1997 Georgia public schools of excellence

Gill E300. PS
SI .9 19q1
1997
Georgia
Public Schools
of Excellence
Unda C. Schrenko State Superintendent of Schools Georgia Department of Education

The Georgia Department of Education thanks the schools and systems for providing infonnation and photographs for this book.

Foreword
This is the 14th year for the Georgia Schools of ExceJIe:nce Program. A total of 98 schools participated in the program this year. The program is open to aD public schools and is designed to ;dentify and hono< unu>UaIJy """...tUJ public ochoob throughout OUT state. lhe goal of the program is not necessarily to find the -best- schools in Georgia but to kientify schools that are doing an exceptionally fine job. This is not a ranking of the top schools in our state. but examples of outstanding programs from various regions of Georgia.
The schools were saeened by convnittees of 10cal Georgia educators from congressional districts other than the ones in which the schools are located. These committees - composed of principals, curriculum directors, teachers and superintendents - recommended a maximum of three schools, one from each leveJ (elementary, middle and high schoon from each congressional district to be forwarded to the Florida Depart menl of Education for review. Committees of Florida eduClitOrs made the final selections for the 1997 Georgia Schools of Excellence.
Information provided by the schools on each of the following conditions of effective schooling guided the selection this year.
Building leadership Teaching environment Curriculum and instruction Student environment Parent and community support Indicators of success Organizational vitality

A message from the State Superintendent of Schools
0f2inda rY OiJchrenko
When I think about the 1997 Georgia Schools of Excellence, I find myself contemplating some of the majestic skyscrapers that are visible from my office window in downtown Atlanta_
Like these magnificent buildings. the 1997 Schools of Excellence are a testament to the best thaI our society has to offer. The linest school is like the tallest building. Each is made possible by the steady, dependable support of components that are nol always recognized. Our finest schools, like those skyscrapers, often are taken for granted by those who enjoy their benefits.
This is true of all schools, but it is especially true of Schools of ExceUence. By means of their determination to succeed. their community involvement, and their
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efforts at planning and rigorous self-assessment, the 1997 Schools of Excellence have done what is necessary to earn one of the highest distinctions a school may attain in Georgia.
Take, for example. the administrators and support personnel at these schools. These dedicated professionals are the bricks and mortar of their schools; they are strong and they hold fast in their jobs, and because they do it so steadily, like the bricks and mortar, they may be taken for granted.
Let us not forget the parents and business leaders in each school's community. These fine people are like a building's windows, but instead of supplying fresh air, they supply the school with innovative kleas and school support.
Then there are the teachers. Teachers are the concrete foundation of a school. Without them, a school buih on a foundation of sand would wash away with the first adverse wind or wave.
Our corporate sponsors that are the foundations of this distinguished program and this special night are SouthTrust Bank and the Blue Bird Body Company. We thank them for the tremendous support - financial and otherwise - they give to the Schools of Excellence program.
I would like also to thank Governor zeU Miller for his support of education.
Governor Miller is knovJn in Georgia and throughout the nation as Uthe education governor, " a distinction that is both well-founded and richly deserved.
Most of all, I would like to thank the teachers and educators who have chosen to work in one of the toughest and most rewarding careers possible - teaching.
As for the students, they should not feel left out of this list of 'thank-yous'. After all, they are the reason we have schools; and in the case of the schools represented here tonight, they are the biggest reason why their schools have been judged 'excellent'.
Without them, society's highest hopes - like perfectly constructed skyscrapers with no inhabitants - are just an empty dream.
So to all of you, I say thank you and congratulations.
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/337 c9C<Jrgia: CffJchiJds rfGJ.,zce//ence

Elementary Schools
Disfrict 1 East Broad Street Elementary, Olatham County 2 Early County Elementary, Early County
3 Robert J. Burch Elementary, Fayette County 4 Midvale Elementary, DeKalb County 5 Whitefoord Elementary, Atlanta City 6 Baker Elementary, Cobb County 7 Cartersville Primary, Cartersville City 8 Eastside Elementary, Coffee County 9 Dawson Co. Primary, DaVJSOf1 County 10 Hillcrest Elementary, Dublin City 11 J. H. House Elementary, Rockdale County

Page 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26

Middle Schools

3 Whitewater Middle, Fayette County

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4 Shiloh Middle, Gwinnett County

32

6 S. M. Inman Middle, Atlanta City

34

7 Coosa Middle, Aoyd County

36

8 Perry Middle, Houston County

38

9 While County Middle, White County .. .

40

11 Commerce Middle, Commerce Qty

42

High Schools

1 Herschel V. Jenkins High, Chatham County . .

46

4 Berkmar High, Gwinnett County

.

.... 48

6 Chattahoochee High, Fulton County .

.

50

7 Pebblebrook High, Cobb County

.

.

52

8 Warner Robins High, Houston County ..

.

54

9 Ridgeland High, Walker County .

............... .56

11 Loganville High, Walton County

.

.

58

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Innovation, creativity and vision characterize East Broad Street Elementary School, which seems destined to lead the state into the 21st century with exemplary programs, curriculum and approaches 10 education.
The school has an array of successful programs. The Talent Pool, incorporating Howard Gardner's Theory of Multiple Intelligences, offers advanced science, math, drama, dance and communication labs. The multiage program abolishes traditional kindergarten and first grade structure in favor of a heterogeneously grouped, continuous progress program for five and six year aids. Camp Eagle's Nest, an outdoor science classroom, was created through the efforts of staff, students and the local business community. The 310 school computers are networked, wIth every student and staff member enjoying easy access to Internet services. In Computer Lab 1, the youngest students aTe introduced 10 computer vocabulary, keyboarding and academic software. Computer Lab 2 uses CD-ROM and network software to locus on math and science. Computer Lab 3 is a writing lab in which students use technology to strengthen their writing skills. The school's television production studio has resources that surpass those of some local television stations. East Broad's many effective instructional programs resulted in its participation
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in the 1996 Georgia Bus Trip, which brought state leaders to exemplary schools to view innovative programs.
As part of a schoolwide Title I implementation, staff conducted a needs assessment. The data revealed a need for continued emphasis and improvement in academic achievement, parental involvement and student interpeTSOna1 skills. Strategies to address these areas include the implementation of programs such as Accelerated Reader, Reading Recovery and Junior Great Books. Also, an Alternative Learning Strategies teacher helps parents, teachers and students explore all possible avenues for student success. A full-time Parent Involvement Coordinator manages the parent center, visits homes, provides parent training opportunities and plans a variety of activities to promote family involvement. Parents serve on the Building Leadership Team, the Magnet Advisory Council, the Safe School Team, the Media Conunittee and other decision making groups. The Second Step violence prevention curriculum teaches skills to reduce impulsive and aggressive behavior in children and increases their competence in empathy, impulse control and anger management.
Barbara Knight stated in the September 1995 issue of Guideposts: ~A school is a building with four walls, and tomorrow inside." This concept has become a paradigm of East Broad Street Elementary.

East Broad Street Elementary School 400 East Broad Street Savannah 31401 Enrollment: 867 Grades: K-S Chatham County Schools

Principal Marcia T. Clanton
Superintendent Patrick J. Russo
First District

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With a belief that all students can and wil1leam, a feeling of
pride exists among Early County Elementary School (EeES) students. parents, faculty and community. School spirit is contagious and no goals are thought 10 be unreachable. Located in rural southwest Georgia, ECES consists of 1,400 students in grades preK through fifth. The school has gained a reputation for being a leader in innovative programs thai translate into success for students.
The strength of any school begins at the lop. Richard D. Hall, Superintendent of the Early County School System, and the Early County Board of Education are committed to excellence. They prove their commitment to the children of Early County by providing quality leadership and resources.
A vilal key to the success of ECES has been the school improvement process. Needs assessment instruments identified areas where improvement was most vital. Reading has become a key locus. Two programs have been implemented to help disabled readers-the Early DetectionlNecessary Action (EDNA) reading intervention program and the Accelerated Reader program. In addition, children-centered programs are abundant. Family Connection (a teenage pregnancy prevention program), peer mediation programs, Good Touch/Bad Touch and a strong
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collaboration cound in the community make it possible for ECES students 10 face a nonviolent, nonthreatening setting within the school.
Test scores in reading, math and writing are on the upswing. Through the process of curriculum alignment and targeting students who are at risk in these areas, success is noticeable. All staff development activities center around areas for improvement through the school improvement process. Workshops for staff members stress classroom management skiDs and how to align curriculum to meet the objectives of the Quality Core Curriculum. Improvement goals for ECES are to (l) assure first grade EDNA students read on grade level after fifth grade, (2) score at or above state average on the Iowa Test of Basic Skills, (3) involve aU parents in the education of their children and (4) help students understand nonviolence as a way of life.
Staff members puD logether as a family to ensure the best education for students. By instiUing pride and a feeling that good exists in each student, ECES has become a great place to learn.

