop their full potential through language and literacy. Its three preschools and Wardlaw School for elementary-aged children with dyslexia pursue this goal with joy, a deeply held commitment to connection with each child and a research-based focus on brain and social science. This level of individualized academic attention and dedication to constructing the deep reading brain for each child is not only accessible to students of the Speech School, but also with the community-at-large. To start, children attending other schools can attend the Clinic for assistance. And beyond the campus, through the Rollins Center for Language & Literacy and the online Cox Campus, Atlanta Speech School holds long-standing partnerships with researchers and organizations to pursue “literacy and justice for all” through school systems across the world. In every endeavor, the Speech School weaves the science of constructing deep reading brains with the art and soul of masterful teaching so that each child has the tools to decide their own future confidently, empathetically and thoughtfully. For more information, visit atlantaspeechschool.org.

Helping each child find their voice…

Katherine Hamm Center serves children who are deaf or hard of hearing and their families, so they can develop essential Listening and Spoken Language abilities with a focus on literacy, so they can become who they are meant to be.

Anne and Jim Kenan Preschool serves preschoolers who are ready to form a pre-literacy foundation. Kenan teachers prepare children for all subjects in a setting that is at once joyful, engaging and academic.

Stepping Stones serves children with a primary diagnosis of a speech or language delay so they can unlock the language abilities and pre-literacy skills that will help them reach their fullest potential on their academic journeys beyond the Speech School.

Wardlaw School serves K-6 elementary aged children with dyslexia through individualized, science-informed language and literacy instruction.

Wardlaw students advance to excel in other accelerated schools.

…so they can decide their own futures and go on to make the greatest possible difference in the lives of others.

Schedule your visit: atlantaspeechschool.org FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 51

ing process through admissions. TCS does not offer an application until the admissions processes has been completed and the school has determined that the student is an appropriate fit for the school. The initial step includes sharing a

EDUCATION

child’s diagnosis or learning difference, as well as a current psychological education evaluation (which was administered within the last three years).

After an introductory phone conversation with the school’s admissions coordinator, if pertinent, an information session will be scheduled for the parents with the director of admissions. The next

The Cottage School

steps include an on-campus visit for the prospective student for an interview with school administration, as well as a formal

Overall, the process “isn’t about quali-

where each student can achieve academic

tour with a student ambassador. This

fying or checking a box,” Patterson notes.

ambassador-led tour gives a more peer-

“We understand that every student learns

and social success.”

to-peer perspective of what it means to be

differently, and, therefore, we have taken

Did You Know?

a member of the TCS family.

the time to create a learning environment

In addition to The Cottage School’s experiential programming and business-based model, which set the school apart, TCS has added a new comprehensive music program for the 2023-24 academic year.

GRACEPOINT School gracepointschool.org GRACEPOINT School specializes in educating students with dyslexia. Students receive a comprehensive, high-quality educational program that combines remediation with enrichment and acceleration. GRACEPOINT’s mission is to equip dyslexic students will the skills needed to develop into independent and confident learners through sequential and multisensory instruction, helping each child develop “a lifelong desire for growing in wisdom and gaining knowl-

Mill Springs Academy tailors our college preparatory curriculum to meet each student’s individual needs, teaching self-advocacy, social skills, and how to forge their own path.

millsprings.org/visit

Serving students in grades K-12 with learning differences Serving Students in K-12 with Learning Differences 13660 Providence • Alpharetta, GA 30004 •• millsprings.org 770-360-1336 13660New New Providence Road Road Alpharetta, GA 30004 • 770-360-1336 52 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

edge of the Lord.” According to Kyle Bice, director of admission, “Our mission is to partner with families of dyslexic learners and to equip them to be successful in all aspects of their educational journey, as well as discovering the gifts that God has given each of them so that they may bring honor and glory to Him.”

GRACEPOINT uses the Orton-Gillingham (OG) instructional program, a diagnostic, prescriptive and multisensory approach to reading and spelling that is one of only 19 accredited programs in the nation by the Academy of Orton-Gillingham Practitioners and Educators. The school also created a unique program that increases students’ understanding of morphology—the study of words, their meanings and how they are built. Morphology and OG are intertwined from the beginning in remediation and continue in advanced morphology classes.

Eligibility: A student who is considering GRACEPOINT School much have a diagnosis of dyslexia from an educational psychologist.

Application and Admissions Process:

GRACEPOINT School

Parents must complete an online request for information form to start the application and admission process. The admissions team then will reach out to learn more about how the school may best serve the inquiring student and family. After the initial contact is made, individual parent tours and interviews are conducted with the administration, during which the student’s psychoeducational evaluation and other relevant evaluations, including an IEP and a speech and language evaluation, can be provided to give GRACEPOINT a complete picture of the child’s educational profile and academic needs. During the process, prospective students also have an opportunity to shadow current GRACEPOINT students to get a feel for the classroom and the overall academic and student life experience.

Did You Know?

Parents are encouraged to begin the application process early in the admissions season. Applications for the upcoming academic year begin on October 2, 2023. n FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 53

EDUCATION

Fall Into STEM

Atlanta International School

STEM IS THE KEY TO SUCCESS FOR STUDENTS IN METRO ATLANTA’S PRIVATE MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOLS

By Ken Abramczyk

F

or many private middle schools and

educators strive to have their curiosity

creativity and innovation in students. It

high schools across Atlanta and

continue and possibly pursue further

is not the ‘what’ of the curriculum, but

the surrounding suburbs, STEM

STEM studies and careers. Here, we

rather the ‘how,’” notes Laurie Mazor,

programs are an integral part of the edu-

look at the various STEM programs and

principal of The Wood Acres School in

cation experience, ensuring that students

opportunities afforded to older students

Marietta. With that in mind, Wood Acres

graduate with a vital understanding of

at independent schools across the metro

offers challenging, student-centered,

science, technology, engineering and

area. The perfect option could be waiting

inquiry-based experiences integrated

math. While STEM education often starts

for you and your family today.

into electives starting in middle school.

at the elementary level, the emphasis on

Middle school students study seismic

STEM (or STEAM, when art is added

A Comprehensive Approach

to the mix) undoubtedly increases for

“STEM (or STEAM) is a philosophy of

paper chair engineering, marionette-pull-

students in middle and high school, as

teaching that encourages and supports

ing-strings engineering, climate and

54 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

earthquakes, stop motion animation,

sustainability and more; they also learn

Davis Academy prioritizes the

that math “is beautiful” in their elective

faculty’s professional develop-

courses.

ment. Brown continues, “We

The Alfred & Adele Davis Academy

ensure the curriculum evolves

in Atlanta integrates STEM throughout

as the technology changes. We

its curriculum and offers it in indepen-

have partnered with organiza-

dent programs. “We prioritize computa-

tions, such as The Social Insti-

tional thinking skills beginning at age 4

tute, to implement meaningful

so that by eighth grade, students have a

activities that relate to mod-

strong foundation for computer science,”

ern-day technology usage, such

says Stacy Brown, director of innovation

as analytical thinking, creative

and professional learning, who adds

thinking and artificial intelli-

that students create content in modern

gence and ensure our students

innovation labs on both of the acade-

develop the skills predicted to

my’s campuses. In fact, Davis Academy’s

be in high demand.”

The Alfred & Adele Davis Academy

middle school students who are technol-

STEM also takes a “promi-

ogy and innovation leaders learn from

nent place” in the curriculum

modern-day innovators, creating their

at Annunciation Day School in Atlanta,

student might have in their pencil case

own unique projects. Brown continues,

according to Alan M. Greenwood, head

to enhance learning.” For instance, while

“For example, this year’s Tech Pioneers

of school. He explains, “STEM should

learning about geography and studying

visited Georgia Tech’s Invention Center

not be viewed simply as an add-on to the

Rio de Janeiro, students can jump into

and built wearable technology that helps

school curriculum, but as an interleafed

Google Earth and immerse themselves

spread kindness.” Students also recently

learning series that permeates many

in that city rather than using an outdated

showcased their unique projects and pre-

areas of learning on a day-to-day basis.”

atlas. He adds, “It’s about bringing learn-

sentation skills at the Georgia Education-

Students in the third grade and up are

ing to life and increasing the relevance

al Technology Conference and regularly

expected to receive personalized laptops

to each student.” Additionally, Annun-

share a DrawBot that acts as a digital sign

this upcoming school year with iPads

ciation Day School students often get

around the school, which is complement-

available for younger students. Greenwood

outside of the classroom to experience

ed by an accompanying documentary

continues, “This is not so children are

STEM. They take a range of trips around

explaining their design, build and coding

on devices all day, but so technology

Atlanta and Georgia to create memorable

process with Python. What’s more, the

becomes as synonymous as any tool a

experiences, exploring everything from the Fernbank Science Center to participating in lake assessments and enjoying pond dipping at Rock Eagle Camp.

Trinity School in Atlanta also integrates STEM into all of its programming for students, from 3-year-old children through sixth grade students. “We have dedicated makerspaces, science and technology labs and outdoor learning areas that engage and ignite curiosity for our learners,” says Marsha Harris, director of curriculum. “We have developed a curriculum and innovation hub (iHub) that establishes a foundation of engineering and design principles. Students build, imagine and explore with new tools and

Lakeview Academy

skills in the iHub while making cross-curricular connections across academic areas.”

FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 55

these courses by taking a STEM course in addition to core curriculum courses in kindergarten through sixth grades. By middle school, students can choose from 13 elective courses in STEM within three categories: biomedical science, computer

EDUCATION

science and engineering design.

Woodward Academy, located in College Park and Johns Creek, offers a range of STEM-related opportunities that foster innovation and critical thinking, accord-

GRACEPOINT School

ing to Connie White, director of learning and innovation. For example, upper school students can access a cutting-edge

At the upper level, St. Francis High

Atlanta International School offers

genomics lab, where they delve into

School in Milton offers STEM integration

an International Baccalaureate STEM

practical applications of cell biology and

across the curriculum and in every de-

endorsement, an enhancement of the IB

molecular genetics. She explains, “They

partment. “Our Innovation Lab has a full

diploma that students can work to obtain,

analyze their own DNA using PCR and

Mac lab, 3D printers, a virtual reality lab,

which school officials call an ideal prepa-

Gels in biology classes, participate in a

programmable Sphero robots, a robotics

ration for college and careers in STEM

captivating criminal forensics course and

lab and a host of software applications for

and STEAM. Requirements include the

benefit from a dedicated Pasco Physics

all our teachers and students to utilize,”

completion of a two-week internship in

lab.” What’s more, students can deeply ex-

says Brandon Bryan, director of admis-

a STEM field of interest. “Our Goizueta

plore STEM passion projects in the Ethical

sions and curriculum. After taking an

Da Vinci Fellowship allows us to host

Dilemmas in Science and Technology

Introduction to Computer Science class,

distinguished STEAM practitioners who

course. White continues, “This course

students can follow one of two tracks:

develop cross-curricular workshops and

combines ethical decision-making with

computer science or engineering, both

learning experiences,” says Alice Cap-

computational thinking. Students engage

of which culminate in AP Computer

pelletti, communications specialist. “The

with AI, VR, 3D fabrication and more to

Science Principles their senior year.

foundation grant also enables the AIS In-

create artifacts of understanding.”

celerator, an entrepreneurship

Gainesville, takes pride in its expanding

ing student and faculty ideas

STEM-based opportunities. “As a school,

for products and businesses

Lakeview recognizes our rapidly evolving

ready to launch.”

world and is deeply invested in prepar-

Students in seventh through

Trinity School 56 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

Lakeview Academy, located in

program aimed at transform-

ing its students as creative and resilient

12th grade at the Wesleyan

problem solvers,” says Dr. Wade Hanse,

School in Peachtree Corners

director of curriculum and alignment.

can participate in a wide array

Through a dual enrollment program,

of STEM offerings, including

students take courses through the

3D modeling and printing,

Georgia Tech Distance Program, as well

aeronautics, architecture, bio-

as student-centered technology classes

medical engineering, comput-

in middle school. He adds, “Lakeview

er programming in multiple

Academy’s STEM offerings are inten-

languages, construction, engi-

tionally designed to empower students to

neering, kinematics, mechan-

become innovative thinkers and leaders.

ics, microbiology, neurology,

We sincerely hope these experiences will

physiology, robotics, statics

help inspire our students to be active

and others. Students prep for

participants in shaping their world.”

Springmont School

St. Francis School

Technology at the Forefront

year on using their devices and all of the

technology courses are designed to allow

From equipment to courses, technology

applications they use on their devices,”

each child to pursue either a digital

has become an integral part of the school

says Carrie Harris, director of technol-

design or programming focus all while

day for students across metro Atlan-

ogy. In addition to using Google Suite

contributing to a collaborative goal in the

ta. For instance, Atlanta International

for word processing and storage needs,

classroom.” Upper school students can

School’s instruction of technology and

she says, “We use Google Classroom as a

choose from several computer science

STEAM are transdisciplinary. According

way to communicate with our students.

and digital media courses to fulfill their

to Cappelletti, “Students inquire and

In an ever-changing world of technology,

technology requirements.

investigate important concepts without

we are constantly reading up on and re-

At Pace Academy in Atlanta, tech-

the boundaries of different disciplines so

searching new trends.” Harris also attends

nology is a daily part of the students’

the relevance of technology remains at

a conference every summer to ensure that

lives, according to Charlie Bryant, chair

the forefront of learning.” In secondary

GRACEPOINT is able to implement new

of Pace’s computer science department.

school, STEAM is interdisciplinary, as

technology as often as possible.

