Vol. 1, No. 3 Summer 2009 Informacion en espanol en atlantapublicschools.us WWOORRLLDD WWAARR IIII CCLLAASSSS Scollard is history scholar When the student becomes the teacher, you know you have someone special on your hands. Thanks to a combination of a student’s passion and a school system’s nurturing environment, Inman Middle School eighth-grader Patrick Scollard has become a scholar on the subject of World War II. Ever since his interest was sparked, Atlanta Public Schools teachers have offered plenty of encouragement. His fifth-grade teacher, Morningside Elementary’s Beth Burney, noticed his WWII interest while she taught a class on the Holocaust, and fed him a steady diet of supplementary reading

See SCOLLARD Page 18

Patrick Scollard has a passion for WWII. Inside this edition Read all about APS The Atlanta Educator delivers the news to readers of all ages, as evidenced by this future APS grad and her father. Meet the Valedictorians: Pages 8-9

Teachers share their summer plans: Page 15 2 —The Atlanta Educator Summer 2009

Reflecting on an outstanding year at APS

elcome to the third edition of The tips to parents, and APS media specialists We hope that you will enjoy The Atlanta Atlanta Educator. As we head share their favorite books to keep students Educator and share this publication with Winto the summer, let’s pause and focused on reading. friends and colleagues. I’m counting on you to reflect on another outstanding year for Atlanta We have encouraging words from Jasmine help spread the good news about Atlanta Public Schools. In this edition, we tried to Graham, an APS alumna who tells the Class of Public Schools. capture the confidence, optimism and 2009 to embrace challenges and opportunities We are setting the groundwork for the future excitement so clearly reflected in the Class of that lie ahead. We also proudly introduce our mayors, judges, doctors, teachers, lawyers and 2009. outstanding valedictorians, who will attend business moguls who will walk through our In this issue, you will meet Instructional college and take their rightful places in doors next year. Teachers have enrolled in Liaison Specialist Raine Hackler, who offers a society. Their accomplishments remind us of summer enrichment programs, administrators laptop to every college-bound Thomasville what happens when you combine hard work, are transforming our high schools and middle Dr. Beverly L. Hall Heights Elementary student. You will learn discipline and drive. More than ever, we need school initiatives are taking shape. about Crim Open Campus custodian Ronnie their leadership to improve our world. Jones, who helped transform the school into Let me also say “well done” to all of our an environment where high performance is principals, teachers, administrators and staff expected every day. Counselor Sonya Wright who helped our students reach and exceed Dr. Beverly L. Hall is superintendent of of Jean Childs Young Middle School offers their goals this year. Atlanta Public Schools.

A challenge for the Class of 2009: Atlanta Board of Education LaChandra D. Butler Burks, Chair Cecily Harsch-Kinnane, Vice Chair Stretch beyond your comfort zone Khaatim Sherrer El To the Atlanta Public reaching your goals, but you succeed. Remember counselors who guided you Emmett D. Johnson Schools Class of 2009: Yolanda K.Johnson also must put forth effort. I through the college application process. Be Brenda J. Muhammad Congratulations on Enjoy this moment. never dreamt that I would go mindful of friends who encouraged you to be Kathleen B. Pattillo reaching this momentous to Bowdoin College in Maine, better, and the haters who said you wouldn’t But don’t“ be satisfied Mark B. Riley milestone. Standing in your where I had to face snow-filled make it. Remember the people who always had Eric W.Wilson shoes only three years ago, I with where you winters. I never dreamt of faith in you. Those memories will propel you to remember the nostalgic are today. Strive to spending a year studying in help others as you have been helped. Published by: feelings I had about my high reach higher heights, Beijing, where I had to explain I leave you with one of my favorite quotes by school years, the anxiety of explore the world and why my hair is “different.” Benjamin E. Mays: “It is not your environment, Atlanta Public Schools starting a new life, the It has been a wild adventure, it is you — the quality of your mind, the stretch beyond your Beverly L. Hall, Ed.D. excitement of walking on one that has opened my eyes to integrity of your soul and the determination of Superintendent of Schools stage at the Civic Center and comfort zone. a new world and stretched me your will — that will decide your future and Suzanne Yeager the pride on my mother’s Jasmine Grahman beyond my own limits. When shape your life.” Chief Communications Officer face as I gave her my APS, Class of 2006 people told me there was a diploma. Soon you, too, will world of opportunity, I never Best wishes, Submit story ideas to: have this wild rush of took it literally; I do now. Jasmine Graham Morieka V. Johnson emotions. As you head out into the real world, take South Atlanta High School Class of 2006 Director of Communications Enjoy this moment. But don’t be satisfied advantage of every opportunity within your Atlanta Public Schools 130 Trinity Ave., SW with where you are today. Strive to reach higher reach, even when the odds are against you. Atlanta, GA 30303 heights, explore the world and stretch beyond Don’t let your environment, GPA, economic Jasmine Graham is a junior majoring in Sociology and Asian Studies at Bowdoin Tel:404-802-2893 your comfort zone. situation, or any other circumstance hinder you [email protected] I remember teachers, principals, family from attaining your goals. College. She has a four-year scholarship www.atlantapublicschools.us members and friends challenging me to dream Remember the Atlanta Public Schools through the 21st Century Atlanta Scholars the impossible. Dreaming is the first step to teachers who stayed after school to help you program. Sign up for our mailing list at www.atlantapublicschools.us/aesubscribe Fri., May 22 Sat., May 23 Tues.,May 26 Wed., May 27 Thurs., May 28 Produced by: 2009 Crim South Atlanta Grady Jackson GRANT COMMUNICATIONS Washington GRADUATION 4:30 p.m. CONSULTING GROUP 4:30 p.m. 10 a.m. 4:30 p.m. 4:30 p.m. Boston ! New York SCHEDULE North Atlanta Douglass Mays Carver 781-598-8200 North Atlanta [email protected] All ceremonies to be held 8:30 p.m. 1:30 p.m. 8:30 p.m. 8:30 p.m 8:30 p.m at the Atlanta Civic Center. (2-hour ceremony)

REASON TO BE PROUD OF APS: Atlanta Public Schools is on a consistent nine-year trend of progress. The Atlanta Educator Summer 2009 —3 APS BOARD MEMBER PROFILE Brenda J. Muhammad Board Rep. for District 1 was first African-American woman to be elected chair

Brenda J. Muhammad serves as School Board that and make education more Health Organ Donor Commission; National Black Women’s Representative for District 1. This is the third in a series of attractive.” Political Caucus; National Coalition of 100 Black Women; board member profiles in The Atlanta Educator. Muhammad also is Weed and Seed Advisory Board; American Red Cross executive director of Atlanta Minority Recruitment Advisory Board; South Atlanta Position Victim Assistance, Inc. (AVA), Neighborhood Development; Leadership Atlanta Class of Brenda Muhammad served on the Atlanta Board of an organization that advocates 1996; Buckhead Leadership Academy Class of 1998; and 2002 Education from 1997-2002, and returned to her seat in 2004. with compassion, dignity and Coca-Cola Diversity Leadership Academy. She has held the position of vice chair and was the first female respect for the fundamental African-American to be elected chair. rights of victims and witnesses Points of Pride of crime. AVA provides Muhammad feels strongly about the progress APS has made Background comprehensive services which in recent years. A devoted mother and grandmother, Muhammad’s work in remove barriers, strengthen “I always wanted this district to have quality schools – the district took root during her years of service on various victims and their families and foster a healthy transition from structurally as well as academically – and today we have that,” Parent Teacher Organizations. Following the tragic death of her victim to survivor. Previously, she served for 12 years as she said, citing Parkside Elementary School, which was named son, who was killed at age 16, Muhammad founded Mothers president of a public relations and communications firm, a Title I School of Distinction for the third year in a row and of Murdered Sons and Daughters (MOMS), and currently Unique Affairs/Communications Inc. She also has dedicated met 100 percent of its AYP targets for the 2007-08 school year. serves as its president. MOMS, now a nationwide organization, countless hours to local and national political campaigns as Muhammad also is an advocate for district’s pre-K program is dedicated to stopping the plague of violence in communities candidate, campaign manager and political consultant. and outreach to children age 4 and under. “I’m a strong and to providing programs that advocate for the rights of believer that the learning process begins at day No. 1 and we victims and family survivors. Muhammad’s efforts and Experience need to prepare our children before they get to school,” she tenacity in the area of violence prevention has elevated her into Muhammad’s community involvement includes past and said. “I think that’s something we can accomplish under the the national spotlight through her diligence and struggle to turn present service on the following boards and organizations: the leadership of Dr. Hall. She’s been such an innovative survivors of adversity into activists for change. She has Board of Directors of Atlanta Educational Telecommunications superintendent, always ahead of the curve.” received local and national service awards for her work to Collaborative, Inc.; Georgia Association of Black Elected Brenda Muhammad's email address is reduce violence in the community from more than 25 different Officials Corporate Roundtable; NFL-YET Boys and Girls [email protected]. The Atlanta Board of organizations. Club; National Kidney Foundation; National Coalition for Education meets June 8 at the Center for Learning and “I came to see that many of the perpetrators of these violent Survivors of Homicide; Carrie Steel Pitts Home; NAACP; Leadership Auditorium, 130 Trinity Ave. S.W. Atlanta, 30303. crimes were young people who had dropped out of school,” Southside PTA; Georgians United Against Violence; South For more information about the board, visit she said. “One of my goals has been to find ways to combat Atlanta Neighborhood Development; Rollins School of Public atlantapublicschools.us/board

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, STUDENT PROGRAMS AND SERVICES DR. ARLETTA T. BRINSON Each quarter, The Atlanta Educator will introduce you to Atlanta Public Schools faculty, staff and administrators.