Early County Elementary School 400 M.LK., Jr. Boulevard South Blakely 31723 Enrollment: 1400 Grades: PreK5 Early County Schools

Principal Terry L. Tedder
Superintendent Richard D. HaD
Second District

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Robert J. Burch Elemental)' School bears the name of an award-
winning children's author who weaves tales of growing up in rural Fayette County. Burch Elementary continues the saga by weaving the threads of nurturing and acceptance with those of responsibility and citizenship into the daily lives of children and families in the community.
The story of each child is unique and special, Burch recognizes this individuality by continually assessing student strengths and weaknesses. staying abreast of current research and using collaborative planning to ensure that each student can be his or her very best.
The school's uniqueness comes from its joint efforts within the walls of the school, through the community, the nation and beyond. At Burch, a student's welfare is the responsibility of all teachers involved. Cooperation among faculty and staff has resulted in teachers taking the initiative in creating expectations and guidelines to provide uniformity and continuity throughout the schooL Burch Elementary School Team (BEST), the leadership vehicle for site-based management, spends hours of planning each year. Each BEST member chairs II BAT (Burch Achon Tearn), which focuses on curriculum, the school improve-
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ment plan and other areas of concern. This system allows faculty and parent representatives an avenue for participation in decision making.
Integrated with technology, collaboration enabled students to share kieas with others. WAGA television weather station a1JO\.VS Burch students to communicate with students in 20 schools across the state and to study weather conditions across the country. Internet capabilities allowed students to interact with a Native American studying Australia's cultures and with scientists experimenting on the Galapagos Islands. Through GSAMS connections and other technologies. students share tnfonnation on history and culture with their partner school in Dairy, Scotland. In an upcoming NASA connection, Burch students wiD attempt to make radio contact with the orbiting shuttle, Columbia, by working with local HAM radio operators. A post-flight visit by two astronauts will highlight this celebration of collaboration beyond the confines of earth.
The beauty of collaboration, hoI.u-ever, still comes down to the individual classroom teacher and student: that happy smile and the ~aha~ expression on students' faces when they finally "get it~; the congratulatory hug, pat on the back or handshake by a teacher; and the brainstonning efforts among teachers to meet students' needs. By collaborating successful"; Burch interweaves the threads of educaHon, nurturing, acceptance and responsibility to ensure a successful future for students.

Robert J. Burch Elementary School
330 Jenkins Road Tyrone 30290 Enrollment: 714 Grades: K-5 Fayette County Schools

Principal Pamela Riddle
Superintendent Dave Brotherton
Third District

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The warm, nurturing environment at Midvale was created by the school's outstanding TEAM, which believes that working Together Everyone Achieves at Midvale. Setting and reaching goals enabled students to succeed far above expectations in their academic performance, Efforts among administrators, parents, students, teachers and community members created a special bond and a terrific sense of school pride.
Midvale implemented exciting, innovative programs to meet the needs of a diverse student body. Significant gains have been made in promoting the development and growth of underachieving students. Those scoring below the 50th percentile in targeted academic areas on the !c)lNa Test of Basic SkiDs were identified and provided with added academic support and attention. As a result, the nwnber of students scoring below the 50th percentile in each of the targeted areas was decreased by 30 percent.
To motivate top achieving students to do their best at all times, Midvale's Triple A club was formed. This organization encourages and rewards achievement in the areas of Academics, Attendance and Attitude. Students who make aU A's, have perfect attendance and demonstrate positive attitudes are invited to become members. These students are given Triple A chJb T-shirts and cards and receive special recognition throughout the year.
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Staff development opportunities are used by Midvale's staff to enhance instructional skills as they teach for excellence. Monetary support from the Strategic Planning for School Improvement committee and from the PTA enabled Midvale teachers to receive more than 2,000 clock hours of staff development credits in one year. These benefits extend beyond professional grOVJth lor stalf members; they also contribute significantly toward enhancing student achievement.
Diversity among students is reflected culturally, socially, economically and academically. For each Midvale student, achievement remains the locus,
and a genuine concern for student welfare penneates efforts to provide a strong support system for educational grOUlth. Yet, with the many special
needs of students, Midvale proudly maintains the vision that expecting the best produces excellence.

Midvale Elementary School 3836 Midvale Road Tucker 30084 Enrollment: 555 Grades: PreK-6 DeKalb County Schools

Principal Pamela A. Bouie
Superintendent James R. HaUford
Fourth District

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Whitefoord believes that educating everyone takes everyone. This is the light that guides the cooperative effol'15 of parents, teachers, slaff and community members in raising student achievement, increasing parent involvement, bolstering student self-esteem and spreading tremendous goodwiU throughout the community.
Activities beyond the school day have made Whitefoord an exciting and challenging learning environment and a safe haven for students. The afterschool program provides homework assistance daily to approximately one third of the student body. Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts (led by Whitefoord teachers and volunteers from the Marriott Corporation) give students many opportunities 10 grow and develop. Dedicated vownleers from Hands on Atlanta tutor students in the Saturday Discovery Program, and Whilefoord teachers tutor students after school.
Fourth grade students write an original opera each year through the Metropolitan Opera Education Guild's Creating Original Opera program. Students audition to participate in the opera company and perform one of many assigned jobs. Once the company is named, it takes the rest of the year 10 write the opera script. lyrics and melody to the songs; design and build the set and lights; rehearse the performance and put on the
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show. Students who participate exhibit astonishing growth in their creative abilities, self-esteem and academics.
Only a small percentage of U.S. elementary students have the opportunity to leam a foreign language. This is especially true of students from families of lOVJ socioeconomic status. AI Whitefoord, every child in every grade up to the fourth has the opportunity to leam French. ArKl all students have access to computers whkh are used for interactive leaming, problem solving, cooperative leaming, creative VJriting and drill and practice.
Whitefoord has a comprehensive health clinic staffed by a pediatrician, nurse practitioner, registered nurse and other health care providers who serve students and their younger siblings. Under the auspices of Emory University, this clinic is the only one of its kind located in an Atlanta public school. In addition, the Whitefoord Community Center supports families by providing parenting classes, emploo,tment opportunities, family and individual counseling and a preK program.
Partnership with the Marriott Corporation has been successful due to participation of so many Marriott employees in the total school program. They have given financial and human resources that have resulted in parent workshops, student field trips, staff development. teacher and student incentives. They also mentor students and volunteer time for various activities.

Whitefoord Elementary School 35 Whitefoord Avenue, SE Atlanta 30317 Enrollment: 610 Grades: K-5 Atlanta City Schools

Principal Betty J. Blasingame
Superintendent Benjamin O. Canada
Fifth District

15

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Baker is a fast-growing elementary school with a positive, nurturing environment. The school is a child-centered learning community that gathers the support of staff, students and parents to provide an excellent education. Each year parents, students and teachers sign a Covenant lor Learning pledging to do their part 10 ensure the success of the individual chUd.
Through shared planning and decision making the staff sets high expectations, establishes goals and commits to reaching the goals. Baker's high test scores reflect effective instructional strategies and programs based on current research. Tools such as hands-on science and math, the writing process, a balanced literacy program, cooperative learning and an integrated curriculum give students strong preparation for the future. Innovative programs such as AIMS Days, Family Curriculum Nights, Family Days at science centers, science and math clubs support this curriculum. Effective use of technology resources is incorporated through a variety of tools such as Accelerated Reading, 1V production lab, on-line services, electronic field trips and distance learning opportunities in science and Spanish.
Baker students are equipped with the tools of responsibility and interdependence. Student greeters wekome each new student. Peer tutors and Book Buddies work as intergrade level families. Responsibility and respect are the basis for the positive discipline plan in which students set rules and solve problems together in
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class meetings. The student nevJSpaper, Paws and Read, a studentproduced nevJS program and a strong service-oriented student council are examples of student involvement and leadership.
Baker Elementary has entered a coUaborative relationship with Kennesaw State University, which offers tutors, student teachers, science programs for the gifted and technology training. Partners in Education employees serve as mentors to Baker students and fund annual staff development retreats. Parents and partner vohmteers are a part of the daily activity at school. Baker's PTA funds a clinic to meet the wide range of student health needs.
Baker Elementary lives its vision of providing a wealth of opportunities ~in a life lab setting- to prepare chiklren to embrace the future.

Baker Elementary School 2361 Baker Road. NW Acworth 30101 Enrollment: 1450 Grades: K-5 Cobb County Schools

Principal L..inda Gruehn
Superintendent Richard Benjamin
Sixth District

17

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CartersviUe Primary School (CPS) is a child-centered environ-
ment serving the community's 902 preK, kindergarten. first and second graders \Alith a staff of 135 employees. An ongoing school improvement process has allowed CPS to become one of only 12 charter schools in Georgia and a part of Georgia's only
charter school system. Cartersville Primary was selected as a 1996-97 Georgia Pay for Perfonnance participating school. The faculty is currently working on its performance objectives and coUecting supporting data. In addition, the school has been nominated as a 1997 National School of Excellence and is one
of 269 schools across the nation chosen to receive a site visit
from the U.S. Department of Education in April 1997.
High standards of excellence permeate CPS's curriculum and programs, which include innovative multiage classes, a Saxon Phonics pilot. a Failure Free Reading pilot, the Accelerated Reader program, the 5uccessmaker computerized curriculum, the GLOBE science program, a teacher mentor program, a Character Education pilot, an outdoor science center proposal. SIA leaming centers, Saxon Math and Spanish language instruction. While at-risk factors increase and free and reduced price meals have grown from 29 percent to 49 percent in two years, standardized test scores have continued to rise. Numerous changes over the last four years have enhanced schoolwide
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improvement enormously. Central among the changes is the team approach. Faculty and staff have organized into teams of two and three teachers at each grade level. Every classroom is staffed by a teacher and a teacher's aide, which ensures that each chUd has the benefit of more than one adult's guidance arx:l attention. Also, computers used throughout the curriculum challenge students to be technologically literate. Multimedia computers are networked systemwide, giving e-mail and Internel access as well as state-of-the-art courseware for student use.
Cartersville's Charter Schools Improvement Plan has afforded teachers, staff and parents a genuine role in decision making. The school has made a special effort to reach out to the community with a new parent volunteer program. The focus of these activities has been to develop a comprehensive, individualized curriculum and high expectations and performance for all children.

