Atlanta Parent January 2019 by Atlanta Parent

AtlantaParent

January 2019 / atlantaparent.com

Our A+ School Guide

Plus: Why The Arts Matter Like Us on FACEBOOK

OPEN HOUSE

lle Lawrencevi th January 26 PM 12 – AM 10

Sandy Springs / Lawrenceville-Suwanee

404-409-0827

678-985-8080

Sandy Springs

Lawrenceville-Suwanee

Come See

AMERICA’S STORY • Summer Programs and Camps • Pre-K-12th Grade School Programs • Booth Public School Transportation Fund • Homeschool Fridays • Educator Nights • Art Classes and Workshops Schedule Your Program Today 770-387-3849 tiffanyh@boothmuseum.org

A Smithsonian Affiliate Museum

Inside 35 January

YEARS OF ATLANTA PARENT

Features

14 16

Departments

A Peaceful World

Create a calm oasis in your home with our ideas.

8 Publisher’s Note 10 Good Stuff

The Legacy of MLK

11 Atlanta Parent Digital

Things we like

Celebrate the life of a champion of brotherly love.

18 26

A Heart for the Arts

Exposing children to music, dance, theater and art has lasting benefits, from diversity to critical thinking.

Disney with a Special Touch

Whether it’s a character meal or the VIP treatment, here’s how to put more magic in your next trip to Disney World.

PAGE

Our A+ School Guide Our guide will help you explore educational options in public schools, private schools and boarding schools. Plus, experience a day in the life of a teacher, learn about science literacy and pick up some tips to keep your kids motivated.

Magazine Association of the Southeast

2013 Award Winner atlantaparent.com

Be Your Best Self SPONSORED CONTENT

Family Fun Guide 91 92

Not-to-Miss Events

The Super Bowl Comes to Town

Acrobats, Juggling and Circus Acts

94 January Top Events 97 MLK events 98 Snow and Skates

99 Free Fun 100 Medieval Times’ New Show

Like us on Facebook; facebook.com/ AtlantaParentMagazine January 2019 Atlanta Parent 5

Is your child WHEEZING? Your infant or preschooler may be eligible for a clinical trial to prevent future wheezing episodes. Eligible participants will receive, at no cost:  Health exams  Breathing medications  Study medications Participants will receive compensation for time and travel.

Shannon Kilman 404.727.7687 shannon.kilman@emory.edu Alice Bruce 404.712.1773 alice.bruce@emory.edu

PUBLISHER Liz White

lwhite@atlantaparent.com ASSOCIATE Laura Powell PUBLISHER lpowell@atlantaparent.com

ACCOUNT Carolyn Haushalter EXECUTIVE chaushalter@atlantaparent.com

ACCOUNT Cindy Ford EXECUTIVE cford@atlantaparent.com

ACCOUNT Emily Satterfield EXECUTIVE Esatterfield@atlantaparent.com

SPECIAL EVENTS Hannah Sykes COORDINATOR/ hsykes@atlantaparent.com SALES ASSOCIATE CONTRIBUTING Amanda Miller Allen EDITOR STAFF Teresa Whiting WRITER tfarkas@atlantaparent.com

Gems Learning Academy Infants to Pre-K

After-School Programs

Summer Camp

EDITORIAL Sheri Taylor-Emery ART DIRECTOR creative@atlantaparent.com

PRODUCTION Robin Mintz

OPERATIONS Caroline Ward MANAGER cward@atlantaparent.com ADMINISTRATIVE Amelia Ramirez ASSISTANT

Join the GEMS family!

Children ages 6 weeks -12 years Extended care 5:30 a.m - 8 p.m.

Enrolling now for Free GA PreK

770-306-6133 gemslearningacademy.com 6 Atlanta Parent January 2019

MARKETING MOM Felicia Barman

8850 Highpoint Rd., Union City 30291

Atlanta Parent magazine is published monthly by Atlanta Parent, Inc., 2346 Perimeter Park Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30341. Telephone 770-454-7599, Fax 770-454-7699. Atlanta Parent magazine is available free of charge at more than 1,000 locations throughout the metro Atlanta area. First class subscription only $30 per year. Subscription orders must include check or money order made out to Atlanta Parent magazine. Atlanta Parent magazine welcomes letters, articles, artwork and photographs from its readers and the community. Atlanta Parent magazine is not responsible for the return of unsolicited materials. All rights reserved. Any reproduction in whole or in part, is prohibited without written permission.

atlantaparent.com

Publisher’s Note Providing safe and reliable transportation for Metro Atlanta Children www.kruzinkidz.com 678-658-1220

The Arts, Education and Life Maybe you fondly recall going to the symphony as a child or your first piano recital, watching a performance of “Sesame Street Live!” or visiting the High Museum of Art. Almost everyone has special childhood memories connected directly or indirectly to the arts. In my case, it was going to the big city with my family to see my first live stage musical, and the wonder I felt as actors sang, danced and entertained. My daughter was on stage herself, in tap, jazz and ballet recitals. Her 7-year-old son loves putting on impromptu ukulele concerts for the family. All of these arts activities have a common link – whatever your experience, it changed you. You left with a better appreciation of movement, or rhythm, or what it means to create, a better appreciation of talent and skills and perseverance, and you were just a bit more cultured with a broader connection to the world and the people around you. Research validates that the arts and academics are closely intertwined and studies also link the arts with many more qualities we hope for in our children – creativity, empathy, critical thinking, curiosity, eagerness to learn, ability to make friends. Exposure to the arts puts kids on a path to becoming the kind of interesting, well-rounded person you’d want as a neighbor, coworker, friend or spouse. You’ll find more about the benefits the arts, and how to get your children involved, in our story, A Heart for the Arts, on Page 18. To learn about all of the educational options your kids have, turn to our A+ School Guide on Page 29. You’ll also find great tips on how to keep up the momentum and boost your child’s enthusiasm at the half way point in the school year. And follow four teachers through a typical day packed with challenges, and rewards. Meanwhile, remember that parents are the most important people in your child’s life. All of our experiences shape us and, we hope, change us for good.

How to Reach us: Telephone 770.454.7599

Email lwhite@atlantaparent.com

Fax 770.454.7699

Website www.atlantaparent.com

Snail Mail 2346 Perimeter Park Drive Atlanta, Georgia 30341

We welcome your views and comments. Letters that appear in the magazine may be edited for content and space.

8 Atlanta Parent January 2019

atlantaparent.com

Are you ready to have the Deer Run Camps & Retreats

best summer ever?

2019

Day Camps Overnight Camps Summer Programs FEBRUARY

MARCH

NORTH POINT MALL

PERIMETER MALL

Camp Expo Sponsor:

To exhibit or for info call 770-454-7599 or hsykes@atlantaparent.com l

atlantaparent.com

by Teresa Farkas

Good StUff

THINGS WE LIKE

Dolls That Give Back Every doll purchased from Cuddle + Kind gives 10 meals to children in need in the U.S. and around the world. These hand-knit cotton dolls come in many different characters from unicorns to mermaids and bears. Each doll comes in regular or little size and has a favorite, inspirational quote. Available at cuddleandkind.com for $52-$72.

Disney Re-Makes Galore Screen-less Communication for Kids If you aren’t ready to purchase a phone for your child, but want to be able to have constant communication, Relay Go may be the solution. Equipped with 4G LTE, WiFi and GPS technology, the device is similar to a walkie-talkie, but with more range. The Relay Go is screen-free, water resistant and features channels with music, a translator and echo, a fun voice changer. Available at relaygo.com for $49.99.

Walt Disney Pictures continues to re-make even more original movies in 2019. Parents can reminisce on the days of watching cartoon versions of Disney classics, while taking their kids to new adaptations. “Dumbo” is scheduled to be released March 29, and stars Collin Farrell and Danny DeVito. “Aladdin” is scheduled to be in theatres May 24, and stars Will Smith as the Genie. “The Lion King” starring the voices of Beyonce and James Earl Jones will be released July 19. Look for “Lady and the Tramp” and “Mulan” coming next. Visit imdb.com for more information.

Transforming Stuffed Animals In the cold winter months kids will be wearing jackets most of the time, but these come off when temperatures rise in the spring. Cubcoats are multi-use and can transform into a stuffed animal when not being worn or transform into a jacket when your child gets chilly. The product comes in multiple designs such as Black Panther, Minnie Mouse, Star Wars characters and more from their signature series like the panda or kitty. Available at cubcoats.com for $45-$50.

Girl Scout Cookie App Ever wonder where the closest cookie booth to your house is located? Use the Girl Scout Cookie Finder app available for free download on the Apple App Store to find cookie booths and learn about the different flavors. The app even includes distance to the booths and hours for when the booths will be set up. Girl Scouts of Greater Atlanta sales begin January 1. Visit girlscoutsatl.org for more information.

10 Atlanta Parent January 2019

atlantaparent.com

Atlanta

PARENT MOST-READ STORIES Best Girls’ Night Out Ideas Around Atlanta 5 Coolest Wearable Tech Products for Kids Explore a New Hobby with Your Kid

#CONTESTS Keep an eye out for #AtlantaParentContest every week on Facebook and in our enewsletter. This month, we’ll be giving away tickets to Marvel Universe Live! on February 22 including a character meet and greet, a Family Season Pass to the College Football Hall of Fame and More.

MarvelUniverseLive.com

KID-FRIENDLY GUIDES 12 Things to Love About Children’s Museum of Atlanta Best Ice Skating Rinks Around Atlanta 250 Fun Things to Do in Atlanta with Kids

ATLANTA PARENT’S TOP TEN LISTS FOR EVERYTHING FAMILY Our curated list will help you explore all Atlanta has to offer, from schools to attractions and more. atlantaparent.com

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 11

MOMMY HAS A NAME Seven Ways to Reclaim Your Identity by Lara Krupicka

Limiting our identity to one role has the potential to build resentment. And it can diminish our ability to be our best as a parent. Want to be a better, more fulfilled mom? Try one or more of these seven ideas for reclaiming your self.

Spend time around people who don’t know your children. It’s natural for the majority of our associates during the child-rearing years to be those who play a role in our children’s lives: parents of playmates, fellow PTA members, neighborhood moms. However, this limits us to being identified as somebody’s mom. When you engage with others minus the kids, you have the chance to express another side of yourself. This can be as simple as going to the gym or a Pilates class once a week. Accomplish a personal goal. We often have the sense that the world drops off at our doorstep; that we have to put everything on hold for the sake of our children. But the truth is, our kids can appreciate us more when they see us making time for ourselves, too. And fulfilling one goal can lead to other opportunities. For Michele Kus, engaging in music again has spawned new aspirations: making an album, learning how to DJ, writing soundtracks. “It has opened a whole new world for me,” she says. “I feel like I have come back to life, and my husband and kids have seen the change in me.” Establish a ‘no kids zone’ in your house. They may follow you everywhere (including the bathroom), but that does not mean you don’t deserve a space of your own. Even a chair or nook designated off-limits to everyone but you can provide a respite when the troops are restless.

12 Atlanta Parent January 2019

4 5 6 7

Have a ‘big people dinner’ with just your spouse. Feed the kids a child-friendly meal of chicken nuggets or mac ‘n cheese. Then focus your energy on creating a more sophisticated meal for the adults in the house. Pull out the china and light some candles. Once the kids are all tucked in bed for the night, enjoy a peaceful, uninterrupted meal. One caveat? Try not to discuss the kids over dinner. Find a job. Consider looking for work as your children reach school age. Even a few hours each week can make a difference in your attitude toward yourself. Kathleen Wolf, a mother of two, started as a substitute teacher before going back to teaching fulltime. The results for her have been positive. “I feel more confident and that my kids are not my whole world,” she explains. “I have a purpose again.” Make a date – with yourself. Arrange for someone to take child duty (spouse, grandparent, friend), then escape for a day doing what you like best – reading, napping, shopping. Not sure what to do? Pick a day and jump in the car to see where it takes you. You may be surprised. Get physical. Engage in a sport or activity you enjoyed as a youth. Whether through drawing, playing tennis, or playing piano, using your body to do something once very familiar can be emotionally satisfying. Unlike our memory of information, muscle memory (or what scientists call “procedural memory”) sticks much longer-term. The result is that we can connect with our identity prior to motherhood through actions we learned long ago.

Six Signs You Need a Mommy Break n You’re not sure what you’d want to do, given time alone. n You can’t remember the last time you had the house to yourself. n You’re surprised to hear your given name. n You could practically live out of your car with all of the food, clothing, and gadgets in there. n You don’t close the bathroom door anymore because why bother? n You still carry a diaper bag, even though your kids have been potty trained for years.

As many women have found, motherhood can be an all-consuming profession. But it does not have to claim our personal identity, too. Given a bit of attention ... and intention, we can be ourselves and Mommy. And we should.

atlantaparent.com

SPONSORED CONTENT

Be Your Best Self in 2019

When mom feels good the whole family feels good. Try these ideas for health, wellness, beauty and fitness solutions in the New Year. Evidence-Based Female Care This year make it a priority to tackle some underlying female issues with the help of Emory Clinic’s Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics. The Clinic offers evidence-based care for the treatment of postpartum pelvic pain, pelvic organ prolapse, incontinence, and sexual dysfunction. Whether you are dealing with endometriosis, uterine fibroids, or abnormal bleeding, the Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery division offers coordinated interdisciplinary care that includes primary care physicians, gynecologists, urologists, gastroenterologists, and colorectal surgeons – all specially trained in the diagnosis and management of pelvic floor disorders. Four locations. 404-778-3401. emoryhealthcare.org

Low-Impact Cosmetic Procedures Dr. John L. LeRoy understands that the way moms feel they

look on the outside can often affect how they feel on the inside. In 2019, take a small approach to looking and feeling like your best self with his cosmetic Band Aid procedures. Since Dr. LeRoy developed these techniques over two decades ago, patients have enjoyed impressive cosmetic results with a shortened recovery time and lower cost. Each of the following treatments are performed in-office with gentle numbing: The Band Aid Mini Facelift, Micro Mini Facelift, Tummy Tuck, Liposuction and Laser Skin Resurfacing. Our entire staff works to give patients personalized care throughout the treatment process. 5673 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd. NE Ste. 375, Atlanta. 404-843-0840. atlantafacelift.com

Workouts to Challenge Body and Mind Make exercising more than just a resolution this year, make it a weekly routine. Club Pilates offers low-impact, full-body workouts combining Pilates with TRX, Barre, Bosu balls and more. With nine signature class types and levels to challenge mind and body, and a varied schedule, Club Pilates classes bring focus and clarity while removing stress from 50 minutes of your busy day. You will get individual attention in a group setting with others trying to reach similar fitness goals. Physically, you will build core strength and a strong foundation of balance, mobility and flexibility. Take a free intro class and get started toward feeling better and living better. 12 metro Atlanta locations. clubpilates.com/atlanta atlantaparent.com

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 13

A PEACEFUL WORLD STARTS AT HOME by Christina Katz

What the world needs now is peace, sweet peace. If every family strives for harmony at home, then takes that outlook into the world, the world will become a calmer, more soothing place. A peaceful home sets a healthy example for your kids to learn how to let go of things you cannot change while taking charge of what you can influence. Here are eight ideas to get you started: l Cultivate family peace practices. One child may

prefer to read a book while another may wish to do something physical to get grounded. When my daughter is upset or agitated her go-to calming activity is a nice warm shower or bath. For mild upsets, drawing is an old friend she used to wind down before bed. Find practices that work for each family member. l Spread joy. Refuse to give in to cynicism. Put a positive

bumper sticker on your car. Decorate your yard with the word “peace” and other objects that symbolize joyfulness. Add a birdbath or a fountain to your yard or home. Plant a Peace Garden (see sidebar). Believe in a more peaceful world and do your part to make it happen. Inspirational quotes glimpsed on the way out the door can inspire your family members to new understanding each and every day. 14 Atlanta Parent January 2019

l Make a small difference. Keep a coin jar out

and fill it with loose change. When a crisis occurs, make a donation to support intervention. On an ongoing basis, give what you can to help those in need in your community. Share leftover pantry items with your local food bank and old clothes and belongings with non-profit thrift shops. Feel good about steadily being part of the solution. l Process disappointments right away. Your child may experience a loss and you may not be aware of it. My daughter was displaying uncharacteristic behavior. I was able to trace the source back to a recent disappointment at school. We often cajole our kids to “be a good sport” without giving them a chance to express their feelings. I was able to seek out some feedback from the teacher. My daughter had a little cry, admitted that she was more disappointed than she had let on, and was back to her old cheerful self within a few hours. l Bless people. Peacefulness is contagious. Beam peace at agitated people you encounter. If folks you love from far away are suffering, light a safety candle for them. Send positive thoughts, a prayer or a wish for all good things across the miles. Write down positive words and people’s names you’d like to bless on little pieces of paper and place them in a “peace box” of your own creation. Imagine your good intentions spraying out into the world like a giant fountain. atlantaparent.com

l Guard against media overload. Monitor

family media exposure, especially during times of scary news broadcasts or upsetting continual updates. Turn off televisions and radios when children are around. Get kids off the internet and away from hand-held devices. Silence your cell phone notifications. Tumultuous times are a good time to revert to old-fashioned fun like reading a book, playing a board game or going for a family walk. If a crisis is not affecting your family directly, don’t let the news cycle cause your family unnecessary stress. l Memorialize losses. Unexpressed grief often causes people to act out in ways they might not otherwise. Take a look back at major losses in your family (and even your childhood) and ask yourself if you have adequately acknowledged your suffering. If not, it’s not too late. Ask your spouse the same questions. Then ask your kids. Don’t protect your kids from feelings of loss that are a natural part of being human. Never brush off grief, yours or anyone else’s. Find creative ways to commemorate major losses in your family and you will help your loved ones move through feelings of sadness and loss. l Live in the present. Anxiety is triggered by focusing on the past or the future at the expense of the moment. We can’t control what happened yesterday and we are not at fault for things beyond our control out in the world. However home base can always be an oasis of calm, cool collectedness. Cultivate tranquility at home, and bring that attitude with you out into the world.

Build a Peace Garden. A peace garden is a place for sowing seeds with intention. Gather seeds in the colder months. Dedicate a plot of ground to your peace garden and refocus on peace each time you plant new seeds. Affirm the growth of peace in the world as you plant flowers and shrubs. Add a place to sit and reflect on your peace garden. When things rock your world, go to the garden and sit, or send your kids to the garden to tend it. Make a little peace bouquet, take a photo and share the image on social media. A peace garden may mean different things to different family members, so let everyone contribute and interact with it as they see fit. If every family had a peace garden, the world might be a different place.

Pregnant & looking for ways to relax? MASSAGE SPECIALTIES

• Pregnancy • Postpartum • Fertility • Neuromuscular 60, 75 or 90 minute massage sessions!

Two locations: Atlanta & Roswell

678-462-2173 pregnancymassage.com

$10 OFF

your ﬁrst prenatal massage when you mention Atlanta Parent

atlantaparent.com

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 15

LOVE AND BROTHERHOOD

Honoring the Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King

For a comprehensive list of events planned around Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Jan. 21, see Page 97.

by Laura Lyles Reagan

magine our world if Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. were still alive. For one thing, he would be the guest of honor at his 90th birthday celebrations in Atlanta this year. He might have been the first black president of the United States. He certainly would be a revered leader of the civil rights movement. He was an activist who believed in nonviolence and affecting change through public opinion, negotiation and strength. “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that,” he once said. Dr. King was born on Jan. 15, 1929, in Atlanta, into a black and white world of separate drinking fountains, separate and unequal schools, white-only restaurants and hotels, and laws that kept blacks and whites from having much contact or equal treatment. His activism brought about change, but children today are still exposed to our country’s struggle with race and culture. Here’s what parents can do to help them sort through the issues.

ENGAGE. EMPOWER. ENRICH. February Break Camp

Grades K-8

ENROLL NOW

Student Flight Simulator Robotics Teams Kids Coding Science Labs Video Game Design Birthday Parties Studio Art Classes

120 Arnold Mill Park, Ste 400 • Woodstock • 678-224-6188 thestemhangar.com • 16 Atlanta Parent January 2019

@theSTEMHanger •

@thestemhanger atlantaparent.com

Practice diversity; be a good race relations role model. Demonstrate positive race relations in practical ways in your own life. If most of your friends are from your own race and culture, you may want to consider opportunities for you and your child to interact with other races and cultures. Try attending a different church on Sunday and observing how they worship. Find something to appreciate about it and comment on it to your child. If you see a television program about a different culture, use the opportunity to discuss a different way of life and worldview. Find one thing you like about it and state it out loud. Listen first. Don’t assume shared understandings about race. Sociologists assert that children notice differences quite early in their development, but it may be for reasons that interest children and not as adults define the difference. A teacher noticed that 6-year old girls on a playground were not playing with one girl, who was African American. She listened first before intervening and found that the majority of the girls preferred to play with girls who wore their hair with ribbons instead of girls who didn’t use ribbons. The African American girl didn’t use ribbons in her hair. The girls were not excluding her because of race but because of ribbons. To adult eyes, the game looked racist, but to the children, it made sense. When one girl shared her ribbons with the African American girl, the teacher chose to intervene and praised the sharing behavior. Answer your child’s questions about race and culture in an age appropriate way. Psychiatrists believe that there are two critical development ages when race and culture questions are likely to occur, at 6-8 years old and the teenage years. These stages are times when the child’s world is expanding and their values are forming or solidifying. Responding to a child’s questions at these stages in simple, honest terms is important. Even a response of “let’s read about that” can show you are open to learning about different cultures, customs and communities. When your child comes home and declares a classmate has an Asian mom and a black dad and says, “Isn’t that weird? You might say, “Not weird, just different” and use the comment to talk about diversity.