How long have you worked in behavioral needs of all Can you share a few of the be sensitive to the needs of our kids. Our Q Atlanta Public Schools? students. Q department’s points of pride? students are remarkably resilient. We need to build a structure so that we bring out the best in 31 years, including six in my current How has the The fact that we are still able to kids. position. I am also a product of APS mission of your provide the level of services we do is a A (the former Luther Johnson Price High Q department A point of pride. In times of budget cuts, How will the department prepare School). changed over the years? people often look to cut support services first. Q for August 10, the first day of the The fact that we have psychologists and social 2009-10 school year? The Office of Student Programs We now work to workers and counselors speaks to the value- Dr. Arletta comprises 11 divisions, ranging from provide more added services we provide. We are proud to be Our social workers will have back-to- Q T. Brinson guidance counseling to truancy A coordinated working with the Devereux Foundation and the A school initiatives leading up to the intervention. How did the department evolve services, both internally and externally. We do Marcus Foundation to implement the Positive opening. We want to make sure all to address all these areas? serve a population that has high poverty Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) students are properly immunized and the indicators, and with that comes certain risk model in 15 of our schools. We have four people appropriate records are in place. We will conduct We provide support systems for factors. We work in partnership with community on special assignment to PBIS at this time. child-abuse-awareness presentations for staff. students and families. To that end, we agencies and other institutions, such as the City Our psychological services department will A offer psychological services, of Atlanta, Weed and Seed, hospitals, ZAP How have students’ needs changed work with staff on positive-reinforcement counseling, social work services, services for Asthma. While the school system can do a lot, Q over the past 10 years? strategies. homeless, student placement, truancy we can’t do it all, so we try to broker services intervention center, program for exceptional from other agencies that can provide the wrap- Our students are very reflective of our For more information about the Office of children, health services and student support around services some of our students desperately A society. Families are under greater Student Programs and Services, visit team. We support the instructional and need. economic stress. We have to work to www.atlantapublicschools.us/programs-services. 4 — The Atlanta Educator Summer 2009 Scholarships APS Some of the scholarship programs that benefit APS students: STUDENT Coca-Cola Scholars PROFILE The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation supports more than No keeping up with Jones 1,400 college students each year, with annual scholarships of $3.4 million. Of the 252 outstanding high school seniors named as Coca-Cola Scholars this year, two are from Atlanta Public Gates Millennium Scholar from Carver has big plans for her future Schools: Marlena R. Dobbs of Mays High School and Derrick D. Standifer of Carver Early College. BY MEAGHAN CASEY W.E.B. Du Bois Scholars Gates Millennium Scholar Khali Jones is the epitome of achievement in Atlanta Public Schools. Named for the noted educator, philosopher and Civil Rights activist, the W.E.B.Du Bois Society rewards, reinforces, and As valedictorian of her class at Carver School of Health Sciences & Research, Jones will graduate with a 4.0 encourages a sustained, exceptional scholastic work ethic. Its GPA and major in animal sciences at Tuskegee University. She plans to earn her doctorate in veterinary medicine signature program — the WEB — is a 20-week program for and ultimately own her own private practice, join the Army Veterinary Corps, or become CEO of a nonprofit African-American high school students who attend metro organization geared to promoting low-cost animal healthcare. Atlanta schools. Students engage with accomplished African- “Without a doubt, Carver has prepared me for post-secondary success,” said Jones. “I American executives, entertainers and public figures.This year, 19 students from APS became W.E.B.Du Bois Scholars: Brianne think APS did a tremendous job with the Carver small schools initiative. With the Gilbert and Khali Jones of Carver School of Health Science; health sciences specialization, I know that I will be able to compete when I enter Tristin Travis of Carver School of the Arts; Maya Jackson and the health field. The teachers, administrative team, and especially my principal, Latrice Stringer of Therrell; Jessica Doanes, Nichole Wiggins and Dr. (Darian) Jones, have been so supportive of the aspirations of every Kenya Wilkerson of Douglass; Briana Fullwood,Alexandria student.” Melton and Maia Miller of Grady; Charles Benton, Malik Epps, Ross James,Alexis Lawrence, Cece Lee, Camille Sims,Alexandria Khali Jones also was a member of the largest class of metro Atlanta Thomas and Stephen Weatherly of North Atlanta High. students to be inducted into the W.E.B. Du Bois Society’s signature 20-week scholars program. Scholars become part of a unique community of high- Gates Scholars achieving African-American athletes, actors, singers, dancers, musicians, The Gates Millennium Scholars Program, established in 1999, was initially funded by a $1 billion grant from the Bill & Melinda writers and scientists from metro Atlanta. Gates Foundation.The scholarships provide support for the In addition to those honors, Jones also has earned the Charles E. Shepard cost of education; renewable awards for scholars maintaining Scholarship, a one-time $10,000 award sponsored by the Atlanta First satisfactory academic progress; graduate school funding in the United Methodist Church. areas of computer science, education, engineering, library At Carver, Jones has served as president of the National Honor Society, science, mathematics, public health or science; and leadership skills. vice president of Health Occupations Student Association and JROTC APS recipients of the 2008-09 Gates scholarship are: Jasmine battalion adjutant. She was also a member of the varsity tennis team, Johnson of Booker T.Washington; Khali Jones and Alex Mullins National Beta Club, Lambda Alpha Beta Honor Society, Parent Teacher of Carver’s School of Health Sciences & Research; Rodneysha Student Association, Young Life Ministries, Project GRAD Atlanta, Brown,Audrianna Bryant,Tilifayea Griffin, Derick Jones,Antonika College Bound, Student Government Association and Finest Souder and Janelle Vallair of Douglass; Robin Ayers of Maynard Jackson; Sarneshea Evans of Mays; Malika Begum, Bakhtawar Footwork step team. Mazhar, Evangeline McDonald and Elyas Munye of North Through dual enrollment at Atlanta Technical Atlanta;Webster Foreman of South Atlanta;Ashley Garvin of College, Jones also completed a certified nursing Therrell; Breonna Davis,Ambernique Howard and Jeanie assistant program, and served as a research intern Johnson of Washington. at Emory Univeristy, working to benefit ongoing Martin Luther King Jr. Scholars cancer and stem-cell research. She also Martin Luther King Jr. Scholarships are awarded each year to volunteers with many community organizations, outstanding students from Atlanta Public Schools whose and she has launched her own business venture, qualities of mind and spirit promise outstanding contributions to Khali’s Kennel, an in-house pet sitting service. society. Scholarships cover tuition, fees and room and board at Emory University. For her initiative, she was named a finalist in The 2008-09 MLK Scholars include:Aimee Turner of Guardian Life Insurance Company of Douglass; John Holland and Ariel Manning of Grady; Robin Ayers America’s 2007 Girls Going Places teen and Keitra Thompson of Maynard Jackson;Alvin Borun, Marlena entrepreneur award program and honored at Dobbs and Brian Oliver of Mays; Maria Dieci and Evangeline the National Association of Women McDonald of North Atlanta; and Kedra Woodard of Therrell School of Business and Entrepreneurship. Business Owners conference in Atlanta. Jones credits her experiences in APS, Posse Scholars including her early years at Cleveland The Posse Foundation identifies public high school students with extraordinary academic and leadership potential, but who Avenue Elementary and Walden may be overlooked by the traditional college selection process. Middle School, as the seeds to her Partner colleges and universities award Posse Scholars four-year, growing success. As a part of the full-tuition leadership scholarships. Once chosen, each scholar is Challenge Program, she traveled assigned a mentor to guide him or her through the first year in to Alaska and then, in middle college, and a group of nine other scholars — who serve as their “posse” — provide support along the way.The 2008-09 school, to Hawaii. In May, she Posse Scholars from APS, and the schools they will attend, was one of 50 Carver include: students to travel to Egypt. Bard College — Miriam Huppert, Léna James and Hannah “From day one, I made Mitchell of Grady High; and Brandon LaBord of Therrell School of the decision that I would Business and Entrepreneurship. do my best to be the Boston University — Matthew Campbell, Danielle Galloway and best,” she said. Daniel Lievens of North Atlanta; Aretha Pinkney of Therrell School of Business and Entrepreneurship; Demarius Walker of Grady HS. The College of Wooster — Erica Bryant, Carver School of the Arts; Laura Haldane,Tech High;Kenneth Perry Jr. , B.T. Washington Khali Jones, valedictorian of her class at HS; Malcolm Perry, Grady; Julian Rainwater, North Atlanta. Carver School of Health Sciences & Research, will graduate with a 4.0 GPA. Visit the APS Web site, www.atlantapublicschools.us, for additional scholarship information.

