Cooper Middle School in Austell | Military Town Advisor

Category	Rating	Details
Test Scores	8/10	The Test Score Rating examines how students at this school performed on standardized tests compared with other schools in the state. The Test Rating was created using 2025 Georgia Milestones End-of-Course (EOC) Assessment data from Georgia Governor's Office of Student Achievement, and using 2025 Georgia Milestones End-of-Grade (EOG) Assessment data from Georgia Governor's Office of Student Achievement.
Student Growth	8/10	The Student Progress Rating measures whether students at this school are making academic progress over time based on student growth data provided by the Department of Education. Specifically, this rating looks at how much progress individual students have made on state assessments during the past year or more, how this performance aligns with expected progress based on a student growth model established by the state Department of Education, and how this school's growth data compares to other schools in the state. The Growth Rating was created using 2025 Student growth data from Georgia Governor's Office of Student Achievement.

Posted: April 18, 2025

This school is okay. I wouldn't recommend it, but some things are okay. My first complaint is the teachers. Some teachers can be really good and very annoying. The teaching is okay. Many teachers give out notes and expect students to study it. I say this because I am a victim of this. Some teachers can be very lazy and not teach at all. My second complaint is the guidelines and rules. I don't get why we can only go to the vending machine in homeroom. Some students come late and dont have the opportunity to buy anything. If anyone buys anything past homeroom, will get suspended or detention. This rule isn't too serious, but something to be considered. My last complaint will be the phone rule. Students aren't allowed to be seen with phones ever. We aren't even allowed to have it on the bus port. All phones must be kept in our lockers, which isn't fair. I know it can cause distractions, but only if it can be used for free time. The worst part is that if students are seen with phones, they take it so the parent can pick it up. However, pick up time is not allowed past 4:30. This is not fair at all because many parents aren't off work yet. Not many advantages to this school, except for the air days and PBIS stores.

Posted: November 20, 2024

I think Cooper Middle School is a pretty good school. We get air day, lunch, breakfast, and a lot of other things.

Posted: November 13, 2024

i go to this school i would say say things are ok lunch is not always good but sometimes it is they provide breakfast and A.I.R days and hall parties which are like " recess" a lot of the teachers are rude sometimes and some teachers are nice

Posted: May 9, 2024

I am a 8th grader who will be graduating quite soon and being at this school was a terrible experience for me. Every day for about 3 years straight was filled with teachers yelling and even on occasion insulting students, unmotivated students who don't get the proper support they need when struggling, and out of touch princpals and admins who think that taking simple privilages like using the bathroom and fun activies such as OUR 8TH GRADE PICNIC AND ALMOST OUR SCHOOL DANCE THAT WE HAD TO PAY 40 SOMETHING DOLLARS will make us act better or get higher test scores. Do better Cooper you disgust me. (sorry if I dont use proper grammar the teachers didn't care to teach me)

Posted: May 9, 2024

Posted: December 7, 2023

Terrible terrible terrible this school is awful. Cooper Middle School has to be one of the worst middle schools in Cobb County. Starting with the administration all the way down to conditions of the school. The way they treat the kids and others are very unacceptable especially the 8th grade administration. The food look unappealing like something from a jail cell, and there is BUGS EVERYWHERE ALL AROUND THE SCHOOL!!! The bathroom and some classrooms are unacceptable to look at this school makes me SICK!! And needs serious help along with some inspectors.

Posted: December 7, 2023

Posted: April 17, 2023

Both of my children are Cooper Cougar alumni, one is now a junior in college; the other is a rising 9th grader. Cooper is the best-kept secret in Cobb County. The teachers are supportive. The students encourage one another for academic success and hold each other accountable in regard to behavior. Family engagement and community support are great. Cooper provides a fun and enjoyable learning experience for students and an engaging environment for families.

Posted: April 17, 2023

Posted: November 16, 2022

I have varying thoughts on this school. The teachers are very involved if you are involved as a parent. My child excelled at this school, except during quarantine, which was a learning curve for all involved. But upon returning she went right back to making good grades.

The school has a no tolerance for bullying and you do have great access to the school, teachers and counselors to guide a path for your child to succeed.

The only problem I truly had with this school is that all its activities centered around STEM. Which is not bad in theory, however, for those students who are interested perhaps in the Arts and things of that nature there are no strong after-school activities for them.

