Three SCCPSS high schools have a 100% graduation rate

Georgia’s high-school seniors recorded another all-time-high graduation rate – and significant year-over-year improvement – in 2025. The four-year graduation rate for the state of Georgia rose to 87.2% – up from 85.4% in 2024, and an all-time high since the state began using the adjusted cohort calculation first required in 2011 by federal law.

The 2025 graduation rate for Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools is 87.2% also, with 2,229 students graduating out of a class of 2,557.  This represents a .4% increase compared to last year and matches the state’s graduation rate.  Savannah Early College High School and Woodville-Tompkins Technical and Career High School maintained their 100% graduation rate, with a third SCCPSS high school – Savannah Arts Academy – joining the ranks. 

“I am so proud of Georgia’s class of 2025 and the teachers, staff, and families who supported them,” State School Superintendent Richard Woods said. “Seeing this increase in a single year is a strong indicator of the work Georgia’s schools and districts are doing to keep students engaged in their education and prepare them for successful lives after high school. While more work remains to be done, more Georgia students are graduating than ever before – and they’re doing so prepared to pursue futures full of opportunity.”

Dr. Denise Watts, Superintendent of Savannah-Chatham County Public School System, echoed Superintendent Woods’ comments.  “The Class of 2025 represents the very best of SCCPSS—resilient, determined, and prepared for a future full of possibilities. This year’s graduation rate reflects the tireless commitment of our educators, staff, and families to high-quality instruction and student support. Together, we’ve created learning environments that empower students to pursue choice-filled lives and contribute meaningfully to their communities.”

How Georgia calculates its graduation rate

Georgia calculates a four-year adjusted cohort graduation rate as required by federal law. This rate is:

• The number of students who graduate in four years with a regular high school diploma, divided by
• The number of students who form the adjusted cohort for the graduating class.

Adjusted Cohort Rate Definition: From the beginning of ninth grade, students who are entering that grade form a cohort that is subsequently adjusted by adding any students who transfer into the cohort during the next three years and subtracting any students who transfer out.

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LitTalks is this Friday, Oct. 3 in Savannah.

Hear inspiring stories from Savannah Chatham County Public School staff and students about their passion for literacy and writing, then walk away with useful strategies you can use right away.

This event takes place on Friday, October 3, from 5-7 at Beach High School’s auditorium.

Click here to RSVP to LitTalks

All are welcome – families, community members, SCCPSS staff, and of course, students!

LitTalks is an opportunity to challenge your notions of what literacy is, how to promote literacy with youth, and leave with practical action steps you can take.

Come to LitTalks to hear:

Christina Maldonado, Director of Oatland Island

Melody Senia-Santiago, Instructional Specialist

Shawn Towner, Secondary Literacy Specialist

Annie Hartley, 7th Grader at Charles Ellis Montessori

Keyonna Mitchell, 12th grader at Savannah High School

Click here to RSVP to LitTalks

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Halloween Hike 2025 @ Oatland Island Wildlife Center, Savannah

Make plans to attend one of the best Savannah Fall kids traditions: Halloween Hike @ Oatland Island Wildlife Center Fri & Sat. Oct. 17 & 18, 5-8PM.

Advanced Reservations Required. Tickets go on sale to the public at 9AM Monday, Sept. 29th. Purchase tickets online here.

Walk with your trick or treater through Oatland’s friendly forest of nature trails to meet and gather goodies from cheerful animal characters. Face painting, crafts, concessions, and much more. Learn more here.

Ticket prices: Adult – $8, Children – $10

Early Registration opened to current (as of September 22nd) FOO (Friends of Oatland) members on Friday, September 26th. 

NOTE: Oatland Island will close to the public at 3:30 PM to prepare for Halloween Hike. Last admissions will be at 2:00 PM.

Learn more here.

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Tickets on sale for Coastal Heritage Society signature fall event: Frogwarts 2025

Frogwarts tickets are selling out.

