State of Schools 2011-2012

State of Schools 2011-12 3

Continuing to raise the barWelcome back! I am thrilled to embark on my fourth year as

superintendent of Forsyth County Schools and honored to have the privilege to lead our outstanding students, staff and schools.

I hope you have the opportunity to visit one of our 35 schools, where you will find some of the best teachers in the nation and a rigorous curriculum created specifically for your child.

We know that more is constantly being demanded of our students academically. With the ever-changing landscape of the world and workforce, not only must today’s graduates be proficient in core academic subjects, they need to be criti-cal thinkers, problem solvers and effective communicators. They need global awareness, economic, financial and civic lit-eracy. No matter what the future holds for each student, these 21st century skills will be demanded of them.

We are integrating 21st century learning skills with rigorous and relevant academic instruction which are in line with the district’s strategic plan. One of our top priorities is to continue to raise the bar so students gain the skills they will need to compete in an economy that runs on information and demands vision and innovation. Keeping pace with technology is a focus for our staff.

Although the district is again faced with reduced local and state funding that has led to unprecedented budget challenges, through shared commitment, thoughtful planning and a strong accountability system, we will continue to offer the extraordi-nary education programs that this community has come to know.

I am looking forward to working with our entire Forsyth County Schools community as we move ahead to meet the needs of every student. I wish you all the best for the 2011-12 school year!

L.C. (Buster) Evans, Superintendent

Forsyth County Schools

Covering the school system an important job

The Forsyth County News is excited to be a partner with the school system to provide you the 2011-12 State of the Schools, which features a wealth of valuable informa-tion in one conve-nient 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 newspapers are also compli-mented with breaking news and video at www.forsythnews.com and www.face-book.com/forsythcountynews.

We are also pleased to be able to bring you valuable advertisements from local businesses. In Forsyth County, we believe a strong school-community partnership is essential for the success of both the school system and our community. As such, I encourage you to take advantage of the offers from local businesses found within these pages.

John Hall, Publisher

Forsyth County News

Enjoy the State of Schools


About this publication

The 2011-12 State of the Schools is produced by Forsyth County Schools Public Information and Communication Department. For information, contact [email protected].

Copyright 2011, Forsyth County Schools

Stay connected

Mail: 1120 Dahlonega Highway, Cumming, Georgia 30040Telephone: (770) 887-2461 Web site: www.forsyth.k12.ga.us

Sign up to receive electronic newsletters from FCS by contacting [email protected]

Follow us:www.facebook.com/FCSchoolshttp://twitter.com/FCSchoolsGA

Photopraphy

Graduate photo provided by Lily McGregor Photography, www.lilymcgregorphotog-raphy.com. Other photos provided by In&Out Photo, www.inandoutphoto.com, Jinger Davison, and the Forsyth County News.

About Forsyth County Schools

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

BBEHIND THE SCENES


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vision, strategies, priorities, leadership, and programs and resources. The exter-nal review team will visit the district, interview students, staff, parents, and community members to validate the report. The team will leave the district with a report that includes commenda-tions as well as recommendations for improvement for the district. The process of earning and maintaining accreditation provides the district with clear and com-pelling direction for implementing changes that foster excellence in educa-tion.

For more information, visit www.for-syth.k12.ga.us/sacs.

‘The process of earning and maintaining accreditation provides the district with clear and compelling direction for implementing changes that foster excellence in education.‘

BBEHIND THE SCENES

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State of Schools 2011-1210

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.

Vision:

Quality learning and superior performance for all!

Mission:

The mission of Forsyth County Schools is to prepare and inspire all students to contribute and excel.

Forsyth County Schools Strategic

After completing two very successful Strategic Plans, FCS spent a year constructing a new plan to guide the system from 2009 to 2012. Based on feedback from thousands of students, parents, staff and community members, the new Strategic Plan, “Dream it.

BBEHIND THE SCENES


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 annual progress on the Strategic Plan, such as objectives, action plans and evidence, visit www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/strategicplan. The annual Strategic Plan update will be presented to stakeholders August through November. FCS is excited to work with students, staff, parents and community members to develop the 2013-15 Strategic Plan, March to June 2012.

