Education Answer Book 2019

2019 An Appen Media Group Publication

Thinking outside the classroom

Forsyth Schools offers alternative educational pathways for students at the Alliance Academy of Innovation which opened in August 2018.

2 | Education Answer Book 2019

N O R T H AT L A N TA’ S

NUMBER ONE Real Estate Office in 2018

in Total Sales in Market Share of Closed Sales in Productivity per Agent in Highest Priced Home Sale in Atlanta in New Construction Sales over $600K+

Luxury isn’t about a price point, it’s about a level of service.

North Atlanta Office 770.442.7300 1125 Sanctuary Parkway, Suite 400, Alpharetta, Georgia 30009 ©MMXIX Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks used with permission. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. Equal Housing Opportunity. 2018 total sales volume includes public and off-market sales. BrokerMetrics, Top Office Report, 2018; (areas 13 and 14).

Education Answer Book 2019 | 3

Publishers Ray & Christina Appen General Manager Hans Appen

Editor Kathleen Sturgeon kathleen@appenmediagroup.com Editorial Carson Cook Patrick Fox Julia Grochowski Joe Parker Kathleen Sturgeon Candy Waylock Production David Brown Jennifer Edwards Advertising Mike Dorman Paul Flowers AJ McNaughton June Michaels Steve Neese 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, Relocation 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 2019

Welcome to your 2019 Education Answer Book

W

elcome to the 2019 Education Answer Book from Appen Media Group.

Much of the information in our Answer Books is unique and original because our reporters wrote it. We are especially proud to provide in-the-know articles in the Education Answer Book written by our award-winning writer Candy Waylock, named one of the best education reporters in the state.

Our reporters hit the streets to find the most interesting and inspiring school news.

Check out the cover story on pages 32-33 of the Alliance Academy of Innovation. I was there when officials cut the ribbon opening the school, and it was inspiring, to say the least. Those students truly will be bright leaders in our community one day.

This edition also includes letters from the Forsyth County and Fulton County school superintendents, updates on local colleges and a directory of Forsyth and North Fulton schools. We have divided our sections into categories: general Georgia school information, Fulton County Schools, Forsyth County Schools and higher education.

We think there is something in here for everyone interested in local high schools, colleges and everything in between.

Because of the great information you’ll find, more than 90 percent 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 to pass out to their clients. Large numbers of Realtors, chambers of commerce, visitors’ bureaus and corporate human resource departments count on our Answer Books to assist in 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 a past edition to give out to your customers, new employees or 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 to pass along, contact us at newsroom@appenmediagroup.com and we’ll be happy to chat with you about them.

Also, visit NorthFutlon.com to view a link to the most current edition of each of our publications that you can peruse page by digital page.

And, lastly, thank you to you, our readers, for all these years of reading all of Appen’s publications. From everyone at Appen Media Group, thank you so much.

Table of Contents Georgia Schools & other resources: Pages 6-9 Fulton County Schools: Pages 10-31 Cover Story: Pages 32-33 Forsyth County Schools: Pages 36-52 Higher Education: Pages 54-59 Sponsored section: Pages 60-63

Education Answer Book 2019 | 5

Georgia schools and GAfutures.org Formerly known as GAcollege411, GAfutures provides a vast amount of information on many subjects for high school students, college students, parents and educators. The website contains resources to guide upcoming college students through the process of planning their collegiate choice and future career. The site is home to scholarship information, grant applications, financial aid planning and loan program information. For those looking to attend college or current college students, GAfutures is an invaluable resource.

GreatSchools.org GreatSchools 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.

GreatSchools links 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.

FultonSchools.org Fulton County Board of Education’s 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. www.Forsyth.k12.ga.us The Forsyth County Schools website provides a list of all schools in the county, which includes the county’s three Academies of Creative Education. The site also provides a live feed from Forsyth County School’s District News, which encourages every parent to participate in their community.

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. www.doe.k12.ga.us The Georgia Department of Education’s website is a crucial resource to all students, teachers, and parents in Georgia. The website provides state standards, state mandated testing information, curriculum plans for all 6 | Education Answer Book 2019

grades and data such as spending, student enrollment, as well as many other statistics. gacs.org The Georgia Association of Christian Schools is a community of Christian Schools which aims to connect students and staff from different Christian schools to participate in sports, fine arts and writing competitions in order to create a community feel for independent Christian schools across Georgia. Their website, Gacs. org provides information for joining the association. 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 organi-

information links

zations 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.

GA Charter School Association gacharters.org Provides resources for locating and enrolling in local charter schools.

GA Independent School Association www.gisaschools.org – This website contains information about Georgia independent schools, as well as information about coordinating interaction between independent schools. A list of participating schools can be found on their website.

a list of member schools on their website. The purpose of the National Christian School Association is to promote Christian education. www.nationalchristian.org Southern Association of Colleges and Schools The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools is an organization that accredits top colleges and schools in the southern United States, however, there is no list of accredited schools on the commission’s website. www.sacs.org The Association of Boarding Schools The Association of Boarding School’s website provides a database of boarding schools that is sortable by boy to girl ratio, student body size, distance, and the number of boarding students on campus. www. boardingschools.com

National Christian School Association The National Christian School Association maintains Education Answer Book 2019 | 7

Emergency + Community

Resource Table 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

404-252-2180

dfcs.dhs.georgia.gov

FACAA/LIHEAP

Energy Assistance

404-320-0166

facaa.org

St. Vincent de Paul

Financial Assistance

770-458-9607

svdpatl.org

Housing Authority of Fulton Co.

Section 8 and Public Housing

404-730-5841

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

404-352-3597

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

Housing & Homeless

Employment

Family & Children’s Services A Beacon of Hope

Pregnancy Counseling

678-893-5290

abeaconofhope.com

Child Abuse and Neglect

To report abuse

404-699-4399

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

GA Council on Child Abuse

Info, resources

800-532-3208

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

404-763-6774

fultonschools.org

G.E.D.

Enrollment Opportunities at NFCC

678-387-4458

nfcchelp.org/education

Head Start

3-4 Year Olds

678-585-9100

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

yourtoolsforliving.org

Senior Services North Fulton

770-993-1906

ssnorthfulton.org

8 | Education Answer Book 2019

Meals on Wheels, Transportation

ORGANIZATION

PURPOSE

PHONE #

Website

Credit Counseling/ Legal/ Police CredAbility

Consumer Credit Counseling

404-527-7630

credability.org

NID Housing Counseling Agency

Foreclosure Information/ assistance

404-612-0405

atlhca.com

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

Alpharetta – Crime/Drugs

678-297-6307

alpharetta.ga.us

City of Johns Creek

Johns Creek – Crime/Drugs

678-474-1610

johnscreekga.gov/services/police.aspx

City of Milton

Milton Police Department General

678-242-2570

cityofmiltonga.us

Rape Hotline

24 Hour Hotline

770-887-1121

fultoncountyga.gov/contact-us-solicitor

Grady Rape Crisis Center

Crisis line

404-616-4861

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

Fulton County Records

Birth/Death Records

404-613-1260

fultoncountyga.gov/dhw-vital-records

Social Security

Social Security, Disability, SSI

800-772-1213

ssa.gov

Tags/Titles

Fulton County Office

404-730-6100

motor.etax.dor.ga.gov

Veterans Administration

VA Health, Housing, Benefits

800-827-1000

va.gov

Fulton County Housing & Human Services

Info on County programs

404-613-7944

fultoncountyga.gov/divisions-andprograms

MARTA

bus, rail schedules, fares

404-848-4711

itsmarta.com

Georgia Crisis & Access Line

24 hour -mental health, addiction & crisis service

800-715-4225

bhlweb.com/tabform/

North Fulton Regional Health Center

Public Health (in Alpharetta)

404-332-1958

fultoncountyga.gov

North Fulton Service Center

Common Ground (co-located svcs)

404-612-3917 or 404-612-6372

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/medical_services

Children’s at NorthPoint (Mansell Rd)

pediatric primary care

770-643-1792

choa.org/About-Childrens/Locations-andDirections

Good Samaritan Atlanta

primary care clinic downtown

404-523-6571

goodsamatlanta.org/

Georgia Highlands

primary care clinic serving North GA

678-887-1668

georgia highlandsmedical.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/

St. Joseph Hospital of Atlanta

Hospital - Sandy Springs

404-581-7001

stjosephsatlanta.org

Gwinnett Medical Center Duluth

Hospital

678-312-6800

gwinnettmedical center.org

Government

Health

Education Answer Book 2019 | 9

Fulton County School Calendar March 2019 S 3

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10 | Education Answer Book 2019 | Fulton County Schools

Holiday/School Closed

Preplanning/Post Planning Day

Fulton County Schools | Education Answer Book 2019 | 11

Meet the superintendent and the board of education Superintendent Cindy Loe, Ph.D. (interim) After serving as the Fulton Schools superintendent from 2008 through 2011, Cindy Loe came out of retirement in December 2017 to serve as the district’s interim superintendent for the 20182019 school year. As the system leader, she is responsible for the administration and management of more than 95,000 students, 7,500 teachers, 105 schools and 14,000+ employees, while assuming responsibility for the overall financial planning of the district.

Loe began her teaching career in the Gwinnett County School System, and eventually became a principal and ultimately the district’s associate superintendent for Teaching and Learning where she led the development of the district’s curriculum, including special needs support programs.

During her first term as superintendent at Fulton Schools, Loe led the process for the district to become a charter district. She also created a leadership development program for aspiring principals as well as the Superintendent’s Community Advisory Council, which created new opportunities for the district to establish relationships with community groups.

Loe and her husband, Mike Loe, are the parents of two daughters who graduated from Fulton County Schools.

Her youngest daughter now works as a graduation coach in the district.

Committee from 2009-2015. At the local and state PTA level, Stuart has served as a vice president of programs for the North Fulton Council PTA and as a committee member for the Georgia PTA. She has a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Georgia State University.

North Fulton County Board of Education Vice President Linda McCain • District 5 mccainl@fultonschools.org; Board member since February 2011; current term expires Dec. 31, 2022 Linda McCain represents schools in the Johns Creek, Roswell and Alpharetta areas, and currently serves as the board’s vice president. She was first elected to the school board in 2010 and has served as board president or vice president in each of her three terms. 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’ 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.

