Atlanta Independent School Directory
Independent schools in Atlanta offer a rich variety of environments to
nurture and challenge any child’s education. The following profiles are evidence that metro Atlanta is home to many excellent independent schools and learning resources. For additional information about the schools listed below, including location, class size and open house dates, turn to “Beyond the Basics.”Arlington Christian School
It all comes together at Arlington Christian School: Christian educators working with families to provide an unparalleled comprehensive Christian education for students. The Christian worldview permeates every endeavor as the school continually strives to uphold its core values: Knowledge, Honor, Truth, Wisdom, Excellence, and Integrity. “Leadership” is what characterizes the Arlington experience in college prep academics, quality fine arts, and multiple athletic offerings. Students develop their God-given talents in a nurturing, safe, and student-centered environment. Extracurricular activity abounds. ACS students earn solid academic credentials amid a background of approaching life from a Christian perspective. For more information, contact the school directly at 770-964-9871 or visit arlingtonchristian.org.
Atlanta Girls’ School
Atlanta Girls’ School offers girls in grades 6 through 12 a college-preparatory curriculum of the highest standards. Graduates attend Ivy League schools, prestigious liberal arts colleges, leading Southeastern universities and respected research institutes. Atlanta Girls’ School was custom-built for one purpose: girls’ achievement and success. Girls attending AGS learn to take appropriate risks, be courageous leaders, give back to their communities and project personal confidence and competence in all they do. The school’s open house on November 13 will provide plenty of information on what makes it truly unique. For more information, call 404-845-0900 or visit atlantagirlsschool.org.
The Bedford School
The Bedford School offers a fresh start to students who are frustrated in a traditional setting due to learning differences. The school serves children who have been professionally diagnosed with specific learning disabilities and related disorders. Bedford is located on a 45-acre campus in Fairburn, 15 minutes south of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Its mission is to maximize the potential of children with learning differences and develop foundations for success; this is accomplished through small classes, a structured, multi-sensory approach and a dedicated staff. The school’s Squirrel Hollow Camp summer program offers academic tutoring in a recreational environment. Contact Dr. Betsy Box, Director, at 770-774-8001 or visit thebedfordschool.org.
Brandon Hall
Brandon Hall isn’t any old school. It takes a unique approach to learning, extra-curricular activities, and student life to help students succeed in many areas. Brandon Hall is a prestigious boarding school that draws students from the southeast and around the world. The campus is a historic nature preserve filled with iconic stone buildings, and the faculty and staff members are world-class. Brandon Hall’s mission as a coeducational boarding and day school is to provide a challenging college preparatory experience immersed in technology. Its community embraces diversity, celebrates individual strengths, fosters global citizenship, encourages athleticism and the arts, and inspires creativity—where every student’s dream to attend college becomes reality. Brandon Hall focuses on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math education that will prepare students for the rapid pace of innovation in the world. It provides students with the confidence to thrive in this global world, while caring for the environment, health and wellbeing, and service. For more information on Brandon Hall, call 770-394-8177 or visit brandonhall.org.
Covenent Christian School
Covenant Christian School in Smyrna partners with Christian parents and the local church to help fulfill the call to make disciples of God’s children. The school combines rigorous academics and lots of fun in an atmosphere of joy, respect, and order. Covenant Christian School teaches children as God made them to learn, following a classical and Biblical pattern. Built on a foundation of Biblical truth, the school’s instruction equips students to think critically, reason Biblically, and live gloriously. Covenant Christian School’s growing arts program features chorus, strings, recorders, art history, appreciation, and techniques, along with practical computer technology, chess, National Junior Honor Society, Student Council, field trips, cross country, physical education, Fun-Friday Clubs, and much more. To find out more visit www.ccssmyrna.org. Phone or email our admissions office at 770-435-1596 or blhines@ccssmyrna.org.
