State Of The Schools 2014 by Forsyth County News

State of Schools 2014-2015

Clear Skin should be the last thing on your mind this school year.

Dr. Alexander Gross, M.D. is a board certified dermatologist specializing in Adult and Pediatric Dermatology, Diagnosis and Treatment of Skin Cancer, Cosmetic Surgery, and Skin Rejuvenation.

Services Include:

* * * *

Adult, Pediatric, and Adolescent Skin Care Diagnosis and Treatment of Skin Cancers Cosmetic Surgeries Medical Day Spa with Licensed Medical Estheticians

State of Schools 2014-2015

2014-2015

Welcome from FCS & Forsyth County News

The 2014-15 State of Schools

Keith Porter Interim Superintendent

Jeff Bearden Superintendent (effective 9/2/14)

Forsyth County Schools and The Forsyth County News are pleased to provide parents, newcomers, school district staff, and local businesses the 2014-15 State of the Schools magazine. This back-toschool magazine features the news you need to know for a successful school start and also showcases the very best from local businesses. We know that an exceptional public school district is a large factor in the high quality of life that we enjoy in Cumming-Forsyth County. Forsyth County Schools continues to deliver with the highest graduation rate in Georgia,

Vince Johnson Publisher Forsyth County News

the highest district SAT score in the state, and the lowest millage (tax) rate and per pupil expenditures in metro-Atlanta. Additionally, this school year the school district eliminated staff furlough days and provided step increases for staff. The recent approval of $195 million in bonds by voters will allow the district to address capital improvements for the next four years. We are excited about the opportunities that are before us, and look forward to working collaboratively to serve all in Forsyth County.

State of Schools 2014-2015

2014-2015

Inside the 2014-15 State of Schools Welcome �� 3 Student Assessment �� 6 Food and Nutrition �� 10 Partners in Education �� 13 Central Office Staff �� 14 New State Immunization Requirements �� 16 Principals �� 18 Board of Education �� 24 Workforce Development �� 26 Student Support Services �� 28 School Bond Projects �� 32 Retirees �� 34 Teachers of the Year �� 37 Forsyth Academy �� 38 Transportation �� 39 Become A Mentor! �� 40 School Calendar �� 42 About this publication The 2014-15 State of the Schools is produced by Forsyth County School’s Public Information and Communication Department. For information, contact jcaracciolo@forsyth. k12.ga.us Copyright 2014, Forsyth County Schools

Stay connected

Photography

Mail: 1120 Dahlonega Highway, Cumming, Georgia 30040. Telephone: 770-887-2461 Website: www.forsyth.k12.ga.us

General photos provided by West Forsyth HS students, under the direction of teacher Stephanie Pickens, school media accounts, and the Forsyth County News.

Sign up to receive newsletters from FCS via email! Join at www. forsyth.k12.ga.us/enewsletters Follow us: www.facebook.com/FCSchools http://twitter.com/FCSchoolsGA #fcslead For a list of school facebook and twitter pages, visit www.forsyth. k12.ga.us/socialmedia

State of Schools 2014-2015

About Forsyth County Schools FCS does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability or gender in employment decisions or educational programs and activities, including athletic programs. The accuracy of the content within this publication is subject to change prior to dissemination.

State of Schools 2014-2015

2014-2015

TEACHING and LEARNING Student Assessment in Forsyth County Schools What is a SGP? What is a SLO? What are Georgia Milestones? These acronyms and titles represent changes that have already begun altering the landscape of assessment practices across the state of Georgia. First, Student Growth Percentiles (SGPs) are measures of student progress on state-mandated assessments. A growth percentile is generated for each student which describes his or her “rank” on current achievement relative to other students with similar score histories. A growth percentile can range from 1 to 99. Lower percentiles indicate lower academic achievement growth and higher percentiles indicate higher academic growth. Given their child had two prior scores on state-mandated assessments, parents received a Student Growth Percentile report for the first time in March of the 2013-2014 school year.

student success by ensuring that every minute of instruction is moving students, teachers, and schools toward the common vision of exemplary instruction and high levels of student academic growth. Lastly, beginning this school year Georgia will launch a new comprehensive assessment system. Georgia Milestones will span grades three through high school and consist of summative assessments in the content areas of language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. Students in grades 3 – 8 will take an end-of-grade (EOG) assessment in each content area, while high school students will take an end-of-course (EOC) assessment for each of the eight courses designated by the State Board of Education. Some unique features of Georgia’s new assessment system include: • inclusion of open-ended (constructed-response) items in language arts and mathematics (all grades and courses); Graceful in Dance Strong in Character

Ages 18

Months - Adult

Voted Best Dance Studio 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 & 2014

NEW LOCATION CDA III

(Formerly ‘Born To Dance’ Studios)

1676 Buford Hwy. Cumming, GA 30041

Private Lessons Available!

Fall 14-15 Season Schedules Available Online Now!!

Find O Current Cular Schedule ss Online

Visit Our Dance Boutique ‘Tutus & Taps’

While SGPs are calculated for students in tested subjects (grades and courses which administer state-mandated assessments), Student Learning Objectives (SLOs) are growth measures for students who are in non-tested courses. The primary purpose of SLOs, like SGPs, is to improve student achievement at the classroom level. An equally important purpose of SLOs is to provide evidence of each teacher’s instructional impact on student learning. The process of setting and using SLOs requires teachers to use assessments to measure student growth. This allows teachers to plan for 6

Home of CDA II Performance Academy Over 10 Years Instructional Excellence!

Owner/Artistic Director

Niki Jernigan-Watkins

Ballet • Tap • Jazz • Hip Hop • Pointe • Lyrical • Contemporary • Kinder-Gym • 2 Yr. Classes BOYS Hip Hop • Adult Classes • Performing Companies & Miss Niki’s Elite Performance Class

770•781•4922 419 Tribble Gap Rd. • Cumming

www.cummingdanceacademy.com www.facebook.com/cummingdanceacademy

State of Schools8033_1_cummingDance080114SOS 2014-2015

Insta

• inclusion of a writing component (in response to text) at every grade level and course within the language arts assessment; • inclusion of norm-referenced items in all content areas and courses, to complement the criterion-referenced information and to provide a national comparison; and • transition to online administration over time, with online administration considered the primary mode of administration and paper-pencil back-up until transition is completed. Georgia Milestones will replace the Criterion-Referenced Competency Tests (CRCT) in grades 3-8, End of Course Tests (EOCT) in middle and high school, and Writing Assessments in grades 3, 5, and 8. The Georgia High School Writing Test (GHSWT) will be administered in September 2014. In an effort to bring greater focus to instruction and assessment in Forsyth County, administrators and teachers began participating in ongoing professional development regarding performance-based instruction, learning, and assessment in 2013. In Forsyth County, we desire to enhance performance-based teaching and student evidence of learning in all classrooms; we also seek to ensure the instructional rigor required for all students to be college and career ready. Performance-based instruction will not only improve student understanding and knowledge, it will also create gains in performance on all measures of achievement and progress. Our district’s continued and collaborative efforts will provide a vehicle to make this district’s vision, Quality Learning and Superior Performance for All, a reality. For more information on these new assessment changed visit the Georgia Department of Education at www.gadoe.org. n

IN N E P O W O N LE! DAWSONVIL

Ribbon Cutting with Dawson County Chamber Owner Michael Ryan - 25 Year Experience

355 Quill Dr., Ste 120 Dawsonville

15% OFF

Located just South of the N. GA Premium Outlets on GA 400

706-216-6089 www.ChestateePaintCenter.com XXX_X_chestateePaintCtr080114_SOS

State of Schools 2014-2015

Regal & Aura Products

Discount not in combination with any other discount or any sale product. Expires 9-6-14 Dawson location only. DCN

We’re honored to serve you It’s an honor to be recognized as the nation’s leading hospital for maternity and newborn care. Look a little closer and you’ll discover that Northside performs more surgeries and diagnoses and treats more breast and gynecologic cancer than any other hospital in Georgia. While people choose Northside for our expertise, they also know us for our exceptional compassionate care. Visit us online at www.northside.com

State of Schools 2014-2015

Great Careers Begin Here! •Low Tuition Rate •Education Guarantee •Over 40 Majors •100% Placement Rate •HOPE Grant •New Zell Miller Grant Available

14 Programs have 100% Tuition Covered for HOPE Grant-eligible students!

Fall Semester Starts August 19th.

ACT NOW!

www.laniertech.edu 770.531.6300

A Unit of the Technical College System of Georgia State of Schools 2014-2015

EOI 9

2014-2015

Food and Nutrition As the district begins the 2014-2015 school year the Food and Nutrition Services Department would like to share some important news and introduce a new on-line payment system.

