Dalton Public Schools -

Dalton Public Schools -

šŸ† Help Honor the Catamounts Who Made History! šŸ†

The search is on for the third class of the Dalton High School Athletics Hall of Fame!

Do you know a former athlete, coach, team, or community contributor whose impact on Dalton High School athletics deserves to be recognized? Now is your opportunity to help preserve the rich history and tradition of Catamount athletics by submitting a nomination.

Since its establishment in 2024, the Dalton High School Athletics Hall of Fame has celebrated the individuals and teams whose excellence, leadership, and dedication have shaped generations of Catamounts. Now it's time to recognize the next class of legends.
Nominations close on August 24, 2026.

If you've nominated someone in the past, we encourage you to update and resubmit your nomination to ensure the Hall of Fame Committee has the most complete and current information available.

Submit your nomination today:
šŸ”—https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdIAsY8STEViTR8R5Y6UyRtXUpHNpFp4YXVxl9yoEDV1XeGjg/viewform
about 3 hours ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications
A graphic logo for the "DALTON HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETICS HALL OF FAME" set against a textured, dark red background with scattered black debris accents. The central feature is a black shield with a white inner border containing a stylized red and white catamount head logo. The text "DALTON HIGH SCHOOL" is arched across the top inside the shield, "ATHLETICS" is written near the bottom, and a black ribbon banner across the base reads "HALL OF FAME" in bold white lettering.
Angie Edwards Named Blue Ridge School 2025ā€“2026 Teacher of the YearāœØ

Dalton Public Schools is proud to announce that Angie Edwards has been named Blue Ridge School's 2025ā€“2026 Teacher of the Year. Edwards teaches ESOL and EIP to students in grades K-5 at Blue Ridge School, where she has spent her entire 13-year teaching career.

"After more than a decade at Blue Ridge, I see the school as much more than my workplace," Edwards said. "It is the community where I have grown as a teacher, built lasting relationships, and invested a significant part of my life."

Dalton Public Schools congratulates Angie Edwards on being named Blue Ridge School's 2025ā€“2026 Teacher of the Year and thanks her for the dedication she shows to students each day.

Read more about the Blue Ridge School Teacher of the Year: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/article/3069841
about 4 hours ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications
A promotional graphic celebrating "Teacher of the Year" against a light gray background with a faint jaguar mascot watermark. On the left, bold red text reads "Teacher of the Year" with "#JAGUARS" in a red box below, and the Dalton Public Schools logo sits at the bottom left. On the right, a smiling woman named Angie Edwards wears glasses, a miniature sombrero headband, a festive rainbow poncho, a taco necklace, and holds a glass award plaque. Her name "EDWARDS Angie" is printed in large white and red typography at the bottom right above "Blue Ridge School".
Dalton Public Schools Elevates Student Safety Through New Partnership with Sandy Hook Promise

In a continued commitment to maintaining safe, welcoming, and supportive learning environments, Dalton Public Schools is announcing a new partnership with Sandy Hook Promise. As part of this safety initiative, the district will soon launch the Say Something Anonymous Reporting System across our schools.

Read more about our partnership with Sandy Hook Promise: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/article/3068387
1 day ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications
A green-tinted promotional graphic featuring a background photo of students standing together with their arms around each other's shoulders. Overlaid in large white text reads "Dalton Public Schools Elevates Student Safety Through New Partnership with Sandy Hook Promise". The Dalton Public Schools logo is displayed at the top center, and the Sandy Hook Promise tree logo appears in the bottom right corner.

Ready, set, learn! šŸŽšŸ“š

Happy First Day of School, Dalton Public Schools! We are so excited to launch into another incredible year of growth, discovery, and community. To our students, teachers, and families: Letā€™s make this school year our best one yet! You're going to love what's in store!

#DaltonPublicSchools #LearnLeadSucceed #DPSFirstDay

2 days ago, Communications Intern
A teacher in a yellow shirt leans over a classroom table to assist two students who are writing and working together.
A school staff member in a white shirt and tie stands outside greeting students as they exit a car with their backpacks.
A group of eight smiling teachers and staff members wearing matching white spirit shirts seated in a row on a stage in front of a wooden podium and dark curtains.
Four smiling young women posing together outdoors in front of a parking lot and trees.
A smiling family posing together outdoors, with a woman in a teal shirt, a young girl, and a man holding a toddler with a pacifier.
A group of smiling high school girls posing closely together outdoors for a selfie taken with a handheld digital camera.
A young girl smiles at the camera as an adult carrying a drink cup walks past in an outdoor school parking lot or drop-off area
A smiling teacher with blonde hair and glasses stands in front of a classroom whiteboard and bookshelf.
A group of six smiling high school students carrying backpacks walking and talking together outdoors in front of trees and a parking lot.

