July 9, 2025—Still Elementary School’s new principal is someone who knows the school, community, and the District inside and out. Principal Karen Osterhoudt, a Cobb Schools graduate and lifelong Cobb educator, is stepping into the principal role after already serving as Still’s assistant principal for the past two years. With 18 years of experience in Cobb classrooms and leadership roles, she brings both deep roots and a clear understanding of how to support Still’s continued success. 

“Still is built upon great traditions and a strong foundation of student success,” said Principal Osterhoudt, explaining why she is excited to continue serving the Still community. “The staff is full of dedicated educators with a passion for teaching and learning, as well as an amazing student body that brings such joy and excitement every day. Our families and community are so supportive, and together we will continue to work as “one team, one goal, soaring to success.” 

As principal at Still, she’s excited to deepen her connection with students, staff, and families to help every student thrive. Her approach to leadership is grounded in relationships, a deep belief in every child’s potential, and a passion for helping students discover what success looks like for them. 

Question: How long have you served in Cobb Schools?

Answer: “All my eighteen years have been spent in Cobb County. I taught at Lewis and Green Acres Elementary Schools and served as Assistant Principal at both Lewis and Still Elementary Schools. Additionally, I am a proud product of the Cobb County School District, having attended Due West Elementary, Pine Mountain, and Lost Mountain Middle Schools, and graduating from Harrison High School.” 

Question: What does “student success” mean to you?

Answer: “To me, student success looks different for every student. One of the greatest things about elementary education is instilling a love of learning at a young age for our students. Being able to find what works to help a student be successful is what it is all about. Our job as educators is to ensure our students are supported and empowered to do their absolute best to reach their fullest potential. Watching a student persevere when facing something that challenges them, and getting to see their excitement, is one of the greatest perks of this career.” 

Question: Under your leadership, how will you build on the school’s successes?

Answer: “Under my leadership, I will listen intently while collaborating closely with our staff and families to keep students at the forefront of everything we do. My personal mission is that all students, regardless of their background or prior knowledge, can learn and grow. Together, we will strive to build relationships and create a culture where our students feel safe, valued, and empowered.” 

Question: What role do you see parents and the community playing in supporting student success?

Answer: “To serve our students best, it is imperative to build relationships and rapport with all stakeholders as we work together towards student success. A strong support system for our students contributes to their overall well-being, reinforces learning, and increases student motivation.” 

Question: What do you like most about being an educator?

Answer: “The absolute best part about being an educator is working with some of the brightest, funniest, and most loving kiddos around. It is hard to have a bad day when you walk into a classroom full of eager faces, ready to learn, who give endless high-fives and hugs. One of my favorite parts of being an educator is when my former students come back to see me, whether during their senior walk or just because they are in the area. Knowing I had enough impact on a student that they want to come back to visit and share about all the amazing things they have done and accomplished is so meaningful to me.” 

Question: Outside of school, where might parents and students find you, or what’s an interesting fact about you that the school community might enjoy learning?

Answer: “Outside of school, you can find me at the ball fields as both of my children play travel ball. When I am not at the ball field supporting them, our family loves to cheer on the Georgia Bulldogs and Atlanta Braves! In my spare time, I enjoy reading, working out, and spending time with family and friends.”