1998 Georgia public schools of excellence

GA
E3DO .P~ 51
q
I~~~
1998
Georgia Public Schools of Excellence
Linda C. Schrenko State Superintendent of Schools Georgia Department of Education

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

Foreword
This is the 15th year for the Georgia Schools of Excellence Program. A total of 72 schools participated in the program this year. The program is open to all public schools and is designed to identify and honor unusually successful public schools throughout our state. The goal of the program is not necessarily to find the "best" schools in Georgia, but to identify the schools that are doing an exceptional 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 screened by committees of local Georgia educators from congressional districts other than 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 level (elementary, midciIe and high school) from each congressional district to be forwarded to the Florida Department of Education for review. Committees of Florida educators made the final selections for the 1998 Georgia Schools of Excellence.
Selection this year was gUided by information provided by the schools on each of the follOWing conditions of effective schooling.
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
ef2inda (9
OfJchrenko
Georgia communities seeking to improve their local schools benefit from innovative examples. They have this in the standards of innovation and achievement provided by the 1998 Georgia Public Schools of Excellence.
The varieties of school improvement strategies used by these 27 schools are as abundant as they are inspiring. Some Schools of Excellence share common instructional methods or philosophies to reach their school improvement goals, while others find unique strategies that fit their own specific needs.
Either way, all the 1998 Schools of Excellence share one indispensable trait: the willingness to bring together
2

the entire school and much of the community to roll up their sleeves and get the job done.
As you review the profiles of the schools that follow in this booklet, you will see one example after another of this community-based effort. The Schools of Excellence program recognizes the best of the best, and to reach such lofty status, the schools must have total commitment from all faculty, administrators, and students to ensure that the learning experience is everything it can possibly be.
The prestige of the Schools of Excellence program grows each year, and so does the excitement leading up to the awards recognition banquet. Many of the behind-the-scenes players who have worked so hard to improve their schoolsparents, local businesses, and community members-will be in attendance to witness the public acclaim their efforts have helped bring to their schools.
Like an outstanding school, a program as large in scope as the Schools of Excellence program reqUires the efforts of many people to succeed. We would not be able to honor these deserving schools without the financial and planning help so generously offered by our corporate sponsors, the Blue Bird Corporation, NationsBank, and SouthTrust Bank. All three understand the importance of supporting education, and they do so with efficiency and a smile.
Also, let us thank the students of the Schools of Excellence. The grandest plans fot improving student achievement are empty promises until the students demonstrate consistent effort and close cooperation with their teachers.
Finally, thanks to all of you who are attending the Schools of Excellence banquet, as well as those who could not be here tonight but still made contributions to this proud program.
The future of our world is being formed right now in countless classrooms across Georgia, the United States, and the world. Thanks to you, that future promises to be as bright as the smiles on the faces of all those involved with the 1998 Schools of Excellence.
Thank you, and congratulations.
3

/338 cfjeorgia G2!Jchools ifC!G.zcellence

Elementary Schools
District 1 Odum Elementary, Wayne County 2 Northside Elementary, Tift County 3 Britt David Elementary Magnet, Muscogee County 4 Oakcliff Theme, DeKalb County 5 Sarah Smith Elementary, Atlanta City 7 West End Elementary, Rome City 8 Centerville Elementary, Houston County 9 Battlefield Elementary, Catoosa County 10 Washington-Wilkes Primary, Wilkes County 11 Lawrenceville Elementary, Gwinnett County

Page 6 8
10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24

Middle Schools

1 George W. DeRenne Middle, Savannah-Chatham County 28

2 West Bainbridge Middle, Decatur County

;

30

3 Arnold Middle, Muscogee County

32

4 Summerour Middle, Gwinnett County

34

5 Sutton Middle, Atlanta City

36

6 Simpson Middle, Cobb County

38

7 Cass Middle, Bartow County

40

11 Morgan County Middle, Morgan County

;

42

High Schools

1 Liberty County High, Liberty County

46

2 Early County High, Early County

48

3 Eagle's Landing High, Henry County

50

4 Meadowcreek High, Gwinnett County

52

5 North Atlanta High, Atlanta City

54

6 Milton High, Fulton County

56

7 Cartersville High, Cartersville City

58

9 Calhoun High, Calhoun County

60

11 Salem High, Rockdale County

62

4

~lementartJ c CYDchoolf

dum Gilementarp CfJchool
A restructuring of county schools, a new administration, and new programs have resulted in a school improvement plan which has transformed Odum Elementary School (OES) into a School of Excellence. With an administrative change in 1993, there was a willingness of the faculty to identify and examine ineffective teaching practices, habits and weak areas. A school improvement committee was formed to examine changes which would unify the faculty, students, parents, and community. Staff development has been focused on areas identified as needing improvement and is an ongoing process toward school improvement. The instructional program is carefully planned to motivate and challenge students. The staff collaborate and work cooperatively to ensure that the needs of all students are successfully addressed and met.
While pursuing school improvement, OES received the School of Excellence distinction in 1998 and was also awarded $48,000 for its successful completion of a Pay for Performance package. OES is currently completing its Southern Accreditation for Colleges and Schools (SACS) initial accreditation. The success of the school improvement process is evidenced in the personal successes of OES teachers during the past two years. OES has produced the Wayne County Teacher of the Year for 1997-98 and 1998-99, the Wayne County Special Education Teacher of the Year for 1997-98, and the Georgia Elementary Science Teacher of the Year for 1998.
6

OES has developed several programs as a means to improve school climate. One innovative program at OES is the annual, week-long Science Expo. Daily schoolwide science lab activities lead to "Science Day" where fifteen businesses and/or organizations donate their time and expertise. Another area of emphasis is the outdoor classroom and wetland area which allows teachers to plan instruction for all areas of curriculum. OES also implemented Project Insight (a novel-based approach of teaching reading for grades three through five). In addition, the Accelerated Reader (AR) Program is a computerized reading management system which rewards students for reading and correctly answering comprehension test items, while increasing the students' individual reading levels. All of these programs have been instrumental in raising science and reading scores.
A shared vision of excellence is evident in the willingness of the professional staff to create a child-centered atmosphere, the eagerness of the students to excel, the support of the parents, and the devotedness of a caring community. All involved, students, staff, parents, and community, work hard to bring into reality the school slogan, "Little School-Giant Commitment. "

Odum Elementary School Walter Street Odum 31555 Enrollment: 361 Grades: K-5 Wayne County Schools

Principal Marlene Dukes
Superintendent Jerry Jones
First District

7

Cf{brthslde Gilementarp CJ1Jch(j(j1
Northside Elementary School provides a nurturing environment for students, a sense of belonging for parents, and a drive for excellence in academics, behavior, teaching, and parenting. Additionally, Northside encourages moral development by extending caring beyond the classroom to community and by providing opportunities for students to develop social awareness and conscience through service. Students discover their capacity for doing good; we enable them to make an impact in our world through community altruism as training for responsible citizenship. These experiences advance moral development, pride in service, involvement in community affairs, and respect for differences.
Northside strives to develop in its students the synergy of skill, success, and curiosity that builds lifelong readers and learners. Instructional techniques begin with concrete activities and move to the abstract to guarantee mastery of skills. We stress creativity, research, critical thinking skills, and the connection of subject matter to real life. Our restructured mathematics curriculum and instructional procedures have enabled us to raise or maintain Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS) scores since 1992. Staff inservice for a process-based, hands-on approach to science moved our faculty to more effective teaching and encouraged student enthusiasm which was the basis for recognition in the
8

GAESP School Bell Award (1996-97). We have worked diligently to mesh instruction with mandated curriculum and to provide appropriate diagnosis and prescriptive remediation to ensure success. Over the past five years, Northside's ITBS scores have consistently been above county and Regional Educational Service Agency levels; in four out of five years, we have scored above state levels. We continue to use test scores to target weak areas for guiding instruction and for meeting student needs. Academic improvements over the past five years are credited to strong goal setting, high expectations, and partnership with parents. We continue to use this philosophy to guide Northside's future.
A strong PTa, an active volunteer program, and a teamwork approach with parents have compounded the school's positive effect on students; frequent contacts with parents by phone or postcard have been important in integrating parents into the Northside team. Northside's shared leadership philosophy has given everyone a feeling of responsibility to contribute his or her finest to make Northside work; pride in this ownership, drive and creativity inspire students, teachers, and parents beyond expectations. Juggling for Success, effective counseling programs, conflict resolution, and peer mediation programs have helped the students to develop responsibility, self-discipline, and self-esteem. A heavy emphasis on integration of technology, use of mathematics manipulatives, methods of t~ching process writing skills, and intensive science staff development have enabled teachers to maximize pedagogical impact. Use of the Accelerated Reader Program, HOTS, CCC technology, reading incentive programs, and supplementation of basal reading instruction with literature to boost interest have made Northside Elementary's students enthusiastic participants in their own leaming.