The Friends School of Atlanta
The Friends School of Atlanta (FSA) provides challenging academics in a diverse environment, drawing on values of simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality and stewardship to empower students to go out into the world with conscience, conviction and compassion. Founded as a model of diversity in 1991, FSA strives to address the development of the whole child and seeks to nurture the goodness within each student. Offering classes from pre-K through eighth grade, FSA’s program is designed to prepare students for a successful high school future and a lifetime of engagement as thoughtful citizens. For more information, call 404-373-8746 or visit friendsschoolatlanta.org.
High Meadows School
Since 1973, High Meadows School has inspired children to think critically, learn creatively, act globally, and live compassionately. From the outstanding faculty and breathtaking campus to small classes and acclaimed International Baccalaureate curriculum, High Meadows School is an exceptional place to learn and grow. High Meadows School is independent, non-sectarian, co-educational and progressive. Grades span from Pre-K3 through 8th grade. The campus encompasses 40 acres of meadows and woods in Roswell, Ga. High Meadows School is highly respected and consistently recognized for best practices, innovation and excellence by major educational organizations, including the International Baccalaureate Organization, SAIS-SACS and AAAIS. To schedule your visit, please call 770-993-2940 or visit highmeadows.org.
Holy Spirit Preparatory School
If you’ll excuse the cliché, Holy Spirit Preparatory School is a hidden gem in Atlanta. The young but accomplished school is one of the few independent Catholic schools in the Atlanta metro area. It serves students from 6 months all the way through 12th grade, so is perfect for families. Its high school is named repeatedly as one of the top Catholic high schools in the country by the Catholic Education Honor Roll. Really, it’s all about fit. Because they maintain a smaller enrollment than most independent schools, HSP finds the right place for each student—channeling them to the right club, the right gifted classes, the right team—and the right college fit after HSP. This school is all about personalized learning, small class sizes, and forming students in “mind, body, and soul” in a family of faith and learning. For more information, call 678-761-7992 or visit holyspiritprep.org.
International Charter School of Atlanta
The International Charter School of Atlanta (ICSAtlanta) is a dual-language immersion public charter school in Roswell, offering grades K-5 in the 2016-17 school year and adding a new grade each year through 12th grade. As a Georgia state charter school, enrollment is free and open to all Georgia residents. The school offers language tracks in Spanish, French, Mandarin, and German. ICSAtlanta’s mission is to empower all students to reach their academic and social potential by developing them into inquiring, multilingual, and intercultural citizens who will have a competitive advantage in an increasingly global business world. For more information call 470-222-7420 or visit icsatlanta.org.
Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia
Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia offers authentic Montessori education in the heart of Johns Creek. Observe the “Montessori Magic” happening in the school’s vibrant classroom communities, where children are free to choose from a wide variety of activities and lessons best suited to their development. Specially-trained teachers act as “guides” to the extensive curriculum, planting a seed of wonder that grows into a desire for greater knowledge. Multi-age classrooms allow younger children to learn from older ones, and for older children to reinforce and “test” their learning when helping younger ones. This dynamic, structured environment nurtures a strong work ethic, love of learning, and a passion for discovery not found in other schools. Dr. Maria Montessori wrote: “Education should no longer be mostly imparting of knowledge, but must take a new path, seeking the release of human potentialities.” Help your child to reach his or her full potential. Call 770-814-8001 to schedule a tour or visit JCMSOG.org.
Johnson Ferry Christian Academy
Johnson Ferry Christian Academy is a certified University Model® School that prepares students for life academically, spiritually, and relationally in a vibrant community atmosphere. It delivers a personalized, accredited, college-preparatory education with a uniquely flexible schedule. The staff leads with a love for Christ, a desire for all students to discover God’s purposes in their lives, and a passion to prepare students for life. Established in 2004, JFCA is a ministry of Johnson Ferry Baptist Church and provides an educational program for grades K-12. JFCA offers rigorous academics, low teacher/student ratio, opportunities for spiritual growth and personal development in a vibrant school culture with an array of activities including academic competition, athletics, and fine arts. Mid-semester applications will be accepted following the November 1, 2016 Open House. JFCA is accredited through AdvancEd, the Association of Christian Schools International, and the Georgia Accrediting Commission. For more information, call the school at 678-784-5231 or visit jfca.org.
