Atlanta Independent School Directory 2013
It’s no secret that Atlanta offers a wealth of school choices and
learning resources. The following profiles highlight just a few of the independent schools and nearby boarding schools serving the metro Atlanta area. For additional information about the schools listed here, including location, class size and open house dates, see our “Beyond the Basics” Guide.ATLANTA GIRLS’ SCHOOL
Atlanta Girls’ School offers girls in grades 6 through 12 a college-preparatory curriculum of the highest standards. Graduates attend Ivy League schools, prestigious liberal arts colleges, leading southeastern universities and respected research institutes. Atlanta Girls’ School was custom-built for one purpose: girls’ achievement and success. Girls attending AGS learn to take appropriate risks, be courageous leaders, give back to their communities and project personal confidence and competence in all they do.
Through classrooms, sports, stage and community involvement, AGS leverages the legacy and experience of girls’ schools all across the country, preparing girls to be respected leaders in every field. With access to real-world experiences, AGS students complete two customized internships with local, national or global organizations. Combined with the two-week “Winterim” program, community service and global travel programs, internships fuel extracurricular learning that culminates in each student’s senior speech to the entire school. For more information, call 404-845-0900 or visit www.atlantagirlsschool.org.
ALEXSANDER ACADEMY
Alexsander Academy, located in Alpharetta, serves students who need a small, academically focused but flexible learning environment to be successful. The school focuses on academics, independence skills and classroom and social skills. Alexsander Academy believes all children are capable when taught the way they need to learn. Alexsander builds students’ self-esteem by fostering an environment where they are successful but also challenged, where expectations are high but realistic, and where they are able to form true friendships with their peers. For more information, contact Stefanie Smith at 404-839-5910 or at smith@alexsanderacademy.org, or visit www.alexsanderacademy.org.
THE BEDFORD SCHOOL
The Bedford School offers a fresh start to students who have been frustrated in a traditional setting due to learning differences. The school serves children who have been professionally diagnosed as having specific learning disabilities and related disorders.
Bedford is located on a 45-acre campus in Fairburn, Ga., 15 minutes south of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Its mission is to maximize the potential of children with learning differences and develop foundations for success; this is accomplished through small classes, a structured, multisensory approach and a dedicated staff.
The school’s Squirrel Hollow Camp summer program offers academic tutoring in a recreational environment. Call Betsy Box, director, at 770-774-8001 or visit www.thebedfordschool.org for more information.
THE CHILDREN’S SCHOOL
The Children’s School, founded in 1970, is an institution of educators devoted to teaching young children. The curriculum is a rich and academically rigorous one, centered on experiential learning and building critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Students at TCS benefit from a formal character education program, Building Character & Community, and a unique outdoor education component of the curriculum.
The Children’s School offers a number of after-school programs that serve day-school students and elementary-aged children in the greater community. Its 10-building Midtown campus across from Piedmont Park allows for freedom within boundaries—a hallmark of its educational philosophy. The Children’s School serves a diverse group of students age 3 years old through the sixth grade. TCS graduates go on to attend and excel at a number of schools throughout Atlanta. For more information, call 404-873-6985 or visit www.thechildrensschool.com.
CLEARWATER ACADEMY
ClearWater Academy is a private state-of-the-art school for students ages 6 through 18 with learning differences (Asperger’s Syndrome, ASD, ADHD, non-verbal learning disability, PDD-NOS). While academics are at the forefront, social and emotional development strategies, assistive technology and therapies support students striving to meet their full potential.
ClearWater Academy is proud to offer new middle- and high-school programs along with career development and practical living opportunities for high school students. Accredited by the Georgia Accrediting Commission, ClearWater Academy accepts the Georgia Special Needs Scholarship (SB-10) and participates in the Georgia Department of Revenue’s tax donation program.
To learn more, call 770-631-3650 or visit www.clearwateracademyga.org.
FAITH LUTHERAN SCHOOL
The success of Faith Lutheran School is built on challenging academics offered in a Christ-centered environment. The curriculum promotes individual achievement, fosters self-esteem, encourages creativity and social skills and is bolstered by arts and sports programs, including band, choir, track, basketball and more.
Students benefit from small classes, experienced, innovative educators and a safe, nurturing environment. Programs are offered for kindergarten through eighth grade, along with preschool for children ages 2 to 4.
Founded in 1958, Faith Lutheran School is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod.
For more information, call 770-973-8921, email faithls@faithlcms.org or visit www.faithmarietta.com/FLS.
EASTSIDE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
Eastside Christian School is celebrating 30 years of providing a quality academic experience from a biblical perspective in a loving environment. ECS has earned a reputation for providing students mastery skills in a core knowledge base and instilling a strong work ethic necessary for a solid academic foundation leading to excellent placement in secondary schools, including magnet programs.