Doors open, hearts full! Orientations remind us just how special our school community is. Seeing so many familiar faces (and new ones!) brought our buildings right back to life. Weā€™re all set for a fantastic year aheadā€”see you all bright and early tomorrow! šŸŽ’šŸšŒ #DaltonPublicSchools #LearnLeadSucceed

2 days ago, Communications Intern
A group of smiling students wearing matching grey Dalton shirts gathered and posing together indoors.
A decorated school hallway lined with red and white walls, filled with teachers and staff, with a pink, red, and gold balloon arch visible in the background.
A group of seven smiling adults standing side-by-side in a school hallway in front of a trophy case, wearing school spirit shirts and hoodies in white, red, and black.
Two school staff members and a parent or volunteer interacting outdoors under a covered walkway near numbered posts and green trees.
A young man wearing glasses and a dark soccer jersey stands with students and staff in a brightly lit school lobby.
A barber smiling as he cuts a student's hair with clippers during a school event.
A group of five smiling school staff members posing together behind a table against a light-colored brick wall, with one woman wearing a red Dalton shirt.
A woman wearing glasses and a boy in a blue hooded sweatshirt talking together in a bustling school atrium filled with students and tables.
A young smiling boy in a light blue t-shirt standing beside a teenage girl sitting at a classroom table with playdough, small plastic cups, and learning materials.
A smiling school staff member wearing a red lanyard stands at an indoor registration or check-in table in front of a DJHS backdrop.
Itā€™s officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldnā€™t be more proud to shine a light on some of our recent graduates!

Today weā€™re featuring Dalton High School graduate Zacari Garcia!

Zacari Garcia was a driven member of the class of 2026 who not only spread positivity throughout her school community but also prioritized her passions and excelled at them year after year! During her time at Dalton High School, Zacari was part of a variety of unique extracurriculars, including Swimming and Diving, Track, Color Guard, JROTC, and JROTC Raiders, a highly physical extracurricular team for high school cadets. Along with this, Zacari took on multiple leadership roles within her school as a member of the Student Council and founded the Hispanics of Purpose and Education (HoPe) chapter. She was also a leader within her broader community, participating in the Youth United Way Council and the L.I.F.T. Club. Within these extracurriculars, Zacari accomplished many different feats, such as organizing the first QuinceaƱera Runway Show with the HoPe team, serving as the Color Guard Commander, and earning the Unit Honor of Distinction, the highest accreditation rating a JROTC program can earn, and an achievement Zacari is extremely proud of. Along with these achievements, Zacari was selected by her peers to serve on the homecoming court for all four years of high school, being chosen as princess three years in a row and crowned homecoming queen her senior year! In the fall, Zacari plans to attend the University of North Georgia, where she previously participated in the National Leadership Challenge, an immersive weekend hosted by the University of North Georgia Corps of Cadets designed to give high schoolers a firsthand look at cadet life on campus. There, she plans to study Strategic and Security Studies with a concentration in International Affairs. Zacari Garcia was a changemaker within her school, initiating real change throughout her four years of high school and leading her peers with compassion! We are immensely proud to have had her as a member of our Dalton Public Schools community, and we are sure that she will continue to make a difference in whatever community she joins next.

Way to go Zacari!
2 days ago, Communications Intern
Itā€™s officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldnā€™t be more proud to shine a light on some of our recent graduates! Today weā€™re featuring Dalton High School graduate Zacari Garcia! Zacari Garcia was a driven member of the class of 2026 who not only spread positivity throughout her school community but also prioritized her passions and excelled at them year after year! During her time at Dalton High School, Zacari was part of a variety of unique extracurriculars, including Swimming and Diving, Track, Color Guard, JROTC, and JROTC Raiders, a highly physical extracurricular team for high school cadets. Along with this, Zacari took on multiple leadership roles within her school as a member of the Student Council and founded the Hispanics of Purpose and Education (HoPe) chapter. She was also a leader within her broader community, participating in the Youth United Way Council and the L.I.F.T. Club. Within these extracurriculars, Zacari accomplished many different feats, such as organizing the first QuinceaƱera Runway Show with the HoPe team, serving as the Color Guard Commander, and earning the Unit Honor of Distinction, the highest accreditation rating a JROTC program can earn, and an achievement Zacari is extremely proud of. Along with these achievements, Zacari was selected by her peers to serve on the homecoming court for all four years of high school, being chosen as princess three years in a row and crowned homecoming queen her senior year! In the fall, Zacari plans to attend the University of North Georgia, where she previously participated in the National Leadership Challenge, an immersive weekend hosted by the University of North Georgia Corps of Cadets designed to give high schoolers a firsthand look at cadet life on campus. There, she plans to study Strategic and Security Studies with a concentration in International Affairs. Zacari Garcia was a changemaker within her school, initiating real change throughout her four years of high school and leading her peers with compassion! We are immensely proud to have had her as a member of our Dalton Public Schools community, and we are sure that she will continue to make a difference in whatever community she joins next. Way to go Zacari!
Dear Class of 2026, The Central office would like to extend our thanks to the Class of 2026 for sharing your achievements with us! Celebrating your successes has been an honor, and we are confident that you will all carry your ambition and talents forward to make a lasting impact. Sincerely, Dalton Public Schools Congratulations