Award Winning Programs Sharon Elementary’s cafeteria was recognized by the Georgia Department of Education as a Farm to School Best Practices winner for implementing the “Feed my School for a Week Georgia Grown” initiative. The cafeteria also received a Best Practices award from USDA’s Southeastern Regional office, which covers eight south eastern states. Farm to School is an effort to bring in more locally grown and/or Georgia Grown products into the school cafeteria. It is also an educational program that teaches students healthy eating habits and connects them to Georgia’s agricultural bounty.

New Online Payment System Forsyth County Schools will be using MyPaymentsPlus for on-line payments. Any balance on a student’s account at the end of this past school year will be transferred to their meal account and will be available to them at the beginning of the school year.

Cumming

Specializing in the Detection and Treatment of Pediatric Digestive Disorders

PLUS ✦ 156 foot water slide ✦ Lazy River

OL R PO S O O D KEND OUT WEE R DAY N E OP BO L LA UNTI

• Birthday Parties • Group & Private Swim Lessons • Year Round Swim Teams • 2 Indoor Pools Open Year Round • Adult Open Swim • Lap Swim

✦ Children’s Splash Play Area ✦ Concession Stand is Open!

August 10th - 31st Sat & Sun only: Sat: Two sessions 10:00am-2:00pm/2:30pm-6:30pm Sun: One session 1:00pm-6:00pm September 1st (Labor Day) One session 1:00pm-6:00pm Labor Day: Last day of the season

201 Aquatic Circle, Cumming, GA 30040 770-781-1781 • cac2@cityofcumming.net www.cummingaquaticcenter.com 10

XXXX_X_cummingAquaticCtr073114SOS

As a Board Certified pediatric gastroenterologist, Dr. Nirav Patel brings the experience and personal care every parent values when their child is suffering from digestive issues. At Atlanta Gastroenterology’s Pediatric and Adolescent Division, infants, children, ‘tweens and teens can be treated for every type of digestive and liver condition, including: • Abdominal Pain • Lactose Intolerance • Constipation/Diarrhea • Eosinophilic Esophagitis • Irritable Bowel Syndrome • Hepatitis/Liver Disease

• Feeding Difficulties • Celiac Disease • Crohn’s Disease • Ulcerative Colitis • Acid Reflux • Colic

5445 Meridian Mark Road NE Suite 490 Conveniently located next to Children's Healthcare of Atlanta at Scottish Rite

For Appointments:

404.843.6320

www.atlantagastro.com/pediatrics AGA is a participating provider for Medicare, Medicaid and most healthcare plans offered in Georgia.

State of Schools 2014-2015

MyPaymentsPlus is a state-of-the-art online service that provides you the convenience and information you need to manage your student’s cafeteria account. At no cost, MyPaymentsPlus allows any family to: • Create a free, secured account to manage all of your student’s accounts • Check your student’s account balance 24/7 online at www. MyPaymentsplus.com • Monitor the items your student purchases in the cafeteria • Create email notifications when the account reaches a low balance • Download the free mobile app for iPhone, iPad or Android to manage your account on-the-go!

Alpharetta Comprehensive & Pediatric Dentistry

Saturday, October 11, 12-4 p.m.

For a small service fee, MyPaymentsPlus allows any family to: • Make a deposit (no maximums are set) into your student’s meal account using a check, credit card, or debit card at www. mypaymentsplus.com. Funds deposited through MyPaymentsPlus are usually available for student use within a matter of minutes. • Create settings to automatically replenish your student’s account when it reaches a low balance. To sign up go to www.mypaymentsplus.com and click on “Register a Free Account.” You will need your student’s ID number to complete registration. If you don’t know your child’s student ID, please contact your school to obtain this information. Once you finish registration, you may log-in to begin managing your student’s meal account instantly. Cash or check are also accepted at the register.

Foods Sold in Schools The Healthy Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 requires that any foods sold to students during the school day must meet nutrient standards. “Smart Snacks”, as this provision of the law is called, was designed to make the school environment healthier for students and is based on the scientific research that recently changed school meal patterns. To learn more about Smart Snacks or about our program, visit www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/food.

2014-15 Meal Prices LUNCH Elementary Middle High High School Grill Reduced (all grade levels)

Daily $2.25 $2.35 $2.35 $3.35 $0.40

BREAKFAST Elementary Middle High Reduced (all grade levels)

Daily $1.25 $1.35 $1.45 $0.30

Dr. Petula Hom-Minniti & Dr. Lorenzo Minniti

A Dental Practice for the Whole Family 678-990-8590

• $119 - New Patient Special

678-990-8592

• FREE - Prenatal Consultation

• $29 Limited Exam with • FREE - Children Exam 1 Periapical X-Ray Age 2 & Under • FREE - 2nd Opinion Exam Most insurances accepted, including Peachcare and Medicaid

We offer special CASH discounts Please call for details: 678-990-8590

Why wait? Smile Brighter Today! • Nitrous oxide (laughing gas)

• Root Canals

• Oral conscious sedation

• Periodontal Therapy (gum disease)

• Cosmetic Crowns, Veneers, Bridges

• Orthodontics for Adults & Children

• Dental Implants

• Dentures and Partials

270 St. Claire Dr., Ste 104 & 105 Alpharetta, GA 30004 DrMinnitiDental.com AlpharettaPediatricDentist.com State of Schools 2014-2015

8035_1_alpharettaKidsDentist080114SOS

State of Schools 2014-2015

2014-2015

Partners in Education

The 2014 Celebration of Excellence was attended by 550 people and was a great success! Thank you to our title sponsor, Northside Hospital-Forsyth, and our other sponsors. Award winners included:

Mentor of the Year: Gretchen Evans, Kelly Mill Elementary School Friend of the Year: Second Brigade Living Historians, Whitlow Elementary School Volunteer of the Year: Jennie Hartzler, Mashburn Elementary School Silver Award: North Georgia Lending, Little Mill Middle School Gold Award: VFW Post 9143 Don Hendricks Partnership Award: Automation Direct If you would like to become a Partner in Education visit www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/pie n

www.forsythpl.org • eAudiobooks • eResources • eBooks • eVideos

Events for Preschool, Elementary, Teen and Adults!

Locations:

Cumming Library 585 Dahlonega Road Cumming, GA 30040 770-781-9840

Post Road Library 5010 Post Road Cumming, GA 30040 770-781-9840

Hampton Park Library 5345 Settingdown Road Cumming, GA 30041 770-781-9840

Sharon Forks Library 2820 Old Atlanta Road Cumming, GA 30041 770-781-9840

State of Schools 2014-2015

8031_1_fcLibrary080114SOS

2014-2015

FORSYTH COUNTY SCHOOLS’ CENTRAL OFFICE Buster Evans retired as superintendent of Forsyth County Schools June 30 and Keith Porter is serving as interim superintendent. Mr. Porter recently retired from Dawson County Schools as superintendent, a position he held since 2009. His career in Dawson included service as a teacher and coach, assistant principal and principal, and in several leadership roles at the Central Office. Mr. Porter received his Specialist and Bachelor’s degrees from the University of Georgia, and his Master’s degree from North Georgia College. Jeffrey Bearden will become superintendent of Forsyth County Schools on September 2. He has served as a school executive for over 25 years, including superintendent of the Rome City School System and superintendent of the Fayette County Public Schools. A Georgia native, Dr. Bearden spent the first part of his educational career in Maine where he served as superintendent of the Maine School Administrative District

To contact a Cabinet member, call 770.887.2461 or email as listed below: Keith Porter, Interim Superintendent kporter@forsyth.k12.ga.us Jeffrey Bearden, Superintendent (effective 9/2/14) jbearden@forsyth.k12.ga.us Sandi Abbott, Exec Secretary for the Superintendent & Brd. of Ed. sabbott@forsyth.k12.ga.us Valerie Bowers, Director of Food and Nutrition Services vbowers@forsyth.k12.ga.us Marty Bray, Chief Technology and Information Officer mbray@forsyth.k12.ga.us Jennifer Caracciolo, Dir. of Public Information & Communications jcaracciolo@forsyth.k12.ga.us Dan Jones, Chief Financial Officer djones@forsyth.k12.ga.us Fonda Harrison, Associate Superintendant, Teaching & Learning fharrison@forsyth.k12.ga.us Bill McKnight, Director of Facilities bmcknight@forsyth.k12.ga.us Candace Norton, Chief Human Resources Officer cnorton@forsyth.k12.ga.us Joey Pirkle, Associate Superintendent of Educational Leadership jpirkle@forsyth.k12.ga.us Garry Puetz, Director of Transportation gpuetz@forsyth.k12.ga.us Cindy Salloum, Associate Superintendant, Teaching & Learning csalloum@forsyth.k12.ga.us Todd Shirley, Director of School Safety and Student Discipline tshirley@forsyth.k12.ga.us Debbie Smith, Director of Student Support Services dsmith@forsyth.k12.ga.us Sarah Taylor, Director of Student Support Services staylor@forsyth.k12.ga.us 14

No. 35 and the Limestone School Department (ME). He also served as an assistant superintendent, assistant principal, and district athletic director. Dr. Bearden also taught social studies and language arts, and was a varsity basketball coach. He holds a Bachelor’s degree and Master’s degree from the University of Maine, and a Doctorate degree from Nova Southeastern University. Additionally, Dr. Bearden is a third-generation veteran of the United States Air Force. The Superintendent’s Cabinet is responsible for assisting the superintendent in addressing the school board’s major system priorities. The cabinet provides input to the superintendent on major operational, programmatic and fiscal issues that affect the school system. To fill positions vacant due to retirements, Marty Bray joined Forsyth County Schools in February and Debbie Smith moved in July from principal of Coal Mountain Elementary to the district office. Additionally, Sandi Abbot transitioned from within the district office to assist the superintendent and board. n

We repair Smart Phones, Computers, and Tablets: iPhones, Android, Windows, Mac, PC, and more.