REASON TO BE PROUD OF APS: APS class of 2008 was offered more than $64 million in scholarships to colleges and universities across the country and abroad! The Atlanta Educator Summer 2009 — 5 Lavishing laptops and love Thomasville Heights teacher promises computers to college-bound students

BY MEAGHAN CASEY “Every single child I run into I say, ‘get into college; I’m came to Atlanta for his sister’s wedding and fell in love getting you this laptop, right?’” said Hackler. with the city and with the school system. Students of Atlanta Public Schools may view Raine It’s a pricey endeavor, but one that Hackler believes in “When I walked into this building (at Thomasville Hackler as the source of an infinite supply of laptops. He’d whole-heartedly. Heights), my heart just went out to the community and I prefer they see it as an infinite source of love. “We cannot afford to have our kids dropping out,” said thought to myself, ‘I want to be here,’” he said. “I want my Hackler, an instructional liaison specialist at Thomasville Hackler. “If there’s merit to No Child Left Behind, we can’t students to know I’m not going anywhere.” Heights Elementary School, first began promising laptops let anyone slip through the cracks.” Before joining the Thomasville Heights staff in 2004, he to students in 2000 while Hackler was recently selected as a recipient of the Tinfoil taught fifth grade at Centennial Place and served as an he was teaching fifth grade Star Award, which honors educators who use technology to administrator at the APS-CEP Partnership School (now at Centennial Place enhance learning. He was selected by CDW Inc., a leading Forrest Hills Academy), which offers academic and Elementary School. The provider of technology products and services for business, behavior improvement programs for students in grades 6- Every“ day is a hook? Students had to government and education, and received a $1,000 donation 12. blessing, and every keep up their end of the toward his mission. “At CEP, I saw a lot of great kids in bad situations,” said moment is a bargain by staying in touch His goal is to set up a non-profit Hackler. “I’ve always believed anything’s possible. The teachable one. In and graduating from high foundation, Laptops for Life, to more opportunity our kids have, the more empowered our society, if our kids school. ensure that he is able to live they’ll be.” can’t succeed, we “The love doesn’t stop up to his promises for In 2007, Hackler was named APS Teacher of the Year for after one year, after they years to come. his work in running the multi-media lab and preparing can’t succeed. It’s up move on, and I started to A Canadian native, students for the world of technology and communication. In to us to help them think about ways to Hackler has traveled his current role as instructional liaison specialist, he is get there. motivate them to stay around the world, responsible for training and evaluating teachers and Raine Hackler connected,” said Hackler. teaching in countries such implementing new state educational standards at the school. “It’s about longevity, about as Thailand and Yet, he still finds time to devote to his students, even if that establishing long- Zimbabwe. means staying at school well into the late afternoon and term relationships. I want them to know that He first evening. Hackler, a cancer survivor, has also unofficially I’m still rooting for them to go the distance.” adopted two former students and is a constant source of To date, Hackler has given out six laptops inspiration to them to achieve their goals of going to and has promised another 300 to his college. former Thomasville Heights students – “Every day is a blessing, and every moment is a the oldest of whom are now sophomores teachable one,” said Hackler. in high school.

Thomasville Heights Elementary school teacher Raine Hackler helps his students succeed. 6 — The Atlanta Educator Summer 2009

APS

TEACHER PROFILE

Karl Gilchrist reads a story to his kindergarten students at Cleveland Avenue Elementary School. Teaching teamwork Cleveland Avenue students learn about basketball and life

BY MEAGHAN CASEY development,” said Gilchrist. said. “To be able to work with graduate from high school; graduate from “Their basketball abilities inner-city students was my college; set your goals high.’” At the center of the basketball court, and skills have improved and passion.” Becoming immersed in the Cleveland The one thing I try surrounded by nearly a dozen players – all they’ve really enjoyed it and Gilchrist began teaching at Avenue Elementary family was an easy under 4-feet-tall – Karl Gilchrist is in his learned about working to reinforce“ is that the fifth-grade level before transition for Gilchrist, in more ways than element. together as a team. It’s an they’re smart and accepting the challenge of one. Gilchrist met his wife, Angela, media Gilchrist, a kindergarten teacher at athletic means to motivate intelligent and there’s kindergarten. specialist at the school, when the two were Cleveland Avenue Elementary School, them toward academic nothing they can’t “I love their eagerness to first assigned to Cleveland Avenue, and organized a team of kindergarten and first- success.” accomplish. learn,” said Gilchrist, referring attended training together. They have been grade students last year to participate in the Born in South Carolina to his pint-size students. “The married for two years. Karl Gilchrist Rosel Fann Recreation Center youth and raised in Florida, one thing I try to reinforce is “It’s wonderful to be in the same building basketball league. This year, the team finished Gilchrist began teaching at Cleveland Avenue teacher that they’re intelligent and together and to be able to have that work with a record of 9-3, losing in the Cleveland Avenue in 2005, there’s nothing they can’t connection at home,” he said. “She’s always championship game against Grove Park. following two years in the private sector. accomplish. They’re so impressionable at that there for me with a listening ear.” “The challenge is keeping the kids focused, “It was a dream of mine to live in Atlanta age, so planting the seed for success early on Gilchrist was named 2008-09 Cleveland but it’s rewarding watching their level of and teach in the Atlanta Public Schools,” he is important. I tell every one of them, ‘go, Avenue Elementary Teacher of the Year.

REASON TO BE PROUD OF APS: In August 2008, APS launched one of the nation’s largest mathematics and science professional development and curriculum programs. The Atlanta Educator Summer 2009 — 7 KEEPING CRIM CLEAN Longtime custodian and principal are on the same page

BY RICH FAHEY The first person Dr. Angelisha Cummings met at the Crim Open Campus was longtime custodian Ronnie Jones. Crim custodian Ronnie Jones Jones, who has been at Crim for 27 years, was one of the few holdovers when the Alonzo A. Crim Comprehensive High plays with daycare student School closed its doors in 2005 to make way for the Alonzo A. Crim Open Campus. Tristan Henderson.Crim is “After the introductions, I asked Ronnie where the principal’s office was,” Cummings recalled. “Then I said, ‘the first the only APS school that thing I need from, you, sir, is a pair of gloves and a gray trash barrel.’” offers daycare services to Jones and Cummings worked together that first morning cleaning up the school. That first day teenage mothers and knocked Jones off his feet, literally. The next day he came into the school fathers while they walking slowly. attend classes. “I told Dr. Cummings, ‘I like to work but you have to lighten up on me, I couldn’t get up this morning,’” he said. Cummings, laughing heartily, also recalls how Jones described her to family and friends. “There’s no person like her. She’s a nice person but she’ll work you. If you’re not going to work, you can’t stay.” But together, Cummings and Jones got the job done in the school, even working weekends when they had to. Ronnie Jones Jones said Cummings is the fourth principal he has worked for, but the first one who has worked right alongside him. Renovations and clean-up were completed in time, allowing Crim to open its doors for the beginning of the 2005-06 school year. Crim serves students aged 16 and older living in Atlanta who have not found success in a traditional high school setting but still want to earn a high school diploma. “The inside and out are breathtaking,” said Cummings. “People are taken aback at looking at how we were and are able to create a masterpiece out of a building that is considered a historical site.” Jones said the compliments about the school are great, but it’s all in a day’s work. “I love doing a good job for the kids, the parents, and the babies in the school nursery,” he said. One of the first things he does every day is to check out the nursery – the only one of its kind in the APS – that allows teen mothers and fathers to study without worrying about their children, and also provides quiet time for the teen parents to read to their children or relax with them. As a parent, Jones can appreciate having a nursery on the school campus. He and his wife, Debbie Louise Ellingpon, who have been married 26 years, have five children and four grandchildren. “Mr. Jones makes sure everything is clean and ready for us when we come in,” said Margaret Manns-Jones, who oversees the nursery. Jones said the condition of the school plays a role in students’ success. “I think when they walk in here, it makes them happy,” he said. “I think they can learn better in a clean building.” That’s important, because the stakes are high. Study is intense and concentrated; students take courses offered in the regular high school core curriculum depending upon the individual classes they need in order to complete graduation requirements, and they receive advice on course selection, standardized test preparation, post-secondary options and scholarships. Students must meet all graduation requirements including all state assessments. After completing their requirements, Crim students attend graduation and commencement. Both Jones and Manns-Jones stress that Crim’s transformation goes beyond a clean building. “Dr. Cummings has made a big difference,” said Manns-Jones. “We have students winning scholarships and going off to college. We are offering a lot of students a second chance in life, to do what you didn’t do before.” 8 — The Atlanta Educator Summer 2009

2009 APS

VALEDICTORIANS

They’re No. 1 Meet the APS valedictorians from the Class of 2009 Jazline Mekel Brown Rodneysha L. Brown Sarah Bufkin The New Schools at Carver Frederick Douglass High School Henry W. Grady High School School of Technology Rodneysha Brown has been A student in the Jazline Brown, a Carson honored for her academic Communications magnet, Sarah Scholar, Project GRAD Brumley achievements as a member of the Bufkin is one of two managing Scholar and Wellesley Book National Honor Society, National editors of the award-winning Award recipient, serves as a teen Beta Club, National Honor Roll, student newspaper, The mentor and member of student Hispanic Honor Society and Mu Southerner, attorney on the government, yearbook and video Alpha Theta. She presently Georgia championship mock trial production staff, among other reigns as Miss Frederick team, captain of the varsity activities. She plans to attend the Douglass High School, is the soccer team and senior designer University of Tennessee to major senior class secretary and serves with Grady’s UrbanCouture in mass communications and journalism, with the goal of as co-captain of the varsity cheerleading squad. She will attend fashion program. She hopes to become a published writer, live becoming a successful reporter and producer. Howard University as a Legacy Scholar, majoring in biology in Spain for several years, continually challenge herself and pre-med, and hopes to become an obstetrician/gynecologist mentally and make a difference in the world. in the Atlanta area.

