The focus of this podcast episode is the significant role that the Watch D.O.G.S. program plays in enhancing security and fostering parental involvement within our schools, particularly at Varner Elementary. Our guests explain how this initiative encourages fathers and father figures to actively participate in their children's schooling, thereby contributing to a safer and more nurturing environment for all students. Throughout our discussion, we delve into the impact of such engagement on school culture and student morale, emphasizing the necessity for parental involvement in the academic success of children. Additionally, we explore the logistical aspects of the program, including the minimal time commitment required from participants, which facilitates their involvement without imposing undue burdens. Our esteemed guests, Principal Althea Singletary and Mr. Tony Tesmer, share their insights and experiences, illuminating the transformative power of community engagement in education.

Guests:

Althea Singletary

Tony Tesmer

Chapters:

• 00:00 - Introduction to School Security
• 03:18 - The Role of Watchdogs in Education
• 06:18 - The Impact of Watchdogs on School Culture
• 13:31 - The Impact of Dad Involvement in Schools
• 16:51 - Engaging Dads in School Programs

Podcast Home:

https://the-inside-scoop.captivate.fm/

Cobb Schools on YouTube:

http://www.youtube.com/@TheRealCobbSchools

Give us a review:

https://www.podchaser.com/TheInsideScoop

Here's the link to let us know what you'd like to hear:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VYTRCLG

Cobb Sports Podcast:

https://cobb-sports.captivate.fm/episodes

The Cobb County School District:

https://www.cobbk12.org

Takeaways:

• The involvement of fathers in educational settings significantly enhances the security and morale of schools.
• Watchdogs is a national program that encourages parental engagement without imposing overwhelming commitments.
• Engaging fathers as role models fosters positive relationships and support for all students in the school community.
• The success of the Watchdogs program is evidenced by the increasing participation and positive impact on school culture.

The salient point of our discussion centers on the significant role of the Education Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (Ed-SPLOST) in financing the educational infrastructure of Cobb County. This sales tax, which amounts to a mere 1%, serves not only local residents but also contributes to the enhancement of our school facilities through the financial participation of visitors to the area. Through our conversation with James Wilson, the head of the Ed-SPLOST department, we delve into the historical context and ongoing impact of this funding mechanism, particularly in the realms of school construction and modernization. We further examine how strategic planning and demographic forecasting have enabled the school district to effectively address the needs of its growing population, while also ensuring the maintenance of existing facilities. This episode explains the profound implications of Ed-SPLOST on the educational landscape of Cobb County, underscoring its necessity in fostering a conducive learning environment for our students.

Guest:

James Wilson, Senior Executive Director, SPLOST

Chapters:

• 00:12 - Understanding Sales Tax Exemptions
• 02:03 - Understanding SPLOST and Its Impact on Cobb Schools
• 09:03 - Understanding SPLOST and Its Impact
• 13:56 - New Developments in CEDA and CETA Facilities
• 15:40 - Modernizing Bell's Ferry School

Podcast Home:

https://the-inside-scoop.captivate.fm/

Cobb Schools on YouTube:

http://www.youtube.com/@TheRealCobbSchools

Give us a review:

https://www.podchaser.com/TheInsideScoop

Here's the link to let us know what you'd like to hear:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VYTRCLG

Cobb Sports Podcast:

https://cobb-sports.captivate.fm/episodes

The Cobb County School District:

https://www.cobbk12.org

Takeaways:

• The current sales tax in Cobb County is 1%, which significantly contributes to funding the educational infrastructure.
• A substantial portion of the sales tax revenue comes from visitors, thereby reducing the tax burden on local residents.
• The SPLOST program has facilitated the construction of numerous schools, effectively addressing the needs of a growing student population.
• Modernization of older school facilities is essential, as many buildings date back to the 1950s, necessitating updates to infrastructure and technology.
• Cobb County's SPLOST initiative allows for debt-free financing of school projects, eliminating the need for bond issuance, which burdens other districts.
• Ongoing community engagement and transparency about the SPLOST program are prioritized to ensure public awareness and support for educational initiatives.

