• Sarah Rawson Smith: A Picture of Progress

    International Baccalaureate World School

    International Baccalaureate Organization Primary Years Programme World School Distinction (IB): An achievement that each participating school works nearly two years to gain. The Primary Years Programme of IB focuses on the total growth of the child encompassing academic, social, emotional and cultural needs. Only 383 primary schools in the U.S. have earned this coveted status. Sutton Middle School and North Atlanta High School are also IB World Schools. This means a progressive IB education in our public education sector can be experienced in grades K-12.

    Focus on Literacy, Writing & Math

    The Sarah Smith Learning Community is focusing on Literacy and Writing instruction in all grade levels as well as continuing to improve in the area of mathematics. We use the math problem solving approach through Math Exemplars wherein students in all grades are taught to strategize, plan and act regarding "attacking" math problems. Integrated within this approach is a heavy emphasis on mathematical vocabulary and making mathematical connections. For writing, teachers are emphasizing the three writing types in the Common Core Georgia Performance Standards of narrative, opinion and informational writing. Students are writing in all subject areas and receiving feedback on the quality of their writing from teachers.

    GO Team: APS Charter School

    In 2016, Atlanta Public Schools (APS) was approved by the State Board of Education to adopt the Charter System model. Under this model, APS and its schools have more freedom and flexibility in exchange for more accountability for student achievement. Each school was tasked with creating a local governing body, called a Go Team. The Sarah Smith team is comprised of elected parents, instructional and community representatives who work with school leadership and the community to help determine the long term direction of the school, design innovative solutions to increase student achievement, and serve as school ambassadors to the local community.

    The Curriculum

    As a public school in Georgia, we deliver instruction based on Georgia Standards of Excellence. You may learn more about the standards and the particular content covered at each grade level by logging on to https://www.georgiastandards.org/Georgia-Standards/Pages/default.aspx

    Curriculum:

    Wilson Fundations phonics/early literacy program (Grades K – 2)    

    Technology in every classroom

    International Travelers Program

    Science Labs & High Touch, High Tech in-class field trips

    Dual Immersion Program

    Spanish

    Art, Music, PE, and Guidance Specials (Grades K - 5)

     Extracurricular Activities:

    "Smith After School" Program (2:30 pm - 6:30 pm)

    Wide range of activities through after school, including dance, tennis, chess, science, art and many more

    Parent Involvement:

    We have an active PTO focused on improving the quality of life for our school community. Visit the PTO page for more details.

    The Sarah Smith Education Foundation supports the quality of education at Sarah Smith with a focus on curriculum related expenses, teacher training and the IB Primary Years Programme. Visit the SSEF page for more details.

    And Much More:

    PC and IC Learning Gardens

    Sarah Smith Wellness Program