Nurturing bonds beyond the classroom
The power of teacher-student
relationships
In the realm of education, where knowledge is imparted and minds are shaped, an invaluable connection exists far beyond textbooks and curriculum: teacher-student relationships. At King’s Ridge Christian School, these relationships form the bedrock of our educational philosophy from Pre-K through High School. These relationships are also what continue to draw our alumni back to campus long after graduation.
Nurturing Personal and Spiritual Growth
Christ, educators at King’s Ridge Christian School actively model this for our students of all ages. We understand that a growing relationship with Christ is foundational to a purposeful and fulfilling life and a cornerstone of our school’s mission. By integrating biblical teachings into the curriculum, engaging in prayer and chapel services, and participating in small group advisement, King’s Ridge Christian School teachers guide our students toward deepening their relationship with Christ in a safe and loving environment.
Academic Success and Motivation
At King’s Ridge Christian School, the commitment to individualized attention and care is at the forefront of our educational approach. By establishing strong relationships, our teachers create a safe and nurturing environment where students feel seen, heard, and valued. This feeling of being “known” encourages students to explore their passions, take risks, and discover their true potential. Through relationships and small class sizes, our teachers become mentors and leaders, providing students with the support and encouragement they need to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. By understanding students’ unique strengths and learning styles, our teachers can often tailor their instruction to meet individual needs, cultivating personal growth and self-confidence. Recognizing the importance of each student’s personal relationship with
The influence of teacher-student relationships on academic success cannot be overstated. Our faculty and staff know that when students feel connected to their teachers, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated in their studies. The positive rapport established between teachers and students creates an environment where students are eager to learn, actively participate, and take ownership of their education from a young age.
As the educational landscape evolves, King’s Ridge Christian School stays true to its passion: to bring every student into a personal growing relationship with Jesus Christ while equipping them to do with excellence all that God has called them to do. Through nurturing bonds, our teachers cultivate an environment where every student feels valued, supported, and empowered to make an impact that extends far beyond the King’s Ridge Christian School campus.
Brought to you by - King’s Ridge Christian School
Great minds think differently
Brought to you by - The Cottage School
Since 1985, The Cottage School (TCS) has provided a comprehensive program for students with learning differences grades 3-12. TCS offers a business-based model that promotes self-advocacy and fosters self-confidence, preparing them for life after graduation to pursue postsecondary educational paths or vocational opportunities. Our accredited college preparatory curriculum meets all Georgia standards and HOPE scholarship requirements to take students to graduation and beyond.
Our students, in all grades, enjoy unique experiential learning with electives based on their interests and clubs including archery, drama, forensics, robotics, horticulture and amazing off-campus experiences throughout the year.
The school’s beautiful 23-acre Roswell campus is a hidden gem in North Fulton, with small class sizes our students develop meaningful connections to our teaching staff. Our cottages are unique and warm learning environments that include computer and science labs, art studios, a multi-purpose athletic and performing arts facility, indoor and outdoor classrooms, comprehensive music program and trails for mountain biking and cross-country. TCS encourages students of all abilities to participate in athletics by offering sports such as soccer, basketball, baseball, cross-country, tennis, and golf.
The Cottage School has built a one-of-a-kind learning environment perfect for students who learn differently. TCS offers 12-month rolling admissions for all grade levels. Visit our website or call for a campus tour today.
NOW ENROLLING GRADES K - 12
NOW ENROLLING GRADES K - 12
Schedule your family’s tour today!
Schedule your family’s tour today!
Students learn differently. We teach differently.
NOW ENROLLING GRADES K - 12
Schedule your family’s tour today!
Dr. Steve Palmer,
Dr. Steve Palmer, Head of School President/Chair, Georgia Independent School Association (GISA) Board
The Cottage School (TC n educational community f ith learning differe
It is our goal to change learning outcomes for students with different learning needs by providing a specialized education that best fits the way they learn. Students do their best work in classes with a 10-to-1 teacher ratio TCS removes barriers and the stigma often associated with experiencing a learning difference and allows students to be in a community of support that caters to their strengths. The result of this work: students with mild to moderate learning differences thrive.