šŸŽ A full-circle moment for Dalton Public Schools!

We are beyond proud to announce that JJ Anderson, a dedicated first-grade teacher at Westwood School, has been named the 2026 District Teacher of the Year! As a proud product of Dalton Public Schools herself, JJā€™s journey from a DPS studentā€”building connections in the Buddy Program and Early Childhood Education pathwayā€”to returning to teach in the district that raised her is a true testament to our DPS culture. In her classroom, JJ leads with heart, using structured literacy practices to build confident, lifelong readers, while also serving as Westwoodā€™s first-grade chair, a district literacy leader, and the Head Softball Coach for Dalton High School. šŸ†

During Convocation, JJ was surprised with a $500 award and a brand-new vehicle lease generously donated by Ford of Dalton to celebrate her incredible impact on our students and community! We also want to extend a huge congratulations to all of our incredible 2026 School-Level Teachers of the Year: Angie Edwards (Blue Ridge), Shea McFadden (Brookwood), Kimberly Jimenez (City Park), Cody Smith (Dalton High), Selena Rios (Dalton Junior High), Yebel Garcia (Hammond Creek Middle), Briana Cloud (Park Creek), Nadxelly Ramirez (Roan), and Katie Sloan (The Dalton Academy). šŸŒŸ

Special thanks to Ford of Dalton, the Dalton Education Foundation, and all of our local sponsors for continuing to honor and support our extraordinary educators. Join us in celebrating JJ and all of our incredible Teachers of the Year!

šŸ“–Read more about JJ Anderson and our 2026 Teachers of the Year here: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/article/3053751

5 days ago, Communications Intern
Four smiling people pose together on a gymnasium stage for an award presentation. Two men in suits and a woman on the right present a large novelty car key reading "Dalton Teacher of the Year" and "Ford DALTON" to a female teacher in a red skirt who holds a bouquet of yellow roses.
A smiling blonde female teacher stands in a gymnasium holding an engraved glass award plaque. She wears a black t-shirt that reads "WESTWOOD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL THE GREATEST SCHOOL" and a red skirt, with spectators in red and black seated in the blurred bleachers behind her.
Three adults stand together outdoors smiling in front of a white Ford SUV. The woman in the middle wears a black "WESTWOOD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL THE GREATEST SCHOOL" shirt and a long red skirt. On her left, a woman holds a baby in a beige front carrier, and on her right, a bearded man in a light blue striped polo and navy trousers stands with them on a grassy lawn.
A smiling woman in a red skirt and black Westwood Elementary School shirt poses next to a feline mascot dressed as a ringmaster in a red jacket, yellow vest, and black top hat. The mascot holds out a baton in front of a white Ford SUV displaying a banner reading "Thank You! Ford DALTON... Sponsoring the Teacher of the Year Car Giveaway."
A row of teachers seated on chairs on a gymnasium floor applaud during an awards ceremony. They hold acrylic award plaques in their laps. Near the middle, a female teacher wearing a star headband and red pants smiles towards her colleague in a black Westwood Elementary shirt and red skirt, who covers her mouth in surprise and emotion. In the background, audience members watch from packed bleachers.
A man in sunglasses and a blue plaid suit coat hands a car key fob to a smiling female teacher standing outdoors in front of a white Ford SUV. Together, they hold a large novelty key reading "Dalton Teacher of the Year" and "Ford DALTON." The teacher wears a red skirt and black Westwood Elementary shirt while holding a bouquet of yellow roses in her other arm.
A woman in a light pink dress emotionally embraces a teacher in a red skirt who is holding a bouquet of yellow roses on a gymnasium floor. Beside them, a smiling man in a red polo shirt watches the embrace, while other attendees look on in the background against a wall displaying the words "Welcome Cats".
A smiling woman wearing a red skirt and a black "WESTWOOD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL" t-shirt sits in the driver's seat of a white vehicle with the door open, waving at the camera.