Eastside Christian School teachers are excellent role models who help children develop empathy and character traits that lend themselves to forming good relationships in which they not only enjoy their individual accomplishments but also take pleasure in the success of others. Located in the heart of east Cobb County on a beautiful campus with new state-of-the-art playgrounds, ECS offers K-5 through eighth grade with the option of pre-first grade and an extended day program. Eastside Christian School is accredited with SACS and the Association of Christian Schools International. For information or to schedule a tour, call Lynne Floyd at 770-971-2332 and visit www.eastsidechristianschool.com.
THE FRIENDS SCHOOL
The Friends School of Atlanta (FSA) provides challenging academics in a diverse environment, drawing on the Quaker values of simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality and stewardship to empower students to go out into the world with conscience, conviction and compassion.
Founded as a model of diversity in 1991, FSA strives to address the development of the whole child and seeks to nurture that of goodness within each student.
Offering classes from pre-K through eighth grade, FSA’s program is designed to prepare students for a successful high school future and a lifetime of engagement as thoughtful citizens. For more information, call 404-373-8746 or visit www.friendsschoolatlanta.org.
GREATER ATLANTA CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
As Georgia’s largest Christian, coeducational, college-preparatory school, Greater Atlanta Christian (GAC) prepares students in grades K3 through 12 for success by helping them grow as Jesus did in wisdom, in stature and in favor with God and man. This is accomplished through exceptional academics, athletics and arts. Talented faculty and a low teacher-to-student ratio help students become leaders, critical thinkers and responsible members of a global community.
More than 1,775 students arrive daily to the 80-acre campus 10 miles northeast of downtown Atlanta. Parents, students and faculty partner in the creative, hands-on, collaborative learning approach that GAC offers. The results are 100 percent college-bound students. As an Apple School of Distinction, GAC integrates technology into its curriculum.
Established in 1968, GAC sets the foundation for lifelong learning. Families are strengthened in this one-of-a kind community environment where prayer, praise and worship are daily privileges. For information, call 770-243-2000 or visit www.greateratlantachristian.org.
THE HERITAGE SCHOOL
The Heritage School is an independent, college-preparatory, non-sectarian day school that serves more than 400 students from 4 years of age through graduation from high school. The mission of the school is to develop the mind in preparation for college and later life, develop the body through competition and teamwork, develop the spirit through self-awareness and growth, and develop camaraderie through shared experience. Heritage students have numerous opportunities to learn outside of the classroom starting in pre-kindergarten and take curriculum-based overnight trips starting in third grade. The 43 graduates of the Class of 2013 were awarded more than $3 million in academic scholarships with acceptances to colleges and universities including Harvard, Yale, Georgia Tech, UGA, Wesleyan, SCAD and Duke. The Heritage faculty and staff strive to create enthusiasm for learning and are committed to the growth and development of each child every day. For more information, please call the Office of Admissions at 678-423-5393 or visit www.heritagehawks.org.
JOHNS CREEK MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF GEORGIA
Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia offers authentic Montessori education in the heart of Johns Creek. Observe the “Montessori Magic” happening in the school’s vibrant classroom communities, where children are free to choose from a wide variety of activities and lessons best suited to their development.
Specially trained teachers act as “guides” to the extensive curriculum, planting a seed of wonder that grows into a desire for greater knowledge. Multi-age classrooms allow younger children to learn from older ones, and for older children to reinforce and “test” their learning when helping younger ones. This dynamic, structured environment nurtures a strong work ethic, love of learning, and a passion for discovery not found in other schools.
Dr. Maria Montessori wrote: “Education should no longer be mostly imparting of knowledge, but must take a new path, seeking the release of human potentialities.” Help your child to reach their full potential.
Call 770-814-8001 to schedule a tour or visit www.johnscreekmontessorisog.org.
HEBRON CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
Hebron Christian Academy has two campuses, but only one mission: to help parents prepare their students spiritually, academically, physically and socially to become disciples of Jesus Christ.
HCA is a private Christian school currently serving 929 students from kindergarten through grade 12. HCA offers an academically challenging program, including AP and honors classes, with students scoring far above national averages. The school also offers award-winning fine arts programs and leadership development. In addition, HCA offers a broad range of sports; students participate competitively in Georgia High School Association Region 8A. For more information, call 770-963-9250 or visit www.hebronlions.org.
MASSANUTTEN MILITARY ACADEMY
Massanutten Military Academy has partnered with the Heroic Imagination Project to create a unique and rewarding boarding school experience, centered on a personal development plan that includes formal mentoring, setting and managing goals and teaching situational awareness along with the critical thinking skills to navigate them. This program underlines Massanutten’s mission to produce confident, capable and productive citizens who are prepared for leadership.
Massanutten’s academic curriculum includes Project Lead the Way, a hands-on STEM program supported by America’s leading corporations and foundations. Additionally, Massanutten offers a variety of Advanced Placement and honors classes, college entrance testing preparation and electives including Highland bagpipe and drum band, art, drama, journalism, yearbook and a course on imperialism.
