Aurora by Swift School

Aurora Swift School Magazine FA LL 2016

Team Swift shows up in full force for the 2016 Dyslexia Dash 05

SAIS Accreditation Swift receives unanimous recommendation for reaccreditation

Dyslexia Dash Team Swift showed up in full force for the annual 5k race in support of dyslexia awareness.

Annual Report 2015-16 Donor and Volunteer recognition

CATEGORY . Subtitle

dyslexia

Serving grades 1st through 8th

Open House January

I am more I am a constellation of potential. than a star. A holistic education for students with dyslexia

10 am to 12 pm

300 Grimes Bridge Rd. Roswell, Georgia 678.205.4988 theswiftschool.org

Contents

C H PA

LIF

SAIS Accreditation Swift is unanimously recommended for SAIS reaccreditation

11 Dyslexia Dash Team Swift showed up in full force for the annual 5k race in support of dyslexia awareness.

SHOT

Alumni Profile Tina McGinley checks in to share her son’s success after Swift.

16 Letters from the Head of School and Chair of he Board

20 Swift Fund

25 Financial Summary

25 Impact Report

Swift School

Back to School Bash Swift’s inaugural backto-school event is shared through photos.

CATEGORY . Subtitle

A Volunteer Leadership Lower Division Parent Coordinator, Julie Coppedge Middle Division Parent Coordinator, Hilary Keskonis Campus Seasonal DĂŠcor, Cynthia Steskal Dyslexia Dash, Cheryl Wellford Grandparent/Special Friends, Kelly Black Scholastic Book Fair, Julie Coppedge Stellar Gala, Margaret Celecia Swift Family Bowling, Nicole Sudduth Teacher Appreciation, Jennifer Speros Uniform Resale, Jenny Higbee

Board of Trustees

School Leadership

Executive Committee

Executive Staff

Dr. Richard Phillips, Chair Laura Ries, Vice Chair Jeff Kudlata, Secretary Michael Wright, Treasurer Richard Wendlek, Head of School

Rich Wendlek, Head of School Paul Foltz, Associate Head of School for Finance and Operations Eric Osorio, Associate Head of School for Student Affairs Martha Moore, Director of Advancement

Trustees

Administration

Amber Carey Scott Frank Bob Gray Adam Goldfein Chris Martin Jeff Pace Gail Swift, Emerita

Roni Battoglia, Lower Division Director Donna Cherry, Director of Technology Sandi Epstein, Director of Learning Support Melissa Jozefov, Middle Division Director Harriet Litzky, Dean of Instruction Jill McGuire, Dean of Middle Division Students Angela Roberston, Director of Admission Mel Smith, Athletic Director

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Aurora . Fall 2016

Sinc

Policy of Non-Discrimination Swift School admits qualified students of any race, color, sex, religion, or national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students of the school. It does not discriminate in the administration of its educational policies, admission policies, scholarship programs and other school-administered programs.

Ric Hea

LAUNCHPAD . Swift Unanimously Recommended for SAIS Re-Accreditation

A Strong Community

ear Swift School Parents and Friends,

Fifteen months ago Swift School engaged the extensive process of seeking re-accreditation from the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS) and AdvancED (formerly the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools). Swift School was initially accredited by these prestigious associations in November 2011. The cycle to remain accredited requires an exhaustive institutional self-study every five years. This process culminated in a team of peer experts visiting Swift School to conduct the on-site portion of the evaluation from November 6-8, 2016. To earn re-accreditation the standards for accreditation must be met or exceeded, and a strateMany thanks to Swift parents who met on campus with the SAIS accredigic plan focused on strong governance, programmatic develtation visiting team during re-accreditation evaluation. Pictured here are opment, and student achievement gains must be in practice. (L-R): Randa Robinson, Kim Huffman, Julie Coppedge, Hillary Keskonis, Accreditation is a voluntary process. Jennifer Rieck, Elise Hodson, Daria Pardue, John Stallworth, and Cara Brittingham

During the visiting team’s on-site evaluation they met with and interviewed many parents, students, faculty members, administrators, the Board Chair, and the full Board of Trustees. As the team concluded their evaluation last Tuesday afternoon an exit meeting with the full faculty and administration was conducted to describe findings. Robert McGehee, Chair of the visiting team, reported that Swift School is in compliance with the standards of SAIS/ AdvancED accreditation. The School’s profile, vision, plan, and student achievement results reflect a level of quality educational programming that is not only consistent with accreditation requirements, but surpasses them in the vast majority of instances! Swift School is unanimously recommended for re-accreditation through 2021.

As an SAIS/ AdvancED accredited school, Swift remains part of an international network of accredited schools which have demonstrated success in educating students. This accreditation is broadly recognized throughout the world as a symbol of quality education for students, faculties, and parents. The dedication of the Swift faculty, staff, administration, Board, and many members of our community is recognized and applauded! I am grateful to all and very proud that the significant quality of a Swift education is recognized well beyond Swift’s campus. The students are the beneficiaries of our efforts. Happy Thanksgiving to All!

