State of Schools Page 1 7/6/10 5:40 PM Page 1 State of Schools Page 2 7/6/10 10:26 AM Page 2

State of Schools page 1 7/6/10 5:40 PM Page 1 State of Schools page 2 7/6/10 10:26 AM Page 2

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2 2010-11 State of Schools State of Schools page 3 7/7/10 3:55 PM Page 1 Welcome to 2010-11 State of the Schools Welcome from John Hall

We at the Forsyth County News are excited to be a partner with the school system to provide you the 2010-11 State of the Schools, which features a wealth of valuable information in one convenient publication. Additionally, we also provide coverage of our local students, staff and schools in both the Forsyth County News and the South Forsyth News. Our newspa- pers are also complimented with breaking news and video at www.forsythnews.com. We are also pleased to bring you valuable advertisements from local businesses. In Forsyth County, we believe a strong school-community partnership is essential Welcome from Superintendent for the success of both the school system and L.C. (Buster) Evans our community. As such, I encourage you to take advantage of the offers from local business- I am once again pleased to welcome you to a new es found within these pages. school year. As I review what has led us to this new beginning, I am moved by the dedication and support John Hall, Publisher from the many people who worked to make Forsyth Forsyth County News County Schools a success. I am gratified that even in the challenging economic times many people stepped for- Many thanks to In & Out Photo for providing ward to work on behalf of our students. I credit this sup- photos used in this year’s State of the Schools. port to the unique nature of our community, our students, our staff and friends who understand how connected education is to our daily lives. Because of this united commitment, we have achieved and demonstrated the importance of our mission to prepare and inspire all students to contribute and excel. It is the next generation that will mold the future of the country. With your continued support we can help ensure they are well educated and responsible citizens.

L.C. (Buster) Evans, Superintendent

About Forsyth County Schools: The 2010-11 State of the Schools is produced by the Forsyth County School’s Public Information and Communication Department. For information, contact [email protected]. ¥ Sign up to receive FCS newsletters! E-mail [email protected] ¥ Follow us on Facebook and Twitter! www.facebook.com/FCSchools and www. twitter.com/FCSchoolsGA

FCS does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability or gender in employment decisions or educational programs and activities, including athletic programs. The accuracy of the content within this publication is subject to change prior to dissemination.

2010-11 State of Schools 3 State of Schools page 4 7/6/10 5:39 PM Page 1

2010-11 State of the Schools Table of contents

FCS vision, mission and beliefs ...... 5 New technology streamlines cafeterias ...... 28 Congratulations to the FCS retirees ...... 6 Exceptional Child Book Fair is a hit ...... 31 District points of pride ...... 7 Keep up to date on Forsyth County latest teen vaccines ...... 32 Board of Education ...... 9 iAchieve Virtual Academy Bring Your Own Technology ...... 10 a new way to learn ...... 35

Teacher of the Year ...... 12 Transforming schools, brick by brick ...... 36 Assistive technology success stories ...... 15 Common sense on cyberbullying ...... 37 Parent Toolbox provides variety of information ...... 16 Inclement weather information ...... 38

Partners in Education ...... 17 District Cabinet directory ...... 39 PIE award winners ...... 18 List of FCS principals ...... 40 PROPEL program a launching pad ...... 22 Student calendar ...... 42

The difference mentoring makes ...... 22

Citrix Remote Access Gateway ...... 23

How we communicate ...... 24

Attendance counts in more ways than one ...... 25

4 2010-11 State of Schools State of Schools page 5 7/7/10 10:47 AM Page 1

Forsyth County Schools Our vision: • Quality learning and superior performance for all Our beliefs: • Trust among all stakeholders is vital • Expectations influence accomplishments because everyone has the capacity to learn • A school-community partnership is essential • Change creates opportunity • High-performing leadership makes visions reality

2009-12 strategic plan goals: • Increase all student achievement while expanding educational opportunities. • Recruit, develop and retain a highly qualified workforce. • Enhance educational programs through increased community involvement. • Communicate effectively both internally and externally. • Pursue and secure alternate funding and resources while maximizing operational efficiency.

To review our progress on our Strategic Plan, visit www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/strategicplan.

2010-11 State of Schools 5 State of Schools page 6 7/6/10 5:13 PM Page 1

Congratulations to our retirees Congratulations to FCS’ 2009-10 retirees, our largest group to-date! Thank you for your dedication and service to the students in Forsyth County Schools!

• Nancy Abbott Sawnee ES • Gwin Allen Forsyth Central HS • Esther Armour Sawnee ES • Donna Bailey Silver City ES • Amy Bowen Forsyth Central HS • Joan Burrows Mashburn ES • Connie Case Cumming ES • Rebecca Lee Midway ES • Theresa Coenen Transportation • Shirley Lewis Vickery Creek ES • Robert Countryman North Forsyth HS • Cynthia Lynn Vickery Creek ES & Midway ES • Dorothy Culver Coal Mountain ES • William Mattie Transportation • Lara Daniel Transportation • Susan May Chattahoochee ES • Linda Davis Sawnee ES • Carolyn Meadows South Forsyth HS • Barbara Denbow Cumming ES • Kim Medlin Shiloh Point ES • George Dickey Lakeside MS • Tammy Mize Central Office • Janie Ditmore Settles Bridge ES • Betty Mooney Forsyth Central HS • Sarah Evans North Forsyth HS • Phil Moore North Forsyth HS • Patricia Fouts Sawnee ES • Barbara Morris Settles Bridge ES • Joyce Frederick Daves Creek ES • Linda Nippert Central Office • Jan Gilmore Midway ES • William Nix Central Office • Terry Greene North Forsyth MS • Mary Page Transportation • Jean Griggs Sawnee ES • Sherrie Phillips Forsyth Central HS • Janice Grindle Coal Mountain ES • John Poss Hill Center • Linda Halbach Big Creek ES • William Pugh Gateway Academy • Linda Haney Sawnee ES • Joyce Reed Haw Creek ES • Linda Hare Cumming ES • Myra Reidy Vickery Creek ES • Mary John Harrison Chestatee ES • Shelley Richardson Cumming ES • Yatesy Harvey Forsyth Central HS • Nancy Rithmire Central Office • Mary Harwell Central Office • Becky Roper Sawnee ES • Cathy Herb Chattahoochee ES • Nancy Scarbrough Otwell MS • Donna Heusser Cumming ES • Deborah Shirley Cumming ES • Steve Hocker Johns Creek ES • Kathleen Startt Mashburn ES • Alice Holland North Forsyth HS • Bonnie Stone Technology • Cheryl Hood Sawnee ES • Jane Tatum Forsyth Central HS • Mary Hooker Daves Creek ES • Richie Taylor North Forsyth HS • Marie Hughes Transportation • Gary Vogt Transportation • Eleanor Hutto Forsyth Central HS • Don Westray North Forsyth MS • Shirley Jurczyk North Forsyth HS • Diane Woodall Sharon ES • Alice LaFleur North Forsyth MS • Ernest Young Transportation