REASON TO BE PROUD OF APS: The Nation's Report Card shows that since 2003, APS math, reading and writing scores have improved faster than other urban school districts. The Atlanta Educator Summer 2009 — 9 VALEDICTORIANS2009 APS

Makiya Cargill D.M.Therrell High School of Law, Government and Public Policy Meet the best APS has to offer – the valedictorians

At Therrell, Makiya Cargill from the Class of 2009. These 13 scholars were became a varsity track and cross country runner, while also honored, along with this year’s salutatorians and participating in mock trial, band, STAR students, at an awards ceremony March 31. National Beta Club and the Student Government Association. The keynote speaker was Dr. Dennis P.Kimbro, author Her dream is to attend law school and become an entertainment and professor at Clark Atlanta University’s School of lawyer. She is also working Business Administration. toward the goal of becoming a gold medalist in the 2012 Olympics.

Jade Carter Maria Dieci Marlena Renee Dobbs The New Schools at Carver North Atlanta High School Benjamin E. Mays High School School of the Arts During her time at North Marlena Dobbs has excelled Jade Carter is a member of the Atlanta, Maria Dieci played in the Math and Science National Honor Society, student soccer and softball, ran cross Academy, and participates in the government, Urban Youth Harp country, served as yearbook library, French, math, science Ensemble and the 21st Century editor and was active in the band and social studies clubs. She Atlanta Scholars program. She and orchestra programs, as well also is the concert master of the participated in internships with as the National Honor Society. orchestra and an avid tennis Turner Broadcasting, Through the International player, and has volunteered with Communities in Schools Atlanta Baccalaureate Program, she had Alzheimer's patients and inner- and Matrix 3D, an architectural the unique opportunity to study city youth. She plans to pursue a firm. She plans to pursue a degree in journalism and a career as in St. Brieuc, France for three months during her junior year. degree in mathematics at Emory University. a broadcast news analyst. She hopes to pursue studies in anthropology.

Courtney Henderson Khali N. Jones Subira Nisbeth The New Schools at Carver The New Schools at Carver Booker T.Washington High School Early College High School School of Health Sciences & Research Subira Nisbeth has been As a member of the involved in the National Beta "Trailblazing 20," the first group Khali Jones serves as Club, National Honor Society, Mu of Georgia students to enroll in president of National Honor Alpha Theta, Future Educators college courses as part of the Society, vice president of Health Association, Students for national early college initiative, Occupations Student Teaching Careers and Academic Courtney Henderson entered Association and battalion Readiness Academy, Project Georgia State University as a adjutant for the JROTC. She GRAD, Academic Decathlon, sophomore and has earned more also is a member of Carver's Junior Achievement and varsity than 40 college credits. Her varsity tennis team, step team volleyball, among others. She extracurricular activities have included the National Honor and the SANKOFA project. She plans to pursue a bachelor's traveled to Ghana, West Africa, where she donated school and Society, Beta Club, Ernest Wilkins Mathematics Society, Mock degree in animal sciences, as well as a doctorate in medical supplies to a local village and tutored students. She Trial, World Quest Team, Planeteers and cheerleading. veterinary medicine. plans to attend Kennesaw State University and pursue her interest in teaching.

Keitra L.Thompson Tyson Shepherd Nandi A.Wahid Maynard Holbrook Jackson Jr. D.M.Therrell High School of South Atlanta High School of High School Business and Entrepreneurship Leadership and Economic Keitra Thompson is involved Tyson Shepherd currently Empowerment in many activities, including the participates in the dual enrollment Student Government program at Atlanta Metropolitan A well-rounded student, Association, Future Business College, where he is studying Nandi Wahid is a member of Leaders of America, National psychology. He aspires to be a the Beta Club, National Honor Beta Club and the National journalist. Shepherd has served on Society, Rocket Club, Honor Society. This year, she the state's student advisory council Improvisation Club and Youth received a Youth for and is a member of the Art Club, Force Leadership Program. She Understanding scholarship to Future Business Leaders of also serves as co-president of study Spanish in Quito, Ecuador. America, Georgia Career Student Skills USA and was chosen by She plans to attend Emory University to study political Association, National Honor Society and Key Club. He also is a her peers to serve as executive financial officer for the science while completing pre-med requirements. Her member of the 21st Century Atlanta Scholars program, a senior counsel. ultimate goal is to travel the world and become an Maynard Jackson Leadership Academy graduate and a volunteer epidemiologist, treating disease and illness in the world. for the American Red Cross. 10 —The Atlanta Educator Summer 2009 The Atlanta Educator Summer 2009 —11

Earl Graves at Booker T. Washington High Georgia House Rep. Kathy Ashe at Bethune Dr. Alveda King at Sutton Middle School Colombian students at Sutton and North Atlanta HS Earl Graves, founder and publisher of Black Enterprise magazine, presented Each of Bethune Elementary School’s 474 students received a book from Dr.Alveda King, niece of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., delivered Students and families of Sutton Middle School and North Atlanta High got an 1,000 copies of “Making My Mark,” the story of Fulton County Superior Scholastic, Inc. to add to his or her home library, thanks to a partnership with a message of peace to Sutton Middle School students as part of the many in-depth lesson in intercultural exchange when they hosted 25 Colombian Court Judge Marvin S.Arrington Sr., to students from six Atlanta Public Communities in Schools of Atlanta (CIS). Georgia House Rep. Kathy Ashe (D- King Day events that took place in Atlanta Public Schools.“Be nonviolent, students, who spent six days entertaining and educating them on the Schools in an appearance at Booker T.Washington High School. Judge Atlanta) was on hand to help students select the books they wanted. peaceful, have courage, and don’t be afraid,” said King, an author, activist and geography and customs of their country. Arrington is pictured at far right. former member of the Georgia House of Representatives. Visitors share tools for success Dignitaries challenge Atlanta Public Schools students to achieve goals

Georgia Schools Superintendent Kathy Cox at B.E.S.T. Judge Leah Ward Sears at Coan Middle School Surgeon General Dr. Steven Gilson at Carver Mildred Bethel at Centennial Place Georgia Schools Superintendent Kathy Cox toured Atlanta Public Schools' Georgia Supreme Court Chief Justice Leah Ward Sears, the first African- Rear Adm. Dr. Steven K. Gilson, acting U.S. surgeon general, visited the Carver Centennial Place third-graders enjoyed the rich tradition of quilt making in single-gender schools, Coretta Scott King Young Women's Leadership American woman to serve as Superior Court judge in Georgia, advised Coan School of Health Sciences & Research to give the inaugural Class of 2009 a honor of Black History Month. Artistic quilter Mildred Bethel visited the Academy and Business, Engineering, Science and Technology (B.E.S.T.) Academy. Middle School students to “do your work, study real hard” to be successful. Community Champion Award and tour the school’s health fair.“I’m here to school and worked with students as part of the school’s efforts to promote Cox visited classrooms, addressed students and met with faculty and staff at Sears offered the advice during a conversation with students about education, talk about the epidemic of childhood obesity in this country,” said Gilson, who child development through innovative art and music programs. both schools, which opened in 2007. leadership and the law. Sears has been mentioned as a possible replacement had his blood pressure checked by Carver senior Gracie Solomon. for retiring U.S. Supreme Court Justice David Souter. 12 — The Atlanta Educator Summer 2009

APS APS has ALUMNUS PROFILE True(tt) to his schools no room Chick-fil-A founder gives back to APS

