One of the most gratifying experiences of the last few years is hearing how excited visitors are to see our new campus driveway and activity field. We have added a more logical campus entry, a more efficient carpool design, and a large open playfield. This beautiful, green space is surrounded by a hardcourt play surface, intentionally painted with four-square courts and multiple zones of occupational therapist-inspired designs and patterns, inviting creative play.
The profound impact of play on child development is a hot topic in some of the buzzy-est books in education circles. In The Anxious Generation Haidt emphasizes the importance of unstructured, free play in promoting creativity, problem-solving skills, and social-emotional well-being. These findings resonate deeply with our school's philosophy, as we strive to create a space where our students can explore their interests, collaborate with peers, and develop a lifelong love of learning.
Just as with the mind of a dyslexic learner, there’s a lot more going on in our front yard than meets the eye. While our classroom activity is focused on creating new neural pathways for students, campus planners are focused on optimizing outdoor spaces to support their learning, building on the additions of the last few years.
Swift’s greatest strength is our ability to individualize instruction for each student in our care. By providing tailored instruction and support, we instill confidence and the ability to self-advocate. Through play, our students learn complementary and valuable lessons that extend far beyond the classroom. They develop resilience, perseverance, and the ability to think critically and creatively, essential skills for success in school, their future careers, and life.
We invite you to join us on this journey as we celebrate the joy of learning and the transformative power of play. Futures are changed and self-belief is instilled once the full influence of the Swift Effect is brought to bear. Here’s to 2025 offering more chances for you to be on campus and witness this magic for yourself.
I welcome the opportunity to hear from you about your journey at Swift and to show you our campus improvements and what’s on deck.
With gratitude and all best wishes,
By providing tailored instruction and support, we instill confidence and the ability to selfadvocate. Through play, our students learn complementary and valuable lessons that extend far beyond the classroom.
The Power of Play
Unlocking Potential and Building Brighter Futures at Swift School
Play isn’t just fun—it’s essential. Decades of research have shown that play is a cornerstone of child development, equipping children with the skills they need to thrive socially, emotionally, physically, and academically. At Swift School, where students with dyslexia and related language-based learning differences are at the heart of our mission, we embrace the transformative power of play to unlock potential, ignite curiosity, and cultivate a love for learning.
The Science Behind Play
Play is more than just downtime; it’s a vital part of a child’s growth. When children engage in playful experiences, their brains release important chemicals like oxytocin and dopamine. These chemicals are crucial for emotional regulation, memory, focus, and mood. Play even influences neuron connections in the brain’s prefrontal cortex, the region responsible for problemsolving, behavior regulation, and creativity.
According to Doris Bergen, a professor at Miami University’s Department of Educational Psychology, “Play is one of the main ways that children really consolidate their learning. The way we really make our skills permanent and enriched is often through our play experiences.” At Swift School, we couldn’t agree more. By integrating play into learning, we are helping
our students build a strong foundation for both academic growth and lifelong success.
Play and Movement: The Brain Connection
Movement plays a powerful role in priming the brain for learning. This connection is especially critical for students with language-based learning differences. Physical activity stimulates the vestibular system—the sensory system responsible for balance and spatial orientation—which sends signals to the brain and activates cognitive pathways. The benefits include:
Enhanced Attention: Physical activity improves blood flow to the brain, boosting focus and alertness. Improved Memory and Learning: Movement triggers the release of dopamine and norepinephrine, neurotransmitters vital for memory formation.
Boosted Creativity: Free play allows children to explore their imaginations, fostering innovation and problem-solving skills.
Stress Reduction: Physical activity reduces stress hormones, creating a calm, receptive environment for learning.
Better Behavior and SelfRegulation: Play improves mood, reduces impulsivity, and strengthens self-control.
“The way we really make our skills permanent and enriched is often through our play experiences.”
— Doris Bergen, Professor Miami University Department of Educational Psychology
Skills Developed Through Play
Play builds critical skills that children need for success both in and out of the classroom:
Social-Emotional Skills: Play promotes communication skills, children learn communication, empathy, sharing, and conflict resolution.
Cognitive Skills: Play supports planning, organization, problemsolving, and memory development.
Language Skills: Play fosters vocabulary growth and enhances expressive and receptive language abilities.
Motor Skills: Whether climbing, running, or drawing, play hones fine and gross motor skills, coordination, and strength.
Emotional Regulation: Play allows children to process emotions and develop coping strategies in a lowstress environment.
Relationships: Play helps children build nurturing, stable relationships with their caregivers and peers.
Swift School is a vibrant tapestry of unique individuals, each with their strengths and challenges. We are committed to fostering a dynamic, engaging, and nurturing environment where every student can thrive, and we believe that play is an essential ingredient in this recipe for success. We see the profound impact of play every day. By creating safe, structured, and engaging opportunities for exploration and movement, we give our students the tools they need to thrive.