Posted: November 16, 2022

Posted: August 25, 2022

This school, if you are worried about your child's mental health is not the best.
Mental health is a very important matter in a child's life, especially at school. It determines if they listen in class, what they say, what they do and more or less how they learn.

If your child is constantly depressed, its rare that your child will ever learn.

Here at Cooper middle school, its terrible. The students are so awful and rude, the school has roaches and bugs all over to the point you might see one on the daily bases. They charge you for lunch which is ridiculous because lunch is suppose to be that one thing you can get for free but no its the one thing that causes more problems.

I don't even get lunch sometimes because of the amount they charge for it.

If your child is in the LGBTQ+ community it is rare, very rare that they will be shown respect here if they have specific pronouns they will only be respected by the teachers who actually care unless your child is clearly transgender and it is physically seen that they are a boy, or girl there gender preferences will not be respected.

If your child dresses in a way that's different from others, they will be violated or disrespected, even if your child isn't, here at cooper there is a lot of body shaming, and fights.

So unless you and your child can tolerate all of that, I would not recommend it.

- A student who goes there and is soon leaving.

Posted: August 25, 2022

Posted: October 15, 2019

I've not had to deal with bullying at this school, but my daughter has recounted several conversations that have occurred addressing bullying. The way that the admin staff responds to matters non-bullying, I am going to assume that they would respond appropriately here.

Posted: October 15, 2019

Each teacher has their own homework method but, from my experience, the homework is truly a reiteration of what they learn in class. There isn't too much homework either that wouldn't make sense. There seems to be a good balance

Posted: October 15, 2019

I have great experiences with most teachers that my daughter has encountered. The teachers really care. They go out of their way to ensure to avail themselves so that students can be successful.

Posted: October 15, 2019

I believe Cooper does a great job of reinforcing the concept of do unto others as you will have done unto you. But overall, it seems that most parents are raising good kids. Most parents that I have met are responsible and want the best for their kids and all kids. You can tell that most of these kids are being taught well at home.

Posted: October 15, 2019

I have nothing but glowing reviews for the administrative team here. When I have had issues and brought it to their attention, it was handled quickly, efficiently and with care and consideration of all parties involved. They handle matters promptly but with great tact. I love that Dr. Watkins says, "we can't fix what we don't know". This is a hard working and thoughtful leadership team.

Posted: October 15, 2019

I agree completely. My daughter learns differently and after a conversation with her teachers, they have figured out how to address her so that she stays sharp. I love it.

Posted: October 15, 2019

I was nervous about coming to Cooper before my daughter entered 6th grade. I must say that my fears were unwarranted. I really love Cooper. I am enjoying the Middle School experience, which I can't believe that I am saying. I really think that the staff here from the principal to the cafe staff are amazing. The school is clean. You can tell that pride is placed in the school's appearance. The teachers are engaging and helpful. And let's be clear, the proof is in the pudding. The numbers are reflecting the great work here. Let's go Cooper!

Posted: February 26, 2019

Great school my daughter has been attending since the 6th grade and we love it. She has excelled in all her academic classes and has been on the honor all year. My daughter has great teachers they are helpful and informative. Im thankful my child was able to be apart of the stem program that the school offers. Dr. Watkins and her staff are great. Im glad we chose to send our daughter here to excel and thankful she is in a position be allowed to excel. In order to know what a school has to offer you have to attend. Great school with some great leaders, teachers, and staff

Posted: February 26, 2019

Posted: April 17, 2017

IF YOU CAN AVOID DO SO!!
My son attended Cooper and now is in high school. And I currently have a daughter who unfortunately has no other choice but to attend there. And From the first year my son attended the school up until now every year has been frustrating. There are some teachers there that are AWESOME but many that really shouldn't be teaching. I have dealt with multiple teachers who got upset because I was asking them to do their job. Like informing me of what they will be covering in class and what assignments they were going to hand out so I can make sure my pre teen is doing what they are supposed to be doing. Blogs aren't updated, Synergy (grading database) isn't updated often enough to give you an accurate idea of if your child is failing or passing. One wk my child has an A then out the blue after adding grades for assignments wks old the grade dropped to an F and I was never notified which left my child with now not fully understanding standards required because I had no clue that my child was failing/not understanding. I've had teachers speaking sarcastically to my child rolling their eyes, singling my child out all in reaction to me questioning them as it relates to my child's grades and how they were graded. My child has multiple friends in the STEM PROGRAM and they are failing some of their classes......
Overcrowded classes, teachers not having control over classes so your child may or may not get all the information needed in preparation for the next school year or standard testing. Problem children are still allowed to attend the school after repeatedly getting in trouble. Kids being bullied not being addressed effectively.. I know multiple parents that complained of there kids having run ins with bullies and nothing was being done or they felt it wasn't taken seriously because it would be the same students doing the bullying. God forbid your child defending themselves...they get suspended.