Georgia State Railroad Museum and Savannah Children’s Museum will transform into a magical Harry Potter-themed experience during “Frogwarts” on Sunday, October 19th, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Tickets for this event are now available for purchase in advance here: bit.ly/Frogwarts2025.

Cost: $15 for Coastal Heritage Society members; $17 for non-members. Become a Coastal Heritage Society member here: https://chsgeorgia.org/membership/

Families are immersed in STEAM activities, such as chemistry, engineering, biology, and art, all disguised as magical classes inspired by the beloved book series.

Highlights include: train rides; wand-making; potions; quill writing; reptiles; owls; quidditch; STEAM activities; and more.

Lowcountry Turners will be making custom lathe-turned wands that will be available for purchase while supplies last.

Other activities will be led by CHS community partners including Dogwood Pediatric Dentistry, Callaway Critters, Georgia Southern Center for Wildlife Education, Memorial Health Dwaine & Cynthia Willett Children’s Hospital, Coastal Rail Buffs, Garrison Voices, Snapology, Savannah Tree Foundation, and Starbase Savannah.

Top Dog, Popcorn Geeks, Pie Society food trucks plus Savannah Square Pops will be on site with food available for purchase.

This event is sponsored by Colonial Group, Inc., the Lesher Family Foundation, Dogwood Pediatric Dentistry.

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Wiener Dog Races @ Plant Riverside District, Savannah

Get ready for the cutest competition of the year!

The 2025 Savannah Wiener Dog Races are hitting the track on Saturday, October 11, at Plant Riverside District, presented in partnership with Savannah’s Waterfront.

Watch these spirited dachshunds dash for glory in a fun-filled event the whole family will love.

Riverwalk @ Plant Riverside District

11 AM Saturday Oct. 11

Find more Savannah Fall Fun here.

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Free introductory class with your child

Try a free introductory Kindermusik class with your newborn – seven year old!  

Kindermusik with 88 Keys Piano in Bloomingdale has been serving the community for 23 years, and can’t wait to welcome you and your little one into the family!

Text FREE CLASS to 912-432-5885 to set up your free trial class.  

Watch a Kindermusik video here.

Kindermusik…A Good Beginning Never Ends. 

Sign up here. kindermusikwith88keys.com 

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Tybee Pirate Fest Parade, 3PM Saturday, Oct. 11

The Pirate Victory Parade will take place Saturday October 11th starting at 3pm. Parade will leave from 4th Street and make its way to Tybrisa St. and the festival grounds.

Free & open to the public.

See the Tybee Pirate Fest 2025 schedule here.

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SouthCoast Health Pediatrics in Savannah, Richmond Hill, Rincon

Back to school time can also mean back to germs.

SouthCoast Health experts share tips here on how to keep kids healthy in the classroom

According to a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 22 million school days are lost each year thanks to the common cold, and approximately 38 million school days are lost due to influenza.

Get SouthCoast Health’s tips on keeping your kids healthy here.

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SouthCoast Health Pediatrics locations

Savannah: SouthCoast Health Pediatrics Savannah
New location: 815 East 68th Street, Suite B
912.303.3500

Richmond Hill: SouthCoast Health Pediatrics Richmond Hill
89 Interchange Dr, Ste B
912.527.5352

Rincon: SouthCoast Health Pediatrics Rincon
814 Towne Park Dr East
912.826.4866

SouthCoast Health is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser 

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Parents’ Night Out @ Rise Gymnastics, Savannah

Need a childfree evening? Rise Gymnastics in Savannah has you covered.

Saturday, September 27th

6:00–10:00 PM

Rise Gymnastics Academy

Drop off your kids (ages 5–12) for a night full of games, gymnastics, crafts, dinner, and more while you enjoy a well-deserved night out!

$50 per child

$30 for each additional sibling

Spots are limited—reserve your child’s spot today for a night of fun and some well-earned free time for you. Register online through the parent portal and under the events tab.

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SouthernMamas.com Weekly E-letter, Sept. 24

Things to do with kids in Savannah this month & this fall including a list of free local kids’ events.