Rich Wendlek Head of School

Swift School

Sincerely yours,

ORBIT . Back to School Bash

Sp on so re d

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Back to School = Meet, Greet, Eat, & Play

by AT &T

wiftâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inaugural Back-to-School Bash, sponsored by AT&T, was a huge success. The event, held August 11, combined the Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual Meet and Greet back-to-school day with new parent orientation, adding food and fun. In addition to hands-on activities, students had the chance to visit their new classrooms and meet their teachers, while parents were able to get a jump start on the new school year.

ORBIT . 2016 Dyslexia Dash

Team Swift Dashes for Dyslexia

The annual IDA 5K event, in conjunction with Dyslexia Awareness Month, raises awareness for a learning difference that challenges 1 in 5 individuals. Dyslexia is the most common learning challenge, affecting an estimated 20% of the U.S. population. Individuals with dyslexia experience difficulty in the areas of language processing. Grade exclaims, “It was amazing to have my students helping me meet my goal, when typically, I am supporting them in reaching their goals. There is no better motivation than that of your students!”

“When my child was diagnosed with dyslexia, I felt lost and alone,” says Ries. “My son was struggling and it was hard to relate to my friends whose kids were consuming books with ease. Finding Swift School changed our lives. My son had a place that understood him, taught him to read and unlocked his potential. Our family found a community we could relate to and that supported us on our journey. The Dyslexia Dash was an extension of our Swift family and a way to come together as a united community. Together we shine the light on dyslexia to bring awareness, understanding and appreciation for dyslexics. I love attending every year and seeing the growing community of supporters.” Karen Huppertz, President of the International Dyslexia Association-Georgia Branch, says the event raised nearly $30,000 for the IDA to be used for teacher training and community outreach; over $11,000 came from donations. An enthusiastic 1,200 participants ran through the finish line at IDA-GA’s annual Dash.

Swift School

“The Dyslexia Dash is my favorite event of the year,” says Swift Lead Teacher Rachel Grade. “I love seeing my kids outside of school, supporting a cause that celebrates them who they are. This year, I ran the dash as my second 5k and had a goal time that I wanted to beat. A group of kids in my class ran with me, motivating me and cheering me on along the way. They ran right in front of me for the entire race.”

Swift Board of Trustees Vice Chair, and alumni parent, Laura Ries is passionate about participating in the Dash.

undreds of runners, walkers, and Swift School supporters participated in the International Dyslexia Association’s Dyslexia Dash at Perimeter Mall on Saturday, October 15.

Build Your Galaxy CATEGORY . Subtitle

Swift launches alumni program

your alumni story

Swift School alumni and former students are important to our community because their success reflects the School’s success. Strong connections to students who graduate and leave Swift strengthens knowledge about their progress and allows measurement of the educational foundation provided to current students. Almost every week, a former student will sign in as a visitor to see Mrs. Jozefov, Coach Smith, Mr. Lytle, Mrs. Cherry and a number of other favorite teachers from their Swift School days. We welcome alumni visitors! In fact, we welcome them so much that we have created a reward system to amplify our alumni program called Build Your Galaxy. The goal is to extend the student relationship with Swift School well beyond enrollment and encourage alumni to promote, support, and advance Swift’s mission. Through a number of initiatives, Build Your Galaxy will create enriching experiences and build the Swift community through continued alumni involvement and support.

Build Your Galaxy Open to all former Swift students (graduates of 8th grade and nongraduates).

Attend

Swift alumni events

Earn a Star Swift Alumni/former students earn a star for each engagement opportunity with the School. Engagement opportunities include participating in the Dyslexia Dash, attending Founder’s Day, speaking at a student or school program, serving as a volunteer for a school event (where service hours can be earned). After earning five stars in silver, move up to the next level to earn five gold stars and then five platinum stars. Stars will be displayed on alumni profiles on the alumni page on the website.

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Join You are automatically included in the program as long as the school can reach you by email Confirm your preferred email with development@theswiftschool.org. Accept and attend when invited to events, requested to speak, asked to volunteer and you will earn a star!

Recognition After receiving five stars at any level, alumni will be invited to a special recognition/appreciation event at the end of each year.

CATEGORY . Subtitle

Speak

at Swift events

#Swift on social media

Volunteer

at Swift events

as an alumni class delegate

Serve

Swift School

ORBIT . Swift Celebrates Grandparents and Special Friends’ Day

Grandparents Day a Grand Success!

Swift School celebrates Grandparents Day annually with a special school day where grandparents and special friends are welcomed into their grandchildrens’ classroom.

Swift estimates that over 350 grandparents attended this year’s celebration on October 27th and 28th. Guests arrived to breakfast refreshments, a special student performance, and a student art show. Photographers were on hand to take keepsake pictures of grandparents with their grandchildren. Grandparents who visited Swift classrooms were able to share a bit of history with the students. In Lower Division classes, grandparents and students worked on projects together.

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Swift School thanks all of the grandparents and special friends who made this year’s grandparents day a grand success!

Swift School

MOONSHOT . Nolan McGinley

Alumni Profile

Tina McGinley reflects on her son Nolan and his Swift experience.

hat impact did Swift have?