“Pace Academy offers many courses that

students integrate knowledge or skills

At Trinity School, computer skills are

require the use of various forms of tech-

from two or more subjects to develop

introduced in the first grade and scaffold-

nology, from physics labs experiments to

solutions or products. In fact, the school’s

ed through a student’s entire tenure at

digital organization and communication

Innovators program encourages all staff

the school. According to Marsha

members to participate in designing

Harris, “Our director of education

impactful, innovative and authentic

technology, a founding member

learning spaces and experiences, ensuring

of the Association of Technology

students have more engaging and mean-

Leaders in Independent Schools,

ingful experiences to promote the joy of

ensures we stay on top of the latest

learning. “We don’t teach in a vacuum,”

technology and best practices by,

she continues. “Technology is used to

amongst other things, maintaining

make relevant connections, both in and

a network of like-minded profes-

out of the classroom. Students apply and

sionals.”

synthesize state-of-the-art technology to

Lakeview Academy acknowl-

create real-world solutions to problems.”

edges that the needs and interests

GRACEPOINT School, a specialized

of each child are “wonderfully

school in Marietta that serves dyslexic

unique,” Hanse says, nothing that

learners in grades 1 through 8, provides

technology plays a large part in

fourth through eighth grade students

fulfilling the needs of both middle

with daily access to Chromebooks.

and upper school students. He

“Students are instructed throughout the

states, “Lakeview’s middle school

Annunciation Day School FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 57

to writing code to solve real-world problems,” he explains, nothing that natural curiosity from teachers and students is the driving force behind the evolution of technology in the classroom. “For instance, ChatGPT has been a huge topic

EDUCATION

in my classes this year. We’ve discussed its capabilities and pitfalls, how it works and how to use it as a learning or study tool, as well as academic dishonesty and how ChatGPT can enhance learning without crossing that line.” To keep up with the latest technology, biology

The Wood Acres School

teacher Dr. Kaylan Haizlip reveals, “At Pace we ensure that faculty, and subsequently students, keep up with changes

12th grades receive a Microsoft Surface

ly advanced to the 2023 FIRST World

in technology by engaging in professional

Pro 9. Students have a Microsoft 365

Championship in the First Tech Chal-

development and attending conferences,

account and can access software, such

lenge. Teams have represented Lakeview

actively working in labs and establishing

as Adobe and Autodesk, to use in STEM

at the state tournament for six consecu-

and maintaining contact with profession-

and fine arts classes. OneDrive, OneNote

tive years.

als in the field.”

and Teams apps also are used for collabo-

Woodward Academy’s eighth grade

rative projects and organization. Accord-

students participate in the CO2 Dragster

take CAPP (computer applications),

ing to Jennifer Copeland, assistant head

Design project; the opportunity allows

reveals Brandon Bryan, director of

of school for external affairs, “Students

them to plan, design and construct vehi-

admissions and curriculum. He says,

are trained how to effectively and respon-

cles using digital technology, including

“As a Google-based school, our students

sibly use these devices and software by a

CAD software and online platforms.

come to understand the Google plat-

dedicated technology coach.”

“Using power tools, students integrate

Middle school students at St. Francis

form through project-based learning.

essential components and fine-tune their

Keyboarding and responsible online

STEM in Action

citizenship are also addressed in CAPP.”

For many local private schools, STEM

White says. Students’ skills, creativity

often is found both inside and outside the

and engineering expertise are showcased

Wesleyan’s students in fifth through

Pace Academy 58 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

dragsters for optimal performance,”

classroom, as students are given

in an exciting CO2 dragster race at the

opportunities to participate in a

project’s conclusion.

variety of unique opportunities

Trinity School’s afterschool program

and extracurricular activities

allows students to participate in robot-

and showcase their interests and

ics, Lego design, stop motion animation

talents.

and more. All this learning-by-doing

For example, the Innovation

with technology, materials and iterations

Program at Lakeview Academy

prepare students for human-centered

has generated award-winning

problem solving. “They are readily able

robotics teams in middle and

to pivot, build, imagine, collaborate and

high school. In fact, Hanse points

think critically,” Marsha Harris says,

to Lakeview’s robust robotics pro-

noting that Trinity students design,

gram, which have paved the way

prototype and iterate their ideas regularly.

for middle school teams to earn

“They build traps to catch the Ginger-

multiple awards and consistently

bread Man, create models of the ocean

reach the state tournament in the

floor, explore coding, design roller

FIRST LEGO League Challenge.

coasters while they learn about force and

The upper school team recent-

motion, create castles in their literature

units and put their understanding of urban design and planning into action as sixth graders creating three-dimensional models of the city of Atlanta throughout its history.”

GRACEPOINT School students often work on Shark Tank projects. “Students build a prototype and present their products to actual leaders in our community,” says Debbie Engelstad, director of STEAM at Gracepoint. “We also promote starting your own business in an entrepreneurial unit, as dyslexics often become owners of their own business.”

Wesleyan School

Pace Academy’s robotics teams compete in the FIRST Tech challenge, and clubs like Girls Who Code allow students to hone

mont’s participating students researched

design, best project plan and highest-scor-

their programming and project-design

climate change, geography, earth and

ing presentation. Strickland continues,

skills, according to Haizlip. She explains,

weather systems, city design, science and

“In addition to exploring STEM, students

“We want to inspire students to view

technology innovations and engineering.

furthered their communication, time

themselves as more than users of tech-

Their preparation for the competition

management and leadership skills, as

nology. We want them to understand that

included converting the science classroom

well as creativity and teamwork. Spring-

they can be creators as well.”

into a makerspace. Experts in fields of civil

mont’s Middle School students enjoy the

engineering, project management and the

competitive environment and appreciate

sees its middle school participate in the

engineering design process spoke to the

the opportunity to learn science through a

Future City Competition every other year.

students, and students also learned about

different approach.”

During the event, middle school teams

data-based trends in climate science and

Together all of these opportunities

from across the country employ math and

societal impacts. Then the students com-

open the door to a wide array of opportu-

science concepts to design solutions for

pleted a 1,500-word essay, a scale model

nities for students not only as they make

real-world problems. “The 2023 challenge

built from mostly recycled materials

their way through middle school and

was to design a futuristic city that makes

and a seven-minute presentation before

high school, but also as they prepare to

the world a better place by addressing

participating in a question-and-answer

move on to higher education and beyond.

climate change,” says Julie Strickland,

session with the judges, who were STEM

As Shelley Adkisson, STEM teacher at the

director of marketing and communica-

professionals. One of Springmont’s four

Wood Acres School concludes, “STEM

tions. “Students collaborated to imagine,

teams placed second overall out of 33

and STEAM exposure is key to a future

research, design and build models of cities

teams in Georgia. The three others were

filled with new technology and improved

that showcase their solutions.” Spring-

recognized for best overall infrastructure

ways of life.”

Springmont School, located in Atlanta,

n

For more information, visit: • Annunciation Day School, annunciationdayschool.org

• Lakeview Academy, lakeviewacademy.com

• Atlanta International School, aischool.org

• Pace Academy, paceacademy.org

• The Davis Academy, davisacademy.org • GRACEPOINT School, gracepointschool.org

• St. Francis Schools, saintfrancisschools.com • Springmont School, springmont.com

• Trinity School, trinityatl.org • Wesleyan, wesleyanschool.org • The Wood Acres School, woodacresschool.org • Woodward Academy, woodward.edu

FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 59

EDUCATION

CHOOSING A PRIVATE SCHOOL

T

he search for a new school for your child begins here. On the following pages, you’ll find a sampling of private schools in metro Atlanta. Each mini-profile features a description of the school, its location, contact information, accreditations and tuition prices. Please note that tuition prices are for

the 2023–24 school year and are subject to change. On page 80, you’ll find a helpful private schools map.

The Mount Vernon School 60 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

THE ALFRED & ADELE DAVIS ACADEMY From kindergarten prep through eighth grade, The Davis Academy teaches to the whole child, creating compassionate leaders and equipping them with skills they will use for the entirety of their academic careers and beyond.

We teach life skills, instill Jewish values and provide diverse experiences so that our students become well-rounded and self-confident individuals. Students learn amongst a warm and supportive community that shares common values and visions. We celebrate both the ways our diversity makes our school vibrant and the individual differences that make our school community so unique. With a retention rate of

97 percent, The Davis Academy community is comprised of families from across the globe, nation and 31 metro Atlanta zip codes.

Davis graduates attend the most prestigious public and private high schools in Atlanta; they know who they are and continuously make a difference in their communities and the world.

Location: Dunwoody/Sandy Springs Phone: (770) 671-0085 Website: davisacademy.org Accreditations/Memberships: AdvancED/SACS, SAIS, AAAIS Tuition: Contact school for pricing ATLANTA ACADEMY Founded by teachers in 2000, Atlanta Academy serves 375

preschool through eighth grade students in the North Fulton communities of Roswell, Alpharetta, Dunwoody, Sandy Springs and more. Atlanta Academy encourages active learning and engagement inside the classroom. Fostering leadership opportunities and executive functioning skills helps students build confidence and grow into well-educated, independent problem solvers prepared to excel in high school and beyond.

Location: Roswell Phone: (678) 461-6102 Website: atlantaacademy.com Accreditations/Memberships: AAAIS, SAIS, GISA, NAIS, Bright from the Start Tuition: Visit website for pricing information

FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 61

Unpack Your Child’s Education First!

Make The Wood Acres School part of your family’s move!

A Wood Acres private school education is open to students 2 years old - 8th grade.

• Achievement Student achievement beyond expectations

• Affordability Tuition within most families’ grasp

• Atmosphere Educating students since 1969

• Admissions Schedule a campus tour today

Prospective Families Open House Nov. 5, 2023 Jan. 21, 2024

Call for more information

www.woodacresschool.org

1772 Johnson Ferry Rd., Marietta, GA 30062 • (770) 971-1880 Accredited by the Georgia Accreditation Commission

METRO ATLANTA’S PRIVATE SCHOOLS

ATLANTA GIRLS’ SCHOOL Atlanta Girls’ School was custom built for one purpose: to prepare girls to lead lives of purpose. For more than 20 years, AGS has offered girls in grades 6 through 12 an exceptional education infused with real-world experiences, challenging and engaging academics and a tight-knit community. Graduates attend prestigious liberal arts colleges, leading Southeastern universities, Ivy League schools and respected research institutes.

Girls attending AGS learn to lead with courage and confidence, take risks and give back to their communities.

Location: Buckhead Phone: (404) 845-0900 Website: atlantagirlsschool.org Accreditations/Memberships: AdvancED/SACS, GAC, GISA, ICGS, NAIS, SAIS Tuition: $31,350

An immersive education that prepares students to live intellectually curious lives.

From ages 3 to grade 12

We invite you to visit or call: www.paideiaschool.org 404-270-2312 An independent school located in the Druid Hills neighborhood of Atlanta.

62 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

ATLANTA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL Atlanta International School offers the International Baccalaureate curriculum to all of its students, from preschool to grade 12. By delivering this rigorous academic opportunity, combined with our world-class language acquisition program for all in an inclusive, intercultural environment, AIS prepares students to succeed in a globally connected world.

Location: Buckhead/Garden Hills Phone: (404) 841-3840 Website: aischool.org Accreditations/Memberships: AAAIS, COGNIA, SACS, CIS, IB, SAIS

the Rollins Center is advancing literacy and justice for all. Rollins’ online learning platform, Cox Campus, puts this vision within reach through free professional learning for educators and child-facing adults all over the world.

Location: Buckhead Phone: (404) 233-5332 Website: atlantaspeechschool.org Accreditations/Memberships: AdvancED/SACS, GISA, NAIS, SAIS Tuition: Contact school for pricing Trinity School Tuition: Visit aischool.org/admissions/tuition-financial-aid ATLANTA SPEECH SCHOOL Uniquely focused on the construction of the Deep Reading Brain, the programs of the Atlanta Speech School are dedicated to helping every child find their voice so they can go on to make the most difference in the lives of others. The campus encompasses four schools, including three preschools: The Katherine Hamm Center, a listening, spoken language and literacy program for preschool children who are deaf or hard of hearing; Stepping Stones, a preschool for children who have received a primary diagnosis of speech and language delays; and the Anne & Jim Kenan Preschool for children exceptionally prepared for academic settings. In addition, the Speech School’s Wardlaw School serves school-aged children with dyslexia in grades K through 6 with a short-term, individualized and intensive approach designed to return them to traditional school settings. The Speech School’s

reach extends beyond the campus through the Rollins Center for Language & Literacy. With more than 100 partners including school districts and healthcare agencies,

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

Call today to see how a different approach can make a difference for your child at 404.377.7436 howardschool.org

A DIFFERENT APPROACH

makes all the difference

The Howard School serves students with language-based learning differences. We specialize in helping intelligent, curious and creative children REDISCOVER THE JOY OF LEARNING. Our different approach to teaching is backed by research and science, and has been successful for over 73 years.

FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 63

Galloway students confidently embrace challenges while developing the knowledge, skills, and cultural competence to thrive as enlightened contributors in their chosen pathways.

PRE-K3 – GRADE 12 Schedule your family’s tour at gallowayschool.org/visit!