Northside Elementary School 1815 North Chestnut Avenue Tifton 31794 Enrollment: 663 Grades: K-4 Tift County Schools

Principal Rosemary Alexander
Superintendent Dr. Dan McIntyre
Second District

9

r:5arltt cBaVld GLlementarp cUagnet CJfJch(j(jl
What makes Britt David unique? What changes have occurred over the last five years that dramatically increased its student achievement rates to the number one elementary school in the Muscogee County School District for the last two consecutive years according to the Iowa Test of Basic Skills?
The student body is distinct because it is based 100 percent on parental choice. Britt David is in its sixth year as a magnet school with a minority/majority ratio of 50/50. Forty-three percent of its students are currently receiving free or reduced lunch.
The faculty and staff have established a scope and sequence for teaching all benchmarks of computer instruction and literacy. Britt David is the only elementary school that assigns a grade and maintains a portfolio for progress in computer literacy. Each class has forty-minute sessions daily in a computer lab designed to increase mathematics and reading skills. This lab is centered around increasing test scores with the use of the CCC software. The principal takes the gains report for each class and analyzes the students that are working at grade level. The principal then meets with each teacher and discusses strategies to increase achievement for these students.
10

The Exploratory Lab at our school is utilized by each student to provide large group instruction in computer literacy as well as integration of computer software in academic subjects. The entire school is networked to a centralized file server. The faculty, staff, and students have the capability to utilize our software from any computer throughout the building. With 256 computers, the ratio is one computer for every two students.
The Accelerated Reader Program is an integral part of our focus on increasing reading achievement. The reading incentive program includes hundreds of titles linked to computer managed tests. Points are earned based on the accuracy of answers. The points are redeemed for prizes in the media center that are purchased by the PTA and Partners in Education.
One of the most distinctive and important factors making Britt David superior in mathematics and reading achievement grew out of the Model Technology Grant received at Britt David in 1994. The grant allowed the establishment of a Technology Training Center for the teachers in the Muscogee district to be trained in the elementary building. The grant established the training of the Britt David teachers to become a model technology faculty for district teachers. The Britt David Training Center also functions as a collaborative project which serves preservice teachers from the School of Education at Columbus State University.

Britt ,David Elementary School 5801 Armour Road Columbus 31904 Enrollment: 525 Grades: K-6 Muscogee County Schools

Principal Tommy Hutcherson
Superintendent GuyW. Sims
Third District

11

Theme schools offer parents a choice in public education. Oakcliff is a public school, and parents choose to send their chtldren here because of the differences from a standard elementary program. No student is required to attend Oakcliff because of attendance lines; we serve students from three school attendance areas. Many parents, who chose private education or home schooling in the past, have now chosen Oakcliff. Oakcliff is located in a working class neighborhood with 73 percent of its students qualifying for free or reduced lunch. The students come from 36 different countries and only 58 percent of them speak English as their native tongue.
The Oakcliff Traditional Theme School focuses on core academics. Theme schools emphasize a particular aspect of education. Oakcliff has smaller class sizes, a strict discipline code, and the students are required to wear uniforms. Instruction includes exposure to classic world literature, integrated learning across disciplines, recitation of poetry and proverbs, research, and public presentations. Extra-curricular activities (i.e., band, strings) are scheduled before or after school to allow the maximum time avatlable to be spent in instruction.
Oakcliff is rebuilding from within. The dingy white walls have been painted with splashes of color and murals, the bathrooms were scoured and deodorized, floors striped, carpets laid, flowers
12

planted, nature trails established, and furniture replaced. The curriculum has been overhauled too!
Oakcliff emphasizes hands-on instruction. Experiential learning makes education come alive for students. To that end Oakcliff sought out resources that would support this philosophy of education. A science lab has been established, a computer lab installed, a mathematics lab created, the Writing to Read lab refurbished, a parenting center developed, and the media center has been given a face lift and over 2000 new titles added to the permanent collection. The Administrative Team was augmented by an additional counselor and an additional instructional lead teacher. When the Title I Program was expanded to a schoolwide endeavor, funds were allocated to provide additional staff, staff development, parental involvement opportunities, and additional teaching resources.
Oakcliff is structured for success. Students are offered tutoring, remedial instruction, close academic supervision, and regular parent communication. Special instructional services are offered through the inclusion model. Two teachers in a classroom offers twice the help, and children who fall into the gray areas of eligibility benefit from specialized programs that otherwise would not be available to them. We put the pieces in place for students to be successful.

Oakcliff Theme School 3150 Willow Oak Way Doraville 30340 Enrollment: 682 Grades: PreK-6 DeKalb County Schools

Principal Steve Pemberton
Superintendent Dr. James R. Hallford
Fourth District

13

OfJarah OfJmlth Gilementarp OfJchool
Sarah Smith Elementary School, located in the Buckhead community of Atlanta, attributes its success to setting and maintaining high expectations for every student. Sara Smith Elementary follows the tenet set by Ernest L. Boyer in The Basic School: A Community for Learning that "literacy is the first and most essential goal. All children are expected to become proficient in the written and spoken word. tt The students and staff are ravenous readers and a number of programs are used to promote lifelong readers. Four times during the year students are recognized in an assembly program for reading a specific number of books. The goal this year is to read 12,000 books.
Sarah Smith Elementary has consistently ranked as one of the top performing schools in Georgia. However, there is always room for improvement. During the past five years we have concentrated on science, mathematics, literacy, higher order thinking skills, and technology.
On a daily basis it is expected that the curriculum is not only challenging, but exciting as well. As you travel the halls of Sarah Smith you will see children rehearsing for a Shakespearean play, using Cheerios to reinforce the learning of multiplication, making papyrus during the study of Egypt, or dissecting a fetal pig.
14

Learning is viewed as an adventure that can and should take the students as far as they want to go.
A vital link to the success of any school is a strong collaboration with parents and the community. We have a dedicated and hardworking group of parents who are at school, in volume, on a daily basis. They can be seen tutoring students in the classroom, planting flowers in the front of the school, and teaching a very special hands-on social studies program that exposes every student in their kindergarten through fifthgrade journey through Egypt, Greece and Rome, the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, and the 17th through the 19th Century. It should also be noted that Sarah Smith has five business partners who have assisted over the years in funding various programs and projects.
As we look toward the future, we must be mindful of the words of Gordon Ambach, Executive Director of the Council of Chief State School Officers who so aptly stated, ''Twentieth-century teaching is not adequate to serve twenty-first century students." The goal and mission of Sarah Smith Elementary as we move toward the new millennium will be to enable each child to realize his/her academic potential. While we target the state's and nation's standards, we must always keep in mind that these are our starting blocks, not our finishing lines.

Sarah Smith Elementary School 370 Old Ivy Road, NE Atlanta 30342 EnroIlment: 497 Grades: K-5 Atlanta City Schools

Principal Lee J. Friedman
Superintendent Dr. Benjamin O. Canada
Fifth District

15

ewest Gind Gilementarp CJtJchool
"Together WE Can" is West End's school motto and call for action. Dedicated staff, mentors, partners, and parents work as a team to provide quality learning experiences for all students. Over the past five years, parents increased volunteerism in the school and maintained 100 percent membership in PTA; teachers established reading as the main instructional goal, scheduled a daily test-taking skills period and developed and implemented a character education curriculum; the school added 30 minutes of daily Spanish instruction for kindergarten through fifth grade; and students increased Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS) test scores.
Our parents are a valuable asset to the school, volunteering 5000+ hours yearly. Parents and friends of West End raise a yearly average of $10,000 for purchasing materials for students.
Teachers and administrators hold the philosophy that reading is the key to success in all areas of school. And to this end, kindergarten and first-grade teachers immerse students in phonics and whole language reading instruction. Steady reading instruction continues throughout the seven years at West End. Trade books, read-a-thons, computer programs, and the Accelerated Reader Program challenge and encourage all students to read for schoolwork and for pleasure.
16

Rather than isolating test-taking skills to springtime testing, students practice test-taking skills all year long. Teachers prepare students daily for test taking by modeling standardized test formats in all testing situations. Teachers plan and teach lessons based on specific ITBS or Quality Core Curriculum objectives. These strategies and more resulted in an increase in test scores in the past five years. For example, first graders scored 62 percent in reading in 1993 and 88 percent in 1997. First-grade mathematics scores were 69 percent in 1993 and 90 percent in 1997. Based on high standardized test scores, West End is ranked the number one school in Floyd County and the number two school in North Georgia.
Increasing self-awaren~s, self-esteem, and personal responsibility of students is an important school focus. West End has a long tradition of success and its students work hard to become a part of that success record. Over 90 percent of its students receive schoolwide recognition each year.
West End students boast a six-year Spanish curriculum which virtually ensures that every student is bi-Iingual upon entering middle school. Daily classes are spoken exclusively in Spanish. Evidences of our Hispanic cultural awareness are labels in Spanish on everything from doors to desks throughout the building and a springtime celebration of Cinco de Mayo which is enjoyed by students, parents, teachers, and patrons of the Hispanic community.
West End Elementary School, located in a quiet and stable neighborhood in the Northeast Georgia city of Rome, is anything but a quiet school by tradition and reputation. As third generation and new students move through seven grades, West End continues to make each year a year of excellence and upholds its proclamation as America's #1 Elementary School.