6 2010-11 State of Schools State of Schools page 7 7/6/10 5:14 PM Page 1

District Points of Pride In addition to having the highest CRCT and ACT scores in Georgia, FCS also has some of the highest SAT scores in the state, which are also above national averages.

STATE HONORS:

• Advanced Placement (AP) Honor Schools • DECA (Delta Epsilon Chi) State Winner • Future Business Leaders of America(FBLA) State Winner • Georgia Academic Decathlon State Winner • Georgia Athletic Director of the Year • Georgia Civic Star Award • Georgia Department of Education Distinguished Achievement Awards • Georgia Educational Technology Fair Winners • Georgia Elementary and Middle School Counselor of the Year • Georgia Elementary Principal of the Year

See POINTS, Page 8

2010-11 State of Schools 7 State of Schools page 8 7/6/10 5:15 PM Page 2

District Points of Pride

POINTS, from Page 7 • Georgia Music Educators • Georgia Schools of Excellence • HOSA (Health Occupations Association All-State Band Award Winners Students of America) State • Georgia Pacesetter Award • Georgia Superintendent of the Winners • Georgia Postcard Winner Year Finalists Schools • SAT Governor’s Cup • Georgia School Board (GSBA) • Georgia Teacher of the Year • Special Education State School Standard Board and Board of Finalist Bus Road-e-o Competition Distinctions • Georgia Title 1 Distinguished Award • Georgia School Public Relations • Governor’s Cup Regional • State AAAAA Literary Winners Association (GSPRA) Winners • State Spelling Bee Communication Awards and • Governor’s Office of Student Andy Olsen Award of Achievement (OSC) Single Excellence in School Public Statewide Accountability Awards Relations

NATIONAL HONORS:

• Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP), • National School Public Relations all eligible schools and district Association (NSPRA) • American Association of School Communication Awards Administrators (AASA) Georgia • National Staff Development Civic Star • Naval Honor School Selection • American School Counselor • New American High School Association (ASCA) Recognized Council Academy Model Program (RAMP) • netTrekker’s Safe Search Awards • Construction Owners • Newsweek “Top of the Class” Association of American Silver Best 1,500 high schools in U.S. Award • President’s Volunteer Service • National Achievement Award Scholarship Finalist • National School Boards • RAMP Designation Honors • National Association of Sport Association (NSBA) “20 to • SACS/CASI District and Physical Education (NASPE) Watch” Accreditation STARS • National School Boards • SSTAGE Star Award for • National Blue Ribbon Schools of Association (NSBA) Ed Tech Promising Practices at the Excellence Site Visit Host Elementary Level • National Merit Scholarship • National School Boards • USDA Best Practices Awards Semifinalists Association (NSBA) Salute • National Naval Honor School District

Do you have a state and/or nation award or honor that needs to be added to this list? E-mail [email protected].

8 2010-11 State of Schools State of Schools page 9 7/6/10 5:15 PM Page 1

Forsyth County Board of Education

The Forsyth County Board of Education consists of five members who are elected by district to staggered, four-year terms.The primary role of the board is the legislation of the school system policies, which are executed under the direction of the school superintendent. Meetings of the board are held monthly, with agendas and meeting minutes available for review at www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/boe. Over the years, Forsyth County Schools has been fortunate to have dedicated, knowledgeable and caring individuals elected to the Board of Education. Current board members include:

Chairwoman Ann Crow, District 1 [email protected] Clockwise from top left, Superintendent Buster Evans poses with members of the Forsyth County Board of Education: Mike Dudgeon, Vice Chairman Tom Cleveland, Vice Chairman Tom Nancy Roche, Darla Light and Chairwoman Ann Crow. Cleveland, District 3 [email protected]

Mike Dudgeon, District 2 [email protected]

Darla Light, District 4 [email protected]

Nancy Roche, District 5 [email protected]

Communicate with your Board of Education at the e-mail addresses listed above or by mail to Board of Education, Forsyth County Schools, 1120 Dahlonega Highway, Cumming, GA 30040.

2010-11 State of Schools 9 State of Schools page 10 7/6/10 5:16 PM Page 1

Classroom advancements: Educators explore trailblazing program

Bring Your Own Technology

FCS is working with several schools in the district and nearly 40 teachers to explore the possibility of allowing students to bring their own technology to use in the classroom. These trailblazers are working through issues of how to manage the classroom if some students do have a computing device while others don’t as well as ways to make effective use of the technologies. Teachers have participated in several professional learning opportunities to ramp up their knowledge and comfort level for this new way of learning.

