Atlanta Parent January 2024 / atlantaparent.com
Risky Play
2024: A Year of Culture We Know Schools: Atlanta’s Best Guide to Education
Make Arts Part of Family Life
Experts who care mean more compassion for you. At Wellstar, you’ll find more than highly experienced doctors. You’ll find doctors who are highly rated by people like you. And you’ll see more than a team of world-renowned caregivers. You’ll see a team designed around your unique needs. Because you are more than a patient. wellstar.org CANCER CARE | HEART CARE | NEURO CARE | SPECIALTY CARE
MORE THAN BOOKS See what all the library has to offer at gwinnettpl.org
Inside 40 January YEARS OF ATLANTA PARENT
Publisher’s Note / 8 Good Stuff / 9
For the Fridge / 102
10
Why Kids Need Risky Play
14
Around the World, Close to Home
19
Letting your kids take risks teaches them resilience and confidence. Learn about the benefits of risky play in today’s world. Atlanta is truly a melting pot! Expand your kids’ worldview by exploring some of the city’s diverse cultures.
Making the Arts a Family Affair
Make the arts a part of your family’s everyday life — the benefits will last a lifetime.
100 Splashing Good Fun!
Beat the winter blahs at these indoor pools and water parks.
Family Fun Guide: The best things to do in January, ice skating, last chance for holiday lights, not-to-miss shows and celebrating MLK Day. Page 91
PAGE We Know Schools:
27
Atlanta’s Best Guide to Education
Learn about the changes coming in reading education in Georgia. Explore your options in public and private schools; also, learn how some Atlanta parents found the right school for their child’s focus.
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Atlanta Parent 5
PUBLISHER Liz White lwhite@atlantaparent.com ASSOCIATE Laura Powell PUBLISHER lpowell@atlantaparent.com
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Carolyn Haushalter chaushalter@atlantaparent.com
ACCOUNT Genie Lockeretz EXECUTIVE glockeretz@atlantaparent.com ACCOUNT Alyssa Gerold EXECUTIVE agerold@atlantaparent.com STAFF WRITER Emily Webb and DIGITAL ewebb@atlantaparent.com CONTENT CREATOR
COPY EDITOR Mary Williams EDITORIAL Sheri Taylor-Emery ART DIRECTOR creative@atlantaparent.com PRODUCTION Robin Mintz ADMINISTRATIVE Amanda Allen ASSISTANT MARKETING Felicia Barman MOM
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Atlanta Parent magazine is published monthly by Atlanta Parent, Inc., 2346 Perimeter Park Drive, Atlanta, GA 30341. Telephone 770-454-7599, Fax 770-454-7699. Atlanta Parent magazine is available free of charge throughout the metro area and as a digital issue at atlantaparent.com. 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.
© Atlanta Parent, Inc. 2024
6 Atlanta Parent
January 2024
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For 2024 Be The Most Informed Parent On The Playground!
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Publisher’s Note
J
anuary is the time of year when we’re making resolutions for ourselves and our families. Atlanta Parent’s January issue is a great place to find inspiration for some resolutions to help make 2024 a great year.
Read, read, read. Make a resolution to read to your kids. Set an example and be a reader yourself. Visit your local library. If you want to make an impact in your community, get involved by volunteering, whether it’s organizing a book drive or working with kids who are learning English as a second language. The work starts at home — studies show that kids at all reading levels benefit from reading just 20 minutes a day. If our kids are to become successful adults, they need to be good readers. It’s hard for many of us to comprehend the fact that 70% of Georgia’s fourth grade students are reading below their grade level. New legislation on how reading is taught will take effect in 2025. Allow risky play. As parents, our instinct is to try to protect kids from every bump, scrape or failure. Letting them engage in “risky” play helps them learn valuable lessons in courage and confidence. Resolve to take a step outside your comfort zone, when it’s appropriate, and let them play without boundaries, whether it’s playing on a jungle gym, riding a bike, or just letting them walk to a friend’s house. Make it a year of culture We’re lucky to live in an area that is so culturally diverse. Use our suggestions to widen your family’s horizons, whether it’s trying a ethnic cuisine, exploring a diverse area of the city or checking out an international festival. Encouraging an appreciation and respect for other cultures will give our kids a more rounded worldview and a more empathetic understanding of other people. Have fun. This resolution is an easy one! Visit a museum, see a show or a new exhibit, go ice skating or enjoy a local indoor waterpark. Use Atlanta Parent’s Family Fun Guide to make your bucket list for January and beyond.
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Email lwhite@atlantaparent.com
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We welcome your views and comments. Letters that appear in the magazine may be edited for content and space.
8 Atlanta Parent
January 2024
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by Emily Webb
Good StUff
THINGS WE LIKE
EEN GO GR THIS YEAR
Wipe It Off
Check out Hill + House for eco-friendly and sustainable products for the home, body, gifts and more. Eliminate the need for paper towels and napkins with the Non-Paper Towel Set. Just roll onto your existing paper towel holder for convenience. Available at hillandhouse.com for $15.99. Swedish dishcloths are able to withstand 200 wash cycles for a more sustainable dishwashing option, and these Swedish Dish Cloths are available in four colors. Available at hillandhouse.com for $6.95.
No Need for Trash According to Feeding America, the U.S. wastes 80 million tons of food annually. Cut food waste, save money and keep fruits and veggies fresh with Veggie Saver. Using multiple layers of unbleached, unseeded cotton, the produce bag keeps fruits and veggies hydrated without getting too wet, so you no longer have to throw away rotten food. Available at veggiesaver.com for $24.99.
Cheers!
Sip out of a beautiful, reusable cup with GreenRow’s Recycled Glass Drinking Glasses. This set of four is made from low-temperature recycled glass for pretty, blue-green cups. The drinkware is also dishwasher-safe, and you can choose from 8- or 10-oz. glasses. Available at greenrow.com for $35-$39.
On the Stove
Upgrade your kitchen cookware in a sustainable way with the Dash Dream Green Recycled Aluminum 15-Piece Cookware Set. The pots and pans are constructed with 100% recycled aluminum, and the set includes four bamboo utensils. Cook up a feast with this set including fry pans, a sauce pan, a sauté pan, a stock pot and more. Available in four colors at bydash.com for $169.99.
Cover Up
Make leftovers less wasteful with Wegreeco’s Reusable Bowl Covers. This set of three comes with small, medium and large covers for use on stainless steel, glass, plastic and ceramic containers, and the elastic stretch will cover the bowls snugly for fresh food and easy transport. Available in four different patterns at amazon.com for $9.99.
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January 2024
Atlanta Parent 9
by Gina Rich
Why Kids W Need
“I don’t want to wear all this stuff,” she said. The helmet was non-negotiable. But as for the rest of the gear? We let her take it off. For the remainder of the summer, the collection sat in a pile in our closet, gathering dust. Our daughter did endure a few bruises and scrapes after that. But without the extra gear restricting her, she was able to move her body freely, and soon improved her balance and coordination on the bike. And I realized that all of our efforts to keep her shielded, padded and insulated hadn’t made her better off — they ultimately made her learning process more cumbersome.
to Thrive
n The benefits of risky play
RISKY PLAY
10 Atlanta Parent
January 2024
hen my youngest daughter learned to ride her bike last summer, my husband and I promptly snapped a photo to document the milestone. In the picture, our daughter looks triumphant, her feet resting comfortably on the pedals as she flashes us a sunny smile. Of course, there were plenty of frustrating moments leading up to this that we didn’t capture on camera. Many times, after losing her balance and toppling over, she’d give up, leaving her bike in a sad heap in our driveway. As I nursed my aching back — sore from holding my daughter’s bike as I ran alongside her — I comforted myself with the knowledge that at least she was safe. In addition to a bike helmet, we’d outfitted her with elbow guards, knee pads and sturdy gloves. The gear was bulky. It was stiff. But she needed it all. Didn’t she? One afternoon, midway through another round of practicing, our daughter got off her bike and began yanking at the gear that had, until now, protected her tender skin from injury.
Just like when my daughter was learning to bike, when my kids were little, I always tried to keep them out of harm’s way — and they worked just as hard to neutralize my efforts! They climbed counters, investigated electrical outlets, and put every tiny object possible into their mouths and noses. atlantaparent.com
Though my kids tested my sanity, evolution-wise they were behaving as expected. Young mammals are drawn to risky play because it creates an exhilarating blend of freedom and fear, according to Peter Gray, a research professor at Boston College and the author of “Free to Learn.” In the article, “Risky Play: Why Children Love It and Need It,” published by Psychology Today, Gray explains that this exposure to natural risks has an important benefit: It enables us to practice managing negative emotions, particularly anger and fear. Roughhousing is a popular form of risky play among kids that sometimes results in accidental injuries, which can — understandably — anger the person who was hit. But that person quickly learns to overcome the momentary anger so that the fun game can continue, according to Gray. Similarly, when kids play hide and seek, climb trees or rocket down a steep hill on skates, they experience a measure of fear that they learn instinctively to control. “They learn that they can manage their fear, overcome it, and come out alive,” Gray writes.
n The risks of not taking risks When I was in middle school, I used to bike around town with a neighborhood friend. My friend’s mother — who I considered very strict at the time — asked only that my friend check in with her once every four hours. Otherwise, we were free to explore whatever struck our fancy. Over the past few decades, this type of unstructured, adventurous play has decreased dramatically, due largely to the rise of adult-directed extracurricular activities and increased anxiety about safety. By removing the natural risks inherent in play, we’ve created other problems. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), “when play is controlled by adults, children acquiesce to adult rules and concerns and lose some of the benefits play offers them, particularly in developing creativity, leadership, and group skills.” Kids who grow up highly sheltered wind up less resilient and less equipped to manage the challenges of adulthood. As a result, their mental health often suffers.
include discarded items like car tires, old mattresses and broken bikes, give kids the freedom to run, jump, hide — and parents aren’t allowed. Beyond junkyard playgrounds, which have not yet made their way to Atlanta, there are many other ways to reap the benefits of risky play and will look different for each child. For some kids, it might be climbing a tall tree or skating solo around the block. For others, it might be constructing a fort using real hammers and nails or cooking a meal on the stove.
When kids play hide and seek, climb trees or rocket down a steep hill on skates, they experience a measure of fear that they learn instinctively to control.
Cont’d on next page
n Risky play looks
different for each child Concerned educators and other child development advocates are trying to bring back risky play in different ways. Adventure playgrounds, which often atlantaparent.com
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Atlanta Parent 11
Why Kids Need RISKY PLAY to Thrive When considering what types of risky play can benefit your child, pay attention to what he or she seems to gravitate toward most. Your child has likely hinted at or even stated outright some ideas. Is it more freedom to roam the neighborhood? Is it staying home alone on occasion? Is it getting acquainted with a new kitchen tool? Think about activities that will expand your child’s world and offer opportunities to learn new skills. Encourage your child to make a list of ideas that you can revisit together from time to time.
n Embrace the discomfort
Parents seem to be far more uneasy about risky play than kids are, and for good reason: We’ve been exposed to more messaging about life’s dangers — real or imagined — that lurk around every corner. Chances are good that allowing your child to participate in risky or unstructured play will make you feel uncomfortable. The challenge is to embrace this discomfort as long as it benefits your child’s development. When my youngest climbs trees or my oldest cuts vegetables with real knives, my
When considering what types of risky play can benefit your child, pay attention to what he or she seems to gravitate toward most. . . . Is it more freedom to roam the neighborhood? Is it staying home alone on occasion? natural inclination is to rush in and help — to protect, insulate, and safeguard. I’ll admit, I often succumb to that tendency. Even so, I’m starting to recognize that the more I do this, the more I’m depriving my kids of the chance to develop critical skills through experience. I could say, “Be careful!” until I sound like a broken record, but letting my kids encounter natural risks — and cope with whatever challenges might arise — is a far more effective lesson. At the martial arts studio where my oldest daughter practices, there’s a large glass window for parents to observe the class. Each time the students engage in sparring — or controlled fighting exercises with their classmates — all of the adults hold their collective breath. I know we’re all thinking the same thing: Please don’t let my kid get hurt. Although the students wear some
1,250+ Students | Preschool - Grade 12 12 Atlanta Parent
January 2024
protective gear, there’s a good chance of getting kicked or knocked down. During one session, my daughter sustained a decent wallop to her face. Although she wasn’t seriously injured, as I watched her eyes well up with tears, I felt awful. At first, I worried that I’d done her a disservice by allowing her to participate in an activity where she could get hurt. But the experience ultimately made a positive impact on my daughter: It taught her the importance of always keeping her hands up to protect her face — a lesson that has stuck with her. This realization helped me cope with the initial discomfort and guilt I felt about her getting injured. Without question, unstructured play comes with risks. But when it comes to our children’s long-term development, independence and mental health, it’s becoming clear that the lack of risky play poses a far greater danger.
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Sat., Feb. 10, 2024 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. The Studio Theatre, City Springs 1 Galambos Way Sandy Springs
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Make 2024 a Year of Culture by Emily Webb
In our world that is more connected than ever, global culture is on the rise. The metro area is diverse and home to a variety of cultures, providing a myriad of opportunities for cultural experiences. This year, commit to taking advantage of all Atlanta has to offer! Stay busy exploring and learning with our ideas. 14 Atlanta Parent
January 2024
Talk About It You might notice a lot of your close friends and neighbors are similar to you. Learning about other families’ traditions and heritage teaches your kids about respect and empathy. Look for opportunities that involve meeting and interacting with people from other cultures. n Talk to a family whose heritage is different than yours. Swap nights hosting dinners to share each family’s favorite foods and traditions. n Write to a pen pal. Make friends all over the world with globalpenfriends.com. Swap letters, postcards, art, candy and more, and join groups to find travel friends, e-pals or a native speaker for practicing a new language. n Want to make an even greater connection? Consider hosting an exchange student and welcoming them into your family. In Georgia, more than 235 students have attended more than 146 public high schools to help families experience a new culture and create lifelong friendships. Learn more at iseusa.org/georgia. n Books are an excellent way to step into someone else’s life and learn more about their experiences. For older children, reading may launch a deeper discussion. “The Way We Say Hello” shows a young child searching for the best way to welcome a new baby into the family with cultures and customs from around the world. “Spanish Is the Language of My Family” is an intergenerational story that features a young boy preparing for his school’s Spanish spelling bee and asking his grandmother for help. “An Asian American A to Z: A Children’s Guide to Our History” explores the Asian American identity with stories of celebration and resistance, along with mini biographies. “We Are Still Here!” presents historical and contemporary laws, policies, struggles and victories for a more complete look at Native American life. “A Year of Black Joy: 52 Black Voices Share Their Life Passions” features different contributors diving into their own field for a look at astronomy, beekeeping and more. For a complete list of recommendations, visit atlantaparent.com.
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Take a Class Explore language, dance and more with classes for kids and families. These experiences immerse participants in culture and provide a new skill that can be fun and useful. n The Spanish Academy; thespanishacademy.com n École du Samedi; frenchschoolatlanta.org n Uhuru Dancers; uhurudancers.com n Atlanta Irish Dance by Burke Connolly; burkeconnolly.com n Kruti Dance Academy; kruti.com n Spanish Learning for Kids; spanishlearningforkids.com n Lingual Kids; lingualkids.com n Gao Chinese Culture Academy; gaoacademy.com n Manga African Dance; mangadance.org
Go to a Restaurant Food is a central element of heritage. Eating at a new restaurant is a delightful way to open your taste buds up to a trip around the world. n Brazil: Minas Grill: This Brazilian steakhouse features an all-you-can-eat buffet, delicious pastries and more as you’re surrounded by Brazilian culture. minas-grill.com n China: Doc Chey’s Noodle House: Dim Sum is a Chinese word meaning “heart’s delight,” and it describes the small plates served in the Canton province of China 100 years ago. Taste it yourself at this restaurant, which also features a kid’s menu and monthly specials. doccheys.com n El Salvador: Buenos Dias Café & Pupuseria: Inspired by the co-owner’s Salvadorian heritage, try different flavored Pupusa, a griddle cake. buenosdiascafe.com n Ethiopia: Desta Ethiopian Kitchen: “Desta” means happiness, and you’ll be happy at this restaurant serving traditional Ethiopian fare, unique creations and more. They even have a vegan menu! destaethiopiankitchen.com n France: Café Alsace: Try French cuisine with Bouillabaisse, Spaetzle a l’Alsacienne, Boeuf Bourguignon, Crème Brûlée and more. cafealsace.net n India: Zyka: Enjoy Hyderabadi hometown food with Tandoori Chicken, Saag Paneer, naan and more. Finish the meal with a traditional Indian dessert, including ice cream served in a clay pot. zyka.com n Italy: Dominick’s: Using family recipes and fresh ingredients, travel to Italy by tasting Chicken Carbonara, Veal Piccata and more, and the choosiest in your family can build their own pasta dish. dominicksitalian.com n Jamaica: Jamrock Restaurant: Dig into delicious Jamaican dishes, such as Jerk Chicken, Curry Goat, Oxtail and more. Come back on different days to try Doc Chey’s Noodle House the flavored Porridge of the Day. jamrockrestaurant.com n Korea: Letsbap: Grab and go different Korean foods to sample, including Bulgogi, Japchae, Kimbap and more. letsbap.com n The Philippines: Estrellita Filipino: The dishes at this restaurant include lumpia (a type of spring roll), Chicharron Crispy Chicken Skins with a vinegar dipping sauce, short ribs and more. estrellitafilipino.com
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Atlanta Irish Dance by Burke Connolly
Try Something New Whip up a new recipe from a different culture and discuss its roots over dinner. It’s a fun family activity and will also expose your kids to new foods and grocery stores. n Check out Cooking the Globe’s website for creating and tasting foods from all around the world; cookingtheglobe.com. Purchase a cookbook featuring cuisine different from your usual dinners. “International Night: A Father and Daughter Cook Their Way Around the World” by Mark and Tali Kurlansky features delicious recipes and cultural and historical tidbits. Each week, they explored a different country with a themed dinner, and you can do the same with recipes for 52 special meals; bloomsbury.com. n Grocery shopping together can be a special learning experience if you head to a local ethnic store and purchase a new treat to try! Asian supermarket chain H Mart has stores in Doraville, Duluth, Johns Creek, Riverdale and Suwanee; hmart.com. Check out Shivam Groceries for Indian and Asian grocery and produce; shivamgroceries.com. Supermercado Chicago is a Mexican market with an eatery area; supermercadochicago.negocio.site. Tiptop Kosher Market features kosher and Israeli brands. Visit the restaurant for pita, pastrami, schnitzel and more; tiptopmarkets.com. Cont’d on next page
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Make 2024 a Year of Culture Be an Armchair Traveler Experience the world without leaving home with these ideas to broaden your family’s knowledge. n Purchase a world map or globe and use it to jumpstart learning at home. Randomly pick a country, and use online resources to discover more about the people, their traditions and special cities and locations. n Use Google Earth to “visit” amazing places. Explore the Taj Mahal in India, the Towers of Angkor Wat in Cambodia, the Itsukushima Shrine in Japan and more; earth.google.com. n View museums from around the world with Google Arts & Culture pages. You can even project an art gallery into your room using Augmented Reality; artsandculture.google.com. n Discover Atlanta’s sister cities. Did you know Atlanta has 17 sister cities? Learn more about Brussels, Belgium; Fukuoka, Japan; Lagos, Nigeria and more at atlsistercities.com.
The Gullah/Geechee Ring Shouters
Go on a Road Trip Whether it’s just for the day or a weekend away, these cultural destinations are worth the drive. n Go back in time for a glimpse of the ancient biblical world, its history and culture at Biblical History Center in LaGrange; biblicalhistorycenter.com. n The Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park is a prehistoric American Indian site, showcasing more than 12,000 years of traditions, and at the museum, view more than 2,000 artifacts; nps.gov. n Helen is a bustling alpine village similar to Germany’s famed Bamberg or Lindau where families can experience German culture and fare; helenga.org. n Travel to Hilton Head to appreciate Gullah culture and the community’s vibrant heritage to its forefathers with language, history, economics and artistic traditions; hiltonheadisland.org/gullah.
Brussels, Belgium
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Visit a Museum Museums are an example of high culture and introduce new concepts to kids in an informative and entertaining manner. n The High Museum of Art is home to more than 17,000 pieces of European, African and more decorative, folk art pieces and photography; high.org. n The National Center for Civil and Human Rights connects people from all over the world using immersive exhibits to showcase the story of Martin Luther King Jr., the civil rights movement in the U.S. and the struggle for human rights around the world today; civilandhumanrights.org. n Visit the William Breman Jewish Heritage Museum to understand Jewish culture, arts and history; thebreman.org. n Emory’s Michael C. Carlos Museum focuses on art and culture with collections from Africa; ancient Egypt, Nubia and the Near East; ancient Greece and Rome; the Indigenous Americas and South Asia; carlos.emory.edu.
Go to a Festival Make plans to attend festivals that celebrate countries and culture throughout the year. These events will give your family an exciting glimpse into traditions, food, art, music and more. n Roswell Roots (Feb.) celebrates Black History Month with programs, events and activities focused on raising cultural awareness and engaging the community. Hindu Temple of Atlanta
Explore Atlanta Thanks to the city’s history of immigration and cultural diversity, many different types of people call Atlanta home. You can experience that diversity at these spots across the metro area. n Buford Highway spans multiple cities across metro Atlanta and is filled with restaurants and markets representing cuisine from all over the world, including Vietnamese, Korean and Mexican. Several restaurants even made the recent Atlanta MICHELIN Guide: Nam Phuong, Food Terminal, Kamayan ATL, LanZhou Ramen and Han Il Kwan. Find more about this multicultural spot at welovebuhi.org. n Also located on Buford Highway, Plaza Fiesta is a vibrant, colorful mall resembling a Latin American street market; plazafiesta.net. n Visit Riverdale to view the Hindu Temple of Atlanta to appreciate and recognize Hindu heritage; hindutempleofatlanta.org. n Stop by the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Annunciation, a community of the Metropolis of Atlanta in the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, under the care of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople; atlgoc.org.
n The Lunar New Year Festival (last three weekends in Feb.) features a special Lunar New Year Drone and Light Show at Stone Mountain Park, along with cultural craft activities, storytelling, puppetry, dance and drum exhibitions and other cultural elements. n The Johns Creek International Festival (May 4) celebrates the diversity of Johns Creek with food, music and art. n The Cherokee County Indian Festival & Mother’s Day Powwow (May 11-12) allows you to learn about Native American history and culture. n The Marietta Greek Festival (May) features homemade food, music and dancing to celebrate Greek culture. n The Caribbean Book & Musical Festival (June) brings different people together using books and music. n The Annual Atlanta African Dance & Drum Festival (July 19-21) features a diverse range of music and movement workshops, a craft market, food vendors and more. n The Cobb County International Festival (Aug.) celebrates food, music and art from around the world. n JapanFest (Sept.) explores Japanese culture with food, music, performances and more.
n Japanese gardens are meant to honor Japanese aesthetics by highlighting the natural landscape. In Atlanta, view similarly styled gardens at Atlanta Botanical Garden (atlantabg.org), Gibbs Gardens (gibbsgardens.com) and Grand Hyatt Atlanta (hyatt.com).
n The Stone Mountain Highland The Cherokee County Indian Festival & Games (Oct. 19-20) features colorful pipe bands, Scottish athletics, piping and Mother’s Day Powwow drumming competitions, country dancing and more.
n In Cartersville, the Etowah Indian Mounds State Historic Site was home to Native Americans from 1000 A.D. to 1550 A.D., and features the most intact Mississippian Culture site in the Southeast; gastateparks.org/etowahindianmounds.
n The Brookhaven International Festival (Oct.) is held along the Buford Highway Cultural Corridor for live cultural performances, international cuisine, an art walk and more.
n Global Mall is a South Asian retail center with more than 100 businesses to help shoppers experience the tastes of India and Pakistan with restaurants, clothing, jewelry and more; amsglobalmall.com.
