Education Answer Book 2021

2021

An Appen Media Group Publication

The goal is not merely for students to pass a test Fulton Science Academy stands out for its learning objectives

Daily education updates Online at AppenMedia.com

VISIT OUR CAMPUS FROM THE COMFORT OF YOUR OWN HOME! We’re taking every precaution to keep our community as safe as possible amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

Regrettably, that means that we’re unable to host visitors on campus at the present time. But just because we can’t meet in real life, it doesn’t mean we can’t meet with you virtually!

VIRTUAL CAMPUS TOURS

VIRTUAL COFFEE CHATS

Although you may not be able to visit us in person right now, that doesn’t have to stop you from taking a look around our fabulous school. Your tour guide will take you on a personal, guided tour through campus, showing you photos, videos, and a day in the life of a Woodward student.

Nearly every Friday throughout the spring, our Admissions team will set up from 9 to 10 a.m. in our Zoom room to answer any questions, small or big, you may have about the process or Woodward.

Occasional special guests, including teachers and administrators, will stop by as well.

WEBINARS We will host regular virtual events to learn together and connect with the community. These webinars are hosted for current families but are open to prospective families.

CONNECT WITH CURRENT PARENTS To help you learn more about the many paths available to your child at Woodward, we invite you to connect with some of our current Woodward parents listed below. They’re excited to answer any questions you have about the Woodward experience and what makes our school special!

MAIN CAMPUS

Pre-K to 12 College Park

To check out any of these offerings, check out videos from the schools, and to schedule a tour, visit us online today!

WOODWARD.EDU/VISIT

WOODWARD NORTH

Pre-K to 6 Johns Creek

We raised the bar. Again.

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Publisher Emeritus Ray Appen Publisher Hans Appen Managing Editor Patrick Fox Editorial Patrick Fox Tiffany Griffith Joe Parker Candy Waylock Production David Brown Jennifer Edwards Advertising Mike Dorman Paul Flowers June Michaels Steve Neese Carl Appen Jim Hart Donna Stevens 2021 Edition: The Education Answer Book is published at the beginning of each year. For information on inclusion in the 2021 edition email hans@ appenmediagroup.com. If you have suggestions, corrections, or questions about this year’s edition, let us know!

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319 North Main Street, Alpharetta AppenMedia.com 4 | Education Answer Book 2021

Welcome to the 2021 Education Answer Book.

We’re glad you picked it up

W

hat a difference a year makes.

When we printed the 2020 Education Answer Book in the early part of last year, we were in the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. We really had no idea what was in store for us.

We had not yet sheltered in place, our businesses were still open and operating, and our schools were seeing kids every day.

We took each stage in stride and dealt with what we needed to in HANS APPEN Publisher the moment – but looking back through last year’s edition it shows me hans@appenmedia.com the full extent to which our children were affected.

In particular, I thought about the graduating high school class of 2020. My heart aches thinking about the joyous memories of senior year – the dances, sports, trips, graduations – all canceled for a group of kids that had worked their entire lives for those moments. They are irreplaceable and I have deep admiration for the resilience those kids presented despite it all.

Frankly, it gives me great hope in our future.

A local elected official told me that he and his colleagues never dreamed that when they signed up for a life of public service that the focus of that service in 2020 would be guiding a city through the unknowns of a pandemic. Nothing in our lives was unaffected by the consequences of a disease that confined us to our homes and put our nation’s economy on its knees.

He is not a doctor. His colleagues are not epidemiologists. But he and so many others – Dr. Looney, Dr. Bearden, our teachers, you parents – all put your heads down and did the best you could.

We can and we will certainly learn lessons from bad decisions we made in moments of uncertainty. But above all, I think we should give ourselves room for grace. We did the best we could in the moment, and I think we did a pretty good job on the whole.

So, looking forward, we did our best to fill this year’s edition of Education Answer Book with useful information that presumes we are through the worst of the pandemic – that our children can begin to resume their educations with the tools and institutions we have all invested so much in.

North Atlanta’s educational institutions remain strong, our leaders and educators first class, and the prospects of a strong year never better.

At Appen Media we will continue to bring you information and stories about those prospects and I look forward to next year’s edition of this publication when I don’t even have to think about its content in the context of COVID-19.

Until then, love on your children and don’t be afraid to ask for help. You are doing great.

On the Cover: Fulton Science Academy is an award winning K-12 private school located in Alpharetta, GA. Pictured on the cover are Holli Griffis, Assistant Principal of Student Services, Dr. Kenan Sener, Principal and Corinne Sanchez, Assistant Principal of Elementary School. Read more about the school and their unique offerings in education on pages 22-23. PHOTO BY SAMANTHA SHROYER

Where authentic Christian mission and academic excellence aren’t mutually exclusive EX P L O R E W E S L E YA N AT W W W.W E S L E YAN S C HO O L . O R G / A DM I S S I O N S

Fulton County

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First/Last Day of School

6 | Education Answer Book 2021

Late Start

Holiday/School Closed

Preplanning/Post Planning Day

A letter from the superintendent

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arch 9, 2021, marks the one-year anniversary of the first coronavirus case confirmed in Fulton County Schools. A great deal has transpired since then, and to say COVID-19 has changed our schools is an understatement.

Much of the information surrounding the pandemic is negative, but many outcomes have had unexpected silver linings. Fulton County Schools has long been an innovative school system and we are fortunate our School Board invested resources into technology using funds from the education Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST).

As a result, our schools were more prepared than most to pivot to universal remote learning. Now that a year has nearly passed, students, teachers and parents have grown considerably more comfortable with learning in both face-to-face and virtual environments, reinforcing that there is no one-sizefits-all approach to learning or teaching.

Some students have been so successful in an online learning environment that the timing was right to launch a permanent, virtual instructional option for those desiring it. The Fulton Academy of Virtual Excellence (FAVE) will open in August 2021 to just over 1,000 students in grades 3-11.

MIKE LOONEY, ED.D. Superintendent, Fulton County Schools

Also next fall, our district will welcome students to two magnet high schools: Innovation Academy in Alpharetta and Global Impact Academy in Fairburn. These STEM-focused campuses will provide an advanced setting to study high-tech, high-demand courses that are college- and career-focused.

Even though many students have fared well during this unpredictable time, I remain concerned about the pandemic’s broader academic impact. Recently I directed our Academics team to create a plan (FOCUS) that outlines our path toward learning recovery. With the appropriate additional resources, we have systems in place to get struggling students back on track. Our teachers and building leaders are resilient, but they will need more resources.

Spring is nearly here, and I look forward to the remaining months of our school year. There is still a lot to learn and celebrate! Although not all teachers and students are physically together, the climate and culture of the school community still flourishes. We will continue moving forward with our students’ social and emotional well-being so that we honor our school system’s motto, “Where Students Come First.”

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Education Answer Book 2021 | 7

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

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

He has served on several distinguished panels during his education career, including President George W. Bush’s National Reading Leadership Panel in Washington D.C. In addition to his tenure in Williamson County, Looney served as superintendent of the Butler County School District in Alabama, and assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction in the Montgomery (Ala.) Public Schools. An educator since 1994, he has also been a classroom teacher, assistant principal and principal.

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

North Fulton County Board of Education Katha Stuart • District 1 stuartk@fultonschools.org Board member since October 2015; term expires Dec. 31, 2024 A 24-year resident of District 1, Katha Stuart has been involved in Fulton County Schools since her children started kindergarten at Mountain Park Elementary. She served in various PTA and School Governance Council roles at Mountain Park Elementary, Crabapple Middle School and Roswell High School.

Stuart was a member of the Superintendent’s Community Advisory Committee from 2009 through 2015. She also has served as a vice president of programs for the North Fulton Council PTA and as a committee member for the Georgia PTA. Stuart has a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Georgia State University and was formerly a regional vice president for Berger Funds and Invesco Funds.

Katie Reeves • District 2 reevesk@fultonschools.org Board member since 1999; current term expires Dec. 31, 2022 Reeves is the longest-serving member among the North Fulton board members and represents the Alpharetta and Milton areas. She was a Local School Advisory Committee member and PTA legislative chair at Lake Windward Elementary School, and served as the school board president from 2003-05. Reeves has been an active participant in her community, serving on various entities including the Alpharetta Planning Commission, the Alpharetta Tree Commission, and Gov. Sonny Perdue’s Investing in Excellence Task Force. She majored in marketing at the University of Kentucky and formerly worked as an advertising account executive Her three children are all graduates of Fulton County high schools. ​ 8 | Education Answer Book 2021

Gail Dean • District 3 deang@fultonschools.org Board member since 2001; current term expires Dec. 31, 2024 Gail Dean represents Sandy Springs, College Park, East Point and Hapeville and served as board president from 2005-07. Dean’s background includes serving as president of the Atlanta Homebuilders Association-Inner Atlanta Chapter, owning a real estate brokerage and two construction firms, and consulting for financial institutions.