Welcome back to The Inside Scoop! This podcast episode elucidates the pivotal role of standardized assessments, specifically the PSAT and SAT, in facilitating students' college and career readiness. We engage with Kevin Maloney from the College Board, who elucidates the myriad benefits these assessments provide, including access to substantial scholarship opportunities and crucial insights into academic preparedness. Our dialogue underscores the significance of early testing, which not only gauges student readiness but also empowers families with essential tools for navigating the complexities of college applications. Furthermore, we explore the invaluable resources available through the College Board's Big Future program, which offers comprehensive college and career planning assistance. Through this discussion, we aim to demystify the assessment process and equip parents and students with the knowledge necessary to leverage these tools effectively.

Guest:

Kevin Maloney, Senior Director of K-12 State and District Partnerships, College Board

Useful links from the podcast:

• Home – BigFuture | College Board
• Home – SAT Suite of Assessments | College Board

Chapters:

• 00:09 - Introduction to the Inside Scoop
• 01:07 - Understanding the College Board and Assessments
• 05:26 - Unlocking Opportunities: The Role of Assessments in College Preparation
• 08:59 - Scholarship Opportunities and Assessments
• 11:12 - Exploring Big Future: A Resource for Students and Parents
• 14:57 - Preparing for the SAT: Resources and Strategies

Podcast Home:

https://the-inside-scoop.captivate.fm/

Cobb Schools on YouTube:

http://www.youtube.com/@TheRealCobbSchools

Give us a review:

https://www.podchaser.com/TheInsideScoop

Here's the link to let us know what you'd like to hear:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VYTRCLG

Cobb Sports Podcast:

https://cobb-sports.captivate.fm/episodes

The Cobb County School District:

https://www.cobbk12.org

Takeaways:

• Standardized tests such as the PSAT and SAT are essential for college readiness and career preparation.
• The College Board offers numerous free resources to assist students in achieving their academic goals.
• Students can access over $300 million in scholarship opportunities through participating in assessments.
• Early exposure to assessments provides students with valuable insights into their academic readiness and future paths.

The discussion centers on the imperative safety measures implemented within Cobb Schools to ensure the well-being of both students and staff. Officer Pete Saxton and Lieutenant Mike Wilson discuss the multifaceted strategies employed by the Cobb Schools Police Department, emphasizing the paramount importance of preparedness in fostering a secure educational environment. They address various challenges, including external threats and internal issues such as bullying and substance abuse, while highlighting the role of community partnerships and innovative tools like the anonymous tip line. This dialogue serves as a crucial resource for parents and guardians, elucidating the measures in place to protect their children and enhance their educational experience. I invite you to engage with this vital conversation, as it underscores our collective responsibility in safeguarding the future of our youth.

Guests:

• Lieutenant Mike Wilson
• Officer Pete Saxton

Chapters:

• 00:00 - Introduction to Cobb's Shield of Protection
• 03:24 - Ensuring Safety in Schools
• 07:15 - Addressing Drug Abuse in Schools
• 09:41 - Understanding Substance Abuse and Its Impact
• 17:09 - Addressing Student Safety and Support Programs
• 20:27 - Cobb Shield: Ensuring Safety and Support

Useful links from the podcast:

• Cobb Shield - This page contains info about Vector Alert, a resource for reporting safety concerns.

Podcast Home:

https://the-inside-scoop.captivate.fm/

Cobb Schools on YouTube:

http://www.youtube.com/@TheRealCobbSchools

Give us a review:

https://www.podchaser.com/TheInsideScoop

Here's the link to let us know what you'd like to hear:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VYTRCLG

Cobb Sports Podcast:

https://cobb-sports.captivate.fm/episodes

The Cobb County School District:

https://www.cobbk12.org

Takeaways:

• The Cobb Schools Police Department comprises approximately 80 certified officers dedicated to ensuring the safety of students and staff.
• Lieutenant Mike Wilson emphasizes the importance of preparedness in schools to foster confidence and reduce anxiety among students during emergencies.
• The introduction of specialized badges in schools facilitates rapid lockdowns and discreet communication for medical assistance without alarming the entire student body.
• The Safe Schools Alert system allows students to anonymously report concerns, enabling early intervention before potential crises arise.
• The Gang Recognition and Intervention Unit works to prevent gang involvement among students by fostering relationships and providing guidance.
• Programs like Breaking the Cycle aim to educate students about the dangers of substance abuse, particularly focusing on vaping and opioid misuse.

