December 9, 2025 — As Christmas approaches, many families across Cobb struggle to afford gifts for the holiday season. Cobb Schools, along with the help of the Fraternal Order of Police, work with local law enforcement to host their annual Shop with a Cop at Walmart. 

Twenty-one Cobb Schools and 100 Cobb students participated in the event, which allowed them to partner with an officer and shop for gifts. 

More than 20 officers from the Cobb County School District Police, plus officers from Cobb County Police and the Cobb County Sheriff's Office, walked alongside students as they picked out toys, clothes, and more for Christmas. 

"You would want someone to treat your kids like you would treat your kids, and I thought if I wasn't here, it'd be nice to have someone step up and make things better for my kids," said Cobb Schools Police Sgt. Herbie Schleicher.

School counselors helped select each student specifically to take part in Shop with a Cop, based on the needs they see every day, both in and outside the classroom. 

Once selected, families sent in a preferred shopping list to ensure that essential items, such as winter clothes, were purchased alongside toys for Christmas. 

"This is my childhood Walmart, so being able to come back and give back to my community—especially when you hear kids tell you it's the best day ever—it just warms my heart so much," said Officer Sheryl Calloway who was a Class of 2022 graduate from Pebblebrook High School. 

Several other schools across Cobb will continue to host events where high school students help walk elementary and middle schoolers through local stores to pick out the essential items they need this Christmas.