Bob Barr addresses Cobb school board on calendar

Former U.S. Congressman, Atlanta Journal-Constitution columnist and Cobb resident Bob Barr addressed the Cobb school board Thursday on the handling of the school calendar. Barr didn't speak in favor of either the traditional or balanced calendar, but told board members it's important their decisions be fair, open, transparent and reflect the will of the people.

"I've been reminded many times that it is never too late to go back and correct errors, take a new look at something based on new information. That's advice I've taken to heart and I would urge this board to do the same," he said.

Last month, the board voted 4-3 to abandon the balanced calendar and revert to a traditional school calendar with a later start date and fewer breaks throughout the year. The vote has created a backlash from angry community members who say they felt blindsided by the change.