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Schools

New School Provides Alternative for Cherokee

Still looking for a private school in Cherokee County? Brenwood Academy is taking applications for students in kindergarten through second grade.

Cherokee Charter Academy isn't the only new school in the county slated to open in August.

When Brenwood Academy makes its debut next school year, it will join  as one of a few secular private schools in the area.

"Cherokee County is ready for other choices in education," said Mary Dean Townsend, who was recently named head of school. "The more choices, the better.”

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Brenwood, which will serve students from kindergarten through fifth grade, is part of , a 20-year-old child development center with locations in Hickory Flat, Holly Springs and Macedonia. Owner Bettina Crenshaw has 30 years experience in early childhood education. 

"When we built the Macedonia location," husband Bob Crenshaw said, "we built with the intention of adding an elementary school. That was our goal."

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That dream will move one step closer to reality when The Kid Connection officially takes on the Brenwood Academy name during a ribbon cutting ceremony at 10 a.m. Friday.

In its inaugural year, Brenwood Academy will serve approximately 100 children. Officials say students will have ample opportunity to thrive at the school, located at 8991 East Cherokee Dr. Among other offerings, there will be state-of-the-art technology and individualized instruction.

"We’ve had smart board technology in all pre-K classes for over a year and will expand that into the elementary program to continue offering a higher level of quality education,” said Bob Crenshaw, who previously worked at American Heritage Academy.

Townsend, the former headmaster at the now-defunct Alpharetta Methodist Christian Academy, said families have a desire for small, traditional school settings with strong programs such as writing and technology that provide a sturdy educational foundation for students.

"Good critical thinking, organizational habits and executive functioning skills should start in kindergarten in a very intentional way," she said. "Small class sizes and a small student body offer more face time between individual students and teachers to develop those skills." 

While slots remain in kindergarten through second grade, applicants in upper grades will be wait-listed. Tuition will run $8,500 a year, an amount that does not include supplies and uniforms.

In addition to Cherokee, Townsend said she hopes Brenwood draws from parts of Forsyth and Fulton counties.

"Providing a solid family atmosphere where students want to learn is my passion."

HOW TO APPLY TO BRENWOOD

Applications to the Brenwood Academy are still being taken and families may applyonline, via mail or by visiting the school. A $150 registration and application fee will enable parents to participate in a school screening process which evaluates the learning needs of each child. 

Once accepted, school fees include a $750 enrollment agreement and tuition of $8,500 per year. Tuition does include textbooks, but parents should anticipate a few additional expenses for supplies and uniforms.


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