Posted: April 17, 2017

Posted: March 1, 2017

They are very passionate about what they do and educating the youth.

Posted: March 1, 2017

My son has attended Cooper all three years of middle school and we have been extremely satisfied withour experience. I have watch this school grow from a small school to a wonderful educational institution and I'm so proud to be a part of the Cooper family. There are no words to describe the amazing staff at Cooper and their love for what they do from the office staff to the teachers they are all wonderful and accommodating! We love, love, love Cooper!

Posted: December 21, 2016

My Son loves this school. He's in the STEM's classes and eager to go to school each day. Great job by the administration and faculty!

Posted: December 20, 2016

Cooper has an amazing administrative team that supports and encourages the teachers, so that the teachers always strive to go above and beyond. The students, in turn, try their best and grow in response to all the care and hard work put into them by their fabulous teachers. It is a wonderful environment. Bad behavior is not tolerated and is dealt with swiftly and succinctly. We are so pleased at our wonderful experience at this school.

Posted: December 20, 2016

First school in Cobb County to be STEM certified. I am so proud to be part of the Cooper Middle Family. Dr. Watkins and her staff work hard to see the students and the school success. I would recommend this school to anyone moving into this area.

Posted: December 20, 2016

Dr. Watkins and her staff are the real deal.

Posted: December 20, 2016

Posted: December 19, 2016

Excellent school! The STEM program is actually certified, and is setting the pace for other schools in the state. The students are bright and involved in the community. Dr. Watkins has set the bar pretty high and it's awesome!! The administration rewards the desired behaviors and hold all accountable. Parents are welcomed and celebrated often. There is a parent Resource room; there are holiday meals with the students; regular celebrations for great accomplishments; and they have had actual rocket scientists work directly WITH the students for STEM. The benefits of the school are wonderful. My students love going to school and also enjoy participating in extracurricular activities. The environment welcomes and encourages learning and fun!

Posted: December 19, 2016

Excellent discipline and administration. My daughter's experience there makes me so proud.

Posted: December 19, 2016

Congrats on the STEM! Teachers care about the success of the students. Please consider shrinking the class sizes though!

Posted: May 22, 2016

Cooper Middle School is an outstanding school. It is the only middle school in Cobb County that is STEM certified. Even prior to them receiving this certification, this school has amazed me and exceeded my expectations to a level where I feel so blessed and grateful! Dr Watkins is incredible! That STEM program (science, technology, engineering, math) is so intriguing and has blown me away several times! Please understand. My daughter went to Cooper from Powder Springs Elementary (another great school that, much like Cooper, is blessed with extremely talented teachers and administration). My family is zoned for Cooper and I, honestly, had concerns about her future education there. However, instead of following old and outdated negative reports about Cooper, I went to Cooper, by myself, and checked things out for myself. I asked for curriculum, background information about the teachers, met with teachers, explored classrooms, etc. They were not expecting me, however, were elated that I took the time to come and check them out in this way. And, much to my great surprise, they went out of their way to give me everything (and them some) that I had asked for. I walked out of that school thrilled and so excited about my daughter's future here. It's been 2 years, she's been in all AC (advanced content) courses since she's been here, she is now going to 8th grade, my younger daughter is going to 6th. This school has impressed me over and over and over again. Extensive study of spinal cord injuries, genetics, Punnet squares, forensics, well-prepared trip to Shepherd Center, programming and 3D printing, amazing mathematics, and social studies projects that would make a child NEVER forget the content, and top-of-the-line Orchestra class, ran by the amazingly talented Mr Justin Owen-Head! The support the students receive is unprecedented! Acknowledgements, t-shirts for like every occasion, goodies, gadgets, many extra curricular activities. And EVERY SINGLE SUNDAY OF THE ENTIRE SCHOOL YEAR Dr Watkins send weekly callouts/emails with updates and reminders so parents and children are ALWAYS in the know. During testing time, the call outs are daily with words of encouragement and wake up calls. Really??? ... (continued, see next)...