Year-Round Classes and Summer Camps for ages 8-18. Make games, apps, and create with technology! Classes and camps include coding with Minecraft, Unity Game Design, and Coding with Python and Java.

Coding Classes and Summer Camps At Start Code, wonder of techwe focus on the creativity an the skills and dinology while giving studen d ts rection to crea te tomorrow.

If we heed Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s words, vision and example, we can intervene on the divisions in the nation, in our own homes every day. atlantaparent.com

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 17

A Heart for the Arts

WHY KIDS NEED DANCE, MUSIC, THEATER AND VISUAL ARTS by Teresa Whiting

Parents who expose their children to the arts fill their lives with beauty, laughter and a love of learning. Kids become problem-solvers and creative, collaborative thinkers. They are more confident and expressive. No matter where you live in metro Atlanta, kids have opportunities to participate in the arts. This can be in dance, music, art and drama classes, or while attending art festivals and live performances. Look for “The Wizard of Oz” at Alliance Theatre and “Pocahontas” at Serenbe Playhouse this year. Atlanta Parent spoke with the experts at the High Museum of Art, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Alliance Theatre and the Atlanta Ballet Centre for Dance Education about why our kids benefit from all types of arts. 18 Atlanta Parent January 2019

atlantaparent.com

DANCE

ance involves a lot of focus, with the right and left side of the brain having to work together to create movements, which follow the chosen song or genre. And, of course, dance improves motor skills and physical fitness. “Dance touches more senses than you think, with the mind, body and music working together,” says Sharon Story, Dean of Atlanta Ballet Centre for Dance Education. Children can learn discipline, how to focus and how to collaborate with a team of choreographers, stage managers, musicians and more to create a performance. “Everyone dances, and you don’t have to be a professional to benefit. It is all about learning the joy of dance,” she says. Story and her colleagues at the Centre for Dance Education work to make dance accessible to all students from first-time exposure in public schools to intense training for those who pursue dance as a career. The most recent project in Atlanta Public Schools brings West African, jazz and ballet dance classes into the schools. “Students take huge pride in what they do through the arts, which creates pride for school work,” Story says. “When kids get their energy out, they are ready to sit in their chairs and learn.” Dance studios across Atlanta offer many dance styles and programs to choose from, but the Centre works to make lessons more accessible as do other community organizations like the YMCA and Boys and Girls Club. “Parents are investing in a highly-structured and disciplined program, which leads them [children] to a wonderful pattern for success,” she says. Story also encourages parents to expose children to dance performances from a young age to develop enthusiasm and appreciation.

CHILDREN CAN LEARN DISCIPLINE, HOW TO FOCUS AND HOW TO COLLABORATE. Cont’d on page 20

atlantaparent.com

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 19

MUSIC

usic is essentially language put to song, and most children hear music around them from a very early age. Through music, kids can stop and feel something they may not have before, think about word and sound combinations or musical instruments, and start to make connections with cultures and history. “Benefits include self-expression, discipline and creativity. When composing, you have to think about an idea, weave this idea using a certain set of skills and work with an orchestra or musical group to bring it to life,” says Hollis Hudak, Senior Director of Education and Community Engagement at Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. She encourages parents to help develop a musical palate at home by always having music playing. This can be whatever you love, from jazz to blues to drum solos. “Just like palate development with nutrition with varieties of food groups,” she says. You can sing, create games, marches or chants to the music to make it more exciting. Once your child expresses he loves drums, violin or piano, try and attend any live performance you can. Along with other music venues around Atlanta, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra offers a few family shows per year, which welcome children to move around, mimic the conductor and take in the experience of hearing music in a large space like Atlanta Symphony Hall. Music for the Very Young is for families and children to experience music for the first time together. “We take the very best artists from orchestral to African drummers, and let kids dance, walk and march to the music. We are planting seeds in the garden of music participants,” she says.

ONCE YOUR CHILD EXPRESSES HE LOVES DRUMS, VIOLIN OR PIANO, TRY AND ATTEND ANY LIVE PERFORMANCE YOU CAN. Cont’d on page 22

20 Atlanta Parent January 2019

atlantaparent.com

Fine Arts on Spotlight Spotlight Fine Arts ATLANTA DANCE & MUSIC ACADEMY 404-877-0005 524 Plasters Avenue NE, Atlanta atlantadanceandmusic.com Sharing the joys of Dance and Music since 1998. Atlanta Dance & Music Academy offers a full dance program including Preschool Dance, Ballet, Modern, Jazz/Hip-Hop and Teen Ballet. Private music lessons in Piano, Voice, Guitar etc. Have one child in dance while another takes music; easing the logistical challenges of modern family life.

Fine Arts Section

COMMUNITY MUSIC CENTERS OF ATLANTA 404-614-0466 Decatur | Dunwoody | Little 5 Points | Brookhaven CMCAtlanta.com CMC Atlanta’s professional faculty offers comprehensive music education programs for ages 4 and older, from beginner to pre-professional. With four convenient locations, CMC Atlanta programs include private lessons, after-school programs, day camps, workshops, gap programs, an accredited high school conservatory, apprenticeship and artist residency programs. Register today at your neighborhood music school.

Fine Arts Spotlight

DUNWOODY SCHOOL FOR THE ARTS 770-280-1215 1445 Mount Vernon Road, Dunwoody dbc.org/schoolforthearts Learn Piano, Guitar, Drums, Woodwinds/Brass as well as Music Theory, Drama and Voice from instructors who love teaching students of all ages. We offer beginner to advanced Ballet, Tap, Jazz and Hip-hop. Young lovers of the arts will enjoy our Preschool Piano, Creative Movement and Little Maestros. Atlanta Parent

atlantaparent.com

ECLECTIC MUSIC 404-537-1382 Virginia Highland | Inman Park | Morningside | In-Home eclecticmusicatlanta.com With more than 15 years of experience teaching music, Eclectic Music has become an Atlanta staple! With three in-town studios and in-home lessons, Eclectic Music offers private music lessons, summer & school break camps, jam sessions, workshops, music classes, and performance opportunities to musicians of all ages and abilities. Atlanta Parent atlantaparent.com

atlantaparent.com January 2019 Atlanta Parent 21

THEATER

eing a part of a theatrical performance is all about teamwork, and through theater, children learn how to tell a story with words, music and movement. “There is something special about engaging people in storytelling that is essential to navigating the world,” says Christopher Moses, Director of Education and Associate Artistic Director at Alliance Theatre. When children are in acting classes, they learn about collaboration and problem solving and develop the confidence to speak in public. Kids also learn to appreciate peer’s stories, voice and diversity, which help create curious learners. The Alliance Theatre offers a few family-focused shows throughout the year, and acting classes for all ages, as do many other smaller theaters in metro Atlanta. The Theatre for the Very Young is unique to Alliance and keeps the youngest viewers in mind when shows are developed. “For new show development we invite little ones, and the shows are authentically built by their cues, which is wildly immersive and appeals to the five senses,” he says. “We are always looking for ways to deepen involvement, so families feel welcome.” At home, Moses encourages parents to participate in shared storytelling and reading, and to act out family stories or books in a fun, creative way. “Research proves theater is one of the most important ways to increase wonder and curiosity, and to develop creative individuals, which will pay off tremendously,” he says.

WHEN CHILDREN ARE IN ACTING CLASSES, THEY LEARN ABOUT COLLABORATION AND PROBLEM SOLVING AND DEVELOP THE CONFIDENCE TO SPEAK IN PUBLIC. Cont’d on page 24

22 Atlanta Parent January 2019

atlantaparent.com

Spotlight Fine Arts Fine Arts on Section FOREFRONT ARTS CHILDREN’S THEATRE 770-864-3316 Multiple Locations ForefrontArts.com Ages 3-18 can channel their talents with Forefront Arts Children’s Theatre – while boosting confidence and developing life skills in problem solving, listening and collaboration. School-year classes in Acting, Improv, Musical Theatre, Dance Technique and more. Full-scale productions – perform in “The Lion King JR”! Summer and school break camps. Afterschool and weekend options.

Fine Arts Spotlight THE MUSIC CLASS 770-645-5578 12 Locations in Metro Atlanta themusicclass.com/atlanta

Fun filled classes of singing, dancing, movement and instrument play. Parents learn how to enrich their child’s music environment and enhance music potential. Ages birth – seven years. Over 150 classes offered in metro Atlanta featuring our award winning music. Call for class times and to schedule a free observation class.

Fine Arts Spotlight

THE NEIGHBORHOOD BALLET 678-596-8447 749 Moreland Avenue SE, Atlanta theneighborhoodballet.com The Neighborhood Ballet’s mission is to inspire, encourage, and nuture a love of dance in every student. TNB is committed to providing high-quality dance education while also offering a safe and supportive environment for our students. Enrollment for spring is now open at www.theneighborhoodballet.com.

Atlanta Parent

atlantaparent.com

SANDY SPRINGS MUSIC 404-250-0406 5920 Roswell Road, Atlanta sandyspringsmusic.com Sandy Springs Music is the go-to spot for music lessons, and string, brass and woodwind instrument rentals or retail. Lessons for ages 4 to adult in all instruments, levels and genres in addition to Rock Band Classes, summer camps, audio/video recording and more. Students will develop the skills and tools to enjoy music for a lifetime. Atlanta Parent atlantaparent.com

atlantaparent.com January 2019 Atlanta Parent 23

VISUAL ARTS

Come Sing, Dance, Laugh and Play With Us!

NEWBORNS TO PRESCHOOLERS

Visit website for info or to sign up. l

musicinmeco.com

l Info@musicinmeco.com

11705 Jones Bridge Rd.

Johns Creek 30005

We offer: •Preschool Dance •Ballet •Modern •Jazz/Hip-Hop •Teen

Private music lessons in Piano, Voice, Guitar, and more.

404-877-0005

524 Plasters Avenue NE, Atlanta 30324

atlantadanceandmusic.com

reativity flourishes when children are involved in the making and appreciation of art, and they learn the process of trial and error. “Making art is so important for the brain – trial and error, making mistakes, not everything is going to be perfect, but we need to try. Failure is so important for all of us,” says Virginia Shearer, the Director of Education at the High Museum of Art. Shearer also believes in our fastpaced visual world, where children are bombarded with images and communicate with images like emojis, kids need to learn how to decode. “Visual arts are critically important, and educators can teach kids how to navigate. We invite children to slow down, look closely, describe what they are seeing and share with observation skills,” she says. From this process of making and observing art, children can begin to make connections between art in the past and today, with everyday objects like a Coca-Cola bottle and even in

popular graphic novels. Children have many opportunities for this exposure in Atlanta, when visiting the High and participating in classes or camps, or at local art studios and galleries. “Being exposed [to art] helps everyone become empathetic, imaginative and creative, which helps build creative adults and contributors to the arts,” she says. Parents have a big part to play, Shearer says, noting that early memories from experiencing arts together have a significant impact on children. At home, parents can decode images in books, have art supplies in reach, make connections with color and form with food at the grocery store, and travel around Atlanta to experience murals. “Studies show the strongest arts experiences happen for children when they happen with their families. During Second Sunday [a free program at the High], we have chairs for both sizes at the same table to make art together and multi-age experiences,” she says.

FROM THIS PROCESS OF MAKING AND OBSERVING ART, CHILDREN CAN BEGIN TO MAKE CONNECTIONS BETWEEN ART IN THE PAST AND TODAY. 24 Atlanta Parent January 2019

atlantaparent.com

Painting & Drawing Lessons ur Art & Fitness OANRET-CHolass 5 School Break Camps 1 A PartRi T es $ 235

Come Draw with Us It’s a FUN way to learn!

PRE-SCHOOL ELEMENTARY

Vinings School of Art

678-213-4278 viningsschoolofart.com

Young Rembrandts

Serving North Fulton and Dekalb Counties Laura Vandewiele 678-478-8275

YoungRembrandts.com/northfulton-dekalb

NEW PROGRAMS: •Speaking Skills •Music Theater

Enhance Your Child’s Brain Private Lessons: Music & Chess  4 years– adult Piano  Accordion  Violin  Voice Guitar  Drums  Flute  Chess

EuroSchoolMusic.org404-255-8382 BUCKHEAD / SANDY SPRINGS

Are you a top arts program?

Award-winning

Bubbles and Brushes art studio

Now you can become one with the music

Our unique instructional method develops both musical and intellectual abilities, memory, attention, focus, critical thinking, and helps students reach full academic potential.

l l

Dance Music

l l

Art Drama

Learn about our 2019 digital and print opportunities Open 7 days a week, all day long! No reservations...walk-ins only!

770-454-7599

678-899-7035 • Newnan, GA • BubblesAndBrushes.com

A Studio Dedicated to the Art of Dance

Ballet • Tap •Jazz • Hip Hop • Piano • Guitar Adult Tap and Ballet • Ballroom Mothers Morning out Ages 2 and older • Adult classes, too

atlantaparent.com

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 25

ATouch of Magic

Make a Disney World Trip Extra Special This Year by Laura Powell

Disney World is fun at any age, but when kids are ages 5-10, it is magical. We planned a memorable adventure with our 5- and 7-year-old and you can, too, with special treats such as character meals or a pirate adventure. Try these ideas to add a little zip-a-de-doo-dah to your visit. n Dinner and a Show: If your kids are old enough, book a character dining experience and show. I recommend the Fantasmic Dining Experience at Hollywood Studios. Disney also offers dessert and show experiences. The Fantasmic show is best for kids a little bit older who are good with watching the scary parts of a Disney movie. The water, fire and movie effects are amazing. n Breakfast with Mickey: Book a character dining experience without the show. We enjoyed Tuskar House at Animal Kingdom Lodge where all the Mickey characters are dressed in Safari gear. Our 5-year-old was the perfect age for the breakfast meet and greet. She loved taking pictures and collecting signatures. The characters come to your table and it’s nice to not have to wait in a line. Plus, it’s a fun way to start your day at Animal Kingdom. n Themed Evenings: Mickey celebrates his 90th birthday in 2019, so look for Disney surprises all year long. Consider planning a fall trip to the Magic Kingdom during Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party or a holiday visit for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. These evenings include special themed parades, treats, fireworks, rides decorated for the occasion and more. Trick or treating and dressing up in family costumes is an extra perk of the Halloween celebration.

Perks for a Small Price Before we embarked on our trip, I spoke with Lindsey Paris, an Atlanta area Disney Moms Panelist and blogger. We focused on free and cheap fun to add memories to our visit because everyone likes to save on entertainment! Her suggestions: n Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom is a free, interactive card game that you can play throughout the park. Open magical windows and you find the key to go onto the next step. Cast spells to defeat Disney villains. Visit the firehouse near the entrance for a free starter pack and a training session. 26 Atlanta Parent January 2019

n Pirate League Experience offers kids the chance to transform into a pirate, mermaid or empress. The pirate masters are engaging, and have the kids pick their pirate or mermaid name. They lead the hunt for the secret treasure, and kids collect a few additional treasures to take home. Our kids loved getting made-up into pirates and mermaids. The package starts at $44.95 and you can bring your own costume from home to keep it budget-friendly.

n Jedi Training at Hollywood Studios is a free experience for Star Wars fans ages 4-12. Kids get to take part in an interactive 25-minute show, where they borrow robes and lightsabers for their training to defeat Darth Vader. Arrive at the park when it opens and register to secure a spot. n Coin pressing is an easy, fun and affordable souvenir to take home. Lindsey recommends that you bag up your coins at home to be prepared for this activity. It’s 51 cents per machine to press your pennies. At disneyworld.disney. go.com, find an interactive map of the hundreds of machines throughout the parks. atlantaparent.com

For a Really Special Day, Try a VIP Tour Our family had a magical experience at Disney with a private VIP tour guide for a day. The option is not just for celebrities. Guests work with Disney to set up a custom itinerary. Your guide picks you up at your hotel and ushers you into the park through the most efficient ways (back doors, behind the scenes and such). The best part is your guide is your own personal fast pass and if your 5-year-old is like ours, a new best friend. We met our guide Kate in the morning at our hotel, Grand Floridian. We hopped in her nice, clean SUV and went to the Kilimanjaro Safaris at Animal Kingdom Park. After watching lions roar in unison (sometimes you get lucky) and seeing many cool giraffes, hippos and other wildlife, we checked out Pandora – The World of Avatar. Again, our guide led us through the fast pass line and you can get on rides efficiently like Avatar Flight of Passage (a three-hour wait without a fast pass). Kate was great at keeping our 5-year-old entertained on a few rides that were too scary for her like Flight of Passage and the Expedition Everest roller coaster. Then she chauffeured us over to Hollywood Studios. Water and snacks were ready for us before we headed in. It was just the pick-up we needed. The new Toy Story Land is a must-see attraction for families. It was super crowed on a Friday, so having our guide made the experience enjoyable. We were able to easily try all the cool new rides like our favorite, the Slinky Dog Dash roller coaster. After a fun day, our guide drove us back to our hotel. Private tours range between $425-$625 per hour by season, not including park admission tickets, and run for a minimum of seven hours. The tours can include up to 10 guests, so splitting the cost with another family makes this option more affordable.

A Deluxe Stay Grand Floridian Resort is one of Disney’s classic, elegant resorts, but it’s Disney, so don’t let that deter your family from staying there. The resort is family friendly and our kids loved the two pools, plus the Beauty and the Beast splash play area. If you can stay on the club level at a resort close to the parks, the extra expense offers some conveniences to offset the cost. The biggest advantage is the club level food and drink. At the Grand Floridian, guests were offered a light breakfast, lunch, dinner and happy hour, so we weren’t hunting for a restaurant with tired kids after a day at the parks. Grand Floridian rates start around $700 per night for club level, but look for special deals and packages, and check club level prices at other Disney resorts. Find out more at disneyworld.disney.go.com. – Laura Powell

Plan Ahead It helps to book your trip to Disney well in advance. n The best planning website for determine the busiest times to visit is the undercovertourist.com crowd calendar. It ranks on a sliding scale what to expect crowdwise on different days. n Booking in advance will also help with pricing and availability. Disney’s new pricing system offers date-based pricing, which means visits cost less in off times. Book at disneyworld.disney.go.com. n Download the Disney app at home and book your fast passes up to 60 days in advance. You can view wait times for rides, schedule fast passes and more. Bring a battery back up to keep your phone going through the day. Photo courtesy of Disney

atlantaparent.com

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 27

Globally Aware, Socially Responsible, Academically Driven

Delivering individualized academic and emotional development from Infancy through High School •

IB Candidate School*

•

Engaging, holistic, and authentic Montessori approach

•

Individualized academic programs, addressing specific needs and goals of each child

•

Incredibly engaged and diverse parental community

•

All lead guides are MACTE (Montessori Accreditation Council for Teacher Education) certified

•

Accredited by the American Montessori Society and AdvancED

Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs 2830 Old Atlanta Road Cumming, GA 30041 770-205-6277 montessoriacademysharonsprings.com Serving students ages 6 weeks through 18 years *Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs is a candidate school for the Diploma Programme. This school is pursuing authorization as an IB World School.

Please see our other locations:

flipped for dark backgrounds

6285 Post Road Cumming, GA 30040 770-777-9131

1970 Cliff Valley Way NE Atlanta, GA 30329 404.325.6777

black

Our A School Guide +

Ways to Maintain Academic Progress

32 Motivating

Kids to Learn

A Day in the Life of a Teacher

42 Kid-Powered Play 44 Finding a Great Preschool

Public School Profiles

54 61

Scientific Literacy Guide to Private Schools

Special Advertising Section

Boarding Schools: Going Away to Learn Sponsored Content

The Maker Movement: Learn Through Doing

A Sampling of Private Schools

Special Education: What Parents Need to Know

atlantaparent.com

[ Focus on Education ]

January 2019â&#x20AC;&#x192; â&#x20AC;&#x192; Atlanta Parent 29

MOVING FORWARD:

10 Ways to Maintain Academic Progress by Christina Katz

Teachers are giving a lot of homework. Math is harder. Social circles may be in flux. By January, your kids may feel a little less motivated in the classroom. Try these 10 ways to help your child maintain academic enthusiasm and navigate the ups and downs that come as the school year progresses. 30 Atlanta Parent January 2019

1 2

Attitude check. Your point of view of school and teachers is going to be mirrored by your children. If you criticize and disrespect teachers and administrators at home, don’t be surprised if your child does the same at school. Show your child that teachers deserve respect, support and appreciation and that school is a safe and fun place to learn. Attend parentteacher night, meet your child’s teachers, and make sure they know you are an education ally. Notice moods. Kids should be reasonably happy to get out of bed each morning and go to school. If your child does not have at least one or two activities to look forward each week, address this together. After the holiday break is a good time to get involved in new activities. Having fun, interactive activities to look forward to can significantly improve a child’s mood. Getting enough sleep and eating three healthy meals plus snacks are also critical for maintaining a cheerful attitude and good health.

