Students in Mrs. Dolvin’s seventh-grade English class participated in a Zoom Call with Tom Rogers, the author of their summer reading book, "Eleven". "Eleven" tells the story of Alex Douglas, a boy turning eleven on 9/11. It’s a coming-of-age novel about a kid who dreams of being a hero, the stray dog he rescues, his growing fear that his father was caught in the attacks, and the journey he must take over the course of a single day, as his birthday turns into a day forever remembered by history.

Tom Rogers is an Emmy-winning screenwriter and author who has written numerous animated films and TV shows, including Elena of Avalor, Sofia the First, The Lion King 1½, Kronk’s New Groove, LEGO: The Adventures of Clutch Powers, and Disney’s Tinker Bell movies. He is currently creator and showrunner of The Chicken Squad, debuting on Disney Jr. in 2021.

In the Zoom call, Tom Rogers shared his inspiration for writing the novel and for his characters. He also shared his journey through the writing process. He stressed the importance of revision in writing – showing students a list of 25 versions of a Disney script.

Mrs. Dolvin said, “In my twenty-two years of teaching, this experience hits on a high note! Eleven was chosen to begin our discussions of the 20th anniversary of 9/11. Hearing Tom Rogers explain his inspiration and his research process for such a poignant topic was touching. The students were impressed he’d accomplished so much with the Disney animation side and then was able to switch gears to write "Eleven." Also, with every question asked during the Q & A session, he intentionally made a connection to the student.”

Thank you to all the parents and teachers who completed our school counseling survey. Your feedback helps us to identify the greatest needs among our students so we can plan more meaningful programs.

Congratulations to our prize winners…

Sherrlyn Lewis - Parent

Tiffany Harriman - Teacher

Amber Thomason - athomason@gwa.com

Lindsey Bailey - lbailey@gwa.com

The annual Club Expo gives middle and upper school students a chance to “shop” the club offerings at GWA. Club advisers were on-hand to answer questions and encourage students to join their group. Our clubs and organizations provide a means to serve the community, develop new skills, make friends and follow a passion. Students can become a member of so many different clubs (25+ in US, 15+ in MS) including Gavel Club, National Math Honor Society, Drama Dawgs, Book Club, Recycling Club, FCA, Glee Club, Photography Club, Pickleball Club and much more.

GWA ninth graders had a chance to bond with fellow advisory group members this week at Sojourn Adventures in Johns Creek. They worked on building teamwork skills through low ropes activities and stretched themselves to get comfortable with the uncomfortable in the high ropes challenges.

Senior Court Representatives

Mia Berry

Ana Cordero

Graham Lucas

Hannah McDonel

Elizabeth Pope

Ella Rowan

Junior Representatives

Sara Bryan

Emmie Carter (not pictured)

Sophomore Representatives

Boston Kuzava (not pictured)

Kendall Inman

Freshman Representatives

Rosemary Ferguson

Taylor Jesel

Leila Mathis

Upper PARC academic coach Tonya Coe kicks off our new In Focus feature – Faculty & Staff Spotlight! This marks her third year at GWA. She works closely with upper school students and helps them to achieve their full academic potential. Tonya attended Georgia Southern University where she met her husband, Donnie. Together they have two boys - Dylan is currently at Georgia Southern pursuing a degree in business management and sales. Dawson is a senior in high school and is planning to attend the University of Tennessee next year to play baseball. Tonya enjoys watching her boys play sports, shopping, traveling and spending time with family and friends (including her dog, Beau!).

Congratulations to the cast of Winnie the Pooh!

The Middle School Dramatic Performance Production

Performances: November 17, 2021 at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.

at the George Walton Academy Auditorium

Congratulations to the cast of Nunsense!

The Georgia High School Association One Act Competition Piece.

Performances: October 29, 2021 at 4 p.m .and 7 p.m.

at the George Walton Academy Auditorium

Your contribution to the Education Tax Credit program benefits GWA, our families, and you the taxpayer/donor. Your participation contributes to the financial well-being of the school, better offerings and continuation of great programs for all of our students, and you get to take the 100% state tax credit. The win-win-win trifecta!

There are close to $16 million in 2021 tax credits still available, but these won’t last much longer. Participating now will mean that your payment will be due around the end of October or early November (60 days after receiving approval from the DOR). Don’t wait! We need you NOW! Please contact Jenni Cole if you have any questions, or if you need any help in completing the tax credit application. Help us reach our goal for GOAL!

Click HERE for more details and the tax credit application.