Regardless of your problem, iES Repairs has a solution for you and your device.

Like Us on Facebook for 5% Off Repairs

• BUY • SELL • TRADE 678.845.8901 sales@iesrepair.com 2639 Freedom Parkway, Cumming, GA 30041 www.iesrepair.com www.facebook.com/iescumming

State of Schools 2014-2015

Family Memories that the Kids will Treasure... Forever!

The Perfect Summer Staycation, right in your own backyard! Relax, Take A Break, & Enjoy time with your family and friends on the Lake!

Teacher Appreciation Deal: Bring in this ad & receive 10% OFF your rental!

Lake Lanier Lake Allatoona 855.944.RENT(7368)

BestInBoating.com State of Schools 2014-2015

2014-2015

ARE YOUR CHILDREN READY FOR SCHOOL?

New State Requirements

Georgia’s immunization requirements for children attending 7th grade have been revised. Beginning in the 2014-2015 school year, children born on or after January 1, 2002 who are attending 7th grade and new entrants into a Georgia school grades 8 through 12 will be required to have Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis) and MCV (meningococcal conjugate vaccine) prior to entering school. The new requirement will be effective July 1, 2014. There is a new Georgia Department of Human Resources Form 3300 (Rev. 2013) which now includes a Nutrition section. Beginning in the 2014-2015 school year, the Georgia law requires any student entering a Georgia school for the first time must have a completed and current Certificate of Hearing, Vision, Dental and Nutrition Examination; DPH Form 3300 (Rev. 2013). This form may be obtained from the Forsyth County Health Department located at 428 Canton Hwy, Cumming, GA 30040 (770-781-6900) or a Georgia physician and Georgia dentist. n

SAWNEE SCHOOL OF BALLET, INC. COURTNEY PALUBIAK BROMWICH OWNER/DIRECTOR PRE-SCHOOL THROUGH PROFESSIONAL

6290 ABBOTS BRIDGE RD. BUILDING 700 JOHNS CREEK, GA 30047

ART CLASSES FOR YOUTH & ADULTS! • • • • •

DRAWING • PAINTING CERAMICS • JEWELRY CARTOONING TEEN FIGURE DRAWING SCI-FI & FANTASY ILLUSTRATION

7 7 0 - 6 2 3 - 8 4 4 8 www.johnscreekarts.org Home of the Sawnee Ballet Theatre, Inc. www.sawneeballettheatre.org

WALLY HAISLIP SYSTEMS AND TECHNOLOGY LINDA MAULDIN

www.sawneeschoolofballet.com

770-887-0756 433 Canton Highway • Suite 312 Cumming, Georgia 30040 16

State of Schools 2014-2015 File: 8425_1_johnsCreekArtsCtr080114_SOS

State of Schools 2014-2015

2014-2015

FORSYTH COUNTY SCHOOL PRINCIPALS

Forsyth County Schools ended the 2013-14 school year with 40,836 students, which was a 1,713 student increase from the previous year. The district is projected to grow to over 42,200 students for 2014-15. Last year Forsyth County Schools moved from the ninth to the seventh largest school district in Georgia, surpassing both Henry and Cherokee county schools.

FCS is home to 35 schools:

• 20 elementary • 9 middle • 5 high • The Academies for Creative Education (A.C.E) that includes one school iAchieve Virtual Academy, and two programs, Forsyth Academy and Gateway Academy. Three schools have new principals this year, Coal Mountain Elementary, Forsyth Central High and West Forsyth High. School principals include:

Over 25 years serving the Cumming, Dawson, Alpharetta, Roswell, and surrounding areas. Adult & Pediatric Care Sleep Apnea & Snoring Nasal & Sinus Disorders Head & Neck Tumors Audiology & Hearing Aids

Voice & Swallowing Disorders Thyroid & Parathyroid Surgery

Roy S. Schottenfeld, M.D. Raymond L. Schettino, M.D., F.A.C.S. Bryant T. Conger, M.D. Cumming 770.886.5821

Roswell 770.343.8675

www.northfultonent.com 18

8107_1_northFultonENT080114_SOS

Big Creek Elementary Ms. Sherri Black sblack@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Haw Creek Elementary Dr. Amy Coker ardavis@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Brookwood Elementary Ms. Kathie Braswell kbraswell@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Johns Creek Elementary Ms. Alyssa Degliumberto adegliumberto@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Chattahoochee Elementary Ms. Barbara Vella bvella@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Kelly Mill Elementary Mr. Ron McAllister rmcallister@forsyth.k12.ga.us.

Chestatee Elementary Ms. Polly Tennies ptennies@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Mashburn Elementary Ms. Tracey Smith tbsmith@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Coal Mountain Elementary Ms. Kimberly Davis kdavis@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Matt Elementary Ms. Charlley Stalder cstalder@forsyth.k12.ga.us Midway Elementary Mr. Todd Smith tsmith@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Cumming Elementary Ms. Pamela Pajerski ppajerski@forsyth.k12.ga.us Daves Creek Elementary Mr. Eric Ashton eashton@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Sawnee Elementary Dr. Eileen Nix ecnix@forsyth.k12.ga.us

CRAZY

Is Dinner time at your house?

Dream Dinners in Cumming can help! Feel good about serving your busy family real meals they will love.

• Great variety with new menu each month • Kid friendly & Budget friendly • Time saver: Assemble 12 meals in an hour • Girls Night Out & Dream Taste Events • Homemade, Made Easy

New Guests: $15 OFF First Order

(Min.36 serving, no other discounts can apply)

Returning Guests: FREE COOKIES on your next 36 serving order! Dream Dinners in Cumming

539 Lake Center Parkway, Suite 500, Cumming, GA 30040

770-887-4141 www.dreamdinners.com/ga400

State of Schools 2014-2015

8376_1_dreamDinners080114_SOS

High School

Settles Bridge Elementary Ms. Lee Anne Rice lrice@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Whitlow Elementary Dr. Lynne Castleberry lcastleberry@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Otwell Middle Mr. Steve Miller stmiller@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Forsyth Central High Mr. Mitch Young myoung@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Sharon Elementary Ms. Amy Bartlett abartlett@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Lakeside Middle Ms. Debbie Sarver dsarver@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Piney Grove Middle Ms. Terri North tnorth@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Lambert High Dr. Gary Davison gdavison@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Shiloh Point Elementary Ms. Rebecca Johnson rjohnson@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Liberty Middle Ms. Connie Stovall cstovall@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Riverwatch Middle Ms. Kathy Carpenter kcarpenter@forsyth.k12.ga.us

North Forsyth High Dr. Beth Hebert bhebert@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Silver City Elementary Ms. Paige Andrews pandrews@forsyth.k12.ga.us Vickery Creek Elementary Ms. Kristan Riedinger kriedinger@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Little Mill Middle Ms. Connie McCrary cmccrary@forsyth.k12.ga.us

South Forsyth Middle Ms. Sandy Tinsley stinsley@forsyth.k12.ga.us

South Forsyth High Mr. Jeff Cheney jcheney@forsyth.k12.ga.us

North Forsyth Middle Mr. Jeff Hunt jhunt@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Vickery Creek Middle Ms. Kathy Rohacek krohacek@forsyth.k12.ga.us.

West Forsyth High Ms. Heather Gordy hgordy@forsyth.k12.ga.us

North Cumming Dentistry Welcoming Smiles and Compassionate Care New Patients Welcome

FREE TEETH BLEACHING With Adult Exam and Cleaning (Call Us for Details @ 470-253-7349)

• • •

Most Insurances Accepted • Emergencies and Dental Anxious patients • welcomed Full Dental Services provided (Call for details)

Weekend and Evening Appointments Accept Medicaid Kids & Adults

Dr. Farid Moghaddam, D.M.D.

