November 12, 2026 — At this month’s Cobb County School District Board of Education meeting, district leaders shared how Cobb Schools will implement Georgia’s new Unified Literacy Plan, bringing together literacy efforts across grade levels and departments to support students from early childhood through graduation.

Georgia’s new literacy law requires school districts to develop a comprehensive plan that aligns reading instruction, sets measurable goals, and provides consistent support for students as they grow.

For Cobb Schools, the plan builds on work already underway across the District and reinforces a longstanding commitment to helping every student become a confident reader.

Cobb Schools is already earning statewide recognition for its literacy success. More than 40 Cobb schools were recently recognized by the Georgia Department of Education as Literacy Leaders, Math Leaders, or both for their outstanding student achievement and growth on Georgia Milestones assessments.

Just this week, Lindley Middle School teacher Dr. Shawndella Roberts was named metro Atlanta's Literacy Leader of the Year, in recognition of her commitment to helping Cobb students grow as readers and develop a love of reading.

Supporting Students at Every Stage

A key part of the plan is making sure students receive the right support at the right time. District leaders will regularly review student assessment data to identify strengths and areas where additional instruction may be needed. The District's goal is to improve literacy outcomes by at least one percentage point.

The plan also emphasizes early learning and family involvement. Cobb Schools will work with early learning providers and community partners to strengthen literacy before children enter kindergarten. Families will receive information about their child's screening results, along with resources to support reading development at home.

Cobb's statewide literacy recognition reflects the hard work of our teachers and students, builds on that momentum, and strengthens the District's commitment to ensuring every student has the skills and confidence to succeed. 

Board Recognitions

2026 Georgia Region Champions - VEX Robotics Team – Leonardo Saint Martin Diaz Ordaz, Giacchino Manuel Vino-Figueroa, Mila Antun, and Alice Willis, Tritt Elementary School

The Georgia Student Technology Competition - First Place, 5th/6th Grade Animation – Michael Sambo, East Cobb Middle School and Sashwat Lalas, Barber Middle School

The Georgia Student Technology Competition - First Place, 9th/10th Grade Physical Computing – Lydia Hodgson, Lassiter High School

The Georgia Student Technology Competition - First Place, 9th/10th Grade Programming Challenge – Hannah Liu, Wheeler High School

Cobb STEM Certification - STEM Academy for Advanced Academics and Innovative Technology – Pebblebrook High School

USDA Turnip the Beet Quality Summer Meals Award – Nickajack Elementary School, Veronica Stevens, Durham Middle School, Danett Bourgolly and Wheeler High School, Lynette Moore, Food and Nutrition Services

Georgia Farm to School Award – Executive Director Emily Hanlin and Assistant Director, Nutrition & Menus, Monique Johnson, Food and Nutrition Services

2026 Achievement of Excellence in Procurement Award – Director Barbara Bates, Procurement Services