She served on the boards of the Sandy Springs/North Fulton Clean and Beautiful, the Fulton County School Employees’ Charitable Fund and Fulton Education Foundation. Dean has four children who all graduated from Fulton County Schools.

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

McCain was a member of the board of directors of the Fulton County Schools Employees’ Pension Fund and is a current board member of the Fulton Education Foundation. In December 2014, she was appointed to serve on Gov. Nathan Deal’s Education Advisory Board.

Julia Bernath - District 7 (board president) bernath@fultonschools.org Board member since 2000; current term expires Dec. 31, 2022 Julia Bernath represents Sandy Springs, parts of Alpharetta, Johns CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

Meet the superintendent and the board of education CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8 Creek and Roswell and is the current president of the school board. She is past vice chair of the Georgia Professional Standards Commission, and has received numerous awards for her work in education and community-focused issues. Bernath is a past president of the Georgia School Boards Association and a graduate of Leadership GSBA. She is also on staff for the Center for Reform of School Systems and is a mentor for school board members 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 Franchesca Warren • District 4 Warrenf2@fulton schools.org Board member since 2020; current term expires Dec. 31, 2024

10 | Education Answer Book 2021

Kimberly Dove • District 6 dovek@fultonschools.org Appointed to the Board in May 2017; current term expires Dec. 31, 2022

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Public School Bios: FULTON Elementary Schools

Abbotts Hill 470-254-2860 Principal Roytunda Stabler 5575 Abbotts Bridge Road Johns Creek 30097 Year Opened: 2000 Enrollment: 574 Board District 5/Learning Zone 6 http://school.fultonschools.org/abbottshilles Alpharetta 470-254-7015 Principal Kathleen Stamper 192 Mayfield Road Alpharetta 30009 Year Opened: 1956 Enrollment: 495 Board District 2/Learning Zone 7 http://school.fultonschools.org/alpharettaes Amana Academy Charter (K-5) (6-8) 678-624-0989 Principal Najla Abdul-Khaliq 285 South Main Street Alpharetta 30009 Year Opened: 2007 Enrollment: 780 www.amanaacademy.org Barnwell 470-254-4960 Principal Martin Neuhaus 9425 Barnwell Road Johns Creek 30022 Year Opened: 1987 Enrollment: 665 Board District 5,7/Learning Zone 6 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/barnwell

Birmingham Falls 470- 254-2820 Principal Don Webb 14865 Birmingham Highway Milton 30004 Year Opened: August 2009 Enrollment: 613 Board District 2/Learning Zone 7 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ birminghamfalls Cogburn Woods 470-254-2845 Principal Lisa Garosi 13080 Cogburn Road Milton 30004 Year Opened: 2004 Enrollment: 764 Board District 2/Learning Zone 7 http://school.fultonschools.org/cogburnwoodses 12 | Education Answer Book 2021

Crabapple Crossing 470-254-7055 Principal Tresa Cheatham 12775 Birmingham Hwy Milton 30004 Year Opened: 1992 Enrollment: 640 Board District 1,2/Learning Zone 7 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/crabapplecrossing

Creek View 470-254-2932 Principal Monica In 3995 Webb Bridge Road Alpharetta 30005 Year Opened: 2001 Enrollment: 884 Board District 2/Learning Zone 7 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/creekview

Dolvin 470-254-7020 Principal Karen Cooke 10495 Jones Bridge Road Johns Creek 30022 Year Opened: 1979 Enrollment: 700 Board District 5/Learning Zone 6 http://school.fultonschools.org/dolvines

Esther Jackson 470-254-5290 Principal Nikol Boyd 1400 Martin Road Roswell 30076 Year Opened: 1975 New Building: 2016 Enrollment: 556 Board District 1,7/Learning Zone 5 http://school.fultonschools.org/estherjacksones Findley Oaks 470-254-3800 Principal Camille Christopher 5880 Findley Chase Drive Johns Creek 30097 Year Opened: 1994 Enrollment: 573 Board District 5/Learning Zone 6 http://school.fultonschools.org/findleyoakses Fulton Academy of Science and Technology (FAST) (K-5) (6-8) 678-321-1100 Principal Stan Beiner 11365 Crabapple Road Roswell 30075 Year Opened: 2016 Enrollment: 611 www.fastk8.org

Hembree Springs 470-254-2902 Principal AJ Smith 815 Hembree Road Roswell 30076 Year Opened: 2001 Enrollment: 533 Board District 1/Learning Zone 5 http://school.fultonschools.org/ hembreespringses

Hillside 470-254-6362 Principal Dr. Hardray Dumas 9250 Scott Road Roswell 30076 Year Opened: 2001 Enrollment: 513 Board District 7/Learning Zone 5 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/hillside

Lake Windward 470-254-7050 Principal Julie Morris 11770 East Fox Court Alpharetta 30005 Year Opened: 1989 Enrollment: 734 Board District 2/Learning Zone 7 http://school.fultonschools.org/lakewindwardes

Manning Oaks 470-254-2912 Principal Jennifer Rosenthall 405 Cumming Street Alpharetta 30004 Year Opened: 1998 Enrollment: 790 Board District 1,2/Learning Zone 7 http://school.fultonschools.org/manningoakses Medlock Bridge 470-254-2980 Principal Matthew Vance 10215 Medlock Bridge Parkway Johns Creek 30022 Year Opened: 1990 Enrollment: 599 Board District 5/Learning Zone 6 http://school.fultonschools.org/ medlockbridgees Mimosa 470-254-4540 Principal Ariane Holcombe 1550 Warsaw Road Roswell 30076 Year Opened: 1968 Enrollment: 664 Board District 1/Learning Zone 5 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/mimosa

Mountain Park 470-254-4530 Principal Stacy Perlman 11895 Mountain Park Road Roswell 30075 Enrollment: 741 Board District 1/Learning Zone 5 http://school.fultonschools.org/mountainparkes

New Prospect 470-254-2800 Principal Amy Lemons 3055 Kimball Bridge Road Alpharetta 30022 Year Opened: 1994 Enrollment: 494 Board District 2/Learning Zone 7 http://school.fultonschools.org/newprospectes

Northwood 470-254-6390 Principal Ritu Ahuja 10200 Wooten Road Roswell 30076 Year Opened: 1996 Enrollment: 637 Board District 5,7/Learning Zone 5 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/northwood

Ocee 470-254-2960 Principal Kerri-Anne Williams 4375 Kimball Bridge Road Johns Creek 30022 Year Opened: 2000 Enrollment: 631 Board District 2,5/Learning Zone 6 http://school.fultonschools.org/oceees

River Eves 470-254-4550 Principal Matthew Donahoe 9000 Eves Road Roswell 30076 Year Opened: 1996 Enrollment: 544 Board District 7/Learning Zone 5 http://school.fultonschools.org/rivereveses

Shakerag 470-254-3880 Principal Christine Lemerond 10885 Rogers Circle Johns Creek 30097 Year Opened: 1997 Enrollment: 640 Board District 5/Learning Zone 6 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/shakerag

State Bridge Crossing 470-254-3850 Principal Bridgette Marques 5530 State Bridge Road Johns Creek 30022 Year Opened: 1996 Enrollment: 670 Board District 5/Learning Zone 6 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/statebridgecrossing

Summit Hill 470-254-2830 Principal Dr. Lorrie Bearden 13855 Providence Road Milton 30004 Year Opened: 1999 Enrollment: 594 Board District 1,2/Learning Zone 7 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ summithill

Sweet Apple 470-254-3310 Principal Andy Allison 12025 Etris Road Roswell 30075 Year Opened: 1997 Enrollment: 659 Board District 1/Learning Zone 5 http://school.fultonschools.org/sweetapplees

Roswell North 470-254-6320 Principal Dr. Lydia Conway 10525 Woodstock Road Roswell 30075 Year Opened: 1960 Enrollment: 815 Board District 1/Learning Zone 5 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ roswellnorth

Wilson Creek 470-254-3811 Principal Andrea Cushing 6115 Wilson Road Johns Creek 30097 Year Opened: 2004 Enrollment: 745 Board District 5/Learning Zone 6 http://school.fultonschools.org/es/ wilsoncreek

Vickery Mill 470-254-2400 Principal Susan Walker 1201 Alpharetta Street Roswell 30075 Year Opened: 2015 Enrollment: 422 Board District 1/Learning Zone 5 http://school.fultonschools.org/vickerymilles

Middle Schools

Autrey Mill Middle 470-254-7622 Principal Trey Martin 4110 Old Alabama Road Johns Creek 30022 Year Opened: 2003 Enrollment: 1296 Board District 5,7/Learning Zone 6 http://school.fultonschools.org/ms/autreymill Crabapple 470-254-4520 Principal Rako Morrissey 10700 Crabapple Road Roswell 30075 Year Opened: 1983 Enrollment: 858 Board District 1/Learning Zone 5 http://school.fultonschools.org/ms/crabapple