Check us out on @ Facebook.com/NorthCumming 1715 Friendship Circle | Suite 100 | Cumming, GA 30028 Phone: (470) 253-7349 | Fax: (470) 253-7352 State of Schools 2014-2015

XXXX_X_northCummingDentistry080114SOS

8428_1_bigFrog080114SOS

2014-2015

Dr. Brinkley F. Goodson “Hometown Experience – Hometown Care”

BRINKLEY F. GOODSON IS A LIFELONG RESIDENT OF Cumming, Georgia. In 2008, after more than 20 years of serving the community through his Private Practice, Dr. Goodson joined the Medical Staff of Georgia Highlands Medical Services, Inc. (GHMS) as a Family Practice Physician at GHMS’ Cumming Family Health Center. As a Family Practitioner, Dr. Goodson provides Medical Care to persons of all ages, and treats a variety of illnesses and injuries. Dr. Goodson is a Graduate of the University of Georgia and the Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences. He is an active member of the Georgia Osteopathic Medical Association (GOMA), the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians (ACOFP), and the American Osteopathic Association (AOA), among others. Dr. Goodson is BoardCertified by the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians, and is an Active Member of the Medical Staff of Northside Hospital-Forsyth. He also serves as a Clinical Associate Professor at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Georgia Campus. In addition to being involved in his profession, Dr. Goodson is also very active in his home community. He has served as a Sunday School Teacher at his local church, a Cub Scout Master, a Trustee of his church, and sat on its Church and Pastoral Council. Related to his church-work, Dr. Goodson has participated in Medical Mission Trips to the countries of Guatemala, Honduras and Ghana. With his roots in Forsyth County, Dr. Goodson knows the community and its needs well – especially its healthcare needs. He understands that a patient needs Quality Medical Care, supported by the latest in modern technology, while being delivered with Old-Fashioned Concern. At GHMS, we want to be the Provider of Choice for your Family’s Medical Care. If you would like to request an appointment with Dr. Goodson or any of our other wonderful providers in the Cumming office (Dr. Patni, Dr. Madhavan, Dr. Kalli, or our Nurse Practitioners Ashley, Danielle, or Deena) or would like more information on our Programs and Services, please call 770.887.1668 or send us an email at info@ghmsinc.org. Serving Forsyth and surrounding Counties since 1979, GHMS is open to anyone, regardless of income, insurance status, or language spoken. New patients are always welcome to our practice.

GHMS’ Services

• Family Practice • Pediatrics • Obstetrics and Prenatal Care • Laboratory Services • Clinical Pharmacy Services • Extended Clinical Hours • On-site Certified Application Counselors for the Health Insurance Marketplace

GHMS Sites

Awards and Achievements

• National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) Patient-Centered Medical Home Practice – Level III (Highest Level) • Champion for Coverage, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services • Founding Member, Georgia Association for Primary Healthcare (GAPHC) • Member, National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC) • 2014 “Top Small Business Campaign,” United Way of Forsyth County

Website: www.ghms-inc.org

GHMS-Cumming Family Health Center 260 Elm Street, Cumming, GA 30040 770.887.1668 Monday-Wednesday: 8:00 am-5:30 pm Thursday: 8:00 am-7:30 pm Friday 8:00 am – 12 pm, Saturday: 9 am- 1 pm

GHMS-Canton Family Health Center 220 Oakside Lane, Canton, GA 30114 678.807.1050

Monday-Wednesday: 8:00 am-5:30 pm Thursday: 10:00 am-7:30 pm, Friday 8:00 am – 12 pm

State of Schools 2014-2015 XXXX_X_georgiaHighlands080114SOS

GHMS-Bartow Family Health Center 475 West Avenue, Ste A, Cartersville, GA 30120 470.315.4689 Monday-Wednesday: 8:00 am-5:30 pm Thursday: 10:00 am-7:30 pm Friday 8:00 am – 12 pm

...

NEW ‘14 SILVERADO 2500 HD

$8,000

Stk#140202

OFF

NEW ‘14 TRAVERSE MSRP ........... $39,545 SAVINGS .......... $1,439

UP TO

21 MPG

WITH ‘99 OR NEWER TRADE IN

Stk#140599

$38,106

UP TO

32 MPG

NEW ‘14 SILVERADO ALL STAR CREW CAB

$2,250..... SUMMER DRIVE DISCOUNT $750 ......... OPTION PJKG DISCOUNT +$3,000 .................CUSTOMER CASH

NEW ‘15 SUBURBAN MSRP ........... $64,885 SAVINGS ......... $3,504

Stk#150056

$61,381

Stk#140701

7,000 OFF 21 MPG UP TO

NEW ‘15 TAHOE

TOTAL

MSRP ........... $45,595 SAVINGS ......... $3,605

UP TO

23 MPG

Stk#150058

MSRP ........$18,345 SAVINGS ..... $2,885 Stk#140735

............ SAVINGS .......... $1,948

$24,229

Stk#140599

15,490

$41,990

UP TO

23 MPG

WITH ‘99 OR NEWER TRADE IN

SAVINGS .............. $990

$27,830

UP TO

32 MPG

Stk#140553

MSRP ........$28,105 SAVINGS ...... $3,115 Stk#140735

$24,990

WITH ‘99 OR NEWER TRADE IN

UP TO

30 MPG

UP TO

24 MPG

All prices are plus tax, tag, and title and include all incentives. Mileage claims based on EPA est. Hwy. Offers good on day of publication only. Photos are for illustrative purposes.

ALL DAY

527 Atlanta Road

We’re Still Looking For A Deal We Can’t Beat!

770-884-7253 State of Schools 2014-2015

XXX_X_andean SOS-2014

AMAZING ONE.”

sure the patients are well taken care ” and “goes “goesofabove above and beyond beyond to to make make

“MYY EXPERIENCE XPERIENCE WAS AS AN N “EXCELLENT” sure has taken truly been the best AMAZING are sure the the patients patients “It are well well taken MAZING ONE NE.” “My experience has care of ” OB/GYN experience I have care of ” “highly recommend” been W phenomenal!” “It best “It has has truly truly been the “M bestY EXPERIENCE ever been had” the AS AN has “goes above andOB/GYN beyond to make “My experience “My experience has experience I have OB/GYN experience I have “EXCELLENT” “highly sure the patients are well taken “highly recommend” recommend” AMAZING ONE .” been phenomenal!”

“skilled and personal”

been phenomenal!” “unique team style”

ever had”

ever had” care of ” “My experience with Dr. John and “It has truly been the best Ingrid Reyes has been wonderful. “My experience with Dr. John and I am so glad I picked them.” OB/GYN experience I have “My experience with Dr. John and recommend” Ingrid Reyes has been wonderful. Ingrid Reyes has been wonderful. ever had”

“unique“My team style” experience has

“skilled and“highly personal”

I I am am so so glad glad I I picked picked them.” them.”

“understanding and caring professionalism. . .

“unique team style”

“My experience with Dr. John and “skilled and personal” “understanding and caring professionalism. .. would recommend Modern OBGYN to any

“understanding and caring professionalism. .. Ingrid Reyes has been wonderful. I Modern am so gladOBGYN I picked them.” would recommend to any of our family and friends” would recommend Modern OBGYN to any of and ““understanding and caring professionalism. . . of our our family family and friends” friends” “I blessedtoand “I couldn’twould ask recommend Modern feel OBGYN any fortunate “I feel blessed and “I ask feel fortunate tofriends” haveblessed come toand thisfortunate practice” forcouldn’t more from “I couldn’t ask of our family and“I for more for more from from an obstetrician” an obstetrician” an obstetrician” “I couldn’t ask

for more from an obstetrician” “I will be forever “I be forever “I will will in be how forever grateful they grateful in how grateful in how they they treated me and my treated my willand be forever treated“Ime me and my husband through the grateful in how husband through husband through the thethey treated mefirst and my process of my process of my first husband through the pregnancy” pregnancy” process of my first

been phenomenal!”

to to have have come come to to this this practice” practice” “I feel blessed and fortunate to have come to this practice”

“so forever grateful and blessed to have found “so grateful and “so forever forever grateful and blessed to have found Modern OBGYN, thank blessed to have found you Modern OBGYN, thank for making this experience Modern OBGYN, thank you you “so forever grateful and for making this experience a wonderful one” for making this experience blessed to have found a wonderful one”

a wonderful one”you Modern OBGYN, thank for making this experience a wonderful one” “one of the best

“one of the best

“one of the best decisions I have decisions decisions II have have ever “one of the made. best ... ... ever made. ever made. was up and decisions I have III was was up up and and ever made. . the . very walking walking the very I was up and same day of the same walking theday veryof the operation” operation” same day of the

pregnancy”

operation”

Husband and wife Reyes and Ingrid Reyes, Husband and wife team of Dr. John Reyesand and Dr. Dr. Ingrid Reyes, Husband and wifeteam teamof ofDr. Dr. John John Reyes Reyes, Husband and wife team of Dr. John Reyes andDr. Dr.Ingrid Ingrid Reyes, providing compassionate care providing personal and compassionatecare care providingpersonal personal and and compassionate

providing personal and compassionate care

Emory • Northside Emory Johns Johns Creek Creek Hospital Hospital • Northside Hospital Hospital – – Forsyth Forsyth Emory Johns Creek Hospital • Northside Hospital – John C. Reyes, MD, F.A.C.O.G - Ingrid V. Reyes, MD, F.A.C.O.G. - Michelle Forsyth Forrester, PA-C And introducing our newest addition: Soma Pradhan, MD, F.A.C.O.G.