Katha Stuart • District 1 stuartk@fultonschools.org; Board member since October 2015; term expires Dec. 31, 2020 A 23-year resident of District 1, Katha Stuart has been involved in Fulton County Schools since her two children started kindergarten at Mountain Park Elementary. Over the years she served in various PTA and School Governance Council roles at Mountain Park Elementary, Crabapple Middle School and Roswell High School, where her daughters were graduated. She was a member of the Superintendent’s Community Advisory 12 | Education Answer Book 2019 | Fulton County Schools

​​

Katie Reeves • District 2 reevesk@fultonschools.org; Board member since 1999; current term expires Dec. 31, 2022 Katie Reeves has been active in the North Fulton community for three decade and served on the Alpharetta Planning Commission for four years prior to her election to the school board in 1999. She is a member of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and was recognized with the Pioneer Award in 2014. Reeves was part of Gov. Sonny Perdue’s Investing in Excellence Task Force, and Georgia State School Superintendent John Barge’s Transition Committee. She was a Local School Advisory Committee member and PTA legislative chair at Lake Windward Elementary School. A native of Pennsylvania, Reeves majored in marketing at the University of Kentucky. Her three children all graduated from Fulton County schools.

Gail Dean • District 3 deang@fultonschools.org; Board member since 2001; current term expires Dec. 31, 2020 Gail Dean represents Sandy Springs, HapeCONTINUED ON PAGE 14

Fulton County Schools | Education Answer Book 2019 | 13

Meet the superintendent and the board of education CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12 ville and parts of East Point. She served as board president from 2005 to 2007. 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 throughout the Southeast. She has served on the boards of the Sandy Springs/North Fulton Clean and Beautiful, the Fulton County School Employees’ Charitable Fund and Fulton Education Foundation as well as the Fulton Employees’ Pension Board.

Julia Bernath - District 7 bernath@fultonschools.org Board member since 2000; current term expires Dec. 31, 2022 Julia Bernath has served as the board president and vice president and represented the school board on the Fulton Education Foundation’s board of directors. She currently serves on the Georgia Professional Standards Commission, as well as on

14 | Education Answer Book 2019 | Fulton County Schools

several statewide education committees. Bernath is active on the Georgia School Boards Association, is past president of the organization 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 locally, statewide and nationally. Bernath is past chair of the Sandy Springs Education Force and serves on the Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education’s Advisory Committee.

South Fulton County Board of Education Members President Linda Bryant • District 4 bryantlp@fultonschools.org Board member since 1993; current term expires Dec. 31, 2020 Kimberly Love • District 6 lovek@fultonschools.org Appointed to the board in 2017; elected in 2018; current term expires Dec. 31, 2022

Public School Bios: FULTON 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

Abbotts Hill 470-254-2860 Principal Roytunda Stabler 5575 Abbotts Bridge Road Johns Creek 30097 Year Opened: 2000 Enrollment: 601 2018 CCRPI Score: 95.8 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ abbottshill/Pages/default.aspx Alpharetta 470-254-7015 Principal Kathleen Stamper 192 Mayfield Road Alpharetta 30009 Year Opened: 1956 Enrollment: 568 2018 CCRPI Score: 87.7 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ alpharetta/Pages/default.aspx Amana Academy Charter (K-5) (6-8) 678-624-0989 Principal Cherrise Campbell 285 South Main Street Alpharetta 30009 Year Opened: 2007 Enrollment: 469/238 2018 CCRPI Score: 91.9/91.7 www.amanaacademy.org Barnwell 470-254-4960 Principal Martin Neuhaus 9425 Barnwell Road Johns Creek 30022 Year Opened: 1987 Enrollment: 738 2018 CCRPI Score: 98.2 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ barnwell/Pages/default.aspx

Birmingham Falls 470- 254-2820 Principal Don Webb 14865 Birmingham Highway Milton 30004 Year Opened: August 2009 Enrollment: 718 2018 CCRPI Score: 88.9 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ birminghamfalls/Pages/default.aspx

Esther Jackson 470-254-5290 Principal Nikol Boyd 1400 Martin Road Roswell 30076 Year Opened: 1975 New Building: 2016 Enrollment: 639 2018 CCRPI Score: 70.7 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ estherjackson/Pages/default.aspx

Cogburn Woods Fulton Academy of Science 470-254-2845 and Technology (FAST) Principal Lisa Garosi (K-5) (6-8) 13080 Cogburn Road 678-321-1100 Milton 30004 Principal Christopher Mahoney Year Opened: 2004 11365 Crabapple Road Enrollment: 858 Roswell 30075 2018 CCRPI Score: 76.9 Year Opened: 2016 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ Enrollment: 563 cogburnwoods/Pages/default.aspx 2018 CCRPI: 89.9

www.fastk8.org Crabapple Crossing 470-254-7055 Findley Oaks Principal Rachel Williams 470-254-3800 12775 Birmingham Hwy Principal Camille Christopher Milton 30004 5880 Findley Chase Drive Year Opened: 1992 Johns Creek 30097 Enrollment: 764 Year Opened: 1994 2018 CCRPI Score: 93.9 Enrollment: 611 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ 2018 CCRPI Score: 98.4 crabapplecrossing/Pages/default.aspx http://school.fultonschools.org/es/

findleyoaks/Pages/default.aspx Creek View 470-254-2932 Hembree Springs Principal Monica In 470-254-2902 3995 Webb Bridge Road Principal Laurie Woodruff Alpharetta 30005 815 Hembree Road Year Opened: 2001 Roswell 30076 Enrollment: 898 Year Opened: 2001 2018 CCRPI Score: 90 Enrollment: 615 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ 2018 CCRPI Score: 74.6 creekview/Pages/default.aspx http://school.fultonschools.org/

es/hembreesprings/Pages/default.

Dolvin aspx 470-254-7020

Principal Karen Cooke 10495 Jones Bridge Road Johns Creek 30022 Year Opened: 1979 Enrollment: 803 2018 CCRPI Score: 94.4 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ dolvin/Pages/default.aspx Fulton County Schools | Education Answer Book 2019 | 15

Public School Bios: FULTON Hillside 470-254-6362 Principal Dr. Hardray Dumas 9250 Scott Road Roswell 30076 Year Opened: 2001 Enrollment: 492 2018 CCRPI Score: 87.2 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ hillside/Pages/default.aspx

Lake Windward 470-254-7050 Principal Julie Morris 11470 East Fox Court Alpharetta 30005 Year Opened: 1989 Enrollment: 739 2018 CCRPI Score: 104.5 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ lakewindward/Pages/default.aspx

Manning Oaks 470-254-2912 Principal Jennifer Rosentall 405 Cumming Street Alpharetta 30004 Year Opened: 1998 Enrollment: 888 2018 CCRPI Score: 79.9 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ manningoaks/Pages/default.aspx Medlock Bridge 470-254-2980 Principal Matthew Vance 10215 Medlock Bridge Parkway Johns Creek 30022 Year Opened: 1990 Enrollment: 643 2018 CCRPI Score: 88 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ medlockbridge/Pages/default.aspx

Mimosa 470-254-4540 Principal Ariane Holcombe 1550 Warsaw Road Roswell 30076 Year Opened: 1968 Enrollment: 769 2018 CCRPI Score: 73.3 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ mimosa/Pages/default.aspx

Mountain Park 470-254-4530 Principal Stacy Perlman 11895 Mountain Park Road Roswell 30075 Enrollment: 801 2018 CCRPI Score: 85.1 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ mountainpark/Pages/default.aspx

New Prospect 470-254-2800 Principal Amy Lemons 3055 Kimball Bridge Road Alpharetta 30022 Year Opened: 1994 Enrollment: 568 2018 CCRPI Score: 85.2 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ newprospect/Pages/default.aspx

Northwood 470-254-6390 Principal Ritu Ahuja 10200 Wooten Road Roswell 30076 Year Opened: 1996 Enrollment: 702 2018 CCRPI Score: 88.7 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ northwood/Pages/default.aspx

Ocee 470-254-2960 Principal Dr. Ryan Moore 4375 Kimball Bridge Road Johns Creek 30022 Year Opened: 2000 Enrollment: 699 2018 CCRPI Score: 88.4 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ ocee/Pages/default.aspx

River Eves 470-254-4550 Principal Matthew Donahoe 9000 Eves Road Roswell 30076 Year Opened: 1996 Enrollment: 633 2018 CCRPI Score: 87 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ rivereves/Pages/default.aspx

16 | Education Answer Book 2019 | Fulton County Schools

Roswell North 470-254-6320 Principal Dr. Lydia Conway 10525 Woodstock Road Roswell 30075 Year Opened: 1960 Enrollment: 868 2018 CCRPI Score: 81.9 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ roswellnorth/Pages/default.aspx

Shakerag 470-254-3880 Principal Christine Lemerond 10885 Rogers Circle Johns Creek 30097 Year Opened: 1997 Enrollment: 640 2018 CCRPI Score: 93.4 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ shakerag/Pages/default.aspx

State Bridge Crossing 470-254-3850 Principal Bridgette Marques 5530 State Bridge Road Johns Creek 30022 Year Opened: 1996 Enrollment: 766 2018 CCRPI Score: 92.1 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/state bridgecrossing/Pages/default.aspx

Summit Hill 470-254-2830 Principal Dr. Lorrie Bearden 13855 Providence Road Milton 30004 Year Opened: 1999 Enrollment: 720 2018 CCRPI Score: 85.8 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ summithill/Pages/default.aspx

Sweet Apple 470-254-3310 Principal Andy Allison 12025 Etris Road Roswell 30075 Year Opened: 1997 Enrollment: 784 2018 CCRPI Score: 84 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ sweetapple/Pages/default.aspx

Vickery Mill 470-254-2400 Principal Adam Maroney 1201 Alpharetta Street Roswell 30075 Year Opened: 2015 Enrollment: 499 2018 CCRPI Score: 79.2 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ vickerymill/Pages/default.aspx

Wilson Creek 470-254-3811 Principal Andrea Cushing 6155 Wilson Road Johns Creek 30097 Year Opened: 2004 Enrollment: 791 2018 CCRPI Score: 87.3 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ wilsoncreek/Pages/default.aspx

Middle Schools

Autrey Mill Middle 470-254-7622 Principal Trey Martin 4110 Old Alabama Road Johns Creek 30022 Year Opened: 2003 Enrollment: 1420 2018 CRPI Score: 88 http://school.fultonschools.org/ms/ autreymill/Pages/default.aspx Crabapple 470-254-4520 Principal Rako Morrissey 10700 Crabapple Road Roswell 30075 Year Opened: 1983 Enrollment: 925 2018 CCRPI Score: 85.5 http://school.fultonschools.org/ms/ crabapple/Pages/default.aspx

Elkins Pointe 470-254-2892 Principal Kindra Smith 11290 Elkins Road Roswell 30076 Year Opened: 2001 Enrollment: 1031 2018 CCRPI Score: 83.1 http://school.fultonschools.org/ms/ elkinspointe/Pages/default.aspx

Haynes Bridge 470-254-7030 Principal Lauren Seidman 10665 Haynes Bridge Road Alpharetta 30022 Year Opened: 1983 Enrollment: 694 2018 CCRPI Score: 81.4 http://school.fultonschools.org/ms/ haynesbridge/Pages/default.aspx