Swift School was such a refreshing time for my family. There is something about the peace of mind that you get as a parent when your child is in their element. Nolan’s stress decreased tremendously. It was apparent that he felt understood and appreciated during his time at Swift; he was accepted. It was a great experience. That is actually what led to me starting the Dyslexia Forsyth Facebook page. Nolan was in fifth grade in public school. The Assistant Director of Special Education for Forsyth County Schools needed support. My daily carpool experience allowed me to see how these kids can benefit from experiencing an education that Swift offers. I felt inspired, and that fueled Dyslexia Forsyth four years ago. When I found out Nolan was dyslexic, I felt very alone and isolated, though in reality I really was not. Local resources, much like Dyslexia Forsyth, allow families to meet each other. Between 40 and 70 parents show up each month.

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If I had to, I would do it all over again. Swift helped shape Nolan, increased his self-esteem, and gave him the confidence to believe in himself.

How did Swift prepare Nolan? The Swift experience was great. Nolan was where he needed to be. He did not have to explain things. I knew the faculty understood; they “got it”. Swift’s curriculum and experiences are

tailored to the students’ needs. Being immersed in multi-sensory teaching as opposed to being in a public school, and your child having to attend private tutoring—it is exhausting—those extra needs are eliminated, giving students the time to do what they love. Where is Nolan now? Nolan is in 10th grade now, and he maintains an A average at South Forsyth High School. He recently qualified for a special Social Studies academic program led by Duke University. He is such a good advocate for himself; self-advocacy is so important. I don’t have to worry about Nolan. He knows he needs extra help; he recognizes that. Nolan runs Cross Country for his school, and won the team leadership award this past season. He serves as a Homeroom ambassador. The school chooses one student who represents the school to new students through tours and discussions and taking on a leadership role. At the end of the school year, one student from all classes is chosen for selected awards. Nolan received the Hardest Worker Recognition in 6th & 7th grade. Lacrosse is his favorite sport, and he is a defensive captain for his club team. He’s wellliked and his teachers appreciate him.

Swift School

“The Swift experience was great. Nolan was where he needed to be. He didn’t have to explain things. You knew the faculty understood; they “got it”. The education and experiences are tailored to the students’ needs.”

SIMPLE THINGS YOU can do

TO PROMOTE

1. Tell a friend about Swift School

Encourage friends to visit theswiftschool.org or schedule a campus tour by calling 678.205.4988

2. Support the School

Make a gift to the Swift Fund or donate an auction item or sponsor the Stellar Gala.

3. Like us on Facebook! facebook.com/theswiftschool

4. Attend a Swift event

Attend a Swift alumni event and Build Your Galaxy. We love to catch up with our alumni!

5. Share your story

Tell us what Swift means to you: communication@theswiftschool.org

6. Come visit us

Stop by and see us. We love visitors!

7. Swift Summer Explorations

Swiftâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s five week summer camp in July combines reading, language, friends, and fun! Applications accepted in January.

8. Show your Swift spirit

Place a Swift magnet on your car. Stop in or email us to get one: communication@theswiftschool.org

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9. Think of Swift when you shop

A portion of every purchase goes to Swift when you shop Amazon Smile, Publix cards, and Box Tops!

10. Review us

Write a review about your Swift experience on GreatSchools.org.

CAT

CATEGORY . Subtitle

2015-16 Annual Report

Volunteer and Donor Recognition

Richard J. Wendlek Head of School

n a recent brisk October morning the Student Council helped to launch the 2016-17 Swift Fund by handing out packages of chocolate kisses to parents during carpool. Everyone involved seemed to enjoy the novelty of receiving something sweet. The coolness of the lovely fall morning combined with the giggles of glee that surrounded receipt of the candy made for a great way to start the day!

The fact is that Swift is a private independent school dependent on two sources of income: tuition and gifts. Tuition income covers approximately 86% of the School’s operating expenses. Isn’t that odd? Why isn’t tuition calculated to cover 100% of expenses? The answer to that question is twofold. First, if tuition was set at 100% of operating expenses, an additional $5,000 would have to be added to the tuition fee to fully cover the cost of operations. A higher tuition fee would narrow accessibility to a Swift education to fewer and fewer students and families. Therefore, tuition is set so that affordability is less of an issue, and more families have access to a Swift education. Secondly, tuition is not tax deductible, whereas a gift is. Swift is a not-for-profit institution, and your gift to the School is tax-deductible. It is pretty typical, within the practice of private education, to price tuition at less than it costs to actually deliver an educational experience and seek donations to make up the difference. So now you know why Student Council members pass out chocolate kisses! It is in appreciation of your support of the Swift Fund. In 2015-16 gifts to the Swift Fund allowed things to happen on behalf of our students and teachers that otherwise would not be possible. Here are some of the ways that your gift to the Swift Fund made a difference in our ability to make an enduring difference in the lives of students and teachers: • Technological infrastructure was enhanced that allows advanced programming to function here and in your homes; • Teacher training – professional development – was conducted in ways that enhances the classroom experience of each student and directly impacts student achievement; • Professional exchanges occurred with local and national organizations that allowed for the sharing of best practices; • Highest levels of Orton-Gillingham training for all of Swift’s faculty was achieved; • Dyslexic brain-type research continued and is translated into daily classroom practices; • Swift School formed an important partnership with the University of West Georgia in the development of dyslexic avatars used in teacher training programs; • Ancillary programming was enhanced with facility rentals that allowed for important community gatherings, physical education instruction, and competitive athletics; • Swift School continues to attract and retain the best and brightest faculty members These accomplishments, many of which remain ongoing initiatives, cost a great deal – well beyond what tuition dollars fund. Your gift to the Swift Fund makes all of the difference in the educational experience of our students. Your support of our efforts to provide your child(ren) with the best possible education fuels the experience for all. My sincere thanks is extended again and again to every volunteer and every donor for the difference you help to make possible through your generous support of Swift School. As is par for Swift’s course, please help us continue to reach the stars!