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n The Native American Festival and Pow Wow (Oct. 31-Nov. 3) at Stone Mountain Park has dance, music, craft demonstrations, storytelling and more. n The Atlanta Christkindl Market (Dec.) showcases the magic of the holidays at this market combining German tradition with Atlanta. Cont’d on next page
January 2024
Atlanta Parent 17
At Moving in the Spirit,
children and teens study the art of dance, make friends, and develop the skills they need to thrive.
www.movinginthespirit.org
Now registering boys and girls ages 3-18, beginner to advanced.
Make 2024 a Year of Culture Honor Holidays and Special Months There’s always a reason to celebrate when you explore holidays from all around the world! Holi is a Hindu celebration of color, love and spring and occurs in March. Diwali, Kwanzaa and Hanukkah are all multi-day holidays that honor light. Ramadan is Holi observed by Muslims as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection and community each spring. n February: Black History Month n February 10-24: Chinese New Year n April: Arab American Heritage Month n May: Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month n May: Jewish American History Month n September 15-October 15: Hispanic Heritage Month n November: Native American Heritage Month
Order a Subscription Box
Starting a monthly subscription box is a fantastic way to bring the world to your home. Expand global knowledge with activities and food designed for kids and families. n Raddish’s Global Eats Club are monthly kits inspiring global citizenship. Boxes include illustrated recipe guides, a quality kitchen tool, collectibles, a creative kitchen project, culinary skill lessons and a complete grocery list. raddishkids.com n Discover a new country each month with hands-on activities, stories and souvenirs with Little Passports’ World Edition. Each month, find crafts, puzzles and surprises for a global trip. littlepassports.com n Little Global Citizens’ transports you to a different country with an littlepassports.com authentic guide, crafts, activities, recipes, books and more. The sibling option includes two sets of all activities. little-global-citizens.com n Make international travel easy with KiwiCo’s Atlas Crate, which is designed to help your child develop an appreciation for other world cultures. Build a spinning globe, make a travel book, create crafts and more. kiwico.com n Bond over country, culture and cuisine with eat2explore. This cooking kit includes the hard-to-find specialty ingredients needed for recipes to discover Singapore, China, France, Kenya and more. eat2explore.com
18 Atlanta Parent
January 2024
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Make Arts Part of Your Family Life atlantaparent.com
by Christina Katz with Tali Benjamin
T
hink the arts are frivolous, impractical, and over-priced? Sometimes a parent’s “the-arts-just-aren’t-necessary” attitude can tragically squelch a young person’s creative aspirations. Whereas, a parent who is too gung-ho about a child’s talents, may not realize that hijacking dreams robs a child of healthy feelings of ownership and independence. Fortunately, many parents find the balanced middle. They figure out how to quietly stand behind a young person’s aspirations without taking over and find ways to supportively usher their child towards creating a colorful future. As parents of creative kids, how can we banish black-andwhite, all-or-nothing thinking about the arts, and tap into our expressive parenting power instead? Here are ten tips that will help you encourage your kids to create the future that best suits them. Cont’d on next page
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Atlanta Parent 19
Make Arts Part of Your Family Life
Be creative yourself.
Expose your family to the arts.
Want creative kids? Start by being creative yourself. Before you can encourage your child to pursue her creative dreams, you have to nurture your own dreams. “My sister has been a local Atlanta actor for many years. Through her, and my own experiences as a child, I’ve been around the theatre world for a long time,” says Kim Priest Beaty. “My wife Julie and I first introduced Emerson to acting when she was just 3 years old at her preschool. After a summer camp experience with Forefront Arts, she was hooked and immediately joined their Junior Ensemble Troupe in Atlanta. She is currently in her fifth year with the troupe and it is truly her ‘happy place.’” For Colette Olsen of Brookhaven, the inspiration to start her daughter Trinity in dance lessons at 2 also came from her own experience. “I danced when I was little, that was the reason we started. I enjoyed it and thought she would. At first, she just liked it for the costumes.”
Art appreciation can be a family affair without becoming expensive. Surely you are not the only family in the neighborhood interested in exposing your family to culture. Team up with families in your neighborhood to attend shows and events at group discount rates. Check local museums for free days and local theaters for meet-the-actors shows. Atlanta has a rich arts scene of cultural opportunities through public libraries, in local theaters, via local schools and colleges, and by taking advantage of special broadcasts at your local movie theater.
Encourage hobbies. If last year’s hobby was knitting and this year’s hobby is painting, that’s fine. Never force your kids to continue hobbies that no longer interest them. As long as the supplies are affordable and the experience is enriching, variety is good. And when a hobby sticks around, that works, too. Hobbies need to be about the joy of doing. “If it’s something your child wants to try, look into options that are low threshold,” says mom of two Emily Cowden. “Often places will do one trial lesson for free.” She also suggests trying a day camp as a way to expose children to various art forms or utilizing virtual lessons through outschool.com. Olsen notes that Trinity tried golf, soccer and tennis before realizing that her true passion was for dance. The last thing a hobby should be about is perfection or competition. If you are overly involved in your child’s hobbies, take a step back. That’s their thing. Why not find your own? 20 Atlanta Parent
January 2024
Make room for imagination. The magic of creativity often happens in private. How often do you all scatter to your own corners of the house to read, create or simply have some space for imagination? Forget the idea that positive results only come from measured formulas and strictly followed recipes. Heights of beauty and transformation in art are often achieved through immersion in an imaginative process. Structured arts and crafts projects are fine, but release your kids to their own creative devices, as well. “We introduced art lessons because, as parents, we could see how much he enjoys creating and putting his creativity to work,” says Melissa Aery, mom of Milton fourth grader Lucas. “Traditional art classes that he tried when he was younger were not interesting to him, as he found the ‘paint by numbers’ approach usually offered to children too restrictive to his imaginative ideas. The Collab where he attends lessons, has a more flexible approach, and has provided Lucas the freedom to express his thoughts and ideas with less limitations. It was a choice based on fostering his individuality and nurturing his passion for making things.”
Cont’d on page 22
atlantaparent.com
Fine Arts on Spotlight Spotlight the Arts ACADEMY OF BALLET
404-754-4412 | academy-ballet.com Located conveniently in Peachtree Corners, Academy of Ballet is celebrating 29 years of dance excellence. With a distinguished faculty of industry professionals, over 30 unique classes are available weekly for every age and level. Classes are available in ballet, jazz, tap, contemporary, lyrical, hip hop, musical theatre and acrobatics for ages 2.5 through adult. The Children’s Nutcracker, presented by the Academy Performing Ensemble, is a beloved community tradition of 20 years.
Fine Arts Spotlight ALLIANCE THEATRE
404-733-4600 | alliancetheatre.org/content/classes The Tony Award-winning Alliance Theatre offers classes for all ages, from 12 months old (yes, 12 months) through adults. The curriculum features lessons from some of the industry’s best teaching artists from learning to act (on stage or on camera), sharpening your communication skills, and just learning about theater. 1280 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta 30309.
Fine Arts Spotlight
ATLANTA BALLET CENTRE FOR DANCE EDUCATION 404-873-5811 | centre.atlantaballet.com
Discover the joy of dance and performance at Atlanta Ballet Centre for Dance Education. Each year, over 200 student dancers, ages six and up, dance as Chicks, Young Mice, Toy Soldiers and Party Children in The Nutcracker, where they share the stage with Atlanta Ballet Company and Atlanta Ballet 2 dancers. Enrollment in Creative Movement and Student Division classes is open at West Midtown, Buckhead and Virginia-Highland. Visit centre.atlantaballet.com. Atlanta Parent
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COMMUNITY MUSIC CENTERS OF ATLANTA 404-614-0466 | CMCAtlanta.com | Four Locations
CMC Atlanta’s professional faculty offers music education programs in classical, jazz, rock, folk and roots music, from beginner to pre-professional, ages 4 and older. With four convenient locations, the comprehensive program catalogue includes private lessons, after-school programs, day camps, workshops, gap programs, an accredited high school conservatory, apprenticeship and artist residency programs. Register online today at your neighborhood music school. Atlanta Parent atlantaparent.com
January 2024
atlantaparent.com Atlanta Parent 21
Make Arts Part of Your Family Life Explore a range of forms. Art has many types. A partial list includes dancing, singing, fine art (painting, sculpture, architecture, music and poetry), theater arts, photography, collage, film, printmaking, mosaics, crafts and calligraphy. Don’t be shy about asking about scholarship programs if costs exceed your budget. “Exposing kids to different mediums is good. Lillian loves to draw but discovered she really loves to use the pottery wheel after taking a class over the summer. You never know what they will like or what they may have a talent for if they don’t try it out,” says Sheri Gushta.
Relax about messes. Your perfectionism may cost your kids in creative growth. Artists often have to try something dozens of times before they get the hang of even a simple brushstroke. Adopt a practice-makes-proud attitude. “I focus on getting a little better each day,” says 10-year-old Trinity Olsen. “I enjoy learning new things and making new friends through dance. I understand learning a new technique like pirouettes is a process. At first, I couldn’t do them at all and now I can. It’s exciting to master a new skill and see your parents and teachers notice your growth.” If you observe your child craving space to spread out and practice work, try to create some. Make room for projects to be spread out for several days or however long they take. Find nooks and crannies of your home that can support ongoing creative messes. Drop the pressure to immediately clean up after every sitting. Take good care of art tools but allow for a bit of creative chaos.
Test-drive a variety of techniques. Within so many approaches to one art form, you will constantly face lots of choices. So why not let your little artist explore a variety of methods as deeply as she likes over time? For example, your local dance studio probably offers ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, acrobatics and hip-hop. Within theater you will find plays, musicals, ballet and opera. “I like ballet the most, but my favorite competition piece I’ve ever done was a lyrical dance, The Moment,” shares Trinity. Within painting, you will find oil, pastel, acrylic, watercolor, ink and many more. Technique classes for kids can provide a solid foundation for more in-depth study later in life. “I like to try new things like different techniques,” says fifth grader Lillian Gushta of Roswell. “Like when we did a value scale to learn about shading in my art lessons. I had never done that before.”
Bankroll dreams gradually. Don’t drop a lot of cash up front or you may inadvertently set the stage for, “You’ll like it because I paid for it,” which is always a lot of pressure. “Once you invest in lessons, support them,” says Olsen. “Remind them to practice and make it fun. We do at-home concerts to make practicing exciting and to celebrate accomplishments.” Go for low-commitment opportunities initially and then streamline along lines of interest as kids mature. For a dancer, you could start with tap dancing; then, add a new style each year according to her tastes and talents. If you expand as your child’s abilities grow, your child will be ready for a more intensive level of participation around middle school, which often benefits kids at this developmental juncture. “Don’t push your kids,” says Olsen. “Keep checking in — ask: Do you still want to be doing this?” Cont’d on page 24
22 Atlanta Parent
January 2024
atlantaparent.com
Fine Arts on Spotlight Spotlight the Arts FOREFRONT ARTS CHILDREN’S THEATRE 770-864-3316 | ForefrontArts.com | Multiple Locations
Ages 3-18 can channel their talents with Forefront Arts Children’s Theatre – while boosting confidence and developing life skills! School-year classes in Preschool Drama, Film Acting, Improv, Musical Theatre, Show Choir, Dance Technique and more. Full-scale productions – perform in “Matilda” and “Newsies” Summer Camp signups open in January! Private Vocal, Dance, & Acting Lessons.
Spotlight on the Arts THE MUSIC CLASS
770-645-5578 | 9 Locations in Metro Atlanta themusicclass.com/atlanta Fun-filled, developmental, interactive music classes. Featuring award-winning music and led by inspiring music teachers, you and your child will be swept into playful singing, dancing, and instrument play in a joyful and nurturing environment. For infants, toddlers and preschoolers. Call for class times or visit the website.
Fine Arts Spotlight
THE SPRUILL CENTER FOR THE ARTS 770-394-3447 | spruillarts.org | Dunwoody
The Spruill Center for the Arts offers hands-on art classes and camps for children and teens in a range of age and skill levels. Instructors guide students through early art explorations in different mediums to portfolio development in teen studio intensives. Classes are offered several weeks each quarter, while camps are held during school holiday breaks, as well as summer break. To discover the full array of opportunities, go to spruillarts.org. Atlanta Parent
TERMINUS BALLET SCHOOL
atlantaparent.com
470-733-8274 | terminusmbt.com
At Terminus Ballet School, students learn the art of dance while making friends and developing their confidence. The curriculum includes ballet, pointe or boys’ technique, and contemporary dance with opportunities to perform throughout the year. Student creativity is encouraged whilst strengthening their technical foundation. Led by a team of professional dancers, the faculty brings an elite understanding to the classroom and creates a safe and nurturing environment. For boys and girls ages 7+. For questions please contact c.welker@terminusmbt.com. Atlanta Parent atlantaparent.com
January 2024
atlantaparent.com Atlanta Parent 23
Make Arts Part of Your Family Life Seek out appropriate mentors.
ENROLL TODAY •Preschool Dance •Creative Movement CONTACT US •Musical Theater 524 Plasters Ave. •Hip-hop Atlanta, GA 30324 •Tap & Jazz 404-877-0005 •Modern atlantadanceandmusic.com •Contemporary •Teen classes – All levels •Performance Ensemble •Competition Team •Piano, Guitar Violin & Voice
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24 Atlanta Parent
January 2024
Parents can’t be everything to every child they raise. As kids get older, they need real-life mentors to help teach them lessons about living happily in the world. Kids benefit from having multiple influences, beyond the usual teachers, coaches and instructors, who can stretch and challenge them in a particular pursuit. Explore apprenticeships, tutoring or private lessons with safe, knowledgeable professionals who can serve as living, breathing examples of success. “Environment is so important,” says Trinity’s dad Aake Olsen. “The kids have to have fun and you want to find teachers and coaches that listen to your kids. Ultimately, this is a hobby.”
Banish pressure. Creativity and pressure are like oil and water. They don’t mix well in young children, who are more likely to benefit from variety and flexibility in self-expression. As a parent, strive to be that supportive, guiding presence so you can help your children make choices that are expressive and sensible. “Don’t force them,” says Priest Beaty. “As with any other activity, if they aren’t up there having fun and wanting to go to rehearsal, don’t make them. “ “It’s essential to find a course or environment that aligns with your child’s unique artistic inclinations. Additionally, persistence is key. If the first attempt at an art class or experience doesn’t resonate with your child, don’t be discouraged. Each child is different, and finding the right fit may require exploration,” says Aery.
Supporting Skills What else do the arts bring to kids? “Performing has brought our child confidence in herself and her abilities on and off the stage, speaking publicly in front of large groups. Being able to express herself through song and dance and understanding that a show is more than one person,” says Priest Beaty. “It takes every individual involved on and off stage to make the magic happen.” “Dance has helped her focus, built her confidence and endurance,” says Olsen. “Most of all, it has taught her perseverance. Kids have to learn that you can’t do something the first time, but after trying over and over again, you can. We say get 1% better every day.” “Learning piano has helped a lot with my daughter’s fine motor skills,” says Cowden. “She didn’t go to preschool during the pandemic, so she was a touch behind with that. Her teachers now have noticed the improvement.” “As Lucas has developed his technical skills, he has also deepened his understanding of art. Having the freedom to explore his ideas with a better technical foundation has helped to unlock more creativity and ideas,” says Aery. “The benefits extend beyond the canvas, influencing his overall confidence and approach to creativity.” atlantaparent.com
l Looking Up
l Building
AM Is Every Day STE
you see have and structures All the buildings Your child for a certain purpose. but he might been designed toys, a ton of building probably owns ng before. d it to engineeri not have connecte or Lincoln Logs blocks, LEGOs Experiment with your child build structures. Can of one of his to create unique weight the will hold something that You can keep about a book? boxes, to other toys? What as cardboard such , recyclable materials playhouse he can use. a build and decorate
at Play
you just using STEAM; many ways, you’re to enjoying the Every day, in so ling to school e it! From trave STEAM is all might not realiz ite TV shows, to watching favor y already spring weather ties your famil activi 15 re these e of STEAM. around us. Explo ver the importanc does to help unco
by Emily Webb
l Spotting a
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l Checking
Atlanta Parent Honored
the Weather
can mean rain Spring weather weather and sunny showers, warmer day! all in the same skies—sometimes, the scientific study Meteorology is y state of the Earth’s of the day-to-da forecast meteorologists atmosphere, and a weather forecast y the weather. Watch discuss what technolog and morning one to make the gists must use y they the meteorolo as what technolog forecast, as well the viewer. information to use to send the h to check use a stopwatc and On a rainy day, seeing lightning the time between every five seconds, for hearing thunder; a mile away. Maybe how the storm is about spot a rainbow— after a storm, you did that happen?
l Flying a Kite
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Mural
often used beautiful! Art is way Public art is so in a more colorful to depict a message s and statements. The compared to sentence about, see what murals out and next time you’re the artist use? What colors did you can spot. her message? words to convey If you were Did she use any the piece means? hood, what What do you think neighbor your in to design a mural Why? would it look like?
l Riding a Bike
around on a bike The way you zip whether energy of motion, showcases the a trail. The the yard or on you’re biking in produces is kinetic power your body forward. moves the bike energy, which age and y changes as you of The technolog mind your child get better at biking—re to a bicycle. from a tricycle how he moved machine; simple ly The bike is a deceptiveto look, hold weight needs discuss how it A to point you from point and move to get the energy kids about how B. Talk to your or down a hill. up going changes if you’re
l Riding in
l Counting
l Listening
m
to Music
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Your Pennies
store, of the grocery walk the aisles Every time you best deals. Before to figure out the you’re using math with your child, create a budget. store you have. heading to the bills and coins you identify the Have her help your budget. Compare can stay within to buy the Discuss how you of items. Is it cheaper price: $3 for prices and weight is a better g of cereal? Which Dependin jar? generic brand 10-oz. or $5 for a marketing. a 5-oz. jar of pickles even talk about ? age, you might on your child’s often on packages you see the most why? What colors do like better and branding do you Which product’s
atlantaparent.co
42 Atlanta Parent
a Walk think about e your child to you’re can encourag innovations. If Being outdoors as well as technical park, the natural sciences, the neighborhood or a nearby around child to look taking a walk Encourage your pay attention. crack on the take the time to is growing in the How is that questions. What around and ask spot spring blooms? sandbox, you starting to in the sidewalk? Are At a park, dig one? this from and play on the insect different the skatepark , the skaters at what they’re watch birds, view faster based on move skaters move? the swings playground. Do slide? How do holding up the using? What is
l Going for
the Car
not to the next and from one place get us there Often, we’re zoomingof technology that’s able to the piece by car is faster thinking about he thinks traveling energy, cars your child why human-powered efficiently. Ask Rather than using in a battery. than riding a bike. or electrical energy in the energy in gasoline of technology use chemical y him the pieces hood to show the other technolog Pop your car’s and think about signs for lights, out for a drive Head traffic engine. seat belts, everyone safe: he needed to on the road. If needed to keep at the other cars like? color would he pedestrians. Look what model and buy a new vehicle,
Cont’d on next page
March 2023
Atlanta Parent
43
m
for Top-Notch Content and Creativity
atlantaparent.co
March 2023
As we are celebrating our 40th year in publication, our award-winning tradition continues! Atlanta Parent brought a record-breaking 22 awards home from the annual conference this year! On hand at the 2023 Conference were industry publishers and editors from across the country. The awards are judged by the University of Missouri School of Journalism. The judges look for the best in local and regional parenting publications, special issues, websites and social media. They recognize and reward editorial, design and general excellence in local and regional parenting publications like Atlanta Parent. Locally owned since 1983, parents have relied on our monthly magazine since 1983. We are proud to have adapted through the years, and now also provide a lively and fast-growing website and social media outlets. “I am proud to lead such an amazing team and to have been such an integral part of the Atlanta community for so long,” says owner and publisher Liz White. “I am truly grateful for our continued presence and ability to provide exceptional stories and practical resources that help families.”
9
n n n n n n n n n
Special Section Within a Publication: Atlanta’s Best Guide to Education Non-Traditional Story Form General Feature Writing Profile Writing Front Cover Illustration Table of Contents Department Design Special Section Design: Summer Fun Guide Ancillary General Excellence: Education Viewbook
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6
Gold Awards
Bronze Awards
Silver Awards Overall Writing Non-Traditional Story Form n News Feature n Service Feature n Department Design n Ancillary Overall Design: Education Viewbook n n
Feature Layout Front Cover Use of Stock Photo n Special Section Within a Publication: Atlanta Baby n News Feature n Best E-Newsletter n Calendar of Events – Design n Calendar of Events – Editorial n n
January 2024
Atlanta Parent 25
WHERE WILL WONDER LEAD YOU?
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26 Atlanta Parent
January 2024
[ Focus on Education ]
atlantaparent.com
We Know Schools: Atlanta’s BEST Guide to Education
28 Tips for Transitioning
to Elementary, Middle or High School
32 Reading Education in Georgia
36 Prepare Your Child
for Preschool Success
42 Finding the Best Fit: Parents Share Their School Journeys
50 Cool School Programs 55 Guide to
Private Schools
Special Advertising Section
66 Prepare Your Child (and You) for High School
70 A Snapshot of
Public School Districts
76 Cyber Schooling: Keeping Kids Connected
78 Helping Kids Learn
From Their Mistakes
81 The List:
Atlanta’s Private Schools
atlantaparent.com
[ Focus on Education ]
January 2024
Atlanta Parent 27
LEVELING UP
Get Ready for the Next Stage of School by Malia Jacobson
When kids are transitioning between elementary, middle or high school, parents must not only prep their child for the changes, but also absorb piles of new information themselves. Here’s what you need to know to stay strong at every stage.
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Get involved: Elementary school is an excellent time to plug in to parent involvement opportunities. Attend the school’s first parent-teacher organization meeting — you’ll learn about events and activities that can enhance your child’s school experience. Undercover volunteer: Parental involvement in school is linked to better grades, fewer behavior problems, and increased teacher job satisfaction. Working parents, those with small children at home, and those who can’t spare an entire day for a school field trip can still contribute. Contact your child’s teacher and ask how you can help. Parents can help sort box tops, organize student folders or prep supplies for classroom art projects from home on the weekends. And don’t forget: Music teachers, PE teachers and librarians need help, too. Work at home: For kindergarten and first grade students, homework loads will likely be light. For very young students, basic reading and math facts are things families can practice at home; ask your teacher for a list of “sight words,” or words your child will need to know on sight by the end of kindergarten and review them weekly with your child. It’s also a great time to plan ahead for upper elementary grades, when homework begins in earnest. Designate a spot for school papers and a calendar where you and your child can keep track of assignments and due dates. Sleep scene: Experts say today’s children get less sleep than they did a generation ago, and sleep deprivation can bring on ADHD-like symptoms including inattentiveness, mood swings and academic difficulty. Students ages 5 through 7 may still need up to 12 hours of sleep per night; kids age 8 and older may still require 8-10 hours. Tech talk: Expect students to encounter technology early, even in kindergarten. Many classrooms have “smart boards” — the digital equivalent of a chalkboard — and students begin learning keyboarding skills in kindergarten. Since the pandemic, many schools have adopted a 1:1 ratio of devices to children whether that means laptops or tablets. (Many schools employ firewalls to block inappropriate internet content on these devices while kids are at school.) 28 Atlanta Parent
January 2024
[ Focus on Education ]
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MIDDLE SCHOOL Supply crunch: Parents of middle schoolers can expect to spend big on school supplies. Costs are edging up because cash-strapped schools are leaning on parents to pick up the tab. Parents also foot the bill for extracurricular activities like band and school sports in middle school. To minimize supply costs, scour ad circulars for big-box stores’ sales, go in with a group of parents and buy bulk supplies and hit garage sales, where finds like backpacks can be snapped up on the cheap. Schedule swap: Middle school marks a significant academic transition — instead of staying in one classroom, most students move from class to class and interact with a number of teachers throughout the day. Prepare students by purchasing locker-organization supplies — without a classroom “home base,” the locker becomes central to staying organized — and creating a contact list for teacher names, emails and phone numbers. Try to meet teachers face-to-face prior to the first day, which can help ease back-to-school nerves for everyone. Building skills: Academic pressure dials up in middle school, and students bear more responsibly for meeting deadlines and working independently. Students may need some help upgrading their study skills, such as learning how to use a planner efficiently, keeping track of papers and estimating how long an assignment will take. Adviser advice: Middle school’s myriad of teachers can seem daunting to parents, who may not know where to turn with questions or concerns. Generally, you can start with your student’s adviser or homeroom teacher, who will be central to his academic team in middle school. Keep this teacher’s name and contact information handy so you can communicate. Strong failings: In middle school, parents should begin allowing students to experience the natural results of their academic and social choices — this builds the autonomy needed for high school and beyond. If a student forgets to study for an exam or receives a low grade, encourage self-reflection: Did he study as much as possible, understand the material and ask the teacher for help? This analysis can help the student change how he prepares in the future.
