August 7, 2025—The yellow bus pulled up with excitement in the air—and not just from the kids.

Smiling students climbed aboard, many for the first time ever, while parents held their hands with a mix of pride and nerves. The annual Kindergarten and First Grade Bus Ride-Along rolled out just days before the first day of school, giving families across the District, including those at Chalker Elementary School, a memorable head start on the new year.

 Now that the school year is underway and students have settled comfortably into their classrooms, it’s hard to believe that just a short time ago, many were unsure about stepping onto a school bus. But thanks to the ride-along event, Cobb’s youngest learners—and their parents—got a special preview of what to expect, helping everyone feel more comfortable and ready for the school year. 

“I knew I couldn’t ride the bus on the first day of school, so the ride-along was the next best thing. It gave me peace of mind, and my daughter absolutely loved it! She couldn’t wait to get back on the bus on the first day of school,” shared one Cobb kindergarten parent. 

At Chalker Elementary School, students and families didn’t just ride the bus—they were greeted by smiling school staff and special guest Cobb Schools Board Chair David Chastain, who returned on the official first day of school to see the same young students now confidently walking into their classrooms. 

“Seeing 5-year-olds step off a big yellow bus for their first time reminded all of the adults I spoke to today of how important our schools are,” said Cobb County board chairman, David Chastain. He added, “I was walking with a teacher down the hall and she said it better than I can, 'Today is why we teach. Those kids need us, their parents need us, and I can’t imagine doing anything else'”.

Once inside the school, students toured hallways they’d soon call their own, met smiling teachers, and got a first look at their new learning spaces. The ride-along offered more than a trip around the neighborhood—it gave students a safe, exciting, and supportive bridge between summer and school.

Now, just a few days into the school year, those same students are confidently riding the bus, finding their classrooms with ease, and beginning their learning journey with excitement.

Cobb is back—and thank you for joining us on this journey of learning, growth, and opportunities coming in the 2025-2026 school year!