Atlanta School Guide | Summer/Fall 2012

Summer/Fall 2012

COVERING: Independent | Boarding | Public | Charter | Early Education | Summer Camps | Field Trips and More

TECHNOLOGY TEACHING

How Computers are Changing the Way Our Children Learn

and

Exploring Single-Gender Education

Learning a New Language

Important Dates, Terms & Trends

Plus!

6 How to Use This Guide

10 Critical Communication

20 Headmaster’s Corner Jerri King of First Montessori School of Atlanta.

36 Independent School Guide

77 Boarding School Directory

87 Public Schools by County

94 Educational Resources Early education, tutors, summer camps, field trips and more.

106 Advertiser Index

In Every Issue

SuMMEr/FAll 2012

Co

nTE

nTS

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Teaching and TechnologyAt metro Atlanta schools, advances in computer technology are changing the way our children learn.

Learning a new LanguageWhy a multilingual child has a better chance of success in life—and why they should start instruction now.

Exploring Single-Gender SchoolsHow boys and girls learn differently, and can benefit from a segregated approach.

26

FEAturES

30 26

4 AtlAntA ScHool GuIdE Summer/Fall 2012

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

Publisher/Editor In Chief

PAtrIcK KIllAM

Editor

KEvIn ForESt MorEAu

Marketing & Promotions

JEFF tHoMPSon

Account Director

lAcEy JAMES

Contributing Writers

dAnIEl BEAurEGArd,

SuSAn FloWErS,

cAdy ScHulMAn

Atlanta School Guide, Summer/Fall 2012, Volume 7, Issue 2. Published bi-annually by Killam Publishing, Inc., 200 Market Place, Suite 230, roswell, GA 30075. Atlanta School Guide assumes no responsibility for errors, changes or omissions. Information may have changed since press time, so please verify all information when contacting a school or educational resource. reproduction in whole or in part of any elements of this publication is strictly prohibited without the written permission of the publisher. © 2012 Killam Publishing, Inc.

For additional copies, further information or advertising,

please contact:

KILLAM PUBLISHING, INC. P: 770-992-0273 F: 770-649-7463

[email protected]

AT L A N TA

G U I D EAtlanta’s Education Resource

TO ADVERTISE CALL770-992-0273

Space closing for Winter/Spring 2013 issue:

october 19, 2012

Find an Independent School in

Use ThisGuide

How To

4Easy Steps!

Metro Atlanta Area Mapto search for independent schools by region or neighborhood, turn to page 34 and use the color-coded map to direct you to each region’s page number.

Education At-a-Glanceonce you’ve selected your region of interest, the charts beginning on page 36 include a comparison of features for each school in that region, along with the page number for each school’s ad.

Region Maps and Listingsdivided into regions of Atlanta, the color-coded maps beginning on page 40 provide each school’s location and page number for their ad.

Advertiser Indexto find a school or resource by name, turn to the advertiser index on page 106 to find the appropriate page number.

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2

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6-10 MONTHS AWAY• Determineyour

child’s needs and expectations. I,P

• Researchopen house dates. I,P

• Inquireabouteachschool’s admissions process. I

5 MONTHS AWAY• Narrowdownyour

choices. I,P• Submitapplication

and fees by the deadline. I

4 MONTHS AWAY• Makeafinal

decision and send in your acceptance to the school of your choice. I

timeline for Finding a School

Prepare for enrolling your child in school

critical communication

3 MONTHS AWAY• Scheduleany

requiredhealthtestsor immunizations. I,P

• Todetermineyour school zone, use the county’s Web site or call the System directly. P

2 WEEKS AWAY• Findoutwhat

documentation isrequiredfor registration. P

• Completeregistra-tion forms and file with school. P

1 WEEK AWAY• Attendregistration

or orientation. P

KEy: I = IndEPEndEnt ScHool, P = PuBlIc ScHool

• Prepare your child by making sure he or she gets a good night’s sleep, adheres to the dress code and is on time. I,P

DAY OF CLASS1ST


Public SchoolSFirSt Day oF SchoolJuly 10 Atlanta (y)July 30 RockdaleAug. 1 Cherokee, Paulding, DecaturAug. 3 BufordAug. 6 Coweta, Douglas, Gwinnett, Henry, Atlanta (t)Aug. 9 Forsyth, MariettaAug. 10 Hall Aug. 13 Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Fayette, Fulton, Griffin-Spalding

Important Dates

Critical Communication

JULY-AUG

sep-oct

Nov

oct-MAR

inDePenDent SchoolSopen houses Oct. to Mar., in generalapplication Deadlines Late Jan. to late Feb., in general

Dates subject to change. Please check with your local school district for updates.t = Traditional Calendar y = Year-round Calendar

thanKSGiVinG breaK November 19-23 Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, Coweta, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Griffin-Spalding, Gwinnett, Henry, Paulding, Rockdale, Atlanta (t, y), Buford, Decatur, MariettaNovember 21-23 Fulton, Hall

Fall breaK Sep. 10-14 DecaturSep. 17-21 CherokeeSep. 24-28 Henry, Paulding, Atlanta (y)Oct. 4-5 ClaytonOct. 8 DeKalb, Fayette, Gwinnett, Marietta

Oct. 8-9 Atlanta (t), CowetaOct. 8-12 Douglas, Griffin- Spalding, RockdaleOct. 12-15 HallOct. 15 Buford, Fulton Oct. 19 Forsyth

teStinG DateS

oct-Dec

SatOct. 6, Nov. 3

and Dec. 1www.collegeboard.org

Dates apply to both public and independent schools. For registration deadlines, visit the appropriate websites.

SSatOct. 13, Nov. 10

and Dec. 8www.ssat.org

12 AtLANtA SCHOOL GuIDe Summer/Fall 2012

All others, not applicable

At Andrew College, we believe that success starts with a strong academic foundation. As a private two-year college related to The United Methodist Church, Andrew offers four academic divisions and 40 different challenging programs of study: •FineArts(art,drama/theatreandmusicprograms) •Humanities •MathandScience •SocialSciences

Visit us in person! Join us for one of our Campus Visitation Days.

Call for more information.

Andrew College Office of Admissions and Financial Aid501CollegeSt.•Cuthbert,GA39840

800-664-9250 • www.andrewcollege.edu

www.atlantaschoolguide.com 13

14 AtlAntA School Guide Summer/Fall 2012

Early Learning Center to Open in FallAtlanta international School is currently con-structing an early learning center at its Buckhead campus. the center will offer full-immersion language instruction in French, German and Spanish for 3- and 4-year-old students, and is scheduled to open in August 2012.

Atlanta Public Schools Announces ClosuresAfter a two-year de-termination process, Atlanta Public Schools has targeted seven schools for closure. capitol View elementary, White el-ementary, cook elemen-tary, east lake elementary and herndon elementary were expected to close at the end of the 2011-2012 school year. Kennedy Middle School and Parks Middle School will close at the end of the 2013-2014 school year.

Gas Company Gives to Atlanta SchoolsGeorgia natural Gas donated $1.1 million to metro Atlanta schools recently as part of true Blue Schools, a program launched in 2008 to pro-vide help to local schools.

Atlanta Colleges, Charters Pair UpMorehouse and Spelman colleges will reserve spots for graduates of KiPP charter schools across the country. each school will set aside 15 slots in 2013-2014 and 20 spaces for each year after that.

Cristo Rey Plans Atlanta High Schoolthe cristo Rey network, which has opened 24 independent catholic schools for underprivi-leged youth in the last decade, plans to open an Atlanta high school on the grounds of St. Paul of the cross church, slated to open in fall 2013.

Georgia Schools Win Environmental AwardAtlanta’s Springdale Park elementary, lithonia’s Arabia Mountain high School and Savannah country day School were among the 78 schools nationwide named as the first-ever u.S. department of education Green Rib-bon Schools in April. the schools were chosen for their dedication to health and environmental issues.

Gov. Deal Unveils Needs-Based ScholarshipGeorgia Gov. nathan deal in February an-nounced a privately funded, needs-based scholarship program with the purpose of preparing low-income students for college. to receive $2,500 a year for up to four years, participating students must sign a contract in middle school that they will stay out of trouble and maintain a high school GPA of 2.5.

trends and happenings in Georgia education

What you need to know to stay up to date with Atlanta and Georgia education



Provost Partners with Magic JohnsonProvost Academy Geor-gia, a free public online high school slated for a 2012 launch, recently announced a partner-ship with Magic Johnson Bridgescape learning centers, which will offer additional help for stu-dents at locations across the state.

Wildwood Christian Names Shelnutt New Head of SchoolBill Shelnutt has been named new head of School for Wildwood christian Academy effec-

tive June 1, 2012. Shel-nutt has held leadership positions at Brandon hall School, holy Spirit Prepa-ratory School, and Mount Pisgah christian School.

Atlanta Retires “Small Schools” ConceptAtlanta Public Schools will consolidate 14 small high schools into four large schools by fall 2012. the move affects carver, Wash-ington, South Atlanta and therrell high Schools, each of which is currently broken into four smaller schools, which focus on career skills in such areas as criminal justice and banking.