Founded in 1899, Massanutten Military Academy is a coeducational boarding school serving grades 7 through 12 and a post-graduate program, located in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley in Woodstock, Virginia. Please call 540-459-2167, ext. 1, or visit www.militaryschool.com more information.
PINECREST ACADEMY
Pinecrest Academy is a private pre-K through 12 college-preparatory Catholic school. Pinecrest provides an atmosphere of academic rigor and critical thinking, while offering personalized attention in a Christ-centered environment of faith and reason.
Pinecrest Academy prepares students to become committed Christian leaders, eager to transform a global society. It accomplishes this in a gender-separate environment on a coed campus. Following the educational philosophy of the Legionaries of Christ, Pinecrest implements the Integral Formation education method to develop the spiritual, intellectual, human and apostolic dimensions of the whole person. The school challenges its students to identify and use their gifts in service to others.
Pinecrest Academy provides a safe, moral and spiritual environment that leads to positive peer groups and joyful, caring, confident students. The school serves the Archdiocese of Atlanta, local parishes, regional Christian and civic communities and others who embrace its educational philosophy. For more information, call 770-888-4477 or visit www.pinecrestacademy.org.
PROVIDENCE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
Providence Christian Academy is a unique, mid-sized K-12 interdenominational Christian school in the Atlanta area, offering an accredited program that rivals larger schools while providing more personal attention and the comfortable fit of a smaller student body.
As a parent-sponsored school, Providence Christian Academy is more than an academic institution, it’s a community of believers, consisting of Christian parents in partnership with Christian educators to help young people develop their God-given gifts and abilities. High standards in academic, athletic and fine art achievements and spiritual growth have been the hallmarks of Providence for more than 20 years.
For more information, please call 770-279-7200 or visit www.providencechristianacademy.org.
SOPHIA ACADEMY
As a Marist-sponsored school pursuing Catholic status, Sophia Academy sees each child as an individual with unlimited potential, if given the opportunities and tailored instruction for different learning styles. Small classes and innovative multisensory instruction, combined with weekly teacher training, produce results for all children. Ninety percent of students master their personalized goals, and 80 percent participate in extracurricular activities.
The curriculum includes international Orton-Gillingham language learning and modified Common Core standards. Award-winning theater and sports teams, fine arts and religious education broaden students’ interests, promote leadership, develop talents and shape character. Your child will be known and valued.
Sophia Academy serves pre-K through high school and is located at 2880 Dresden Drive in Atlanta. Call 404-303-8722 or visit www.sophia academy.org for more information.
ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC SCHOOL
Celebrating its 60th anniversary as a K-8 school within the Archdiocese of Atlanta, St. Joseph Catholic School is a 2003 National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence. Accredited by AdvancED, St. Joseph offers an academically challenging curriculum and a focus on character-building that fosters the development of the whole child. The standard curriculum is enhanced with weekly school mass, art, music, computer lab and Spanish. Extracurricular opportunities include drama, robotics, basketball, volleyball and more. Located at 81 Lacy Street in Marietta, Ga. Call 770-428-3328 or visit www.stjosephschool.org for more information about this remarkable school.
SPRINGMONT
By his mother’s account, a young Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon.com Inc., one of the most dominant online retailers, was so engrossed in his school activities that his Montessori teacher picked him up in his chair to move him to new tasks. Engaged learning such as this occurs daily at Springmont, which is celebrating 50 years in Atlanta this year. Springmont provides a progressive learning environment where lessons are experienced, not just taught, and a sense of wonder is inspired in students. Springmont is located on a 7-acre wooded campus in the heart of Sandy Springs. This hands-on, discovery-based education serves children ages 1. to 14. Springmont provides students with a foundation for learning that supports problem-solving, develops collaborative skills, grows self-awareness and ignites imaginations for a lifetime. As a result, graduates matriculate to Atlanta’s finest high schools. Visit the Springmont campus and see the environment where your child will thrive. For more information, call 404-252- 3910 or visit www.springmont.com.
WOODWARD ACADEMY
Woodward Academy is metro Atlanta’s long-proven leading college-preparatory independent school for families who want the certainty of more complete preparation for college and life. Tapping into more than a century of educational wisdom, Woodward Academy transforms each experience into a tangible opportunity for learning and growth. Woodward students develop a deep respect for difference as they collaborate with peers who come from 23 metro Atlanta counties, and from a broad array of religious, economic and ethnic backgrounds.
Woodward students find opportunities to explore and excel at every level, whatever their interests. They receive wise guidance at every step—from the first day of pre-K to the final AP exam—expanding their academic capacities through specialized instruction and individualized support.
A typical Woodward Academy graduating class attends more than 100 different colleges and universities, devotes 5,000 hours to community service projects and earns more than $13 million in scholarship awards.
Because of the Woodward experience, Academy graduates are notably confident and well-prepared for college and beyond as they enter the complex and evolving world.
For more information, call 404-765-4001 or visit www.woodward.edu.
For additional information about the schools listed here, including location, class size and open house dates, see our “Beyond the Basics” Guide.
