Sophia Academy

God's Hands and Feet on the Earth

2012-03-01T13:06:00.006-05:00

Go you therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. -Matthew 28:19

On behalf of the entire school, I must say how proud we were in sending these amazing young men and women off to do God’s work, to be “God’s Hands”. In thinking of our students as they drove away, I couldn’t help but think of the words of a song: “Carry your candle, seek out the hopeless, hold out your candle for all to see. Take your candle and go light the world!”

As the sun comes up on Appalachia, our students have begun another busy day. Rain showers have not dampened their resolve to do His work. They have found their element in serving others. While they are there, the Construction group will work to build a foundation for steps to repair a local baseball field.
After visiting hospital patients and praying with them, the Community group members placed stickers on items to be “bought” with activity points earned by veteran patients at the Veterans Hospital. They will be sorting clothes at “God’s Closet” today.

The Children’s group are helping at the Library and PE classes at the local elementary school. All are pitching in, making meals, cleaning bathrooms, the kitchen and cafeteria. They are learning great skills and having so much fun.
“For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them…if service, in our serving.”- Romans 12:4-7

Many faith based schools and certainly no secular schools offer an opportunity to serve in the Mission field as a Middle School student. We are so proud to have this program for our students.

Aligning Curricular Content, Technology, Religious Education and Experiences to Prepare Our Students for the World They Live In

2012-02-21T13:21:00.006-05:00

Embracing change can be both difficult and exciting, but necessary. At Sophia Academy we recognize the changes that must be made to teaching and learning to prepare our students for the 21st century. We know that effective teachers must know how to teach the Googled learner who has grown up on virtual reality games and can find almost anything with the tap of a finger. At Sophia Academy we already have a transforming learning environment that employs digital devices and programs as well as having the capacity to go virtual. This can help us share more accurate data about student learning with our constituents and boost our accountability.
We understand that there's a student body that’s increasingly diverse (per AdvancED "by 2030 at least 40% of students will be second language learners"). We have to prepare kids to compete for jobs in a global marketplace where communication, collaboration, critical thinking and creative problem solving are the new “basics.” And we must connect teaching to the needs of community and build strong community partnerships.

Therefore, we are prepared to make the necessary changes in our classroom instruction and our Media Center will become the “hub” for resources. Existing media resources will be coordinated with Georgia Performance Standards that are selected for in depth instruction and richer exploration. We will also be adding some visual education to the school walls. The walls of our hallways and common spaces will become a visual influence to enhance learning, foster creativity and increase critical thinking.

Our faith based curriculum both non-denominational Christian Education and the Catholic religious education programs will be multi-sensory and pervasive throughout the curriculum and the school day.

One of our strategic plan goals is to form community partnerships. Sophia Academy will be seeking specific partners to provide experiential learning and resources to enhance and stimulate further global collaboration.

We are excited to implement these changes as they dovetail beautifully with our reaccreditation, our affiliation with Marist School and our continued commitment to educate tomorrow's leaders with academic achievement, moral excellence, cultural understanding and the desire to make a difference.

2012-02-16T13:14:00.002-05:00

Mrs. Buot was invited by the National Art Education Association to select one piece of outstanding student art to be shown on a very special slideshow for the National Convention. Mrs. Buot selected a stunning piece of art by eighth grader Jackson Carter. Please take a look at Jackson’s “Owl at Night” done in oil pastel and permanent marker.

Sophia Academy will be represented by Jackson Carter’s fantastic masterpiece. His artwork will be a part of a slideshow exclusively featuring outstanding student artwork. The slideshow will be displayed on a 30’ x 16’ LED screen located on New York City’s 6th Ave. between 29th & 30th Streets. This slideshow will run between 5 and 8 pm March 2 and 3, 2012.

Choosing the Right Kind of School for your Child

2012-02-16T10:26:00.011-05:00

Research shows us that each person has a unique learning style which uses different parts of the brain. By involving more of the brain during learning, we remember more of what we learn. Your unique learning style guides the way you learn, changes the way you internally represent experiences, the way you recall information and even the words you choose.

Parent, do you know what your learning style is? Do you know what your child's learning style is? Understanding the method that your child uses will direct you to the right kind of learning environment for him/her.

Traditional education has typically consisted of linguistic and logical teaching methods. Many institutions still rely heavily on book based teaching, drill-and-practice and standardized testing for reinforcement and review. We often label those who are able to embrace this teaching method as "bright" students. Those who have learning styles that do not respond to this method as well often find themselves in remedial classes with negative labels of distinction and sometimes lower quality teaching. Sophia Academy offers teaching in the auditory, verbal and kinesthetic modes as well as numerous experiences to solidify understanding.

What's the benefit of knowing your child's learning style? Providing teaching in a way that makes sense to students can improve their interactions with others, it can help when they are expressing themselves either verbally or in written form, it can help in their education and it can determine the kind of work in which they will be most productive and successful.

So, where do you go from here? You visit schools, you investigate and study their teaching practices, you ask questions of other parents, keeping your child's learning style in mind and of course you ask other children. Are those parents and children engaged in the learning process at their school? Are those children and parents proud of their school? And are the children having not only academic success, but also success personally, physically and emotionally?

If you would like to learn more about how to determine your child's learning style, please join us at Joey McClelland's home, parent of a Sophia Academy student, on Sunday, February 19th, 7 – 8:30 p.m. For more information, you may visit our website www.sophiaacademy.org and click on “The Best Kind of School for Your Child” on the school’s calendar. Please RSVP by e-mailing Melissa Shure at mshure@sophiaacademy.org.

Sophia Academy Featured in Marist School's E-Newsletter!