Elkins Pointe 470-254-2892 Principal Damian Bounds 11290 Elkins Road Roswell 30076 Year Opened: 2001 Enrollment: 990 Board District 1/Learning Zone 5 http://school.fultonschools.org/elkinspointems

Haynes Bridge 470-254-7030 Principal Lauren Malekebu 10665 Haynes Bridge Road Alpharetta 30022 Year Opened: 1983 Enrollment: 625 Board District 1,5,7/Learning Zone 5 http://school.fultonschools.org/haynesbridgems Holcomb Bridge 470-254-5280 Principal Jennifer Cassidy 2700 Holcomb Bridge Road Alpharetta 30022 Year Opened: 1983 Enrollment: 691 Board District 1,7/Learning Zone 5 http://school.fultonschools.org/ holcombbridgems

CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

Education Answer Book 2021 | 13

Public School Bios: FULTON CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13 Hopewell 678-254-3240 Principal Michael LeMoyne 13060 Cogburn Road Milton 30004 Year Opened: 2004 Enrollment: 1290 Board District 2/Learning Zone 7 http://school.fultonschools.org/hopewellms Northwestern 470-254-2870 Principal Joel Peterson 12805 Birmingham Highway Milton 30004 Year Opened: 1996 Enrollment: 1192 Board District 1,2/Learning Zone 7 http://school.fultonschools.org/northwesternms

River Trail 470-254-3860 Principal Neil Pinnock 10795 Rogers Circle Johns Creek 30097 Year Opened: 2001 Enrollment: 1187 Board District 5/Learning Zone 6 http://school.fultonschools.org/ms/rivertrail

Taylor Road 470-254-7090 Principal Kelly Parker 5150 Taylor Road Johns Creek 30022 Year Opened: 1990 Enrollment: 1274 Board District 2,5/Learning Zone 6 http://school.fultonschools.org/taylorroadms

Webb Bridge 470-254-2940 Principal Rebecca Williams 4455 Webb Bridge Road Alpharetta 30005 Year Opened: 1996 Enrollment: 1157 Board District 2,5/Learning Zone 7 http://school.fultonschools.org/webbbridgems

High Schools

Alpharetta High School 470-254-7640 Principal Shannon Kersey 3595 Webb Bridge Rd. Alpharetta 30005 Year Opened: 2004 Enrollment: 2294 2020 SAT Score: 1189 2020 ACT Score: 25.9 Board District 2,5/Learning Zone 7 http://school.fultonschools.org/hs/alpharetta 14 | Education Answer Book 2021

MILTON HIGH SCHOOL

Cambridge 470-254-2883 Principal Ashley Agans 2845 Bethany Road Milton 30004 Year Opened: 2012 Enrollment: 2043 2020 SAT Score: 1206 2020 ACT Score: 26.1 Board District 2/Learning Zone 7 http://school.fultonschools.org/cambridgehs

Independence 470-254-7611 Principal Tabatha Taylor 791 Mimosa Road Roswell 30075 Year Opened: 1991 Enrollment: 254 2020 SAT Score: 1000 Board District 1/Learning Zone 4 http://school.fultonschools.org/independencehs

Centennial 470-254-4230 Principal Keynun Campbell 9310 Scott Road Roswell 30076 Year Opened: 1997 Enrollment: 1902 2020 SAT Score: 1092 2020 ACT Score: 24.1 Board District 1,5,7/Learning Zone 5 http://school.fultonschools.org/centennialhs

Innovation Academy (opening in August 2021) 470-254-5365 Principal Tim Duncan 125 Milton Avenue Alpharetta 30009 https://www.fultonschools.org/innovationacademy

Chattahoochee 470-254-7600 Principal Michael Todd 5230 Taylor Road Johns Creek 30022 Year Opened: 1991 Enrollment: 1976 2020 SAT Score: 1239 2020 ACT Score: 26.6 Board District 2,5/Learning Zone 6 http://school.fultonschools.org/chattahoocheehs

Johns Creek 470-254-2138 Principal Chris Shearer 5575 State Bridge Road Johns Creek 30022 Year Opened: 2009 Enrollment: 2119 2020 SAT Score: 1220 2020 ACT Score: 26.2 Board District 5,7/Learning Zone 6 http://school.fultonschools.org/ johnscreekhs

Milton 470-254-7000 Principal Brian Jones 13025 Birmingham Hwy. Milton 30004 Year Opened: 1921 Current Location: 2005 Enrollment: 2271 2020 SAT Score: 1164 2020 ACT Score: 25.8 Board District 1,2/Learning Zone 7 http://school.fultonschools.org/hs/milton

Northview 470-254-3828 Principal Brian Downey 10625 Parsons Road Johns Creek 30097 Year Opened: 2002 Enrollment: 1804 2020 SAT Score: 1282 2020 ACT Score: 28.1 Board District 5/Learning Zone 6 http://school.fultonschools.org/hs/northview

Roswell 470-254-4500 Principal Dr. Robert Shaw 11595 King Road Roswell 30075 Year Opened: 1949 New Building: 1990 Enrollment: 2254 2020 SAT Score: 1160 2020 ACT Score: 25.2 Board District 1/Learning Zone 5 http://roswellhornets.org

Grade

Enrollment Oct. 2020

Enrollment Oct. 2019

Total enrollment

90,300

93,900

Pre-K

1,886

2,151

Kindergarten

5,125

6,188

First

5,982

6,389

Second

6,131

6,607

Senior

7,250

6,911

Milton

2,340

2,320

Northview

1,762

1,758

Roswell

2,230

2,173

Total enrollment

90,300

93,900

Sowing the Seeds of Organic Learning Adjusting to our new global situation, JCMSOG follows all CDC and AMS safety precautions in classrooms redesigned for social distancing, increased ventilation and ongoing disinfection and sanitization, including: · Montessori-trained Lead Guides provide customized lessons for each child · Health monitoring, including temperature checks, performed daily and as needed · No parent contact during morning and afternoon carpool · All staff and students wear masks while in the classroom · Designated school personnel only allowed in building

Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia 6450 East Johns Crossing • Johns Creek, GA 30097

www.JCMSOG.org • 770-814-8001

· Thorough handwashing/hygiene practices consistently taught and enforced · Personalized tables, work rugs and supplies provided for each child · Classroom materials disinfected after individualized use by child · Healthy, nutritious snack/lunch in prepackaged servings included in tuition

American Montessori Society The Pan American Montessori Society The Georgia Accrediting Commission, Inc Education Answer Book 2021 | 15

State Bridge Crossing ES named Blue Ribbon School JOHNS CREEK, Ga.—State Bridge Crossing Elementary School was among the elite group of 47 public schools recently named a 2020 National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence by the U.S. Department of Education.

It is the only Fulton County school to earn the distinction in 2020, and joins eight other Georgia schools honored last year.

The national recognition is based on either a school’s overall academic performance or its progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups. State Bridge Crossing was awarded Blue Ribbon status in the Exemplary High Performing Schools category.

Principal Bridgette Marques said the accomplishments of the students reflect the hard work of the staff and the support of the school community.

“Our [teachers] have mastered personalized instruction and research-based, carefully planned lessons that instill a profound love of learning,” Marques said. “I believe [this approach] led to the school’s National Blue Ribbon.”

Each year the USDOE evaluates up to 420 nominated schools, both private and public, before selecting the nation’s Blue Ribbon Schools. Since its start in 1981, approximately 9,000 schools

from across the nation have earned Blue Ribbon status.

The Fulton County School System currently has 15 schools recognized as National Blue Ribbon schools. Other North Fulton schools with the designation include: Shakerag Elementary (2018) Medlock Bridge Elementary (2014) Mountain Park Elementary (2013, 2003) Crabapple Crossing Elementary (2012) Webb Bridge Middle (2010) Milton High (2008) River Trail Middle (2001) Chattahoochee High (2000) Roswell High (1998) Dolvin Elementary (1990) Crabapple Middle (1988)

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

Pre–K through 8th Grade | Roswell, GA Pre-K| www.highmeadows.org through 8th Grade | Roswell, GA 770.993.2940 770.993.2940 | www.highmeadows.org An International Baccalaureate® School ®

An International Baccalaureate School

16 | Education Answer Book 2021

Approaching Every Discipline from a Christ-Centered, Biblical Worldview

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Education Answer Book 2021 | 17

Class of 2020 sets ACT record FULTON COUNTY, Ga.—The Class of 2020 set a new district record on their ACT performance despite a spring testing season disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic and a halt to in-school learning.