HIGH SCHOOL Making the grade: Grades hold more significance in high school, where your child’s academic choices can help chart the course for his college future. Expect high school to be more academically rigorous and pay attention to signs your child is falling behind: skipping class, failing to make up late work. Engaging a tutor early on can head off difficulty later. Teacher talk: Parent-teacher communication shifts in upper grades — expect to hear less from your child’s instructors in general. In high school, students are expected to communicate directly with teachers, in preparation for college. Parents with questions or concerns should speak up — teachers welcome parent contact. Step into sports: Whether your child shines on the basketball court or prefers solo athletic pursuits, high school is a great time to participate in sports. The most popular school sports by participation level are football, basketball and track and field. School sports are linked to better grades and lower rates of teen pregnancy, as well as providing a boost to college applications. Calendar crunch: Parents of high schoolers often have questions about college application timelines, and counselors are the main source for answers. Freshman and sophomores should concentrate on challenging themselves academically and getting involved in extracurricular activities; juniors should develop a list of prospective schools, make campus visits and take SAT/ACT tests. Fall of senior year is when most applications go out. Step up: Children still need parental guidance and support as they learn to manage their academic, social and personal lives. It is still important for parents to be involved in their child’s school life, by knowing his teachers and friends and attending school events. atlantaparent.com
[ Focus on Education ]
See our high school story on page 66. January 2024
Atlanta Parent 29
l oo h ch u 8t S le hr ! dd h t 24 Mi —5t ll 20 w e a Ne ctur s, F e u r d St Gra
SCHEDULE A TOUR
Nurturing
n Infant through 8th grade n Personalized attention and instruction n Unique opportunities to pursue passions n Strong spiritual formation
joyful learning
ST M A R T I N S C H O O L .O R G
Be By and Beyond the Education.
30 Atlanta Parent
January 2024
[ Focus on Education ]
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[ Focus on Education ]
January 2024
Atlanta Parent 31
Literacy Legislation: Read All About It Why the State of Georgia got involved with reading education by Mary Welch
Only 31% of Georgia’s fourth graders performed at or above grade level in reading in 2022, according to the National Assessment of Education Progress. Metro Atlanta’s scores are in line with the state-wide findings. Looking at it another way: 70% don’t read at grade level. Even worse, about 60% of high school students never catch up and graduate (or not) reading below grade level. Such statistics on their own are distressing and coupled with numerous studies that equate reading proficiency with future success, it’s obvious that local schools — and schools across the nation — need to get a better handle on teaching students to read. Atlanta Speech School
“There’s plenty of blame to go around,” says Gary Bingham, interim chair of Georgia State’s Department of Early Childhood and Elementary Education. “Students in Georgia haven’t been doing particularly well for a long time. Underperforming by the third grade is nothing new. The milestones kids were making were wiped out in COVID, especially for kids of color and those in schools with fewer resources. But there has to be a scapegoat, a villain.” Indeed. Low reading scores, not only in metro Atlanta and Georgia, and throughout the nation, have galvanized parents, academia and teachers but also legislators — all of which play the blame game and have their own opinion on how to effectively teach students how to read. The state got into the debate last year by passing two literacy bills, House Bill 538 and Senate Bill 211, that established the Georgia Council on Literacy, and requires teachers to have training on “developmentally appropriate evidencebased literacy instruction,” beginning in 2025. Teachers will be trained on the “Science of Reading” as well as requiring schools to screen K-3 students for reading deficiency and issues like dyslexia. 32 Atlanta Parent
January 2024
In the upcoming session, a bill will be introduced that would require the state board of education to approve high quality instructional materials for teaching K-3, and to develop training for K-3 teachers on the science of reading, structured literacy and fundamental literacy, among others. Of course, legislating materials and paying for them are two different things, but many involved say that funding will not be an issue.
n How Is Reading Being Taught? So, why are metro Atlanta students flailing at reading? As Bingham noted, fingers are being pointed in lots of places. What happens in the classroom is at the center of the problem and the solution. The issue revolves around the different theories on how children actually learn how to read. The umbrella of reading techniques include those who favor a more structured approach where phonics are the foundation to those who want a more holistic approach, generally referred to as the Science of Reading. The Science of Reading involves a whole language method that contends that reading is a natural process that students organically pick up with related exposure to words and books and other ways. The science of reading involves language comprehension (background and vocabulary knowledge, language structure,
[ Focus on Education ]
verbal reasoning, literacy knowledge), word recognition (phonological awareness, decoding and spelling and sight recognition) and skilled reading (fluent execution and coordination of word recognition and text comprehension). Many schools blend both methods but are increasingly putting more phonetics back into the mix. “You can learn to decode words but not have a rich vocabulary or the skills to reason,” says Ryan Lee-James, chief academic officer at the Atlanta Speech School. The school’s materials note that “reading proficiency is not enough. Only through deep reading — through which we think critically, feel empathetically and take the perspective of others — are we able to become who we are meant to be.” Leah Matthews put her son in The Schenck School when she saw signs that he wasn’t learning to read in the Atlanta Public Schools system. She wondered about a learning disability, an assertion his teachers dismissed. She had him tested; that lead to a diagnosis of dyslexia, which affects about 15 %of the population. “You look at a picture and guess what’s going on. Well, you can guess that the wheels of the bus are falling off by the picture, but what happens when there are no more pictures to guess the context?” she says. atlantaparent.com
“It was a frustrating process, and I do think the way reading is taught is not beneficial to children with disabilities. There is a sense of reading, but we’ve shied away from phonetics and more than ever populations of people cannot read, especially if you don’t have money to get a tutor or go to fancy private schools.” Virginia-Highland Elementary School even has a phonetic lab, which she supports and believes is the first in the system. Lisa Morgan, president of the Georgia Association of Educators and a DeKalb County kindergarten teacher, says that students have always learned the reading foundations “but there are new and different ways to teach them.” Still, she says that many reading tools, which involve phonetics, are not being used enough. “You used to have to memorize nursery rhymes. That’s phonetics awareness. We’re not doing that. If the child doesn’t have that basic skill, they’re going to struggle to read.” She notes that “phonetics and the recognition of letters and sounds are only a piece of phonetical awareness. You can sound out a word, but if you don’t know the meaning of that word, it’s not part of your vocabulary, then it’s lost. We have to work on building student vocabulary.”
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n Other Factors Don’t Help In addition to the actual reading curriculum, other factors impact the issue. One is societal. “Like the health crisis, children who are Black, have English as their second language, those who are eligible for free lunches, those in economically disadvantaged communities are more disproportionally impacted,” says Lee-James. “We have generations of people who are struggling because their parents and their parents struggled. These are societal systemic issues.” Many blame parents for not reading to their children. “The best thing to help your child be a reader is to read to them at home,” says Morgan. “That modeling and reading behavior is so important. I taught kindergarten in a Title One school. The first day a girl told me she wanted to learn to read because her grandmother reads the Bible every day and her granddad the paper. There’s something about at-home reading.” But, she offers up a reality check. “I’ll go to these meetings about the importance of reading to children at home and what I really want to do is ask parents and others how many books have they read in the past
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Atlanta Speech School
month, the past year? I don’t think a lot of hands would be raised.” “How do you get students interested in reading?” asks Bingham.“They’re reading a lot less and aren’t interested in reading. We’ve got to address motivation and create a community of learning to read for reading’s sake.”
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Atlanta Parent 33
Literacy Legislation: Read All About It Others contend that colleges aren’t teaching reading enough or giving student teachers enough classroom training. “There is a considerable spread or variance in the way educators approach reading,” says Bingham. “Some districts have mandated curriculum. Teachers who work in communities of color don’t have the resources of other districts. I don’t like the term ‘Science of Reading’. It’s the ‘science of literacy.’” He also says that aspiring teachers are “well trained but most weren’t taught the Science of Reading nor have a strong understanding of reading. We only have a few classes and hand them off to school districts. We need better partnerships.”
n What to Do?
Marietta City Schools
Since reading is a keystone to adult success (according to the National Adult Literacy Survey, 70% of all incarcerated adults can’t read at a fourth-grade level), a concerted effort must be made — and is — to address and change the narrative. One school district doing just that is the Marietta City school district. “The district took a hard look at the data and prioritized reading instruction. We drilled
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January 2024
down on the data and review it regularly to know where each school stands and where the goals need to be to make sure teaching kids to read is a top priority,” says Jaillene Hunter, a member of the Marietta City School Board of Education and of the Georgia Council of Literacy. A little more than half of the district’s students weren’t up to grade level and “we needed to find out why so many weren’t
[ Focus on Education ]
reading. We made the decision to invest in our people, not ‘a program.’ We are training our teachers to understand why they’re teaching the Science of Reading and how. We’re still learning, and we don’t have all the answers, but the teachers are the heroes here.” Students are given explicit and systemic instruction on reading and taught a specific reading skill set — repeatedly — until the student grasped it. Another important
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element was regularly gauging a student’s progress. “The state doesn’t test for reading comprehension until the third grade. You don’t have a picture of where a student is until third grade and by then the chances of getting up to grade level are slim.” Marietta City Schools test three times a year and if a problem is identified, they teach directly to the student. The schools also have what it calls the 90-10-5, which is 90 minutes of reading instruction a day; a 10-1 student-teacher ratio for all students and those who aren’t at grade level are pulled out for smaller classes for all five days of the week. In addition, the district was “very honest with parents and said we’re putting our time and money into this — a reflection of our values — and we needed them to make the same investment at home. We also told them that tutoring was important and that we needed their child to stay after school for tutoring. It was important to partner with parents.” While it is only in its third year, the district is putting its money where its mouth is. They spent $6.2 million for reading specialists, supplements and supply teachers; $2.5 billion via the Joseph B. Whitehead Foundation for curriculum resources, facilitators and substitute teachers and $1.2 million on after-school and break training, as well as remediation and summer school. Simpson Elementary School in Peachtree Corners has 90 % or more of its students reading at or above a thirdgrade level. The Gwinnett Schools use the Scarborough Reading Rope, which hones in on both language comprehension (verbal reasoning, language structure, vocabulary, background and literary awareness) and word recognition (phonemic awareness, decoding and sight word recognition). They also have programs for early intervention for struggling students. “We want all children to read and comprehend on grade level,” says Morgan. “We want to give them the best teachers and the best way to be taught. It is however not enough to focus on literacy in our schools. We have to focus on literacy in our homes, community and we have to once again make literacy a priority in the classroom.” Bingham says it can be done but “you’ve got to identify it as a priority and make the legislature work with educational partners to identify and study what kind of legislation should pass. Good things are created by dialogues of what we should be doing, what is not working and then you have to put thoughtful money behind it.” Adding, “A good investment will likely pay off in dividends.” atlantaparent.com
Mill Springs Academy partners with students and parents to provide a small, supportive, and structured environment allowing students to discover their unique talents.
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Serving Students in K-12 with Learning Differences 13660 New Providence Road Alpharetta, GA 30004 • 770-360-1336 • millsprings.org
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January 2024
Atlanta Parent 35
7
Simple Tips for Finding the Right Preschool
by Rebecca Hastings
Finding a preschool may seem stressful but when you focus on the right things, you can find the perfect place for you and your kids. The result will be just the right amount of socialization, learning, independence and fun for your tot. It will also give you some kid-free time to work, run errands, or relax. Plus, you might make a friend or two of your own! Here are 7 tips to help you find a preschool that will fit your whole family: 36 Atlanta Parent
January 2024
1
Talk to kids. At the park, at the library, at your
2
Talk to parents. See what schools they love and
3 4
friend’s house. Find out what the kids loved doing on a given day or their favorite thing about preschool. Ask to see their latest project. Most kids will be thrilled to share their expertise. You can learn a lot from kids if you pay attention. why. Find out if they are friends with other families there. Ask about the teachers that make it great. The most important thing is to talk to real people. Don’t rely on social media for accurate information.
Consider the schedule. Does the school
have a schedule that works for your family? The days and hours must align with your family schedule, but also with your child’s preferences. There are schools with two-day-a-week programs and schools that meet five days a week. Some meet for two hours while others are full day options. Think about what you and your child would benefit from most.
Ask about educational philosophy.
Every school has a unique approach. Some schools focus heavily on academics while others focus more on social skills. Some schools stress nature-based learning while others concentrate on the arts. Don’t get caught up in what these approaches are called but do think about your child and how her interests line up with what the school offers.
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5 6 7
Talk money. The cost must work for your family.
Consider tuition costs as well as extras like fundraisers, field trips and parties. Be bold about asking these questions before you choose a school, so you are not stressed later about unexpected expenses. Finding a school that your family can afford will create a less stressful environment for you and your child.
Find out about parent involvement.
Ask how much parents are expected to be involved and make sure it is something you are comfortable with. Some schools ask parents to volunteer regularly during the school day while others only invite parents for holiday and year-end programs. Extras like fundraising or events can also be a requirement. Find out what is expected so you know if you can participate at that level.
Ask to observe. See if there is a good time
for you and your child to visit during the school day. Watching the school in action is one of the best ways to discover if it will be a good fit. Chat with some parents at drop-off or pick-up. Observe the kids as they work together. All of it fits together to create the atmosphere where your child will learn. Finding the perfect preschool doesn’t have to be stressful. Be realistic about your family’s needs and how they match up with the school. With these simple tips, you can discover a learning environment that will be perfect for your child.
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January 2024
Atlanta Parent 37
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There are few moments more exciting to kids than the first day of kindergarten. How do you prepare them? Here’s what the experts say: n Teach Independence
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Kids are expected to be able to do many things on their own by the time they start kindergarten. Tracy Galuski, a professor of early childhood development and education, says that kids should be able to dress themselves, including how to put on their shoes, take their coats on and off and hang them up on a hanger; use the bathroom on their own and wash their hands afterwards without reminders; unpack their lunch; and wipe their faces after they’ve eaten.
n Assign Chores Charity Ferreira of GreatSchools, an education think tank, says that parents should give their kids chores like setting the table before dinner, folding the laundry, and tidying up around the house.
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Dr. Amie Bettencourt, a child psychologist, says that parents can make their kids more self-confident by demystifying kindergarten and explaining what they can expect will take place there. She suggests that parents spend time before kindergarten starts talking to their kids about what the school day will be like.
n Organize Playdates “A lot of what makes kindergarten a tough transition,” Ferreira says, “is that kids suddenly find themselves in a big group all day long. The more social skills kids have, the easier it’ll be for them to concentrate on learning.”
n Create Routine Prepare kids for school by creating a nightly routine, which will help your child transition to the school routine. Bettencourt adds that it should include a predictable order of activities: “take a bath, put on pajamas, brush teeth, read favorite story or sing favorite song, and get a goodnight hug or kiss.”
n Acknowledge Feelings While you prepare your kids for all the exciting new things they’ll learn in kindergarten, also acknowledge any unease they may experience. Let your kids express their feelings; if they say they’re nervous, ask them why they’re nervous and validate that feeling.
38 Atlanta Parent
January 2024
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January 2024
Atlanta Parent 39
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40 Atlanta Parent
January 2024
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48 Perimeter Center East Atlanta, GA 30346 atlantaparent.com
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thrive for life. Trinity School serves children age three through Sixth Grade and cherishes childhood while preparing students for the future. Our small class sizes, early childhood and elementary education experts, and innovative programming are just some of the reasons your child will thrive at Trinity, Atlanta’s only elementary-only independent school!
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January 2024
Atlanta Parent 41
STEM
On the Subject of School: So Many Choices
The Arts
Language
Value-Based
Virtual Child-Centered Curriculum
by Emily Webb
The days of the “neighborhood school” as your family’s only choice are a thing of the past. Parents today have so many options in terms of the school experience and environment they want for their children. From special approaches to focused subject matter, parents have the ability to explore school choices in both private and public schools. Atlanta Parent talked to local parents about how they made the call on which was the right fit.
STEM With the growth of STEM careers, educational programs focused on these subjects provide a more in-depth approach for students interested in science, technology, engineering and math. Sara Crosby’s sons, Blake and Cooper, attend Fulton Science Academy, a private school in Alpharetta serving advanced and gifted students. Initially, Crosby was a kindergarten public school teacher. “Blake was picking things up much faster than typical kids his age. He was going to be a gifted student, and as a teacher, I knew that was not who I catered to.” After attending FSA’s open house, she enrolled Blake. His first-grade teacher asked Crosby for permission to test him to see if he could advance. “Usually, as a parent, you have to be the advocate and really, really push for the school to accommodate. But they were the ones telling me, ‘He needs more, and we’re going to provide it.’” Crosby loves the school’s diversity. “It’s really welcoming. There is somebody there to represent every nationality, every culture. It truly is a melting pot.” Keisha Palmer originally heard about Centennial Academy through word-of-mouth. Centennial Academy is a charter school dedicated to providing a rigorous STEM curriculum. They chose the Academy for the STEM program, classroom placement based on academic levels and the smaller classroom sizes. “We believed those factors would collectively contribute to an environment supporting personalized growth, sense of self and academic excellence. We valued the school’s comprehensive approach, particularly the continuity of education from kindergarten through eighth grade.” The Crosby family
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The Arts Some kids show a natural talent for the arts, whether with theater, music, photography or the fine arts. Finding a program that can support students’ creativity while providing quality academics is available at many schools across metro Atlanta. Bre Allen’s son, fourth grader Brycen, has attended the North Metro Academy of Performing Arts since kindergarten. NMAPA is Gwinnett County Public Schools’ first themed elementary school. When the family moved, his previous preschool was no longer in the area. “I’m a product of private school education, and the public school system intimidated me; it was so big. I was looking for a smaller school. I reached out to North Metro and took a tour. It felt like home.” After taking Brycen, he was excited, so the school seemed like a good fit. “He really enjoys all the activities. Up until fourth grade, they allow the students to dabble in all the fine arts, and the wide variety has allowed him to learn about his own interests. He loves his friends, and he’s able to be very active.” Jessica Reed’s son, Rickie, is an eighth grader at General Ray Davis Middle School’s Academy for Performing and Visual Arts, which explores and develops artistic talents within students. “I heard lots of great things about the Academy, and I was impressed with the school’s test scores,” Reed says. “I remember the excitement in the community when GRDMS opened, and I heard about the Academy through word-of-mouth from other parents.” Rickie likes the band and film programs, while Reed is impressed with the faculty and staff. “I like the fact the teachers and administrators have a genuine interest in helping the children succeed.”
Bre and Brycen Allen
The Reed family
Her daughters, Reed and Sydney, have attended the school since their kindergarten years and have been at the Academy for seven and four years, respectively. “I appreciate the inclusive and supportive school culture,” Palmer says. “Diversity is celebrated, and there’s a strong sense of community. The accessibility of teachers and administrators with their open-door policy enhances communication and encourages a collaborative partnership between home and school. My children enjoy the supportive environment from their teachers and administrators, and they also love the range of extracurricular activities offered.” Lesley Litt’s son, Stephen, attended Kennesaw Mountain High School’s magnet program, The Academy of Mathematics, Science, and Technology, for four years. Students enter the Academy as freshmen via a competitive application process. It was originally Stephen’s middle school science teacher who suggested the program. After conversations with the magnet director and Stephen, along with an open house visit, the family decided to apply. After enrollment, Litt knew they’d made the right choice. “He was excited to be around a bunch of students who were similar to him. He was very focused in his classes, and there were fewer collateral distractions. Other students were focused, and they liked school.” Currently, Stephen is a double major in biochemistry and music at UNC Chapel Hill, and Litt knows he learned the skills to be successful from the Academy. “Time management is the most important thing. The program gave him a leg up on that. He is adept at managing his time, to the minute, and he does what he has to do.” Cont’d on next page
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[ Focus on Education ]
The Palmer family
Stephen Litt
January 2024
Atlanta Parent 43
On the Subject of School: So Many Choices Language
Value-Based
As our world continues to be globally connected, some families want to increase their child’s language skills and cultural awareness through the school they attend. Tiyash Bandyopadhyay’s son, Utshaho Bandyopadhyay Gupta, attends Atlanta International School, a private International Baccalaureate World School with full and dual-immersion language programs. The family chose the school for three reasons: “We had the desire to raise down-to-earth, independent kids; the opportunity to study multiple languages to the extent of becoming native speakers, and the allure of an international community, where our kids could freely be themselves.” Even in the ninth grade, Bandyopadhyay already sees how his education will positively affect his career. “AIS encourages kids to Utshaho Bandyopadhyay Gupta think beyond lines, across subjects and questioningly. I am an engineer who works in product innovation, and this is increasingly a crucial skill in the workforce, whether it is in solving world problems or building innovative products.” Utshaho enjoys his educational experience. “I love how culturally and academically diverse this school is, with many different extracurriculars ranging from STEAM to liberal arts to athletics,” he says. Astrid Balderas’ son, Akira Loudermilk, is a kindergarten student at International Charter Academy of Georgia, where he’s been a student for nearly 5 months. ICAGeorgia is a statewide charter school offering dual-language immersion in English and Japanese. The parents saw the flyers for the school and researched it online. The dual-language immersion program, smaller groups and the above average student performance helped them make their decision. “As immigrant parents, it has been a priority to expose our child to our cultures, and we found this school and their system to be the perfect opportunity to give him that privilege.” “We love that kids are in an environment where they are learning a second language. Akira is half-Japanese and half-Mexican, so it’s important to us he surrounds himself with the culture this school provides. He loves playing with his friends and getting to know new ones. It’s amazing to see how kids can bypass language barriers and still communicate to form bonds in other ways.”