[ Focus on Education ]

atlantaparent.com

5 6 7 8 3 4

Imagine a happy future. Many parents cannot seem to talk about the future without causing kids to feel anxious or overwhelmed about their options. Instead, ask detached questions about the future and listen. We need to give children an opportunity to inform us how they view the world long before it’s time to leave the nest. It may be tempting to correct their less practical inclinations, but don’t. Let them have their hopes and provide a safe space where they can let their plans evolve. Ask about the day. Don’t lose track of kids’ emotional states. Ask and listen without distractions. Don’t sacrifice a daily check-in for a too-hectic schedule. Before or after dinner can be a good time to chat, especially when there are afterschool activities and plenty of homework. In fact, the more hectic the schedule, the more important it is to increase family down time. Try to have longer conversations about how school is going on the weekends.

atlantaparent.com

9 10

Review annual goals. January is a good time to review with your child his academic goals for the school year, goals that serve their vision of the future. If you sense they are getting off track or distracted, briefly chatting about goals can reinvigorate kids to put energy into achieving them. Make school a good fit. If your child is bored in school, maybe classes are not rigorous enough. If academics are too challenging, your child may constantly be struggling to keep up. Talk to the school counselor to see what options you have for making adjustments. Placement in the proper level classes is crucial for happiness at school. Check grades regularly. Let kids keep track of their own progress in school as much as possible, but touch base with them about grades often enough to troubleshoot any problems. The frequency of chats can vary depending on age and maturity level. Choose the routine that best supports your child’s success, and then cut them some slack as they take on more responsibility. Encourage kids to talk to teachers at the first sign of an academic problem, instead of waiting for things to get worse. Asking for help from older adults is an important life skill, and selfadvocacy is usually rewarded. Keep social commitments in balance. We all know kids who keep their social calendars booked, rarely taking any down time. Try to remember that self-care is taught rather than innate, and don’t allow your child’s hyper-social friends to make him feel like he is constantly missing out. Be especially mindful if your child has friends who don’t have enough parental guidance. For some kids, having a few close friends and hanging out one-on-one may be better than being part of an extended group that thrives on social drama. Be alert for bullying. Sometimes aggression between children is so subtle that parents don’t pick up on it. Sometimes kids who are being bullied may not realize it, or if they do, they may be ashamed to confide in parents or other adults. Volunteer at school once in a while and check out the social dynamics. Even children who have known each other for years can suddenly turn on each other, especially if they sense popularity is at stake. With tweens and teens make sure to regulate screen time, social media use and check devices regularly. Make sure you train kids in empathy and assertiveness and reinforce those lessons. Watch for red flags. If your child has an appropriate schedule but is still showing signs of being disengaged, get help. Parents may not have all of the resources their children need, and there is no shame in this. If your child is suffering from depression or anxiety, talk to a health care professional. Your general practitioner or family physician can ask the right questions and discuss treatment options. Childhood anxiety and depression are on the rise, especially as kids leave home to attend college. Make sure your child is ready for that transition by instilling a positive attitude and encouraging slow and steady momentum that will pay off during the first 12 years of school and beyond.

[ Focus on Education ]

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 31

n Emphasize learning as an

opportunity to get smarter

How to Raise a Motivated Learner

Research has shown a direct link between what a child thinks of his abilities and that child’s willingness to face obstacles. When children see their abilities as fixed and not subject to improvement, they worry that they are not smart enough whenever they fail or exert too much effort in learning a new task. As a result of this “fixed mindset,” these children view challenges as potential sources of “looking dumb,” and lose motivation when the work stops being easy. Children who believe the harder they work at something the better they’ll get at it, see obstacles as opportunities to add to their skills, not as potential blows to their self-confidence. Children who display this “growth mindset” understand that continuous effort is necessary to succeed, and show an increased motivation to keep learning even in the face of mistakes or failure. Parents can encourage their children to adopt a growth mindset by emphasizing the strategies their children use in pursuing a goal, rather than focusing on their children’s ability. For example, use words that praise your child’s efforts in achieving a goal (“You studied hard and did great!) versus words that praise your child’s intelligence (“You got an A because you’re so smart!”). This emphasis teaches them that good results often come from persistent effort, not necessarily innate ability.

n Make learning fun Turn lessons into fun activities by encouraging children to explore their interests. If your child likes music, sign him up to play an instrument or take him to children’s concerts. If your child is interested in history or dinosaurs, go to a museum or head to your local library to peruse through books on the subject. For a younger learner, use colorful puzzles and board games.

by Dolores Smyth

ne of the biggest challenges parents face is motivating their children to learn, whether it’s mastering multiplication, learning a language or sticking with the soccer team. Their reluctance to venture into unfamiliar territory is understandable – learning something new can be frustrating and not being successful can be discouraging or, worse, embarrassing. Try these five strategies to help your child become more eager to face new challenges. 32 Atlanta Parent January 2019

[ Focus on Education ]

n Respect your child’s

frustrations and need for downtime

It’s unreasonable to expect a child to be motivated all of the time. When parents don’t acknowledge a child’s frustration with learning new skills, the child is more likely to disengage. However, exploring your child’s hesitation to learn can give your child the reassurance he needs to keep striving. Likewise, be respectful of your child’s need for unstructured time to play outdoors or simply hang around the house. This boosts creativity as children dream up ways to fill their free time, and also builds character as children play with – and resolve conflicts with – other children their own age. atlantaparent.com

n Allow your children to fail Although it seems counterintuitive, part of helping children learn not to become discouraged when faced with a challenge is to let them fail and learn how to bounce back from that failure. Letting children fail teaches them resilience and responsibility for the consequences of their actions. When a child experiences how his poor effort leads to a poor result, the child may refocus his efforts at succeeding. In some children, the fear of failure can be especially daunting. Try easing these children’s fears by explaining that innovators they may admire – from Thomas Edison to Walt Disney to J.K. Rowling – experienced numerous setbacks before succeeding through perseverance.

Parents can encourage their children to adopt a growth mindset by emphasizing the strategies their children use in pursuing a goal, rather than focusing on their children’s ability.

n Lead by example One of the most effective ways parents can teach their children to embrace learning is to immerse them in a household where the parents are always learning. Show your child your commitment by reading avidly, taking a class, or engaging enthusiastically in a hobby. Not only will your child see that working hard doesn’t have to be a solitary undertaking, but he will witness firsthand the personal satisfaction that comes from taking on a challenge.

atlantaparent.com

[ Focus on Education ]

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 33

34 Atlanta Parent January 2019

[ Focus on Education ]

atlantaparent.com

LOOKING FOR SMALLER CLASS SIZE? MORE INDIVIDUAL INSTRUCTION?

VISIT

SUGARHILLCHRISTIAN.ORG FOR INFORMATION

Early Learning Center Information Session JANUARY 11

An intellectually stimulating environment for inquisitive, hands-on explorers who learn by doing and questioning Full immersion preschool and partial immersion primary programs in French, German, Mandarin and Spanish

Explore, connect, create change for a better world. A welcoming community with local roots and global reach, composed of families from over 90 countries. atlantaparent.com

[ Focus on Education ]

International Baccalaureate curriculum, Grades 3K - 12

www.aischool.org

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 35

36 Atlanta Parent January 2019

[ Focus on Education ]

atlantaparent.com

Teaching sounds like an easy job:

Work 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m., an hour for lunch, lots of holiday breaks, summers off – what could be better? The reality is far different and far more demanding. Here’s a glimpse of a typical day for four teachers.

Emily Suber

Third grade teacher at International Charter School of Atlanta in Roswell.

Roberto Llopart

Sixth grade English teacher and sixth grade level dean at The Walker School in Marietta.

atlantaparent.com

A DAY

IN THE LIFE OF A TEACHER

[ Focus on Education ]

Larisa Pender-Healy

High school biology teacher at Mount Vernon Presbyterian School in Atlanta.

Heather Upton

Kindergarten teacher at Saint Thomas More Catholic School in Decatur.

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 37

A DAY

IN THE LIFE OF A TEACHER Emily Suber Third grade teacher, International Charter School of Atlanta, Roswell Suber, who holds an undergraduate degree in English literature and a master’s degree in early childhood education with emphasis on international studies, was teacher of the year at ICS last year. She did her student teaching abroad in Greece and loved experiencing another culture and teaching students English there, but that wasn’t her first upclose exposure to kids from other countries. Suber was a volunteer for refugee families through Jubilee Partners and helped families with skills needed to adapt to life in the United States. She also worked at a health clinic for immigrant families in Clarkston. When ICS offered her a teaching position four years ago, she accepted immediately and remains enthusiastic about her career teaching kids who speak English as a second language or English speakers who want to learn a second language. “I love watching those light bulbs go off when my students really get something, when they connect ideas and reach educational milestones,” she says. Kids are learning about money, checkbooks, responsibility and accountability by earning “dollars” in her classroom when they complete school work or remember to get their parents to sign their homework; they lose “dollars” when they misbehave or forget to bring homework to class. They can use their bank accounts to write a check for a special privilege. Her classes also are working on curriculum units about problem solving (to foster critical thinking and independence) and integrity (to do the right thing when no one is looking) – both “skills they’ll need when they are older.”

Atlanta Parent asked teachers: When it comes to a child’s success in school and preparation for life, what’s your best advice for parents? 38 Atlanta Parent January 2019

A Typical Day n 6:45 a.m.: Arrives at school, after a commute from Duluth to Roswell. n 7:15 a.m.: Kids start arriving for class.

n 12:05 p.m.: Students have 30 minutes for lunch and another 30 minutes they can use for STEM or STEAM studies, physical education, art, music or just exercise and recess. n 1:05 p.m.: Classes resume.

n 7:45 a.m.: Morning classes begin. At ICS, third-graders spend half the day taking classes in English and the other half in another language – Chinese Mandarin, Spanish, German or French. Suber teaches math, science, English grammar, social studies, writing and other subjects in English for one group of students in the first half of the day and another group in the second.

n 2:05 p.m.: School ends for the day, except on Wednesdays, when students are dismissed at 1:05 p.m..

n 10:40 a.m.: The second set of classes begins.

n 7-8 or 7-9 p.m.: She spends another hour or two at home finishing up school work.

n 3:10 p.m.: Teachers can leave school, but most usually stay an hour or two after class working on lesson plans, meeting with other teachers, grading papers and preparing for the next day. n 5-5:45 p.m.: Suber usually heads for home after 5 p.m.

“Success is not a number at the top of a page. A more qualitative measure of success is found in a student’s sense of responsibility, ownership for learning, work ethic and grit. With an appropriate perspective on grades, they provide a tool for future learning and growth.”

“It’s OK to say no! Children don’t learn time management when they are overscheduled and having too many activities has added to the increased anxiety levels we are seeing in children as young as kindergarten and first grade. They need help in limiting what they want to do, and learning to prioritize.”

– Robin Condra, Mount Paran Christian School teacher

– Denise Dickerson, Mt. Bethel Christian Academy teacher

[ Focus on Education ]

atlantaparent.com

A DAY

IN THE LIFE OF A TEACHER Larisa Pender-Healy High school biology teacher Mount Vernon Presbyterian School, Atlanta Pender-Healy, who holds a bachelor of science in marine biology from the University of California Los Angeles and a master of science in biology from Georgia Tech, is in her third year of teaching at Mount Vernon. She lives on a farm in Serenbe with a furry family – two pigs, a chicken, three dogs and three cats. Until Pender-Healy was finishing up work at Georgia Tech, she’d planned to be a chemical ecologist or a college research professor. “I was working with an army of undergraduate students and discovered I liked working with students … and I thought I could make a bigger impact in high school than as a college research professor,” she says. Her Mount Vernon students are motivated learners, so her biggest challenge is “getting students to not focus on grades as the ultimate reward but to realize solving a problem is the biggest reward.” One problem her students have worked on is designing a biomedical tool to remove plaque from arteries without harming the arteries; they recently presented their ideas at the Georgia Tech Showcase for Bioengineering. Another class is tackling global warming solutions; another is studying DNA by solving a “murder case” at the school. “I aim for a majority of our time together that the students are driving the questions and doing science as much as possible to learn science,” she says.

A Typical Day n 6:10 a.m.: Leaves for school. n 7 a.m.: Arrives at school. n 7:30-8:30 a.m.: Students can see her for help with projects or class work, except on Tuesdays, when faculty meetings are scheduled. n 8:30-9:40 a.m.: First block of 70-minute classes; perhaps a biology class or students working on an IProject (innovation project). Classes change every day, and she never covers the same material in all her classes on the same day. n 9:40-10:25 a.m.: Community time. Students choose what they do – study quietly, get help from a teacher, work on creative activities such as art or music, work on a project or get active in the gym. Teachers are available to help. n 10:25-11:35 a.m.: Second block of classes.

“The key to success in school and life is having role models who are always learning. Every teacher wants a student who is excited about learning and is empowered to find answers to their questions. Parents can model problem-solving at home by thinking out loud. When children hear us talking to ourselves as we solve problems, they imitate this thinking when they tackle new challenges. Our internal dialogue can become their script for problem-solving.” – Allison Kerley Townsend, Barnwell Elementary School teacher and the 2019 Georgia Teacher of the Year

n 11:35 a.m.-12:35 p.m.: Lunch and enrichment for students. Teachers typically bring lunch or grab a quick bite in the cafeteria and get back to their classrooms to help students. n 12:35-1:45 p.m.: Third block of classes. n 1:50-3 p.m.: Last classes of the day. Teachers are in the classroom for three blocks of classes a day, and use the fourth for lesson plans, grading tests or reading student papers and preparation. n 3-3:30 p.m.: Time set aside to talk with students who need advice or help with projects. n 3:15-4:15 p.m., two Tuesdays a month: Faculty meetings. n 4:30-7 p.m.: Arrives home; feeds the critters; makes dinner. n 7-9 p.m.: Homework for school – lesson plans, paperwork, grading tests, reading student papers and other tasks.

“Go outside. Neighborhood playgrounds are a great place to socialize and form lasting friendships for not only children but adults. Playgrounds build a sense of community, while promoting sensory, motor and self-help skills.” – Beverly Hegmon, educator at Ahava Early Learning Center Cont’d on page 40

atlantaparent.com

[ Focus on Education ]

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 39

A DAY

IN THE LIFE OF A TEACHER Roberto Llopart Sixth grade English teacher and dean The Walker School, Marietta Llopart, who has a bachelor’s degree in communication with additional teacher certification in language arts, is in his second career, the one he feels he was meant to have. He’s worked as a production assistant at CNN and as an account manager for autotrader.com. The past 13 years, 12 years at The Walker School, he’s been a teacher, and he coaches the middle school basketball and high school football cheerleading squads, the debate team and assists with the middle school girls’ soccer team. He discovered his calling when he became a mentor for a DeKalb County high school student, though he’d suspected it when he volunteered at McKenna Farms Therapy Services with kids with special needs and as a mentor with Georgia Department of Family and Children’s Services. “I am passionate about teaching,” he says. “We are shaping young lives. … Because of the structure of Walker, I see kids from about 3 years old to 18, and get to watch and guide and facilitate their growth. Having the opportunity to be in these kids’ lives – that’s awesome.” Middle school for many kids can be challenging. “It’s not just academic content we’re dealing with, but social and emotional development, all these changes,” he says.

A Typical Day n 7:15 a.m.: Arrives at school after a 2025 minute commute from Atlanta. n 7:15-8 a.m. Monday-Friday: Grabs coffee and writes instructions on the classroom board. Responds to emails from colleagues, parents or students. n 7:15-7:50 a.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays: Coaches debate team. n 8-8:55 a.m.: First class. n 9-9:55 a.m.: Second class. n 10-10:30 a.m.: Advisory period where he meets with students for character education.

n 12:35-1:25 p.m.: Another class. n 1:25-2:20 p.m. and 2:25-3:15: Back-to-back planning periods (depending on the schedule rotation), though students often come to consult. n 3:30-5:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday: Cheerleading practice.

n 10:35-11:30 a.m.: Another class.

n 7:30 p.m.-9, 10 or 11 p.m. on Fridays: Football games; with an away game, he might get home at 11 p.m.

n 11:35 a.m.-noon: Lunch and lunchroom duty. “I get to eat lunch with the kids – it’s great,” he says.

n Sundays at Starbucks: He reads and grades student papers for four to six hours.

“Mistakes are good! Your children are not being challenged if they are not making some mistakes. You can help your children immensely by reinforcing that mistakes are a vital part of learning.”

“Be present physically and mentally. Put away the electronic devices and pay attention. Don’t miss clues about the most important people in the world. “

– Carrie Edmison, Woodward Academy teacher

– Judy Stokes, Atlanta Academy teacher

40 Atlanta Parent January 2019

n 12:05-12:30 p.m.: Sixth grade study hall. Kids also can come for academic assistance, complete homework, or discussions/affirmations about their daily experiences or can choose to have recess.

“‘No’ does not translate into ‘I don’t love you.’ Big trees of recovery start with small seeds of failure. Sometimes parenting is not always apparent – reach out for help where you have the most confidence. There is such a thing as Goldilocks love – soft, medium and hard – and different people need different textures. – Wilma Pollard, The Children’s School teacher

[ Focus on Education ]

atlantaparent.com

A DAY

IN THE LIFE OF A TEACHER Heather Upton Kindergarten teacher Saint Thomas More Catholic School, Decatur Upton, who has an undergraduate degree in education and a master’s degree in early language and literacy and is certified to teach special education, started work at Saint Thomas More as an assistant teacher when she was still an undergraduate. She joined the faculty in 2006 and taught second grade for 10 years, before switching to kindergarten three years ago. Upton lives in Tucker with her husband and goldendoodle Ginger, a therapy dog who is a “furlunteer” for Grady Health System’s Dog Therapy Program and also visits with kids involved with the Department of Juvenile Justice. “Teaching kindergarten is one of the most challenging things I’ve ever done,” she says, “because everything is hands-on, all the time, nonstop. And you have 25 kids from all different backgrounds, some who’ve been to kindergarten and know their letters and numbers and some who’ve never left mom’s living room. You have to balance the needs of all the kids.” No two days are alike, she says. Some start smoothly, and some begin with tears or a child with an upset stomach. Every day includes movement interspersed with learning – rhythmic clapping, dancing, games – because kids that young can’t sit still for long periods of time. And every day has rewarding moments, especially in January. “They come back from Christmas break, and you can see the change,” Upton says. “The first half of the year, we’re teaching them how to learn and by January you can see their joy as they really start to put it together.”

A Typical Day n 7:15 a.m.: Arrives at school. n 7:45 a.m.: She collects the kids who’ve been dropped off at school and takes them to her classroom. n 7:45-8:05 a.m.: Other kids trickle in and they start the day with free play, choosing from games and activities. n 8:15 a.m.: Morning meeting with the kids; everyone sits in a circle and she explains what they’ll be doing that day; they practice counting and find out if anyone is missing; kids get to tell anything to the group they want to share. n 8:20-9:20 a.m.: Math block. The whole group has a mini-lesson then they break into smaller groups, some playing a game, or reviewing material or writing numbers.

n Noon: Lunch n 12:30-1 p.m.: Recess with kindergarten, first and second grades involved in unstructured play. n 1-1:45 p.m.: Rest time during first half of the year; some kids nap, others look at books or write. In January, rest time transitions into a 45-minute writing block. n 1:45-2 p.m.: Second recess. n 2-2:30 p.m.: Science and social studies. n 2:30-3 p.m.: Religious block with Catholic prayers or stories from the Bible. n 3:15 p.m.: Students dismissed.

n 9:20-10:20 a.m.: Parent conference, meetings or student assessments.

n 3:45 p.m.: Except on Wednesdays, teachers can leave school but most do not. Wednesday faculty meetings end at 4:15 p.m. On other days, Upton holds parent-teacher conferences or does school work until 4:15 or later.

n 10:20 a.m.: Kids have a snack brought from home.

n 7-9 p.m.: Frequently does lesson planning at home.