404.446.2496

6335 Hospital Parkway, 6335 Hospital Parkway, Suite Suite 204 204 404.446.2496 Johns Creek, GA Creek, GA 30097 30097 6335 Johns Hospital Parkway, Suite 204

404.446.2496

Johns Creek, GA 30097 W WW W W. W. R RE EY YE ES SO OB BG GY YN N .. C CO OM M Board W W W. R E Certified Y E S O BSpecialists GYN.COM Board Certified Specialists

Board Certified Specialists 22

State of Schools 2014-2015

Making Report Cards Refrigerator Worthy.

SAVE $150

WHEN Y CALL BE 05/31/201

State Tests

CUMMING 5485 Bethe (770) 292-8

Accredited by

SAVE $150

Special Introductory Offer

$ SAVE 100 Off Diagnostic Test

*Redeem at the local Cumming WHEN YOU location. BEFOREcall: To schedule anCALL evaluation 05/31/2013 (770) 292-8994

SAVE $150 Accredited by

State Tests

WHEN YOU

CUMMING, GA CALL BEFORE 5485 Bethelview Road (770) 292-8994 05/31/2013

ÂŠ 2012 Huntington Mark, LLC. Independently owned and operated. Advanced Placement (AP), SAT, and PSAT are registered trademarks of the College Entrance Examination Board. ACT is a registered trademark of ACT, Inc. The College Entrance Examination Board and ACT, Inc. were not involved in the production of, and do not endorse, these programs.

8427_1_huntington080114SOS

State of Schools 2014-2015

2014-2015

BOARD OF EDUCATION

The Forsyth County Board of Education consists of five members who are elected by district to staggered, four-year terms. The primary role of the board is the legislation of the school system policies, which are executed under the direction of the school superintendent. Meetings of the board are held monthly, with agendas and meeting minutes available for review at www.forsyth.k12. ga.us/boe. Video broadcasts of the meetings are available at www.forsyth.k12.ga.us the Friday after each meeting and also on TV Forsyth, Comcast Channel 23. 2012 monthly meetings are held at 6:00 p.m. on the following Thursdays: August 21, September 18, October 16, November 20 and December 11. 24

Meetings are open to the public and held at 1120 Dahlonega Highway, Cumming. Communicate with your Board of Education at the email addresses listed each board memberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name on the map or by mail to Board of Education, Forsyth County Schools, 1120 Dahlonega Highway, Cumming, GA 30040. Highlights of Board of Education work sessions and regular meetings are communicated to the public in Board Briefs, which is sent by email the Friday after each regular meeting. To subscribe visit www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/enewsletters n

State of Schools 2014-2015

Have you ever thought about

your child’s first experience with surgery? For most kids, it’s their wisdom teeth.

COME TO A PLACE WHERE your child is cared for like family by a team of professional with a slew of teenagers of their own – where kindness, compassion and patience still make a difference. As far as recovery is concerned, we’re a place where dry sockets are exceptionally rare and caring hands and hearts are immediately there for even the slightest struggles. We offer a place where the most concerning potential complications have been minimized. Visit us to see why so many area dentists, physicians and hospital employees wouldn’t trust anyone else when it comes to caring for their own kids.

Paul M. Korb, D.M.D., P.C. Board Certiﬁed Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Over Twenty Years Experience Managing Nervous Teenagers, Calming Anxious Parents and Making the Toughest Wisdom Teeth Look Easy

4355 Johns Creek Parkway, Suite 530 • Suwanee • 770-495-9193 • PaulKorb.com File: 8431_1_paulKorb080114SOS

State of Schools 2014-2015

2014-2015

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT IN FORSYTH COUNTY SCHOOLS

Opportunities for High School Students Workforce Development in Forsyth County Schools is accomplished through Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE). The purpose of the CTAE is to provide an on-going partnership between education and business/industry to prepare the students of Forsyth County Schools with the skills necessary to meet world-class standards, successfully continue life-long learning, and enter the marketplace as productive citizens. CTAE provides “seamless” instruction that connects academic and technical skills to future educational and career opportunities. Options within the program offer curriculum and instruction linked to industry standards in labs featuring the latest technology. Programs are also supported through advisory councils comprised of community, business, and educational leaders that have on-going discussions about economic and workforce initiatives impacting Forsyth County and how best to shape CTAE programs based on the local needs of our community.

Forsyth County Schools offers a variety of career pathways that meet the demands of the modern workplace by equipping students for college and career. To review a list of pathways visit www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/pathways. In addition to these program specific career academies are anchored at individual high schools in areas of STEM, Medical Sciences, Banking & Finance, Engineering & Technology, Hospitality, Innovation, and Sports, Entertainment, and Communications. Career academies within Forsyth County Schools offer students an intense career pathway experience which combines career pathway standards with academic integration and a strong presence to business/industry through work-based learning and job shadowing. Visit each high school’s webpage to learn more about their career academy opportunities. 26

After leaving high school, students continue future training at colleges, universities, and two-year technical colleges. Several of the CTAE courses are also articulated with post-secondary technical colleges, and Forsyth County Schools has a large student presence at Lanier Technical College for career-related dual enrollment. For more information on workforce development in Forsyth County, visit http://www.forsyth.k12. ga.us/ctae

Dual Enrollment

Dual Enrollment is when high school students take college courses, such as from the University of North Georgia or Lanier Technical College, while enrolled as a high school student, and receive credit both at the high school and college. The program offers meaningful and challenging academic experiences to qualified students, including those who might not otherwise have access to early college opportunities. For more information about Dual Enrollment, including 2014-15 information nights, contact your school counselor or visit www. forsyth.k12.ga.us/dualenrollment. n

LOG OFF, GAME ON Football • Basketball • Soccer

www.i9Sports.com or call 678.731.9009

Camps, Clinic & Leagues • Organized programs for boys and girls ages 3-14 • Focused on fun, inclusivity, good sportsmanship & safe play • All skill levels! No tryouts! • All instructors background checked and certified • Easy registration online or by phone

State of Schools 2014-2015

8062_1_i9Sports080114SOS

Cumming Dental Associates 1200 Bald Ridge Marina Rd., Ste. 200

Located at Exit 15 across from the new Costco

Cumming, Georgia 30041

770-781-8650 www.cummingdental.com

Dr. Kevin Short Dr. Susan Swain Dr.Teresa Esker Dr. Javid Yavari

Dr. Susan Kramer Dr. Michael Perpall Dr. Kristen McDonald Dr. Blake Upshaw

NEW PATIENTS WELCOME EMERGENCY CARE Care Credit® Financing State of Schools 2014-2015

8434_1_cummingDental080114SOS

• Cosmetic & Whitening Services • Orthodontics / Braces • Root Canals • Implants / Mini Implants • Most Insurance Accepted • Oral Medication for Anxiety • Nitrous Oxide / Laughing Gas • Oral Surgery / Wisdom Teeth • Botox/Dermal Filler • TMJ Treatment

2014-2015

STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

Building Foundations The Student Support Services Department is comprised of talented counselors, nurses, psychologists, and social workers. These caring professionals support the physical, mental, emotional, and academic needs of Forsyth County students. With Forsyth County Schools’ Learner Profile as the department’s mission, the Student Support Services Department collaborates with all district departments to support student growth, building skills that enable students to listen, communicate and interact effectively, exhibit strong personal qualities, and to engage and compete in a global society. A fundamental component for success is the department’s commitment to building strong relationships with families, community partners, and school resource officers.

