a
Lorem ipsum gravida nibh vel velit auctor aliquetenean sollicitudin, lorem quis bibendum auci elit consequat ipsutis sem nibh id elit duis sed.
Monday - Friday 08:00 - 20:00

Saturday and Sunday - CLOSED

+ 0800 2466 7921

cornerstone@qode.com

34th Avenue

New York, W2 3XE

WELCOME TO GOOD Ol'BOYS PLUMBING

Call Us (678) 954-7611

FOLLOW US
Monday - Friday 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Saturday and Sunday - CLOSED

(678) 954-7611

info@goodolboysplumbing.com

Location

5975 Shiloh Rd suite 114 11, Alpharetta, GA 30005

Top

Learn How Good Ol' Boys Plumber Can Lower Your Water Bill

Plumbing and Water Heater Services You Can Rely On

  • Top Choice for Reliable Plumbing
  • 4 Reasons to Consider Professional Plumbing
  • Signs of Burst Pipes
  • Concerned About Leaks
Plumber Johns Creek, GA

Plumber in Johns Creek, GA

Have you ever been in a situation where one of your home's most crucial systems is compromised? When it comes to serious issues that can put your family at risk, plumbing problems are among the most concerning. That's because, in the blink of an eye, things can snowball out of control, leaving you feeling helpless with no idea how to remedy the situation.

So, when unexpected water leaks and other plumbing problems pop up, you've got to act fast and reach out to a reliable plumber for help. While that sounds easy enough, many plumbing companies promise fast results but don't have the proper tools or training to truly remedy your plumbing issue. That's where the Good Ol' Boys swoop in to help save the day.

At Good Ol' Boys Plumbing, we take pride in delivering exceptional service to our customers. We understand the stress and inconvenience that plumbing problems can cause, and that's why we're committed to providing reliable solutions that you can count on. Our team of skilled plumbing professionals is dedicated to delivering the highest level of service possible, and we always go the extra mile to ensure that our customers are satisfied with the work we do. Whether you're dealing with a leaky faucet or a major plumbing emergency, you can rest assured that Good Ol' Boys Plumbing has you covered.

Service Areas

 Plumbing Johns Creek, GA

Trust the Good Ol' Boys Plumbing Difference

When it comes to plumbing and water heater services for residential and commercial properties in Georgia, Good Ol' Boys Plumbing has been a trusted name in the industry for more than 15 years. We have enjoyed continued success throughout the years because we strive to provide quality plumbing services at affordable prices. It's just that simple - no sketchy sales tactics or confusing fine print.

Why? Because that's how we would want to be treated. In fact, we make it a point to exceed expectations and get the job done right with every service call we make. When you trust our team, we reciprocate that trust by treating your home or business as if it were our own.

Our skilled plumbers have the experience and expertise to handle any issue, big or small. We take pride in providing top-notch service and guarantee your satisfaction with every job, from minor repairs to major emergencies.

Our team of seasoned plumbers specializes in a wide range of plumbing services, including:

  • General Plumbing in GA
  • Leak Detection and Repair
  • Faucet Repair & Replacement
  • Garbage Disposal Repair & Replacement
  • Exterior Underground Waterline Pipe Repair & Replacement
  • In-Slab Pipe Repair
  • Main Line Water Service Line Replacement
  • Disruption of Water Service
  • Water Heater Repair & Replacement
  • Much More
 Plumbing Company Johns Creek, GA

Why Do Customers Choose Good Ol' Boys Plumbing?

 Plumbers Johns Creek, GA

More Bang for Your Buck

Looking for cost-effective plumbing services in Georgia? Look no further than our team of expert technicians, who are dedicated to delivering top-notch services without draining your checking account. When you choose our plumbers, you can rest easy that your family is in experienced, compassionate, and capable hands.

 Hot Water Heater Replacement Johns Creek, GA

Your Local Plumber in Johns Creek, GA

Our professional plumbers aren't just experts in their field - they're local tradesmen dedicated to providing you peace of mind in trying times. We provide you with excellent service you can trust and are proud to offer guarantees on our work. We always make it a point to treat our customers with the utmost respect and work hard to give you as much value for your money as possible.

