Education Answer Book 2020

2020

An Appen Media Group Publication

Putting students front and center

Mount Pisgah Christian School in Johns Creek is rethinking the way student-teacher relationships shape learning. Read about the “secret sauce” that helps students excel. Page 26.

A GEORGI TION EDUCA R E H G I H Page 47 GUIDE -

WHERE YOU TAKE THEIR SPINE MATTERS

Because we know growing bones.

Our pediatric orthopedic team knows kids’ and teens’ spines. They have specialized training in pediatric techniques that you won’t find at most other healthcare providers. Children’s assesses every step of the spine surgery journey looking for ways to improve.

This dedication to quality has led to our program achieving some of the best outcomes in the nation with less time in the hospital and high patient satisfaction. When it comes to your child’s spine, trust the specialists at Children’s.

Visit choa.org/cpgortho to learn more. ©2020 Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Inc. All rights reserved.

Children’s at Forsyth | 410 Peachtree Parkway, STE 300, Cumming Children’s at Old Milton Parkway | 3300 Old Milton Parkway, STE 310, Alpharetta

North Fulton’s No. 1 Real Estate Office

TOTAL SALES VOLUME FOR 2019 AVERAGE SALES PRICE HIGHEST PRODUCTIVITY PER AGENT HIGHEST PRICED SALE IN NORTH FULTON FOR 2019 HIGHEST MARKET SHARE, 2019 CLOSED SALES, ALL PRICE POINTS

atlantafinehomes.com | sothebysrealty.com | 770.442.7300 Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each franchise is independently owned and operated. Source: TrendGraphix, February 2020 for January 1, 2019 – December 31, 2019. All Property Types; All Price Points.

Publisher Emeritus Ray Appen Publisher Hans Appen

Editor Carson Cook carson@appenmediagroup.com Managing Editor Patrick Fox Editorial Carson Cook Patrick Fox Julia Grochowski Joe Parker Denise Ray Candy Waylock Production David Brown Suzanne Pacey Jennifer Edwards Advertising Mike Dorman Paul Flowers June Michaels Steve Neese Carl Appen Kelly Pierce Jim Hart Donna Stevens Kimberly Tyson Reproduction of the content of the Answer Book— including all maps and photos — is prohibited without expressed written permission. The Answer Book is a trademarked title.

All efforts have been made to verify content. Appen Media Group publishes the Education Answer Book, Community Answer Book, Medical Answer Book and Seniors Answer Book. Online versions are accessible on NorthFulton. com on the home page. Contact us at 770-442-3278 or email advertising@ appenmediagroup.com.

319 North Main Street, Alpharetta AppenMediaGroup.com

4 | Education Answer Book 2020

Welcome to your 2020 Education Answer Book!

I

know that for many North Atlanta families, the quality of local schools is one of the key reasons, maybe the reason that they moved to their community.

From Independence High to North Forsyth, our students excel academically, artistically and athletically.

While our schools have much to be proud of that does not mean they do not face challenges. Changing patterns in development and growth make enrollment harder to predict. Social media and standardized tests are straining students’ mental health. The skyrocketing cost of higher education is making more and more families question the value of a traditional four-year college experience.

For both parents and students, it can easily feel overwhelming, but this guide is here to help you sort through the confusion. For both Fulton and Forsyth county school districts, we break down the different schools, their school board members and new programs they’re bringing to the classroom.

We also have features on some of the region’s private schools, including our cover story on Mount Pisgah Christian School (Page 20). I interviewed faculty at Mount Pisgah on their student-focused instruction style.

Finally, at the back of this book, you’ll find our higher education guide. I was surprised by how many colleges we have just in North Atlanta. We have also included information on applying for schools, the HOPE Scholarship and other tuition help.

Because of the great information on our pages, over 90 percent of each edition of the Answer Book’s 40,000 circulations is home-delivered to the most affluent households across the North Atlanta market. This includes many of the exclusive gated estate and country club communities.

After many years, we have built up a large base of other users who rely on our Answer Books as handouts to their clients. This includes large numbers of Realtors, chambers, visitors’ bureaus and human resource departments of major corporations that count on our Answer Books for relocating clients.

If you are a business that needs to reach anyone in the North Atlanta area, make sure you don’t miss advertising in our Answer Books. Our partners and clients advertise in all four because they offer long-lasting marketing in print and online all year long at affordable advertising rates.

If you wish to advertise in the next Answer Book or need copies of an already published edition to give out to your customers, new employees or to keep for yourself, give us a call and we will be more than happy to get them to you. Call our office at 770-442-3278 or email advertising@AppenMediaGroup. com.

If you have any story ideas you think we need to know about, contact me at carson@appenmediagroup.com and I’ll be happy to chat about it with you.

And, lastly, thanks to you the readers.

My best,

Directories and lists may not necessarily be complete. If you see something that needs to be changed or added, please contact me for revisions to the 2021 edition.

Georgia schools and i Georgia Futures GAfutures.org Georgia Futures provides vast information for high school students, college students, parents and educators. The website contains resources to guide upcoming college students through the process of applying for college and planning their future career. The site is home to scholarship information, grant applications, financial aid planning and loan program information.

Fulton County School District FultonSchools.org Fulton County Schools’ website. The site provides news about the school district, school calendars, a list of county schools, information about the Fulton County charter plan. Each school in Fulton County has a website linked to the Fulton website and can be found there.

Forsyth County School District www.Forsyth.k12.ga.us The Forsyth County Schools website provides a

6 | Education Answer Book 2020

list of all schools in the county, which includes the county’s three Academies of Creative Education. The site also provides a live feed of district news, information about events and school board business.

Atlanta Area Association of Independent Schools www.aaais.org The AAAIS is an organization that connects all Atlanta area independent schools so that educators from independent schools may collaborate. A list of schools within the association can be found on their website.

The Georgia Department of Education www.doe.k12.ga.us The Georgia Department of Education’s website provides state standards, state mandated testing information, curriculum plans for all grades and data such as spending and student enrollment.

The Georgia Association of Christian Schools gacs.org The Georgia Association of Christian Schools is a

information links community of Christian Schools which aims to connect students and staff from different Christian schools to participate in sports, fine arts and writing competitions.

The Georgia Association of Private Schools for Exceptional Children gapsec.org The Georgia Association of Private Schools for Exceptional Children serves as a coordinating point between Georgia private and independent schools with specialized programs catering to special needs children. The schools within this organization must be accredited by notable Georgia accreditation organizations and must be equipped with teachers who will work well with special needs children. Their code of ethics and requirements for membership as well as a list of participating schools can be found on their website.

Georgia Charter School Association gacharters.org This site provides resources for locating and enroll-

ing in local charter schools Georgia Independent School Association www.gisaschools.org This website contains information about Georgia independent schools, as well as information about coordinating interaction between independent schools.

Great Schools GreatSchools.org Great Schools is a searchable K-12 school database. Users can find information such as parent reviews, staff, school clubs, enrollment, state test scores and other useful information regarding schools in the area.

Great Schools works with Zillow, a real estate website, to show parents homes for sale in the area of each school searched on the website. Public, private and charter schools are all included.

The website has also a free app, GreatSchools Finder and a map-based version of the provided information.

-

Education Answer Book 2020 | 7

Emergency + Communit ORGANIZATION

PURPOSE

PHONE #

WEBSITE

United Way

To find help

211 or 404-614-1000

211online.unitedwayatlanta.org/

North Fulton Community Charities

Help in Roswell, Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton

770-640-0399

nfcchelp.org

Community Assistance Center

Help in Sandy Springs/Dunwoody

770-552-4015

ourcac.org

DFACS

Food Stamps/TANF/Medicaid

404-657-3433

dfcs.dhs.georgia.gov

FACAA/LIHEAP

Energy Assistance

404-320-0166

facaa.org

St. Vincent de Paul

Financial Assistance

678-892-6160

svdpatl.org

Housing Authority of Fulton Co.

Section 8 and Public Housing

404-588-4950

hafc.org

Homestretch/Housing Initiative

Transitional Housing

770-642-9185

homestretch.org

Roswell Public Housing

Public Housing

770-993-6226

roswellhousing.org

The Drake House

Emergency housing women with children

770-587-4712

thedrakehouse.org

Metro Fair Housing

Housing Discrimination

404-524-0000

metrofairhousing.com

Salvation Army

General Assistance

770-650-1475

salvationarmy.org

Gateway Center

Emergency Shelter

404-215-6600

gatewayctr.org

Travelers Aid/Hope Atlanta

Homeless prevention, newcomers

404-817-7070

hopeatlanta.org/

EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Com)

Employment Discrimination

800-669-4000

eeoc.gov/field/atlanta

Department of Labor

Unemployment Office

866-873-5676

dol.state.ga.us

CHARITIES

HOUSING & HOMELESS

EMPLOYMENT

FAMILY & CHILDREN’S SERVICES Child Abuse and Neglect

To report abuse

404-699-4399

dfcs.dhs.georgia.gov/ child-abuse-neglect

GA Council on Child Abuse

Info, resources

800-244-5373

preventchildabusega.org

Child Support Assistance

Child Support Enforcement

877-423-4746

dcss.dhs.georgia.gov/

Families First

Counseling

404-853-2844

familiesfirst.org

Fulton County Schools

General Information

404-678-3600

fultonschools.org

Fulton Co. School Social Workers

Information

470-254-0445

fultonschools.org/socialwork

G.E.D.

Enrollment Opportunities at NFCC

678-387-4458

nfcchelp.org/education

Head Start

3-4 Year Olds

478-988-4119

georgiaheadstart.org

Child Dev. Center North Fulton

Child Care

770-992-4006

cdakids.org

Family Haven (NF & Forsyth)

24 Hour Hotline-Domestic Violence

770-887-1121

forsythcountyfamilyhaven.info

PADV (Partnership Against Domestic Violence)

24 Hour Hotline-Domestic Violence

404-873-1766

padv.org/

Jewish Family and Career Services Family and Career Counseling

770-677-9300

jfcsatl.org/

Senior Services North Fulton

770-993-1906

ssnorthfulton.org

8 | Education Answer Book 2020

Meals on Wheels, Transportation

ty Resource Table ORGANIZATION

PURPOSE

PHONE #

WEBSITE

CREDIT COUNSELING/ LEGAL/ POLICE HOPE

Foreclosure assistance

888-995-4673

995hope.org

Atlanta Legal Aid

Legal Assistance

404-524-5811

atlantalegalaid.org

Anonymous Police Tip Hotline

Roswell – Crime/Drugs

770-641-3959

roswellgov.com

City of Alpharetta - Police

Tip Hotline

678-297-6307

alpharetta.ga.us

City of Johns Creek - Police

Tip Hotline

678-474-1610

johnscreekga.gov/residents/police

City of Milton - Police

Tip Hotline

678-242-2570

cityofmiltonga.us

Grady Rape Crisis Center

Crisis line

404-616-4861

gnesa.org/content/grady-rape-crisis-center

Social Security

Social Security, Disability, SSI

800-772-1213

ssa.gov

Tags/Titles

Fulton County Office

404-730-6100

fultoncountytaxes.org/

Veterans Administration

VA Health, Housing, Benefits

800-827-1000

va.gov

Fulton County Housing & Human Services

Info on County programs

404-588-4950

fultoncountyga.gov/services/humanservices

MARTA

bus, rail schedules, fares

404-848-4711

itsmarta.com

Georgia Crisis & Access Line

24 hour -mental health, addiction & crisis service

800-715-4225

mygcal.com/

North Fulton Regional Health Center

Public Health (in Alpharetta)

404-332-1958

fultoncountyga.gov

North Fulton Health Center Grady

Primary Care clinic in NF (Sandy Springs)

404-616-1550

gradyhealthsystem.org/

Northside Behavioral Health

Mental Health

404-851-8960

northside.com/behavioralhealth]

Children’s at NorthPoint (Mansell Rd)

pediatric primary care

770-643-1792

choa.org/locations/childrens-at-north-point

Good Samaritan Atlanta

primary care clinic downtown

404-523-6571

goodsamatlanta.org/

North Fulton Hospital

Hospital - Roswell

770-751-2500

nfultonhospital.com

Grady Memorial Hospital

Hospital

404-616-1000

gradyhealth.org/

Scottish Rite (Childrens Hospital)

Pediatric Hospital

404-785-5252

choa.org/

Emory Johns Creek

Hospital - Johns Creek

678-474-7000

emoryjohnscreek.com/

Northside Hospital

Hospital - Sandy Springs or Forsyth

404-851-8000

northside.com/

Gwinnett Medical Center Duluth

Hospital

678-312-5000

gwinnettmedical center.org

GOVERNMENT

HEALTH

Education Answer Book 2020 | 9

Fulton County

2020/21 School Calendar March 2020 S 1

M

T

W

Th

April 2020 F

Sat

S

M

T

June 2020

May 2020

W

Th

F

Sat

1

2

3

4

S

M

T

W

2

3

4

5

6

7

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

3

4

5

6

Th

F

Sat

1

2

7

8

9

S

M

T

W

Th

F

1

2

3

4

5

Sat 6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

26

27

28

29

30

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

28

29

30

29

30

31

S

M

S

M

31

July 2020 T

September 2020

August 2020

W

Th

F

Sat

1

2

3

4

S

M

T

W

Th

F

Sat

S

M

1

W

Th

F

Sat

1

2

3

4

5

T

8

9

10

11

12

4

5

6

W

Th

F

1

2

Sat 3

7

8

9

10

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

6

18

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

25

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

27

28

29

30

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

30

31

S

M

S

M

S

M

T

W

Th

F

1

2

3

4

5

6

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

19

20

21

22

23

24

26

27

28

29

30

31

November 2020

7

October 2020

T

December 2020

S

M

T

W

Th

F

Sat

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

6

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

January 2021

T

W

Th

F

Sat

1

2

3

4

5

7

8

9

10

11

12

3

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

10

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

17

27

28

29

30

31

24

25

4

T

W

Th

February 2021

F

Sat

1

2

Sat

5

6

7

8

9

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

11

12

13

14

15

16

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

18

19

20

21

22

23

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

26

27

28

29

30

28

F

Sat

S

Sat

31

March 2021 S

M 1

T

W

Th

April 2021 F

Sat

S

M

T

W

June 2021

May 2021

Th

F

Sat

1

2

3

2

3

4

5

6

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

S

M

T

W

Th

M

1 2

3

4

5

T

W

Th

F

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

25

26

27

28

29

30

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

27

28

29

30

28

29

30

31

30

31

First/Last Day of Semester

Teacher Work Day (Students Off)

10 | Education Answer Book 2020 | Fulton County Schools

Holiday/School Closed

Preplanning/Post Planning Day

Meet the superintendent and the board of education Superintendent Dr. Mike Looney Mike Looney joined the Fulton County School System in 2019. He previously served as the superintendent of Williamson County Schools in Tennessee, where he was named 2015 Superintendent of the year by Tennessee Organization of School Superintendents.