The Role of Play at Swift
At Swift School, play isn’t just an
approach. Whether students are tackling an interactive science project, playing outdoor games led by Coach Lindsey Daniell, or participating in structured physical activities, the benefits are clear: increased focus, stronger relationships, and a deeper understanding of concepts.
Our teachers incorporate movement and play into the classroom experience, creating a dynamic learning environment where students feel supported and motivated. This balance of academic rigor and play fosters the perseverance, problem-
that students need to conquer challenges both inside and outside the classroom.
Looking Ahead: Enhancing Our Play Spaces
As we look toward 2025, we are actively working behind the scenes to transform more square footage of our campus into active, engaging learning environments. By enhancing our outdoor play spaces, we will provide even more opportunities for exploration, movement, and creativity—helping every student develop healthy bodies, resilient minds, and compassionate hearts.
A Commitment to Growth and Joy
At Swift School, we believe in nurturing the whole child. By embracing the power of play, we are not only preparing our students for academic success, but also for a lifetime of joy, curiosity, and meaningful relationships. As we celebrate the remarkable growth of our students, we also celebrate the faculty whose passion and dedication bring learning through play every day.
Together, we are building brighter futures, one playful moment at a time.
Swift School Partnered with Paint Love
Take a walk down the ramp leading to Swift’s Middle Division building, and you'll see the once plain wall has been transformed by a beautiful, colorful mural handpainted by our very own Swift School students.
Swift partnered with Paint Love, a non-profit organization that works with schools to empower youth through creative projects.
Paint Love's lead artist Meesh Medrano shared, “The mural represents learning, being active
in school whether we are inside or outside of it, and more importantly, having fun and expressing yourself."
Lynn Kaplin, Swift School’s Fine Arts teacher, was the brainchild behind the project. Ms. Kaplin and her students worked with Paint Love's team to design and paint the mural.
Ms. Medrano and her team worked alongside the students over the course of two days to paint the mural. The design process began in January when select students
spent an advisory class creating renderings of their ideas for the unique project.
“I received student drawings that included a large amount of color, aspects of nature, and weather, as well as extracurricular activities such as soccer and music,“ Ms. Medrano said. “In addition to the students’ themes, I added schoolrelated elements such as a pencil, math, the world, etc., to reflect what Swift's students see on a daily basis, but in an abstract and creative way.”
Smiling Faces and Fun Times
Enjoy some of our favorite photos of the first semester.
At Swift School, students in kindergarten through fifth grade receive whole-group occupational therapy with Stephanie Young (known as Ms. Steph) each Friday. Swift School’s OT method is different from the traditional oneon-one approach, as it is integrated into the classroom.
Integration
Occupational Therapy services are embedded into the curriculum at Swift School. Our faculty participates in professional development presentations given by our cccupational therapist, Stephanie Young. On a weekly basis, kindergarten through fifth-
grade students attend sessions with Ms. Steph and their classroom teachers. This collaborative effort allows Ms. Steph and the teaching team to exchange information about the students, providing a more well-rounded approach to learning.
Self-regulation with Sensory-based Strategies
Weekly OT sessions incorporate sensory-based techniques to support self-regulation and focus in the classroom. Students learn how their nervous system functions and can realize which strategies allow them to learn best. For example, some students learn best on a
wobble stool, while others need to read in a bean bag or use a fidget tool. Students become more aware of their learning styles and can advocate for their needs.
Coordination and Strength
Research shows that more than half of children with dyslexia also present with dyspraxia, a difficulty with motor planning and coordination. During OT sessions, students engage in activities that promote gross and fine motor strength, visual perceptual skills, and whole-body coordination. The increase in physical stamina can often directly correlate with an increase in mental stamina. Students complete these activities in groups and have a chance to celebrate each other's success.
Inquire Today
To inquire into how Swift School can help your child with a languagelearning difference, ADHD and/or executive functioning diagnosis, please call (678) 205-4988 or email admissionassociate@ theswiftschool.org.
OT sessions help students develop their unique learning style, fostering not only academic progress, but also independence and confidence in their everyday lives.
Swift's PE teacher inspires fun and engaging lessons. Coach Daniell's Domain
Teaching physical education runs in Coach Daniell’s family, and it’s no surprise that she followed in her father’s footsteps.
“Both my parents were teachers, and my dad taught PE,” she said. “If I had a chance to go to work with my dad, it was the highlight of my week.”
Coach Daniell graduated from Kennesaw State University and obtained her special education certification. Her first, postgraduation teaching job was serving as a paraprofessional in a public school, but she quickly realized that teaching PE was her calling.
“My husband found a job at a local private school. Private schools were foreign to me, as I grew up with both of my parents teaching in public schools,” she said with a laugh.