 Tankless Water Heaters Replacement Johns Creek, GA

Emergency Plumbing Services

Our plumbers in Alpharetta want to help you find a solution for your plumbing issues and offer preventative advice as a shield against upcoming problems. But sometimes, accidents and emergencies happen. When they do, you need a reliable plumber who can diagnose and fix your issue ASAP. At Good Ol' Boys Plumbing, we handle all general and emergency plumbing situations. Call us at (678) 954-7611 for an immediate solution to your plumbing needs.

Reasons to Consider Professional Plumbing in Johns Creek, GA

As a homeowner, it's wise to save money by tackling certain plumbing repairs on your own. Local home improvement stores are a great resource for getting the right equipment and advice for minor issues like running toilets. However, it's important to keep in mind that not all plumbing repairs are suitable for non-professionals.

To prevent water damage to your property, it's always best to leave complex repairs to the experts. Technicians at Good Ol' Boys Plumbing receive extensive training and take courses to accumulate years of on-the-job experience to effectively detect and fix leaks, repair and replace water heaters, and clear drains without causing damage to pipes.

Here are a few of the most important reasons to hire a professional plumber for your home in Georgia:

 Water Line Replacement Johns Creek, GA

Professional Plumbers Have Experience, Which Equals Quality Work

Hiring a professional plumber is important for several reasons, with safety being at the top. Professional plumbers possess specialized skills and a deep understanding of plumbing systems and regulations. For example, when repairing water lines in your home, excavation is often necessary. Professional plumbers always contact the relevant authorities to identify any underground lines that might be affected. Additionally, they have the expertise to locate and access the pipes that need to be replaced. Soldering is another task that plumbers have to execute with skill and caution since an open flame is involved, and work is done in confined spaces. The bottom line is that licensed plumbers undergo regular safety training to ensure their work is top-notch and your family is safe.

Professional Plumbers Know the Ins and Outs of Water Damage Prevention

To avoid costly water damage repairs in your home, it's best to leave difficult plumbing problems to the professionals. Attempting to replace water shut-off valves and supply lines or repair drainpipes under sinks without the necessary skills and training can lead to weakened threading, leaks, and other ongoing issues. Even seemingly simple tasks like snaking drains can result in overflows if not done correctly. By hiring certified plumbers, you can save time and money while preventing severe water damage to your home.

Plumber Johns Creek, GA
 Plumbing Johns Creek, GA

Professional Plumbers Help Prevent Future Problems

Experienced plumbers have the know-how to fix complicated problems and the knowledge to help you prevent them from resurfacing in the future. In fact, when you work with a company like Good Ol' Boys Plumbing, you don't just receive exceptional service - you get advice on how to prevent future issues. For instance, our techs often suggest ways to steer clear of common clogs in your kitchen. They identify and fix excessive fixture leaks and offer tips on how to prevent them in the months and years that follow. By getting the job done right the first time out and providing you with preventative advice, you can save money in the long run.

Professional Plumbers Have the Right Tools for the Job

Have you ever tried fixing a plumbing problem on your own, only to find out quickly that you were underprepared and undertrained to do so? Trying to fix a complicated plumbing issue with the wrong tool is like cranking a car without gas in the tank. It just won't work. Fortunately, a seasoned plumber in Johns Creek, GA, will have the proper tools and knowledge to help.

 Plumbing Company Johns Creek, GA
 Plumbers Johns Creek, GA

Signs of Burst Pipes and Immediate Steps You Should Take

We get questions from Georgia homeowners every day asking about how to fix and prevent common plumbing problems. While ongoing maintenance and regular inspections are key in this regard, issues like burst pipes can be sudden and chaotic. To make matters worse, they often happen in between regular maintenance intervals. Although it's a rare occurrence, it's crucial to know what to do if your pipes burst. By following these tips, you can minimize immediate damage to your home while the Good Ol' Boys crew is en route to address the problem professionally. But first, let's look at a few red flags you should know about.