BY RICH FAHEY for bullies As a child of the Great Depression, S. BY MEAGHAN CASEY Truett Cathy knew what it meant to grow up in poverty. Perhaps that’s why he has Every day, students face a full gamut of social spent so much time and effort working to challenges – peer pressure, family strain, cliques, improve the lives of others. aggressive behavior and bullying. Cathy graduated from Atlanta Public School counselors such as Sonya Wright are there Schools’ Tech High before entering the to help students navigate those sensitive, and often Army. After his return home, he entered daunting, circumstances. the restaurant business, eventually giving “It’s important for schools to create a safe birth to a chicken sandwich that launched environment for our the Chick-fil-A restaurant chain, which students,” said Wright, earned $2.64 billion in sales from 1,380 president-elect of the Georgia locations in 2007. The annual Chick-fil-A School Counselors Bowl showcases top college football Association and a counselor teams from the Atlanta Coast Conference at Jean Childs Young Middle and Southeastern Conference, and raises School. money for scholarships and other “They need to know there charities. are resources and adults here Cathy’s rise to prominence in the fast- who will help them,”she said. food industry, and his continued With bullying on the rise in commitment to education, were the schools across America, subject of a “Profiles in Excellence” creating a safe haven for Sonya Wright segment of “APS Today,” the monthly TV students is more important than program produced by Atlanta Public ever. National studies reveal that 15-25 percent of Schools and presented on PBA TV 30, the students report they are bullied with some frequency. TV station owned by the Atlanta Board of “We want to empower students with Education. communications skills and give them the courage to Cathy told host Nwandi Lawson about leave the situation, walk away and go to an adult who inserting cardboard into his battered shoes will intervene,” said Wright. as a youngster and feeling his poverty in APS has a policy that strictly prohibits bullying and other ways. Chick-fil-A founder S.Truett Cathy is an APS alum. other forms of intimidation. Any student found guilty “You had to carry lunch to school, and I of bullying will be disciplined. Georgia law also always wished someday I could have a chicken on a toasted bun. The honors have poured in for this APS mandates that a student who has committed the basket with my lunch in it and have bulk The Original Chicken Sandwich was alum through the years. Voices for offense of bullying for the third time in a school year bread. I didn’t have anything but biscuits born in 1964, which led to the first Chick- Georgia’s Children recently honored shall be referred to the APS Disciplinary Tribunal. left over from the table,” he said. “As a fil-A mall restaurant in 1967 in Atlanta’s Cathy for his interest in children and the “We want to make sure students understand it’s not kid I wished I could have bulk bread like Greenbriar Mall. Since then, the Chick-fil- WinShape Foundation’s WinShape OK for bullying to take place here,” said Wright. some of the other people had.” A story has consistently improved, with Homes® program – a long-term care To strengthen student outreach, APS school “My mother kept a boarding house and 40 consecutive years of annual sales program for foster children. He funds counselors run an advisement program, which is if we could find another place that was increases. Some highlights: between 20-30 full scholarships to Berry required for all middle-school students. The goal of more desirable with a cheaper rent, we’d in 1973, Cathy began awarding College in Rome, Ga., each year, and the program is to help students become successful in move and so we bounced around all over $1,000 scholarships to restaurant workers some 1,800 children attend his WinShape three distinct areas of development: academic, the West End,” said Cathy, who attended to further their education; camps each year. personal/social and career. four different high schools, eventually in 1984, he established his In addition, through its Leadership “The program connects students with a caring adult graduating from Tech. WinShape Foundation, which has Scholarship Program, the Chick-fil-A who will guide them in those three areas,” said He also confessed to not liking school blossomed to include many philanthropic chain has given more than $23.3 million Wright. all that much, and recalled flunking ventures; in scholarships to Chick-fil-A restaurant Parental involvement is another critical component shorthand at Commercial High, a rather in 1986, he opened the first free- employees since 1973. in guiding students to academic and social success. unpromising start for a future business standing Chick-fil-A restaurant; In one of the three books he has written Next year, the APS will participate in a national titan. in 2000, the firm eclipsed $1 billion – “Eat Mor Chikin: Inspire More People” campaign, “Be There,” encouraging parents to After returning home from the Army, in sales; – Cathy explains his philosophy on become more involved in their children’s lives. he and his brother opened the Dwarf in 2001, the 1,000th restaurant was philanthropy. “Nearly every moment of “Parents are first and foremost teachers,” said Grille – later known as the Dwarf House – opened; every day we have the opportunity to give Wright. “They have the greatest amount of influence in 1946 in Hapeville, Ga. in 2005, the Chick fil-A Bowl was something to someone else – our time, our on their children.” While the burgers and steaks were a hit, established (See Eight Get Smart, Page love, our resources. I have always found An Atlanta native, Wright is a graduate of he was stymied in trying to cook chicken 20); and, more joy in giving when I did not expect Washington High School. Now in her seventh year at quickly and efficiently with the bone in. in 2006, the company surpassed $2 anything in return.” Young, she also spent three years as a high-school He decided to concentrate on a chicken billion in sales and Cathy marked 60 years Catch the June 8 graduation special on counselor and scholarship coordinator at Mays High. sandwich using a boneless breast of in business. “APS Today.”

REASON TO BE PROUD OF APS: District partners with Nanjing University, Emory University and Chinese government to open Confucius Institute at Coan Middle. The Atlanta Educator Summer 2009 — 13 High fashion Grady students express themselves through clothing design

BY RICH FAHEY design, but hair, makeup, Doggies on the Catwalk raised $2,258 for They’re designing women and everything else,” he PALS Atlanta, which provides care for pets … and men. said. of terminally ill Atlantans. While they learn how to While the senior Martinez said students who choose to make a garment that looks showcase is the highlight major or minor in fashion design in college good, students are also of the year, students also will be “several steps” ahead of the other learning the basics of running conducted the second students. a business. annual Doggies on the Tasha White, mother of senior designer The UrbanCouture fashion Catwalk benefit fashion Dané White, said her daughter has several design program at Grady show in January. Each college options on the horizon, including the High is six years old and student designed two Savannah College of Art and Design. She encompasses about 100 outfits for dogs and two credits Grady’s diverse course offerings for students over the four grades. outfits for their human her daughter’s success. It develops students’ escorts. There were “The variety is exceptional,” she said. problem-solving skills as bulldogs in ball gowns and The UrbanCouture program also has well as their creativity. terriers in tuxes, as the many practical applications, not the least of Student designers get a Senior designer Dane White models an outfit during a fashion show students proved that which is learning how to sew, a skill that chance to express themselves preview. pooches can be just as pays dividends over a lifetime. Two female while also getting a taste of fashionable as their human students made their own prom dresses, the inner workings of the fashion business. UrbanCouture program, said the students pals. In addition to funky runway fashions, while others made sun dresses and other It all culminated in the annual senior fashion have a great deal of control over what they Grady students also designed the set and garments. show — this year, titled UC6 — May 9 at design and present. While the student worked with the animals backstage. Read more about Grady at the Grady High School gymnasium. designers are overwhelmingly female, the As a result of the students’ efforts, www.altantapublicschools.us/grady The 10 senior designers presented classes also have attracted about 10 males. collections that are both stylish and trendy: “I have the overall say,” he said. “I guide Sheer, Metallics, Gladiator, Eco-Fashion, them and mentor them towards a cohesive Ethnicware, Fast Fashion, Fruit Salad (or collection. The designs can be edgy, but mixed prints), and Muffin Tops. appropriate. There’s a lot of polishing and The designers used their fellow students tweaking.” as models, while the Grady Art Department, Martinez said he and the students work as G Stage, designed the set. Students not only a team, selecting models, music, served as models, but also as lighting and choreography, and fabrics to be used. He sound technicians, graphic designers, and exposes them to the many aspects of being a musicians. successful designer. E. Vincent Martinez, director of the “They not only have to worry about

Senior Daryl Wright works on pieces for the UrbanCouture show. Senior Taylor Fulton works on a pattern in preparation for the show. 14 — The Atlanta Educator Summer 2009 Gearing up for summer PUZZLE TIPS FOR 1. Write down the first number that is divisible by 6 and a multiple of 3. CONTROLLING 2. Add 4 of the numbers shown to make 18. ASTHMA 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 BY RICH FAHEY The end of the so-called “smog season” in Atlanta 3. The difference of 2 numbers is 32. The sum is 158. What are the 2 numbers? means a certain segment of students in the Atlanta Public Schools can breathe a little easier. 4. The number 68 can be made by adding 4 consecutive numbers. What are they? Students who suffer from asthma are more at risk for breathing difficulties or attacks from May 1-Sept. 30, when the air contains higher levels of ozone, a 5. A + B + C = 15 primary component of smog. For the last 15 years, A x B x C = 60 Atlanta has averaged 40 Code Orange days in the city, when groups of people who are sensitive to high ozone levels could be affected. A = ? B = ? C= ? For Viva Snowden, who has been the school nurse at the Fickett Elementary School for 10 years, smog season means making sure students know when they 6. A giraffe is twice as tall as its baby. at risk for an attack. The baby’s height and the mother’s height total Jayketa Singleton, RN, MS, is the coordinator of school health services for the Atlanta Public Schools, 4.5 meters. How tall is the baby? How tall is and has been working to get the word out to students the mother? and parents about high ozone levels. “Asthma is a chronic condition which means it can last a lifetime,” she said. “Many children’s problems 7. Fill in the circles with numbers 1-9 without repetition, so that the sum of any with asthma get better as they get older. Although there is no cure for asthma, it can be controlled.” any line is 18. She offers the following tips to students, parents and staff on controlling asthma on so-called Code Orange days. Avoid triggers. Students diagnosed with asthma should avoid outdoor activities during Code Orange days as the air quality index is unhealthy for sensitive groups with respiratory disease. Take the medication. Students prescribed medication to control asthma symptoms should maintain a current prescription at all times. Monitor asthma. Students must keep track of their asthma symptoms and share the information with their doctor at least every six months during scheduled follow-up appointments for preventive health care. A peak flow meter can help students measure how well air is flowing out of their lungs, which is a good marker of how well they are managing their asthma. 8. Aunt Lucy died leaving $1000 to her 5 nieces. The money is to be divided Work with doctors to create an asthma action according to their ages with each niece receiving $20 more than the previous plan to help prevent asthma symptoms and take niece. How much does the oldest niece get? proper steps if they occur. Be sure to take the action plan to each doctor visit. Stick to the asthma plan and be prepared for 9. A perfect number is a number with factors (not including itself) which add up emergencies. Reach the most important goal of all, to the number itself, e.g. 6 -the factors are 1, 2, 3, 6 1 + 2 + 3 = 6 which is controlling asthma instead of letting it control you. 10. Fill in the missing numbers: Snowden said parents can help by taking their children to the doctor when they are ill and determining exactly what is causing them problems. 3____7 + ____6 = 53_____ “I have children coming to me saying they have asthma when it’s actually bronchitis or sinus (this one has more than one answer) problems,” Snowden said. “If I have the diagnosis of asthma from a doctor, I can notify them when they’re at risk or make sure they get the proper treatment * Puzzle provided courtesy of Fun Maths. when necessary.” http://www.funmaths.com/worksheets/math_games_puzzles_07.htm

