Editor’s note: The following is the fourth in a series of articles previewing the upcoming school year at each public and private school in Athens and Limestone County.

School name: Julian Newman Elementary School

Principal: Sharla Birdsong

Amount of time as principal: One (beginning second year)

Grades: K-4

Total number of students: 365

Total number of teachers: 30

Total number of support staff: 15

New programs: “We’re not implementing new programs. Instead, we’re taking existing units and programs and making adjustments,” Birdsong said. “We want to provide students with multiple opportunities to be engaged and empowered in their own learning. We’re focusing on student-centered lessons and projects, and project-based learning.”

What makes Julian Newman Elementary special: “It’s a small school, and we are centered on ‘One Athens’ traditions and values. I believe we have an outstanding staff committed to reaching every child and we’re fortunate to have support from the community and parents. That’s what makes us so special.”

Primary objectives for 2017-2018: “I think we would like to deepen the structure of our student activities by allowing them more opportunities to think critically, collaborate with others and make adjustments with their learning. We already have a great foundation and we want to continue to move forward.”

What the principal is looking forward to: “I think, like any principal, I am looking forward to seeing the students back on the first day of school. The hallways are very quiet in the summer, and I miss the laughter and the footsteps and the teachers and staff. I’m ready to get people back in the building.”