Former Atlanta Brave Brian Jordan visits Centennial Place Elementary

Retired Atlanta Braves outfielder turned children’s author, Brian Jordan, visited Centennial Place Elementary School to promote the importance of reading as part of the Threshing Floor Academy‘s Authors in Schools Program.

Jordan shared his experiences as a professional athlete and how getting a good and well-rounded education was always the first priority in his family. Jordan also shared with students what inspired him to become a children’s author. “I love to read and I want every single one of you to understand the importance of reading and one day you can become an author, too.”

Thomasville Heights Elementary celebrates KaBoom! playground

“It’s amazing what can happen when people come together on behalf of students.”

With those words from Thomasville Heights Elementary Principal Charles Penn, the school celebrated its new KaBooom! playground and outdoor classroom. Foresters, a Toronto-based insurance company, funded the project and provided about 200 volunteers who helped pour concrete, rake mulch and erect a playground that features climbing walls, a cloud walk and, of course, swings. Donning their trademark red t-shirts, Foresters volunteers kept busy hammering, drilling and slowly transforming an open area into a fun play space. The company has dedicated $1.5 million to creating playgrounds in the United States as part of its mission to champion families.

King Middle School students get back in the pool

Atlanta Public Schools’ lone swimming pool, at King Middle School, has reopened and has been offering students as a chance to learn valuable swimming skills. These skills, which range from something as basic and crucial as drowning prevention to health and wellness, were captured in this informative video produced by APS Media Production Manager Scott King and narrated by Director of Media Relations Keith Bromery.