šŸŽŖ Welcome to "The Greatest Show in Education!"
DPS faculty, staff, and administrators gathered at Dalton High School to celebrate the start of the 2026ā€“2027 school year with unmatched energy, harmony, and incredible district pride! The competition was fierce, but Park Creek School took home the Elementary Spirit Belt and Hammond Creek Middle School defended their title for a 3rd straight year to win the Secondary Spirit Belt! šŸ†
Superintendent Dr. Steven Craft set an inspiring tone for the year ahead, celebrating the dedicated people who make our district extraordinary. We capped off the event by honoring City Parkā€™s Kassie Ayers as District Classified Staff Member of the Year and Westwoodā€™s JJ Anderson as District Teacher of the Yearā€”who is driving into the new school year with a new ride from Ford of Dalton!
Special thanks to the Dalton Education Foundation, The Dalton Board of Education, and our amazing community partners for supporting our schools. Letā€™s make this school year one for the record books! šŸŒŸ


šŸ“–Read more about the Annual Employee Convocation here: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/article/3053711

5 days ago, Communications Intern
The Park Creek Elementary School principal Brandon Headrick seen from behind in a red tailcoat stands on stage before a large crowd in a dark arena, with audience members holding up lit phone flashlights and the park creek mascot in the background.
A group of smiling educators dressed as carnival concessions workers walk in a line down an outdoor covered walkway. They wear red shirts, red-and-white striped aprons, paper diner hats, and carry pom-poms along with signs reading "CONCESSIONS" and "THE GREATEST SHOW IN EDUCATION."
A high-energy crowd wearing matching black t-shirts that read "WESTWOOD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL THE GREATEST SCHOOL" cheers enthusiastically in bleachers. In the foreground, three women raise their arms with wide smiles and excited expressions while holding white foam light sticks and orange props. Surrounding fans cheer along, waving red inflatable thundersticks and light-up batons.
Deputy Superintendent Nick Sun in a bright red, gold-trimmed coat, top hat, and sunglasses points a cane directly toward the camera inside a crowded gymnasium. He wears a black shirt that reads "THE GREATEST SHOW IN EDUCATION" and carries a clipboard. Behind him, packed bleachers full of cheering teachers and staff hold signs, glow sticks, and pom-poms under red arena lighting.
A enthusiastic group of teachers and staff walk down an outdoor covered walkway holding school spirit signs. In front, several women hold a large brown paper banner that reads "BROOKWOOD where every student finds their spotlight!" in red marque-style lettering and black script. Behind them, staff members wave red foam fingers, pom-poms, and hold signs including one that reads "Every Student HAS A Spotlight!".
Jason Denson, the owner of Ford of Dalton, in a blue plaid suit coat, glasses, and blue trousers smiles as he speaks into a microphone while holding a large novelty key in a crowded gymnasium. The key features the Ford logo and reads "Dalton Teacher of the Year" in red outline lettering. In the background, audience members cheer from the bleachers beneath a large red "D" logo on the wall.
Three young students stand on a gym floor singing into microphones during an assembly. Two are wearing grey Hammond Creek t-shirts, and one in red glasses wears a red Hammond Creek Middle School shirt. To the left, the Hammond Creek tiger mascot wearing a small black top hat clasps its paws together with educator-packed bleachers visible in the background.
A cheerleader in a white tank top with a red "A" logo and red shorts smiles while raising a black pom-pom in a crowded gymnasium bleacher section. Beside her, a woman wearing a black fedora holds a handmade banner reading "We've got the magic", while other fans in black "PUMA NATION" shirts cheer, wave signs, and raise pom-poms in the background.
Superindendent Dr. Steven Craft in a light blue dress shirt, bright red tie, and headset microphone presents a large championship belt on a gymnasium floor. He holds papers in one hand, while red and white streamers hang from the ceiling above and audience members fill the bleachers in the background.
Principal Brandon Headrick dressed as a ringmaster in a black top hat, glasses, and an ornate red coat with gold embroidery high-fives Park Creek staff on a gymnasium floor. He smiles broadly while carrying a large championship belt under his arm, with a large red "D" logo visible on the gym wall behind him.
šŸ¾šŸˆ THE NFLā€™S HIGHEST-PAID RUNNING BACK IS A CATAMOUNT.

From the lights of Harmon Field to the biggest stage in football, Jahmyr Gibbs is still making history.

The former Dalton High School standout has agreed to a three-year, $67.5 million contract extension with the Detroit Lions, becoming the highest-paid running back in the NFL.