See BYOT,Page 11

10 2010-11 State of Schools State of Schools page 11 7/6/10 5:17 PM Page 1

BYOT,from Page 10 Students who are in classrooms involved in the project have been trying out the use of laptop computers, netbook computers, gaming consoles that have the capacity to browse the Internet and cell phones.The response has been positive. This idea can be somewhat uncomfortable to consider and so system and school leaders are slowly proceeding with caution to ensure that the end result is positive.

“We should embrace the idea and direct our efforts toward management, security, safety, collab- oration, and resource sharing so that we can lever- age the change.” — Mark Klingler, Forsyth County Schools’ Director of Technology Services

2010-11 State of Schools 11 State of Schools page 12 7/6/10 5:17 PM Page 1

Forsyth County Schools congratulates its top teachers of the 2009-10 school year!

FCS and Elementary Teachers of the Year, from left, Debra Moore (South Forsyth School Teacher High), Robin Neal (Matt Elementary) and Chris Cummo of the Year (Otwell Middle) await announcement of the systemwide teacher of the year. Robin Neal, Matt Elementary

Middle School 2010 School Level TOTYs: Teacher of the Year Big Creek Elementary Debbie Stair Brookwood Elementary Robert Meinberg Chris Cummo, Chattahoochee Elementary Lacy Shadburn Liberty Middle Chestatee Elementary Tamela Stanford Coal Mountain Elementary April Lowe Cumming Elementary Anna Quinones Daves Creek Elementary Jenni Bueltel High School Haw Creek Elementary Auburn Hemsley Teacher of the Year Johns Creek Elementary Ashlee Howington Mashburn Elementary Keri Cook Midway Elementary Cathie Gober Debra Moore, Sawnee Elementary Teresa Herring South Forsyth High School Settles Bridge Elementary Jennifer Perkins Sharon Elementary Sherrie Robbins Shiloh Point Elementary Andrea White Silver City Elementary Jill Short ¥ For more information, visit Vickery Creek Elementary Rachael Dooley www.forysth.k12.ga.us/toty Whitlow Elementary Ashley Starr Lakeside Middle Amy Atkins Little Mill Middle Vickie Bates North Forsyth Middle Dusty Hoyle ¥ For more on systemwide TOTY Otwell Middle Catherine Keyser winner Robin Neal, see Page 14 Piney Grove Middle Ginger Smith Riverwatch Middle Mike Brown South Forsyth Middle Priscilla Pizarro-Rivera Vickery Creek Middle Jenn Davies Forsyth Central High Linda Napolitano Lambert High School Woody VanTreek North Forsyth High Gail Tillery West Forsyth High John Bush

12 2010-11 State of Schools State of Schools page 13 7/6/10 10:28 AM Page 1

2010-11 State of Schools 13 State of Schools page 14 7/6/10 5:21 PM Page 2

Robin Neal, FCS TOTY

Robin Neal, third grade State University and a teacher at Matt Elementary master’s in education in School, was named school counseling from the Forsyth County Schools’ University of West 2010 Teacher of the Year Alabama. on Feb. 12, 2010, at the “Every day I make con- annual Celebration of tributions to the education Excellence. of my students,” said Neal. “Mrs. Neal can be “Being entrusted with the described as compassion- care and education of the ate, creative and caring,” children of my community shared her principal, is a responsibility I take Charlotte Stalder. “She very seriously; I know Robin Neal, Forsyth County Schools Teacher of the engages her students in what I do everyday influ- Year, is congratulated by Forsyth County Board of lessons that are standards ences the lives of these Education Chairwoman Ann Crow, left, during the based but also fun and children.” annual Celebration of Excellence banquet. exciting for the students. Neal will represent When asked why they Forsyth County in the thought Mrs. Neal was the 2011 Georgia Teacher of best teacher, her students the Year Program. replied, ‘Because we have Also recognized at the fun every day.’” Celebration of Excellence Cumming Dance Academy, Inc. Neal, who is also the were Liberty Middle "The perfect dance facility for both the serious and the recreational dancer." 2010 Elementary School School’s Chris Cummo, Teacher of the Year, has 2010 Middle School REGISTER NOW! CLASSES BEGIN SEPTEMBER 13, 2010 taught since 1990 and has TOTY, and South Forsyth a bachelor’s of science High School’s Debra Professional Instruction in: degree in early childhood Moore, 2010 High School Ballet ~ Tap ~ Jazz ~ Pointe ~ Hip-Hop ~ Contemporary education from Towson TOTY. Lyrical ~ Modern ~ Musical Theatre ~ 2 Year Creative Movement Kinder-Gym ~ Acro-Cheer ~ Irish Dance ~ Adult Classes & A Performing Company NEED DANCE SUPPLIES? “Tutu’s & Taps” Dance Boutique Located in CDA! Shoes, Leotards, Tights & Accessories, Come by Today!

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Assistive technology is any tool that makes it easier for a student to read, write, see, talk, get around, eat, get dressed or play. For some students with disabilities, assistive technology may be the only way that access to the general curriculum can be ensured! Assistive technology is typically provided for a student based upon difficul- ties that are identified in the Individual Education Plan. Assistive Technology has allowed many FCS students success in a variety of ways. For example, at Johns Creek ES, a student who has phonetic decoding deficits but is able to comprehend material on grade level when it is read to him, began using a text to speech software program (which has the ability to read the content out loud) to help him with reading, writing and spelling. He also used online textbooks that read to him. He has made excellent progress and will move from a small group resource classroom into a co-taught general education environment next year for fifth grade. His teacher reported that this year’s CRCT scores are the best ever, and he is very proud of himself.A student at North Forsyth HS, who was unable to speak or move his hands, was provided a computer based communication device with eye gaze access (he looks at the words and the device speaks). For the first time, he is able to ask girls for their phone numbers! In fact, he asked Sarah Taylor, Director of Special Education, if she want- ed to “hang out”! There are many more success stories this year, but the best success story of all is when the student smiles and says “I can do this!” To learn more about assistive technology, visit www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/spe- cialeducation.

