March 5, 2025 - Volunteers are a vital part of the Cobb Schools community, dedicating countless hours to enriching students’ learning  experiences, supporting teachers, and leading school initiatives. The Cobb Schools Foundation recently hosted the 2025 Volunteer of the Year Awards and Luncheon at the Jim R. Miller Park Event Center in Marietta to recognize their incredible contributions.

Each year, Cobb Schools celebrates one outstanding volunteer from every school in the district. These individuals go above and beyond to ensure students and teachers have the support they need to thrive. 

“You guys are a part of our One Team,” said Felicia Wagner, Cobb Schools Foundation Executive Officer. “We truly appreciate every minute of time that you give. We don’t want to do it without you. We can’t.” 

Honoring Volunteers Who Make a Difference 

From organizing school-wide events and mentoring students to providing essential resources and fostering a sense of community, the 2025 Volunteers of the Year have left a lasting mark on their schools. 

Some volunteers dedicate their time to academic enrichment, like Mark Cobb at Addison Elementary School, who regularly volunteers in the Learning Commons and helps support the school’s chess club. Others, like James Collins at Campbell Middle School, contribute through extracurricular activities, lending his talents as a Jazz Band arranger and PTSA co-president. 

Several honorees focus on supporting students' well-being. Angie Sklar at Green Acres Elementary School ensures that more than 290 students receive backpacks of food every other week, while Karen Miller and her fellow parishioners at St. Ann’s provide food, backpacks, and coats to students at LaBelle Elementary School. 

Thanks to Austell Elementary School volunteer Lyrika Holmes, students can learn to play the harp, guitar, and piano at no cost to families. 

Volunteers also serve as consistent and caring mentors. Frank Puffer, known as “Mr. Frank” at Birney and Hollydale elementary schools, spends every week reading with students, eating lunch with them, and selflessly supporting special education teachers. At Pickett’s Mill Elementary School, Popat Gala braves all kinds of weather to greet students every morning with a smile in the carline. 

Their efforts, big and small, create meaningful connections that enhance the Cobb Schools experience for students, families, and teachers alike. 

Volunteers Support Students at Every School Level 

Volunteering in Cobb Schools extends far beyond elementary classrooms. Dedicated volunteers continue to support middle and high school students and staff, ensuring they receive mentorship, enrichment, and encouragement throughout their academic journey. 

For the past two years, Elizabeth Wentz has been a driving force behind the PTSA at Mabry Middle School, working tirelessly to enhance the school community. Down the road, Ashley Siegal has been instrumental in coordinating volunteer efforts for teacher appreciation events and campus beautification projects for East Cobb Middle School. 

In high schools, volunteers continue to play a key role in student success. At Kennesaw Mountain High School, Michelle Pearce leads efforts behind the scenes to support the drama and chorus programs, ensuring students have the resources they need to shine on stage. At Pebblebrook High School, alumna Jamie Webb dedicates long hours to overseeing the PHS One Booster, organizing events that support student-athletes across multiple sports. 

From PTSA leadership and extracurricular support to organizing large-scale initiatives, Cobb’s middle and high school volunteers are just as involved as their elementary school counterparts. Their dedication ensures that students of all ages benefit from a strong school community that fosters growth, engagement, and success. 

$30,000 Donation to Support Cobb Families

This year’s event also included a special announcement. North Star Church’s Mike Lindemen, who was recognized as the Volunteer of the Year for Barber Middle School, announced a $30,000 donation to the Cobb Schools Foundation. The funds will go toward stabilizing families in need, furthering the Foundation’s mission to support students beyond the classroom. The generous donation reflects the strong community partnerships that help Cobb provide resources and opportunities for students to succeed. 

Celebrating a Tradition of Service 

The Cobb Schools Volunteer of the Year Awards and Luncheon is an annual tradition that highlights the dedication and passion of volunteers across the district. Whether mentoring students, assisting teachers, or providing essential resources, these volunteers embody the spirit of service and community engagement. 

Their impact is immeasurable, and as the district looks ahead, one thing remains clear—Cobb Schools would not be the same without its dedicated volunteers. 

For more information, visit the Cobb Schools Foundation website to learn how to get involved.