Students learn differently. We teach differently.
The Cottage School (TCS) provides an educational community for students with learning differences.
The Cottage School (TCS) provides an educational community for students with learning differences. It is our goal to change learning outcomes for students with different learning needs by providing a specialized education that best fits the way they learn. Students do their best work in classes with a 10-to-1 teacher ratio. TCS removes barriers and the stigma often associated with experiencing a learning difference and allows students to be in a community of support that caters to their strengths. The result of this work: students with mild to moderate learning differences thrive.
Grimes Bridge Road, Roswell, GA 30075
It is our goal to change learning outcomes for students with different learning needs by providing a specialized education that best fits the way they learn. Students do their best work in classes with a 10-to-1 teacher ratio. TCS removes barriers and the stigma often associated with experiencing a learning difference and allows students to be in a community of support that caters to their strengths The result of this work: students with mild to moderate learning differences thrive
Sowing the seeds of organic learning
ing, materials which capture the imagination and assist in physical, academic and social development.
Maria Montessori, Italy’s first woman doctor, invented a system of early childhood education based on her scientific observations of how the child constructs himself through interaction with his environment.
Her emphasis on the importance of the “prepared” environment created by the teacher offers the child the freedom to choose his work. This freedom - which is given when the child demonstrates the responsibility to use it wisely - allows him to remain with an activity until its purpose is accomplished. Working without artificial timelines allows him to engage in the spontaneous repetition of a skill so that it is refined; this freedom also creates in him the ability to concentrate for long periods of time and to feel the satisfaction of mastery.
In a Montessori environment, the teacher serves as a guide rather than as a traditional instructor. She continually observes the child, using these observations to give the next lesson so that he steadily progresses.
The multi-aged classroom gives every child regular opportunities to be the learner as well as the leader in the security of a home-like environment which is cared for by everyone in it, teacher and student alike. The Montessori classroom is ordered and beautiful, filled with materials that are aesthetically pleas-
Montessori develops children who are responsible, creative, innovative, respectful and kind. Montessori children are truly the citizens of the future, equipped to face challenges with confidence and competence.
Located near the intersection of 141 and McGinnis Ferry Road in Johns Creek, Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia provides excellence in Montessori education for infants, toddlers and children to six years old. JCMSOG provides an authentic Montessori environment, where each individual’s needs are respected, and everyone works together for the good of the community. The focus is always on helping the children to develop themselves in a caring, peaceful environment. By helping children to develop independence, we assist them in their physical and emotional development. As their sense of security in their ability to care for themselves and their environment grows, their brains have more energy or "bandwidth" for increased academic learning. Additionally, this focus on the development of muscular control is a first step in developing self-discipline. The JCMSOG Difference is best experienced in person. Please schedule a visit with your child to observe our “Montessori Magic” - www.JCMSOG.org 770-814-8001
• School Administration Team with Advanced Academic Degrees
• Montessori Trained Lead Teachers in every classroom providing individual customized lessons
• Scientifically designed, hands on, multisensory learning materials in all our
• Designated School Personnel only allowed in the school building
• Thorough handwashing/hygiene practices consistently taught and enforced
• Healthy, nutritious lunch and snacks provided daily and included in tuition fees
Limited Openings Available – The JCMSOG difference is best experienced in person, schedule a tour or visit with your child and observe our “Montessori Magic.”
Change lives, change the world
Brought to you by - Wesleyan School
Wesleyan 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 with 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-ofthe-art academic facilities along with on-campus practice space for athletics and arts.
Located just outside of I-285 in Peachtree Corners, Wesleyan enrolled 1,206 students in grades K-12 for the 2023-2024 school year. 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 p.m. at an affordable rate.
Wesleyan School
5405 Spalding Drive, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 770-448-7640
https://www.wesleyanschool.org/
Healthy approaches to using social media
Social media plays a central role in how we communicate, share information, and connect with others. However, there can often be cons to social media and our use of it as well. It is essential to approach social media use mindfully to maintain mental and emotional well-being.