West End Elementary School 5 Brown Fox Drive Rome 30165 Enrollment: 606 Grades: K-6 Rome City Schools

Principal Jack D. Rogers
Superintendent Dr. Larry Atwell
Seventh District

17

(YenterVllle ~lementarp Cffjchool
Centerville Elementary School provides a unique balance of a challenging academic program within a student-centered environment. This positive school setting promotes responsibility and independence. Instruction is individualized and developmentally appropriate; therefore, success is attainable at every level. At Centerville we teach for real success by placing. an equal value on student self-esteem and basic academic skills.
Centerville's message to parents and community emphasizes that an effective school requires the involvement of all shareholders. Centerville is fortunate to have an active and supportive PTO, a dynamic volunteer program, and a host of community "Partners in Education" who contribute incentives, materials, and personal time to creating a stronger school program. Parents appreciate the open-door policy at Centerville and feel welcome to volunteer and participate in classroom activities. Classrooms are often filled to capacity as parents join students during exploratory center activities"as learning milestones are observed, or as students demonstrate skills in Centerville's state-of-the-art computer lab. Parents realize that their child's success is greatly dependent upon a combined team effort between school and home.
Centerville operates on a cyclical plan of continuous improvement. The entire staff participates in summer workshops where team building, profesSional growth, and goal setting make up the
18

agenda. Improvement plans are refined throughout the year. Staff development plans are directly linked to achieving school goals. The School Improvement Team takes its assigned task seriously and networks to make informed decisions. The Centerville staff is dedicated to personal growth and achievement. Teachers bring a wealth of expertise into the decision making process, and their professional opinions are valued.
Teacher collaboration has been a continuing priority at Centerville, and significant gains in test scores have resulted. Teachers meet routinely to brainstorm, plan, and reflect on effective teaching practices.
Centerville's innovative programs have been implemented primarily to help students attain higher levels of literacy. Through training and consultation on brain research, the Centerville staff has created braincompatible classrooms and has initiated early intervention methods to promote greater success in reading. Centerville's reputation as an elementary leader in educational technology has led to Centerville's selection as a pilot school for innovative technology projects. Through Project LEAP (Laptops Enhancing Academic Progress) students have gained confidence as writers, have simplified the Writing process, and have created a new means of classroom communication called "beaming." Significant writing gains have also been realized through writing workshops, creative scheduling, realignment of support personnel, and visitation of exemplary schools. Wee Deliver, an interschool postal delivery program, and the Young Author's Club have provided authentic Writing opportunities and have greatly increased motivation to write. Test results show consistent and significant gains in the highest stag~ of the Writing evaluation. At Centerville Elementary the primary aim is CHILDREN FIRST. With that thought foremost in every decision, excellence has evolved.

Centerville Elementary School 450 Houston Lake Boulevard Centerville 31028 Enrollment: 761 Grades: PreK-5 Houston County Schools

Principal Wally Bassett
Superintendent Tony Hinnant
Eighth District

19

c5aattkflefd ~/ementrup OfJchoo/
The atmosphere at Battlefield Elementary School is alive with the excitement and challenge of learning. This is apparent from the moment one enters the building. Parent volunteers are busily working in the lobby assisting teachers by grading papers, cutting out letters, and creating learning centers. Other parents involved in the PTA sponsored Mentor Program are working with individual students boosting academic strengths that move these students further toward Battlefield's mission of Success for Every Student. Members of The Bear's Den Student Advisory Committee work with younger students in a program called Peer Pals to help build study skills that reinforce academic achievement.
The faculty and staff at Battlefield Elementary use their talents and desires for excellence to activate schoolwide programs that motivate students to learri, foster a sense of community, and provide a foundation for future successes. Yearly themes such as "Making a Difference...Through Service" allow students to complete service projects, make responsible decisions, and apply their academic skills in a safe, risk-free environment. The Wee Deliver mail service, a student-run postal service; The Lion's Quest-International Skills for Growing, a community service and values education curriculum; and The Battlefield Art Gallery are just a few areas in which students demonstrate skills that they have acquired in this learning-rich environment.
20

As Battlefield Elementary moves toward the new century, the desire for excellence and Success for Every Student continues as teachers tum their attention to making students technologically proficient. The Battlefield faculty and staff are working diligently at making the use of technology an integral part of every student's instructional day. To further these efforts a team of Battlefield teachers are currently participating in training through the Georgia Department of Education's Integrating Technology Framework after which the entire staff will receive training in making maximum instructional use of available technology.
The Battlefield Elementary Strategic Team (BEST) is the site-based management team responsible for maintaining and evaluating Battlefield's strategic plan. The committee, comprised of teachers, administrators, a para-professional, and a parent, provides a vehicle for all school-related concerns and decisions and enables all members of the faculty and staff to influence the success-oriented direction of Battlefield's mission.
The care and enthusiasm that is evident in the day-to-day operation of Battlefield Elementary is what makes this school a special place for each student. It is the desire of everyone involved that each student reach his or her fullest potential both as students and as citizens and leave Battlefield remembering it as the place where they learned to succeed.

Battlefield Elementary School 1101 Battlefield Parkway Fort Oglethorpe 30742 Enrollment: 599 Grades: K-5 Catoosa County Schools

Principal Patrick B. McMillen
Superintendent Edward R. Vickrey
Ninth District

21



60

If

1

1
.~



~

>~



.. _,,- ... '&l8o. 'l....

CWashington- CW1kes 9!2rimarp Qfjchoo!
Washington-Wilkes Primary School (WWPS) is a school on a mission-a mission to have students reading above grade level by the end of second grade. The administrators, teachers, student, and parents have this single aim for their school. This reading goal grows out of years of frustration of "trying hard" but not succeeding in the goals. Finally, progress is being made.
Washington-Wilkes Primary School is a Title I Schoolwide Project of 550 students, prekindergarten through second grade. It is located in Washington, Georgia, a small town of 5000 people.
WWPS has made great strides in improving its test scores due, in part, on its focus on reading. In 1997 WWPS was chosen as a Reading First school which carried with it an intensive teacher training in the teaching of reading, the use of a variety of teaching materials designed to meet varying needs of students, the devotion of large block of time in the school day to the teaching of reading, and the involvement of parents in the education of their children. First-grade students have come from the 40th percentile in reading in 1995 to the 55th percentile in 1997. Second-grade students have come from the 36th percentile in reading in 1995 to the 53rd percent in 1997.
22

Three years ago WWPS began using a scheduling method called Parallel Block Scheduling (PBS) in kindergarten through second grade. This method of arranging the school day in large blocks of time allowed homeroom classes to be divided in half for four out of the six class periods. PBS provided smaller class size for directed reading and mathematics instruction and Enrichment Labs for hands-on learning. Classes now have 12 or less students for most of the school day. With the intensive staff development that occurred, teachers are prepared to "make the most of the time and class size. "
In the Enrichment Labs, teachers are using the subject areas of science and social studies to support the reading program. The students are involved in an Adopt-A-Stream project and have selected a nearby creek that has water pollution problems. They visit the creek three times each year, take water samples and make other analysis of the creek environment. The students report via e-mail on the Internet their findings to other Adopt-A-Stream sites in Georgia. Also, the Enrichment Labs are vital in the development of the outdoor classroom on the school campus. Last year each student planted a pine tree in the outdoor classroom. Other areas include a wild flower area, a butterfly garden, a vegetable garden plot, and a pond.
Through effective teaching, exceptional programs, active partnerships with parents and the community, and the ability to initiate and integrate curriculum to best meet the needs of individual students, WashingtonWilkes Primary School is well on its way to achieving its goal of having all children reading above grade level by the end of second grade. It is a great time for learning at WWPS!

Washington-Wilkes Primary School 910 East Robert Toombs Avenue Washington 30673 Enrollment: 414 Grades: PreK-2 Wilkes County Schools

Principal Laura Toburen
Superintendent Dr. James Parker, Jr.
Tenth District

23

i2awrenceVllle Gilementarp c::1Jchool
Lawrenceville Elementary School promotes academic achievement, student well-being, and citizenship through its democratic practices, its focus on instruction, and its action research. Numerous programs support the student written covenant for teaching and learning and the value we place on student involvement. This past year the Student Counctl organized a Christmas food drive, created a peace award, produced a play about Martin Luther King, Jr., and visited a nursing home. The Demonstration of Practice Committee promotes and shares democratic practices in the classroom and exemplifies the school's belief in shared decision making. The Governance Council has had a long-standing influence on how business is conducted and how trust is built among the faculty. Leadership development for the Council is ongoing. Teachers have studied problem solving strategies, communication skills, and team building in an effort to strengthen their leadership skills in the classroom and with their colleagues.
For the past three years Lawrenceville's literacy goal has promoted student achievement. In three years the third-grade Total Reading scores have increased 18 percent. Reading Comprehension has increased 18 percent as well. We have created a writing assessment this year that will enable us to track
24

individual and grade-level student progress. Supportive goals of study skills and technology have also fostered student success.
To reduce pupil-teacher ratio, create common planning time, provide for uninterrupted instruction, and offer more academic opportunities, we devised and implemented an Instruction-Based Schedule this year. Midyear surveys strongly support this teacher created plan. A Special Instructional Assistance Early Leaming Lab, daily movement or art classes for our kindergartners, and a fifth-grade Geography class are examples of what our new schedule offers. Parents are very complimentary of this far-reaching program.
Lawrenceville is a goal-oriented, research-based school. Each teacher creates an instructional goal based on student achievement and classroom observation. Twice yearly these goals are shared in cross gradelevel groups. Teachers are also asked to relate how students are involved as part of their goal. This type of dialogue is a direct result of Lawrenceville's work on democratic practices. Each grade level also creates an academic goal based on classroom action research and standardized testing. All of these individual and grade-level goals tie into our schoolwide goal.
Staff qevelopment is valued and ongoing. We have focused heavily on reading strategies for the past three years, learning how to give running records and strengthen comprehension skills. We will train teachers in Eagle Reading strategies next year to support our low achievers. We have also offered computer courses on the use of the Internet and work processing skills.
We are proud and appreciative of the support of our parent community. Through the PTA and Community for School Improvement we have created many opportunities for Lawrenceville's students to experience academic success and personal happiness.