Looney earned a bachelor’s degree in business management and master’s degree in education from Jacksonville State University in Alabama, and an educational specialist degree and doctorate in educational leadership from the University of Alabama.

He has served on several distinguished panels including President George W. Bush’s National Reading Leadership Panel in Washington D.C. Looney also served as Superintendent of the Butler County School District in Alabama, and Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction in Montgomery Public Schools. An educator since 1994, he has also been a classroom teacher, assistant principal and principal.

Looney served for seven years in the United States Marines and received the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal among other honors. He is the father of four grown children.

North Fulton County Board of Education Katha Stuart • District 1 stuartk@fultonschools.org Board member since October 2015; term expires Dec. 31, 2020 A 24-year resident of District 1, Katha Stuart has been involved in Fulton County Schools since her children started kindergarten at Mountain Park Elementary. Over the years she has served in various PTA and School Governance Council roles at Mountain Park Elementary, Crabapple Middle School and Roswell High School. Stuart was a member of the Superintendent’s Community Advisory Committee from 2009 through 2015. She also has served as a vice president of programs for the North Fulton Council PTA and as a committee member for the Georgia PTA. Stuart has a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Georgia State University and was formerly a regional vice president for Berger Funds and Invesco Funds.

Katie Reeves • District 2 reevesk@fultonschools.org Board member since 1999; current term expires Dec. 31, 2022 Reeves is the longest-serving member among the North Fulton board members and represents the Alpharetta and Milton areas. She served as the school board president from 2003-05 and also served as vice president of the board. Reeves was a Local School Advisory Committee member and PTA legislative chair at Lake Windward Elementary School. She majored in marketing at the University 12 | Education Answer Book 2020 | Fulton County Schools

of Kentucky and formerly worked as an advertising account executive. Her three children are all graduates of Fulton County high schools. Prior to her board service, she was a member of the Alpharetta Planning Commission. ​ Gail Dean • District 3 deang@fultonschools.org Board member since 2001; current term expires Dec. 31, 2020 Gail Dean represents Sandy Springs, College Park, East Point and Hapeville and served as board president from 2005-07. Dean’s background includes serving as president of the Atlanta Homebuilders Association-Inner Atlanta Chapter, owning a real estate brokerage and two construction firms, and consulting for financial institutions. She served on the boards of the Sandy Springs/North Fulton Clean and Beautiful, the Fulton County School Employees’ Charitable Fund and Fulton Education Foundation. Dean has four children who all graduated from Fulton County Schools.

Linda McCain • District 5 mccainl@fultonschools.org Board member since January 2011; current term expires Dec. 31, 2022 Linda McCain represents the Johns Creek and Alpharetta areas. Before serving on the school board, she advocated for children and public education for more than 12 years as a member of local school advisory councils and PTAs in her children’s schools. McCain was a member of the board of directors of the Fulton County Schools Employees’

Meet the superintendent and the board of education CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12 Pension Fund and is a current board member of the Fulton Education Foundation. In December 2014, she was appointed to serve on Gov. Nathan Deal’s Education Advisory Board.

Julia Bernath - District 7 bernath@fultonschools.org Board member since 2000; current term expires Dec. 31, 2022 Julia Bernath represents Sandy Springs and parts of Alpharetta, Johns Creek and Roswell and is the current president of the school board. She has represented the school board on the Fulton Education Foundation’s board of directors. She is a past member of the Georgia Professional Standards Commission. Bernath is a past president of the Georgia School Boards Association and a graduate of Leadership GSBA. She is also on staff for the

Center for Reform of School Systems and is a mentor for school board members nationally. Bernath is past chair of the Sandy Springs Education Force and serves on the Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education’s Advisory Committee. Her three children are Fulton County School graduates, and she has two grandchildren currently enrolled.

South Fulton County Board of Education Members Linda Bryant • District 4 bryantlp@fultonschools.org Board member since 1993; current term expires Dec. 31, 2020 Kimberly Dove • District 6 dovek@fultonschools.org Appointed to the Board in May 2017; current term expires Dec. 31, 2022

F Aft ull Da er C yP 770 are Av re-K .75 a 4.5 ilable 738

King’s Ridge Christian School | Pre-K – 12th Grade | kingsridgecs.org Fulton County Schools | Education Answer Book 2020 | 13

Fulton graduation rate leads among metro school systems Record grad rates still fall short of goal

FULTON COUNTY GRADUATION RATES School

2018 (%)

2019 (%)

Change

BY CANDY WAYLOCK

Alpharetta

92.8

93.5

+0.7

Cambridge

97.3

97.6

+0.3

Centennial

91.7

92.3

+0.6

Chattahoochee

95.4

97.9

+1.6

Independence

52.1

54.1

+2.1

Johns Creek

97.1

96.3

-0.8

Milton

96.7

95.4

-1.3

Northview

96.4

97.0

+0.6

Roswell

88.8

90.8

+2.3

North Fulton

89.8

90.56

+0.76

District

86.8

87.2

+0.4

State

81.6

82.00

+0.04

S

tudents in the Fulton County School System are graduating in record numbers from the district’s 19 high schools, but the goal of reaching a 92 percent graduation rate still remains a district priority.

Data released by the Georgia Department of Education in 2019 calculated Fulton’s graduation rate at 87.2 percent for the class of 2019, a 0.4 percent increase from the previous year and among the highest rates of metro Atlanta school systems.

Fulton’s graduation rate also exceeds the state average by more than 5 percentage points.

“The data shows that our district made progress on this front last year,” Fulton Superintendent Mike Looney said. “We intend to celebrate the hard work of our schools. We intend to remain laser focused on ensuring that this trend continues so that we can witness all of our students walk across the high school stage with a diploma.”

Statewide, the graduation rate of 82 percent is an all-time high for Georgia since 2012 when federal law adjusted how graduation rates could be calculated.

The previous formula did not factor in drop-outs or transfers, leading to artificially high graduation rates.

Among the 19 high schools across Fulton County, all but five increased their graduation rate over the previous year. In North Fulton, only two schools, Milton and Johns Creek high schools, posted slightly lower graduation rates from the previous year.

Among the top performers, Chattahoochee High School led the pack with a graduation rate of 97.9 percent, followed by Cambridge (97.6) and Northview (90).

Fulton’s 5-year Strategic Plan, first passed in 2012 and renewed in 2017, sets a high bar for the district’s graduation rates. In 2012 the goal was a 90 percent graduation rate; in 2017 it went to 92 percent.

“While Fulton’s graduation rate of 87.2 leads our metro peers and there is much to be celebrated, we 14 | Education Answer Book 2020 | Fulton County Schools

have not reached our Strategic Plan 2022 target of 92 percent,” said Cliff Jones, Chief Academic Officer. “This gap shows that there is work to be done.”

This year, all eight traditional high schools in North Fulton exceeded the 90 percent mark for the first time.

State Schools Superintendent Richard Woods said the work the Georgia Department of Education is doing to customize education for each child is paying off with higher graduation rates and overall achievement.

“Moving forward, we must continue to focus on offering a relevant education and preparing every child for their future – not a one-size-fits-all system that sends every student in the same direction,” said Woods.

He noted Georgia is seeking flexibility from the federal government to develop an alternate diploma for students with significant cognitive disabilities, which may impact how graduation rates are calculated in the future if the waiver is approved.

Public School Bios: FULTON Elementary Schools

Abbotts Hill 470-254-2860 Principal Roytunda Stabler 5575 Abbotts Bridge Road Johns Creek 30097 Year Opened: 2000 Enrollment: 632 2019 CCRPI Score: 87.9 http://school.fultonschools.org/ abbottshilles

Birmingham Falls 470- 254-2820 Principal Don Webb 14865 Birmingham Highway Milton 30004 Year Opened: August 2009 Enrollment: 727 2019 CCRPI Score: 93 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ birminghamfalls

Dolvin 470-254-7020 Principal Karen Cooke 10495 Jones Bridge Road Johns Creek 30022 Year Opened: 1979 Enrollment: 764 2019 CCRPI Score: 93.2 http://school.fultonschools.org/ dolvines

Alpharetta 470-254-7015 Principal Kathleen Stamper 192 Mayfield Road Alpharetta 30009 Year Opened: 1956 Enrollment: 570 2019 CCRPI Score: 88.7 http://school.fultonschools.org/ alpharettaes

Cogburn Woods 470-254-2845 Principal Lisa Garosi 13080 Cogburn Road Milton 30004 Year Opened: 2004 Enrollment: 869 2019 CCRPI Score: 90.3 http://school.fultonschools.org/ cogburnwoodses

Crabapple Crossing 470-254-7055 Principal Tresa Cheatham 12775 Birmingham Hwy Milton 30004 Year Opened: 1992 Enrollment: 738 2019 CCRPI Score: 93.1 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ crabapplecrossing

Creek View 470-254-2932 Principal Monica In 3995 Webb Bridge Road Alpharetta 30005 Year Opened: 2001 Enrollment: 937 2019 CCRPI Score: 97.4 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ creekview

Esther Jackson 470-254-5290 Principal Nikol Boyd 1400 Martin Road Roswell 30076 Year Opened: 1975 New Building: 2016 Enrollment: 636 2019 CCRPI Score: 65.7 http://school.fultonschools.org/ estherjacksones

Amana Academy Charter (K-5) (6-8) K-5) (6-8) 678-624-0989 Principal Cherrise Campbell 285 South Main Street Alpharetta 30009 Year Opened: 2007 Enrollment: 469/238 2019 CCRPI Score: 91.6/92.2 www.amanaacademy.org Barnwell 470-254-4960 Principal Martin Neuhaus 9425 Barnwell Road Johns Creek 30022 Year Opened: 1987 Enrollment: 741 2019 CCRPI Score: 93.5 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ barnwell

Fulton Academy of Science and Technology (FAST) 678-321-1100 Principal Stan Beiner 11365 Crabapple Road Roswell 30075 Year Opened: 2016 Enrollment: 359/218 2019 CCRPI: 85.9/84.9 www.fastk8.org Findley Oaks 470-254-3800 Principal Camille Christopher 5880 Findley Chase Drive Johns Creek 30097 Year Opened: 1994 Enrollment: 580 2019 CCRPI Score: 97 http://school.fultonschools.org/ findleyoakses

What is CCRPI? The CCRPI (College and Career Readiness Performance Index) assesses public schools annually on a 100-point scale based on factors including achievement, progress and closing the achievement gap.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 16: Fulton County Schools | Education Answer Book 2020 | 15

Public School Bios: FULTON CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15: Hembree Springs 470-254-2902 Principal Laurie Woodruff 815 Hembree Road Roswell 30076 Year Opened: 2001 Enrollment: 598 2019 CCRPI Score: 91.7 http://school.fultonschools.org/ hembreespringses Hillside 470-254-6362 Principal Dr. Hardray Dumas 9250 Scott Road Roswell 30076 Year Opened: 2001 Enrollment: 555 2019 CCRPI Score: 77.1 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ hillside

Lake Windward 470-254-7050 Principal Julie Morris 11470 East Fox Court Alpharetta 30005 Year Opened: 1989 Enrollment: 789 2019 CCRPI Score: 93.5 http://school.fultonschools.org/ lakewindwardes Manning Oaks 470-254-2912 Principal Jennifer Rosenthall 405 Cumming Street Alpharetta 30004 Year Opened: 1998 Enrollment: 880 2019 CCRPI Score: 72.8 http://school.fultonschools.org/ manningoakses Medlock Bridge 470-254-2980 Principal Matthew Vance 10215 Medlock Bridge Parkway Johns Creek 30022 Year Opened: 1990 Enrollment: 647 2019 CCRPI Score: 93.6 http://school.fultonschools.org/ medlockbridgees

Mimosa 470-254-4540 Principal Malane Holcombe 1550 Warsaw Road Roswell 30076 Year Opened: 1968 Enrollment: 713 2019 CCRPI Score: 78.7 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ mimosa Mountain Park 470-254-4530 Principal Stacy Perlman 11895 Mountain Park Road Roswell 30075 Enrollment: 828 2019 CCRPI Score: 91.8 http://school.fultonschools.org/ mountainparkes

New Prospect 470-254-2800 Principal Amy Lemons 3055 Kimball Bridge Road Alpharetta 30022 Year Opened: 1994 Enrollment: 542 2019 CCRPI Score: 87.9 http://school.fultonschools.org/ newprospectes

Northwood 470-254-6390 Principal Ritu Ahuja 10200 Wooten Road Roswell 30076 Year Opened: 1996 Enrollment: 659 2019 CCRPI Score: 94.8 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ northwood

Ocee 470-254-2960 Principal Kerri-Anne Williams 4375 Kimball Bridge Road Johns Creek 30022 Year Opened: 2000 Enrollment: 700 2019 CCRPI Score: 86.6 http://school.fultonschools.org/ oceees

16 | Education Answer Book 2020 | Fulton County Schools

River Eves 470-254-4550 Principal Matthew Donahoe 9000 Eves Road Roswell 30076 Year Opened: 1996 Enrollment: 580 2019 CCRPI Score: 91.1 http://school.fultonschools.org/ rivereveses Roswell North 470-254-6320 Principal Dr. Lydia Conway 10525 Woodstock Road Roswell 30075 Year Opened: 1960 Enrollment: 932 2019 CCRPI Score: 89.6 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ roswellnorth

Shakerag 470-254-3880 Principal Christine Lemerond 10885 Rogers Circle Johns Creek 30097 Year Opened: 1997 Enrollment: 654 2019 CCRPI Score: 92.8 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ shakerag

State Bridge Crossing 470-254-3850 Principal Bridgette Marques 5530 State Bridge Road Johns Creek 30022 Year Opened: 1996 Enrollment: 738 2019 CCRPI Score: 97.6 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ statebridgecrossing Summit Hill 470-254-2830 Principal Dr. Lorrie Bearden 13855 Providence Road Milton 30004 Year Opened: 1999 Enrollment: 722 2019 CCRPI Score: 82 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ summithill

Sweet Apple 470-254-3310 Principal Andy Allison 12025 Etris Road Roswell 30075 Year Opened: 1997 Enrollment: 775 2019 CCRPI Score: 90.5 http://school.fultonschools.org/ sweetapplees Vickery Mill 470-254-2400 Principal Susan Walker 1201 Alpharetta Street Roswell 30075 Year Opened: 2015 Enrollment: 502 2019 CCRPI Score: 69.3 http://school.fultonschools.org/ vickerymilles