The district average of 24.4 on the 36-point scale is the highest score for the Fulton County School System, and continues the upward trend in scores for more than a decade. The state average is 21.7 and the national average is 20.6 The reported scores are based on 2020 high school graduates who took the ACT at some time from grades 10 to 12. In all, more than 3,100 students in Fulton’s class of 2020 took the ACT. The disruption in education due to the pandemic may have played a role in a decline of nearly 15 percent from students in the class of 2019 who took the ACT. Among Fulton’s traditional high schools, Northview High posted the district’s highest score with a composite average of 28.1.

That score was the second highest in Georgia, bested only by perennial frontrunner Gwinnett School of Math and Science with a 30.2 composite score.

Other Fulton high schools among the top 10 out of the state’s 189 school systems were Chattahoochee (#5), Johns Creek and Cambridge (#10).

Fulton Schools celebrates plunge in dropout rate FULTON COUNTY, Ga.—Reducing the dropout rate in the Fulton County School System is a personal mission for Superintendent Mike Looney, and one he has focused on since joining the district in 2019.

“I was a high school dropout,” Looney admits. “It’s not that I couldn’t do it [it was just] life was in the way.”

He immediately directed his leadership team to slow the dropout rate and the actions are making an impact.

In 2020 the number of students leaving without a diploma was nearly cut in half – from 1,216 dropouts in 2019 to 685 in 2020.

“This means 531 students did not step away from their future 18 | Education Answer Book 2021

2020 ACT Results for North Fulton high schools* School

# of test takers 2019/20

2019 Avg. Score

2020 Avg. Score

Change

Alpharetta

324/333

25.8

25.9

+0.1

Cambridge

348/337

25.2

26.1

+0.9

Centennial

210/174

24.1

24.1

NC

Chattahoochee

319/239

26.9

26.6

-0.3

Johns Creek

399/308

26.3

26.2

-0.1

Milton

372/356

25.9

25.8

-0.1

Northview

298/233

27.6

28.1

+0.5

Roswell

258/268

25.4

25.2

-0.2

Fulton

3621/3141 23.9

24.4

+0.5

Georgia

53K/46K

21.4

21.7

+0.3

National

1.8M/1.7M 20.7

20.6

-0.1

* among high schools with more than 15 test takers

they stepped into it,” said Chief Academic Officer Cliff Jones.

“They all have names and now they all have futures.

Fulton Schools implemented a four-part plan to reduce dropouts which includes: Identifying potential student dropouts early Training school graduation coaches on creating dropout prevention programs.

Implementing a “drop out team” of staff who regularly monitor the process and the progress Ensuring all students who want to drop out must first meet with the school principal to create a plan to stay in school Looney said he understands why students seek other paths, but is working to remove the barriers that keep them focused on an education.

“I have yet to meet a student that wants to drop out of high school,” Looney said. “What they are saying is ‘I just don’t know how to finish.’”

Educator survey focuses on school challenges during pandemic ATLANTA, Ga.— Persistent teacher shortages, increased workloads and lost learning are the consequences of schools shutting down during the COVID-19 pandemic according to a recent survey of teachers by the state’s largest education association.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has placed new demands on Georgia’s public schools…with no guidebook for best practices to operate,” said Claire Suggs, senior policy analyst with the Professional Association of Georgia Educators, who authored the 2021 Legislative Survey report.

Nearly 6,300 educators in Georgia responded to the PAGE survey November and December, representing 171 of the state’s 180 school districts. The results of the survey are used for advocacy efforts at the state and local legislative level.

The survey found the pandemic had direct effects on academics, student well-being, and family needs, along with the need to adapt existing policies on student instruction and assessments.

“Though deeply challenging, current circumstances [because of COVID] provide an opportunity for policymakers and educators to build on the policies and practices they have already implemented to support public schools,” Suggs noted in the report.

Of primary concern cited by educators was the demands placed on them to teach students in both classroom and virtual formats, as well as trying to stem the loss of learning after months of flux.

Many educators said students are challenged outside of school by the fear of COVID, the disruptions in daily routines, and food insecurities, especially during breaks and weekends. Over half of teachers said tending to their students’ social and emotional well-being was as important as academics.

Federal funds help Fulton Schools in pandemic response FULTON COUNTY, Ga.— The projected $93.5 million in federal stimulus funds allocated to the Fulton County School System will fill many of the needs created under the COVID-19 pandemic.

Since March 2020, the Georgia Department of Education has received over $2.1 billion in federal funds through two rounds of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The funds will be distributed to the 180 public school systems across Georgia to assist schools with the response challenges of opening schools safely and supporting student instruction.

The Fulton County School System is among the state’s top 10 recipients of CARES Act funding, which is based on the Title 1 formula tied to household income and poverty levels.

A third round of CARES Act funding for public schools is currently under consideration in the Congress and may be released this spring.

Fulton Schools officials said the stimulus funds have helped Fulton County Schools cover on-going pandemic-related costs

Since March 2020, the Georgia Department of Education has received over $2.1 billion in federal funds

without draining system reserves.

Acquiring personal protective equipment (PPE) for staff, keeping schools safe and clean, providing additional administrative costs and psychological counseling services have added significant and unplanned expenditures this past year, according to district officials.

Looking to next year, the stimulus funds will help address the loss of learning for many students who have fallen behind over the past year.

Federal stimulus funds are flexible and can be used by school districts for any activity already approved for government funding.

Education Answer Book 2021 | 19

COVER STORY

At Fulton Science Academy, being smart is not enough

BY TIFFANY GRIFFITH ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Fulton Science Academy is tucked away in an Alpharetta neighborhood. But in its own unique way, the school truly stands out.

Behind the brick walls of the building on Fanfare Way, the goal is not merely for students to pass a test. The objective is for students to test themselves and achieve their own goals.

“If you look at real life, there are so many smart people around.

But they are not necessarily very successful or contributing to society in positive ways,” said Dr. Kenan Sener, the school’s founding principal. “Just being smart is simply not enough.”

Sener said he saw a need for a strong, local school that specializes in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics. Alpharetta, he said, is a city with an evolving job market and over 700 technology companies. He also heard the chorus of parents complaining that their children were not being challenged enough in public schools.

Nine years later, what FSA students accomplish on the 105,000 square-foot campus is nothing short of extraordinary and unique. And Sener can proudly list off his students’ accomplishments with little concentration necessary.

“In the National Innovation Expo, three of our girls got three of the six medals and their project got a patent sponsorship from a company. It was a huge success,” Sener said.

The seemingly endless list of accolades for his students includes winning first place in Model United Nations competitions and placing third in an international robotics competition.

Despite the honors, Sener has a goal of his own for the school’s 740 students in pre-K through 12th grade.

“I would love to see our students contributing to society as we get older,” Sener said. “That would make us very happy as educators. In a way, these children are privileged to have this education. They will have to use that education for the betterment of everyone.”

22 | Education Answer Book 2021

Leadership at Fulton Science Academy say they do their best to accommodate its students’ interests and curiosities. There are multiple foreign language classes, competitive sports taught by former professional athletes, a space for students to broadcast their own newscasts, state-of-the-art technology, innovation and science labs, a music room and an art room. The next phase of construction on the property will include an athletic field, an auditorium, a green house and more.

Class sizes range between 18 to 20 students, except for Advanced Placement courses which have as many as 15 students.

It’s all in an effort to provide more individualized attention to each student.

On the high school level, 55-percent of classes are honors or AP. Rather than stress over their challenging coursework, the teens have their own hangout spot on the campus, to study, work and tutor each other on devices the school provides. They have the option of sitting in a lounge chair and enjoying a sunny day or gathering in a spacious two-story workspace with coffee on hand.

The school’s approach to education has yielded positive results. The school has a 97-percent pass rate for AP classes and FSA students are routinely accepted to the nation’s top schools, Sener said.

At the same time, only 20-percent of applications are accepted. Scholarships are also provided so that income level is not a barrier. But if it still sounds intimidating, Holli Griffis, assistant principal of Student Services, assures interested students and parents that FSA is a place for top performers of all kinds.

“Most of our students are advanced students. But very few students are advanced in everything equally,” Griffis said. “So, we automatically try to take away that feeling that ‘I have to be good at everything all the time.’”

COVER STORY

PHOTOS BY SAMANTHA SHROYER

High-level academics and extra-curricular activities with vocational appeal are not the only part of the school day. FSA devotes 26 minutes daily to college prep for high school students, while younger students participate in the Social-Emotional Learning Program.

“Taking the time intentionally, every day, to talk about those social skills, talk about their careers as early as elementary grades. To talk about what your future could bring, I think that’s something that’s very unique and strong for our school,” Griffis said.

The faculty sees to it that students have the most current textbooks and technology.

Teachers can instruct students in the classroom and at home simultaneously, as a motion-sensitive camera follows the teacher around the room.

Elected leaders and educators from across the state, nation, and globally have toured the school for themselves, and according to FSA officials, those leaders and educators were impressed with what they saw.