2012-02-07T11:55:00.018-05:00

Sophia Academy has come a long way since it first commenced in 1999 and has continued to evolve into an amazing school serving hundreds of students over the past 13 years. After just receiving re-accreditation by the Southern Association of Independent Schools and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools in January 2012, Marist, an independent Catholic 7th-12th grade school in Atlanta, offered an affiliation. This affiliation will expand and enhance a values system that promotes academic excellence and service in a faith based community. The excitement among our faculty, staff, students and parents confirmed that this was a blessing from God. It was very exciting to see Sophia Academy featured in the Marist e-newsletter http://bit.ly/Apl6Pg.

Our plan for 2012 is to continue to expand our pre-school with a pre-primary class. We will also be adding a 9th grade. We will continue to add traditional learners, those without diagnosed learning differences, whose parents are looking for smaller class size and other opportunities offered by Sophia Academy. We have been pleased with the results to date.

We want to thank our past, current and future parents for entrusting their child’s education to us. Our belief in Sophia Academy has never been stronger as we begin our 14th year this fall. We are very proud of the education provided for Sophia Academy’s children, and look forward to becoming a Marist-sponsored Catholic school.

Girls' and Boys' Basketball Teams became APAC Champions!

2012-02-03T09:32:00.010-05:00

At the beginning of the basketball season one student didn't think he would be playing, but got the courage to go to tryouts and made the team. It turned out to be a huge blessing as throughout the season he and the other players of both the boys' and girls' teams increased their skills and confidence winning them the APAC championship! The last game was played on the 100th day of school by the boys' team. Coach Rat said, "It was so intense because we managed to come back after we had been down by 14 points! The boys played great, as a consistent and cohesive team." I want to commend the coaches especially Coach Turner and Coach Hamm for their hard work in helping these teams win the Championship!

Just another amazing opportunity for our students!

Celebrating 100 Days of Accomplishments!

2012-02-02T14:00:00.006-05:00

Hooray, Horray it’s Been 100 Days! Sophia Academy celebrates 100 days of accomplishments Dear Parents, Today is the 100th day of school and we have enjoyed a whole school celebration! During the day, the classroom teachers have implemented “100 day activities” linked to all areas of core curriculum. By mid-day we all gathered outside for a special photograph of us as a proud 100+. Afterwards we gathered together to celebrate the accomplishments thus far this year. All of your children and our faculty and staff had an opportunity to express an accomplishment. They filled in the statement, “On the first day of school I couldn’t ________, but now 100 days later I can.” Below is just a partial listing of their answers:

1. I had trouble doing the P.E. exercises at first, but now I can do them!

2. My handwriting is better!

3. I wasn’t good at drama and now I am a Thespian!

4. I know more about plastic awareness and recycling!

5. I wasn’t good at basketball and now I am on the A team and we are playing in a tournament!

6. I thought I couldn’t balance being in a lot of clubs and having good grades, but I am!

7. I’m 100 days closer to my wedding and I love teaching Christian education!

8. I know a lot more about Physical Science!

9. I thought I wouldn’t have many friends because it’s hard for me to talk, but now I have lots of friends!

10. I was thinking negatively about science, but now I love it!

11. I can stand up and talk in front of other people!

12. Now I can do mixed fractions!

13. I didn’t know how to use a Promethean board, but now I can!

14. I’m better at listening!

15. I know all of the 13 colonies!

16. I can type without looking at the keys!

17. I can do cursive writing!

18. I know the parts of the eye and the ear!

19. I can name some Indian tribes!

20. I can do division with remainders!

21. I didn’t know anyone here and now this feels like a family!

We ended our celebration with cup cakes, celebratory music and giving a penny to everyone. The penny reminds us, “In God we Trust.” The past 100 days have been amazing and I look forward to all of the days in the future.

Transforming Lives through an Affiliation

2012-01-26T13:04:00.000-05:00

Sophia Academy is pleased to announce that Archbishop Gregory has given the approval for our school to pursue attainment of the Catholic identity, to become a Marist sponsored school and be
affiliated with the Society of Mary. Sophia Academy will operate as an independent Catholic school, but will implement a Catholic religious education curriculum by fall of 2012. We will continue to accept students who fit our profile regardless of their religious affiliation.

We are very pleased to be affiliated with Marist School who for the past 110 years has served Atlanta, educating many youth and maintaining a stellar reputation. We look forward to benefiting from the experience of Marist School and the expertise of their faculty and staff.

Jean-Claude Colin founded the Society of Mary in 1816 at Lyon, France. The Marist order was developed from this founding. The Marists are a Catholic religious congregation of priests and brothers. Marists continue to affirm their attachment to the project of their founder which combines excellence in education in a Catholic setting.

Becoming a Global Citizen through a 21st Century School

2012-01-20T10:29:00.000-05:00

The inaugural 9th grade class has been established at Sophia Academy! Ms. Carrie Cooper will be the 9th grade teacher; she brings a vast amount of experience and expertise teaching high school students and she herself represents the idea of being a global citizen as she has taught for the past several years in the United Arab Emirates. Ms. Cooper will implement a creative and engaging 9th grade curriculum through direct instruction and supervision of online instruction. Two exciting components of the 9th grade experience will be the mission trip and a cultural exchange. The mission trip will represent the faith component of our school as our students serve the needs of others in our community. The cultural exchange will be another mechanism of developing global citizenship for our students. Our students will have the opportunity to travel abroad to understand the education system of a sister school as well as the cultural similarities and differences. In turn, the students from the sister school will come to Atlanta and be hosted by our families to learn more about the education system of the United States and to experience many exciting points of interest in Atlanta and beyond.

We are thrilled to embark on this journey. Establishing a 9th grade has been a request from our parents repeatedly over the years. They have seen their children flourish in an educational environment that supports their child's abilities academically, physically and emotionally by way of our small student to teacher ratio and our teachers incredible passion to know our students, to nurture our students and to appreciate our students for the young people that they are and for the potential they have.

We are very proud to have the opportunity to continue to be a part of the lives of our students as they begin their high school years. We look forward to their continued success as part of the Sophia Academy community.