Where we see your children with our hearts and address their needs with our minds. www.thelionheartschool.com Fulton County Schools | Education Answer Book 2019 | 17

Public School Bios: FULTON Holcomb Bridge 470-254-5280 Principal Jennifer Cassidy 2700 Holcomb Bridge Road Alpharetta 30022 Year Opened: 1983 Enrollment: 662 2018 CCRPI Score: 72.4 http://school.fultonschools.org/ms/ holcombbridge/Pages/default.aspx

Hopewell 678-254-3240 Principal Michael LeMoyne 13060 Cogburn Road Milton 30004 Year Opened: 2004 Enrollment: 1428 2018 CCRPI Score: 90 http://school.fultonschools.org/ms/ hopewell/Pages/default.aspx Northwestern 470-254-2870 Principal Charles Chester 12805 Birmingham Highway Milton 30004 Year Opened: 1996 Enrollment: 1283 2018 CCRPI Score: 92.5 http://school.fultonschools.org/ms/ northwestern/Pages/default.aspx

River Trail 470-254-3860 Principal Neil Pinnock 10795 Rogers Circle Johns Creek 30097 Year Opened: 2001 Enrollment: 1276 2018 CCRPI Score: 91.8 http://school.fultonschools.org/ms/ rivertrail/Pages/default.aspx

Taylor Road 470-254-7090 Principal Kelly Parker 5150 Taylor Road Johns Creek 30022 Year Opened: 1990 Enrollment: 1348 2018 CCRPI Score: 90.8 http://school.fultonschools.org/ms/ taylorroad/Pages/default.aspx

Webb Bridge 470-254-2940 Principal Rebecca Perkins 4455 Webb Bridge Road Alpharetta 30005 Year Opened: 1996 Enrollment: 1180 2018 CCRPI Score: 93.1 http://school.fultonschools.org/ms/ webbbridge/Pages/default.aspx

High Schools

Alpharetta High School 470-254-7640 Principal Shannon Kersey 3595 Webb Bridge Rd. Alpharetta 30005 Year Opened: 2004 Enrollment: 2260 2018 SAT Score: 1212 2018 ACT Score: 26 http://school.fultonschools.org/hs/ alpharetta/pages/default.aspx

Cambridge 470-254-2883 Principal Kimberly Premoli 2845 Bethany Road Milton 30004 Year Opened: 2012 Enrollment: 2073 2018 SAT Score: 1184 2018 ACT Score: 25.9 http://school.fultonschools.org/hs/ cambridge/pages/default.aspx Centennial 470-254-4230 Principal Dr. Anthony Newbold 9310 Scott Road Roswell 30076 Year Opened: 1997 Enrollment: 1932 2018 SAT Score: 1117 2018 ACT Score: 23.3 http://school.fultonschools.org/hs/ centennial/pages/default.aspx

18 | Education Answer Book 2019 | Fulton County Schools

Chattahoochee 470-254-7600 Principal Tim Duncan 5230 Taylor Road Johns Creek 30022 Year Opened: 1991 Enrollment: 1956 2018 SAT Score: 1240 2018 ACT Score: 26.5 http://school.fultonschools.org/hs/ chattahoochee/pages/default.aspx Independence 470-254-7611 Principal Tabatha Taylor 86 School Drive Alpharetta 30009 Year Opened: 1991 Enrollment: 252 2018 SAT Score: 927 http://school.fultonschools.org/hs/ independence/pages/default.aspx Johns Creek 470-254-2138 Principal Chris Shearer 5575 State Bridge Road Johns Creek 30022 Year Opened: 2009 Enrollment: 2119 2018 SAT Score: 1224 2018 ACT Score: 26.7 http://school.fultonschools.org/hs/ johnscreek/pages/default.aspx Milton 470-254-7000 Principal Brian Jones 13025 Birmingham Hwy. Milton 30004 Year Opened: 1921 Current Location: 2005 Enrollment: 2369 2018 SAT Score: 1184 2018 ACT Score: 25.7 http://school.fultonschools.org/hs/ milton/pages/default.aspx

Northview 470-254-3828 Principal Brian Downey 10625 Parsons Road Johns Creek 30097 Year Opened: 2002 Enrollment: 1777 2018 SAT Score: 1275 2018 ACT Score: 27.2 http://school.fultonschools.org/hs/ northview/pages/default.aspx Roswell 470-254-4500 Principal Robert Shaw 11595 King Road Roswell 30075 Year Opened: 1949 New Building: 1990 Enrollment: 2219 2018 SAT Score: 1165 2018 ACT Score: 25.2find http://school.fultonschools.org/hs/ roswell/pages/default.aspx

Fulton County Schools | Education Answer Book 2019 | 19

Fulton’s graduation rate is tops among area’s school systems

BY Candy Waylock

T

he graduation rate for Fulton County students continues to be the highest among all large metro Atlanta school districts, with North Fulton high schools setting the bar for top performance.

Among North Fulton’s eight traditional high schools, Cambridge with a 97.3 percent graduation rate had the highest rate for the second year in a row, followed closely by Johns Creek at 97.1. Two schools had rates higher than last year – Johns Creek and Milton.

The 2018 state graduation rate is an alltime high for Georgia, with 74 of 181 school districts recording 2018 graduation rates at or above 90 percent.

“Georgia’s graduation rate continues to rise because our public-school students have access to more opportunities than ever before,” said State School Superintendent Richard Woods. He added that Georgia has among the highest requirements in the nation for graduation.

Graduation rates are based on a formula that tracks each student from when they first enter high school as freshman, and whether they graduate within four years. In the past, graduation rates included students who took more than four years to graduate, and did not account for transfers and dropouts.

Woods noted all states use the same calculation, but each state sets its own requirements to earn a high school diploma.

Area schools see long term improvements School

2018 (%)

2017 (%)

5-year change

Alpharetta

92.8

94.1

+3.6

Cambridge

97.3

98.2

+13.0

Centennial

91.7

92.3

+11.8

Chattahoochee

95.4

98.3

+1.6

Independence

52.1

49.3

+11.7

Johns Creek

97.1

96.5

+0.7

Milton

96.7

94.5

+0.7

Northview

96.4

96.8

+2.2

Roswell

88.8

90.7

+2.3

North Fulton

89.8

90.1

+5.6

District

86.8

86.8

N/C

State

81.6

80.6

+9.8

“Georgia’s graduation rate continues to rise because our public-school students have access to more opportunities than ever before,” Richard Woods State School Superintendent

20 | Education Answer Book 2019 | Fulton County Schools

The North STEM High School is scheduled to open in August 2020 on the campus of the former Milton High in downtown Alpharetta.

Curriculum, attendance plans take shape for STEM high school

BY Candy Waylock

C

onstruction continues on the site of the new North Fulton STEM school in downtown Alpharetta, while Fulton Schools staff works on the components inside the building – leadership, students and curriculum.

The Innovation Academy will offer a STEM curriculum (science, technology, engineering, math) and opens in August 2020 on the same site where Milton High School stood for nearly a century.

The school will open with a charter class of 450 freshman, who will compose the school’s first graduating class in 2023, with a new class of freshman enrolling each year.

Innovation Academy will be a departure from the traditional high school model and will likely appeal to the unique student.

“Our ideal 9th grader would be looking for something different from the normal high school experience,” explained Doannie Tran, PhD., assistant superintendent for Innovative Programs, who is overseeing the opening of the STEM school.

Innovation Academy will meet all state requirements for graduation, but the curriculum will put students on a career pathway to high-demand jobs in information technology, health care sciences and engineering.

The curriculum centers on “design thinking” and an integrated curriculum, which is being developed by staff and external partners, including Georgia Tech’s Center for Education.

Design thinking is a problem-solving process where students define the problem, research problem elements, ideate, prototype, choose a solution, implement the solution, and learn from the process. An integrated curriculum means concepts will be addressed across all courses.

Timeline for Innovation Academy Spring 2019 – Principal and academic staff in place; school partners identified; orientation for area middle school principals and counselors; marketing introduction to middle school students and families Summer/Fall/Winter 2019 – Monthly teacher “design thinking” training; work with partners to design Year One curriculum aligned to standards; conduct information sessions for public; application period for first year students set for Oct. 1 through Dec. 6.

Winter/Spring 2020 – Students selected mid-February; wait list created if needed; teacher training and academic development continues Summer 2020 – Facility completed in June; new student orientation; school opens on Aug. 12.

Fulton County Schools | Education Answer Book 2019 | 21

8

Fulton Schools continues the focus on school safety

BY Candy Waylock

T

he Fulton School System will invest nearly $2.4 million in 2019 to ramp up school safety measures across the district, primarily in the areas of additional personnel and resources.

These new initiatives were recommended by a School Safety Advisory Committee composed of parents, Fulton School staff, and public safety personnel from throughout the region which met this fall.

Based on the advisory committee findings, the Fulton School Board agreed to hire 16 additional school police officers to augment the existing police force of nearly 70 sworn officers. The district’s Police Department is among the largest departments in the state, and one of the few with SWAT-trained officers.

The department will also add 10 additional Campus Security officers and establish an online mental health

22 | Education Answer Book 2019 | Fulton County Schools

resource center for students.

Most new funds invested this year invested in these new initiatives will be permanent expenses, adding about $1.6 million to the annual school budget. The remaining funds will be a “one time” expense of approximately $800,000, for new police vehicles, equipment and gear for the officers.

Fulton Schools has invested millions in school safety initiatives primarily funded through the one-cent Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST), going back to 2012 when school entry protocols were enhanced.

Since then, the system has made school safety a priority for funding, in the classrooms, the buses and other areas. This year, enhanced cameras – with the capability of facial recognition – were installed in area high schools and can be directly accessed by local law enforcement. The cameras will eventually be rolled out to all schools.

Fulton County expands police force following Fla. shootings

BY Candy Waylock The size of the Fulton County School System police force has expanded to nearly 70 officers with the creation of six new police positions. The decision was made by the Fulton School Board during a retreat last year, and was due in part to the school shootings in Parkland, Fla., in February 2018.

“Our Safety & Security staff had previously been tracking trends of critical concerns occurring throughout the country within our nation’s schools and decided to be proactive within the budgetary asks,” said Shannon Flounnory, Fulton Schools executive director of Safety and Security.

“The decision is considered a critical need and underscores the school board’s commitment to safety and security following the tragic Parkland, Fla., shooting.”

The additional police will bring to 69 the total number of specially trained, POST-certified Fulton Schools’ officers who patrol and securing all district schools and auxiliary buildings. Officers are assigned to every middle and high school in the district, as well as some elementary schools.

The six new police officers com-

pleted 4-6 weeks of field training before being assigned their patrol beats and school assignments. The time from vacancy to when an officer fully reports for duty is about 6-8 weeks.

