News & Announcements
TFS opens new year with renewed emphasis on academics, character
Shown, from left, are fifth grader Henry Rickman of Tiger
and seventh grader Katherine Tench of Clarkesville.
These two students were among the first group to
experience the new rock climbing wall located in the
student activity centeron the campus of the middle
school. A September 21 ribbon cutting/grand opening is planned.
With its mission to elevate intellect and character, Tallulah Falls School begins the academic year with high expectations. This year’s start brought renewed focus to both goals.
At the middle school campus, faculty/staff unveiled the Tallulah 12, a foundational approach to building community within an academic environment. More than 180 students in grades five through eight are spending the first week of school getting to know each other and the faculty/staff members.
“Establishing a positive school culture is goal No. 1,” said President Larry A. Peevy. “Campus-wide, we put a strong emphasis on the development of character while pursuing academic excellence.”
At both schools, assemblies brought students together on the first day to hear about highlights for the new school year and to introduce faculty members.
The addition of a fifth grade and the launch of the Tallulah 12 were at the top of the agenda at the middle school. Students were divided into four “houses,” learned the school’s Alma Mater and practiced school cheers. New students sampled the famed school lunch.
The opening of the new student activity center at the middle school also generated excitement about the expansive gym, fitness areas, performance and classroom space and rock climbing wall. Outdoor gathering areas were full of students on the first day with teachers leading lessons outside.
Laptops were issued to all students, with the middle school receiving Google Chromebooks. Virtual field trips are also new this year with students having access to smartphones with special virtual reality headsets. There are 300-plus Virtual Field trips available.
At the upper school, students were introduced to expanded college courses, with the total course offerings increasing to 21. College professors were on campus to deliver lectures and a new school counselor is in place to provide student support.
“Our academic staff has prepared well for the school year,” Peevy said. “Our goals for this year are to further enhance our reputation as a top-quality college preparatory school. New faculty/staff members are in place to broaden the student experience with our seasoned educators helping to provide a seamless transition.”
According to Peevy, school started with 467 students, 184 at the middle school and 283 at the upper school. There are 334 day students and 133 boarding students. The student body represents 16 countries, 11 states and 22 counties in Georgia. Locally, 211 students are from Habersham County, 29 are from Rabun County, 31 are from Stephens County and 47 are from White County.
For more information about Tallulah Falls School, visit tallulahfalls.org or find the school on Facebook.