Some children may thrive in a smaller, more personal setting based on principles that support character growth along with academics. Adrienne Morrison’s son, Kenton Cousins, is a sixth grader at Atlanta SMART Academy, a charter school using science, math and the arts to develop innovative solutionists. The school’s core values are compassion, creativity, competence and collaboration. Morrison began looking for a new pathway during the pandemic. “At the open house, the teachers remembered Kenton from his week visiting during the summer, and when they recognized him, it was wonderful.” Morrison has noticed an improvement in Kenton’s confidence, and she loves the school’s sense of community. “It’s like a family. Kenton Kenton and Kinsley Cousins plays football, and teachers have come to his games. The counselor has given me advice on what my daughter should be doing in 10th grade, and she never went to Atlanta SMART Academy! During the summer, teachers find things to involve my children in. It’s the caring part of it.” Since 2018, Skyla and King Hare have attended Genesis Innovation Academy, a charter school separated by gender. Skyla is now in seventh grade, and King is in fifth. Mary Hare heard about the school from her mother-in-law. The deciding factor was attending the open house. “There was not just a focus on grades, but also a focus on teaching young men and women how to live.” Genesis has twelve core values: gratitude, excellence, nobility, empathy, service, ingenuity, stewardship, perseverance, optimism, work ethic, empowerment and restraint. King recently won Scholar of the Month for his work ethic. “Genesis focuses more on how to move about in life, not necessarily just on knowing math and science. There is a focus on what you need to be a great person in life.” “My kids have wonderful, like-minded friends. They enjoy their classes, and they’re challenged,” she adds. Both Hare and her mother-in-law are involved in the school. “We’ve seen the strides and changes that have taken place and how everyone tries to live out the Genesis way. It takes a village.”
The Loudermilk family
44 Atlanta Parent
King and Skyla Hare
January 2024
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Virtual Families who might need more flexibility for medical, travel or extracurricular reasons will want to consider virtual education. Anatavia Benson rethought education during what she calls the “coronapocalypse,” as her family is immunocompromised. “We needed social distancing to occur at the same time as education. In the midst of this, my son was moving to middle school and starting his career at a school that wasn’t the right fit. Fulton Academy of Virtual Excellence could accommodate our needs and provide a great education.” Her three children, Joshua, Gabriael and Kathryn, have been at FAVE since its 2021 inception. Benson loves the sense of community. “It’s a virtual setting, but there doesn’t feel like a disconnect. Teachers know students, and students are engaged and comfortable talking with one another. Teachers treat students as if they’re intelligent human beings, which fosters trust and builds communication.” Benson also loves the flexibility. “My kiddos have become more independent.” She knows they feel comfortable at FAVE. “It’s not unusual for one of my kiddos to say, ‘He or she is weird like me! I can talk about this with them, and they understand.’” Jessi Williams’ family has attended Connections Academy for 13 years. While they originally joined in Indiana, they started Georgia Connections Academy in 2015. Krystale graduated in 2020, Ceanna is a senior, and Teagan is a sophomore. Krystale was being bullied and recommended for special education classes, so Williams wanted a new option. “Connections had the resources of a regular school, and we could figure out what was going on together.” When Ceanna started to have health problems, they decided to move her as well. “It is one of the best decisions we’ve ever made for our kids.” Williams loves the connection with the teachers. “The teachers keep us here. They are able to create this special relationship with the students.” Along with academics, Williams witnesses her daughters learning time management, prioritization, self-advocacy and communication. “When they move on to college or jobs, they don’t have to learn these skills, as they’ve become innate.” The girls appreciate the flexibility. “I like how helpful the teachers are when I need it the most. They always tell us we can go to them any time,” Ceanna adds. Cont’d on next page
The Benson family
The Willams sisters
Parents Share Their Advice If you’re thinking about school choice for your child, listen to these parents. “Know your child and have a list of things you’re looking to check off,” Allen says. “Take the time to see if it’s a good fit.” Look at more than just academics. “You want an excellent academic school, but you also want a school that will meet your child’s other needs,” Kenning says. “Look for a school that’s going to look at your child as a whole; it’s not just a place where they’re pushed to make As.” Make sure to attend tours or open houses and reach out to the administration and other parents. “Consider outside-the-box options, do your research and go with what you consider best,” Balderas says. “School is a very important part of a child’s upbringing, but always remember education is just a part of it. A lot of work has to come from the parents.” “Ask every single question you could
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possibly ask. Be transparent about what you’re looking for and what your child needs, the challenges you might have had and what you hope your child will receive,” Benson says. Know your child’s strengths. “It is really true that what may be magical for one family may not at all work for another,” Bandyopadhyay adds. Likely, you will have to do your own research to discover the options available to you. “I was one of those parents who asked questions,” Morrison says. “I’m driving both my kids to two different schools to give them a better chance at education.” Her daughter, Kinsley Cousins, is a sophomore, and through Atlanta Public Schools, she can attend Carver Early College, a school not in her zone. Reed recommends taking into consideration how effective communication is. “Districts offering school choice should make frequent assessments to validate the choice programs
[ Focus on Education ]
are running at full capacity. Parents should always be proactively informed about any changes to the way programs are being run.” Hare recommends looking at the school’s values. “Is there a mission the school is after? How are they cultivating the next generation? Understand what it is that members of school leadership are looking for and hear what those expectations are.” Consider practical matters, like transportation. “They have magnet buses that will pick students up throughout the county, but students have to make it to the pickup point. Mom and Dad may have to do the drop off,” Litt adds. If you do pursue school choice, it might take time to adjust. “Give yourself some grace. When you’re changing schools of any kind, everything changes,” Williams says. “It’s going to take time to adjust and get to a point where it feels smooth.”
January 2024
Atlanta Parent 45
On the Subject of School: So Many Choices Child-Centered Curriculum Some families may consider an approach focused on the natural curiosity of children. Both Montessori and Waldorf styles of learning do just that and are well-established, dating back 100plus years. Sarah Kenning’s children, Jackson and Lauren, attended Arbor Montessori School for four years. In New York, the family had been part of Montessori education, which they wanted to continue after moving to Atlanta. Montessori is a child-focused and student-led approach guided by nurturing teachers. Kenning was impressed by the school’s ability to accommodate. “They knew my daughter had ADHD and dyslexia, which scared some schools, but they knew they could absolutely meet her where she was. Montessori education is all about tolerance and inclusion, and Arbor really means it, not just in terms of race and gender, but also with neurodiversity.” Kenning often hears the misconception that Montessori education is unstructured. “It’s about the child learning and exploring things for themselves in a structured environment.” For example, Jackson’s class would discuss political and societal issues. “No matter where the child was coming from, they got to research different beliefs to come up with their own thoughts. They got the child to think not just of themselves, but also globally. My children love learning and going to school because of Arbor and Montessori.” Waldorf schools offer a learning environment focused on honoring childhood and preparing kids for a lifetime of learning, while embracing nature, sustainability and promoting rigorous academics. Ayana Reddick began her experience with Waldorf education when son, Zeke, was 2. At a visit to The Children’s Garden, she was impressed with a teacher’s patience. “I knew I wanted to have that kind of patience, and I wanted my kids to experience it. As part of the Waldorf curriculum, they do a lot of things differently.”
The Kenning family
After preschool, Zeke enrolled in a charter school, which wasn’t a fit. They visited Waldorf School of Atlanta and signed him up immediately. Zeke attended from the second semester of first grade to eighth grade. Reddick’s daughter, Anaya, started the school at age 4. Reddick loves the focus on childhood. “The way this education serves every child blows me away. As parents, we want our children to achieve great success, and it can be scary to allow them the freedom to participate fully in the magic of childhood. Allowing our children to love learning and feel comfortable and safe in who they are is the best way for them to find true success.”
Some families may consider an approach focused on the natural curiosity of children.
The Reddick family
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UNCOMPROMISING BIBLICAL VALUES + UNPARALLELED STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES | K3-12TH GRADE atlantaparent.com
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Arbor fosters independence in each child through supportive relationships, joyful learning, and meaningful work in a Montessori environment. Now enrolling at two Decatur campuses for the 2024-25 school year.
Schedule your campus visit today at arbormontessori.org 2998 Lavista Road • 1434 Scott Boulevard 404.321.9304 • www.arbormontessori.org
Fostering
Arbor Montessori admits students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, family structure or sexual orientation to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities of the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, family structure or sexual orientation in the administration of its educational policies, admission policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.
Lifelong
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Where authentic Christian mission and academic excellence aren’t mutually exclusive
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E X P L O R E W E S L E YA N AT W W W. W E S L E YA N S C H O O L . O R G / A D M I S S I O N S 48 Atlanta Parent
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COOL SCHOOL PROGRAMS Enriching opportunities that are fun! These schools go the extra mile with programs and special events their students love. by Mary Williams
STEAM on Parade With balloons, artwork, instruments and floats engineered and created by K3-fourth grade students, North Cobb Christian’s Storybook STEAM Parade is a moving display of creativity! The annual pre-Thanksgiving parade brings storybook characters to life while teaching STEAM concepts.
Cars for Kids With Differences East Cobb Middle School’s Go Baby Go Club provides customized ride-on cars for kids with mobility challenges. Students modify cars based on the individual student’s needs and likes, adding personalized graphics and vanity plates, and features like joysticks, modified switches, safety harnesses and supports. The cars give kids the chance to play and participate with other kids.
North Cobb Christian
A Journey to Space Students at Russell Elementary School in Marietta had fun exploring all things flight during STEM night in November. Guests from NASA, the Civil Air Patrol, Delta Airlines and the Georgia Tech Yellow Jacket Flying Club helped students learn about careers in aviation. In addition to a flight simulator, space challenges and drone demonstrations, students experimented with 3D printing, coding and robotics.
World Religions Up Close Seventh graders at Westminster School get a real-life look at world religions by spending a day visiting places of worship around Atlanta. The annual field trip includes Suwanee Masjid, Drepung Loseling Monastery and The Temple, helping the students learn similarities between the five major religions practiced around the world and by their classmates.
East Cobb Middle School
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Music and Creativity The “Community for Creativity” initiative at Fayette County Public Schools focuses on new and original ideas created by students. At Rising Starr Middle School, students create and record their own songs, podcasts, videos and more, which are then released on school’s recording label, Hall Pass Entertainment. The program is also used at Flat Rock Middle School and Peeples Elementary School.
Opening Doors When Pre-K and kindergarten students arrive at Atlanta’s Galloway School carpool, a team of blue-vested fourth graders are waiting to greet them and walk them to class. The “buddy” system connects older and younger students while teaching the fourth graders responsibility and mentoring skills. atlantaparent.com
Arts in Action From hip-hop dance to Djembe drumming, elementary students at The Mount Vernon School experience art outside the classroom during Arts in Action Day. During the event, students rotate through experiential art stations featuring puppetry, percussion, improv, music, largescale pixilation and more. It’s a hands-on exercise in learning about new cultures, new techniques, and having fun with art. The Mount Vernon School
Greater Atlanta Christian School
A Mother-Son Celebration A special dance at Greater Atlanta Christian School has a twist — everyone wears sneakers with their semi-formal attire. The Mother and Son Sneaker Ball, an annual tradition at the school, has a red-carpet walk, photo booth, games, sneaker competition a live DJ and plenty of ways for moms and sons to create fun memories.
Working in Wood
The Show Must Go On Students at Sutton Middle School recently played to a sold-out crowd — their show, “The Descendants,” was produced and directed by students at North Atlanta High School. The unique partnership was started in 2012 by two North Atlanta High students. Each year, high school students direct and produce a full-length musical starring middle school actors.
Lessons in Conservation A grant from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources allowed fifth grade students at Lovett to learn about native Georgia birds, the challenges they face, and the benefits of conservation efforts. The students designed and built birdhouses, which were installed in Standing Peachtree Park along the Chattahoochee River. The program was conceived by Vanessa Boone, who was named the Georgia DNR’s Conservation Teacher of the Year.
Students at St. Martin’s Episcopal School in Atlanta get lots of hands-on experience in the school’s woodworking studio. Starting with basic hand tools in PreK, the program progresses to power tools and shop machines for older students. While they build problem-solving and engineering skills, they’re also learning perseverance and patience.
Cedar Grove High School
Half-Cap Celebration
St. Martin’s School
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The journey toward graduation can seem long, but Cedar Grove High School in Ellenwood keeps students’ momentum going with a “half cap” ceremony for juniors. The event celebrates their entry into the final half of high school and encourages them to keep pursuing their goals. “This ceremony motivates me to keep going, get good grades, and pass all my classes so I can graduate and walk across the stage,” said junior Keith Bass, who will graduate in 2025.
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A child's day is meant to be filled with wonder, discovery, and joy. School should not be the exception.
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Join us for our Open House Sunday, February 11 2-4 p.m. Visit our website to register.
Learning should be an
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Adventure!
Age 3 through Eighth Grade | Roswell, GA 770.993.2940 | www.highmeadows.org An International Baccalaureate® School
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Providing families the experience and structure of a traditional school, but with the flexibility for students to explore their passions in music, arts, drama, athletics and more. Founded in 2008 Grades 5-12 3-Day School Week College Prep AdvancED Accredited PURSUE YOUR PASSION WITHOUT ACADEMIC COMPROMISE
INQUIRE TODAY 404.458.5160 • capstoneacademy.com 1934 Cliff Valley Way • Atlanta, 30329
Learn bravely The Midtown school for age 3 – grade 8 students tcsatl.org Schedule a visit! Call 404.873.6985
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UNPARALLELED OPPORTUNITIES in academics, the arts, and athletics is THE
WOODWARD WAY
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Chart your Christ-centered school journey @ mtparanschool.com January 2024
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Guide to Private Schools
Choosing the right private school for your child may feel challenging. The following pages will give you a more in-depth view of academics, student life, athletics and more at some of Atlanta’s best private schools. Discover more and find a school that checks all the boxes for your family. atlantaparent.com
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Best Guide to The Academy of Scholars
Arbor Montessori School
t T h e Ac a d e my o f Scholars, scholars are developed to their fullest intellectual, moral, spiritual, emotional, physical, and social potential in a safe, atlantaparent.com 770-454-7599 supportive, interactive, and nurturing environment. AOS is an independent, Christian school that guides scholars from Age 4 through 6th grade to make connections through relevant life experiences while loving each and every child as if they are their very own. Founded in 2013, AOS provides scholars an exceptional, Christian, affordable education through an innovative learning environment that emphasizes problem solving, critical thinking, and character development that will stretch the limits of the high achievers who walk through their doors. By integrating technology into the curricula, scholars are prepared to contribute, compete, and excel in an ever-changing world. With commitment to the vision of affording scholars the opportunity to thrive in an academically enriched Christian environment, AOS has attracted students from over 40 different zip codes in metropolitan Atlanta. To schedule a tour and find out more about how your future scholar can benefit from the AOS way, visit academyofscholars.com or call 678-632-6001.
rbor Montessori School invites parents and children to experience an authentic Montessori community that extends beyond the classroom. For over fifty years, Arbor Montessori has been the flagship of Montessori education in Atlanta. They are one of the largest Montessori schools in the Southeast and regarded as a benchmark for Montessori education worldwide. Arbor fosters lifelong learners ages 18 months to 14 years at two Decatur campus locations. Teachers encourage independence, self-direction, and critical reasoning at every age. Students learn collaboration, cooperation, and peace, and become agents of change anywhere they go in the world. Parents gain a diverse, mission-driven community committed to developing the full, unique potential of every child. Arbor graduates flourish in high school and beyond, exploring the world with curiosity, confidence, and compassion. Go here, then go anywhere. Learn more by signing up for an upcoming admissions event. To get started, visit arbormontessori.org.
Atlanta Academy
Atlanta International School
ocated in Roswell, Atlanta Academy s e r ve s 3 9 5 p r ivate p re s c h o o l t h ro u g h 8th-grade students in North Fulton. With small class sizes of 16 students, teachers deeply understand each child’s unique strengths, fos te r i ng acade m ic success, well-being, and happiness. The whole-child approach ensures students find excitement and joy in the classroom. Atlanta Academy’s forward-thinking curriculum focuses on building confidence and challenging students while preparing them for prestigious private high schools and top-ranking public schools. In a non-denominational, family-engaged atmosphere, highperforming student achievement thrives. Passionate teachers model values such as empathy, integrity, resiliency, and honesty, helping children become well-educated, independent problem-solvers ready to excel in high school and beyond. Visit atlantaacademy.com or call 678-461-6102 to discover more about Atlanta Academy. Located at 2000 Holcomb Woods Pkwy., Roswell (behind the PGA Superstore).
tlanta International School (AIS) offers the esteemed International Baccalaureate (IB) program to all of their 1,300+ students, from threeyear-old Kindergarten through Grade 12. AIS families come from the Atlanta area, the wider US and countries all over the world. Rigorous academics are enriched by a world-class language acquisition program, which begins with full immersion in French, German, Chinese and Spanish at Preschool and continues with dual (French, German and Spanish) and partial (Chinese) immersion from 5K to Grade 5. The Middle Years Program offers choice and agency for students and in High School, 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 arts opportunities, competitive athletics, and global experiential learning. Along with the authorization to offer IB education, AIS is also accredited by: AdvanceED, Agency of French Teaching Abroad (aefe), Council for International Schools (CIS), Educational Collaborative for International Schools (ECIS), and the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS). For more information, visit aischool.org
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Atlanta Private Schools Atlanta Music High School
Capstone Academy
t la nta Mu s ic H igh Sc ho ol empowers classical, jazz, rock and folk music students (grades 6-8, 9-12) with an accredited education that is sensitive and responsive to the time and resources it takes for a young performer or composer to become a great musician. AMHS is a unique option for passionate musicians to enhance academic coursework for credit with immersion in musical studies and portfolio development. Academic schedules are condensed and tailored to provide ample time for musicians to develop musical artistry and a capstone portfolio by graduation. Students who strive to develop an elite level of skills and their own authentic artistic perspective are prepared for life, whether they choose to continue in music or to go in another direction for college. AMHS works with parents and students to arrange dual enrollment at AMHS and another public or private school of their choice. Homeschooling is also an option. Schedule a tour or interview today to learn about how AMHS can partner with your school to develop a customized plan. Visit atlantamusichigh.com or call 404-614-0466.
a p s to ne Ac ade my is a private school serving grades 5-12 with an innovative, successful model changing young l ive s s i n c e 2 0 0 7 . At Ca p s to ne Ac ade my , teachers encourage all of their students to become l i fe l o n g l e a r n e r s by instilling academic curiosity, respect for others, and accountability to core values. College-prep academics are at the honors level and above in high school and advanced levels in the middle grades. Using superior content and proven methods, students cultivate subject mastery, critical thinking skills and ownership of knowledge. Capstone is a school whose structure works best for students who desire the camaraderie of a classroom setting but require a flexible schedule to pursue outside interests and quality family time. Courses exceed standards while meeting three days a week. This is accomplished without sacrificing learning and eliminates the wasted time and stress of a traditional school schedule. The core belief at Capstone Academy is that students who are balanced and understand their own power, can explore their education and pursue their passions with authenticity. To schedule a tour visit capstoneacademy.com or call 404-458-5160.
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The Children’s School
Davis Academy
he Children’s School’s age 3 – grade 8 students experience nu r t u re a nd c h a l le nge , independence and community – all at the same time. Their nationally recognized, innovative curriculum delivered by ex p e r t te a c h e r s u s e s immersive play- and projectba se d lea r n i ng to e ngage students and connect them to the world around them so they can see the relevance and impact of their learning. At TCS, learning is hands-on, minds-on, and all heart. The TCS preschool - grade 8 structure recognizes that the transition from elementary to middle school can be difficult for young adolescents and offers students the gift of time to be known and to feel safe, without interrupting a critical developmental period with a school change. Combining the preschool, kindergarten, elementary and middle school years gives students time to mature, tapping their growing abilities while preserving their childlike sense of joy, wonder and curiosity. TCS prepares their students to succeed in high school and beyond! Their graduates are highly skilled, confident and compassionate leaders who possess the skills to make change within their communities. Visit tcsatl.org and learn more today.
rom Kindergarten Prep Eighth Grade, The Davis Academy teaches to the whole child, creating compassionate leaders and equipping them with skills they will use for the entirety of their academic careers and beyond. They teach life skills, instill Jewish values, and provide diverse experiences so students become well-rounded and self-confident individuals. Students learn in a warm and supportive community that shares common values and visions. At Davis Academy they celebrate both the ways their diversity makes the school vibrant and the individual differences that make their school community so unique. With a retention rate of 97%, The Davis Academy community is comprised of families from across the globe, nation, and 31 metro Atlanta zip codes. Davis graduates attend the most prestigious public and private high schools in Atlanta. Students know who they are and continuously make a difference in their communities and the world. Learn more at davisacademy.org.
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Best Guide to Endeavor International School at Dunwoody
Endeavor Montessori School at Dunwoody
n d e a v o r International School offers an advanced middle school program t h at p re p a re s students for the future. As one of the only International Ba c c a l au re ate approved middle schools in the Atlanta area, Endeavor International School students receive a highlevel education that prepares them for the prestigious IB diploma. Led by its esteemed faculty, Endeavor International School offers an innovative curriculum that strengthens students in all areas, including STEM, languages, and the arts. In addition, the school’s modern classrooms are designed to enhance the educational experience and encourage collaboration and social development. Endeavor International School is committed to providing students with a rigorous and well-rounded education that inspires them to realize their potential and improve the world. Now enrolling for grades 6 to 8. For more information, go to endeavorinternationalschool.com.
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tlanta’s newest and mos t i n novat ive school offers a modernized and holistic education that combines M o nte s s o r i p r i nc i p le s with an age-appropriate, te c h nology - fo c u se d curriculum. Endeavor Montessori at Dunwoody serves children from 6 weeks to 12 years and approaches learning with a focus on developing the whole child through critical thinking, cultural awareness, and entrepreneurship. The school also eases children into STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, The Arts, and Math) so that they understand the technology that surrounds them every day. The curriculum at Endeavor Montessori at Dunwoody is distilled from the experiences and knowledge of more than 200 esteemed Montessori teachers from across the country to provide students in the Atlanta area with a world-class education that prepares them for their future as they discover their interests and cultivate their talents. For more information, visitendeavormontessori.com or call 770-637-1242.
Galloway School
GRACEPOINT School
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ocated in beautiful Chastain Park, The Galloway School is an independent day school that serves a diverse student body of around 750 students in Pre-K3 through 12th grade. At Galloway, learning is joyful, individuals are valued, and self-discovery is encouraged. Galloway students confidently embrace challenges while developing the knowledge, skills, and cultural competence to thrive as enlightened contributors in their chosen pathways. Galloway offers an environment of high expectations and low anxiety that encourages students to grow by teaching them to challenge themselves today and for the rest of their lives. Throughout their time at Galloway, students not only develop an abiding love of learning but learn to embrace it as a life-long endeavor. 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 gallowayschool.org.
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RACEPOINT , a private, Christian school, proudly celebrates ten years of equipping dyslexic students in grades 1-8 with the skills needed to become independent, confident learners. Since opening its doors in 2012 with four students, GRACEPOINT has restored hope to more than 230 dyslexic learners by identifying its students’ strengths while remediating their academic weaknesses. GRACEPOINT understands that dyslexia is not a disability but a learning difference viewing dyslexia as a gift to embrace and celebrate. The teaching style meets academic and spiritual needs while bringing out their students’ God-glorifying brilliance. As an accredited program through the Academy of Orton Gillingham Practitioners and Educators, GRACEPOINT provides an explicit, systematic, and multisensory approach to learning woven into all subject areas. Their mission is to equip students with the skills needed to develop into independent and confident learners. Once remediated, students transition to traditional public and private schools. The school’s growth over the years is a testament to its success in meeting the needs of children diagnosed with dyslexia. Having reached full capacity at the current location, GRACEPOINT will move to a newly renovated home at 1407 Cobb Parkway in January 2024. Learn more at gracepointschool.org or call 678-709-6634 to schedule a tour.