2010-11 State of Schools 15 State of Schools page 16 7/7/10 9:12 AM Page 2

Parent Toolbox provides wide variety of info

Parents are the most powerful and most valuable influences in their children’s lives. Duke University’s Nancy E. Hill has researched how parents influence their children’s success. Internet links on such topics as bullying, Internet “In order for children to reach their potential, safety, math, reading, sexting, spelling, substance they need their parents as informed advocates,” abuse, suicide and depression and school transitions. Hill said. Additionally this fall, monthly editions of “Home & Because parents of FCS students have identi- School Connection,” a newsletter that offers practi- fied a preference for accessing information cal ideas for parent involvement in their students’ online, the district has created the Parent school success, will be located in the Parent Toolbox, accessible at Toolbox. Parents are encouraged to check the www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/parenttoolbox.The tool- Parent Toolbox for periodic updates and additional box provided videos, print materials and resources.

16 2010-11 State of Schools State of Schools page 17 7/6/10 5:23 PM Page 1 Partners in Education awards More than 600 partnerships make impact on schools

At Forsyth County Schools and the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce’s 14th annual Celebration of Excellence, more than 350 school, parent and community/business leaders gathered to recognize Teachers of the Year, parent leaders and Partners in Education, or PIE. FCS has approximately 600-plus active partners working with 34 schools and various departments in our system. Last school year PIEs contributed $1.6 million in funding to schools, teachers and students, an increase of $1 million from the previous year.These funds, in addition to the thousands of volunteer hours and countless in-kind services, have improved student achievement in

See PIE, Page 20

For photos of PIE winners, see Pages 18-19

2010-11 State of Schools 17 State of Schools page 18 7/6/10 5:24 PM Page 2 Partners in Education awards Gold Program of the Year Friend of the Year

Northside Hospital-Forsyth Administrator Lynn Jackson, David Segal of Georgia Power, right, presents the 2010 right, presents a Gold Program of the Year Award to Friend of the School Award to Gabe Dukas of In and Out Sharon Castleberry of Barnes and Noble bookstore dur- Photo. ing the Celebration of Excellence ceremony.

Gold Program of the Year

Jackson, left, presents a Gold Program of the Year Award to Lane Jones of Browns Bridge Community Church.

18 2010-11 State of Schools State of Schools page 19 7/6/10 5:25 PM Page 1 Partners in Education awards

Silver Program of the Year Don Hendricks Partnership

Northside Hospital-Forsyth Administrator Lynn Jackson, Suzanne Hendricks, left, and Barbara Hendricks, right, right, presents a Silver Program of the Year Award to present the Don Hendricks Partnership Award to a Kelly Steve Jackson with Backyard Burgers. Sloan of Georgia Federal Credit Union. Superintendent Buster Evans, far right, looks on.

Silver Program of the Year

T.J. Sellers with Atlanta Rehabilitation and Performance accepts a Silver Program of the Year Award from Jackson.

2010-11 State of Schools 19 State of Schools page 20 7/6/10 5:26 PM Page 2

PIE, from Page 17 A special thank you to the Celebration of Excellence all subject areas, enriched students’ life experiences, helped sponsors: grow career opportunities, and boosted educator support and morale. Title Sponsor: Northside Hospital- Forsyth Seven PIEs were recognized at the Celebration of Excellence Luncheon Sponsor: Georgia Power for their dedication to the children of FCS.Winners included: Awards Sponsor: Publix Gold Sponsors: American Proteins and • 2010 Mentor of the Year: Jackie Staples, nominated by The Avenue Forsyth Sharon ES Silver Sponsor: Andean Chevrolet • 2010 Friend of the Year: In & Out Photo, nominated by Bronze Sponsor: RBM of Atlanta Whitlow ES North • 2010 Silver Program of the Year: Backyard Burgers, nominated by Mashburn ES, and TJ Sellers,Atlanta Rehabilitation and Performance Center, nominated by West Forsyth HS • 2010 Gold Program of the Year: Browns Bridge Community Church, nominated by Whitlow ES, and Barnes & Noble at The Avenue Forsyth, nominated by FCS’ Special Education Department • 2010 Don Hendricks Partnership Award: Georgia Federal Credit Union

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20 2010-11 State of Schools State of Schools page 21 7/6/10 3:47 PM Page 1

James Otwell Jr. opened Andean Chevrolet 62 years ago, naming the business after daughters Patricia Anne and Sara Dean – coining the well known Andean name. Today it is still owned and operated by the founder’s son, daughter, daughter-in-law and four grandsons. Thank you Forsyth for making Andean Chevrolet the fastest growing Chevrolet Dealer in Georgia.

Pictured from left to right: Jacob, John, James, Janet, Jim, and Joseph Otwell

Rated Chevy Silverado 1500 as the Best Truck and Chevy Traverse as the Best Family SUV for 2010 Monday - Saturday 770-887-2316 9am-8pm 527 Atlanta Road Closed Sunday Where We Still Do Business with a Handshake Cumming 2010-11 State of Schools 21 State of Schools page 22 7/6/10 5:28 PM Page 2 PROPEL program: A launch pad for all students to graduate

FCS and the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce have partnered to embark on an initiative to increase the county’s graduation rate. This partnership, called PROPEL (Pathways for Reaching Connection, sheriff’s department, Lanier Opportunities in Preparing for Excellence Technical College and Hispanic transition in Life) began in February 2010 and will services is working to create goals and an continue throughout the year. action plan. The group has surveyed parents, teachers and students, as well as Did you know? gathered numerical data. The steering committees plans to ask community mem- ¥ FCS has 32,514 total students graduation rate has improved over the last bers this fall to assist with the formulation ¥ 88 percent graduation rate three years of an action plan to ensure more students ¥ 12 percent of FCS students (3,902 have the opportunity to receive a high students) did not graduate A steering committee comprised of school diploma. ¥ One out of every 10 FCS students did representatives throughout the community not graduate and district including chamber members, To learn more about PROPEL, visit ¥ The Forsyth County high school juvenile justice, counselors, Community www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/propel.