Most Common Signs of a Burst Pipe

 Hot Water Heater Replacement Johns Creek, GA

Water stains on walls can be caused by a variety of factors, but if they are large in size, it may be an indication of a pipe problem. Similarly, these stains can also be found on the ceiling. By examining the location of the stains, it is possible to determine where the pipe burst occurred. Hence, wall stains can be a useful tool in identifying the exact location of the burst pipe.

When you turn on the water in your home and notice a significant amount of water pooling in a location, you may have burst pipes. When this happens, water can collect and pool under your pipes and can spread through walls. For instance, if a burst occurs beneath the bathroom sink, the area directly below will most likely have a puddle of water growing in size. You may also notice puddles around the bathtub and toilet. In contrast, with a leak, water often pools under the sink and stays there.

If you're trying to wash dishes or flush the toilet, and it seems like your water pressure is non-existent, you may need professional plumbing in Johns Creek, GA. That's because when water pressure is low, it's often a sign of a pipe leak or burst. This happens because a burst affects the flow of water through your pipes, causing it to travel directly through the damaged hole instead of through the faucet, reducing the pressure of your water.

It's not uncommon for odors to emanate from water when there's a burst pipe. While there are various reasons why water might smell foul, if you detect a metallic scent along with other symptoms mentioned in this list, it's a strong indication of a burst pipe. If the burst is due to rust, your water may have a reddish hue and emit an odor that smells like metal.

When the water pipes in your home make metallic sounds and other noises, it could mean that they are moving, resulting in leaks and bursts. In fact, pipes tend to shake when water flows through them, and there's a rupture. Usually, shouldn't hear very much in the way of water moving through your pipes, but if there's a burst, it could cause more movement depending on the size and location of the rupture.

Steps to Take Before Your Pipes Burst

As a homeowner or bus mess owner in Georgia, there are steps you can take to prevent water damage caused by pipe bursts. Although it's best to leave the actual repairs to professionals, there are some simple tricks that require little knowledge of plumbing. These quick solutions can help protect important items in your home from water damage. Consider implementing these measures before your plumber from Good Ol' Boys arrives on the scene.

If you think your pipes have or might burst, turn off the main water line to your home before you do anything else. The last thing you want is for more water to be in your piping system if a burst happens. Dealing with the water already in your system is much easier to deal with. Be sure not to turn the water back on to your home until you get the green light from your plumber in Johns Creek, GA.

Once the main water supply to your home is shut off, it's time to call in the pros. Doing so ASAP will help prevent as much water damage as possible to your house. Be sure to inform our office that you're dealing with a potential burst pipe. Once your plumber arrives, they'll introduce themselves, diagnose your plumbing problem, and get to work quickly to find a solution. To prevent this issue from happening in the future, it's best to schedule regular maintenance visits with Good Ol' Boys Plumbing.

When a pipe bursts in your home, you want to drain your faucets quickly to remove any remaining water in your piping system and to take pressure off of your piping. To drain your pipes, start with cold water and then move to the hot water. Be sure your water heater is OFF when draining faucets.

To prevent excessive water damage, it's important to swiftly remove any water that may have accumulated. While some damage may be inevitable in the case of a burst pipe, the quicker you can clean up the water, the less chance your possessions have of being irreparably damaged. Additionally, fast cleanup can help prevent the growth of mold and mildew. The longer the water remains, the more likely these substances are to develop, so it's important to clean and dry the affected area as soon as possible.

When dealing with frozen pipes, it's important not to rush the process of warming them up to avoid causing more damage. A recommended method is to gradually increase the heat in your home. If this isn't sufficient, you can also use a hair dryer to gently warm the pipes. This may take longer, but it's a safer way to prevent any further breaks, as sudden temperature changes can cause the pipes to burst.

 Tankless Water Heaters Replacement Johns Creek, GA

Make An Appointment

Concerned About Clogs and Leaks? Call the Household Name for Plumbing in Johns Creek, GA

If you own a home or business in Georgia and you're worried about the state of your plumbing system, look no further than Good Ol' Boy Plumbing for help. Our technicians have the experience to get the job done quickly and correctly. Whether you need general plumbing assistance for a clog in your bathroom or specific service for a serious issue like a main water line replacement, we're here to serve you with excellence.

