Teachers often take extra steps to ensure students succeed, but some teachers look for opportunities to help students they’ve never taught. North Cobb High School’s Dr. Cecelia C. Pruitt is one of those teachers.

Because she listened and was willing to help, she changed the course of one student’s career and life, starting with his academic journey.

It all started when Dr. Pruitt stopped by a tent at a track meet in late April and started talking to senior Cleo Johnson, who was counting down the days until graduation and the beginning of his military career. Cleo aimed to pursue college after his military service provided access to the GI Bill. 

Although Dr. Pruitt had not taught Cleo during his time at North Cobb, she recognized him from the daily school announcements and pep rallies. While stopping to listen to Cleo, she learned he was class president, was graduating as an honor student, and had taken Dual Enrollment classes. 

“In my mind, I just saw his opportunities,” explained Dr. Pruitt. “My husband is an alum of the University of North Georgia (UNG) and serves on the Alumni Association Board of Directors. He had shared with me about a month before this conversation that UNG had scholarship opportunities available to students wanting to serve. This allows students to attend UNG, get their degree, and graduate as a commissioned officer in the Georgia Army National Guard.”

She asked Cleo if she could gather more information for him about opportunities, like the one at the University of North Georgia, that would allow him to continue his academic journey immediately after high school graduation. Naturally, he was curious and wanted to know more.

“I saw a student who was successful academically, committed to serving his school, working a part-time job, and planning to commit to serving his country. I was able to help him, along with the support of his parents, find answers to his questions. He began the admission process, gaining acceptance, and was extended an offer to apply for the cadet scholarship,” the North Cobb physics teacher added.

It was not an easy process, especially with the countdown to graduation ticking.

“After several calls with the incredible staff at UNG, a letter of nomination from a member of the Georgia House of Representatives, recommendations from Principal Matthew Moody, some conversations with his original recruitment officer, and lots of forms for him and his family to complete,” Dr. Pruitt said, “Cleo was notified in early July he had been accepted by UNG and awarded the Georgia Military Service Scholarship that covers all tuition and expenses.”

Although Dr. Pruitt may have changed Cleo’s future when she stopped to chat that day at the track meet, she credits others for the work it took to make it happen so quickly.

“It was a pretty remarkable turnaround time; a testament to Cleo, his parents, and UNG’s commitment,” praised the North Cobb teacher. 

After reviewing Cleo’s accomplishments, The university prioritized Cleo’s recruitment and admission. Upon hearing the story, UNG President, Dr. Michael Shannon wanted to hold a ceremony to congratulate Cleo and his parents and welcome them into the UNG family.  

“Due to [Cleo’s] work ethic during his high school years, [he] developed a portfolio that provided the qualities sought in a student cadet. Cleo took advantage of the education available at North Cobb and became an exceptional candidate. He will still serve his country, but he will now get a degree and a commission on his way to service,” applauded Dr. Pruitt. “I am thankful we both were at the right place at the right time. It was a reminder of how important it is to listen to our students and a reminder of what teachers are meant to do: find ways to help our students find their place. My intent is to make sure my students know about these opportunities in the years to come. I took the time to listen and offer help. Cleo had already done the work; he just needed a connection.”