Find it all in this week’s free SouthernMamas.com E-letter.

Read it here.

Subscribe for free here.

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Savannah, Pooler Pediatricians: Coastal Pediatrics

Are you expecting a new baby or considering a change in pediatricians?

Give Coastal Pediatrics a call! 912.353.7744

They would love the opportunity to show you around their office and provide care for your family.

Learn more here.

Coastal Pediatrics- Savannah
2 Wheeler Street
Savannah, GA 31405

Coastal Pediatrics- Pooler
1000 Towne Center Blvd
Building 1000B
Pooler, GA 31322

Tell them SouthernMamas.com sent you.

Check out this review by a local parent.

“Switched to this practice a year ago for my twins. I wish we didn’t waste five previous years with a different practice. EVERYONE at the office is amazing. They get you in same day for sick visits. You spend a very short time to be seen. Dr. Callan has been amazing on finally trying to help get my sons Asthma under control, without keeping him on unnecessary medication. The two NP I have seen have been wonderful as well. Beyond grateful to find such a great practice for my children.”

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School’s Out Day Camps @ The Jam UAC, Savannah

Schools closed? We’re OPEN!

Give your kids a full day of movement, fun, and skill-building at The Jam UAC in Savannah.

What they’ll do:
-> Gymnastics, Ninja, and Parkour stations
-> Skill circuits, games, obstacle courses
-> Trampoline time and strength/flexibility work No downtime—just active, engaging fun all day.

* Time: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
* Ages: 6+
* Cost: $60 through 09/30/25 • $75 starting 10/01/25 • $80 day-of drop-off

School’s Out Camps:

9AM-3PM Monday, Oct. 13th

9AM-3PM Tuesday Nov. 4th

9AM-3PM Monday Nov. 10th

9AM-3PM Thanksgiving Camps – November 24–26

Sign up here.

Important:
This is not daycare—it’s an activity-driven camp where kids are moving and engaged all day.

Be ready to MOVE!

Limited spots. Reserve now to lock in early pricing.
Questions? Call (912) 210-2029 or email admin@thejamurbanclub.com 

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The Jam UAC is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

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October Kids’ Programs @ Skidaway Island State Park, Savannah

Fun nature kids’ programs happening in October 2025 @ Skidaway Island State Park in Savannah.

Unless otherwise noted, programs are free. $5 for parking.

An * indicates pre-registration is required.

Call the Visitor Center at 912.598.2300 to register for programs with an asterisk *.

All About Bats: 6-7:30PM Friday Oct. 17. Join us for a bat watch and expert talk as the sun sets in the sky and the bats begin to fly. Meet at Picnic Shelter 1. $5 parking. 912-598-2300.

*Create A Critter Mask, 11AM-Noon Sunday Oct. 19. Whoo whoo makes “spooky” noises at night? Make a mask while you learn about nocturnal animals for whom the night is a delight! Meet in the Interpretive Center. $5 plus $5 parking. 912-598-2300.

*Seasonal Suncatchers, 11AM Sunday Oct. 5, 11AM Monday Oct. 27. Gourd-geous pumpkin or beautiful bat, you choose! Make a seasonal sun-catcher and learn how bats benefit plants like pumpkins and more! Meet in the Interpretive Center. $5 plus $5 parking. 912-598-2300.

*Bats in the Belfry: Dangling Decorations, 11AM Thursday, Oct. 23, Wednesday Oct. 29. Make a bat garland to hang in your belfry or home, and learn more about bats and their contributions to our ecosystem. Meet in the Interpretive Center. $5 plus $5 parking. 912-598-2300.

Trek n’ Treat: 4-7PM Saturday, Oct. 25. Enjoy the magic of the park at dark while enjoying fun activities and collecting tasty treats. Meet at Picnic Shelters 2 & 3. $5 parking. 912-598-2300.