For over 15 years, Good Ol' Boys Plumbing has offered unmatched customer service, authenticity, integrity, and hard work for clients in our community. Our goal is to provide our customers with the effective plumbing services they need so they can get back to loving life at home in the Peach State. Contact our office to learn more about our plumbing services and to get a free estimate today.

Latest News in Johns Creek, GA

Live Music Latin Night Atlanta @ Tonys Johns Creek Sat Nov 4, 2023

Salsa ATL & D4F Presents... Live Music Noche Caliente Latin Night + Sean Christopher Pre Bday Celebration Featuring Latin Band Tres Con Cafe w/ DJ King Tito & MC JJ Jimenez Saturday Nov 4, 2023-- 9pm Salsa & Bachata lesson; Party till 2am -- Free Parking, Non-Smoking inside -- ALL November Birthday get in for free! ( must show Drivers License)Lets start the Month of November off with style! Live music with Latin Band Tres Con Cafe + DJ King Tito Providing your favorite mix of Salsa, Bachata, Merengue & ...

Salsa ATL & D4F Presents... Live Music Noche Caliente Latin Night + Sean Christopher Pre Bday Celebration Featuring Latin Band Tres Con Cafe w/ DJ King Tito & MC JJ Jimenez Saturday Nov 4, 2023

-- 9pm Salsa & Bachata lesson; Party till 2am -- Free Parking, Non-Smoking inside -- ALL November Birthday get in for free! ( must show Drivers License)

Lets start the Month of November off with style! Live music with Latin Band Tres Con Cafe + DJ King Tito Providing your favorite mix of Salsa, Bachata, Merengue & more! As an added bonus join us as we celebrate Sean-Christopher's Birthday!

Join us for a bite to eat and stay for Latin dancing with the all your favorite Latin dance music. Tonys Sports Grill in Johns creek is the place to Arrive early for the Salsa & Bachata lesson, party till 2am

Go to the link below for our event link: https://www.facebook.com/events/347343561088207/ https://www.meetup.com/salsaatlanta/events/calendar/

Where: Tony's Sports Grill - John's Creek 10305 Medlock Bridge Rd John's Creek GA 30097 770.855.4396 - question about event (470) 255-2184 - Directions -

Time: 9pm Salsa & Bachata lesson

Restaurant open for dinner earlier, Music starts promptly @ 10pm party till 2am!

Cover: $20/person cash $22/person credit -- Free for Salsa Boot Camp attendees

Go to our Facebook Fan page for all the events & classes hosted by Salsa ATL / Dancing4Fun. https://www.Facebook.com/SalsaATL/ https://www.Facebook.com/Dancing4FunATL

https://www.Instagram.com/SalsaATL/ https://www.Instagram.com/Dancing4FunATL/

https://www.meetup.com/Dancing4Fun/ https://www.meetup.com/SalsaAtlanta/

Call or Text if you have any question about the event. Sean-Christopher 770 855 4396 text/call text preferred https://www.Instagram.com/Dancing4FunATL/ https://www.meetup.com/salsaatlanta/ https://www.meetup.com/dancing4fun/ https://www.NewYearsEvePartyAtlanta.com/ https://www.Facebook.com/NewYearsEvePartyAtlanta/ https://www.Instagram.com/NewYearsEvePartyAtlanta/ https://www.facebook.com/BachataAfterDark/ https://www.instagram.com/BachataAfterDark/ https://www.BachataAfterDark.com https://www.facebook.com/events/878293286563490/ - Feb 14, 2023 - Tongue & Groove https://www.facebook.com/events/706997804193813/ -- Wed Nov 22, 2023 Pre Thanksgiving T&G https://www.facebook.com/events/1121110845940638/ - Fri Nov 24, 2023 Thanksgiving weekend https://www.facebook.com/events/222033287557802/ - Sat Nov 25, 2023 Thanksgiving weekend

https://www.facebook.com/events/333576775711523/ -- Wed Jan 3, 2024 https://www.facebook.com/events/6749977518457096/ -- Fri Jan 5, 2024 https://www.facebook.com/events/1352477715674698/ - Sat Jan 6, 2024

https://www.facebook.com/events/6489069907879747/ -- Sanctuary Pre Party Dec 29, 2023 https://www.facebook.com/events/707774621257295/ -- Opening Night Dec 30, 2023 https://www.facebook.com/events/2086941458160057/ https://NewYearsEvePartyAtlanta.eventbee.com Atlanta New Years Eve Dance Festival Dec 29, 2023 - Mon Jan 1, 2024