“A child’s success in school starts at home. Students who have parents and caregivers who encourage them, allow them to learn from their mistakes, model how to communicate effectively and help them understand how to work through challenging situations rather than solving every problem for them are better prepared for life because they learn valuable lessons with natural consequences along the way.” – Syreeta Moseley, Head of Lower School, Pace Academy

atlantaparent.com

n 10:30-11:30 a.m.: Literacy block. Kids have a whole group mini-lesson for about 20 minutes then break into groups focusing on reading, writing and spelling, usually with movement mixed in.

“Communication is key to a good relationship between teachers and parents. We cannot help a child if we do not know what is going on with them. Even the littlest tidbit of information can better equip a teacher to work with his/her students.” – Jeanne Coleman, special needs teacher at Ralph Bunche Center

[ Focus on Education ]

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 41

Kid-Powered Play: Simple Toys Build Brain Power

by Jan Pierce

Building on Creative Play

tudies of young children show that creative play with open-ended art supplies, building blocks or stuffed animals and dolls is healthier for young children. The brain develops rapidly in the first five years of life and stimulating play experiences in safe environments offer optimal brain growth that sets the stage for learning at older ages. Lots of hands-on experiences with a variety of open-ended toys provides ways for kids to express their thoughts and ask questions about the world they live in. Open-ended toys are those that can be used in countless ways during play. A set of building blocks can be used to make a house or tower, can be the fencing containing farm animals, or can build a rocket ship that takes the child to the moon and back before lunch time. During creative play the child is in control of the story. He or she thinks up the characters and their adventures. The blocks and small toys that make up a circus or farm today can be used to build a castle tomorrow. Blank paper and a variety of art materials offer children infinite possibilities for creativity rather than a fill in the blank color sheet which merely involves following directions and being careful to stay in the lines. The key idea is that children need to provide the power for their play.

Once children have had many opportunities to create with open-ended toys, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re ready to move on to what is called structured play. Young children have already learned motor skills, spatial skills and a bit of problemsolving as they experimented with the open-ended materials during creative play. They may have solved problems such as how to create windows when building with blocks. They may have learned how to cut and fold paper while making flowers or animals. They have imagined a product and then created it. The next step in structured play is to recreate a construction from a model or blueprint. STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) learning is based on analyzing, perceiving parts of a whole, determining shape and so forth. The ability to visualize and manipulate objects takes hands-on practice and leads to higher level STEM skills, which will be in great demand as our children grow older.

42 Atlanta Parentâ&#x20AC;&#x192; â&#x20AC;&#x192; January 2019

[ Focus on Education ]

atlantaparent.com

Here are some of the benefits of creative play with simple toys: n Strong Self-Concept: A strong

sense of self is not just self-esteem, it goes farther. When children play creatively they experience personal discoveries. They learn what they love and what they’re good at. They often press through several trial efforts before accomplishing the task at hand. They learn to persevere and to enjoy the satisfaction of a job well-done. n Focus and Impulse Control: When

children engage with their imaginations they sense that they’re in control of their play. They learn to focus their attention on their projects and also learn patience as they set tasks for themselves. If they’re playing with other children they learn to wait their turn and to express their ideas. They learn to listen to the ideas of others and collaborate on projects. The act of expressing their ideas is satisfying and helps children gain self-control. n Language Development: When

children pretend, they’re entering into symbolic play which leads to a lot of conversation. Studies show that such play

atlantaparent.com

builds both receptive language skills (what a child understands) and also expressive language (words spoken). n Problem-Solving Skills: There are some

problems in life that have only one correct answer, for example most math problems. But the vast majority of problems children will solve as they grow up are divergent problems in which many different solutions can be found. Children who enter into creative play will gain experience in finding multiple solutions to a given problem. For example: What is the best way to build a play fort?

Open-Ended Toys for Young Children n Wooden Blocks and Stacking Blocks

Set the Stage for Creative Play

n Toy Animals

It doesn’t take much to encourage your children to engage in creative play. This sort of play is natural and satisfying to children. Providing the materials and perhaps some questions such as, “Can you make a farm with your stuffed animals?” Or, “Your doll’s dress is beautiful enough to make her a princess. Are you visiting the queen today?” If given a bit of time children will create their own games and pretend scenarios.

n Animal Hand Puppets

The benefits of creative play are so valuable, you can’t afford to allow your children to miss out on them.

[ Focus on Education ]

n Rainbow Scarves n Wooden Farmyards with Animals n Pretend Kitchen or other Cooking Toys n Wooden Cars and Trucks n Generic Dolls n Toy Musical Instruments n Play Dough n Art Supplies of All Kinds n Building/Construction Sets

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 43

Finding a Great Preschool Use These Can’t-Miss Strategies

Choosing a top-notch preschool, one that will guide and nurture your child and prepare him for kindergarten and beyond, is a big decision. But the decision is easier when you know what to consider. Quality preschools share these characteristics, according to the National Association for the Education of Young Children. n The preschool promotes learning through active, hands-on play supervised by caring adults. n The preschool has a daily routine so kids know what to expect. n Teachers help children connect new ideas and skills to what they already know and can do. They help children explore and make sense of their world and encourage small challenges. n Teachers plan small- and large-group experiences to promote learning, including opportunities to practice new skills and make choices. They pay attention to what kids are doing and comment on their efforts; they help if kids are stuck or frustrated, and encourage the child to keep trying.

44 Atlanta Parent January 2019

[ Focus on Education ]

atlantaparent.com

n Teaching is based on each child’s age and stage of development. n When teachers choose materials, activities and strategies to use with children, they think about many things, including what most preschoolers need (materials for creating and pretending); what individual children need, and ways to support each child’s culture. n Teachers keep track of your child’s development and learning and set goals for him.

When evaluating a preschool, consider these questions: n How do adults talk to children? Are they at eye level and do they use their names? n Are children in the preschool active and engaged? Is play outside part of their day? n Do you see art on the walls? n How long do teachers stay with the preschool? A high turnover rate is a warning sign. n What is the teacher-student ratio? The NAEYC recommends 2- and 3-year-olds be in groups of no more than 18, with at least two teachers. For 3- to 4-year-olds, 20 or fewer, again with at least two teachers. n What do other parents think of the school? Ask for a list of parents you can talk with about the school. n Is the preschool year-round or does it follow a school-year schedule? How does the school’s schedule mesh with your needs?

Find out more about early childhood education and more at naeye.org, which also maintains a list of accredited schools. Also check the National Association of Family Child Care, nafcc.org, which also has a list of accredited providers. atlantaparent.com

3 LOCATIONS

TAKE A TOUR!

E N R O L L M E N T O P E N S JA N UA RY 6 DUNWOODY | EAST COBB | SANDY SPRINGS ATLANTAJCC.ORG/PRESCHOOL 678.812.3770 | PRESCHOOL@ATLANTAJCC.ORG

[ Focus on Education ]

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 45

Nurturing Hearts and Minds

Serving Grades 1-8 Call Today To Schedule A Tour A private Christian School dedicated to equipping Dyslexic Students with the skills needed to become independent, conﬁdent learners. 570 Piedmont Rd., Marietta 30066 • 678-709-6634 gracepointschool.org 46 Atlanta Parent January 2019

[ Focus on Education ]

atlantaparent.com

Discover Dominion Christian ...

academic excellence, unapologetically Christian.

Because Your Child’s Journey Matters Middle School: Grades 6-8 Tuition $8900 High School: Grades: 9-12 Tuition $9900

Excellence in Education at an affordable price! 4607 Burnt Hickory Road, Marietta 30064

dominionchristian.org

770-420-2153

Visit us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

atlantaparent.com

[ Focus on Education ]

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 47

48 Atlanta Parent January 2019

[ Focus on Education ]

atlantaparent.com

[ Focus on Education ]

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 49

Public School Profiles

A snapshot of school districts in metro Atlanta

Douglas County School System

Atlanta Public Schools

404-802-3500 www.atlantapublicschools.us Atlanta Public Schools is the sixth largest school system in Georgia with 52,377 students. There are 4,022 teachers, of which 60 percent have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 92 learning sites and programs; 45 elementary; 11 middle; 12 high schools; 5 alternative schools; 17 charter schools. n Pupil to teacher ratios: Kindergarten, 25 to 1; Grades 1-3, 26 to 1; Grades 4-5, 33 to 1; Middle, 33 to 1; High, 33 to 1** n Per pupil expenditure: $15,658

Bartow County School System 770-606-5800 www.bartow.k12.ga.us There are approximately 13,400 students attending Bartow County’s 20 schools (K-12), with 70 percent of 1,031 PSC certified teachers holding advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 12 elementary; 4 middle; 3 high schools; 1 college and career academy n Pupil to teacher ratio: 18 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $8,650

50 Atlanta Parent January 2019

Buford City Schools

770-945-5035 www.bufordcityschools.org There are 4,966 students enrolled in Buford City Schools. 80 percent of the 318 teachers have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 2 elementary; 1 middle; 1 high school. n Pupil to teacher ratio: 15.6 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $9,975

Cherokee County School District 770-479-1871 www.cherokeek12.net CCSD has 42,200 students attending 42 schools and centers. There are 2,600 teachers in CCSD, of which 70 percent have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 23 elementary; 7 middle; 6 high schools; 3 alternative centers; 3 preschool centers. n Pupil to teacher ratio: 16 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $8,694

[ Focus on Education ]

Clayton County Public Schools

770-473-2700 www.clayton.k12.ga.us Clayton County has the fifth largest school system in Georgia with more than 55,000 students. Of the district’s 3,092 teachers, 63 percent have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 38 primary/ elementary; 15 middle; 12 high schools; 1 psychological education center; 1 multi-purpose education center; included are: 9 Special Programs/ Magnet Opportunities. n Pupil to teacher ratio: 16.6 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $8,772

Cobb County School District

770-426-3300 www.cobbk12.org Cobb County has about 113,000 students attending 112 schools. There are 9,471 certified employees, of which 23 percent have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 67 elementary; 25 middle; 17 high schools; 1 special education center; 1 adult education center; 1 performance learning center, 6 Magnet programs; 1 independent charter school. n Pupil to teacher ratio: Varies by school. Meets or is lower than state mandated numbers. n Per pupil expenditure: $8,594

atlantaparent.com

Coweta County School System

770-254-2800 www.cowetaschools.net Coweta County has 22,739 students and about 2,960 employees, 55 percent of whom are certified teaching employees. 60 percent of Coweta’s teachers hold advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 19 elementary, 6 middle, 3 high schools; 1 College and Career Academy charter school (serving grades 8-12 with traditional and non-traditional learning models); and the school system’s Donald W. Nixon Centre for the Performing and Visual Arts. n Pupil to teacher ratios: Kindergarten: 20 to 1 with paraprofessional; Grades 1-3: 20 to 1; Grades 4-5: 24 to 1; Grades 6-8: 29 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $8,794 (FY2017)

City Schools of Decatur

404-371-3601 www.csdecatur.net City Schools of Decatur have 5,528 (Pre-K to grade 12) students attending nine schools. Of the district’s 436 certified teachers, more than 84 percent hold advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 9 total; 1 early childhood learning center; 5 Kindergarten-third; 1 fourth-fifth; 1 middle; 1 high school. n Pupil to teacher ratio: Meets or is lower than state mandated standards. n Per pupil expenditure: $13,066

DeKalb County School System 678-676-1200 www.dekalbschoolsga.org DeKalb County School District is the third largest school system in Georgia with 99,212 students. More than 6,000 teachers and about 65 percent hold advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 139 schools. School choice options are available in nearly 50 schools to include theme, magnet, IB, charter and Montessori options. n Pupil to teacher ratios*: General: 27 to 1; Gifted: 16 to 1; CTAE: 24 to 1. n Per pupil expenditure*: $9,242 *last year figures

Fulton County Schools

Douglas County School System

Fulton County Schools

770-651-2000 www.douglas.k12.ga.us There are approximately 26,000 students attending Douglas County’s 35 schools. 70 percent of the 1,940 certified staff have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 20 elementary, 8 middle, 5 high schools; 1 Success Center; 1 Academy at CCI. n Pupil to teacher ratio: Meets or is below state mandates. n Per pupil expenditure: $8,894

470-254-3600 www.fultonschools.org Fulton County has more than 95,000 students and 7,000 certified staff members at 106 schools. Approximately 60 percent of the teachers hold advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 59 elementary (many with Pre-K programs); 19 middle; 18 high schools (2 with open campuses); 10 charter schools. n Pupil to teacher ratios: Kindergarten, 22 to 1 with paraprofessional; Grades 1-3, 23 to 1; Grades 4-5, 30 to 1; Middle, 30 to 1; High, 32 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $11,048 (estimated)

Fayette County Public Schools

Gainesville City Schools

770-460-3535 www.fcboe.org Fayette County School System has 20,273 students. 1,030 of the 1,468 teachers have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 14 elementary; 5 middle; 5 high schools; 1 alternative school; 1 open campus high school. n Pupil to teacher ratio: 14 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $9,458.36 (based on 2017 enrollment of 20,104)

Forsyth County Schools

770-887-2461 www.forsyth.k12.ga.us Over 49,300 students attend Forsyth County’s 39 schools. There are over 3,534 certified employees in the system. n Number of Schools: 21 elementary; 10 middle; 6 high schools and one 9-12 college and career academy and one 6-12 virtual school (open to out-of-county students). n Pupil to teacher ratio: 20 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $8,220 Henry County Schools

atlantaparent.com

770-536-5275 www.gcssk12.net 8,069 students attend Gainesville City’s 8 schools. 604 teachers are employed by the system, and 60 percent of them have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 6 elementary; 1 middle school; 1 high school n Pupil to teacher ratios: Pre-K: 26 to 1; Grades K-5: 12 to 1; Grades 6-8: 14 to 1; Grades 9-12: 14 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $8,882

Gwinnett County Public Schools

678-301-6000 www.gwinnett.k12.ga.us With more than 180,000 students attending 140 educational facilities, Gwinnett County is the largest school system in Georgia. The average GCPS teacher holds a Master’s degree and has 13 years of experience. n Number of Schools: 80 elementary; 29 middle; 22 high schools; 9 other educational facilities. n Pupil to teacher ratio: Varies by classroom, per Strategic Waivers School System contract. n Per pupil expenditure: $9,463 Cont’d on page 52

[ Focus on Education ]

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 51

Public School Profiles Hall County Schools

INITIAL APPLICATION PERIOD K, 1st & 6th Grades JANUARY 10 - 31

770-534-1080 www.hallco.org There are 27,811 students and 1,980 certified staff at Hall County’s 34 schools. 69 percent of the teachers have obtained advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 20 elementary; 8 middle; 8 high schools. n Pupil to teacher ratio: 18 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $8,400

Henry County Schools

770-957-6601 www.henry.k12.ga.us There are 42,000 students and 2,960 certified teachers in Henry County Schools. 75 percent of the certified employees have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 27 elementary; 1 conversion charter elementary school; 11 middle; 10 high schools; 1 alternative school; 1 charter college and career academy; 1 6-12 online school (Impact Academy). n Pupil to teacher ratios: Kindergarten, 24 to 1; Grades 1-3, 25 to 1; Grades 4-8, 32 to 1; Grades 9-12, 34 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $9,016

Marietta City Schools

770-422-3500 www.marietta-city.org Some 8,900 students attend Marietta City’s 12 schools, 1,200 employees with 70 percent of certified staff holding a Master’s degree or higher. n Number of Schools: 1 preschool; 8 elementary (one is grades 3-5 Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Magnet school); 1 6th grade academy; 1 middle; 1 high school. n Pupil to teacher ratio: 14 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $11,184

Paulding County School District

McGinnis Woods Celebrating its 20th Year!

OPEN HOUSE JANUARY 26TH

1-3 PM

• Private non-parochial education for infants through 8th grade • Nurturing environment featuring outstanding teachers, small class sizes with assistants, hands-on academics, STEM, and frequent field trips • Middle school program • After-school program, competitive sports, and robotics teams

Set up a tour today! 770-664-7764

5380 Faircroft Drive, Alpharetta, GA 30005 • www.mcginniswoods.org SAC, GAC and NAEYC Accredited 52 Atlanta Parent January 2019

[ Focus on Education ]

770-443-8000 www.paulding.k12.ga.us The Paulding County School District has 34 schools, 29,739 students and 1,877 teachers. 68 percent of the teachers hold advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 19 elementary; 9 middle; 5 high schools; 1 alternative learning center. n Pupil to teacher ratio: 22 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $8,770

Rockdale County Public Schools 770-483-4713 www.rockdaleschools.org There are 16,802 students attending Rockdale County Public Schools. Approximately 69.5 percent of the 1,424 certified personnel hold advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 11 elementary; 4 middle; 3 high schools; 1 college and career academy; 1 alpha school; 1 open campus; 1 magnet school; 11 school choice programs. n Pupil to teacher ratio: 13.93 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $9,747

atlantaparent.com

[ Focus on Education ]

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 53

Teach Your Kids Critical Thinking, Curiosity About Their World by Sandi Schwartz

isinformation is easy to come by in social media and it’s often disguised as “facts.” When we teach our kids to use a realistic, scientific approach to information and managing their lives, they’ll be able to sort fact and fiction. Here’s how. 54 Atlanta Parent January 2019

What Is Scientific Literacy? According to the National Academies, scientific literacy is “the knowledge and understanding of scientific concepts and processes required for personal decision making, participation in civic and cultural affairs, and economic productivity.” A scientifically literate person has the capacity to: n Understand, experiment, and reason as well as interpret scientific facts and their meaning. n Ask, find, or determine answers to questions derived from curiosity about everyday experiences. n Describe, explain, and predict natural phenomena. n Read articles with understanding of science in the popular press and engage in social conversation about the validity of the conclusions.

[ Focus on Education ]

n Identify scientific issues underlying national and local decisions and express positions that are scientifically and technologically informed. n Evaluate the quality of scientific information on the basis of its source and the methods used to generate it. n Pose and evaluate arguments based on evidence and to apply conclusions from such arguments appropriately. Science is a tremendously critical part of our lives, and we rely on scientific data to protect us from contaminated food, polluted air and water, and transportation accidents – just to name a few. Every time we go to the doctor, our lives depend on accurate medical information. When we go shopping, our health and safety are tied to numerous scientific studies that have identified which products are safe for us to use.

atlantaparent.com

How To Raise Scientifically Literate Children Neil deGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium in New York City, is an American astrophysicist, cosmologist, author and science communicator – and also a father. During an interview few years ago, he explained the importance of raising scientifically literate children, to make sure children are surrounded by situations that force them to think about how the world works. Understanding science empowers kids to not be taken advantage of and helps them to be able to confront critical issues that impact their lives and society as a whole, he said. He emphasized that if children do not grow up to be scientifically literate, they will be disenfranchised from the democratic process. As parents we have the power to raise educated children who have the ability to evaluate the information presented to them. Here are some ways that you can instill a sense of inquisitiveness and scientific literacy in your children.

atlantaparent.com

n Read: From a very young age,

read books about science topics to your children to encourage their curiosity and broaden their knowledge base. As they get older, encourage them to read about science topics that interest them, whether it’s dinosaurs, outer space climate or computers. Check out the National Science Teachers Association (nsta.org) book recommendations, subscribe to magazines like National Geographic Kids and find websites geared toward science education for children. n Watch: Seek out children’s

television programming and videos that focus on science. My children loved watching “Sid the Science Kid” on PBS when they were younger, which is all about the scientific discovery process. Now that my son is older, he enjoys watching Discovery Channel shows including “Mythbusters” that tests scenes from books or movies using experiments. I love this show because it really teaches the value of not believing everything we see, but to test ideas using the scientific method. Cont’d on page 56

[ Focus on Education ]

Understanding science empowers kids to not be taken advantage of and helps them to be able to confront critical issues that impact their lives and society as a whole.