New Year's Resolutions

2012-01-08T12:58:00.000-05:00

After every Christmas, what is it that you dread the most? Taking down all the Christmas decorations, checking your weight on the scale, or writing down your New Year's resolutions? When my children were much younger, my husband and I required that they would thoughtfully prepare a list of resolutions for the new year. We would then have them come one by one to sit and share their goals with us. This became an incredibly painful process as my husband and I would critique their thoughts and typically make them feel that they had far underestimated their abilities as well as the ways in which they could be much more generous and become much more accomplished. My children hated this practice and they collectively banded together not to engage in it, no matter how much my husband and I demanded that the practice continue. It became a household joke! Fortunately, our children were growing up to be individuals that we really liked, and we could see that they were setting goals for themselves, and accomplishing so much more without having to go through the yearly inquisition.

Nonetheless, I missed hearing what my childrens' goals were for the new year. So for 2012, I had an idea. We chose a night that we could all have dinner together before everyone went back to school. (That was a challenge.) I set the table with a picture of each of them as a baby at their place settings. My goal was for them to see how much they have grown up, and hopefully to have them reflect on how much they have already accomplished. And it worked! It was so fun to just sit and listen to all of the things they hope to do this year. I was amazed and so proud of them. This was quite a different experience from the inquisitions that they had suffered in the past. If they even come close to accomplishing all that they have planned, it's going to be a great year! This process has showed me that it is far better to inspire and encourage children rather than to challenge and critique them as they set goals for themselves.

My own goals? There are so many, and I know that God will help me achieve them if I just believe.

"What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them."

Mark 11:24

Happy 2012 to all of you, and may you seek to fulfill God's plan for you through your New Year's resolutions.

Remembering Mother Teresa

2011-12-14T12:04:00.000-05:00

“Ive slept and dreamt that life was joy. I awoke and saw that life was service. I
acted and behold, service was joy.” Rabindranath Tagore

We had the honor and the privilege of hosting the Mother Teresa exhibit. This exhibit was brought to us by the Missionaries of Charity and assembled by Joseph Michael, our Director of Technology and Navigator in The Knights of Columbus. I was so blessed to be the guardian of the exhibit and the relic. Our entire school family was invited to view the relic as was the community at large. Visitors were brought to tears and their knees as they saw more fully, yet simply the way Mother Teresa was drawn to do God’s work among the poor. Over her decades long career, she served the physical needs of thousands and the spiritual needs of hundreds of thousands. Her legacy lives on through the Missionaries of Charity who continue to do her work, asking for nothing accept direction from God and support from those who have it to give. Their joyfulness is seen in their constant smiles and their simple approach to life is seen in their recognizable pristine saris etched in blue. Their work among the homeless has transformed the lives of many throughout the world.

Mother Teresa and the Missionaries of Charity are examples to us all. Mother Teresa wrote of her spiritual desert years when she continued to do God’s will though feeling like He was not listening to her nor answering her prayers directly. Haven’t we all had our spiritual desert? Mother Teresa’s example inspires us all to keep working to glorify God in all that we say and do so that we may some day return to our Heavenly home. There is no doubt that Mother Teresa is with God.

“When you have accomplished all you can, lie down and go to sleep. God is awake.” Victor Hugo

Get on the Bus!

2011-11-22T11:55:00.001-05:00

For the past year, the Faculty and Staff have worked to "Get on the Bus!" What's the Bus? It's the Energy Bus, by Jon Gordon. Recently we had the pleasure of having Mr. Gordon speak to our staff. His energy and positive disposition was inspiring. It was comforting to hear that he too had been discouraged many times. But with perseverance he had succeeded.

Each week a different member of the Faculty presents several chapters from the book and offers their interpretation. The entire Faculty joins in discussion of the chapters all for the purpose of re-energizing, identifying and discarding any negative energy. The result? We are all on the Bus!

Today's AJC interview with Mark Richt speaks to the recent rebonding success of the Georgia Bulldogs. Richt said, "

You may not be a Georgia Bulldog fan, but you can't argue with success!

Renewed and Inspired! Re-accredited!

2011-11-22T11:35:00.000-05:00

We have been unanimously recommended for re-accreditation! And while we never doubted our success, it is wonderful to hear those words from the members of the visiting committee. SAIS-SACS (Southern Association for Independent Schools and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools) is the highest accreditation a school can receive. It means that we have met and in many cases succeeded the required areas of Vision and Purpose, Governance and Leadership, Teaching and Learning, Documenting and Using Results, Resources and Support Systems, Stakeholder Communications and Relationships and Commitment to Continuous Improvement. Re-accreditation also means that we have charted a course for our future. We have a Strategic Plan for the standards of SAIS-SACS, but we have also included a plan for professional development, pre-school and technology. Essentially, we have looked at every area of our school and developed a plan for our future. We have set one year, three year, and five year deadlines for ourselves and while we acknowledge that the Strategic Plan is a "living" document and therefore subject to change as necessary, we have a good idea of where we are going. In January we will begin implementing the Strategic Plan; our faculty embraces this plan and is excited to see the results. Looking into the future I see Sophia Academy as even a stronger school with the highest standards for its students in an environment that accommodates the students' learning styles.

From visiting team member Carolyn Ronco, Director of the Lower School Durham Academy, "It was a pleasure getting to meet with all of you as we learned all we could about your school in a very short time! In a word, we found your board members to be committed, your parents to be elated, your students delightful, your director visionary and your faculty to be devoted. This is a combination that ensures success." She further stated, "Upon my return to school, I find myself speaking glowingly of your work at Sophia Academy to my colleagues - your mission and your calling are special and unique, and I came away renewed and inspired."

We are renewed and inspired! We are re-accredited!