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Atlanta Private Schools High Meadows School
Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School
or 50 years, High Meadows has been a school where learning is an adventure. Each day, High Meadows students age three through 8th grade learn through experiential, immersive educational opportunities that foster a love of learning, critical thinking, and social responsibility. Children are given voice and choice in their school experience, while being challenged to stretch, grow, and realize their true potential. Located on 42 acres of historic farm property in Roswell, GA, High Meadows School’s campus provides the perfect landscape for connection to nature and hands-on learning. Students enjoy learning and playing in the school’s forests, meadows, cabin classrooms, and barnyard in addition to beautiful child-centered classroom spaces. A nationally recognized and award-winning leader in progressive education, High Meadows School is an authorized International Baccalaureate (IB) World School offering its renowned Primary Years Programme for students in pre-k and kindergarten through fifth grade and is accredited by the SAIS (Southern Association of Independent Schools). For more information, please visit highmeadows.org or call 770-993-2940. 1055 Willeo Rd., Roswell 30075
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I E S i s o ne o f t he nat ion ’ s la r ge s t Episcopal schools, enrolling 1,395 students in grades PK3-12. Here, in a uniquely vibrant learning community, filled with encouragement and every imaginable opportunity, students are able to pursue their passions and are challenged to reach their full potential. Located just north of Chastain Park and inside the perimeter, HIES reaches across 43 beautiful acres and boasts a state-of-theart STEM Building, stand-alone Primary, Lower, Middle and Upper School facilities, a Fine Arts Building, two modern gymnasiums and four expansive athletic fields. Their 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
The Howard School
oly Spirit Preparatory School is a classical Catholic school serving students 6 months-12th grade. The curriculum combines the best of classical pedagogical traditions in a joyful, engaging, a n d t h o ro u g h ly C at h o l i c environment. Through these means, Holy Spirit Prep seeks to enkindle in students the desire to pursue excellence in every endeavor they undertake and provide them with all the tools necessary to lead successful, rewarding lives in a manner consistent with the sublime end for which they have been created: eternal life with God. This vision deeply informs the curriculum and animates their efforts to help students grow in virtue and to know and love truth, goodness, and beauty, the three divine attributes upon which all authentically classical, Catholic education is grounded. “A saint,” the beloved late Pope Benedict XVI observed, “is one who is so captivated by God’s perfect truth and beauty as to be progressively transformed by it.” HSP strives to provide a learning environment that advances this noble aspiration, so the students are fully prepared to go into the world firm in faith, joyful in hope, and active in charity. Schedule a tour and learn more today. holyspiritprep.org.
iscover The Howard School in Atlanta where a different approach makes all the difference! At The Howard School, they understand every child with a la nguage - ba se d lea r n i ng difference is unique. They provide a tailored educational experience that embraces those differences. The dedicated team of educators, speech language pathologists, literacy, and math specialists are committed to nurturing the strengths of each student while addressing their specific challenges, ensuring every student reaches their full academic potential. The Howard School’s success lies in 73 years of providing research-based instruction blending traditional academics with scientifically proven methodologies. Small class sizes and individual instruction create a nurturing environment for students to flourish academically, socially, and emotionally. They also offer a wide range of extracurricular activities including clubs, no-cut athletic teams and no-cut theater/arts programs to give students a well-rounded education. Choose The Howard School for a transformative education that empowers your child to embrace their unique learning style and advocate for their success in and out of the classroom. Schedule a tour today to experience the difference. howardschool.org.
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Best Guide to Landmark Christian School
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Loganville Christian School
anked as one of the best schools in the state and nation, serving PK3-12th with campuses in Fairburn and Peachtree City. Landmark i nve s t s i n t he s pi r it ua l , ac ade m ic a nd ove ra l l development of children with engaging academics, Christian values, and immense opportunities. 100% of graduates have college acceptances, most with scholarships and college credits. With intentionally small class sizes and a teacher-to-student ratio of 1:8, world-class faculty offer dynamic learning environments helping students discover their passions and develop their talents to impact the world for Jesus Christ. Students are immersed in hands-on learning stimulating imagination and invention. Innovative offerings include the Academies: Aviation, Music, Film, Leadership, Visual Arts, Engineering/STEM, Leadership, and Fashion. Dual enrollment taught uniquely on campus, AP, honors and online courses paired with numerous sporting and arts opportunities create an exceptional student experience. TED, Spotlight Theatre, and Imagination Stations stir the minds of the youngest. A new state-of-the-art high school opened in 2021. Call 770-692-6742 to learn more, tour, or apply now at landmarkchristianschool.org.
ocated in the rapidly growing city of Loganville, Georgia, Loganville Christian Academy is an ACSI and Cognia accredited private, PreK3-12th grade Christian school dedicated to partnering with like-minded families to prepare the next ge ne rat ion acade m ica l ly , spiritually, and socially for God’s call on their lives. At the heart of their program is an uncompromising commitment to providing a comprehensive, quality Christian education that equips the students with the necessary tools and skills to navigate the world they will enter after graduation. They strive to create spaces for students to develop their relationship with the Lord beyond the classroom. Whether students want to connect in one of their programs or have a desire to create their own, the school challenges and equips students with the necessary tools to grow to know themselves, their gifts, and what it means to be a servant leader. LCA not only wants to prepare them to be successful for their current educational journey, but also in all realms of their life: in college, their community, future career, and the church. Visit lcalions.com to learn more.
The Lovett School
McGinnis Woods School
ounded in 1926, The Lovett School is Atlanta’s independent, coeducational day school of choice for families who value a multifaceted approach to the education of the whole child – where intellectual rigor, social-emotional learning, and character development are purposefully cultivated and inextricably linked. Students find joy and purpose by immersing themselves in intellectually rigorous, hands-on learning environments. Classrooms anchor the development of strong character and spark the discovery of individual passions and collective purpose. Students are offered experiences that deepen their cognitive, emotional, and social skills while inspiring an enthusiasm for learning. Lovett’s academic offerings are complemented by dynamic arts programming, competitive athletics teams, and purposeful civic engagement opportunities. With a student body of 1,640 students, Lovett is a community of belonging that develops students of honor, faith, and wisdom with the character and intellect to thrive in learning and in life. Learn more at lovett.org.
c G i n n i s Wo o d s School located in Forsyth County offers a rich Preschool through Middle School education. M c G i n n i s Wo o d s i s Cognia, GAC, and NAEYC certified and a member of the Georgia Independent Sc ho ol A s so c iat ion . Instruction at McGinnis Woods is hands-on with a focus on STEM learning. The school is a 1:1 iPad environment that features small class-sizes with teacher assistants and superior academics that inspire a lifelong love of learning. Classes are engaging and provide for differentiation and personalized attention. Guest speakers, field trips, character education, leadership opportunities and community service round out the curriculum. Competitive Sports, Robotics, Science Olympiad and Drama teams train year-round. After school and Discovery Clubs are also available. You’re invited to McGinnis Woods’s OP E N HOU S E on Saturday, January 20th from 1-3 p.m. Or, visit mcginniswoods.org to set up a tour today!
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Atlanta Private Schools Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs and Montessori at Vickery
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it h ca m pu se s at Sharon Springs and Vickery, we provide students with a Montessori education t hat op e n s m i nd s a nd sharpens intellectual skills, while nurturing confidence and independence. These schools offer age-appropriate Montessori programs for children from 13 months to 12 years. Working in a supportive environment with experienced educators, students receive the tools and resources to gain a world-class education. Montessori is effective in helping children develop a lifelong love of learning. Recognized by Montessori educators worldwide and accredited by the American Montessori Society, these schools meet the highest standards of excellence. For more information, go to MontessoriAcademySharonSprings.com or MontessoriVickery.com
Mount Paran Christian School
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ount Paran Christian Sc ho ol prov ide s a n e levate d ex p e r ie nc e i n academics, award-winning arts, and championship athletics — all with Christ at the center. Within small class sizes (12:1 student-teacher ratio), MPCS offers 56 AP/ honors courses, instructional support, robotics, Spanish and STEAM starting in PK3, and a 1:1 device program. It’s crucial to guarantee a moral and faith foundation through everything your child learns on the school journey. Through curricular Bible classes, weekly chapel, service, and discipleship groups, faith becomes fused into who they are. Highly-qualified teachers know and love each student to raise up servant-leaders – in the classroom, on the ball field, on the stage, and ultimately in the community. Mount Paran Christian School is a PreK3-12th grade private, covenantal Christian, non-denominational, college-preparatory school. Founded in 1976, MPCS is fully accredited (SAIS/Cognia/ CESA) and located in the shadow of Kennesaw Mountain on a 68-acre college-like campus. MPCS unites with home and church to prepare servant-leaders to honor God, love others, and walk in Truth. Discover next-level Christian education at an Open House or Tuesday Tour. Chart your path at mtparanschool.com.
The Mount Vernon School
North Cobb Christian School
he journey for all students to become college-ready, globally competitive, and engaged citizen leaders begins in Preschool and continues through Grade 12. Along the journey, The Mount Vernon School builds foundational literacies, skills, attributes, and meaningful relationships. Based on a strong foundation of core educational methods, they combine inquiry-based learning with design thinking, enabling students to strengthen problem-solving skills. This blended approach encourages non-linear thinking, global connections, brainstorming, prototyping, and iterative solutions while ensuring lasting context for learning. Over the course of four years, the college counseling team cultivates strong relationships with every Upper School family, in order to find the optimal college fit for each student. Alumni have attended colleges all over the country as well as abroad, in addition to all 14 universities in the Southeastern Conference. “We don’t have to wait and see what the future holds. We can design a better world together, today.” Visit mountvernonschool.org/admissions to learn more.
orth Cobb Christian School partners with parents of over 1,200 students in preschool K3 - 12th grade to inspire the pursuit of wonder, safeguard innocence, and discover the truth of God. This is school ... the way it should be. Since its founding in 1983, NCCS remains true to the calling of providing an authentically Christian, academically excellent education that honors each student’s unique genius. Students thrive amidst a strong family culture with an 11:1 student-to-teacher average ratio. Limitless opportunities to shine include 54 championship-caliber athletic teams, 17 award-winning arts ensembles, 5 Academies (magnet programs), and a robust array of clubs and enrichment programs. Proactive college counseling results in top scholarships and a 100% college acceptance rate. Plus, weekly chapel, discipleship groups, fall retreat, and Spring Term mission trips encourage solid biblical foundations. An independent school consulting firm recently reported, “The strength of NCCS is their Christian mission. Of all the schools we have worked with globally, NCCS’s Christian mission is one of the strongest we have seen.” To tour: 770-975-0252, admissions@ncchristian.org, ncchristian.org/admissions.
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Best Guide to Pace Academy
Pinecrest Academy
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 1,150 students in Pre-First through 12th grade, Pace strives to create prepared, confident citizens of the world. Student-teacher relationships are at the heart of the Pace experience, so the school maintains a studentteacher 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 realize that true success means making a difference. For more information, visit paceacademy.org.
inecrest Academy is a PreK3-12 Catholic school providing an atmosphere of academic excellence and critical thinking. Rooted in Catholic tradition and inspired by the beauty, goodness, and truth of the Christian wor ldv iew , t he i r w hole - p e r son approach helps children discover and develop their God-given gifts. Students, faculty, and staff strive to live by the school’s core values of charity, humility, excellence, and mission. Pinecrest has been named “Best Private School” in Forsyth County for 10 consecutive years, the Class of 2023 earned a 100% acceptance into the University of Georgia, and Pinecrest high school students earned the highest PSAT scores in October 2023 out of all U.S. and international test takers. The average class size at Pinecrest Academy is 15 students, each known by first name and loved by their teachers. STEMScopes encourages learning and discovery through hands-on labs. Athletics, Fine Arts, and co-curriculars are an important part of a student’s experience. Students participate in service projects, supporting the school’s mission to form Christian leaders who will transform society. Pinecrest serves Cumming, Johns Creek, Alpharetta, Milton, Suwanee and other North Atlanta areas. Visit pinecrestacademy.org or call 770-888-4477.
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Sage School
Saint Francis School
earning how to learn is one of the greatest gifts a child can receive. At Sage School, students are presented with tools and strategies to unlock the code of English language. Language instruction and Orton-Gillingham remediation form the core of the education of a Sage School student. The instruction is multi-sensory, direct and explicit. Orton-Gillingham remediation, the best education a student with dyslexia can receive, is a multi-sensory approach to teaching children to read and write. While the approach at Sage School is structured, sequential, and cumulative, it is also individualized to meet the needs of the learner. Rather than rote learning, instructors address the language cognitively, teaching students how language works. A Sage School classroom provides individualized instruction to meet the students’ needs in the areas of encoding, spelling, handwriting, written expression, vocabulary and reading comprehension. Learn more about Sage and schedule a tour today at sageschool.net.
aint Francis School is an independent, not for profit, college preparatory program, without any religious affiliation, serving the Atlanta Metro area since 1976. The mission of Saint Francis School is to provide a college preparatory program to s t u d e nt s w it h d ive r s e academic ability in a structured environment that is challenging and supportive. Kindergarten – 8th grades are located on the 24-acre Roswell Campus while the High School is located on the 47-acre Milton campus. The school’s commitment to small class sizes, low pupil-to-teacher ratio, and a strong emphasis on structure and organization allows students to enjoy success in academic areas and develop the self-confidence necessary to be successful in college. Curriculum offerings include AP, Honors, Traditional, Support classes and Academic Enhancement courses. Specialized reading programs offered include Fundations®, Wilson Reading System®, Just Words® and supplemental support from Cars ® and Stars ® Reading Comprehension. Sports are offered at Grades 5 - 8 and high school (GHSA) including football, soccer, baseball, track, swimming, wrestling, softball, volleyball and equestrian. Visit saintfrancisschools.com to learn more.
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Atlanta Private Schools The Schenck School
Springmont School
he Sc he nc k Sc ho ol ’ s mission is to build a solid educational foundation for students with dyslexia and to develop their rich potential. Founded by David Schenck in 1959, The Schenck School is widely regarded as one of the top elementary schools in the U.S. for dyslexic students. The Schenck School focuses on an accelerated remediation of dyslexia using The Schenck School’s reading model, a highly diagnostic and prescriptive application of the Orton-Gillingham Approach with small group instruction across all subjects. Critical to student’s success is a specialized, intensive yet nurturing learning environment for students to take risks, read and succeed. While at the School, students learn to advocate for themselves and to celebrate their dyslexia. ReadSource is a non-profit launched by The Schenck School to share the expertise of the School with others in the community who work with struggling readers. Its mission is to empower educators, and transform student lives through evidence-based reading instruction. For more information about the school, visit schenck.org. For more information about reading instruction and teacher training, visit readsource.com.
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s the oldest Montessori school in the Southeast, Springmont offers students 18 months through Middle sc ho ol a n aut he nt ic M o nte s s o r i e du c at i o n . Individualized, hands-on learning is balanced with social/emotional well-being, inspiring the diverse and inclusive community of learners to become creative, independent, and globally minded. Multi-aged classes and specially designed materials are complemented by highly experienced and caring teachers who guide students’ curiosity towards meaningful, collaborative discoveries. Large, light-filled classrooms and a beautiful campus with natural areas, class gardens, and farm animals afford rich outdoor experiences. Springmont’s Middle School prepares students for success in Atlanta’s premier high schools and life beyond academics. Opportunities to hone time-management skills, experience active leadership roles, and work both independently and in diverse groups allow students to become engaged learners. Springmont School – Extraordinary by Design. Learn more at springmont.com.
St. Martin’s Episcopal School
Trinity School
t. Martin’s Episcopal School is Atlanta’s preschool through 8th-grade experience dedicated to graduating well-rounded individuals ready to wholeheartedly embrace life. St. Martin’s serves 660 students and offers a challenging curriculum, outstanding facilities and many opportunities for students to learn about the world and themselves through intellectual adventures, extracurricular opportunities and spiritual formation. St. Martin’s Early Childhood Learning Center features state-ofthe-art classrooms, a STEAM village and an outdoor learning space all geared to foster engagement and collaborative learning among young children. Elementary School at St. Martin’s is a vibrant community with a focus on a loving structure balanced with high academic expectations grounded in a STEAM-based education. The Middle School has a traditional structure designed to prepare students for academically rigorous high schools while also meeting the unique developmental needs of early adolescents. As an Episcopal School, students’ spiritual growth is an important part of St. Martin’s mission. Students are inspired to be good citizens, to serve the community and to love and respect oneself and others. To learn more, please contact the Admission Office at 404-228-0709 and visit stmartinschool.org.
stablished in 1951, Trinity School is Atlanta’s only elementary-only independent school and serves children age three through Sixth Grade. Students enjoy small class sizes, low student-to-teacher rat ios , s tate - of - t he - a r t technology, and flexible indoor and outdoor learning spaces on a beautiful 43-acre campus. Offering high-quality, multi-sensory differentiated learning in a nurturing environment, Trinity is known for its challenging academics, amazing arts program, and community that cares like no other. Trinity cherishes the magic of childhood, encouraging students to try things they never imagined and cheering mightily when they succeed. Students have ample opportunity to follow their interests and find their passions. In addition to strong foundations in math, language arts, science, and social studies, they are given an abundance of choice — in art, community service, engineering and design, technology, World Languages, music, and physical education. With the support of teachers who are experts in elementary education, Trinity students gain a lifelong love of learning, confidence in their abilities, and strategies to adapt to new situations and an ever-changing world. Discover more at trinityatl.org
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Best Guide to The Walker School
Wesleyan School
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Whitefield Academy
e s t m i n s te r i s 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 1,880 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.
t Whitefield Academy, s t u d e nt s re c e ive a n academic education that is founded on intellectual rigor and Christ-centered principles. Serving 960 students in grades PreK through 12, Whitefield Academy offers a challenging and meaningful curriculum that encourages curiosity and a passion for learning through its solid academic reputation with its numerous AP and honors courses. The college preparatory education is built on Christ-centered values and beliefs, enabling students to succeed in both college and life. Whitefield teachers engage deeply with their students in the pursuit of knowledge and Truth with shared experiences, grace, and accountability. With more than 50 sports teams, including 20 varsity teams, Whitefield provides multiple opportunities for both participation and success. Whitefield’s acclaimed fine arts program and top-notch Innovation Lab empower students to pursue their interests in theater, music, and visual arts, as well as STEM subjects such as engineering and robotics. To find out more, please visit whitefieldacademy.com.
t The Walker School, meaningful relationships i n s p i re t ra n s f o r m at ive learning, and students are encouraged to share their individual talents in a wide variety of activities. Walker is a remarkable community where students from age 3 through high school are offered a challenging yet supportive educational experience. Students are involved not only in the classroom, on the athletic fields, or on the stage, but also beyond the campus in the broader community. In addition to providing a first-class academic program and offering a wide variety of extracurriculars for their students, The Walker School is a large and connected community with abundant opportunities for families of all faiths and cultures who want to be engaged in the life of the school. Walker is located two miles from Marietta Square and offers more than 20 bus routes in the metro area. Schedule a tour to learn more today.
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esleyan School b e l ieve s fa it h and intellect are great pa r t ne r s w it h eac h 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. T he leade r s h i p a nd 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 School has made a commitment, in the midst of a rapidly changing culture, to never waiver on the core principle of dedication to Jesus Christ. This is at the heart of everyday life at Wesleyan as students learn and faculty strive to model the school J.O.Y. motto – Jesus, others, and then yourself. Enrolling grades K-12, Wesleyan School 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, Wesleyan offers bus routes throughout the metro Atlanta area. Application deadlines along with information about admissions events and campus tours can be found online at wesleyanschool.org.
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Atlanta Private Schools The Wood Acres School
Woodward Academy
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h e Wo o d A c r e s School, located in the heart of East Cobb, is an affordable option for families looking for an exceptional private sc ho ol ex p e r ie nce for Preschool (2s-4s), Grammar School (K-5) and Upper School (6-8). Wood Acres is well known in the community for its accelerated curriculum, integration of STEM and STEAM activities, and teaching Spanish as a second language. The Wood Acres School believes in high expectations for all students while recognizing that like the school’s ginkgo leaf logo, each child is unique. Situated on nine spacious acres, students enjoy daily recess and outside exploration along with academic rigor. Small class sizes of 13-15 students enable the dedicated and experienced faculty to challenge their students and provide an outstanding education. In today’s uncertain world, Wood Acres continues to be relevant by staying true to the ideals that have brought success for many while evolving to meet the changing needs of today’s students. Visit woodacresschool.org to schedule a personal tour. Come see why #woodacresistheplacetobe!
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oodward Academy is the most diverse and inclusive independent school in Atlanta where students learn organically f ro m ex p o s u re to perspectives different from their own. From pre-K to senior year, Wo o d w a r d c r e a t e s opportunities for each child to thrive, whether they excel in math, get inspired by robotics, or flourish in literature and art classes. Students learn how to think about and engage in the world around them, making a commitment to do their best, and gaining the confidence to make a difference. They do that through their 25 AP classes, a renowned Transition Learning Support Program for students with mild learning differences, more than 100 student clubs and cocurriculars, 75 yearly arts performances, and 18 varsity sports. A typical Woodward Academy graduating class attends more than 100 different colleges and universities, devotes 5,000 hours to community service, and earns more than $25 million in scholarship awards. To learn more, visit woodward.edu.
Top Reasons Parents Choose Private Schools Ask parents why they want their child to attend a private school, and you’ll hear these responses:
n Individualized Attention: With smaller teacher-to-student ratios than most public schools, many private school parents believe their children get a better education at an independent school. n Religious Principles: Many parents want an education that offers religious teachings and tenets along with the ABCs. They seek an emphasis on spiritual values, morals and faith development throughout the whole curriculum. n Personalized Learning: Every child has his or her own academic timetable, as well as talents. Parents may find that a private school can better address the child’s needs — whether he or she is a late-bloomer, gifted in math, a budding artist or proficient in foreign languages. n Innovative Teaching: Some parents may have strong feelings about teaching methods or the curriculum and textbooks used by a public school system. Private schools often offer more options and flexibility. One parent may request a more innovative approach for their child, while another might demand more traditional teaching techniques. n Nontraditional Groupings: Many private schools offer alternatives to the usual grade groupings. These frequently cater more to individual abilities in different areas, or they may allow students more fluid movement between grades, regardless of age.
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n More Responsive to Parents: Private schools answer to the parents funding them. As a result, parents feel more confident that the issues and concerns that are important to them will be addressed. n Special Needs: A child with a learning disability or a behavioral problem may not do well in a traditional public school classroom. Private schools, especially those designed for a specific learning disability or special need, employ teachers and other professionals with the necessary credentials to teach and care for children with special needs. – Elizabeth Baggett
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10 Ways to Prepare Your Child (and YOU) for High School by Rebecca Hastings
I walked into the huge doors of the high school for orientation, overwhelmed by emotion. It was all mixed up — joy, excitement, fear, pride, worry, disbelief. My daughter was oblivious to it all. As she walked beside me, she had her own feelings, but she hid hers beneath a cool smile, chatting with her best friends. This shift to high school and all that comes with it feels complex for both of us. We are doing our best to feel ready, which includes more than course selection and locker decorations. Here are 10 things that will help you both prepare for the transition to high school. 66 Atlanta Parent
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Start getting ready now.
If you have a toddler, you don’t need to start buying her a high school backpack or prom dress, but you do need to start thinking about the trajectory of your child’s life. What are you hoping your son or daughter will know before she goes? What do you want her time to look like? How many activities will he do? How will you preserve family time as she’s embarking on more independence? Even in elementary school, we thought about how our time would look as a family. We decided our kids could do one activity at a time. We don’t need to plan their courses for high school the day they enter kindergarten, but our decisions can help set the whole family up for success as they grow.
Think about your school experiences.