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 55

Scientific Literacy n Visit: Take your children to places

where they can learn about science, such as museums, planetariums, botanical gardens, aquariums, nature centers and zoos. Incorporate science into your vacations by hiking, skiing, fishing and visiting places like national parks, lakes and beaches. During these activities, encourage your children to ask questions about what they observe and enjoy a back-and-forth discussion. n Experiment: When it comes time to

make birthday and holiday wish lists, be sure to add some science kits to your children’s list. My children have always enjoyed playing with kits where they can do science experiments. They have built their own model volcano, hooked up electric circuits to make things spin or buzz, and learned about measuring and chemical reactions using everyday products. Or set up your own experiments. It can be as simple as filling up the kitchen sink with water and testing different items to see what sinks and what floats. Be sure to ask your children to predict what will happen before doing the test and ask why they thought it happened after their observations. n Attend: Sign your kids up for

extracurricular science and technology classes or summer camp. A few summers ago my son enjoyed a week at Camp Invention and now he attends a local computer science class after school. These have been great opportunities for him to learn in depth about science topics that especially interest him. n Create: By incorporating simple

science-based activities into your child’s daily life, you can inspire their interest in and love for science. Spend time together in the kitchen baking and explaining how measuring works and why baked goods rise in the oven. Plant a family garden and appreciate spending time outside learning about nature and then enjoying the food that grows. When your children need to take medicine, explain how important it is to follow the directions on the bottle and how chemicals affect us. As you can see, there are endless opportunities to bring science to the forefront of your children’s lives so that they begin to see the world through a scientifically literate lens. And when you learn together, you make it incredibly meaningful. 56 Atlanta Parent January 2019

[ Focus on Education ]

atlantaparent.com

Flipped Classrooms Creative Learning Environments Academic Families Mixed Martial Arts Innovative, Project-based Learning Preschool – 8th Grade

Learn more at SAEschool.org

Affordable Tuition | Smaller Class Sizes | Life Coaching Groups Safe Environment | Individualized Learning Options 45 minutes of Unstructured Daily Recess 678-239-3200 • 6688 Mableton Parkway • Mableton 30126

Children have BIG ideas. At Mount Vernon, we believe when teachers know their students’ curiosities and passions, incredible things can happen.

Learn more about Mount Vernon at mountvernonschool.org/curiosity

atlantaparent.com

[ Focus on Education ]

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 57

58 Atlanta Parent January 2019

[ Focus on Education ]

atlantaparent.com

YOU’RE INVITED

PREVIEW DAY JANUARY 26

A Leading Preschool Through 12th Grade Private School in the heart of North Fulton www.mountpisgahschool.org

atlantaparent.com

[ Focus on Education ]

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 59

WE THINK BIG Connecting learning to life at every level.

Students and faculty explored the 2017-2018 Isdell Center for Global Leadership theme of CONSERVATION during a study tour to Switzerland.

paceacademy.org/admissions

60 Atlanta Parent January 2019

[ Focus on Education ]

atlantaparent.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Guide to Private Schools When searching for the best school for your child, there’s much to consider. From the school’s academic approach to its learning environment, size and location, our guide to private schools will help you find the best fit for your family. atlantaparent.com

Focus on Education [[ Private School Guide ]]

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 61

Atlanta

Private Schools Arbor Montessori School

Academe of the Oaks

cademe of the Oaks, an innovative Waldorf high-school, integrates intellectual, practical, social, and aesthetic pursuits in an educational program that is both local and global, holistic, humanistic, and purposeful. College-preparatory by design, Academe’s curriculum includes coursework in mathematics, sciences, and humanities; fine and practical arts; drama and music; and environmental education. At Academe, students’ hands-on introduction to science through experiential learning in the lab and in the field is complemented by a humanities focus on primary sources. Learning by experience helps students develop a set of skills applicable across the curriculum. Knowing “how to learn” means, that no matter what the subject, Academe students understand what questions to ask. An experiential approach prioritizes students’ voices. Through public presentations and dramatic interpretations, students discover the truths of lessons for themselves. Students leave Academe confident in their ability to ask the essential questions and to lead others toward the discovery of meaning. Located just east of downtown Decatur, Academe of the Oaks serves students in grades 9-12. Please visit academeatlanta.org for more information.

ounded in 1970, Arbor Montessori is the premiere Montessori school in Atlanta. Arbor is one of the largest Montessori schools in the Southeast and regarded as a beacon of Montessori education worldwide. Currently, the school serves students aged 18 months to 14 years and offers full time, part time, and all-day programs at two Decatur campus locations. The mission of Arbor Montessori School is to develop the unique capabilities of each child through supportive relationships, joyful learning, and meaningful work in a Montessori environment. Arbor seeks to foster independence in each child, preparing them to contribute with integrity to the global community. An Arbor Montessori education cultivates motivation, selfdiscipline, and a lifelong love of learning through intentionally designed materials, multi-age classrooms, and highly trained and attentive teaching staff. In addition to an outstanding academic curriculum, Arbor offers art, music, Spanish, before and after-school care, a strong athletics program, extracurricular clubs and teams, and a close-knit community of families. Schedule a personalized tour by calling 404-321-9304 or emailing admissions@arbormontessori.org. More information at arbormontessori.org.

Archdiocese of Atlanta Catholic Schools

Atlanta Academy

onsidering a Catholic school education? Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese of Atlanta are committed to the education of the whole child – mind, body and spirit – so students may be given the opportunity to achieve their greatest potential in a safe and nurturing environment. Excellence in faith formation and outstanding academic preparation are hallmarks of these Catholic schools, and high standards are set for student achievement and success. The faculty and staff are dedicated, caring and effective and use technology to enhance the educational experience. The values of service, self-respect, moral development and discipline are instilled in all students, and each student is prepared to be a productive citizen and future leader. The schools make sure to partner with parents in the faith formation of their children. See the ad on the inside front cover for additional details and visit archatl.com/schools/why-catholic-schools/to find an award-winning school near you. Be Bold - Choose a Catholic School Education!

tlanta Academy, a 2017 National Blue Ribbon School, serves 300 private preschool-8th grade students in North Atlanta. The school’s mission, to give every student the individual attention they need to succeed, is at the core of everything they do. Small class sizes allow teachers to understand students’ individual strengths and help them discover their own unique talents. A forward-thinking curriculum at Atlanta Academy is enriched with a variety of opportunities for students, in order to build the confidence and skills they need to succeed at prestigious private high schools, top-ranking public schools and magnet programs. More than 94 percent of graduates are accepted into their top choice high school. The Atlanta Academy faculty ranks among some of the best educators in the industry. 78 percent of Kindergarten through 8th grade teachers hold master’s degrees. High performing student achievement is nurtured in an inclusive, non-denominational atmosphere, where families are engaged. Together, they are fully invested in helping children grow into well-educated, independent problem-solvers who are prepared to excel in high school and beyond. To schedule a tour, visit atlantaacademy.com.

62 Atlanta Parent January 2019

[ Private School Guide ] Special Advertising Section

atlantaparent.com

Atlanta International School

tlanta International School (AIS) offers all three International Baccalaureate (IB) programs to 1,270 U.S. and international students from threeyear-old Kindergarten to Grade 12. Rigorous academics are enriched by a world-class language acquisition program, which begins with a full immersion Preschool program in French, German, Mandarin and Spanish and continues with dual (French, German and Spanish) and partial (Mandarin) immersion from 5K to Grade 5. AIS offers STEM and STEAM-endorsed and bilingual diplomas in addition to the prestigious IB diploma. Beyond the classroom, AIS students participate in awardwinning performing and fine arts opportunities, competitive athletics, and global experiential learning. Along with the authorization to offer IB education, AIS is also accredited by the following academic programs: AdvanceED, Agency of French Teaching Abroad (aefe), Council for International Schools (CIS), European Council for International Schools (ECIS), and Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS). For more information, please visit aischool.org.

Atlanta Music High School

tlanta Music High School brings the professional faculty of two independent and established schools, Rivers Academy Atlanta and Community Music Centers of Atlanta, into collaboration at a shared campus, for the purpose of offering rigorous academics and deep immersion in pre-professional musical training. AMHS empowers classical, jazz, rock and folk music students (grades 5-8, 9-12) with an academic education that is not only accredited, but that is also sensitive and responsive to the time and resources it takes for a young performer or composer to become a great musician. Academics, including AP courses, meet on a condensed schedule, which leaves ample time for passionate musicians to develop musical artistry and a capstone portfolio. The AMHS experience thereby provides balance and harmony between traditional academics and intensive training, crucial for student happiness and success. AMHS believes students who train at an elite level and push themselves to reach their fullest potential in developing their own, authentic artistic perspective are prepared for life, whether they choose to continue in music or to go in another direction for college. Visit AtlantaMusicHigh.com for more information or call 404-614-0466 to schedule a tour, interview or scholarship audition.

Atlanta Speech School

The Children’s School

he Atlanta Speech School’s three pre-schools, a K-6 school specifically for children with dyslexia, a clinic with a range of services and a professional development center share one common goal: to unlock learning and literacy for each child. Our schools serve different types of learners in a languagerich ecosystem that provides the strongest possible foundation to construct reading brains. Exceptional professionals tailor the latest cutting-edge research to the individual needs of each child, with the relationships, respect and resources so each child can excel. Programs include the Kenan Preschool, an early childhood education program that develops children who are exceptionally prepared for school; the Wardlaw School, an elementary school for children with dyslexia; Stepping Stones, a preschool and transitional kindergarten for children with speech and/or language delays; the Hamm Center, a listening, spoken language and literacy program for children ages birth to 5 who are deaf or hard of hearing and their families and the Rollins Center for Language and Literacy, dedicated to ensuring that every child has access to literacy and a choice-filled future. atlantaspeechschool.org. 404-233-5332.

n 1970, our founder Lila McDill had one vision: children learn by doing. Today, The Children’s School is an age 3-grade 8 school located in the heart of Midtown, empowering students to dive in headfirst, hands-on and open-hearted into the grand lifelong adventure that is learning. At TCS, we know that play is serious learning. We embrace play in everything we do because it is essential to intellectual, social, emotional, physical and cultural development. As our students grow, learning through play becomes learning playfully. Through immersive project-based learning, we design projects around real-world problems facing our community to help students learn in a more meaningful way and tackle the kinds of questions that can’t be answered by Google. Learning takes courage. Our diverse, joyful and nurturing community shows up as their authentic selves everyday, encourages risk-taking and challenges our learners to academic excellence, noble character and emotional maturity, preparing them to make an impact on an everchanging world. Learn more at tcsatl.org.

atlantaparent.com

[ Private School Guide ] Special Advertising Section

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 63

Atlanta

Private Schools The Davis Academy

Dominion Christian School

hen a child enters The Davis Academy, an educational experience begins that lays the foundation for a lifetime of learning and discovery. Students grow and flourish through an accelerated and enriched secular curriculum that is integrated with a comprehensive Jewish studies program that broadens their worlds and nourishes their spirits. Over time, students emerge as confident, capable learners with a strong sense of self and an enlightened appreciation of the world around them. Education of the whole child is at the heart of The Davis Academy’s mission, where the school’s outstanding faculty and staff strive to foster the development of each child’s unique talents. Davis Academy graduates excel at the best high schools and universities and become leaders in their communities. Serving students from age four through eighth grade, The Davis Academy facilities span across two campuses in the Sandy Springs/Dunwoody area. The Davis Academy is recognized as the largest Reform Jewish Day School in the country, accredited through SACS and SAIS. Visit davisacademy.org for more information.

stablished in 1997, Dominion Christian School is a private, coeducational, independent Christian school comprised of a diverse student body in grades 6-12. The school is set on a 40-acre campus in Marietta providing a peaceful learning environment with all the amenities of much larger schools. Dominion offers a challenging and diverse college preparatory curriculum in a Christian private school setting, aligned with state and national standards. Academic excellence at Dominion consists of thorough instruction in the basic disciplines, the development of sound study habits, and the opportunity to be challenged by increasingly complex subject matter – all integrated with a Biblical worldview. In addition to a college prep curriculum with dual enrollment, they also offer a broad and exciting spectrum of athletic and extracurricular opportunities. At Dominion they believe academic and extracurricular activities presented in a God-centered, Biblically-based setting are key in a student’s development. In class and on the field, students are guided to glorify God and grow in life experiences all while being grounded in a Biblical worldview. Visit Dominion Christian School at dominionchristian.org to learn more or schedule a tour.

Fellowship Christian School

The Galloway School

ellowship Christian School in Roswell, GA - one of the only covenant Christian schools in Atlanta - is a community and a calling; a second home and a lasting foundation. Fellowship is an experience. It’s a difference you can feel: In their commitment to Jesus and His teachings, lifelong relationships and in the spirit and style of their intentional, personalized programming. A place where students are encouraged and empowered - to believe, to belong, to become. To not just make their mark, but to make it remarkable. Fellowship embodies how students learn, live, and lead: Through relationships, connections, and conversations. In Christian service to their neighbors at home and afar. They offer a complete, preparatory, and personal Pre-K to 12th grade education - with intentional diploma tracks, specialized academic enrichment and support programs, and a 100 percent college acceptance rate - all in a place where students can truly belong. Schedule a campus tour to experience their exceptional community and state-of-the-art facilities. Please visit fellowshipchristianschool.org or call 770-641-6836 to learn more. Fellowship Christian School – We Ready the RemarkableTM

ocated in beautiful Chastain Park, The Galloway School is an independent day school that serves a diverse student body of around 750 students age 3 through grade 12. Guided by a unique approach to teaching and learning, Galloway offers students daring, deliberate, and dynamic learning experiences that inspire them to become fearless learners for life. The Galloway School’s educational philosophy and approach stem from the belief that learning should be an experience of discovery that is both challenging and joyful. It is only then that students develop an abiding love of learning and embrace it as a life-long endeavor. The Galloway School offers an environment of high expectations and low anxiety that challenges students to grow by teaching them to challenge themselves today and for the rest of their lives. Graduates attest that Galloway’s focus on the journey of learning and personal development is what makes the school truly different, and the results speak for themselves. Galloway graduates are mature, independent, and confident individuals who are well prepared for college and for a life lived as enlightened citizens who think independently, care deeply, and engage responsibly. For more information, call 404-252-8389 or visit the website at gallowayschool.org.

64 Atlanta Parent January 2019

[ Private School Guide ] Special Advertising Section

atlantaparent.com

GRACEPOINT School

Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School

ounded in 2012, when two mothers stepped out in faith to provide their dyslexic children with a specialized education in a Christian setting. GRACEPOINT School began with a mere four students and has steadily grown to an enrollment of more than 100 students in grades one through eight. Students receive a comprehensive, high quality education program, combining remediation with enrichment and acceleration. Students typically complete remediation in three to four years allowing them to transition into a more traditional educational environment. GRACEPOINT utilizes the Orton-Gillingham method, a multisensory approach woven into all subject areas. Their students receive seventy-five minutes of explicit reading instruction daily by a certified Orton-Gillingham teacher. The student/teacher ratio for reading is 5:1, while all other core subjects have a student/teacher ratio of 8:1. The mission at GRACEPOINT is to equip dyslexic students with the skills needed to develop into independent and confident learners. They strive to instill a life-long desire for their students to grow in wisdom and knowledge of the Lord, so that each will fulfill God’s purpose and bring Him glory. GRACEPOINT is located in an independent building on the campus of Piedmont Church in Marietta. gracepointschool.org. 678-709-6634.

oly Innocents’ Episcopal School, located just north of Chastain Park and inside the perimeter, reaches across 43 beautiful acres and boasts a state-of-the-art STEM Building, stand-alone Primary School, Lower School, Middle School and Upper School facilities, a Fine Arts Building, two modern gymnasiums and four expansive athletic fields. HIES is Atlanta’s only comprehensive Episcopal school, with approximately 1,300 students PK3-12. The HIES college-prep curriculum challenges students, encourages collaboration and inspires creative thinking. Course offerings include acclaimed reading and writing programs, foreign language classes for all ages, hands-on science programs, robotics, engineering, film and TV production classes and the Program for Global Citizenship. HIES has one of the region’s leading Fine Arts programs and an impressive athletic tradition, with many regional and state championships. For more information, visit hies.org.

Holy Spirit Preparatory School

Killian Hill Christian School

oly Spirit Preparatory School is a remarkable institution among the many independent schools in the Atlanta market. The young, accomplished school is one of the few independent Catholic schools in the Atlanta metro area. It serves students from 6 months all the way through 12th grade, so is perfect for families. Its high school keeps getting named one of the top Catholic high schools in the country by the Catholic Education Honor Roll. Their AP scores are way above state and national averages (in the hardest AP tests, like Chemistry and Calculus, their students average over a 4 out of 5, which is incredible), and their alumni get accepted to Ivy League schools, military academies, top 25 schools, and universities across the world. But, really, it’s all about fit. Because they maintain a smaller enrollment than most independent schools, they find the right place for each student – channeling them to the right club, the right gifted classes, the right team – and the right college fit after HSP. This school is all about personalized learning, small class sizes, and forming students in “mind, body, and soul” in a family of faith and learning. For more information, call or text admissions at 678-761-7992, or visit holyspiritprep.org.

ecently recognized as the sixth best private high school in Georgia, Killian Hill Christian School, has been serving the community since 1972. Schedule a visit and see why KHCS is one of the fastest growing Christian schools in Gwinnett County – carefully planned and engaging learning in every grade from K4 to 12th grade, low student-teacher ratio, a wide array of fine arts and athletic offerings, all provided by a qualified, mission-driven staff who feel more like family than teachers! At an Open House hear how their 45 year history and eternity-driven mission blend with a passion for helping the next generation of families to flourish. Experience their picturesque 27 acre campus, warm and welcoming culture, beautifully diverse student body, and the God-centered focus of everything they do “on the Hill!” Training Scholars, Making Disciples, and Graduating Leaders is more than a motto; it is something they strive to accomplish for God’s glory and each child’s individual achievement.Visit khcs.org to learn more and schedule a visit!

atlantaparent.com

[ Private School Guide ] Special Advertising Section

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 65

Atlanta

Private Schools Midtown International School

Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs Montessori at Vickery

IS is Atlanta’s home for globallyminded gifted learners in kindergarten through 12th grade. Critical thinking, collaboration, and complex problem solving support our diverse and thoughtful students as they engage in a world bigger than themselves, with course-embedded travel and global languages connecting intellectual, cultural, academic, and artistic experiences. So what happens in a school designed for such curious learners? No one waits to learn. In a school where teachers serve as trusted guides, and equally curious co-learners; where classrooms transform daily into kinetic problem-solving laboratories; where intellectual bravery and social courage reap their own rewards; where authentic, meaningful, and applied scholarship knows no bounds and is unconfined by artificial ceilings or imposed standards; and where no one waits to learn, MIS students think, debate, create, problem-solve, synthesize, and flourish, becoming their best selves, growing in both confidence and ability, and falling in love with school and with learning as they recognize their capacity to accomplish great feats and navigate our ever-converging world. See the MIS magic for yourself: Call 404-542-7003 or email admissions@midtowninternationalschool.com to schedule a tour.

Montessori education creates independent, entrepreneurial, confident children. They are selfsufficient, globally aware, environmentally conscious and respectful of oneself and others. Our schools offer children ages 6 weeks – 18 years meticulously prepared indoor and outdoor environments rich in learning materials and experiences. The Montessori curriculum includes mixed-age classrooms that allow students to interact on a variety of levels learning social, academic, and leadership skills. Teachers facilitate the learning process by guiding students toward meaningful activity and the children discover and develop their own interests & abilities. Montessori truly helps children develop a life-long love of learning while helping them create a vision for their personal future. Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs and Montessori at Vickery have both earned accreditation by the State, AdvancEd, and American Montessori Society, which affirms our school meets a standard of excellence recognized by Montessori educators worldwide. Please visit us to see how our Montessori schools can benefit your child. For more information, go to MontessoriAcademySharonSprings.com or MontessoriVickery.com.

Montessori School at Emory

Mount Paran Christian School

ontessori School at Emory was founded over 24 years ago becoming accredited as a Montessori School in 1993. With over 175 students, from 15 months through 14 years, the Montessori School at Emory supports the whole child and prepares them for life through accredited, authentic quality Montessori programs. Children are given one-on-one instruction from their teacher which creates an individualized program that engages their interests and skill levels. Montessori School at Emory offers several options. Full day, half day, 10 month or year round formats are available. Afternoon enrichment programs are also offered from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., in which children enjoy experiences in the creative arts and sciences such as music, art and foreign language. Also, early morning drop-off is available at 7 a.m. For more information about the Montessori School at Emory, call 404-634-5777 or visit MontessoriSchoolatEmory.com.

ount Paran Christian School exists to provide a stellar academic experience in a Christian environment. It’s crucial to guarantee a moral and faith foundation through everything your child learns at school. Through curricular Bible classes, weekly chapel, discipleship groups, and service, faith becomes integrated into who they are. Within small class sizes, MPCS offers 56 AP/honors courses, instructional support, robotics, STEAM starting in PK3, and a 1:1 device program. Our job is to prepare servant-leaders - in the classroom, on the ball field, on the stage, and ultimately in our community. Mount Paran Christian School is a PreK3-12th grade private Christian, non-denominational, college-preparatory school. MPCS is committed to excellence in academics, award-winning arts, and championship athletics. Founded in 1976, MPCS is fully accredited (SAIS/AdvancED) and located in the shadow of Kennesaw Mountain on a 68-acre collegiate-like campus. MPCS unites with home and church to prepare servant-leaders to honor God, love others, and walk in Truth. We invite you to experience the difference an MPCS education can make for your family at an Open House or personal tour by visiting mtparanschool.com/experience.