Greater Atlanta Chris-tian Plans Sister Schoolthe Rwandan government has affirmed a land grant to Greater Atlanta chris-tian School, with plans to open a sister school in Kigali. the school’s focus will share similarities with GAc’s emphasis on academics, character, faith and digital skills.

“Education Nation” Comes to Atlanta“education nation,” nBc news’ education initiative, visited Atlanta in May. the week-long event included discussion panels and town hall meetings.

Fulton County SchoolsPreschool Special Education Services

Serving all eligible Students ages 3-5 with disabilities.

Parents must live within the Fulton County Schools District.

Diagnostic & Evaluation Services Speech/Language Therapy Specialized Community & School Based Special Education

It is the policy of the Fulton County School System not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, or disability in any employment

practice, educational program, or any other program, activity or service.

Call 404-763-5600


ACCREDITATION official certification that guarantees a school provides an educationofareasonablyhighquality.Schoolsmustprovelevelsofquality and maintain continuous standards of improvement.

ACT An alternative to the SAt, this national college admissions examination consists of subject area tests in English, Mathematics, reading and Science, with an optional 30-minute writing test.

ADEqUATE YEARLY PROGRESS (AYP) A measure of year-to-year student achieve-mentonstatewideassessmentsasrequiredby the no child left Behind Act.

Education 101Terms to know in your search for the

right educational experience for your child

CHARTER SCHOOL A tax-sup-ported public school that is inde-pendently run, allowing for greater educational choice for a school community.

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

INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB) A specifically designed comprehensive academic program emphasizing traditional disciplines while encouraging an international perspective.

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

MONTESSORI A school follow-ing the principles developed by dr. Maria Montessori focusing on the uniqueindividuality,self-relianceandindependence of children.

SPECIAL NEEDS SCHOOL A school or program for children who have mild-to-moderate learning differ-ences. It usually features smaller class sizes, individualized attention and multi-sensory learning methods.



CRITERION-REFERENCED COMPETENCY TESTS (CRCT) tests designed to measure how well students in grades one through eight ac-quiretheskillsandknowledgedescribedin the Georgia Performance Standards.

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

GEORGIA HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION TESTS (GHSGT) All students seeking a Georgia high school diploma must pass four content areas as well as the Georgia High School Writing Assessment.

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

HOPE SCHOLARSHIP (Helping Outstanding Pupils Educationally) A scholarship in Georgia, funded by the Georgia lottery, that rewards academi-cally achieving students with financial assistance to attend eligible public and private Georgia colleges and universities.

MISSION/PHILOSOPHY A statement outlining the guidelines a school follows to achieve its goals or maintain perfor-mance standards.

NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND ACT A federal law passed in 2001 designed to ensure that all children have a fair and equalopportunitytoobtainahigh-qual-ity education and meet state academic standards of proficiency.

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

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

PSAT A standardized test that offers stu-dents practice for the SAt reasoning test andallowsthemtoqualifyfortheNationalMerit Scholarship Program.

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

SAT this standardized test measures the critical thinking, mathematical reasoning, and writing skills of students planning to attend college.

SECONDARY SCHOOL ADMISSIONS TEST (SSAT) the admissions test that manyindependentschoolsrequirestu-dents to take in order to be considered for enrollment.

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

Did You Know: More than 1,417,000

students to date have received HOPE scholarships totaling

$6.4 billion.

American Camp Association (ACA)www.acacamps.orgAccredits camps that meet industry-accepted and government-recognized standards, educates,and establishes guidelines.

The Association of Boarding Schools (TABS)www.boardingschools.comthis organization of nearly 300 boarding schools serves the professional

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

Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) www.acsi.orgAcSI strives to enable christian educators and schools worldwide to effectively teach using christ-centered curricula and programs.

Association Montessori Internationale (AMI)www.montessori-ami.orgFounded in 1929, AMI recognizes schools that strongly adhere to Montes-sori principles and practices.

Atlanta Area Association of Independent Schools (AAAIS) aaais.orgAlthough not an accredit-ing agency, AAAIS is an affiliation of independent schools and operates under analogous principles and a common code of ethics.

Department of Education (DOE) www.doe.k12.ga.usA statewide, policy-driven organization governing the public school system of education in Georgia for K-12, the doE operates under the direction of the State Superintendent of Schools.

Georgia Accrediting Com-mission (GAC)www.coe.uga.edu/gacGAc offers four levels of approval: preparation status, provisional accredi-tation, accreditation and accreditationwithquality.

Georgia Association of Christian Schools (GACS)www.gacs.orguses generally accepted in-dicatorsofquality,voluntaryself-improvement and peer review to measure schools.

deciphering Associations and

organizations


Many local and national organizations work to bring out the best in summer

camps and public, private and boarding schools by setting policies, serving as advocates, researching educational advancements, identifying schools

that meet certain standards through accreditation or by offering services to the educational communities both in Atlanta and in Georgia. the following are just some of the organizations you should know in your search for the best educational experience for your child.


Georgia Association of Educational Leaders (GAEL) www.gael.orgthis statewide umbrella organization of six profes-sional associations pro-vides unity among school leadership organizations.

Georgia Association for Private Schools for Exceptional Children (GAPSEC) www.gapsec.orgthis state organization is for schools that serve stu-dents with learning issues.

Georgia Independent School Association (GISA) www.gisa-schools.orgAssociation of private, in-dependent and parochial schools whose mission is to advance excellence and collaboration among independent schools.

Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education (GPEE) www.gpee.orgthis non-profit organiza-tion of business, education, community and govern-ment leaders aims to shape policy and reform public education in the state.

Georgia Private School Accreditation Council (GAPSAC) www.gapsac.orgAssociation of K-12 private schools whose students are recognized and ap-

proved by the Georgia doE for transferring cred-its to public schools on the same basis as students from public schools.

Georgia Professional Standards Commission (PSC) www.gapsc.comA state organization responsible for setting and applying high standards for the preparation, certification, and contin-ued licensing of Georgia public educators. Prepara-tion and conduct of public school teachers and staff.

Georgia School Boards Association (GSBA)www.gsba.comrepresenting Georgia’s 180 elected boards of education, GSBA provides leadership and services to local boards of education.

National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)www.naeyc.orgthe nAEyc focuses on the qualityofeducationalanddevelopmental services for children, from birth to age eight, including daycare and Pre-K centers. It is a national network of over 300 local, state, and regional affiliates.

National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) www.nais.orgthe association values and works to maintain the independent nature of each member school by promoting high standards ofeducationalqualityandethical behavior.

National Christian School Association (NCSA)www.nationalchristian.orgAdministrators from accredited schools, univer-sity educators and public schools preside over the accreditation process for ncSA.

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) www.sacs.orgMember schools meet research-based standards and maintain continuous school improvement and qualityassurance.Itsmis-sion is the improvement of education in the South through accreditation.

Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS) www.sais.orgMembersmeetqualitystandards, receive peer evaluation and implement a school plan focused on strategic improvement.

For more information about these and other organizations and associations that ensurequalityeducationamongcampsandschools,visitthewebsitesoftheGeorgia department of Education (www.k12.ga.us) or the u.S. department of Education (www.ed.gov).


What is your educational philosophy? I believe education that serves a student over his or her lifetime is about more than learning “stuff.” To thrive, students should have a learning adventure that feeds their curiosity, their work ethic, their sense of responsibility and their character.

What do you love most about your job? I love talking with our students about their most recent discovery and what interests them.

How can parents best contribute to the education process? Parents are key to creating a partnership that is supportive to their child’s overall development. It is important that parents have confidence in the experience and professionalism the school’s faculty and staff have to offer.

How is the field of education changing? Education is embracing the science of brain development and matching student

opportunities to those discoveries. Today, we see skill instruction balanced more often with context and creativity.

What advice would you offer parents about their children’s education? Embrace the life lessons children learn in the struggles and challenges that naturally occur over the course of grow-ing up. A student’s ability to rise above disappointments in high school and col-lege is predicated on the experience of navigating minor disappointments earlier in life.

Jerri KingHead of School, First Montessori School of Atlanta

Headmaster’s Corner

Now in her sixth year as Head of School, Jerri King is devoted to First Montessori’s mission to provide an educational experi-ence crafted to each stage of develop-ment. She also speaks on education-re-lated topics at schools and conferences, drawing on her years as a teacher and director of admissions for the Southeast’s oldest Montessori school.

THe essenTials:FiRsT MOnTessORi sCHOOl OF aTlanTa

emphasis: Activity-based learning experi-ences that support the development of the person in addition to academic skills.

Year Founded: 1963

Grades: Toddler through middle school

students: 240

avg. Class size: Varies

Tuition Range: $4,910 - $15,710

accreditations or affiliations: SACS, SAIS, AMI

location: Sandy Springs

Contact: 404-252-3910, www.firstmontessori.org

20 ATlANTA SCHool GuIdE Summer/Fall 2012

in and around Sandy Springs, GA!ound Sandy Springs, GA!, GA!,

Visit our Anne Frank in the World Exhibit located right above the Sandy Springs Welcome Center. More than 600 photographs chronicle Frank’s life from 1920s Germany all the way to her death in a Nazi conentration camp.