METRO ATLANTA’S PRIVATE SCHOOLS

confident, productive and independent adults. Through The Cottage School’s unique work-based model for grades 3 through 12, our students pursue a high school degree through rigorous academic standards with a strong emphasis on emotional/social learning. Students experience educational success while learning vocational skills that will help them thrive in the world beyond graduation, be that in continuing education or a career. Our beautiful 23-acre campus offers small class sizes, outdoor classrooms, fine arts programming, and state-of-the-art technology to provide individualized instruction to our diverse student population.

Every student learns differently, so we teach differently. Please contact us for more information about our rigorous standard of care to keep our families healthy.

Location: Roswell Phone: (770) 641-8688 Website: cottageschool.org Accreditations/Memberships: Cognia / SACS, SAIS, AAAIS, GAC, GAPSAC, GISA, IDA, NAIS, North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, The National Association of Independent Schools Tuition: $21,000 - $27,000 THE GALLOWAY SCHOOL Located in beautiful Chastain Park, The Galloway School is a community where learning is joyful, individuals are valued and self-discovery is encouraged. Galloway students in grades Pre-K3 through 12 confidently embrace challenges while developing the knowledge, skills and cultural competence to thrive

64 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

Tuition: $19,125- $32,725

Paideia School

as enlightened contributors in their chosen pathways.

Location: Atlanta Phone: (404) 252-8389

Website: gallowayschool.org Accreditations/Memberships: AAAIS, AdvancED/SACS, GHSA, NAIS, SAIS

GRACEPOINT SCHOOL GRACEPOINT School is a private school located in Marietta dedicated to bringing out the brilliance of the dyslexic learner in a Christ-centered environment.

Since August 2012, the philosophy of GRACEPOINT has been to provide an instructional environment where approaches to learning are multi-sensory and prescriptive.

This technique addresses reading deficits and allows for enrichment in the areas where students are gifted. Students in first through eighth grades are taught using the Orton-Gillingham method, and this multisensory approach is woven into all subject areas. The student-teacher ratio is 5:1 in reading

mtparanschool.com/experience

EXPERIENCE FAITH

TUESDAY TOURS ✦ RIGOROUS ACADEMICS/ROBOTICS ✦ SMALL CLASSES (12:1) ✦ AWARD-WINNING ARTS ✦ CHAMPIONSHIP ATHLETICS ✦ CHRIST AT THE CENTER

FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 65

Start at Trinity,

thrive for life.

Trinity School serves children age three through Sixth Grade and cherishes childhood while preparing students for the future. Small class sizes, innovative programming, and early childhood and elementary education experts are just some of the reasons your child will thrive at Atlanta’s only elementaryonly independent school!

METRO ATLANTA’S PRIVATE SCHOOLS

classes and 8:1 in all other core subjects.

Location: Marietta Phone: (678) 709-6634 Website: gracepointschool.org Accreditations/Memberships: GAC, GAPSEC, AOGPE, IDA, SAIS, GISA, AAAIS Tuition: $26,500

trinityatl.org/admissions 404-231-8118

paceacademy.org/admissions

CONNECTING LEARNING TO LIFE AT EVERY LEVEL

HIGH MEADOWS SCHOOL Since 1973, High Meadows School has inspired children to think critically, learn creatively, act globally and live compassionately. Located on 42 acres of historic farm property, our students experience a school environment where adventure and play go hand-inhand with extraordinary academic preparation and exemplary student outcomes. From an outstanding faculty and breathtaking campus to small classes and an acclaimed International Baccalaureate curriculum, High Meadows is an exceptional place to learn and grow.

Location: Roswell Phone: (770) 993-2940 Website: highmeadows.org

WE THINK

66 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

Accreditations/Memberships: AAAIS, AdvancED/SACS, GISA, International Baccalaureate (IB), NAIS, SAIS Tuition: $7,646 - $23,342 HOLY INNOCENTS’ EPISCOPAL SCHOOL Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School is the largest Episcopal parish day co-ed school in the country serving over 1,390 students in Pre-K3 through 12th grade. We are a Christian school that serves and

vision. Our curriculum combines the best of classical pedagogical traditions in a joyful, engaging and thoroughly Catholic environment. This curriculum includes STEM-based coursework, fine and performing arts and a very active athletic program. Through these means, we seek to enkindle in students the desire to pursue excellence in every endeavor they undertake and provide them with all the tools necessary to lead successful, rewarding lives in a manner consistent with the sublime end for which they have been created: eternal life with God.

Whitefield Academy

welcomes families of all faith traditions developing ethical leaders, global citizens and today’s changemakers for tomorrow’s world. Our challenging academic curriculum not only prepares students for college and beyond but provides an array of experiences to discover their artistic, STEM-oriented, athletic and global passions at every grade level, starting with our 3 year olds. With the guidance of our stellar college counseling team, 100 percent of our graduates matriculate to prestigious colleges and universities across the nation.

an independent Catholic college preparatory school serving preschool through 12th grade students with a profound educational

Location: Atlanta Phone: (678) 761-7992 Website: holyspiritprep.org Accreditations/Memberships: AdvancED/SACS, GISA, NAIS,

Location: Atlanta Phone: (404) 255-4026 Website: hies.org Accreditations/Memberships: National Association of Episcopal Schools (NAES), NAIS, AAAIS, SAIS, SACS, Center for Spiritual and Ethical Education (CSEE), GISA Tuition: $19,000 - $33,590 HOLY SPIRIT PREPARATORY SCHOOL Holy Spirit Preparatory School is

A Christ-Centered College Preparatory A Christ-Centered College Preparatory School PreK - 12th Grade

A Christ-Centered College Preparatory School

Smyrna, GA

678-305-3027

At Whitefield, we understand the importance of community.

That is why we are dedicated to bolstering Christian families in rearing young people who go on to college and life with a passion for learning, for others ahead of self, and for the living and active Jesus.

Learn more at whitefieldacademy.com FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 67

EDUCATION

METRO ATLANTA’S PRIVATE SCHOOLS

ever openings are available.

Location: Atlanta

NCEA, SAIS

Phone: (404) 377-7436

Tuition: Call for information

Website: howardschool.org

THE HOWARD SCHOOL Since 1950, The Howard School has offered an exceptional educational program for students with language-based learning disabilities and learning differences. Teams comprised of highly qualified and dedicated teachers and specialists, including speech-language pathologists, psychologists and math and literacy specialists, work with students to uncover and foster each child’s strengths and provide individualized learning plans for every student. The school has a rolling admissions process, which allows it to accept students when-

Accreditations/Memberships: SAIS, AdvancED/SACS, NAIS, GISA, AAAIS, IDA (International Dyslexia Association), LDA (Learning Disabilities Association) Tuition: Contact school for pricing LANDMARK CHRISTIAN SCHOOL Landmark Christian School, which serves students in grades K3 through 12, provides a rich, relevant and rewarding education by teaching academic excellence with Biblical truth.

With low student-teacher ratios, students thrive through person-

alized learning, discovering their passions and developing their talents. Beginning in K3, students are loved and nurtured, enjoying Imagination Stations, TED, world languages, Spotlight Theater, art, core and athletic offerings encompassing 67 teams. Students study Bible daily and enjoy weekly chapel with grade-appropriate service/missions projects. Vertical educational alignment prepares lower school students for learning in arts, aviation, music, fashion, engineering and leadership. The new high school offers AP/Honors courses, on-campus dual enrollment and superior college guidance. Graduates are excellent candidates for college with a 99 percent college acceptance rate and $11,679,989 in scholarships from the 80 seniors of the Class of 2023.

Phone: (770) 306-0647

Tomorrow calls for a new kind of leader.

Website: landmarkchristianschool. org Accreditations/Memberships: AdvancED, SAIS, ACSI Tuition: $9,000 - $20,700

Every day, we connect bright, curious students with a community of support and opportunities that awaken their aspirations so that they can lead positive change in the world.

Learn more at westminster.net

WESTMINSTER Love. Challenge. Lead. Change.

1424 West Paces Ferry Road, NW | Atlanta, Georgia 30327

68 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

THE LOVETT SCHOOL Founded nearly 100 years ago, The Lovett School is a community of belonging that develops students of honor, faith and wisdom with the character and intellect to thrive in learning and life.

Lovett is a leader of whole child education, embracing a multifaceted approach where intellectual rigor, social-emotional learning and character development are purposefully cultivated. Every day, we welcome more than 1,600 students from 78 different zip codes and 11 counties in the metropolitan area to our campus beautifully

Phone: (404) 262-3032 Website: lovett.org Accreditations/Memberships: NAIS, SAIS, AAAIS, Global Online Academy, CSEE, SACS Tuition: $30,110 - $34,950

Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School located on the banks of the Chattahoochee River. As a nationally renowned college preparatory institution, Lovett encourages students to also discover themselves

outside of the classroom through the arts, athletics, global studies and community engagement.

Location: Atlanta

MILL SPRINGS ACADEMY Success in School…Success in Life. Mill Springs Academy is an independent school dedicated to the academic, physical and social growth of students who have not realized their full potential in a traditional classroom setting.

Founded in 1981, Mill Springs provides a college preparatory curriculum teaching self-advocacy and social skills to students with learning differences. In addition to Mill Springs’ broad range of college preparatory options, the school

FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 69

EDUCATION

METRO ATLANTA’S PRIVATE SCHOOLS

also offers award-winning fine arts and competitive athletic programs to foster interests and hidden talents. Small classes and an individualized curriculum help students capitalize on strengths while forging their own paths. Our 85-acre campus is nestled in the beautiful rolling hills of Alpharetta.

Location: Alpharetta Phone: (770) 360-1336 Website: millsprings.org Accreditations/Memberships: COGNIA, SAIS, NAIS, GISA, AAAIS, GAPSEC Tuition: $31,212 MOUNT PARAN CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

North Cobb Christian School

Mount Paran Christian School exists to provide a stellar academic experience in a Christian environment. It’s crucial to guarantee a moral and faith-based foundation

through everything your child learns at school. Through curricular Bible classes, weekly chapel, discipleship groups and service, faith becomes integrated into who the students are. Within small 12:1 class sizes, MPCS offers 56 AP/honors courses, instructional support, robotics, STEAM/Spanish starting in PK3 and a 1:1 device program. Our job is to prepare servant-leaders in the classroom, on the ball field, on the stage and ultimately in our community. As a PK3 through 12th grade private Christian, non-denominational, college preparatory school, MPCS is committed to excellence in academics, award-winning arts and championship athletics. Founded in 1976, MPCS is fully accredited and located in the shadow of Kennesaw Mountain on a 68-acre collegiate-like campus. MPCS unites with home and church to prepare servant-leaders to honor God, love others and walk in truth.

Location: Marietta/Kennesaw Phone: (770) 578-0182 Website: mtparanschool.com Accreditations/Memberships:

70 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

From Pre-K through 12th grade, creating opportunities for each child to thrive is

THE

WOODWARD WAY Learn more about what Woodward has to offer you.

woodward.edu/inquire

METRO ATLANTA’S PRIVATE SCHOOLS

Cognia, CESA ACSA, GISA, SAIS, NAIS

EDUCATION

Tuition: Check website for pricing MOUNT PISGAH CHRISTIAN SCHOOL Mount Pisgah Christian School provides an outstanding college preparatory education grounded in Christian faith and values. This independent school is non-denominational, co-educational and serves children from early learning through 12th grade. The school is known for an exceptional faculty; proven performance in personalized instruction; comprehensive AP, Honors and STEAM curriculum; 46 athletic teams; fine arts programs and an exceptional

college placement program.

Location: Johns Creek/North Fulton Phone: (678) 336-3400 Website: mountpisgahschool.org Accreditations/Memberships: ACSA, GHSA, GISA, NAIS, SAIS Tuition: $17,850 - $25,095 THE MOUNT VERNON SCHOOL Mount Vernon is a school of inquiry, innovation and impact.

We know students have big ideas.

When their teachers cultivate curiosities and passions, the possibilities are limitless. As a co-educational day school for more than 1,250 students in preschool through grade 12, Mount Vernon is a destination for students who want to design a better world.

The school sets the conditions

for learners at all ages to excel by creating and providing access to real-world applications through design thinking and routine access to subject matter experts, many from Fortune 100 companies. Students have achieved some of the highest academic honors, receiving recognition through scholarships and awards, including National Merit, Morehead-Cain, QuestBridge, Stamps, Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship, Jefferson Scholarship and the Robertson Scholarship. Mount Vernon students have been accepted to some of the most prestigious colleges and universities in the United States, including Harvard, Stanford, Yale, Brown, Cornell, Columbia, Dartmouth, UPenn, Duke, US Naval Academy, USC, NYU, UNC Chapel Hill, University of Virginia and many more.

Inspire each mind and fire each heart.

At Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School, we have created a unique, vibrant learning community filled with encouragement and every imaginable opportunity for our students to explore their talents, pursue their passions and achieve their full potential.

Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School - PK3 - 12 - hies.org - 805 Mount Vernon Highway, NW - Atlanta, GA 30327

72 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

Springmont School Location: Sandy Springs

NAEYC, SAIS, Cognia

Phone:: (404) 252-3448

Tuition: Visit website for pricing information

Website: mountvernonschool.org Accreditations/Memberships:

NORTH COBB CHRISTIAN SCHOOL Whether it’s through robotics or mountain biking, on a stage or on a pitcher’s mound, students at North Cobb Christian School are challenged to discover their God-given gifts and callings. Through small class sizes (10:1), over 50 athletic teams, 16 performing arts ensembles, five Academy magnet programs, the RISE gifted program, the Moving Forward Program for academic support, dozens of AP/ Honors/Dual Enrollment opportunities and foreign language at every grade level, NCCS students in preschool K3 through 12th grade soar. Daily Bible class, annual retreats, weekly chapel, mentor programs and global spring term trips further expand student horizons while firmly planting their identity

86%

80%

11 million

of students earned an average of 24 Dual Enrollment Credit Hours

received scholarship offers

in scholarships excluding Zell Miller, HOPE, and GTEG

CLASS OF 2023 STATS 80

193

16

Graduates

acceptances to colleges and universities

Honors College Acceptances

TOP 10 RANKED CHRISTIAN SCHOOL IN GEORGIA

Scan the QR Code to Visit or Learn More PK3-12 | Fairburn, GA

FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 73

CURIOSITY SPARKED.

NO LIMITS.

METRO ATLANTA’S PRIVATE SCHOOLS

in Christ. It’s no surprise that NCCS feels like family—because it is. And in today’s world, that truly matters.

Location: Kennesaw Phone: (770) 975-0252 Website: ncchristian.org Accreditations/Memberships: Cognia, ACSI, GHSA, Metro10, SETC, ASCA Tuition: See website

Now enrolling Preschool- 8th grade

ATLANTAACADEMY.COM | ROSWELL, GA serving the communities of Roswell, Dunwoody, Alpharetta, Sandy Springs and more

18 MONTHS – 8TH GRADE

Springmont’s authentic Montessori experience balances academic learning with social/ emotional well-being.

Highly experienced and caring teachers guide individualized learning that inspires students to become creative, independent and globally-minded.

EXTRAORDINARY

BY DESIGN. Tours by Appointment.

404.252.3910

www.springmont.com 74 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

PACE ACADEMY In 1958, an interfaith group of community leaders envisioned an inclusive learning environment open to fresh ideas and founded Pace Academy. Today, Pace serves 1,150 students in pre-first through 12th grade. Pace develops children’s passions and strengths through academics, athletics and the arts while providing global perspectives inside and outside the classroom.

Location: Atlanta Phone: (404) 262-1345 Website: paceacademy.org Accreditations/Memberships: AdvancED/SACS, ACCIS, College Board, Cum Laude Society, Educational Records Bureau, NACAC, NAIS, SAIS, Global Education Benchmark Group (GEBG) Tuition: $31,970 - $36,800 PAIDEIA SCHOOL Paideia, a school of just over 1,000 children ages 3 through grade 12, is located near Emory University in Atlanta. In addition to advocating intellectual, civic, artistic and physical development, the school seeks to cultivate the development of a child’s ethical self. Paideia strives for racial, cultural and economic diversity and works hard to be a

Mount Paran Christian School place that embraces families from all backgrounds.

Website: paideiaschool.org

Location: Atlanta

Accreditations/Memberships: COGNIA, NAIS, SAIS, AAAIS, EMA

Phone: (404) 270-2312

Tuition: $13,143 - $30,378

SAINT FRANCIS SCHOOLS Saint Francis Schools is an independent, fully accredited school with no religious affiliation, providing an exceptional college preparatory program since 1976. Two campuses are available: grades K through 8 in Roswell and grades 9 through 12 in Milton. The school’s commitment to small class sizes, low pupil-to-teacher ratio and a strong emphasis on structure and organization allow students to enjoy academic success and develop the self-confidence to be successful in college. Curriculum offerings include AP, Honors, traditional, support classes and specialized reading programs, including the Wilson Reading System®. A full sports program is offered in grades 5 through 12, including

THE JOY OF LEARNING aischool.org

2023_AISAd_KNOWAtlanta_2023EducationGuide_7.25x4.875_AUGUST.indd 1

@aischool

8/24/23 11:02 AM

FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 75

METRO ATLANTA’S PRIVATE SCHOOLS

football and equestrian.

Location: Roswell / Milton Phone: (770) 641-8257; (678) 339-9989 Website: saintfrancisschools.com Accreditations/Memberships: Cognia accredited (AdvancED, SAIS / SACS) Tuition: $16,500 - $27,000 SPRINGMONT SCHOOL Springmont School delivers an authentic Montessori learning experience to students 18 months through eighth grade. Individualized hands-on lessons and activities are designed to inspire students to become creative, independent thinkers and lifelong learners. Highly experienced and caring teachers offer opportunities for independent study and collaboration, and social/emotional development is interwoven with robust academics, art, music, PE, Spanish and outdoor science instruction.

Diversity, equity and inclusivity are at the heart of our core values and are evident in our strong, supportive school community. Recognized

by AMI and accredited by Cognia/ SAIS, Springmont meets the highest standards for independent schools.

Springmont graduates are confident, collaborative, engaged learners prepared for success in Atlanta’s premier high schools, as well as life beyond academics. Springmont— Extraordinary by Design.

Beyond high school readiness, our rich and rigorous program inspires students to be positive change makers and lifelong learners.

Location: Atlanta

Join us for our Open House

Phone: (404) 252-3910

Sunday, December 3, 2023 2-4 p.m.

Website: springmont.com

Visit our website to register. Individual tours by appointment.

Age 3 through Eighth Grade | Roswell, GA 770.993.2940 | www.highmeadows.org An International Baccalaureate® School

76 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

&

Accreditations/Memberships: AAAIS, AMI, Cognia/SAIS, GISA, NAIS, SAIS Tuition: $12,475 - $27,000

Location: Atlanta Phone: (404) 231-8100 Website: trinityatl.org Accreditations/Memberships: Cognia/SACS, NAIS, SAIS, AAAIS, GISA, The Enrollment Management Association Tuition: $20,750 - $31,750

Atlanta Girls’ School TRINITY SCHOOL Atlanta’s only private elementary-only school, Trinity School is known for its inspiring academics, amazing arts program, state-of-the-

art indoor and outdoor learning spaces and community that cares like no other. Everything Trinity does is designed to help children age 3 through sixth grade flourish.

THE WALKER SCHOOL The Walker School is metro Atlanta’s top Pre-K3 through grade 12 school open to all faiths. We provide a safe atmosphere for students to discover who they are and how to successfully navigate an ever-changing world. At Walker, you are challenged, supported and engaged. Most of all, you are known.

You belong here!

Location: Marietta

FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 77

METRO ATLANTA’S PRIVATE SCHOOLS

Phone: (770) 427-2689 Website: thewalkerschool.org

EDUCATION

Accreditations/Memberships: AdvancED/SACS, SAIS Tuition: $12,710 - $29,210 WESTMINSTER Westminster is a co-educational Christian independent day school that seeks to serve students who are bright, motivated, curious and nurtured by challenge in an environment that develops leaders of conscience who will be a positive force in the world. The school was founded in 1951 and guided by a mission to prepare students for college and life. With a current enrollment of approximately

The Alfred & Adele Davis Academy 1,890 students in grades pre-first through 12, Westminster fulfills its mission through a dynamic collaborative, interdisciplinary and experiential curriculum that engag-

es children across the key dimensions of their growth—academic, physical and spiritual.

Location: Atlanta Phone: (404) 355-8673 Website: westminster.net Accreditations/Memberships: SAIS, NAIS, GISA, WLSA, NACAC, SACAC Tuition: $31,650 - $36,289 WHITEFIELD ACADEMY Located in Smyrna, Whitefield Academy is a Christ-centered college preparatory school serving more than 950 students in Pre-K4 through grade 12. Whitefield seeks to serve families looking for academic excellence augmented by authentic relationships with Christ and each other. The rigorous college prep curriculum with numerous AP and honors courses sets the framework for 100 percent of graduates to attend colleges and universities of their choice. A full range of athletic programs, visual and performing arts, a STEM lab and college/career planning complement the strong academic offerings

78 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

of this well-rounded school.

Location: Smyrna/Vinings Phone: (678) 305-3000 Website: whitefieldacademy.com Accreditations/Memberships: AAAIS, ACSI, AdvancED/SACS, SAIS, GISA Tuition: Contact school for pricing THE WOOD ACRES SCHOOL Established in 1969, The Wood Acres School is an independent, highly respected school for students age 2 through eighth grade.

The school is well known for its academically advanced curriculum, small class sizes, Spanish program, affordable tuition and uniquely pristine 10-acre campus. Wood Acres graduates go on to attend the best private, public and magnet high schools.

fullest potential. What does success look like? Look no further than the 25 AP classes, renowned Transition Program for students with mild learning differences, 86 student clubs, 75 yearly arts performances and 18 varsity sports. Woodward’s Global Connections Program offers extensive international study abroad programs, and its innovative STEAM programs are woven into the curriculum—from coding for kindergarteners to the Independent Scientific Research program, which pairs juniors and seniors with university professors to work on real-world problems.

Accreditations/Memberships: AdvancED/SACS, CEEB, GISA, NAIS, NACAC, SACAC, SAIS Tuition: $20,600 - $32,400.

n

Location: Main Campus: College Park; Woodward North: Johns Creek Phone: (404) 765-4001

Location: Marietta Phone: (770) 971-1880 Website: woodacresschool.org Accreditations/Memberships: GAC Tuition: $5,200 - $14,300 WOODWARD ACADEMY With 2,568 students across two campuses spanning 133-acres, complemented by the intimacy of a 7:1 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 we call The Woodward Way. Woodward challenges its students to explore new academic frontiers and reach their

CATHOLIC | CLASSICAL | COMPLETE

Preschool - 12th Grade

Schedule a tour today holyspiritprep.org | 678.761.7992

FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 79

FORSYTH

TOW

KNOWATLANTA Canton GUIDE TO METRO ATLANTA PRIVATE SCHOOLS Cumming

HAL

ersville

Woodstock Acworth 19 Kennesaw

16

COBB

26

ULDING

Smyrna

28 Mableton

Austell

Roswell

6

29

Marietta

Dallas Powder Springs

Alpharetta 23 400

9 8

Buford

15

Sandy Springs

22

2

31

17

GWINNETT

Duluth

1 Dunwoody Doraville

18 10 24 Chamblee 20 11 25 14 7 3 4 5 27 12 21

Atlanta

Suwanee

316

Norcross

Dacula Lawrenceville

Lilburn

Tucker

Snellville

Stone Mountain

Loganville

DEKALB

Decatur

Douglasville

Lithonia

DOUGLAS

East Point

30

ROCKDALE Conyers

Hapeville

College Park Forest Park

FULTON Union City Fairburn

Morrow

13

CLAYTON Jonesboro

FAYETTE

Stockbridge

HENRY

1. The Alfred & Adele Davis Fayetteville11. Holy Spirit Preparatory School COWETA

Newnan

Academy 12. The Howard School 2. Atlanta Academy 13. Landmark Christian School 3. Atlanta Girl’s School Peachtree City14. The Lovett School 4. Atlanta International School 15. Mill Springs Academy 5. Atlanta Speech School 16. Mount Paran Christian School 6. The Cottage School 17. Mount Pisgah Christian School 7. The Galloway School 18. The Mount Vernon School 8. GRACEPOINT School 19. North Cobb Christian School 9. High Meadows School 20. Pace Academy 10. Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School 21. The Paideia School 80 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

22. Saint Francis School McDonough 23. Saint Francis High School 24. Springmont School 25. Trinity School 26. The Walker School 27. Westminster 28. Whitefield Academy 29. The Wood Acres School 30. Woodward Academy Main Campus 31. Woodward Academy North Campus

NEWTON

LIFE UNIV AD

EDUCATION

The Guide to Colleges in Metro Atlanta

By Lindsay Field Penticuff

W

ith more than 50 colleges and

for careers and graduate study across all

terry.uga.edu

universities—both private and

kinds of engineering and ranks fourth in

UGA’s Terry College of Business, named

public—located right here in metro

the 2023 America’s Best Colleges edition

in honor of alumnus Herman Terry and

of U.S. News & World Report.

his wife, Mary Virginia, is ranked nation-

Atlanta, there’s bound to be a program that matches any local resident’s desire

ally among the top 15 business schools.

to further their education. From one of

Business

the country’s top engineering schools to

Kennesaw State University

the university opened its Buckhead loca-

a world-renowned chiropractic program,

Kennesaw Campus:

tion as a convenience to residents across

an esteemed research institution and

1000 Chastain Road

metro Atlanta.

highly credentialed colleges of business,

Kennesaw, GA 30144

there’s sure to be an institution that meets

Marietta Campus:

Reinhard University

the higher educational needs you may be

1100 South Marietta Parkway

7300 Reinhardt Circle

searching for.

Marietta, GA 30060

Waleska, GA 30183

(470) 578-6000

(770) 720-5600

top-ranked universities and colleges

kennesaw.edu

reinhardt.edu

located throughout the area. While these

Ranked No. 1 in Georgia and No. 3

U.S. News & World Report has ranked

centers of higher learning each offer a

in North America by CEO Magazine

Reinhardt—a private institution estab-

comprehensive educational experience

(2023), the Executive Master of Business

lished in 1883—among the top universi-

and a wide range of majors and areas of

Administration Program is the only true

ties and colleges in the 2022-23 edition

studies, they are listed by their areas of

weekend program in metro Atlanta, with

of the Best Regional Colleges South

specialization.

classes held approximately one weekend

rankings. It is also a top-ranked school

a month. The 19-month program teaches

for its participation in federal initiatives

Here is a glimpse at just a few of the

Engineering

As the first business school in the South,

leadership and business acumen and digs

that help veterans and active-duty service

Georgia Institute of Technology

deep to uncover each student’s strengths,

members pay for their degrees.