REASON TO BE PROUD OF APS: APS' extensive network of business, community and philanthropic support continues to propel the success of its students through partnerships. The Atlanta Educator Summer 2009 — 15 Gearing up for summer A WORLD OF KNOWLEDGE Fund helps teachers learn lessons about other cultures

BY RICH FAHEY Spanish classes through the Study Sydney Butler Abroad, Inc., program. Crim Open Campus High School The Atlanta Education Fund and a Attend an international special nationally-known non-profit group Charon Kirkland, Woodson education conference in Spain to that supports teachers have joined Elementary, and Lorrae Walker, acquire knowledge about the practic of forces to help 18 APS teachers’ Scott Elementary special education in other countries. dreams come true … and students Attend a tropical ecology and will benefit as well. conservation workshop on the island Reginald Colbert, North Atlanta High School, and Nat Colbert, Sutton This summer, those 18 teachers Dominica through the Atlanta Middle School who have received Fund for Teachers Botanical Gardens to identify better Participate in the Verbier Festival fellowships worth $77,114 will strategies for teaching ecology in the Academy in Verbier, Switzerland, to embark on adventures such as helping classroom. to conserve and expand the observe and research strategies used in population of Giant Pandas in China master classes and chamber music Angela Nelson coaching. or assisting teachers and students in Garden Hills Elementary Ghana in harvesting bio diesel fuel Observe teaching strategies and Amy Leonard from household resources, while cultural differences in Jordan and Grady High School offering English instruction. Egypt as related to ESL students. Explore life, death and entertainment The Fund for Teachers is a non- in ancient Rome through a tour of profit group that helps teachers pursue Xylecia Taylor archaeological sites in southern Italy. self designed programs that promote Williams Elementary summer learning and exploration. Assist teachers and students in Ghana Neville McFarlane Teachers submit proposals detailing to harvest biodiesel fuel from house- Jackson High School how their fellowship will make them hold resources while offering English Attend a photovoltaic design & better teachers and how their instruction. installation workshop at Solar Energy improved skills will be implemented International in Colorado, to promote in the classroom. Teachers are Traci West renewable energy in schools. awarded grants based on merit. Last summer, through the Atlanta Fund for Teachers,Gideons Bolton Academy To date, more than 4,000 teachers Elementary teacher Darlene Dobbs explored the discoveries of ancient Study Hispanic culture through the Beverly Easterling from across the United States have Egyptians in the areas of science, math and linguistics. Equinox Spanish School in Ecuador to Kennedy Middle School received more than $12 million in develop and enhance teaching and Study racial reconciliation and restorative justice in South Africa to grants to study and travel in 110 became the Fund for Teachers' newest island off Australia's Great Barrier learning skills. countries on all seven continents. In community partner. The AEF's Reef. In the evenings she collected develop a more positive climate in the school setting and community. 2008, the Atlanta Education Fund mission is to galvanize community vast amounts of plastic products that Reosha Bush and Tiedra Hutchings support to accelerate washed up on the once pristine Crim Open Campus High School Breverly Littles and sustain student shoreline. Study the English perspective of Young Middle School achievement in Atlanta When she returned to Atlanta, American colonist James Oglethorpe Benefit from an immersion program in Public Schools. Carter documented the amount of by exploring early colonial England, Spain to enhance language skills, “I am excited about trash each student produced, and led and research information on the improve knowledge of the country and this partnership the effort to reduce the amount of founding of Georgia. research African influences on Spanish between the Atlanta plastic waste by up to 60 percent in culture. Education Fund and some classrooms. Fund for Teachers,” said Hosanna Johnson, Here are the 2009 Atlanta Fund for AEF President. “In all Teachers Fellows, their schools and of the work we do to what each will be doing this summer. support the district, the quality of Atlanta's Sam Bean, Langston Longley schools is only as good Stanton D. H. Elementary as the quality of the Travel to Japan to observe and learn teachers. We are happy various techniques for teaching critical to be part of a program thinking math skills. that gives back to those who most deserve it.” Terri Dunson Rivers Elementary Last summer, Volunteer with the Chengdu Research Michell Carter of Base of Giant Panda Breeding in Sarah Smith Chengdu, China, focusing on wildlife Elementary School conservation and scientific research. volunteered with the Earthwatch Institute, Sabrina Harris Sarah Smith Elementary teacher Michell Carter assessing the Last summer, Jackson High School teacher Mahdi Ibrihim (pictured in the assisted scientists in gathering data on the Bolton Academy endangered hawksbill middle of the crowd during a math lab) observed the implementation of a hawksbill turtles, an endangered species, in the Live with a family in Playa turtles on a remote school math lab in Oromiyaa, Ethiopia, and studied its use in enhancing Great Barrier Reef last summer. Tamarindo, Costa Rica, taking daily students' understanding of and interest in mathematics. 16 — The Atlanta Educator Summer 2009 Carver School of Health Sciences & Research students embark on trip to Egypt

Four years ago, Dr. Darian Jones made a promise to the trip deadline. students who walked through the doors of Carver¹s “I consider it a privilege to be among the select group School of Health Sciences & Research. Graduate in four of people going on the Egypt trip in 2009, simply years, he told the freshmen, and we will embark on a because of the great history, culture and tradition,” said trip to Egypt. Health Sciences & Research student Jobias McLester. On May 2, Principal Jones’ promise became a “This trip will advance and enhance my character as a reality as 50 seniors joined parents and faculty members man and help me to strive towards excellence in any and on a 10-day journey to Africa. everything that I attempt.” Students from Carver¹s first graduating class, its Health Sciences & Research is one of four small “legacy class,” toured the Greek temple of Horus in schools housed at The New Schools at Carver, along Edfu, viewed ancient pyramids in Cairo, and traveled with Early College, Arts and Technology. The small the West Bank’s Valley of the Kings. schools model was created through Atlanta Public Each student needed about $2,500 for airfare, required Schools¹ high school transformation initiative. Each vaccinations, a passport and attractions. Many school has its own principal and promotes closer companies and individuals made donations right up to interaction between students and faculty.