Make a big splash at the coolest event this summer on Saturday, July 28, 2011 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Sandy Springs, Georgia. Float from Morgan Falls Dam to Powers Island in a kayak, canoe, or raft down the Chattahoochee River.

music, crafts, and self-guided hikes at Powers Island.

ANNE FRANK IN THE WORLD EXHIBIT

5TH ANNUAL CHATTAHOOCHEE RIVER SUMMER SPLASH

YOUNG CHEFS

ACADEMYThe tastiest place in

Metro Atlanta, Young Chefs Academy in Sandy

Springs offers weekly cooking classes for children,

teens, and adults, too! Host a party, schedule a teambuilding

this quality cooking facility.

p

Sizzling Summer

Family Fun

Call for a FREE Fun Guide!

866-511-7742www.visitsandysprings.org

22 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE Summer/Fall 2012

TEACHING AND

TECHNOLOGYHOW THE DIGITAL AGE IS CHANGING EDUCATION

BY DANIEL BEAUREGARD

Rapid technological advancements are changing the way that people interact, communicate and access

information. And more and more, edu-cators are incorporating those advance-ments into the classroom. By using an array of accessible computer devices and programs, they create interactive learn-ing environments, while also offering students a greater understanding of the technology they use every day.

21st Century ClassroomsAs textbooks and chalkboards give way to laptops and interactive whiteboards, the traditional classroom model is get-ting a 21st-century update. Technology is no longer reserved for the computer lab. Instead, students interact with tech-nological devices on a regular basis throughout the school day.

“Textbooks themselves are becoming a thing of the past. Everything is becom-ing digital,” says Steve Swells, technolo-gy instructor at McGinnis Woods Country Day School in Alpharetta.

After investing in an extensive collec-tion of Apple products like MacBooks, iPads and iPod touches, Notre Dame Academy in Duluth did away with its tra-ditional computer labs altogether, plac-ing its computer equipment on carts to make it easier for students to access, says Ken Lemons, director of technology and education technology coordinator. In ad-dition, there are enough iPads for every eighth-grader. The students use the com-puters in place of textbooks, and return them at the end of the year. While the devices are more expensive than books, they don’t receive as much wear and tear, Lemons says, making them more cost-effective in the long run.

At Victory World Christian School in Norcross, every student from kindergar-ten through fifth grade is equipped with a Neo 2 laptop computer, which stays on-site at the end of the day, says Irene Prue, the school’s principal.

McGinnis Woods currently has close to 125 laptops, about one for every two students. At Trinity Chapel Academy

www.atlantaschoolguide.com 23www.atlantaschoolguide.com 23

24 AtlAntA ScHool GuIdE Summer/Fall 201224 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE Summer/Fall 2012

in Powder Springs, all middle and high school students are issued a MacBook, and at Wesleyan School in Norcross, every student in grades 5 through 12 is provided a tablet computer. This year, every third through fifth grade student at Greater Atlanta Christian School in Nor-cross was provided with an iPad.

The amount of computers and other devices such as smart boards differs from school to school. That’s especially true of public school systems. Every school in the DeKalb County Schools system is different, says Chief Information Officer Gary Brantley, “because every school has different needs.”

For example, schools that receive Ti-tle I funds (federal money made available to schools with a large number of stu-dents from low-income families) receive more funding for technology than other public schools.

Currently, Brantley says, all Title I schools in DeKalb County have smart

boards, and some also may have acces-sories, such as devices that allow wireless communication with the board.

As a result of a recently passed spe-cial-purpose local option sales tax, all DeKalb County schools “will have … some type of smart board,” Brantley says.

Plans call for every school to have wireless connectivity as well, which Brant-ley estimates will roll out sometime early next year.


Changes in Teaching and Learning Utilizing technology as an educational tool has had a profound impact on the ways both teachers and students func-tion within the classroom.

Technology is a part of students’ daily lives outside of the classroom, so utilizing it as a teaching aid is a logical step. “The students need this,” Lemons says. “They grow up with digital technology. The tra-ditional stand-and-deliver style of teach-ing where the teacher is writing things on the board and reciting the things the students need to learn just doesn’t work as well as it once did.”

At Victory World Christian School, the Neo 2 laptops allow teachers to tai-lor lessons to each student’s needs—for example, creating individual math work-sheets for each child. “The responses are automatically scored so the teacher can see what areas each child needs help with,” says Prue. “The old-fashioned way, a day later the teacher would be correct-ing the worksheets and giving feedback. … It gives child and teacher immediate feedback so you can give a kind of indi-vidualized instruction.”

More than just a tool for teachers, contemporary technology is changing the way students learn and interact with their instructors. Instead of simply writing a report on something they’ve studied, Notre Dame students are required to “do some sort of presentation—creating movies or [recording] a podcast to give their impressions of what they’ve just learned,” says Lemons.

After completing a project, McGinnis Woods students create a presentation to show their classmates how to do what they just did. In that way, the students be-come teachers themselves.

Teachers, of course, aren’t the only ones excited about the educational ad-

vances offered by technology. Swells, with McGinnis Woods, says there’s “a quan-tum leap in their engagement and how much more they absorb the content.”

Swells believes that using technology in the classroom is more than a means of encouraging students to get excited about learning; it’s an obligation.

“They seem to learn more in a shorter period of time and seem to retain more,” he says. “The studies out there show that the test scores go up when they [partici-pate in] this style of learning. So we, as responsible teachers, can’t ignore that. Because of these tools, we have more engaged learners.”

But don’t expect to see computers running a classroom any time soon, says Prue of Victory World Christian.

“We firmly believe that technology will never replace the teacher because kids, particularly at the elementary level, they really need that [face-to-face] con-tact,” she says. “But it sure does enhance instruction.”

TODAY’S TEACHING TOOLS

Smart boards: Interactive white boards that act as large touch screens are replacing chalk-boards. Students can use them to participate in hands-on activities, dropping and dragging animated items and using a pen to highlight different words.

Laptops and tablet computers: Textbooks are being replaced by compact computers and tablet devices such as the iPad. Devices such as the Neo 2 laptop developed by Re-naissance Learning allow teachers to instantly test students’ reading comprehension and create individualized instruction. Students can also use them to collaborate with each other.

Software and applications: Students at McGinnis Woods use Microsoft PowerPoint to give presentations, while Notre Dame Academy students report on what they’ve learned via movies or podcasts. Students at Victory World Christian School use Rosetta Stone software to learn Spanish.



With changing demographic trends at home and a world economy driven by interna-

tional businesses, proficiency in a second or even a third language is increasingly

considered a crucial component of suc-cess in business, education and other areas of life. As students prepare to com-pete in the global marketplace, parents and experts are placing more emphasis

Learning a New LANGUAGE

26 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE Summer/Fall 2012

THE BENEFITS OF IMMERSION, AND

WHY YOU SHOULD START NOWBY SUSAN FLOWERS

on language instruction that begins at an early age.

“The ability to commu-nicate, understand and em-pathize with people is going to be important in the global economy,” says Dr. Dell Giles, dual language coordinator at the Unidos Dual Language Charter School.

Being able to speak and read a second language also offers a number of education-al benefits that go beyond the economic, say educators at metro Atlanta-area schools.

“Bilingually trained brains have more neural connec-tions to draw on, which pro-motes a higher cognitive skill set in all of our students’ oth-er academic and co-curricular endeavors,” says Kevin Glass, headmaster of the Atlanta International School (AIS), a K-12 independent school.

Besa Tarazhi, owner of Ta-bula Rasa, cites a recent study that says the process helps the brain to develop even in areas unrelated to lan-guage, aiding with present-day problem-solving and possibly helping to protect the brain against Alzheimer’s later in life.

Language ImmersionOne of the most popular methods of learning another language is immersion, in which teachers and students speak pri-marily in the language being taught. The approach can be one-way, with lessons conducted entirely in a second language, or two-way, alternating between English and the other language.

“Foreign-language teachers will tell you the best way to become fluent is to

go to the country where the language is spoken,” says Minako Ahearn, principal of Seigakuin Atlanta International School. “Therefore, we find the best method is to immerse the children, so they can experi-ence live language.”

At Seigakuin, “The students spend time with English-speaking teachers … for part of the day,” she says. The rest of the day, they are instructed in the Japa-nese language.

Two-way immersion, says Giles, em-powers parents as much as their children. Spanish-speaking parents “are able to understand the work that students are bringing home” and participate in the process, she says. u


One of the most popular methods of learning another

language is immersion.



Starting EarlyLearning a new language doesn’t end when the student leaves school. It’s a life-long commitment, and is most beneficial when started as early as possible.

“All the research shows us the ben-efits of beginning as early as possible to capture the child’s natural motivation, cognitive vocabulary skills and innate grasp of grammar and pronunciation,” says Kevin Glass of AIS. “Young children learn languages naturally, like they learn skipping rope and riding a tricycle.”

Little Linguists Preschool admits ba-bies as young as six weeks, says director Raquel Paulino, although the school pre-fers to begin with infants closer to six to eight months. Tabula Rasa will accept a child at two months of age. And this fall, AIS will open a full-immersion early learn-ing center for children ages 3-5.