North Avenue

goals and personal brand.

Atlanta, GA 30332

Research

(404) 894-2000

University of Georgia–Terry College of

Emory University

gatech.edu

Business

201 Dowman Drive

Founded in 1885, Georgia Tech’s mission

Terry Executive Education Center

Atlanta, GA 30322

is to “develop leaders who advance tech-

Live Oak Square

(404) 727-6123

nology and improve the human condi-

3475 Lenox Road NE, Suite 300

emory.edu

tion.” With 11 undergraduate majors, the

Atlanta, GA 30326

Emory continues to be ranked among

College of Engineering readies students

(404) 842-4825

the nation’s top universities for research

82 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

funding from the National Institutes of

ni are noted in their fields for excellence

(404) 471-6000

Health (NIH). Winship Cancer Institute

in teaching, research and public policy.

agnesscott.edu

scientists also contribute significantly to the

Ranked as the No. 1 Most Innovative

NIH research funding totals, and Emory’s

Liberal Arts

National Primate Research Center has

Oglethorpe University

News & World Report, Agnes Scott

one of the largest research funding bases

4484 Peachtree Road NE

College is frequently recognized as one of

of the nation’s seven NIH-supported

Atlanta, GA 30319

the nation’s premier liberal arts colleges.

national primate research centers.

(404) 261-1441

Its innovative SUMMIT experience, cut-

National Liberal Arts College by U.S.

oglethorpe.edu

ting-edge graduate programs, exceptional

Georgia State University

Oglethorpe is ranked nationally as one

faculty and dynamic campus community

Atlanta, GA 30302

of the best liberal arts colleges in the

continue to attract attention.

(404) 413-2000

country, according to U.S. News & World

gsu.edu

Report. It’s been recognized nationally

Film Production

One of the University System of Georgia’s

for its commitment to affordability, its di-

Clayton State University

four research universities, Georgia State

verse student population and the quality

2000 Clayton State Blvd.

is home to world-class research facilities,

of its academic programs.

Morrow, GA 30260

including one of a few biosafety Level

(678) 466-4000

4 labs in a university setting, as well as

Georgia Gwinnett College

clayton.edu

dozens of collaborative research centers

1000 University Center Lane

Clayton State University offers a Bachelor

and numerous institutes focused on disci-

Lawrenceville, GA 30043

of Arts degree in film production that

plines that range from neuroimaging to

(678) 407-5000

emphasizes post-production and helps

data science and health policy.

ggc.edu

prepare students for careers in the film

Opened in 2006 as the first four-year

industry. Throughout the four-year

college founded in Georgia in more than

program, students are introduced to the

Life University

100 years, as well as the first four-year

entire filmmaking process, including

1269 Barclay Circle

public college created in the U.S. in the

storyboarding, directing for the stage,

Marietta, GA 30060

21st century, Georgia Gwinnett College

screenwriting, motion graphics and

(770) 426-2600

has topped the ethnically diverse South-

visual effects.

life.edu

ern regional college list for nine consec-

Originally established in 1975, Life

utive years in U.S. News & World Report

Technical

University’s Doctor of Chiropractic

rankings.

Gwinnett Technical College

Chiropractic

(DC) program is a rigorous 14-quarter

Lawrenceville Campus:

course of study that combines hands-on

Spelman College

5150 Sugarloaf Parkway

training and academics and helps develop

350 Spelman Lane SW

Lawrenceville, GA 30043

students into highly skilled chiropractic

Atlanta, GA 30314

(770) 962-7580

healthcare clinicians.

(404) 681-3643

Alpharetta-North Fulton Campus:

spelman.edu

2875 Old Milton Parkway

Opened in 1881, Spelman College is ranked

Alpharetta, GA 30009

Morehouse School of Medicine

No. 1 on U.S. News & World Report’s list

(470) 282-5400

720 Westview Drive SW

for Historically Black Colleges and Uni-

gwinnetttech.edu

Atlanta, GA 30310

versities. It is also the oldest historically

With more than 140 programs—associate

(404) 752-1500

Black college for women in America. In

degree, diploma and certificate options—

msm.edu

the 2022-23 edition of Best Colleges in

Gwinnett Tech allows students to focus

Founded in 1975, Morehouse School of

National Liberal Arts Colleges, Spelman

on real-world education for real-world

Medicine is among the nation’s leading

is ranked No. 51.

jobs. The school’s technical degrees

Medical

institutions of primary care physicians. It

include programs like air conditioning

was recently recognized as the top insti-

Agnes Scott College

technology, automotive technology, draft-

tution among U.S. medical schools for its

141 E College Ave.

ing technology, accounting technology

social mission, and the faculty and alum-

Decatur, GA 30330

and business technology.

n

FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 83

LUMPKIN PICKENS

METRO ATLANTA’S COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES DAWSON 18

CHEROKEE

3 23

FORSYTH

Gainesville

Canton

BARTOW

Cumming

HALL

Cartersville Buford Woodstock Acworth

JACKS

Alpharetta

14

Suwanee

400

GWINNETT

Roswell

Kennesaw

9

Duluth 4 Dallas

PAULDING

Marietta

COBB Powder Springs

Sandy Springs

15

Buckhead

19 22

8

Atlanta

Mableton 17

Douglasville

5

10

20

21 12

7

16 Tucker

1

316

Dacula Lawrenceville

East Point

Lilburn

WALTON

Snellville

Stone Mountain

Loganville

DEKALB

Monroe

Decatur 11

2

DOUGLAS

Norcross

BARROW

Chamblee

Smyrna

Austell

Dunwoody Doraville

13

Lithonia

ROCKDALE Conyers

Hapeville

College Park

FULTON

Forest Park

Union City

Morrow

6

NEWTON

Fairburn

COWETA

FAYETTE

CLAYTON

Stockbridge

Jonesboro

HENRY

Fayetteville

McDonough

Peachtree City Newnan1. Agnes Scott College

9. Georgia Gwinnett College

17. Morehouse College

2. Atlanta Technical College

10. Georgia Institute of Technology

18. Reinhardt University

3. Brenau University

11. Georgia Piedmont Technical College

19. Oglethorpe University

4. Chattahoochee Technical College

12. Georgia State University

20. Savannah College of Art & Design

5. Clark Atlanta University

13. Gwinnett Technical College

21. Spelman College

6. Clayton State University

14. Kennesaw State University

22. UGA Terry College of Business

7. DeVry University

15. Life University

23. University of North Georgia

8. Emory University

16. Mercer University

84 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

GET TO KNOW METRO ATLANTA’S COUNTIES The Counties of Metro Atlanta

Fannin

According to the Atlanta Regional Commission, the 20-county Atlanta

a dozen of the most sought-after counties in metro Atlanta. You’ll learn

Union

Whitfield

region will be home to more than eight million people by the year 2040.

Murray

about each county’s proximity to the city of Atlanta, basic facts, the major

The counties that comprise the area are as distinctive as the people who live

cities and neighborhoods, school information and more. Consider it your

Walker within them, as each one has its own personality, features andGilmer resources.

primer for getting to know Atlanta and its beautiful communities. When

In the pages that follow, KNOWAtlanta will introduce you to more than

you relocate, all of the information you need is right here at your fingertips.

Habersham

White

Lumpkin

Chattooga

Stephens

Gordon

Pickens Dawson

Lake Sydney Lanier

Banks

Floyd

Forsyth Bartow

Franklin

Hall

Cherokee

CARTERSVILLE FLOWERY BRANCH

Allatoona Lake

WOODSTOCK

Fulton

BRASELTON JOHNS CREEK

SUWANEE

ROSWELL

KENNESAW

Polk

Cobb

DULUTH

SANDY SPRINGS DORAVILLE CHAMBLEE BROOKHAVEN

SMYRNA

Haralson

Barrow

Oconee

LILBURN

Atlanta

Walton

DeKalb Douglas Fulton

Carroll

EAST POINT

UNION CITY

Greene FOREST PARK

Clayton

Rockdale STOCKBRIDGE

Heard

Morgan Newton

Henry

Fayette Coweta

Clarke

Gwinnett

DUNWOODY NORCROSS

Paulding

Jackson

ALPHARETTA

PEACHTREE CITY

Jasper Spalding

Putnam

Butts

METRO ATLANTA HIGHWAYS Interstate 75 I-75 runs northwest to southeast straight through the City of Atlanta.

Interstate 20 I-20 is a major artery running east to west through the City of Atlanta.

Interstate 85 I-85 runs northeast to southwest and converges with I-75 to form the Downtown Connector.

Interstate 285 Known as “The Perimeter,” this interstate loop encircles Atlanta and connects I-75, I-85 and I-20 to the city.

Georgia State Route 400 GA 400 runs north to south through the north-central suburbs of Atlanta and is concurrent with U.S. Route 19.

Interstate 575 I-575 is a 30-mile spur route that branches off of I-75 and traverses the northwestern suburbs.

Interstate 675 This auxiliary highway runs through the southeast part of metro Atlanta connecting Stockbridge to I-285.

FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 85

Bartow County CITIES OF BARTOW:

EDUCATION: PUBLIC SCHOOLS Bartow County Schools bartow.k12.ga.us

Adairsville

Bartow

White

Cartersville City Schools cartersvilleschools.org

Kingston

Atlanta

Euharlee Taylorsville

Distance from Cartersville to Downtown Atlanta 43 Miles Distance from Cartersville to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 53 Miles POPULATION 110,843 MEDIAN HOME PRICE $334,000 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7% ONLINE bartowga.org Bartow County features the best parts of big city life and small-town living with Civil War and Native American sites, excellent dining experiences, a business-friendly economy, unmatched arts, shopping and excellent educational opportunities.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • Shaw Industries, Inc. • Toyo Tire North America • Cartersville Medical Center • Voestalpine Automotive Components • Anheuser-Busch

ATTRACTIONS: • Red Top Mountain State Park • Tellus Science Museum • Booth Western Art Museum • LakePoint Sports Complex • Barnsley Resort

Booth Western Art Museum 86 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

PRIVATE SCHOOLS Turn to page 80 for the independent schools listing and a map.

Cartersville Emerson

Adairsville adairsvillega.net Recognized as one of the safest cities in Georgia, Adairsville was the first town in Georgia to be placed on the National Register of Historic Places in its entirety.

Cartersville cityofcartersville.org Offering access to an array of North Georgia’s natural wonders and a beautiful historic downtown, Cartersville blends the best of yesterday and today.

Emerson cityofemerson.org This growing city is quickly becoming one of the nation’s hot spots for youth travel sports thanks to the LakePoint Sports Complex, which spans 1,300 acres.

Euharlee euharlee.com Euharlee is a small town located just west of Cartersville and home to the Euharlee Covered Bridge, the oldest covered bridge in Georgia.

Kingston cityofkingstonga.org Kingston is a city steeped in Antebellum history and keeps it alive through a variety of artifacts and photographs in two museums.

Taylorsville Taylorsville is home to Plant Bowen, a coalfired power station that has the second largest generating capacity of any coal-fired power plant in North America.

White cityofwhitega.com A bedroom community of neighboring Cartersville, White covers one square mile of land—referred to as “The Friendliest Mile in Georgia.”

Red Top Mountain State Park

To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.

UTILITIES: NATURAL GAS SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity xfinity.com AT&T att.com ELECTRICITY Georgia Power georgiapower.com Cartersville Electric System cityofcartersville.org Cobb EMC cobbemc.com Greystone Power Corporation greystonepower.com WATER City of Cartersville cityofcartersville.org Bartow County bartowga.org

H Select provider

Downtown Cartersville

Cherokee County CITIES OF CHEROKEE : Waleska

Cherokee

Ball Ground

Canton

Atlanta

Holly Springs Woodstock

Distance from Canton to Downtown Atlanta 40 Miles Distance from Canton to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 50 Miles POPULATION: 274,615 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $475,000 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 6% ONLINE cherokeega.com Dubbed the place “Where Metro Meets the Mountains,” Cherokee County benefits from its status as a region that’s business savvy, environmentally alluring and undergoing tremendous growth.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • Northside Hospital Cherokee • Inalfa Roof Systems • Pilgrim’s Pride • Chart Industries, Inc. • Piolax Corporation

ATTRACTIONS: • Lake Allatoona • Dixie Speedway • Gibbs Gardens • The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta • Cherokee Arts Center • Chukkar Farm Polo Club

Gibbs Gardens

Ball Ground cityofballground.com Ball Ground is a beautiful city in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains that’s home to quaint shops, eateries and a mix of residential options.

Canton cantonga.gov The county seat of Cherokee, Canton offers the perfect blend of historic charm and progressive opportunity, with a revitalized downtown that features a museum, arts center, heritage center and theater.

Holly Springs hollyspringsga.us Recognized as one of the best places to raise a family in Georgia, Holly Springs is a beloved community that also was named the number three city for new families in the U.S. by Pennygeeks.com.

Nelson nelsongeorgia.com Located in both Cherokee and Pickens counties, Nelson was established in 1891 and is the “First Georgia Marble City.”

Waleska cityofwaleska.com Home to Reinhardt University, Waleska is a small community alive with industry, including the lumber and agriculture businesses.