Plan: ‘Dream it. Plan it. Do it!’Plan it. Do it!” is moving FCS from being among the best to being the BEST! The goals, objectives and met-rics for the new plan provide the foundation to which all activities and resources will be aligned to achieve our system’s vision.

BBEHIND THE SCENES


DTHE DIRECTOR’S CHAIR

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 sys-tem policies, which are executed under the direction of the school superinten-dent.

Meetings of the board are held month-ly, with agendas and meeting minutes available for review at www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/boe. Video broadcasts of the meet-ings are available at www.forsyth.k12.ga.us the Friday after each meeting and also on TV Forsyth, Comcast Channel 23. 2011 monthly meetings are held at 6 p.m. on the following Thursdays: Aug. 18, Sept. 15, Oct. 20, Nov. 17 and Dec. 15. Meetings are open to the public and held at 1120 Dahlonega Highway in Cumming.

The Board of Education

Tom Cleveland, District 3

[email protected]

Darla Light, District 4

[email protected]

Ann Crow, District 1

[email protected]

CHAIRMAN VICE CHAIRMAN

Kristin Morrissey, District 2

[email protected]

Nancy Roche, District 5

[email protected]

Connect with the board

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

Highlights of Board of Education work sessions and regular meetings are communicated to the public in Board Briefs, which is sent by e-mail the Friday after each regular meeting. To subscribe to Board Briefs, send an e-mail to [email protected].


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FCS employs a variety of electronic tools in communicating with stakeholders. Please subscribe to the following to stay up to date!

Web site: www.forsyth.k12.ga.us• Features daily news (RSS feed); redesigned school Web

sites; general information, such as attendance lines, menus, bus stops and strategic plan; blogs and surveys; podcasts and a newly expanded video section, and eBoard for district strategic plan information, BOE policies and meeting agendas. Local School Council (LSC) minutes are also available on eBoard.

ParentPortal: www.forsyth.k12.ga.us• Tool for parents and students to access instant, online, time-

ly 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

E-mail [email protected] to subscribe!• The Communicator: monthly overview of FCS news• Board Brief: monthly review of BOE meeting

R4 Data Dashboard: http://r4dashboard. forsyth.k12.ga.us/

• First and only accountability tool of its kind in Georgia school systems, providing “real-time” data to viewers, such as test scores and demographics, to improve transparency.

Social media:Schools are also adding Facebook and Twitter accounts to

increase their communication — search for your school today!• Facebook: www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/FCSchoolsGA• Twitter: http://twitter.com/FCSchoolsGA• Linkedin group: Forsyth County Schools, GA

Ways to stay connected



The superintendent’s Cabinet is responsible for assist-ing the superintendent in addressing the school board’s major system priorities. The Cabinet provides input to the superintendent on major operational, programmatic and fiscal issues that affect the school system.

Members of the Cabinet include:

The Superintendent’s Cabinet

L.C. (Buster) [email protected]

Susan [email protected] of Student Support Services

Jennifer [email protected] of Public Information and Communications

Valery L. [email protected] to the Superintendent and Board of Education

Dan [email protected] Financial Officer

Bill [email protected] of Facilities

Bailey [email protected] Technology and Information Officer

Candace [email protected] Human Resources Officer

Lissa [email protected] Superintendent for Academics and Accountability

Continued on 16


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SSTARS OF THE SHOW

Big Creek Elementary Sherri [email protected]

Brookwood Elementary Kathie Braswell [email protected]

Chattahoochee Elementary David Culpepper [email protected]

Chestatee Elementary Polly Tennies [email protected]

Coal Mountain Elementary Debbie Smith [email protected]

Cumming Elementary Pamela Pajerski [email protected]

Daves Creek Elementary Eric Ashton [email protected]

Haw Creek Elementary Amy Davis [email protected]

Johns Creek Elementary Alyssa [email protected]

Mashburn Elementary Tracey Smith [email protected]

Matt Elementary Charlley Stalder [email protected]