Cartersville Primary School
315 Etowah Drive Cartersville 30120 Enrollment: 902 Grades: PreK-2
Cartersville City Schools

Principal Jimmy D. Allen
Superintendent
Harok! T. Barnett
Seventh District

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The success of Eastside Elementary School results from its pervasive sense of community. With a vision to work cooperatively with home and community to provide a safe. caring and enriching environment for aU students. Eastside strives to fuUiU its mission of developing responsible citizens who are lifelong learners. Faculty. staff and parents serve on the school improvement team. a major driving force behind the implementation of innovative and exciting programs. A student advisory team serves the same purpose, advocating for improved programs and facUities for students.
Eastside's curriculum integrates academic, physical. social and vocational skills with the arts, enriched by a dynamic Accelerated Reader program; Learning Links. a mini-exploratory program; and CHOICES, a schoolwide discipline program to help children improve decision-making skills. Students continually improve in objective measures of academic success, with most significant gains in writing. An in-school postal delivery system involves all students in reading, writing and "real world" experiences that connect with the arts program. Each student and staff member has an address that reflects the names of musicians, visual artists, dancers and theater artists for whom the school's corridors and walkways are named.
Creative scheduling to increase instructional time in reading is important to improved academic achievement. Technology,
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maximized by such programs as Writing to Write, contributes to im proved writing skills, while Saxon Math, Galaxy and AIMS programs help increase math and science scores. With the arts at the core of the most recent curriculum improvements, students learn to study, critique, appreciate and produce original works of art from classroom teachers and arts specialists. Works of famous visual artists displayed in the school's minigalleJV and musical selections played each morning before school provide daily enrichment and exposure to the arts.
The Butterfly Garden provides an outdoor classroom easily accessible to students and teachers for study of plant and animal life. The garden, created through the collaboration of school and community, provides a colorful vista for students and visitors when viewed from inside through a large glassed corridor.
Eastside reflects the spirit of teamwork that penneates the Coffee County-Douglas community as it continues to strive toward excellence in improved programs for students and enriching partnerships with community organizations.

Eastside Elementary School 603 N. McDonald Avenue Douglas 31533 Enrollment: 670 Grades: PreK-5 Coffee County Schools

Principal
8izabeth White
Superintendent James C. Moore
Eighth District

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The busy, happy faces of chiklren, teachers, paTents and slaff at Dawson County Primary School (DCPS) are evidence of a community at work addressing the changes that have affected their school and community in recent years,
Confronting these changes has resuhed in a positive, progressive school where children aTe encouraged to experiment, take lisks, meet challenges and discover ways to succeed. It is the desire of the school and community to instill in each student an excitement and enjoyment of lifelong learning that will help him or her become a productive member of a changing society. Knowing that DCPS is wann, caring and concerned, the community displays pride, interest and involvement in school activities. Citizens feel ownership in the educational process and believe strongly thaI their children are loved. protected and welleducated by the school slaff.
DCPS is committed to providing the proper learning atmosphere and positive learning environment to allow for the optimum growth of each child while recognizing each student's uniqueness. Through flexible programming and varied teaching methods, the school endeavors to develop within each student the positive self-esteem and skills necessary to realize his or her potentia!, The reduced student-teacher ratios and presence of
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paraprofessionals increase opportunities for individualized learning experiences. The school provides a strong academic foundation; development of creativity through exposure to fine and perfonning arts; guidance in character development; and opportunities for developing appreciation of and respect for our envirorunent, our nation and its citizens. The learning experiences are based upon sound learning: principles, the student's language development and developmentally appropriate activities. The spiral curriculum is integrated across content areas.
Key elements which have given DCPS direction and helped establish a vision for the future are the Comprehensive Wellness Tearn, Family Connection, Special Instructional Assistance and teacher-driven initiatives. These activities have helped reduce pup~-teacherratio, increase parent involvement. create a more developmentally appropriate curricu' hJm and establish a sense of pride and commitment within the community to improve the lives of children.
Commitment is shown daily by parent volunteers. social service agency involvement in Family Connection, businesses as Partners in Education and a staff that genuinely cares for children. Efforts have produced increased test scores, approximately $420,000 in grants over the past five years, a Schoolyard Habitat designation for the school's Discovery Trail, thousands of hours of volunteer, business and agency servke and several awards from state organizations. But more importantly, these efforts have created an atmosphere of love, respect and high expectations for the children of Dawson County.

Dawson County Primary School P. O. Box 360, Perimeter Road Dawsonville 30534 Enrollment: 550 Grades: K2 Dawson County Schools

Principal Nicky Gilleland
Superintendent Herbert F. Burnsed
Ninth District

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Hillcrest Elementary School is kl1O\.Vll IocaIIy as the Hillcrest family and is recognized for meeting the needs of children and their families. In 1995 Hillcrest Elementary was the first and only school to receive the Golden Shamrock Award from toe mayor and city council for outstanding contributions to the community.
School improvement and student achievement go beyond the confines of the basic curriculum to incorporate many different learning experiences. Outdoor education grants have turned the campus into a learning resource and made Hillcrest a recipient of beautification awards. The Great American Mail Race, Environmental Exchange Boxes and Star Lab make learning come alive. The PTA operates a Cricket Emporium where students purchase items with reading points. The Galaxy Science program fosters the development of higher level thinking. Due 10 the success of the Reading Renaissance program other schools in the area have adopted this strategy. Hillcrest is in the third year of a partnership with a school system in England in which ideas and materials are exchanged among students.
Curriculum planning takes into account individual and schoolwide strengths and weaknesses, and test scores reflect growth as a result. The entire staff detennines staff development goals lor continued improvement. Some of the areas for 1996-97 inchJde
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Southern Association of Colleges and Schools accreditation, parallel block scheduling, positive discipline and multiple intelligences.
Computer workstations and televisions networked with the media center are in every classroom. Infonnation Station has a CD-ROM for student research, a production room, satellite receiving and distribution capabilities and the Internet. Special features include a parent resource center and a bibliotherapy section.
Hillcrest was a 1995 national winner in Safe and Drug-Free Schools. A committee continues to generate improvements such as the 1997 Cricket Good Behavior Incentives, which contribute to the school being able to say it has no serious discipline infractions. Hillcrest believes that every school. has the potential for greatness if its parents, staff, students and community are willing to put forth the effort and believe in the importance of what they are doing.

Hillcrest Elementary School 1100 Edgewood Drive Dublin 31021 Enrollment: 431 Grades: 3-5 Dublin City Schools

Principal Shellie Stroman Jr.
Superintendent Charles Wal'T'lOCk
Tenth District

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The J. H. House Elementary oommWlity has moved through
major changes in the form of massive physical renovation, new administration, building leadership team concept, weekly grade lewl curriculum meetings, graduate level staff development, technology advances in staff and student competencies, SACS Accreditation Renewal Process. alliances with parent and community groups and a rapidly changing student population. The strict Hnes which traditionally mark the roles of administrator, teacher support personnel and teacher assistant have been blurred as multiple ways are used to teach, raise standards and ooach.
Staff development and special programs have been keys to continued school improvement. The entire school staff is in the process of being trained as teachers of the gifted. Extensive study of the theory of multiple intelligences. the use of strategies to increase learning and the results of brain studies are appliljld to learning in the classroom. In addition, the At-Risk Nucleus Team serves to ensure that the needs of children performing below standard are met. Using differentiated staffing, appropriate personnel are plugged in~ to give students maximum servkes. Title I teachers serve both as team and resource teacher and as a home-school bridge. Special Education teachers have extended classroom support through the inclusion model. The counselor
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oversees a mentorship program for children at risk. It ranges from the apprenticeship model for highly gifted students to modeled kindness for the seriously abused.
Perhaps House's greatest achievement has been to effect a reversal in falling IQ scores. Increased teaching strategies and identification methods have resulted in 25 percent faver referrals to the Student Support Team, thereby slowing referrals for psychological services. The results has been thai faver children qualify for special education. The wide range and number of reading groups has been tremendously reduced also, in some
areas as much as 50 percent.
The curriculum-technology teacher serves not only as a technology trainer but as a partner in instruction. The curriculum technology staff of three assistants team teach, provide lessons, work with individual students and provkle training. Last year, a group of fifth graders combined multimedia, current ne\llS and computers to win the state Ne\lIS Bowl USA competition. A navs team keeps the school abreast of global and
state ne\llS through an inschooltelecast.
The students of House empower teachers to fulfill their mission of making the school a place that is busy building a future for children.