Lawrenceville Elementary School 122 Gwinnett Drive Lawrenceville 30045 Enrollment: 931 Grades: K-5 Gwinnett County Schools

Principal Jane Robertson
Superintendent J. Alvin Wilbanks
Eleventh District

25

THIS PAGE LEFT BLANK

c:!v(l(;ldle CJ7Jchools

c2Je{jtge CW 02JJe&:.-enne oUidd!e C1fJch{jo!
DeRenne Middle School works diligently to pursue its mission of providing "learning today to build tomorrow." Its long-standing reputation for high standards of academic excellence is the product of resolute effort on the part of dedicated staff and committed volunteers.
DeRenne Middle School provides a comprehensive educational program for learners by tailoring programs to meet student needs. In addition to an outstanding general program, DeRenne also houses two unique and effective programs for learners at different levels of the continuum. The Honors Magnet for Scholastic Explorations is an accelerated program that serves middle school students with outstanding academic abilities. It offers a challenging, multigrade curriculum that exposes students to enhanced academic and exploratory experiences. In addition, the school houses the Academy for Creative Education (ACE), a structured learning environment for over-aged students who have not experienced success in the general studies program. The small classes and personalized attention students receive in ACE make a major difference in the future success rate of undermotivated students.
To add to its already successful program., DeRenne Middle School, along with an elementary feeder and associated high
28

school, was named the Hopkins Street Beacon. The Beacon Program is funded by the DeWitt Wallace Reader's Digest Grant and entails extensive community planning and coordination. Taking the lead from other Beacon Schools in New York City, DeRenne will become the site of a carefully planned year-round program of after-school, evening and weekend activities designed to meet the needs of children and adults in the immediate community. Reaching out to the community will make a significant difference in the quality of the all-around learning experience DeRenne is able to provide its students.
Employing concepts of shared governance and total quality management, DeRenne's staff, parents, and community constantly seek to improve the learning process by finding creative solutions to problems. This approach makes DeRenne optimistic about negotiating the challenges facing communities and schools in the twenty-first century.

George W. DeRenne Middle School 3609 Hopkins Street Savannah 31405 Enrollment: 976 Grades: 6 - 8 Savannah-Chatham County Schools

Principal Gretchen Reese
Superintendent Dr. Patrick Russo
First District

29

ewes! Daainbrlde cMidd!e CffJchoo!
West Bainbridge Middle School (WBMS) is a success, in part, due to the nurturing climate created for students and staff. The school family is focused on its vision, dedicated to quality, and is determined to make a difference. As a small rural school, we have established a reputation as a safe and orderly school and one in which innovative programs abound. Both teachers and students have fun while engaged in the learning process.
Using an improvement process derived from SACS, Pay for Performance (both state and local level), and effective school research, the staff at WBMS has made steady progress. WBMS staff has become active grant writers, securing consecutive year funding from the Next Generation Schools Project, mini grants from the Eisenhower Consortium, Georgia Middle School Incentive funding, as well as funding from a variety of other sources at the local, state, and national levels.
One school motto is that not only does change in education take vision and courage, but it a/so takes patience, persistence, and a willingness to risk. Evidence of that motto in action can be seen in our innovative programs. Innovations at WBMS are best exemplified in our alternative education program (ALT-O), our Equine Science program (using horses to recapture
30

at-risk youth), marine biology and aquatic studies (solving real world problems), a youth legislative session, and a schoolwide wax museum.
Not only have our academics improved through strategic planning, but the addition of six computers with Internet access in each classroom has truly linked southwest Georgia to the world. Key to a well-rounded program was the strengthening of our exploratories, clubs, and activities. WBMS boasts state-level competitors in vocational activities, winning artists, outstanding vocalists and musicians, a club for every child, and activities that include before school intramural basketball, and service learning projects. The school's many programs and activities have helped to develop students who can solve problems, who are motivated, who have good work habits, and who can work with people that they may not like.
Our biggest accomplishments are evidenced by improved writing scores, community collaboration, and innovative staff development. According to Principal Suzi Bonifay, West Bainbridge's in-service and collaborative endeavors have been built by "stepping out of the box" to create unique learning opportunities for students and teachers. Ingredients and directions for success are as follows: take equal parts of students, parents, educators, and community members; stir in respect; fold in discovery; add a large quantity of flexibility; and sprinkle with a daily dose of laughter. What you produce will be wonderful, humorous, and inspiring.

West Bainbridge Middle School 1417 Dothan Highway Bainbridge 31717 Enrollment: 556 Grades: 6-8 Decatur County Schools

Principal Dr. Suzanne Bonifay
Superintendent Dr. James Pate
Second District

31

Arnold cMiddle C':ffJohool
The State Superintendent of Schools Linda C. Schrenko, speaking to the Arnold PTSA, tells us, "Arnold is a great schooH" The foreman of our roofing project, Senators Max Cleland and Paul Coverdale, and parents make the same comment. This is the theme delivered to the community by the media resulting in over 100 transfer requests each year. Visitors, including the state superintendent of schools, speak of the warm, welcome environment they feel when visiting Arnold.
Test scores attest to academic excellence. "New Directions" turns at-risk students from failure to a future posting outstanding academic gains. Writing scores soar with Arnold's unique writing program. Drop Everything And Read (DEAR) twice a week prioritizes reading. Networked Internet access, media center access, closed-circuit television, Bulletin Board service, computer lab, and an after-school technology lab support world class instruction preparing our learners to thrive in the twenty-first century. Our Outdoor Classroom resulted from grant dollars that teachers initiated. Next Generation Schools teamed Arnold with an elementary and high school to create the district's first cluster program for at-risk students. Our exploratory program boasts a rich array of courses from vocational to fine arts.
Parent workshops, family contact logs, Good News cards, RAC (Rams Assume Citizenship), discipline plan, and our student advisement system all support instruction. Saturday school is
32

held bi-weekly to support the RAe and homework plans. Every student
is involved in community service projects with Arnold contributing thousands of dollars and volunteer hours to charity over the past five year. Achievement and citizenship flourish.
Shared decision making involves all stakeholders. With careful sCrtltiny of the research and a visionary eye to the future, action teams use the wealth of data collected through ongoing assessment to develop school improvement plans. Our family of teachers as learners support each other in mentoring and staff development with an "each one teach one" philosophy supporting every teacher's professional development plan. Most staff development courses are taught by school staff.
These are exciting times at Arnold. We celebrate Arnold's community involvement with three outstanding Partners in Education. Arnold's "Dream Team" was just named a Team of the Year by the Georgia Middle School Association. For the third year we are setting goals for Pay for Performance. Teachers elected to put their first $2000 right back into their classes!
We celebrate an environment that stimulates lifelong learning and responsible citizenship by developing a strong cooperative partnership between school, home, and community. Arnold is a true School of Excellence!

Arnold Middle School 2011 51st Street Columbus 31904 Enrollment: 734 Grades: 7-8 Muscogee County Schools

Principal Ruthie Hamlin
Superintendent GuyW. Sims
Third District

33

GfJummerour oUiddle GfJchool
In 1963 when Summerour Middle School was constructed, the Norcross community was one of neighborhood homes with families of similar make-up. Since that time, tremendous changes have taken place. Today, there are 44 countries represented within our student body. Twenty-one languages are spoken. What a challenge to our students and faculty! To meet those challenges, a special faculty was assembled. The Summerour staff is cohesive and collegial with their focus on student achievement.
In 1995, a new class to help students begin working to potential was created. Academic Coaching is a nine-weeks' class which is assigned to those students who are failing one or more classes with an emphasis on language arts and/or mathematics. Fiftyone percent of these students were successful in their academic classes as a result of their enrollment in Academic Coaching.
Summerour Middle Action Research Tearn (SMARn, a committee made of teachers and administrators who focus on data collection, analysis, and results, studied the Iowa Tests of Basic Skills scores as well the scores on the Georgia Writing Test for the past five years. As a result of this study it was determined that emphasis needed to be placed on student reading levels. The Accelerated Reader Program and STAR testing were purchased. Each morning, students and faculty members begin their day with a 25-minute period of silent reading. Since
34

implementing this program, there are 5 percent more sixth graders reading on grade level, 9 percent more seventh graders, and 3 percent more eighth graders.
Some Summerour students need more one-on-one attention and time on task as evidenced by their academic achievement. These students are placed on our ICT, Intensive Care Teams. Forty sixth-grade students and 40 seventh-grade students were given the opportunity to work with two teacher teams with the idea that reduced numbers in the classes would result in increased student learning. In addition to concentrating on skill building within the academic areas, students and teachers are developing service projects and helping their community.
All of the aforementioned programs were developed and implemented based on faculty input. The faculty has the opportunity every two years to elect a colleague to represent them on the Summerour Executive Committee (SEC). SEC members meet each week to discuss the day-today events which occur within a school. In addition, these individuals are involved in updating the mission and vision, as well as developing the goals for the upcoming year. Parent committees are also involved in the school improvement process.
Creative and innovative programs as well as a focus on improvement are what make Summerour Middle a great place for student learning. Students, faculty, and parents work together to ensure academic progress. Students leave Summerour prepared for high school and the life experiences they will soon encounter.