Midway Elementary Todd Smith [email protected]

Though it takes many leaders within Forsyth County Schools to keep it running smoothly, principals put their hearts and souls into making each school the best it can be.The Principals


Sawnee Elementary Eileen Nix [email protected]

Settles Bridge Elementary Donna Morris [email protected]

Sharon ElementaryAmy Bartlett [email protected]

Shiloh Point ElementaryRebecca Johnson [email protected]

Silver City ElementaryKristan Morse [email protected]

Vickery Creek Elementary Ron McAllister [email protected]

Whitlow ElementaryLynne Castleberry [email protected]

Lakeside Middle Debbie Sarver [email protected]

Liberty Middle Connie [email protected]

Little Mill MiddleConnie McCrary [email protected]

North Forsyth Middle Jeff Hunt [email protected]

Otwell Middle Steve Miller [email protected]

Piney Grove MiddleTerri North [email protected]

Riverwatch Middle Kathy Carpenter [email protected]

The Principals

Continued on 23

SSTARS OF THE SHOW

All donations to our either of our thrift stores benefit the women and children of Abba House

Silver City 6800 Dahlonega Hwy. orHammonds Crossing 3427 Keith Bridge Rd.

Texas Instruments is a proud supporter of Forsyth County Schools.


South Forsyth Middle Sandy Tinsley [email protected]

Vickery Creek Middle Kathy Rohacek [email protected]

Forsyth Central High Includes the STEM AcademyRudy Hampton [email protected]

Lambert High Gary Davison [email protected]

North Forsyth High Beth Hebert [email protected]

South Forsyth High Jason [email protected]

West Forsyth High Richard Gill [email protected]

Academies of Creative Education (A.C.E.)Includes Forsyth Academy (non-tradi-tional charter high school), Academy@Night, iAchieve Virtual Academy (6-12 online school) and Gateway Academy (6-12 alternative program).Brad [email protected]

The Principals

SSTARS OF THE SHOW


Jeanette AllenSawnee ES

Ann AndersonVickery Creek ES

Candace BakerNorth Forsyth MS

Roy BarnettChattahoochee ES

Melinda BarrettWhitlow ES

Sandy BeckShiloh Point ES

Linda BohrerChattahoochee ES

Susan BowenForsyth Central HS

Tyna BracknellVickery Creek ES

Dorothy BreezeChattahoochee ES

Jerry BrysonLakeside MS

Carolyn CaldwellDaves Creek ES

Jerry CauleyForsyth Central HS

Eugene Chambers Coal Mountain ES

Phyllis ChandlerMidway ES

Jolynn CichockiSouth Forsyth HS

Nancy ClackumMashburn ES

Janice CollettVickery Creek ES

Jan ComptonGateway Academy

Anne ConnorCoal Mountain ES

Johanne DaighSawnee ES

Gail DaySouth Forsyth MS

Martha DixonTransportation

Van EllisonTransportation

Sharon EricsonShiloh PointES

Betty FernandezCentral Office

Laurie GeonisNorth Forsyth HS

Brenda GossettChestatee ES

Linda GravittTransportation

Jane GrebeSawnee ES

Beverly GreenBig Creek ES

Lewis GroganOtwell MS

Becky HammLiberty MS

Gary HeadrickOtwell MS

Becky HitchLakeside MS

Susan HoffmanChestatee ES

Edith HolbrookCoal Mountain ES

Elizabeth HolcombSouth Forsyth HS

Phyllis HoltChattahoochee ES

Joan HubbardCentral Office

Paula JacksonSouth Forsyth MS

Judith JaeckRiverwatch MS

Julia JohnsonChestatee ES

Edna JonesForsyth Central HS

Paula KingRiverwatch MS

Irv LaFleurWhitlow ES

Alola LarsonNorth Forsyth HS

Shad MasonChestatee ES

Dianne MeyerMidway ES

Barbara MooreTransportation

Karen MooreCentral Office

Sheryl MorrissWhitlow ES

Susan MullinaxMashburn ES

Judy NewcomerChestatee ES

Robert NewtonVickery Creek MS

Byron OrrWest Forsyth HS

Geraldine PanterTransportation

Marie PattySouth Forsyth HS

Congratulations to Forsyth County Schools’ 81 retirees in the 2010-11 school year, our largest group to date! Thank you for your dedication and service to the students of Forsyth County Schools!