Educators say the language learned is less important than the learning process itself, which primes the brain for profi-ciency later on.

“It’s really not important what lan-guage the kids learn, so long as they learn one,” says Tarazhi.

Other OptionsSchools that offer full immersion aren’t a parent’s only option, however. Atlanta Public Schools’ middle and high schools offer French and Spanish courses.

Many independent schools offer some foreign language instruction as well. Stu-dents at McGinnis Woods Country Day School in Alpharetta can learn Spanish through speech, music and special proj-ects, while Gerard Preparatory School teaches Spanish, French, Japanese, Ger-man, Chinese and Latin.

Learning a new language is a life-long commitment and is most beneficial when started as early as possible.


Of course, it’s never too late to learn a new language as an adult. Schools like the Language Institute of Atlanta and the Language Institute of Georgia offer con-venient night classes for working adults. Little Voyages in Sandy Springs offers instruction for children and adults, from day care to child-and-parent classes as well as night and weekend courses.

For those with tight schedules or who work better one-on-one, tutoring is an-other option. WyzAnt (www.wyzant.com) is an online resource that allows visitors to search a database of pre-screened, tested tutors in more than 200 subjects, including foreign language instruction.

Whatever level of instruction you’re looking for, ask lots of questions and be sure to ask for references. And remember that the work you do now will pay off in the long run.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Atlanta International SchoolFrench, German, Spanish

www.aischool.org

Language Institute of AtlantaMore than 50 languages

www.atlantalanguage.com

Language Institute of GeorgiaFrench, German

www.languageinga.com

Little Linguists International PreschoolFrench, Spanish

www.littlelinguistspreschool.com

Little VoyagesArabic, Chinese, French, Hindi, Portuguese, Spanish

www.littlevoyages.com

Seigakuin Atlanta International SchoolJapanese

www.seig.ac.jp/english/atlanta/index.htm

Tabula Rasa The Language AcademyFrench, Spanish

www.trlanguages.com

Unidos Dual Language Charter SchoolSpanish

www.clayton.k12.ga.us/facilities/schools/198.asp



The differences between boys and girls are well-established, and are evident from an early age. Not sur-

prisingly, studies have shown that those differences extend to the way boys and girls learn. For instance, girls are stronger when it comes to vocabulary and writing,

while boys tend to absorb information more visually and respond well to images and movement

Because of those differences in the way boys and girls process information, many educators and researchers find that students are able to learn more ef-

BY CADY SCHULMAN

How Boys and Girls Learn Differently

SCHOOLSSingle-Gender

Exploring the Advantages of


fectively in a single-gender environment, where the curriculum is tailored to their strengths and they are free from the dis-tractions that come with a coed setting.

Learning Differences Educators at single-gender schools in the Atlanta area and the Southeast say that students at these schools perform bet-ter on tests and post higher grades than those at coed schools.

Research tends to back that conclu-sion: A four-year study conducted by Stetson University in Florida found that 85 percent of boys in single-gender classrooms scored proficient on the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test, compared to 55 percent of boys in coed classes that taught the same curriculum.

Teachers at all-boy and all-girl schools say they are able to tailor their work to the ways each gender learns. Pinney Allen,

head of school at Atlanta Girls School, an independent school for girls, says that girls like to work where they can see fac-es and interact, such as around a table, while boys work better side-by-side.

“Those are the kinds of things you can structure a classroom around when there are only girls,” she says.

At Riverside Military Academy in Gainesville, classes are shorter—40 to 50 minutes—to accommodate the fact that boys have shorter attention spans.

“An hour and 40 minute class is very difficult,” says Lt. Col. Kevin Jarrard, the school’s commandant. “I can’t imagine trying to contain a teenage boy for 1 hour and 40 minutes.”

Boys also need more breaks for activ-ity. At Brechmans Academy, an all-boys boarding school in Louisiana, the boys run two laps before school. “It’s impor-tant for them to get rid of some of that



energy before they start their day,” says Sister Lynne Lieux, headmistress of Brechmans and Academy of the Sacred Heart, its all-girl counterpart.

Fewer Distractions, More Focus Another advantage of a single-gender education is a lack of distraction from the opposite sex.

“There is no distraction in a single-gender environment—you know, the female distraction,” says Jerry Parker, principal at B.E.S.T. Academy, an all-male school on the campus of Ben Carson High School.

The same is true for all-girl schools. “From my point of view for girls, espe-cially in the middle school area when their bodies are changing and their minds are changing, when you’re in a coed envi-ronment, you don’t do your best,” says Victoria Hudson, dean of students at Ivy

Preparatory Academy for Girls, a single-gender charter school in Norcross.

Sharon Hawkins Gay, academy leader for the all-girls Dorothy Height Lead-ership Academy at Ben E. Mays High School, says that her students are more focused.

“Girls don’t want to answer questions if boys are around,” she says. “Instead, they’re trying to capture their atten-tion through their looks instead of their brains. With this academy, the girls are really focused. They’re all business.”

As a result, students are more en-gaged, says Hudson, a former math teacher at a coed school. At Ivy, “girls aren’t afraid to engage in lessons and ask questions.”

What’s more, Sacred Heart’s boarding school environment creates a sense of unity and purpose between students as they live and work together.

Educators at single-gender schools say their students perform better on tests and post

higher grades than coed students.


A Growing Trend Although single-gender schools aren’t as widespread as co-educational schools, there are signs that the trend is growing. Ivy Preparatory Academy, for instance, recently opened both a second all-girls school and an all-boys school.

The nation saw a decline in single-gender schools during the 1950s and ’60s, says Allen of Atlanta Girls School, likely due in part to the women’s libera-tion movement. But at least 15 new girls’ schools have opened in the United States in the last 15 years, she says, a trend she hopes will continue.

“I hope they continue to grow,” she says. “It’s a very tried and true format. The more we learn about how learn-ing takes place, the more we’re go-ing to appreciate having single-gender alternatives.”

BROOKSTONE MONTESSORI

1680 Brookstone Walk NW Acworth

770.426.5245 Ages: 2 1/2 - 6 years

No memorization. No standardized tests. Learn more about how the Montessori philosophy of joyful learning helps to develop every child’s natural interests in a safe, supportive environment.

MEDLOCK BRIDGE MONTESSORI

5815 Medlock Bridge Pkwy.Johns Creek

770.623.1965 Ages: 18 months - 6 years

NESBIT FERRY MONTESSORI

9330 Nesbit Ferry Rd.Alpharetta

770.552.8454 Ages: 2 - 9 years

PRESTON RIDGE MONTESSORI

3800 North Point Pkwy.Alpharetta

770.751.9510 Ages: 2 1/2 - 6 years

SUGARLOAF MONTESSORI SCHOOL

2270 Meadow Church Rd.Duluth

678.473.0079Ages 14 months - 6 years

®


FOR MORE INFORMATION

Academy of the Sacred Heart www.sshcoteau.org/academy

Atlanta Girls School www.atlantagirlsschool.org

B.E.S.T. Academywww.atlanta.k12.ga.us/Domain/2724

Berchmans Academywww.sshcoteau.org/berchmans

Coretta Scott King Young Women’s Leadership Academy

www.atlanta.k12.ga.us/Page/12900

Dorothy Height Leadership Academy www.atlanta.k12.ga.us/Page/15307

Eagle Leadership Academy www.atlanta.k12.ga.us/domain/3373

Ivy Preparatory Academy for Girlswww.ivyprepacademy.org

Riverside Military Academy www.riversidemilitary.com


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INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS

PAGE School PhonE An

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40 REGION 1: ATLANTA NORTH/NORTHWEST 41 Alexsander Academy 404-839-5910 $17,500 7-21y • 4 15 6 • Appt. Call

