December 16, 2025 — The Cobb County School District is celebrating an extraordinary milestone following Saturday’s commencement ceremony, during which the first class of doctoral graduates of Georgia’s BEST officially crossed the stage. A total of 132 educators graduated from the Georgia's BEST program this fall, and the graduating doctoral students completed 22 school improvement capstones. The graduation marked a powerful moment for the district, honoring educators who committed months of study to strengthen their leadership and deepen their impact on Cobb students. 

Georgia’s BEST is a partnership between Cobb Schools and the University of West Georgia, created to invest in educators by removing financial barriers and providing access to advanced degrees. The goal is simple and lasting: to equip educators with new knowledge and leadership skills that directly benefit Cobb classrooms. 

Since its inception, Georgia’s BEST has supported hundreds of Cobb educators. To date, 530 educators have graduated from the program, and 720 are currently enrolled. The program offers nine degree pathways and more than 200 courses taught by 30 Cobb instructors. It has also emerged as a statewide model, contributing to higher educator retention. Since 2023, Cobb Schools has experienced a 75% reduction in teacher vacancies. 

As graduates celebrated with family, colleagues, and classmates this weekend, Cobb Schools celebrated something even greater. Saturday’s commencement represented growth, opportunity, and a shared commitment to ensuring every Cobb student benefits from strong, supported, and highly prepared educators.

Up Next: Study Says Schools Make Cobb 5th Best County In The U.S!!