July 30, 2026 — As 105,000+ students prepare to return to Cobb schools, there are a few important things to remember before that first day. 

From classrooms and cafeterias to school buses, this guide will help families prepare for the 2026-27 school year.

Edulog: A New Way to Track Student Buses

When it comes to transportation, Cobb Schools began introducing big changes near the end of last school year, but the new tools and safety enhancements may still feel new to many families. This new bus app will help bus drivers pick up and drop off students more safely and efficiently. The Edulog app replaces the Here Comes the Bus app. 

The app allows families to track their student’s bus, view its location and estimated arrival time, review bus stop information, and receive push notifications, ensuring parents receive the latest information related to their student's bus trip.

"Overall, it's going to just make it safer. We're going to know where our students are all the time," said Allatoona Transportation Field Coordinator Brooke Hyde.

The technology will give drivers more information about which students are assigned to board at each stop. This will help drivers confirm that the correct students are on board while allowing the District to maintain accurate transportation records in one location.

For months, the Transportation Department teamed up with schools across the District to test the technology to help ensure it is ready for the first day of school and ready to provide families with a smooth, safe experience.

Learn more about the Edulog Parent Portal app, explore its features, and register your student by clicking HERE. Our dedicated drivers are ready to welcome your students aboard for the new school year. 

Food and Nutrition

When students have the right food during the day, they're able to focus on the important learning that takes place every day in Cobb Schools. 

Before the school year begins, families should review the meal resources available to help every student learn and grow.

Families can use THIS LINK to review menus, meal account information, nutrition resources and other cafeteria details.

Food and Nutrition FAQ's 

Q: How much do school meals cost? 

A: Student breakfast is $2.50, and student lunch is $3.75 at schools that are not participating in a no-cost program. Families can add money to meal accounts online or apply for free or reduced-price meals. Families should check their school’s meal program status and options before the first day of school.

Q: Can I have lunch with my student? 

A: Policies vary by school, so check with your school first. If visitors are permitted to eat with students, an adult meal may be purchased from the cafeteria for $5.35.

Q: Can my child receive a special diet or allergy accommodation? 

A: Yes. Cobb Food & Nutrition Services works closely with families, school nurses, and healthcare providers to accommodate students with documented dietary needs. 

Q: How do I add money to my child's meal account? 

A: Families can make payments online or via mobile app through MySchoolBucks or by sending payments directly to their school's cafeteria. 

Q: Should I complete a Family Meal Application? 

A: Yes, if your school does not participate in the CEP program. Families in non-CEP schools are encouraged to complete a Family Meal Application each school year. Eligible families may qualify for free or reduced-price meals and additional benefits. 

Student and Staff Safety: A $35 Million Annual Investment

Before students return to school, families should review the safety measures highlighted through Cobb Shield, which reflect the District’s annual investment of more than $35 million in student and school safety.

The addition of more Vapor Wake K-9s, bringing the total to 16, is another example of the District's commitment to providing not only the highest-quality education but also the safest possible learning environment for students, teachers, and families. The Vapor Wake K-9 teams were also part of the security measures in place during the recent historic presidential visit to Wheeler High School.

CTLS: Stay Connected Throughout the Year

The Cobb Teaching and Learning System is a digital learning environment that precisely identifies what students know, supports student learning, engages parents, and empowers teachers with one goal: student success.

As families prepare for the first day and the year ahead, remember that CTLS is more than a way to communicate with teachers—it is also the best way to receive important school and District updates, news, and reminders throughout the year.  

Together, as one team with one goal, we look forward to another great school year and continuing our work to ensure all students succeed.