But before Sundays in Detroit, Gibbs was wearing the red and white of Dalton High School. He finished his Catamount career with 4,882 rushing yards and 70 touchdowns, including a remarkable senior season with 2,554 yards and 40 touchdowns.

From Dalton to Detroit, the journey continues ā€” and Catamount Nation couldnā€™t be prouder.

Congratulations, Jahmyr! Keep making Dalton proud. šŸ¾šŸˆ

#DaltonPublicSchools #DaltonHighSchool #Catamounts #JahmyrGibbs

šŸ“øChattanooga Times Free Press Staff Photo by Robin Rudd
5 days ago, Ashley Grycz
šŸ¾šŸˆ THE NFLā€™S HIGHEST-PAID RUNNING BACK IS A CATAMOUNT. From the lights of Harmon Field to the biggest stage in football, Jahmyr Gibbs is still making history. The former Dalton High School standout has agreed to a three-year, $67.5 million contract extension with the Detroit Lions, becoming the highest-paid running back in the NFL. But before Sundays in Detroit, Gibbs was wearing the red and white of Dalton High School. He finished his Catamount career with 4,882 rushing yards and 70 touchdowns, including a remarkable senior season with 2,554 yards and 40 touchdowns. From Dalton to Detroit, the journey continues ā€” and Catamount Nation couldnā€™t be prouder. Congratulations, Jahmyr! Keep making Dalton proud. šŸ¾šŸˆ #DaltonPublicSchools #DaltonHighSchool #Catamounts #JahmyrGibbs šŸ“øChattanooga Times Free Press Staff Photo by Robin Rudd

Turning Hospitality Inside Out: We are thrilled to share that Dalton Public Schools is featured in the latest issue of Apptegyā€™s SchoolCEO magazine! šŸ“–āœØ

In DPS, welcoming our families and creating a sense of belonging begins on the inside. True school hospitality starts with how we care for, listen to, and support our own staff, teachers, and school cultureā€”because when our internal team flourishes, our whole community feels it.

As Superintendent Dr. Steven Craft puts it:

"We exist to serveā€”our schools, our community, our kidsā€”and having those honest conversations with people and being responsive to them has always been key." ā€” Dr. Steven Craft, Superintendent

Check out the Summer 2026 issue to read the feature and learn more about how DPS continues to innovate, lead, and inspire:

šŸ‘‰ https://www.apptegy.com/schoolceo/summer-2026/

6 days ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications
A two-page spread from the Summer 2026 issue of SchoolCEO magazine (pages 56-57). The left page is titled "TURNING HOSPITALITY INSIDE OUT: How internal hospitality creates school cultures worth celebrating" by Eileen Beard. It includes a cut-out photo of four school staff members dressed in vibrant professional wrestling costumes and championship belts. The right page features two article sections: "WHY INTERNAL HOSPITALITY MATTERS" and "HOW TO RETAIN STAFF THROUGH HOSPITALITY". A photo on the lower right shows a woman in a yellow shirt high-fiving a colleague at a doorway near an EXIT sign.
Dalton Public Schools extends its sincere gratitude to CleanSpark for their generous donation of backpacks to the Kindergarten students at City Park School. šŸŽ’

Providing our youngest learners with essential school supplies helps set the foundation for a successful academic year. We deeply appreciate CleanSpark's strong commitment to our schools and their dedication to investing in the future of our students. Thank you for being an outstanding community partner.
6 days ago, Ashley Grycz
Eight adults pose together around a white pedestal table in a school hallway beneath educational posters. One man kneels in front holding a blue backpack and a white CleanSpark water bottle, while others stand holding matching backpacks, water bottles, and school supply pouches.
Six female staff members stand close together in a cinderblock school hallway, posing with royal blue CleanSpark-branded backpacks. Four of the women in the front hold the backpacks forward, while the others smile from behind in casual professional attire.
Eight female school staff members pose together in a brightly lit hallway. Five women in the front row hold royal blue CleanSpark backpacks, while three colleagues stand behind them smiling. Flags from different countries hang along the ceiling beam above.
Six individuals stand in a row along a white cinderblock hallway wall inside a school building. A woman in red on the far left wears a blue CleanSpark backpack, a man in the center holds one up to his chest, and others wear or hold matching backpacks while smiling toward the camera.
A group of eight adults stand in a circle near a large windowed exterior wall in a school hallway, engaged in conversation. Mexican and Dominican flags hang suspended from the ceiling in the background, along with stacked U-Haul cardboard boxes along the wall.
A woman in a navy CleanSpark polo shirt and jeans stands with hands clasped in a school hallway, listening to a colleague off-camera on the left. Behind her, stacked U-Haul boxes rest against the wall under hanging international flags.
Eight staff members pose for a group photo in a school corridor beside a white round table loaded with blue backpacks. The individuals hold up blue CleanSpark backpacks, white insulated water bottles, and clear pencil pouches filled with school supplies while smiling at the camera.
Five school staff members pose along a hallway wall under a blue "Georgia Honors Excellence" banner. Three women and two men hold or wear blue CleanSpark backpacks while smiling for the photo around a small white table.