A thank you to our Veterans

2011-11-15T10:53:00.000-05:00

Our school calendar always includes a Veteran's Day celebration. The courage and commitment of our veterans should never be overlooked as we are able to sleep soundly each night and rise the next day confident that we are not under the threat of danger. Parade magazine states that, "Over the years more the 42 million men and women have served in our Armed Forces." 42 Million people! Our chapel service this week featured a wonderful speaker, Wayne Early, who shared memories of his service years. A video montage of photos followed featuring our photos of our family members and friends who have served in the Armed Forces and from the Knights of Columbus (our IT Director Joseph Michael is the Knights of Columbus' Navigator) we received a new American flag. Pete Wheeler, Georgia's Commissioner for Veteran Affairs, recently wrote, "All have faced the greatest test that can be applied to American citizenship--being willing to risk one's life to defend this country"s freedom and liberties." http://www.ajc.com/opinion/veterans-deserve-respect-gratitude-1217979.html. Responsibility, courage, perseverance-- these are some of the qualities we hope to instill in all of our students. We are preparing them for their mission in the world. Everyone of them will be called up to contribute to making this world a better place, a safer place. We will all be "veterans" of life but to those who have passed the greatest test of citizenship, we say "Thank you and God bless you!"

The Blessing of a Father

2011-09-23T10:45:00.000-04:00

We celebrated our dads this morning with a wonderful father/child breakfast and an inspiring talk given by grandparent Mr. George Grimes. Mr. Grimes gave fabulous examples of stewardship, compassion, generosity and responsibility that his dad had taught him. His father was a man of strength, patience and courage. Mr. Grimes spoke with such appreciation for the role model that his father had been to him.

All of us are not fortunate enough to have a father. And sometimes a father is not the role model that we need. Other times we do not appreciate the wonderful job that our father is doing to help mold us into the productive, responsible and appreciative person that we need to be.

But we all have our heavenly Father. We all have the best example of how to live. And we have access to the Word that our heavenly Father provided for us so that we can gain clarity and chart a course for ourselves to live like our heavenly Father.

Mr. Grimes ended his presentation by saying that his father had taught him how to die-by being ready. He had asked for forgiveness for his sins and was ready for his heavenly journey.

The example of our Father is for all of us. And many of us are so blessed to have an earthly example, too.

August is "What Will Be Your Legacy?" Month

2011-08-30T12:57:00.000-04:00

Somewhere, someone has decided that each month should have designations of ideas and things to celebrate. August is What Will Be Your Legacy Month as well as National Admit You're Happy Month, National Goat Cheese Month, and National Catfish Month. I'd say that August could also be noted as National Challenge Month. As students go back to school each year, they are challenged by the new grade level curriculum as well as the offerings available to them as they get older and can participate more in sports and fine arts. Unfortunately, at many schools, participation in sports and fine arts is not an option for students who do not already have honed skills that determine sure success for the individual as well as a team. At Sophia Academy, we have developed a grade level scale of participation that allows each student to participate in "no cut" activities designed to foster skill development and a life-long enjoyment in these activities. Students enjoy more personalized attention from our coaches and fine arts teachers while learning to work as a team as well as enjoying the development of their individual skills and their confidence.

Our teachers and staff are committed to seeing August as National Challenge Month as they encourage each student to participate in all that our school has to offer. Some students are eagerly ready to participate and others need differing doses of support in order for them to try something new. Most often, the challenge becomes less frightening and the payoff is fantastic!

Dealing with the Negatives

2011-07-26T12:35:00.000-04:00

Negativity abounds in those who refuse to see the positives. I believe there are positives in every experience and that every experience is an opportunity to learn and to grow. Unfortunately, this idea is not held by everyone. With the social media that is available it only takes a few key strokes to note the negative and then to send it out to anyone who happens upon it. There are many media sources that do not require much information about the writer. In fact, many media sources allow writers to submit their complaints anonymously. There is little that can be done by the target of these negative remarks to actually note the truth and to expound on the positives.

Who writes these negative comments? The complaints generally come from those who haven't taken the time to bring the issue up to the source and to ask for clarification and understanding. There are those who are disgruntled because they don't want to follow the policies and procedures of the institution. And finally, there are those who are complainers and whiners by nature and are most often those who can never be pleased. Otherwise, why would they choose to write anonymously?

I believe that all schools strive to be a strong positive influence in the life of its students. Education is a field that calls dedicated individuals to teach and to prepare young people by involving them in the learning process and to challenge and support them to be the best they can emotionally, physically and academically. As a Christian school we are also called to be a positive force in the spiritual development of the child. By far, educators are generous and gracious in giving of their time and talent to improve a student's academic journey.

So, to the negative naysayers I simply encourage them to look for and remember the positives and to always take the time to discuss any negative feelings or concerns with the administration. Those comments can inspire the institution to make changes if necessary or to clarify a misunderstanding.

Life is too short to harbor negativity!

2011-06-22T13:29:00.000-04:00

For 12 years we have been the only Christian school in Georgia that has served students with learning differences. Each child that has come to Sophia Academy has been seen as a unique creation of God and we have served them individually and seen them as "no two are alike."

Every day we see the miracles of success that are made possible because of our low student to teacher ratio , our multi-sensory approach to teaching and our use of the Orton-Gillingham language program. Because of these transforming opportunities we have truly transformed the lives of our students by building their confidence, giving them challenging opportunities to succeed and offering a wide range of extra-curricular activities.

The success of our methods has now been extended to students without learning differences. Sophia Academy is the right choice for those seeking an environment of knowing their child isn't just a number, those wanting their child to have an educational experience that is rich and inspiring.

I invite you to visit our school and see the smiling faces of our students and the teachers that are passionate about seeing their students succeed.

Your children will never be this age again. Now is the time to give them all that they need to become the person they are meant to be.

Leadership Institute-Access to Healthcare

2011-06-22T13:06:00.000-04:00

No where in the Atlanta area is there a leadership experience for students that is designed like the Sophia Academy program. Specifically for middle school students, the program focuses on an area of needed change and improvement. Infused daily with elements of leadership skills, the participants are able to better understand a need and develop ways in which they can make a difference.