“Our students are very high performing and have high expectations of themselves,” said Corinne Sanchez, the Elementary School Assistant Principal.

That’s why FSA leaders say they’re grateful for their highly

educated teachers, fully engaged parents and counselors who all have an interest in the personal well-being and scholastic success of their kids.

“They know we want what’s best for their children, and we really try to be in a partnership with them,” Sanchez said of the parents.

After eight years with FSA, Sanchez has a goal of her own.

“I’ve been able to see my first class graduate from here, when there wasn’t a high school when I first started,” Sanchez said. “I would like to see that growth and see where these students go and what they do in the world. And know we had a part in that.”

Education Answer Book 2021 | 23

Innovation Academy in final stages of opening ALPHARETTA, Ga.—After years of planning and design, the STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) magnet school in downtown Alpharetta is set to open in August for its first class of 9th and 10th graders in August of 2021.

Innovation Academy is a non-traditional high school and guides students to one of three career pathways – healthcare, information technology and engineering.

Principal Tum Duncan says the focus is on practical knowledge for a career immediately after high school, or as a foundation for further education in college.

“In addition to the core curriculum, Innovation Academy is a school that provides an educational experience that will push students to be creators and problem-solvers for a continuously changing world,” Duncan said.

The school is open to all students in the North Fulton area. A sister school, Global Impact Academy, also opens in August 2021 in South Fulton offering a similar tech-centered education.

“I want this school to look like a science fair every day,” said Duncan, who served as principal at Chattahoochee High School for more than a decade. “The [students’] project will define the school.”

The school will meet all Georgia high school requirements for graduation, but will focus primarily on “design thinking” to understand the roots of problem to be solved and innovative ways to solve it.

Teachers will work as collaborators, Duncan explains, to not simply provide answers but work alongside students. The goal is to understand and define the problem, then work to find innova-

FAST charter school receives 5-year renewal

24 | Education Answer Book 2021

tive solutions by building prototypes, testing theories and arriving at outcomes.

All students zoned for high schools in North Fulton are eligible to attend Innovation Academy.

Career Pathways / Areas of Study • Healthcare – Biotechnology, Nursing, Surgical Tech, EMT, Health Information Tech • Information Technology – Computer Science, Game Design, Networking, Internet of Things, Cybersecurity • Engineering – Engineering and Technology, Mechatronics For more information visit https://www.fultonschools.org/ innovationacademy

ROSWELL, Ga.—The Fulton Academy of Science and Technology charter school in Roswell earned a five-year renewal on its charter after achieving positive outcomes under its initial charter term.

The extension by the Fulton County Board of Education will allow FAST to operate as an independent charter school through 2026.

Charter schools are public schools operating under a contract, or charter, with the local school board. In exchange for flexibility from some board mandates, the charter school agrees to academic performance at or above its peer public schools. The schools are open to all students in the district.

In recommending renewal, district staff noted “FAST had a strong start in year one of its initial charter term, and has remained a strong performer” among schools in the Fulton County system.

FAST students have outperformed their peers across both district and state schools on annual measures of performance, and on standardized testing. District officials also noted the school’s strong financial management, governance structure and community engagement as reasons for renewal.

The K-8 public charter school opened in 2016 initially with grades K-5, and grew to include the middle school grades over the next three years.

There are currently 10 independent charters school in the Fulton School System with most in South Fulton. Amana Academy (K-8) in Alpharetta and FAST are the only charter schools in North Fulton.

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How to practically and proactively remodel your kitchen Brought to you by – BILL RAWLINGS, Senior Vice President & Managing Broker, North Atlanta Office Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty Are you looking to renovate your kitchen in 2021? For many homeowners, upgrading the heart of their home can cost both a great deal of time and money. In fact, according to a 2020 Houzz & Home Study, the median investment in 2019 for a kitchen renovation was $12,000. By following the tips below, you can stay within your financial budget and complete projects in a feasible timeframe.

Stay within your budget The first step to saving on your kitchen remodel is to create a detailed plan before beginning your project. By having a thorough list of everything you’d like changed, you can get a more accurate quote from your contractor, if you have one, or from vendors. One of the best ways to save money is to keep your kitchen layout.

If you move major items such as a sink or oven, you will have to pay for the work of licensed specialists like plumbers or electricians.

Another way to save is by investing in upgrading your appliances rather than doing an extensive remodel. By doing so, you can make your kitchen more contemporary and functional. Other simple, cost-effective kitchen updates include installing a DIY backsplash, adding under-cabinet lighting, removing outdated doors in the kitchen, rather than tearing down walls, or a few

cabinet doors and swapping out hardware instead of replacing countertops or flooring.

One of the simplest and cheapest ways to give your kitchen an update is with a fresh paint color, which could be used throughout the kitchen or as a contrast color if your space is all one shade. Custom cabinetry is oftentimes one of the most expensive items for a kitchen renovation, so repainting cabinetry instead of replacing it can help those working with a smaller budget. Also, choosing prefabricated cabinet designs rather than custom can lead to big savings.

Save time Every day is different, so the time you devote to your kitchen renovation will vary, too. If you only have a few minutes, you can easily remove blemishes to your kitchen surfaces, cabinets and walls by using a Magic Eraser. Another quick task is organizing a junk drawer, if you have one, and a utensil drawer. Remove any items you don’t use or need to replace and add dividers to separate items by different categories.

If you have a couple of hours to spare, you can replace lighting, swap out cabinet hardware and faucets, add LED lighting strips under cabinets, reorganize your pantry or add floating shelves if you have extra wall space. These tasks can have a dramatic effect on your kitchen’s appearance and create a more modern feel.

When you have a weekend at your disposal, tackle the larger projects in your kitchen such as installing a new backsplash or applying fresh coats of paint. This can be a great way to keep costs down for your renovation, especially if you have great home improvement skills. If you need help with these tasks, you can always hire professionals or seek tutorials on YouTube.

Updating your kitchen will be seamless by following these budget-friendly, time-conscious tips. If you need assistance renovating your kitchen or have any other real estate needs, please contact Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty at 770.442.7300. We would be happy to assist you!

— Compiled and edited by Holly Haynes, Marketing Coordinator Education Answer Book 2021 | 25

SCHOOL PROFILES

Nurturing mind, body and spirit in preschool-8th grade

I

n the formative years of Preschool through 8th-grade, guiding the way for student success includes more than just building a foundation in academic skills. As educators, we understand that social and emotional wellness goes hand in hand with a love of learning to contribute to a student’s overall success and achievement.

Students need to feel happy and safe at school to gain the confidence to make mistakes and keep trying. Positive school culture and nurturing a growth mindset help promote an enriching classroom where children are actively engaged in their learning.

Atlanta Academy provides a challenging but supportive learning environment that encourages perseverance, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills for all students.

Our faculty nurtures and models the essential social-emotional skills of being a good friend, respecting others, helping

26 | Education Answer Book 2021

our community, and being kind and empathetic. We believe that these combined academic and executive functioning proficiencies significantly enhance the child’s overall mind, body, and spirit.

Mind, Body, and Spirit contribute equally to the whole child, and to cultivate each of these areas, we introduced brain breaks, additional PE classes, and added recess time. Creating these times in the day for mindfulness is critical to instilling positive well-being in our students. While this has always been important, a focus on well-being becomes even more meaningful in light of the current events.

Atlanta Academy was founded with the shared purpose to give “every student the individual attention they need to succeed.” Our mission remains true even during the challenges of a pandemic.

SCHOOL PROFILES

Mount Pisgah is educating with intention M

ount Pisgah Christian School is a leading Preschool through 12th grade independent school located in the heart of North Fulton. Known for providing an outstanding college preparatory education grounded in Christian faith and values, 100% of students are accepted into a four-year college or university.

MPCS is educating with intention by engaging students through student-centered learning with small class sizes brought to life in academics, athletics and spiritual life.

Learn more by scheduling an in-person or virtual tour to learn more about our school.

Mount Pisgah aims to grow students’ relationships with God and each other, guided by a spiritual blueprint integrated into the curriculum. Through student-led chapel services each week, an annual spiritual retreat and continuing service projects,

students grow in their relationship with God and learn to serve others.

With a curriculum that integrates STEAM from Preschool to 12th grade, Mount Pisgah is on the cutting edge of preparing students for tomorrow’s opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and math. Recognized for academic achievement, Mount Pisgah offers 18 AP and 15 Honors Classes and is an AP Challenge, AP Merit, AP STEM, AP STEM Achievement and AP Humanities School.

Extracurricular offerings include 46 competitive athletic programs, band, chorus, orchestra, theatre and visual arts programs, as well as the Mount Pisgah Arts Academy. The after-school Arts Academy classes and lessons in drama, art, music and dance are available to all.

To learn more and schedule a tour, visit mountpisgahschool.org.