Itā€™s officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldnā€™t be more proud to shine a light on some of our recent graduates!

Today weā€™re featuring Dalton High School graduate Preston Cox!

Throughout his time at Dalton High School, Preston Cox was an exceptional student-athlete who excelled both in the classroom and on the field. He maintained a 3.7 GPA while also being a 3-time Scholar Athlete, a member of the National Honor Society, and actively participated in the DHS Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Preston was a four-year varsity starter in football at defensive end and in lacrosse as a long stick defender, as well as a two-year varsity starter in track and field. His athletic accomplishments include being named a varsity starter in two sports as a freshman, earning MVP awards in football and lacrosse, receiving All-Region honors in football, and helping lead his football team to playoff appearances in three different seasons. When looking back at his high school journey, Preston fondly remembers the large, diverse group of friends he made, along with special moments like defeating Calhoun during his sophomore football season. This fall, Preston will attend Maryville College in Tennessee on a football scholarship to major in Mechanical Engineering, pursuing his lifelong passion to design, build, and work in research and development for performance cars. Dalton Public Schools is incredibly proud of Prestonā€™s academic and athletic dedication, and we look forward to seeing all he accomplishes in the future!

Way to go Preston Cox!

6 days ago, Communications Intern
Graphic celebrating Preston Cox, a Dalton High School Class of 2026 graduate. Features a tuxedo portrait graphic with his name alongside text reading: "...friends he made, along with special moments like defeating Calhoun during his sophomore football season. This fall, Preston will attend Maryville College in Tennessee on a football scholarship to major in Mechanical Engineering, pursuing his lifelong passion to design, build, and work in research and development for performance cars. Dalton Public Schools is incredibly proud of Preston's academic and athletic dedication, and we look forward to seeing all he accomplishes in the future! DALTON HIGH CLASS OF 2026."
Celebrating our rising Pre-K and Kindergarten Summer Transition Program students as they took their big steps into the new school year! šŸŽ’āœØ

We want to wish every single one of our STP students the absolute best. We already know you're shining bright in your classrooms thanks to all your hard work this summer! We canā€™t wait to see all that you accomplish this year.

#DaltonPublicSchools #LearnLeadSucceed
7 days ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications
A young boy in a white short-sleeved button-up shirt and light jeans stands next to a young girl wearing a grey plaid jumper, headband, glasses, and a blue crossbody purse. They smile together in front of a colorful balloon arch and red stage backdrop while a person standing on the right holds up a smartphone to photograph them.
Two female staff members wearing teal t-shirts interact with parents in an auditorium setting. The woman in glasses on the left reviews paperwork, while the smiling woman in the middle hands a blue lanyard and a colorful gift bag containing learning materials to a parent standing in the foreground.
A young boy held by an older man holds up a colorful Pre-Kindergarten Summer Transition Program certificate reading "2026-2027 Pre-Kindergarten". A smiling woman in a green top stands beside them, while another person in the background captures the moment on a bright yellow smartphone.
A line of young children wearing paper headbands stands at the front of a stage during an event. Behind them, teachers and staff stand smiling under a large arch made of red, yellow, green, and blue balloons with vehicle-themed decorations, set against a red stage curtain.
An auditorium audience viewed from behind holds up smartphones to take photos of a large group of young children and staff lined up on stage. The stage features a colorful balloon arch in the background against dark red curtains.
A row of young children wearing hand-decorated paper crowns stand on stage making hand gestures during a performance. Behind them, two female teachers cheer and clap along in front of a colorful balloon display and red stage curtain.
A line of young students wearing decorated paper crowns walk in sequence across an auditorium stage. Each child proudly holds a colorful certificate for completing the Pre-Kindergarten Summer Transition Program while teachers guide them from behind.
A line of smiling young students wearing paper crowns stand side-by-side on stage, holding up their Pre-Kindergarten completion certificates facing forward. Teachers stand behind them encouraging the children as parents watch from the side.
A group of young children sit cross-legged in a row on a carpeted floor during an indoor event. A young girl in a pink dress in the center smiles toward the camera while surrounding children look toward the front and adults nearby clap.
A row of young students wearing headband-mounted paper animal ears stand in a line on stage, raising their hands to follow motions. On the far left, a female teacher in a teal shirt and lanyard demonstrates the movements for the children to mirror.
Dalton Public Schools is proud to announce the launch of its inaugural LEAD DPS (Learn. Empower. Advance. Develop.) program, a yearlong leadership development initiative designed to identify, cultivate, and prepare future leaders within the district.