Eleven years ago, while browsing the Georgia Independent Schools Association job listings, she saw the physical education opening at Swift School and applied. Coach Mel Smith, longtime athletic director and coach, hired Coach Daniell after hearing her passion for helping kids learn to move, to benefit from an active lifestyle, and to develop life-long skills.
“I cannot emphasize enough the impact that Coach Smith had on me,” she recalled. “He had high expectations, but he was my biggest cheerleader.”
Coach Daniell's energy and commitment remains steadfast in the scorching 90-degree heat or on a 45-degree day with a breeze. She is upbeat and excited to get students moving on the Swift Sport Court and recognizes how critical physical activity is to the lives and learning of our students.
In her signature bucket hat playing upbeat tunes on her Bluetooth speaker, Coach Daniell creates a contagious vibe on the Sport Court. The children are constantly laughing and smiling during skill development and creative games.
“I’ve added my own flair to the lessons over the years. I don’t focus only on skills. We play a lot of games, and we have fun. I think enjoyment is an important aspect of physical education. The kids pick up on my energy. If I am having fun, they’ll reciprocate that.”
—Coach Daniell
Coach Daniell incorporates the Orton-Gillingham Approach into her lessons with review and reinforcement, something that benefits young learners. “Everything that we do in PE, we do multiple
times,” she explained. “The students hear me say it, watch me do it, and have ample practice.”
“The students and I love it. It’s my own version of a dry-erase board.”
Next time you’re at Swift School, guaranteed to leave with a smile on
Scan to inquire about Swift today!
Becoming a Reader Brooke
learned to decode and read well at Swift.
Brooke, who has a language-based learning difference like all of Swift School’s students, spent three years at Swift School, She started in fifth grade and spent three years at the school. Her transformation from struggling to stellar reader is one she will never forget, and she first recognized it not in the classroom but while riding
“I didn’t notice an immediate change when I came to Swift, but rather I saw gradual changes,” she said. “In seventh grade, I was riding in the car and began reading the street signs. They had small font, and we passed them quickly, but I was able to decipher the
This unique moment gave Brooke a sense of joy and accomplishment. It was a testament to Swift School’s Orton-Gillingham-trained faculty, each of whom completes the 70+ hour Associate Level Course and
My brain got used to seeing their faces and associating them with a subject. Each teacher understood the specific tools I needed to learn successfully.”
“At Swift, I understood the lessons and what was taking place in the classroom. I advocated for myself, and, in the long run, that has made a difference academically.”
Establishing a routine and having consistent teachers year after year also contributed to Brooke’s positive academic experience. Orton-Gillingham Fellow Natalie Felix, math teacher Dana Gussoff, and science and social studies teacher Michael Lytle all impacted Brooke.
Brooke struggled with executive functioning, a set of mental processes that help individuals plan, focus, and manage tasks. Swift School integrates executive functioning curriculum throughout the school day, and Brooke was a beneficiary.
Today, Brooke is a freshman at a local public high school. She radiates confidence and notes that she learned “not to beat herself up” over her struggles. She described Swift as emotionally supportive and credited the Orton-Gillingham Approach and her teachers for making a difference.
Swift School serves kindergarten through eighth grade students. If your child has a language-learning difference, ADHD, or an executive functioning diagnosis, scan the QR code to the left to inquire how Swift can provide support for your student.
Future EMT:
Anna’s Story
Anna could not sit still in her elementary school classes. As a second grader, her schedule was packed full of academic instruction in an attempt to “cure” her dyslexia. The busy school day schedule left no time for recess. In turn, Anna was lonely and frustrated and believed no one understood that she learned differently.
Despite good intentions, the public school system was unable to meet Anna’s needs. She felt defeated, but there was hope. That hope came in the form of Swift School and its caring faculty and staff that help provide remediation for students with dyslexia and equip them with the tools to have success in life. Anna’s family enrolled her at Swift as a fourth grader.
“Swift taught me to break down issues and assignments into small pieces. I gained confidence in my capabilities and realized I am smart. I just need to learn differently.”
Swift School’s teachers taught Anna using methods tailored to her specific learning styles, and she emerged from her shell. “I was no longer afraid to ask them to explain
something again or go slower,” she mentioned. “I learned to read, and I loved my teachers.”
As a middle division student, Anna met Mr. Lytle and expressed her love of animals. Today, a bearded dragon sits in a habitat in his classroom as it keeps a watchful eye on students. The inspiration behind adding the unique reptile to his classroom came from a conversation with Anna. “I told him I had a bearded dragon and would help him set up a tank. The rest is history.”
After Swift, Anna achieved high marks as a high school student. Armed with the strength to self-advocate and a toolkit to succeed, she developed an interest in becoming an Emergency Medical Technician. She is working towards obtaining the necessary certifications and hopes to eventually work as an EMT in Texas and enjoy life with family and dogs.
If you have a student with dyslexia and want them to experience an education tailored to helping them experience success, call Swift School at (678) 205-4988 or email admissionassociate@ theswiftschool.org to learn more.