Education Answer Book 2021 | 27

SCHOOL PROFILES

Education with a Christ-centered, Biblical world view

C

ovenant Christian Academy, located on Post Road in the South Forsyth/North Fulton area, partners with Christian families to provide an academically excellent education that approaches every discipline from a Christ-centered, biblical worldview.

The community at Covenant has a unique family feel designed to strengthen students’ faith and develop hearts that love to learn about God’s creation. Our teachers love their students, and seek to build genuine trusting relationships with each student and family. As a covenant school serving Christian families, a vibrant and united Christian community is present among our families.

All Covenant students attend weekly chapel services and daily Bible classes. Our teachers and staff are committed to lead students in spiritual growth in every grade and subject area.

Students are well-equipped to stand firm in their faith as they develop a Christian worldview that allows them to see all of life in the light of God’s Word.

We believe that every student has been specially gifted by our Creator with a unique set of strengths, abilities, and challenges.

Small class sizes and our loving environment allow students to thrive as they receive personal attention from their teachers.

28 | Education Answer Book 2021

CCA offers classes in grades K4-12. Elementary grades provide a strong foundation for academic success as students grow in a loving, Christ-centered environment. Middle school students build important study skills, social development, and foundations for future success. High school students are challenged with a rigorous academic program including a variety of course offerings including many AP classes.

Students who attend CCA regularly outperform local, state, and national test scores, and our graduates experience great success at the college level. Covenant graduates have been accepted to a wide range of colleges and universities throughout the nation. Our Guidance Counselor, Director of Curriculum Services, and Director of Enrollment Services provide personal direction to Covenant students to help them discern wise options to further their education after graduating from Covenant.

Extracurricular offerings at Covenant exist to develop well-rounded students. Elementary classes attend music, art, and enrichment classes weekly. Middle and High school students are able to participate in a fine arts competition, lead worship on the chapel music team, get involved in a variety of student clubs, or compete in athletics.

Covenant is currently offering open enrollment for the 2021-22 school year. Please visit covenantrams.org to learn more about CCA. Follow our official social media accounts on Facebook (@ CCARAMS) and Instagram (@covenantchristianacademy) to see some of the great things happening at Covenant.

We are currently scheduling personal tours for interested families. Call our office at (770) 674-2990 or use the contact form at covenantrams.org to set up an appointment.

If you are looking for a loving school that views all of life through the lens of Scripture, Covenant Christian Academy is for you.

SCHOOL PROFILES

When a crisis is a catalyst Brought to you by — Alex Bragg Teaching and Learning Specialist at Woodward Academy

W

hen the pandemic appeared, it came suddenly. One week, things were as normal. The next, our students and teachers were all remote, everyone separated to ensure safety amid the danger and uncertainty. We were fortunate at Woodward Academy in having a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policy, which ensured that students already were equipped technologically. We also already had in place a remote learning plan for the potential of inclement weather—we just didn’t expect this plan would need to be active for months.

The biggest challenge was changing quickly while the needs of physical distancing meant that we couldn’t even gather together as faculty. This was a huge challenge for me because we were up against the clock to get our teachers properly trained on Zoom and other tools that would be necessary for engaging students remotely, and I wasn’t able to see them all at once to do this.

As educators, it’s no secret that there are days things don’t always go as planned in our lessons, and that sometimes we must be flexible. This became an everyday reality for us in those early weeks. Having to teach in a fully remote environment added an additional layer for us in terms of our instructional planning.

Yes, we needed to focus on the academic piece of our planning, but we also had to work even harder to identify ways to engage students and maintain our positive relationships with them in this type of setting so our students still felt connected and a part of our community.

I spent the majority of my work this summer researching a variety of instructional methods to plan for all scenarios. One thing I focused on with both my remote and hybrid model research was assessment. We knew from the spring that assessment was one of our biggest challenges in a remote setting, and it allowed us to begin exploring alternative authentic assessments, including project-based learning.

With the future pointing to a hybrid model, we and other schools are relying on technology such as the Owl Camera.

The 360 degree view (as well as other views) of the classroom it provides, has been great for allowing remote learners to feel as though they are in the classroom with their teacher and peers.

Because it also picks up voices and moves with the voice speaking, it has allowed remote students to easily interact with their peers as well.

This global pandemic will shape the future of education. I think if there is one thing we have learned through this, it’s that there is no replacement for a great teacher. Yes, we can use technology to facilitate learning from anywhere, but our students thrive off of connection and the relationships they build with their teachers and others in the classroom. There is greater work to be done, but I personally hope to see a push for less standardized testing in the future and more of an emphasis on real-world learning and the resources needed to build equitable schools.

The pandemic has provided opportunities for us to rethink our curricula, instructional design, and assessments. Having to teach remotely or in a hybrid model requires the use of technological

tools to support collaboration, and it provides a stronger need for more authentic, 21st century lesson design. Teachers have had to rethink their instructional design to include technology and innovative ways to engage students like never before. This has opened up a world of possibilities for our teachers and curricula, and I only see this continuing to have a positive impact on our students. www.woodward.edu Alex Bragg is a teaching and learning specialist in the Upper School and, when the pandemic struck in the spring, that role took on a new dimension: rapidly shifting Woodward to an all-virtual educational model. We spoke to her about that experience, and about the lessons that were learned and applied to this fall semester, in which classes are conducted concurrently for in-person students and those who choose to learn virtually.

Education Answer Book 2021 | 29

SCHOOL PROFILES

Providing an exceptional college preparatory program since 1976

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aint Francis School is a SACS/SAIS accredited, independent, non-profit, nonsectarian college preparatory school founded in 1976. The mission of Saint Francis School is to provide a college preparatory program to students with diverse academic ability in a structured environment that is challenging and supportive. Kindergarten – 8th grades are located on the 24-acre Roswell Campus while the High School is located on the 47-acre Alpharetta campus. The school’s commitment to small class sizes, low pupil-to-teacher ratio, and a strong emphasis on structure and organization allows students to enjoy success in academic areas and develop the self-confidence necessary to be successful in college. Curriculum offerings include AP, Honors, Traditional and Support classes.

30 | Education Answer Book 2021

With a 100% acceptance rate to college and with the majority of graduates qualifying for the Hope Scholarship, Saint Francis alumni attend a wide variety of programs ranging from Ivy League schools, to small private colleges to prestigious Art Institutes.

Saint Francis is a Google Apps for Education Classroom, utilizing laptops in grades 4 – 12. Specialized reading programs offered include Fundations®, Wilson Reading System®, Just Words® and supplemental support from Cars® and Stars® Reading Comprehension. Sports are offered at both the middle and high school (GHSA) including football, soccer, baseball, track, swimming, wrestling, softball, volleyball and equestrian.

For more information call 770.641.8257 Ext. 56 (Grades 1– 8) and 678.339.9989 Ext. 33 (Grades 9 – 12) or visit our website: www.saintfrancisschools.com.

SCHOOL PROFILES

Change lives, change the world

W

esleyan School believes faith and intellect are great partners with each other. At Wesleyan, it’s not a matter of choosing faith or intellect, but rather using both to create the best possible education for your child. Our leadership and faculty work to provide students with an atmosphere that is challenging, reinforces the value of hard work, and emphasizes character and integrity above accomplishment. Wesleyan prepares students for each stage of life and provides them the opportunity to see all the possibilities that lie before them. Wesleyan’s school motto is JOY-Jesus, Others, Yourself, and every aspect of school life is oriented to reinforce this philosophy of putting Jesus first and others ahead of ourselves.

A college preparatory environment, students have access to a wide range of academic opportunities along with athletics,

arts, service and other extracurricular activities. Wesleyan’s 85-acre campus provides state-of-theart academic facilities along with on-campus practice space for athletics and arts.

Located just outside of I-285 in Peachtree Corners, at the start of the 2020-2021 school year 1,193 students enrolled in grades K-12. Wesleyan offers bus routes throughout the metro Atlanta area.

Supervised care before school is included in the cost of tuition and after care is available (K-8) until 6:00 p.m. at an affordable rate.

Wesleyan School 5405 Spalding Drive, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 770-448-7640 www.wesleyanschool.org Education Answer Book 2021 | 31

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First/Last Day of School

32 | Education Answer Book 2021

Early Release Day

Holiday/School Closed

Preplanning/Post Planning Day

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

Bearden spent the first part of his educational career in Maine as a social studies and language arts teacher, and eventually rising to become superintendent of the Maine School Administrative District No. 35 and the Limestone School Department. Along the way, Bearden also served as an assistant superintendent, assistant principal, district athletic director and varsity basketball coach.

Prior to joining Forsyth County Schools in 2014, he was superintendent of Rome City Schools and Fayette County Schools in Georgia.

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. He is also a third-generation veteran of the U.S Air Force.