Our retirees

SSTARS OF THE SHOW


Annie PearsonDaves Creek ES

Patricia PearsonMatt ES

Deborah RameyDaves Creek ES

Karen RhodesChestatee ES

Cheryl RobertsChestatee ES

Debbie RondemCentral Office

Miriam SabourinCentral Office

Meredith SamsSettles Bridge ES

Sybil SavageLiberty MS

Dottie SchmickCentral Office

Robert SewellCentral Office

Beatriz SkeensRiverwatch MS

Linda SpudicDaves Creek ES

Dennis StromieWest Forsyth HS

Patricia TatumChestatee ES

Jeffery TrittForsyth Central HS

Dorothy VaranoTransportation

Elayne WarmanDaves Creek ES

Ken WeddermannTransportation

Amanda WilsonChattahoochee ES

Ginger WilsonNorth Forsyth MS

Chrisilin WoodChattahoochee ES

Shirley WoodTransportation

SSTARS OF THE SHOW


MMAKING MOVIE MAGIC

While assessments are not the only measure of quali-ty in education, Forsyth County Schools recognizes the importance of reporting results to our stakeholders.

Within Georgia there are two state assessments that evaluate student performance across academic content areas. For grades 3-8 it is the Criterion Referenced Competency Test (CRCT) which assesses Reading, English Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies. High school students are administered a com-prehensive assessment in grade 11, the Georgia High School Graduation Test (GHSGT), in the areas of English, Math, Science, and Social Studies.

These two assessments are most recognized in the state as measures of educational effectiveness and also make up the academic performance indicators for mak-ing Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) under No Child Left Behind (NCLB) criteria.

FCS teachers and students should be very proud with the scores earned in 2011. These scores consistently top state averages and have increased steadily over the last several years. District leadership has noted the greatest growth in the area of students exceeding the standard, rather than simply meeting the standard.

To achieve and exceed on the CRCT or in the Advanced or Honors range on the GHSGT, students must score in an elite category of students and in the highest range of the scale scores for each assessment.

Forsyth educators have worked diligently to offer a rigorous curriculum and classroom assessments that not only engage students, but that push students to even higher levels of achievement. There is always room to grow and FCS views these standardized assessments as the floor, not the ceiling. For district and school assessment results visit the R4 Data Dashboard at http:\\r4dashboard.forsyth.k12.ga.us.

Assessing the success of our students

Over the past several years, Forsyth County Schools has worked to improve grading and reporting practices across the district. The work has resulted in changes to elementary, middle and now high school practices.

Grade integrity is reached when the assessments and assignments are of the highest quality and when all other fac-tors, such as work habits and behavior, are not included. FCS has worked dili-gently to foster shared understanding of high quality practices that lead to com-municating to students and parents grades/marks that represent academic achievement only.

In elementary school, kindergarten through third-grade students are assessed using a standards-based report card. Quarterly performance expectations are sent home with each student, and parents are provided detailed information of their child’s performance in relationship to the standards four times a year.

In grades four and five, the Grade Plus report card provides students with a numeric average (summative) and a breakdown of performance against stan-dards in reading, English language arts, and mathematics (formative).

Middle schools offer students in grades sixth through eighth the Inform ME report card which is based on 80 percent summative grades and 20 percent forma-tive grades.

Additionally, middle school leaders and teachers pioneered the Work Habits cate-gories and began reporting them sepa-rately for each child and each course dur-ing the 2010 -11 school year. The Work Habits consist of assignment completion, participation, responsibility, and interper-

sonal skills. To meet standard in each of these areas a student would earn a 2 on a 3-point scale, which equates to “success-ful.” The reporting of Work Habits at the middle school level is now being expand-ed to upper elementary grades four and five and to high schools in grades nine through 12 beginning 2011-12.