Woodstock woodstockga.gov Once a farming village, Woodstock has transformed into a bustling and diverse community with a revitalized downtown, a worldclass trail system and excellent shopping and dining options.

EDUCATION: PUBLIC SCHOOLS Cherokee County Schools cherokee.k12.ga.us

Canton

PRIVATE SCHOOLS Turn to page 80 for the independent schools listing and a map.

Lyndon Academy lyndonacademy.org To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.

MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES Reinhardt University reinhardt.edu

UTILITIES: NATURAL GAS SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity xfinity.com AT&T att.com Windstream windstream.com ETC Communications etcnow.com Nelson-Ball Ground Telephone (770) 735-2000 ELECTRICITY Georgia Power georgiapower.com Amicalola EMC amicalolaemc.com Cobb EMC cobbemc.com Sawnee EMC sawnee.com WATER Cherokee County Water Authority ccwsa.com City of Ball Ground Cityofballground.com City of Canton canton-georgia.com City of Holly Springs hollyspringsga.us City of Waleska cityofwaleska.com City of Woodstock woodstockga.gov

H Select provider

Woodstock FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 87

Clayton County • Atlanta State Farmers Market • Georgia Archives

CITIES OF CLAYTON: Forest Park

Atlanta

Lake City Morrow Riverdale Jonesboro

Clayton

Distance from Jonesboro to Downtown Atlanta 18 Miles Distance from Jonesboro to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 15 Miles POPULATION: 297,100 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $259,900 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 8% ONLINE claytoncountyga.gov Located 30 minutes south of Atlanta, Clayton County offers easy access to Interstates 75, 85, 285 and 675, along with rail service from Norfolk Southern and CSX and HartsfieldJackson Atlanta International Airport. It is the only county in the Atlanta area to be classified as a Foreign Trade Zone.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • Clayton Co. Public Schools • Clayton Co. Board of Commissioners • Southern Regional Medical Center • Chime Solutions • Fresh Express

ATTRACTIONS: • Porsche Cars North American Experience Center • Road to Tara Museum • Clayton County Performing Arts Center • T he Beach at Clayton County International Park

Lake City 88 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

Lovejoy

Forest Park forestparkga.gov Forest Park was originally founded by farming families with an influx of railroad employees, but today is home to more than 20,000 people and has become a viable center for commerce.

Jonesboro jonesboroga.com The county seat of Clayton, Jonesboro is known as the official “home” of Margaret Mitchell’s “Gone With the Wind” and maintains its historic atmosphere with stately homes and beautiful landscapes.

Lake City lakecityga.net Lake City’s pride and joy is the Lake City Community Center, a nearly 5,000-squarefoot multi-use facility designed for weddings, birthday parties, reunions and city meetings.

Lovejoy cityoflovejoy.com Lovejoy, known as “The City of Peace,” is growing rapidly but strives to maintain the small-town community atmosphere that continues to attract residents and businesses.

Morrow cityofmorrow.com Morrow is home to Clayton State University, the Southeast Region Branch of the U.S. Archives, the Georgia Archives, Reynolds Nature Preserve and Spivey Hall, a stunning performance center.

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport

Riverdale riverdalega.gov Riverdale is located only about five miles south of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and serves more than 14,000 residents, deeming it the second largest city in the county.

EDUCATION: PUBLIC SCHOOLS Clayton County Schools clayton.k12.ga.us PRIVATE SCHOOLS Turn to page 80 for the independent schools listing and a map.

To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.

MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES Clayton State University clayton.edu

UTILITIES: NATURAL GAS SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity xfinity.com AT&T att.com ELECTRICITY Georgia Power Company georgiapower.com Central GA EMC cgemc.com WATER Clayton County Water Authority ccwa.us

H Select provider

Porshe Experience Center

Cobb County ATTRACTIONS:

Cobb

Atlanta

• Truist Park/The Battery Atlanta • Six Flags Over Georgia/White Water • Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park • Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History • Silver Comet Trail • Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area

CITIES OF COBB: Acworth Kennesaw

Marietta

Distance from Marietta to Downtown Atlanta 20 Miles Distance from Marietta to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 30 Miles POPULATION 766,802 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $434,900 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 6% ONLINE cobbcounty.org Long regarded as one of the best places to live in metro Atlanta, Cobb County captures the best of all worlds with growing businesses, neighborhoods and more just beyond the I-285 Perimeter. It provides easy access to recreation and entertainment opportunities, as well as a thriving commercial center.

Power Springs

Smyrna

Austell

Powder Springs cityofpowdersprings.org The town motto, “Small enough to know you, large enough to serve you,” speaks volumes about Powder Springs. Once a gold mining town, the city now boasts several parks, as well as a museum that chronicles its rich history.

Smyrna smyrnaga.gov One of the fastest-growing cities in metro Atlanta, the “Jonquil City” is home to a wealth of family-friendly neighborhoods, upscale dining establishments, pristine public parks and a vibrant Village Green.

NEIGHBORHOODS OF COBB: Cumberland Situated 10 miles northwest of downtown Atlanta, this unincorporated community serves as the region’s fifth largest business district and is home to the Atlanta Braves’ Truist Park.

Mableton At more than 20 square miles, Mableton is the largest unincorporated community in the metro area, as well as the hometown of former Georgia Governor Roy Barnes.

Acworth acworth.org Known as “The Lake City,” Acworth makes good use of its prime location on the banks of Lake Acworth with a full calendar of events centered around the water.

Vinings Unincorporated Vinings has become a go-to spot for a city-meets-the-suburbs experience, with upscale boutiques, exceptional restaurants and the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre.

EDUCATION:

MAJOR EMPLOYERS:

Austell austellga.gov Although it’s located just 18 miles from Downtown Atlanta, Austell’s revitalized downtown and population of just over 7,000 still give it a small-town feel.

• Wellstar Health System • The Home Depot • Kennesaw State University • Lockheed Martin Corp.

• Publix Super Markets

Kennesaw kennesaw-ga.gov Kennesaw is a bustling business center in Cobb County known as a great place to raise a family, while also being home to more than 5,000 companies and Kennesaw State University.

Marietta mariettaga.gov Historic Marietta Square serves as the city center for this vibrant and ever-growing community, boasting quaint shops, delectable eateries, numerous museums, green space and more.

Truist Park- Home of the Atlanta Braves

PUBLIC SCHOOLS Cobb County Schools cobb.k12.org Marietta City Schools marietta-city.org PRIVATE SCHOOLS Turn to page 80 for the independent schools listing and a map.

GRACEPOINT School gracepointschool.org Mount Paran Christian School mtparanschool.org North Cobb Christian School ncchrisitan.org The Walker School thewalkerschool.org

Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 89

Cobb County UTILITIES:

Whitefield Academy whitefieldacademy.com The Wood Acres School woodacresschool.org

NATURAL GAS SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H

To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.

MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES Chattahoochee Technical College chattahoocheetech.edu Kennesaw State University kennesaw.edu Life University life.edu

Marietta

ELECTRICITY Georgia Power georgiapower.com Acworth Power acworth.org Cobb EMC cobbemc.com

PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET

GreyStone Power Corp. greystonepower.com

Xfinity/Comcast xfinity.com

Marietta Power mariettaga.gov

AT&T att.com Spectrum spectrum.com

WATER Cobb County Water System cobbcounty.org Marietta Water marietta.gov

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Vinings

Let KNOWAtlanta Help You with Your Move.

Vir tual Welcom Packag e e

KNOWAtlanta.com/publications 90 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

DeKalb County • State Farm • AT&T Services, Inc.

ATTRACTIONS: Atlanta DeKalb

• Stone Mountain Park • Fernbank Museum • DeKalb Farmers Market • Callanwolde Fine Arts Center • Eddie’s Attic • Arabi Mountain

CITIES OF DEKALB: Dunwoody

Distance from Decatur to Downtown Atlanta 7 Miles Distance from Decatur to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 17 Miles POPULATION: 757,718 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $395,000 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 6% ONLINE dekalbcountyga.gov Access to suburban settings, a fast-paced city lifestyle, hip locales and one of the region’s most diverse populations makes DeKalb County a popular option for young professionals, students and established business executives.

More than half of the Fortune 500 companies with a presence in Atlanta also have operations in DeKalb.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta • Emory Healthcare, Inc. • United Parcel Service

Fernbank Museum

Doraville Chamblee Brookhaven Tucker Clarkston Decatur

Stone Mountain

Pine Lake Avondale Estates

Chamblee chambleega.com Chamblee is a vibrant city with a diverse community and plenty of international flair, with the Southeast’s only Chinatown and the Chamblee Motor Mile, a large antique district.

Clarkston clarkstonga.gov Clarkston, known as a welcoming walking and biking community, is noted for its diversity, having been named “The Most Diverse Square Mile in America” by Time Magazine.

Decatur decaturga.com Decatur Square is a hub for “indie” boutiques and galleries, as well as trendy restaurants and pubs that attract foodies for some of the best culinary experiences in metro Atlanta.

Doraville doravillega.us With one of the largest concentrations of midcentury modern homes in metro Atlanta and located where interstates 285 and 85 meet, the city of Doraville is convenient for Atlanta commuters.

Dunwoody dunwoodyga.gov Dunwoody is a bona fine shopping, dining and cultural hotspot in metro Atlanta, making it a

Lithonia

Stonecrest

Avondale Estates avondaleestates.org Known for its close-knit community, beautiful setting and diverse architectural styles, Avondale Estates has a large number of local businesses operated from homes and shops in the commercial district.

Brookhaven brookhavenga.gov The urban town center of Brookhaven on Dresden Drive features many mixed-use developments and is bordered by residential neighborhoods.

Decatur

Avondale Estates FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 91

DeKalb County popular travel destination for both business and leisure.

Lithonia lithoniacity.org Made up of less than one square mile, Lithonia includes some of the most affluent neighborhoods in DeKalb County.

Pine Lake pinelakega.sophicity.com Pine Lake, the smallest city in DeKalb, is a community close to nature, where residents treasure and work diligently to protect the environment.

Stonecrest stonecrestga.gov Stonecrest is the first majority-black city to form from the cityhood movement in DeKalb County, achieving its official status in 2017.

Stone Mountain stonemountaincity.org Nestled on the west side of Stone Mountain Park, the City of Stone Mountain is known as a family-friendly place to visit and live.

Tucker tuckerga.gov One of the largest and oldest unincorporated communities in Georgia, Tucker welcomes visitors year-round to its revitalized Main Street for outdoor events, activities and more.

NEIGHBORHOODS OF DEKALB: Candler Park candlerpark.org Candler Park is an area that hosts fancifully painted houses with yards, quirky shops and restaurants.

Druid Hills druidhills.org Druid Hills is a beautiful urban neighborhood that is often referred to as Atlanta’s “second suburb” and boasts four National Register of Historic Places districts.

East Atlanta The charm of East Atlanta is its ability to be eclectic and edgy, while also comfortably suburban.

Edgewood edgewoodatl.org Edgewood’s unique housing, booming retail and entertainment sectors and diverse residents contribute to its vibrancy.

Kirkwood historickirkwood.org Kirkwood is home to an array of quirky, locally owned shops, galleries, unique restaurants and more, as well as the Kirkwood Historic District.

EDUCATION: PUBLIC SCHOOLS DeKalb County Schools dekalbschoolsga.org City Schools of Decatur csdecatur.net PRIVATE SCHOOLS Turn to page 80 for the independent schools listing and a map.

Annunciation Day School annunciationdayschool.org To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.

MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES Agnes Scott College agnesscott.edu DeVry University devry.edu Emory University emory.edu

UTILITIES: NATURAL GAS SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity/Comcast xfinity.com AT&T att.com Spectrum spectrum.com ELECTRICITY Georgia Power georgiapower.com Snapping Shoals EMC ssemc.com Walton EMC waltonemc.com WATER DeKalb County Water System dekalbcountyga.gov

Emory University

Stone Mountain Park 92 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

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Concourse at Landmark Center, Dunwoody

Douglas County Atlanta Douglas

ATTRACTIONS:

EDUCATION:

• Sweetwater Creek State Park • Clinton Nature Preserve • Boundary Waters Recreational Complex • O’Neal Plaza • Ben’s Antique Mall • L&R Alpaca Haven Farm

PUBLIC SCHOOLS Douglas County Schools dcssga.org

CITIES OF DOUGLAS: Lithia Springs Villa Rica

UTILITIES:

Douglasville

NATURAL GAS SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H

Distance from Douglasville to Downtown Atlanta 27 Miles

PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity/Comcast xfinity.com AT&T att.com

Distance from Douglasville to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 23 Miles POPULATION: 145,814 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $349,900 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7% ONLINE celebrateddouglascounty.com With the lowest property taxes in the metro area and an energetic business environment to boot, Douglas County is an ideal place to work and live, and it’s located just 20 minutes from Downtown Atlanta.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • Amazon.com Services, Inc. • Walmart • Silver Line Building Products, LLC • Gordon Food Service, Inc. • Kroger

Sweetwater Creek State Park

PRIVATE SCHOOLS Turn to page 80 for the independent schools listing and a map.

To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.

Douglasville douglasvillega.gov Downtown Douglasville is listed on the National Register of Historic Places because of its rich Victorian, Romanesque and Queen Anne-style buildings and has become a destination for specialty shops and restaurants.