The Sophia Academy Leadership Institute was held last week with our theme of study being Access to Health Care. Starting with a trip to Coventry Insurance Company the students learned a great deal about the insured, the non-insured and the under insured. With presentations from representatives of the many aspects of insurance, including the CEO, the students began their awareness of who has access to health care and who doesn't. The participants also had an amazing opportunity to tour a multitude of institutions that provide medical care. Behind the scenes tours and time with administrators were offered by Professional Registry for the Northside, Shepherd Center, The Good Samaritan Clinic, St. Joseph's Mercy Care and the Visiting Nurse Hospice. Daily infusion of leadership traits, planning and goal setting were also a part of the Leadership Institute experience. A survey of the students at the end of the week confirmed the success of the experience.

I am so pleased that we offer this experience to middle school students. Their awareness of a need, even at this young age, can produce ideas for change that can make such a difference!

Praying Through Until Easter

2011-04-19T17:33:00.000-04:00

The days of Lent are almost over and we find ourselves approaching Easter in just a few days. Easter is one of the most important celebrations of the year and it is a double blessing to be able to share this holy experience with other believers. Yesterday our 5th grade students treated us to a play representing the Last Supper. The final product, featuring the students assuming the roles of Jesus and his disciples, is a multi-sensory way for the students to learn. Memorizing their lines, practicing their cues with the other "actors" and having the opportunity to ask their teachers more about the characters they portrayed is something that they won't soon forget. And we often hear that these assumed roles are projected into conversations and prayers at home. Learning can happen in so many forms! And learning about our Christian faith forms character and develops a greater understanding of our call to be Jesus' hands and feet on this earth. After the play we all enjoyed the abundant buffet of foods served during Jesus' time. Again, another learning experience that is meaningful and purposeful.

Today I read from Streams in the Desert: "Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord."Exodus 14:13. Translated for the reader the author states, "Stand still- keep the posture of the upright man, ready for action, expecting further orders, cheerfully and patiently awaiting the directing voice; and it will not be long ere God shall say to you, "Go forward." This reminds me so much of our teachers teaching and directing their students, asking them to "stand still" and learn the parts to this wonderful play. Subtly the students are understanding this important event. I believe that the students will "Go forward" with greater understanding and the assurance that God loves them, He has a perfect plan for them and that their goal in life is to be able to return home to Him.

As I move through these final days before Easter I am sure that I will reflect many times on the Last Supper play. I will remember the student's confidence as they said their lines, I will recall their smiles as they took their bow and I will see again the looks of encouragement and endearment from their parents. And I will thank God for allowing to be a part of a Christian school that has a part in sharing the love of God with our students and the challenge to them to

"Stand still" and wait for God's voice to say "go forward".

Random Acts of Kindness

2011-04-13T10:59:00.000-04:00

The focus of our Middle School bible study is "your life journey." Our students are studying the lives of others and formulating ideas about how they would want to be remembered. It's a challenging task for a young person because they don't envision their destiny, and maybe they shouldn't. But what they can envision are the random acts of kindness they that can do that can change the lives of others for good. In today's newspaper there is a wonderful article about Jenny Levinson, better known as "Souper Jenny." Her restaurant, which serves fabulous soups and salads, is a happy place to enjoy a meal. She and her staff have embarked on 29 days of giving after reading the book "29 Gifts" by Cami Walker. For those 29 days Levinson and her staff will be doling out the soups as well as the kindness. It seems that more and more people are taking this process to heart and wanting to make a difference through kindness. I can personally attest to the value of random acts of kindness as I have received so much over the past months. The support of friends and neighbors, their words of encouragement, their helpful acts, have been the best medicine. From my personal experience I hope to lead these Middle School students in understanding of how making a difference can define and determine how they are perceived and how it can impact their lives in such a positive way. Their "life's journey" is one they can't do over. I hope that it's blessed with kindness.

Leadership Opportunities Abound!

2010-12-17T09:24:00.000-05:00

Leadership opportunities abound for Sophia Academy students who chose to be involved! Student Government, Honor Council, BETA Club and the Peer Leader program offer leadership training through a wide variety of experiences. Each leadership program begins with a specific training guided by the teacher or administrator who is leading the program. Set dates are throughout the year for additional training and groups also met on an as needed basis. We have had a wonderful response from our students to participate as well as to offer their commitment to continue in the programs of their choice.

I have worked specifically with the Peer Leaders. Students may nominate themselves or they may be nominated by their parents or teachers. A complete application includes a short essay asking why they should be considered, what are their strengths and talents that they will bring to the program and what do they hope to learn. Participation in our summer Leadership Institute is another excellent way to learn and improve leadership skills.

Peer Leaders are assigned to be mentors to new students joining us in 5th-8th grade. They are to be their guide, their mentor and their friend-to welcome them to our school and to embrace them as part of the Sophia Academy community. Through email or phone contact outside of school, Peer Leaders can further their role and their positive influence towards the new student.

I hosted a Peer Leader Christmas breakfast this morning to thank the Peer Leaders for their service. They enthusiastically shared their support of them program and many other suggestions to make our school strong. I am so grateful for their input! The students are "the school" and their participation makes our school strong and increases their school pride.

Our Student Government has also been very active! During this past week they have manned the carpool line selling hot chocolate and doughnuts in support of our Capital Campaign. They nearly met their goal in proceeds but they exceeded their goal in learning management, organization and execution. The Student Government Association is led by Melissa Shure, Administrative Assistant and Ashley Bjorkland, Technology Instructor. These staff members have done an excellent job with these students!

It takes time, planning and commitment on the part of the school to design and implement these programs. It takes encouraging the students to participate and a willingness to mentor them to keep the programs strong. This is happening at Sophia Academy-where leadership opportunities abound!

With a Grateful Heart

2010-10-14T13:48:00.000-04:00

Three weeks ago I was informed that I have cancer. Three weeks ago I was a different person, one that knew something was wrong but hopeful that the symptoms would go away as quietly as they had come. Three weeks into knowing the cause, beginning treatment and sharing my condition with others I am definitely a different person, a stronger person.