Bearden is a member of Georgia School Superintendents Association, which selected him as a finalist for the Superintendent of the Year in 2020, the American Association of School Administrators, and served on the Governor’s Education Advisory Board under former Governor Nathan Deal.

In the fall of 2020, Bearden was among a select group of educators from across the country invited to the White House to share insights on how to safely reopen schools during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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

Forsyth County Board of Education

The Forsyth County Board of Education is the governing board of the district, and is composed of five members, elected by district, to staggered, four-year terms. The primary role of the School Board is the legislation of school system policies, which are executed under the direction of the school superintendent. The School Board meets monthly at the Forsyth County Board of Education and Professional Development Center, 1120 Dahlonega Highway in Cumming. Meetings may be viewed on YouTube or TV Forsyth Live.

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

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

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

Kristin Morrissey • District 2 (chairwoman) kmorrissey@forsyth.k12.ga.us Elected in 2011; current term ends in 2022 Kristin Morrissey studied Microelectronic Engineering at Rochester Institute of Technology and received her degree in Computer Science from State University of New York. She worked in corporate training at Eastman Kodak and later retired from the Rochester Public Library and Monroe County Library System after 16 years of service.

Morrissey is a 2009 graduate of Leadership Forsyth and the Georgia Academy for Economic Development, Regional Economic and Leadership Development. She is an active community member serving on several boards, including the Forsyth County Library, Peachtree Parkway Improvement District and Forsyth County Parks Foundation.

She and her husband, Joe, have two daughters, one at Georgia Tech and the youngest at Lambert High School.

Tom Cleveland • District 3 TCleveland@forsyth.k12.ga.us Elected in 2005; current term ends in 2024 Tom Cleveland served as the co-chair of the district’s Vision 2010 steering committee, and was a member of the Teacher of the Year selection committee, health education committee and various other roles within the school system.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 34 Education Answer Book 2021 | 33

Meet the superintendent and the board of education CONTINUED FROM PAGE 33 He currently serves as a judge at FIRST Robotics competitions, a CERT (Citizen Emergency Response Team) member, graduate of CLEA (Citizen Law Enforcement Academy), a member of the Amateur Radio Emergency Services group within the county, and member of the Forsyth County Drug Awareness Council.

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

District 4 • Darla Light dlight@forsyth.k12.ga.us Elected in 2009; current term ends in 2024 Raised in Forsyth County, Darla Light graduated from Forsyth County High School and attended the University of Georgia where she majored in Special Education. She and her husband David, a former educator, have three children who are all North Forsyth HS graduates.

Light served as an elementary PTSO officer for three years, a middle school PTSO officer for two years and coached middle school basketball. She is a member of FCS 2400 Challenge

New Hope ES breaks ground to open in 2022

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ew Hope Elementary will be Forsyth County’s 23rd elementary school when it opens to students in August 2022.

The $28.4 million school is located on more than 42 acres off Castleberry Road, and will help alleviate current and future overcrowding at nearby Whitlow, Vickery Creek, Shiloh Point and Midway elementary schools.

34 | Education Answer Book 2021

Committee and is active in the North Forsyth 400 Rotary Club. A small business owner, Light owns Browns Bridge Boat and Mini Storage in Cumming.

District 5 • Lindsay Adams LiAdams@forsyth.k.12.ga.us Elected in 2020; current term ends in 2024 A resident of Forsyth County since 2012, Lindsey Adams is the newest member of the Board of Education. She has four children who attend Forsyth County schools, and has been a class parent, a member of the Local School Council at Haw Creek Elementary, and served on the Superintendent’s Parent and Community Advisory committee.

Adams also volunteers her time in several community organizations, including Keep Forsyth Beautiful, the Cumming Women’s Center, Special Olympics Georgia and the Task Force for Child Survival and Development.

She earned degrees in both English and in Education with Moderate Special Needs from Boston College. Adams taught 6th grade at Shamrock Middle School in Dekalb County, and has also worked in the insurance industry.

The name of the school reflects significant history in Forsyth, according to Tom Cleveland, a member of the Forsyth County School Board and also the Forsyth County Historical Society.

In 1873 when the district’s history began, most schools were simply log buildings with dirt floors built in cleared fields. At the time, noted Cleveland, there were 1,456 total students among these schools, which included 114 African American students.

New Hope was one of the largest of the 16 African American schools at that time, and served 44 students. It was located on 20 acres of land donated by Thomas Roper, who was one of the largest African American landowners at that time in the county.

In recommending the name, the Forsyth Historical Society wrote “[New Hope] echoes across the decades and endures as a positive vision and message, and that the challenges that weigh us down in the past or today, especially those we have faced in 2020, should never dissuade us from imagining a better, more just, and more love-filled future.”

Public School Bios: FORSYTH Elementary Schools Big Creek 770-887-4584 Principal: Courtney McKinney 1994 Peachtree Parkway Cumming, Georgia 30041 Year Opened: 1939 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/bigcreek Brandywine 770-667-2585 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/brookwood Chattahoochee 770-781-2240 Principal: Barbara Vella 2800 Holtzclaw Road Cumming, Georgia 30041 Year Opened: 1993 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/chattahoochee Chestatee 770-887-2341 Principal: Polly Tennies 6945 Keith Bridge Road Gainesville, Georgia 30506 Year Opened: 1931 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/chestatee Coal Mountain 770-887-7705 Principal: Kimberly Davis 3455 Coal Mountain Drive Cumming, Georgia 30028 Year Opened: 1981 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/coalmountain Cumming 770-887-7749 Principal: Jordan Livermore 540 Dahlonega Street Cumming, Georgia 30040 Year Opened: 1961 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/cumming

EFFECTIVE WITH THE 2021-22 SCHOOL YEAR

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

Sawnee 770-887-6161 Principal: Derrick Hershey 1616 Canton Highway Cumming, Georgia 30040 Year Opened: 1968 https://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/sawnee

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

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

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

Sharon 770-888-7511 Principal: Brian Keefer 3595 Old Atlanta Road Suwanee, Georgia 30024 Year Opened: 2003 https://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/sharon

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

Shiloh Point 678-341-6481 Principal: Dr. Ben Jones 8145 Majors Road Cumming, Georgia 30041 Year Opened: 2006 https://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/shilohpoint

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

Silver City 678-965-5020 Principal: Mike Sloop 6200 Dahlonega Hwy Cumming, GA 30028 Year Opened: 2007 https://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/silvercity

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

Vickery Creek 770-346-0040 Principal: Kristan Riedinger 6280 Post Road Cumming, Georgia 30040 Year Opened: 1997 https://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/vickerycreekelem

Midway 770-475-6670 Principal: Daphne Rogers 4805 Atlanta Highway Alpharetta, GA 30004 Year Opened: 1961 https://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/midway

Whitlow 678-965-5090 Principal: Dr. Lynne Castleberry 3655 Castleberry Road Cumming, Georgia 30040 Year Opened: 2009 https://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/whitlow

Poole’s Mill 770-888-1285 Principal: Paige Andrews 7100 Heardsville Road Cumming, Georgia 30028 Year Opened: 2020 https://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/poolesmilles

CONTINUED ON PAGE 36

Education Answer Book 2021 | 35

Public School Bios: FORSYTH CONTINUED FROM PAGE 35

Middle Schools DeSana 770-667-2591 Principal: Keith Sargent 625 James Road Alpharetta, GA 30004 Year opened: 2016 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/desana Hendricks 678-965-5038 Principal: Cheryl Riddle 4950 Hyde Road Cumming, GA 30040 Opening: August 2021 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/hms Lakeside 678-965-5080 Principal: Megan Thompson 2565 Echols Road Cumming, Georgia 30041 Year Opened: 2009 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/lakeside Liberty 770-781-4889 Principal: Amanda Thrower 7465 Wallace Tatum Road Cumming, Georgia 30028 Year Opened: 2002 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/libertyms Little Mill 678-965-5000 Principal: Connie McCrary 6800 Little Mill Road Cumming, GA 30041 Year Opened: 2007 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/lmms North Forsyth 770-889-0743 Principal: Todd Mcclelland 3645 Coal Mountain Drive Cumming, Georgia 30028 Year Opened: 1981 https://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/nfms Otwell 770-887-5248 Principal: Steve Miller 605 Tribble Gap Road Cumming, Georgia 30040 Year Opened: 2001 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/oms

36 | Education Answer Book 2021

Piney Grove 678-965-5010 Principal: Pam Pajerski 8135 Majors Road Cumming, Georgia 30041 Year Opened: 2006 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/pineygrove Riverwatch 678-455-7311 Principal: Pam Bibik 610 James Burgess Rd. Suwanee, Georgia 30024 Year Opened: 2003 https://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/riverwatchms South Forsyth 770-888-3170 Principal: Molly Bradley 4670 Windermere Pkwy.