Setting boundaries is crucial. It is helpful to establish specific times of day or specific amounts of time for checking social media to prevent it from dominating your entire day. This can help prevent feelings of overwhelm or anxiety that can arise from constant connectivity. Social media can be a great way to relax or distract from stressful situations, but there are also many other ways to recharge. Going
for a walk, watching a movie/tv show, listening to music you like, journaling, or art can all be other forms of selfcare.
It's easy to fall into the trap of comparing yourself to others or feeling inadequate based on others’ content. Remember that social media often presents a skewed version of reality, showcasing highlights rather than the full spectrum of human experience. If you find yourself feeling negatively impacted by social media, consider taking breaks or unfollowing accounts.
Lastly, use social media as a tool for positive connection and selfexpression. Engage in communities that align with your interests or values and participate in meaningful conversations. By approaching social media with intention and self-awareness, you can harness its
Nurturing curiosity and growth: summer enrichment
Brought to you by – Woodward Academy
Summer is a wonderful time for relaxation and fun, but it also offers countless opportunities for students to engage in activities that stimulate their minds, foster creativity, and build essential skills. It's essential to consider how summer can continue the educational journey. Here are some enriching summer activities for students from pre-K through 12th grade that support whole child education and make the most of the private school experience.
The Benefits of Private Schools: A Summer Perspective
Private schools are renowned for their robust and well-rounded curriculums, which can extend into the summer months through carefully selected activities. By aligning summer enrichment with the private school curriculum, students can seamlessly transition from one school year to the next while maintaining their intellectual and creative growth.
Exploring Private School Resources Over the Summer
Many private schools offer exceptional resources that families can tap into during the summer. Even if your child’s school does not provide formal summer programs, the same principles and resources can be applied to at-home activities. Here are a few ideas:
• STEM Exploration: Utilize online resources, local science museums, and DIY kits to delve into science, technology, engineering, and math projects. Engaging in hands-on experiments and problemsolving tasks can ignite a passion for STEM subjects.
• Creative Arts: Encourage participation in arts and crafts, music lessons, or drama workshops. Local community centers and online platforms often offer summer classes that can help nurture creativity and artistic skills.
• Athletics: Summer sports camps and clinics are perfect for keeping children active. Look for programs that not only focus on skill development but also emphasize teamwork, leadership, and healthy competition.
Nurturing Curiosity and Growth During the Summer
Whole child education emphasizes the importance of nurturing every aspect of a child's development. Summer is an ideal time to focus on this holistic approach by engaging in activities that promote social, emotional, and physical growth. Here are some suggestions:
• Leadership Camps: Many organizations offer leadership programs for young
students. These camps can help build confidence, communication skills, and a sense of responsibility.
• Community Service: Volunteering is a great way for students to give back and develop empathy. Look for local community service opportunities or create family projects that involve helping others.
• Mindfulness and Wellness: Introduce activities that promote mental and emotional well-being. Yoga classes, mindfulness workshops, and even family nature walks can be excellent for reducing stress and fostering a positive mindset.
Tailored Programs for Every Age Group
Choosing age-appropriate activities is crucial for maximizing summer enrichment. Here are some tailored suggestions for different age groups:
• Pre-K to 2nd Grade: Young learners thrive on playful and exploratory activities. Organize story time sessions, simple science experiments, and interactive games that build foundational skills.
• 3rd to 5th Grade: This age group benefits from more structured exploration. Consider enrolling them in coding camps, art workshops, or nature exploration programs that encourage curiosity and skill development.
• Middle School: Middle schoolers can start to dive deeper into specific interests. Look for academic enrichment programs, sports clinics, and creative arts camps that cater to their growing passions and talents.
• High School: High school students can use summer to prepare for their future. Encourage participation in college prep courses, internships, or advanced subject camps that align with their career interests. These experiences not only enhance their resumes but also provide valuable insights into potential career paths.
Conclusion
Enriching summer activities are a vital part of the educational journey, particularly for families who value the benefits of private schools. By focusing on whole child education, parents can ensure that their children make the most of their summer break. Whether through academic enrichment, creative exploration, physical development, or community involvement, there are countless opportunities for students of all ages to learn, grow, and thrive during the summer months.