The positions were initially funded through the end of the first year using funds from the district’s reserves. In future years, they will be funded through the general fund.

The Fulton County Schools Police Department is a division of the school system and was created in 1989 to provide armed law enforcement within the district.

Fulton County Schools | Education Answer Book 2019 | 23

Area students turn in high performance on SAT, ACT

BY Candy Waylock Tests scores on the top two college entrance exams show area students continue to outperform their peers at the state and national level on the 2018 exams. Scores released for the 2018 ACT and SAT exams showed average scores from the area’s eight traditional high schools improved in nearly all instances over 2017 results.

SAT

The 2018 exam was only the second year students took the redesigned format, which dropped the essay section from mandatory to optional. The new SAT now has two sections (Evidence-Based Reading/Writing and Math) worth 800 points each for a maximum SAT score of 1600.

Overall, the Fulton School System average on the SAT was 1091, up 40 points from last year and 42 points above the national average of 1049. Among the eight traditional North Fulton high schools, the average was 1200, up 32 points from last year’s average of 1168.

Every area school improved its SAT performance, led by Alpharetta High School which raised its average by 55 points, followed closely by Chattahoochee (+49), Northview (+48), and Johns Creek (+41).

24 | Education Answer Book 2019 | Fulton County Schools

ACT

Students in Fulton County Schools are taking the ACT exams in greater numbers, as Georgia colleges move away from the “SAT preferred” status. Today more than half of the system’s graduating seniors are taking both the SAT and ACT. Despite higher participation, which generally flattens gains, Fulton students outperformed the state and the nation on the 2018 ACT. Its average score of 23.7 did drop slightly from last year’s score of 23.8, but still comes in above the state and national averages. A perfect score on the ACT is 30.

Among the eight North Fulton high schools, six posted higher scores from last year, led by Johns Creek (26.7), Chattahoochee (26.5), and Alpharetta High with an average 26.

Similar to the SAT, the ACT is a test commonly used for college admission and placement. It measures English, math, reading and science proficiency, with an optional writing section.

SAT Performance in North Fulton High Schools * School

2018 Avg. Score (# tests)

2017 Avg. Score (# tests)

Change

Alpharetta

1212 (404)

1157 (211)

+55 (+193)

Cambridge

1184 (377)

1155 (292)

+29 (+85)

Centennial

1117 (281)

1109 (236)

+8 (+45)

Chattahoochee

1240 (368)

1191 (239)

+49 (+129)

Johns Creek

1224 (402)

1183 (234)

+41 (+168)

Milton

1184 (442)

1162 (339)

+22 (+103)

Northview

1275 (414)

1227 (208)

+48 (+206)

Roswell

1165 (390)

1157 (303)

+8 (+87)

North Fulton

1200 (3078)

1168 (2062)

+32 (+1016)

System

1091 (5411)

1051 (4110)

+40 (+1301)

Georgia

1054 (65.9K)

1050 (63.8K)

+4

National

1049 (1.8M)

1044 (1.4M)

+5

ACT Performance in North Fulton High Schools * School

2018 Avg. Score (# tests)

2017 Avg. Score (# tests)

Change

Alpharetta

26.0 (382)

26.0 (382)

+ 0.8 (-51)

Cambridge

25.9 (321)

24.9 (378)

+ 1.0 (-57)

Centennial

23.3 (224)

24.0 (244)

- 0.7 (-20)

Chattahoochee

26.5 (285)

26.3 (309)

+ 0.2 (-24)

Johns Creek

26.7 (362)

26.6 (374)

+ 0.1 (-12)

Milton

25.7 (376)

25.2 (359)

+ 0.5 (+17)

Northview

27.2 (320)

27.6 (310)

- 0.4 (+10)

Roswell

25.2 (253)

24.5 (271)

+ 0.7 (-18)

North Fulton

25.8 (2523)

25.5 (2576)

+0.3 (-53)

System

23.7 (3736)

23.8 (3,728)

-0.1

Georgia

21.4 (56.5K)

21.4 (57.3K)

0

National

20.8 (1.9M)

21.0 (2.0 M)

-0.2

* schools with at least 25 test takers Fulton County Schools | Education Answer Book 2019 | 25

Fulton Schools launch texting crisis line

By CARSON COOK Many parents worry their teens spend too much time on their phones, but a new Fulton County School initiative uses texting as a tool to promote student health.

The school district, with the help of Fulton County Commissioner Bob Ellis, has established an anonymous crisis texting line for teens.

The program, called Text 4 Help, can help students reaching out for advice on issues ranging from academic stress to depression to substance abuse. It will now be offered in 10 high schools across the district.

Through the program, teens can connect with a licensed clinician who will respond within three minutes, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Students just need to text their message along with their school’s unique

26 | Education Answer Book 2019 | Fulton County Schools

code to the number 1-844-823-5323. Texts are routed through a cloaking server to ensure anonymity.

Ellis said the service was just one of the pros of a texting program. “[Teens] certainly live in an electronic world and are comfortable with that medium, but I also know many of them have reticence about coming forward and sharing stuff with parents and others about the challenges that they’re facing,” he said.

Fulton County Schools initially launched a pilot program with just a few schools in January 2018. This school year the program expanded so it now includes Alpharetta, Banneker, Cambridge, Chattahoochee, Johns Creek, Langston Hughes, Milton, Riverwood, Roswell and Tri-Cities High Schools.

Ellis noted schools need to be sure students know about the program for it to have its maximum impact.

Some schools have hung posters and included information about the program in email newsletters to get the word out.

The texting program was created by Linking Efforts Against Drugs (LEAD), a nonprofit agency based in Illinois. Ellis said he was looking into strategies other communities had used to combat the opioid epidemic, and found the program had been successful with teens in suburbs of Chicago.

“It’s really about early intervention,” Ellis said. “It’s

Reasons teens use Text 4 Help • • • • • • •

Depression/Anxiety 27% Relationship Conflict 17% Substance Abuse 12% Self Harm / Suicide 10% Pressure 10% Bullying 8% Other 19% Mental health and mood disorders are the top reasons teens use the anonymous texting service, according to the program’s national website.

just one more tool out there that we can utilize to help our children live more healthier lives, and mental health is definitely one component of a healthier life.”

Ellis and the school district say they hope to eventually expand the program into all 19 county high schools and potentially middle schools. The Text 4 Help line is funded by a grant from the Fulton-DeKalb Hospital Authority.

Fulton County Schools | Education Answer Book 2019 | 27

Taylor Road Middle encourages innovation

By CARSON COOK You’ll get different answers from different people when you ask them “What is the Taylor Road way?”

To some, it is the collaboration and kindness among teachers that make the school special. To others, it is the creative ways they find to help students succeed.

“I’ve been using ‘Taylor Road way’ since I got here 10 years ago,” said Kelly Parker, the school’s new principal. “It was probably used before that. It’s just the way we do things here.”

Parker was promoted from assistant principal this year. Since taking the reins, Parker has coined a new catchphrase, “the Taylor Road way forward.”

“I want to make a break from just because we’ve always done it that way, is that the way we should

Linda Bryant-Butler’s geography class presents roller coaster models. do it going forward?” Parker asked.

“It’s a twist on honoring the past and honoring the tradition and rethinking and revisiting why we do the things we do.”

One new idea implemented at

Taylor Road Middle over the past few years is an open classroom. Rather than the traditional school rooms connected by a hallway, in one wing of Taylor Road there are classrooms connected by open doorways.

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This floorplan makes it easy for teachers to collaborate with each other and for students to be inspired by what the other class is working on, said STEM teacher Jeff Aiken. It works best with classes where students are doing hands-on work rather than taking quizzes, he said.

Another recent innovation can be found in the social studies department, where teachers like Rachel Hicks and Julia Hylinski are using hypothetical zombie apocalypses to teach Georgia studies.

Students are presented with a scenario and then have to decide which region of the state would offer the best natural resources to defend themselves.

“They’ve found a way to make Georgia studies interesting,” Parker said.

Soon, students and Taylor Road

PHOTOS BY CARSON COOK/Herald

Nicole Thompson leads the orchestra students at Taylor Road Middle School Sept. 25.

Middle School will participate in a new astronomy project offered through Georgia Tech.

The Aloha project is a telescope located in Hawaii that can be controlled from Georgia to allow

students to study the stars during the day. Samantha Serna’s science class will be among the first to test the technology.

“There’s a lot of cool stuff going on here,” Parker said.

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Chattahoochee High to build greenhouse

30 | Education Answer Book 2019

A group of community members, students and educators have joined forces to construct a “state-of-the-art” greenhouse at Chattahoochee High School

By CARSON COOK

C

hattahoochee High School will soon be able to offer its students a new hands-on learning experience, thanks to a joint community effort to build a greenhouse on the campus.

Construction of the greenhouse began late January and is expected to be complete the first week of March. It’s a project five years in the making for Chattahoochee’s School Governance Council, a group of parents, students, staff and community members that works to address the needs of individual schools.

The SGC pitched the idea to the school board thinking it was a pipe dream, according to Margaret Garth, a Chattahoochee English teacher who serves on the council.

But the board loved it, and over the past few years, the group oversaw

the planning and bidding process.

“Now, this culmination of five years of planning is actually coming to fruition which is really neat,” she said.

This year, Chattahoochee began offering botany as a science elective, and in a month those students will be able to begin getting their hands dirty. In the long term, the school wants to use fruits and vegetables grown in the greenhouse in the school cafeteria.

“There are a bunch of different electives at this school,” Garth said. “And I think it’s really neat for our science lovers that they have a science elective that they can take.

They’re really excited about it. It’s just gotten really, really awesome feedback, and every day they can see a little bit more of the progress.”

Garth said she thinks Chattahoochee will be the only school in the area with a functioning greenhouse.

The facility was constructed

by Van Wingerden Greenhouses, whose resume includes work for the Atlanta Botanical Garden and several universities. The only difference between those other stateof-the art facilities and Chattahoochee’s greenhouse, Garth said, is the size.

“It will be able to hold about 30 students and an instructor, so normal class size,” Garth said. “It looks tiny, but it’s not … They’ve done such a phenomenal job. If it looks anything like those other greenhouses, it will be gorgeous when it’s done.”

Education Answer Book 2019 | 31

COVER STORY

Alliance Academy officially opens for school

By KATHLEEN STURGEON

T

he Alliance Academy of Innovation officially opened its doors on July 21 welcoming the community to Forsyth County’s first college and career development high school.

The unique school, located at 1100 Lanier 400 Parkway in Cumming, offers five themed pathways for students not offered at any other Forsyth County school, including: • School of Aerospace & Logistics • School of Criminal Justice & Law • School of Healthcare & First Responders • School of Hospitality & Graphic Design • School of Mechatronics & Energy Alliance will have capacity for 1,200 students, but enrollment for the first year will be about 600 from throughout the county. Initially, the school will open with ninth and 10th grade students.

