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CCCEPA HANDBOOK - GENERAL PROGRAM GUIDELINES

ABOUT CCCEPA

The Cobb County Center for Excellence in the Performing Arts (CCCEPA) is a co-educational public magnet program located at Pebblebrook High School. CCCEPA offers exceptional training in Dance, Vocal Music, Musical Theatre, Drama, and Technical Theatre. Complemented by a rigorous academic curriculum, this tuition-free program is available to students in grades 9–12 who meet eligibility and audition requirements. Students must reside within the Cobb County School District. District-wide bus transportation is provided for admitted students.

CCCEPA students actively participate in co-curricular performances and collaborate with leading professionals from Atlanta and beyond. Under the guidance of master teachers, they develop as bold artists, graduating prepared to succeed in both college and professional careers. Alumni excel not only in the arts but also in fields such as science, education, public service, and more.

PROGRAM COMMITMENT

CCCEPA is a highly rigorous program that demands full commitment. Students must prioritize their academic responsibilities as well as their obligations within the CCCEPA program. While participation in social, community, and extracurricular activities is encouraged, CCCEPA commitments (performances, rehearsals, workshops, field trips, etc.) must always take precedence.

Before committing to any other extracurricular activities (e.g., sports, clubs, outside performances), students must consult with their major area instructor. Failure to do so may jeopardize their standing in the program.

5th PERIOD

As an extended-day magnet program, CCCEPA provides students with rigorous and specialized training in their major areas of study. The school day runs from 8:20 AM to 4:15 PM and is structured into five periods.

The fifth period is a 45-minute, mandatory class session dedicated exclusively to deepening skill development within the student’s chosen major. This period is an essential component of the CCCEPA curriculum and is treated with the same level of importance as any other academic class.

While CCCEPA strongly encourages student involvement in social, community, and extracurricular activities, 5th period takes precedence over all after-school activities, including sports, social clubs, and other commitments. Before committing to an extracurricular activity that may conflict with 5th period, students must request permission in advance from their major area instructor. Permission to miss class is not guaranteed; it will depend on the instructional plan and the needs of the class at that time.

It is important to note that:

  • Returning to 5th period with a note from a coach, teacher, or sponsor of another school activity will not excuse the absence.
  • Absences from 5th period without prior approval may negatively affect a student’s standing in the CCCEPA program.
  • Consistent attendance and engagement during 5th period are critical to student success and progression within their major.

In short, 5th period is class time, not optional enrichment, and students are expected to honor this commitment as part of their training at CCCEPA.

CCCEPA STUDENT ACTIVITY FEES

Students may be required to pay annual student activity fees at the beginning of the fall semester. These fees help cover program-wide costs, including uniforms, costumes, guest artist fees, field trips, set supplies, workshops, transportation, and more.

Unpaid fees may accumulate and be converted into fines, which can affect a student’s participation in graduation activities. Specific fee schedules will be provided by each department.

CCCEPA SEAL, CORD, & STOLE

  • Eight (8) Fine Arts Credits: CCCEPA stole

  • Ten (10) Fine Arts Credits: CCCEPA seal and stole

  • Twelve (12) Fine Arts Credits: CCCEPA seal, stole, and Fine Arts Medallion

  • Four Full Years & Twelve (12) Fine Arts Credits: CCCEPA seal, Fine Arts cord, medallion, and stole

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

A student’s standing in the CCCEPA program depends on their commitment, academic performance, behavior, and evaluations within their area of study. Evaluations include semester juries, performance requirements, production hour commitments, and portfolio reviews.

SEMESTER JURIES

Each department conducts juries at the end of each semester to evaluate student progress. These juries assess artistic growth, academic success, attendance, study habits, and participation. Based on the evaluation, a student’s status and class placement will be determined.

A student in good standing will continue in the program, while one falling short of expectations may be placed on probation. Jury evaluations may count for up to 20% of the final semester grade.

ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS

To remain in the CCCEPA program, students must maintain:

  • A minimum overall GPA of 2.5

  • A minimum GPA of 3.0 in their major area

Students with an overall GPA below 2.5 will be placed on probation and must work to improve their grades. Failure to raise the GPA by the end of the probationary term may result in removal from the program. Grades are reviewed every 18 weeks.

TRANSFER STUDENTS

Students may enter CCCEPA in grades 9–11. Fine arts credits from previous schools count toward the Fine Arts seal, while additional awards depend on credits earned at CCCEPA. Magnet credits from other schools will transfer as magnet credits.

REQUIRED PERFORMANCES, EVENTS, & REHEARSALS

Missing required rehearsals, performances, or events may result in significant grade deductions, probation, or dismissal from the program. Clear communication will be provided if probationary status is applied.

CCCEPA PROBATION

Students may be placed on probation for the following reasons:

  • Artistic/Program Commitment: Failure to maintain an overall average of 80 in CCCEPA area classes or excessive absences

  • Academic: GPA falling below 2.5

  • Conduct: Violating the Cobb County Schools J-Code of Student Conduct

CCCEPA DISMISSAL

A student will be dismissed from the program if they fail to meet the academic, behavioral, or commitment requirements outlined in their probation letter, or if they commit a serious offense.

Dismissed students whose home school is not Pebblebrook will be transferred to their zoned school.

APPEAL PROCEDURE

A student or parent may appeal a dismissal by submitting a Petition for Appeal Letter to the CCCEPA Director within one week. Once the letter is received, a conference will be scheduled.

If dismissal is upheld, and Pebblebrook is not the student’s home school, the student will be withdrawn and returned to their zoned school.

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