Following a competitive application and interview process, 13 educators and staff members have been selected to participate in the first LEAD DPS cohort. The program reflects the district's commitment to developing a sustainable leadership pipeline while investing in employees who demonstrate strong leadership potential, a commitment to excellence, and a desire to positively impact students, staff, families, and the broader school community.

Read more about the inaugural LEAD DPS cohort: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/article/3048085

#DaltonPublicSchools #LearnLeadSucceed
7 days ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications
A large group photo of seventeen colleagues lined up in two rows against an indoor backdrop featuring a projection screen and simulated storefronts, including a Chick-fil-A sign. The back row consists of eight men and women in business-casual attire, while the front row features nine women and men standing side by side, including a woman in a bright pink jumpsuit centered in the front.

Brookwood, Westwood, and Dalton High families: Free & Reduced Lunch Applications Are Now Available ā€“ in English & Spanish!

The 2026ā€“2027 Free & Reduced Lunch Application is open!

Everyone is encouraged to complete a new application each year, even if youā€™ve qualified in the past.
Submit your application by September 1, 2026. A new application is required each year, and last yearā€™s status will expire on September 18.

Apply online or pick up a limited paper copy at the front office of any Dalton school.
ENGLISH: https://www.myschoolapps.com/Home/DistrictRedirect/DaltonPS_GA?langid=1
SPANISH: https://www.myschoolapps.com/Home/DistrictRedirect/DaltonPS_GA?langid=2

šŸŽ Itā€™s About More Than a Meal!
āœ… Access to free or reduced prices on healthy, delicious meals
āœ… Discounted fees for SAT, ACT, and AP exams
āœ… Eligibility for college scholarships and academic programs
āœ… Helps maintain critical student services and enrichment programs

Take a few minutes to applyā€”itā€™s a small step that supports big opportunities for your student!

9 days ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications
An English flyer titled "Now Open! FREE AND REDUCED LUNCH APPLICATIONS - More than a meal." The top image shows smiling children sitting together at a lunch table. Below are three featured benefits: School Funding: Maintains funding for student programs and services. Shown with a photo of a smiling girl holding books. SAT, ACT, AP Fees: Offers discounted exam fees and scholarship opportunities. Shown with a photo of high school graduates in red gowns. School Meals: Provides free or reduced prices for nutritious school meals. Shown with a photo of a young student selecting food in a cafeteria line. The bottom text instructs everyone to reapply annually by September 1, 2026, and notes that applications can be completed online or picked up at any school front office.
A Spanish flyer titled "Ā”Ya disponible! SOLICITUDES DE ALMUERZO GRATUITO O REDUCIDO - MĆ”s que una comida." The top image shows smiling children sitting together at a lunch table. Below are three featured benefits: Financiamiento escolar: Maintains funding for student programs and services. Shown with a photo of a smiling girl holding books. Costos de SAT, ACT y AP: Offers discounted exam fees and scholarship opportunities. Shown with a photo of high school graduates in red gowns. Comidas escolares: Provides free or reduced prices for nutritious school meals. Shown with a photo of a young student selecting food in a cafeteria line. The bottom text instructs all students to reapply annually by September 1, 2026, and notes that applications can be completed online or picked up at any school front office.
A huge thank you to our incredible partners at Ford of Dalton!

Today, our 2025 District Teacher of the Year, Nicole Gillispie, officially turned in the keys to the new car graciously provided by Ford of Dalton. Last August at our Annual Employee Convocation, Nicole was awarded a free one-year lease to celebrate her remarkable dedication to our students.

We are beyond grateful for Ford of Daltonā€™s long-time commitment to celebrating excellence in education. And the best part? We get to extend this amazing partnership and hand over the keys to our next Teacher of the Year tomorrow! Stay tuned! šŸ’™šŸŽ

#DaltonPublicSchools #TeacherOfTheYear #CommunityPartners #FordOfDalton #LearnLeadSucceed
13 days ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications
A male dealership representative in a black polo shirt hands a key fob to a smiling woman in a blue patterned shirt. They stand together in front of a light blue Ford Bronco Sport in the parking lot outside a dealership building with large blue "DALTON" lettering overhead.
A smiling woman with dark hair and glasses sits in the driver's seat of a light blue Ford vehicle with the driver-side door open. She wears a blue pattern button-down shirt and holds a key fob in her hands while looking back toward the camera.
A smiling woman with glasses in a blue patterned button-down shirt stands beside a male dealership representative in a black polo shirt. They are posing in front of a light blue Ford Bronco Sport parked in the lot directly outside a dealership building with large blue "DALTON" signage overhead.
Throwback Thursday: First Day of School ā€˜25 āœļø