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Gratefully yours,

Rich Wendlek, M.Ed. Head of School

Richard Phillips Chairman of the Board

hirteen years – that’s how long I have given some of my time and a fair amount of our treasure to Swift School. My relationship started when Gail Swift interviewed our daughter during the admissions process in summer 2004. I joined the board in 2006, in 2008 our second child enrolled at Swift, and in 2011 I became the chair of the school’s board of trustees. So you might ask “Why do you do it?” or “What do you get out of it?” Good questions.

Let me start my answer with a selfish reason. Over the years I have had the opportunity to work with very talented board colleagues and have learned a lot by working with this dedicated set of professionals. I would not have advanced as far in my own career absent my involvement on this board. I am also proud to be part of an organization that continually grows its ability to make an impact. In my board tenure, school enrollment has increased 500%, we built one of the only middle schools in Georgia designed specifically to serve dyslexic students, and the talent and professional credentials of the faculty has expanded and deepened immensely. Using these resources, we have positively impacted thousands of dyslexic students and their families in almost immeasurable ways. Who wouldn’t enjoy being associated with success?

What was once Mrs. Swift’s small endeavor is now an important resource for the Atlanta metro region. Through partnerships with universities, we help increase our collective understanding of how best to educate dyslexic students and by training teachers in the surrounding public school systems, we help dyslexic students advance in the contexts where they go to school. I am inspired by what is possible at Swift. But perhaps what motivates me most has little to do with my own professional development, being associated with something grand, or championing an important regional asset. Swift means something much more personal to me and my wife. In 2004, our daughter Megan had just “graduated” fourth grade, even though she could not read at a first grade level. We knew she was intelligent by the way she carried herself and the depth of her questions. But, she was failing. And we were desperate. We enrolled Megan in Swift School for fifth grade in the fall of 2004. Fast forward, in December, Megan will graduate from Texas A&M University where she has received numerous academic recognitions. Shortly after graduation, Megan will move to Washington D.C. to start her career with Bloomberg BNA. Likewise, our daughter Caitlin is now a freshman at Auburn University. Without any hesitation, I tell you Swift School made all this possible. Thousands of parents can tell you their own version of this same story. The only thing that makes our story unique is that I have been associated with the school long enough to be a former parent of a college graduate. Many more will come. This is why I am so committed to Swift. Swift School worked for my family, I have watched it work the same miracle for thousands of other families, and I am committed to make sure it will be a resource for even more families in the future.

Rich Phillips Board of Trustees Vice Chair

Swift School

As you consider your annual giving plans for this year, I ask that you consider making Swift School one of your top charitable organizations. If your child is at Swift, you know the difference a high quality/high impact educational program makes to unlock the potential inside of a dyslexic student. Please join my wife and me as we continue to advance this extraordinarily important school to be one of the finest institutions of its kind anywhere.

More than a Race...

emember the story of the tortoise and the hare? Lisa Beck, a 4th grade teacher and a mother of a Swift graduate, says the moral of this story often comes to her mind. “If slow and steady wins the race,” says Beck, “we have many on this track and it is more like a marathon.” Beck is in her fourth year teaching at Swift and says for every one step forward, she often has students take 1 or 2 steps back. “Through it all, as a parent and as a teacher, it is sometimes challenging to keep from giving up. What keeps us going is the progress we see and knowing that learning is taking place.” For some students, it seems they are starting over and over again on the OG sequence of sounds, math facts, spelling rules, etc. For these students, it takes problem-solving between teachers and parents. “At Swift,” explains Beck, “and thanks to generous support, teachers are thoroughly trained, have attended in-depth workshops, completed extensive research, consulted with other professionals and made changes to techniques, expectations and strategies for instruction.” The result is a jump in comprehension and greatly improved opportunities for success.

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“It can be overwhelming,” admits Beck, “to see a child who wants to read books about building bridges, behavior of sharks, and world history but can only read Pete the Cat books.” “In a case like this, the child, the parents, and even the teacher may feel defeated,” Beck acknowledges. “But we cannot give in to defeat because slow and steady can win the race.”

“From the teacher perspective, we talk with our colleagues, explore options, gather different ideas and try different techniques. Thanks to Swift’s comprehensive technology plan, which is funded in large part by annual donations, we are also able to provide 1:1 Chromebooks for each child in the 4th grade.” This plan includes training and assistive software programs that benefit students and accelerate their reading and writing abilities. On the Chromebook the “read and write” feature not only reads the text back to the student, but types what the student dictates. The same student who was struggling with syllables and short sentences can now write a full page story that has a beginning, middle, and end…all thanks to assistive technology, well-trained teachers and caring donors. Beck adds, “I am thankful, as a parent and as a teacher, that Swift School has so many resources to help students get through the slow and steady race to reach their own success.”