Wilson Creek 470-254-3811 Principal Andrea Cushing 6155 Wilson Road Johns Creek 30097 Year Opened: 2004

Enrollment: 801 2019 CCRPI Score: 94.9 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ wilsoncreek

Middle Schools

Autrey Mill Middle 470-254-7622 Principal Trey Martin 4110 Old Alabama Road Johns Creek 30022 Year Opened: 2003 Enrollment: 1366 2019 CCRPI Score: 95.2 http://school.fultonschools.org/ms/ autreymill Crabapple 470-254-4520 Principal Rako Morrissey 10700 Crabapple Road Roswell 30075 Year Opened: 1983 Enrollment: 906 2019 CCRPI Score: 83.2 http://school.fultonschools.org/ms/ crabapple

Elkins Pointe 470-254-2892 Principal Damian Bounds 11290 Elkins Road Roswell 30076 Year Opened: 2001 Enrollment: 1068 2019 CCRPI Score: 88.4 http://school.fultonschools.org/ elkinspointems

Haynes Bridge 470-254-7030 Principal Lauren Malekebu 10665 Haynes Bridge Road Alpharetta 30022 Year Opened: 1983 Enrollment: 681 2019 CCRPI Score: 80.5 http://school.fultonschools.org/ haynesbridgems

CONTINUED ON PAGE 18:

Fulton County Schools | Education Answer Book 2020 | 17

Public School Bios: FULTON CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17: Holcomb Bridge 470-254-5280 Principal Jennifer Cassidy 2700 Holcomb Bridge Road Alpharetta 30022 Year Opened: 1983 Enrollment: 682 2019 CCRPI Score: 77.1 http://school.fultonschools.org/ holcombbridgems

Hopewell 678-254-3240 Principal Michael LeMoyne 13060 Cogburn Road Milton 30004 Year Opened: 2004 Enrollment: 1368 2019 CCRPI Score: 84.3 http://school.fultonschools.org/ hopewellms Northwestern 470-254-2870 Principal Joel Peterson 12805 Birmingham Highway Milton 30004 Year Opened: 1996 Enrollment: 1245 2019 CCRPI Score: 89.6 http://school.fultonschools.org/ northwesternms River Trail 470-254-3860 Principal Neil Pinnock 10795 Rogers Circle Johns Creek 30097 Year Opened: 2001 Enrollment: 1275 2019 CCRPI Score: 96.6 http://school.fultonschools.org/ms/ rivertrail

Taylor Road 470-254-7090 Principal Kelly Parker 5150 Taylor Road Johns Creek 30022 Year Opened: 1990 Enrollment: 1347 2019 CCRPI Score: 89.7 http://school.fultonschools.org/ taylorroadms

Webb Bridge 470-254-2940 Principal Rebecca Williams 4455 Webb Bridge Road Alpharetta 30005 Year Opened: 1996 Enrollment: 1186 2019 CCRPI Score: 97.9 http://school.fultonschools.org/ webbbridgems

High Schools

Alpharetta High School 470-254-7640 Principal Shannon Kersey 3595 Webb Bridge Rd. Alpharetta 30005 Year Opened: 2004 Enrollment: 2315 2019 SAT Score: 1199 2019 ACT Score: 25.8 http://school.fultonschools.org/hs/ alpharetta

Cambridge 470-254-2883 Principal Kimberly Premoli 2845 Bethany Road Milton 30004 Year Opened: 2012 Enrollment: 2088 2019 SAT Score: 1185 2019 ACT Score: 25.2 http://school.fultonschools.org/ cambridgehs Centennial 470-254-4230 Principal Keynun Campbell 9310 Scott Road Roswell 30076 Year Opened: 1997 Enrollment: 1942 2019 SAT Score: 1090 2019 ACT Score: 24.1 http://school.fultonschools.org/ centennialhs

18 | Education Answer Book 2020 | Fulton County Schools

Chattahoochee 470-254-7600 Principal Michael Todd 5230 Taylor Road Johns Creek 30022 Year Opened: 1991 Enrollment: 1885 2019 SAT Score: 1239 2019 ACT Score: 26.9 http://school.fultonschools.org/ chattahoocheehs Independence 470-254-7611 Principal Tabatha Taylor 86 School Drive Alpharetta 30009 Year Opened: 1991 Enrollment: 234 2019 SAT Score: 966 http://school.fultonschools.org/ independencehs Johns Creek 470-254-2138 Principal Christopher Shearer 5575 State Bridge Road Johns Creek 30022 Year Opened: 2009 Enrollment: 2110 2019 SAT Score: 1224 2019 ACT Score: 26.3 http://school.fultonschools.org/ johnscreekhs Milton 470-254-7000 Principal Brian Jones 13025 Birmingham Hwy. Milton 30004 Year Opened: 1921 Current Location: 2005 Enrollment: 2349 2019 SAT Score: 1189 2019 ACT Score: 25.9 http://school.fultonschools.org/hs/ milton

Public School Bios: FULTON CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18: Northview 470-254-3828 Principal Brian Downey 10625 Parsons Road Johns Creek 30097 Year Opened: 2002 Enrollment: 1750 2019 SAT Score: 1290 2019 ACT Score: 27.6 http://school.fultonschools.org/hs/northview Roswell 470-254-4500 Principal Dr. Robert Shaw 11595 King Road Roswell 30075 Year Opened: 1949 New Building: 1990 Enrollment: 2232 2019 SAT Score: 1172 2019 ACT Score: 25.4 http://roswellhornets.org

the lionheart school Serving children and adults with autism ages 5–21 www.t helio nhea r t s cho o l.co m

Fulton County Schools | Education Answer Book 2020 | 19

Safety audits at schools will look for threats, hazards Study funded by Kemp’s grants

BY CANDY WAYLOCK

C

omprehensive audits were conducted in 2019 at all 100+ schools and buildings across the Fulton County School System to identify risks or hazards that could compromise student and staff safety.

The initiative follows a nationwide focus on school safety, primarily active shooter threats, which have escalated over the past several years.

Since the Sandy Hook shootings in 2012 which killed 26 students and staff, there have been 239 incidents involving guns in schools, according to Gun Violence Archive, an orga-

nization which tracks school-based incidents.

Shannon Flounnory, PhD., executive director of safety and security for Fulton County Schools, said the assessments are part of the district’s school safety program, and will be conducted by an outside vendor. “[The assessments] will assist the district in identifying additional measures that we may want to consider for even greater enhancements to our existing protocols, procedures and processes,” Flounnory said, adding that the assessments should be complete by the end of September.

Funding for the initiative came from the $30,000 per school grant provided to all public schools under Gov. Brian Kemp’s budget

20 | Education Answer Book 2020 | Fulton County Schools

for school safety programs. Fulton Schools received more than $3 million of the $69 million allocated statewide under Kemp’s budget.

Results of the assessments, Flounnory said, will be used to assist local school administrations, PTAs and School Governance councils on how to best use the grants

for specific needs at their schools.

“The [results] will provide leaders with a strategic and methodical plan that aligns with our overall goal of continued enhancements for emergency preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery,” Flounnory said.

He noted Fulton Schools has been a leader across the state in prioritizing safety and security for students, pointing to the nearly $16 million allocated for new initiatives under the current Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax. The 5-year, one-cent sales tax expires in 2022.

Major areas funded in the current SPLOST include digital surveillance systems at each school, police vehicles and equipment, an internal communication system for crisis management, a system that allows schools to share data with local police departments and a new approach to social media monitoring.

“The social media tool, SAMs, is specific to emergency management,” Flounnory said. “[It] scans public social media platforms using search terms and then alerts FCS of events, nationally or locally, that might impact its operations.”

In 2018, Fulton Schools invested nearly $2.4 million to hire 16 additional school police officers

to expand the reach of officers in schools. The money was also used to add 10 additional Campus Security officers and establish an online mental health resource center for students.

Flounnory noted the Fulton County Schools Police Department is among the largest in the state with 70 certified police officers, and one of the few with SWAT-trained officers.

The Georgia Emergency Management/Homeland Security Agency will support the district as it implements protocols and strategies for school safety. The agency’s School Safety division provides information and assistance to local districts across a wide spectrum of planning.

“GEMA/HS provides training by request for school personnel, including citizen response to active shooter, front office safety, and Stop the Bleed,” said Lisa Rodriguez-Presley, external affairs supervisor for the agency.

Since 1973, High Meadows has inspired children in Pre-K through 8th Grade to think critically, learn creatively, act globally, and live compassionately.

Pre–K through 8th Grade | Roswell, GA 770.993.2940 | www.highmeadows.org An International Baccalaureate® School Fulton County Schools | Education Answer Book 2020 | 21

Fulton School System interns for the 2019-20 school year gathered at the New Teacher Celebration in July 2019. They are among 71 interns participating in the Fulton FirstSTEP program.

Second year of FirstSTEP brings 71 student teachers into classrooms Fulton Schools program serves as recruiting tool to draw area’s top talent

BY CANDY WAYLOCK

A

n innovative program to recruit and retain top teachers enters its second year with 71 teacher interns embedded in Fulton County schools for the 2019-20 school year.

The goal of the district’s FirstSTEP (Student Teacher Education Program) is to transition these interns into full-time teachers, with a year of classroom experience and lessons learned from mentor teachers.

“We want [our interns] to start their career with us and stay,” said Marsha Francis, PhD., program manager for FirstSTEP. “[The program] identifies teachers before they enter the labor market with the expectation 22 | Education Answer Book 2020 | Fulton County Schools

they will choose to remain with Fulton Schools at the end of their internship.”

The 71 interns for the 2019-2020 school year come from six local colleges and universities — Clark Atlanta University, Georgia State University, Kennesaw State University, Spelman College, the University of West Georgia, and the University of Georgia. The interns receive a $3,000 stipend for the 9-month internship, and the promise of a full-time contract upon successful completion.

The success of the FirstSTEP program was evident based on last year’s pilot program, said Francis, who spent two years crafting the innovative approach to the traditional student teaching experience. Of the original group of 41 interns, 35 accepted offers to continue with Fulton Schools, exceeding the program goal of 80 percent retention.

“Last year was an exciting inaugural year, and I was so tickled to see a large group of our former interns/ CONTINUED ON PAGE 23

FirstSTEP CONTINUED FROM PAGE 22 now first-year teachers at the New Teacher Celebration [in July],” Francis said.

She noted the district has made some enhancements to the FirstSTEP program based on feedback from the pilot year. These changes include expanding the number of participating schools, implementing periodic “lunch and learn” opportunities, and placing at least two interns together in a school so they can learn and grow together.

Francis is also excited about the involvement of the University of Georgia which is participating on a trial basis for the 2019-2020 school year.

“Distance can be a factor for university supervision, but the teacher intern is a graduate of Fulton County Schools and [expressed interest] so her faculty agreed to try out the partnership,” Francis explained.

With 17 school districts in Metro Atlanta all competing for a dwindling pool of teachers, creating a pipeline of teacher candidates is critical, she said.

A program, such as Fulton’s FirstSTEP, which develops effective teachers ready for day one, is even more beneficial.

“FirstStep is a staffing solution. We want [our in-

terns] to start their career with us and stay,” Francis said. “[The program] identifies teachers before they enter the labor market with the expectation they will choose to remain with Fulton Schools at the end of their internship.”

Ron Wade, Fulton Schools’ chief talent officer, said the district must fill nearly 600 positions for the 2019-20 school year with the goal of having 6,850 teachers in place by the start of school Aug. 12.

The FirstSTEP program is a key component in filling some of those vacancies.

Francis said other districts are taking note of Fulton’s FirstStep and reaching out for more information on how to implement it in their areas. To share best practices, Francis has made presentations at the state and national level, including at the Georgia Association of School Personnel Administrators, the National Association for Professional Development Schools and Association of Teacher Educators.

“I’ve heard of plans in other districts to create similar programs, and we are proud to lead this work as is it makes complete sense for all student teachers to have such an in depth learning experience which will ultimately make them more prepared for their first-year, first day, first bell,” Francis said.

Fulton County Schools | Education Answer Book 2020 | 23

Fulton Schools hits mark with system-wide enrollment projections

BY CANDY WAYLOCK

P

lanners with the Fulton County School System were nearly spot on in their projections for student enrollment for the 2019-20 school year, missing the mark by only 12 more than the forecast of 93,527 students.

The near perfect forecast for this school year is in stark contrast to the previous year’s enrollment which came in more than 1,000 students below expectations.

It also indicates systems planners are getting more adept at projecting numbers as the system gradually declines in population.

Yngrid Huff Jones, director of planning for Fulton County Schools, said she expects enrollment to grow slightly as new students enroll post-Labor Day, the traditional start of school for other parts of the country.

“This is mostly at the high school-level where a few high schools have enrolled a much higher number than anticipated,” she noted. “Staff is working to determine a root cause for this over-enrollment and will provide a detailed analysis for the board during a future work session.”

This year’s enrollment is the third consecutive year of declining enrollment from the previous year. Once projected to hit 100,000 students, the district’s enrollment peaked in 2016 with 96,000 students.

The district remains the fourth largest in the state, behind only Gwinnett, Cobb and DeKalb County school systems.

While system planners were on the mark system-wide, a deeper look into the numbers revealed much less accuracy for individual schools. This led to staff adjustments and classroom reallocations in the first few weeks of school.

In North Fulton the variances were mostly seen in 24 | Education Answer Book 2020 | Fulton County Schools

elementary schools. Despite a difference of only four students between the actual and projected enrollment, wide swings in over and under forecast were prevalent.

Manning Oaks Elementary opened with nearly 100 fewer students than projected, while Hillside Elementary in Roswell welcomed 75 more students than expected — the equivalent of nearly three classrooms of kids.

In all, 13 of the area’s 30 elementary schools saw projections miss the actual enrollment by 30 or more students.

Projections for the area’s 12 middle schools were more in line with actual enrollment. Most came within 10 students over or under forecast. The lone outlier was Holcomb Bridge Middle which enrolled 50 students above projections.

After defying the slowing growth trend across Fulton County for years, most high schools in North Fulton enrolled fewer students this year than last, and are nearly all within instructional capacity for the first time in years.

The lone exception was Cambridge High School in Milton which had a first month enrollment of 2,087, slightly higher than last year’s enrollment. Milton remains the area’s largest high school, but saw an opening day enrollment of 2,340 students, about 40 students fewer than last year.

While “tweaks” to staffing and classrooms may still take place this month, Huff Jones said those adjustments will not be as prevalent in North Fulton.