Lanier Christian Academy
Lanier Christian Academy is a preparatory school for grades K-12. LCA features two educational models, the Traditional five-day school, and the UMS model with three days of class instruction and two days under the supervision of parents in the home. Lanier Christian Academy provides a strong Christian education taught from a Biblical worldview. In partnership with families to develop a well-rounded student, LCA offers discipleship, character development, and leadership as a part of the overall LCA program. To prepare Lanier Christian Academy students for life beyond LCA, the school also offers AP and Dual Enrollment classes. LCA is accredited by AdvancED, ACSI, and NAUMS. For information, call 678-828-8350 or visit lanierchristianacademy.org.
The Piedmont School of Atlanta
The Piedmont School of Atlanta serves bright children in Pre-K through 9th grade with challenges in areas of learning, social skills, and social problem solving. A team of certified, masters-level teachers delivers differentiated instruction using a project-based dynamic approach. The curriculum exceeds the Georgia Standards and includes PE, Art, Foreign Language, and Community-Based Instruction. The Piedmont School has been named a Boxlight National Demonstration School and will serve as a model site for incorporating technology in the classroom. The school offers after-school programming including a Lego/Robotics Club and other activities. For information call The Piedmont School of Atlanta at 404-382-8200 or visit thepiedmontschoolofatlanta.org.
Mt. Bethel Christian Academy
For nearly twenty years, Mt. Bethel Christian Academy has been the school of choice for families from East Cobb and beyond desiring a JK-12th grade, Christ-centered education for their children. College-preparatory in its approach, Mt. Bethel’s curriculum challenges students with rigorous studies that include a dual track STEM program, honors and AP opportunities. A one-to-one laptop program (5th through 12th) allows students to access their textbooks and reference material online and includes a communication tool connecting students and parents to teachers. With two campuses in East Cobb County, the combined facilities include spacious classrooms, performing arts, visual arts and video production studios, dining halls, learning commons with dedicated student collaboration space, an 1800 sq. ft. fully equipped fitness center, two indoor gymnasiums, a 6-lane, 25 yard year-round swimming pool, an outdoor pavilion covering a regulation-size basketball court, lighted tennis courts, athletic fields, and two recreational lakes. Beyond the classroom, a championship athletic program includes volleyball, soccer, basketball, swimming, cross-country, baseball, golf, tennis, lacrosse, clay targets, archery, cheerleading, and an equestrian team. Bus service is available to the Main Campus (Jr. Kindergarten-8), located at 4385 Lower Roswell Road, and the North Campus (9-12), located at 2509 Post Oak Tritt Rd. Visit their website at mtbethelchristian.org for further information and Open House dates.
St. Joseph Catholic School
Celebrating more than 60 years of Catholic education as a K-8 school within the Archdiocese of Atlanta, St. Joseph Catholic School is a 2016 National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence—a two-time recipient of this prestigious award. Accredited by AdvancED, St. Joseph embraces the Catholic faith while offering an academically challenging curriculum that is enhanced with weekly school mass, art, music, computer lab and Spanish. Extracurricular opportunities include drama, LEGO robotics, basketball, volleyball and more. Before- and after-school care is available. The school is located at 81 Lacy Street in Marietta, Ga. 30060. Call 770-428-3328 or visit stjosephschool.org for more information about this remarkable school.
Riverside Military Academy
For more than 109 years Riverside Military Academy (RMA) has remained one of the nation’s premier military college preparatory academies, and produces young men of purpose, character, and a commitment to those ideals necessary for citizenship and leadership in a free republic. RMA offers a traditional, American-style education where personal values, honor, and love of country still matter. RMA is not owned or operated by any particular religious denomination, but supports the spiritual and educational goals of all families.