Lithia Springs The crown jewel of this charming unincorporated community is Sweetwater Creek State Park, which is home to the ruins of the New Manchester Manufacturing Company, a textile mill that was burned during the Civil War. Villa Rica villarica.org Villa Rica is home to the first gold strike in the United States and an historic downtown that has maintained authentic architecture, including Wick’s Tavern, the oldest commercial structure in West Georgia.

ELECTRICITY Georgia Power Company georgiapower.com GreyStone Power Corp. greystonepower.com WATER Douglasville-Douglas County Water & Sewer Authority ddcwsa.com

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Foxhall Resort FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 93

Fayette County • Line Creek Nature Area • The City Gardens of Southern Oaks • Georgia Renaissance Festival • Serenbe Farms

CITIES OF FAYETTE: Tyrone

Fayettville

Peachtree City Woolsey

Distance from Fayetteville to Downtown Atlanta 25 Miles Distance from Fayetteville to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 15 Miles POPULATION: 120,574 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $499,000 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7% ONLINE fayettecountyga.gov Fayette County combines rural beauty and urban convenience with a rich history and offers residents a variety of amenities and recreational activities, as well as the highest net worth index in the State of Georgia.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • Panasonic Automotive Systems Co. • Eaton Lighting Solutions • Hoshizaki America, Inc. • Osmose Utilities Services, Inc. • Ply Gem Industries, Inc. (Window Division)

ATTRACTIONS:

PUBLIC SCHOOLS Fayette County Schools fcboe.org PRIVATE SCHOOLS Turn to page 80 for the independent schools listing and a map.

Atlanta

Fayette

EDUCATION:

Brooks

Brooks brooksga.com Brooks is well-known for its friendly people, active churches, wholesome and casual outdoor lifestyle and pastoral wide open spaces.

Fayetteville fayetteville-ga.gov Fayetteville has been recognized as one of the best towns in Georgia for young families, according to NerdWallet.com, as well as one of the best suburbs for retirement, according to Forbes.

Peachtree City peachtree-city.org Georgia’s oldest and largest master-planned community, Peachtree City features a sprawling network of golf cart paths and family-friendly neighborhoods that are home to residents who enjoy a small-town feel near a global hub.

Tyrone tyrone.org A high priority on finding a balance between smart economic development and functional green spaces in this small town of 7,000 people.

Woolsey woolseyga.com The smallest town in Fayette County, Woolsey is primarily a residential community that offers a pastoral setting with quaint shops and small businesses.

Landmark Christian School landmarkchristianschool.org To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.

UTILITIES: NATURAL GAS SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity/Comcast xfinity.com AT&T att.com ELECTRICITY Georgia Power Company georgiapower.com Coweta-Fayette EMC utility.org WATER Fayette County Water fayettecountyga.gov/water

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• Atlanta Regional Airport • Old Fayette County Courthouse • Holliday-Dorsey-Fife Museum

Trilith Studios

Trilith 94 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

Peachtree City

Forsyth County Forsyth

Atlanta

ATTRACTIONS:

UTILITIES:

• Sawnee Mountain Preserve • Big Creek Greenway • Cumming Fairgrounds • Kinsey Family Farm • Cumming Aquatic Center and Water Park • Buford Dam

NATURAL GAS Georgia Natural Gas gng.com SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H

CITIES OF FORSYTH:

PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity xfinity.com AT&T att.com Spectrum spectrum.com ELECTRICITY Sawnee EMC sawnee.com

Cumming

Distance from Cumming to Downtown Atlanta 38 Miles Distance from Cumming to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 49 Miles POPULATION: 260,206 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $599,000 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7% ONLINE forsythco.com Forsyth County has been recognized as the 13th wealthiest county in the nation, as well as the seventh-fastest growing county nationwide by Forbes magazine, largely due to the 8,000-plus businesses in the community.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • Northside Hospital-Forsyth • Forsyth Co. School System • Koch Foods • Tyson Poultry, Inc. • Target

WATER City of Cumming Water Department cummingutilities.com Forsyth County Water forsythco.com

H Select provider Cumming cityofcumming.net Cumming, the county seat of Forsyth, became one of metro Atlanta’s most popular commuter towns upon the completion of Georgia State Route 400 and continues to experience impressive growth year after year, welcoming both new residents and businesses regularly.

EDUCATION: PUBLIC SCHOOLS Forsyth County Schools forsyth.k12.ga.us PRIVATE SCHOOLS Turn to page 80 for the independent schools listing and a map.

To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.

HALCYON

Big Creek Greenway

Cumming Fairgrounds FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 95

Fulton County CITIES OF FULTON:

Atlanta Fulton

South Fulton

Distance from Atlanta to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 10 Miles POPULATION: 1,065,334 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $450,000 COMBINES SALES TAX RATE 8.9% ONLINE fultoncountyga.gov Stretching across the heart of metro Atlanta, Fulton County is broken up into several main areas and offers an array of options for its more than one million residents. The county is home to an ever-growing economy, thriving industries, renowned universities, significant cultural opportunities and much more.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • Delta Air Lines • United Parcel Service • The Home Depot • Randstad North America • Arby’s

ATTRACTIONS: • Mercedes-Benz Stadium • The Georgia Aquarium • Atlanta Botanical Garden • Centennial Olympic Park • Zoo Atlanta • Piedmont Park • High Museum of Art • The Fox Theatre • Ponce City Market

Midtown 96 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

Atlanta atlantaga.gov As the Peach State’s capitol and county seat of Fulton, Atlanta serves as the regional, national and global headquarters for many Fortune 500 and 1000 corporations.

Alpharetta alpharetta.ga.us Named one of the best suburbs to live in Georgia by Niche.com, Alpharetta offers a full spectrum of attractions, excellent schools, sensible housing costs and growing industries.

Johns Creek johnscreekga.gov Nestled along the banks of the Chattahoochee River, Johns Creek’s beautiful landscape offers additional aesthetic appeal to an already beautiful metropolis.

Milton cityofmiltonga.us A highly affluent city, Milton strives to maintain its rural heritage while looking to the future and offering residents an exceptional quality of life.

Mountain Park mountainparkgov.com Mountain Park is an officially designated wildlife refuge that protects all wildlife, including birds, animals and reptiles — some rare.

Roswell roswellgov.com With 13 parks, many well-preserved historical sites and a ranking as the 14th safest city in Georgia, Roswell is a family-oriented community.

Sandy Springs sandyspringsga.gov Located just outside of the 285 perimeter, Sandy Springs is the second largest city in the metro Atlanta area and offers varied real estate options, competitive schools, outstanding outdoor recreation and more.

Ponce City Market

South Fulton cityofsouthfultonga.gov South Fulton elected its first mayor in March 2017 after the Georgia General Assembly voted in 2016 to approve the creation of this new city.

Chattahoochee Hills chatthillsga.us Chattahoochee Hills is home to Serenbe, an agrarian community that is close to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta International Airport and makes it the ideal place to live, work and play.

College Park collegeparkga.com Top employers in College Park include the Federal Aviation Administration and Woodward Academy, one of metro Atlanta’s top-performing independent schools.

East Point eastpointcity.org In recent years, East Point has flourished due to its proximity to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, restaurants, hotels and shopping.

Fairburn fairburn.com Fairburn has a rich cultural heritage enjoyed by residents and visitors alike and has the feel of a city coupled with small-town sensibilities.

Hapeville hapeville.org Hapeville is home to the busiest airport in the world, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, as well as being the location for Delta Air Lines’ corporate headquarters.

Palmetto citypalmetto.com Palmetto is located 25 miles south of Atlanta right on the former Atlanta and West Point Railroad, which is now owned by CSX Transportation.

Union City unioncityga.org Some of Union City’s leading national firms include Newell Rubbermaid, General Electric, Costco, Caterpillar, Dendreon and Kraft Foods.

INTOWN NEIGHBORHOODS:

Ansley Park ansleypark.org An affluent residential neighborhood, Ansley Park sits astride Peachtree Street and is adjacent to the famous Piedmont Park.

Atlantic Station atlanticstation.com With countless choices for apartments, condos, homes and Class A office space, as well as entertainment opportunities, Atlantic Station is one of the area’s most popular live-work-play developments.

Buckhead buckhead.com Buckhead is rich with elegant high-rise hotels and complexes, beautiful homes and mansions and is one of the city’s most attractive areas for business.

Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame

Cabbagetown cabbagetown.com Many murals and street art pieces, maintained by the Living Walls Street Art Association, keep Cabbagetown’s love of the arts alive.

Castleberry Hill castleberryhill.org Known as Atlanta’s historic creative district, Castleberry Hill is made up of early 20th century warehouse buildings that have been converted into lofts.

Downtown atlantadowntown.com Downtown Atlanta is home to many corporate and regional headquarters, government facilities, sporting venues and Georgia State University.

Grant Park grantpark.org Grant Park’s Victorian neighborhood is home to Zoo Atlanta, which welcomes almost one million visitors each year.

Inman Park inmanpark.org Known for its shops, public parks and dedicated Tree Watch, Inman Park comes alive with festivals, parades and a focus on all things local.

Little Five Points littlefivepoints.net Little Five Points (L5P) is known at Atlanta’s hippest neighborhood and a popular alternative shopping and dining destination with consignment and costume shops, a local co-op and a diverse range of eateries.

Midtown midtownatl.com Home to more than 200 acres of parks and gardens, as well as restaurants and shops, Midtown Atlanta is considered the city’s center for the arts.

Old Fourth Ward Known as one of Atlanta’s most historic neighborhoods and the home and resting place of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Old Fourth Ward has become a bustling and diverse district since the opening of Ponce City Market.

Poncey-Highland ponceyhighland.org Poncey-Highland is rich with urban living, quality restaurants, shops and galleries, great schools and a variety of housing options.

Virginia-Highland virginiahighlanddistrict.com This vibrant neighborhood is a popular spot for Atlanta’s young professionals and families thanks to its seven distinct commercial villages full of upscale shops, restaurants and pubs, nightlife and local entertainment.

Atlanta Public Schools atlantapublicschools.us

Westminster Westminster.net

PRIVATE SCHOOLS Turn to page 80 for the independent schools listing and a map.

Woodward Academy woodward.edu

EDUCATION:

Trinity School trinityatl.org

PUBLIC SCHOOLS Fulton County Schools fultonschools.org

Wesleyan School wesleyanschool.org

The Alfred & Adele Davis Academy davisacademy.org Atlanta Academy atlantaacademy.com Atlanta Girl’s School atlantagirlsschool.org Atlanta International School aisschool.org Atlanta Speech School atlantaspeechschool.org The Cottage School cottageschool.org The Galloway School gallowayschool.org

To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.

MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES Clark Atlanta University cau.edu Emory University emory.edu Georgia Institute of Technology gatech.edu Georgia State University gsu.edu Morehouse College morehouse.edu Spelman College spelman.edu

High Meadows School highmeadows.org

UTILITIES:

The Howard School howardschool.org

NATURAL GAS SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H

King’s Ridge Christian School kingsridgecs.org The Lovett School lovett.org Mill Springs Academy millsprings.org Mount Pisgah Christian School mountpisgahschool.org The Mount Vernon School mountvernonschool.org Pace Academy paceacademy.org Saint Francis Schools saintfrancisschools.com Springmont springmont.com

PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity xfinity.com AT&T att.com Spectrum spectrum.com ELECTRICITY Georgia Power Company georgiapower.com Cobb EMC cobbemc.com GreyStone Power Corp. greystonepower.com Sawnee EMC sawnee.com City of College Park collegeparkga.com City of Fairburn fairburn.com City of Palmetto citypalmetto.com WATER Fulton County Water fultoncountyga.gov City of Atlanta Department of Watershed Management atlantawatershed.org Mountain Park mountainparkgov.com Roswell Water Department roswellgov.com

H Select provider Mercedes Benz Stadium- Home of the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 97

Gwinnett County ATTRACTIONS:

Atlanta

Gwinnett

• Coolray Field • Infinite Energy Center • Lake Lanier • Southeastern Railway Museum • Freeman’s Mill Park • Château Élan Winery & Resort

CITIES OF GWINNETT: Buford Sugar Hill Braselton Suwanee

Distance from Lawrenceville to Downtown Atlanta 31 Miles Distance from Lawrenceville to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 42 Miles POPULATION: 964,546 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $429,900 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 6% ONLINE gwinnettcounty.com Continually listed as one of Atlanta’s fastest-growing counties, Gwinnett County is prized for its access to bustling city life, booming communities, a nationally recognized school system and gorgeously maintained natural spaces. Only 30 minutes away from Downtown Atlanta, Gwinnett’s economic opportunities span far and wide for area workers.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • Gwinnett Co. Public Schools • Northside Hospital • Publix • Gwinnett Co. Government • Walmart

Suwanee 98 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

Duluth Dacula Berkeley Lake Peachtree Corners Lawrenceville Norcross Lilburn

Grayson

Snellville Loganville

Berkeley Lake berkeley-lake.com In 2017, Berkley Lake was recognized among the Top 10 Best Suburbs to Live in Georgia by Niche.com.

Braselton braselton.net Home to Château Élan Winery & Resort, Braselton rests in four counties, including Gwinnett, Hall, Jackson and Barrow.

Buford cityofbuford.com A city where recreation and art abound, the streets of downtown Buford are filled with art shops that show off local talents in every medium.