“Staffing has already been adjusted based on the current enrollment, accounting for trends post-Labor Day,” she explained, noting the Labor Day surge is less prevalent in North Fulton based on trends from previous years.

Enrollment for North Fulton Schools CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24

School

Actual Enrollment

Projected Enrollment

Abbotts Hill

611

582

Alpharetta

565

Amana Charter

492

Barnwell

School

Actual Enrollment

Projected Enrollment

Amana Charter

238

247

563

Autrey Mill

1,361

1,364

440

Crabapple

911

914

744

728

Elkins Pointe

1,050

1,067

Birmingham Falls

721

716

FAST Charter

217

208

Cogburn Woods

859

830

Haynes Bridge

683

682

Crabapple Crossing

729

767

Holcomb Bridge

677

627

Creek View

934

953

Hopewell

1,359

1,356

Dolvin

761

777

Northwestern

1,258

1,241

Esther Jackson

617

635

River Trail

1,273

1,279

FAST Charter

364

329

Taylor Road

1,343

1,339

Findley Oaks

569

599

Webb Bridge

1,188

1,166

Hembree Springs

590

601

TOTAL

13,442

13,402

Hillside

550

475

Lake Windward

779

727

Manning Oaks

871

968

Medlock Bridge

658

649

Mimosa

719

759

School

Mountain Park

823

801

Actual Enrollment

Projected Enrollment

New Prospect

520

537

Northwood

661

721

Ocee

700

692

River Eves

585

616

Roswell North

920

866

Shakerag

652

622

State Bridge Crossing

773

Summit Hill

MIDDLE

ELEMENTARY

HIGH SCHOOL Alpharetta

2,308

2,304

Cambridge

2,087

2,105

Centennial

1,921

1,878

Chattahoochee

1,874

1,922

Independence

242

252

765

Johns Creek

2,105

2,135

Milton

2,340

2,320

715

744

Northview

1,762

1,758

Sweet Apple

786

757

Roswell

2,230

2,173

Vickery Mill

495

507

TOTAL

16,869

16,847

Wilson Creek

801

803

N. FULTON TOTAL 50,835

50,778

TOTAL

20,524

20,529

SYSTEM TOTAL

93,509

93,521

Fulton County Schools | Education Answer Book 2020 | 25

Student-centered learning yields excellence at Mount Pisgah

BY CARSON COOK

M

ount Pisgah Christian School is rethinking the way student-teacher relationships shape learning.

On its Johns Creek campus, home to around 900 students in preschool through 12th grade, you won’t find “sage on a stage” style teaching.

“We don’t really subscribe to the old philosophy of teacher stands up at the front of the classroom and just dictates what they’re supposed to know,” Academic Dean Megan Koch said. “Here, learning really is a two-way street.”

This approach is known as “student-centered learning.” Koch said the idea behind this style is that students take ownership over their own education, making them active participants rather than passive receptacles of knowledge.

“We want them to be engaged and perhaps even become architects of their own learning,” said Maria Williams, a 9th grade English teacher at Mount Pisgah.

How this looks in practice depends on the grade level and discipline, Koch said. In science courses it often takes the form of group projects. In the humanities, classes are usually discussion based.

There is still a time and place for lectures, Koch said, but it happens much less frequently than with traditional instruction.

Even the classroom layouts at Mount Pisgah reflect their commitment to student-centered learning. Desks are arranged in pods, so students face one another, rather than the teacher.

“The attention is drawn to them to collaborate, to brainstorm, to think out loud and to develop a trust among their peers,” Williams said.

In a way, students help teach each other, Koch said.

“It’s an opportunity for our kids to not just take ownership of their own learning, but also to hold their classmates accountable,” she said. “If a discussion isn’t moving forward, we encourage them to say, ‘Hey, let’s ask some more probing questions.’”

For example, when Williams recently taught Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird,” each class drew up a contract for dealing with the novel’s sensitive topics.

With five classes, she ended up with five different contracts.

While in the past she has spent six weeks teaching “To Kill a Mockingbird,” this year students spent 20 weeks working through the material, drawing in discussions on present day racial injustice. Williams said Mount Pisgah gives her the flexibility to respond 26 | Education Answer Book 2020 | Sponsored Section

to each individual group of students. If they’re still engaging with the novel, she does not need to force them to move on to meet some arbitrary standard.

This is true across grade levels and disciplines.

Teachers can adapt their lesson plans to help students meet their individual learning goals, whether it is reading comprehension in Lower School or math in Middle School.

The schools use assessment data to tailor instruction to each student and identify areas where students should be strengthened or challenged.

“It’s not just basic regurgitation, which is what I did in English class,” Williams said. “I could tell you more about the kid’s hair that sat in front of me than I could about anything I read in high school.”

This style of teaching can take some getting used to, Williams admitted. Teachers may initially struggle when students challenge them or take the course in new direction. Thankfully, Mount Pisgah provides instructional coaches for their teachers in Lower through Upper School, so the faculty can be constantly improving.

“We’re building confidence in those kids to not just say the teacher has the right answer, and I’m going to write it down, and then I’m going to write it on the test,” Koch said. “It’s allowing those kids to question, challenge and say, ‘I’m not sure if I agree with that.’

At the end of the day, we want to teach them civil discourse.”

Mount Pisgah Christian School is far from the only school to employ student-centered learning, but Koch and Williams both said there was something special about the school’s culture that sets it apart.

One way they curate this culture in the Upper and Middle schools is with an annual retreat. In the first few weeks of the school year, students and teachers go on a retreat where they stay in cabins together and do activities like hiking. It allows students to see their teachers as people, and to respect them on a human level, Koch said.

As a Christian school, the faculty also grows their relationships with students through faith. At chapel, teachers open up about their hardships or struggles with faith. Students can relate to that, Williams said.

“Every school in this area does school really well, but we have a secret sauce here,” Koch said. “I don’t really know the ingredients. It’s a culture, a trust that students and teachers have with one another.”

WE ARE PISGAH!

A leading Preschool through 12th grade independent Christian school located in the heart of North Fulton in Atlanta.

SCHEDULE A TOUR TODAY 678.336.3400 | mountpisgahschool.org

Saint Francis School S

aint Francis School is an independent, not for profit, college preparatory program, without any religious affiliation, serving the Atlanta Metro area since 1976. Saint Francis has two campuses: Grades (K – 8) located on the Roswell, GA Campus, and Grades (9 – 12) on the Milton, GA Campus.

Saint Francis School is a Cognia (AdvancEd, SACS/ SAIS) accredited. The mission of Saint Francis School is to provide a college preparatory program to students with diverse academic ability in a structured environment that is challenging and supportive.

The school’s commitment to small class sizes, low pupil-to-teacher ratio, and a strong emphasis on structure and organization allows students to enjoy success in academic areas and develop the self-confidence necessary to be successful in college.

Curriculum offerings include AP, Honors, Traditional 28 | Education Answer Book 2020 | Sponsored Section

and Support classes.

With a 100% acceptance rate to college and with the majority of graduates qualifying for the Hope Scholarship, Saint Francis alumni attend a wide variety of programs ranging from Ivy League schools, to small private colleges to prestigious Art Institutes. Saint Francis is a Google Apps for Education Classroom, utilizing laptops in grades 4 – 12. Specialized reading programs offered include Fundations®, Wilson Reading System®, Just Words® and supplemental support from Cars® and Stars® Reading Comprehension. Sports are offered at both the middle and high school (GHSA) including football, soccer, baseball, track, swimming, wrestling, softball, volleyball and equestrian.

Schedule Your Tour Today!

Roswell Campus, Director of Admissions: Marc Weiss mweiss@sfschools.net 770.641.8257 x 51.

Milton Campus, High School Admission: Brandon Bryan bbryan@sfschools.net 678.339.9989 x 33.

Taking sports performance training to the next level C

hildren’s Healthcare of Atlanta has long been a trusted partner that families turn to when sick or injured kids and teens need care.

With the opening of Children’s Sports Performance, a new sports training facility in Alpharetta, growing athletes can work toward reaching their highest athletic potential under the Children’s umbrella.

Children’s Sports Performance opened in December, offering comprehensive sports performance training for individual youth and high school athletes, sports teams, elite athletes and adults.

The 3,000-square-foot facility is situated above Children’s at Webb

Bridge (3155 North Point Parkway), which offers pediatric sports medicine and radiology services.

Teaming up with Children’s in this new venture is EXOS, which describes itself as a human performance company. Trusted by the highest-performing athletes around the world, EXOS has trained Olympic athletes, MLS champions and top NFL draft picks. EXOS helps athletes at all levels improve functional movement, decrease the risk of injury, and build strength and power through targeted sports performance training.

At Children’s Sports Performance, training happens in small-

group sessions that are customized according to the participants’ ages, sports, abilities and goals. The approach to training is holistic, supported by research and guided

by EXOS’ four pillars of human performance: mindset, nutrition, movement and recovery.

Visit choa.org/childrenssportsperformance to learn more and sign up for a free training session and consultation.

Sponsored Section | Education Answer Book 2020 | 29

Kindness matters at Atlanta Academy A

cademics are essential to a child’s education; however, character development is equally important to ensuring children’s overall success. Fostering good character by creating a warm and nurturing culture is an integral part of Atlanta Academy. Research shows that this type of environment enriches students’ academic performance, health and well-being, and happiness.

Each morning our preschool-8th grade students begin their day together. This school assembly provides a unique opportunity for everyone to be mindful and present. Mrs. Dishman, Head of School, asks students to think about their day and how they can be a better person and friend. After this moment, a student offers words written from their heart. These prayers include peace for our nation, help to those in need or thoughts for a family member or pet.

In and outside the classroom, our faculty helps nurture positive emotional intelligence. Teachers lead by example to model and instill values such as empathy, integrity, resiliency, and honesty. Collaboration, 30 | Education Answer Book 2020 | Sponsored Section

communication, and problem-solving are essential lifeskills that our students practice every day.

Giving back to our local community and world teaches our students to be responsible individuals and empathetic towards others. Through Atlanta Academy Cares, students participate in service projects to help those who are less fortunate. To maximize the impact of their experience, there are age-appropriate activities for each grade. This helps each child understand their contribution and know that what they are doing is making a difference in someone’s life.

At Atlanta Academy, we believe in educating the whole child by expanding their minds with challenging academics while nurturing their social and emotional well-being. As a result, we see our students experiencing excitement and joy in the classroom and activities around campus. Our graduates are confident students who thrive in a range of exceptional college preparatory high schools and life beyond school.

For more info, contact 678-461-6102, or www.atlantaacademy.com

IGNITE THEIR LEARNING. UNLEASH THEIR POTENTIAL. Imagine, a top-notch school designed for today’s college-bound student.

A School Where: Hard-work and follow-through are embedded in the culture There is time for outside interests and work-life balance Students are heard and engaged in learning Students are empowered to develop self-awareness Missed opportunities and wasted time are left behind

Schedule a Tour Today

678-456-5131 WILLIAMandREED.com William & Reed Academy Fully Accredited College Prep Education for 6th - 12th Grade Students William & Reed Academy practices a non-discriminatory policy of admission.

Gwinnett Technical College N

owadays, college is a requirement not many can afford to bypass, regardless of the career path they choose. But with more and more employers looking for candidates that are educated and have real-world experience, traditional classroom training alone may not be enough to stand out. So where can you get the right balance of education and hands-on experience?

Gwinnett Technical College!

First-time students or those looking to change careers can benefit from gaining a healthy dosage of specialized knowledge and real-world experience from Gwinnett Tech; so, the moment you set foot in the workforce, you’re armed with the skills and knowledge you need to excel.

Gwinnett Technical College, one of Georgia’s largest technical colleges, is committed to delivering relevant 34 | Education Answer Book 2020 | Sponsored Section

knowledge to students seeking career-focused education and hands-on learning environments designed to support industry demands. The College offers more than 140 associate degree, diploma and certificate programs and hundreds of seminars, workshops and courses providing specialized training.

Serving more than 21,000 students across their credit and adult education classes, Gwinnett Tech has a job placement rate 99%, and more than 70% of our students enrolled in the high-demand fields of Health Care, Business and Computer Sciences.

Gwinnett Technical College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award the associate degree and is a unit of the Technical College System of Georgia.

For more information, visit GwinnettTech.edu.

SAINT FRANCIS SCHOOL

ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOr ThE

2020-2021 SChOOL yEAr

Schedule Your Tour Today!

System®

Forsyth County

2020/21 School Calendar March 2020 S 1

M

T

W

Th

April 2020 F

Sat

S

M

T

June 2020

May 2020

W

Th

F

Sat

1

2

3

4

S

M

T

W

2

3

4

5

6

7

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

3

4

5

6

Th

F

Sat

1

2

7

8

9

S

M

T

W

Th

F

1

2

3

4

5

Sat 6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

26

27

28

29

30

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

28

29

30

29

30

31

S

M

S

M

31

July 2020 T

September 2020

August 2020

W

Th

F

Sat

1

2

3

4

S

M

T

W

Th

F

Sat

S

M

1

W

Th

F

Sat

1

2

3

4

5

T

8

9

10

11

12

4

5

6

W

Th

F

1

2

Sat 3

7

8

9

10

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

6

18

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

25

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

27

28

29

30

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

30

31

S

M

S

M

S

M

T

W

Th

F

1

2

3

4

5

6

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

19

20

21

22

23

24

26

27

28

29

30

31

November 2020

7

October 2020

T

December 2020

S

M

T

W

Th

F

Sat

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

6

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

January 2021

T

W

Th

F

Sat

T

W

1

2

3

4

5

7

8

9

10

11

12

3

4

5

6

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

10

11

12

13

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

Th

February 2021

F

Sat

1

2

7

8

9

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

22

23

24

25

26

27

Sat

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

21

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

28

F

Sat

S

Sat

31

March 2021 S

M 1

T

W

Th

April 2021 F

Sat

S

M

T

W

June 2021

May 2021

Th

F

Sat

1

2

3

2

3

4

5

6

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

S

M

T

W

Th

M

1 2

3

4

5

T

W

Th

F

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

25

26

27

28

29

30

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

27

28

29

30

28

29

30

31

30

31

First/Last Day of School

Early Release Day

36 | Education Answer Book 2020 | Forsyth County Schools

Holiday/School Closed

Preplanning/Post Planning Day

Meet the superintendent and the board of education Superintendent Jeff Bearden jbearden@forsyth.k12.ga.us r. Jeff Bearden joined Forsyth County Schools as superintendent on Sept. 2, 2014, capping a career in education that has spanned more than 25 years.