66 Atlanta Parent January 2019

[ Private School Guide ] Special Advertising Section

atlantaparent.com

Mount Pisgah Christian School

Mount Vernon Presbyterian School

leading Preschool through 12th grade private school in North Fulton, Mount Pisgah Christian School has been recognized as the best value in independent school education in the area. Proven performance in student-centered learning is driven by a commitment to instructional coaching and personalized teacher instruction. Beyond spiritual formation integrated into the classroom, students explore their God-given talents through weekly Chapel, SharpTop spiritual retreat, Bible courses and mission trips. Mount Pisgah qualifies as an Advanced Placement (AP) Challenge School, AP Merit School, AP STEM School, AP STEM Achievement School and AP Humanities School offering 18 Upper School AP Courses. The Lower School is known for its research-based curriculum bolstered by the innovative MAP® Growth™ assessment. Graduates of this top Atlanta school enter some of the country’s most recognized colleges. With 100% of students accepted into a college of their choice, members of the Class of 2018 received scholarships in excess of $5.5 million. Exceptional extracurricular programs are a Pisgah trademark with 46 competitive athletic programs. Arts programs come alive through programs featuring art, band, orchestra, chorus , arts academy and theater. Visit mountpisgahschool.org.

stablished in 1972 and located in Sandy Springs, Georgia, Mount Vernon inspires innovation in Preschool through grade 12. We are dedicated to creating a learning environment that equips all students to be college ready, globally competitive and engaged citizens leaders. Leading national conversation around K-12 integration of design thinking, students collaborate through research, experiment with results, and ultimately produce prototypes to impact the world. MVPS amplifies the skills needed to engage in real-world, people-centered problem solving through design thinking and project-based learning. Mount Vernon offers students the extraordinary opportunity to become lead designers of their own learning as they observe, question, empathize, experiment, and implement solutions to human-centered issues. Students gain real-world experience by collaborating with corporations and non-profits such as Delta, Porsche, AT&T, the Center for Civil and Human Rights, and Magic Wheelchair Project. As a partner of Stanford’s d.School, Mount Vernon launched its Mount Vernon Institute for Innovation (MVIFI) in 2010 as a research and design arm of MVPS. Students are constantly exposed to and encouraged to interact with experts in local, national, and global communities to design a better world. Visit mvadmissions.youcanbook.me to schedule your tour today.

Mt. Bethel Christian Academy

Pace Academy

or 21 years, Mt. Bethel Christian Academy, a 2018 NATIONAL BLUE RIBBON SCHOOL, has been the school of choice for East Cobb families and beyond desiring a JK-12th grade, Christ-centered, education for their children. Through a relationship-centered approach to teaching, MBCA students are equipped for success in how they learn, lead and serve. Mt. Bethel’s college-preparatory curriculum challenges and engages students with a dual-track STEM program, honors and AP classes, Robotics, World Languages, domestic and international mission trips, plus digital and fine arts opportunities. A one-to-one laptop program (5th through 12th) allows students to access their textbooks and reference material online, and includes a communication tool to connect students and parents to teachers. The two East Cobb campuses include performing arts, visual arts and video production studios, dining halls, learning commons with dedicated student collaboration space, an 1800 sq. ft. fully equipped fitness center and athletic facilities. Beyond the classroom, a championship athletic program! Bus service is available to the Main Campus (JK-8), located at 4385 Lower Roswell Road, and the North Campus (9-12), located at 2509 Post Oak Tritt Rd. Visit mtbethelchristian.org for more information.

n 1958, an interfaith group of community leaders envisioned a learning environment open to fresh ideas and debate. Pace Academy today is exactly what its founders had in mind. With 1,105 students in Pre-First through 12th grade, Pace strives to create prepared, confident citizens of the world. Studentteacher relationships are at the heart of the Pace experience, so the school maintains a student-teacher ratio of 9:1 and an average class size of 12. Pace develops children’s passions and strengths through academics, athletics and the arts, while providing global perspectives in the classroom and an integrated experience after the bell rings. Through the Isdell Center for Global Leadership (ICGL), Pace students come to view the world through a global lens. The ICGL builds on an innovative academic curriculum and explores an annual, school-wide theme. Curricular and co-curricular activities, scholars in residence, fellowships, internships and international study tours support education around these themes. Through the ICGL, Pace students, guided by an outstanding faculty, develop a deep understanding of the world and the people around them. Pace graduates want to be successful and realize that true success means making a difference. For more information, visit paceacademy.org.

atlantaparent.com

[ Private School Guide ] Special Advertising Section

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 67

Atlanta

Private Schools Porter Academy

The SAE School

e are so pleased with the progress he has made so far this year. He is beaming when he reads aloud and his confidence is soaring. He is no longer too timid to take chances and try something new. We couldn’t be happier!” - Porter Academy Parent When parents first come tour Porter Academy, many of them feel heavy with frustration, anxiety, and sadness because they have fought hard for their children, but with little success to show for their efforts. These same families, within a few months of enrollment, are able to relax and feel hopeful, knowing that their children are finally happy and learning. The school’s founder, Claudia Porter, didn’t teach a curriculum, she taught a child. She knew each child’s passions, strengths, and stumbling blocks. She knew that their past struggles had made them feel less...less capable, less important... and that these feelings had led many of them to resist trying. They had learned to slip through the cracks or to distract from the real problems by acting out behaviorally. Mrs. Porter knew that the first step to getting children to learn was to rebuild their self confidence and self respect. The school has grown, but the child-centered care and teaching persists, enabling each child to find joy and success in learning. For more information, visit porteracademy.org or call 770-594-1313.

he SAE School i s a Science, Arts, and Entrepreneurship School consisting of a community of educators and stakeholders who believe students should have a safe, innovative, and rigorous educational experience. Students are prepared to be the leaders, innovators, and influencers of their generation. The School’s purpose is to discover, nurture, and protect each child’s individual academic journey. Learning is brought to life through engaging, project-based initiatives, personalized for each individual learning style. A premium preschool program is offered in addition to the kindergarten through 8th grade classes, which provide a progressive learning environment for each age. If you are looking for affordable tuition, small class sizes and a safe school environment, experience The SAE School on a personal tour and see how they could be the best fit. The School also offers life-coaching groups for kindergarten through 8th grade classes and in-house holiday and school break camps. Visit SAEschool.org to learn more or call 678-239-3200 to schedule a tour.

Saint Francis Schools

Springmont School

aint Francis School is a SACS/SAIS accredited, independent, non-profit, nonsectarian college preparatory school founded in 1976. Preschool – 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 pupilto-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. 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’ High School Drama and Art programs have consistently received exceptional ratings in both local and state wide competitions. Our high school has frequently been recognized for its outstanding community service program. Sports are offered at both the middle and high school (GHSA) including football, soccer, baseball, track, swimming, wrestling, softball, volleyball and equestrian. For Information: 770-641-8257 Ext. 3 (Kindergarten-Gr. 8) and 678-339-9989 Ext. 33 (Gr. 9-12). saintfrancisschools.com.

s the oldest Montessori school in the Southeast, Springmont offers students 18 months through Middle School hands-on, experiential learning in a thoughtfully-prepared environment that includes multi-aged classes, speciallydesigned materials and highly-experienced teachers who guide students’ curiosity towards meaningful discoveries. Classrooms are large, light-filled and aesthetically pleasing while the outdoor campus with its many natural areas, class gardens and farm animals afford rich outdoor science lessons. Opportunities to build skills through collaboration, inquiry and presentation help students develop socially, emotionally and academically. Springmont’s Middle School prepares students for success in Atlanta’s premier high schools as well as life beyond academics. Students run micro-economies, participate in internships, and compete in regional academic competitions. Opportunities to hone time-management skills, experience active leadership roles, articulate complex ideas, and work both independently and in diverse groups allow students to become engaged learners. Springmont School – Extraordinary by Design. Learn more at springmont.com

“W

68 Atlanta Parent January 2019

[ Private School Guide ] Special Advertising Section

atlantaparent.com

Sugar Hill Christian Academy

Swift School

ugar Hill Christian Academy cu rr en t ly s er ve s s t u de n t s Preschool through High School. Their mission is to offer an excellent academic and Christian education, while developing a lifelong relationship with Jesus Christ. They feature the highest quality of education in a safe, Christian environment. Faculty, teachers and administration are dedicated to providing students with a learning environment ranked in the top percentages nationally ensuring their students are set up for success in and out of the classroom. The curriculum combines strong academics and character virtues to equip the next generation to stand strong and firm in their faith. Sugar Hill Christian Academy believes a successful education is only met by partnering with the parents during these important formative and academic years. Together, they will pray for, lift up and support your child to grow in character and faith and to be successful in the modern world while living as Disciples of Christ. Visit SugarHillChristian.org or call to schedule a tour at 678-745-4121.

wift School is an independent school serving students in grades 1–8 with dyslexia and other languagebased learning differences. Swift’s programming is designed to remediate the language learning challenges faced by these students while capitalizing on the strengths of dyslexic learners. At Swift, dyslexia is viewed through the lens of leading-edge brain science and seen as a brain type with great advantages. Swift uses the Orton-Gillingham approach to teach students how to decode and understand language and helps students develop interpersonal skills that will allow them to thrive in life beyond Swift. With small class sizes, Swift’s Lower Division provides students a high degree of individualized instruction. The Middle Division offers a challenging program to prepare students for high school. In addition to classroom instructors, a team of learning specialists and speech-language pathologists support Swift students. Swift offers after school clubs for Lower Division students and interscholastic sports for Middle Division students. Swift School is located in Roswell off GA-400 at exit 7. Contact them at 678-205-4988 or visit theswiftschool.org to learn more.

Tabula Rasa - The Language Academy

Trinity School

abula Rasa, The Language Academy Total Immersion School started in 2001 with a desire to create a family-like environment where babies through 5th grade become fluent in a second language (Spanish), become familiar with a third language (French) and learn the culture of the countries speaking that language. A strong aspect of the daily programs and activities involves diversity, respecting the environment and each other. The students come from a variety of backgrounds and countries and the teachers are native-speakers, all of which adds to the diversity and enrichment of the learning experience. Preschool instruction is all in the foreign language. Elementary School is bilingual Spanish/English, with a third language of French at the Sandy Springs campus continued in the afternoons. Tabula Rasa has an enrollment of 250 with a low student/teacher ratio, and helps students with their Spanish homework in the Afterschool program. Both locations are now accepting applications. For more information or to tour the campus and see reasons why students love the program, please call 404-409-0827, or visit trlanguages.com

verything Trinity School does is designed to help students age three through Sixth Grade flourish. Established in 1951 and located on 43 acres in Atlanta, this unique elementary-only school is known for its strong academics, an amazing arts program, stateof-the-art indoor and outdoor learning spaces, and a community that cares like no other. At Trinity, students have opportunities to discover and explore. The School’s faculty and staff encourage them to try things they never imagined and cheer mightily when they succeed. Trinity’s unique approach to early childhood and elementary education allows their students to savor the joy of childhood while also acquiring a deep academic foundation and developing responsibility, leadership, and a strong sense of self. And while our academic program is challenging, it is only one measure of success at Trinity. In addition to gaining proficiency in essential knowledge and skills, Trinity students are exposed to a wide variety of subjects and experiences, such as engineering and design, music, art, world languages, physical education, and community service. In every class, Trinity students learn to think deeply, explore freely, and express themselves with confidence. For more information, call 404-231-8100 or visit trinityatl.org.

atlantaparent.com

[ Private School Guide ] Special Advertising Section

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 69

Atlanta

Private Schools The Waldorf School of Atlanta

The Walker School

hildhood First. Celebrating more than 30 years, The Waldorf School of Atlanta offers a revolutionary notion – that in the midst of a high-speed world, children need schools where childhood is appreciated and allowed to unfold naturally. The school nurtures within students the will to become life-long learners by fostering their ability to think with clarity, feel with compassion, and act with purpose in the world. The Waldorf curriculum is rich in every branch of academics and enlivened with the arts and practical skills. As such, it honors children at each stage of their development, nurturing their current capacities and preparing them for new learning to come. Located in Decatur, with a satellite location in Inman Park, The Waldorf School of Atlanta serves children from ages 2 through 8th grade. Aligned with the ideals of Waldorf education – a century-old approach to learning, carried on by 1,200 schools worldwide – The Waldorf School invites you to learn more at waldorfatlanta.org.

ocated just two miles from historic Marietta Square, The Walker School is the only Pre-K - 12 independent school in North Atlanta that provides each student with a tailored educational experience based on his or her talents, interests, and academic goals. Wonder guides the educational experience at Walker. Dedicated faculty members kindle students’ innate curiosity and channel it into challenging curricula, engaging interpersonal relationships, demanding athletics, and stimulating extracurricular activities. Walker’s goal is to help each child chart a path of self-realization, to discover who they are, and to become their best self. Equipped with a clarity of purpose, strong sense of self, and the confidence and skills to navigate a 21st century world, Walker students follow only where wonder leads. As a parent, it is a joy to see your child grow and mature, to discover and engage the wonder of life, and to develop into their own person. See where wonder will lead your child by scheduling a visit today at thewalkerschool.org/visit.

Wesleyan School

Westminster

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. The 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 Located just outside of I-285 in Peachtree Corners, for the 2018-2019 school year 1, 177 students enrolled in grades K-12. Wesleyan offers bus routes throughout the metro Atlanta area and has expanded morning and afternoon service for the 2019-2020 school year. Applications are due January 30, 2019. For more information or to schedule a campus tour, visit wesleyanschool.org.

estminster is a coeducational Christian, independent school serving bright and motivated students, who are curious by nature and nurtured by challenge. The School was founded in 1951 to develop leaders of conscience who will be a positive force in the world. With an enrollment of 1,870 students in grades pre-first through 12, Westminster fulfills its mission through a curriculum that engages children across the key dimensions of their growth – academic, physical, and spiritual. The School’s dynamic curricular offerings are complemented by extracurricular opportunities including unique service learning projects that partner the students with nonprofit organizations locally and abroad; a dynamic arts program that includes music, visual arts, and drama; a nationally recognized athletic program with more than 84 teams across 17 sports; and interdisciplinary global programs spanning five continents. Westminster students are encouraged to deeply investigate and explore their passions under the guidance of gifted faculty members. Learn more about Westminster’s academics, faculty, extracurricular activities, and admissions process at westminster.net.

70 Atlanta Parent January 2019

[ Private School Guide ] Special Advertising Section

atlantaparent.com

Whitefield Academy

Woodward Academy

hitefield Academy is a Christcentered, college-preparatory school serving more than 850 students in grades pre-K4 through 12. Located just off I-285 in Smyrna, Whitefield maintains a solid academic reputation with its numerous AP and honors courses, and a rigorous curriculum that sets the framework for 100 percent of its graduates to matriculate to colleges and universities. In fact, graduates from the past three years have averaged more than $6.1 million in scholarships, annually. The Whitefield learning environment facilitates discovery of student talents and interests that might have otherwise gone unnoticed. With more than 50 sports teams, including 20 varsity teams, Whitefield athletes have multiple opportunities for both participation and success – over 100 Whitefield alumni have moved on to NCAA competition in their chosen sport. In addition to academic and athletic prowess, Whitefield’s award-winning fine arts programs and first-rate Innovation Lab are allowing students to explore and develop their passions in theater, music, and visual arts, as well as STEM subjects such as engineering and robotics. For more information, visit whitefieldacademy.com.

t Woodward Academy, one size doesn’t fit even two. Students can study Gauguin and golf, Copernicus and coding, rhetoric and robotics – all in one day. With 2,635 students on two campuses and a student-teacher ratio of 7:1, Woodward offers the resources of a college with the intimacy and attention of home. Each student can create their own path within a diverse community under the guidance of caring faculty, coaches, counselors, and advisors – all while cultivating strong character and a deep respect for difference. Woodward challenges students to reach their fullest potential, offering 26 AP classes, a renowned Transition Program for students with mild learning differences, 86 clubs, 75 yearly arts performances, and 18 varsity sports. The Global Connections Program provides extensive study abroad opportunities, and innovative STEM programs are woven into the curriculum at every step. A typical graduating class attends more than 100 colleges and universities, devotes 5,000 hours to community service, and earns more than $15 million in scholarship awards. Learn more at woodward.edu about Main Campus (Pre-K-12), located in the ATL Airport District, and Woodward North (Pre-K-6) in Johns Creek.

Atlanta Charter School International Charter School of Atlanta

he International Charter School of Atlanta (ICSAtlanta) provides students with an innovative public education experience. ICSAtlanta offers dual language immersion (DLI) in French, German, Mandarin, and Spanish, with students in grades K-5 spending at least 50% of their day learning in their target language. As an International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) Candidate School, ICSAtlanta educates students with an inquiry-based approach. Middle school students (grades 6-8) experience an academically-rigorous education with small classes, the opportunity to study up to two world languages, and the choice of multiple fine arts courses. Students may come to ICSAtlanta in 6th grade with or without language experience and benefit from the school’s diverse, multicultural environment. Parent Megan Brown says, “I couldn’t be happier with our choice to send our children to ICSAtlanta. I am confident in knowing they will be multi-lingual, culturally aware, and global-minded citizens whose futures are bright.” ICSAtlanta is a tuition-free, public charter school open to all Georgia residents. Applications for limited openings in K, 1st, and 6th grade will be accepted starting January 10th. For more information, please visit www.icsatlanta.org. atlantaparent.com

Looking for more information on schools? Pick Up Education Atlanta Guide 9 201 Parent’s Education Guide zine’s Atlanta Parent Maga

Brought to you by the experts at Atlanta Parent magazine

e Th st Be ool h Sc uide G

atlantaparent.com

[ Private School Guide ] Special Advertising Section

Early Education Private School Public School Boarding School Special Needs Field Trips

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 71

SPONSORED CONTENT

Going Away to Learn

These distinguished boarding schools emphasize academics, character and leadership. Find out why families choose this educational option. The Knox School The Knox School is a nonsectarian, independent, coeducational day and boarding, college preparatory school serving students in grades 6-12 in St. James, N.Y. The School was founded in 1904, and the signature academic programs, small class sizes and diverse community foster personal and academic growth. A rich visual and performing arts program facilitated by master educators and professionals add another dynamic to the Knox experience, and competitive athletics produce Division I, II and III college athletes. The School encourages students to think critically and creatively while taking risks to develop their character and enter the next phase of their life’s journey with confidence. Five-and seven-day boarding and day-school options. knoxschool.org

Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School Founded in 1903, Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School is a unique community of learners dedicated to nurturing and challenging students as they prepare for college and beyond. Rabun Gap, a co-ed boarding and day school for grades Pre-K to grade 12, is two hours north of Atlanta. Boarding begins with grade 7. Students hail from 50+ countries and 15+ states, creating a vibrant community of diverse backgrounds. Curriculum consists of college-prep, AP and STEAM, with afterschool programs including athletics, fine arts, outdoor trips and environmental stewardship. 75 percent of students receive financial aid and scholarships. 100 percent of students are accepted into top colleges and universities. rabungap.org

SOAR The Academy at SOAR is an adventure-based coeducational boarding school for grades 7-12 in Balsam, N.C. The School offers an alternative learning environment, combining academics, adventure and life skills development to help prepare students for adulthood. SOAR addresses the needs of students diagnosed with learning disabilities and attention deficit disorders by providing tools to help to build self-confidence. The student-centered model promotes active learning through instruction in academics, adventure, self-advocacy, independent living skills, project-based learning, field studies, community and empowerment. SOAR staff members work closely with students during all aspects of the program to better overcome challenges students may face. soarnc.org/academy 72 Atlanta Parent January 2019

[ Focus on Education ]

atlantaparent.com

Boarding Schools: Building Character, Academics, Independence

Many families choose boarding schools because of smaller class sizes or a curriculum and teaching style that encourages good character and academic excellence. Some of the advantages of boarding schools include: n A School For Every Child: College prep – the most

conventional school form – can be co-ed or single sex. Military schools mimic the structure and discipline of the armed forces. Artsbased schools prepare students for careers as professional dancers or musicians. Religious schools emphasize faith. Other schools are designed for kids with special needs. n Smaller is Better: Typically, boarding schools have a much

smaller class ratio than public schools. The student/teacher ratio is often no more than 10-to-1. n Academic Challenge: Boarding schools tend to have an

intense academic curriculum. Educators have advanced degrees, and kids are challenged to excel. n Independence with Rules: Boarding students get to

experience life away from home in a structured atmosphere.

n Preparation for College: Students are ready academically

and better able to resist the temptations that come with the fewer rules of college life.

n Ethnic Diversity: Many schools strive for a student body that

is racially, economically and socially diverse, offering financial aid to maintain that balance. n A Community of Lifelong Friends: Because the

students, faculty and administrators are interacting at all hours of the day, students learn from intense bonding experiences. Sharing in the common goals and traditions of the school fosters strong friendships. n A Safe Environment: Many schools have tight security

systems. Because of the close-knit nature of the campus, any visitors or strangers are more likely to be spotted.