Make this summer an enriching and memorable experience for your child by exploring the many activities available that support their overall development. Encourage your child's growth with enriching summer activities and watch them thrive in every aspect of their life.
Brought to you by - Maddie McGarrah, M. Ed., Summit Counseling Center
Education solutions for every mind, every age
Brought to you by - Eaton Academy
Eaton Academy offers multiple programs, both in person and online, since a “one size fits all” approach to education is not effective in today’s world.
Academic Programs
The full-day K-12 school with its 5:1 student-to-teacher ratio allows instructors to address students’ individual learning styles. Through the use of STEAM-related activities and multisensory instruction, students achieve academic and personal success. The challenging, college-prep curriculum is delivered in a safe, nurturing environment.
For students with more significant academic and social needs, the Pace Program helps them develop life skills and independent living strategies. This approach is perfect for students on the spectrum, those with developmental delays, and individuals with other scholastic challenges. Pace students follow the traditional school day and work to develop greater self-sufficiency and independence, on their way to earning a high school diploma.
The Independent Study Program (ISP), tailored to students’ schedules and academic needs, permits individuals to work at their own pace. The tutorial setting
enables aspiring athletes and performers to work toward graduation while following their dreams. Some students enroll in ISP
EATON ACADEMY NOW ENROLLING
A Challenging Approach to Education that Features:
• STEAM-Oriented Classrooms
• Attention to Individual Needs
• Customized College-Prep Programs for K-12
• 5:1 Student: Teacher Ratio
• Independent Study Classes for Credit
• Supportive, Nurturing Environment
• Post-Graduate Options Available
to accelerate their scholastic work; others seek academic remediation. ISP arranges the one-to-one sessions on a schedule that accommodates the students’ needs for flexibility. Sessions can be in person or online.
Post-Graduate Programs
LEAP is designed to help individuals strengthen their life skills in order to achieve greater independence. Participants benefit from job readiness training, life skill development, and scholastic support.
The LIFE program places young adults into their own apartments. Participants meet with a LIFE coach several times each
week for support with topics such as budgeting, hygiene, roommate relations, and housekeeping.
Supported Employment prepares young adults for the workplace. Assistance is given with resume writing, applying for positions, and keeping a job.
College Exploratory offers individuals college level, non-credit courses so they can gauge their readiness for university life.
Eaton Academy is the ideal place for families to discover education options and independent living solutions. Whatever students need, Eaton works to create the perfect education solution for them.
Laying the foundation for success
The importance of preschool in early childhood development
Brought to you by – Primrose School of Alpharetta
More and more parents are recognizing the importance of preschool to help their children lay the right foundation for success for elementary school. The best preschool programs go beyond helping children master basic academic skills –they shape their development as happy, confident, well-rounded individuals.
Primrose School of Alpharetta, which has been voted the best preschool in North Fulton every year for the past eleven years, promises a whole lot more:
Setting the gold standard: accreditation beyond compare –Cognia accredits elementary, middle, high school and colleges in the US. Primrose Alpharetta was among the first preschools in the country to achieve this prestigious accreditation. They have demonstrated program consistency and displayed continuous improvement for early childhood education.
Crafting young minds: awardwinning staff – Their staff ensures children are ready for elementary school and beyond. With the Primrose proprietary Balanced Learning System, their experienced, certified, and degreed teachers have the tools they need to help each child thrive and grow by learning play, art, music, and character development while in a nurturing and supportive environment.
Where tradition meets innovation: the balanced learning curriculum –Primrose Alpharetta's curriculum is a blend of the best principles from leading childhood development methods, such as Montessori, Piaget, and Vygotsky, combined with insights from today's top experts in Early Childhood Education. This unique approach seamlessly integrates intellectual, creative, physical, and socio-emotional skills into daily experiences, ensuring that children flourish in every aspect of their development.
Safety first: a commitment beyond measure – Parents can trust their ongoing commitment to provide a safe environment. From controlled building access and playground safety to cleanliness, food handling, and other practices, they maintain the highest standards. Every staff member is CPR / First Aid certified and trained on the Primrose Safe School Plan.
