December 2020
Dear Students, Families, Staff, and Community Members:
I consider it a true privilege to have been appointed as the Superintendent for Franklin County Public Schools (FCPS). In taking this oath of office, I pledge my commitment to always do what is in the best interest of our students and the community.
Over the last twenty years, I have spent my educational career serving in FCPS and I am excited about leading a quality school division. Our Division is home to approximately 6,600 students and consists of twelve (12) elementary schools (Prek-5), one middle school campus and The Gereau Center (Grades 6-8), and one high school campus (Grades 9-12). Additionally, virtual academies are currently offered at the elementary and secondary levels.
I recognize that this school division has an excellent staff, faculty, and support services, whom I am proud to serve. Furthermore, my husband and I raised and educated our two children, Bradley and Kim, in this community so I know first-hand that this is a tight-knit, proud and caring community who believes in the opportunities that a quality education offers. These standards of quality did not come without hard work and dedication by the teaching and learning profession coupled with collective efforts between students, staff, families, and the community.
My goal as Superintendent is to continue the works in progress to provide all of our students with instructional initiatives that place emphasis on preparation beyond high school. The Profile of a Virginia Graduate, FCPS’s Profile of a Learner, and Vision 25-Empowering All Learners initiatives will support the attainment of the 5 C’s (communication, creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and citizenship). These initiatives will also develop the essential knowledge and skills to foster college and workforce readiness for the 21st Century (http://frco.k12.va.us/vision_25).
While the staff and community have much to celebrate, the Covid-19 pandemic has provided school systems across this nation with some unprecedented challenges. These challenges are largely out of our control and require patience, resilience, and understanding. These challenges are like nothing we have ever faced; however, I believe our collective efforts that focus on our children’s safety, security, and quality teaching and learning will prevail in the end. More importantly, our children’s future will depend on our collective efforts and long-term strategic planning.
Therefore, we will continue to strengthen a collaborative atmosphere that is dedicated to working in the best interest of our students. Again, it is my honor to represent FCPS and I am committed to doing my personal best for students, staff and the community. If you ever have questions or concerns, please feel free to email me at [email protected] or reach me by phone at 540-483-5138.
In Service,
Dr. Bernice Cobbs
Superintendent
Franklin County Public Schools