DALTON, Ga. — Dalton Public Schools is proud to announce that Selena Rios has been named Dalton Junior High School's 2025–2026 Teacher of the Year.

Rios teaches eighth grade English Language Arts at Dalton Junior High School, where she has taught since June 2024. She began her career in 2017 teaching seventh grade ELA at Dalton Middle School and later taught at Hammond Creek Middle School.

Rios holds a Bachelor's degree in English-Secondary Education from Dalton State College, earned in 2017, and a Master's degree in English-Secondary Education from Piedmont College, earned in 2020. She has also served as a PLC Lead and Team Lead.

Rios said her path to teaching began with her own experience as a student.

"My journey to teaching was shaped by the belief that education changes lives because it ultimately transformed mine."

She said a conversation with a mentor during her first year of teaching changed the way she approaches her classroom.

"I spoke with a mentor who guided me through this difficult time, and he shared something that I still carry with me today: 'They will care if they know you care.' Simple as that. No fancy games. No razzle-dazzle. At that moment, I decided to change my approach. From then on, I made it my mission to build relationships with each and every student."

Rios said that focus on relationships has defined her work and her greatest accomplishment.

"While I believe I have made many contributions to education by implementing instructional strategies, strengthening curriculum, and supporting my colleagues as both PLC Lead and Team Lead, my greatest accomplishment has been the relationships I have built with my students. They will always come first."

Rios shared the story of a newcomer student from Venezuela who was timid and refused to speak in class. Rios made a deal with her: the student would help her learn the nuances of Venezuelan Spanish while Rios helped her practice English.

"Through trust, encouragement, and consistent support, she gradually found her voice. By the end of the year, she confidently delivered a presentation about Anne Frank in English in front of the entire class."

Rios begins each school year with a "Dear Mrs. Rios" letter that lets students share what they are comfortable sharing, and she makes it a priority to call families to share the strengths she sees in their children. She also serves on her school's Cultural Committee, helping organize events that celebrate the cultures represented in the school community, including a Hispanic Heritage Month celebration.

"Representation reminds students that their identity is something to celebrate and that they belong."

Rios said her goal in the classroom and in the community is the same.

"I hope people know me not only as 'Selena, the teacher,' but as someone who genuinely cares about others. Whether I am encouraging a struggling student, celebrating a family's joy, supporting a fellow teacher, or serving within my community, my goal remains the same: to help others feel seen, valued, and like they belong."

Dalton Public Schools congratulates Selena Rios on being named Dalton Junior High School's 2025–2026 Teacher of the Year and thanks her for the dedication she shows to students each day.