Unlocking future success: developing executive function – Surveys of HR managers have revealed that critical thinking, teamwork, self-control, adaptability and working memory are essential to succeeding in a workplace and are more important than good grades and technical skills. As a part of Primrose Balanced Curriculum, children will be able to practice these Executive Function skills every day, by approaching tasks with creativity, and completing projects via outof-the-box thinking.
Building good neighbors: a commitment to community & giving
– As the very first Primrose Franchisee in the nation, Primrose Alpharetta has been an active member of the Alpharetta community since 1988. Caring, giving, and community involvement are core values they teach children in their care, and they expand these beliefs far beyond the classroom. For many years their families have relied on them for being part of Alpharetta’s most familyoriented events, from Food Truck Alley
and Mayor’s Challenge sponsorships, to Touch-a-Truck and Scarecrow Harvest event participation, children’s block parties in the neighborhood, major charity fundraising and donations. They teach by example what it means to be a good neighbor!
To learn more about the many lifelong benefits of enrolling your child at Primrose School of Alpharetta, please visit www. primrosealpharetta.com or call (770) 6647508 to schedule a tour.
We teach children to thrive
Brought to you by – Endeavor Montessori, Dunwoody
A child’s first years of education tremendously impact their future. That’s why we help children build a foundation of knowledge and skills that will empower them to succeed academically, socially, and personally. With a strong foundation, your child can reach new heights.
Endeavor Montessori is now enrolling children ages six weeks to 12 years for 2024 - 2025. Our curriculum implements a modernized Montessori approach that cultivates the whole child intellectually, emotionally, and socially. In addition, our rigorous yet celebratory approach inspires critical thinking, cultural awareness, and entrepreneurship.
With our holistic approach, children develop in all areas. From building critical thinking and creative problemsolving skills to forming meaningful connections, our students enjoy an educational experience that prepares them to succeed in various ways.
To make this high level of education possible, At Endeavor Montessori, our
staff includes professionally-trained Montessori educators who understand the importance of accommodating each student’s needs and learning style. We take this approach to ensure every student succeeds and realizes their educational goals while being part of a close-knit school community.
Endeavor Montessori offers a learning environment where children experience appropriate levels of technology that are integrated seamlessly into an enhanced Montessori curriculum. This approach, along with a Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM) program, addresses the demands placed by modern education while also strengthening children’s innate desire to seek knowledge and find the answers.
Let your child thrive with Endeavor Montessori.
To learn more about our curriculum and for enrollment for children ages six weeks to 12 years, call (770)637-1242 or visit our website at endeavormontessori.com
High expectations. Low anxiety.
Located in historic Chastain Park, The Galloway School is a community where learning is joyful, individuals are valued, and self-discovery is encouraged. Galloway students in Pre-K3 - 12th grade confidently embrace challenges while developing the knowledge, skills, and cultural competence to thrive as enlightened contributors in their chosen pathways.
Galloway provides students with an innovative symbiotic learning experience that defies traditional, transactional
learning. For over 50 years, we have been committed to providing a rigorous program that fosters creativity, collaboration, and cultural competency. Our philosophy of engaged and experiential learning encourages students to be ever curious about the world around them and to develop a critical mind.
With an environment that both challenges and supports our students, Galloway encourages each student to grow at their own pace while developing a sense of personal agency. Visit gallowayschool.org to learn more!
Brought to you by - The Galloway School
INVESTIGATIVE REPORTING
While covering Milton election operations, Appen Media analyzed historical voter data and identified possible disenfranchisement.
This reporting caused a statewide watchdog to get involved and, eventually, the city moved to add a polling place to the area. Later in the year, Appen discovered that the feasibility report the City Council used when voting to run their own elections was not the original document. Two residents on a working committee had altered it after city staff had completed it and before its presentation to council. Appen Media reporters identified all of the differences between the two documents and then created an interactive digital document. Readers and officials were able to scroll through the materials and read notes from the newsroom explaining the differences. You can find this document at appenmedia.com/electionsreport.