Navigating the transition from middle school to high school can be a formidable challenge, both for students and their parents. In this episode, we delve into the complexities of this pivotal moment, emphasizing the critical importance of understanding the differences between these educational stages. With insights from Dr. Brandy Brady, Cobb's Counseling Consultant for High Schools, and Erica Watford, School Counselor at Walton High School, we explore the autonomy and responsibilities that accompany high school, as well as the opportunities for course selection that await incoming freshmen. We aim to alleviate the anxiety surrounding this transition by providing essential information on navigating academic choices, establishing social connections, and fostering effective communication with school counselors. Together, we will equip you with the knowledge necessary to support your rising high school freshman in this significant chapter of their educational journey.

Guests:

• Dr. Brandy Brady, School Counseling Consultant - High Schools
• Erica Watford, School Counselor - Walton High School

Chapters:

• 00:02 - Navigating Freshman Year: A Guide for Parents
• 01:10 - Transitioning from Middle School to High School
• 04:10 - Addressing Student Placement Challenges
• 09:15 - Finding Friend Groups and Clubs in High School
• 12:43 - Planning for High School: A Roadmap for Success
• 15:17 - Transitioning to High School: Key Insights for Parents and Students

Useful links from the podcast:

• Walton H.S. Counseling
• School Counseling

Podcast Home:

https://the-inside-scoop.captivate.fm/

Cobb Schools on YouTube:

http://www.youtube.com/@TheRealCobbSchools

Give us a review:

https://www.podchaser.com/TheInsideScoop

Here's the link to let us know what you'd like to hear:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VYTRCLG

Cobb Sports Podcast:

https://cobb-sports.captivate.fm/episodes

The Cobb County School District:

https://www.cobbk12.org

Takeaways:

• Transitioning from middle school to high school represents a significant shift in academic and social expectations.
• Students are granted increased autonomy in high school, necessitating a corresponding increase in personal responsibility.
• High schools offer a wide array of elective courses, allowing students to tailor their education to their interests.
• Parents should remain vigilant regarding registration deadlines and communicate with middle school counselors for guidance.
• Social integration is facilitated through participation in clubs and orientation activities organized by the high school.
• Establishing a balanced schedule that incorporates both academic and extracurricular commitments is crucial for student well-being.

Cobb County School District provides essential special education services that significantly enhance the educational experiences of students with special needs. It is imperative for parents to comprehend the available resources and supports designed to assist their children. In this enlightening discussion, Host David Owen engages with George Morgan, the Director of Special Education, to explore the diverse services offered within our district. We delve into the identification process for special needs students, the development of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and the importance of collaboration among educators and families. Our conversation emphasizes the critical role of community involvement and the continuum of support that extends from preschool through age 22, ensuring that every student receives the individualized attention necessary for their academic and social growth.

Guest: George Morgan, Director of Special Education Services

Chapters:

• 00:00 - Introduction to Special Education Services
• 04:18 - Understanding the IEP Process for Special Needs Children
• 08:36 - Navigating Educational Support Systems
• 15:50 - Support Services for Special Needs Students
• 16:25 - Connecting Students to Community Resources

Useful links from the podcast:

• Special Education - Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy and Special Education Nursing
• Special Education – Preschool
• Special Education – Parent Mentors
• Georgia Department of Education - Special Education Services and Supports
• Special Education