And now I find myself so incredibly thankful for the concern and support by so many for me. The love that I feel, the prayers I feel, is incredible and is absolutely making a difference. Initially I had not wanted to share this burden with others outside of my family. I had no idea that sharing this information would bring so much comfort and knowledge as others have shared their experience and connections. I am so blessed! And I know I'm going to get through this!

Years ago, in a radio broadcast, I was asked by the interviewer, "What one thing do you hope you've always done?" My answer was quick and simple, "I hope I've always said "thank you." Such a simple thing but so important. I absolutely know that I could not have persevered and succeeded so many times in the past without the help of so many.

So, with a very grateful heart I say "Thank you!" Thank you all for all that you do for me.

Assessment and evaluation-Time well spent

2010-09-29T15:22:00.000-04:00

The current issue of the LDA Newsbriefs (Volume 45, No.4 September/October 2010) leads with a story that could easily be the description of Sophia Academy.

The Newsbrief states that the National Joint Committee on Learning Disabilities (NJCLD) published a new paper, Comprehensive Assessment and Evaluation of Students with Learning Disabilities in June of 2010. This paper documents the most recent effort to improve practice, clarify issues and increase knowledge of learning differences so that students can be instructed appropriately. Specifically, this study examines the issues of assessment, evaluation and identification of learning disabilities.

The NJCLD defines assessment as data collection from multiple sources. Evaluation follows assessment and is defined as “integrating all data to produce a student profile.” “The foremost principle states that “assessment and evaluation are guided by consistent understanding of learning disabilities that recognize intra-individual differences, wide variation in severity and the need for specialized instruction and accommodations to inform instruction.”

The NJCLD report goes on to note the most important principles for success:
• Multiple sources of data used to discern a students learning style and ability
• Importance of the collaboration between professionals, the family and the student
• Consideration of all aspects of a student’s learning and behavior profile as these contribute to failure and success and
• The implementation by the teaching team of the appropriate instruction, modifications and accommodations as determined by the assessment with ongoing evaluation of interventions

In 2009 we implemented the most comprehensive assessment program to further ensure quality of instruction based on multiple standardized testing sources, class work and observation. The time given to this intensive assessment, coupled with information given by the parent, gives us the very best understanding of each student.

Sometimes parents are concerned about the time given to assessment, feeling that this time is better devoted to academics. No. Academics cannot be addressed if there is vague understanding of the student’s areas of strength and weakness.

Evaluation of the assessment is given to the parent in the form of student goals which may include accommodations and modifications to promote student achievement. Ongoing assessment may determine a change in evaluation thus altering a student’s goals. Assessment and evaluation, in collaboration with the parent and student, will effect a greater engagement in academics and will manage expectations for success.

Assessment and evaluation also guides instruction. The Georgia Performance Standards give us the grade level basis for instruction. Our student’s assessment and evaluation guides our commitment to meeting and succeeding those expectations.

Assessment and evaluation is time well spent.

Looking into the Future

2010-09-23T17:45:00.000-04:00

How great would it be to be able to see into the future? I could spend time every day shining up my crystal ball, thinking of all the things that I want to have prior knowledge of and then just sit back and watch all of those answers come to me-WOW!

Actually I think that would be fun for a very short time. Being able to see in to the future would make work less valuable. Why would we do anything if we knew what was going to happen? It would take the joy out of making plans and visualizing the possibilities of success. It would also effect the most profound change imaginable-the lowering of expectations of those we might think would not rise to levels of accomplishment.

Throughout the history of Sophia Academy there have been those times that I have been given the most beautiful gift, the gift of thanks. This gift comes in many different forms but the sweetest, most special form is hearing from former students that they're doing well. And sometimes, this gift comes in the most indirect way. Recently an email was forwarded to me from a former student. She had written her Sophia Academy math teacher to tell her that she was "getting all A's in math." Math had been a subject she had really struggled in but she had persevered. So often we questioned, "Has she reached her limit of ability?" Obviously not. She's continuing to learn and she loves her success. So much so that she shared it. And in sharing it I could hear "thanks."

Looking in to the future? That's not for me. I've seen enough of the past and to know what we're doing at Sophia Academy can change a child's future, for the better, because we don't let their present abilities shape our assumptions of what they can or cannot do. We'll continue to do just fine without a crystal ball.

Thank you, former student, for letting us know that you're doing well.

Planning for the Future: Expanding our Recipe for Success

2010-09-17T11:04:00.000-04:00

For eleven years Sophia Academy has been the model of the recipe for academic success: a low student to teacher ratio, multi-sensory teaching, a specific language program and a comprehensive curriculum. Every day we see students respond positively to our academic program; they are finally engaged in the learning process, they're feeling genuine success and they become more willing to participate in extra-curricular activities.

In response to our devotion to the entire family and to many parent requests, we have decided to expand our program even further to include those students without learning differences. We have implemented this model in our kindergarten class this year and we are already seeing its success! Research supports this model-students with learning differences rise to higher expectations and students without learning differences get the benefit of the nurturing and engaging teaching presentation. Our support services will provide any specific interventions for the student with learning differences.

This model will allow us to manage tuition in such a way that the baseline tuition will not increase; support services will be paid for separately.

We are so excited to offer this option to parents. The ability to keep all of their children together, to consolidate their time and their resources and to channel them to one institution, to see their children reap the benefit of the best model for education... we are thrilled to know that so many children will now have more opportunity to succeed in school and to participate in our wide range of extra-curricular activities.

We look forward to welcoming entire families and their friends and neighbors to the Sophia Academy family!

