Even before school ended for summer last May, construction and infrastructure improvements began in earnest across the Athens Academy campus. This summer alone, Athens Academy is investing over
$4.5 million in order to provide students and faculty with optimal tools and spaces for teaching and learning. The many projects range from a major renovation of Erwin Hall and construction of a new tennis center to the repaving of all campus roadways and most parking lots—no small feat for a property that spans over 150 acres.

In the midst of the construction and upgrading, Athens Academy’s Summer Programs have seen record enrollment, with over 1,200 campers visiting Spartan Lane throughout the seven weeks of programming. The school also looks forward to welcoming almost 100 new students and thirteen new faculty members in August.

“Athens Academy never slows down,” says Head of School John Thorsen. “We are grateful for our families and donors, whose generosity allows these enhancements to happen for the benefit of our students, faculty and broader community. Their philanthropic support has added a significant margin of excellence for decades.”

Thorsen continues, “Education is one of the most important differentiators in a child’s life, and we are fortunate to have a community that believes in our continued excellence and providing unrivaled facilities, programs and faculty for the children of Northeast Georgia.”

The Erwin Hall renovations will result in improved teaching and learning spaces for grades 3 and 4 as well as the World Languages and Maker Space programs. Technology (including new short-throw projectors and wireless access points) has been upgraded throughout the entire Lower School. The new tennis complex, slated to be finished later this fall, will include locker rooms, restrooms, storage and office space for coaches.

In the Sinkwich Spartan Center, a new video board and sound system have been installed to improve the experience for athletes as well as community-wide gatherings. In addition to new and upgraded spaces, campus improvements include the replacement of HVAC units, plumbing repairs, the purchase of a new bus for expanded bus routes and field trips, enhancements to the Lower School playground, and much more.

With an annual operating budget of $21 million and almost 200 faculty and staff, Athens Academy is one of the largest employers in the Athens area and has proudly served the families of Northeast Georgia for over 55 years. The school—a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization—supports other non-profits all over the region, including the FoodBank of Northeast Georgia, Hope Haven, ESP, Lydia’s Place and the Athens

Area Homeless Shelter. Each year, Athens Academy’s graduates matriculate at over 40 colleges and universities, across fifteen or more states, with the majority joining the University of Georgia.

Athens Academy is an independent, co-educational school for students in K3 through 12th grade, located on a beautiful 152-acre campus in Northeast Georgia. Now in its 57th year, Athens Academy pursues its mission of “excellence with honor” through academics, athletics, fine arts, and service and leadership. Ranked the #1 private school in Athens, #9 college prep school in the state of Georgia, and #1 private school in Northeast Georgia (Niche.com).

For more information, please contact Kelley Cuneo, communications director, at [email protected] or 706-433-2410.