42 Atlanta International School 404-841-3840 $19,080- $21,780 3K-12th • • • 150 1,079 16 • Dec. Call

45 Chrysalis Experiential Academy 770-649-7077 $17,000-$20,000 6-12th 10 50 8-10 • Appt. Rolling

46 Creative Career Academy K-12 770- 354-6535 $4,500- $12,500 K-12th • • 8 12 3-8 C • • June Call

55 Cresco Montessori School 770-992-8031 Free- $11,000

Infant- 12y • • • 50 220 15 Appt. Rolling

46 Cross of Life Christian Montessori School 770-475-3812 $4,225-

$7,82515mo-

6y • • • 2 21 12 C Appt. Rolling

48 Cumberland Academy of Georgia 404-835-9000 $20,900 4-12th,

PG • 9 75 8 • • • Appt. Rolling

43 Eastside Christian School 770-971-2332 $5,874- $8,283 K5-8th • • 50 350 14 C • Appt. Call

47 Eaton Academy 770-645-2673 $5,000- $22,000 K-12th • • 30 150 5 • • Appt. Rolling

44 Faith Lutheran School 770-973-8921 $4,300- $6,300 2y-8th • • • 19 230 15 L • Dec. Rolling

47 Fellowship Christian School 770-993-1650 $3,250- $12,980 K4-12th • • • 54 752 22 • • Nov. Rolling

48 First Montessori School of Atlanta 404-252-3910 $10,260-

$17,75018mo-

8th • • • 19 260 Varies Oct. Rolling

43 The Heiskell School 404-262-2233 $4,575- $13,200 2y-8th • • • 29 300 14 ND • Appt. Rolling

3 High Meadows School 770-993-2940 $5,240- $16,030 PK-8th • • • 50 400 28 • Nov. Rolling

41 Mill Springs Academy 770-360-1336 $20,570- $21,860 1-12th • 50 300 9 • • Sept. Rolling

44 Mt. Bethel Christian Academy 770-971-0245 $9,380- $10,650 K-8th • • 39 497 18 C • Nov. Rolling

45 Saint Francis Schools 770-641-8257 $9,500- $17,250 PK-12th • • • 95 735 14 • • • Oct. Rolling

49 REGION 2: ATLANTA NORTH/NORTHEAST 54 Brandon Hall School 770-394-8177 $26,095-

$54,9956-12th,

PG • 29 160 6 • • • Appt. Rolling

50 Bridgeway Christian Academy 770-751-1972 $3,800- $10,600 K3-8th • • • 30 205 14-22 ND • • • Appt. Rolling

55 Cresco Montessori School 770-992-8031 Free- $11,000

Infant- 12y • • • 50 220 15 Appt. Rolling

51 Crimson Academy 678-482-5678 $640- $660 mo. 6wks-K • • • 12 40 10 C • Appt. Rolling

52 Lakeview Academy 770-531-2602 $170wk- $15,345 K3-12th • • • 75 550 15 • • • Appt. Rolling

50 McGinnis Woods Country Day School 770-664-7764 $8,500-

$11,500Infant-

8th • • • 65 400 18 • • Appt. Rolling

54 Mount Pisgah Christian School 678-336-3443 $14,675- $16,635 PK-12th • • • Varies 657 18 ND • • Appt. Call

52 North Georgia Christian School 770-534-1081 $8,000 PK4-12th • • 23 206 15 C • • Appt. Rolling

53 Seigakuin Atlanta International School 770-730-0045 $7,000-

$9,000 PK3-6th • • 16 100 11 ND Oct. Rolling

51 Sugar Hill Christian Academy 678-745-4121 $6,746- $7,028 K-8th • • 31 277 15 C • Appt. Rolling

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

*KEY:religious Affiliation: B = Baptist c = Christian cc = Catholic cG = Church of God E = Episcopal l = Lutheran M = Methodist nd = Non-denominational P = Presbyterian Q = Quaker SdA = Seventh Day Adventist


INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS


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53 Victory World Christian School 678-684-2030 $5,858- $5,967 PK4-5th • • • 12 120 15 ND • • Oct. Rolling

56 REGION 3: ATLANTA EAST57 Athens Academy 706-549-9225 $7,525-

$15,600 K3-12th • • • 130 935 19 • • Oct. Call

60 Atlanta Montessori International School 404-325-6777 $9,015-

$16,9808wks-15y • • • 14 180 Varies Jan. Rolling

63 Canterbury School 404-522-5659 $10,620- $15,000

Infant- 6th • • • 14 77 10 Jan. Rolling

62 The Children’s School 404-873-6985 $17,250 3y-6th • • • 71 400 20-24 Nov. 3/1

59 Cliff Valley School 678-302-1302 $4,050- $15,630 2y-7th • • • 45 250 18 Nov. Feb.

60 The Friends School of Atlanta 404-373-8746 $15,800- $17,000 PK-8th • • 30 178 9:1 Q Dec. Jan.

62 George Walton Academy 770-267-7578 $3,500- $8,950 K4-12th • • 80 900 15 • • Sept. Jan.

61 Greater Atlanta Christian School 770-243-2000 $10,540- $15,490 K3-12th • • • 224 1,835 1:13 C • • • Nov. Rolling

58 Hebron Christian Academy 770-963-9250 $5,891- $7,580 K-12th • 98 965 20-25 • • Jan. Rolling

57 Heritage Preparatory School of Georgia 404-815-7711 $4,750-

$14,325 PK4-8th • • 22 133 10 C • Oct. Rolling

58 Monsignor Donovan Catholic High School 706-433-0223 $9,300 9-12th 17 127 10 CC • • Nov. Rolling

63 Mount Carmel Christian School 770-279-8443 $4,310- $8,150

PK3- 8th • • • 20 150 15 C • • Jan. Call

61 Providence Christian Academy 770-279-7200 $8,940- $13,260 K-12th • • 109 673 17 C • • • Oct. Rolling

64 REGION 4: ATLANTA SOUTH/SOUTHEAST/SOUTHWEST68 Arlington Christian School 770-964-9871 $5,800-

$10,200 K4-12th • • • 52 280 16 C • • Appt. Rolling

68 The Bedford School 770-774-8001 $16,350 1-9th • 21 135 10 • • Feb. Call

69 Cornerstone Leadership Academy 770-987-4400 $9,600-

$13,600 PK-8th • • • 15 150 10 • • Appt. Rolling

66 Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy 770-957-2927 $2,790-

$10,344 K3-12th • • • 104 1,120 20 C • • • Jan. Rolling

107 Eastminster School 770-785-6780 $8,758- $11,679 K-11th • • 22 160 12 • • Appt. Rolling

70 The Heritage School 770-253-9898 $7,205- $13,640 3y-12th • • • 55 435 Varies • • Appt. Call

66 Landmark Christian School 770-306-0647 $4,225- $13,500 K4-12th • • • 72 809 15 ND • • Jan. Call

67 Romar Academy 404-761-3388 $603- $850 mo.

18mo-6th • • • 20 170 15 ND • • Appt. Rolling

9 Woodward Academy 404-765-4001 $10,000- $21,950 PK-12th • • 265 2,670 16 • • • Jan. Call

71 Yes-U-Can Academy 404-564-9831 $9,200- $13,800 PK-8th • • • 3 5 4-6 C • • Appt. Rolling

72 REGION 5: ATLANTA WEST 73 Atlanta Girls’ School 404-845-0900 $19,800 6-12th • 25 220 12-15 • • • Oct. Rolling

76 Center Academy 770-333-1616 $5,000- $14,680 5-12th • 6 48 16 C • • Appt. Rolling



Education At-a-Glance Continued on Page 38 u

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS


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74 Colonial Hills Christian School 770-941-6342 $6,395- $8,020 K3-12th • • • 26 300 20 B • • Jan. Rolling

75 Midway Covenant Christian School 770-590-1866 $2,075-

$5,580 K4-8th • 25 310 17 P • Appt. Call

73 Mount Paran Christian School 770-578-0182 $2,857- $13,220

PK3-12th • • • 99 1,200 18-20 ND • • Nov. Rolling

75 Praise Academy 770-943-2484 $2,800- $4,800 K3-12th • • • 20 281 15 M • • Appt. Rolling

74 St. Joseph Catholic School 770-428-3328 $5,878- $7,641 K-8th • • 47 485 26 CC • Jan. Call

76 Trinity Chapel Academy 678-831-1062 $6,800- $8,900 K-12th • • • 31 300 20 C • • • Nov. Rolling

77 bOARDING SCHOOLS81 American Boychoir School 888-269-2464 $22,370-

$24,700 4-8th 12 50 8 • Appt. Rolling

84 Asheville School 828-254-6345 $24,385- $43,800 9-12th 36 275 13 ND • Appt. 2/1

85 Baylor School 423-267-5902 $20,000- $45,000 6-12th 150 1,050 12 • • • Appt. Rolling

80 Brehm Preparatory School 618-457-0371 $39,600- $64,900 6-12th • 25 90 5 • • Appt. Rolling

82 The Gow School 716-652-3450 $54,500 7-12th 47 140 4 • • Call Rolling

85 Marine Military Academy 956-423-6006 $36,300 8-12th 26 250 12 • • Appt. Rolling

82 New York Military Academy 845-534-3710 $15,000- $36,000 7-12th 22 125 12 • • Appt. Rolling

81 The Piney Woods School 601-845-2214 $7,500- $22,500 9-12th • 20 150 10 C • Appt. Call

78 Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School 706-746-7467 $16,150- $40,850 6-12th • 49 340 16 P • • Appt. Call

78 The Rectory School 860-928-1328 $45,000 K-9th • • • 75 220 10 Appt. Rolling

79 Riverside Military Academy 800-462-2338 $17,150- $28,600 7-12th 50 450 16 • • July Rolling

86 St. Margaret’s School 804-443-3357 $17,200- $44,500 8-12th 35 120 7 E • • Call 2/15

83 The Stony Brook School 631-751-1800 $41,500 7-12th 44 314 14 C • July Rolling

80 Tallulah Falls School 706-754-0400 $8,750- $20,500 6-12th 40 365 12 • • Oct. 2/1




We’ve got a better way!Advertise in Atlanta School Guide and get results!

770.992.0273Call today for more information or to reserve your space!