Mentoring makes a true difference Join us at our next Mentor training!

Where: The Forsyth County Board of Education 1120 Dahlonega Highway, Cumming, GA 30040 When: Monday,Aug. 30 or Monday, Sept. 20 Time: 6:30-8:30 p.m. For More Information: Susie LeMieux Brookshire, Prevention Specialist, (770) 887-2461 [email protected]

22 2010-11 State of Schools State of Schools page 23 7/6/10 5:33 PM Page 1

New resource allows remote work access

FCS has provided a little known resource to all students and staff for the past couple of years, and it has been steadily growing in popularity as word gets out. The Citrix Remote Access Gateway (http://www.- forsyth.k12.ga.us/citrix) is provided to serve as a secure method by which students and teachers can connect to the school district resources while not at school. Citrix allows for access to documents produced while at school in the Home folder (H Drive). Teachers and students can also use school district software and Web resources that wouldn’t be available on a home computer. Students can access and work on activities and assignments from home that would normally only be available in class. The Citrix remote access combined with ANGEL Learning can be especially useful for students who are homebound due to illness. Some examples of software and Web resources not available on home computers include ActivInspire, Brainpop, Geometer’s Sketchpad, Pixie, Discovery Education Videos and Macromedia Studio. Students connected via Citrix will be able to take advantage of the student friendly NetTrekker search engine along with fil- tered Internet access. All staff and students have the ability to access the Citrix Remote Access Gateway from home or any Internet connection by going to http://www.- forsyth.k12.ga.us/citrix. Users will have to allow the install of the Citrix client and allow for browser pop-ups from that page. Students and staff will log on using the same username and password which they use to access any of the district computers while at school.

2010-11 State of Schools 23 State of Schools page 24 7/6/10 5:34 PM Page 2 How we communicate FCS employs a variety of electronic tools in communicating with stakeholders. Subscribe to the following to stay up-to-date:

Web site: www.forsyth.k12.ga.us Features daily news (RSS feed); school Web sites; general information, such as attendance lines, menus, bus stops and strategic plan; blogs and sur- veys; podcasts and videos, such as the NEW Parent Toolbox series; and eBoard for district strategic plan information, BOE policies and meeting agendas.

ParentPortal: www.forsyth.k12.ga.us Tool for parents and students to access instant, online, timely and secure student information such as class schedule, assignments, attendance, discipline, report cards and transcripts. Subscribers also receive automated phone and e-mail messages.

E-Newsletters: www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/enewsletters The Communicator: Monthly overview of FCS news Board Brief: Monthly review of BOE meetings Engage Me: Monthly newsletter for teachers

ANGEL Learning: https://forsyth.angellearning.com FCS' online classroom

R4 Data Dashboard: AfterAfter SchoolSchool http://r4dashboard.forsyth.k12.ga.us First and only tool of its kind in Georgia school systems, providing “real-time” data to viewers, such as test scores.

Social Media: Twitter: http://twitter.com/FCSchoolsGA Linkedin group: Forsyth County Schools, GA Facebook group: www.facebook.com/FCSchools

24 2010-11 State of Schools State of Schools page 25 7/6/10 5:35 PM Page 1 Attendance counts in more ways than one One vital aspect of academic instruction, they are able to achievement is student atten- master academic material and dance.When students are life skill knowledge that will absent they miss the student enable them to achieve suc- engagement that occurs in a cess in higher education and classroom.They miss opportu- the future world of work. nities to participate in activi- Regular attendance has been ties and to ask questions. linked to higher achievement, Prompt daily attendance cor- stronger bonds to the school relates directly with success in and community, lower rates of school! When students are present for critical academic See ATTENDANCE, Page 26

2010-11 State of Schools 25 State of Schools page 26 7/6/10 5:35 PM Page 2

ATTENDANCE, from Page 25 delinquent and high risk behavior and increased participation in higher education. Success in school requires regular punctual attendance. Families, schools and communities must work together to support school attendance. Nothing can lead to more positive results than working collaboratively to improve academic achievement. Parents who make regular school attendance a priority also are helping their children learn to accept responsibility. Attendance patterns are formed early in life and have an impact throughout a child’s academic career and in the work force.Together, we can build a community that supports, prepares and inspires all students to contribute and excel. Under No Child Left Behind (NCLB),Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) utilizes attendance as the second indicator to measure success in FCS. This means that each student’s absence, excused or unexcused, is counted against your school’s ability to succeed even when all other academic indicators are met. Conversely, each student with good attendance better supports the school in meeting this criterion, as well as academic criteria, for success.Thus, each and every student is important and all students are key players in helping themselves and their schools thrive. For more information go to http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/attendance.