Cumming, Georgia 30041 Year Opened: 1999 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/sfms Vickery Creek 770-667-2580 Principal: Scott Feldkamp 6240 Post Road Cumming, Georgia 30040 Year Opened: 1999 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/vcms

Forsyth Virtual Academy 678-965-4970 Principal Drew Hayes 136 Elm Street Cumming, GA 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/lhs

High Schools

North Forsyth High 770-781-6637 Principal: Bob Carnaroli 3635 Coal Mountain Drive Cumming, Georgia 30028 Year Opened: 1994 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/nfhs

Alliance Academy for Innovation 470-695-7823 Principal: Brandi Cannizzaro 1100 Lanier 400 Parkway Cumming, Georgia 30040 Year Opened: 2018 https://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/alliance

South Forsyth High 770-781-2264 Principal: Laura Wilson 585 Peachtree Parkway Cumming, Georgia 30041 Year Opened: 1989 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/sfhs

Denmark High 470-533-2521 Principal: Heather Gordy 645 Mullinax Road Alpharetta, Georgia 30004 Year Opened: 2018 https://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/dhs

West Forsyth High 770-888-3470 Principal: Karl Mercer 4155 Drew Road Cumming, Georgia 30040 Year Opened: 2007 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/wfhs

Forsyth Central 770-887-8151 Principal: Josh Lowe 131 Almon C. Hill Drive Cumming, Georgia 30040 Year Opened: 1955 http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/fchs

Academies of Creative Education Forsyth Academy/Gateway Academy/ Forsyth Virtual Academy 770-781-3141 1130 Dahlonega Highway Cumming, Georgia 30040 https://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/ domain/3994

Two new schools to open in August as district enrollment grows

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onstruction on Forsyth County’s newest schools remains on schedule for their August 2021 opening despite the challenges presented in a year disrupted by COVID-19.

Hendricks Middle School and East Forsyth High School will open for their first class of students in the 2021-22 school year.

Both schools were funded through the 2018 bond referendum and proceeds from the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) approved by voters.

Hendricks Middle School is located off Hyde Road in Cumming on a 46-acre parcel. The $41 million school will be the county’s 11th middle school, and also the largest with a capacity of up to 1,475 students. It is similar in design to DeSana Middle School which opened in 2016.

Cheryl Riddle will serve as the school’s first principal.

East Forsyth High will be the 7th traditional high school in the county and is similar in design to Denmark High which opened in 2018. Along with the full range of academic and sports offerings, the school will have distinct labs for construction, audio/video production, marketing-fashion design, drafting and design.

East Forsyth High will open in August with grades 9-11 under

the leadership of Principal Jeff Cheney.

The school is situated on 90 acres off Jot Em Down Road in Gainesville and will serve the far northeast section of the county.

As constructed, the school has a capacity of 2125 students, however the building design allows for a future addition to accommodate 2475 students.

In fast growing Forsyth County, that option is likely as the district has seen enrollment grow by more than 50 percent in the last decade with few signs of slowing down. Forsyth County Schools is now the state’s 6th largest district, with an enrollment of nearly 51,000 students in the 2020-21 school year.

Since 2001, the Forsyth County School District has opened 22 new schools.

Forsyth County Schools is also opening two non-traditional venues in 2021. The FOCAL Center will serve as the district’s performing arts facility and is scheduled for completion next winter.

The new Academy for Creative Education will contain the alternative learning programs offered through the Gateway Academy, Forsyth Academy and Forsyth Virtual Academy is expected to be completed in time for the 2021-22 school year.

Forsyth Schools receives $5.8M in federal stimulus

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ore than $7.5 million in federal stimulus funds has been allocated to the Forsyth School System by the Georgia Department of Education to help manage COVID-19 disruption to schools over the past year.

The funding was contained in two rounds of stimulus payments through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. A third round is expected to be approved this spring. Stimulus funds can be used across a wide variety of programs and activities in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Georgia was allocated more than $2.1 billion in CARES funding to be distributed to the state’s 180 school districts through the first two rounds. Distributions were based on the number of students receiving Title 1 funding tied to household income.

The CARES Act funding allowed Forsyth Schools to extend 10 COVID days of leave through March 31 for staff, according to district officials.

“This was a priority of our Board, even with the large decreases in state and local revenues,” said Superintendent Jeff Bearden said.

The budget for the 2020-21 school year drew heavily from its reserve funds to ensure all positions were maintained and any furloughs avoided.

Public schools could see a third round of CARES Act funding under the $170 billion stimulus plan expected to be approved

by Congress in spring 2021.

Education Answer Book 2021 | 37

Bearden named finalist for state’s top school leader

F

orsyth County Schools Superintendent Supt. Jeff Bearden was named a finalist for the 2021 “Georgia Superintendent of the Year” by the Georgia School Superintendents Association. The statewide organization cited leadership and collaboration skills as key attributes of the finalists.

Each year GSSA accepts nominations from local school boards, Regional Education Service Agencies, business organizations and communities, and education colleagues in the state for the state’s top school administrator.

Bearden has been the superintendent for the Forsyth County School system since 2014, navigating the district through expansive student growth, new school construction, and the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I am humbled and honored to have been selected as a finalist for Georgia’s Superintendent of the Year,” Dr. Bearden said. “This is further validation of the great work that happens every day in FCS [and] I share this honor with every employee in our great school system.”

A native of Georgia, Bearden began his education career in Maine as a social studies and language arts teacher, before working his way up the ranks to become superintendent of the Maine School Administrative District No. 35 and the Limestone School Department.

He returned to Georgia in 2011 where he served as the superintendent of Fayette County Schools and Rome City Schools prior to his selection as Forsyth’s top leader.

In December, the GSSA selected finalist Pike County Superintendent Mike Duncan as the superintendent of the year.

Bearden has been the superintendent for the Forsyth County School system since 2014

38 | Education Answer Book 2021

COURTESY PHOTO

School Supt. Bearden among panelists at White House education event ‘Flex, adapt, pivot” are keys to successful school re-opening

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orsyth County Schools Superintendent Jeff Bearden shared insights on re-opening schools in the midst of a pandemic during the National Dialogue on Safely Reopening America’s Schools held last summer at the White House.

The day-long event included panel discussions among an invited group of K-12 educators, college/university representatives, students, and parents from across the country.

It also included input from government and health officials under the Trump administration including Betsy DeVos who served as the education secretary, and former CDC Director Dr. Robert Redfield. Dr. Deborah Birx, a key member of the Coronavirus Task Force under former President Donald Trump also participated.

Bearden outlined the re-opening plans for Forsyth County Schools with the goal to have as many students as possible return to schools for face to face instruction.

Forsyth County was the largest district in Georgia to re-open school buildings last August, with the option of continued remote learning.

“Challenges create opportunities and we have likely never been challenged in the history of public education,” Bearden said.

He stressed the keys to success included “flexibility, adaptability and be prepared to pivot.”

Bearden said in-person learning is the optimal choice for students, and feared the “summer slide” of lost learning would challenge education. “[Schools] are a people business and a relationship business,” Bearden said. “We need to focus on that and [ensure] home schools and community schools work as partners.”

CANDY WAYLOCK/HERALD

School board moves forward on new attendance lines No changes made to draft plan after public review

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ew attendance zones will be in place for the 2021-22 school year as the opening of two schools shuffles the lines for several existing schools across Forsyth County.

In August East Forsyth High School and Hendricks Middle School are scheduled to open impacting about 2,800 students in seven middle and high schools.

Deputy Superintendent Joey Pirkle said the new attendance boundaries will meet the district’s objectives when drawing new lines.

“As staff we are always referencing the two primary objectives for redistricting [which are] do our recommendations functionally populate our new schools [and] do our recommendations relieve overcrowding at existing schools?” Pirkle said.

The public had the opportunity to weigh in on the redistricting plan through public forums and online input prior to the approval by the Forsyth County Board of Education.

Superintendent Jeff Bearden noted principals at all impacted schools provided feedback throughout the process and agreed with the plan. He asked for the public’s support on the changes.

“I certainly understand any time your child is moving from one school to another it’s always a challenge,” Bearden said. “We will do everything in our power to guarantee your child is attending a quality school…and I know that is going to happen.”

A summary of the redistricting plans includes: Hendricks Middle School - Students will be rezoned from Liberty Middle (423), Vickery Middle (464) and Otwell Middle (288). The first-year attendance at Hendricks MS is projected at 1,175 students, which is 80 percent of its capacity to allow for future growth.

East Forsyth High School - Students will be rezoned primarily from North Forsyth and Forsyth Central for a first-year enrollment of 1,603 students. Although that number is 75 percent of the school’s capacity, only students in grades 9-11 will attend East Forsyth in its first year.

To balance student populations across all seven district high schools, some adjustments will also be made at West Forsyth and Central high school.

Education Answer Book 2021 | 39

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