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Region

1

neighboRhoods of note

Schools PageAlexsander Academy 41Atlanta International School 42Chrysalis Experiental Academy 45Creative Career Academy K-12 46Cresco Montessori School 55Cross of Life Christian Montessori School 46Cumberland Academy of Georgia 48Eastside Christian School 43Eaton Academy 47

Faith Lutheran School 44Fellowship Christian School 47First Montessori School of Atlanta 48The Heiskell School 43High Meadows School 3Mill Springs Academy 41Mount Bethel Christian Academy 44Saint Francis School (2 locations) 45

41

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independent schools

Alpharetta Once a small farming community, Alpharetta’s growth has exploded in recent years and is now one of Atlanta’s most affluent neigh-borhoods, creating the perfect mix of country living and city amenities.

Buckhead A development group is cur-rently creating what is being referred to as the Rodeo Drive of the South, where luxury retailers and high-end restaurants will be the feature. Luxury condos offerresidents city living at its finest.

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40 ATLAnTA SCHOOL GuIDE Summer/Fall 2012

44


ALP

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BU

CK

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AD

• mA

riE

ttAThe Heiskell School

2 Years - 8th Grade

The Heiskell School’s accelerated academic program and its focus on building Godly

character have had a life-changing impact in the lives of children for more than 60 years.

3260 Northside Drive NW, Atlanta, Georgia 30305

9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.Campus Tour and

Orientation Meeting

OPEN HOUSEWed., August 8, 2012

Friday, October 19, 2012


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Ro

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Now enrolling for 2012-13

770-475-3812 | colmontessori.com1000 Hembre Road | Roswell, GA 30076

Serving children ages 15 months - Kindergarten

since 1994

Ro

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SAn

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Independent SchoolsSchools PageBrandon Hall School 54Bridgeway Christian Academy 50Cresco Montessori School 55Crimson Academy 51Lakeview Academy 52

McGinnis Woods Country Day School 50Mount Pisgah Christian School 54North Georgia Christian School 52Seigakuin Atlanta International School 53Sugar Hill Christian Academy 51Victory World Christian School 53

RegIon

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neIghboRhoodS of note

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52 52

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Duluth A successful mix of small-town charm and booming economic growth, Duluth plays host to many major cor-porations and is also home to numer-ous golf clubs, private tennis clubs and parks. The city prides itself on accommo-dating a growing, diverse population.

Dunwoody A popular community among young and established pro-fessionals alike, Dunwoody is often referred to as the “tennis set” neighbor-hood because of its numerous recre-ational outlets. Its location provides suburban living close enough to the city.

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Learn More, visit www.McGinnisWoods.org 770-664-7764

Come See What Other Families Have DiscoveredINSPIRING STUDENTS WITH THE PASSION TO EXCEL

Private non-parochial Preschool, Elementary and Middle Grades Challenging Hands On Academics SACS, GAC and NAEYC accredited

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where students matter most.


BU

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GA

r H

iLLCrimson Academy

Crimson Academy is a Christian School providing early childhood education for ages 6wks-kindergarten.

1400 Buford Highway Bldg T-3 Sugar Hill, GA 30518

678-482-5678 | www.crimsonacademy.com

Building Minds, Growing Futures


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5905 BROOK HOLLOW PARKWAY, NORCROSS, GA 30071

Phone: 678.684.2030 Fax: 678.684.2031 www.vwcs.org

Victory World Christian School is a multicultural community of learners committed to Christian

discipleship, academic excellence & world transformation.

1 Pre-K (4) through 5th grade elementary program

1 High curriculum standards & creative learning environments

1 Interactive Technology in every classroom (whiteboards & laptops)

1 Rosetta Stone Spanish in all classes

1 Extracurricular Activities (ballet, jazz, chorus, drama, Tai-Kwon-do, piano)


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Independent Schools

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Schools PageAthens Academy 57Atlanta Montessori International School 60Canterbury School 63The Children’s School 62Cliff Valley School 59The Friends School of Atlanta 60George Walton Academy 62

Greater Atlanta Christian School 61Hebron Christian Academy 58Heritage Preparatory School of Georgia 57Monsignor Donovan Catholic High School 58Mount Carmel Christian School 63Providence Christian Academy 61

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Decatur The county seat of DeKalb County, Decatur’s small-town charm re-volves around the Courthouse Square, which features trendy restaurants and shopping, entertainment options and special events, including its annual summer beach bash.

Lawrenceville Located in the heart ofGwinnett County and known as “CrepeMyrtle City,” Lawrenceville is Atlanta’ssecond oldest city. Its historic down-town square, which has been revital-ized, is home to a variety of shops, restaurants and community events.

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AD SIZE ______________ ISSUE: SUMMER/FALL 08

Please make changes and SEND ANOTHER PROOF

The below ad is OK to PUBLISH WITH CHANGES AS SHOWN.

The below ad is OK to PUBLISH AS IS.

Signature _____________________________________________

Date _________________________________________________

Artwork in this proof is for accuracy of content and general display. This proof is printed at a reduced resolution. Color, while representative of the final, isapproximate, as is the size of the ad which may appear larger or smaller than in the final publication.

PROOF SHEET

Patrick Killam, [email protected]

770.992.0273 Office770.649.7463 Fax

AT L A N TA

G U I D EAtlanta’s Education Resource

HALF SUMMER/FALL 2010

EAST POINT

DEKALB

Independent Schools

NeIghborhoodS of Note

Schools PageArlington Christian School 68The Bedford School 68Cornerstone Leadership Academy 69Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy 66Eastminster School 107

The Heritage School 70Landmark Christian School (2 locations) 66Romar Academy 67Woodward Academy 9Yes-U-Can Academy 71

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McDonough One of the fastest-grow-ing neighborhoods South of Atlanta, McDonough is the county seat of Henry County and features many historic struc-tures around its town square. The city has ample green space and is a favorite destination for antique shoppers.

Peachtree City A master-planned city comprised of several smaller vil-lages, Peachtree City’s many ameni-ties include golf courses, lakes and an amphitheater. The city is renowned for its network of golf paths connecting its neighborhoods.

64 ATLAnTA SCHOOL GUiDE Summer/Fall 2012

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Call to schedule your visit.2400 Hwy 42 N, McDonough, GA 30253

770-957-2927 www.elcaonline.orgScan to

Experience ELCA now!

UNLEASH THE POTENTIAL

IN YOUR CHILDUNLEASH THE POTENTIAL

IN YOUR CHILD


Where Excellence and Faithfulness Meet

PEACHTREE CITY 777 Robinson Road, Peachtree City, Georgia 30269FAIRBURN 50 SE Broad Street, Fairburn, Georgia 30213

770.306.0647 | landmarkchristianschool.org

To apply, visit landmarkchristianschool.org.Call 770-306-0647 for admission questions, appointments, or tours.Every student prepared to impact the world for Jesus Christ

It would be our pleasure to share with you the magnitude of a Landmark Christian School education.


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Arlington Christian SchoolChanging the world for Christ…one child at a time.

4500 Ridge Road, Fairburn, GA 30213

3800 Big Miller Grove Way Lithonia, GA 30038 (770) 987-4400

www.claschool.org

We create ambassadors for the world...

Our school was designed with a mission to give students a chance to learn about their global community in order to become leaders that will make a positive difference in the world.

Our field trips are not just in our backyard. Each year, upper grade students and teachers, along with parents, have an opportunity to travel across the globe.

WE ENJOY

WE LEAD WE SHARE WE LEARN

WE CARE

WE EXPERIENCE

CORNERSTONE LEADERSHIP ACADEMY

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THE HERITAGESCHOOL

770.253.9898www.heritagehawks.org

imagine he possibilities

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There are more e�ective ways to promote your business.

Call today for more information or to reserve your space! 770-992-0273

Advertise in and get results. Atlanta School Guide

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Independent SchoolsSchools PageAtlanta Girls’ School 73Center Academy 76Colonial Hills Christian School 74Midway Covenant Christian School 75

Mount Paran Christian School 73Praise Academy 75St. Joseph Catholic School 74Trinity Chapel Academy 76

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Kennesaw Home to the popular Ken-nesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, the city of Kennesaw takes pride in its excellent recreation opportuni-ties and parks, rich history and thriving downtown. Kennesaw State University, the third largest university in Georgia, is well known for academic programs in business, education, and nursing.