Dear Swift Family,
To put it simply, The Swift School changes lives. When my son was diagnosed with dyslexia, I knew that finding the right school for remediation was paramount. His learning challenges included not only dyslexia but also dyscalculia and dysgraphia which made finding the right school all the more important. Swift was that school.
Last year, Swift Fund participation reached record levels: 100% from faculty, staff, and board members, along with 84% parent participation, allowing us to surpass our goals.
Watching my son’s frustration subside and his confidence build after entering the halls of Swift School was amazing. The support he received throughout his day from the highly trained, caring, and compassionate staff made the difference. The faculty and staff consistently rose to the occasion and answered the call. Success with learning differences is possible because of Swift School. My son is now a freshman in high school and is thriving, academically and socially, in ways I never thought possible before Swift.
I am also a member of the Board of Trustees. Swift School’s parents, alumni, and the community play a vital role in the school’s success. I am proud to say that last year, Swift Fund participation reached record levels: 100% from faculty, staff, and board members, along with 84% parent participation, allowing us to surpass our goals. If you are considering giving to Swift School, let me assure you that your generosity impacts each Swift student. I have seen it firsthand, and I am forever grateful.
You have helped Swift grow from a tiny school in a church basement to one of the leaders in individualized education for students with dyslexia and language-based learning differences. Last year we celebrated our School’s 25th anniversary, and this year we are raising the bar for our next 25 years. All is made possible with your support. Please scan the QR Code to make a pledge that will continue to impact current and future students of the Swift School.
Sincerely,
Alicia M. LoCicero Board of Trustees
Your Support Makes a Difference
Thank you to everyone who made a charitable contribution to Swift School from July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024. Success starts at Swift School.
Galaxy $15,000 and above
Anonymous (1)
Interstellar $10,000 - $14,999
Anonymous (1)
Brittany and Russ Dunlap
Mr. and Mrs. J. K. Glenn, Jr.
Laine and Scott Kilburn
Pat and Mike Wright
Celestial $5,000 - $9,999
Anonymous (1)
Mr. and Mrs. Marc Balizer
BlackRock, Inc.
Coca-Cola Refreshments Matching Gift Program
Judie and Scott Conner
Ellyn and Paul Foltz
The Gerhard Family
May P. & Francis L. Abreu Charitable Trust
Claire and Wes McLean
The Noble Family
Alexia and Lin Rogers
Lindsey and Ryan Schoultz
Rachel and Daniel Simons
Kathy and Scott Solomon
The Coca-Cola Company
Constellation $2,500 - $4,999
The Cloud Family
Dr. and Mrs. Kevin Collins
Mr. and Mrs. William Doran
The Massey Family
Paloma and Jose Medina
Sarah and Bob Moffat
Margot and Alan Peterson
The Bernal Plante Family
Zachary Polun
Pam and Chris Pomar
Ashley and Michael Quackenbush
Heather and Hersh Singh
Esther and Jeffrey Stein
The Thompson Family
Meteor $1,000 - $2,499
Aurora Cineplex
Daphne and Matthew Bailey
Connie and Dustin Baxter
Barbara W. and Jeffrey B. BlockIn honor of Davis and Caroline Block
Kwasi and Hana Boateng
Booster Spirit Wear
Susan and Nathan BroughIn honor of Melanie and Charlotte Brough
Mr. R. W. ChickIn memory of Charles Hopson
Andi and David Dunkerley
Mr. and Mrs. James C. Farren
Fidelity Investments
Ms. Deborah FincherIn honor of Ellis and Marshal Diggs
Marie and Scott Frank
Mr. and Mrs. John Green
Helen and Larry GruberIn honor of Teagan Thompson
Cathy and Jack Hall
Home Depot
The Ihlen Family
Roni and Robert Jacobs –In honor of Jaxon Berry
Mr. and Mrs. Larry KingIn honor of Liam Williams
Sarah Vance and Matthew KnetchelIn honor of Abigayle Grace Knetchel
Lora and John LeverageIn honor of Liberty Leverage
Alicia LoCicero
Kim Loomis
The Paz Family
Josie Redwine
Laura and Dan Rollman
Virginia and Tyler Shaffer
Dr. Sue Straeter
Mary Welch
Catherine and Stephen Wilson