Carver School of Health Sciences & Research students visit Valley of the Kings at Luxor, Egypt. Seniors from Carver's School of Health Science & Research students begin the long journey from PHOTO BY DR. DARIAN JONES Atlanta to Cairo. PHOTO BY SCOTT KING Five fun ways to get kids moving

Video games and television shows Robinson and seven teammates helped Moore has the extraordinary task of keeping game of keep away,” Moore said. “It helps constantly lure kids away from healthier students do push-ups, sit-ups and other students physically fit on a daily basis. He them perfect one skill that is essential to activities. So how do you motivate students physically challenging exercises. Falcons offered this advice to parents who want to succeeding in the game as a whole.” to get moving? players also visited Gideons and help kids trade couch time for exercise: Expose kids to various sports. Kids A little bit of fun can make a big Whitefoord elementary schools, as well as Encourage healthy competition. “That’s don’t know what they’re good at until they difference. Parks and King middle schools through a the driving force with boys,” Moore said. try a variety of activities. “There’s more Members of the Atlanta Falcons football partnership program with the United Way. Promote activities that inspire good than football or basketball,” he added. Try a team raised the fun factor when they “I was happy to meet some of the sportsmanship, such as having kids compete game of golf or soccer. participated in fitness activities at five players,” said seventh grader Solomon to finish chores around the house. Lead by example. Moore notes that kids Atlanta Public Schools. “We want to do McBride, one of 70 B.E.S.T. Academy Promote teamwork. Kids like to work in respond better when parents share an anything we can to give back to the students chosen to participate because of groups, Moore said. Encourage team sports interest in the activity. Try jogging together community and help serve a role model,” good behavior. “You get to see that they’re or activities that involve the whole family. or take a walk as a family. “The key is to said wide receiver Laurent Robinson just like us, even though they are on TV Focus on a particular skill. “We’re model the behavior you want to see,” he between rounds of basketball and jump rope doing extraordinary things.” focusing on soccer and the principle of said. “Kids will gravitate to that.” with students at The B.E.S.T. Academy. But physical education teacher Bakari dribbling the ball, so kids will practice a

REASON TO BE PROUD OF APS: APS continues to attract, develop and reward quality teaching. The Atlanta Educator Summer 2009 — 17

Recycle your copy of The Atlanta Educator We encourage you to read this publication and share it with friends. But Atlanta Public Schools also wants to help the environment. Here are a few suggestions for going green with your copy of The Atlanta Educator: Word play: Create a scavenger hunt by searching for vocabulary words in the publication. It’s a wrap: Use the pages as fun and colorful gift wrap. Have fun: Make paper hats or kites. Go green: Shredded newspaper can serve as mulch, reducing weeds in the garden. Junior Danielle Dill posed in front of the display that she worked on with junior Ralph Jones for the CFEAT program. Clean up: Remove window streaks and lint left from paper towels. Recycle: Deliver copies to local recycling centers. Douglass students examine Donate: Several local animal shelters use old newspapers in their animal runs. the global impact of war BY RICH FAHEY APS 2009-2010 they are deployed against. Students accomplishments. The impact of human conflict was examined the ongoing genocide in Darfur CFEAT students are engaged in career- school calendar emphasized on April 22, Earth Day, when in the Sudan, where an estimated 400,000 oriented activities, have access to the July Douglass High School students in the civilians have died and 2.5 million people latest technology software, receive CFEAT – the Center for Engineering and have been displaced from their homes, instructions and inspirations from 15 Year-round schools open Applied Technology, the magnet program according to the Web site members of the SAME (Society of August – studied “The Global Impact of War.” genocideindarfur.net. American Military Engineers) 4 First day of school (teachers) About 350 students at Douglass had a “It was very intense subject matter,” organization and are provided with 10 First day of school (students) hand in the event and some 100 parents said Martin. opportunities to participate in local, state, attended, according to CFEAT Through meetings and conferences, the as well as national competition in September Coordinator Jane Martin, who described it teachers and staff found ways engineering and 7 Labor Day as “great success.” to intergrate the theme into technology. All of the school’s core-subjects every area of the school’s They also have access to October integrated the theme into their classes – curriculum. The 10th-grade Project Lead The Way, the 12-13 Teacher Planning Days elective courses such as JROTC, band, math team, for example, What happens in national Pre-Engineering music, drama, dance, art, Spanish, presented “Nature’s Voices the rest“ of the Initiative, and a state-of- November technology and engineering also Heard.” world affects our the-art student resource 3 Teacher Planning Day participated. Students worked in groups; homes, our center. 25-27 Thanksgiving break “We reached out to other departments,” there also were individual communities.We Martin said the message December said Martin “Most of the school was projects. Teachers and students are truly one world. of the Earth Day event was 21-31 Winter Break involved in some way or another.” determined the projects’ that war has risks and The school’s teachers were divided into criteria and rubrics, the Jane Martin consequences for all. January “families” – both core subject teachers elements students had to CFEAT Coordinator But students have been 1 New Year’s Day and engineering/technology teachers – include. learning another Earth Day 5 Teacher Planning Day and they had common planning time to “The rubrics worked,” lesson: how environmental 6 Students return to school discuss the unit. In planning meetings, Martin said. “They allowed our teachers factors play into their lives. CFEAT 18 Martin Luther King Jr. Day various aspects of war were viewed and students to be on the same page students learned that children in one ZIP February through the lens of both engineering and when it came to the projects.” code had a high risk of contracting technology. In 1984, Douglass High School opened communicable diseases, or suffering from 15 Presidents' Day “We came up with an umbrella of CFEAT to meet the needs of students high blood pressure or asthma that could April things that described the global impact of interested in engineering and science and be related to pollution. 5-9 Spring Break war,” said Martin. business technology. The first graduating “What happens in the rest of the world Classes looked at engineering programs class had 50 students, but the program has affects our homes, our communities,” said May that launch and guide missiles and the grown to more than 500 students become Martin. “We are truly one world.” 25 Last day of school effects of atomic bombs on communities well known for its academic 31 Memorial Day 18 — The Atlanta Educator Summer 2009

Elementary schools East Lake the school’s first “One Hour Middle Schools East Lake was one of 26 APS Blackout at Home.” Burgess-Peterson schools recognized by Gov. Sonny Coan Perdue and State Schools ATLANTA - SRT 3 Parkside Teachers, students, parents, faculty Superintendent Kathy for high Principal Phillip Luck (University of In coordination with the Confucius Institute, the school hosted a and staff set the foundation for a achievement or improvement dur- West Georgia) and assistant prin- school garden, erecting two raised ing the 2007-2008 school year. Chinese New Year’s celebration in cipal Sarah Haynes (Clark Atlanta January. Chinese-language students beds for planting. Donations from East Lake earned a “Platinum” University) successfully defended Trees Atlanta were planted inside from Coan, Toomer Elementary, award – the highest of four levels. their dissertations and earned the garden and on the sunny side This distinction is based on East Maynard Jackson High, North their doctoral degrees. Erica Atlanta High and Carver Early of Clifton Street. Neighbors also Lake’s performance on state cur- Mary Lin Donerlson, Parkside’s challenge College rang in the Year of the Ox worked with East Atlanta Village riculum exams and Adequate The elementary school was one of program instructor, also received with food, poetry, songs and a tradi- Farmers Market and Georgia Yearly Progress (AYP) guidelines 26 in the APS schools singled out her doctorate during the school tional lion dance. Organics to help build a garden for under the federal No Child Left for recognition in by Gov. Sonny two classes at Burgess-Peterson. year. Behind Act. Perdue and State Schools Inman Superintendent Kathy Cox for its Fred A. Toomer Centennial Place C.W. Hill high achievement during the 2007- Sixth-grader Tucker James Lancaster and seventh-grader Eliza Renner Students in Sharhonda Davies’ third- 2008 school year. Mary Lin was Students kicked off a new partner- Fox 5 HealthWatch reporter Beth earned honorable mention for their grade class celebrated Black one of five elementary schools and ship with Fort McPherson, head- Galvin delighted 25 students in the entrees in the Istanbul Center of History Month (February) by cre- one high school named winners of quarters for the U.S. Installation school’s After School Classé pro- Atlanta’s annual “Talented Minds” ating a quilt for display during an Management Command, gram by reading books and edu- the 2007-2008 “highest perform- art and essay contest in February at exhibit at the Threshing Floor Southeast Region. The partnership cating them about healthy ance” award under the state’s North Atlanta High. The theme of Academy Children’s Art Gallery in included a field trip where stu- lifestyles during the fall launch of Single Statewide Accountability the contest was “Alliance of Castleberry Hill. Textile artist dents met Col. Deborah Grays, “Lights On Afterschool” Day. System. The school won a silver Civilizations,” the United Nations’ Mildred Bethel visited the class to garrison commander. Soldiers also Galvin read popular children’s medal in the “highest perform- concept of interaction and coordina- offer her expertise. provided mentoring and tutoring to story The Stinky Cheese Man and ance” category, based on its per- tion among nations and cultures. The the American Indian legend The formance on state curriculum students, and the base donated purpose is to establish relationships Cook Story of Jumping Mouse. exams and Adequate Yearly used computers to the school. and facilitate cross-cultural and inter- Progress (AYP) guidelines under faith dialogue, understanding, recon- Principal LaPaul Shelton was one of Whitefoord four APS principals (and 11 teach- John Hope the federal No Child Left Behind ciliation and cooperation. ers) given the Atlanta Families’ In an effort to “Go Green,” the Act. Bob Littell, president of Littell Awards for Excellence in school joined forces with Sprint Consulting Services, made his King Education, which included a and Hands on Atlanta in Morningside third annual visit to Whitefoord Eighth-grader Bria Griffin recently was $7,500 grant. Shelton will use the November to stage a variety of WSB-TV honored the school with its during Career Week in March. selected as a 2009 Carson Scholar money for a “Boys to Men” pro- projects that included building People’s Choice Going Green Littrell explained the “Pay It and will receive a $1,000 scholarship gram that will include weekend recycling bins, placing solar reflec- Champions award in honor of sec- Forward” program he helped start to be invested for her college educa- activities, additional learning tive films on school windows, at Whitefoord in 2007. The pro- tion. The nationwide program is cele- opportunities, a character-develop- ond-graders’ efforts to promote replacing paper towel dispensers awareness of global pollution and gram supports random acts of brating its sixth consecutive year of ment curriculum and guest speak- offering the scholarship to students with air-dry dispensers and energy-conservation. The cam- kindness and has been profiled by ers. Students also will take field rebuilding the school’s existing based on criteria including a mini- paign was supervised by second- 11Alive reporter Donna Lowry. trips and maintain responsibilities organic garden. mum 3.75 grade-point average, com- in the school. grade challenge teacher Stella munity service and a submitted Mercker. The campaign also led to essay.

