The second annual Partner In Education Summit at Osborne High School was a huge success. The school's media center was filled with 100+ attendees from local businesses, schools, churches, and non-profit organizations. Thanks to Osborne's culinary staff and students, a delicious breakfast with dozens of options was served.

"The Partner in Ed Summit is a time for putting the right people in the right place at the right time," said event organizer and Assistant Principal, Dr. Ben Needle. "Our goal is to make sure that all attendees have a way to connect with a cause that speaks to their heart. The Osborne community is alive and vibrant, and countless members are looking for and finding ways to get involved."

The school has grown rapidly in the last few years and is always buzzing with activity. With many brand-new facilities—including the award-winning Cobb Innovation and Technology Academy (CITA)—the campus has also been expanding and encouraging student success in academics, sports, career preparation, and community support.

"We had the opportunity to give back to so many who have already poured their time and resources into Osborne. We were proud to provide a meal from our culinary students and give out awards to several partners as tokens of our gratitude," Dr. Needle said.

In a short welcome speech, Principal Troy Jones reminded the attendees of what he said last year. "I told you we were coming," he said confidently, "but now I can tell you, 'We are here!' We have arrived, and we want you to be a part of it. We are a family, the Osborne Family. You are in the right place at the right time to make amazing things happen!"

Three community recognition awards were presented at the Summit. Sheila Ramsey accepted on behalf of Zaxby's for their regular support of the school; Chris Slaughter accepted on behalf of his company, CSS Transport; and Frank Puffer from West Cobb Church accepted the third award.

"I met with the owner and GM's today to share my experience, and they were thrilled," Ms. Ramsey said with a smile. "The most successful event is the one that achieves your goals and expectations. The Osborne Partner in Education did just that for me. It was flawless; the food was excellent, and the information was well-organized and informative. Thank you so much for recognizing Zaxby's!"

A panel discussion highlighting longtime supporters' experiences followed the awards presentations. Natalie Rutledge with Communities in Schools and Zach Hiatt with Modern Woodmen of America were joined by Mr. Slaughter and Mr. Puffer to speak about partnering with the school. Each had a personal story of connection that transcended the financial and physical donations their organizations provide. Mr. Slaughter talked about his daughter's educational and professional journey and what led him to support the inaugural Senior Spotlight last May.

"It was a fantastic meeting with meaningful connections and a testament to the impactful and dedicated staff of Osborne High School," Ms. Rutledge said after the event. "As a Partner, I loved the opportunity to reconnect with previous partners and meet new ones. Osborne does a great job letting families know that we are here for them by hosting all of the feeder pattern schools."

Dr. Needle agreed that this was intentional. "We believe we have an obligation to help our feeder schools as much as possible," he said. "If our elementary and middle schools and their students are well cared for and provided for, we know that it will benefit our school and the entire community."

The level of professional talent at Osborne is top-notch. CITA Director Dr. Tiffany Barney was recently recognized as the Georgia CTE State Winner of the Carl Perkins Community Service Award, Jasmin Molina was selected as District High School Teacher of the Year, and Ron Boggs was chosen as District Athletic Director of the Year.

"When you have the District CTAE, High School Teacher, and Athletic Director of the Year, something is going right at Osborne," Dr. Needle concluded. "We believe we have the best community in Cobb, and we were happy to see that the Ernest was standing room only this morning!"