J. H. House Elementary School 2930 Highway 20N Conyers 30207 Enrollment: 544 Grades: PreK 5 Rockdale County Schools

Principal AnnC.Leonard
Superintendent Ellis Dunbar
Eleventh District

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e:Middle OfJchools

CWlll!en-U!er o( riddle 0iJchiJoi
Successful and innoyative programs are the catalysts for academic excellence at Whitewater Middle School. The English curriculum created by WMS staff is currently implemented throughout Fayette County. WMS faculty and administrators provide on-site instruction for Clayton College and Siale University students in the area of middle grades education in a hallmark program meeting with great acclaim. Implementation of the University of Chicago School of Mathematics Project and the organization of Achievers International. an international student business exchange. are further evidence of the commitment to provide an excellent academic environment.
Whitewater science students are the only middle schoolleamers in the county trained 10 make specific environmental observations and report the data via the Internet 10 Global Learning and Obsmvations to Benefit the Environment (GLOBE). Additionally, students may participate in academic bowl, Math Counts, Model UN, mock legislature, geography and spelling bees, Future Educators, yearbook staff and membership in one of almost 100 active clubs sponsored by faculty and staff. The arts play an integral part in academic lives at WMS, as aU students participate in arts excellence, with 41 percent of the student population involved in a perfonning group. Furthermore, foreign language explorations are offered in German, French and Spanish.
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Students are exposed to a variety of technological areas. Programs range from Computer Assisted Design drafting and Computer Numerically Controlled vertical miU to robotics and flight technology. Flnally, Project Adventure, a cooperative learning program designed to promote teamwork and self-confKlence, has had a positive effect on all areas of the school's curriculum. The goals of this program are congruent with those of the American business community.
The School Improvement Tearn meets monthly to decide topics of
importance to academic excellence. Concurrently, an active PTO enhances learning by addressing curriculum and motivational needs. PTO fund raisers supply materials in a combined effort INith the faculty and staff to provide the most optimum learning envirorunent. The PTO is
encouraged to participate in schooIwide cultural events, projects, volunteer services and field trips.
Whitewater students consistently rank higher than the state nonn on standardized tests. A 10 percent increase in eighth grade math. 13 percent inaease in social studies (l7 percent higher than the slale average). and a 20 percent higher average in writing are evidence of the pathways to excellence provided at WMS. Excellence is not an end result - it is the direction chosen for the WMS educational journey.

Whitewater Middle School 1553 Highway 85 South Fayetteville 30215 Enrollment: 1244 Grades: 6-8 Fayette County Schools

Principal Don Chaplin
Superintendent Dave Brotherton
Third District

31

Shiloh Middle School is a chik:l-centered, achievement-oriented school organized around the format 01 three schools within one school. Shiloh places a premium on instructional time, on the well-being of the students and on student-teacher rapport. Each decision made is considered against the guiding statement, "Is this in the best interest of students?"
Teaming is the crux of instruction at Shiloh. The annual Academic Fair is a schoolwide celebration that recognizes learning by the sharing and displaying of projects completed through an interdisciplinary learn approach. Emphasis upon writing strategies, writing across the curriculum, math problem solving, hands-on science, and cooperative learning techniques has led to higher student achievement. Commentaries, portfolios and other alternative assessments are reAective of a philosophy that balances both performances and written assessment.
Students at Shiloh Middle are excited about technology and perceive themselves on the cutting edge of what's new in the world. Four computer labs, a fully automated media center and numerous computers located throughout the building offer opportunity for keyboarding and other formal skill instruction. Faster retrieval of information; use of CD-ROM to access information; word processing to convert polished writing pieces to print; expedient midterm progress reports for all students;
32

and a television production lab that provldes experience in script writing, filming, editing and directing enhance the learning of Shiloh Middle students. A technology coordinator and open scheduling of computer labs promote the use of technology in academic classes.
Shiloh Middle's stimulating climate is characterized by the high levels of involvement on the parts of students, faculty and community. Staff are constantly aware and responsive to the needs of young people. An active PTA enhances the climate through its aVJard winning cuhural arts programs, its Parenl and Family Ufe programs, its hilly funded clink:
worker and its active partk:ipation in all aspects of school life.
Extracurricular activilies abound for students. Basketball, cheerleading and intramurals augment physical education skills and generate positive
competition in leam sports. Cubs include Astronomy; Special Club to promote understanding of handicapped pupils; Family, Careers, and Community Leaders of America; Ufe is More Important 1ban Entering Drugs (UMITED); and Pep Dub. Other organizations and service groups
include Junior Beta Scholastic Society, student council, yearbook staff, Math Counts, National Academic League, Odyssey of the Mind and
Powlead;ng.

Shiloh Middle School 4285 Shiloh Road Uthonia 30058 Enrollment: 1562
Grades: 6-8
Gwinnett County Schools

Principal Valerie Clark
Superintendent Alvin Wilbanks
Fourth District

33

as olf @nmcm
oU/dd/e aschoo/
A retired superintendent of Atlanta Public Schools was knovm 10
say. ~When you're gree:n. you gfOU1; when you're ripe, you rol.~ Inman Middle School thinks it's no coincidence that their signature color is green because they are constantly growing, branching out and reaching toward the beacon of excellence.
Inman's commitment to shared decision making has nurtured a symbiotic community of achievers and believers, empowering students. parents and staff to cultivate innovative programs, challenging curricula and an abundance of mutual respect and support. These efforts have resulted in a haIVest of student and staff achievements and successes, including local, state and national honors. increased computer literacy and consistent academic gains on all measures of assessment.
Two staff members have blossomed as models of professional excellence since the schools' recognition as a school of excellence. Christine Abron, an eighth-grade math teacher, has been chosen as a weekly host of Atlanta Public Schools' Mind Busters program, a television show offering academic assistance and enrichment to students throughout the city. Another math teacher, Mrs. Gwendolyn Hudson in seventh grade, was recently selected as Atlanta Public Schools' Middle School Teacher of the Year.
34

Paramount to any school's success is the committed support of parents and community. Inman is finnly rooted in its community, drawing upon an ever-increasing source of nurturing and support. Annually, the PTA has raised many thousands of dollars to provide grants for innovative teaching practices, student and staff recognition and incentives and curriculum enrichment resources. Currently, they are over half way to the $20,000 goal in the Fill the Shelves campaign, a drive 10 expand resources of the media center. Also, a community business partner, the Midtown Alliance. has received national recognition for ils program that provides mentors from the business community to almost one tenth of Inman's students.
Inman Middle is not content to rest upon its laurels. It continues to grow and till the fertile minds of t<>day's youth tultil the goals of academic
excellence and social responsibility for aU students come to fmiHon. To paraphrase a sage philosopher, "Knowledge is the sweetest flower of aU
this world's perfuming. Education guards it Stul or shower. Detennination keeps il blooming. ~

S. M. Inman Middle School 774 Virginia Avenue. NE
Atlanta 30306 Enrollment: 648
Grades: 6-8 Atlanta City Schools

Principal Barbara Naylor-Hill
Superintendent
Benjamin O. Canada
Sixth District

35

Coosa Middle is making a difference in the lives of children. Teachers and administrators strive to ensure that each student knO\WS that he or she is a valued individual and can achieve success. Students. parents, teachers, administrators and staff members know they are an important part 01 the Eagle Team. The leadership team has aided the school in developing a model school program. recognized within the state as outstanding in many respects, and frequently visited by teams Irom other schools. Teacher ideas are woven into the decision making process. This empowerment provides staff with the freedom to propose ideas which are then integrated into the school.
Teacher input is evident in the creation of the school's Classroom in the Wild, a three-acre outdoor learning center. The center includes more than 40 learning centers created for and by students and teachers to increase hands-on leaming opportunities. The focus of this new interdisciplinary learning center is environmental and historic. Students become involved in activities like planting and haIVesting rice, making archaeological digs. building a log cabin from logs haIVested at the site and making Indian fish traps. The center boasts managed and unmanaged forests and wildlife nesting sites. The amphitheater encourages outdoor presentations of student written productions of historical events. The Classroom in the Wild has proved to be so successful that the faculty is completing four manuals to share with schools who want to create their own outdoor learning centers.
36

The Coosa community supports the school through an award-winning PTA, and through business partnerships. An athletic boosters' club brings additional support, aids in training of future athletes, builds school spirit and sponsors a Youth for Christ Chapler.
Academics at Coosa are not neglected. Students may become Spectacular Spellers or Math Masters for their level.. Academic exceDence is recognized by business partners offering incentive programs.
The school"s uniqueness may well lie in the fact that commitment to the
school and community and to excellence has not faltered. Coosa boasts a
caring staff, friendly students, and a clean building. This fOnTIS a veJY special family community, where kids can be kids and where it is okay to be ~in the mkidleM and a little different.