Swift School

Swift Fund 2015-16 Donors Thank you to everyone who made a charitable contribution to Swift School from July 1, 2015 to June 30, 2016. Every effort has been made to provide complete and accurate information. If errors or omissions have occurred, please accept our most sincere apology and inform the Development Office at development@theswiftschool.org.

who support the Swift Fund with donations of $1,000 and above are 1998 Society Donors members of the 1998 Society and exemplify exceptional leadership and commitment. AT&T Mr. and Mrs. Robert P. Brandes Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Brown Ms. Laura Ries and Mr. Scott Brown Mrs. Kathryn Captain Carey Family Trust Coca-Cola Company Dr. and Mrs. Paul Cohen Susan and Brad Duncan Equifax Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Felts Ellyn and Paul Foltz Mr. and Mrs. James A. Fuerst Mr. and Mrs. Adam Goldfein Mr. and Mrs. Brad Goldman Gordy Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Robert W. Gray Dr. Thomas and Dr. Jodie Guest Haverty’s Hedden Family Foundation Inc. Mr. and Mrs. Scott A. Hickman Mr. and Mrs. David A. Hirsch Henry & Etta Raye Hirsch Heritage Foundation The Home Depot Kim and Rich Huffman Mr. Stephen Kloder Mr. and Mrs. Mark D. Lazzara Mr. and Mrs. Jack Lipasek

Mr. and Mrs. Jed W. McClure Mrs. Evelyn Hedden and Mr. Todd Mille Mr. and Mrs. Bob Murphy Mr. and Mrs. Jefferson Pace Dr. Richard and Mrs. Kelly Phillips Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Pope Loulie and Frank Reese Mr. and Mrs. Al Ries Mr. and Mrs. Paul Schur Susan and Steve Slifer Dr. and Mrs. Scott Solomon Kathy and Mark Sweeney Laurie Green and John Thielman Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Thomas Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Thompson Mr. and Mrs. Ryan P. Troncalli Shelley and Kevin Turner UBS United Way of Metropolitan Atlanta, Inc. US Bancorp Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Richard Webb Connie and Richard Wendlek Mr. and Mrs. William A. Werkheiser Mr. and Mrs. Peter Williams Dede and Moody Williams Laura and Steve Willson Lisa and Harold Wyatt Mr. and Mrs. Harold W. Wyatt

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Development Committee Annual Fund and Georgia GOAL Scholarship Program Parent Representative (grade 1-3) – Loulie Reese Parent Representative (grade 4-5) – Maria Lutz Parent Representative (grade 6-8) – Kim Huffman

The Pacesetter Society $15,000 - $24,999 Mr. and Mrs. Ryan P. Troncalli

The Swift Society $10,000 - $14,999 Gordy Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Robert W. Gray Mr. and Mrs. David A. Hirsch Henry & Etta Raye Hirsch Heritage Foundation

Leaders Circle $5,000 - $9,999 Elizabeth and Kevin Brown Carey Family Trust Mr. and Mrs. Jefferson Pace Shelley and Kevin Turner Lisa and Harold Wyatt Mr. and Mrs. Harold W. Wyatt

Benefactors Circle $1,500 - $2,499 Ms. Laura Ries and Mr. Scott Brown Mrs. Kathryn Captain Coca-Cola Company Mr. and Mrs. Brad Goldman Mr. and Mrs. Scott A. Hickman Kim and Rich Huffman Mr. and Mrs. Mark D. Lazzara Mr. and Mrs. Jed W. McClure Connie and Andrew Pope Mr. and Mrs. Paul Schur The Home Depot UBS United Way of Metropolitan Atlanta, Inc. Connie and Richard Wendlek Mr. and Mrs. William A. Werkheiser

Founders Circle $2,500 - $4,999

Swift School

Susan and Brad Duncan Ellyn and Paul Foltz Mr. and Mrs. Adam Goldfein Hedden Family Foundation Inc. Mrs. Evelyn Hedden and Mr. Todd Mille Dr. Richard and Mrs. Kelly Phillips Susan and Steve Slifer Dr. and Mrs. Scott Solomon Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Thompson Mr. and Mrs. Peter Williams Laura and Steve Willson

ent.

Swift Fund 2015-16 Donors

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Patron of Swift $500 - $1,499 AT&T Laura and Jay Bonds Mr. and Mrs. Robert P. Brandes Cara Brittingham Mr. and Mrs. Harold Brown Chick-fil-A Roswell Town Center Dr. and Mrs. Paul Cohen Mr. and Mrs. David Covell Equifax Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Felts Mr. Warren T. Forney and Mrs. Tamla Oates-Forney Mr. and Mrs. James A. Fuerst Liz Fusco and Andrew Davies Mr. and Mrs. Dave L. Galligos Google Dr. Thomas and Dr. Jodie Guest Ms. Deborah Haertel Mr. and Mrs. Jack Harris Haverty's Charlotte, Caroline and Glen Hegwood Mr. and Mrs. Doug Henderson Mr. Ronald Hess Mr. and Mrs. Zach Hines IBM Matching Grants Program Mr. and Mrs. David A. Imhoff Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell Isaacs Mr. Stephen Kloder Kohls Department Stores, Inc Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Kudlata Mr. and Mrs. Gunter M. Kurrle Mr. and Mrs. Harry Lindsey Mr. and Mrs. Jack Lipasek Mr. and Mrs. Steve E. Lynn Dr. and Mrs. Patrick Moonan Mr. and Mrs. Bob Murphy Ms. Anna Ogunsola Mr. and Mrs. Scott Owen Mr. and Mrs. Frank C. Pellizzi Mr. and Mrs. Tony Pepper Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Phillips Mr. and Mrs. John P. Pignetti Loulie and Frank Reese Mr. and Mrs. Al Ries Ms. Adriana Rodriguez-Campos Mr. and Mrs. Tony Roehl Mr. and Mrs. Farhood Sadaghiani