*Full Moon Hike: 7-8:30PM Monday Oct. 6. Come view the Harvest Moon in its full glory above your favorite state park. Join us for a hike as we experience the trails in whole new light. Spaces are limited, call the Visitor Center at (912) 598-2300 to reserve yours today! Advance registration is required. Meet at the Visitor Center. $15 plus $5 parking. 912-598-2300.

iNaturalist 101: 11AM Friday Oct. 10. Are you an iNaturalist user? Learn how to use this powerful citizen science tool. We will show you how to use the smartphone applications to make observations, suggest identifications, explore wildlife in the local area, and more! $5 parking. 912-598-2300.

Archery*: Saturday Oct. 4, Sunday Oct. 12, Saturday Oct. 18 10am-Noon. Hour-long slots available during the hours listed. Learn the basics of archery and test your skills on the range. This program will cover basic safety and technique. Equipment provided. Participants must be at least 10 years old. $10 per person. Please call the Visitor Center to reserve your hour in advance. Plan to arrive at least 10 minutes early to check in at the archery range near the day use comfort station.

*Diamondback Terrapins 3PM Saturday. Oct. 4. The diamondback terrapin is the only turtle that lives specifically in brackish water. It is a keystone species in the saltmarsh ecosystem. Come join us for a closer look at this jewel of the marsh. Meet in the Interpretive Center for a 30-minute program and see our two live diamondback terrapins. $5 parking. 912-598-2300.

Fungi Friday Hike, 10AM Friday Oct. 3: Have you ever wondered how and why mushrooms grow the way they do? Join our interpretive ranger to learn more as we find and identify fungi on and near the trails. Be sure to bring your smartphone or camera! Meet at the Big Ferry Trailhead. 1-2 mile hike.

Picnic at the Point, Noon, Sunday, Oct. 26. Pack a lunch and join us for a laid-back hike to the picnic area at the intersection of the Avian Loop and Connector Trail. Meet at the Sandpiper Trailhead at 12:00 PM. The total distance is approximately 2 miles, with a break at the Skidaway Narrows to eat lunch and chat as we enjoy the view. $5 parking. 912-598-2300.

Read with a Ranger, 10AM Tuesday Oct. 14 & Tuesday Oct. 28. Young children will enjoy getting out for this hour of interactive reading. Listen to nature stories perfect for children with a love of the outdoors. Meet at the Interpretive Center; program will be held outside in fair weather.

Roving Ranger, Oct. 8, Oct. 15, Oct. 16, Oct. 20. A ranger will be roving the trails to answer your questions about local flora, fauna, and more.

Snakes of Skidaway: Corn Snake, Friday Oct. 3 & Tuesday Oct. 21; Rat Snake Tuesday Oct. 7 & Thursday, Oct. 30; Garter Snake, Thursday Oct. 9; King Snake, Saturday Oct. 18. Come by the Interpretive Center to learn all about one of our ambassador snakes: This month, we will feature one of the corn snakes & the eastern king snake. You will have the opportunity to meet & touch the snake.

Unboxing the Box Turtle: 3PM Friday Oct. 10, Tuesday Oct. 14. Come meet some of our most elusive residents, the box turtles, and learn about their habits and amazing characteristics. Meet in the Interpretive Center.

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Skidaway Island State Park is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

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Kindermusik music and movement classes in Bloomingdale

Try a class…on us!

First introductory class is free. We’d love to welcome you into our Kindermusik family in Bloomingdale, Ga., going 23 years strong!

Have a newborn? Infants up to 10 weeks attend 100% free.  

Text FREE CLASS to 912-432-5885 or visit kindermusikwith88keys.com for more info!

Kindermusik…A Good Beginning Never Ends.

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Kindermusik is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

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Now booking birthday parties at both Savannah Sharks locations

Have your child’s birthday at Savannah Sharks! 

​Two Locations — Savannah & Rincon

​Savannah Sharks offer 2 hours of rental space for birthday parties and special events with an additional 20 minutes for set-up time.

