December 9, 2025 —  Allatoona High School turned into a living, breathing history museum this week as students, teachers, district leaders, and community partners gathered to celebrate America’s upcoming 250th birthday. 

As the fourth stop on the America250 nationwide tour, and the first high school selected, Allatoona proudly welcomed the unique opportunity to bring history to life for students. Allatoona High School Principal Dr. Lexie Bostick opened the program by welcoming students and guests, noting the significance of Allatoona's role in helping launch the nation’s journey toward its 250th anniversary in 2026. 

“Today we’re recognizing 250 years of our nation’s history, progress, and shared purpose,” she said. “In this room filled with young people, educators, and community partners, it is a powerful snapshot of who we are as a nation.”

The celebration reflects the Cobb County School District’s long-standing commitment to academic excellence and high-quality learning experiences. Cobb Schools has served the community for more than 100 years, consistently ranking among Georgia’s top-performing districts. Events like this continue that legacy by offering students hands-on, memorable connections to the curriculum they study every day.

After opening remarks, Allatoona’s Navy JROTC Color Guard presented the colors, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and a moving performance of the national anthem by CTAE teacher Mr. Caleb Cook.

State leaders also attended the event, including Chancellor Sonny Perdue of the University System of Georgia. He spoke with students about the importance of remembering the nation’s past and preparing to lead its future. 

“While the United States of America may be 250 years old, we want it to be another 250 years old,” he said. “Education is the bedrock of democracy. It keeps us informed, thoughtful, and ready to make decisions for ourselves.” 

History Comes Alive

One of the most exciting elements of the celebration was the presence of rare historical artifacts brought by the American Journey Experience (AJE), a history museum and educational organization based in Texas. Elijah O’Neal, AJE’s Director of Education, shared how artifacts help students understand not just what happened in American history, but how we know it happened. Among the items on display in Allatoona’s media center were George Washington’s personal surveying compass, a 1599 Geneva Bible, an original printing of the Stamp Act, and additional artifacts spanning centuries. 

Students had the chance to explore these one-of-a-kind pieces, connecting classroom learning directly to the documents and tools that shaped the nation. “To know America is to love America,” O’Neal said. “History isn’t best preserved in a vault. It’s preserved when its stories make their way into the hearts of students.” 

Students at Allatoona also participated in trivia questions and a "Family Feud"-style game show about our country's history. Allatoona senior Sydney Batarseh described the experience as surreal. 

"I wasn't expecting to see a draft of the Declaration of Independence or a lock of George Washington's hair. This was a really neat experience."

Allatoona’s celebration offered more than a ceremony. It provided students with an experience rooted in learning, community, and pride, exemplifying how Cobb Schools continues to prepare students to lead with knowledge, character, and understanding.

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