Prior to joining Forsyth County, he was superintendent of Rome City Schools and Fayette County Schools. Bearden spent the first part of his educational career in Maine where he served as superintendent of the Maine School Administrative District No. 35 and the Limestone School Department.

Bearden also served as an assistant superintendent, assistant principal and district athletic director.

He taught social studies and language arts and was a varsity basketball coach.

A Georgia native, Bearden holds a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree from the University of Maine, and a doctorate from Nova Southeastern University. Additionally, he is a third-generation veteran of the U.S. Air Force.

Bearden is a member of Georgia School Superintendents Association, the American Association of School Administrators, and was appointed by Gov. Nathan Deal to serve on the Governor’s Education Advisory Board.

Bearden and his wife, Lisa, who is an elementary school teacher, have three children.

D

Forsyth Board of Education Members Wes McCall • District 1 WMcCall@forsyth.k12.ga.us Elected in 2018; current term expires in 2022 Wesley McCall has been a resident of Forsyth County since 2002. He has been an active parent in the Forsyth County School System serving as a student mentor, classroom volunteer and member of the PTA Board and Local School councils.

McCall’s involvement in the community includes student development through his church youth group, founding the Emerging Leaders Program through North Fulton Leadership, working with the Georgia Department of Education to develop career path curriculum for the public safety industry, volunteering as a Boy Scout leader and serving on several educational boards.

McCall holds an undergraduate degree from Grand Canyon University in Christian Leadership and a graduate degree from Columbus State in Public Administration. He and his family attend Browns Bridge Church.

Kristin Morrissey • Board Member for District 2 kmorrissey@forsyth.k12.ga.us Elected in 2011; current term ends in 2022 Kristin Morrissey serves as the chairwoman of the Forsyth County Board of Education.

She studied Microelectronic Engineering at Rochester Institute of Technology and received her degree in Computer Science from State University of New York.

She worked in corporate training at Eastman Kodak and later retired from the Rochester Public Library and Monroe County Library System after 16 years of service.

Morrissey is a 2009 graduate of Leadership Forsyth

and the Georgia Academy for Economic Development, Regional Economic and Leadership Development. She is an active community member serving on several boards, including the Forsyth County Library, Peachtree Parkway Improvement District and Forsyth County Parks Foundation.

Tom Cleveland • Board Member for District 3 TCleveland@forsyth.k12.ga.us Elected in 2005; current term ends in 2020 Tom Cleveland served as the co-chair of the district’s Vision 2010 steering committee, and was a member of the Teacher of the Year selection committee, health education committee and various other roles within the school system. He currently serves as a worship team member at First Baptist Cumming, a disaster assistance team member with the American Red Cross and a member of the Amateur Radio Emergency Services group within the county.

Raised in DeKalb County, Cleveland moved his family to Forsyth County in 1995 where his two sons attended Forsyth County schools. He works in the technology sector.

Darla Light • Board Member for District 4 dlight@forsyth.k12.ga.us Elected in 2009; current term ends in 2020 Raised in Forsyth County, Darla Light graduated from Forsyth County High School and attended the University of Georgia where she majored in Special Education. She and her husband David, a former educator, reside in Forsyth County. Their three children are all North Forsyth HS graduates.

Light served as an elementary PTSO officer for three CONTINUED ON PAGE 41 Forsyth County Schools | Education Answer Book 2020 | 37

Public School Bios: FORSYTH What is CCRPI? The CCRPI (College and Career Readiness Performance Index) assesses public schools annually on a 100-point scale based on achievement, progress and closing the achievement gap.

Elementary Schools  Big Creek 770-887-4584 Principal: Laura Webb 1994 Peachtree Parkway Cumming, Georgia 30041 Year Opened: 1939 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ Page/1718

Brandywine 770-887-2461 Principal: Todd Smith 175 Martin Drive, Alpharetta, Georgia 30004 Year opened: 2016 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/brandywine Brookwood 678-965-5060 Principal: Tracey Smith 2980 Vaughan Drive Cumming, Georgia 30041 Year Opened: 2009 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ Page/25122 Chattahoochee 770-781-2240 Principal: Barbara Vella 2800 Holtzclaw Road Cumming, Georgia 30041 Year Opened: 1993 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ Page/2469

Chestatee 770-781-2240 Principal: Polly Tennies 6945 Keith Bridge Road Gainesville, Georgia 30506 Year Opened: 1931 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ Page/3214

Kelly Mill 678-965-4953 Principal: Ron McAllister 1180 Chamblee Gap Road Cumming, Georgia 30040 Year Opened: 2012 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/Domain/3436

Coal Mountain 770-887-7705 Principal: Kimberly Davis 3455 Coal Mountain Drive Cumming, Georgia 30028 Year Opened: 1981 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ Page/4183

Mashburn 770-889-1630 Principal: Carla Gravitt 3777 Samples Road Cumming, Georgia 30041 Year Opened: 1976 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ Page/8280

Cumming 770-887-7705 Principal: Lee Anne Rice 3455 Coal Mountain Drive Cumming, Georgia 30028 Year Opened: 1961 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ Page/5720

Matt 678-455-4500 Principal: Charlley Stalder 7455 Wallace Tatum Road Cumming, Georgia 30028 Year Opened: 2001 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ Page/9188

Daves Creek 770-888-1222 Principal: Eric Ashton 3740 Melody Mizer Lane Cumming, Georgia 30041 Year Opened: 1997 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ Page/6662

Midway 770-475-6670 Principal: Jan Munroe 4805 Atlanta Hwy Alpharetta, Georgia 30004 Year Opened: 1961 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ Page/10601

Haw Creek 678-965-5070 Principal: June Tribble 2555 Echols Road Cumming, Georgia 30041 Year Opened: 2009 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ Page/27039

Sawnee 770-887-6161 Principal: Eileen Nix 1616 Canton Highway Cumming, Georgia 30040 Year Opened: 1968 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ Page/11546

Johns Creek 678-965-5041 Principal: Alyssa Degliumberto 6205 Old Atlanta Road Suwanee, Georgia 30024 Year Opened: 2007 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ Page/23524

Settles Bridge 770-887-1883 Principal: Sarah Von Esh 600 James Burgess Road Suwanee, Georgia 30024 Year Opened: 2000 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ Page/13604

38 | Education Answer Book 2020 | Forsyth County Schools

Sharon 770-888-7511 Principal: Amy Bartlett 3595 Old Atlanta Road Suwanee, Georgia 30024 Year Opened: 2003 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ Page/14829 Shiloh Point 678-341-6481 Principal: Derrick Hershey 8145 Majors Road Cumming, Georgia 30041 Year Opened: 2006 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ Page/17240 Silver City 678-965-5020 Principal: Paige Andrews 6200 Dahlonega Hwy Cumming, GA 30028 Year Opened: 2007 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ Page/16162 Vickery Creek 770-346-0040 Principal: Kristan Riedinger 6280 Post Road Cumming, Georgia 30040 Year Opened: 1997 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ Page/18942 Whitlow 678-965-5090 Principal: Dr. Lynne Castleberry 3655 Castleberry Road Cumming, Georgia 30040 Year Opened: 2009 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ Page/25928

Middle Schools DeSana 770-887-2461 Principal: Terri North 625 James Road Alpharetta, GA 30004 Year opened: 2016 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/desana

Lakeside 678-965-5080 Principal: Kim Head 2565 Echols Road Cumming, Georgia 30041 Year Opened: 2009 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ Page/27718

Otwell 770-887-5248 Principal: Steve Miller 605 Tribble Gap Road Cumming, Georgia 30040 Year Opened: 2001 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ Page/20786

Liberty 770-781-4889 Principal: Cheryl Riddle 7465 Wallace Tatum Road Cumming, Georgia 30028 Year Opened: 2002 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ Page/20472

Piney Grove 678-965-5010 Principal: Pam Pajerski 8135 Majors Road Cumming, Georgia 30041 Year Opened: 2006 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ Page/24407

Little Mill 678-965-5000 Principal: Connie McCrary 6800 Little Mill Road Cumming, GA 30041 Year Opened: 2007 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ Page/21087

Riverwatch 678-455-7311 Principal: Pam Bibik 610 James Burgess Rd. Suwanee, Georgia 30024 Year Opened: 2003 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ Page/20928

North Forsyth 770-889-0743 Principal: Tom McClelland 3645 Coal Mountain Drive Cumming, Georgia 30028 Year Opened: 1981 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ Page/20652

South Forsyth 770-888-3170 Principal: Sandy Tinsley 4670 Windermere Pkwy.

Cumming, Georgia 30041 Year Opened: 1999 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ Page/21183 Forsyth County Schools | Education Answer Book 2020 | 39

Public School Bios: FORSYTH Vickery Creek 770-667-2580 Principal: Scott Feldkamp 6240 Post Road Cumming, Georgia 30040 Year Opened: 1999 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ Page/21341

High Schools Academies of Creative Education 770-781-3141 Co-Directors: Betty Pope and Rudy Hampton 1130 Dahlonega Highway Cumming, Georgia 30040 Year Opened: 2005 https://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/forsythacademy Alliance Academy for Innovation 678-965-5080 Principal: Brandi Cannizzaro 1100 Lanier 400 Parkway Cumming, Georgia 30040 Year Opened: 2018 https://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ alliance

Denmark High 770-887-2461 Principal: Heather Gordy 645 Mullinax Road Alpharetta, Georgia 30004 Year Opened: 2018 https://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/dhs Forsyth Central 770-887-8151 Principal: Mitch Young 520 Tribble Gap Road Cumming, Georgia 30040 Year Opened: 1955 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ Page/21574 Forsyth Virtual Academy 770-781-3141 Director: Susan Atkins 1130 Dahlonega Highway Cumming, Georgia 30040 https://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/fva Lambert High 678-965-5050 Principal: Gary Davison 805 Nichols Road Suwanee, Georgia 30024 Year Opened: 2009 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ Page/24754

40 | Education Answer Book 2020 | Forsyth County Schools

North Forsyth High 770-781-6637 Principal: Jeff Cheney 3635 Coal Mountain Drive Cumming, Georgia 30028 Year Opened: 1994 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ Page/21850 South Forsyth High 770-781-2264 Principal: Laura Wilson 585 Peachtree Parkway Cumming, Georgia 30041 Year Opened: 1989 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ Page/22252 West Forsyth High 770-888-3470 Principal: Karl Mercer 4155 Drew Road Cumming, Georgia 30040 Year Opened: 2007 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ Page/22982

Academies of Creative Education

school. Non-resident students may apply and will be assessed tuition.

T

he Academies of Creative Education were developed with the idea that not all students learn at the same rate or in the same manner. Research has shown there is a growing interest in more non-traditional options for students outside the structure of traditional high schools. With these ideals in mind, Forsyth County School leaders developed a strategy to reach students in unique ways to facilitate learning and success. These options were incorporated within the three Academies of Creative Education.

Forsyth Academy Forsyth Academy is a small, non -traditional high school program geared toward students who are seeking an educational experience outside of the traditional school setting, or for those that wish to accelerate their learning and graduate early. Classes are held in

the morning (8 am - noon) or in the afternoon (12:30 - 4:30). The Academy incorporates an approach that combines strong personal relationships between staff and students with an intense focus on academic achievement.

Forsyth Virtual Academy Forsyth Virtual Academy serves students in grades 6-12 and engages in a digital learning environment through innovative, flexible, and student-focused education.

FVA students may be residents of Forsyth County entering the school system for the first time from Home School or Private School. Students may also be current FCS students transferring from an existing

Gateway Academy Gateway Academy is an alternative program for middle and high school students enrolled in a Forsyth County school. The focus is on providing students a disciplined environment with an opportunity to modify unproductive behavior and remediate any academic inadequacy. Students will continue to work toward completing requirements to exit middle school or to receive their high school diploma from their base school. Gateway Academy sets high expectations for students and strict guidelines to help them succeed.

Academies of Creative Education 770-781-3141 Principal Drew Hayes 1130 Dahlonega Hwy Cumming, GA 30040 https://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ forsythacademy

Meet the superintendent and the board of education CONTINUED FROM PAGE 37 years, a middle school PTSO officer for two years and coached middle school basketball. She is a member of FCS 2400 Challenge Committee, is active in the North Forsyth 400 Rotary Club and is a small business owner.

Light owns Browns Bridge Boat and Mini Storage.

Vice chairwoman, Nancy Roche • Board Member for District 5 NRoche@forsyth.k12.ga.us Elected in 2001; current term ends 2020 Nancy Roche has served on the Board of Education since 2001 and is the current vice chairwoman of the board.

Roche was instrumental in the board earning the

title of “Most Tech-Savvy Board for Large School Systems” in 2005, and for the system being recognized as a National Salute District for Technology in 2007.

She served as chair of the board in 2003 and from 2005-2008. She was appointed to the Georgia School Board Association’s board of directors in June 2007 for District 9. She has served for GSBA on the Strategic Planning Committee, the Governmental Operations Committee and the Nominating Committee and serves as a GSBA presenter and a mentor for new board members.

Roche previously worked as a systems analyst for IBM and holds a bachelor’s degree in math and computer science.

Forsyth County Schools | Education Answer Book 2020 | 41

Forsyth graduation rates climb to all-time high

By DENISE RAY

F

orsyth County leads Metro Atlanta county school districts in graduation rates for 2018-2019.

The Georgia Department of Education reported this month that Forsyth County Schools posted a graduation rate of almost 95 percent, well ahead of the state average.

The rankings show that the county beat its county and state record for high school students graduating from school.

All five county high schools exceeded the current state of Georgia graduation rate of 82 percent. Lambert High School and South Forsyth High School made the top 35 schools in the state.

Georgia’s graduation rate has increased by 12 percentage points since 2012, with steady increases each year.

During the 2018FORSYTH COUNTY 2019 school year, GRADUATION RATES 71 Georgia school 2016-17 94.4% districts recorded graduation rates at 2017-18 94.1% or above 90 per2018-19 94.6% cent. Twenty-four districts recorded rates at or above 95 percent.

Fulton County School System also posted strong numbers, graduating students in record numbers from the district’s 19 high schools. Fulton’s graduation rate of 87.2 represents a 0.4 percent increase from last year, but it remains below the established district goal of achieving a 92 percent graduation rate.

Fulton’s graduation rate also exceeds the state average by more than 5 percentage points.

Forsyth schools named among best in state T

wenty local schools were represented on a list of Georgia’s 100 top schools, as compiled by a national online grading service.

The list includes both private and public schools, including elementary, middle and high schools and was compiled by Niche.com, an online service that rates and ranks schools across the country.

Niche ranks schools based on user reviews and data from the U.S. Department of Education, including grades, culture and diversity, health and safety, sports and other factors.