Posted: May 22, 2016

Posted: May 7, 2015

Was not happy with this school for my child, nor the unsafe environment would not recommend this school to anyone. Classes are overcrowded which makes hard for learning. Kids are exposed to a lot of negative situations. Regret sending my child to this school.

Posted: May 6, 2014

This school has the potential to be a GREAT school. There are many things standing in the way. Many of the teachers are devoted to the students, but a large number are there simply to collect a check. I've witnessed the students being yelled at, I agree with a previous post. The principal talks the talk but fails at walking the walk. Hopefully they can get their act together before my son has graduated from here.

Posted: January 22, 2014

We have had an EXCELLENT experience at Cooper! My son's educational foundation started at a Public Charter school and Cooper has been able to challenge him over the past 3 years (6-8 grades). He has participated in Advanced Content courses in Math, Science and English all three years. They have added a STEM course to the curriculum and my son Loves it! He has been all A or AB Honor Roll all three years and is a member of the Beta Club. Cooper is working to become a STEM certified school, but it also emphasis Arts; therefore they are naming the program STEAM!! Cooper exceeded our expectation and Vanessa Watkins has rose to the occasion as principal for the last three years by encouraging more staff members to become Advanced Content certified and being transparent with parents (i.e.- monthly Chat and Chew meetings with the Principal). Johnson Family

Posted: January 7, 2014

I attended Cooper Middle School for my 6th-8th grade year. The children there are wannabe ghetto and that prevented good learning. Some of the teachers could care less about teaching. I really wish I hadn't wasted three years there. It has its good points but the bad out weigh the good.

Posted: December 10, 2013

Initially I was apprehensive about my child attending Cooper Middle School. Nevertheless I couldn't afford private education. My child attended the mini summer camp,an overview of the upcoming school year. I was very impressed and Dr. Anderson took the time to notice my sons potential! I still remained guarded, after all that was only summer camp! Of course luck fell in my lap-not good luck. MY son was bullied by one of his peers and I saw red! Prior to speaking with administration-I had my mind made up to withdraw my son from the school! To my surprise ,administration handled it before God had the news! They were very professional and diffused the situation before it turned into a fire. My son continues to excel academically and receive great support from his AC. teachers. They empowered him and his challenges grew into positive motivation by building on his strengths! DR. Porter, Mr. Caldwell , Mrs Sumlin, Mrs. Mickus ad well as the literacy teachers are phenomenal! Many thanks lolthey continue to be supportive even though I flood their emails!oh did I mention that my son is in Beta Club Science Olympiad the STEM program! #sohappyhesatcooper

Posted: March 11, 2013

The principal herself must have sent the last three reviews. I had my child at the school last year and I found he principal to be a micro managing bully. As a parent I saw her unprofessionally treat members of her staff badly( talking down at them). My child and many of his friends did not like the principal and the way she treated them. As the school year went on, the school behavior problems got worse and worse. There were some good people at the school but they were over shadowed by the over all group of staff members that did not have the patience, nor care genuinely for the concerns of the students. It was one of the worst situations I ever saw as a parent. The principal seemed concerned with her own self image and tried to be a tough talker to the students. Like tough love. Just without the the love part. What was said and what was done around the school were 2 different things. What you saw on the surface was not the true about the school. Kids now days can tell a fake when they see one. If you want to really know about the school, ask the kids in the neighborhood who attend there. When my child was there, they had an excellent PTA president. The Principal got rid of her.

#	Name	Type	City	State	Overall Rating	Distance
1	Garden Hills	Condominium/Townhouse	Atlanta	GA		14.5 mi
2	Heritage Farms	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Marietta	GA		15.8 mi

Base	Distance
Dobbins ARB	8.4 mi.
Fort Gillem	23.3 mi.

Cooper Middle School

Austell, GA 30106

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Cooper Middle School

Austell, GA 30106

School Ratings

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