Sherry and Matt Scalf Mr. and Mrs. Michael L. Schmitz Mr. and Mrs. Erik C. Stewart Kathy and Mark Sweeney Mr. and Mrs. J. Gary G. Tadlock Mr. and Mrs. David L. Teal Laurie Green and John Thielman Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Thomas Mr. and Mrs. David M. Tillson Mr. and Mrs. Todd Turnquist Mr. and Mrs. Uko Ukoh Mrs. Anne Umphrey US Bancorp Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Richard Webb Mary L. Welch Mr. and Mrs. Walker L. Wellford IV Dede and Moody Williams Mr. and Mrs. Kevin R. Wolfe

Friends of Swift Up to $499 Anonymous (2) Dr. Mushfiq Omar and Dr. Salma Ahsan Mr. and Mrs. Kristoffer K. Allegood Mr. Alvarez and Mrs. Lagueux-Alvarez Amazon Smile Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey A. Amershadian Lisa Armorer Ellen and David Ascher Mr. and Mrs. Craig M. Baltes Mrs. Beverly Barnhard Alison Bates and Scott Butler Roni Battoglia Lisa and Jerry Beck Mrs. Carolyn C. Berk Mr. and Mrs. Albert Bingman Mr. Martin J. Birch Alex and Kelly Ann Black Mr. and Mrs. Terry Black Sandra Blevins-Erwin Jamie Bouck Kathy and Bob Brown Mr. and Mrs. Mark O. Bundy Mr. and Mrs. Harry P. Cain Mrs. Jennifer Cairns Deneen and George Campbell Kimberly Campbell Shannon Carter Mr. and Mrs. Scott Castaldo

Mrs. Donna Harbison Megan Hartmann Mr. and Mrs. Jack Haylett HealthSource Chiropractic Mr. and Mrs. Brent Hendrickson Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Hill Mr. and Mrs. Cash A. Hilmer Alison Hirsch Mrs. Mary Hoag Mr. and Mrs. Darryl Hodson Mr. and Mrs. John Horne Mr. and Mrs. Todd Hughes Mrs. Octavia Ivy Ms. Victoria Jimison Mr. and Mrs. Ilan Josset Melissa and Dave Jozefov Lynn Kaplin Ms. Evan Kauffman Mr. Jim Kee Mr. and Mrs. Peter J. Keskonis Mr. and Mrs. Steven O. Kilinski Deborah Kloder Mr. and Mrs. Valerien Lagueux The Lane Family Ms. Dianne Lappa Ms. Alyssa Lee Mr. and Mrs. Steve Lembo Mr. and Mrs. Eric C. Lent Mr. and Mrs. Terry Lent Harriet and Richard Litzky Miss Carrie D. Lorman Mr. Nathan G. Lubin Maria and Francis Lutz J. Michael Lytle Mr. Jeff D. Malmstedt and Ms. Genevieve Dame Mr. and Mrs. Thomas P. Margavio Mr. and Mrs. John Markwardt Marsh & McLennan Companies Mr. and Mrs. John M. Marsh Mr. Chris Martin Dr. and Mrs. Steve D. Martin Mr. and Mrs. Lynn B. McCollum Jill McGuire McKesson Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Medved Mandy Menshon Mr. and Mrs. Jack Merrick Mrs. Catherine H. Michela Mr. and Mrs. Brooks A. Miller

Mr. Kenneth J. Celecia Ms. Margaret B. Celecia Ms. Stephanie Ceto Donna and Sam Cherry Ms. Jennifer Clark Mr. and Mrs. Stephen J. Clark Mr. and Mrs. David M. Clary Mr. and Mrs. Jason D. Clift Mr. and Mrs. Patrick P. Cline Coca-Cola Refreshments Julie and Matt Coppedge Mr. and Mrs. David L. Crew Ms. Celia Cross Mr. and Mrs. Eric Cross Mrs. Lindsey Daniell Mr. and Mrs. K. Patrick P. Davis Robert and Rachelle Day Mr. and Mrs. Maurice Dee Mr. Joseph Dierker Mr. and Mrs. Richard Dierker Mr. and Mrs. Mike Dieterle Mr. and Mrs. Chad W. Donald Mr. and Mrs. James Dorsey Stuart and William Dougherty Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Dubey Mr. and Mrs. Alan Dunbar Mr. and Mrs. Wallis Elliott EM2 Sandi Epstein Ana and Eduardo Estrella Ms. Tracy B. Evens Mr. and Mrs. Edward Farmer Natalie Felix James D. Fotos Steffie Foxman Bonnie Friedrich Mr. and Mrs. Jason T. Garrett Mr. and Mrs. Larry Garrett Mr. and Mrs. Rene Gelinas Mrs. Joanie Gerken Hudson Gillot Mr. Mark Goldstein and Mrs. Mary Goldstein Mr. and Mrs. Jason R. Gossett Rachel Grade Mr. and Mrs. Ron A. Graver Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Greenwald Scott Greenwald Mrs. Caroline Grigsby Mrs. Jaslyn Hammond