Picture it all. Did you have a locker? Did you fall in love? What class was insanely hard? Walk down memory lane. Seriously. Now file it in the back corner of your brain. Your teen doesn’t want to hear story after story of your experience. He’s living his own life. Your experience will never be his experience. He’s breaking free and you, his parent, could never understand what he’s facing. At least that’s what he thinks. Only share when it seems right and wanted. One or two short stories will go a lot farther than talking about your experience so much that your child tunes you out.
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Having opportunities for things to feel hard or to fail or to work through a problem with a friend are all essential life skills. And right now, you get to be their backup.
Find someone they can relate to.
Maybe it’s a cousin or an older sibling. Maybe a family friend that’s a few years older than they are. Ideally, they are no more than 10 years older than your child. Start bringing people into their lives for them to look up to, and work on building that relationship now, while they are young. “My daughter is an only child,” says Hannah James of Dunwoody. “We have close family friends who have a daughter 4 years older and often do family dinners or have her babysit my child to help foster a close relationship.” Paving those paths of communication now will pay off when those hard-to-discuss issues come into their lives. You’ll both be grateful to have these trusted voices in his life as he walks through these years.
Give them responsibility.
This is the perfect time for kids to try new things and become responsible. High school years are the final practice for adulthood. Learning responsibility begins right now — at whatever age they are. According to Jessica Lahey in her book, “The Gift of Failure,” “children are starved for responsibility.” Right now, your 3-year-old can help to bring the silverware to the table and lay the napkins on the table. Your 6-year-old can be taught how to wash towels. Your 12-year-old can run into the store for you and pick up a gallon of milk and some bread. “Kids flourish when they are given responsibility,” Lahey goes on to say. Encouraging them to take more responsibility is healthy and gives them a chance to make mistakes while you’re there to help them through. Having opportunities for things to feel hard or to fail or to work through a problem with a friend are all essential life skills. And right now, you get to be their backup. If they fail, they will learn.
But let them be kids.
While we do want our children to be responsible, the goal isn’t to make them act like they’re 40. Does your teen still love collecting LEGOS? Keep giving them birthday presents. Does she still want to snuggle up and watch a movie with you? Say yes every chance you get. Just a few more blinks and they’ll be moving out to live at college or on their own. Make the most of these years while they’re still kids. The best way is to lead by example. Be silly. Sing really loud in the car, have a water balloon fight, and challenge them to a game of HORSE at the basketball hoop. They may roll their eyes, but that little kid inside will secretly love it. atlantaparent.com
Think about time.
This is one of the hardest things for teens to navigate, mostly because they don’t even know it’s flying by. Time management is a skill they will need for their whole life. Scholastic has a great guide that takes you through teaching your kid about time management. You can start just by talking to your 3-year-old about how time works. When they reach grade school, you can give them set time amounts for things like eating breakfast or doing homework. As they get older, you can help them work through setting homework priorities or planning out a big project. In high school, talk about courses available and which ones make the most sense timewise. Would a study hall be helpful during the semester they’re taking that Honors course? Help them think about their school day beyond cramming in all the classes they can. After school time is even more important to think about. It’s tempting in high school to do all the things. Sports? Yes! Clubs? You bet! Driver’s ed? Absolutely. A job? Of course! Talk about their time. Help them plan time for homework and activities and family. Also, make sure they understand the value of free time.
Lighten up.
It feels like everything is higher stakes once you hit middle school. And when they hit high school? Boom! We hit another level. Suddenly, it’s all about getting into college. And there is merit in that. But it’s a lot of pressure. Find ways to navigate when your child needs to be pushed and when to back off. While we need to help our kids be responsible, we also need to give them opportunities to relax. We can be the soft place to land when the world is pushing them on to succeed and do great things. We can show our kids to be serious and focused while maintaining opportunities to lighten up.
Foster relationships.
Middle school and high school can be a wild ride when it comes to friendships. There is no shortage of hormone-induced drama during these years. Finding ways to encourage solid, healthy friendships can be a lifeline for your child. “Encourage your kid to have an open mind and be open to making new friends and expanding their social circle,” says Jenny Grossman, mom of a current sophomore and incoming freshman at Milton High School. “Have them try something new — a new sport or activity — to put themselves out there.”
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Prepare Your Child (and YOU) for High School Make opportunities to have kids over. Make your home a safe space to have fun with peers. As they get older, take time to talk with your child about his or her friends. These conversations offer opportunities for your child to talk with you. Laying this foundation is essential when he or she encounters a problem. Your child will feel more comfortable talking with you, allowing you to help him.
Spend time together.
Making time to be together is something that you and your child will appreciate, as your child is getting older. Remember, she may appear to be independent and capable of conquering the world, but she still needs your presence, support and advice. “Frequent check-ins during the first few months are crucial,” says Grossman. “Kids experience lots of changes in social circles, higher expectations in the classroom, etc. Try for more 1:1 time together for those conversations.” This can and should be enjoyable for both of you. From reading the same book to letting them plan a day for the two of you, there are a variety of ways to make this fun. Find what works for you and your teen.
What’s next?
There may be moments for your teen (and you) that feel overwhelming. It’s easy to look at high school as one giant thing you both have to face. When either of you feels overwhelmed the best place to start is with what’s next. Looking at the pieces, the years, the semesters, we can break things down and focus on the decision right in front of us instead of a four-year decision. We don’t need to figure out what they’re going to do for a senior project the first day they walk through the door their freshman year. Just look at the next thing and face that together.
2-Minute Action Plan
n Think about the stage your child is in. Look at all the pieces of where he or she is right now and begin to think about the trajectory toward high school. Don’t use this as a planning time, rather, use this as a time to consider the stages to come and the challenges and joys you will face together. n Look at your daily schedule. What is one responsibility you can give them today? When can you fit in some Special Time? When can you take them out on a date?
Ongoing Action Plan
n How are they doing on time management? What can you do to help them become more conscious about time?
How can you help them determine their priorities? How are you balancing the goal of giving them responsibility while letting them be kids? How can you do better? n Think about your own school experiences. How can you keep yourself from oversharing? Who is someone in your family or friend circle that your child can relate to? How can you help to build the relationship between them? n Also, give yourself time and space to think about your feelings as your child gets ready for high school. Acknowledge your emotions and thoughts to help you both through this exciting process.
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Atlanta’s Only Independent Music Conservatory
Classical, Jazz, Rock & American Roots Atlanta Music High School: Grades 9-12 Atlanta Music High Prep: Grades 6-8
A unique option for passionate musicians to enhance academic coursework for credit with immersion in musical studies and portfolio development.
Schedule a Tour or Interview Today to learn more about how we can partner with your school to develop a customized plan.
1127 Colquitt Avenue NE | Atlanta 30307 AtlantaMusicHigh.com | 404-614-0466
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Atlanta Parent 69
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
A Snapshot of School Districts in Metro Atlanta
Cherokee County School System
Atlanta Public Schools
404-802-3500 www.atlantapublicschools.us Atlanta Public Schools is the seventh largest school system in Georgia with 49,675 students across 87 learning sites. n Number of Schools: 59 traditional schools; 5 partner schools; 19 charter schools; 2 citywide single-gender academies and 7 alternative schools and programs. n Pupil to teacher ratios: KindergartenGrade 3: 21 to 1; Grades 4-5: 23 to 1; Grades 6-8: 24 to 1; Grades 9-12: 25 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $22,970
Bartow County School System
770-606-5800 www.bartow.k12.ga.us There are approximately 14,175 students attending Bartow County’s 20 schools (K-12), with 1,122 certified employees, 65% holding advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 12 elementary; 4 middle; 3 high schools; 1 college and career academy n Pupil to teacher ratio: 22 to 1 (average) n Per pupil expenditure: $12,580
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Buford City Schools
770-945-5035 www.bufordcityschools.org There are 5,854 students enrolled in Buford City Schools. 79.74% percent of the 380 teachers have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 3 elementary; 1 middle; 1 high school n Pupil to teacher ratio: 15.45 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $13,028.95
Cherokee County School District
770-479-1871 www.cherokeek12.net CCSD has 42,000 students attending 40 schools and centers. There are 2,963 teachers in CCSD, of which 73% have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 23 elementary; 7 middle; 6 high schools; 1 virtual school (grades 4-12); 2 alternative centers; 2 preschool centers n Pupil to teacher ratio: 15 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $12,811
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Clayton County Public Schools
770-473-2700 www.clayton.k12.ga.us Clayton County has the sixth largest school system in Georgia with more than 50,000 students. Of the district’s 3,836 teachers, 64% have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 39 primary/elementary; 15 middle; 12 high schools; 3 Virtual Learning Programs; 3 District-approved charter schools; 1 psychological education center; 1 multi-purpose education center; included are: 17 Magnet programs, including Cambridge International Assessment n Pupil to teacher ratio: 14.50 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $9,577.29 (2022)
Cobb County School District
770-426-3300 www.cobbk12.org Cobb County has 112 schools supporting approximately 106,703 students. There are 10,160 certified employees; 65% have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 66 elementary; 26 middle; 17 high schools; 1 special education center; 1 adult education center; 1 performance learning center; 7 Magnet programs n Pupil to teacher ratio: Varies by school. Meets or is lower than state mandated numbers n Per pupil expenditure: $10,000 (3-year average)
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Coweta County School System
770-254-2800 www.cowetaschools.net Coweta County has 22,961 students and about 3,200 employees, 55% of whom are certified teaching employees. 60% of Coweta’s teachers hold advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 19 elementary; 7 middle schools; an 8th grade Charter College and Career Academy; 3 high schools; the Central Educational Center Career Academy; and the school system’s Donald W. Nixon Centre for the Performing and Visual Arts n Pupil to teacher ratios: 15 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $11,627 (2022)
City Schools of Decatur
404-371-3601 www.csdecatur.net City Schools of Decatur have 5,645 Pre-K-12 students attending 10 schools. Of the district’s 544 certified staff, more than 86.1% hold advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 10 total; 1 early childhood learning center; 5 kindergarten-second; 2 third-fifth; 1 middle; 1 high school n Pupil to teacher ratio: Meets or is lower than state mandated standards n Per pupil expenditure: $15,043
DeKalb County School District
678-676-1200 www.dekalbschoolsga.org DeKalb County School District is the third largest school system in Georgia with more than 92,000 students, 138+ schools and centers and 14,000 employees. n Number of Schools: 77 elementary; 19 middle; 22 high; 12 Program Schools; 8 Charter Schools n Pupil to teacher ratios: Kindergarten: 26 to 1; Grades 1-3: 29 to 1; Grades 4-5: 30 to 1; Grades 6-8: 30 to 1; Grades 9-12: 34 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $12,189.85
Douglas County School System
770-651-2000 www.dcssga.org There are approximately 26,000 students enrolled in Douglas County School System’s 36 schools. 70% of the 1,997 certified teaching staff have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 20 elementary; 8 middle; 5 high schools; 3 Non-traditional Schools and Programs, including the Success Center, College & Career Institute and FLEX Academy n Pupil to teacher ratio: Meets or is below state mandates n Per pupil expenditure: $9,556
Henry County
Forsyth County Schools
770-887-2461 www.forsyth.k12.ga.us More than 55,100 students attend Forsyth County’s 42 schools. There are over 4,069 certified employees in the system. n Number of Schools: 23 elementary; 11 middle; 7 high schools and one 9-12 college and career academy n Pupil to teacher ratio: 20 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $8,075
Fulton County Schools
470-254-3600 www.fultonschools.org Fulton County has more than 88,184 students and 6,900 certified staff members at 106 schools. n Number of Schools: 59 elementary (many with Pre-K programs); 19 middle; 18 high schools (2 with open campuses); 7 charter schools; 1 full-time virtual school 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: $14,880 (estimated)
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770-536-5275 www.gcssk12.net 8,000+ students attend Gainesville City’s eight schools. 520 teachers are employed by the system, and 55% of them have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 6 elementary; 1 middle school; 1 high school n Pupil to teacher ratios: Pre-K: 21 to 1; Grades K-5: 13 to 1; Grades 6-8: 15 to 1; Grades 9-12: 18 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $10,687
Gwinnett County Public Schools
678-301-6000 www.gcpsk12.org With more than 182,000 students attending 142 educational facilities, Gwinnett County is the largest school system in Georgia and the 11th largest in the nation. The average GCPS teacher holds a Master’s degree or higher advanced degree and has 14 years of experience. n Number of Schools: 81 elementary; 29 middle; 24 high schools; and 7 other educational facilities. n Pupil to teacher ratio: Varies by classroom, per Strategic Waivers School System contract n Per pupil expenditure: $12,655
Hall County Schools
770-534-1080 www.hallco.org There are 28,079 students enrolled in Hall County’s 37 schools. There are 2,184 teachers and 3,439 total employees. n Number of Schools: 20 elementary; 8 middle; 7 high schools; 1 college & career academy; 1 alternative learning center n Pupil to teacher ratio: 14 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $9,937.77 (2022)
Fayette County Public Schools
770-460-3535 www.fcboe.org Fayette County Public Schools has 19,888 students. 74% of the 1,525 teachers have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 14 elementary; 5 middle; 5 high schools; Fayette LIFE Academy (specialty school) n Pupil to teacher ratio: 13.52 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $12,106.64 (2022)
Gainesville City School System
Cont’d on next page
Douglas County School System
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January 2024
Atlanta Parent 71
PUBLIC SCHOOLS A Snapshot of School Districts in Metro Atlanta Henry County Schools
770-957-6601 www.henry.k12.ga.us There are nearly 44,000 students served by more than 6,000 employees, with 74% of employees holding an advanced degree. n Number of Schools: 52 schools, including 2 academies, over 10 clusters, with 9 Pre-K programs 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: $11,677
Marietta City Schools
770-422-3500 www.marietta-city.org Some 8,636 students attend Marietta City’s 12 schools. There are 1,400 employees with 75% 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, Arts and Math [STEAM] Magnet school); 1 sixth grade academy; 1 middle; 1 high school n Pupil to teacher ratio: 15 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $14,473
Marietta City Schools
Paulding County School District
770-443-8000 www.paulding.k12.ga.us The Paulding County School District has 34 schools, 31,551 students and 2,648 teachers. 70% 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: Kindergarten: 21 to 1; Grades 1-3: 22 to 1; Grades 4-5: 28 to 1; Grades 6-8: 28 to 1; Grades 9-12: 22 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $12,507
Rockdale County Public Schools
770-483-4713 www.rockdaleschools.org There are 15,140 students attending Rockdale County Public Schools. Approximately 63% of the 1,425 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; elementary, middle and high school virtual programs n Pupil to teacher ratio: Kindergarten-Grade 5: 19 to 1; Grades 6-8: 21 to 1; Grades 9-12: 19 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $13,542.14
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January 2024
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Greatness Begins Here At Genesis Innovation Academy we’re cultivating great men and women of character, purpose and intellect. We teach subjects that matter for 21st century success through our E5 curriculum: Engineering, Economics, Entrepreneurship, Expression and Ethics. Call or visit us online to learn more. A free public charter school, with single gender academies. Now enrolling grades K-8 for 2024-25. 404-990-3844 | 1049 Custer Ave SE | Atlanta 30316 | genesisinnovationacademy.org atlantaparent.com
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Atlanta Parent 75
ONLINE SCHOOLS: Stay Connected with Other Kids by Rebecca Hastings In an increasingly digital age, it is no wonder education is relying on technology more and more. During the height of the pandemic, many families were thrust into cyber schooling to keep kids learning. Now, cyber schooling is becoming an increasingly popular option for a variety of reasons. While there are many benefits to online schooling, one of the notable concerns is how to make an inherently solitary mode of learning more social. Corissa Hennessey of Connections Academy notes, the important thing to remember is that “a high-quality online school ensures that school socialization and the development of social skills is a key component in every student’s experience.” If students are enrolled in a high-quality program and intentional about socialization, they can thrive. Here are some ways to keep your child connected:
n Get Dressed
This may sound like a simple task, but getting dressed for the day is an important part of social connection online. When kids come to virtual school in their pajamas while sitting in bed, they are less likely to turn on their cameras or participate in discussions. Being ready for the day goes a long way toward encouraging social connection.
n Attend Live Classes
Some schools offer self-paced programming to complete independently while others offer a program with live classes via video feed. Many programs offer a hybrid of the two. When given the option of live virtual classes, encourage your child to attend as doing so increases human connection. The time a child spends in a live online class gives them the chance to interact with people in real-time, which offers opportunities they would not have if they worked completely independently. There are important things conveyed in body language, interpretation, class interactions, and more. Being present for these things helps your child develop and practice social skills.
n Utilize Virtual Office Hours
Many teachers in cyber schools offer online office hours. This is a time during which students can video conference with 76 Atlanta Parent
January 2024
the teacher one-on-one. Taking advantage of this helps students connect with their teacher, provides opportunities to ask questions, and improves understanding academically and socially.
n Frequent Check-Ins
Because cyber schooling is done online, it is easy for parents to miss opportunities to connect. Understanding what your kids are learning as well as their progress is essential. Talking about their learning is a way for them to utilize social skills in conjunction with their knowledge. Planning regular check-ins to be aware of your child’s work is helpful.
n Go Beyond School
Connecting with other kids from their cyber school in real life can be challenging. That is why it is important to be intentional about connecting with age-level peers outside of the school environment. This can be done through clubs, sports, library programs, or even your neighborhood. The interaction does not need to be structured to be beneficial. It only needs to be consistent. “Maintaining friendships has been so important for my kids,” says Summer Johnson of Roswell. “We started homeschooling during the pandemic and ended up wanting to stick with it. I planned regular play dates with neighbors or friends my kids had met at school to keep those relationships active and give them much-needed interactions with peers and not just their siblings.”
n Try Learning Groups
Within the school framework, creating a learning group or study group is a great way for kids to interact with one another. These can be set up through the online school or created independently. Kids can use the school platform if available or set up times to meet with classmates using Zoom or other video conferencing software. It is helpful to safeguard everyone involved by having a teacher facilitate the group or having your child participate in a public space in your home. This allows you to monitor what is being said to make sure everyone is safe and behaving appropriately.
n Don’t Forget to Have Fun
In a traditional school day, there are times for fun. Passing in the halls, joking around when a teacher is busy, or just waving to a friend. Cyber school may not have these opportunities so think about how you can create them. Encourage your child to take breaks in their day, get up and move around, and talk to you or others during these times. “I created scheduled breaks for my three,” says Johnson. “When the weather is nice, it’s outdoor time for the kids to run around in the backyard and get out their energy. If it’s raining, we will play board games or I’ll let them each have some independent play time.” This helps make the learning day more fun and social for everyone. atlantaparent.com
First virtual COGNIA CERTIFIED STEAM PROGRAM in the US! Georgia Connections Academy Charter School is a tuition-free K–12 public online school in Georgia. GACA has been recognized for its groundbreaking STEAM Virtual Program and is the first virtual Cognia Certified STEAM program in the United States! Students enrolled in the STEAM program experience a curriculum designed to engage their creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, all essential attributes for success in STEAM-related fields. Students at GACA are not only getting experience with STEAM curriculum virtually, but also get a hands-on approach by meeting in person during the school year and during the summer. The Cognia certification attests to Georgia Connections Academy’s high standards. By achieving this certification, GACA has demonstrated its dedication to meeting rigorous benchmarks. The Cognia STEAM certification shows that Georgia Connections Academy is preparing students for success in higher education and the workforce. The integration of STEAM principles equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in fields that demand a strong foundation in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. The virtual environment allows students to learn without boundaries and give students an opportunity to collaborate with peers, and engage with teachers in real-time, creating a dynamic and personalized learning environment. The virtual nature of our program opens doors to students across the state. It addresses the evolving needs of the educational landscape, particularly in the context of equitable access to STEAM education and resources. Georgia Connections Academy’s Cognia Certified STEAM program signifies a remarkable leap forward in integrating technology and education. As the first virtual STEAM program in the nation, GACA serves as a model for other schools to embrace these innovative approaches that prepare students for the 21st century. Enrollment is limited. APPLY TODAY.
gaconnectionsacademy.com • 1-800-382-6010
When Your Child Fails: The Value in Making Mistakes
Your son tried out for the middle school basketball team and didn’t make it. Your daughter wanted a part in her school play, but wasn’t chosen. What is your response when things don’t go your child’s way? Perhaps a better question might be, “What can you teach your children through the inevitable disappointments of life?”
by Jan Pierce
Talk About It When the time is right, it pays to face disappointments and failures head-on. A “this what you wanted, but this is the reality” kind of talk. Sometimes there will be tangled feelings when a disappointment comes like blaming others for the situation or expressing self-deprecations such as “I can’t do anything right.” It’s helpful for your child to vent frustration when the feelings are raw and painful, but then guide the discussion to a more positive place.
It Hurts Allow some time to explore the sadness and pain of a big disappointment or a performance blunder. If the failure was due to lack of preparation, there will also follow a period of analysis of the situation. What went wrong? Or maybe hard facts must be faced. She may never be class president or lead singer in the chorus. Maybe others are more well-suited, more talented. What then? Can you be the voice of reason guiding your child to a healthy realization of his or her unique gifts? No one is good at everything. Where can she find success? What are realistic goals he can achieve?
Most errors are approximations — he tries something and it’s nearly correct, but not quite. But sometimes a science experiment fails completely. It’s time to go back to the drawing board and make a new hypothesis. The important thing here is to learn from the failed experiment. That’s the key to accepting failures. Determine what has been learned from the experience. Set a new goal. Move on.
Here are some tips when walking with your child through failure: n Listen. Allow time to process what has happened and why. n Be ready to help analyze what went wrong. Talk it through. n Share anecdotes from your own life. We’ve all been there. n Make a new plan. Try a new activity, set a new goal, work
harder next time.
n Reinforce your absolute approval of your child as a much-
loved person apart from any performance of any kind.
The Role of Mistakes
Lessons from Others Who Experienced Failure
Beyond the disappointment of one traumatic life experience looms a much larger truth. Making mistakes is an essential part of learning. Think of your baby learning to walk. How many bumps and falls did it take before she toddled toward you without stumbling? No one thinks of that process as a series of failures. Rather, we realize the child has to practice before attaining success. And that principle can be applied to nearly everything we learn in life. In her book, “Allow Your Children to Fail if You Want Them to Succeed,” Dr. Avril Beckford says, “Failure is inevitable, so what becomes important is how parents help their children to deal with it.” Children need to learn to tolerate a level of risk that allows them to try, fail and try again. This is a learning cycle that applies to nearly every subject area and to every characterbuilding life experience.
There are many stories of great men and women of history who failed over and over again before achieving success. Abraham Lincoln lost political elections before succeeding in becoming President. Thomas Edison is famous for saying he didn’t fail when inventing the light bulb, he just found 10,000 ways that it didn’t work! Basketball icon Michael Jordan who said: “I’ve missed more than 9,000 shots in my career, lost almost 300 games. I’ve been trusted to take the game-winning shot 26 times and missed. I’ve failed over and over again and that is why I succeed.” The key to success is never give up. Parents are instrumental in helping their children learn the skills necessary to deal with the disappointments and failures we all experience in life. Choose the positive outlook that mistakes, errors and failures are just one part of learning any new skill. They’re just a link in the chain of achieving success. Your support and positive attitude toward this learning cycle will set the tone for your child’s future successes.
78 Atlanta Parent
January 2024
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Joyfully serving students from 6 months through the 12th grade
PRESCHOOL
LOWER SCHOOL
MIDDLE SCHOOL
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CLASSICAL, CATHOLIC, COMPLETE
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holyspiritprep.org 678.761.7992
January 2024
Atlanta Parent 79
Diverse, International Community Promoting Academic Excellence Our respectful and peaceful Montessori environments are thoughtfully designed to develop the whole child from infancy through middle school.