Johns Creek residents research historical gravesite where slaves are buried

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Many people across our area honored the Juneteenth holiday on Monday.The date June 19, 1865 commemorates the end of slavery in Galveston, Texas.It happened two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued in 1863 to free slaves.[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]“I am related to, I believe 80% of the people here,” Sabrina Aquell said.Aquell sa...

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Many people across our area honored the Juneteenth holiday on Monday.

The date June 19, 1865 commemorates the end of slavery in Galveston, Texas.

It happened two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued in 1863 to free slaves.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

“I am related to, I believe 80% of the people here,” Sabrina Aquell said.

Aquell said her family tree is deeply rooted at the Macedonia African Methodist Church Cemetery in Johns Creek.

“Most of the people buried here are related to me. The Osleys, you’ll see a lot of those headstones,” she said.

The land is tucked away in the forest off State Bridge Road.

Aquell said her grandfather Sam Jones is buried here, but after that, the history is lost.

“We can’t find Sam Jones’s mother,” she said.

But she knows her family is here.

“As this was a part of a plantation, they were burying slaves up here long before the fence was here and the houses were there,” Kirk Canaday with Descendants of Macedonia Cemetery said.

Canaday is a local historian and has been researching the cemetery and its history for years.

Canaday said George Morgan Waters owned the plantation.

He showed Channel 2′s Larry Spruill the map of the area.

TRENDING STORIES:

It showed the burial sites they have found thus far, but he believes there are more

“One of those problems here is when you’re looking for older graves if people are in the ground without a casket, you’re not going to see the depressions,” he said.

Canaday said the gravesite dates back to deep slavery and slavers were here before and during Juneteenth.

“People were alive. They were working in this area. (During Juneteenth) oh yeah, they were here. This plantation was here. There’s a narrative here in Johns Creek, where their narrative is, they talk about the early family settling here. One of them has the same last name as you, Spruill,” Canaday said.

Now many say during slavery the history was not officially written down but passed from generation to generation verbally.

That’s why family members who have relatives here at this cemetery say it’s important to document this history.

“So really it’s like we’re standing on historical ground?” Spruill asked. “We’re standing on sacred ground. Yes, you are,” Aquell said.

[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]

IN OTHER NEWS:

Johns Creek council torn over $8.5 million surplus

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Johns Creek is struggling to agree on what to do with $8.5 million sitting in leftover cash from the current budget year which ends Sept. 30.The surplus remains unallocated following what may have been the most heated argument among the current council Sept. 12.At stake is whether Creekside Park will be fully funded for a possible groundbreaking next year, or whether the city’s oldest fire station, Fire Station 63, will see additional money toward a replacement. The building is experiencing struct...

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Johns Creek is struggling to agree on what to do with $8.5 million sitting in leftover cash from the current budget year which ends Sept. 30.

The surplus remains unallocated following what may have been the most heated argument among the current council Sept. 12.

At stake is whether Creekside Park will be fully funded for a possible groundbreaking next year, or whether the city’s oldest fire station, Fire Station 63, will see additional money toward a replacement. The building is experiencing structural issues as well as mold.

Before the council was a budget amendment – drafted from a split discussion at an earlier council work session – that would allocate $550,000 of the surplus to retention bonuses and City Hall improvements, with the remainder going to fund Creekside Park.

Creekside Park is a proposed centerpiece anchoring the city’s 192-acre Town Center project at Medlock Bridge and McGinnis Ferry roads. The site will be home to Medley, a mixed-use development headed by Avalon developer Mark Toro. It will also feature a new $62.5 million manufacturing facility for Boston Scientific.

Plans for the 21-acre park include an amphitheater, a playground, multi-use trails, a boardwalk, fountains and an underpass on Medlock Bridge Road.