Coosa Middle School 5041 Alabama Highway SW Rome 30165 Enrollment: 498 Grades: 6-8 Royd County Schools

Principal Raben Puckett
Superintendent Jackie Collins
Sellenth District

37

12errp cJv(iddle QfJchod
Perry Mkkile was the p~ot school for the middle school concept in Houston County. Since that time it has been committed to the middle school program as the best way to serve young adolescents. Perry's successful program inchxles a full range of exploratory offerings which include drama, choral mUSK, band. computer, industrial technology, visual arts, foreign languages, and home economics. Academic course offerings include the traditional mathematics, sciences, social studies and language arts. Included in these areas are special services lor gilted and talented students along with the lull range of special education services. A reading lab offers seventh grade students a special opportunity to set individual goals and attain them. Use of the Accelerated Reader has enabled the school to make a commitment 10 become a school of readers.
A strong guidance and counseling program is the backbone of support for the students. Classroom guidance, small groups and individual counseling activities can be obselVed at any time. Teams meet with students, parents and support personnel to address strengths and weaknesses and meet the education needs of students. Strong orientation programs in the spring of each year prepare upcoming and outgoing classes. Shadow Day and school visits are important orientation activities. Homeroom buddies make transition smooth for new students. An active Peer Helpers group works with students who are having difficulties. Helpers also serve students at a nearby elementary school.
38

When students are happy and feel successful, then parents and faculty are happy and feel successful. An open line of communication is the key to success. The use 01 the student tool kit ensures this open communication. Perry Middle offers a variety of extracurricular activities and a full range of athletics to encourage student success. A WAVE (Weapons and Violence Education) officer is a valuable member of the staff and works with students in and out of the classroom.
Peny's Program Improvement Council meets weekly to discuss and act upon any needed improvements to the school. Staff set the agenda. Teachers are invited to participate in intervi~ for new personnel. A yearly planning retreat gives everyone a feeling of OUIllership in the kind of governance that makes Peny Middle "a great place for in-betweenag'"

Peny Middle School 1500 Sunshine Avenue Peny 31069 Enrollment: 810 Grades: 6-8 Houston County Schools

Principal Bobby G. Pennington
Superintendent Tony Hinnant
Eighth District

39

CWlllte [7011ll1p 0{fiddle atJcltoo/
White County Middle School (WCMS) is a school with a vision. Reaching that vision is not just a destination, but a course sel tOVlard attaining and maintaining excellence. Excellence is viewed as dynamic, not static. Program improwment is a continuous process. Consequently, the staff currently is in the process of evaluating the total school program using the National Study of School Evaluation model, which provides opportunity for all stakeholders to share in school evaluation and improvement.
WCMS is committed to providing students with opportunities to learn and develop in basic skills and grow as caring individuals who can and do experience success as members of a group. The development of the total child is evident; the climate is pleasant yet productive. Staff members impart high expectations for students and for themselves as individuals. Staff members hold an extremely high percentage of graduate degrees including 15 masters degrees, 10 specialists degrees and four earned doctorates. Commitment to personal excellence rests not with credentials; individual work habits of staff members are representative of excellence and seNe as an invaluable role model for students.
The program of study is based on the unique needs of the middle grades child. Staff help students with learning experiences
40

rYO!l1!l1erce oUidd/e 0ffjcltoo/
Commerce Middle School is a community oriented place with an eye on excellence. The staff's mission is to empower all students 10 become lifelong l(>3mers and to excel as critical thinkers in a culturally diverse, ever-changing society. Commerce's faculty and
staff focuses on quaJity in aU endeavors and achievements. Shxlents are encouraged to take risks, be individuals and
celebrate the successes of each student.
Excellence begins with a staff that sets high expectations for students_ A love of learning is stimulated through a variety of instructional methods which allow students to learn in their own way at their own pace. Activities such as tie dyeing T-shirts or creating wall murals, classroom extensions such as an outdoor classroom and field trips, and real-life educational experiences connect with all students' learning needs. From writing and illustrating poems to building sand castles on Tybee Island beach, students are encouraged to be individuals and to do their best.
Through Commerce Middle's Renaissance program students celebrate their successes. A partnership with local businesses supports school goals, enhances curriculum and encourages student achievement and self-worth. This program fosters the belief that as students experience achievement, their enjoyment of learning opportunities also increases. Students who improve and excel receive recognition at assemblies and throughout each grading period. Privilege cards for admission to athletic events
42

and socials. school and community store discounts, T-shirts and special off-campus trips are earned at the respective academic level if behavior and attendance requirements are met. Students also receive Tiger Bucks as rewards for grades, behavior, work habits, citizenship or attendance. Auctions are held at the end of each semester for students to purchase items ranging from basketballs and CD players to six-packs of soft drinks.
In conjunction with committed stalf. the Renaissance program has produced dramatic results in its first two years of implementation. The support and involvement of the community has generated positive results for students in and out of the classroom. Commerce Middle School wiD continue to keep an eye on excellence as the school and community buiki a future together.

Commerce Middle School 825 lakeview Drive Commerce 30529 Enrollment: 253 Grades: 6-8 Commerce City Schools

Principal Mark D. Petersen
Superintendent Doc Elliot
ElelJenth District

43

csJeersche! Ct7 cJenkil1S
csJeig"h CffJcJltJo!
Jenkins High School is living its mission to ensure that students develop to their funest potential ... 10 assume a full and productive role in a dynamk, diverse world society. Faculty and staff recognize that the school's challenges and its strengths both
lie in Jenkins' diversity: the lop priority is to provide a rigorous, challenging academic program to meet the educational needs of a diverse student population, and a major strength is the diversity found in the programs offered 10 meet those needs.
The Engineering and Robotics Magnet Academy provides a challenging college preparatory curriculum to 300 students. And the Engineering and Industrial Career Academy, one of six pilot career academies in Georgia, was established this year as a joint effort of business and education and will prepare students lor skilled technical positions at local industries. The Optional Program with Training, now in its eighth year, has been rated number one in the nation consistently. More than 200 students have obtained their GED through this accelerated alternative program. In addition, two cooperative education work programs and Jobs for Georgia Graduates prepare 120 juniors and seniors for employment.
Jenkins has the largest gifted program in the school district, with 196 students. Advanced Placement classes and Joint enrollment
46

programs /:lllow postsecondary credit to be earned while in high school. Approximately ISO juniors and seniors take advantage 01 these programs.
The Special Education program is the largest high school program in the district. provkiing services for 140 students. The effectiveness of special education is evidenced by students' academw: successes and involvement in extracurricular activities. In adellllon. the Remedial Education program Senles approximately 175 students.
An Introduction to Teaching pilot class provides students with opportunities for practical experience in classroom teaching in a nearby school.
Strong academw: programs supported by extensive tutorial and enrichment opportunities produce academic success and high standardized test scores. Jenkins' five-year trend in SAT scores indicates an overall increase of 59 points, consistently placing the school above the state average and. in 19%, exceeding the national average. Likewise, Georgia High School Graduation Test scores are consistently the highest in the district and above the state average. A high rate of acceptance at postsecondal)l schools. miUions of dollars annually in scholarships, successful academic competition teams, extracurricular activities, improved promotion rates and decreasing disciplinal)l referrals are additional indicators of student successes.

Herschel V. Jenkins High School 1800 E. DeRenne Avenue Savannah 31406 Enrollment: 1456 Grades: 9-12 Chatham County Schools

Principal James Green
Superintendent Patrick J. Russo
First District

47

Berkmar's faculty and student body are the school's primary strengths. There is a strong dedication to teaching and learning on the part of both teachers and students. Students readily accept the notjon that Berkmar is a place 10 learn. to mature and to grow in a diverse setting.
Berkmar has two primary school improvement areas currently under way. Teachers are in the process of introducing technology across the curriculwn in every classroom. The use of technology for instructional improvement is the number one priority. The second priority is an avid interest in assuring that Berkmar graduates will have polentiallor immediate acceptance into the world of work. The school is engaged in frequent dialogues designed to ensure that the courses taught and the programs emphasized are relevant and useful to students as they enter the work force directly out of high school.
Berkmar's community school and evening programs are the best in Gwinnett County. More than 39,000 individuals have participated in afterschool programs and classes in the last year. There is a spirit of community at Berkmar that transcends classification, race, color or creed.
Improved academic achievement is at the forefront 01 Berkmar's endeavors. Though the school's population might be described as one in transition. standardized test scores continue to rise.
48

Advanced Placement scores in science and language arts are at the top on both county and national levels. SAT and ACT scores continue to rise
yearly. Last year more than 96 percent of students passed aU compo-
nents of the Georgia High School Graduation Test.
Berkmar High School represents a proud 32-year tradition of servk:e to students and community. It is a family dedicated to the notion that it is making a real difference in the lives of those it serves.