“I promise you will find your passion, choose your path and you will truly experience Alliance,” Principal Brandi Cannizzaro said.

Superintendent Jeff Bearden said the community will need to unite to help the school and students thrive.

“If we want the Alliance Academy to be the school we hope it will be, it will take all of us working together,” 32 | Education Answer Book 2019

he said. “Our community built this school for (the students.) We built it for your future. Take really good care of it and make us all very proud. I know you will.”

Cumming Mayor Troy Brumbalow said the community has seen substantial growth in past years.

“The one thing that remains consistent is we have a world class school system,” he said. “The school system has been innovative for a long time. We have a new school that will give kids more options in industries that are desperate for talented workers.

This beautiful facility is a perfect example of what can be accomplished when we work together for the betterment of the community.”

Greg Erdely is a Healthcare and First Responder teacher who retired last year after a career as a firefighter.

Students will learn emergency services and different types of healthcare ranging from first responders, CPR and to possibly being an EMS, he said.

Inside the classroom there is a life-size replica of an ambulance similar to those used in real emergencies. From there, students will

take their “patients” to an emergency room and doctor’s room.

There is also a setup of a living and bedroom, because Erdely said most often that’s where they find the person needing help.

“It’s a tremendous opportunity for hands-on training and a great way to learn from other teachers and the community,” he said. “We are partnered very closely with Central Ambulance, the Forsyth County Fire Department, Northside Hospital and other surrounding doctors’ offices.”

Before teaching, Erdely worked in Cherokee County as a firefighter for 25 years. He retired last year and decided to teach in Forsyth County after he’d been substituting for the past 15 years and coaching football at Vickery Creek Middle

Local elected and school officials, including Principal Brandi Cannizzaro, cut the ribbon officially opening the Alliance Academy of Innovation.

Photos by KATHLEEN STURGEON/Herald

School.

“When you get to a certain age at the fire department, you can no longer do it,” he said. “This is my passion. I want to give my experiences I’ve learned over the past 25 years and pass it on to the next generation. They represent our future and will be the ones taking care of me when I get older. If I can take my experiences and help get them to where they want to be, it’s going to benefit them, me and our community.”

To learn more about the healthcare pathway and others offered at the Alliance Academy, visit http:// forsyth.k12.ga.us/alliance.

Education Answer Book 2019 | 33

Cambridge grad begins fundraiser to launch adventure show

By JOE PARKER Cambridge High School alum Zach Chaloux is looking to make a splash in the entertainment industry by launching his own show.

Chaloux, currently a student at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, along with fellow Cambridge grads Will DiCarlo, Jacob Ulman and Richmond Thomas, have launched a Kickstarter campaign to get their comedic travel show off the ground.

Chaloux will have a leading role in the show along with fellow cast members DiCarlo and Ulman, with Thomas serving as producer.

“We are Milton born and raised, and if this pilot gets picked up, we think it would be really cool if there

were people in the mainstream who could represent Milton,” Chaloux said.

The group, along with five others, began their fundraising campaign to create a pilot episode of the show which they will pitch to production companies. Dubbed “Around the World,” the show would follow the group of six as they traverse the world to delve into voodoo in New Orleans and the Caribbean, travel the length of the journey in Lord of the Rings in New Zealand and race across the Great Wall of China.

“We want to showcase the most beautiful places in the world and explore the most interesting mysteries,” Chaloux said. “We plan to handle everything on the show

with as much respect as possible and to bring in the humor when appropriate.”

While the show will feature beautiful locations and gripping adventures, the heart of the production is the group of friends experiencing these situations together, Chaloux said.

“The group themselves each have unique and entertaining characteristics,” Chaloux said.

“One acts as the leader who keeps everyone focused, me, while there’s another one that’s a comedian with over 100,000 followers on Instagram. And while they are all different and unique, they also have a rare chemistry that only a genuine friend group would have. So even if you take away the crazy adventures

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 34 | Education Answer Book 2019 | Fulton County Schools

you still have a relatable core with the group of friends.”

Another intriguing aspect to the show, Chaloux said, is watching the group deal with their own insecurities and experience the adventure of traveling the world.

“While you are laughing you are also watching people grow up right before your eyes,” Chaloux said.

The Kickstarter campaign has a goal of $10,000 which will fund a pilot episode the group hopes will be a springboard for reaching its long-term goals.

“The ultimate plan is to use the pilot to pitch not only the story but our personalities,” Chaloux said.

“While we end up going on crazy adventures, we start humbly in the ‘prologue,’ which consists of me traveling the country to gather the group for the adventures of the show. I see it as a literal call to adventure, where you get unique and interesting character introductions

while also being a great showcase for the group as a whole. You also get introduced to the main theme of the story which is dealing with the fears and insecurities about going out into the world for the first time. While the episode goes on, however, hijinks ensue as the people get themselves into hilarious situations around the country.”

The show will also provide Chaloux with the opportunity to combine his passion for story-telling, adventure and showcasing character relationships.

“I honestly cannot remember a time when I didn’t want to pursue film,” he said. “It’s always been the only thing I’ve been passionate about. I have a love for creating things and I will most likely be doing it for the rest of my life.”

For more information about the show, visit the Kickstarter campaign page at kck.st/2Dd22rz.

Cambridge graduate Zach Chaloux has begun a Kickstarter campaign to fund a pilot episode of his creation, “Around the World.”

A Covenant Christian High School

Christ-Centered | Leader Building STEM | Fine Arts | Athletics

pr ovidence j oh n scree k.o rg Fulton County Schools | Education Answer Book 2019 | 35

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First/Last Day of School

Teacher Work Day (Students Off)

36 | Education Answer Book 2019 | Forsyth County Schools

Holiday/School Closed

Early Release Day

Preplanning/Post Planning Day

Meet the superintendent and the board of education Superintendent Jeff Bearden jbearden@forsyth.k12.ga.us; Began term September 2014, current contract expires June 30, 2020 Dr. Jeff Bearden joined Forsyth County Schools as superintendent on Sept. 2, 2014.

Bearden has served as a school executive for over 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 and the American Association of School Administrators. He was also appointed by Gov. Nathan Deal to serve on the Governor’s Education Advisory Board.

Forsyth Board of Education Members Wes McCall • District 1 WMcCall@forsyth.k12.ga.us In 2001, Wesley married his wife Jakima, and a year later, they purchased their first home in Forsyth County.

Soon after, they had their only son, Ian, who currently attends Forsyth County Schools.

Ian’s kindergarten year began Wesley’s involvement with the Forsyth County School System. Starting with reading each week to the class and volunteering for Math groups, to becoming a mentor, to spear heading the Science Lab at Sawnee Elementary, Wesley was very involved at the school. This came to also include several years on the PTA Board and serving on the Local School Council for two schools.

Kristin Morrissey • Board Member for District 2 kmorrissey@forsyth.k12.ga.us Elected in 2011, current term ends in 2018 Kristin Morrissey studied microelectronic engineering at Rochester Institute of Technology and received her degree in computer science from Monroe Community College. She worked in corporate training at Eastman Kodak and later retired from the Rochester Public Library/ Monroe County Library System after 16 years of service, where she served as a library automation specialist and trainer. Morrissey is a 2009 graduate of Leadership Forsyth and the Georgia Academy for Economic Development, Regional Economic and Leadership Development.

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 Vision 2010 steering committee, member of the teacher of the

year selection committee, sex education committee and other various roles in 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.

Darla Light • Board Member for District 4 dlight@forsyth.k12.ga.us; Elected in 2009, current term ends 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. Light has served as an elementary PTSO officer for three years, a middle school PTSO officer for two years and coached middle school basketball.

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

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.

Forsyth County Schools | Education Answer Book 2019 | 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 2019 | 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 2019 | 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 2019 | 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

State of our schools:

Forsyth County F

orsyth County Schools has had a great start to the 2018-19 school year!

This fall we earned the highest possible bond rating, AAA, from both Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s, making us 1 of 17 school districts in the United States to receive AAA ratings from both agencies. FCS led the state and large districts with Georgia Milestone assessment results and CCRPI scores, as well as graduation rate (94.1 percent), and ACT score. Additionally, our district had the highest SAT score in Georgia and was 1 of 13 National Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence.

We also had two successful openings at Denmark High School and the Alliance Academy for Innovation, and the launch of three Dual Language Immersion programs at three of our elementary schools. Other new bond projects are in the works, such as breaking ground at Poole’s Mill Elementary School in February, starting work on East Forsyth High Scholl and Middle School #11, installing new and additional video cameras in schools, purchasing new buses and retrofitting current buses with air conditioning, and installing new interactive boards in schools.

Yes, 2018-19 the first half of the school year has been successful and quite busy! We credit our success and advancements to our long-term commitment to nurturing school-home-community partnerships. Forsyth County Schools is excited for the opportunities that are before us, and we look forward to working collaboratively to serve all in Forsyth County by providing Quality Learning and Superior Performance for All. We invite you to stay connected by visiting our website, www.forsyth.k12.ga.us, following on social media (@FCSchoolsGA on Twitter, @FCSchools on Facebook, and @ForsythCoSchoolsGA on Instagram), and downloading the updated mobile app, Forsyth County Schools GA. Thank you for allowing us the opportunity to serve you. Best wishes for a safe, happy and healthy 2019!

Dr. Jeff Bearden

Superintendent, Forsyth County Schools

Dr. Jeff Bearden Superintendent

Forsyth County Schools | Education Answer Book 2019 | 41

Forsyth School District receives multiple honors

By KATHLEEN STURGEON Forsyth County Schools continue to earn the top ranks statewide for having the highest SAT in Georgia.

For the fourth consecutive year, the district has the highest ACT score among county and large school districts in the state with a composite score of 24.5 for the 2017-18 school year.

The 2018 exam was only the second year students took the redesigned format, which dropped the essay section from mandatory to optional. The new SAT now has two sections (Evidence-Based Reading/Writing and Math) worth 800 points each for a maximum SAT score of 1600.

Forsyth County High Schools scored an average of 1146 as a whole in 2017 and increased their average by 21 in 2018 with a score of 1167. Compared to national scores of 1049 and 1044 in 2018 and 2017 respectively, Forsyth County Schools continue to surpass the average.

Every school within Forsyth county was able to 42 | Education Answer Book 2019 | Forsyth County Schools

increase their SAT performance from 2017 to 2018, led by South Forsyth which raised its average by 163 points, followed by Lambert (+159), West Forsyth (+94), Forsyth Central (+77), and North Forsyth (+62).