Lambert High School ranked highest overall at 16. South Forsyth High School was the only other local high school listed, coming in at No. 20.

Five of the county’s 10 middle schools were listed including Riverwatch Middle School at No. 54; South Forsyth Middle School at No. 73; Piney Grove Middle School at No. 76; Desana Middle School

at No. 80; and Lakeside Middle School at No. 86.

More than half of the county’s elementary schools made the list.

They include: Johns Creek Elementary, No. 51; Big Creek Elementary, 52; Daves Creek Elementary, 56; Brookwood Elementary School, 57; Settles Bridge Elementary, 58; Mashburn Elementary, 64; Shiloh Point Elementary, 69; Sharon Elementary,74; Haw Creek Elementary, 81; Midway Elementary, 85; Whitlow Elementary, 93; and Kelly Mill Elementary School at 94.

Pinecrest Academy, a private school also made the list, placing No 31.

The top five schools the state are: The Westminster Schools in Atlanta; Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science & Technology; Pace Academy in Atlanta; The Paideia School, in Atlanta; and the Atlanta International School, also in Atlanta.

42 | Education Answer Book 2020 | Forsyth County Schools

FORSYTH COUNTY TOP SCHOOLS HIGH SCHOOL Lambert South Forsyth

16 20

MIDDLE Riverwatch 54 South Forsyth 73 Piney Grove 76 Desana 80 Lakeside 86

ELEMENTARY Johns Creek 51 Big Creek 52 Daves Creek 56 Brookwood School 57 Settles Bridge 58 Mashburn 64 Shiloh Point 69 Sharon 74 Haw Creek 81 Midway 85 Whitlow 93 Kelly Mill 94

Smarter Choice.

Smarter Child.

We Are Different Because:

“Kids ‘R’ Kids Brain Waves is a omprehensive program that maximizes your child’s learning potential through experiential opportunity in a variety of age-appropriate contexts. It represents a method for developing skills that provides the basis for an individual to reach autonomy and self-actualization.”

• Children 6 weeks - 12 years • Mon.-Fri., 6:00am to 6:30pm • AdvancED® accredited program • Large, age-appropriate playgrounds • Exclusive curriculum • Long-term staff & teachers • Privately owned & operated • Secure internet viewing

NOW ENROLLING!

Stop by or schedule a personal tour to see the many advantages!

Learn more about Our Brain Waves™ Exclusive Curriculum The first five years of your child’s life is a critical time when their brain is developing and brain cells are forming connections for learning and future success in school.

Watch your child from any computer or mobile device.

During these early years, the experiences and interactions your child has will determine which brain cells are activated and which ones are pruned away from lack of stimulation.

Your child’s learning environment has tremendous impact on brain development.

At Kids ‘R’ Kids, we use strategies from our Brain Waves™ curriculum to support neural pathways for language, social-emotional, cognitive, and physical development during these critical years.

6:00am - 6:30pm M-F 3036 Old Atlanta Road Cumming, GA 30041

www.krk52.com • 678-648-3175

Enrolling Now! Schedule a Tour Today.

Serving ages 14 months to 12 years

3034 Old Atlanta Road, Cumming, GA 30041 • 678-208-0774 info@montessoricumming.com • www.montessoricumming.com

Forsyth County Schools | Education Answer Book 2020 | 43

Forsyth Schools recognized by College Board for top AP scores F

orsyth County Schools is one of 250 school districts in the U.S. and Canada being honored by the College Board with placement on the 10th Annual Advanced Placement (AP) District Honor Roll.

To be included on the annual honor roll, Forsyth County Schools had to meet two requirements: increase the number of students participating in AP since 2017 and increase or maintain the percentage of students earning AP Exam scores of 3 or higher.

“Reaching these goals shows that this district is successfully identifying motivated, academically prepared students who are ready for AP,” the College Board said in a statement.

Inclusion in the AP District Honor Roll is based on a review of three years of AP data, from 2017 to 2019, looking across 38 AP Exams, including world language and culture.

Districts must meet the following criteria: • Increase participation/

access to AP by at least 4 percent in large districts, at least 6 percent in medium districts, and at least 11 percent in small districts.

• Increase or maintain the percentage of American Indian/Alaska Native, Black/ African American, Hispanic/ Latino, and Native Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islander students taking exams and scoring 3+ on at least one AP Exam.

• Improve or maintain performance levels when comparing the 2019 percentage of students scoring a 3 or higher to the 2017 percentage, unless the district has already attained a performance level at which more than 70 percent of its AP students earn a 3 or higher.

Forsyth County School officials say the district is committed to expanding the availability of AP courses among prepared and motivated students of all backgrounds.

44 | Education Answer Book 2020 | Forsyth County Schools

The first step toward the participation goal is to give them access to the courses.

“With more students participating and succeeding in AP in this district, more students are getting a head start on college by earning college credit during high school,” said Trevor Packer, senior vice president of AP and Instruction at the College Board. “We are pleased to honor the teachers and administrators who have worked to clear a path for more students of all backgrounds to advance through AP.” Many districts are experimenting with initiatives and strategies to see how they can expand access and improve student performance at the same time, Packer said In 2019, more than 4,000 colleges and universities around the world received AP scores for college credit, advanced placement, or both, and/or consideration in the admissions process.

This is the third consecutive year Forsyth County Schools has won this designation.

Forsyth cracks down on bus safety

By ADAM DARBY

F

orsyth County Schools took a closer look at school bus safety procedures as the 2018-2019 school year wound down.

The district pushed stricter enforcement on child safety precautions for students and parents.

Students are being informed of the steps required for safety when exiting the bus at their stop.

“This is an annual reminder for our parents. Since we grow with around 1,800 new students annually, it helps to remind our parents and guardians, especially those that are finishing their first year with us,” said Jennifer Caracciolo, Forsyth County Schools spokeswoman.

“For many years, we have had a strong partnership with local law enforcement, from School Resource Officers to bus safety. Additionally,

our bus drivers actively educate students on safe bus stop and safe bus rider practices. When you are transporting precious cargo, bus safety is important to all on the roads.”

When residents voiced concerns over the careless driving seen around school zones and bus stops, authorities cracked down on unsafe traffic behavior that could endanger students. The schools work with the Sheriff’s Office to eliminate dangerous scenarios and reckless driving.

“Although the Sheriff’s Office conducts school zone enforcement year round, we decided to concentrate more officers within the school zones to remind our citizens to slow down,” said Cpl. Kevin Pittman, Traffic Unit supervisor. “We conducted school zone enforcement in many schools throughout the county and prioritized our

school zone enforcement based on complaints, traffic volume and amount of unsafe driving violations observed.”

The program was conducted over the course of five days in early May 2019 with noticeable results.

Among many violations, the effort resulted in 114 speeding warnings and 91 speeding citations. Parents and residents have responded positively to the heightened enforcement and the Sheriff’s Office has received notable praise both on-site and through their Facebook page.

Pittman said heightened monitoring of school zones will continue.

“Concentrating on unsafe driving behavior in school zones is essential to basic traffic safety. It also sets a reminder early for our new teen drivers ensuring they slow down and respect the speed limits,” Pittman said.

Forsyth County Schools | Education Answer Book 2020 | 45

Private School Directory: Alpharetta Christian Academy 44 Academy Street Alpharetta, GA 30009

Fellowship Christian School 10965 Woodstock Road Roswell, GA 30075

Montessori Kids Academy 3034 Old Atlanta Road Cumming, GA 30041

Atlanta Academy 2000 Holcomb Woods Parkway Roswell, GA 30076

Fulton Science Academy 3035 Fanfare Way Alpharetta, GA 30009

Mount Pisgah Christian School 9820 Nesbit Ferry Road Johns Creek, GA 30022

Blessed Trinity Catholic High School 11320 Woodstock Road Roswell, GA 30075 Bridgeway Christian Academy 4755 Kimball Bridge Road Alpharetta, GA 30005 Cornerstone Christian Academy 5295 Triangle Parkway NW Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 Cornerstone Schools 4888 Browns Bridge Road Cumming, GA 30041 Country Day School 5380 Faircroft Drive Alpharetta, GA 30005 Covenant Christian Academy 6905 Post Road Cumming, GA 30040 Davis Academy Lower: 8105 Roberts Drive, Atlanta. GA Middle: 7901 Roberts Drive, Atlanta, GA 30350 Eaton Academy 1000 Old Roswell Lakes Pkwy Roswell, GA 30076 Endeavor Montessori 48 Perimeter Center East Atlanta, GA 30346

High Meadows School 1055 Willeo Road Roswell, GA 30075 Holy Redeemer Catholic School 3380 Old Alabama Road Johns Creek, GA 30022 Horizon Christian Academy 1270 Sawnee Drive Cumming, GA 30040 Jacob’s Ladder 407 Hardscrabble Road Roswell, GA 30075 Johns Creek Montessori School of GA 6450 East Johns Creek Crossing Johns Creek, GA 30097 King’s Ridge Christian School 2765 Bethany Bend Alpharetta, GA 30004 Lionheart School 225 Roswell Street Alpharetta, GA 30009 McGinnis Woods 5380 Faircroft Drive Alpharetta, GA 30005 Mill Springs Academy 13660 New Providence Road Alpharetta, GA 30004

46 | Education Answer Book 2020 | Private School Section

Pinecrest Academy 955 Peachtree Parkway Cumming, GA 30041 Queen of Angels Catholic School 11340 Woodstock Road Roswell, GA 30075 Rivers Academy 38 N. Main Street Alpharetta,GA 30009 Saint Francis Schools Middle: 13440 Cogburn Road Alpharetta , GA Lower: 9375 Willeo Road Roswell, GA Swift School 300 Grimes Bridge Road Roswell, GA 30075 The Cottage School 700 Grimes Bridge Road Roswell, GA 30075 Wesleyan School 5405 Spalding Drive Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 Woodward Academy College Park & Johns Creek William & Reed Academy 11877 Douglas Road Suite 206 Johns Creek, GA 30005

HOPE IP ARSH SCHOL ATION INFORME 50 PAG

Georgia Higher Education Guide

HIGHER EDUCATION

Getting accepted:

The process of applying to colleges and universities

By JOE PARKER

S

electing and applying to colleges and universities can be stressful and confusing for high school students, leading to many questions. How do I apply? What types of students are the colleges seeking? To how many schools should I apply? And most importantly, will I be accepted? It can be quite overwhelming for students and their parents who want to ensure their son or daughter is making the right collegiate choice. For most students, counselors at their high school will play a pivotal role in assisting them in the application and college planning process.

Alpharetta High School head counselor Karen Bolt says the collegiate planning process begins as soon as the student’s freshman year.

“It’s a lengthy process, but we try to start early,” she said. “The process should begin in the ninth grade. That way, a student can check to see what colleges require and take the right courses [in high school].”

Amy Short, head counselor at Roswell High, advises students to let their transcript reflect their interests.

“If your passion is literature, you want to have that be apparent on your transcript,” she said. “You should take those creative writing classes and advanced literature courses. Your transcript is going to be viewed by people who don’t know you, and you want them to get a sense of who you are and what your passion is.”

The same idea applies to extracurricular activities, she said.

“Don’t jump around,” Short said.

“It’s better to stick with one club for a long time and earn a position of leadership than to jump around to many different clubs just to have that on your transcript.”

Bolt and Short both advise taking 48 | Education Answer Book 2020 | Higher Education

the SAT and the ACT. Whichever test yields better scores should be the score the student should focus on improving.

But the question remains; do colleges only look at a student’s GPA and SAT or ACT scores?

“It’s still true that colleges are looking for great grades, good test scores and extracurricular activities, but most use a holistic approach,” Bolt said, which will account for much more than grade and test numbers.

“It’s a lengthy process, but we try to start early, the process should begin in the ninth grade. That way, a student can check to see what colleges require and take the right courses [in high school].”

Karen Bolt Alpharetta High School head counselor

Bolt says this often happens when colleges have a minimal number of openings for a large amount of applicants. When this happens, “they go deeper” into the student’s application.

“Sometimes a school may need a tuba player and that could make the difference in being accepted,” she said.

Although the number of schools to which a student should apply varies from student to student, Bolt and

Short suggest applying to at least six colleges.

Two of the schools applied to should be “target” schools, schools the student should make their priority to attend. The student should also apply to two “reach” schools, or, as Short puts it, schools that the student may not be accepted to but would love to attend, as well as two “backup” schools.

“Having backups are essential given the fact that not every student will be accepted into their college of choice,” said Bolt.

Websites such as Gafutures. org can also provide supplementary information and planning strategies for students in high school who are looking to attend college. The site also offers information regarding specific schools that can help a student find the colleges that suit them best.

Students can even apply to Georgia’s colleges through the site.

However, Short says she uses an analogy when students research schools online to show them there is more to the process that cannot be done online.

“You wouldn’t buy a car based only on online reviews,” she said.

“You’d want to touch it and drive it and get a better sense of it. The same applies to colleges. You want to find the right fit for you.”

Dr. Jamie Brown, assistant principal at North Forsyth High said, “Don’t be afraid to reach out to the schools and ask them what they are looking for, and also share your transcript with them so that you are more informed if the fit will be good for you.”

Although the process can be lengthy and confusing, starting early, in-depth research and sound planning can lessen the burden of the process of applying to colleges.

And, as Bolt says, counselors are always “here to help.”

HIGHER EDUCATION

HOPE Scholarship eases burden of increased tuition

By JOE PARKER

T

he HOPE Scholarship – Helping Outstanding Pupils Educationally – is a scholarship and grant program that provides financial assistance for students pursuing degrees, diplomas and certificates at Georgia’s colleges and universities. Initiated in 1993, the program has awarded over $9.4 billion to 1.7 million students in the state.

The 2016-17 school year was the first in five years that most Georgia colleges and universities did not see an increase in tuition. However, after a half decade of steady increases, recent spikes in tuition have made the HOPE Scholarship even more appealing, if not absolutely necessary, for many current and upcoming college students The rigor requirements for the HOPE Scholarship have increased the amount of advanced courses a high school student must complete to be eligible for the scholarship. Students are required to earn at least four credits from the following courses: • Advanced math, such as advanced algebra, trigonometry, math III or equivalent or higher course taken for degree-level credit at an eligible postsecondary institution.

• Advanced science, such as chemistry, physics, biology II or equivalent or higher course taken for degree-level credit at an eligible postsecondary institution.

• Foreign language courses taken at the high school, or taken for degree level credit at an eligible postsecondary institution or advanced placement, International Baccalaureate or Dual Credit Enrollment courses in core subjects.

In order to assist students taking highly challenging classes students may receive a 0.5 increase on grades.

