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Frequently Asked Questions

Have you considered school uniforms?
This is our most commonly received question! For the administration of Shreiner Academy, the problem with uniforms is that the word uniform means “one form” and we don’t want our children to be molded into a single form. Conversely, we thrive in the richness and diversity of the individual.

What is the maximum number of students permitted in a class?
Although 18 students are permitted in a class, most elementary classes at Shreiner Academy have between 10-14 students. We benefit from very small class sizes, unlike many other private schools in which the average class size is 23. Unfortunately, the larger the class size, the less likely it is that individual attention can be given to every student. Large classes also demand increased regimentation and stricter disciplinary codes. Therefore, a large class benefits neither teacher nor student. On the contrary, small classes create a much more personal, intimate, and nourishing environment where individual growth is enhanced.

Why do some schools consistently achieve high standardized test scores?
A few years ago, researchers took the top scoring schools and tried to determine a common denominator. Surprisingly, it was not the teacher’s experience, the textbooks used, or the amount of homework assigned. As it turned out, the common denominator was school size. Almost every school with the best scores had enrollments of approximately 300 students. It was reasoned that schools with 300 students were large enough to provide the necessary facilities and yet were small enough to serve the needs of the individual. In America, where “bigger is better” seems to be the national motto, it is refreshing to see the intimate environment of the small school recognized for its outstanding academic achievement.

May parents suggest field trips?
Yes, some of our best field trips have originated from parent ideas. Joanna Wagner creates the school’s special events calendar, and welcomes suggestions for field trips, shows, guest lecturers, and special events. You can reach her by calling the school at (770) 953-1340.

What is the story behind the large oak trees in front of the library?
The white oak trees date back to before the Civil War. Although Cobb County’s 19th century land records were destroyed in courthouse fires, tradition maintains that this was the site of the Grant Plantation. Another interesting aspect to the history of the school’s land: during the Civil War, the road in front of the school ran slightly more to the west than its present course. Thus, when Sherman’s troops approached Atlanta following Terrell Mill Road, they marched right through the heart of our present-day campus. We are proud of our oak trees and have adopted the oak tree as our school logo.

What is the greatest benefit Shreiner Academy offers its students?
Its environment. A small school creates a much more personal, intimate, and nourishing environment where individual growth is enhanced.

How much homework should be assigned to students?
At Shreiner Academy, the assignment of homework is limited to an average of 45 minutes per day. Many students complete the work during the school day or in the after-school Study Halls. We are certainly in the minority. Many schools assign two to three hours of homework every night. Perhaps there are those who believe that the school that assigns the most homework earns the best standardized test scores, but Shreiner Academy (with its limited homework) dismisses this theory by scoring among the best schools in the nation. With the time and stress our students save, they can focus on other important projects such as working on a happy childhood.

Does the school conduct fundraisers?
No. The fact that we do not conduct fundraisers is sincerely appreciated by parents who have transferred from schools that do.