Druid Hills Campus 1215 Ponce De Leon Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30306 404-531-2067
•
AMI-accredited, child-centered Montessori curriculum individually tailored and focused on fostering independence
•
Traditional Montessori materials used to develop sensorial, language, math and practical life skills
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Global awareness cultivated by our enriching Cultural Studies program
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A strong sense of community and excellent communication with parents
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Low student-to-teacher ratios and passionate, AMI-certified teachers
Cliff Valley Campus 1970 Cliff Valley Way NE Atlanta, GA 30329 404-602-0553
Serving students ages 8 weeks through 10 years Accredited by the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), AdvancED (SACS CASI) and Bright from the Start.
For more information, visit www.amischool.com
Globally Aware, Socially Responsible, Academically Driven Delivering individualized academic and emotional development from toddler age through middle 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, AdvancED and Georgia Accrediting Commission (GAC) Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs 2830 Old Atlanta Road Cumming, GA 30041 770-258-6877 montessoriacademysharonsprings.com Serving ages 13 months through 12 years
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Please see our other location:
Montessori at Vickery 6285 Post Road Cumming, GA 30040 770-268-2642 montessorivickery.com Serving ages 13 months through 9 years
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Trinity School
THE LIST: 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, religiousaffiliated, Montessori and learning differences. Tuition prices are approximate. atlantaparent.com
Non-Sectarian
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.
Fulton Science Academy. 3035 Fanfare Way, Alpharetta (Fulton). 678-366-2555. PreK12th. 960 students. $15,000-$18,000/yr. fultonscienceacademy.org
Atlanta Academy. 2000 Holcomb Woods Pkwy., Roswell (Fulton). 678-461-6102. Preschool-8th. 395 students. $12,410-$17,920/yr. atlantaacademy.com
The Galloway School. 215 Chastain Park Ave. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-252-8389. PreK3-12th. 750 students. $19,125-$32,725/yr. gallowayschool.org
Atlanta International School. 2890 N. Fulton Dr., Atlanta (Fulton). 404-841-3840. K3-12th. 1,330 students. $28,569-$32,615/yr. aischool.org Capstone Academy. 1934 Cliff Valley Way, Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-458-5160. 5th-12th. 140 students. $14,850/yr. capstoneacademy.com The Children’s School. 345 Tenth St. NE, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-873-6985. 3yrs.-8th. 370 students. $16,036-$26,105/yr. tcsatl.org Cliff Valley School. 2426 Clairmont Rd., Atlanta (DeKalb). 678-302-1302. 3yrs.-8th. 430 students. $7,856-$19,652/yr. cliffvalley.org The Cottage School. 700 Grimes Bridge Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 770-641-8688. 3rd-12th. 280 students. $24,500-$29,500/yr. cottageschool.org Foundations for the Future School. 1500 Stanley Rd., Kennesaw (Cobb). 770-429-4799. 6wks.-6th. 207 students. $17,472,060-$25,941/yr. foundationsschool.com
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Heritage Preparatory School. 1700 and 1824 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta (Fulton). 404-815-7711. PreK-12th. 275 students. $9,770-$21,500/yr. heritageprep.org The Heritage School. 2093 Hwy. 29 N., Newnan (Coweta). 770-253-9898. PreK3-12th. 450 students. $5,725-$20,277/yr. heritageschool.com High Meadows School. 1055 Willeo Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 770-993-2940. 3yrs.-8th. 350 students. $7,646-$23,342/yr. highmeadows.org Lakeview Academy. 796 Lakeview Dr., Gainesville (Hall). 770-532-4383. PreK3-12th. 519 students. $8,278-$21,005/yr. lakeviewacademy.com The Lovett School. 4075 Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-262-3032. K-12th. 1,640 students. $30,110-$34,950/yr. lovett.org McGinnis Woods School. 5380 Faircroft Dr., Alpharetta (Forsyth). 770-664-7764. Infant-8th. 400 students. $11,025-$15,575/yr. mcginniswoods.org Cont’d on next page
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THE LIST: Atlanta’s Private Schools Midtown International School. 1575 Sheridan Rd., Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-542-7003. K-12th. 200 students. $24,930-$26,208/yr. misatl.org Pace Academy. 966 W. Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-262-1345. Pre1-12th. 1,150 students. $31,970-$36,800/yr. paceacademy.org The Paideia School. 1509 Ponce de Leon Ave. NE, Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-377-3491. 3yrs.-12th. 1,015 students. $13,143-$30,378/yr. paideiaschool.org Rivers Academy. 38 North Main St., Alpharetta (Fulton). 770-475-0081. 5th-12th. 261 students. $12,725/yr. riversacademy.com The SAE School. 6688 Mableton Pkwy., Mableton (Cobb). 678-239-3200. Preschool-8th. 370 students. $12,600-$14,400/yr. saeschool.org Saint Francis Schools. 13440 Cogburn Rd.; 9375 Willeo Rd., Alpharetta and Roswell (Fulton). 770-641-8257. K-12th. 750 students. $16,500-$27,000/yr. saintfrancisschools.com The Stonehaven School. 1480 Joyner Ave. and 1650 Old Concord Rd., Marietta (Cobb). 770-874-8885. K5-12th. 300 students. $2,800-$13,300/yr. stonehavenschool.org Tabula Rasa Language Academy. 5855 Riverside Dr., Atlanta; 11035 Jones Bridge Rd., Alpharetta (Fulton) and 1430 Riverside Pkwy., Lawrenceville (Gwinnett). 404-409-0827. 2mos.-5th. 450 students. $15,000-$22,000/yr. trlanguages.com Trinity School. 4301 Northside Pkwy. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-231-8100. 3yrs.-6th. 594 students. $20,750-$31,750/yr. trinityatl.org
The Wood Acres School
The Waldorf School of Atlanta. 827 Kirk Rd., Decatur (DeKalb). 404-377-1315. Preschool8th. 230 students. $13,790-$20,550/yr. waldorfatlanta.org
Atlanta Jewish Academy. 5200 Northland Dr., Atlanta (Fulton). 404-843-9900. 3mos.-12th. 440 students. $18,550-$28,945/yr. atljewishacademy.org
The Walker School. 700 Cobb Pkwy., Marietta (Cobb). 770-427-2689. PreK3-12th. 960 students. $12,710-$29,210/yr. thewalkerschool.org
Blessed Trinity Catholic High School. 11320 Woodstock Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 678-277-9083 9th-12th. 1,000 students. $18,400/yr. btcatholic.org
The Wood Acres School. 1772 Johnson Ferry Rd., Marietta (Cobb). 770-971-1880. PreK2-8th. 350 students. $8,000-$14,300/yr. woodacresschool.org Woodward Academy. 1662 Rugby Ave., College Park and 6565 Boles Rd., Johns Creek (Fulton). 404-765-4001. PreK-12th. 2,685 students. $20,600-$32,400/yr. woodward.edu
Religious-Affiliated 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. PK-5th. 325 students. $3,000-$12,300/yr. alpharettachristianacademy.com
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Cherokee Christian Schools. 3075 Trickum Rd., Woodstock (Cherokee). 678-494-5464. K5-12th. 376 students. $10,000-$15,625/yr. cherokeechristian.org Christ the King School. 46 Peachtree Way, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-233-0383. K-8th. 570 students. $10,900-$14,775/yr. christking.org Community Christian School. 2001 Jodeco Rd., Stockbridge (Henry). 678-432-0191. 6wks.-12th. 800 students. $11,172-$12,694/yr. communitychristianschool.net Cornerstone Christian Academy. 5295 Triangle Pkwy. NW, Peachtree Corners (Gwinnett). 770-441-9222. K-8th. 459 students. $15,778-$18,559/yr. cornerstonecougars.org
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Covenant Christian Academy. 6905 Post Rd., Cumming (Forsyth). 770-674-2990. K4-12th. 254 students. $7,680-$10,200/yr. covenantrams.org Creekside Christian Academy. 2455 Mt. Carmel, Hampton and 175 Foster Dr., McDonough (Henry). 770-961-9300. K3-12th. 825 students. $7,895-$9,985/yr. creeksideacademy.org The Davis Academy. 8105 Roberts Dr., Atlanta (Fulton). 770-671-0085. PreK-8th. 500 students. $17,120-$30,690/yr. davisacademy.org Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy. 2400 Hwy. 42 North, McDonough (Henry). 770-957-2927. K3-12th. 952 students. $6,480-$16,200/yr. elcaonline.org Eastside Christian School. 2450 Lower Roswell Rd., Marietta (Cobb). 770-971-2332. K-12th. 287 students. $12,000-$16,000 eastsidechristianschool.com The Epstein School. 335 Colewood Way NW, Sandy Springs (Fulton). 404-250-5600. 3mos.-8th. 480 students. $9,200-$29,200/yr. epsteinatlanta.org Fellowship Christian School. 10965 Woodstock Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 770-993-1650. PreK12th. 1,068 students. $4,911–$21,357/yr. fellowshipchristianschool.org
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George Walton Academy. 1 Bulldog Dr., Monroe (Walton). 678-635-3800. K3-12th. 790 students. $6,500-$15,500/yr. gwa.com Greater Atlanta Christian School. 1575 Indian Trail Rd., Norcross (Gwinnett). 770-243-2000. PreK-12th. 1,807 students. $18,165-$28,700/yr. gac.org Harvester Christian Academy. 4241 Central Church Rd., Douglasville(Douglas). 770-9421583. K4-12th. 364 students. $5,110-$10,830/yr. harvesteracademy.com Hebron Christian Academy. 775 Dacula Rd., Dacula (Gwinnett). 770-963-9250. K4-12th. 1,320 students. $8,990-$14,990/yr. hebronlions.org Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School. 805 Mt. Vernon Hwy. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-255-4026. PreK3-12th. 1,395 students. $19,000-$33,590/yr. hies.org
Mount Paran Christian School
Holy Redeemer Catholic School. 3380 Old Alabama Rd., Johns Creek (Fulton). 770-4104056. K-8th. 475 students. $10,525-$12,225/yr. hrcatholicschool.org
Horizon Christian Academy. 1270 Sawnee Dr., Cumming (Forsyth). 678-947-0711. K-12th. 367 students. $9,150-$14,250/yr. hcaga.org
Intown Community School. 2059 Lavista Rd., Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-633-8081. K-8th. 205 students. $8,700-$12,800/yr. intownschool.org
Holy Spirit Preparatory School. 4465 and 4449 Northside Dr.; 4820 Long Island Dr., Atlanta (Fulton). 678-761-7992. 6mos.-12th. 350 students. $6,310-$26,000/yr. holyspiritprep.org
Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic School. 2855 Briarcliff Rd. NE, Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-636-4488. PreK4-8th. 510 students. $9,368-$11,952/yr. ihmschool.org
Killian Hill Christian School. 151 Arcado Rd., Lilburn (Gwinnett). 770-921-3224. K4-12th. 425 students. $6,700-$14,300/yr. khcs.org Cont’d on next page
Call today to see how a different approach can make a difference for your child at 404.377.7436 howardschool.org
A DIFFERENT APPROACH
makes all the difference
The Howard School serves students with language-based learning differences. We specialize in helping intelligent, curious and creative children
REDISCOVER THE JOY OF LEARNING.
Our different approach to teaching is backed by research and science, and has been successful for over 73 years.
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January 2024
Atlanta Parent 83
THE LIST: Atlanta’s Private Schools King’s Ridge Christian School. 2765 Bethany Bend, Alpharetta (Fulton). 770-754-5738. PreK-12th. 941 students. $6,500-$24,770/yr. kingsridgecs.org Landmark Christian School. 50 SE Broad St., Fairburn (Fulton). 770-306-0647. PK3-12th. 927 students. $9,000-$21,700/yr. landmarkchristianschool.org Loganville Christian Academy. 2575 Hwy. 81, Loganville (Walton). 770-554-9888. PreK3-12th. 640 students. $6,750-$12,600/yr. lcalions.com Marist School. 3790 Ashford Dunwoody Rd. NE, Atlanta (DeKalb). 770-457-7201. 7th-12th. 1,100 students. $22,630/yr. marist.com Midway Covenant Christian School. 4635 Dallas Hwy., Powder Springs (Cobb). 770-590-1866. PreK-8th. 300 students. $2,260-$7,750/yr. midwayschool.org
The Mount Vernon School
Mount Paran Christian School. 1275 Stanley Rd. NW, Kennesaw (Cobb). 770-578-0182. PreK3-12th. 1,315 students. $4,641-$23,515/yr. mtparanschool.com
The Mount Vernon School. 471 and 510 Mt. Vernon Hwy. NE, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-252-3448. PreK-12th. 1,230 students. $28,255-$32,375/yr. mountvernonschool.org
North Cobb Christian School. 4500 Eagle Dr., Kennesaw (Cobb). 770975-0252. PreK3-12th. 1,240 students. $7,660-$18,960/yr. ncchristian.org
Mount Pisgah Christian School. 9820 Nesbit Ferry Rd., Johns Creek (Fulton). 678-336-3400. Infant-12th. 1,000 students. $17,850-$25,095/yr. mountpisgahschool.org
Mt. Bethel Christian Academy. 4385 Lower Roswell Rd. and 2509 Post Oak Tritt Rd., Marietta (Cobb). 770-971-0245. PreK-12th. 698 students. $13,230-$19,455/yr. mtbethelchristian.org
Notre Dame Academy. 4635 River Green Pkwy., Duluth (Gwinnett). 678-387-9385. PreK-12th. 320 students. $10,200-$19,084/yr. ndacademy.org
Montessori School at Emory
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• By Individual Instruction • A Love of Learning • To Think Outside the Box
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3021 N. Decatur Road • Decatur, GA 30033 MontessoriSchoolatEmory.com • 404-634-5777
Accredited Toddler Through Middle School Programs 84 Atlanta Parent
January 2024
[ Focus on Education ]
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Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic School. 1320 Hearst Dr., Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-364-1902. PreK4-8th. 583 students. $11,287-$12,787/yr. olaschool.org Peachtree Academy. 1801 Ellington Rd. and 1760 Ebenezer Rd., Conyers (Rockdale); 10125 Hwy. 142 and 14101 Hwy. 278, Covington (Newton).770-860-8900. PreK12th. 352 students. $5,900-$12,000/yr. peachtreeacademy.com Perimeter School. 9500 Medlock Bridge Rd., Johns Creek (Fulton). 678-405-2300. K-8th. 498 students. $9,236-$17,268/yr. perimeterschool.org Pinecrest Academy. 955 Peachtree Pkwy., Cumming (Forsyth). 770-888-4477. PreK12th. 516 students. $10,830-$21,795/yr. pinecrestacademy.org Providence Christian Academy. 4575 Lawrenceville Hwy., Lilburn (Gwinnett). 770-279-7200. PreK-12th. 681 students. $8,760$20,940/yr. providencechristianacademy.org Queen of Angels Catholic School. 11340 Woodstock Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 770518-1804. K-8th. 490 students. $10,430-$12,130/yr. qaschool.org Saint Jude the Apostle Catholic School. 7171 Glenridge Dr. NE, Atlanta (Fulton). 770-394-2880. K-8th. 483 students. $10,915-$13,265/yr. saintjude.net Saint Thomas More Catholic School. 630 W. Ponce de Leon Ave., Decatur (DeKalb). 404-373-8456. PK-8th. 475 students. $9,600-$13,200/yr. stmga.org Shallowford Presbyterian School. 2375 Shallowford Rd., Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-321-3061. 2yrs.-8th. 250 students. $2,025-$10,000/yr. shallowfordschool.org Cont’d on next page
Raise your child in a like-minded community. It’s important that families can trust who they choose to partner with in their child’s education. Join a growing community that prioritizes educating the whole child within a Biblical worldview, keeping families informed, and establishing a foundation of staff, families, and alumni that choose to do life together beyond the classroom. LCA_Lions
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Discover the McGinnis Woods Difference A quarter century of inspiring students with the passion to excel • Private non-parochial education for infants through 8th grade • Nurturing environment featuring outstanding teachers, small class sizes with assistants, 1-to 1-iPad environment, hands-on academics, STEM, frequent field trips and after-school programs. • After-school sports, robotics, Science Olympiad and drama.
OPEN HOUSE Saturday, January 20 1-3 pm
5380 Faircroft Drive, Alpharetta, GA 30005 • www.mcginniswoods.org • 770-664-7764 Cognia, GAC and NAEYC Accredited
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[ Focus on Education ]
January 2024
Atlanta Parent 85
THE LIST: Atlanta’s Private Schools St. Benedict’s Episcopal School. 2160 Cooper Lake Rd., Smyrna (Cobb). 678-279-4300. Infant-8th. 650 students. $9,000-$16,000/yr. stbs.org St. Catherine of Siena Catholic School. 1618 Ben King Rd., Kennesaw (Cobb). 770-419-8601. K-8th. 314 students. $8,998-$10,500/yr. scsiena.org St. John the Evangelist Catholic School. 240 Arnold St., Hapeville (Fulton). 404-767-4312. PreK-8th. 280 students. $9,460-$11,275/yr. sjecs.org St. John Neumann Catholic School. 791 Tom Smith Rd., Lilburn (Gwinnett). 770-381-0557. PreK-8th. 335 students. $9,828-$12,260/yr. sjnrcs.org St. Joseph Catholic School. 81 Lacy St. NW, Marietta (Cobb). 770-428-3328. PreK4-8th. 415 students. $8,750-$11,354/yr. stjosephschool.org St. Martin’s Episcopal School. 3110-A AshfordDunwoody Rd., Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-237-4260. Toddler-8th. 625 students. $15,110-$26,780/yr. stmartinschool.org St. Mary’s Academy. 861 Hwy. 279, Fayetteville (Fayette). 770-461-2202. PreK-12th. 340 students. $9,500-$16,300/yr. smaschool.org St. Paul Lutheran School. 700 Ardenlee Pkwy., Peachtree City (Fayette). 18mos.-8th. 240 students. $3,720-$8,000/yr. stpaulptc.org
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Pinecrest Academy
St. Pius X Catholic High School. 2674 Johnson Rd. NE, Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-636-3023. 9th12th. 1,069 students. $16,800-$18,800/yr. spx.org Strong Rock Christian School. 4200 Strong Rock Pkwy., Locust Grove (Henry). 678-8331200. PreK3-12th. 954 students. $12,165$16,375/yr. strongrockchristianschool.com
Sugar Hill Christian Academy. 4600 Nelson Brogdon Blvd., Sugar Hill (Gwinnett). 678-745-4121. Preschool-12th. 510 students. $2,431-$11,181/yr. sugarhillchristian.org Torah Day School of Atlanta. 1985 Lavista Rd. NE, Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-982-0800. K-8th. 350 students. $14,600-$16,725/yr. torahday.org
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Trinity Christian School. 8817 Highway 54 West, Sharpsburg (Coweta). 770-251-6770. PreK-12th. 1,597 students. $3,185-$13,234/yr. tcslions.org The Weber School. 6751 Roswell Rd. NE, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-917-2500. 9th-12th. 302 students. $33,900/yr. weberschool.org Wesleyan School. 5405 Spalding Dr., Peachtree Corners (Gwinnett). 770-448-7640. K-12th. 1,206 students. $20,930-$29,390/yr. wesleyanschool.org Westminster. 1424 W. Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-355-8673. Pre1st12th. 1,880 students. $31,650-$36,289/yr. westminster.net Whitefield Academy. 1 Whitefield Dr., Smyrna (Cobb). 678-305-3000. PreK-12th. 960 students. $13,800-$29,300/yr. whitefieldacademy.com
Endeavor Montessori
Montessori
Atlanta Montessori International School. 1970 Cliff Valley Way NE and 1215 S. Ponce de Leon Ave. NE, Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-325-6777. 8wks.-12yrs. 180 students. $17,550-$25,680/yr. amischool.com
Arbor Montessori School. 2998 Lavista Rd. and 1434 Scott Blvd., Decatur (DeKalb). 404-321-9304. 18mos.-8th. 255 students. $11,735-$21,995/yr. arbormontessori.org
Crabapple Montessori School. 12387 Crabapple Rd., Alpharetta (Fulton). 770-569-5200. 15mos.-12yrs. 220 students. $8,740-$14,000/yr. crabapplemontessori.com
Montessori schools use the teaching technique developed by Dr. Maria Montessori. Schools listed below have elementary classes through at least the third grade.
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Endeavor Montessori. 48 Perimeter Center East, Atlanta (DeKalb). 770-637-4644. 6wks.-6yrs. 160 students. $15,300-24,360/yr. endeavormontessori.com International Montessori Academy. 1240 Euclid Ave. NE, Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-474-6375. 8wks.-6yrs. 120 students. $15,100-$22,700/yr. imontessoriacademy.com Cont’d on next page
January 2024
Atlanta Parent 87
THE LIST: Atlanta’s Private Schools Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs. 2830 Old Atlanta Rd., Cumming (Forsyth). 770-205-6277. 13mos.-12yrs. 200 students. $11,810-$18,900/yr. montessoriacademygeorgia.com Montessori Academy at Vickery. 6285 Post Rd., Cumming (Forsyth). 770-777-9131.13 mos.-9yrs. 175 students. $11,650-$20,520/yr. montessorivickery.com The Howard School
Montessori In Town. 1192 Arkwright Place SE, Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-784-1038. 14mos.-6th. 135 students. $12,100-$17,400/yr. montessoriintown.com Riverstone Montessori. 455 Casteel Rd., Marietta (Cobb). 770-422-9194. 2.5yrs.-9th. 120 students. $10,980-$18,300/ yr. riverstonemontessori.com Springmont School. 5750 Long Island Dr. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-252-3910. 18mos.-8th. 260 students. $12,475$27,000/yr. springmont.com Village Montessori School. 1610 Woodstock Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 770-552-0834. 18mos.-8th. 140 students. $9,800-$18,300/yr. vmschool.com
Sage School
Special Needs Brookwood Christian School for Dyslexia. 4728 Wood St., Acworth (Cobb). 678-401-5855. 1st-12th. 80 students. $21,000/yr. brookwoodchristian.com
Cumberland Academy of Georgia. 650-A Mt. Vernon Hwy. NE, Atlanta. (Fulton). 404-835-9000 4th-12th plus college. 100 students. $28,700/yr. cumberlandacademy.org GRACEPOINT. 1407 Cobb Parkway N, Marietta, (Cobb). 678-709-6634. 1st-8th. 130 students. $26,500-$27,000/yr. gracepointschool.org
Looking for more information on schools? Pick Up Atlanta Parent’s Education Viewbook Brought to you by the experts at Atlanta Parent magazine
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January 2024
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The Howard School. 1192 Foster St., Atlanta (Fulton). 404-377-7436. K-12th. 358 students. $35,590-$41,780/yr. howardschool.org Mill Springs Academy. 13660 New Providence Rd., Alpharetta (Fulton). K-12th. 278 students. $31,212/yr. millsprings.org Porter Academy. 200 Cox Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 770-594-1313. 4yrs.-14yrs. 70 students. $21,500/yr. porteracademy.org Sage School. 2435 Tech Center Pkwy NE, Lawrenceville, (Gwinnett). 678-318-3588. K-6th. 95 students. $27,400-$28,000/yr. sageschool.net The Schenck School. 282 Mt. Paran Rd. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-252-2591. K-6th. 250 students. $42,400/yr. schenck.org
Caring for Parents and Students APS is caring
Do you know a child who resides within the city of Atlanta in need of special education services? APS Department of Special Education services can open a window of hope for a brighter future for children and young adults identified with a disability or developmental delay. Quality Education Founded on the belief that students with disabilities will receive a quality education leading to meaningful academic, social, emotional and behavioral outcomes. Partnering APS Department of Special Education partners with parents to work together and ensure all children with disabilities achieve and are provided a continuum of appropriate, specialized services and supports.