Swift School

Swift Fund 2015-16 Donors

Aurora . Fall 2016

Swift Fund 2015-16 Donors Mr. and Mrs. William T. Mills Mr. and Mrs. Gary Minor Mr. and Mrs. Sam Mitchell Joy and Brett Mitchell Mrs. Leah Molloy Martha and Chris Moore Mr. and Mrs. John L. Morris Dallas and Donald Mueller Mr. and Mrs. Richard Nebel Mr. and Mrs. Hank Needle Mrs. Lisa Nix Joan Northup Susan and John Osberg Roberta and Eric Osorio Mr. and Mrs. David E. Pardue Ms. Virginia Paulk Mr. and Mrs. David Perry Mr. and Mrs. Gregory Phillips Mr. and Mrs. Tom Pope Publix Supermarkets Charities, Inc. Ms. Linda Rapozo The Reed Family Jennifer Rieck Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Robb Angela and David Robertson David Robertson and Dani Hopkins-Robertson Josy Roman Tony Rosado Anne and Ron Rosenthal Mrs. Bonnie Ryan Kelei and Jason Sabatino Ms. Lorri Sands Sherry and Howard Sax Coach Saylors and Mrs. Saylors Mr. and Mrs. Robert Scalf Mr. and Mrs. Robert A. Scarmuzzi Mr. Robert J. Schwensfeir Mr. Stephen P. Shanahan and Dr. Elizabeth Rohan Mr. Amir Shash and Ms. Zubeda Idris Ms. Esther Shaver Harnett Ms. Danielle Sheldon Ms. Kayla Shiffman Mr. and Mrs. Barry L. Simmons Mr. and Mrs. Brian Simmons Slope's BBQ Mr. and Mrs. Gary Smith Mr. and Mrs. Kevin W. Smith Mr. and Mrs. Mel Smith Mr. and Mrs. Spencer W. Smith

Mrs. Christine Stahl Mr. and Mrs. John Stallworth Mr. and Mrs. Michael Stern Cynthia and John Steskal Mr. Robert Stocke and Ms. Lea Slotkin Ms. Jennifer S. Stone and Ms. Sharon A. Gaffney Mr. and Mrs. Todd Stroup Mrs. Jane Sunderland Jennifer and Rob Sunderland Miss Kathi Swain Mrs. Gena Tarbutton Mr. and Mrs. Larry D. Tate Mr. and Mrs. Jeffery W. Thacher Mr. and Mrs. Mark Thom True Blue Schools Mrs. Brenda Turetsky Mr. and Mrs. Paul Turnquist Mr. and Dr. Eric Van De Water Mr. and Mrs. Richard Van Haveren Mia and Mike Van Wagenen Ms. Christine E. VanDyke Mr. John D. VanDyke Ms. Sandra Vaughan Ms. Stephanie Walkey Natea Wallace Mrs. Beth Walter Maxann and Archie Wanamaker Taylor Ward Mrs. Elizabeth Wells Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Wilburn Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Williams Mr. and Mrs. Bobby J. Wilmath Mr. and Mrs. Kim Wilson Stacey Wronker Karen and John Zielke Kathy and Jim Zimmerman

Fun Con

Financial Summary INCOME

EXPENSES

Tuition and Fees

$6,558,392

Program

$4,153,846

Land Donation

$4,470,000

General and Administrative

$2,150,225

$93,628

Fundraising Contributions

Donations $187,050 Other Income

Other â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Institutional

$4,968,973

Total Expenses $11,321,329

Donations

Fundraising

Program

General and Administrative

Swift School

Tuition and Fees

Other - Institutional

Other Income

Land Donation

$48,285

$12,259

Total Income $11,321,329

Fundraising Contributions

Fundraising

Swift Fund Impact Report

Athletics Uniforms The Swift Spartans are sporting sharp new uniforms. Soccer, basketball, and track and field teams received new threads to for the 2016-17 seasons, and thanks to your generous contributions, our superstars shine!

Campus Enhancements The beginning pieces for a new Middle Division lounge are on the way. The new contemporary style will update to the Middle Division foyer in the Arts and Athletics Building. The furniture will serve as a standard for additional pieces as the lounge area grows to accommodate Swiftâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ever growing Middle Division.

Gala gifts make a difference! After several years of constant use it was time to renew the Timberridge activity field at the front of the school. Over the course of two weeks, old tree roots were removed, exposed gravel raked away and Roswellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finest clay soil on the field was tilled and properly amended to receive beautiful, hearty zoysia sod. The new sod now provides a safe and attractive play area surface for each and every Lower Division recess period. The renewal and renovation was a much needed improvement and one that will be enjoyed in view and in activity.

