Cobb Reporter

A dance party with Santa, cookie decorating, face painting, gift wrapping, and shopping trips were part of the holiday activities organized for Cobb students in need. Hundreds of high school students and Cobb Schools police officers volunteered to create memorable experiences that foster community bonds.

At Pope High School, the annual Shop with a Greyhound (SWAG) event saw over 400 student volunteers engaging with Brumby Elementary School students. The day began with a festive dance party featuring Santa. Students then traveled to Target to select gifts with their high school mentors' assistance. Activities continued at Pope High School with jumpy houses, art and cookie decorating stations, and a pizza party. This event was made possible by fundraising efforts from the Pope community.

Walton High School hosted its inaugural Shop with a Raider event for 21 elementary students from local feeder schools. Each child was paired with three Walton volunteers for a day filled with holiday fun including a pancake breakfast, face painting, crafts, and shopping at Target. Walton’s students raised all necessary funds for this initiative.

Wheeler High School's Shop with a Wildcat included face painting, card making, cookie decorating, and games for young visitors from five elementary schools: Brumby Elementary School, Eastvalley Elementary School, Powers Ferry Elementary School, Sedalia Park Elementary School, and Sope Creek Elementary School.

Cobb Schools police officers collaborated with area law enforcement for the Cops and Kids holiday event. Police cruisers transported students to stores where each received $140 to purchase essentials like clothing and shoes before selecting toys. Some students chose to use their allowance to buy gifts for siblings as well. Officers assisted in gift wrapping after shopping concluded.

These events highlighted the caring spirit of Cobb students and staff while setting the stage for future community-building opportunities.