Astronomer Up to $999
Anonymous (10)
A Tasty Touch
Kim and Joe Aagaard
Sheri and Phillip Addington
The Allum Family
Mr. and Mrs. Alexander Amplo
Ellen and David Ascher
AT&T
Brianna Avant
Melissa Baccala
Kathryn BatesIn honor of Hagan Bates
Roni and Jim Battoglia
The Bauersfeld Family
Charles and Anne BeckerIn honor of Caroline Becker
Kristie and Brett Bergstrom
Lora and Josh Berry
Ethan and Jana BittonIn honor of Nate Bitton
Tamara Blake
Graciela Blanno and Patricia Coherd
BlueSnap
Erin and Paul BodineIn honor of Grant Bodine
Ashley and Kyle Britton
Lindsey and Taylor Bronikowski
Megan and Matthew Brown
Lauren and Ken Burnett
Linda Burnett
Julie Burnley
The Butler FamilyIn honor of Juliana Butler
Kathryn and Michael Cagle
Mr. and Mrs. Matt CampIn honor of Wyatt Camp
Deneen Campbell
Carolina Carr
Rebekah and Steven Carrington
Caterpillar Foundation
Stephanie and Jim Charanis
Chartwell Law
Donna and Sam Cherry
The Childs Family
Emily Clark
The Coburn Family
The Conley Family
Erin and Adam Connor
Mary and Collin Cook
Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Cook
Maddie Cooper
The Cooper Family
Mr. and Mrs. Lou Corsetti
Ms. Jill Cosgrove
Jessica Cramer
Paige and Ken Cressman
Susan and Richard CulbersonIn honor of Maggie Culberson
Tasha and Sheldon Cummings
The Dadi Family
Lindsey and Tyler Daniell
Lindsay and Ryan DaviesIn honor of Colton Davies
Alex Demarais
Kimberly and Richard Dierker
Dyanna and Ethan Diggs
Kraig Doremus
Carrie and Mohamed Doulfikhar
Andrew and Kellie DresdnerIn honor of Emery Ikirt
DropBox
Ashlin S. Dukes
Sharlee and Jason DunnavantIn honor of Chloe Dunnavant
Julie Eden
The Endicott Family
Miriam and Howard FaberIn honor of Harrison Faber
The Farmer Family
Allison and Taylor Fears
The Felix Family
Dedric and Lori Fletcher
Emily and Brian Ford
Lisa and Iain ForsythIn honor of Easton and Isla Forsyth
Jocelyn and Neal Gasaway
Linda and Rene GelinasIn honor of Taylor Robb
Caitlin and Robert Gibbs
Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Gibson
Kathryn Gibson
Kristina GibsonIn honor of Grace and Ben Gibson
Google
Rachel Grade
Lehua and Gordon GrahamIn honor of Landon Graham
Jennifer and Benjamin Greenwald
Scott Greenwald
Jeanne and Kevin Grossarth
Dana A. Gussoff
Emilee Hagerman
The Harman Family
Amanda and Douglas Harms
Mary Lee and Don Harms
Meredith and Franklin HarrisIn honor of Gil Harris
Hartford Fire Insurance Company
Diego Heinrich
The Hillock Family
Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Hoenig
Julia Palomaki and Justin Hopkins
Sharon Hornecker
The Howell Family
Harriet and Brice Ivy
Melissa Jackmin
The Jackson Family
Colleen and Ron Jankovich
Stephanie and John Janowski
The Javia Family
Allison Johnson
Marquisha Johnson and Family
Essence and Michael JohnsonIn honor of Kingsley Johnson
Felicity M. Johnson
Suja and Michael Joseph
LaWanna Joyner
Melissa and Dave Jozefov
Ms. Barbara Julyan
Umair and Umber KamalIn honor of Eesa Kamal
Kondwani Kapembwa
Lynn and Jeff Kaplin
Malaikatu Kargbo
Alison Katz
The Kero Family
Mary-Cristin King
Deborah Kloder
Katie KloderIn honor of Deborah Kloder
Katherine and Larry KnightIn honor of Weston McLean
Kroger
Kathi and Ken KruithofIn honor of Daniel McCormick
Regan and Jeffrey Kudlata
Lands’ End School Rewards
Mrs. Sunnie LeBlancIn honor of Olivia Thorp
Mandy Lemoine
Diana Leung
Madlon and Matthew Lewis
Lexis Nexis
Shenaz Lilywala
Rochelle Lindsey
Nick LuscreIn memory of Gordon Corsetti
Christi and Robert Luskin
Michael Lytle
The Macdonald Family
Tracie and Adam Maloney
Jacob Marmer and Maria Piraner
Mr. and Mrs. Bradley McCalla
Amanda and Daniel McCormick
Ms. Celia McCoy
The McLemore Family
The McSorley Family
The Meyer Family
Barbara Miffitt
Carol and Laurence MillerIn honor of Claire Farmer
Christina Montgomery
Morgan Stanley
Olivia Morrison
The Nagrowski Family
The Neuringer Family
Catherine S. Nixon-Eagen
Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Noble
Norfolk Southern
Mrs. Wendy Nunemacher
Mr. and Mrs. Stephen O’Connor
Rebecca and Geoff Ogrin
The Osborne Family
Tonia and Dominic Parrott
Kayce and Matt Pearce
Publix Supermarkets Charities, Inc.