Students in Fulton County Schools are taking the ACT exams in greater numbers, as Georgia colleges move away from the “SAT preferred” status. Today more than half of the system’s graduating seniors are taking both the SAT and ACT. Despite higher participation, which generally flattens gains, Forsyth students outperformed the state and national averages on the ACT highly in 2018 and 2017. Although the average in Forsyth County kept a score of 24.5, the county passed the national and state averages both years without having a change in score.

Forsyth Central posted a score of 23.7 in 2018 and a score of 22.8 in 2017, which shows their increase by 37. Other schools such as Lambert (-71), West Forsyth (-10), and North Forsyth (-1.1) had varying declines in average scores between 2017 and 2018.

SAT Performance in Forsyth High Schools * School

2018 Avg. Score (# tests)

2017 Avg. Score (# tests)

Change

1091 (268)

+22 (+77)

Academies of Creative Education

No data available

Alliance Academy for Innovation

No data available

Denmark High

No data available

Forsyth Central

1113 (345)

Forsyth Virtual Academy

No data available

Lambert High

1221 (556)

1187 (397)

+34 (+159)

North Forsyth High

1112 (364)

1117 (302)

-5 (+62)

South Forsyth High

1201 (519)

1186 (356)

+15 (+163)

West Forsyth High

1149 (404)

1127 (310)

+22 (+94)

Forsyth County

1091 (5411)

1051 (4110)

+21 (+557)

Georgia

1054 (65.9K)

1050 (63.8K)

+4

National

1049 (1.8M)

1044 (1.4M)

+5

ACT Performance in Forsyth High Schools * School

2018 Avg. Score (# tests)

2017 Avg. Score (# tests)

Change

22.8 (234)

+0.9 (+37)

Academies of Creative Education

No data available

Alliance Academy for Innovation

No data available

Denmark High

No data available

Forsyth Central

23.7 (271)

Forsyth Virtual Academy

No data available

Lambert High

25.5 (518)

25.5 (589)

0 (-71)

North Forsyth High

22.9 (272)

23.1 (296)

-0.2 (-1.1)

South Forsyth High

25.3 (529)

25.3 (532)

0

West Forsyth High

23.9 (373)

24.1 (383)

-0.2 (-10)

Forsyth County

24.5 (1972)

24.5 (2041)

0 (-69)

Georgia

21.4 (56.5K)

21.4 (57.3K)

0

National

20.8 (1.9M)

21.0 (2.0 M)

-0.2

* schools with at least 25 test takers

Forsyth County Schools | Education Answer Book 2019 | 43

Congressman sponsors effort to revitalize civics education

By PATRICK FOX A local congressman is co-sponsoring federal legislation that would provide $30 million to promote civics education in the nation’s schools.

Republican Rep. Rob Woodall, who represents most of Forsyth and Gwinnett counties, says the legislation is designed to kick-start innovative programs to enhance civics curriculum.

“If there are jurisdictions that want to focus on American exceptionalism, who want to focus not just on the Bill of Rights but also our obligations as Americans, we

want to find those programs that work in terms of connecting with students at all age levels,” Woodall said.

The Civics Learning Act of 2019, co-sponsored by Rep. Alcee Hastings (D-Fla.), provides seed funding for new, evidence-based civics education programs geared to K-12 students and teachers.

The legislation (HR 849) has received bi-partisan support in the House, and Woodall says he expects it to be attached to other legislation working its way through Congress.

Woodall said the funding would work much like Title 1 grants,

44 | Education Answer Book 2019 | Forsyth County Schools

where a jurisdiction could receive maybe $100,000 to hire one teacher to provide special programming for three years.

“What I need are jurisdictions who won’t take a chance with that teacher with their own $100,000 but would be willing to take a chance with federal money,” Woodall said.

A 2017 Annenberg Public Policy Center survey found that more than one-third of Americans can’t name any of the rights guaranteed under the First Amendment and that only a quarter of Americans can name all three branches of government.

“If you don’t know how a Supreme Court nominee gets confirmed — and yet Supreme Court nominees take up the front page of the newspaper and every cable news show for months at a time — there’s a disconnect from what we’re talking about and how we understand we can influence it,” Woodall said. “This is ‘what does it mean to be a good citizen and how do we create the next generation of board of director members of the United States of America?’”

Ultimately, Woodall said, the goal is to help fund exploratory programs in schools that work at all grade levels. Once those programs are identified and are tailored to the communities they serve, they can, with approval of local school boards, be shared with other schools, he said.

“This is a small amount of money, but the impact and the goal is as big as our national identity,” Woodall said.

Georgia State School Superintendent Richard Woods said he has long stressed the need for quality civics programming in schools.

Just last year, the Georgia Department of Education initiated a program to include a Civic Engagement Diploma Seal on the diplomas of those students who satisfy the social studies requirements, pass a 56-question citizenship test and complete 50 hours of community service or extracurricular activities.

The department also has taken the lead in STEAM certification for schools, which includes science, technology, English, arts and math.

Woods said that while science and math have garnered most of the attention in recent years, he has tried to stress a more holistic approach to education which includes social studies and civics.

“I think our school systems are appreciating that,” Woods said. “In

many ways we can integrate this across the board. We can set the tone th at civics and history and government is all-important.”

Few people know that better than Debbie Daniell, who has spent more than 40 years in classrooms and as an administrator in Gwinnett, DeKalb and Oconee counties.

Daniell has been a civics advocate her entire career.

“Social studies is what we do for the rest of our lives,” she said.

Daniell, who has a PhD in social studies education, recently retired as social studies director for Gwinnett County School District. She also has worked with the University of Georgia’s Georgia Center for Assessment which helps local school districts to formulate their assessments related to content-specific subjects.

Civics, she said, must be integrated into curriculum to students early in life, because you never know “when that lightbulb is going to turn on.”

“The things my eighth grade social studies teacher taught me in Fulton County have remained with me forever,” she said.

The Civics Learning Act would allow teachers flexibility to implement some of the free programs already available to educators, programs from the Center for Civic Education in California, the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, the We the People program and the iCivics program developed by retired Associate Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor.

The federal assistance through the Civics Learning Act, she said, would give local school districts the opportunity to implement these programs throughout the curriculum.

“It’s got to be consistent and pervasive, but when there’s no funding to that it can’t be consistent,” Daniell said.

“This is a small amount of money, but the impact and the goal is as big as our national identity.”

Rep. Rob Woodall

Forsyth County Schools | Education Answer Book 2019 | 45

Junior Achievement Discovery Center opens

By KATHLEEN STURGEON When Emily Durand toured the new Mike & Lynn Cottrell Junior Achievement Discovery Center at the University of North Georgia Aug. 23, she was inspired.

Durant, a seventh grader at North Forsyth Middle School, had visited a similar center in Gwinnett County last year. The North Georgia Center, sponsored by lead investors Mike and Lynn Cottrell, is the third in the state to open, behind Gwinnett and Atlanta, and is located on the campus of the Alliance Academy for Innovation, 1150 Lanier 400 Parkway.

Before visiting the Gwinnett center, Durand said they learned basic

skills for becoming an entrepreneur, how to write a check, balance a check book and the difference between credit versus debit. Each student was given a job they had to master prior to the field trip.

“All of these skills helped me to flourish and enjoy my experience even more that I would without them,” she said. “We didn’t just read and learn about how businesses run.

We got to live it for an entire day.”

The experience of pretending to be a CFO for Wells Fargo, she said, changed her life and shaped her future. And now she is excited other students will get that same chance in Forsyth County.

“I used my classroom and Junior Achievement job skills to learn more

46 | Education Answer Book 2019 | Forsyth County Schools

Photos by KATHLEEN STURGEON/Herald

The Mike & Lynn Cottrell Discovery Center at North Georgia officially opened Aug. 23. about work ethics,” Durand said. “I learned how to keep very accurate records, keep my area neat and that using kindness and respect when addressing people is a must.”

The public gets its first view at the Mike & Lynn Cottrell Discovery Center at North Georgia when it opened Aug. 23.

The entire experience of teaching and learning is valuable to student minds, Durand said.

“So many students grow up without knowing any business skills at all,” she said. “Therefore they end up at lower-paying jobs or having to rely on the skills they learned from their parents to succeed.

Most importantly, I got to work with my peers and some amazing volunteers at starting and running a successful business. We worked as a team, and I learned so much about what my parents and other adults do every day.”

Durand will be one of 15,000 middle school students annually who visit the 25,000-square-foot North Georgia center.

All Forsyth County middle schoolers will take field trips to the center throughout the school year to learn life skills, such as how to run a business, pay taxes and balance a checkbook.

The North Georgia center will serve other school systems, including Hall County, Lumpkin County, Dawson County, the city of Gainesville and the city of Calhoun.

Before students set foot in the cen-

ter, they will spend about 20 hours of instruction time learning lessons that will help them succeed during the simulations. For the past two years, the district has piloted the program in schools so students are able to experience it in their classrooms.

The sixth graders will participate in “JA Biztown,” where they will interact within a simulated economy and take on the challenge of running a business, according to Forsyth County Schools College and Career Development Director Dr. Valery Lowe.

The seventh or eighth graders will participate in “JA Finance Park,” an immersive simulation that enables them to develop skills to successfully navigate today’s economic environment.

Forsyth Superintendent Jeff Bearden said the center will give each student an opportunity to experience a glimpse at what their futures will hold.

“We are providing them a chance to be prepared with inclass lessons and then come into this incredibly immersive space and see it and do it for themselves,” he said. “While we all have nuances of our missions, a central goal we share is to nurture and develop these students to prepare them to thrive here and most importantly in their lives after.”

The center will open students’ eyes to the depth of possibilities available for their futures, Bearden said.

“By providing this opportunity in middle school, students can enter high school and post-secondary education with a solid foundation of career pathway exposure and experiences that help bring learning to life,” he said. “They will be ready to build on that foundation and be engaged in the next phase in their education, empowered with knowledge of how to make their dreams a reality.”

To learn about what else the center offers, visit georgia.ja.org.

Forsyth County Schools | Education Answer Book 2019 | 47

Forsyth Schools schedules technology updates for 2019

By KATHLEEN STURGEON Forsyth County Schools is updating much of its technology, including installing safety cameras, upgrading computers and labs.

Mike Evans, chief technology and information officer for the district, said the goal of the updates is improve student engagement in the classroom.

“We want the students at the board actually working out problems,” he said. “Forsyth County Schools as a whole is striving to provide a higher level of engagement and involvement. It gives the students the applications for real life that they can engage with.”

One of the most anticipated projects is the installation of interactive panels, which is complete at 24 schools. The county has had interactive white boards in the classroom for the last 15 or so years, and it was time for an upgrade to a 75-inch interactive, touch display.

“We’re seeing great progress and engagement in the classroom with those,” Evans said. “We can’t get parts for the older technology we have in the classrooms anymore. The intent is the interactivity between the students and teachers with instruction. With the new technology, multiple students can interact at the same time. It gives teachers the ability to project their device onto the board.”