Berkmar High School 405 Pleasant Hill Road U1burn 30247 Enrollment: 1875 Grades: 9-12 Gwinnett County Schools

Principal Jim L Markham
Superintendent Alvin Wilbanks
Fourth District

49

Chattahoochee High School is dedicated to the vision of becoming and remaining one of America's lighthouse schools. Principal Robert Burke leads the faculty, staff. students and parents in the common goal of becoming a nationally competitive high school in the areas of academics, the arts. athletics and service to the community.
In the neN" millennium students will need a broad spectrum of skills and knowledge as their foundation for succeeding in a complex. rapidly changing world. Expectations for academic achievement are high at Chattahoochee. Critical thinking skills are taught in all disciplines. Cross'departmental collaboration is stressed to provide a more integrated curriculum. CHS also has significantly expanded use of computer software in classrooms and maintains eight student computer labs. Career technology programs are offered in electronics, graphic communicatlons, automotive sciences and health sciences. Students are involved in programs that improve interpersonal skills so that they may be sensitive to people of all cultures and work cooperatively with others throughout their lives. In every classroom students are continually reminded of The Chattahoochee Way, which states, "1) Respect the person and property of yourself and others, 2) Take pride in who you are, where you are and what you do, and 3) Exhibit integrity in all aspects of life. M
50

School goals are established by the administrative leam and department chairpersons, with input from many faculty-parent-student groups. Goals for the 1996-97 school year include the continued stressing of crossdepartmental efforts, increasing multicultural sensitivity, proactively addressing the needs of 0 and F students and analyzing and improving the Advanced Placement program. This year, participation in the Pay for Performance program has opened the door to establishing additional school improvement programs and objectives.
One challenge faced by Chattahoochee in recent years has been continuo ing to provide excellent academic and personal opportunities in an overc~ed environment. Working v.rith a current enrollment of 2,815 students attending a school constructed for 2,000 has meant initiating innovative uses of aU physical and human resources. The most obvious innovation is an overlapping schedule fol1orwed by administrators, teachers and students. Oasses begin at 7 a.m. for some students and at 8:52 a.m. for others. BiUIlChes and lunches are served continuously from 9:08 in the morning until 1:42 in the afternoon. Extracurricular meetings are held sometimes twice a day to serve aD interested students. CHS students, parents, faculty and administrators have cooperated to make this challenging schedule run smoothly through two school years.

Chattahoochee High School 5230 Taylor Road Alpharetta 30202 Enrollment: 2815 Grades: 912 Fulton County Schools

Principal Robert E. Burke
Superintendent Stephen D. Dolinger
Sixth District

51

A shared vision of leadership and responsibility held by faculty, students and community has propelled Pebblebrook High School to the position of eminence it holds in the county and the state. Amid a diversity of students and a changing student population, Pebblebrook continues to provKle a strong educational program, equipping students for productive citizenship in a society of constant change.
Major school restructuring efforts were initiated at Pebblebrook in 1990 when faculty and other shareholders developed a common vision of their mission as educators. Simultaneously, teachers, administrators. students and support personnel combined efforts to make leadership and decision making a shared responsibility. Faculty and student leadership teams were fonned, and student needs established the basis for all positive changes at Pebblebrook. Specific educational goals are set yearly, and assessment of progress toward goal completion is ongoing. One significant change has been the addition of the Ninth Grade Center to assist freshmen with transition into high school. Strategies that address such critical issues as student attendance, achievement, motivation and involvement have been implemented. When measured by test scores, student and teacher attitude and student participation and attendance, strategic planning has been quite successful.
52

To provide for an increasingly diverse student population, Pebblebrook offers both the college and the technology preparatory diplomas. As the performing arts magnet school for Cobb County, the performing arts program serv~ some 250 students with concentrations in choral music, dance and drama. Advanced Placement courses are offered in cakulus, English, economics. history and physics; fourth-year levels of study have been added in Latin, French and Spanish. Applied courses are offered in English, science, math and technology. To better prepare students for a high-tech future, a writing lab, interactive language lab, three upgraded computer labs and a media center complete with CD-ROM and Internet r~earch capabilities are available. To further address student needs, Pebblebrook offers regularly scheduled tutorial opportunities in math, English and SAT preparation.
Pebblebrook uses several media to keep the lines of communication between school and parents open. Falcon Flyer, Pebblebrook Pride Sheet, Center Star and the PTSA nev.>sletler are used to update parents. Additionally, homework hotline and a website on the Internet have been added.
Pebblebrook's faculty is dedicated and willing to share the responsibilities of leadership and to initiate change to promote student success. Students who experience gains in academic achievement and in practicing mutual respect for individual differences further manifest the success wrought by positive change.

Pebblebrook High School 991 Old Alabama Road Mableton 30059 Enrollment: 1267 Grades: 9-12 Cobb County Schools

Principal Sue Gunderman
Superintendent Richard BenJamin
Seventh District

53

F.__~



Br J




(Warner @2..obim
d6h C'ffJchoo!
So many things about Warner Robins High School {WRHSl are sources of pride. Outstanding academic and vocational programs empower all students to strive for their personal best. Numerous athletic programs and a variety of dubs permit maximum participation for those students interested in exlracunicular activities. An active faculty executive committee, strongly supported by a receptive administration, foslers shared decision making on issues. First and foremost as a source of pride are the strong academic programs maintained and the high expectations students strive to meet.
Since 1990 five new Advanced Placement courses have been added to WRHS's cUrriculum, bringing the total from which students may choose to 11. As course offerings have increased so has the number of students taking these courses and their exams. Even with increased numbers. scores have been consistently higher than the national average, with last year's scores exceeding the nation's average by 21 percent. The success of this program resulted in the school being named a Five-Star school in the Advancement Placement category by the Council of School Performance.
The addition of tech-prep classes, apprenticeship programs and four new writing labs, along with the continued efforts of

54

dedicated teachers and counselors, have contributed to decreased dropout rates and increased standardized test scores, This perfonnance qualified WRHS as a High Achieving Exempt School by the Georgia Board of Education.
This type of success by students and faculty can come about only in a positive learning environment. Students and faculty know that their opinions truly matter and that their ideas are always welcome. The planning retreat in June 1996 brought faculty and administraUon together for two days in Atlanta revievJing data acCtunulated from the entire staff to establish goals for the coming YaT. Students are frequently surveyed or asked to serve on committees to address issues or to help redesign traditional events to make them more relevant.
Excellence in education is not just a cliche at Warner Robins High School. When everyone works together, positive outcomes are the resuh. The school's mission requires that students are taught both content and concept. They must leave school with a vast amount of content and a finn concept of ......nat it is to be responsible citizens of a responsive community. Subscribing to the philosophy that one's reach should exceed one's grasp, WRHS aims high. Students and facuhy have a sense of communal pride that motivates a continued quest for exceUence.

Warner Robins High School 401 S. Davis Drive Warner Robins 31088 Enrollment: 1362 Grades: 9-12 Houston County Schools

Principal Marianne Melnick
Superintendent Tony Hinnant
Eighth District

55

@?'idgdcmd d6gh CffJchoo!
'Together We Make it Happen" was and is the motivating attitude behind the successful consolidation in 1989 of two high schools into Ridgeland High School. The catalyst to Ridgeland's becoming a school of excellence was the willingness on the part of two divergent communities to fann unified teams to work together. raise expectations and challenge each other and the students to become one exceptional school. A school improvemenl team composed of teachers, parents, students, business and community leaders and central office staff set a plan that has culminated in a strong awareness of the school's potential for greatness and the realization of IT\Clny of its major goals.
To gain insight into other materials and methods, school personnel have become involved in the High Schools That Work consortium, national conventions and regional workshops. Insights gleaned from these sources have been used to institute a curriculum for 21st century education, Experimentation and implementation of the educational process is continuing, and better attendance, grades and attitudes are resulting. Team teaching, applied classes, advanced placement classes, freshman orientation and study skills classes, alternative school, special needs classes and more flexible scheduling have upgraded standards and heightened expectations for learning. Summer reading requirements, accelerated reading programs, daily reading and writing assignments as well as research requirements have helped 10 raise tesl scores.
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Students are being prepared for a tedmologically advanced world of college or work because of computer writing labs, mathematics labs, a music lab, business labs, a technology lab and keyboarding labs. Classrooms are being networked to the media center to facilitate research and retrieval capabilities. The Internet is accessible to teachers and students for woridwide research in a state-of-the-art equipped media center. And, communkation using e-mail is possible between some classrooms.
Any excellent school must have parental involvement. Open house.
evening performances of dramas and musicals, sports events. individual student-parent-teacher advisement, registration nights. Emphasis Week and conferences have fostered parent participation in their chikiren's education. Community resources used by the school and vic:e-versa have made the community become a part of the education process.
The excellence achieved at Ridgeland High School has not been achieved by accident. It has been achieved daily by diligence and hard work. Programs have been initiated and implemented by teachers, parents. students and community leaders who have dared to dream about possibili-
ties. A school is excellent when it involves all stakeholders in the educa-
tional process.