The district’s counseling program follows the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) Model that prescribes standards in academic achievement, career interest, and personal and social development. School counselors meet with students in classroom groups, small groups, and individually to teach these standards. In addition, they collaborate with other departments on the Response to Intervention (RTI) process, which helps to provide a strong instructional focus based on data-based decision-making to meet the students’ academic and behavioral needs. The counseling team guides all students to be academically successful through elementary, middle, and high school, supporting them through the normal developmental stages of life and preparing them to become responsible members of society, and strong leaders for tomorrow. The expertise and resources offered by school psychologists, school social workers, and school nurses provide “whole child’ 28

8430_1_barkerLounge080114SOS

State of Schools 2014-2015

Midway Warehouse 40-70% off AlwAys New Trucks Arrive weekly!

support for academic instruction. Whether it is working with families to provide connections for community resources for basic needs, health care, or health education, working with teachers and parents through the psycho-educational evaluation process, or meeting monthly with teams of educators at each school building to review the needs of students, Student Support Services routinely and consistently monitor student progress and evaluate any additional needs.

BrANd New oversTock ITems from

Amazon.com and

BigOrangeBox.com

Through a team approach and with a focus on what is best for students, Student Support Services will continue to work collaboratively and tirelessly to ensure student success. We look forward to working with colleagues, families, students, and community partners to support student success. n

‘Student Support Services Department collaborates with all district departments to support student growth, building skills that enable students to listen, communicate and interact effectively, exhibit strong personal qualities, and to engage and compete in a global society.’

Mention “State of Schools” for an additional

15% OFF

4820 Atlanta Hwy., Alpharetta, GA 30004 678-762-0444 • midwaywarehouse.net Mon.-Fri. 10-7pm Sat. 10-7pm Sun. Noon - 5pm

State of Schools 2014-2015

XXX_X_midwayWarehouse073014_SOS

THE CUMMING PLAYHOUSE PROUDLY PRESENTS...

Upcoming Shows

The Cumming Playhouse 101 School Street Cumming, GA 30040 playhousecumming.com 770.781.9178

Oct. 17 - Nov. 9

T,F,S 8 pm, Sun 3 pm 30

Nov. 28 - Dec 21 T,F,S 8 pm, Sun 3 pm

State of Schools 2014-2015

g S m n i p iles He e e K althy & Young

Dr. M. Budeir, DDS Full Cosmetic Dental Treatment • Restore Implants • Comfortable Dentistry with laughing gas • Zoom! In-Office Teeth Whitening • Periodontal Gum Treatment FREE Complimentary Take-Home Tooth Whitening Kit, $500 Value*

With Paid New Patient Exam, X-Ray & Cleaning.

FREE & Complimentary NEW Patient Exam & Digital X-Rays $210 Value! 2 per household with paid adult or child cleaning.

New patient only special, may not be combined with any other offers, *while supplies last.

Healthy Mouth = Healthy Body

770-888-4444 983 Peachtree Parkway Suite C Cumming, GA 30041

www.avenue-dental.com

N W

1.3 mile on left Hwy. 141 P’tree Pkwy.

Please scan with your mobile device for more info.

Exit 13 400 N

State of Schools 2014-2015

2014-2015

THANK YOU FORSYTH COUNTY VOTERS!

Proposed Projects

In May, Forsyth County voters approved $195 million in bonds to address capital improvement needs, which is the largest bond in the history of Forsyth County Schools. Given the fiscal challenges residents faced during the recession, the district had not held a bond referendum since 2007. Therefore, Forsyth County Schools spent a year building a new Strategic Plan and an additional year completing a Facilities Plan, to identify the current and future needs of students and staff. A detailed list of projects is available at www.forsyth.k12. ga.us/bond.

Improvements to existing schools for proposed projects such as: • Career Technical and Agricultural Education (CTAE) high school equipment updates and program expansion. • Special Education technology and equipment. • Renovations and improvements, including but not limited to electrical, flooring, painting, plumbing, kitchens and HVAC. School safety for proposed projects such as: • Upgrading decade old video cameras, improving school visitor check in systems, and implementing new communication devices for bus safety.

Healthy services. Healthy savings.

Technology for proposed projects such as: • Upgrading network switches to support faster network speeds, expanding data storage for teachers and students, enlarging the Wi-Fi network to provide more coverage for BYOT, replacing aging school projectors, and upgrading video and audio systems. Growth for proposed projects such as: • Purchasing new school buses, additions and modifications to existing schools which includes all high schools, the construction of a new middle and high school, and funds to purchase land for new schools. n

PRESChool

School of Excellence through the North Georgia Preschool Association REGiStRAtioN 2015-2016 PRoGRAmS BEGiN iN EARly jANuARy!

MassageEnvy.com • Convenient Hours • Franchises Available M-F 8am-10pm, Sat 8am-10pm, Sun 10am-8pm

JOHNS CREEK 2627 Peachtree Pkwy. behind Taco Mac next to Target (678) 208-0680

CUMMING TOWN CENTER 2065 Market Place Blvd. in front of Best Buy (678) 208-2888

Georgia Licensed Massage Therapists

XXX_massageEnvy080114SOS

For more information, call or visit our website today!

678.513.3909

5830 Bethelview Road • Cumming, GA www.parkwaypreschool.com

State of Schools 2014-2015

XXX_X_parkwayPresbyterian080114_SOS

Do you have Varicose Veins or Spider Veins? Having leg cramps, burning, itching, pain, throbbing, swelling or fatigue? Let us restore your leg health and youthfulness! Procedures are covered by most medical insurance plans and medicare. And you can resume your daily activities almost immediately.

Cumming location is a Med Spa, too!

â&#x20AC;&#x153;You Have Only One Pair of Legs. Trust Them to North Georgia Veinâ&#x20AC;? When looking for a doctor to help treat your vein condition, experience matters. You need a physician who understands that vein disease can be very complex and each patient is unique. Offering state of the art treatment techniques, our clinical team is headed by a local physician, Dr. Peter Wrobel. He is extensively trained in phlebology (vein medicine) and has performed thousands of procedures. He is assisted by a registered ultrasound technician with vascular expertise. A licensed nurse practitioner is also part of our vein services team. In addition, licensed nurses and certified medical assistants lend support and complete our team.

www.NorthGeorgiaVein.com Cumming

Dawsonville

678-513-1600 State of Schools 2014-2015

Peter Wrobel, M.D.

2014-2015

RETIREES Congratulations to Forsyth County Schools’ 2014-15 retirees! Thank you for your dedication and devotion to the students, and making FCS one of the best school districts in the nation!

Gayle Adams, Daves Creek Elementary

Nancy Hansen, Sawnee Elementary

Patti Mullinax, Forsyth Central High

Melba Abernathy, West Forsyth High

Jeanette Henderson, Transportation

Marion Ogden, Coal Mountain Elementary

Susan Atkins, Central Office

Donna Hildebrand, Forsyth Central High

James Orr, West Forsyth High

Sarah Bellamy, Sharon Elementary

Susan Hughie, Shiloh Point Elementary

Brenda Parris, Sharon Elementary

Connie Bowers, Sharon Elementary

Penny Irwin, Chattahoochee Elementary

Janet Pavlicek, West Forsyth High

Rebecca Bray, Sawnee Elementary

Nancy Jackson, North Forsyth Middle

Walter Pavlicek, West Forsyth High

Marcia Brent, Forsyth Central High

Cheryl Jenkins, Transportation

Patricia Pearson, Matt Elementary

Dianne Brock, Coal Mountain Elementary

Judi Jenkins, Central Office

Evelyn Petersen, Forsyth Central High

Elaine Caine, Transportation

Barbara Kay, North Forsyth Middle

Betty Pope, West Forsyth High

Joel Chandler, West Forsyth High

Chere Kaye, Midway Elementary

Ann Reid, Central Office

Barbara Clement, Johns Creek Elementary

Alicia Klingler, Coal Mountain Elementary

Carden Rice, North Forsyth High

Ann Clemons, North Forsyth High

Cathy Ladner, Johns Creek Elementary

Murray Rice, West Forsyth High

Martha Cox, Johns Creek Elementary

Vivian Lamb, Silver City Elementary

Joyce Richards, Sawnee Elementary

Robert Cuddy, Sr., Lambert High

Mary Lawson, Central Office

Betty Samples, Transportation

Thomas Curran, Transportation

Jo Lister, Daves Creek Elementary

Patricia Saxon, Johns Creek Elementary

Will Dutton, Central Office

Pauline Loggins, Transportation

Jennifer Smith, Cumming Elementary

Susan Elgan, Shiloh Point Elementary

Mary Beth Lutz, Sharon Elementary

Mazie Songer, Little Mill Middle

Alan Enns, South Forsyth Middle

Judy Martin, Transportation

Chris Swaim, Central Office

Dona Evans, North Forsyth Middle

June Martin, North Forsyth Middle

George Taylor, Little Mill Middle

L.C. (Buster) Evans, Central Office

Margaret McAleese, Riverwatch Middle

Mary Jane Taylor, Forsyth Central High

Kenneth Fahey, North Forsyth High

David McDaniel, Chestatee Elementry

Susan Terry, Johns Creek Elementary

Cathy Fields, North Forsyth High

Ronald McDonald, Forsyth Central High

Fenes Thomas, Transportation

Linda Gallagher, Sharon Elementary

Sharon McWhorter, South Forsyth High

Mary Tinsley, Transportation

James Galpin, Transportation

Linda Metzler, Forsyth Academy

Genise Tworek, Central Office

Brenda Garner, Transportation

Bailey Mitchell, Central Office

Rene Westray, Matt Elementary

Janet Green, South Forsyth High

Ann Moore, Vickery Creek Elementary

Rudy Hampton, Forsyth Central High

Thomas Moore, Lambert High

State of Schools 2014-2015

Come to Cumming for Savings & Service www.LouSobhHonda.com up to

$ 22,619*

MPG*

$ 229

Or only...