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

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Celebrating 30 Yearsof Christian Education

Now Accepting Applications for the 2012-2013 AcademicYear

“Growing Disciples to make Disciples through Christian Education”

(Matthew 28:19)

770-943-2484 www.PraiseAcademy.com

4052 Hiram Lithia Springs Rd., Powder Springs, GA 30127

GRADES K3 - 12

Sports Program

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Grades K5 – 12After School Care Program

Laptop Program Athletic Program

Art, Music, Spanish, PE, ComputerFinancial Aid Available

Accredited by SACS and GACLow Student/Teacher Ratios

Trinity Chapel Academy

“ E X C E L L E N C E I N E D U C A T I O NW I T H A K I N G D O M F O C U S ”

4665 Macland Road Powder Springs, GA 30127

678-831-1062 www.trinitychapelacademy.com


72 ATLANTA SCHOOL GUIDE Winter/Spring 2012

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BOARDING SCHOOL DIRECTORY

here are many benefits of a boarding school education. Boarding schools are an option for students seeking a more independent learning experience. Because students generally live on campus,

learning takes place in and out of the classroom almost on a 24-hour basis.When selecting a boarding school, it is important to visit the school cam-

pus, but representatives from many boarding schools visit Metro Atlanta throughout the year—contact each school for specific dates. u

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Boarding SchoolsSchools PageAdmiral Farragut Academy 74The American Boychoir School 79Baylor School 82Brehm Preparatory School 78Eckerd Academy of the Blue Ridge 75Garrison Forest School 78The Gow School 79Lyman Ward Military Academy 73Marine Military Academy 82

New York Military Academy 80Rabun Gab-Nacoochee School 76Randolph-Macon Academy 83The Rectory School 73R 77Southeastern Boarding Schools (SABS) 81St. Margaret’s School 83The Stony Brook School 81Tallulah Falls School 74

A s h e v i l l e , N o r t h C a r o l i n a

Asheville School

FEATURE

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SCHOOL GUIDE’S

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Boarding SchoolSchools PageAmerican Boychoir School 81Asheville School 84Baylor School 85Brehm Preparatory School 80the Gow School 82Marine Military Academy 85new york Military Academy 82the Piney Woods 81

rabun Gap-nacoochee 78the rectory School 78riverside Military Academy 79Southeastern Boarding Schools (SABS) 83St. Margaret’s School 86the Stony Brook School 83tallulah Falls School 80


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★ Educating young men in grades 7-12★ Four week summer academic program★ 420+ cadets from 25 states and

16 countries★ Visual & performing arts programs★ Day and boarding opportunities★ Aviation education program★ AP and honors courses★ 12 varsity athletic teams★ SAIS/SACS accredited★ ESL programs

For over 100 years, Riverside Military Academy has produced young men of purpose, integrity, and character. As one of the na-tion’s leading mil-

770-538-2938www.riversidemilitary.com

2001 Riverside Drive Gainesville, GA 30501

Riverside Military Academy admits students of any race, religion and national or ethnic

Educating young men in grades 7-12Four week summer academic program

.com, GA 30501

Educating young men in grades 7-12Four week summer academic program

years, Riverside Military Academy has produced young men of purpose, integrity, and character. As one of the na-tion’s leading mil-

.com, GA 30501

Riverside Military Academy admits students of any race, religion and national or ethnic

For over 100 For over 100 For over 100 For over 100 years, Riverside Military Academy

Riverside Military Academy admits students of any race, religion and national or ethnic origin, and is committed to the enrollment of a widely diverse student body.

For over 100 years Riverside Military Academy has produced

young men of purpose, integrity, and character. As one of the nation’s leading military academies, we

prepare young men for success in premier colleges, universities, and

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SPotlIGHt on MEtro AtlAntA’S ScHool SyStEMS

variety of improvements and innovative programs in Georgia’s public school systems have resulted in many stellar elementary, middle and high schools across the

Metro area. different school systems feature specialized programs and academic opportunities, such as magnet, charter, vocational or alternative schools to suit their respective students, parents and communities. However, despite variations in programming and ac-ademic offerings, all public schools must offer the core curriculum as determined by the Georgia Board of Education.

Here is a county-by-county guide to Metro Atlanta’s public school systems. For more information about the Georgia depart-ment of Education, call 404-656-2800 or visit www.gadoe.org. u

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IDE Number of Schools

elementary 23intermediate 1Middle 7high 6Alternative 1evening 1centers 1

Total # of Students: 38,293 Spending per Student: $12,393

Board of Education770-479-1871www.cherokee.k12.ga.us

What’s NewFive cherokee high schools were named AP Science, technology, engineering and Math Schools for the second year in a row.

Number of Schoolselementary 36Middle 14 high 10 Alternative 1 open campus 1charter Schools 2 Special education centers 3 centers for learning 1Magnet Schools 1

Total # of Students: 50,204

Spending per Student: $11,602

Board of Education770-473-2700www.clayton.k12.ga.us

What’s NewShekema Silveri, a teacher at Mount Zion high, was named Georgia’s 2011 national Milken educator of the Year by the Milken Family Foundation. Silveri won a cash prize of $25,000.

Number of Schoolselementary 68Middle 25 high 15Magnet 6charter 6Special education centers 2Virtual Academies 2



Board of Education770-426-3300www.cobb.k12.ga.us

What’s Newcobb county eighth-graders outperformed their peers on the 2012 eighth Grade Writing Assessment. the average scale score of 220 is four points higher than the state score of 216.

CHErOkEE

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2011 Average CRCT Scores3rd: (R) 853.23 (M) 846.825th: (R) 843.14 (M) 846.398th: (R) 844.49 (M) 837.84

2011 Average SAT: 1559

Top 5 Schools by Average 2011 SAT Score etowa high 1608creekview high 1586cherokee high 1559Sequoyah high 1542Woodstock high 1529

2011 Average CRCT Scores3rd: (R) 829.59 (M) 823.795th: (R) 823.20 (M) 825.798th: (R) 830.12 (M) 815.76 2011 Average SAT: 1258 Top 5 Schools by Average 2011 SAT ScoreMount Zion high 1315lovejoy high 1274north clayton high 1273Mundy’s Mill high 1241Morrow high 1205



Top 5 Schools by Average 2011 SAT Score Walton high 1725Pope high 1676lassiter high 1634Wheeler high 1620harrison high 1578

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Number of Schoolselementary 20Middle 7high 3central education center 1Alternative 1



Board of Education770-254-2800www.coweta.k12.ga.us

What’s Newthree coweta county elementary schools—Ruth hill, Western and White oak—will undergo renovations totaling more than $7.4 million. the renovations will be completed in July 2012.

Number of Schoolselementary 77Middle 19high 20center, Special education and Alternative 13Start-up charter Schools 7



Board of Education678-676-1200www.dekalb.k12.ga.us

What’s Newthe deKalb county School district appointed a new chief financial officer in March. Michael Perrone will be in charge of all school district finances and budgeting.

Number of Schoolselementary 20 Middle 8 high 5 centers 2


Board of Education770-651-2000www.douglas.k12.ga.us

What’s NewJaslyn dukes of Stewart Middle School was named one of 10 Georgia teacher of the Year finalists. the winner was to be announced on June 1 at the Georgia teacher of the Year banquet at the Georgia international convention center.

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Top 3 Schools by Average 2011 SAT Score northgate high 1524newnan high 1508east coweta high 1478

2011 Average CRCT Scores3rd: (R) 832.10 (M) 822.455th: (R) 828.27 (M) 827.118th: (R) 831.57 (M) 813.75 2011 Average SAT: 1334 Top 5 Schools by Average 2011 SAT Scorechamblee high 1626lakeside high 1609deKalb School of the Arts 1555dunwoody high 1515druid hills high 1415



Top 5 Schools by Average 2011 SAT Score Robert S. Alexander comprehensive high 1406douglas county high 1406chapel hill high 1325lithia Springs high 1260new Manchester high 1248

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Number of Schoolselementary 16 intermediate 1Primary 1 Middle 6 high 5 Alternative 1open 1



Board of Education770-460-3535www.fcboe.org

What’s NewAlyson Pitzer, a second grade teacher at north Fayette elementary, is one of 50 horace Mann Fellowship recipients.

Number of Schoolselementary 20Middle 9 high 5 Alternative 1 charter 1Virtual 1


Board of Education770-887-2461www.forsyth.k12.ga.us

What’s NewForsyth county Schools leads metro area districts in having the highest graduation percentage: 86.27 percent. in other news, Forsyth county Schools’ 20th elementary school, Kelly Mill elementary, opens in August 2012.

Number of Schoolselementary 58 Middle 19 high 17 charter 9 centers 2


What’s NewFive Fulton county seniors have been named winners in the 48th annual national Achievement Scholarship Program, a competition for African-American students. each won a $2,500 cash prize or an equivalent scholarship.

FOrSYTH



Top 5 Schools by Average 2011 SAT ScoreMcintosh high 1630Starr’s Mill high 1611Whitewater high 1506Fayette county high 1491Sandy creek high 1423



Top 5 Schools by Average 2011 SAT ScoreSouth Forsyth high 1639lambert high 1594West Forsyth high 1564north Forsyth high 1518Forsyth central 1515



Top 5 Schools by Average 2011 SAT Scorenorthview high 1751chattahoochee high 1694Alpharetta high 1679Milton high 1659Riverwood international charter School 1652

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Board of Education404-768-3600www.fultonschools.org

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Number of Schoolselementary 11Middle 4 high 2 Alternative 2center 1


Board of Education770-229-3700www.spalding.k12.ga.us

What’s Newthe Griffin-Spalding Partners in education board of directors has awarded almost $20,000 in grants to Griffin-Spalding. thirty-eight projects were funded with amounts ranging from $75.95 to $1,000.

Number of Schoolselementary 77Middle 26 high 18 Alternative 2 charter 3Special education 4Virtual School 1open campus 1 Total # of Students: 159,296 Spending per Student: $11,928

Board of Education678-301-6000www.gwinnett.k12.ga.us

What’s NewFifteen Gwinnett county students from the class of 2012 were among the 800 African-American students named as recipients of the national Achievement Scholarship, awarded by the national Merit Scholarship competition.

