Cobb Reporter

Earlier in November, four Cobb Middle School students celebrated an important achievement as they committed to a future of success by signing for the Georgia REACH Scholarship. This event took place during the annual Cobb Schools Foundation signing ceremony.

The eighth-grade students from Lindley Middle, Palmer Middle, and Pine Mountain Middle marked the beginning of their academic journey toward college. The scholars are Alayah Kinard and Irving Mendoza Leyva from Lindley Middle School, McKinley Hooker from Palmer Middle School, and Za'Riyah Bartley from Pine Mountain Middle School.

The REACH Georgia Scholarship Program was launched statewide in 2012 to support promising students from low-income backgrounds. Rising eighth graders attending REACH-partnered schools in Georgia can apply each year. Recipients are selected based on academic potential, financial need, and dedication to success. Special consideration is given to those who are first-generation college students or those working to improve their grades while maintaining good behavior and attendance.

For each student chosen in Cobb County, the Cobb Schools Foundation raises $1,000 with additional scholarship support provided by REACH Georgia.

At the ceremony, parents joined their children in signing the REACH Scholarship contract. As part of this agreement, students commit to maintaining a 2.5 GPA or higher, upholding good behavior and attendance, and meeting regularly with a mentor and academic coach throughout high school.

Superintendent Chris Ragsdale attended along with members of the Cobb Schools Foundation as well as school leaders, counselors, and social workers to emphasize the significance of this milestone.

The event underscored how these scholarships offer a clear path to college for students and their families with full support from both the school district and community. The Cobb Schools Foundation continues its commitment as a philanthropic arm dedicated to equipping students with resources for future success.

To learn more about supporting student success through the Cobb Schools Foundation, visit their website.