Those taking science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) classes which are deemed “academically rigorous and required for or leading to employment in high demand fields in Georgia in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics,” may receive a 0.5 increase on any final grades below an ‘A.’ The Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia in consultation with the Technical College System of Georgia, the Department of Economic Development and private eligible postsecondary institutions will mandate which classes students may receive the half-point increase.

These additional requirements are a result of fund50 | Education Answer Book 2020 | Higher Education

ing issues for the scholarship program. Since 2009, the number of HOPE recipients has decreased by 36 percent from nearly 250,000 in 2009-2010 to 158,000 in 2013-2014.

Though the requirements to receive the HOPE Scholarship have become increasingly more challenging for students, those who are able to meet the eligibility requirements and maintain a 3.0 GPA, the HOPE Scholarship program will greatly ease the burden of tuition increases at Georgia’s colleges and universities.

To receive HOPE Scholarship funding, students must: 1. Meet one of the following academic requirements: • Graduate from an eligible high school or accredited high school program with a minimum 3.0 grade point average • Receive a high school diploma through petition of the local school board, in accordance with O.C.G.A. §20-2-281, from an eligible high school with a minimum 3.0 grade point average.

• Graduate from an ineligible high school, complete a home study program in Georgia, or earn a GED and score in the national composite 75th percentile or higher on the SAT or ACT prior to high school graduation, home study completion or earning a GED. • Graduate from an ineligible high school or complete a home study program in Georgia and then earn a minimum 3.0 cumulative postsecondary grade point average after attempting 30 semester or 45 quarter hours of college degree-level coursework for retroactive HOPE Scholarship payment.

• Earn a 3.0 grade point average at the college level on degree coursework after attempting 30, 60, or 90 semester hours or 45, 90, or 135 quarter hours, regardless of high school graduation status.

2. Be enrolled as a degree-seeking student at a public or private HOPE eligible college and university in Georgia.

AND Program Eligibility: 1. Meet HOPE’s U.S. citizenship or eligible non-citizen requirements; 2. Be a legal resident of Georgia; 3. Meet enrollment requirements; 4. Be in compliance with Selective Service registration requirements; 5. Meet academic achievement standards; 6. Be in good standing on all student loans or other

financial aid programs; 7. Be in compliance with the Georgia Drug-Free Postsecondary Education Act of 1990; 8. Not have exceeded the maximum award limits for any HOPE program.

Award Amounts Please review the HOPE and Zell Miller Award Charts to determine your award amount.

Students that meet all eligibility requirements and are attending an eligible public college or university receive a HOPE Scholarship award amount, to be applied toward standard undergraduate tuition, up to a maximum of 15 hours, for the specific number of hours enrolled, whether full time or part time.

Students that meet all eligibility requirements and are attending an eligible private college or university receive a HOPE Scholarship award amount, to be applied toward standard undergraduate tuition, up to a maximum of 12 hours, based on a half-time or full-time enrollment status.

Award Limits A college degree-seeking student is ineligible for the HOPE Scholarship if he or she has: • Received payment from any combination of HOPE

or Zell Miller Scholarships, HOPE or Zell Miller Grants, and Accel (through Spring term 2011) Program funds totaling 127 semester (190 quarter) hours of credit; or • Attempted 127 semester (190 quarter) hours of college degree credit, regardless of whether or not HOPE funds were received while attempting the hours; or • Earned a baccalaureate (four-year) degree, regardless of whether or not HOPE Scholarship funds were received while earning the degree, or • Reached the seven-year expiration of eligibility date.

Application Procedure Students have two options when applying for the HOPE Scholarship: 1. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or, 2. Complete the online GSFAPPS application or printable paper GSFAPPS application.

Note: The FAFSA must be completed each year.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 52 Higher Education | Education Answer Book 2020 | 51

HIGHER EDUCATION CONTINUED FROM PAGE 51 Application Deadline The application deadline is the last day of the school term or a student’s withdrawal date, whichever occurs first. It is recommended that you submit HOPE Scholarship application as early as possible; the earlier you apply, the earlier the funds are disbursed to your school and credited to your account.

Note: Additional college-specific application and deadline requirements may be required. Check with your postsecondary institution.

Where to Go for Help If you need help filling out an application or have other questions relating to the HOPE Scholarship, contact the financial aid office at the school you plan to attend, talk with your high school counselor or contact the Georgia Student Finance Commission. To find contact details for the financial aid office at the school you plan to attend, find your school through the search engine via the list of Georgia colleges and universities.

Visit www.gafutures.org to access and explore information and websites regarding Georgia colleges and universities.

You can contact the Georgia Student Finance Commission by: • GSFC E-mail - gafutures@gsfc.org • GSFC Telephone - Toll-Free at 1.800.505.GSFC (4732) Administrative Reviews and Exceptions If a student feels that his or her HOPE Scholarship, HOPE Grant, Zell Miller Scholarship or Zell Miller Grant eligibility was determined incorrectly, he or she may submit a request to GSFC for an Administrative Review. Upon request of an Administrative Review, Commission staff will review a student’s eligibility determination and decide if the program laws, regulations, policies and rules were applied correctly to a student’s specific case.

Students must submit a written letter requesting an Administrative Review and any pertinent and supporting documentation, such as all transcripts, within 45 days of receiving notice of denial of HOPE Scholarship, HOPE Grant, Zell Miller Scholarship or Zell Miller Grant eligibility. The Commission will decide a case based solely upon the documentation provided by the student, rather than a personal presentation.

Additional Information Full details about the HOPE Scholarship guidelines, policies, and procedures can be found in the HOPE Scholarship Program at Public Institutions Regulations or HOPE Scholarship Program at Private Institutions Regulations document maintained by the GSFC. 52 | Education Answer Book 2020 | Higher Education

Other state aid programs •

•

•

•

•

•

Zell Miller scholarship – The Zell Miller Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship that provides full tuition at a public postsecondary institution and tuition assistance at an eligible private postsecondary institution. A student must graduate from an eligible high school as valedictorian or salutatorian (meeting the requirements of the HOPE Scholarship) or graduate with a minimum 3.7 GPA (as calculated by GSFC) along with a minimum combined score of 1200 on the math and reading portions of the SAT or a minimum composite score of 26 on the ACT and meet specific rigor course requirements.

REACH Georgia – REACH Georgia is a needs-based mentoring and scholarship program providing promising students the support to graduate from high school and achieve postsecondary success. REACH scholars will be paired with a mentor who models positive behavior and provides the student with knowledge, advice, guidance, and support related to education and beyond. Qualifying REACH Scholars will be awarded a financial scholarship upon graduating from high school.

HERO Scholarship – Georgia’s HERO Scholarship program provides educational scholarship assistance to members of the Georgia National Guard and U.S. Military Reservists who served in combat zones, and the children and the spouses of such members of the Georgia National Guard and U.S. Military Reserves.

Public Safety Memorial Grant – The Georgia Public Safety Memorial (GPSM) Grant provides grant funds to the dependent children of Georgia Public Safety Officers who were permanently disabled or killed in the line of duty. Funds may be used towards the cost of attendance at eligible colleges, universities or technical colleges in Georgia.

The Georgia Tuition Equalization Grant Program – GTEG encourages Georgia residents to attend eligible private colleges in Georgia by providing assistance towards educational costs.

Dual enrollment – Dual enrollment is for students at eligible high schools that wish to take college level coursework for credit towards both high school and college graduation requirements.

Higher Education Directory: *Source: www.collegestats.org Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College Tifton, GA Net Cost: $6,654 School Level: 4 year

Agnes Scott College Decatur, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

Albany State University Albany, GA Net Cost: $12,303 School Level: 4 year

Albany Technical College Albany, GA Net Cost: $1,677 School Level: 2 year

American InterContinental University-Atlanta Atlanta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

American Natioanl College Chamblee, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

Andrew College Cuthbert, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 2 year

Argosy University-Atlanta Atlanta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

Armstrong State University Savannah, GA Net Cost: $14,013 School Level: 4 year

Athens Technical College Athens, GA Net Cost: $7,118 School Level: 2 year

Atlanta Beauty & Barber Academy Doraville, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

Atlanta Institute of Music and Media Duluth, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 2 year

Atlanta Metropolitan State College Atlanta, GA Net Cost: $10,156 School Level: 4 year

Atlanta School of Massage Atlanta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

Atlanta Technical College Atlanta, GA Net Cost: $3,530 School Level: 2 year

Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School Atlanta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

Augusta Area Dietetic Internship-University Hospital Augusta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

Augusta School of Massage Evans, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

Augusta Technical College Augusta, GA Net Cost: $9,334 School Level: 2 year

54 | Education Answer Book 2020 | Higher Education

Aviation Institute of Maintenance-Atlanta Duluth, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 2 year

Brown Mackie College-Atlanta Atlanta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 2 year

Bainbridge State College Bainbridge, GA Net Cost: $3,603 School Level: 2 year

Bauder College Atlanta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

Beauty College of America Forest Park, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

Berry College Mount Berry, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

Beulah Heights University Atlanta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

Brenau University Gainesville, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

Brewton-Parker College Mount Vernon, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

Brown College of Court Reporting Atlanta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 2 year

Carver Bible College Atlanta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

Central Georgia Technical College Warner Robins, GA Net Cost: $3,587 School Level: 2 year

Chattahoochee Technical College Marietta, GA Net Cost: $2,904 School Level: 2 year

Clark Atlanta University Atlanta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

Clayton State University Morrow, GA Net Cost: $10,898 School Level: 4 year Coastal Pines Technical College Waycross, GA Net Cost: $4,507 School Level: 2 year

Cobb Beauty College Kennesaw, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

College of Coastal Georgia Brunswick, GA Net Cost: $10,740 School Level: 4 year

Higher Education Directory: CONTINUED FROM PAGE 54: Columbia Theological Seminary Decatur, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

Columbus State University Columbus, GA Net Cost: $10,612 School Level: 4 year

Columbus Technical College Columbus, GA Net Cost: $8,658 School Level: 2 year

Covenant College Lookout Mountain, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

Dalton State College Dalton, GA Net Cost: $6,256 School Level: 4 year

Darton State College Albany, GA Net Cost: $6,973 School Level: 4 year

East Georgia State College Swainsboro, GA Net Cost: $7,132 School Level: 4 year

Elaine Sterling Institute Sandy Springs, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

Emmanuel College Franklin Springs, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

Emory University Atlanta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

Empire Beauty School Augusta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

Empire Beauty School Dunwoody, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

Empire Beauty School-Gwinnett Lawrenceville, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational Empire Beauty School Kennesaw, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

Empire Beauty School Morrow, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

Empire Beauty School Savannah, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

Everest CollegeAtlanta West Atlanta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

Everest Institute Jonesboro, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

Everest Institute Marietta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

Everest Institute Norcross, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 2 year

Fayette Beauty Academy Fayetteville, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

Fayette Beauty AcademyRitz Beauty Academy Decatur, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

Fayette Beauty AcademyRitz Beauty Academy Morrow, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

Fort Valley State University Fort Valley, GA Net Cost: $14,122 School Level: 4 year

Fortis College-Smyrna Smyrna, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 2 year

Georgia Beauty Academy Dalton, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

Georgia Career Institute Conyers, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

Georgia Christian University Atlanta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

Georgia College and State University Milledgeville, GA Net Cost: $17,015 School Level: 4 year Georgia Gwinnett College Lawrenceville, GA $10,979 School Level: 4 year

Georgia Highlands College Rome, GA Net Cost: $5,879 School Level: 4 year

Georgia Institute of Cosmetology Athens, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus Atlanta, GA Net Cost: $12,187 School Level: 4 year

Georgia Military College Milledgeville, GA Net Cost: $6,233 School Level: 2 year

Georgia Northwestern Technical College Rome, GA Net Cost: $5,819 School Level: 2 year Georgia Perimeter College Decatur, GA Net Cost: $6,090 School Level: 2 year Georgia Piedmont Technical College Clarkston, GA Net Cost: $9,137 School Level: 2 year

CONTINUED ON PAGE 56: Higher Education | Education Answer Book 2020 | 55

Higher Education Directory: CONTINUED FROM PAGE 55: 4 Georgia Regents University Augusta, GA Net Cost: $7,667 School Level: 4 year

Gwinnett Technical College Alpharetta, GA Net Cost: $4,861 School Level: 2 year

Georgia Southern University Statesboro, GA Net Cost: $16,032 School Level: 4 year

Georgia Southwestern State University Americus, GA Net Cost: $12,047 School Level: 4 year

Gwinnett Technical College Lawrenceville, GA Net Cost: $4,861 School Level: 2 year

Helms Career Institute Macon, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

International School of Skin Nailcare & Massage Therapy Atlanta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

ITT Technical Institute Atlanta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

ITT Technical Institute Douglasville, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

Georgia State University Atlanta, GA Net Cost: $15,609 School Level: 4 year

Gordon State College Barnesville, GA Net Cost: $10,515 School Level: 4 year

Grady Health System Professional Schools Atlanta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 2 year

Gupton Jones College of Funeral Service Decatur, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 2 year

Gwinnett CollegeLilburn Lilburn, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 2 year

Gwinnett College Sandy Springs, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

Helms College Macon, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

ITT Technical Institute Duluth, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

Herzing UniversityAtlanta Atlanta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

ITT Technical Institute Kennesaw, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

Kennesaw State University Kennesaw, GA Net Cost: $16,232 School Level: 4 year

LaGrange College Lagrange, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

Lake Lanier School of Massage Gainsville, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

Lanier Technical College Oakwood, GA Net Cost: $7,541 School Level: 2 year

Interactive College of Technology Chamblee, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 2 year

Interactive College of Technology Gainesville, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 2 year

Interactive College of Technology-Morrow Morrow, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 2 year

Interdenominational Theological Center Atlanta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

56 | Education Answer Book 2020 | Higher Education

Laurus Technical Institute Decatur, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts-Atlanta Tucker, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 2 year

Life University Marietta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

Lincoln College of Technology-Marietta Marietta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 2 year

Luther Rice University & Seminary Lithonia, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

MedTech Institute-Atlanta Campus Atlanta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 2 year

Mercer University Macon, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

Middle Georgia State College Macon, GA Net Cost: $9,206 School Level: 4 year

Miller-Motte Technical College-Augusta Augusta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 2 year

Higher Education Directory: CONTINUED FROM PAGE 56: Miller-Motte Technical College-Columbus Columbus, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 2 year

Miller-Motte Technical College-Macon Macon, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 2 year

Morehouse College Atlanta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

Morehouse School of Medicine Atlanta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

Moultrie Technical College Moultrie, GA Net Cost: $3,101 School Level: 2 year New Horizons Medical Institute Norcross, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 2 year