Other major projects in the works include securing data closets, switching to a higher capacity network,

and getting Wi-Fi at athletic areas.

The county is working to overhaul all video surveillance, Evans said. The new cameras will feature facial recognition, search analytics and process automations.

“With the new technology, that adds another level of safety and security across the schools,” he said. “If an administrator needs to look for a student with a white shirt and black pants, they can type it in and the system will pull up all the cameras featuring students with that description. It can track movements, too.”

Next, the district is working to install virtual reality equipment at Whitlow Elementary School and the Alliance Academy for Innovation.

“The movement toward more virtual reality in the classroom has been a highlight,” Evans said.

The county is also interested in obtaining its own Fiber network.

“We’ve been renting our own wireless network,” Evans said. “We’re getting ready to seek bids for information on pricing and what it would look like to actually purchase our own fiber optic network. It would add quite a bit of savings to the district, too.”

Some of the upgrades and changes are a result of feedback from the Parent Advisory Committee.

“The students are excited about these updates, and that conveys down to the parents,” Evans said. “We ask the parents what their students give them, as well.

We’ve had some positive feedback from them.”

By the numbers The school district’s Technology Services Department supports:

27,000+ Chromebooks for students

84,000+ unique wireless clients per day (57,000 BYOT and 27,000 Chromebooks)

360+ physical and virtual servers 2 enterprise-grade firewalls 1 petabyte of raw mass storage

5,000+ laptops for teachers

48 | Education Answer Book 2019 | Forsyth County Schools

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Education Answer Book 2019 | 49

Students thriving in dual language immersion program

By KATHLEEN STURGEON Students involved in Forsyth County Schools’ dual language immersion program have been flourishing since the program launched this semester.

The classes, already in place in middle and high schools, were dropped from the elementary school curriculum in 2010. But, the Board of Education approved reintroducing the program at interested elementary schools this fall.

Associate Superintendent of Teaching and Learning Fonda Harrison said starting in kindergarten, students spend half their day learning academic content, including math, science and target language literacy by an immersion teacher.

The other half of their day, including English/language arts, social studies and literacy, will be taught in English by an English-speaking teacher.

Three school principals indicated interest in implementing the program within the next few years, including Brandywine Elementary, Cumming Elementary and Kelly Mill Elementary.

Kelly Mill is the only school doing one-way immersion for students because its population is primarily English-native speakers.

“If we expand in the future, we will have schools that will be on the one-way and two-way side,” Harrison said. “The goals are proficiency in English and a new language, academic achievement and intercultural competence. It will take a few years because they’re learning that math content in Spanish.”

The program will not be a traditional world language class but an instructional model. Additionally, a team of two teachers will collaborate to teach all subject material.

Kelly Mill Principal Ron Mc-

Forsyth County Schools/Special

Students at Cumming Elementary School enjoy learning how to speak another language through the dual language immersion program.

Allister said the principals have seen many positive aspects to the program across all three schools.

Parent support has been strong, McAllister said, and professional development has helped teachers.

“At Kelly Mill we’ve seen a broadened cultural awareness, not just in the target language of Spanish, but we had our morning news broadcast this week, which is run entirely by kids, in Greek,” he said.

“Last week a student delivered it in Russian, and the one before was in Spanish. We have lots of languages represented and it’s been really cool to see their faces light up when they’re acknowledged and recognized.”

Cumming Elementary Principal Lee Ann Rice said the program has

50 | Education Answer Book 2019 | Forsyth County Schools

been a “fabulous adventure.” One of the biggest accomplishments, she said, is seeing student confidence levels rising.

“When we started, we have crying in kindergarten usually so I was worried we’d have even more when we’re speaking Spanish half the day,” Rice said. “But we did not. It’s been amazing to see how much the community and staff has embraced this.

When the classes are walking down the hall, teachers are trying to learn more Spanish so they can speak to the students and the teachers.”

Brandywine Elementary Principal Todd Smith said his students are adjusting well to the transition.

“We have a current wait list and ended up adding several from that list,” Smith said.

Forsyth Schools renews commitment to diversity in classrooms

By KATHLEEN STURGEON Forsyth Schools leaders are taking steps to ensure a culture of belonging in classrooms, where differences, abilities and beliefs are respected.

Jennifer Caracciolo, director of communications for the district, outlined the school system’s diversity, equity and inclusion plan school board members at their meeting Jan. 8.

Student inclusion has become a hot topic in schools throughout the country as local officials address issues of diversity in race, culture, gender and gender identity.

“We’ve taken this very slowly because it’s a sensitive and important topic,” Caracciolo said. “We want to make sure it’s right.”

This year, she said, the district is continuing work on the five-year plan to include specific goals, strategies, timelines and measures to enhance inclusivity.

“We plan to continue our partnership with the Georgia Leadership Institute for School Improvement to begin implementation and assessment support in 2019-20 so that diversity, equity and inclusion are actively embraced and practiced by all,” Caracciolo said.

Key components to the plan include: - A challenge to see through another’s lens.

- Respect and openness are vital.

- Diversity strengthens our relationships, schools and community.

- A responsibility to prepare and inspire students, staff and others to be inclusive.

- All students and staff can lead and succeed given optimal resources and support.

Last year, district official led multiple discussions and meetings around the topic of diversity and

how it impacts schools.

“It was interesting to hear from our teachers about how timely this is,” Caracciolo said. “They said the face of our children and parents are changing, and they didn’t feel like they had the tools to be culturally competent. They’ve gone through training, but it hasn’t been a longrange five-year plan. Some schools have been more involved than others.”

Much of the discussions focused on what diversity means, including race, gender, disabilities, age and religion.

“It’s about connecting with each other,” Caracciolo said. “What are we doing during teacher trainings to provide support for the teachers based on all these different diverse student populations that are coming into our community? It’s important to measure and monitor academic performance based on different groups.”

Plan goals include hiring a

diverse group of teachers, incorporating culturally relevant curriculum and being committed to addressing the concept of diversity.

“We want our students and staff to have a high level of cultural understanding so that they can understand the diverse needs of the community, create a diverse environment for our students and make it equitable, too,” Caracciolo said.

Superintendent Jeff Bearden, who attended some of the meetings, said he saw a strong level of agreement in the room that the district needs to have a concrete plan to follow.

“I was curious if we would get to where the vast majority of people in the room thought it was necessary in our district,” he said. “That spoke to me. I thought there might be some pushback or resistance in terms that we already do this. But if you’re going to improve in any area, there has to be intentionality behind it.”

Forsyth County Schools | Education Answer Book 2019 | 51

Charter high school gives ‘at-risk’ students a chance

By KATHLEEN STURGEON

A

t the Mountain Education Charter High School Forsyth campus, students who are considered at-risk get a second shot at an education.

The charter school opened in 1993 at one site as a three-county collaboration with Fannin, Towns and Union counties. It began on the Union County High School campus.

Between 1994 and 2018, 15 more sites opened across north Georgia serving the at-risk student population. To date, the school system has graduated over 3,600 students, with more than 340 graduated in 2018.

The Forsyth site, located at 1130 Dahlonega Highway, opened in February 2014. Two years later, the school had to open a second site in Forsyth County to accommodate the influx of students, called the Hill Center, located at 136 Almon C Hill.

The Forsyth locations combined serve roughly 200 students.

Public Information Officer Sydney Sanford said students come to the school to gain a second chance at earning their high school diploma.

“Most of our students work during the day or have families to provide for, making day school difficult to attend,” Sanford said.

“Some students have fallen behind or are not performing to the best of their abilities in a regular setting and need a change in scenery.

We also have advanced students who come to us to accelerate their educational futures.”

The school provides students with individual tutoring, meals from the community, support groups, attendance reward programs, career fairs, workplace field trips,

Photo by Mountain Education Charter High School/Special

To date, Mountain Education Charter High School has graduated more than 3,600 students, with more than 340 graduated in 2018. college and career counseling, dual enrollment opportunities, college field trips, mentor programs, life action plans, credit recovery and Title I programs.

Graduates earn an accredited Georgia high school diploma and must complete all state requirements for graduation, including all mandated tests. Courses are aligned with state standards and are administered using course software and textbooks. The charter school is AdvancED accredited and all credits earned are transferable to any high school.

“It is important for this type of education to be offered to provide second chance options outside of day school for students who have certain needs,” Sanford said. “MECHS meets the needs of many students by operating in the evening and providing a oneon-one setting, making it easier for students to learn the material.

52 | Education Answer Book 2019 | Forsyth County Schools

Credit recovery is offered as well as an option for students who want to remain in day school and just simply catch up in their courses.”

Students who attend full time do not pay anything. However, parttime students pay a small tuition.

Enrollment is open year round, so new students are always welcome.

“Often in the community, there are misconceptions regarding the intent or purpose of our school,” Sanford said. “Individuals believe we are an alternative school or a GED program. We are neither of those, as we are an accredited public high school. Our students are not bad kids and we provide each student the same opportunities.”

The Forsyth location is open Monday-Thursday from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.

For more information, call 678965-4871 or visit mymec.org/sites/ forsyth.

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Education Answer Book 2019 | 53

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, 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.

54 | Education Answer Book 2019 | Higher Education

These additional requirements are a result of funding 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: 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 and meet the academic rigor requirement.

• 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.

• 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: Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or, Complete the online GSFAPPS application or printable paper GSFAPPS application.

Note: The FAFSA must be completed each year.

Application Deadline The application deadline is the last day of the

READ MORE, PAGE 56 Higher Education | Education Answer Book 2019 | 55

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 55: 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.

Other state aid programs •

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: gacollege411@gsfc.org • GSFC Telephone: Toll free 800-505-4732 In metro Atlanta 770-724-9000 A representative is available Monday - Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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. 56 | Education Answer Book 2019 | Higher Education

•

•

•

•

•

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.

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 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.

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 | Education Answer Book 2019 | 57

College Fair Interested in attending a school that isn't too far from home? We've narrowed down the schools within 30 or so miles of Atlanta and give you the details on each institution.

1. Kennesaw State University Located 25 miles from Atlanta, Kennesaw State University has 13 colleges with two campuses in Kennesaw and Marietta. It is the third largest university in the state and offers more than 150 different undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degrees.

Programs: College of Architecture and Construction Management, College of Arts, Bagwell College of Education, Coles College of Business, College of Computing and Software Engineering, Southern Polytechnic College of Engineering and Engineering Technology, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, College of Science and Mathematics, University College and WellStar College of Health and Human Services Online classes? Yes Study abroad? Yes Fall 2016 enrollment: 32,000 undergraduate and 3,000 graduate students Semesters or quarters? Semesters Student organizations: Over 200, including student governance and media, co-curricular clubs, athletics, Greek letter organizations, campus ambassadors, community service and advocacy Website: www.kennesaw.edu 2. Georgia State University Georgia State is an urban public research university and national model for student success in Atlanta, the cultural and economic center of the Southeast. The largest university in the state and one of the largest in the nation, Georgia State provides more than 51,000 students with unsurpassed access to opportunities in one of America’s great global cities.