Per month*

• CVT Automatic Transmission • 16-Inch Alloy Wheels • Dual-Zone Climate Control • Full Power Package • Rearview Camera

• i-MID with 5-Inch LCD Screen • 160-Watt AM/FM/CD Audio • Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® & More!

New 2014 Honda Accord

$ 22,383*

up to

0.9%

AVAILABLE

$ 229

MPG*

Or only...

0.9%

AVAILABLE

New 2014 Honda CR-V

Per month*

• 185-hp 2.4-Ltr, Engine • Automatic Transmission • Rearview Camera • Full Power Package • Keyless Remote • 160-Watt AM/FM/CD Audio • Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® • Steering Wheel-Mounted Controls!

Lou Sobh

Honda 1105 Buford Road, Cumming, GA 30041 Sales: 770-813-1995 | Service: 678-679-7301 Sales Hours: Mon-Sat 9am-9pm | Sun 12pm-6pm Service Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-7pm | Sat 8am-5pm | Sun 12pm-5pm State of Schools 2014-2015

The Honda Giant!

Welcomes Naomi C. Akita, MD Exclusively at Northside Hospital Forsyth... Delivering Comprehensive GYN Any day and everyOB day...and never anyServices exceptions

Delivering Comprehensive Exclusively at Northside Hospital Forsyth... Any day and every day... never any exceptions OB and GYN Services

Parents, Want To Make This The Best School Year Ever? ✔ Learn about our programs for kids ages 5-12 • Mind Math • Reading and Creative Writing • Aloha Champ (Pre-K/Kindergarten)

✔ Come meet our staﬀ ✔ See our facility ✔ Meet our awesome students ✔ Talk to families who love ALOHA ✔ Let your kids have some fun at our center

Introducing Brand New Program

Exclusively at Northside Hospital Forsyth... Any day and every day... never any exceptions

Readi Readi ng ness s Phonicess Phonics Based Awaren Spelling - All Major Insurances, Including Kaiser -

Our New 2nd Location Is Now Open:

- All Major Insurances, Including Kaiser -

91 Nordson Overlook, Suite 305 | Dawsonville, GA 30534

1800 Northside Forsyth Dr., Suite 350 | Cumming, 30041 Our New IsGA Now Open: 1505 Northside2nd Blvd,Location Suite 3500 | Cumming, GA 30041

Developing Writing & Comprehensive Skills sis on Emphabulary Voca

OurSuite 2nd 305 Location 91 Nordson Overlook, | Dawsonville, GA 30534 3555 | www.npobgyn.com

(770) 886 81 Northside Dawson Dr., Suite 305

More than 3,000 locations worldwide with 3 million+ average enrollment!

Free Registration

Free

$75 Value Diagnostic Test If you enroll in both subjects

678-561-5730

Dawsonville, Ga| Cumming, 30534 GA 30041 1505 Northside Blvd, Suite 3500

1455 Haw Creek Cir., Ste 602 Cumming, GA 30041 cumming@aloha-usa.com

3555 || www.npobgyn.com www.npobgyn.com (770) (770) 886 886--3555

Cumming Location - GA 400/ Exit -14 36

8424_1_northPointeOBGYN080114SOS

State of Schools 2014-2015

2014-2015

Teachers of the year

Kristen Deuschle

2014 Forsyth County Teacher of the Year Kristen Deuschle is the media specialist at Piney Grove Middle. She received her Bachelor’s degree from Olivet College in Michigan, her Master’s degree from the University of North Georgia and her Specialist degree from the University of Georgia. In addition to working at Piney Grove Middle, Ms. Deuschle taught at South Forsyth Middle, Holland Elementary and Haynes Bridge Middle.

TOTY finalists included: 2014 Elementary School Teacher of the Year Julie Auten, Silver City Elementary 2014 High School Teacher of the Year Lisa Robinson, Lambert High School-Level Teachers of the Year Big Creek Elementary �� Heather Smith - 5th Grade Brookwood Elementary �� Heidi Morea - 5th Grade Chattahoochee Elementary �� Julie Landers - 5th Grade Chestatee Elementary �� Craig Ahrens - 5th Grade Coal Mountain Elementary ��Kristie Hubbard - Kindergarten Cumming Elementary ��Lisa Milligan - 4th Grade Daves Creek Elementary ��Christine Stroer - 3rd Grade Haw Creek Elementary ��Jessica Jacobs - 5th Grade Johns Creek Elementary �� Ginger Breyo - Gifted Kelly Mill Elementary �� Shannon Grindle - Special Education Mashburn Elementary �� Traci Wallace - Gifted Matt Elementary �� Rikki Comella - 4th Grade Midway Elementary ��Kim Benton - 4th :Grade Sawnee Elementary ��Jennifer Worful - 2nd Grade Settles Bridge Elementary �� Tara Stewart - Special Education Sharon Elementary �� Karen Elz - 4th Grade Shiloh Point Elementary �� Maggie Tompkins - Kindergarten Silver City Elementary �� Julie Auten - EIP Vickery Creek Elem. ��Tracey Varrone - Academic Support Specialist Whitlow Elementary �� Brenda Mahoney - Science Specials Gateway Academy �� Jane Basler - Special Education Lakeside Middle �� Amy Poulsen - Math Liberty Middle �� Amber Harbin - Special Education Little Mill Middle �� Jeff Woods - Gifted North Forsyth Middle �� Nick Sexton - Language Arts Otwell Middle ��Lacey Gooch - Math Piney Grove Middle �� Kristen Deuschle - Media Specialist Riverwatch Middle �� Eryne Graves - Math South Forsyth Middle ��Megan Connelly - Social Studies Vickery Creek Middle �� Courtney Mallory - Langage Arts Forsyth Central High �� David Johnson - STEM Academy Engineering Lambert High �� Lisa Robinson-Lazaro - Spanish North Forsyth High �� Judy Austin - English South Forsyth High �� Carrie Paulson - Math West Forsyth High �� Ken Rockelein - Science

Mad dawg Creations ®

HigH quality NCaa, NFl, aNd MlB liCeNsed produCts Find the perfect gift! 678-965-4488

www.MaddawgCreations.com

1595 peachtree pkwy ste 126 Cumming, ga 30041 (in the Kroger shopping plaza)

$5 oFF any purchase of $25 or more expires 12/31/2014

State of Schools 2014-2015

8512_1_madDogCreations073014_SOS

2014-2015

FORSYTH ACADEMY

Destination Graduation

Forsyth Academy is a small, non-traditional program that is available for students that attend one of Forsyth County School’s five high schools. The program is designed for students who are not reaching their full potential in a traditional school setting or for those students that want to accelerate their high school graduation pace. Classes at Forsyth Academy are taught in two, four-hour sessions Monday through Thursday. This block scheduling with reduced seat time, allows the student the flexibility to take CTAE, Fine Arts and AP courses at their base school, if needed and desired, while completing core classes at an accelerated pace at the Academy. Dual enrollment options with postsecondary schools are also an option for students. Fridays are reserved for academic lab work and parent/student conferences. Forsyth Academy incorporates a caring philosophy and approach that combines personal relationships between staff and students with a focus on academic achievement leading to graduation. The Academy’s business-like environment challenges students to complete assignments at an accelerated

pace using online, computer-based curriculum. The low student / teacher ratios allow the motivated students to receive the personal attention needed for success. The graduation rate at Forsyth Academy is among the highest in Georgia for schools with a non-traditional environment. During the 2013-2014 school year the Academy graduated 69 seniors. Among these seniors, students were accepted to Brigham Young University, The University of North Georgia, Reinhart College, Kennesaw State University, Texas A&M, The University of Georgia, Lanier Technical College, The United States Marine Corps, and The United States Army. To learn more about Forsyth Academy visit www.forsyth.k12. ga.us/forsythacademy or contact your school counselor. n

Get our 3-bed, 2 Bath, 4-Door V-6 discount.