Atlanta Public Schools • Dept. of Special Education Ages 3-5: 404-802-1690 | Ages 6-21: 404-802-2636
Swift School. 300 Grimes Bridge Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 678-205-4988. 1st-8th. 180 students. $35,000-$37,000/yr. theswiftschool.org The Wardlaw School of the Atlanta Speech School. 3160 Northside Pkwy. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-834-7622. K-6th. 190 students. $39,890-$41,485/yr. atlantaspeechschool.org 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
The Howard School
Serving students with Dyslexia l
l Grades 1-12 Wilson Reading & Fast Forward Programs l Small Class Sizes l Customized Instruction l College Prep and Tech Programs
Porter Academy Enabling Children with Learning Differences to Succeed • Pre-K–8th • Small Groups • Individualized programs • Hands-on learning activities • Speech, occupational and music therapy for all
678-401-5855
Office@BrookwoodChristian.com
4728 Wood Street • Acworth 30101
770-594-1313 | www.porteracademy.org | 200 Cox Rd., Roswell
At the corner of North Main St. and Wood St., north of the Hwy 92 overpass
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January 2024
Atlanta Parent 89
Winter Fun at Margaritaville Lanier Islands
Enjoy the winter season with a visit to License to Chill Snow Island and the Lakeside Lights Spectacular at Margaritaville Lanier Islands for a time of wintry fun! Create special memories for the whole family with snow tubing, amusement rides, ice skating, and playing in the snow.
For more details visit MargaritavilleAtLanierIslands.com
GAS SOUTH ARENA FEB 23 – 25 JurassicWorldLiveTour.com © 2023 Universal Studios and Amblin Entertainment, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
90 Atlanta Parent
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JANUARY: Things to do this month
License to Chill Snow Island
Hamilton
Disney’s Aladdin
Celebrate MLK Jr
Indoor Swim
Top Events l Honoring MLK Jr l Ice Skating l Now Showing Winter Wonderland l A Splashing Good Time atlantaparent.com
Family Fun Guide
January 2024
Atlanta Parent 91
JANUARY TOP EVENTS
Events may be cancelled or changed after our deadline. Please check before visiting to confirm. Full calendar online at atlantaparent.com
Disney’s Aladdin
Shen Yun
Atlanta Symphony Hall / Jan. 5-14. See website for showtimes. Travel back in time to the magical world of ancient China with stunning costumes, high-tech backdrops and an orchestral performance. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4800. $90-$250+. aso.org
Repticon
Gwinnett County Fairground Jan. 6, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and Jan. 7, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. View exotic reptiles and animals from all around the world. 2405 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Lawrenceville. 863-268-4273. $10-$15; ages 5-12, $5-$6; ages 4 and younger, free. repticon.com
Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Glow Party
State Farm Arena / Jan. 6, 12:30 and 7:30 p.m. and Jan. 7, 2:30 p.m. Watch your favorite Hot Wheels Monster Truck at this glow-in-the-dark competition, and witness a transforming robot, freestyle motorcross and more. 1 State Farm Dr., Atlanta. 404-878-3000. $30-$65+. statefarmarena.com
Disney’s Aladdin
Fox Theatre Jan. 9-14. See website for showtimes. Go on an extraordinary magical journey where one lamp and three wishes make the possibilities infinite. 660 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 855-285-8499. $29+. foxtheatre.org
January 2024
Georgia World Congress Center Jan. 11-12, 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Jan. 13, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. and Jan. 14, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Discover the joy of boating with boats and marine products for sale, boating activities and more, while kids enjoy fun activities in the Kids’ Zone. 285 Andrew Young International Blvd. NW, Atlanta. 314-287-6102. $15-$17; ages 12 and younger, free. atlantaboatshow.com
UPS Second Sunday
High Museum of Art / Jan. 14, noon-5 p.m. Enjoy art-making activities, performances and access to the High’s collection and special exhibitions. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4400. Free admission. high.org
Braves Fest
Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Glow Party
92 Atlanta Parent
Atlanta Boat Show
Family Fun Guide
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Jurassic Quest
Cobb Galleria Centre Jan. 26, noon-8 p.m.; Jan. 27, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and Jan. 28, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Walk with this larger-than-life dinosaur herd for playing with baby dinosaurs, excavating fossils, training a raptor and more. 2 Galleria Pkwy. SE, Atlanta. $22; unlimited access, $36; ages 1 and younger, free. jurassicquest.com
Braves Fest
Truist Park and The Battery Atlanta Jan. 27, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Celebrate the six-time National League East Champion Atlanta Braves with player autographs, interactive entertainment, player interactions and more. Registration required. 755 Battery Ave. SE, Atlanta. Free admission. mlb.com/braves/fans/ braves-fest
Trains, Trains, Trains
Jurassic Quest
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Southern Museum Jan. 27-28, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Explore all things trains with model train layouts and groups from throughout the region displaying their wares. 2829 Cherokee St. NE, Kennesaw. 770-427-2117. $10; ages 3-17, $5; ages 2 and younger, free. southernmuseum.org
Family Fun Guide
Enchanted Woodland Trail
GET OUTDOORS
WildWoods: AGLOW
Fernbank Museum / Through Feb. 25, 6-10 p.m. Journey through nature with this multi-sensory experience featuring the beauty of the real environment, glowing displays and music. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300. $32.95; ages 3-12, $30.95; ages 2 and younger, free. fernbankmuseum.org
Enchanted Woodland Trail
Chattahoochee Nature Center / Through Feb. 29 See fairies’ and gnomes’ winter homes built from natural objects as you walk along this trail. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. $15; ages 13-18, $11; ages 3-12, $9; ages 2 and younger, free. chattnaturecenter.org
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EXHIBITS TO EXPLORE THIS MONTH
Learning isn’t stale with these interactive experiences! Outside the Box
Children’s Museum of Atlanta Jan. 20-May 5 Empower your child’s imagination with hands-on fun featuring everyday objects that are transformed into adventurous obstacle courses. Reservation recommended. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr. NW, Atlanta. 404-659-5437. $15.95-$19.95; ages 11 months and younger, free. childrensmuseumatlanta.org
Tutankhamun: His Tomb and His Treasures
Exhibition Hub Atlanta Art Center Through Jan. 31 At this immersive exhibit, travel back to Ancient Egypt with reconstructed objects, breathtaking decorations and detailed explanations to discover the most famous archaeological discovery site of the 20th century. 5660 Buford Hwy. NE, Doraville. $29.90+; ages 4-12, $20.90+; ages 3 and younger, free. tutankhamunexpo.com
Atlanta Parent’s
Sportsology
OVERNIGHT CAMPS & DAY CAMPS
Saturday, Feb. 10, 2024 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Studio Theatre, City Springs 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs
A Free Event Learn more at atlantaparent.com/campexpo To exhibit, call 770-454-7599 or email lpowell@atlantaparent.com 94 Atlanta Parent
January 2024
Tellus Science Museum Through May 5 Learn how your body works and test your athletic abilities with hands-on challenges, including testing your reaction time, throwing a ball at a target and more. 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville. 770-606-5700. $19; ages 3-17, $15; ages 2 and younger, free. tellusmuseum.org
Family Fun Guide
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HONOR A LEGACY
Celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with these family-friendly events, activities and service projects in the metro area.
MLK Day 5K: Let Freedom Ring
Gwinnett County MLK Parade
First Baptist Church of Doraville / Jan. 15, 8 a.m. Diverse groups in the community celebrate the holiday in the spirit of sisterhood and brotherhood with fellowship and fitness. 5935 New Peachtree Rd., Doraville. $35-$40. mlkday5k.com
Gwinnett Justice & Administration Building / Jan. 15, 11 a.m. School bands, fraternities, sororities, community groups, businesses and citizens will celebrate the legacy of Dr. King at this parade. 75 Langley Dr., Lawrenceville. 706-389-4065. Free admission. unitedebonysociety.org
Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration and Day of Service
Palefsky Collision Project MLK Day Performance
Acworth Community Center / Jan. 15, 8:30-11 a.m. Enjoy a community breakfast, Unity Walk and service project helping an organization in the community. 4361 Cherokee St., Acworth. 770-917-1234. Free admission. acworthtourism.org
Martin Luther King Jr Day Parade
Chapel Hill Middle School / Jan. 15, 10 a.m. This parade from NAACP DeKalb is themed around “Stop – Drop – Impact” and travels from Chapel Hill Middle School to Martin Luther King Jr. High School. 404-241-8006. Free admission. naacpdekalb.org
Martin Luther King Jr. Day 2024
Atlanta History Center / Jan. 15, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Commemorate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with civil rights-themed trivia, crafts, kids’ activities, panel discussions and more. Registration encouraged. 130 W. Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta. 404-814-4000. Free admission. atlantahistorycenter.com
National Center for Civil and Human Rights: Jan. 15, 11 a.m. Woodruff Arts Center, Rich Theatre: Jan. 15, 3 p.m. Young artists reimagine their summer performance, “Something Moving: A Meditation on Maynard,” through the lens of letters to Dr. King. National Center for Civil and Human Rights: 100 Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd., Atlanta. $19.99; ages 7-12, $15.99; ages 6 and younger, free. Woodruff Arts Center, Rich Theatre: 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4600. Free admission; registration required. alliancetheatre.org
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Art & Film Celebration
Studio Theatre / Jan. 15, 1 p.m. Enjoy interactive art projects and a film to celebrate, educate and share the teachings of Dr. King. 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs. 770-206-2022. Free admission. citysprings.com
Free Entrance Days
Jan. 15 Enjoy free admission at National Parks in honor of the day. Local sites include Arabia Mountain, Kennesaw Mountain, Chattahoochee River and Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site. nps.gov
Inscription on the North Wall of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial in Washington, D.C.
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Family Fun Guide
January 2024
Atlanta Parent 95
NOW SHOWING
Photo by Joan Marcus
These plays and performances are sure to entertain your family.
Hamilton
HUMAN
Center for Puppetry Arts / Jan. 17-28. See website for showtimes. Curious seahorse Nacci discovers a spectacular submarine left behind by humans, prompting him to learn more about the vanished humans. 1404 Spring St. NW at 18th, Atlanta. 404-873-3391. $22-$27; ages 1 and younger, free. puppet.org
The SpongeBob Musical: Youth Spotlight
Woodstock Arts Theatre / Jan. 19-28. See website for showtimes. When the citizens of Bikini Bottom learn a volcano will soon erupt and destroy their home, SpongeBob and his friends must work together to save their undersea world. 8534 Main St., Woodstock. 678-494-4251. $18-$23. woodstockarts.org
Inspire Youth 2024
Gas South Theater / Jan. 20, 3 and 7:30 p.m. Presented by Sugarloaf Youth Ballet, celebrate the art of dance’s ability to inspire the upcoming generation. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 770-813-7500. $10-$25+. gassouthdistrict.com
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
Blacktop Playground: Improv for Kids
Aurora Theatre / Jan. 27, 11:30 a.m. This comedy show uses suggestions from the audience of kids to create a unique improv performance. 128 E. Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-6222. $7. auroratheatre.com
Hamilton
Fox Theatre / Jan. 30-Feb. 25. See website for showtimes. This musical biography blends hip hop, jazz, R&B and Broadway to show the story of founding father Alexander Hamilton. 660 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 855-285-8499. $39+. foxtheatre.org
Ruth and the Green Book
Center for Puppetry Arts / Jan. 31-Feb. 25. See website for showtimes. Eight-year-old Ruth and her family are traveling from Chicago to Alabama using “The Green Book,” a guide to help others find a safe, welcoming route to travel through segregated America. 1404 Spring St. NW at 18th, Atlanta. 404-873-3391. $22; ages 1 and younger, free. puppet.org
Fox Theatre / Jan. 25-27. See website for showtimes. Celebrating their 65th anniversary season, this special series will feature four unforgettable performances, including the iconic masterpiece “Revelations.” 660 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 855-285-8499. $38+. foxtheatre.org
Where the Mountain Meets the Moon
Synchronicity Theatre / Jan. 26-Feb. 18. See website for showtimes. Inspired by the rich tales her father tells, Minli determines she will find the Old Man of the Moon who knows the secret of good fortune in this fantasy crossed with Chinese folklore. 1545 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-484-8636. $15-$45. synchrotheatre.com
The Mad Hatterpillar
Stage Door Theatre / Jan. 26-Feb. 10. See website for showtimes. This puppet-centric children’s musical follows Maddie, a caterpillar who sheds her head at each new stage of life for an important tale of sustainability, acceptance and self-love. 5339 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd., Dunwoody. 770-396-1726. $15-$28. stagedoortheatrega.org
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Ruth and the Green Book
Family Fun Guide
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HIT THE SKI SLOPES NEAR ATLANTA Take a family trip to ski, snowboard and enjoy winter weather at these ski areas close to Atlanta. You’ll find slopes for every experience level, plus extras like skating, snow tubing, and instruction. The season typically runs until late March. Ski Sapphire Valley
127 Cherokee Trail, Sapphire, N.C. 828-743-7663; skisapphirevalley.com n Lift tickets: $39.75-$98. n Number of slopes: 1 beginner, 1 main. 2 lifts. n Off the slopes: Frozen Falls Tube Park, firepit. n Children’s programs: Private lessons for ages 4 and older; group lessons for ages 5 and older. n Approximate distance from Atlanta: 3 hours.
Cataloochee Ski Area
1080 Ski Lodge Rd., Maggie Valley, N.C. 828-926-0285; cataloochee.com n Lift tickets: $30-$83; ages 4 and younger free with ticketed adult. n Number of slopes: 8 beginner, 7 intermediate, 3 advanced. 5 lifts. n Off the slopes: Snow tubing at Tube World, ski shop. n Children’s programs: Private lessons for ages 3 and older; group and family lessons for ages 8 and older; CAT Trackers (ages 4-12) includes ski instruction, games and activities. n Approximate distance from Atlanta: 3 hours.
Ober Gatlinburg Ski Area
1001 Parkway, Gatlinburg, Tenn. 865-436-5423; obergatlinburg.com n Lift tickets: $35-$84; ages 5 and younger free with ticketed adult. n Number of slopes: 2 beginner, 6 intermediate, 3 advanced. 4 lifts. Off the slopes: Snow tubing, aerial tramway, ice skating, ice bumper cars, The Snow Zone, scenic chairlift, Tennessee Flyer, wildlife habitat, carousel, shops, restaurants. n Children’s programs: Group and private lessons for ages 5 and older. n Approximate distance from Atlanta: 4 hours.
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Hatley Pointe
578 Valley View Cir., Mars Hill, N.C. 828-689-4111; hatleypointe.com n Lift tickets: $35-$85; ages 3 and younger free with ticketed adult. n Number of slopes: 4 beginner, 9 intermediate, 2 advanced. 4 lifts. n Off the slopes: Lodge with restaurants and gift shop. n Children’s programs: Ski School lessons available on a first-come, first-serve basis. n Approximate distance from Atlanta: 4 hours.
Beech Mountain Resort
1007 Beech Mountain Pkwy., Beech Mountain, N.C. 800-438-2093; beechmountainresort.com n Lift tickets: $30-$96; ages 4 and younger free with ticketed adult. n Number of slopes: 3 beginner, 7 intermediate, 4 advanced, 3 freestyle. 8 lifts. n Off the slopes: Tubing, restaurants, sport shop. n Children’s programs: Group and private lessons available for ages 4 and older. The Snow Kamp indoor/outdoor program (ages 3-5) includes childcare. Traxx (ages 6-12) offers instruction for beginner and experienced skiers. n Approximate distance from Atlanta: 5 hours.
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Family Fun Guide
January 2024
Atlanta Parent 97
WINTER WONDERLAND
5 Things to Do at License to Chill Snow Island
1 2 3 4 5
Photo by Melissa Hollingsworth
Margaritaville at Lanier Islands is open weekends through Feb. 25. Have snow much fun at Snowball Alley! Play in the snow, take down your family members in a snowball fight, make snow angels, and build snowpeople. Up for a challenge? Take on Blizzard Mountain, a 575-foot-long, eight-story snow slide. Glide around Frosty’s Ice Rink to practice your moves and enjoy wintry weather. Spin around with family and friends to see who has the best moves and who’s improved the most from last year. Enjoy the carnivals of childhood at Snow Island Amusement Rides with a carousel, bumper cars, Ferris wheel and more. At Glacier Café, warm up and grab a quick bite for a delicious meal. Enjoy hot cocoa, cocktails or brews while you sit and enjoy the spectacular view from the patio. Stroll through Lakeside Lights Spectacular with traditional displays, high-tech images and Margaritavillethemed scenes along the gorgeous lake. Through Jan. 15.
The Details Margaritaville at Lanier Islands 7650 Lanier Islands Pkwy., Buford. 470-323-3440. margaritavillelanierislands.com n License to Chill Snow Island: $44.99-$54.99. n Lakeside Lights Spectacular: $19.99; ages 3 and younger, free. n Schedule: Weekends through Feb. 25, plus Jan. 15 and Feb. 15-21. n Hours: Typically 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Lakeside Lights Spectacular starts at 5 p.m. n Safety: Call or check website for protocols.
LAST-CHANCE FOR HOLIDAY LIGHTS WonderLights Disco Nights
State Botanical Garden of Georgia / Jan. 4-7, 5:30-9 p.m. Experience the garden light show while grooving to disco hits. 2450 S. Milledge Ave., Athens. 706-542-1244. $15; ages 3 and younger, free. botgarden.uga.edu/wonderlights
Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland
Jim R. Miller Park Through Jan. 7. Mon.-Fri. 6-10 p.m. and Sat.-Sun. 6-10 p.m. or later. This new light show features cutting-edge technology and timeless holiday charm with a 300-foot RGB tunnel, a North Pole display and more. 2245 Callaway Rd. SW, Marietta. 423-652-0120. $39.95 per car. shadrackchristmas.com
Garden Lights, Holiday Nights
Atlanta Botanical Garden / Through Jan. 14, 5-11 p.m. View millions of brilliantly colored LED lights and displays. Reservation required. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-876-5859. $27.95-$47.95; ages 3-12, $24.95-$44.95; ages 2 and younger, free. atlantabg.org
IllumiNights at the Zoo: A Chinese Lantern Festival Zoo Atlanta / Through Jan. 14, 5:30-9:30 p.m. Enjoy a mile-long stroll through illuminated wildlife and imaginary creatures. 800 Cherokee Ave. SE, Atlanta. 404-624-9453. $20.99-$24.99; ages 3-11, $17.99-$19.99; ages 2 and younger, free. zooatlanta.org
98 Atlanta Parent
January 2024
IllumiNights at the Zoo: A Chinese Lantern Festival
Margaritaville’s Lakeside Lights Spectacular
Margaritaville at Lanier Islands Through Jan. 15. See website for schedule. Go on a magical walk through an amazing light show set to music. 7650 Lanier Islands Pkwy., Buford. 470-323-3440. $19.99; ages 3 and younger, free. margaritavilleresorts.com
Family Fun Guide
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TAKE A SPIN ON THE ICE Practice your figure 8s at these seasonal ice skating rinks. n Skate the Sky. The Rooftop at Ponce City Market. Through Jan. 7. See website for schedule. 675 Ponce De Leon Ave. NE, Atlanta. 770-999-1530. $22-$30. poncecityroof.com n Skate the Station. Atlantic Station. Through Jan. 15. Mon.-Fri. 4-10 p.m.; Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. and Sun. noon-8 p.m. 1380 Atlantic Dr. NW, Atlanta. 404-410-4010. $17. atlanticstation.com n The Rink at Park Tavern. Park Tavern. Through Jan. 15. Mon.-Fri. 4:30 p.m.-midnight and Sat.-Sun. 11:30 a.m.-midnight. 500 10th St. NE, Atlanta. 404-249-0001. $15-$20. parktavern.com n Rink On The River Ice Skating Rink. The Mill on Etowah. Through Jan. 15. Sun. noon-8 p.m.; Closed Mon.; Tues.-Thur. 4-9 p.m.; Fri. 4-10 p.m. and Sat. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. 225 Reformation Pkwy., Canton. 678-882-6797. $14; ages 10 and younger, $12. etowahmill.com
Skate City Springs
n Avalon on Ice. Avalon. Through Jan. 15. Mon.-Fri. 3-10 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.10 p.m. and Sun. noon-7 p.m. 400 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta. 770-765-1000. $18; ages 9 and younger, $14. experienceavalon.com
n Olde Town On Ice. Olde Town Conyers Pavilion. Through Feb. 11. See website for schedule. 949 S. Main St., Conyers. 678-374-7655. $12; ages 8 and younger, $10; skate rental, $3. icedays.com/conyers
n Skate City Springs. City Green. Through Jan. 21. See website for schedule. 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs. 770-730-5600. $15; ages 2-9, $13. sandyspringsga.gov
n Sweetland On Ice. Sweetland Amphitheatre. Through Feb. 11. Fri. 5-9 p.m. and Sat.-Sun. noon-9 p.m. 110 Smith St., LaGrange. 706-298-5434. $10-$15; Bring your own skates, $9. facebook.com/sweetlandonice
n Athens on Ice. 440 Foundry Pavilion at The Classic Center. Through Jan. 31. See website for schedule. 300 N. Thomas St., Athens. 706-208-0900. $12-$15. classiccenter.com
n Have an Ice Day Ice Skating Rink. Sugar Hill City Hall. Through Feb. 18. See website for schedule. 5039 W. Broad St., Sugar Hill. 770-554-7506. $12; ages 8 and younger, $10; skate rental, $3. haidrink.com
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January 2024
Atlanta Parent 99
A SPLASHING GOOD TIME! Beat the winter blahs at one of these indoor swim facilities. Be sure to check websites for pool rules and operating hours.
MINI WATER PARKS These aquatic centers offer open swim times with slides, play structures and splash zones. And with affordable admission prices ($3.50-$10.50 per person), families can have fun and burn off energy without breaking the bank.
South Cobb Aquatic Center
875 Riverside Pkwy., Austell. 770-739-3180. cobbcounty.org
Bethesda Aquatic Center
225 Bethesda Church Rd., Lawrenceville. 678-277-0880. gwinnettcounty.com
Bogan Park Aquatic Center
2723 N. Bogan Rd., Buford. 678-277-0853. gwinnettcounty.com
OPEN SWIM These facilities offer recreational swim times, so parents and kids can play, introduce young children to water, or practice swimming skills. Check websites for open swim times and pool rules.
Cherokee County Aquatic Center
WATER PARK GETAWAY Splurge on a getaway weekend or overnight trip to one of these resorts with indoor water parks. You’ll find activities for kids (and adults!) of all ages and plenty of extras like dining, kid-friendly accommodations and more.
Great Wolf Lodge
Multiple water slides at all thrill levels, splash areas, a wave pool and a 4-story interactive play area make this indoor water park a great family destination. LaGrange. 844-473-9653. greatwolf.com/georgia
Soundwaves at Gaylord Opryland
This upscale water attraction at Gaylord Opryland Resort has multiple waterslides, rivers, rock wall, and pools for both kids and adults, making it much more exciting than your average waterpark. Nashville. 615-889-1000. soundwavesgo.com
1200 Wellstar Way, Canton. 678-880-4760. playcherokee.org
Martin Luther King Jr. Aquatic Center
110 Hilliard St. SE, Atlanta. 404-658-1149. atlantaga.gov
Mountain View Aquatic Center
3131 Hong Way NE, Marietta. 770-509-4925. cobbcounty.org
West Cobb Aquatic Center 3675 Macland Rd., Powder Springs. 770-222-6700. cobbcounty.org
Soundwaves at Gaylord Opryland
100 Atlanta Parent
January 2024
Family Fun Guide
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On Top of Lookout Mountain in Historic Mentone, Alabama