The military process at RMA is not an end in itself; it is simply the means to an end. The end being an educated young man who has experienced the challenges of the military model of education and who is completely prepared for the rigors of college—a cadet who is poised, polite, and confident in any social environment. Hence, RMA cadets stand tall, offer a firm handshake, respect authority, and display a level of confidence that parents may not have observed previously.
The military setting adds structure, responsibility, accountability and yes, consequences when necessary. All contribute to a well-rounded young man. This environment works for those who have historically underachieved, who simply have not been able to manage their time, and who tend to procrastinate in every endeavor. The rigorous days at RMA are filled with academics, military activities, social activities, and athletics. At RMA, the goal is to change what cadets think is good enough in terms of effort and achievement.
Please visit the beautiful 206-acre campus located in Gainesville on the shores of Lake Lanier, and the foothills of the north Georgia Mountains. Call 1-877-MY-CADET or email apply@riversidemilitary.com. Visit cadet.com for more information about Riverside Military Academy.
Porter Academy
When parents first come tour Porter Academy, many of them feel heavy with frustration, anxiety, and sadness because they have fought hard for their children, but with little success to show for their efforts. These same families, within a few months of enrollment, are able to relax and feel hopeful, knowing that their children are finally happy and learning.
Here’s a comment from one Porter Academy Parent: “We are so pleased with the progress our child has made so far this year. He is beaming when he reads aloud, and his confidence is soaring. He is no longer too timid to take chances and try something new. We couldn’t be happier!”
The school’s founder, Claudia Porter, didn’t teach a curriculum, she taught a child. She knew each child’s passions, strengths, and stumbling blocks. She knew that their past struggles had made them feel less...less capable, less important...and that these feelings had led many of them to resist trying. They had learned to slip through the cracks or to distract from the real problems by acting out behaviorally. Mrs. Porter knew that the first step to getting children to learn was to rebuild their self confidence and self respect. The school has grown, but the child-centered care and teaching persists, enabling each child to find joy and success in learning.
For more information, visit porteracademy.org or call 770-594-1313.
Woodward Academy
Woodward Academy is celebrating its second century of fostering excellence, character, and opportunity. With almost 2,700 students, Woodward is the largest independent school in the continental U.S. and spans two campuses on 133 acres in metro-Atlanta. The main campus (pre-K–12) is 11 miles from downtown Atlanta, and the north campus (pre-K–6) is in Johns Creek, on a 33-acre wooded campus.
Woodward offers a full range of college-preparatory instructional tracks including 25 AP courses as well as a Transition Program for students with mild learning challenges in grades two through eight. The average class size is only 16, allowing for a personal and intimate learning experience. Teachers, coaches, and counselors provide wise guidance at every step, preparing students for best-fit colleges, mentoring them in life-shaping qualities of good character, and helping them reach their fullest potential.
At Woodward, diversity is more than skin deep. Students develop a deep respect for difference as they collaborate with peers from over 20 metro-Atlanta counties and a broad array of religious, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Woodward offers prolific opportunities to try and triumph, including hundreds of courses in traditional and innovative subjects as well as a wide range of clubs, arts opportunities, and athletic options. The Academy’s Global Connections Program develops students’ knowledge of the world’s cultural diversity through international study abroad programs.
Because of the Woodward experience, students are more confident and well-prepared for today’s evolving world. A typical graduating class attends more than 100 different colleges and universities, devotes 5,000 hours to community service projects, and earns more than $13.5 million in scholarship awards. Please visit www.woodward.edu and Discover the Woodward Difference today. For more information, call 404-765-4001 or visit woodward.edu.
For additional information about the schools listed here, including location, class size and open house dates, see our “Beyond the Basics” guide.