Marvin’s Garden of Gourmet Foods Since 1999 Marvin’s Garden of Gourmet Foods has been delivering the highest quality steaks and seafood. From Kobe, Prime and Choice steaks, Sushi grade seafood, to gourmet specialty items throughout the US, we pride ourselves on optimal personal customer service and unsurpassed product quality. We feature Halprens’ Steak and Seafood 1855 Angus Beef, hormone free beef without antibiotics, Ashley Farms free range turkey and free range chicken items, wild sushi grade seafoods, kurobuta pork and more. Marvin’s Garden shops the world markets for the freshest seasonal seafood products, which is preserved through flash freezing and cryovac sealing methods so that only the best seafood is delivered right to your door.

Ricky Noles, Agent 214 Canton Road Cumming, GA 30040 Bus: 770-887-5405 rickynoles.com

www.marvinsgourmet.com 404-966-4222 State of Schools 2014-2015

XXX_X_marvinsGourmet080114SOS

GET TO A BETTER STATE™

CALL OR VISIT US ONLINE TODAY.

Great steaks and seafood from Marvin’s Garden of Gourmet Foods coupled with great friends and loved ones makes for a wonderful occasion. Now with shipping service to all 50 states we make sending gifts hassle free.

Put auto and home together for hundreds in savings. When you have a State Farm® car and a State Farm home, get ready to drive around with a big, money-saving State Farm smile.

SERVING OUR COMMUNITY SINCE 1972. TM

State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company. State Farm Idemnity Company, Bloomington, IL.

2014-2015

Transportation department

The Transportation Department contributes to the well-being of students by teaching them how to develop Safe, Orderly And Respectful (SOAR) school bus riding habits. These are behaviors and habits that are expected in the homes and classrooms of our students. They are also expected in our community and society as a whole. As transportation educators, we help students learn how to protect themselves while preparing them to meet future expectations outside the school bus environment.

and from the stop, safe “walking habits” and what to do (and what not to do) if a student experiences “trouble” on the way to the stop or at the stop. The “Parents and Students” link has plenty of suggestions and tips to help. Discuss with your children what behaviors are expected of them. Remind them that you expect them to be “Safe, Orderly And Respectful!” These are behaviors that you expect of them in your personal vehicle and these behaviors will help them to develop “riding habits” that will be expected of them as they get older and ride on transit buses, trains, planes or in the personal vehicles of others. We will reinforce (and model) these expectations regularly on the bus and work through the Three Step Plan To Manage Student Behavior to help your student develop these behaviors and habits. Our plan includes prevention (1) and intervention (2) steps that are used by the driver to help our students develop appropriate behaviors and habits. If needed, the driver may call you to ask for your help with changing inappropriate behaviors or habits that your child may have exhibited. We will also do our best to address concerns you may have for your child. The third step of the plan includes consequences (3), administered by school staff when your child’s behavior consistently fails to meet the safe, orderly and respectful expectations we hold or when a single action is sufficiently serious to merit immediate action. Over 25,000 students begin and/or end school every day by stepping up to the “safest form of school transportation” available, the yellow school bus! That means for nearly two thirds of Forsyth County Schools’ children, “the door to the schoolhouse is yellow!” We are committed to providing “Safe, Orderly And Respectful” transportation services to your student. We invite you to become our partners as we “protect students, support quality learning and improve the community.” Help us by modeling and reinforcing the behaviors and habits that we all value. n

We hope you take time to review some, if not all of the resources on our Transportation website. They are placed there to teach all our stakeholders about their role in protecting our students and answer questions you may have about what we do and why. In most cases, our efforts are tied directly to helping your students “SOAR” to school; safely, orderly and respectfully. Take the information on those pages and talk with the members of your family to develop your own “School Bus Plan,’ one that makes you a partner in our mission. Every family’s plan should include information about the assigned stop location, what route the student (and parent) should take to State of Schools 2014-2015

State of Schools 2014-2015

From

fashion to fine dining to entertainment, the best collections are built with

precision, attention to detail and passion.

We invite you to visit

the collection at forsyth a unique shopping and dining destination, where you can build your collections and make lasting memories.

CollectionForsyth.com Facebook.com/CollectionAtForsyth 410 Peachtree Parkway, Cumming, GA 30041

Collection_8x10.44.indd 1

State of Schools 2014-2015

7/11/13 4:16 PM

FORSYTH COUNTY SCHOOLS

Note: All Holidays are subject to

2014-2015 STUDENT CALENDAR

revisions due to inclement weather. Early Release Days End of Semester First/Last Day of School Inclement Weather Days Pre/Post Planning/Prof. Dev. Prof. Dev. (Student Holiday) Student/Staff Holidays

August, 2014 31-6 4 5 7 27

Preplanning Open House MS Open House ES First Day of School Early Release/Prof.Dev.

September, 2014 1 26

Labor Day (No School) Early Release/Prof.Dev.

October, 2014 15-16 Early Release/Parent Conf. (K-8) 17 Prof. Dev.(Student Holiday)

November, 2014 24-28 Thanksgiving Holiday (No School)

December, 2014 19 End of 1st Semester (90 Days) 22-31 Holiday Break (No School)

6 7 13 14 20 21 27 28

July 2014 T W T 1 2 3 8 9 10 15 16 17 22 23 24 29 30 31

F S 4 5 11 12 18 19 25 26

August 2014 S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 17 Days September 2014 S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 21 Days October 2014 S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

22 Days November 2014 M T W T F

S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 15 Days December 2014 S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

January 2015 M T W T F 1 2 4 5 6 7 8 9 11 12 13 14 15 16 18 19 20 21 22 23 25 26 27 28 29 30 S

Begin 7:40 a.m. 8:20 a.m. 9:00 a.m. 8:25 a.m.

End 2:20 p.m. 3:00 p.m. 4:15 p.m. 3:40 p.m.

S 3 10 17 24 31

18 Days February 2015 S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

19 Days March 2015 S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

5 6 12 13 19 20 26 27

21 Days April 2015 T W T 1 2 7 8 9 14 15 16 21 22 23 28 29 30

F S 3 4 10 11 17 18 24 25

16 Days May 2015 S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 16 Days June 2015 S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

15 Days

Elementary I Elementary II Middle High

Approved 11/21/13

Early Release 11:50 a.m. 12:30 p.m. 1:30 p.m. 12:55 p.m.

State of Schools 2014-2015

January, 2015 1-2 5 19

Holiday Break (No School) Prof.Dev.(Student Holiday) MLK Day (No School)

February, 2015 16

Prof. Dev. (Student Holiday)

March, 2015 13 16

Early Release/Parent Conf. (K-12) Inclement Weather Day (#1)

April, 2015 3 Inclement Weather Day (#2) 6-10 Spring Break (No School)

May, 2015 22 22 25 26-27

Elementary II: 8:20 a.m. Daves Creek Johns Creek Mashburn Midway Sawnee, Silver City Whitlow

Last Day of School End of 2nd Semester (90 Days) Memorial Day Post Planning (Prof. Dev.)

June, 2015

TOTAL DAYS:

180 - Students 190 - Staff

Elementary I: 7:40 a.m. Big Creek, Brookwood Chattahoochee, Chestatee Coal Mountain, Cumming Haw Creek, Kelly Mill, Matt Settles Bridge, Sharon Shiloh Point, Vickery Creek

AT OUR URGENT CARE CENTERS,

PEDIATRICIANS

ARE STANDING BY. Our Urgent Care Centers are staffed by pediatricians, equipped with X-rays and labs, and ready to help seven days a week. For Urgent Care Center wait times,* text CHOA to 4ER411 (437411) or visit choa.org/wait.

* Wait times are updated every 15 minutes and are estimates based on the average time it takes for a patient to be placed in an exam room. Standard messaging fees will apply for texting. ©2014 Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Inc. All rights reserved.

CHILDREN’S AT FORSYTH - 410 PEACHTREE PKWY., CUMMING, 404-785-3100 State of Schools 2014-2015

Cumming • Dahlonega • Gainesville • Oconee • www.ung.edu

100 BEST

Public College Values

-Kiplinger’s Personal Finance Magazine, 2013

TOP 25

PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES IN THE SOUTH -America’s Best Colleges, U.S. News & World Report, 2013

MILITARY FRIENDLY SCHOOL

-G.I. Jobs Magazine, 2013

100+

PROGRAMS of STUDY

The University of North Georgia is a dynamic, regional multi-campus institution featuring more than 100 programs of study and a broad range of degree programs. With certificates, associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees and graduate degrees, UNG offers students multiple pathways to pursue their educational and career aspirations. UNG is designated as a state leadership institution and as the Military College of Georgia.