Dacula daculaga.gov Dacula is best known for its large Memorial Day Parade and Little Mulberry Park and has experienced immense growth over the years.

Duluth duluthga.net Duluth is home to retail and cultural centers,

top-notch healthcare facilities and a high quality of life and was named the number six safest city in Georgia by the National Council for Home Safety and Security.

Grayson cityofgrayson.org Grayson is a popular city for families, with excellent schools, quality housing, parks, restaurants and plenty of shopping.

Lawrenceville lawrencevillega.org Gwinnett’s oldest city, Lawrenceville’s mixture of recently established buildings co-exist with Antebellum homes, the town’s original square and the Gwinnett Historic Courthouse.

Lilburn cityoflilburn.com Lilburn has a small-town, neighborly feel that sets it apart from other urban cities and was named the number one diverse place to live in Georgia by Niche.com Loganville loganville-ga.gov The unique blend of hometown feel combined with modern conveniences draws companies and organizations to open their doors and prosper in Loganville.

Norcross norcrossga.net Norcross has restored many of the town’s historic sites to their full glory and boasts an array of businesses, restaurants and recreational venues that help the city remain dutifully progressive.

Peachtree Corners peachtreecornersga.gov Known for its picturesque parks, lush green spaces and plenty of outdoor activity, Peachtree Corners offers residents unparalleled quality of life.

Snellville snellville.org Snellville is a hub for arts and recreation, including the highly anticipated annual Snellville Days Festival, which draws crowds from all over the Southeast and has been ranked as one of the top 20 tourism events by the Southeastern Tourism Society.

Sugar Hill cityofsugarhill.com Considered one of the premier communities in metro Atlanta, Sugar Hill is mere minutes away from Lake Sidney Lanier and the North Georgia Mountains.

Suwanee suwanee.com With an array of housing options, the largest school system in Georgia, stellar green spaces, and more, Suwanee is a great place to work, play and live.

Château Élan Winery & Resort

EDUCATION:

UTILITIES:

PUBLIC SCHOOLS Gwinnett County Schools gwinnett.k12.ga.us Buford City Schools bufordcityschools.org

NATURAL GAS SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H

PRIVATE SCHOOLS Turn to page 80 for the independent schools listing and a map.

To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.

MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES Georgia Gwinnett College ggc.edu Gwinnett Technical College gwinnetttech.edu

PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity xfinity.com AT&T att.com Spectrum spectrum.com ELECTRICITY Georgia Power georgiapower.com Jackson EMC jacksonemc.com Sawnee EMC sawnee.com Walton EMC waltonemc.com

City of Buford cityofbuford.com City of Lawrenceville lawrencevillega.org City of Norcross norcrossga.net WATER Gwinnett County Department of Water Resources gwinnettcounty.com City of Buford Water Department Cityofbuford.sophcity.com City of Lawrenceville lawrencevillega.org City of Norcross norcrossga.net City of Loganville Loganville-ga.gov

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BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir

Chattahoochee River

Georgia Gwinnett College

Mall of Georgia FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 99

Hall County CITIES OF HALL:

for growth with a vision for the future known as “Oakwood 2030.”

Clermont

Hall

Lula

Atlanta

Gainesville

Oakwood Flowery Branch Braselton

Distance from Gainesville to Downtown Atlanta 54 Miles Distance from Gainesville to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 64 Miles POPULATION: 207,369 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $450,000 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7% ONLINE hallcounty.org Bordered by the beautiful Lake Sidney Lanier and the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Hall County is a vibrant, growing and diverse community that offers an unparalleled quality of life and a sound economic base for business and industry.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • Northeast Georgia Medical Center • Hall Co. School System • Gold Creek Foods • Kubota Manufacturing of America • Fieldale Farms Corp.

ATTRACTIONS: • Château Élan Winery & Resort • Road Atlanta • Lake Lanier Islands and Golf Resort • Atlanta Botanical Gardens, Gainesville • Buford Corn Maze • Northeast Georgia History Center

Lake Lanier 100 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

Braselton braselton.net Braselton spans four counties, including Barrow, Gwinnett, Hall and Jackson, and is home to Château Élan Winery & Resort, which attracts more than half a million visitors each year.

Buford cityofbuford.com Home to more than 12,000 residents, Buford sits on the Hall-Gwinnett line with residents, employees and students from both counties.

Buford is situated at the southern tip of Lake Lanier at Buford Dam. Clermont clermontga.com The rural farming community of Clermont comprises a total area of three square miles and is known for its many festivals that are held throughout the year.

Flowery Branch flowerybranchga.org Flowery Branch is home to the Atlanta Falcons Training Complex and a revitalized historic downtown area known as Old Town.

Gainesville gainesville.org As the county seat, Gainesville serves as the business, government and cultural center of the region with a daytime population of more than 150,000 commuters.

Gillsville gillsvillega.com Gillsville is known for its iconic Hewell’s Pottery shop that began operating in 1850 as a family venture and is celebrated during an annual festival.

Lula cityoflula.com Lula spans two counties, Hall and Banks, and once a railroad hub, it is well known today for its annual Railroad Days Festival.

Oakwood cityofoakwood.net With more than 60 percent growth in the last 15 years, Oakwood city leaders are planning

EDUCATION: PUBLIC SCHOOLS Hall County Schools hallco.org Gainesville City Schools gcssk12.net PRIVATE SCHOOLS Turn to page 80 for the independent schools listing and a map.

Lakeview Academy lakeviewacademy.com To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.

MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES Brenau University breneau.edu Lanier Technical College laniertech.edu

UTILITIES: NATURAL GAS SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity xfinity.com AT&T att.com Spectrum spectrum.com ELECTRICITY Georgia Power Company georgiapower.com Jackson EMC jacksonemc.com Sawnee EMC sawnee.com WATER Gainesville Water Dept. gainesville.org Flowery Branch City Hall flowerybranchga.org

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Atlanta Botanical Gardens, Gainesville

Atlanta Falcons Training Facility

Henry County • Army Aviation Heritage Foundation & Flying Museum • Southern Belle Farm

CITIES OF HENRY: Atlanta

PRIVATE SCHOOLS Turn to page 80 for the independent schools listing and a map.

To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.

UTILITIES: Stockbridge

McDonough

Henry

Hampton Locust Grove

Distance from McDonough to Downtown Atlanta 30 Miles Distance from McDonough to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 27 Miles POPULATION: 245,235 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $389,000 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7% ONLINE co.henry.ga.us With Southern neighborhoods, a solid education system and plenty of recreational and economic opportunities, Henry offers something for everyone and is recognized as one of the fastest-growing counties in Georgia.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • Henry Co. School System • Luxottica Retail Group • Piedmont Henry Hospital • Henry Co. Government • Federal Aviation Administration

ATTRACTIONS: • Atlanta Motor Speedway • Panola Mountain State Park • Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary • Cubihatcha Outdoor Center

Hampton hamptonga.gov Best known as home to the Atlanta Motor Speedway, Hampton has more visitors than any other city in the county, and races draw more visitors than any other sporting event in Georgia.

Locust Grove locustgrove-ga.gov Located within 35 miles of Downtown Atlanta, Locust Grove offers a growing selection of retail, dining, lodging and business opportunities.

McDonough mcdonoughga.org Attractions in this Civil War-era town include Southern Belle Farm, a 200-acre working farm with seasonal family activities like a corn maze, pumpkin patch and strawberry picking.

Stockbridge cityofstockbridge.com Known as the “Gateway to Henry County,” Stockbridge offers excellent economic opportunities and public services coupled with small town hospitality.

NATURAL GAS SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity xfinity.com AT&T att.com Spectrum spectrum.com ELECTRICITY Georgia Power Company georgiapower.com Snapping Shoals EMC ssemc.com Central Georgia EMC cgemc.com WATER Henry County Water Authority Hcwa.com City of Hampton hamptonga.gov City of Locust Grove locustgrove-ga.gov City of McDonough mcdonoughga.org City of Stockbridge cityofstockbridge.com

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EDUCATION: PUBLIC SCHOOLS Henry County Schools henry.k12.ga.us

Eagles Landing Country Club

Atlanta Motor Speedway

Panola State Park FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 101

Paulding County • The Dallas Theater • High Shoals Falls • Moonlight Stables Equestrian Center

UTILITIES: NATURAL GAS SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H

CITIES OF PAULDING: Paulding

PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity/Comcast xfinity.com AT&T att.com

Atlanta Braswell Dallas Hiram

Distance from Dallas to Downtown Atlanta 33 Miles Distance from Dallas to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 37 Miles POPULATION: 173,780 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $389,900 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7% ONLINE paulding.gov Once devoted to agriculture, including livestock, corn, oats, pecans and poultry, Paulding County has diversified and taken an industrial path in recent years, leading to substantial growth in the county.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • Chick-fil-A • Wellstar Paulding Hospital • Interroll Atlanta, LLC • Kroger • Walmart

ATTRACTIONS: • Paulding Northwest Atlanta Airport • Silver Comet Trail • Pickett’s Mill Battlefield State Historic Site

Silver Comet Trail 102 KNOWAtlanta FALL 2023

Braswell braswellga.org With city limits in both Polk and Paulding counties, Braswell is a rural community of less than 500 residents that welcomes bicyclists, joggers and walkers along the Silver Comet Trail.

Dallas dallasga.gov Paulding’s county seat, Dallas is known for its quaint and friendly historic downtown community, as well as its reputation for being a great place to raise a family and start a business.

Hiram cityofhiramga.gov Hiram was established in 1891 as a rural railroad town but has progressed into a commercial corridor for Paulding County with a downtown business district that offers dining, shopping and entertainment.

ELECTRICITY Georgia Power Company Georgiapower.com Cobb EMC cobbemc.com GreyStone Power Corp. greystonepower.com Oglethorpe Power Corp. opc.com WATER Paulding County Water Department paulding.gov City of Dallas Water Department dallasga.gov/utilities

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EDUCATION: PUBLIC SCHOOLS Paulding County Schools paulding.k12.ga.us PRIVATE SCHOOLS Turn to page 80 for the independent schools listing and a map.

To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.

Hiram

WellStar Paulding Hospital

Rockdale County Atlanta

ATTRACTIONS:

UTILITIES:

• Panola Mountain State Park • Monastery of the Holy Spirit • Georgia International Horse Park • Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area • Lewis Vaughn Botanical Garden • The Dinky

NATURAL GAS SCANA Energy scanaenergy.comH

CITIES OF ROCKDALE:

ELECTRICITY Georgia Power georgiapower.com Snapping Shoals EMC ssemc.com

Rockdale

Conyers

Distance from Conyers to Downtown Atlanta 25 Miles

PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity xfinity.com AT&T att.com

WATER Rockdale Water Resources Rockdalecountyga.gov

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Distance from Conyers to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 27 Miles POPULATION: 94,082 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $348,500 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7% ONLINE rockdalecountyga.gov Despite being Georgia’s second smallest county, Rockdale County has experienced substantial growth in recent years. Twenty-five miles away from Downtown Atlanta, Rockdale offers commercial diversity for business and a variety of opportunities for families.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • Golden State Foods • Hill Phoenix, Inc. • Pratt Industries • DiversiTech Corp.

• Piedmont Rockdale Hospital

Conyers conyersga.com Conyers is a combination of small town and big city, with rural scenes and urban shopping, and the community reflects an amazing legacy of progress, involvement and society.

EDUCATION: PUBLIC SCHOOLS Rockdale County Schools rockdaleschools.org PRIVATE SCHOOLS Turn to page 80 for the independent schools listing and a map.

To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.

Costly Mill Park

South Rockdale Community Park

Georgia Int’l Horse Park FALL 2023 KNOWAtlanta 103

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NEW HOMES & CONDOS Artisan Built Communities

11

Atlanta Academy

74

Pace Academy

66

Atlanta Girls’ School

78

The Paideia School

62

Atlanta International School

75

Saint Francis Schools

69

Berkshire Hathaway

31, 32

Davidson Homes

IFC

Atlanta Speech School

51

Springmont School

74

J5

5

The Cottage School

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Trinity School

66

Lennar Atlanta

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Galloway School

64

The Walker School

70

Paran Homes

IBC

GRACEPOINT School

50

The Westminster Schools

68

Rocklyn Homes

3

High Meadows School

76

Whitefield Academy

67

Toll Brothers

19

Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School

72

The Wood Acres School

62

Traditions of Braselton

35

Holy Spirit Preparatory School

79

Woodward Academy

71

INTERIM HOUSING

The Howard School

63

UTILITIES

TP Corporate Lodging

Landmark Christian School

73

SCANA Energy

Life University

81

The Lovett School

61

Mill Springs Academy

52

Mount Paran Christian School

65

Mount Pisgah Christian School

77

EDUCATION

The Mount Vernon School

45

The Alfred & Adele Davis Academy 76

North Cobb Christian School

64

25

55+ LIVING CHOICES Fischer Homes

42

Lake Arrowhead

41

Soleil Belmont Park

43

AREA INFORMATION City of Decatur

15

City of Marietta

17

City of Peachtree Corners

16

City of Smyrna

18

Town of Braselton

14

Before you make a move …

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For more than 35 years, KNOWAtlanta has been the premier source of information for those who are calling Atlanta home. With updated information on the cities and counties of the metro area and profiles on topics spanning education, health care, economics and housing, KNOWAtlanta’s point is clear: to keep you in the KNOW.

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