Shaping the Imagination and Forming the Heart

2010-09-17T10:36:00.000-04:00

Chris Harrington, Lead Pastor of Morningside Baptist Church, addressed our Dads' Breakfast attendees with a wonderful message of "shaping the imagination and forming the heart" of our children. Chris' message resonated with our dads and encouraged them to "use the the right words at the right time" to guide the child as Christ would guide us. The work of being a father is challenging and sometimes difficult as we want our children to have those big dreams; as they grow the job of the father is to shape their imagination so that the big dreams are realistic and attainable. The heart is formed with humility and grace as the father uses opportunities to show his support and confidence in his child and by demonstrating his own humbleness and grace for his shortcomings and failures. Our dads left with a renewed spirit!

Thank you, Chris, for your very pertinent and timely message for our dads!

The Net You Really Need

2010-09-01T10:11:00.000-04:00

I had the opportunity to speak to the women in NCR yesterday. Their group, WIN, meets monthly to promote camaraderie and collegiality by providing a forum for them to gather and to hear from members of the greater community.

I spoke to them about "The Net You Really Need." In this time of fast-paced, never-ending email communication it can be easy to rely on the computer to serve all of our communication needs. As great as this method is it does prevent the direct connections that we need both personally and professionally to truly be engaged in the real world, not just the virtual world. The tried and true practices of letter writing, phone calling and actually meeting with friends, colleagues and acquaintances gives us the opportunity to develop a personal and professional network of support.

Dondi Scumaci wrote the book Designed for Success. She identifies seven ways to build your personal network:
• Take more social initiative. Look for opportunities to meet people. Networking is not an event; it is a discipline.
• Join organizations of interest. Get involved in industry and community associations. Don’t just show up, get involved.
• Business cards are a must! Make the investment yourself for high quality, professionally made business cards that really tell people who you are and what you do. It’s a small thing but unique business cards really invite people to see you and remember you in a different way.
• Volunteer. Sign up for causes that matter to you. This will naturally develop a unity of purpose
• Manage your contacts. Instead of building a database, build a knowledge base. Go beyond collecting names and telephone numbers. Over time, if you pay attention and ask the right questions, you’ll learn the goals, interests and challenges of your contacts. That’s when they stop being contacts and become colleagues, friends and resources.
• Add real value--find out what is important to your contacts. And when you see information that could be of interest or benefit to them, get it to them.
• Keep in touch. Send thank you notes, birthday cards and holiday greetings. Make opportunities to stay in front of your contacts in meaningful ways. At Sophia Academy we are constantly leveraging events and activities to stay connected to our constituents. Relationships provide access.

Time after time I have seen the value of a strong personal network of support. It has made all the difference for Sophia Academy as we are continuously working to expand our influence and make a difference in the lives of the students that we serve. A strong network of support has brought advisers and supporters to our school who have learned, from personal interactions and communications, that we value their experience and expertise.

Best wishes for developing "The Net You Really Need."

Professional Learning Communities

2010-08-25T15:33:00.000-04:00

"Don't tell me you believe all children can learn; tell me what you do when they don't."
Richard DuFour

At Sophia Academy we use a variety of assessments to evaluate our students. We want to know what they know and to be aware of what they don't know. Timely intervention is key to establishing understanding which is the foundation for learning more complex information. But as important as assessing students is, it is equally important to assess the instructor. It is important for the instructor to want to know if there is a gap in learning, and therefore a gap in understanding, and to want to do something about it.

For this reason we have have taken our on-going professional development to a new level by establishing Professional Learning Communities. By way of these communities our faculty will be continuously engaged in communication and collaboration to discern additional methods and interventions to improve student performance. In this way, the teacher is evaluating his/her instruction--what's working and what's not. Teachers will have a greater opportunity to share ideas and infuse new facets to our existing programs. We are excited about this new way of assessing ourselves.

The idea of Professional Learning Communities is not new, just not widely used. Why? Because it takes time, it takes introspection and it takes commitment-nothing new for a school like Sophia Academy that is continuously implementing the next "big idea" in order to help our students be the people they are meant to be.

"Every teacher must...by regarding every imperfection in the pupil's comprehension, not as a defect of the pupil, but as a defect of his own instruction, endeavor to develop in himself the ability of discovering new methods." Tolstoy

The Final days of Summer

2010-08-17T10:52:00.000-04:00

The final days of summer are quickly slipping by! This weekend I had the opportunity to attend several back to school events for our students. It was great to see the kids and to hear their excitement about returning to school; some parents expressed the same sentiment! It was a wonderful opportunity to update our parents on recent additions to our staff and changes to our facilities.

We are ready for our students to return with many new things in place to improve student performance. Our Assistive Technology Center is open and our new Media and Music room is ready for student activities. We've added a tutorial space, a sensory room and classrooms for our speech-language pathologist and reading specialist. Each addition of program and personnel has been carefully designed to meet the needs of our students. Going forward, our Assistive Technology Center will be accessible to the community. This will allow students at other schools to be evaluated for assistive technology, programs and devices, which can then be implemented in their school and homes to improve their academic performance.

We invite you to stop by our school and see the tools that we can use to improve student achievement.

The Albany Professional Women's Forum and Servant Leadership

2010-08-05T12:05:00.000-04:00

As Georgia Mother of the Year I had the wonderful opportunity to speak at the Albany Professional Women's Forum last week. These women are committed to networking and it was great to share with them my thoughts regarding "The Net You Really Need." So often in this day and time we rely on the Internet for interactions that we could, and should, have in person. Despite the availability of this resource the Internet will never be able to relay the emotion and commitment we have with another individual with our attentiveness and our thoughtfulness to the interaction. The net you really need, the network of support that will encourage, inspire and connect you for your success is a strong network of friends and colleagues.

I completed my day in Albany with a presentation at Darton College. These participants were interested in learning more about servant leadership and hearing ideas that have been successful in engaging others in order to raise awareness and funds. Servant leadership requires the leader to be a servant first and to engage others by challenging them and supporting them to "think big, think the impossible." It's sometimes difficult to stay encouraged but leading by example will eventually bring others along with your cause. They will feel your passion and commitment and they will want to be a part of it.