26 2010-11 State of Schools State of Schools page 27 7/6/10 5:37 PM Page 1

2010-11 State of Schools 27 State of Schools page 28 7/6/10 5:38 PM Page 1

Technology New system will streamlines preserve privacy cafeterias This year Forsyth County Schools is intro- ducing a new Personal Access Device (or PAD+) with biometric capabilities providing a new and faster option for students to pay for their school meals. The PAD+ was designed to maintain each student’s privacy and keep their identity com- pletely secure.The device does not take or store any fingerprints. Instead, it derives numerical templates from images of the finger.When a student places his or her finger on the touch- pad scanner, the scanner measures the contours See TECHNOLOGY,Page 30

www.leaderga.org Youth Safe Driving Program Classes Offered: Classroom Drivers Education Class LEADER has a Partnership with Forsyth County Schools. We provide the simulators used in classroom instruction Strike One Risk Reduction Class Class offered for young traffic offenders Driver Awareness Class LEADER offers pre-driving classes for 14 to 15 year olds to learn the basics of driving, and to embed positive habits at the earliest opportunity. Please consider enrollment in these classes carefully, and learn to “Drive Right for Life” Our Method To expose new drivers to safe driving skills and techniques without the risk of live road driving, a combination of classroom training and interactive simulation is used to instill positive driving patterns in normal and emergency situations Contact us at: For more information please visit www.leaderga.org Or call us at 770.205.9011

LEADER is a non-profit organization working to save young lives.

28 2010-11 State of Schools State of Schools page 29 7/6/10 10:30 AM Page 1

2010-11 State of Schools 29 State of Schools page 30 7/6/10 5:45 PM Page 1

TECHNOLOGY,from Page 28 of their finger and creates a template based on this measurement.There is no way to gen- erate or retrieve a fingerprint from the template, and parents can be assured that their child’s information will not be used in any other capacity. Parents who do not wish to have their children participate may opt out of this program. These students can continue to use their PIN numbers as they move through the lunch line. This new technology will move the lunch line faster and give kids more time to enjoy their lunch.The PAD+ device also provides more security for students and parents by reducing the opportunity for identity theft. While it is relatively easy for a student to use another student’s ID card or PIN number, they will not be able to use someone else’s finger. This program is initially being introduced in both middle and high schools, but is likely to expand to elementary schools district-wide by the end of the school year.

30 2010-11 State of Schools State of Schools page 31 7/7/10 11:14 AM Page 1

Exceptional Child Book Fair a success

FCS and the community joined together in 2009-10 to highlight and provide support to Forsyth County’s students with disabilities by partnering with Barnes & Noble at the Avenue Forsyth to host its second annual Exceptional Child Book Fair. The charity book fair event raised funds to benefit all students with disabilities throughout FCS. The book fair kicked off with “A Taste of the Avenue” with school culinary arts demos, school presentations and performances and ended with “Spirit Night” with school mascots, cheer squads, drum line, bands, the Special Olympics Forsyth King and Queen and Special Olympic Forsyth teams. Students and teachers alike shared their talents featuring performances and presentations by choral/drama groups, art and school exhibits, cosmetology and face painting. Many authors, community groups and businesses joined in the effort, as well. One of the themed events, Hero Night, brought in “heroes” from all over the planet. During the week, schools participated in Spirit Week with contests and prizes. Many schools developed informative activities and entertaining and fun events to bring an understanding of the unique needs and abilities of exceptional students.

2010-11 State of Schools 31 State of Schools page 32 7/6/10 5:47 PM Page 2 Latest info on teen vaccines New shots may have been added to the immunization schedule since your teen started school. A good time to check your child’s immunization status is before the start of middle school and high school and before college. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) rec- ommend specific vaccines for teens (children between the ages of 11-19) to protect them against infections that can cause severe illness or even death. One important vaccine for teens prevents meningococcal disease. What is meningococcal disease?

Meningococcal disease is caused by Neisseria meningi- tidis bacteria. The two most common forms of meningococcal disease are meningitis (a bacterial infection of the See VACCINES, Page 34

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VACCINES, from Page 32 Did you know? fluid and covering of the spinal cord and brain) and sepsis (an infection of the ¥ Rates for meningococcal disease rise blood stream). Meningitis has other causes during adolescence and peak between the as well, the most common being viral ages of 15 to 24. infection. ¥ College freshmen who live in dorms are five times more likely to be infected with meningococcal disease, compared to How are meningococcal others the same age. bacteria spread? ¥ Of those who contract meningococcal disease, 10 percent to 15 percent die and The bacteria are transmitted during 11 percent to 19 percent suffer mental dis- close person-to-person contact (such as abilities, hearing loss, seizures/strokes or kissing, sharing eating utensils or drinks, the loss of arms or legs. etc.) by secretions from the nose and ¥ All Georgia colleges require students throat. They are not spread by casual con- All persons should avoid smoking or living in campus housing to document tact or by simply breathing the air near an exposure to secondhand smoke as both are they have been vaccinated or that they infected person. The bacteria can live out- risk factors for meningococcal disease. have reviewed information about side the body for only a few minutes; so if Contact a healthcare provider immediately meningococcal disease. the germs contaminate a desk or book, if you are in close contact with someone they soon die. who is known or suspected to have For more information meningococcal infection. in Georgia contact: How can I avoid getting meningococcal disease? Who should be vaccinated Division of Public Health against meningococcal 2 Peachtree St. You can protect yourself by maintain- disease? Atlanta, GA 30303 ing good health and hygiene. As a general (404) 657-2700 recommendation, you should wash your All persons aged 11-18 years should be hands frequently. Avoid sharing materials vaccinated with one dose of meningococ- www.DCHGeorgia.GOV that make mouth contact, such as eating cal conjugate vaccine (MCV) at the earli- www.choa.org/vaccines utensils, bottles, cigarettes or lip balm. est opportunity. www.immunize.org/catg.d/p4210.pdf

BackBack YardYard BurgersBurgers areare proudproud sponsorssponsors ofof ForsythForsyth CountyCounty Schools.Schools. CallCall usus for:for: Fundraisers,Fundraisers, Spirit Spirit Nights,Nights, Sports Sports TeamTeam FoodFood Programs,Programs, Concession Concession Management,Management, GraduationGraduation Events,Events, Catering Catering andand OnOn SiteSite Cooking.Cooking.