Ridgeland High School 2478 Happy Valley Road Rossville 30741 Enrollment: 1198 Grades: 9-12 Walker County Schools

Principal Donald T. Swafford
Superintendent Truman T. Atkins
Ninth District

57

62iJcmm!!e aJ6h 0lJchiJlJ!
Four years ago a vision of high expectations for all students and a concerted effort to involve parents and community members in every aspect of school life were initiated at Loganville High School. The results of this continuous improvement effort have been rising lest scores, a dramatic increase in the number of honor roll students and honor gmduates. declining dropout and failure rates. a decrease in student discipline referrals and
absenteeism. along with nearly 100 percent paTent involvement
in yearly student advisement meetings. As the vision has been refined, redefined and nurtured, aU staff members have become
key participants in decisions that affect the school.
One of the first programs initiated was a student incentive and recognition program. Students earn privilege ID cards which entitle them to free or reduced admission to school events, discounts at local businesses and restaurants, and other ~perks~ such as reduced parking and locker fees, along with early dismissal to lunch. Students who maintain exemplary attendance earn free yearbooks, class rings, portrait packages and graduation supplies. As the faculty and staff became more involved in dialogue about ways to bolster academic achievement, the school became heavily committed to the Southern Regional Education Board's High Schools That Work program. Through this program students who do not plan to allend a four-year college or university are pushed to complete the same demanding curriculum but in an applied approach. At Loganville, Iow-Ievel
58

courses were eliminated and more time and effort devoted to helping all students plan a meaningful and focused program of study that is connected to their eventual career goals.
Relevant and focused professional development is linked to school improvement at Loganville. Each year a postplanning teacher institute helps staff revisit and refine the school's mission and commitment to increasing student achievement. LHS staff selVe as instructors for in' house staff development. obselVe each other and visit other schools known for outstanding practices. At LHS the teacher training grO\lJS directly out of the school's vision of excellence for all students.
Parent and community involvement is very strong at Loganville. The ParentTeacher-Student Organization leads the way in promoting academic excellence through support of the yearly Honors Night program, the sponsoring of report card ~Open Houses, n and the collecting of thousands of dollars each year in scholarships. A school advisory council was created 10 provide a monthly forum for parents and commu nity leaders to hear new program ideas and provide feedback on changes. Finally, the staff believe so strongly in the need for parents 10 stay involved in their children's education that they seNe as faculty advisors to small groups of students for their entire high school experience. Each year these faculty advisors meet in individual planning and review conferences with parents of every advisee.

Loganville High School 150 Clark McCullers Drive Loganville 30209 Enrollment: 993 Grades: 912 Walton County Schools

Principal Kenneth Prichard
Superintendent Edith Belden
Eleventh District

59

Elementary Schools

StUston Elementary

Lee County Elementary

Cherokee Elementary

Barksdale Elementary

E.S. Jackson Elementary..

.

Crescent E1ementaJY

West Side Elementary

Moore St. Elementary

Wauka Mountain Elementary

Comer Elementary

Bulloch County

.

Lee County

.

Americus City

. Rockdale County

Fulton County

Spalding County

Marietta City

Dublin City

Hall County

Madison County

Middle Schools and Junior High Schools

Risley Center Middle School

Lee County Upper Elementary

Fort Junior High

Conyers Middle School

Ralph Bunche Middle School.... .

Evans Junior High

Tapp Middle School

Ballard A Middle School.............

.

North Whitfield Middle School..................

Oconee County Intermediate

Glynn County Lee County
Muscogee County Rockdale County
Atlanta City . Coweta County
Cobb County Bibb County ... Whitfield County Oconee County

High Schools

Brunswick High School

Valdosta High School

_

Hardaway High School

Lakeside High School.......

.

North Fulton High School

Carrollton High School....................

East Rome High School

Central High School......

.

Etowah High School......

.

Parkviav High School

Glynn County Valdosta City MU5cogee County DeKalb County
Atlanta City .. UJrroJlton City
Rome City Bibb County Cherokee County Gwinnett County

61

Elementary Schools

Burroughs-Molette Elementary

Fitzgerald Elementary

Russell Elementary

Rockbridge Elementary

.

Garden Hills Elementary

College Street School

Mt. Bethel Elementary

.

Southside Elementary

South Jackson Elementary

Warren Road Elementary

Glynn County Fitzgerald City Houston County DeKalb County
Atlanta City CArrollton City
Cobb County Baldwin County Jackson County Richmond County

Middle Schools and Junior High Schools

Lee Roy Myers Middle School....

Hahira Middle School...

A.S. Staley Middle School

Edwards Middle School........

Southwest Middle School..................

Spalding Junior High

Pepperell Middle School.........

Center Junior High

Duluth Middle School

_

Evans MkkIleSChool

_

.

Chatham County

. Lowndes County

Americus City

. Rockdale County

.

Atlanta City

Spalding County

.

Floyd County

. Waycross City

Gwinnett County

Columbia County

High Schools
Statesboro High School Central High School Warner Robins High School Dunwoody High School M.D. Collins High School Morrow Senior High School Wheeler High School................... .
Mary Persons High School
Brookwood High School
Elbert County High School.

Bulloch County Thomas County Houston County DeKalb County
Fulton County Clayton County
Cobb County Monroe County Gwinnelt County
Elbert County

62

Elementary Schools

Nevils Elementary

.

Morven Primary

Jackson Primary

Barksdale Elementary

Hutchinson Elementary

Huddleston Elementary

Murdock Elementary

Wacona Elementary

Lumpkin County Elementary

Knight Elementary

Bulloch Counly

.

Brooks County

Butts County

.

Rockdale County

Atlanla City

.

Fayette County

Cobb County

Ware County

Lumpkin County

Gwinnett County

Middle Schools and Junior High Schools

William James Middle School. Cook Middle School Warner Robins Junior High Cousins Middle School Sutton Middle School Booth Junior High Marietta Junior High Dalton Junior High Shiloh Middle School

Bulloch County

Cook County

Houston County

Newton County

Atlanta City

Fayette County

Marietta City

.

Dolton City

Gwinnett County

High Schools

Brunswick High School ..

.

Colquitt County High School

laGrange High School .....

Newton County High School ..

Benjamin Mays High School

Mclntosh High School .

.

East Rome High School .....

Ware County High School.

Stephens County High School

Uncoln County High School.

Glynn County

.... Colquitt County

. LaGrange City

.Newton County

................. Atlanta City

Fayette County

. Rome City

... Ware County

. Stephens County

.

Lincoln County

63

Elementary Schools

Risley Elementary Parker Mathis Elementary Reese Road E1ementaJY Porterdale Elementary $ope Creek Elementary Sandersville Elementary B. B. Harris Elementary Comer EJementary

Glynn County Lowndes County Muscogee County
Newton County Cobb County
Washington County Gwinnett County Madison County

Middle Schools and Junior High Schools

Wilder Middle $chool

Nashville Middle School

Tabor Junior High School.....

.

Edwards Middle School

Crabapple Middle School..................

Fayette Cowlty JWlior High School

Dodgen Middle School

Valley Point Mkklle School

Five Forks Middle School

._

Chatham County Berrien County Houston County
Rockdale County . Fulton County
Fayette County Cobb County
Whitfield County Gwinnett County

High Schools
Statesboro High School Bainbridge High School
Northside High School
Rockdale High School Northside High School Griffin High School Marietta High School Mary Persons High School Gordon Central Complex Academy of Richmond Cowlty

Bulloch County Decatur County Houston County Rockdale County
Atlanta City Spalding County
Marietta City Monroe Countv . Gordon County Richmond County

64

Elementary Schools

Glyndale Elementary

Lee County Primary

Tucker Elementary

Esther S. Jackson Elementary

Benteen Elementary

_

Bin Arp Elementary

East Side Elementary

Wacona Elementary

Enola Elementary

G.vin Oaks E1et'J1entary

Glynn County Lee County
Houston County Fulton County Atlanta City
Douglas County Cobb County Ware County
Gainesville City Gwinnett County

Middle Schools and Junior High Schools

Matt Wilson Middle School Perry Middle School Conyers Middle School Inman Middle School Jonesboro Junior High Dickerson Middle School Center Junior High Summerour Middle School

nft County Houston County Rockdale County
Atlanta City Clayton County
Cobb County . Waycross City
Gwinneti County

High Schools

Vidalia High School

Lee County High School....

.

Perry High School.........

Heritage High School........

Cedar Grove High School. ..

Henry County High School.

West Rome High School..

Calhoun High SChool..................

Harlem High School.......

.

Vidalia City Lee County Houston County . Rockdale County DeKalb County . Henry County .. .... Rome City .. ...... Calhoun City Columbia County

65

of 1330 c9(J(Jrgia 02Jchools (li,$C(J//tJl1C8

Elementary Schools

St. Simons Elementary

Len Lastinger EJementary

MUier Elementary

DoJvin Elementary

Locust Grove Elementary

Boynton Elementary

.

Morton-Gilchrist Elementary

Peachtree Elementary

Gaines Elementary

Glynn County

Tift County

Houston County

Fulton County

Henry County

Catoosa County

.

Waycross City

,

Gwinnett County

Clarke County

Middle Schools and Junior High Schools

Cook Middle School A.S. Staley Middle School G.L. Edwards Middle School Pointe South Junior High East Cobb Mkklle School 5vJeetwater Middle School

Cook County Americus City Rockdale County Clayton County Cobb County Gwinnett County

High Schools

Southeast Bulloch High School

Calro High School........

