Becoming one of the first two school districts in the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) to be granted district-wide accreditation is certainly one of the highlights of the year. Our high standards for quality curriculum, efficient use of resources, and focus on improving the education of every student have been given the highest stamp of approval with this honor.

The students in Cobb County Schools continue to be among the top performers in the nation, with scores on the SAT and Iowa Test of Basic Skills significantly higher than state and national averages. 21 of our schools made the list of top performers on the Georgia End-of-Course Tests, which measure student achievement in the core curriculum subject areas. Their motivation to succeed and the quality of our faculty have truly put Cobb County Schools among the country's finest.

The Board moved forward in 2004 with the adoption of its new policy governance model, which provides us with a greater means of setting and reaching goals for the Cobb County School District, as well as a greater level of accountability to the public. You, the constituents, remain the owners of this District and the new policy governance model provides the Cobb County Board of Education more ways to focus on how to best meet the needs of the children in your community.

Your support in our PTAs, participation in public forums and monthly meetings, and regular feedback are all essential to the operation of the Cobb County School District. We look forward to your continued support in 2004-05 and beyond, as we open new schools and push for new levels of excellence in education.

I encourage you to study this report and be educated about your school system. It is provided as an open, crystal-clear view inside the past year in the District. On behalf of all seven members of the Cobb County Board of Education, we truly appreciate the powerful role you play in educating our youth.

Lindsey Tippins
Chairman, Cobb County Board of Education
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