Mr. and Mrs. Jemar Raheem
Reed Family
Ms. Michelle L. Revels
Mrs. Mary Ann RichmondIn honor of Cameron Jennings
Jenny Rieck
Jennifer and Frederick Rigby
Jessica and Trevor Rios
The Roach Family
Angela Robertson
Randa and Cedric RobinsonIn honor of Randall Robinson
Megan Rodriguez
The Rogers Family
Elizabeth and Richard RollmanIn honor of JJ Rollman
The Romero Menendez Family
Sarah and Adam Rosovsky
Kelei and Jason Sabatino
Nicole SalviaIn honor of Leo Salvia
Avery Sanes
The Sanford Family
Mr. and Mrs. Juan G. Santamaria
Beruriah Sawyer
Banks and Dan Scothorn
Shutterfly, LLC
Katie and Michael Sklar
Amanda and Brad SmithIn honor of Parker Smith
Neal and Lesley Stamper
Starbucks
Tara SteberIn honor of James Eibe
Devin Sullivan
The Sumpter Family
Total Rejuvenation Medspa
Divya Suryanayanan
The Susca Family
Lucas Tarrant
Margaretta and Jeremy Tarver
Beth Thompson
Suzi and Ellis Thorp
Thrivent Financial
Sophia and Jim TidwellIn honor of Harrison Tidwell
Mr. and Mrs. Willard Timm, Jr.
The Timotheo Family
Mr. and Mrs. Jason Toomer
Douglas and Rayne Towns
Kristi and Sam Vacca
Mr. and Mrs. Phil VanceIn honor of Abigayle Grace Knetchel
Jenn and Daniel Vasseur
Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Vetrovsky
Meredith Weaver
The Weiskopf Family
WestRock
Whit’s Frozen Custard of Roswell
Mr. and Mrs. James C. WhitleyIn honor of Grace and Ben Gibson
Leslie Whitten
Emily and Bruce Williams
Cynthia RogersIn honor of Grace Wimberly
Wendy and Albert Wolchesky
Ann E. Woodall
Laura and Richard WoodwardIn honor of James Woodward
Michelle and Aaron WynnIn honor of Luke Wynn
The Wynn Family
Ms. Stephanie Young
Every effort has been made to provide complete and accurate information. If errors or omissions occured, please accept our sincere apology and inform the advancement office via email at advancement@theswiftschool.org
Grandparent Donors and Their Grandchildren
Barbara W. and Jeffrey B. Block
Caroline Block
D
Ms. Deborah Fincher
Ell
M
Linda and Rene Gelinas
Taylor Robb
Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Gibson
B G
Mr. and Mrs. J. K. Glenn, Jr.
M
Lehua and Gordon Graham
L andon Graham
Helen and Larry Gruber
Teagan Thompson
Gigi and Grandpa Harms
Evan Harms
Roni and Robert Jacobs
Jaxon Berry
Ms. Barbara Julyan
Al
Mr. and Mrs. Larry King
Liam Williams
Katherine and Larry Knight
W
Mrs. Sunnie LeBlanc
O
Richard and Kelly Phillips Tuition Assistance Fund
Established in 2020 by Emeritus
Board Chair
Dr. Richard Phillips and his wife Kelly, Swift School’s first, named, endowment fund creates a permanent source of income for the school’s tuition assistance program. Recipients will have demonstrated financial need as determined by the school. Proceeds from the fund help keep the school accessible to students of all financial backgrounds.
Thank you to the Swift School community for your participation and support of the Georgia private school tax credit program. Since 2008, the state of Georgia has allowed taxpayers to redirect their Georgia state taxes to an approved student scholarship organization for the purpose of providing financial aid to qualified students.
Swift School participates with the qualified student scholarship program known as Georgia GOAL.
2023 Contributors
Tracie Arnold
Heather and Marc Balizer
Charles and Anne Becker
Allison and Paul Bourgeois
Lindsey and Taylor Bronikowski
Trish and Kenneth Byers
Peggy and Patrick Carroll
Megan and Fred Carty
Judie and Scott Conner
Lindsay and Ryan Davies
Molly and Jeff DeSalvo
Jennifer and Patrick Doak
Rachel and James Farren
Ellyn and Paul Foltz
Marie and Scott Frank
Jennifer and Paul Giliberto
Susanne and Robert Gray
Tena and James Hargrove
Donna and Doug Henderson
Linda and Matt Herndon
Christi and Andrew Hoenig
Melissa Jackmin
Sarah Vance and Matthew Knetchel
Alicia LoCicero
Kim Loomis
Ludmila Lopez
Vicki and David Massey
Mary and William McKenzie
Claire and Wes McLean
Montana Mitchell and Cecil McLemore
Sarah and Bob Moffat
Anthony and Shayna Nuzzo
Andre Padial
Tonia and Dominic Parrott
Mark and Kristine Parsons
Maite and Ezequiel Paz
Margot and Alan Peterson
Pam and Chris Pomar
Andrea Oki and Jeff Pomeroy
Ashley and Michael Quackenbush
Josie Redwine
Sandra and Matthew Reilly
Mara and Chris Robb
Elizabeth Rohan and Stephen Shanahan
Karen and Colie Smith
Southeastern Business Endeavors
Tabor Clips
Celynda and Gary Tadlock
Maria and Al Teran
Stephanie Hall-Thompson and Craig Thompson
Jennifer Gruber and Todd Thompson
Rayne and Doug Towns
Catherine and James Trotter
Amy and Richard Van Haveren
Sheri and Michael Verroi
Eliza and Aaron Warmus
Laura and Richard Woodward
Pat and Mike Wright
Michelle and Aaron Wynn
Swift Fund Kick-off
whom we have already received 100% participation!), parents, grandparents and alumni.