Number of Schoolselementary 19 Middle 7 high 6 charter 1career Academy 1


Board of Education770-534-1080www.hallco.org

What’s Newthe Georgia State Board of education has approved charter petitions from chestnut Mountain elementary, Mount Vernon elementary and Flowery Branch high to become charter schools beginning with the 2012-2013 academic year.

GrIFFIN-SPaLDING

GWINNETT



Top 2 Schools by Average 2011 SAT ScoreSpalding high 1372Griffin high 1284



Top 5 Schools by Average 2011 SAT ScoreGwinnett School of Mathematics, Science, and technology 1914Brookwood high 1610Parkview high 1596north Gwinnett high 1557collins hill high 1547



Top 5 Schools by Average 2011 SAT Scorenorth hall high 1615chestatee high 1451West hall high 1442Flowery Branch high 1438Johnson high 1364

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Number of Schoolselementary 29 Middle 11 high 9 Alternative 2Virtual 1


Board of Education770-957-6601www.henry.k12.ga.us

What’s NewStockbridge elementary is one of only 13 Georgia schools to receive the 2011 School of excellence Award for greatest gains in test scores.

Number of Schoolselementary 20 Middle 9 high 5 Alternative 2


Board of Education770-443-8000www.paulding.k12.ga.us

What’s NewStudents and staff at Burnt hickory elementary and Shelton elementary were recognized for bringing in the most canned food—more than 5,200 pounds—during a recent food drive sponsored by helping hands.

Number of Schoolselementary 11 Middle 4 high 3 Alternative 1 charter 1Magnet 1open campus 1 Virtual School 1


Board of Education770-483-4713www.rockdale.k12.ga.us

What’s Newheritage, Rockdale county and Salem high schools, along with the Rockdale career Academy, were named 2012 Advanced Placement honor Schools.

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Top 5 Schools by Average 2011 SAT Scoreunion Grove high 1516eagle’s landing high 1481ola high 1415dutchtown high 1379Patrick henry high 1379



Top 5 Schools by Average 2011 SAT Scorenorth Paulding high 1380east Paulding high 1367hiram high 1361South Paulding high 1321Paulding county high 1281



Top 5 Schools by Average 2011 SAT ScoreRockdale Magnet School for Science and technology 1733Rockdale career Academy 1447heritage high 1400Salem high 1328Rockdale county high 1286

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Number of Schoolselementary 50 Middle 15high 23 charter 13




Top 5 Schools by Average 2011 SAT Scorehenry W. Grady high 1455north Atlanta high 1439carver early college 1398Mays high 1354South Atlanta law high 1271

What’s Newthe Atlanta Public Schools Board of education recently approved the closing of seven schools and the repurposing of several others throughout the district, starting with the 2012-2013 school year. the seven schools are capitol View elementary, White elementary, cook elementary, east lake elementary, herndon elementary, Kennedy Middle School and Parks Middle School.

aTLaNTa CITY

Board of Education770-945-5035www.bufordcityschools.org

Number of Schoolselementary 1Middle 1high 1Academies 1

Total # of Students: 3,077Spending per Student: $15,166



What’s NewBuford elementary has been recognized as a Georgia title i distinguished School for meeting adequate yearly progress standards for the seventh consecutive year. it has also been recognized as a Georgia School of excellence.

BUFOrD CITY

Board of Education404-370-4400www.csdecatur.net

Number of Schoolselementary 4 Middle 1 high 1 intermediate (4/5) 1career Academy 1 early learning center 1

Board of Education770-422-3500www.marietta-city.org

Number of Schoolselementary 7 Middle 1 high 1 Alternative 1Sixth Grade 1elementary (3-5) Magnet 1







What’s Newteachers Maleea carnes March and Martina Baerman were nationally recognized by the center for Advanced Study of teaching and learning as demonstrating exemplary models of effective classroom interactions.

What’s NewFor the sixth consecutive year, Marietta city Schools placed in the top ten u.S. School districts honored for technology Know-how. Marietta high School was named one of the nation’s best high schools in 2012 by U.S. News & World Report.

DECaTUr CITY

MarIETTa CITY


EducAtIonAlrESourcESWays to enhance your

child’s or student’s learning

IndexEarly Education 95 tutoring & learning resources 96Summer camps 97Field trips & outreach Programs 100

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UTILIZING BRAIN SCIENCE TO FACILITATE LEARNING

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ADVERTISER INDEXBoarding SchoolsAmerican Boychoir School ........................................... 81 Asheville School ........................................................... 84Baylor School ................................................................ 85Brehm Preparatory School ........................................... 80the Gow School ........................................................... 82Marine Military Academy ............................................. 85 new york Military Academy ......................................... 82the Piney Woods School ............................................. 81rabun Gap-nacoochee School ................................... 78 riverside Military Academy ......................................... 79Southeastern Association of Boarding Schools ...........83 St. Margaret’s School ................................................... 86the rectory School....................................................... 78 the Stony Brook School ............................................... 83 tallulah Falls School .................................................... 80

Early EducationBright Horizons Family Solutions ................................ 95 Kids ‘r’ Kids ................................................................... 95 Montessori unlimited ................................................... 33

Field Trips and Outreach ProgramsAtlanta cyclorama ...................................................... 103Biltmore Estate ........................................................... 105cherokee Historical Association ............................... 103deSoto caverns .......................................................... 100the Foxfire Museum ................................................... 104GeorgiaAquarium ...................................................... 101Interactive neighborhood for Kids .......................... 104lookout Mountain Attractions ................................... 101Pine Mountain Gold Museum.................................... 102Sandy Springs Hospitality and tourism ...................... 21the Southern Museum ............................................... 104Spivey Hall Education ................................................. 102young Audiences, Woodruff Arts center ................ 104Zoo Atlanta ................................................................. 103

Higher EducationAndrew college ............................................................ 13Atlanta Metropolitan college ...................................... 13lanier technical college .............................................. 11Piedmont college ........................................................ 15

Independent SchoolsAlexsander Academy ................................................... 41Arlington christian School ...................................... 5, 68Athens Academy .......................................................... 57Atlanta Girls’ School ..................................................... 73Atlanta International School ....................................... 42Atlanta Montessori International School .................... 60the Bedford School ..................................................... 68Brandon Hall School .................................................... 54Bridgeway christian Academy..................................... 50Brookstone Montessori ................................................ 33canterbury School ........................................................ 63center Academy .......................................................... 76the children’s School .................................................. 62chrysalis Experiential Academy ................................. 45cliff valley School ........................................................ 59colonial Hills christian School..................................... 74cornerstone leadership Academy ............................. 69creative career Academy K-12 ................................... 46 cresco Montessori School ........................................... 55crimson Academy ........................................................ 51cross of life christian Montessori School .................. 46

cumberland Academy of Georgia .............................. 48Eagle’s landing christian Academy ............................ 66Eastminster School ............................ Inside Back coverEastside christian School ............................................ 43Eaton Academy ............................................................ 47Faith lutheran School ................................................. 44Fellowship christian School ........................................ 47First Montessori School of Atlanta ............................. 48the Friends School of Atlanta ..................................... 60George Walton Academy ........................................... 62Greater Atlanta christian School ................................. 61Hebron christian Academy ......................................... 58the Heiskell School ..................................................... 43Heritage Preparatory School of Georgia .................... 57the Heritage School .................................................... 70High Meadows School .................................................. 3lakeview Academy ....................................................... 52landmark christian School .......................................... 66McGinnis Woods country day School ....................... 50Medlock Bridge Montessori ........................................ 33Midway covenant christian School ............................ 75Mill Springs Academy .................................................. 41Monsignor donovan catholic High School ................ 58Mount Bethel christian Academy ............................... 44Mount carmel christian School .................................. 63Mount Paran christian School .................................... 73Mount Pisgah christian School .................................. 54nesbit Ferry Montessori ............................................... 33north Georgia christian School .................................. 52Praise Academy ........................................................... 75Preston ridge Montessori ............................................ 33Providence christian Academy ................................... 61romar Academy ........................................................... 67Saint Francis Schools .................................................... 45Seigakuin Atlanta International School ...................... 53St. Joseph catholic School ......................................... 74Sugar Hill christian Academy ...................................... 51Sugarloaf Montessori ................................................... 33trinity chapel Academy ............................................... 76victory World christian School .................................... 53Woodward Academy ...................................................... 9yes-u-can Academy ..................................................... 71

Neighborhoods city of college Park ..................................................... 65city of East Point .......................................................... 67

Resources & Servicesthe capital Grille restaurant....................................... 29children’s Healthcare of Atlanta .................................... 7Fulton county Schools ................................................. 15Kroger ................................................. Inside Front cover Pay it Forward Scholarships .......................... Back coverradio disney ................................................................... 8the School Box ............................................................ 39

Summer Camps Atlanta Ballet ................................................................ 98the children’s School Summer camp ........................ 99High Meadows Summer day camp ........................... 97lakeview Academy Summer camp .......................... 100SquirrelHollowCamp ................................................. 99

Tutoring & Learning Resourcescamp Academia ........................................................... 96In-Home tutors of Atlanta ........................................... 96


Documents

Atlanta School Guide | Summer/Fall 2012