Aurora . Fall 2016

Professional Development Swift teachers are enthusiastic participants in the annual Georgia Educational Technology Conference. At GaETC, our teachers collaborate with 4,000 educators committed to raising the bar in their classrooms through technology integration. In addition to learning from nationally prominent speakers and innovative fellow teachers, the conference offers opportunities for our faculty to share the message about ways technology contributes to success for Swift students. Teachers return from the conference empowered to engage students and be a leading force at Swift.

Stellar Gala Donors

CATEGORY . Subtitle

Stellar Gala sponsorships expand possibilities for children with dyslexia and assist the exceptional teachers who guide them.

Many thanks to the 2016 Stellar Gala committee and sponsors Gala Chair: Margaret Celecia Gala Committee: Amber Carey, Karen Clark, Sheryl Covell, David Covell, Deborah Haertel, Kari Hines, Michele Hirsch, Susan Renno, Mara Robb, Jennifer Sunderland, and Mia Van Wagenen.

Title Sponsor $10,000

DoubleTree by Hilton Keystone Press Inc. Barbara and Jack Lipasek Michael Mascheri/Chapman Coyle Chapman New South Construction Rolader and Rolader Sherry and Matt Scalf Deborah and Kevin Smith Celynda and Gary Tadlock Crim and Associates Connie and Richard Wendlek

Patron Sponsor Amount over fair market for ticket

The Carey Family Foundation

Galaxy Sponsor $2,500 Bank of North Georgia Swift Parent Association

Constellation Sponsor $1,000 Tricia and Robert Brandes Laura Ries and Scott Brown EM2 Susanne and Bob Gray Linda and Jeff Pace Loulie and Frank Reese Kathryn and Scott Solomon Stromquist & Company

Star Sponsor $500 Roni and James Battoglia Dr. Mary Hynes Danielak

SAVE THE DATE! 2017 Stellar Gala Saturday, March 18th Swift School

Sheryl and David Covell/Pavillion at Olde Towne Charlotte and Glen Hegwood Michele and David Hirsch

Margaret Celecia Karen and Stephen Clark Jennifer and Paul Cohen Michael Dudgeon Ellyn and Paul Foltz Joanie Gerkin Leslie and David Hein Kari and Zach Hines Regan and Jeff Kudlata Dorcas and John Morris Connie and Andrew Pope Anne Rosenthal Jennifer and Rob Sunderland Mary Welch Cheryl and Walker Wellford Renee and Bobby Wilmath Kathy and James Zimmerman

Presenting Sponsor $5,000

Georgia GOAL 2015-16 Participants

Aurora . Fall 2016

Take part in one of the most successful tax credit scholarship programs in America. Seize the opportunity! Contribute to the Georgia GOAL Scholarship Program and make an impact – at no cost to you – by allowing deserving Georgia students to attend Swift School. Maeghan and Todd Boyd Laura Ries and Scott Brown Margaret and Nicholas Ceto Tamsen and Clark Christensen Danna and David Clary Jennifer and Paul Cohen Julie and Matt Coppedge Blake DiStefano Ellyn and Paul Foltz Susan and Dave Galligos Erinn and Brad Goldman Rachel Grade Susanne and Bob Gray Deborah Haertel Monica and Scott Hickman Kim and Rich Huffman Nalini Humphrey Jennifer and Mitchell Isaacs Regan and Jeff Kudlata Brandy and Mark Lazzara Barbara and Jack Lipasek Kristin and Steve Martin Katherine and James McCormick Ellen and Kenneth Medved Glenda and William Mills Christy and Patrick Moonan Linda and Jeff Pace Julile and Frank Pellizzi Kelly and Richard Phillips Loulie and Frank Reese Leaha and Jason Rice Mara and Chris Robb Elizabeth and Stephen Shanahan Susan and Steve Slifer Kathy and Scott Solomon Sharon Gaffney and Jennifer Stone Jennifer and Rob Sunderland Celynda and Gary Tadlock Laurie Green and John Thielman Jodi and Todd Turnquist Chandra and Charles Tutt Amy and Richard Van Haveren

Kathleen and Ralph Williams Susan and Peter Williams Laura and Steve Willson Lisa and Harold Wyatt Kathy and Jim Zimmerman

Thank you to a caring community for participating in GOAL and making the tax credit program a priority. This remarkable tax credit law allows Swift to admit excellent, deserving applicants to our school. With steady enrollment and tuition income, our school is able to: • Provide the quality education and other offerings our students deserve • Keep tuition rates from increasing as much as they would without this valuable program • Preserve more of our existing financial aid budget to assist families already enrolled

Apply for 2017 tax credit TODAY! www.goalscholarship.org

CATEGO

Swift School

. Subtitle . Subtitle CATEGORY CATEGORY

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I love Swift School because the teachers can pay so much more attention to all of the kids

and I have fun learning, too!â&#x20AC;?

Aurora . Fall 2016

7th grade student

Swift’s Five-Point Promise

Students are embraced for who they are and the potential they possess.

Dyslexia is viewed through the lens of leading-edge brain– science and seen as a brain-type with great advantages.

Students emerge as academically prepared and confident individuals, enthusiastic about learning and skilled in self-advocacy.

3 Swift is a collaborative community of nurturing teachers, therapists and families working together to guide each student’s journey.

Teachers use multisensory methods, customized to each student’s learning style and proven to achieve success with dyslexia.

300 Grimes Bridge Road Roswell, GA 30075 theswiftschool.org