Last year, parent participation exceeded 85%, an invaluable statistic that shows Swift School families and corporate foundations like BlackRock are committed and supportive of our mission.
Your Money At Work
Did you know that Swift Fund donations paid for the majority of our student and faculty tickets to see Beauty and the Beast at the City Springs theater last spring? We have also been able to purchase a larger trout aquarium for the front lobby. In partnership with the Chattahoochee Nature Center and Trout Unlimited, we grow the trout from eggs and release them into the Chattahoochee. It is the Swift Fund that lets us say yes to all of these special experiences that pop up throughout the year.
Georgia Goal
By redirecting your Georgia income tax obligation through the Georgia GOAL tax credit program, you can help Swift School families. Thanks to the support of our community, we allocated over $144,000 for financial aid in 2024. There is no cost to you to participate, and it is invaluable to Swift School’s students and their families. It only takes a few minutes, to register, and it can be done fully online!
Ways To Give
You can pledge to the Swift Fund and pay before June 30, 2025. Scan the QR Code to explore all the ways you can make a difference for Swift School.
Growth Assessment
MAP* Growth Facts
Nationally Normed
Comparing student achievement and growth to others in the same grade nationally
Computer Adaptive
Test questions adapt to the student’s performance level
Rauch UnITs (RIT Scores)
Track growth through the year and across grade levels
The graphs depict fall/spring performance in reading and mathematics in the 2022-23 academic year.
Caution When Interpreting
Graphs depict the performance of a small group of diverse students.
*Measurement of Academic Progress
MAP Growth Assessment: Mathematics
Fall to Spring Growth
Content assessed includes: Numbers and Operations, Algebraic Thinking, Measurement and Data, Geometry, Statistics, and Probability.
MAP Growth Assessment: Reading
Fall to Spring Growth
Content assessed includes: Literature, Informational Text, and Vocabulary.
Student Averages
Average # of school years 8th graders are enrolled
Average # of school years 1-7th graders are enrolled
Average Lower Division student to teacher ratio
Average Middle Division student to teacher ratio
Student Diversity by Race
Asian
Black/African American
Latino
White
Two or More Races
2024 Graduating Class
Private high schools
Public high schools
Cumulative enrollment since 1998
Number of graduates since 2013 3.7 2.3 7:1 6:1
A Foundation for Success Swift School plays an important role in James's success.
James is a poised and accomplished young man who blended academic excellence with athletic ability throughout high school. With a track record of success both in the classroom and on the football field, James credits his three years at Swift School for nurturing his confidence and shaping him into the man he is today.
“Before Swift, I was unable to learn or focus in class. I felt helpless at school. My teachers even told my mom there was nothing they could do to help me,” James recalled.
James’s family enrolled him at Swift School for fourth grade, and James noticed an immediate transformation in himself. “A change happened during my first year at Swift,” he mentioned. “My brain began to put things together like a puzzle piece. I began to understand the material, and I
enjoyed learning because the cogs were finally turning in my head.”
James developed a bond with Mrs. Gonzales, who became like a mother to him. He noted that she was the first teacher to help him comprehend words and understand how his brain worked. Mrs. Gonzales and the other OrtonGillingham trained educators at Swift School equipped James with the necessary foundational academic skills and laid the cornerstone for a successful future.
“Swift School’s teachers taught me how my brain worked, and they set me up for success by giving me the foundation I needed to love learning and understand how much power my brain held,” James said.
After outplacing from Swift, James completed his final two years of middle school and all four years of high school at Fellowship Christian School, just 10 minutes from Swift.
James played four years of varsity football, leading the Paladins to a 43-10 record, including a perfect 18-0 mark in region competition,
and four GHSA Class 2A playoff appearances. Twice James led the Paladins to the final four.
"Academically, James attributes his success to his formative years at Swift School, reflecting on his journey, he remarked, 'Swift is the only reason that I was able to obtain the grades and success that allowed me to go to college.'"