**Book additional hours upon request ($100/ additional hour)

2 Hour Parties Include

*Up to 35 guests per party (this includes adults and children)

*Rental of the full gym (Both Party Room and Play Area)

*Access to all equipment, including the BOUNCY HOUSE/TRACK and Trampoline

*1 Party Host to facilitate safety and crowd control as well help with setup

*20min before the party for set-up​​ (you may bring any food or drink)

​Party Cost: $385

​​​Party time slots are only available 

*Fridays

Limited availability upon request

*Saturdays

10am-12pm​

1pm-3pm​

4pm-6pm​

*Sunday

Limited availability upon request

Learn more and book a party here.

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Savannah Sharks is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

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Friday Night = Parent’s Night Out at Riverfront Gymnastics, Bloomingdale

Drop your little superstar off for games, pizza, open gym, and non-stop Friday Funday @ Riverfront Gymnastics Center in Bloomingdale—while you sneak in a well-deserved date night or some “you-time!” 

Every Friday | 7–9 PM

Only $29.99

Potty-trained kiddos only!

Spots fill fast—save yours here: Sign Up Now!

Let’s make Friday nights the highlight of your week—happy kids + happy parents = a win-win!

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Art Class for Home School Youth Ages 6-8!

Home schooled kids ages 6-8 can enjoy an afternoon of fun art activities this fall at the Cultural Arts Center! 

Learn, create, and have fun in our weekly art series prepared for home schooled students! Each session will offer a different creative and educational activity to foster artistic expression. All materials included.

Visit savannahga.gov/artsclasses to learn more and register today!

All classes take place at the Otis S. Johnson Cultural Arts Center (formerly called Savannah Cultural Arts Center) located at 201 Montgomery St.

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Otis S. Johnson Cultural Arts Center is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

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Registration for Youth Visual Arts Classes is Now Open at the Cultural Arts Center!

Looking for a fun and engaging activity for you youth or teen? Enroll them in an arts class at the Otis S. Johnson Cultural Arts Center! Registration is now open for Fall 2 term with a variety of 6-week visual arts classes starting the week of October 13^th. Browse the full catalog below: 

Art for Home School Youth (Ages 6-8)

Discovering Art (Ages 6-8)

Adventures in Art (Ages 9-12)

Youth Clay (Ages 9-12)

Teen Clay (Ages 13-18)

Home School Clay for Ages 6-8

Home School Clay for Ages 9-12

Visit savannahga.gov/artsclasses to learn more and register today! All classes take place at the Otis S. Johnson Cultural Arts Center (formerly called Savannah Cultural Arts Center) located at 201 Montgomery St.

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Otis S. Johnson Cultural Arts Center is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

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Math and Reading Program @ Kumon Savannah-Picadilly Square

There’s a new Kumon Center near you!

The Kumon Math and Reading Program is an individualized, step-by-step learning program for all kids what works alongside their school learning.

Book a free assessment.

Learn more and enroll online here.

Questions? Email janesecooper@ikumon.com or call 912-581-3313

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Kumon Savannah-Picadilly Square is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

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Scribble Art Studio Savannah

Scribble Art Studio in Savannah offers a variety of art classes including:

School’s Out Holiday Classes/Camps. Learn more here.

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Portfolio Builder Classes for those who plan on applying to art schools. Learn more here.

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Afterschool Art Classes. All skill levels. Learn more here.

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Homeschool Art Classes. Learn more here.

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Fiber Arts Fridays. Learn more here.

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Sewing Saturdays. Learn more here.

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Scribble Art Studio also is a fun venue for children’s art birthday parties. Learn more here.

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Scribble Art Studio is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

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Free Kindermusik Classes, Savannah

Fall 2025 marks two milestone anniversaries for Kindermusik with 88 Keys: 11 years at their dedicated Bloomingdale studio, and 23 years of teaching Kindermusik around coastal Georgia.

Kindermusik is offering 6 FREE celebration classes for the community!

Come to one of the dates below for a totally free class with a fun surprise theme, sweet treats, and special gifts for everyone.