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34 2010-11 State of Schools State of Schools page 35 7/7/10 9:50 AM Page 1

DIAGNOSIS & TREATMENT OF SKIN CANCER TREATMENT OF SKIN,HAIR LOSS,NAIL DISEASES,ACNE,WARTS,MOLES,PSORIASIS,ECZEMA,ETC. VBEAM VASCULAR LASER FOR ROSACEA AND TREATMENT OF LEG & FACIAL VEINS ¥ LASER HAIR REMOVAL (ALL SKIN TYPES) SCHLEROTHERAPY FOR FINE LEG VEINS ¥ BOTOX, LATISSE, New way RESTYLANE, RADIESSE, JUVEDERM & CHEMICAL PEELS Gabrielle M. Sabini, M.D. to learn Charles J. Douchy, M.D. Forsyth County Schools’ iAchieve Virtual Matthew J. Reschly, M.D. Academy (www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/iachieve) is opening August 2010 for students grades 6-12. A. Damian Dhar, M.D. iAchieve offers students the opportunity to Anjana M. Patel, PA-C engage in a digital learning environment to achieve their individual potential through inno- Sara A. Barr, PA-C vative, flexible, socially connected and student- Tracy Friedman, PA-C focused education. Courses offered at iAchieve satisfy requirements to earn a Melinda MacKenzie, PA-C Georgia High School diploma. iAchieve students may be residents of Forsyth County entering the school system for the first time from home school or private school. Students may also be current FCS stu- 6610 McGinnis Ferry Rd. ¥ Suite 200 dents transferring from an existing school. Johns Creek, GA 30097-3524 Non-resident students may apply and will be (Behind Panera Bread and Community Bank) assessed tuition (note below). 3850 Pleasant Hill Rd. iAchieve will benefit: Duluth, GA 30096 • Students looking for a high-quality, tech- (Between Peachtree Industrial & Buford Hwy.) nology-based alternative to their current 3331 Hamilton Mill Rd. ¥ Suite 1106 learning environment Buford, GA 30519 See ACADEMY,Page 36 (Across from the Kroger Shopping Center)

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ACADEMY,from Page 35 Transforming Schools, Brick by Brick • Students seeking flexibility in their school Thanks to Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax schedule (SPLOST) and bond referendums approved by • Previously home-schooled or private Forsyth County voters, FCS is providing students school students seeking an academically rigor- with safe, attractive and inspiring learning environ- ous, accredited, middle and high-school educa- ments throughout the district.The school district tion maintains 5,024,680 square feet for 34 buildings and Teachers at iAchieve are highly-qualified, five support buildings. certified teachers in Georgia and FCS employ- ees. All are well-trained in GPS and many A Decade of Construction 17 new schools (8 ES, 6 MS and 2 HS) have extensive backgrounds in teaching in a 182 new classroom additions to existing schools digital learning environment. The student-to- teacher ratio may be lower, with a maximum of Land Purchased/Under Contract for Future Schools 30:1 for each section. Kelly Mill ES (projected 2013) East Forsyth HS (projected 2014) More information: Pooles Mill MS (projected 2015) Redding ES (TBD) Two future ES (projected 2014 and TBD) Please call (678) 947-0863, Ext. 0 to schedule a One future MS (projected 2014) registration appointment. Student Enrollment May 2010 34,397 iAchieve Phone: (678) 965-4970 Proj. 2010-11 35,893 Registration Ext.: 205507 Proj. 2011-12 37,465 Tech Support Ext.: 205508 Proj. 2012-13 38,960 Administration Ext.: 205509

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photos, videos and polls can be spread widely through Common instant messaging (IM) or phone texting, and by posts on social networking sites. It can happen anytime — at school or home — and can involve large groups of kids. The combination of the boldness created by being anonymous and the desire to be seen as “cool” can sense on cause a kid, who normally wouldn’t say anything mean face-to-face, to show off online for other kids. cyberbullying Why it matters Nothing crushes kids’ self-confidence faster than humiliation. And just imagine a public humiliation sent From www.commonsensemedia.org instantly to everyone they know. Sadly, hurtful information posted on the Internet is extremely difficult to pre- vent or remove, and millions of people can see it. Most Hurting someone with a simple click. A second at the cyberbullying happens when adults aren’t around, so keypad can cause long-lasting damage. As more and parents and teachers often see only the depression or more kids discover new ways to share information, they anxiety that results from being hurt or bullied. This have unfortunately found more and more ways to harm emotional damage can last a lifetime. each other. Just as nasty comments in a playground can cause a lot of pain, cyberbullying can really hurt our Some facts kids. ¥ 43 percent of kids age 13-17 have been cyberbullied What is cyberbullying? ¥ Most victims know the person bothering them ¥ 53 percent of teens admit sending a hurtful message It happens when kids use their phones or the Internet ¥ Only 10 percent of bullying victims tell their parents to create and send harassing or humiliating messages ¥ The No. 1 form? Making private information public and images. Nasty comments, lies and embarrassing ¥ Several states have made cyberbullying a crime