To cap off his high school career, Fellowship presented James with the Servant Leader Award, which is given to the student who puts the interests of others above himself/ herself and possesses a spirit of collaboration and inspiration. James embarked on a new journey in the fall as he enrolled at Samford University. He plans to work towards a degree in business.
Soccer, cheer, and cross country worked hard in the 2023-24 academic year.
Let's Go Spartans!
Swift won championships in soccer, basketball, and football during 2023-24!
ALDS Debuts With Swift as Founding Member
ALDS supports schools specializing in learning differences.
“The Atlanta area has a rich gumbo of schools serving students with learning differences. Many folks may not realize how much we talk with and learn from each other. ALDS formalizes what had been a loose affiliation into a powerful network of schools serving students across the country. I know Swift School will benefit from this association, and the group will serve to make each of its member schools stronger.”
— Chris Pomar, Head of Swift School
Swift School is proud to announce it is a founding member of the Association of LD Schools (ALDS), an organization founded in 2023 to support schools specializing in education for students with learning differences.
Learning differences encompasses a wide spectrum, but ALDS specifically focuses on four domains: dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, and executive dysfunction. As a school that
serves students with those differences, there is no better match than Swift and ALDS. There are more than 200 schools that specialize in delivering education to students with learning differences. ALDS, however, distinguishes itself as a community of experts deeply committed to enriching the lives of these students. The organization values the principles of community, collaboration, and growth.
Criteria for schools joining ALDS includes private schools specializing in educating students with specific learning differences whose admissions criteria is based on its learning profile. Member schools must be accredited by an organization approved by the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), International Advancing Independent Schools Accreditation (ICIASA), or a comparable governing body.
“At ALDS, our goal is clear: to foster an inclusive and empowering environment where schools dedicated to supporting students with learning differences can come together, collaborate, and flourish,” said Cheryl Cook, Executive Director. “We believe that every student, regardless of their unique learning needs, deserves the opportunity to excel and reach their full potential.”
With the participation of over 50 founding schools, ALDS is actively working to establish itself as a 501(c)(3) non-profit entity. The association is always looking towards growth in the future. Its endeavors include expanding its membership base and developing a comprehensive website with resources accessible to both members and the general public. ALDS is poised to provide professional development opportunities within schools
and in collaboration with external experts. Mr. Pomar is excited to see the growth of ALDS in the years to come.
To learn more about ALDS, please visit www.ldschools.org
Reflecting on the Class of 2024 Prepared to Succeed
Graduation is a celebration — a time when tears of joy, laughter, and smiles are expressed freely as the accomplishments of an outstanding group are recognized.
The Swift School community is incredibly proud of its 19 members of the Class of 2024.
At commencement, each eighth grader received a certificate of completion and crossed the stage to enthusiastic applause from family, friends, faculty, and staff. Declan, Grady, Harrison, and Sofia were awarded the Determination Award for their unwavering persistence. Aili received the Citizenship Award. Anna Kate was honored with the Leadership Award. Grace won the Spirit Award.
The Director’s Award, given annually to the student who demonstrates significant academic and social growth, was proudly presented to Luke by Mrs. Jozefov, acknowledging his hard work throughout his time at Swift. Additionally, Luke and his friend Cameron received the Shining Star Award, recognizing students who have been at Swift for six or more years.
Mr. Lytle and Mrs. Berry added a touch of humor to the celebration with their presentation “Predictions for the Eighth Grade Class of 2024” which filled the room with laughter. Among their predictions, Erin will win a gold medal in every Olympic sport, Valentina will become a successful injury attorney, and Anna Kate and Grace will host a talk show on every TV network.
Honors for the Class of ‘24
In May, seven eighth graders were honored at Swift School’s National Junior Honor Society Induction Ceremony. Camille, Grace, and Luke were recognized for the second time, while Grady, Hagan, Melanie, and Ryland were inducted for the first time. Each student took the NJHS pledge to show loyalty
“Each student gave his or her personal best in the classroom and represented Swift School well during the year.”
—Melissa Jozefov Director, Swift Middle Division
to Swift and to be upstanding students and citizens who demonstrate character, leadership, and service.
Sofia, who joined Swift after her seventh-grade year, earned second place in the Middle School Painting division of the Georgia Independent Schools Association Virtual Art Show. Her painting was inspired by her desire to depict a
baby animal. “For the design, we had to include different patterns, so I drew a variety of shapes and a checkerboard with lots of colors. I wanted the background to be colorful, so I painted it with watercolors,” Sofia explained.
Well Wishes
Swift is thankful for the legacy each student has created, for their dedication in the classroom and on the field, and for being outstanding role models to their peers.
“I am proud of each member of the Class of 2024,” said Melissa Jozefov, Middle Division Director.
They were a positive example for all our students. I have no doubt they will be successful in high school and beyond. Congratulations to the Swift School Class of 2024!”