Thank you, Albany, for having me! I really enjoyed my visit!

2010-07-01T15:17:00.000-04:00

We've had another amazing Sophia Academy event! On Tuesday I, along with my family, members of the staff of Sophia Academy and members of the Georgia Mothers Association meet with Governor Sunny Perdue for the signing of the 2010-2011 Georgia Mother of the Year proclamation. It is an honor to be recognized by our great state and to have the opportunity to serve as the Georgia Mother of the Year.

During my term as Georgia Mother of the Year I will be speaking throughout the state on issues related to strengthening the family. The platforms of American Mothers, Incorporated, the national organization, include literacy and cultural and creative arts . I look forward to organizing events as well as participating in events that will inspire and encourage women and men to continue in this challenging work known as parenting.

Thank you, Governor Perdue and the great state of Georgia, for this wonderful proclamation! I look forward to all of the opportunities that this role will bring!

Mothers Day with American Mothers

2010-05-10T14:35:00.000-04:00

I had a very special Mother's Day this year. On Sunday morning I joined other Georgia Mothers of American Mothers Incorporated at the Red Shield Salvation Army facility in downtown Atlanta. Under the direction of Ruth Manning and with some of our own children and husbands we welcomed mothers and their children to the celebration. A delicious breakfast had been prepared; we served them and sat with them listening to their stories of success and failure, challenges and blessings. We sang with them, and heard them sing louder and happier as the sounds of our voices filled the air. Their children offered thanks to their mothers for taking care of them, providing for them and keeping them safe. And at the end of the event they left with a lovely gift bag filled with sweet things for mothers.

No matter what our station in life is we mothers have a lot in common. We love our children, we want the best for them, we want them to have more opportunity than we had...we want them to make a difference in the world.

May God continue to watch over mothers and their children.

A New Dimension of Sophia Academy

2010-04-23T12:05:00.000-04:00

We are excited about a new opportunity for Sophia Academy! After numerous requests from families and friends we have decided to proceed with the opening of a kindergarten program that can serve siblings of current students and children from the greater community. These students will have a fabulous opportunity to learn in a small student teacher ratio of 15:1. Multi-sensory teaching techniques and hands-on learning experiences will lay a firm foundation of academic skills, a key component to future academic success. Tuition for the program will be $7,500.

As a leader in education for students with learning differences we value and support the necessity to provide a safe and secure learning environment that challenges and supports each student. While we will maintain the smaller ratio for students with learning differences, we are delighted to add this new track for those without specific learning needs.

We believe that the addition of this dimension to our school will provide the best educational opportunity to even more students, which furthers our commitment to the community.

John O'Connor and GREAT schools

2010-04-14T17:26:00.000-04:00

The AAAIS Principal's meeting was held today at our school. The guest speaker was John O'Connor, Executive Director for Special Services with the Dekalb County school system, author and great friend to Sophia Academy. John gave an engaging and informative presentation using the the acronym GREAT. John's remarks reflected his goal for every teacher to discover and implement ways to make every student successful. Copies of John's book were a gift to all of the schools in attendance from our school.

Throughout our school's history we've been blessed with many friends who have generously offered their wisdom, their expertise, their talents and their treasure. It's one of the things that has made us GREAT; it's why we're committed, all of us at Sophia Academy, to improve student achievement through academics, sports and fine arts; we're committed to enriching their lives through leadership opportunities and community service. It is so gratifying to see our students achieve greatness!

Thank you, John, for your commitment to students by achieving GREATness in schools.

Student Performance and Technology

2010-04-07T14:24:00.000-04:00

As a leader in the use of Assistive Technology for our students we are constantly investigating new programs and devices that can increase student performance. We recently installed Promethean boards in our 4th, 5th ,7th and 8th grade classrooms. It doesn't take a research study to confirm an increased level of student engagement and participation when an interactive tool is incorporated ; lesson plans easily come alive. Additionally, we are studying the use of the iPad in the classroom. The note taking capacity and the ability to download books are useful features for students. No, we're not going to implement everything that comes along, but if we can show that technology increases student performance then ,yes, we will consider its appropriateness for the classroom.

Stay tuned to Sophia Academy-where student achievement is assessed and evaluated to improve performance through the use of Assistive Technology.

2010-04-01T13:58:00.000-04:00

As we approach Easter Sunday I give thanks for the past weeks which have renewed and deepened my commitment to my faith and to my relationship with Jesus Christ. I am surrounded by His blessings which overwhelm me because His generosity has no bounds. He truly does want to do the impossible, the incredible, the fantastic things that can not be accomplished by the work of human hands and within the time that we would determine. His grace is so complete that challenges can be met and disappointments can be redirected to more more constructive work. Sophia Academy is very fortunate to have God as the true "Director".

Easter blessings to all of you!

Georgia Mother of the Year

2010-03-26T12:48:00.000-04:00

Sophia Academy continues to be a place with many "firsts". As still a relatively young school we are proud of the multitude of "firsts" that we've achieved. And there's a new one to add...
From the American Mothers International I have been recognized as the 2010 Georgia Mother of the Year.

The American Mothers Committee was established in 1933 as a division of the Golden Rule Foundation. The organization is accepted as the sponsor of Mother's Day. The purpose of American Mothers International is to strengthen the moral and spiritual foundation of the family and the home. The organization works throughout the states to implement the many projects of the committee including mother mentoring. promoting healthy TV and Internet programming for children and families, working with literacy and working to deter violence and abuse.

In 1935 the first American Mother of the Year was named-she was Lucy Johnson of Gainesville, Georgia. The celebration was held at the Waldorf-Astoria in New York and now, seventy five years later, the 2010 state representatives will gather again in New York on
April 30th for the Diamond celebration.

I am truly humbled by this honor. I love mothering my own children and I am blessed to be the "mother" of Sophia Academy. No other head of school in Georgia has ever been Georgia Mother of the Year. It's another "first" for Sophia Academy!