Inman Middle School student is a WWII scholar

SCOLLARD: From Page 1 When this happens, the student is much more likely to be engaged in their education material. In the sixth grade, social studies and to be positioned for success.” teacher Sara Looman was so impressed by a Along with his passion for history, presentation he had given on the Battle of Scollard also plays on the tennis team, is the Bulge in another class that she asked active in student government, and Scollard to do the same for her class. participates in what has become one of “It’s really helpful when your teachers APS’ most competitive robotics teams — are supporting you and helping you along,” thanks to the work of science teacher said Scollard. “Plus, if you ever need a Melissa Nunnick, STEM teacher Jimmy recommendation or sponsor for an activity, Stapp and Inman parent Dave Gluck. you can go back to your old teachers and His accomplishments moved classmates they will always give you a to vote him Most Likely to Become recommendation.” President. With help from Inman gifted-student “When Patrick was born, we didn’t know coordinator Tommy Firesheets, Scollard if our local schools would be strong enough organized a school visit by legendary to send him all the way through from Tuskegee Airmen, WWII Air Force kindergarten through 12th grade,” said his veterans. The presentation made such an mother, Michelle Scollard. “But I really feel impact that eighth-grade Georgia studies we’ve gotten our money’s worth with instructor Lisa Chambless asked Scollard to Patrick’s education. My husband, Kevin, give a WWII-themed presentation to her and I are big supporters of public schools class by the semester’s end. and we’ve been very pleased with the “It’s incumbent upon us, as educators, to quality of education that Patrick and his recognize the strengths and talents of our sister Kelly (a fifth-grader at Morningside students and then to nurture them by Elementary), have received at APS. The providing opportunities for growth,” encouragement that so many teachers have Chambless said. “Working with Patrick is shown Patrick is priceless and we are Patrick Scollard organized a visit of the Tuskegee Airmen to Inman Middle School. Above, one of the joys of teaching and learning. thankful for it.” Master Sgt. W.O. Smith speaks to students.

REASON TO BE PROUD OF APS: APS is changing the middle school experience through single-gender learning and other reform initiatives. The Atlanta Educator Summer 2009 — 19 Wheelchairs don’t slow the Wolfpack team down

WOLFPACK From Page 20 school community and for stressing the importance of collaboration and teamwork,” The team started strong and maintained a said state Superintendent of Schools Kathy lead, but saw the Wolverines come within Cox. “Our partnership with AAASP is part two points in the fourth period. of an ongoing effort to make sure that all The 11 players on the co-ed team students have access to the power of athletic celebrated with Onie Lawson, the adapted competition.” sport liaison for the APS Program for Lawson has a litany of success stories Exceptional Children, about what the competition which oversees the has meant to disabled Adapted Sports Program. athletes. Top scorers for the “We have seen all kinds of Wolfpack were Douglass We have seen all kinds positive changes in our of positive“ changes in students – academically, High School senior Reece Johnson, with 18 points, our students — emotionally, and physically,” and Maynard Jackson academically, emotionally, said Lawson. “Some of them High junior Rodreickus live, eat and drink their Eight Atlanta Public students received Play It Smart scholarships this year. and physically, Some Griggs, with 14. Johnson of them live, eat and sport.” and Griggs, along with drink their sport. For some of the students, Omega Meade of the Price just learning how to catch Play It Smart helps athletes Middle School, have been Onie Lawson and throw a ball can be a invited to play for the elite Wolfpack coach personal victory. Georgia Eagles wheelchair “We had a youngster with reach academic potential basketball team that cerebral palsy who had a real competes on a national level. problem with coordination,” said Lawson. PLAY IT SMART: From Page 20 George Morris Student Athlete Award: “Wheelchair basketball is a fast-paced “After a while, he was catching and Derron Bowles, Matthew Campbell and sport and it gives the students an excellent dribbling the ball.” Educational Complex. Benjamin Lai, North Atlanta; Webster chance to develop their skills,” said Lawson. Then there was another student who was West won the Whitey Zimmerman Foreman, South Atlanta; Brontavious Athletes in three adapted sports — the victim of a shooting that left him a Student Manager Award, which recognizes Railey, Frederick Douglas; Mark Williams, wheelchair basketball, team handball and paraplegic. Playing wheelchair basketball students for work off the field and behind New Schools at Carver; and Miles wheelchair football — compete under the allowed him to focus on something other the scenes. An accomplished student and a Gilbreath, Grady. auspices of the American Association of than his disability. member of the National Honor Society in Play it Smart has tracked its graduates. Adapted Sports Program (AAASP), which is “The boy’s relatives were looking for Therrell High’s School of Business and Averages for the past three academic years recognized by the Georgia High School something positive he could do,” said Entrepreneurship, West was looking for an show that: Association. Lawson, who added students develop their extracurricular activity. 95 percent of Play It Smart seniors Founded in 1996, the award-winning skills at different speeds and to different West was a jack of all trades, taking graduate high school compared to 85 AAASP is a national organization based in levels, but just being part of a program is its inventory of equipment, taping ankles, percent of their peers; Atlanta that addresses the need for own reward. making sure water was in place and doing 80 percent enroll in college standardized interscholastic adapted sports. “For every athlete who competes, we get whatever else had to be done. “It was compared to 62 percent of their peers, with Atlanta and the state of Georgia have been an opportunity to touch their lives in some physically taxing and a lot of work,” she the majority qualifying for full financial pioneers in giving disabled students a chance way,” said Lawson, who admits to fighting said. aid; to compete, Lawson said. back tears when she sees what making The players on the team respected her 40 percent more Play It Smart “Athletics are a great tool for keeping our progress in their sport means to some of the efforts. “I was considered part of the team, participants take the SAT/ACT than their students motivated to learn, engaged in the athletes. just like anyone else,” West said. classmates; When not in school, she volunteers at Play It Smart teams nationwide area nursing homes and helps clean up complete more than 60,000 hours of areas that need to be improved as part of community service annually; the Play It Smart program’s commitment Participants earn more than $6 to community service. million a year in scholarships; and West will attend Stillman College in The Play It Smart program is in Tuscaloosa, Ala., next fall, majoring in every Atlanta high school, thanks to a sports and recreation, with a eye toward a $180,000 annual grant from the Chick-fil- possible career in sports medicine or A Bowl. athletic training. “College football holds a special place Cassandra Bolding, West’s guidance in the hearts and minds of Atlantans, and counselor at Therrell, knows the work it we are working to make the city a power takes to be a student manager and the center for the activities of the National benefits of the Zimmerman Scholarship. Football Foundation,” said NFF President She was a student manager for the Therrell and CEO Steve Hatchell. “The Chick-fil-A football team in 1999 and earned the Bowl’s leadership in support of Play It Zimmerman Scholarship, which she used Smart is a wonderful way for us to while attending Mercer University. showcase the power of our organization “I can indeed attest it was hard, but it and its ability to shape the lives of young was also fun,” she said. football players into tomorrow’s leaders.” Seven APS football players won the Members of the APS wheelchair basketball team celebrate another state title. 20 — The Atlanta Educator Summer 2009

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THE ATLANTA EDUCATOR Eight TThhrreeee cchheeeerrss get Wheelchair hoop team wins third state crown Smart APS students score with National Football Foundation BY RICH FAHEY

APS student-athletes with disabilities are tough BY RICH FAHEY competitors. When members of the Atlanta Wolfpack are moving up There comes a day when the cheering court, wheelchairs don’t do much to slow them down. So stops. For some athletes, it may be after it’s no surprise that the Wolfpack captured their third they finish their high school careers; for Georgia State Wheelchair Basketball Program title in four others, it’s after college, and for a select years with a 32-22 victory over the West Georgia few it may be after enjoying a career in Wolverines in March. professional sports. See WOLFPACK Page 19 Whenever that day arrives, student-athletes involved in the Play It Smart program truly realize the value of the experience. The National Football Brittany West of Foundation’s Therrell won a Play it Play It Smart Smart scholarship. program helps at-risk student-athletes to take advantage of opportunities for higher education. Play It Smart participants graduate and go on to college at rates well above those of their peers. Launched in 1998, and currently in 140 schools in 85 cities, Play It Smart also trains academic coaches to work with high school football teams during the entire school year, taking the lessons learned on the field and applying them in the classroom and the community. APS students benefit not only from the academic counseling provided, but also the scholarships that are part of the program. Eight students received Play it Smart scholarships this year — seven football players and one student manager, Brittany West, a student at the Therrell

Maynard Jackson High School junior Rodreickus Griggs of the Atlanta Wolfpack dribbles around West Georgia Wolverine Laura Ray. See PLAY IT SMART Page 19