The discussion centers on the imperative safety measures implemented within Cobb Schools to ensure the well-being of both students and staff. Officer Pete Saxton and Lieutenant Mike Wilson discuss the multifaceted strategies employed by the Cobb Schools Police Department, emphasizing the paramount importance of preparedness in fostering a secure educational environment. They address various challenges, including external threats and internal issues such as bullying and substance abuse, while highlighting the role of community partnerships and innovative tools like the anonymous tip line. This dialogue serves as a crucial resource for parents and guardians, elucidating the measures in place to protect their children and enhance their educational experience. I invite you to engage with this vital conversation, as it underscores our collective responsibility in safeguarding the future of our youth.

Guests:

• Lieutenant Mike Wilson
• Officer Pete Saxton

Chapters:

• 00:00 - Introduction to Cobb's Shield of Protection
• 03:24 - Ensuring Safety in Schools
• 07:15 - Addressing Drug Abuse in Schools
• 09:41 - Understanding Substance Abuse and Its Impact
• 17:09 - Addressing Student Safety and Support Programs
• 20:27 - Cobb Shield: Ensuring Safety and Support

Useful links from the podcast:

• Cobb Shield - This page contains info about Vector Alert, a resource for reporting safety concerns.

Podcast Home:

https://the-inside-scoop.captivate.fm/

Cobb Schools on YouTube:

http://www.youtube.com/@TheRealCobbSchools

Give us a review:

https://www.podchaser.com/TheInsideScoop

Here's the link to let us know what you'd like to hear:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VYTRCLG

Cobb Sports Podcast:

https://cobb-sports.captivate.fm/episodes

The Cobb County School District:

https://www.cobbk12.org

Takeaways:

• The Cobb Schools Police Department comprises approximately 80 certified officers dedicated to ensuring the safety of students and staff.
• Lieutenant Mike Wilson emphasizes the importance of preparedness in schools to foster confidence and reduce anxiety among students during emergencies.
• The introduction of specialized badges in schools facilitates rapid lockdowns and discreet communication for medical assistance without alarming the entire student body.
• The Safe Schools Alert system allows students to anonymously report concerns, enabling early intervention before potential crises arise.
• The Gang Recognition and Intervention Unit works to prevent gang involvement among students by fostering relationships and providing guidance.
• Programs like Breaking the Cycle aim to educate students about the dangers of substance abuse, particularly focusing on vaping and opioid misuse.

Navigating the transition from middle school to high school can be a formidable challenge, both for students and their parents. In this episode, we delve into the complexities of this pivotal moment, emphasizing the critical importance of understanding the differences between these educational stages. With insights from Dr. Brandy Brady, Cobb's Counseling Consultant for High Schools, and Erica Watford, School Counselor at Walton High School, we explore the autonomy and responsibilities that accompany high school, as well as the opportunities for course selection that await incoming freshmen. We aim to alleviate the anxiety surrounding this transition by providing essential information on navigating academic choices, establishing social connections, and fostering effective communication with school counselors. Together, we will equip you with the knowledge necessary to support your rising high school freshman in this significant chapter of their educational journey.

Guests:

• Dr. Brandy Brady, School Counseling Consultant - High Schools
• Erica Watford, School Counselor - Walton High School

Chapters:

• 00:02 - Navigating Freshman Year: A Guide for Parents
• 01:10 - Transitioning from Middle School to High School
• 04:10 - Addressing Student Placement Challenges
• 09:15 - Finding Friend Groups and Clubs in High School
• 12:43 - Planning for High School: A Roadmap for Success
• 15:17 - Transitioning to High School: Key Insights for Parents and Students

Useful links from the podcast:

• Walton H.S. Counseling
• School Counseling

Podcast Home:

https://the-inside-scoop.captivate.fm/

Cobb Schools on YouTube:

http://www.youtube.com/@TheRealCobbSchools

Give us a review:

https://www.podchaser.com/TheInsideScoop

Here's the link to let us know what you'd like to hear:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VYTRCLG

Cobb Sports Podcast:

https://cobb-sports.captivate.fm/episodes

The Cobb County School District:

https://www.cobbk12.org

Takeaways:

• Transitioning from middle school to high school represents a significant shift in academic and social expectations.
• Students are granted increased autonomy in high school, necessitating a corresponding increase in personal responsibility.
• High schools offer a wide array of elective courses, allowing students to tailor their education to their interests.
• Parents should remain vigilant regarding registration deadlines and communicate with middle school counselors for guidance.
• Social integration is facilitated through participation in clubs and orientation activities organized by the high school.
• Establishing a balanced schedule that incorporates both academic and extracurricular commitments is crucial for student well-being.

Cobb County School District provides essential special education services that significantly enhance the educational experiences of students with special needs. It is imperative for parents to comprehend the available resources and supports designed to assist their children. In this enlightening discussion, Host David Owen engages with George Morgan, the Director of Special Education, to explore the diverse services offered within our district. We delve into the identification process for special needs students, the development of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and the importance of collaboration among educators and families. Our conversation emphasizes the critical role of community involvement and the continuum of support that extends from preschool through age 22, ensuring that every student receives the individualized attention necessary for their academic and social growth.

Guest: George Morgan, Director of Special Education Services

Chapters:

• 00:00 - Introduction to Special Education Services
• 04:18 - Understanding the IEP Process for Special Needs Children
• 08:36 - Navigating Educational Support Systems
• 15:50 - Support Services for Special Needs Students
• 16:25 - Connecting Students to Community Resources

Useful links from the podcast:

• Special Education - Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy and Special Education Nursing
• Special Education – Preschool
• Special Education – Parent Mentors
• Georgia Department of Education - Special Education Services and Supports
• Special Education

Podcast Home:

https://the-inside-scoop.captivate.fm/

Cobb Schools on YouTube:

http://www.youtube.com/@TheRealCobbSchools

Give us a review:

https://www.podchaser.com/TheInsideScoop

Here's the link to let us know what you'd like to hear:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VYTRCLG

Cobb Sports Podcast:

https://cobb-sports.captivate.fm/episodes

The Cobb County School District:

https://www.cobbk12.org

Takeaways:

• In Cobb County, over 14,000 students are receiving special education supports tailored to various needs.
• The process of identifying special needs students involves collaboration between parents and educational professionals.
• Individual Education Programs (IEPs) are crucial for outlining the specific support each special needs student requires.
• Parent mentors play an essential role in guiding families through the complexities of the special education system in Cobb County.
• Support and service administrators are embedded in each school to assist families in navigating available resources.
• Cobb County provides a wide range of services from preschool through age 22, ensuring students receive necessary support throughout their education.