Looking back at last yearā€™s photos to bring the hype for the new school year! How are you capturing your memories this time around? šŸ“ø #TBT #DaltonPublicSchools #LearnLeadSucceed
13 days ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications
A male school administrator in a suit and tie standing with a group of high school seniors wearing red "SENIOR" t-shirts. Together, they hold a large pencil-shaped sign that reads "Last First Day of School" in front of a trophy display case.
Five high school girls standing together in a school hallway, smiling as they pose for a group photo. They are casually dressed in jeans and neutral-colored tops, carrying backpacks, water tumblers, and snacks.
A line of middle school students carrying backpacks, lunch bags, and water bottles walking down a bright, modern school hallway with stone accents and tile floors on their way to class.
A group of elementary school children sitting cross-legged on a colorful alphabet rug in a bright classroom, smiling happily at the camera on their first day of school.
A smiling woman stands outside with three young children in front of a decorative school photo backdrop that reads "WELCOME TO WESTWOOD HOME OF WILDCATS." The young boy and two young girls wear school shirts and backpacks, and the youngest holds a colorful tie-dye lunchbox.

šŸ“… Don't forget!

School orientations across Dalton Public Schools will take place on Monday, August 3, 2026. Get ready to kick off the 2026-2027 school year!

šŸ”“ Elementary Schools
Blue Ridge School: 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Brookwood School: 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
City Park School: 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Park Creek School: 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
ROAN SCHOOL: 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. at the Mack Gaston Community Center 218 N. Fredrick St. Dalton GA 30720
Westwood School: 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

šŸ”“ Hammond Creek Middle School
6th Grade ONLY: 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.
7th Grade ONLY: 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.

šŸ”“ Dalton Junior High School
10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

šŸ”“ Dalton High School
10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

šŸ”“ The Dalton Academy
10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

šŸ”“ The Cyber Academy
4:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

We canā€™t wait to welcome our students and families back for another great school year!

13 days ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications
**Alt text:** Graphic listing Dalton Public Schools orientation dates and times for the 2026ā€“2027 school year. The design features a red, white, and gray school-themed background with photos of three students along the left side. Large text reads, ā€œSchool Orientations ā€“ Plan Ahead!ā€ Orientation information is listed as follows: * **Elementary Schools:** Monday, August 3, 1:30ā€“3:30 p.m. * **Hammond Creek Middle School:** 6th Grade Only, Monday, August 3, 9:00ā€“11:00 a.m.; 7th Grade Only, Monday, August 3, 1:00ā€“3:00 p.m. * **Dalton Junior High School:** Monday, August 3, 10:00 a.m.ā€“12:00 p.m. * **The Dalton Academy:** Monday, August 3, 10:00 a.m.ā€“12:00 p.m. * **Dalton High School:** Monday, August 3, 10:00 a.m.ā€“12:00 p.m. * **The Cyber Academy:** Monday, August 3, 4:30ā€“7:30 p.m. The graphic serves as a back-to-school reminder for families to plan for student orientation events.
šŸšŒ Bus Routes Now Available!

Our bus routes are now live on this webpage: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/page/bus-routes

Be sure to check your route ahead of time so you know what bus you'll be taking before school starts!

šŸ“£ Reminder: The back-to-school season is always an exciting time, but it may also require a bit of adjustment as we all settle back into our routines. We truly appreciate your patience and understanding as we work together to ensure a smooth start to the year.

We canā€™t wait to welcome everyone back! #DPSFirstDay #DaltonPublicSchools #LearnLeadSucceed
15 days ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications
A square graphic with bold red lettering reading "BUS ROUTES" above a red banner that reads "AVAILABLE NOW!" in white text. The bottom-left section includes a simplified white-line illustration of the front of a yellow school bus. Geometric red and white angular blocks border the top and bottom edges of the frame, set against a light background.
PEACH TAX CREDIT PROGRAM: Looking to support education and save on taxes? Learn how you can benefit from the Peach Tax Credit program with Dalton Public Schools!

Visit https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/page/peach-education-tax-credit for more details!
15 days ago, Communications Intern
PEACH TAX CREDIT PROGRAM: Looking to support education and save on taxes? Learn how you can benefit from the Peach Tax Credit program with Dalton Public Schools! Visit https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/page/peach-education-tax-credit for more details!