Summerour Middle School 585 Mitchell Road Norcross 30071 Enrollment: 906 Grades: 6-8 Gwinnett County Schools

Principal Dr. Gale Hey
Superintendent J. Alvin Wilbanks
Fourth District

35

CffJu!!on oUiddle CffJchool
Sutton Middle School's ultimate goal is to imbue our students with the knowledge and understanding they must possess to become active, productive, and successful members of the larger society. This then is the driving force behind all academic, as well as non-academic, elements of Sutton Middle School. The focus is in the development of the child as a whole in order to realize full potential. At Sutton, we attempt to establish building blocks upon which a child can grow intellectually, emotionally, and socially. To do this we adopt a multifaceted approach, which addresses this issue on a variety of levels.
Sutton's foundation of education is a sound academic core curriculum which is supported by programming that includes a separate reading class occurring daily, the Accelerated Reader Program, Title I mathematics, and an additional supplementary mathematics program. The social studies department annually embarks on two interdisciplinary units to stimulate citizenship and cross-cultural understanding: Vote USA and International Week. The science department annually participates in the Jason Exploration and utilizes Zoo Atlanta Activity Boxes and Georgia Tech's Edutech Institute.
Sutton has the strongest foreign language department in the city of Atlanta offering full-year programs in both French and Spanish in the seventh and eighth grades. We were the first middle school to have an exchange program with schools in
36

Belgium and France, and our students have consistently been awarded first place in annual foreign language festivals, Governor's Honors Program and Academic Achievement Awards. We are the first school to offer a "content-based" foreign language education program, the objectives of which are to support, enrich, and supplement the other academic disciplines taught at Sutton.
Sutton has a vibrant fine arts department which consists of band, orchestra, chorus, drama, and art. Our music and art rotation clas,ses are designed primarily to introduce students to creative and performing arts. Our band, orchestra, and chorus classes are taught as performance classes with emphasis on music organization and technique. Drama students are accepted into the seventh- and eighth-grade full-year drama classes by audition only. Sutton arts students are assigned projects which encourage both analytical and creative development, so that these students will have the foundation to be both insightful and innovative in their future pursuits.
Sutton continues to pursue its commitment to provide a comprehensive education by encouraging community interaction. We have vibrant Partners in Education programs, a committed PTA, and a dedicated faculty and staff all of whom have joined forces to produce thoughtful and productive citizens of tomorrow.

Sutton Middle School 4360 Powers Ferry Road, NW Atlanta 30327 Enrollment: 856 Grades: 6-8 Atlanta City Schools

Principal Hazel Katz
Superintendent Dr. Benjamin O. Canada
Fifth District

37

OfJimpson oUiddle OfJchool
The Simpson Middle School community of students, staff, parents, and partners is celebrating a "Decade of Excellence"ten years of commitment to achieving academic excellence and to providing an environment dedicated to the joy of learning. Through active teaching and learning, Simpson's staff is dedicated to providing a challenging curriculum of mathematics, science, social studies, language arts, reading, foreign language, exploratory, and physical education for all learners. Each course is designed to prepare students for high school and college and the desire to remain a life-long leamer.
The leadership collaboration of the administration, staff, and community has had a powerful impact on the educational vitality of Simpson's instructional program. Teachers and parents share ownership in developing goals and programs to prepare students for the future. The deployment of technology in classrooms strengthens mathematics, science, and Writing skills. The development of new teaching strategies to facilitate student achievement has kept Simpson's goals in line with the National Education Goals for the year 2000.
Simpson's standardized test scores are indicators of the success of an effective instructional program. Mathematics computation scores on the eighth-grade Iowa Test of Basic Skills soared to second in the state as a result of an academic focus on mathematics. For the last five years, Simpson students have consis-
38

tently exceeded state and county norms on standardized tests. A highly effective staff development program ensures that Simpson's professional community remains at the leading edge of current educational trends and technology. In 1995-96 Simpson was one of ten middle schools to be recognized in the state of Georgia as a Pay for Performance School acknowledging Simpson's exemplary performance in academic achievement, client involvement, educational programming, and resource development.
Simpson offers many services and programs that support the goals and needs of students. Trained parent and community volunteers tutor at-risk students in identified academic areas. At-risk mathematics students take part in a math-mentoring program that involves parents and teachers. All students have daily planners and are involved in a year long organizational and time management program.
Simpson Middle School is committed to the joy of learning. Personal enthusiasm and the sharing of knowledge and skills foster academic achievement and community involvement. Sensitivity to the needs of students, parents, and staff cultivates a supportive climate in which creativity and the pursuit of individuality thrive.

Simpson Middle School 3340 Trickum Road Marietta 30066 Enrollment: 896 Grades: 6-8 Cobb County Schools

Principal Terry Poor
Superintendent Dr. Richard Benjamin
Sixth District

39

~ass cMiddle ~ch()()l
"Together we can make a difference" is the motto of Cass Middle School in Bartow County, Georgia. This motto guides the faculty and staff of Cass Middle as we strive to make positive changes for the leaders of tomorrow. Through team teaching, hands-on activities which enhance academic excellence, and a fun, friendly environment for the students, the faculty and staff, Cass Middle provides a child-centered curriculum conducive to the needs of each middle school student. For this reason among others, Cass Middle School is a student-focused school that aims to educate the total child in preparation for success in today's changing world.
Cass Middle is one of three middle schools in the Bartow County School System, which is located in the northwest quadrant of the state. The school district is a part of the Atlanta metropolitan area but is actually rural in nature. The school population has steadily increased from 660 students in 1991 to the present enrollment of 867 students.
One facet of Cass Middle of which the administrators and teachers are extremely proud is the building itself. The new facility is a source of pride for the small community of Cassville and other residents in the county. Before it was built, a staff, student, and parent committee was organized to give educational input and specifications regarding the new school and its furnishings. The committee visited schools in the surrounding
40

counties to gather ideas for the design. From this committee's recommendations, the concept of "schools within a school" emerged. Sixth, seventh, and eighth graders each have a wing within the building, with the media center and cafeteria in a central location for easy access to everyone. The design is very practical with spacious classrooms, a functional exploratory wing, a large gymnasium with an auxiliary gym, a band room, and a chorus room. Cass Middle is proud to be the model for all new middle schools built by the school system.
Cass Middle's accomplishments are best characterized by the belief that its teachers and administrators are building leaders, not just educating students. Cass Middle is making a difference in the lives of children. Teachers and administrators strive to ensure that each child is treated as a valued individual and is capable of achieving success in today's changing world. In doing so, Cass Middle is preparing its students to be the leaders of tomorrow.

Cass Middle School 195 Fire Tower Road, NW Cartersville 30120 Enrollment: 846 Grades: 6-8 Bartow County Schools

Principal Gary Boling
Superintendent Dr. Davis Nelson
Seventh District

41

~0'3an cYountp oWiddle C1fJchool
Nestled on a residential street just blocks away from historic Madison's town square, Morgan County Middle School (MCMS) strives daily to exemplify its motto: "MCMS, Where learning is a way of life." Within its mellowed brick walls, administrators, teachers, parents, students, and staff work as a team to create a positive atmosphere where learning and excellence are top priority.
The common goal at MCMS is always student success. School faculty, parents, and community members collaborate to create and implement programs that help raise student achievement. Students have learned how to solve problems without resorting to violence through the Peer Mediation program. Business partner Georgia Power has helped institute a mentor program where involved students work with their mentors each week. The P.U.P. Club, an after-school program, gives students opportunities for tutoring, computer experience and a variety of other enriching activities. State-of-the-art technology throughout the school provides hands-on computer experience for every student.
Morgan County Middle School promotes excellence among its faculty and staff as well. This team believes that success is always attainable. They consistently use self-evaluation procedures to
42

determine strategies for school improvement. Through staff development, shared decision making, and the effort of all faculty and staff, MCMS achieves its goals. Within the past year, MCMS has earned recognition in Georgia's Pay for Performance program by setting and then reaching a group of faculty generated goals. Additionally, the middle school recently completed the requirements for the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools accreditation process and was given excellent commendations by the review committee. As a result of these efforts, student achievement has dramatically improved. Test scores on the Iowa Test of Basic Skills in the areas of reading and mathematics have risen steadily over the past four years.
A key to Morgan County Middle's success is strong parental and community support. As parent involvement increases, so does student success. Parent volunteers are present daily, assisting in a variety of ways. Representatives also serve on the Parent Advisory Council. Since MCMS values this involvement, the school prides itself on maintaining strong communication between school and home. Each quarter, a newsletter is mailed to each student's home. On a daily basis, students are encouraged to keep up with assignments and grades in their school agendas, purchased for the student body by the PTO. Parents are also invited for conferences during team planning times, before and after school, and on two early-release days at the end of the first and third quarters.
At MCMS, students come first, everyone works together to achieve goals, and learning really is a way of life. This middle school is determined to excel, and through the dedication and innovation of all, Morgan County Middle School will progress with excellence into the twenty-first century.

Morgan County Middle School 920 Pearl Street Madison 30650 Enrollment: 639 Grades: 6-8 Morgan County Schools

Principal Alfred Murray
Superintendent Dr. Patricia Stokes
Eleventh District

43

THIS PAGE LEFT BLANK

cyifjtfh
b
CYbchools

ef21bertp cYountp
eJJezg-h 0tJchoo!
Since Liberty County High School (LCHS) opened in 1991, it has experienced rapid growth and change. This has presented challenges which LCHS's staff and students have readily met. The result is a well-qualified, cooperative staff, innovative instructional programs, strong community support, and an emphasis on "Panther Pride," all of which make LCHS a school of excellence.
Recognizing specific areas that needed improvement, LCHS implemented innovative programs. For example, in order to improve reading and writing test scores, LCHS introduced a Writing Across the Curriculum Program and a time for Silent Sustained Reading. These techniques have proven to be effective, and students' test scores have significantly improved. Also, Project Success was added to the curriculum to help at-risk students become more successful in school and to aid their transition to the work environment.
In order to better prepare students for their future, emphasis is placed on teaching higher-level thinking skills in all classes. Such methods as having a "math problem of the day" and having discussion questions on all tests are being utilized to meet this goal. Also, there has been an increase in Advanced Placement offerings, as well as in the integration of technology into the
46

curriculum. LCHS presently has student-produced announcements over closed-circuit television, three networked computer labs for tech prep, a network lab for remedial education, computers in the media center with Internet access, and a GSAMS classroom. A team of teachers is currently being trained on integrating computers into science, mathematics, and fine arts instruction, and they, in turn, will train other staff members. Technology currently available, combined with these innovative teaching methods, will ensure that all LCHS students are technologically literate and prepared for the twenty-first century.
To improve various aspects of the school environment, parents, and community members participate in an active PTA, as well as a supportive athletic booster club. Three community agencies recently showed their support by funding a school resource officer, who enforces the law on campus, serves as a role model, mediates conflicts, and provides students with a more positive view of law enforcement officers. Also, LCHS was "adopted" by the 3rd Infantry Division Military Police Battalion from Fort Stewart. They serve as tutors and mentors for students, help in class-
rooms, serve as guest speakers, and organize field trips for students, all of
which enhance the educational experience of LCHS students.
The cooperative relationship between the faculty, staff, parents, students, and community partners at LCHS exemplifies the African proverb that, "it takes an entire village to raise a child." Working together, all of these factions provide an excellent educational environment, which enables LCHS students to prepare for their ultimate role as America's future.