– Sharon Morioka and Amanda Allen

ready for college, prepared for the world. Indi a n Spr ings School Grades 8-12 • IndianSprings.org

atlantaparent.com

[ Focus on Education ]

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 73

What is the

MAK R Movement? When your electronic gadgets break, does your tween fix them? Does your child build elaborate housing for pets and dolls with cardboard boxes and scraps of craft materials? Maybe you’re raising teens with ideas that could make them the next Facebook or Snapchat inventor, app creator or “Shark Tank” winner. If this sounds familiar, you may have a Maker on your hands. The Maker Movement embraces the idea that learning is done best through doing. It includes do-it-yourself individuals and groups that create things, says Irm Diorio, executive director of Decatur Makers. While some makers work in maker spaces, others tinker in their homes and garages. Maker interests include robotics, electronics, metalworking, woodworking and traditional arts and crafts. Technology is often a part of the Maker Movement, but it doesn’t have to be, Diorio says. “Everyone is a maker,” she says. “It’s about finding what really inspires you – gardening, baking, sewing, anything that you would build with your hands. It’s fun and can be functional, but it doesn’t have to be. It’s all about letting your creativity take you for a ride.” – Janeen Lewis

Why use maker spaces?

Maker spaces in the Atlanta area:

Some makers discover their tribe at maker spaces, where adults and children find the community and supplies they need, including equipment and tools such as 3-D printers, laser cutters, wood lathes, saws, welding equipment and sewing machines. Maker spaces offer community, encouragement and expertise. Some schools are creating maker spaces because parents, teachers and administrators want to include this creative outlet in the learning process.

n Decatur Makers, Decatur. decaturmakers.org

74 Atlanta Parent January 2019

n Geekspace Gwinnett, Suwanee. geekspacegwinnett.org n Mass Collective, Atlanta. masscollective.org; 404-477-4224 n The Maker Station, Marietta. wiki.themakerstation.com n The Hapeville Maker Space, Hapeville. hapevillemakerspace.com; 404-525-5561

[ Focus on Education ]

atlantaparent.com

MAKER-MINDED

Meet Five Atlanta Families with a Creative, Do-It-Yourself Attitude by Janeen Lewis

Families who work on projects together have discovered what others in the Maker Movement have learned – the desire to be creators helps them solve real-world problems, strengthens a can-do attitude and brings them closer as a family. Read on to meet Maker-Minded families in the Atlanta area. The Bee-Lindgrens n Who: Pam and Bert Bee-Lindgren, Rowan, 11, Erik, 13 and Max, 15. n How they became makers: Pam’s grandfather taught her to use tools, hand drills and miter boxes, and her grandmother taught her to sew and crochet. Bert says he grew up taking things apart. “As I got older I got into fixing appliances,” Bert says. “That grew into a general tinkering with things that were needed around the house or in life.” n Favorite projects: The Bee-Lindgrens go all out for robotics and school STEAM projects. Once Erik was trying to answer the question “Why doesn’t Mars have an atmosphere?” and he experimented with cloud chambers. “We made 19 different cloud chambers,” Bert says. n Advice for building a maker life: Pam says they support their children’s interests. “Our attitude is anyone can do this as long as you are guided or given the information that you need,” she says. Being a maker, Bert says, “helps kids to follow through on ideas, and not just the accomplishment, but also being able to refine, improve and learn new things.”

Erik Lindgren, 13, sets up the solar oven he made – an array of mirrors pointed at a jar with a marshmallow in it.

Dawn Myers and sons n Who: Dawn Myers, Mark Benjamin, 8, and Jack Benjamin, 11. n Their favorite project: Every year the family spends the summer making Christmas gifts, which always involves some kind of woodworking. “One year we made a bird feeder out of sticks we picked up in the backyard,” Myers says. They’ve also made pine needle wreaths, Popsicle stick sleds and treasure boxes with each recipient’s name burned on the box. Myers says it is empowering when they finish their Christmas presents every year and see all the items they created. “They think, if I can make a box maybe I can make a cabin. If I’m capable of this, what else am I capable of?” Myers says. n Advice for building a maker life: “We question everything and do a lot of exploring,” Myers says. Myers also loves the encouragement and direction she and her sons receive at their maker space, Decatur Makers. Mark Benjamin, 8, makes a Christmas present out of wood at Decatur Makers.

atlantaparent.com

[ Focus on Education ]

Cont’d on page 78

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 75

Five Atlanta Families with a Creative, Do-It-Yourself Attitude The Volins n Who: Emily Yewell Volin and Curtis Volin, Vera, 13, and Yewell, 15. n How they became makers: “Our children always loved creative toys and creating in general,” Emily says of the kids who loved construction toys like Legos. “They are tinkerers. When they aged out of the traditional toy market, we wanted to find ways to foster that creativity.” n Favorite projects: The entire family has been involved in robotics for six years, with the kids’ elementary and middle schools in Cobb County and with the organization FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology). Because of Yewell’s fascination with ships and his desire to be a shipwright as an adult, Yewell and Curtis are building a model skipjack together. n Advice for building a maker life: “I try to do practical things, like involving them in repairing fences or items that have a purpose in the long run,” Curtis says. Emily says that especially in Robotics, it can be frustrating when things don’t work, but that teaches patience. “Trial and error is a part of the engineering process that builds resiliency,” Emily says.

Curtis Volin and his daughter, Vera, 13, build a robot sizing box for a robotics competition.

The Hasty Family

The Hoffner-Martins

n Who: Gary Hasty and his son, Wilson, 17.

n Who: Jenny Hoffner and Jason Martin, Aviva Hoffner-Martin, 8, and Bella Hoffner-Martin, 13.

n How they became makers: “We were always making things at home,” Hasty says. Wilson, who graduated from Harrison High School and is attending Chattahoochee Technical College, wanted to get a part-time job at a local pin ball arcade, and one of the job requirements is soldering, so they joined The Maker Station in Marietta so the two could take classes. n Favorite project: Gary and Wilson are making a “Useless Box” together. “To me it was something that encompassed all these different things you can do in a maker space,” Gary says. “It’s wooden outside, you wire it on the inside, and then you have the logic with the Raspberry Pi.” The two also make Halloween props for their house every year. “One year we did a whole Scooby Doo theme,” Hasty says. The two built a laser vortex that made 40-foot lasers and they added a fog machine and foam boards to the windows of the house. “We could go out and buy, but it feels so much better to make it and customize it,” Hasty says. “I don’t want to order off Amazon. I want to make it and see how it works.”

n How they became makers: Martin grew up on a farm where he says the maker life is a way of life. Martin’s wife Jenny makes her own teas and herbal remedies and enjoys building with Cob, a natural building material usually made from subsoil, water, sand and straw. The family also helps Martin with STE(A)M Truck, maker spaces on wheels, of which he is the founder and executive director. n Favorite project: The entire family helped their neighbors build a 15- by 15-foot playhouse out of Cob on their neighborhood playground in East Lake Cohousing Community. n Advice for building a maker life: Martin suggests parents give their kids access The Hoffner-Martin’s entire family helped build to technology and a this house out of Cob for the playground at their variety of maker projects neighborhood in East Lake Commons. even if they don’t seem interested right away. “Families might not automatically find their thing, but keep on doing those [maker] things. It might not be what they need until they are older,” Martin says. “I want to make sure my daughters have access to a variety of things. I’ll know if they don’t want to be engineers, it isn’t because they haven’t had the opportunity to try it out.”

Wilson Hasty, 17, works on a wood lathe at the Maker Station in Marietta.

76 Atlanta Parent January 2019

Janeen Lewis is a freelance journalist and mom of two. She lives in Kennesaw.

[ Focus on Education ]

atlantaparent.com

STILL WATERS LEARNING CENTER AN INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

Achieving Your Potential

Helen Panos

K-12 TUTORING President/Founder

helen@dynamislearningacademy.com Customized(404) programs High School Math 580-0932 for your child & Science/AP www.dynamislearningacademy.com Reading Specialists Program Discount Convenient Locations Available Flexible Scheduling

SAT/ACT Assistance Certified Teachers Strategies Utilized Online Resources

OPEN HOUSE January 26 10AM–12PM

770-282-9931 DynamisLearningAcademy.com

STEAM Project-based Learning

SACS Accredited Private School Preschool - 8th Grade

BFS Licensed Childcare Infants - 4 years

EDUCATING THE WHOLE CHILD SPIRITUALLY

ACADEMICALLY

SOCIALLY

1560 Oakbrook Dr., Norcross 30093 • 770-449-4125

StillWatersLearningCenter.org

atlantaparent.com

[ Focus on Education ]

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 77

COME FEEL THE DIFFERENCE AT AN OPEN HOUSE JR. KINDERGARTEN – 8TH GRADE 4385 Lower Roswell Road • Marietta

9TH – 12TH GRADE 2509 Post Oak Tritt Road • Marietta

Friday, January 18th, 2019 9-11 AM

Saturday, January 26th, 2019 9-11 AM

MtBethelChristian.org • 770-971-0245 •

MBCAEagles

Learn bravely The Midtown school for age 3 – grade 8. tcsatl.org Schedule a visit! Call 404.835.4603

78 Atlanta Parent January 2019

[ Focus on Education ]

atlantaparent.com

A Sampling of Atlanta’s Private Schools Start your search for the right private school for your child with our listings. Schools are divided into four categories: non-sectarian, religious-affiliated, Montessori and special needs. Tuition prices are approximate.

Holy Spirit Preparatory School

Non-Sectarian Schools Schools listed below offer classes at least through the third grade. They include the largest in the metro area as well as Atlanta Parent Magazine advertisers.

Academe of the Oaks. 146 New St., Decatur (DeKalb). 404-405-2173. 9th-12th. 87 students. $17,850/yr. academeatlanta.org. Atlanta Girls’ School. 3254 Northside Pkwy. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-845-0900. 6th-12th. 240 students. $25,688/yr. atlantagirlsschool.org. Atlanta International School. 2890 N. Fulton Dr., Atlanta (Fulton). 404-841-3840. K3-12th. 1270 students. $22,902-$26,144/yr. aischool.org. Brandon Hall School. 1701 Brandon Hall Dr., Atlanta (Fulton). 770-394-8177. 6th-12th. 135 students. $27,000-$52,850/yr. brandonhall.org.

atlantaparent.com

Cambridge Academy. 2780 Flat Shoals Rd., Decatur (DeKalb). 404-241-1321. 2yrs.-8th. 225 students. $8,000-$9,500/yr. acambridgeacademy.org. The Children’s School. 345 Tenth St. NE, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-873-6985. 3yrs.-8th. 400 students. $13,975-$22,750/yr. tcsatl.org. Cliff Valley School. 2426 Clairmont Rd., Atlanta (DeKalb). 678-302-1302. 3yrs.-8th. 371 students. $7,410-$18,546/yr. cliffvalley.org. Cornerstone Schools. 4888 Browns Bridge Rd., Cumming (Forsyth). 770-205-8202. Infant-12th. 275 students. $8,500-$11,000/yr. cornerstonesch.com. The Cottage School. 700 Grimes Bridge Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 770-641-8688. 4th12th. 218 students. $22,000-$27,000/yr. cottageschool.org.

[ Focus on Education ]

Eaton Academy. 1000 Old Roswell Lakes Pkwy., Roswell (Fulton). 770-645-2673. K-12th. 150 students. $5,000-$25,000/yr. eatonacademy.org. Foundations for the Future School. 1500 Stanley Rd., Kennesaw (Cobb). 770-429-4799. 6wks.-6th. 270 students. $9,000-$11,000/yr. foundationsschool.com. Fulton Science Academy Private School. 3035 Fanfare Way, Alpharetta (Fulton). 678-366-2555. PreK-12th. 600 students. $12,000-$14,000/yr. fultonscienceacademy.org. The Galloway School. 215 W. Wieuca Rd. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-252-8389. 3yrs.-12th. 750 students. $16,999-$27,950/yr. gallowayschool.org. George Walton Academy. 1 Bulldog Dr., Monroe (Walton). 770-267-7578. K4-12th. 759 students. $4,640-$12,650/yr. gwa.com. Cont’d on page 80

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 79

A Sampling of Atlanta’s Private Schools The Heritage School. 2093 Hwy. 29 N, Newnan (Coweta). 770-253-9898. 3yrs.-12th. 467 students. $4,750-$17,100/yr. heritageschool.com. High Meadows School. 1055 Willeo Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 770-993-2940. 3yrs.-8th. 400 students. $6,590-$20,080/yr. highmeadows.org. Lakeview Academy. 796 Lakeview Dr., Gainesville (Hall). 770-532-4383. PreK3-12th. 575 students. $8,992-$17,215/yr. lakeviewacademy.com. Lovett School. 4075 Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-262-3032. K-12th. 1654 students. $24,400-$28,900/yr. lovett.org. Lyndon Academy. 485 Toonigh Rd., Woodstock (Cherokee). 770-926-0166. Prek – 12th. 190 students. $6,400-$15,100/yr. lyndonacademy.org. McGinnis Woods Country Day School. 5380 Faircroft Dr., Alpharetta (Forsyth). 770-664-7764. 6wks.-8th. 400 students. $9,725-$13,725/yr. mcginniswoods.org. Midtown International School. 1575 Sheridan Rd., Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-542-7003. K-12th. 250 students. $22,800-$23,900/yr. midtowninternationalschool.com.

Trinity School

Pace Academy. 966 W. Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-262-1345. Pre1-12th. 1105 students. $24,575-$28,300/yr. paceacademy.org.

The Wood Acres School. 1772 Johnson Ferry Rd., Marietta (Cobb). 770-971-1880. 2yrs.-8th. 350 students. $4,500-$12,400/yr. woodacresschool.org.

The Paideia School. 1509 Ponce de Leon Ave., Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-377-3491. 3yrs.-12th. 1006 students. $13,143-$25,116/yr. paideiaschool.org.

Woodward Academy. 1662 Rugby Ave., and 6565 Boles Rd., College Park and Johns Creek (Fulton). 404-765-4001. PreK-12th. 2635 students. $17,600$27,750/yr. woodward.edu.

Peachtree Academy. 1801 Ellington Rd., 1760 Ebenezer Rd., 10125 Hwy. 14, and 14101 Hwy. 278, Conyers and Covington (Rockdale).(Newton). 770-860-8900. 6wks.-12th. 700 students. $5,500$7,500/yr. peachtreeacademy.com. Rivers Academy. 38 North Main St., and 1934 Cliff Valley Way, Alpharetta and Atlanta (Fulton). (DeKalb). Alph: 770-475-0081, Atl: 404-4585160. 4th-12th. 400 students. $9,500-$10,500/yr. riversacademy.com. The SAE Schoole. 6688 Mableton Pkwy., Mableton (Cobb). 678-239-3200. Preschool-8th. 300 students. $10,700/yr. SAEschool.org. Saint Francis Schools. 13440 Cogburn Rd., and 9375 Willeo Rd., Alpharetta and Roswell (Fulton). 770-641-8257. K-12th. 730 students. $11,000$20,500/yr. saintfrancisschools.com. Tabula Rasa Language Academy. 5855 Riverside Dr., and 1430 Riverside Pkwy., Atlanta and Lawrenceville (Fulton).(Gwinnett). 404-4090827. Infant-5th. 250 students. $8,000-$14,000/yr. trlanguages.com. Trinity School. 4301 Northside Pkwy. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-231-8100. 3yrs.-6th. 606 students. $17,750-$25,300/yr. trinityatl.org. The Waldorf School of Atlanta. 827 Kirk Rd., Decatur (DeKalb). 404-377-1315. 2yrs.-8th. 245 students. $8,000-$17,900/yr. waldorfatlanta.org. The Walker School. 700 Cobb Pkwy., Marietta (Cobb). 770-427-2689. 3yrs.-12th. 865 students. $12,920-$23,680/yr. thewalkerschool.org.

80 Atlanta Parent January 2019

Religious-Affiliated Schools Schools listed below offer classes at least through the third grade. These listings include the largest religious-affiliated schools in the metro area plus Atlanta Parent Magazine advertisers.

Alpharetta Christian Academy. 44 Academy St., Alpharetta (Fulton). 770-475-5762. 18mos.-6th. 350 students. $4,539-$10,058/yr. alpharettachristianacademy.com. Annunciation Day School. 2500 Clairmont Rd. NE, Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-565-2850. Preschool-8th. 145 students. $3,000-$10,000/yr. annunciationdayschool.org. Arlington Christian School. 4500 Ridge Rd., Fairburn (Fulton). 770-964-9871. K4-12th. 185 students. $6,250-$9,650/yr. arlingtonchristian.org. Atlanta Academy. 2000 Holcomb Woods Pkwy., Roswell (Fulton). 678-461-6102. Preschool-8th. 350 students. $10,060-$23,110/yr. atlantaacademy.com. Atlanta Jewish Academy. 5200 Northland Dr., Atlanta (Fulton). 404-843-9900. 3mos.-12th. 463 students. $16,000-$24,000/yr. atljewishacademy.org. Blessed Trinity Catholic High School. 11320 Woodstock Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 678-277-9083. 9th-12th. 1000 students. $12,700/yr. btcatholic.org.

[ Focus on Education ]

Bridgeway Christian Academy. 4755 Kimball Bridge Rd., Alpharetta (Fulton). 770-751-1972. Preschool-8th. 140 students. $3,000-$11,665/yr. bridgewayca.org. Cherokee Christian Schools. 3075 Trickum Rd., Woodstock (Cherokee). 678-494-5464. K5-12th. 402 students. $10,400-$13,200/yr. cherokeechristian.org. Christ the King School. 46 Peachtree Way, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-233-0383. K-8th. 554 students. $9,000-$12,390/yr. christking.org. Community Christian School. 2001 Jodeco Rd., Stockbridge (Henry). 678-432-0191. 6wks.-12th. 770 students. $7,000-$10,000/yr. communitychristianschool.net. Cornerstone Christian Academy. 5295 Triangle Pkwy. NW, Peachtree Corners (Gwinnett). 770441-9222. K-8th. 350 students. $11,075-$14,326/ yr. cornerstonecougars.org. Covenant Christian Academy. 6905 Post Rd., Cumming (Forsyth). 770-674-2990. K4-12th. 242 students. $7,800-$8,400/yr. covenantrams.org. Covenant Christian School. 3130 Atlanta Rd., Smyrna (Cobb). 770-435-1596. K4- 8th. 160 students. $6,254-$9,957/yr. ccssmyrna.org. Creekside Christian Academy. 673 Peachtree Pkwy., 175 Foster Dr., Cumming and McDonough (Forsyth).(Henry). 770-9619300. K3-12th. 825 students. $5,500-$6,790/yr. creeksideacademy.org. The Cumberland School. 2356 Clay Rd., Austell (Cobb). 678-426-1600. PreK3-12th. 445 students. $3,200-$9,850/yr. cumberlandchristian.org. Davis Academy. 8105 Roberts Dr., Atlanta (Fulton). 678-527-3284. PreK-8th. 493 students. $18,503-$24,909/yr. davisacademy.org.

atlantaparent.com

Dominion Christian School. 4607 Burnt Hickory Rd., Marietta (Cobb). 770-420-2153. 6th-12th. 145 students. $8,900-$9,900/yr. dominionchristian.org.

Grace Christian Academy. 355 McDonough Rd., Fayetteville (Fayette). 770-461-0137. K3-12th. 200 students. $5,005-$6,946/yr. gracechristian.info.

Dunwoody Christian School. 2250 Dunwoody Club Dr. Sandy Springs (DeKalb). 770-7122896. K-3rd. 11 students. $7,000-$11,000/yr. dunwoodycs.org.

GRACEPOINT. 570 Piedmont Rd., Marietta (Cobb). 678-709-6634. 1st-8th. 114 students. $21,250/yr. gracepointschool.org.

Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy. 2400 Hwy. 42 North, McDonough (Henry). 770-9572927. PreK3-12th. 994 students. $3,912- $13,404/ yr. elcaonline.org. Eastside Christian School. 2450 Lower Roswell Rd., Marietta (Cobb). 770-9712332. K-8th. 300 students. $6,500-$9,800/yr. eastsidechristianschool.com. The Epstein School. 335 Colewood Way NW, Sandy Springs (Fulton). 404-250-5600. 18mos.-8th. 435 students. $7,295-$23,900/yr. epsteinatlanta.org. Faith Lutheran School. 2111 Lower Roswell Rd., Marietta (Cobb). 770-973-8921. 15mos.-8th. 190 students. $5,230-$8,660/yr. faithmarietta.org. Fellowship Christian School. 10965 Woodstock Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 770-993-1650. PreK12th. 866 students. $10,920–$17,448/yr. fellowshipchristianschool.org. First Baptist Christian School. 2958 N. Main St., Kennesaw (Cobb). 770-422-3254. PK2-5th. 126 students. $2,575-$7,085/yr. fbcskennesaw.com.

atlantaparent.com

Greater Atlanta Christian School. 1575 Indian Trail Rd., Norcross (Gwinnett). 770-243-2000. PreK-12th. 1600 students. $17,560-$22,155/yr. greateratlantachristian.org. Greenforest-McCalep Christian Academy. 3250 Rainbow Dr., Decatur (DeKalb). 404-4866737. K-12th. 160 students. $6,790-$8,390/yr. greenforestacademy.org. Harvester Christian Academy. 4241 Central Church Rd., Douglasville (Douglas). 770-9421583. K4-12th. 320 students. $5,000-$8,500/yr. harvesteracademy.com. Hebron Christian Academy. 775 Dacula Rd., Dacula (Gwinnett). 770-963-9250. K-12th. 915 students. $8,505-$11,550/yr. hebronlions.org. Heritage Preparatory School. 1700 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta (Fulton). 404-815-7711. PreK-8th. 150 students. $8,000-$16,000/yr. heritageprep.org. Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School. 805 Mt. Vernon Hwy. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-3032150. PreK3-12th. 1360 students. $11,380$27,870/yr. hies.org.

[ Focus on Education ]

Holy Redeemer Catholic School. 3380 Old Alabama Rd., Johns Creek (Fulton). 770-410-4056. K-8th. 476 students. $8,379/yr. hrcatholicschool.org. Holy Spirit Preparatory School. 4465 and 4449 Northside Dr., and 4820 Long Island Dr., Atlanta (Fulton). 678-761-7992. Preschool-12th. 560 students. $6,000-$24,780/yr. holyspiritprep.org. Horizon Christian Academy. 1270 Sawnee Dr., Cumming (Forsyth). 678-947-0711. K-12th. 230 students. $9,800-$11,000/yr. hcaga.org. Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic School. 2855 Briarcliff Rd. NE, Atlanta (DeKalb). 404636-4488. K-8th. 502 students. $7,800-$10,300/yr. ihmschool.org. Intown Community School. 2059 Lavista Rd., Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-633-8081. K-8th. 232 students. $7,400-$10,900/yr. intownschool.org. Killian Hill Christian School. 151 Arcado Rd., Lilburn (Gwinnett). 770-921-3224. K4-12th. 400 students. $5,100-$12,490/yr. khcs.org. King’s Ridge Christian School. 2765 Bethany Bend, Alpharetta (Fulton). 770-754-5738. PreK-12th. 803 students. $6,500-$19,995/yr. kingsridgecs.org. Landmark Christian School. 400 Windgate Rd., and 50 SE Broad St., Peachtree City and Fairburn (Fayette).(Fulton). 770-306-0647. K4-12th. 887 students. $5,600-$16,590/yr. landmarkchristianschool.org. Cont’d on page 82

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 81

A Sampling of Atlanta’s Private Schools Loganville Christian Academy. 2575 Hwy. 81, Loganville (Walton). 770-554-9888. PreK-12th. 550 students. $3,950-$9,800/yr. lcalions.com. Marist School. 3790 Ashford Dunwoody Rd. NE, Atlanta (DeKalb). 770-457-7201. 7th-12th. 1100 students. $19,450/yr. marist.com. Midway Covenant Christian School. 4635 Dallas Hwy., Powder Springs (Cobb). 770-5901866. K3-8th. 300 students. $1,600-$6,900/yr. midwayschool.org. Mount Paran Christian School. 1275 Stanley Rd. NW, Kennesaw (Cobb). 770-578-0182. K3-12th. 1087 students. $3,743-$18,618/yr. mtparanschool.com. Mount Pisgah Christian School. 9820 Nesbit Ferry Rd., Johns Creek (Fulton). 678-336-3400. 6wks.-12th. 850 students. $2,600-$20,395/yr. mountpisgahschool.org. Mount Vernon Presbyterian School. 471 and 510 Mt. Vernon Hwy. NE, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-2523448. 6wks.-12th. 955 students. $8,730-$24,250/yr. mountvernonschool.org. Mt. Bethel Christian Academy. 4385 Lower Roswell Rd., and 2509 Post Oak Tritt Rd., Marietta (Cobb). 770-971-0245. PreK-12th. 625 students. $10,000-$15,000/yr. mtbethelchristian.org. North Cobb Christian School. 4500 Eagle Dr., Kennesaw (Cobb). 770-975-0252. K3-12th. 915 students. $4,885-$15,340/yr. ncchristian.org. Notre Dame Academy. 4635 River Green Pkwy., Duluth (Gwinnett). 678-387-9385. PreK2-12th. 545 students. $4,180-$15,919/yr. ndacademy.org. Old Suwanee Christian School. 4118 Old Suwanee Rd., Buford (Gwinnett). 770-9455451. K3-12th. 184 students. $6,000-$6,200/yr. oldsuwanee.org. Our Lady of Mercy Catholic High School. 861 Hwy. 279, Fayetteville (Fayette). 770-461-2202. 9th12th. 250 students. $12,400/yr. mercycatholic.org. Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic School. 1320 Hearst Dr., Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-364-1902. PreK4-8th. 530 students. $8,950-$10,450/yr. olaschool.org. Our Lady of Victory Catholic School. 211 Kirkley Rd., Tyrone (Fayette). 770-306-9026. PreK-8th. 112 students. $8,842/yr. olvcatholicschoolk-8.org. Perimeter School. 9500 Medlock Bridge Rd., Johns Creek (Fulton). 678-405-2300. K-8th. 525 students. $7,100-$12,100/yr. perimeterschool.org. Pinecrest Academy. 955 Peachtree Pkwy., Cumming (Forsyth). 770-888-4477. PreK3-12th. 700 students. $8,745-$17,590/yr. pinecrestacademy.org. Providence Christian Academy. 4575 Lawrenceville Hwy., and 7340 McGinnis Ferry Rd., Lilburn and Suwanee (Gwinnett).(Forsyth). 770279-7200. K-12th. 700 students. $8,700-$17,310/yr. providencechristianacademy.org. Queen of Angels Catholic School. 11340 Woodstock Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 770-518-1804. K-8th. 490 students. $8,425/yr. qaschool.org.

82 Atlanta Parent January 2019

[ Focus on Education ]

atlantaparent.com

Saint Jude the Apostle Catholic School. 7171 Glenridge Dr. NE, Atlanta (Fulton). 770-3942880. K-8th. 491 students. $8,767-10,590/yr. saintjude.net. Shallowford Presbyterian School. 2375 Shallowford Rd., Atlanta (DeKalb). 404 3213061. 15mos.-5th. 234 students. $1,000-$6,000/ yr. shallowfordschool.com. Shiloh Hills Christian School. 260 Hawkins Store Rd. NE, Kennesaw (Cobb). 770-9267729. K3-12th. 154 students. $4,500-$8,900/yr. shilohhills.com. St. Benedict’s Episcopal School. 2160 Cooper Lake Rd., Smyrna (Cobb). 678-279-4300. Preschool-8th. 485 students. $7,930-$12,330/yr. stbs.org. St. Catherine of Siena Catholic School. 1618 Ben King Rd., Kennesaw (Cobb). 770-419-8601. K-8th. 360 students. $7,250-$7,850/yr. scsiena.org.

Atlanta Academy

St. John the Evangelist Catholic School. 240 Arnold St., Hapeville (Fulton). 404-7674312. PreK-8th. 302 students. $7,876-$9,350/ yr. sjecs.org.

St. Paul Lutheran School. 700 Ardenlee Pkwy., Peachtree City (Fayette). 770-486-3545. 12mos.-8th. 240 students. $1,700-$7,050/yr. stpaulptc.org.

St. Joseph Catholic School. 81 Lacy St., Marietta (Cobb). 770-428-3328. K-8th. 450 students. $6,950-$9,036/yr. stjosephschool.org.

St. Peter Claver Regional Catholic School. 2560 Tilson Rd., Decatur (DeKalb). 404-2413063. PreK-8th. 131 students. $7,190-$9,367/yr. spc-school.org.

St. Martin’s Episcopal School. 3110-A AshfordDunwoody Rd., Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-228-0709. 2yrs.-8th. 600 students. $11,000-$20,000/yr. stmartinschool.org.

atlantaparent.com

St. Pius X Catholic High School. 2674 Johnson Rd., Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-636-3023. 9th-12th. 1100 students. $13,325-$14,875/yr. spx.org.

[ Focus on Education ]

St. Thomas More Catholic School. 630 W. Ponce de Leon Ave., Decatur (DeKalb). 404-373-8456. K-8th. 480 students. $7,983-$10,985/yr. stmga.org. Strong Rock Christian School. 4200 Strong Rock Pkwy., Locust Grove (Henry). 678-833-1200. PreK3-12th. 829 students. $6,050-$13,130/yr. strongrockchristianschool.com. Sugar Hill Christian Academy. 4600 Nelson Brogdon Blvd., Sugar Hill (Gwinnett). 678-7454121. Preschool-12th. 455 students. $2,247$9,475/yr. sugarhillchristian.org. Cont’d on page 84

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 83

A Sampling of Atlanta’s Private Schools Torah Day School of Atlanta. 1985 Lavista Rd., Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-982-0800. K-8th. 337 students. $13,000-$15,000/yr. torahday.org. The Weber School. 6751 Roswell Rd., Atlanta (Fulton). 404-917-2500. 9th-12th. 256 students. $28,800/yr. weberschool.org. Wesleyan School. 5405 Spalding Dr., Peachtree Corners (Gwinnett). 770-448-7640. K-12th. 1180 students. $16,990-$24,025/yr. wesleyanschool.org. Westminster. 1424 W. Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-355-8673. Pre1st-12th. 1870 students. $25,405-$29,275/yr. westminster.net. Whitefield Academy. 1 Whitefield Dr., Mableton (Cobb). 678-305-3000. PreK412th. 853 students. $10,650-$23,300/yr. whitefieldacademy.com.

Montessori Montessori schools use the teaching technique developed by Dr. Maria Montessori. Schools listed below have elementary classes through at least the third grade.

Arbor Montessori School. 2998 Lavista Rd., and 1434 Scott Blvd., Decatur (DeKalb). 404321-9304. 18mos.-14yrs. 270 students. $10,650$19,450/yr. arbormontessori.org. Atlanta Montessori International School. 1970 Cliff Valley Way NE, Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-325-6777. 8wks.-15yrs. 270 students. $11,000-$19,000/yr. amischool.com. Crabapple Montessori School. 12387 Crabapple Rd., Alpharetta (Fulton). 770-5695200. 18mos.-12yrs. 180 students. $7,000$12,000/yr. crabapplemontessori.com. International Montessori Academy. 1240 Euclid Ave. NE, Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-4746375. 8wks.-6th. 103 students. $12,640-$19,656/ yr. imontessoriacademy.com.

Mount Paran Christian School

Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs. 2830 Old Atlanta Rd., Cumming (Forsyth). 770205-6277. 6wks.-18yrs. 220 students. $8,000$12,000/yr. montessoriacademygeorgia.com. Montessori Academy at Vickery. 6285 Post Rd., Cumming (Forsyth). 770-777-9131. 18mos.-9yrs. 170 students. $8,000-$12,000/yr. montessorivickery.com. Montessori School at Emory. 3021 N. Decatur Rd., Decatur (DeKalb). 404-634-5777. 15mos.-8th. 200 students. $9,900-$19,500/mo. montessorischoolofdecatur.com. Riverstone Montessori. 455 Casteel Rd., Marietta (Cobb). 770-422-9194. 2.5yrs.9th. 120 students. $9,955-$17,473/yr. riverstonemontessori.com. Springmont. 5750 Long Island Dr. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-252-3910. 18mos.8th. 240 students. $10,350-$22,800/yr. springmont.com. Village Montessori. 1610 Woodstock Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 770-552-0834. 18mos.-8th. 150 students. $5,100-$14,500/yr. vmschool.com.

Special Needs Schools Atlanta Speech School-The Wardlaw School. 3160 Northside Pkwy. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-233-5332. Infant-6th. 380 students. $14,263-$36,004/yr. atlantaspeechschool.org. The Bedford School. 5665 Milam Rd., Fairburn (Fulton). 770-774-8001. 1st-9th. 152 students. $19,550/yr. thebedfordschool.org.

Arbor Montessori School

84 Atlanta Parent January 2019

Brookwood Christian School for Dyslexia. 4728 Wood St., Acworth (Cobb). 678-4015855. 1st-12th. 51 students. $17,000/yr. brookwoodchristian.com.

[ Focus on Education ]

Center Academy. 3499 South Cobb Dr., Smyrna (Cobb). 770-333-1616. 4th-12th. 50 students. $7,000-$15,180/yr. centeracademy.com. The Cottage School. 700 Grimes Bridge Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 770-641-8688. 4th-12th. 218 students. $22,000-$27,000/yr. cottageschool.org. Cumberland Academy of Georgia. 650-A Mt. Vernon Hwy. NE, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-8359000. 4th-12th. 100 students. $20,000-25,000/ yr. cumberlandacademy.org. The Howard School. 1192 Foster St., Atlanta (Fulton). 404-377-7436. K-12th. 287 students. $32,380-$33,980/yr. howardschool.org. Jacob’s Ladder Neurodevelopmental School and Therapy Center. 407 Hardscrabble Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 770-998-1017. PreK12th. 150 students. $20,000-$50,000/yr. jacobsladdercenter.com. Mill Springs Academy. 13660 New Providence Rd., Alpharetta (Fulton). 770-3601336. 1st-12th. 285 students. $19,500-$25,000/ yr. millsprings.org. Porter Academy. 200 Cox Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 770-594-1313. 4yrs.-14yrs. 70 students. $19,923/yr. porteracademy.org. Sage School. 800 Satellite Blvd. NE, Suwanee (Gwinnett). 678-318-3588. K-6th. 50 students. $22,600/yr. sageschool.net. The Schenck School. 282 Mt. Paran Rd. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-252-2591. K-6th. 250 students. $33,850/yr. schenck.org. Still Waters Learning Center. 1560 Oakbrook Dr., Norcross (Gwinnett). 770-449-4125. 6mos.-8th. 66 students. $6,820-$8,840/yr. stillwaterslearningcenter.org. Swift School. 300 Grimes Bridge Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 678-205-4988. 1st-8th. 235 students. $27,950-$28,950/yr. theswiftschool.org.

atlantaparent.com

a school where your child learns

HALF OR FULL DAY, YEAR ROUND PROGRAMS

OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY, JAN. 26 10 AM-3 PM

• By Individual Instruction • A Love of Learning An • To Think Outside the Box Authentic AMI Accredited • Independence Montessori • Respect for Others School • A Solid Foundation • Foreign Language, Music, Cooking, Gardening and More

Montessori School at Emory

3021 N. Decatur Road • Decatur, GA 30033 MontessoriSchoolatEmory.com • 404-634-5777

Accredited Toddler Through Middle School Programs

atlantaparent.com

[ Focus on Education ]

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 85

Special Education in Schools: What Parents Need to Know

As a parent, you have the right to… n Request an evaluation by the school for your child and view the results. n Opt to have your child evaluated privately. You may request this private evaluation to be at the school’s expense if you disagree with the school’s initial evaluation. n Refuse to have your child evaluated by the school. n View all records concerning your child, and have them explained to you. n Help develop your child’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP). You may have someone accompany you to school meetings concerning his IEP. n Observe your child in the classroom in accordance with local school policy. n Decide that you no longer want your child to receive special education services. n Participate in dispute resolution processes provided by the Georgia Department of Education at no cost to resolve differences or concerns related special education services. n A complete set of the parent rights related to special education can be found at gadoe.org.

The school district is required to…

Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, all children have the right to a free, public education, regardless of disabilities. Here’s what special needs parents need to know.

Children’s

Serving students with unique language based learning needs

SPECIAL SERVICES, LLC.

A Comprehensive Therapy Service for Children from Toddler to Teens

l Grades 1-12 Specializing in Dyslexia l Wilson Reading & Fast Forward Programs l Small Class Sizes l Customized Instruction l College Prep and Tech Programs l

678-401-5855

Ofﬁce@BrookwoodChristian.com

Evaluations and Treatments: Sensory Motor ● Visual Motor Coordination ● Visual Processing Handwriting ● Autism Organizational Skills ADD ● ADHD ● PDD ● OCD Behavior Disorders Sensory Integration (and more) 770-394-9791

Susan Orloﬀ OTR/L, FAOTA CEO/EXEC Director

www.childrens-services.com 86 Atlanta Parent January 2019

4728 Wood Street • Acworth 30101

n Provide a free and public education to all students, ages 3-21, with educational disabilities. n Evaluate your child, and hold all meetings concerning your child in your native language.

APS is caring Caring for parents and students. Do you know a child who resides within the city of Atlanta in need of special education services? Atlanta Public Schools Child Find services can open a window of hope for a brighter future for infants, children and young adults identified with a disability or developmental delay. For more information, call the Dept. of Special Education at 404-802-1609 or 404-802-2665.

At the corner of North Main St. and Wood St., north of the Hwy 92 overpass

Read Our Digital Version Online

arent AtlantaP January

aparent.com

2019 / atlant

Our Ao+l Scho Guide

Plus: e Why Th tter Arts Ma

BOOK on FACE Like Us

atlantaparent.com [ Focus on Education ]

atlantaparent.com

n Develop and implement an IEP for your child if the child has an educational disability and requires specialized instruction. n Consult you before changing your child’s IEP and inform you in writing. n Review your child’s progress annually, and re-evaluate his special education eligibility every three years.

Porter Academy Enabling Children with Learning Differences to Succeed

• Pre-K–8th • Small Groups

If an IEP meeting is scheduled … n Bring someone with you – another parent, a friend or neighbor to take notes and support you or ask to use an audio recorder during the meeting. n If your child is old enough to participate, bring him with you. n Keep the meeting positive and focus on your child’s strengths and how the school district and his parents, working as a team, can help him. n Make sure the IEP goals for your child are reasonable and measurable and strategies are in place to achieve them. n Discuss any disciplinary programs, nonacademic activities and supplemental services. n Make sure everything is in writing, and review the plan before signing it. n After the meeting, communicate regularly with your child’s teachers and therapists. Stay involved and visit the school regularly to observe your child’s progress. Find out more at gadoe.org.

Georgia’s Special Education Voucher System The Georgia Special Needs Scholarship (GSNS) Program is a school choice program available for special needs students attending Georgia public schools who are served under an Individualized Education Plan (IEP). One major plus of this program is that parents do not have to justify why their child’s current education program is ineffective or why they want to switch schools. If a student meets the eligibility criteria for the GSNS Program, a parent has the right to request a transfer from a student’s current school to n Another public school within their district of residence; or n Another public school district outside their district of residence; or n One of the three state schools for the blind or deaf; or n A private school authorized to participate in the GSNS Program. Funds cannot be used to pay the costs of out of district tuition, charter schools or other options available under public school choice. A scholarship calculator on the website will help parents determine the estimate award amounts and a list of participating private schools. To learn more about the scholarship program, visit gadoe.org.

atlantaparent.com

• Individualized programs • Hands-on learning activities

770-594-1313 | www.porteracademy.org | 200 Cox Rd., Roswell

AN EXCEPTIONAL SCHOOL FOR EXCEPTIONAL STUDENTS WE’RE EXCEPTIONAL . . .

“At Cumberland, we study college prep academics or prepare for a vocational career, try a sport or a club for the first time – ever. We learn we’re not so different after all.”

650-A Mt. Vernon Hwy NE • Atlanta 30328 cumberlandacademy.org • 404-835-9000

Fulton County Schools’ Services for Exceptional Children oﬀers free diagnostic evaluations for children, three and older, with a suspected disability. Using research-based strategies, the district provides a continuum of services to meet students’ individual educational needs. The district provides services for students with disabilities – including but not limited to developmental, speech and language delays, autism, hearing, vision and orthopedic impairments – who are parentally placed in private school or homeschooled, and who attend a private school or reside within the Fulton County School District. The district provides workshops for families and private schools to help students reach their full academic potential. It is the policy of the Fulton County School System not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, or disability in any employment practice,educational program, or any other program, activity, or service.

Call or visit for more information: 470-254-0404 • fultonschools.org [ Focus on Education ]

January 2019 Atlanta Parent 87

Helps You Navigate an Educational Path to Success for Your Child with Developmental Disabilities The path to high school graduation, college or employment for children with developmental disabilities starts as early as three years old. The journeys traveled can be daunting, and each family has its own set of circumstances that brings complexity and challenges to their intended plans for their children’s future success.

With the support of organizations like the Georgia Parent Mentor Partnership and the Georgia Inclusive Post-Secondary Consortium, tools such as Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and the leadership and experience of state and local agencies like the Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency (GVRA), parents and children can enjoy success on the road from youth to adulthood. An IEP is a living document that creates opportunities for teachers, parents, school administrators, related services personnel and students (when appropriate) to work together to improve educational results for children with disabilities.