High schools students will notice changes to grading and reporting in

grades nine through 12 this year with grading weights moving to 75 percent summative and 25 percent formative.

Students will also receive Work Habits scores for all four categories for each class beginning this year. If a student is enrolled in a course requiring an end-of-course-test, that test will count for 20 percent of a student’s grade rather than 15 percent in years past.


MMAKING MOVIE MAGIC

Improving grading and

‘FCS has worked diligently to foster shared understanding of high quality practices that lead to communicating to students and parents grades/marks that represent academic achievement only.’


reportingTerms to KnowSummative Grades are assignments/assess-ments which may integrate multiple stan-dards such as unit tests, projects, essays, research papers, and presentations. They determine student mastery of standards after the learning activity is completed and count as 75 percent of each semester average.

Formative Grades are assignments such as homework, class work, quizzes, drafts or por-tions of essays, projects, research papers, and presentations. They provide practice while learning. These assignments, observa-tions, and conversations are used to inform both the teacher and student about the learn-ing process and lead to potential success on summative assessments. They count as 25 percent of each semester average.

Work Habits are behaviors that have the potential to increase academic achievement, promote lifelong learning, and foster person-al accountability.

The EOCT change was based on a Georgia Board of Education rule change and more information about secondary assessments can be accessed through the Secondary Assessment Transition article in this issue of State of the Schools.

For more information, such as state stan-dards, rubrics and to view sample report cards, visit www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/grade.


MMAKING MOVIE MAGIC

Though many school districts in Georgia are facing a downturn in student enrollment due to challenging economic conditions, Forsyth County Schools continues to annu-ally add new students.

As the ninth-largest of 180 school dis-tricts in the state, FCS is projected to grow to 37,365 students in 35 schools during the 2011-12 school year.

Kelly Mill Elementary School is sched-uled to open in August 2012. To populate this new school, FCS will be redistricting during the fall of 2011. Additionally, during this time period the district will be review-

ing the overcrowding at the high school level, particularly North Forsyth High School.

Specifics concerning the redistricting process will be more definite after school begins, starting in early September when drafts of the 2012-13 attendance lines will be created. FCS will have opportunities for local school councils, staff, students and parents to provide feedback as the district works to have a final draft approved before Thanksgiving. Once details become more specific they will be posted at www.forsyth.k12.ga.us.

System keeps growing Enrollment history in number of students

2010-11 35,920

2005-06 25,461

2000-01 17,126

1995-96 10,338


MMAKING MOVIE MAGIC

2010 -11 was a great success for the opening of Forsyth County Schools’ new online school, iAchieve Virtual Academy. More than 200 stu-dents in grades six through 12 were enrolled in iAchieve on either a part or full-time basis.

Successful iAchieve stu-dents are self-motivated, able to manage their time, advocate for themselves, are technolog-ically savvy and, often, in addition to their academics, excel in co-curricular avoca-tions.

Several of the iAchieve stu-dents are dedicated ballerinas

who are studying with the metro-area Royal Dance Academy and per-forming profes-sionally. Other iAchieve students are competitive athletes or musi-cians who travel out of the area to work with their coaches. Still other students and their fami-lies have opportunities to trav-el and live in places around the world. The flexibility of the iAchieve structure allows

them the freedom to complete their academic require-ments and man-age their other activities.

Both middle and high school iAchieve students complete their work virtually using current electronic tools

such as webinars and web-cams. iAchieve teachers assess the students’ work, pro-vide feedback, reteach and offer students opportunities to

demonstrate mastery of cur-riculum standards in a myriad of ways. Because students learn differently, iAchieve offers a variety of ways for students to be successful.

iAchieve Virtual Academy is a public school, fully-accredited under the auspices of Forsyth County Schools serving students in grades six through 12. Students from outside the district are also welcome; those students are required to pay tuition. For more information, visit www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/iachieve.