Councilwoman Stacy Skinner initiated opposition to Councilwoman Erin Elwood’s motion to approve the item, saying it was fiscally irresponsible to prioritize Creekside Park over Fire Station 63 when the city had just opened Cauley Creek Park. The newly activated 203-acre park doubled the city’s park space.

“What we're looking at is an $8 or possibly $9 million fire station,” Skinner said. “... As much as I would love to continue activating the Town Center, I can't with good conscience support this motion.”

Councilmembers Bob Erramilli and Larry DiBiase followed suit, both characterizing the park as a luxury and the fire station as critical infrastructure.

“The Fire Department needs to meet how many minutes it takes to get on site,” DiBiase said. “I don't want to risk that for [Creekside Park].”

Bradberry called the council discussion “political theater,” and said DiBiase’s comments on fire response times was a “scare tactic.”

Elwood also weighed in.

“I am personally offended by the insinuation that we are risking fire safety response times in this budget surplus decision tonight, because I have seen absolutely no evidence to that fact,” Elwood said.

Bradberry said he has already pledged to submit a fiscal year 2025 budget that contributes money toward Fire Station 63. He expects available funds for capital improvements to be around $5 million.

“It’s a false choice, it’s demagoguery to make it sound like that the fire station will not be able to be built when the plans are ready,” Bradberry said. “We do not own the land. We do not have the plans.”

With Councilman Chris Coughlin absent, the item maintained an even-split vote and will be forwarded to a special-called meeting.

In other matters Tuesday night, the council voted unanimously to adopt the $78.8 million fiscal year 2024 budget. Several updates were drafted, including a $250,000 allocation toward the city’s effort to conduct its 2025 general municipal election.

Councilmembers also discussed the multi-jurisdictional McGinnis Ferry Road widening project, from Union Hill Road to Sargent Road, in its work session and agreed to increase the city’s contribution by $3 million. While construction for the project is expected to cost $88.2 million, previous financial commitments from the agencies involved amount to $50.8 million.

Forsyth County, Alpharetta and the Georgia Department of Transportation are also expected to revisit funding for the project.

Johns Creek Will Soon Have Its Cookie Fix With Upcoming Mixed-Use Development

Homegrown in Alabama, Cookie Fix is making its way up I-20 as a part of Johns Creek’s planned mixed-use development, Medley.In a previous post by What Now Atlanta, 11 restaurants were announced to come to the suburban location. Cookie Fix is the first dessert eatery planned for the mixed-use site.Founded and owned by Amy Jason,...

Homegrown in Alabama, Cookie Fix is making its way up I-20 as a part of Johns Creek’s planned mixed-use development, Medley.

In a previous post by What Now Atlanta, 11 restaurants were announced to come to the suburban location. Cookie Fix is the first dessert eatery planned for the mixed-use site.

Founded and owned by Amy Jason, the Johns Creek store will be the first in Georgia. This particular store will be a franchise location, owned and operated by Missy Moon out of the Atlanta Metro Area.

In addition to Cookie Fix, Moon just signed leases for two Nothing Bundt Cake franchises: Columbus Park Crossing North, 5555 Whittlesey Blvd Columbus, GA 31909, and at Fayetteville Pavilion, 72 Pavilion Parkway GA 30214.

Gary Woodward, Senior Vice President, JLL Tenant & Landlord Representation, was Missy’s broker on all three upcoming franchise leases.

Future patrons of Medley who may be familiar with Cookie Fix can expect the same type of experience from the existing locations.

“Our menu changes daily, weekly, monthly, and seasonally. We have 25 different varieties per week and about 100 different cookie varieties per year,” Jason said about the menu.

Although the Johns Creek location will be a franchise, it will offer consistency in the menu and freshly baked goods with no warming drawer.

Customers can also expect to consistently enjoy Cookie Fix’s top three-selling cookies – chocolate chip, heavenly peanut butter, and salted dark chocolate caramel.

Cookie Fix is based in Alabama, beginning with Amy Jason’s passion for desserts. From an early age, she loved to bake sweets and transitioned from less extravagant desserts to cookies as her life as a mother and wife got busier.