Podcast Home:

https://the-inside-scoop.captivate.fm/

Cobb Schools on YouTube:

http://www.youtube.com/@TheRealCobbSchools

Give us a review:

https://www.podchaser.com/TheInsideScoop

Here's the link to let us know what you'd like to hear:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VYTRCLG

Cobb Sports Podcast:

https://cobb-sports.captivate.fm/episodes

The Cobb County School District:

https://www.cobbk12.org

Takeaways:

• In Cobb County, over 14,000 students are receiving special education supports tailored to various needs.
• The process of identifying special needs students involves collaboration between parents and educational professionals.
• Individual Education Programs (IEPs) are crucial for outlining the specific support each special needs student requires.
• Parent mentors play an essential role in guiding families through the complexities of the special education system in Cobb County.
• Support and service administrators are embedded in each school to assist families in navigating available resources.
• Cobb County provides a wide range of services from preschool through age 22, ensuring students receive necessary support throughout their education.

The salient point of this podcast revolves around the significant advancements in student safety facilitated by custom-developed applications within the Cobb County School District, particularly highlighting the contributions of the coding staff led by Director of Information Systems, Mr. Ryan Pynes. Through innovative tools such as GoSafe, an elementary student dismissal system, and Passport, a comprehensive field trip management application, the district has markedly enhanced both the physical safety of students and the efficiency of administrative processes. These applications not only streamline communication between parents and schools but also provide a robust framework for safeguarding sensitive student data, ensuring that the highest standards of security are maintained. Mr. Pynes elaborates on the importance of customizing solutions to meet specific district needs, emphasizing that the district's commitment to student success is paramount. Ultimately, this episode serves to illuminate the critical role technology plays in fostering a secure and conducive educational environment within Cobb County Schools.

Guest: Ryan Pynes, Director of Information Systems

Chapters:

• 00:12 - Introduction to the Inside Scoop
• 03:42 - Understanding Cobb Schools' Information Systems
• 07:34 - Student Safety Software Development
• 11:20 - The Development of School Dismissal Solutions
• 16:50 - Transition to Parent Communication
• 20:51 - Improving Student Success through Data and Communication

Useful links from the podcast:

• ParentVUE
• Technology Services

Podcast Home:

https://the-inside-scoop.captivate.fm/

Cobb Schools on YouTube:

http://www.youtube.com/@TheRealCobbSchools

Give us a review:

https://www.podchaser.com/TheInsideScoop

Here's the link to let us know what you'd like to hear:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VYTRCLG

Cobb Sports Podcast:

https://cobb-sports.captivate.fm/episodes

The Cobb County School District:

https://www.cobbk12.org

Takeaways:

• The Cobb County School District prioritizes student safety through innovative applications developed by its coding staff.
• Ryan Pynes, the Director of Information Systems, emphasizes the importance of data protection and security within the district.
• The GoSafe application enhances student dismissal processes, promoting accountability and efficiency during school dismissals.
• Passport is an evolved field trip management system designed to streamline student tracking during school excursions.
• Cobb Schools aim to eliminate paper forms to ensure data safety and improve parent experiences.
• The implementation of a red, yellow, green alert system assists educators in monitoring student progress toward graduation.

Concerns surrounding the transition to kindergarten are commonplace among parents, particularly those of preschool-aged children. The podcast episode thoughtfully addresses these concerns, providing critical insights and practical strategies to alleviate the anxiety associated with this significant milestone. As a parent of seven, the host, David Owen, emphasizes that while various challenges will arise throughout a child's educational journey, the transition to kindergarten should not be a source of undue worry. Accompanied by esteemed guests, Elizabeth Hatcher, school counseling consultant, and Brooke Hampton, school counselor, the discussion delves into essential preparations that can ease both parents' and children's anxieties.