58 | Education Answer Book 2019 | Higher Education

Programs: Andrew Young School of Policy Studies, Byrdine F. Lewis School of Nursing and Health Professions, College of Arts and Sciences, College of Education & Human Development, Robinson College of Business, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Law, Honors College, Perimeter College and School of Public Health Online classes? Yes Study abroad? Yes Fall 2017 enrollment: 18,710 two-year degree students, 25,716 four-year degree students and 7,012 graduate students Semesters or quarters? Semesters Student organizations: More than 400 student organizations covering leadership, activism, arts, politics, academics, religion, recreation and more Website: www.gsu.edu 3. U niversity of Georgia – Gwinnett Campus Located only 30 miles from Atlanta, the University of Georgia Gwinnett Campus serves the needs of busy working professionals. It offers graduate-level programs with accommodating schedules, including night and Saturday classes, to help students maintain a balance with their careers and families.

Non-credit professional development courses are also available.

Programs: pharmaceutical regulatory affairs, information technology, higher education, nonprofit leadership, social work, public administration, sport management and business Online classes? Yes Study abroad? Yes Semesters or quarters? Semesters Student organizations: Weekly

opportunities for networking, exploring art and culture, and massages Website: www.gwinnett.uga.edu 4. University of North Georgia Formed through the consolidation of North Georgia College & State University and Gainesville State College in 2013, the University of North Georgia has five campuses in Blue Ridge, Cumming, Dahlonega, Gainesville and Oconee. It offers over 100 degrees for students, ranging from certificate and associate degrees to professional doctoral programs.

Programs: College of Arts & Letters, Mike Cottrell College of Business, College of Education, College of Health Sciences & Professions, College of Science & Mathematics, University College and Lewis F. Rogers Institute for Environmental & Spatial Analysis Online classes? Yes Study abroad? Yes Fall 2016 enrollment: 18,000 undergraduate and 500 graduate students Semesters or quarters? Semesters Student organizations: Each campus offers different programs, including social, athletics, honors, service and advocacy, academic groups and Greek letter organizations Website: www.ung.edu 5. Life University Life University is in Marietta, just 20 miles away from Atlanta, and is considered one of the most affordable private universities in the nation. It has 17 accredited degree programs for undergraduate and graduate studies that focus on health and wellness.

Online classes? Yes Study abroad? Yes

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Fall 2016 enrollment: 2,700 students Semesters or quarters? Quarters Student organizations: Over 70 student clubs, including academic and student governance Website: www.life.edu 6. Lanier Technical College Lanier Technical College has five campuses located in Oakwood, Forsyth, Barrow, Dawson and Jackson. It provides career-technical education programs with customized business and industry training to earn a diploma, certificate or associate’s degree.

Programs: Over 40, including accounting, fire science technology, automotive technology, horticulture,

health information management, criminal justice technology, culinary arts, paramedicine and design and media production technology Online classes? Yes Study abroad? Yes Fall 2016 enrollment: 26,000 students Semesters or quarters? Semesters Student organizations: Dozens, including academic, business, student governance and honors societies Website: www.laniertech.edu 7. Gwinnett Technical College Gwinnett Technical College offers more than 140 programswith degree, diploma and certificate

options, in addition to online and weekend college options and a new campus in Alpharetta. With a 99% job placement rate, Gwinnett Tech programs focus on the fastest growing high-demand career fields, as well as emerging industries and technol­ogies.

Online classes? Yes Study abroad? Yes Fall 2017 enrollment: 11,147 students Semesters or quarters? Se­ mesters Student organizations: More than 30, including career-focused clubs and organizations, opportunities for community involvement and networking and honor societies.

Website: www.gwinnetttech.edu Higher Education | Education Answer Book 2019 | 59

William & Reed Academy Experience how education should be

In today’s educational climate, many students are academically disengaged or overwhelmed with academic pressure. For many students, the sheer volume of school work combined with long school days has led them to sacrifice important aspects of their lives outside of school. This lack of school-life balance often affects a student’s overall happiness and ability to thrive as a well-rounded person.

Imagine a better school for your child … a school where students are engaged and thriving… a school where students have balance in their lives… a school that provides an exceptional academic experience while allowing students to have a fulfilling childhood… a school with phenomenal, experienced certified teachers 60 | Education Answer Book 2019 | Sponsored Section

who LOVE to teach and feel supported… a school that values and emphasizes teaching and learning rather than testing… a school that is an extension of your values (responsibility, accountability, participation, honesty, hard work)… a school that values partnering with parents to best help their child grow, gain confidence, and thrive.

Experience How Education Should Be … William & Reed Academy is a dually accredited private school (AdvancED/SACS and GAC) in Johns Creek serving grades 6–12 that provides a rigorous college preparatory education while cultivating an environment that encourages students to think independently, find their voice, gain confidence, and develop leadership skills. William & Reed Academy maximizes academic instructional time by offering core academic classes in a shorter school day, allowing students the freedom to pursue their interests outside of school while receiving a top-notch education. To learn more, please visit www.WILLIAMandREED.com.

Find the perfect neighborhood Brought to you by –BILL RAWLINGS Senior Vice President & Managing Broker, North Atlanta Office Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty Before you begin the search for the perfect home, take time to scout out neighborhoods. Selecting the right neighborhood plays a critical component in your everyday life. Take into consideration the factors most important to you – do you want to have a short commute to the office? Reside in an award-winning school district? Enjoy easy access to shopping and restaurants?

You can begin the process from the comfort of your home by visiting AtlantaFineHomes.com/videos and clicking on the ‘Community Profiles’ tab. Our ‘Live the Life’ video series showcases more than 60 of Metro Atlanta’s most popular cities, neighborhoods, areas and communities.

The videos provide insight on pricing, home styles, community events, surrounding schools and nearby shopping and dining. Once you have your short list of possibilities, hop in your car and drive around to deter-

mine what neighborhoods appeal to you. Explore the area and consider talking to residents who are out and about.

Give consideration to the appearance of the homes in the neighborhood – are they well maintained and nicely landscaped?

Bill Rawlings At Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty, we are dedicated to providing you with an exceptional experience throughout the buying and selling process.

Our agents are experts in the field and their familiarity with all the neighborhoods in the area can help guide you in making the right decision. For more tips and additional information, or to discuss the Atlanta real estate market, connect with us! Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty agents deliver results. Allow one of our dedicated professionals to assist you by visiting atlantafinehomes.com or calling our office at 770.442.7300.

Article adapted from Realty Times.

Sponsored Section | Education Answer Book 2019 | 61

Woodward North

Intimate, yet worldly. Nurturing, yet academically rigorous. Loving, yet on the cutting edge of technology.

Can a school really have it all? We think it has to.

Woodward North is the Johns Creek campus of Woodward Academy. Enrolling pre-K through sixth grade students and located on 33 beautifully wooded acres, it combines the intimacy of home with the resources of our Main Campus. With an average student-teacher ratio of 9:1, everyone from our principal to our school nurse to our beloved teachers is dedicated to caring for our kids every step of the way, while guiding them through a challenging college-preparatory curriculum.

Expertise in science, math, reading, and writing is just the tip of the iceberg at Woodward North. We incorporate our STEAM programs throughout the curriculum, preparing our students for success amidst a rapidly changing world. Students in pre-K through third grade enjoy classes where they are taught foundational skills in technology, robotics and coding as well as general computer skills. Students in fourth through sixth grades take advanced classes in these subjects, with additional emphasis on engineering, design thinking, research, media production, and life skills to encourage and inspire critical thinking, problem-solving, and engaged collaboration. In addition, our Learning labs and our dedicated STEAM Station are outfitted with the latest technology like BeeBots, SmartBoards, iPads, and other robotics and engineering tools that students use to solve real-world problems.

Educating the whole child means cocurricular programs, athletics, and the arts are a vital part of every student’s educational journey. From horseback riding to golf to an array of of other athletic options, every 62 | Education Answer Book 2019 | Sponsored Section

student is active at Woodward North. Our arts programs are similarly extensive. Our students learn skills in music, performance, drawing, painting, and crafts that set them up for a lifetime of creative work.

But all these programs and curricula only mean as much as the community behind them; at Woodward, students are part of a truly diverse community that cultivates strong character and a deep respect for difference. Here, these are more than buzzwords--diversity is our backbone. Every day, our students bring experiences from a vast array of cultures, ethnicities, religions, races, learning styles, and geographic neighborhoods, which means that every day they learn from peers who are different from them. We emphasize our global curriculum and service to support civic engagement. Our diversity, service, and global programs create truly compassionate citizens of the world.

Most Woodward North students continue on to Main Campus in seventh grade for a whole new world of opportunities, including our Independent Scientific Research and Global Connections programs. The Academy provides extensive bus transportation, and many students choose to ride MARTA in designated Woodward cars with assigned security officers. A typical Woodward Academy graduating class attends more than 100 different colleges and universities, devotes 5,000 hours to community service, and earns more than $15 million in scholarships. They join an alumni network of 10,000+ and go on to live every version of success as engineers, musicians, professors, business leaders, you name it.

To learn more about Woodward and the vast options available for students to create their own path, visit us at woodward.edu.

Mill Springs Academy Success in school … success in life Mill Springs Academy is an SACS/SAIS accredited independent school community dedicated to the academic, physical, and social growth of those students who have not realized their full potential in the traditional setting. Since 1981 Mill Springs has been supporting student learning by raising expectations and developing self-motivation, while providing skills and values for life to students with ADHD and/or learning disabilities.

Mill Springs offers a broad range of college preparatory options, along with fine arts and a competitive athletic program to foster interests or hidden talents.

Small classes and an individualized curriculum help to

capitalize on strengths while learning compensatory strategies. We offer an extended day program during the school year as well as summer school and camps in the summer months.

Our 85-acre campus is nestled in the beautiful rolling hills and pasture land of Alpharetta. For more information, please visit our website at www.millsprings.org or call (770) 360-1336. Mill Springs participates in the GSNS/SB10 program. The school is a 501(c)(3) organization governed by a board of trustees. Mill Springs Academy, 13660 New Providence Road, Alpharetta, GA 30004.

“If a student can’t learn the way we teach … we should teach the way a student can learn.” – Tweetie L. Moore, Founder Sponsored Section | Education Answer Book 2019 | 63

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

At Woodward, we provide the compass.

Main Campus, College Park, Pre-K to 12 Woodward North, Johns Creek, Pre-K to 6 404.765.4001 • woodward.edu