.

Warner Robins High School

Dunwoody High School

North Springs High School

Newnan High School....

.

Alan C. Pope High School

Washington COUIlty High School

Central Gwinnett High School

Morgan County High School......................

Bulloch County Grady County
Houston County DeKa/b County Fulton County Coweta County
Cobb County Washington County
Gwinnett County ... Morgan County

66

Elementary Schools

51. Marys Elementary
S.L Mason Elementary
Bonaire Elementary Barksdale Elementary J.W. Amok:! Elementary AL Burruss Elementary Memorial Drive EJementary Arcado Elementary Barnett Shoals Elementary

Camden County

Valdosta City

Houston County

Rockdale County

Clayton County

.

Marietta City

Ware County

Gwinnett County

Clarke County

Middle Schools and Junior High Schools

Hinesville Middle

Northside Middle

Conyers Middle

Sandy Springs Middle

Taylor Street Middle

Coosa Middle

.

Center Junior High

Otwell Middle

Trickum Middle

Liberty County Houston County Rockdale County
Fulton County Spalding County
Floyd County Ware County Forsyth County ... Gwinnett County

High Schools

Statesboro High laGrange High Stone Mountain High. Henry W. Grady High Riverdale High.. Cartersville High Telfair County High Duluth High Thomson High

Bulloch County

LaGrange City

. DeKalb County

..

Atlanta City

.. Clayton County

Cartersville City

Telfair County

Gwinnett County

McDuffie County

67

Elementary Schools

Uberty County EJementary
Lee County Elementary
Kings Chapel EJemenlary Heards Feny Elementary Graysville Elementary Patterson Elementary R.D. Head Elementary Lincoln County Elementary

Liberty County Lee County
Houston County . Fulton County
Catoosa Counlv Pierce County
Gwinnet! County Lincoln County

Middle Schools

Cook Middle George L Edwards Middle Adamson Middle Arch H. McOeskey Sr. Middle Thomas Jefferson Elder Middle Pinckneyville Middle

Cook County

Rockdale County

.

Clayton County

Cobb County

Washington County

Gwinnett County

High Schools

Southeast Bulloch High Bainbridge High Americus High Heritage High Benjamin E. Banneker High Newnan High Leamond N. Lassiter High Dodge County High Murray County High Shiloh High

. Bulloch County

Decatur County

Americus City

.

Rockdale County

Fulton County

Coweta County

Cobb County

Dodge County

. Murray County

Gwinnett County

68

Elementary Schools

Jordye Bacon Elementary Garrison-Pilcher Elementary Shirley HiUs Elementary Dorothy L. Sims Elementary
Lena J. Campben Elementary Fayetteville Elementary Davis Elementary Alexander II Magnet Elementary .__ Midway Elementary Mountain Park Elementary

Liberty County Thomas County . Houston CountV Rockdale County
Atlanta City Fayette County
Cobb County Bibb County Forsyth County Gwinnett County

Middle Schools

Myers Middle Loo.vndes Middle Bert Rumble Middle Ha~es Bridge Middle Mundy's Mill Middle Rossville Middle Lawrenceville Middle.

.
. _. .

Chatham County Lowndes County Houston County
Fulton County Clayton County . Walker County Gwinnett County

High Schools

Swainsboro High Northside High Rockdale County High Mays High Carrollton High South Cobb High Ware County Senior High Gainesville High Lakeside High

. Emanuel County

. Houston County

. Rockdale County

Atlanta City

Carrollton City

.

Cobb County

Ware County

Gainesuille City

Columbia County

69

Elementary Schools

Windsor Forest Elementary Herbert J. Dexter School Elm Street Elementary _._. Camp Creek Elementary
Brookvieo.v Elementary
Eastvalley Elementary Cartersville Elementary Annie Belle Clark Elementary City Park Elementary County Line Elemental)' Snapfinger Elementary

Chatham County

Dept. of Defense, Ft. Benning

.

Coweta County

Gwinnett County

,._

Fulton County

Cobb County

Cartersville City

Tift County

Dalton City

Barrow County

DeKalb Countv

Middle Schools and Junior High Schools

Ware County Junior High J.e. Booth Middle Edwards Middle M.L. King Middle Nash Middle Carrollton Junior High Merry Acres Middle Ellijay Middle Spirit Creek Middle T.J. Elder Middle

.
. .
.

Wore County Favette County Rockdale County
Atlanta City Cobb County Carrallton City Doughertv County Gilmer County Richmond County Washington County

High Schools

Waycross High

.

Americus High

Lovejoy High

.

W.F. George High

North Gwinnett High

R.S. Alexander Compo High

Dodge County High

Lakeview-Fort Oglethorpe Compo High

Cedar Shoals High

Columbia High

Ware County

Americus City

Clayton County

.

Atlanta City

Gwinnett County

Douglas County

Dodge County

Catoosa County

Clarke County

DeKalb County

70

Elementary Schools

GlennviUe Elementary

Sumter County Elementary

Pointe South Elementary..

.

Margaret G. Barksdale 8ementary

LP. Miles Elementary

Mountain View Elementary

Cave Spring Elementary.....

.

Westside Elementary

.

C\ol.xl Springs Elementary .'

David C. Barrow Elementary

.

Pine Rkige Elementary

Talmall County . Sumter Countv Cloyton County Rockdale County
Atlanta CUy Cobb CounlV
Floyd County Coffee County Catoosa County Clarke County DeKaib County

Middle Schools

Mercer Middle

.

A.S. Staley Middle

Lovejoy Middle

.

Snellville Middle

Ralph Bunche Middle

Taylor Road Middle ..

.

Pepperell Middle

Cook Middle

Sonoraville East Middle

Oglethorpe County Middle

Washington-Wilkes Middle

Chatham County Sumter County Clayton County
Gwinnett County Atlanta City
Fulton County Floyd County Cook County Gordon County Oglethorpe County Wilkes County

High Schools

Windsor Forest High

Albany High

Newnan High

.

Chamblee High

Henry Grady High

.

Sprayberry High

Houston County High

John Davidson Fine Arts High.......

Jasper County Comprehensive High

Chatham County Dougherly County
Coweta County DeKalb Counly
A/tanto Oly Cobb Counly Houslon County ... Richmond County Jasper County

71

13 c!jJeorgia C'JSchiJOls if~$Ce//ence

Elementary Schools

St. Simons Elementary Lake Park Elementary Brae/inn Elementary C. J. Hicks Elementary Hapeville Elementary Peachtree Elementary Sedalia Park Elementary
Perry Elementary Fairyland Elementary
Morgan County Elementary Rainbow EJementary

Glynn County

Dougherty County

. Fayette County

Rockdale County

.

Fulton County

Gwinnett County

Cobb County

Houston CountV

Walker CountV

Morgan CountV

DeKaib Countv

Middle Schools

Swainsboro Middle Sumter Middle Flatrock Middle Conyers Middle Thurgood MarshaU Middle Lost MOlmtain Middle Rome Middle............. Steckley Middle Ringgold Middle Loganville Middle T. J. Ekler Middle

Emanuel Countv

Sumter Countv

Fayette CountV

Rockdale CountV

Atlanta CitV

Cobb Countv

.

Rome Cllv

Bleckley County

Catoosa CountV

Wa/lon CountV

Washington CountV

High Schools
Perry High Sandy Creek High
Cross Keys High D. M. Therrell High Roswell High North Cobb Comprehensive High Rome High Dubtin High R. W. Johnson High Evans Comprehensive High

Houston County Fayette County DeKalb County
Atlanta City Fulton County
Cobb Countv Rome City Dublin CitV
Hall CountV Columbia Countv

72

Ou,. since,.e thanks go to Blue Bi,.d Body Company of Fo,.t Valley foro its continued. gene,.ous financial suppo,.t of the Geo,.gia Schools of Excellence p,.og,.am. Thei,. cont,.ibutions have p,.ouided complimentary tickets and ,.oad signs to the ,.ecognized schools. The Excellence flags flown by each 1997 Geo,.gia School of Excellence we,.e provided by our sponsor SouthTrust Bank of Atlanta. We app,.eciate their contribution. NationsBank also supported to the program this year. and we thank them also.
73

Federal law prohibits discrimination on the basis of race. color or national origin (Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964); sex (TItle IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972 and the Carl D. Perkins Vocational and Applied Technology Education Act of 1990); or disability (Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990) in educational programs or activities receiving federal financial assistance.
Employees, students and the general public aTe hereby notified that the Georgia Department of Education does not discriminate in any educa tional programs or activities or in employment policies.
Inquiries concerning the application of the Perkins Act, Title VI, Title IX or Section 504 and ADA to the policies and practices of the department may be addressed to the Georgia Department of Education, Twin Towers East, Atlanta 30334; to the Regional Office for Civil Rights, Atlanta 30323; or to the Director, Office for Civil Rights, Education Department, Washington, D.C. 20201.
75

Legislation and Special Projects Georgia Department of Education
Atlanta. Georgia 30334-5010 April 1997
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