Guests:

• Elizabeth Hatcher, Cobb Schools Counseling Consultant for Elementary Level
• Brooke Hampton, School Counselor for Pickett's Mill Elementary School

Register for Kindergarten HERE: olr.cobbk12.org

Useful links from the podcast:

• Food and Nutrition Services
• CTLS Support
• ParentVUE

Podcast Home:

https://the-inside-scoop.captivate.fm/

Cobb Schools on YouTube:

http://www.youtube.com/@TheRealCobbSchools

Give us a review:

https://www.podchaser.com/TheInsideScoop

Here's the link to let us know what you'd like to hear:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VYTRCLG

Cobb Sports Podcast:

https://cobb-sports.captivate.fm/episodes

The Cobb County School District:

https://www.cobbk12.org

This is a "double scoop" episode which originally published in March of 2023. The insights from Patty DaSilva are still pretty solid. Enjoy!

The discussion surrounding the necessity of SAT and ACT scores for college admissions is both pertinent and evolving. School Counselor Patty DaSilva elucidates the varying requirements of colleges and universities, highlighting the distinction between test-optional and test-blind policies. The episode delves into the comparative merits of the SAT and ACT, emphasizing that individual student strengths should guide the choice between the two. Ultimately, our dialogue aims to equip families with the necessary insights to navigate the college admissions landscape effectively, ensuring that students are well-prepared for their future academic endeavors.

Guest: School Counseling Supervisor Patty DaSilva

Useful links from the podcast:

• The ACT Test for Students | ACT
• SAT Dates and Deadlines – SAT Suite | College Board
• CCSD School Counseling Department

Podcast Home:

https://the-inside-scoop.captivate.fm/

Cobb Schools on YouTube:

http://www.youtube.com/@TheRealCobbSchools

Give us a review:

https://www.podchaser.com/TheInsideScoop

Here's the link to let us know what you'd like to hear:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VYTRCLG

Cobb Sports Podcast:

https://cobb-sports.captivate.fm/episodes

The Cobb County School District:

https://www.cobbk12.org

Takeaways:

• The necessity of SAT and ACT scores varies significantly based on the specific college or university a student aspires to attend, which necessitates thorough research.
• Standardized tests are not universally required, and understanding terms like 'test optional' and 'test blind' is crucial for students and families.
• It is advisable for students to take the SAT or ACT unless they are certain of their college choices, as taking the tests can provide options later.
• The distinction between the SAT and ACT lies in their structure and approach; the SAT emphasizes critical thinking while the ACT focuses on straightforward problem-solving.
• Families should be aware that students eligible for free or reduced lunch can take each standardized test twice for free, which can alleviate financial burdens.
• The role of parents in the college application process should be supportive, allowing students to take the lead while providing necessary assistance and guidance.

Navigating the transition from fifth grade to sixth grade can evoke a plethora of emotions for both students and their parents, often characterized by a sense of trepidation regarding the impending changes. This episode elucidates the multifaceted nature of this significant educational shift, where students encounter a new academic environment with distinct expectations and responsibilities. We are joined by esteemed school counseling experts, Barbara Truluck and Lauren Oden, who provide invaluable insights into the logistical and emotional aspects of this transition. They discuss the importance of fostering independence, the nuances of class selection, and the critical role of organization and routine. Furthermore, they emphasize the necessity of understanding the social dynamics that emerge during this pivotal stage, thereby equipping parents with the knowledge to support their children in this transformative journey.

Guests:

Barbara Truluck, Middle Schools Counseling Consultant

Lauren Oden, School Counselor, Maybry Middle School

Podcast Home:

https://the-inside-scoop.captivate.fm/

Cobb Schools on YouTube:

http://www.youtube.com/@TheRealCobbSchools

Give us a review:

https://www.podchaser.com/TheInsideScoop

Here's the link to let us know what you'd like to hear:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VYTRCLG

Cobb Sports Podcast:

https://cobb-sports.captivate.fm/episodes

The Cobb County School District:

https://www.cobbk12.org

Takeaways:

• Transitioning from elementary school to middle school presents significant challenges for both students and parents.
• Students in sixth grade experience increased academic rigor and greater responsibility for their own learning.
• Middle school students have limited choices in core classes but can select connections classes that interest them.
• Establishing a consistent routine, including organization and sleep, greatly contributes to a student's success in middle school.