Spaces are limited in all the classes and will be closed as soon as each one fills

Limit, you may only enroll in one class. Choose your preferred time and come celebrate.

Sign up here.

Location: Kindermusik with 88 Keys Piano Studio, 183 Deerfield Rd W, Bloomingdale GA 31302

Celebration Class Schedule

Monday, September 22 at 10 am: Ages 0-7 (FULL)

Monday, September 22 at 11 am: Ages 0-24 months

Monday, September 22 at 6:30 pm: Ages 0-7

Tuesday, September 23 at 10 am: Ages 0-7

Wednesday, September 24 at 10 am: Ages 0-7

Wednesday, September 24 at 11 am: Ages 0-7

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Holiday Farms pumpkin patch, hayrides in RIdgeland SC

18th Annual The Great Pumpkin Patch @ Holiday Farms in Ridgeland SC (about an hour drive from Savannah) will be open for the 2025 season October 3-31.

Activities for kids including Duck Races, Haytona Speedway, Corn Grinding, Steer Roping, Cow Milking, Corn Maze, Barnyard Animals & MORE! Plus, a General Store.

Hours

Thursday-Friday: 12pm – 6pm

Saturday: 9am-6pm

Sunday: 12pm – 6pm

Columbus Day Monday, Oct. 13th: 9am-2pm

$15 per person ages 2 & older

Free pumpkin (pie pumpkin) with each paid admission.

Saturdays and Sundays only – unlimited barrel train rides for children is an additional $3

CLOSED Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays.

Concessions available daily from 11AM-5PM and LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Saturdays from 11AM-3PM and Sundays 1-4PM

Military Appreciation Day – Oct. 4: HALF PRICE admission for all military and immediate family with proper ID.

Learn more & purchase tickets online here.

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Reservations now being taken for groups and field trips. Call 843-726-5527 or email holidayfarms@yahoo.com. Tell them SouthernMamas.com sent you.

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Kumon Center of Pooler: Math & Reading Program

Kumon in Pooler helps strengthen your child’s math and reading skills with practice.

Learn more here.

Questions? Email janesecooper@ikumon.com or call 912-920-8899

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Kumon Pooler is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

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Rise Gymnastics Academy, Savannah

Rise Gymnastics Academy in Savannah has so much happening this fall including……

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Tumble Time @ Rise Gymnastics, Savannah

EVERY TUESDAY AND FRIDAY

Enjoy open play in Rise Gymnastics‘ safe, kid-friendly gym space where little ones can climb, jump, balance, and explore at their own pace. It’s the perfect way to burn energy, build coordination, and connect with other families!

9:30AM-11:00AM Tuesdays & Fridays

For ages 5 and younger- must be accompanied by an adult

$10 if pre registered/$15 at the door

Pre-register here.

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Schools Out Day Camps @ Rise Gymnastics Academy, Savannah

Looking for something fun for the kids when school’s out? Come to Rise Gymnastics Academy in Savannah for their Fall Day Camps.

October 10th & 13th

Full Day: 9am – 3pm (Ages 5–12) – $60/day

Half Day: 9am – 12pm (Ages 3–6) – $35/day

Early drop-off available from 7:30–9:00am for just $10

Your kids will spend the day moving, learning gymnastics, doing arts and crafts and having FUN in the gym while making new friends and burning off energy.

Register today through the Parent Portal – spots are limited!

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Parents’ Night Out @ Rise Gymnastics, Savannah

Need a childfree evening? Rise Gymnastics in Savannah has you covered.

Saturday, September 27th

6:00–10:00 PM

Rise Gymnastics Academy

Drop off your kids (ages 5–12) for a night full of games, gymnastics, crafts, dinner, and more while you enjoy a well-deserved night out!

$50 per child

$30 for each additional sibling

Spots are limited—reserve your child’s spot today for a night of fun and some well-earned free time for you. Register online through the parent portal and under the events tab.

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Rise Gymnastics Academy in Savannah is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

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