For some Cobb students, August 1 was not the first day of learning in the new school year. Hundreds of Cobb students across the District participated in summer learning camps that provided a sneak peek of what to expect on day one and a jumpstart on the new school year. Many of the camps were specifically designed to help rising kindergarten students start their academic journey in Cobb.

Teasley Elementary School held a Ready, Set, Go Camp to prepare and excite the school’s youngest learners for the new school year. Teasley’s kindergarten teachers helped the students find their way around the school, test out the playground, explore the gym, and get a taste of the ‘big kid’ cafeteria. 

“Kindergarten Camp is truly one of our favorite events at Teasley!! We love seeing these students blossom over the week,” said Teasley Principal Leslie Mansfield. “They get to know many new staff members and make new friends!! After being with us for a few days, our campers walk into the first day of school with confidence! They feel safe and are so excited to be back at Teasley!!”

Mount Bethel Elementary School, Mableton Elementary School, and Russell Elementary School were among some of the schools that hosted kindergarten camps for students over the summer.

The transition from elementary to middle school can be a shock—more expectations, additional responsibilities, new teachers, new buildings, and new friends. That is why schools like Mabry Middle School invited new sixth graders to attend the preschool camp. Mabry’s Summer Charger Academy gave the rising 6th graders an opportunity to experience middle school. 

“Each summer, Mabry Middle School hosts its Charger Academy for rising 6th graders. The Charger Academy provides our new students the opportunity to become more comfortable with the transition from elementary school to middle school,” Mabry Principal Jonathan Tanner explained. “Students tour the building, meet Mabry staff members, begin to organize themselves for their middle school life, and enjoy fun, engaging, and collaborative activities.”

It was the first time the new middle schoolers got to meet their classmates from the other elementary feeder school. Together, they became familiar with the school's layout and daily school schedule. So, they became the tour guides for their parents during the family orientation day. During the Charger Academy, the students previewed content for core classes and started building relationships with Mabry staff. Learning about the clubs and organizations awaiting them in middle school also helped ease the transition. East Cobb Middle School and Griffin Middle School also held summer camps for rising 6th graders.