Franklin County Public Schools welcomes first Black superintendent

Bernice Cobbs has spent her entire career teaching in Franklin County

FRANKLIN COUNTY, Va. – Franklin County Public Schools announces the name of its new superintendent and she’s a familiar face.

Dr. Bernice Cobbs, the school division’s first Black superintendent, was selected after a nationwide search at the school board meeting during Monday’s school board meeting.

“It sets me up as a role model for all of our students regardless of their race or their ethnicity, but I think it really sends that message to our Black students and our Black females,” said Cobbs.

Cobbs is currently the assistant principal of Franklin County High School and has spent her entire career in Franklin County.

In 2019, she was named Virginia Middle School Principal of the Year.

“I am honored to be selected as the next superintendent of Franklin County Public Schools,” said Cobbs. “I am very grateful for the opportunity to work with the School Board, staff, community, families and students of Franklin County. I especially look forward to the collaborative teamwork to enhance student achievement," said Cobbs.

She will start as superintendent on Dec. 1.


About the Authors

Annie Schroeder joined the 10 News team as a reporter in June 2020 and is no stranger to Southwest Virginia.

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