Online school marks successful first year

Forsyth County Schools’ Food and Nutrition Department is always look-ing for ways to better serve students, staff and parents. For the new school year the department will be sharing more information at www.facebook.com/FCSchools and adding blogs to its Web site.

Be sure to check out the A+ Breakfast Menus that were launched last year in all schools. Each morning students can start up their brain at school with a vari-ety of breakfast choices offered every day. Five-plus menu items are offered daily, so one is sure to find a favorite, lovingly prepared for students. And remember,

all students eligible for free or reduced priced lunch, also qualify for the same benefit at breakfast.

Also, lunch menus have been enhanced for 2011-12 with new and improved products and ideas. Don’t just presume the chicken nugget of yesterday is the same today. Parents are invited to join their child for lunch and if you are not sure about a product offered, simply ask for a sample.

Menus, online pay-ments (www.mylunch-money.com), nutrition food ingredient informa-tion can be found at www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/food.

2011-12 meal prices

Lunch Breakfast

Paid Reduced Paid Reduced

Elementary $2.15 $.40

$2.25 $.40

$2.25 $.40

$3.25 $.40

$2.75 $1.75

$3.75

$3.25 $2.00

$4.25

$0.60

Middle

High

High School Grill

Employee

Employee HS Grill

Guest

Guest HS Grill

Extra Milk

$1.25 $.30

$1.45 $.30

$1.35 $.30

$3.25

Nutrition in school is key


MMAKING MOVIE MAGIC

FCS is in need of caring individuals to mentor elementary, middle and alternative school students.

Research has shown that volunteer mentors can play a powerful role in reducing drug abuse and youth violence, while greatly enhancing a young person’s prospects for leading a healthy and pro-ductive life.

A mentor is a volunteer that works to provide a young person with a special, encouraging rela-tionship that will hopefully become a foundation for success in a child’s life. They attempt to foster the child’s self-worth, motivation, coping skills and strength of character.

Put very simply, a mentor lends a child friendly

support and a listening ear. This can be done by just talking to the child, reading a book, playing a game or doing an art activity. This gives children a chance to experience some success in a caring environment removed from the regular classroom setting. Mentoring is a unique way that you can help children and give back to your community. One person can make a difference. Becoming a mentor involves committing to 30 minutes per week during school hours with your student for the school year.

Join us at our next training, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Aug. 30 at 1120 Dahlonega Hwy., and become a mentor. No registration is required; all paperwork is completed at the training.

For more information, contact [email protected].

Become a mentor


AACADEMY AWARDS

2010-11 was an outstand-ing year for Forsyth County Schools’ Partners in Education program, with more than 600 active part-ners working with 35 schools and various district departments. Partners in Education provide over $1.5 million in funding, thou-sands of volunteer hours and countless in-kind services to improve student achievement in all subject areas, enrich students’ life experiences, help grow career opportuni-ties, and boost educator sup-

port and morale. The district could not be successful with-out partners, especially dur-ing these challenging finan-cial times.

More than 350 community, business and school repre-sentatives attended the 2011 Celebration of Excellence, where the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce and Forsyth County Schools recognized the Partners in Education for their outstanding contribu-tions during the 2010-11 school year.

• Mentor of the Year: Gaynetta McClain, nominated by Little Mill MS• Friend of the Year: Lanierland Florist, nominated by Central Office Staff• Volunteer of the Year: Todd Jones and Steve Csuka, Dad’s Club Co-Chairs, nominated by Shiloh Point ES• Silver Program of the Year: LensCrafters at The Avenue, nominat-ed by Student Support Services Department; Costco, nominated by Otwell MS; Charlie Feehan of Shane’s Rib Shack, nominated by Brookwood ES and the Student Support Services Department• Gold Program of the Year: Automation Direct, nominated by West Forsyth HS• Don Hendricks Award: The Place of Forsyth County

Our Partners in Education a key part of success

The Celebration of Excellence was generously sponsored by:

• Title Sponsor: Northside Hospital-Forsyth• Luncheon Sponsor: Georgia Power• Awards Sponsor: Publix• Gold Sponsors: American Proteins and The Avenue Forsyth• Bronze Sponsor: RBM of Atlanta, North and BJ’s Membership Club

To become a Partner in Education, visit www.for-syth.k12.ga.us/toty.

