In what they plan to become a regular event, South Cobb High School administrators and staff recently invited local business leaders and community members to its first Partners in Education Appreciation Breakfast. Nearly 40 expressed interest and those who attended received great food, met others, and learned a lot about what was happening around the school.
"The primary goal is to show appreciation to the community, but also to show what we're doing and ways they could help and benefit," said South Cobb Principal Tommy Perry between greeting incoming guests. "I've wanted to do this for a while, but now that I have a vision of how to put it together, I'd like to do maybe several a year in the future. Getting the community into the school where they can see what's going on is so important."
A full-catered breakfast menu was available, including fresh fruit, muffins, eggs, bacon, sausage, pancakes, waffles, gravy, and more. Guests were impressed with all the choices, and no one left hungry.
As plates and cups were being cleared, Principal Perry stepped to the front to give a quick overview of all the great things taking place at South Cobb. "Our graduation rate is the highest it's ever been, our Milestones are going up, and our college scholarships are constantly growing. We are going in the right direction in academics, athletics, and fine arts."
Principal Perry also mentioned that discipline referrals are decreasing, which means students spend less time in suspension and more time in class. "In January, we had a 49% decrease in all OSS days," he said to applause. "I attribute that to our great staff who reiterate our expectations and hold the students accountable, as well as great parenting that teaches and reinforces right and wrong."
Athletic Director Ormond Moore briefly discussed sports and highlighted a few areas in which he helps student-athletes succeed. "Our vision for sports at South Cobb is to see our athletes win at life, and our mission is to develop well-rounded leaders," AD Moore said. "We want young people who lead for others, not themselves." All athletes at the school learn the acronym DRIP early on to help them remember and display the characteristics of Discipline, Respect, Integrity, and Pride. He also mentioned that the construction of the school's new arena is coming along nicely and will be a great source of pride for the students and the community once it is ready for operation.
Dr. Sean Strachan spoke next about the Fine Arts Department and how well the school's performing groups performed at LGPE (Large Group Performance Evaluation). He reminded the audience that the school's musicians and artists are always available and willing to perform for local events. He also highlighted needs like shoes, uniforms, instruments, everyday items like t-shirts, pants, and hair ties, and easily overlooked necessities like reeds and drumsticks.
Like AD Moore, Dr. Strachan taught the guests an acronym that summarizes his goals for South Cobb students. PRIDE, which stands for Personal Responsibility, Respect, Integrity, Dedication, and Engagement. "We teach what PRIDE looks like in each area of the school, in the hallways, in the classroom, in the cafeteria, and elsewhere. Sometimes kids don't know, and we're trying to teach them what it takes to be successful." He discussed how even small rewards like water bottles, gift cards, and snacks can go a long way in helping to reinforce positive behavior while instilling valuable life lessons.
"We have great students, a great school, a great community, and I want to thank you," Principal Perry said in closing. "We appreciate your support and the many ways that you support us. We want to be partners in education with you!"