New Horizons Medical Institute-Winder Winder, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational North Georgia Technical College Clarkesville , GA Net Cost: $3,751 School Level: 2 year

Oconee Fall Line Technical College Sandersville, GA Net Cost: $3,020 School Level: 2 year

Ogeechee Technical College Statesboro, GA Net Cost: $8,223 School Level: 2 year

Oglethorpe University Atlanta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

Omnitech Institute Atlanta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

Paine College Augusta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

Paul Mitchell the SchoolAtlanta Atlanta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

Paul Mitchell the SchoolEsani Roswell, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

Piedmont College Demorest, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year Point University West Point, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year Portfolio Center Atlanta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 2 year Pro Way Hair School Stone Mountain, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

Profile Institute of Barber-Styling Atlanta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

Regina’s College of Beauty Augusta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

Reinhardt University Waleska, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

Rivertown School of Beauty Barber Skin Care and Nails Columbus, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

SAE Institute of Technology Atlanta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 2 year

Sanford-Brown College Atlanta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 2 year

Savannah College of Art and Design Savannah, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

Savannah Law School Savannah, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

Savannah State University Savannah, GA Net Cost: $9,894 School Level: 4 year

Savannah Technical College Savannah, GA Net Cost: $4,901 School Level: 2 year

Shorter University Rome, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

Shorter University-College of Adult & Professional Programs Marietta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

South Georgia State College Douglas, GA Net Cost: $7,289 School Level: 4 year

South Georgia Technical College Americus, GA Net Cost: $3,514 School Level: 2 year

South University-Accelerated Graduate Programs Atlanta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

South University-Savannah Savannah, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level:4 year

South University– Savannah Online Savannah, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

Southeastern Technical College Vidalia, GA Net Cost: $4,561 School Level: 2 year

Southern Crescent Technical College Griffin, GA Net Cost: $8,381 School Level: 2 year

CONTINUED ON PAGE 58:

Higher Education | Education Answer Book 2020 | 57

Higher Education Directory: Southern Polytechnic State University Marietta, GA Net Cost: $11,692 School Level: 4 year

Southwest Georgia Technical College Thomasville, GA Net Cost: $2,864 School Level: 2 year

Spelman College Atlanta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

Strayer University-Georgia Atlanta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

Technology Center Norcross, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 57:

Thomas University Thomasville, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

The Art Institute of Atlanta Toccoa Falls College Atlanta, GA Toccoa Falls, GA Net Cost: N/A Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year School Level:4 year

The Creative Circus Toni & Guy Hairdressing Atlanta, GA Academy-Atlanta Net Cost: N/A Marietta, GA School Level: 2 year Net Cost: N/A

School Level: Vocational The Hair Academy

Dublin, GA United Medical and Net Cost: N/A Business Institute School Level: Vocational East Point, GA Net Cost: N/A The Process Institute of School Level: Vocational Cosmetology

Lawrenceville, GA University of Georgia Net Cost: N/A Athens, GA School Level: Vocational Net Cost: $13,287 School Level: 4 year

University of North Georgia Dahlonega, GA Net Cost: $10,262 School Level:4 year

University of Phoenix-Georgia Sandy Springs, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

University of West Georgia Carrollton, GA Net Cost: $13,988 School Level:4 year

Valdosta State University COLLEGE CONSENSUS Valdosta, GA #1 Best Online College in Georgia Net Cost: $13,701 School Level: 4 year #7 Best College in Georgia

#12 Best Regional College South Virginia College-Augusta COLLEGE OF Augusta, GA DISTINCTION Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

You Will Be Accomplished

REINHARDT.EDU 58 | Education Answer Book 2020 | Higher Education

Virginia College-Columbus Columbus, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 2 year

Virginia College-Macon Macon, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level:2 year

Virginia College-Savannah Savannah, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level:4 year

Vogue Beauty and Barber School Hiram, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level:Vocational Wesleyan College Macon, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year West Georgia Technical College Waco, GA Net Cost: $4,507 School Level: 2 year Westwood College-Atlanta Midtown Atlanta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year Westwood College-Northlake Atlanta, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level:4 year Woodruff Medical Training and Testing Decatur, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: Vocational

Young Harris College Young Harris, GA Net Cost: N/A School Level: 4 year

6

3 7

William & Reed Academy Designed for Today’s Student P

arents of college-bound students want the best education they can provide for their child, but today’s students are challenged to learn in large distraction-filled classrooms with little accountability. The real learning often begins once they get home to start phase two of their school day.

It’s no wonder students are exhausted and overwhelmed, leaving parents feeling out of control about what they can do to help their child succeed.

William & Reed Academy has been the answer for families who aren’t willing to settle for the one-sizefits-all education. Award-winning teachers engage students in active learning. Low student-teacher ratios set the structure for accountability. Students feel safe to express their opinions and are valued for their unique talents.

The fully-accredited, 6th – 12th grade school offers a compressed schedule with quality instruction rather

than curriculum packets to be completed at home and monitored by parents. It’s an affordable way to focus on core academics and leave the fluff behind.

There are three types of ideal students.

First are athletes, fine arts performers, and careerminded students who benefit from strong academic preparation during the school day with access to blocks of time for training.

Next are academically-accelerated students who want to apply higher level thinking skills in their learning with support available.

The third type are underestimated students with the potential to do well academically if they didn’t get lost in the crowd in their previous school. They often thrive and blossom in learning and self-awareness, surrounded by a community where they feel included.

Admission tours available by appointment.

678.456.5131 Sponsored Section | Education Answer Book 2020 | 59

Fulton Science Academy Private School Character, Innovation & Excellence

R

ecently named the most diverse high school in Atlanta and ranked as seventh overall in Georgia by Niche.com, Fulton Science Academy Private School (FSAPS) is one of Alpharetta’s most unique educational institutions. Fulton Science Academy Private School offers students of Georgia a real difference in education. FSAPS serves a high population of advanced and gifted students in Pre-K through High School. FSAPS ranks in top 1% among all subjects and all grades in nationally normed tests in comparison to other schools in the nation and enjoys a 95% AP pass rate in its high school section.

FSAPS provides its students the opportunity to grow, learn, and play in an environment conducive to fostering academic growth. They have developed a high quality advanced academic program emphasizing S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) curriculum. FSAPS’s environment is structured to minimize distractions and stress, while optimizing work ethic, self-initiative, good character qualities, and well-developed social skills.

Nestled in the heart of Alpharetta near downtown, FSAPS is accessible and strategically located. With the student population approximately 750, FSAPS emphasizes small classes and an intimate student-teacher ratio. The small and structured environment, along with uniforms, keeps students focused on their studies. Since there are little to no discipline issues, the faculty and administration can utilize their time to teach and continually seek ways to improve their educational model. The 60 | Education Answer Book 2020 | Sponsored Section

school considers development of the whole student as important as academics. For a creative outlet, students take part in art, music, engineering, and computer classes every week. Many other enrichment opportunities are offered including free after-school clubs, band, orchestra, and top performing academic teams to develop student social skills.

FSAPS is proud to have some of Georgia’s strongest academic teams. After a very successful competition season at the state level, FSAPS represents Georgia in twelve different national and/or global events this year.

At the 2019 graduation ceremony of FSAPS’s first senior class, the collective diversity of volunteerism, leadership, academics, athletics, and creativity were evidenced as the driving force behind the graduates. It was not one characteristic of any individual, but the collective aspects of an FSAPS education coming together to produce a complete student, prepared and ready to thrive in the outside world. Graduates from this class have gone on to pursue honor programs at some of the nation’s top universities, including: Brown, UC Berkeley, Purdue, UNC Chapel Hill, and Georgia Tech.

Fulton Science Academy Private School has fostered a “yearn to learn” culture where students embrace an innovative, STEAM curriculum. FSAPS student body (Pre-K through high school) is diverse and reflects award-winning academic teams, competitive athletes, personal entrepreneurs, and award-winning critical thinkers. Built upon core values of character, innovation, and excellence, FSAPS has engineered a school of tomorrow, today.

For more information, please visit www.fultonscienceacademy.org

Real Estate tips and trends for 2020

By BILL RAWLINGS Senior Vice President & Managing Broker, North Atlanta Office Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty

T

he beginning of a new decade brings fresh trends for the real estate market, impacting investors and homeowners alike. Regardless of which side of the real estate process you are on, it is crucial to remain knowledgeable about significant changes in the industry. By adhering BILL RAWLINGS to the following tips and trends, you are ensuring a prosperous real estate experience in 2020.

Low Mortgage Rates Will Persist Combined with record-low unemployment and interest rates and a strong economy, continually low mortgage rates present wonderful news for homebuyers planning to finance.

The Federal Reserve’s annual target inflation rate is two percent, which has not been consistently achieved for some time. Therefore, the Fed announced intentions to keep short-term rates low to boost economic activity.

If you are a homebuyer, you will have more leverage when mitigating closing costs, which will remain at about two to five percent of the home.

Inventory Trends

As the majority of millennials grow into their careers and higher incomes, an increasing number of these individuals will be searching for their first homes, which will result in fewer listings on the market, especially in highly sought-after areas. However, as the market has recovered from the Great Recession, home builders have created and will continue to create a supply of starter homes to meet the new influx of demand. In 2020, expect to see bidding wars, low inventory in popular residential areas and an increased number of starter homes on the market.

Slowing Home Prices and Increasing Demand Concentration Across the nation, the market will see a growing concentration of new jobs around city centers like Atlanta.

An increase in population and demand will cause home prices to rise in these areas; however, prices will increase at a slower rate in 2020 than in years past. If you live in an area with high real estate costs and are considering a move, now is the time to sell your home to receive top dollar for your listing.

By following these 2020 real estate tips and trends, you will have an advantage over other buyers and sellers competing in the market. For help with your 2020 real estate endeavors, Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty can ensure your success! Please call us today at 770.442.7300.

Sponsored Section | Education Answer Book 2020 | 61

The value of an arts education Y

ou have probably heard the story about kindergarten students being asked to raise their hands if they are artists. All hands fly up. Then, a class of ninth graders is asked the same question. One or two hands cautiously appear. What happens in the space between to still those creative hands?

The answer is that students are often led to believe that fine arts are “fine” for fun and enrichment, but not for college majors or careers, and that delving deeply into fine arts will result in an unreliable and unprofitable future. Cautionary tales of starving artists struggling to eke out a living have inclined students to more “practical” endeavors like science, engineering, or business.

But let’s consider what fine arts entail. Each singer, dancer, sculptor, etc., is imbued with imagination, curiosity, and creativity, and through these windows light pours into every corner of the mind. Albert Einstein had this to say: “Imagination is more important than knowledge. For knowledge is limited to all we now know and understand, while imagination embraces the entire world, and all there ever will be to know and understand.”

Einstein is in the good company of Leonardo da Vinci, who, had he been practical and followed his father’s profession, would have become a clerk.

Imagine the loss, not only to art. Consider as well the phenomenal career of Dr. Michael DeBakey, pioneering cardiovascular surgeon and medical device inventor.

Dr. DeBakey credited his mother, a seamstress: “That’s how I started. She saw that I was interested, so she taught me how to sew and how to cut patterns and how to use a sewing machine, how to crochet and knit and how to tat.” Years later, when Dr. DeBakey learned that the fabric Dacron could be used to reinforce human organs, he brought out his wife’s sewing machine, using creative ways to mend.

Who can doubt the creativity of Steve Jobs as he 62 | Education Answer Book 2020 | Sponsored Section

developed the iPhone, or Serena Williams as she reinvents tennis and entrepreneurship? The artistic mindset fuels innovation, which enables human progress.

The advent of the digital age has opened limitless cutting-edge venues and careers in creativity. Savvy students understand they’re more likely to change jobs and careers and thus approach college with plans to diversify their studies. Fine arts can be the stars in the crown of an education. Colleges and universities that value relevance recognize the bond between the arts and disciplines such as business, STEM, and the humanities.

Plenty of colleges are finding a marvelous interaction between creativity and prosperous professions.

Anyone who still needs convincing when it comes to fine arts should consider the application for admission.

The vast majority of colleges and universities consider the student’s curricular and cocurricular lives during admissions. What’s more, a fine arts background facilitates a college essay that pops with enthusiasm, individuality and authenticity.

Creativity and practicality aren’t silos but rivers that converge. So join our wise kindergarteners and raise your happy hand, for they remind us that art is the child of life.

Bryan Rutledge has served as the director of college counseling at Woodward Academy since 2015.

Previously, he was director of college counseling at St. John’s School in Houston and director of college guidance at Wyoming Seminary College Preparatory School in Kingston, Penn. He has taught AP English, Southern literature, Civil War history and philosophy at the high school level. He holds an M.A. in philosophy from the University of Virginia and a B.A. in sociology/psychology from Millsaps College. He oversees a staff of five college counselors and an administrative coordinator.

Mills Springs Academy

T

hose are the words of Mill Springs Academy’s founder, Tweetie L. Moore, and the words that Mill Springs administration, faculty, and staff continue to live by today. Founded in 1981, Mill Springs Academy provides a values-based, college preparatory program for students with ADHD and/or learning differences.

Mill Springs’ school-wide Community Structure encourages students to participate in their own education by teaching self-advocacy, social problem-solving skills, and how to forge their own path in the process.

With an average student-teacher ratio of 8:1, our small class sizes allow teachers to provide each student with individualized instruction. Our highly skilled faculty, counselors, and administration provide academic rigor on all levels, from kindergarten through 12, in a supportive, nurturing environment.

Mill Springs Academy also offers students a wide variety of opportunities outside the core curriculum.

“If a student can’t learn the way we teach…we should teach the way a student can learn.”

Mill Springs’ fine arts program lets students explore their creativity through painting, sculpture, set design, music, performance, and so much more. Our athletic programs allow students to play at a competitive level while building skills such as teamwork, self-discipline, and confidence.

Mill Springs Academy’s 85-acre Alpharetta campus includes indoor and outdoor classroom space, athletic facilities, and visual and performing arts facilities. We currently serve students from over 50 different zip codes in the Metro Atlanta area and provide four bus routes with ten different stops in the morning and afternoon. To learn more about Mill Springs Academy, register for an open house, or set up a personal tour, visit us at www. millsprings.org.

Sponsored Section | Education Answer Book 2020 | 63

CREATE YOUR PATH EVERY CHILD’S EDUCATION IS A UNIQUE JOURNEY.

At Woodward, we provide the compass.

LEARN MORE TODAY AT WOODWARD.EDU Main Campus, College Park, Pre-K to 12 Woodward North, Johns Creek, Pre-K to 6 404.765.4001