Gabrielle M. Sabini, MD

Charles J. Douchy, MD

Matthew J. Reschly, MD

A. Damian Dhar, MD

Anjana M. Patel, PA-C

Sara A. Barr, PA-C

Tracy Friedman, PA-C

Melinda MacKenzie, PA-C

Stacey Olivier, PA-C

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CCOMING ATTRACTIONS

Forsyth County Schools is excited to announce that this year all middle schools will offer high school credit for every student. Students throughout the district will have the opportunity to carry as many as four units of credit with them as they enter their freshman year of high school in 2012 -13.

Middle schools have tradi-tionally offered Accelerated Math I and Spanish I as high school credit-bearing courses for select students. Based on the success of those courses, middle and high school princi-pals worked to develop a plan to increase course offerings at the middle school level with the goal of providing credit opportunities for every stu-dent.

As a result, the expanded course offerings for 2011-12 are: Accelerated Math 1, Physical Science, Spanish 1, Beginning Band, Beginning Chorus 1, Dramatic Arts, Visual Arts, Computing in the Modern World and Study Skills.

During the 2010-11 school year, about 2,797 units of cred-it were awarded throughout the district to eighth-grade stu-dents. For the upcoming 2011-12 year the number of credits to be awarded should exceed 6,200 units.

This increase in credit at the middle school level should benefit students in several

ways. Students will be able to enroll in additional advanced courses during their high school career. Students will have space in their high school schedule to take extra courses of interest. Also, students will be able to complete graduation course requirements early or be able to repeat courses, if necessary, to stay on track to graduate with their class.

Each course at the middle school will meet all require-ments as a high school course in order to award credit. The course descriptions will be the same as the high school. The courses will be required to use the same standards and all teachers will be highly quali-fied and hold appropriate high school certification. The end of course tests (EOCT), required for accelerated math I and physical science, will be administered in middle school and will count 20 percent of the final grade, just as required at the high school level.

Offering high school credit-bearing courses at the middle school level meets the district strategic goal of increasing stu-dent achievement while expanding educational oppor-tunities. This is an exciting step for Forsyth County stu-dents and one that should ben-efit students, parents and the district for years to come. For more information, visit FC school Web sites.

Opening in August, the STEM Academy focuses on Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, while combin-ing rigorous core classes with career-technical course offer-ings to give students real-world experience.

As shown by the U.S. Labor Department’s most recent 10-year employment projections, of the 20 fastest-growing occupations project-ed for 2014, 15 of them require significant mathemat-ics or science preparation to successfully compete for a job. By opening the STEM Academy, Forsyth County Schools plans to lead the way in preparing graduates to be competitive in this global market.

The district’s STEM Academy is housed at Forsyth Central High School. In preparation for the pro-gram, the campus underwent renovations during summer. The school now has state-of-the-art science labs where students will sit at high-top stations and have access to sinks, gas and power, allow-ing for a more hands-on experience. Additionally, the renovations that support engi-neering include a new robot-ics room and materials pro-

cessing shop that is designed to maximize access to equip-ment and provide plenty of space for construction.

The STEM Academy offers engineering and biotech-nology pro-grams and co-curricular events such as a science fair, Olympiad, robotics and rocketry. The

curriculum is inter-disciplin-ary and project-based. Teachers of the STEM Academy have worked to design meaningful, relevant and rigorous course offerings that will engage students in all aspects of academic and career-technical content.

The program also enhanc-es the partnership with the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce and local businesses through apprenticeship opportunities with local industries. In addition, partnerships with universities and technical colleges to offer joint enroll-ment opportunities and fos-ter mentorships leveraging industry and post-secondary researchers, practitioners, expert and leaders continue to expand.

The STEM Academy is open to students entering ninth grade from across the district. To learn more visit www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/stem.

High school credit in middle school

STEM Academy

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State of Schools 2011-2012

Documents

Transcript of State of Schools 2011-2012