Liberty County High School 3216 East Oglethorpe Highway Hinesville 31313 Enrollment: 1110 Grades: 9-12 Liberty County Schools

Principal Paula Scott
Superintendent Don O'Neil
First District

47

Giarlp cY(juntp d6g-h (J5ch(j(j!
Beginning in 1996, Early County High School (ECHS) began the implementation of a five-year plan that has resulted in many changes for its staff and students. The catalyst for this change was a willingness on the part of students, parents, staff, and the board of education to make bold changes in the traditional methods of education.
After much study, changes were made in both the structure of the school day and the school year. In 1996 ECHS decided to go to a modified block schedule. The system implemented consists of three 90-minute classes and one year-iong, 50minute class for students. This schedule allows students to concentrate on two major academic classes per semester rather than four and a total of four classes rather than six. The result has been a reduction in the failure rate for our students. Teachers have had time to use technology and cooperative learning activities to enhance teaching and learning.
On August 1, 1997, we became the first high school in Georgia to operate on a modified year-round calendar. This calendar allows students to complete the first semester before the long traditional Christmas break, and prevents students who are returning after Christmas break from having to take semester tests shortly after their return. The calendar allows for fall,
48

winter, spring, and summer breaks. This system is designed to allow students and staff to recharge and return to school ready to concentrate on teaching and learning.
The infusion of technology and cooperative leaming strategies in the class have been accomplished byrpeans of a financial commitment by the administration and the board of education and staff development commitment by the faculty and staff. A student-centered classroom is the goal of each teacher at ECHS. Each teacher has a multimedia computer, LCD panel, Internet access, and software to allow for the latest techniques making learning interesting and meaningful for students. ECHS has over 250 computers in science labs, writing labs, foreign language labs, remedial labs, word processing labs, and technology labs giving students direct use of the latest technology. Many new courses which are designed to give students a hands-on approach to learning have been added to the curriculum. Applied courses in communication, algebra, geometry, biology, principles of technology, and technology have been added to the course offering in the last two years.
In 1996 ECHS and Andrew College entered into an agreement for Andrew College staff to come to ECHS and teach twenty hours of college credit for qualifying seniors. This program will allow talented students to start their college careers while still in high school without leaving the high school campus.
The excellent academic record and the rich extracurricular activities at ECHS will be expanded and enhanced by the improvements over the last two years. We are proud to be one of Georgia's Schools of Excellence. Change and continued improvement will be an ongoing process at ECHS. This honor will only challenge and encourage us to strive to provide better opportunities for our students in the future.

Early County High School 420 Columbia Road Blakely 31723 Enrollment: 776 Grades: 9-12 Early County Schools

Principal Kenneth Hall
Superintendent Richard Hall
Second District

49

I
~ag!e S ~andlitg
OCigh c:fJchoo!
Eagle's Landing High School, destined to be one of the premiere schools in the area, opened in 1990 in Henry County, one of the fastest growing counties in the nation. Teachers and staff were selected very carefully with an emphasis on academic excellence and student success. Eagle's Landing High School provides each student the opportunity to excel academically and socially. In addition to maintaining strong standardized scores in all areas, learners also excel in cocurricular activities. Students have received numerous awards in individual and group competitions. Eagle's Landing claims county, regional, state, and national winners for various disciplines, clubs, sports, and teams. From its beginning, Eagle's Landing High School has effectively faced the challenges of a rapidly growing student population while continually upgrading its facilities and course offerings.
The school's climate and culture is unique and apparent to all. Positive and supportive interactions between professional staff members and the student body set the tone for the culture of the school. Outside observers express admiration for the professionalism of the staff members and the eagerness with which each educator approaches his or her tasks. The students imbibe the school atmosphere, not only experiencing the energy of the staff but contributing further to the school culture. Staff and students
50

together create an underlying synergy that drives an enthusiasm for academic success.
Evidence of the positive school culture abounds. Students from a variety of nations, backgrounds, and socio-economic and ability levels mesh in classrooms, sports, activities, clubs, and social situations. Students with limited English proficiency, representing 17 different languages, as well as students with minimal to profound physical and academic disabilities are instructed in collaborative formats and are included in every aspect of high school life. An example of this inclusionary spirit is embodied in the Partners Club, a student organization which connects regular education students with special education students. The Partners Club members assist special needs students in their classes, in preparations for Special Olympics and other sports events, and in daily activities.
The success at Eagle's Landing High School does not depend on one individual person or attribute, for we are a community of adult and young learners who represent diverse cultures, experiences, and abilities. Through our celebration of this unique experience, we learn from one another as we enjoy the accomplishments of all. Demographically, Eagle's Landing High School directly represents the large community where it is located. Ultimately, Eagle's Landing High School represents the world as it should be: a global community working together for the benefit of all.

Eagle's Landing High School 301 Tunis Road McDonough 30253 Enrollment: 1629 Grades: 9-12 Henry County Schools

Principal Ralph Lynch
Superintendent Herbert W. Garrett
Third District

51

cUecrdowcreek OOg-h CJfJchoo!
Meadowcreek High School in Norcross, Georgia, serves 2,000 students who come from many areas of the United States and more than sixty countries throughout the world. There are twenty-three native languages represented in the school population with 11 percent of the students having limited proficiency in English. Along with its great diversity, Meadowcreek has a 44 percent mobility rate, and 32 percent of the students participate in the free and reduced lunch program.
In order to promote academic excellence for each student, Meadowcreek is involved in the development and implementation of the Gwinnett County Academic Knowledge and Skills program (AKS), which sets achievement standards and includes a tenth-grade gateway test that is required for graduation. Meadowcreek has implemented a number of programs to meet the diverse needs of its students. Advanced Placement classes and honors classes challenge students to meet high expectations. The Title I program and CVAE program help students with developmental needs. The ESOL program helps immigrant students gain proficiency in English. By participating in the Southern Regional Education Board's (SREB) High Schools That Work program, Meadowcreek has developed a plan which holds high expectations for students with technical aspirations. Meadowcreek's graduates have been accepted at numerous universities and colleges, including Harvard, Yale, Princeton, the University of Georgia, the Georgia Institute of Technology,
52

Georgia State University, and the Air Force Academy. Not only is Meadowcreek engaged in meeting students' academic needs but also their cocurricular and extracurricular needs. The girls' basketball team has been in the state playoffs for the last two years. The visual arts program has sent three to five students per year to the Governor's Honors Program since 1989. Meadowcreek had one of the first peer mediator programs in the state, and Meadowcreek's mediators have trained students in many other schools.
In order for Meadowcreek to be successful it creates connections with the surrounding community. Parents and community members are involved in the Local School Advisory Committee. The Meadowcreek Community Coalition brings together educators, religious leaders, police officials, health and human services workers, and community agencies in order to build a large community to support the school. The new Meadowcreek Community Stadium, which was constructed with risers from the Olympic Stadium, is the visible center of this community.
The International Week Festival, celebrating Meadowcreek's many cultural backgrounds and diverse community, is held each spring and is one of the highlights of the school year. During the school week, student groups from different cultures perform during the lunch period. On Saturday, the total community is invited to participate in a full day of activities including sampling foods, purchasing cultural items, and observing performances.
Looking forward to the future, Meadowcreek sees itself as the leading partner in creating a community where diverse people live, work, learn, and celebrate together.

Meadowcreek High School 4455 Steve Reynolds Boulevard Norcross 30093 Enrollment: 2015 Grades: 9-12 Gwinnett County Schools

Principal Patrick Mahon
Superintendent J. Alvin Wilbanks
Fourth District

53

cJ<'orth Atlanta OOjJh CfJchool
"Our strength is in our diversity." This motto was used when North Atlanta High School came into being. As the school matured and developed, this motto became reality. North Atlanta has the most culturally diverse student body in the city of Atlanta. Although located in northwest Atlanta, we draw from every neighborhood in the Atlanta Public Schools attendance zone. Students and parents alike are eager to be a part of the North Atlanta family. We are an example of a high-achieving, multicultural urban school.
North Atlanta, in addition to a regular college preparatory and vocational curriculum, has two strong magnets, The Center for International Studies and The Performing Arts Magnet.
The Center for International Studies is a nationally and internationally recognized program with a strong emphasis on the study of foreign language and internationally related topics. At the end of the sophomore year, they choose either the International Business or the International Baccalaureate track for the remainder of their high school career.
In the International Business track, students concentrate on economics and international trade, East Asian studies, world literature and advanced foreign languages. In addition to regular
54

classes, business students run an import/export business, The Atlanta Caribbean Trading Company. The Warrior Warehouse is their retail outlet.
Students choosing the International Baccalaureate study world literature, advanced foreign languages, history of the Americas, mathematics, biology and Theory of Knowledge. They must write an extended essay in one of the IB subjects and document creative action and social service activity. The International Baccalaureate diploma is awarded based on success in the examinations administered by the International Baccalaureate Organization in Geneva, Switzerland.
The Performing Arts Magnet is a four-year college preparatory program that enables students to discover and develop their talents in the performing arts. Students specialize in either vocal music, orchestra, band, dance, drama, or technical theater. For many years, all performing groups have received recognition in local, state, and national competitions.
North Atlanta has a reputation for being a safe school environment that meets the needs of a wide range of students. We have shown that all children can be high achievers given the opportunity and environment that fosters excellence. We hope to instill in all of our students the desire to be lifelong learners.