2010-11 State of Schools 37 State of Schools page 38 7/6/10 5:52 PM Page 2 Inclement weather information Who is watching the County children is the primary above factors and recommenda- What if school closes weather? concern. Even if it looks clear tions from the district staff. during the day? on your street, dangerous con- The superintendent and ditions may exist in some other When is the decision If school closes during the administrative staff carefully part of the district. In deciding made? school day all students will be monitor weather conditions dur- whether the children will be sent home in the usual manner ing seasons of inclement weather. safe, the following factors are The superintendent tries to (bus, daycare van, etc.) unless considered: make the decision by 5:30 a.m. other directions are on file Where do they get their Information on road condi- so that the broadcast media with the teacher. information? tions from the director of trans- can be notified. It is impossible for the portation and law enforcement school staff to accept phoned The school district staff listens agencies, including whether How is the public directions during emergency to weather forecasts. The director roads are iced or icing; notified? closures. Parents should plan of transportation monitors and Time snow or ice starts and in advance for early school tests road conditions on bus the amount; FCS closings will be closings. routes and our maintenance Weather predictions; announced on: Make sure that the child departments check school power Building conditions (e.g., ¥ www.forsyth.k12.ga.us knows where to go, how to conditions. Local and state law whether we have power and ¥ The main voicemail get there and what to do upon enforcement agencies and neigh- heat); greeting at (770) 887-2461 arrival. The public will be boring school systems are con- Parking lot and sidewalk ¥ www.facebook.com/- notified by the same methods sulted about road conditions. conditions; and FCSchools listed above. Careful consideration is given to Temperature and wind-chill ¥ http://twitter.com/- the most dangerous bus routes in factor. FCSchoolsGA What if school opening the district. ¥ E-mail blast to FCS elec- is delayed? Who makes the tronic newsletter subscribers What factors are consid- decision? (ParentPortal subscribers are If school opening is ered when making the pre-registered on this distribu- delayed, please follow the decision to close schools? The superintendent of schools tion list), and same routine/schedule as nor- is responsible for making the ¥ Local and metro broadcast mal, but push back the start The safety of all Forsyth final decision, based on the media outlets time by two hours.

38 2010-11 State of Schools State of Schools page 39 7/6/10 5:53 PM Page 1

District Cabinet directory

L.C. (Buster) Evans, Superintendent Bailey Mitchell, Chief Technology and Garry Puetz, Director of [email protected] Information Officer Transportation [email protected] [email protected] Joey Pirkle, Associate Superintendent of Educational Leadership Robert Sewell, Chief Facilities and Bruce Wagar, Director of Safety and [email protected] Operations Officer Management [email protected] [email protected] Lissa Pijanowski, Associate Superintendent for Academics and Jennifer Caracciolo, Director of Susan Woods, Director of Food and Accountability Public Information and Nutrition Services [email protected] Communications [email protected] [email protected] Dan Jones, Chief Financial Officer Cindy Styles-Salloum, Director of [email protected] Debbie Rondem, Director of Secondary Education Student Support Services [email protected] [email protected] Candy Norton, Chief Human Valery Hall, Assistant to Resources Officer Sarah Taylor, Director of Special Superintendent and Board [email protected] Education [email protected] [email protected] Directory line: (770) 887-2461

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List of FCS principals

Sherri Davis, Principal Eric Ashton, Principal Eileen Nix, Principal Big Creek Elementary Daves Creek Elementary Sawnee Elementary [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Kathie Braswell, Principal Amy Davis, Principal Donna Morris, Principal Brookwood Elementary Haw Creek Elementary Settles Bridge Elementary [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

David Culpepper, Principal Alyssa Degliumberto, Principal Amy Bartlett, Principal Chattahoochee Elementary Johns Creek Elementary Sharon Elemenatry [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Rebecca Johnson, Principal Tracey Smith, Principal Sharon Ericson, Principal Chestatee Elementary Mashburn Elementary Shiloh Point Elementary [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Debbie Smith, Principal Charlley Stalder, Principal Kristan Morse, Principal Coal Mountain Elementary Matt Elementary Silver City Elementary [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Pamela Pajerski, Principal Todd Smith, Principal Ron McAllister, Principal Cumming Elementary Midway Elementary Vickery Creek Elementary [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

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List of FCS principals

Lynne Castleberry, Principal Terri North, Principal Beth Hebert, Principal Whitlow Elementary Piney Grove Middle North Forsyth High [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Debbie Sarver, Principal Kathy Carpenter, Principal Jason Branch, Principal Lakeside Middle Riverwatch Middle South Forsyth High [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Connie Stovall, Principal Sandy Tinsley, Principal Richard Gill, Principal Liberty Middle South Forsyth Middle West Forsyth High [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Connie McCrary, Principal Kathy Rohacek, Principal Brad Smith, Principal Little Mill Middle Vickery Creek Middle Academies of Creative Education (ACE) [email protected] [email protected] Includes Forsyth Academy (non-traditional charter high school), Jeff Hunt, Principal Rudy Hampton, Principal Gateway Academy (alternative North Forsyth Middle Forsyth Central High program), iAchieve Virtual Academy [email protected] [email protected] (6-12 online school) and the Academy at Night Steve Miller, Principal Gary Davison, Principal [email protected] Otwell Middle Lambert High [email protected] [email protected]

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A look at the school year

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Experience the Difference • Family owned and operated since 1999 • Ratios well below state maximums in all classrooms • Average length of employment for lead teachers, 6 years • Separate infant room for crawlers After-School Program • Two student computer labs with age We provide transportation from appropriate learning software Vickery Creek ES, and Whitlow ES, and students from Midway are • Three playgrounds for toddlers, dropped off by the Forsyth County preschool, and after-school children, 1 school bus. If there is interest plus a water play park and /2 acre from other elementary schools, field for games and PE. we will certainly look into • Curriculum with strong academic serving those schools. focus (High Reach and Saxon) • Spanish, Music, PE, Piano, • Field Trips on school holidays Gymnastics, Tap/Ballet, Art • Homework help • Weekly PE with physical trainer

Oak Grove Academy is open Mon.-Fri., 6:30am-6:30pm. We are also available on weekends for tours by appointment. Please call or stop by to “Experience the Difference.”

3460 Francis Rd, Alpharetta GA 30004 • 770-772-7474 • www.oakgrovepreschool.com

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