October 3, 2025—The Georgia Department of Education, led by State Superintendent Richard Woods, recently awarded five Cobb elementary schools for their outstanding achievement in cursive handwriting through the John Hancock Award, including Pickett's Mill Elementary School.

Pickett's Mill hosted the awards ceremony, which included State Superintendent Woods, Cobb Schools Superintendent Chris Ragsdale, and members of the school board. During the 2024-2025 school year, more than 300 schools applied for the award, resulting in 93 schools earning the Ribbon of Distinction and 188 schools recognized with the Proficiency Ribbon. Superintendent Woods congratulated Pickett's Mill on taking home the Proficiency Ribbon.

Five elementary schools in Cobb County received the award.

Principal Dr. Benji Morrell said the opportunity to win this award was motivating not only to him but also to his team. 

"We received a math award from State Superintendent Woods this spring, and he mentioned the John Hancock award. We brought that back to our team, and they're a very competitive group. They said if there's an award out there, we're going to try and win it." 

During the ceremony, State Superintendent Woods emphasized the lifelong value of cursive writing, noting its significance in both practical and historical contexts. 

"Every student needs to own their signature. It's something they'll carry with them for the rest of their life," Superintendent Woods said.  

The John Hancock Award recognizes schools where at least 90% of students can sign their names in cursive (Proficiency Ribbon) or where 90% of students can also write the preamble in cursive (Ribbon of Distinction).

Congratulations to the staff and third-graders at Pickett's Mill on this fantastic accomplishment!