DALTON, GA - State Superintendent Richard Woods recently visited Dalton Public Schools to present the prestigious Math Leader Banner Award to City Park School, led by Principal Kim Rhyne, and Westwood School, led by Principal Alesa Smith. The recognition celebrates the schools' outstanding performance and growth in mathematics under Georgia’s updated K-12 Mathematics Standards.
This distinction highlights the pivotal role of mathematics in students’ education and future career paths. The Math Leader Awards, a new honor introduced by the Georgia Department of Education, focus on growth and achievement in numeracy skills for fifth and eighth grades, as well as at the high school level. Schools earning this accolade demonstrated exceptional results in increasing the percentage of students achieving at the Proficient Learner level or above in mathematics, reflecting the commitment of students, educators, and families.
State Superintendent Richard Woods praised the accomplishments of City Park School and Westwood School. “Congratulations to several of our first-ever Math Leader schools! Numeracy is a critical skill for students as they progress through K-12 education and into their futures. These schools, along with their educators, students, and families, have worked diligently to implement the new K-12 Mathematics Standards and prepare all students. I commend them on their outstanding work,” he said.
Georgia’s updated K-12 Mathematics Standards, adopted in 2021 and implemented in classrooms during the 2023-24 school year, were developed with input from educators, parents, students, and business leaders. The standards emphasize mastery of concepts over superficial exposure, aiming to ensure age-appropriate and comprehensible instruction for all students.
Dalton Public Schools proudly welcomed State Superintendent Richard Woods, who personally presented the awards. Principals Kim Rhyne and Alesa Smith accepted the banners, accompanied by Superintendent Dr. Steven Craft, Phenna Petty, Georgia Board of Education Member for the 14th Congressional District, as well as members of the district leadership team, school leaders, and educators.
“This is such an exciting moment for our schools and community,” said Dr. Steven Craft, Superintendent of Dalton Public Schools. “Seeing the hard work of our teachers, students, and families recognized in this way is truly special. City Park and Westwood have gone above and beyond, and I couldn’t be prouder of what they’ve accomplished.”
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