The Human Resources Division was recently awarded two Gold Awards of Excellence during the Spring 2024 Georgia Association of School Personnel Administrators (GASPA) Conference. Held at the beautiful King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort on St. Simons Island, the annual conference is an excellent professional development and networking opportunity.

The Cobb conference attendees enjoyed presentations on industry-specific policies and learned many new ideas and methods to enhance their workflows. Michele Thomas, supervisor of the Substitutes Department, and Abner Breban, director of the Systems and Personnel Records Department, received the Gold "Best in Class" Awards.

The Substitute Department was recognized for creating a Substitute Teacher Manual and a monthly newsletter for all short—and long-term Substitute Teachers. With over 2,300 active substitute teachers who support all 112 schools in the District, the Substitute Department wanted to ensure that communication was consistent, timely, and relevant.

The Systems and Personnel Records Department was recognized for implementing improved processes that simplify the way personnel files are maintained for the District in a new digital environment. Those who regularly use the new system have expressed a high level of satisfaction and enjoy the time savings due to effective automation. The new system has also freed up physical space in both the office and the warehouse.

"It is an absolute honor to lead a division that is so dedicated and driven," said Keeli Bowen, Chief Human Resources Officer. "I continue to be amazed by their talents and creativity. Michele's team and Abner's team are very deserving of these awards. Every member of our team is happy for them and proud of them."

Both awards show why Cobb continues to be the Best Place to Teach, Lead, and Learn. The HR Division is constantly looking for ways to improve, and these peer recognitions reveal how important behind-the-scenes and administrative support are for all of Cobb's 17,000 employees.