North Atlanta High School 2875 Northside Drive, NW Atlanta 30305 Enrollment: 1592 Grades: 9-12 Atlanta City Schools

Principal Thomas E. Adger
Superintendent Dr. Benjamin O. Canada
Fifth District

55

c::Milton OOg-h CffJchoo!
Milton High School (MHS) approaches the millennium as a school on the move! Ever mindful of our commitment to equity and excellence, we, the faculty and staff at Milton High School in cooperation with the total learning community, pledge all our efforts, professional expertise, and personal outreach to building a learning-centered school where students are the central focus. The Fulton County School System's logo "students come first" is the focus of our learning community. We believe in quality teams comprised of all stakeholders that together make MHS a Georgia School of Excellence.
As a learning community, we focus on student-centered learning by infusing technology and parent involvement into the curriculum. It is an exciting time at MHS! We have more teacher and parent involvement than ever before in the school's 75-year history-parents, teachers, students, and administrators are empowered as they come together to study educational innovations and implementation strategies such as block scheduling, authentic assessment, and cooperative learning teams. Presently on a modified block, we continue to explore creative ways to use time to ensure student learning.
Teachers continue to learn new strategies that foster "knowledge work" for students. Our teachers have been moving toward a new day since we first formulated our Vision 2000 goals. The words of one our teachers captures the mood: "This is a new day in education and it's a little scary for us." A new day is
56

dawning, and our faculty rises on the wings of eagles to meet that new day. Teachers take classes in interdisciplinary instruction and complete interdisciplinary units to be implemented in the 1998-99 school year. We presently team teach American History and American Literature and conduct interdisciplinary activities in physics and automotive, biology and horticulture, algebra and economics, geometry and physical science, chemistry and foods, and media tech and music. Interdisciplinary instruction also promotes collegiality as teachers open their classrooms to fellow teachers to share ideas and planning time.
Technology connects the farthest points of the world via the information highway. Being computer literate is an expectation not just an option for all students. The excitement that our webmasters display as they work on the web page and the excitement of the newspaper student as she formats the paper on the Super Mac or the math student in the math lab, or the biology student dissecting the human being on the Adam software is unparalleled in the traditional classroom. We strive to create classrooms for the twenty-first century-classrooms full of students engaged in real knowledge activities: collecting data, analyzing data, synthesizing data, and applying data. We create and engage students in learning centers in foreign languages and social studies. Our production center in the media center is available for our students to learn to use Power Point for reports and papers. Technology has changed the face of education.
It is the willingness to step out and "break ranks" that makes Milton High School a Georgia School of Excellence.

Milton High School 86 School Drive Alpharetta 30201 Enrollment: 2034 Grades: 9-12 Fulton County Schools

Principal Phil Thomas
Superintendent Dr. Stephen D. Dolinger
Sixth District

57

(jJarterSVl!!e c:#ezg-h (jf;choo!
The success of Cartersville High School is due in large part to progress toward the eight goals identified by faculty members in our Charter School application. The adoption of a four-by-four block schedule in combination with a new attendance policy helped improve attendance, giving the high school the highest attendance figures in our system, at nearly 95 percent. Our block schedule has also improved remediation, behavior of students with behavioral problems, achievement in reading and writing, and the transition from middle to high school and from school to work.
Cartersville High School has always enjoyed a reputation for academic success. The parents and teachers in our system and the community at large have high expectations for the achievement of our students. We were the first high school in Georgia to be granted Charter School status, and we remain one of only two such high schools in the state. In fact, we are a part of the only Charter System in the state.
We attempt to serve the needs of all our students. Toward this end, every student has an advisor who works with him/her from the end of eighth grade through graduation, helping to smooth the difficult transition to high school. We have also enlarged the scope of our Youth Apprenticeship Program by including the Teacher Cadet Program as an option in addition to several industry-based options. Each department offers an evening
58

study hall once a week, providing students an opportunity for academic remediation and enrichment. Our Advance Placement enrollment has nearly doubled, and over 20 percent of our seniors take advantage of the Post-Secondary Options Program to earn college credits while still in high school. The percentage of our students taking the SAT has increased recently from 65 percent to 78 percent, showing a recognition on the part of our students that post-secondary education is for everyone.
One of the hallmarks of our success has been the involvement qf parents and community members. In order to make school more accessible to them, we maintain evening hours in both the guidance office/career center and the library. Parents and students from each grade level are represented on our Charter School Leadership Team and regularly bring items of concern to the Leadership Team for discussion and action. Cartersville High School is a School of Excellence due to the dedicated involvement of everyone here - students, faculty, administrators, parents, and community.

Cartersville High School 320 East Church Street Cartersville 30120 Enrollment: 836 Grades: 9-12 Cartersville City Schools

Principal James S. Morgan III
Superintendent Dr. Harold T. Barnett
Seventh District

59

" ..',...'. . .
rYalhoun OOg-h GfJchool
Founded in 1902, Calhoun High School (CHS) continues its pursuit of educational excellence. Foremost in the school's success is the dedication and cooperation of the school staff, the community, and the students. Situated in a community that boasts progressive leadership, a diversified industrial base, and an awareness of cultural diversity, CHS is genuinely a studentcentered, community-based school. Many of the town's activities are centered in the school; the campus is used from early morning until late evening by the community education department, nearby colleges, a technical school, evening tutorial sessions, mentor programs, thirty-nine Partners in Education, and various civic organizations.
In order to provide an exemplary education which promotes lifelong learning, CHS offers a diverse, comprehensive educational experience for each of its students in a safe, nurturing environment. An integral component of the curriculum is the vocational education opportunities offered; tech prep endorsements are available in automotive technology, business technology, computer technology, drafting, construction trades, technology lab, Ford Academy of ManufactUring Sciences, occupational child care, and consumer home economics. Academically gifted students are offered a college preparatory program which includes Advanced Placement opportunities in each core subject area. The seven-period day affords many students the opportunity to achieve duel endorsements. Addi-
60

tionally, CHS is currently seeking affiliation with the International Baccalaureate (IB) Organization to provide a rigorous, pre-university course of study at the most challenging level. The IB program incorporates core curriculum courses at an advanced level, community service, sports, activities, extensive research, and composition. Ninety-three percent of the school's students enhance their classroom experiences by participating in a variety of cocurricular activities.

Another significant factor in the school's success is the dedication to the meaningful integration of the latest educational technology. CHS provides its students four computer labs, a technology lab featuring robotics and lasers, multimedia stations in each English and social studies classroom, computers in core curriculum classrooms, and a totally networked and accessible media center. Soon students will be able to access the media center networks from their home computers. The school's use of technology has made possible an extensive, systemwide curriculum alignment project. This project allows teachers in each discipline at every grade level to create benchmark tests, track individual student progress, and create individualized remediation. Through this system, unmastered skills are identified quickly and remediation is timely. This tracking of student achievement would be prohibitively cumbersome without technology.

Calhoun High School is a unique combination of twenty-first century technology and early twentieth century small town life. This blend affords students the best of the future while maintaining many personal values of the past.

Calhoun High School 315 South River Street Calhoun 30701 Enrollment: 538 Grades: 9-12 Calhoun City Schools

. . ! "'~~--;r~:~iPal
J.- Billy Waldrop I
SupLearriyntHeanrdmeonnt
Ninth District

61

~a!em oog-h ~choo!
Beginning with the very first murmuring of a new high school to open in the fall of 1991 Salem High School has been different. With the leadership of the school Principal Robert Cresswell, the faculty was chosen to begin a new endeavor; a restructured high school to better meet the needs of students. The workshop that all staff members were required to attend before Salem opened its doors, set the tone for the continuing communication, collegiality, collaboration, and cooperation that is infused in the very soul of Salem. Teachers became empowered to solve problems so that "making school a better place to learn" could happen.
When the Salem faculty began to talk about "school" and how the "game of school" could be improved, two innovative methods of restructuring, heterogeneous grouping and teacher teaming, were chosen as the means of major change. Since that time many other methods of restructuring have been employed including the use of interdisciplinary units, student-centered learning, the team streaming of special education students, block scheduling, and the attempt at personalization for each and every student.
In order to maintain the uniqueness of the restructured school the Salem faculty is in a constant state of staff development from "breakfasts on Fridays" for socialization to "focus meetings" each \.\leek where teachers give up one planning session to
62

attend formal and informal gatherings to discuss various issues. Each year the staff is led by the school principal and others to begin the planning process for the next school year. Students are the main concem in the process and everything that affects students is under consideration for change.
Some of the results that the Salem staff have seen are the first graduating class of 1995 being offered 2.5 million dollars in scholarships with the class of 1997 acquiring 3.5 million. Salem students have excelled in many ways including the improvement of test scores, many Governor's Honors nominees, prizes in literary competitions, but more importantly the Salem students have excelled as individuals. Students are prepared for the world they will enter whether it be attending a college or university or entering the work force. Not only does the counseling department attempt to decipher and find strategies that meet the needs of individual and groups of students but each faculty member considers it his/her responsibility to advise students in all areas as they move toward their adult lives beyond the Salem doors. This personalization by all staff members is encouraged by the continuing empowerment given by the administration. All persons are considered stakeholders in the educational process at Salem and are encouraged to communicate the needs and solve the problems through the collaborative process.