Amy Jason explained to What Now Atlanta that after successfully baking cookies for friends and family, she was encouraged by a mentor to sell her cookies to the masses.

Jason opened her first location seven years ago in Homewood and expanded to Cahaba Heights in Vestavia, Alabama. Huntsville opened as the third Alabama location and the first franchise for the organization.

Cookie Fix is also opening a franchise location in Franklin, TN and is excited about expanding its footprint in Medley.

Johns Creek senior with superpower shares his back-to-school message

Jonny Hickey won’t be heading into senior year alone, his bearded dragon named Alberta will be right by his side.JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — As thousands of students return to school across the Peach State, seniors are returning for their last first day of high school.The Class of 2024 will embark on their final stretch of over a decade of education. Jonny Hickey is one of those seniors, heading to his final year at Johns Creek High School in Fulton County. Jonny won’t be heading to senior year alone, his bearded drago...

Jonny Hickey won’t be heading into senior year alone, his bearded dragon named Alberta will be right by his side.

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — As thousands of students return to school across the Peach State, seniors are returning for their last first day of high school.

The Class of 2024 will embark on their final stretch of over a decade of education. Jonny Hickey is one of those seniors, heading to his final year at Johns Creek High School in Fulton County. Jonny won’t be heading to senior year alone, his bearded dragon named Alberta will be right by his side.

Jonny will be among the nearly 9,500 students with cognitive disabilities attending Fulton County Schools for the 2023-2024 school year. For Jonny, his autism is his superpower.

“Jonny’s actually been in public school since he was 3,” Jonny's mom, Linda Hickey said.

Linda said back-to-school prep really begins when the school year ends. She said they spend the whole summer working on Jonny’s academic and social skills adding his success in school is a team effort between their family and his instructors.

It all starts with an individualized educational plan. This is a document laying out Jonny’s goals and accommodations needed for him to succeed in school.

Jonny’s former special education teacher E’Lisa Ladson, who he refers to as “Coach Ladson,” said Jonny is a perfect student in the class and she builds off his strengths.

“If 20 kids are asleep, Jonny is the one awake raising his hand and asking questions,” Ladson said. “A lot of students have their disabilities. There are some areas that they struggle with but there are also some things that they are really good at."

Jonny said his favorite subject is chorus. The award-winning 18-year-old senior has found his footing in school plays and performances.

“There was a theatre banquet on May 2. I got my trophy, I got an award. It’s called ‘Rookie of the Year,’” Jonny said.

While his passion is rooted in the arts, Jonny’s academic performance is just as important. Linda said it was important for Jonny to graduate and get his diploma.

“We have a schedule,” Jonny said. “We have chorus, algebra, flex - all kinds of things."

While Jonny is looking forward to his senior year, many other students like Jonny are just getting started on their journeys to grade school.

Jocelynn McCullough is working with those young minds. She’s an interrelated (IRR) special education teacher at Heards Ferry Elementary.

McCullough said her goal is to lay a foundation so that the next generation of students with cognitive disabilities at her school is set up for success down the road.

She said on the elementary level, that means working on academics, social and emotional skills, as well as working with her student’s families to provide the necessary accommodations for their success in the classroom. It also means working with other staff at the school to make sure those students have a good experience when they leave her classroom.

“We have to collaborate effectively, we have to build that relationship and foundation in order for the student to be successful,” McCullough said. “We are going in with a positive attitude."

She's already starting the year with a smile and hope.

"We are going in saying-- we are going to have an amazing year. Everybody, regardless if they have a disability or not, every student has a strength. Let’s take our students' strengths and build upon that,” she added.

According to Fulton County Schools, 631 students with cognitive disabilities graduated with diplomas in 2022 and 591 students in 2023.

After more than a decade of schooling, Jonny and his family are looking forward to the moment he crosses the stage and gets his diploma in 2024.

Disclaimer:

This website publishes news articles that contain copyrighted material whose use has not been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. The non-commercial use of these news articles for the purposes of local news reporting constitutes "Fair Use" of the copyrighted materials as provided for in Section 107 of the US Copyright Law.