Salem High School 3551 Underwood Road Conyers 30208 Enrollment: 1289 Grades: 9-12 Rockdale County Schools

Principal Robert Cresswell
Superintendent Dr. Donald Peccia
Eleventh District

63

Elementary Schools

May D. Howard Elementary

Ben Hill County Elementary

Fox Elementary

Rockbridge Elementary

North Roswell Elementary

;

Jackson Road Elementary

Tritt Elementary

Alexander Elementary

Gwin Oaks Elementary

Oconee County Elementary

Chatham County Ben Hill County Muscogee County DeKalb County
Fulton County Spalding County
Cobb County Bibb County Gwinnett County Oconee County

Middle Schools and Junior High Schools

Glynn County Middle School

Magnolia-Chappelle Middle School

Rothschild Junior High

;

Edwards Middle School

Sandy Springs Middle School

Fairplay Middle School.

Garrett Middle School

Putnam County Middle School

Five Forks Middle School

Columbia Junior High

;

Glynn County Thomas County Muscogee County Rockdale County
Fulton County Douglas County
Cobb County Putnam County Gwinnett County Columbia County

High Schools
Statesboro High School Lowndes County High School Shaw High School Heritage High School Douglass High School Lithia Springs High SchooL Walton High School Dalton High School Evans High School

Bu//och County Lowndes County Muscogee County Rockdale County
Atlanta City Douglas County
Cobb County Dalton City
Columbia County

64

Elementary Schools

StiIston Elementary Lee County Elementary Cherokee Elementary Barksdale Elementary E.S. Jackson Elementary Crescent Elementary 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 Parkview High School..

Glynn County Valdosta City Muscogee County DeKalb County
Atlanta City Carrollton City
Rome City Bibb County Cherokee County Gwinnett County

65

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 Middle School..

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 Schoo!..

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

66

Elementary Schools

Nevils Elementary Morven Primary Jackson Primary Barksdale Elementary Hutchinson Elementary Huddleston Elementary Murdock Elementary Wacona Elementary Lumpkin County Elementary Knight Elementary

Bulloch County Brooks County
Butts County Rockdale County
Atlanta 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 Dalton City
Gwinnett County

High Schools
Brunswick High School Colquitt County High School laGrange High School Newton County High School. Benjamin Mays High School McIntosh High School East Rome High School Ware County High School Stephens County High SchooL Lincoln County High School

Glynn County Colquitt County
LaGrange City Newton County
Atlanta City Fayette County
Rome City Ware County Stephens County Lincoln County

67

1388 cgeorgia CfiJchools 0/(!secellence

Elementary Schools

Risley Elementary Parker Mathis Elementary Reese Road Elementary Porterdale Elementary Sope Creek Elementary Sandersville Elementary
B. B. Harris Elementary
Comer Elementary

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

Middle Schools and Junior High Schools

Wilder Middle School Nashville Middle School Tabor Junior High School ; Edwards Middle School Crabapple Middle School Fayette County Junior High School Dodgen Middle School Valley Point Middle 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 County

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

68

Elementary Schools

Glyndale Elementary Lee County Primary Tucker Elementary Esther S. Jackson Elementary Benteen Elementary Bill Arp Elementary East Side Elementary Wacona Elementary Enota Elementary Gwin Oaks Elementary

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 Schoo!.. Perry Middle School Conyers Middle School Inman Middle School Jonesboro Junior High Dickerson Middle SchooL Center Junior High Summerour Middle School

Tift County Houston County Rockdale County
Atlanta City Clayton County
Cobb County Waycross City Gwinnett 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

69

Elementary Schools

St. Simons Elementary Len Lastinger Elementary Miller Elementary Dolvin 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 AS. Staley Middle School G.L. Edwards Middle School Pointe South Junior High East Cobb Middle School Sweetwater Middle School

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

High Schools
Southeast Bulloch High School Cairo High School Warner Robins High School Dunwoody High School North Springs High School Newnan High School Alan C. Pope High School Washington County High School Central Gwinnett High School Morgan County High School

Bulloch County Grady County
Houston County DeKalb County Fulton County Coweta County Cobb County
Washington County Gwinnett County Morgan County

70

Elementary Schools

St. Marys Elementary S.L. Mason Elementary Bonaire Elementary Barksdale Elementary JW. Arnold Elementary AL. Burruss Elementary Memorial Drive Elementary 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

71

Elementary Schools

Liberty County Elementary Lee County Elementary Kings Chapel Elementary Heards Ferry Elementary Graysville Elementary Patterson Elementary R.D. Head Elementary Lincoln County Elementary

Liberty County Lee County
Houston County Fulton County
Catoosa County Pierce County
Gwinnett County Lincoln County

Middle Schools

Cook Middle George L. Edwards Middle Adamson Middle Arch H. McCleskey 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

72

1333 cgeorgia CYDchools if~$cel!ence

Elementary Schools

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

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

Middle Schools
Myers Middle , Lowndes Middle Bert Rumble Middle Haynes 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 Gainesville City Columbia County

73

Elementary Schools

Windsor Forest Elementary Herbert J. Dexter School Elm Street Elementary Camp Creek Elementary Brookview Elementary Eastvalley Elementary Cartersville Elementary Annie Belle Clark Elementary City Park Elementary County Line Elementary 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 County

Middle Schools and Junior High Schools

Ware County Junior High J.C. 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

,. Ware County Fayette County Rockdale County
Atlanta City Cobb County Carrollton City Dougherty County Gilmer County Richmond County Washington County

High Schools
Waycross High Americus High Lovejoy High W.F. George High North Gwinnett High KS. 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

74

Elementary Schools

Glennville Elementary Sumter County Elementary Pointe South Elementary Margaret G. Barksdale Elementary L.P. Miles Elementary Mountain View Elementary Cave Spring Elementary Westside Elementary Cloud Springs Elementary David C. Barrow Elementary Pine Ridge Elementary

Tattna/l County Sumter County Clayton County Rockdale County
Atlanta City Cobb County Floyd County Coffee County Catoosa County Clarke County DeKalb County

Middle Schools
Mercer Middle AS. 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 Dougherty County
Coweta County DeKalb County
Altanta City Cobb County Houston County Richmond County Jasper County

75

1336 cgeorgia Cjohools if~$oe!!enoe

Elementary Schools

St. Simons Elementary Lake Park Elementary Braelinn Elementary C. J. Hicks Elementary Hapeville Elementary Peachtree Elementary Sedalia Park Elementary Perry Elementary Fairyland Elementary Morgan County Elementary Rainbow Elementary

Glynn County Dougherty County
Fayette County Rockdale County
Fulton County Gwinnett County
Cobb County Houston County
Walker County Morgan County DeKalb County

Middle Schools

Swainsboro Middle Sumter Middle F1atrock Middle Conyers Middle Thurgood Marshall Middle Lost Mountain Middle Rome Middle Bleckley Middle Ringgold Middle Loganville Middle T. J. Elder Middle

Emanuel County Sumter County Fayette County
Rockdale County Atlanta City Cobb County Rome City
Bleckley County Catoosa County Walton County Washington County

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

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

76

1337 cYJeorgia Qf}chools of(;?$cellence

Elementary Schools

East Broad Street Elementary Early County Elementary Robert J. Burch Elementary Midvale Elementary Whitefoord Elementary Baker Elementary Cartersville Primary Eastside Elementary , Dawson Co. Primary Hillcrest Elementary J. H. House Elementary

Chatham County Early County
Fayette County DeKalb County
Atlanta City Cobb County Cartersville City Coffee County Dawson County
Dublin City Rockdale County

Middle Schools
Whitewater Middle Shiloh Middle S. M. Inman Middle Coosa Middle Perry Middle White County Middle Commerce Middle

Fayette County Gwinnett County
Atlanta City Floyd County Houston County White County Commerce City

High Schools
Herschel V. Jenkins High Berkmar High Chattahoochee High Pebblebrook High Warner Robins High Ridgeland High Loganville High

Chatham County Gwinnett County
Fulton County Cobb County
Houston County Walker County Walton County

77

Our sincere thanks go to Blue Bird Corporation for its continued, generous financial support of the Georgia Schools of Excellence Program. Their contributions have provided complimentary tickets and road signs to the recognized schools. The Excellence flags flown by each 1998 Georgia School of Excellence were provided by our sponsor SouthTrust Bank ofAtlanta. We appreciate their contribution. Our thanks also goes to NationsBank who supported the program this year by providing a principals' reception prior to the banquet.
78

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 are hereby notified that the Georgia Department of Education does not discriminate in any educational programs or activities or in employment policies.
The following individuals have been designated as the employees responsible for coordinating the department's effort to implement this nondiscriminatory policy.
Perkins Act - Sue Dohrmann, Vocational Equity Coordinator (404) 657-8304 Title VI - Betsy Howerton, Legal Services (404) 656-4689 Title IX - Betsy Howerton, Legal Services (404) 656-4689 Section 504 and ADA - Betsy Howerton, Legal Services (404) 656-4689
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, (404) 656-2800; to the Regional Office for Civil Rights, Atlanta 30323; or to the Director, Office for Civil Rights, Education Department, Washington, D.C. 20201.
79

Policy and Communications Georgia Department of Education
Atlanta, Georgia 30334 April 1998