Dalton, GA — Dalton Public Schools’ Culture and Climate Committee has begun its work for the 2025–26 school year, continuing its important role in supporting strengthening school culture and climate across the district. The committee includes both returning and new members who will bring fresh perspectives to this year’s conversations and initiatives.
The Culture and Climate Committee represents every school and key departments in the district, ensuring that all voices are included in shaping the environment where students and staff learn, grow, and thrive. Its work centers on the district’s four core principles: Championing Students, Expecting Excellence, Carrying the Banner, and Being a Merchant of Hope.
Deputy Superintendent Nick Sun, who facilitated the committee’s first meeting of the school year, highlighted its role in shaping the culture of Dalton Public Schools:
“The heart of our work is culture. The Culture and Climate Committee helps us build an environment where students feel seen, staff feel supported, and every school feels connected as part of one district family. Culture isn’t created by one program or one initiative—it’s created by the way we treat each other every day. By living out our core principles together, we are creating schools where hope, excellence, and belonging are the foundation of everything we do.”
The committee’s efforts also align with Dalton Public Schools’ Culturize initiative, which focuses on building welcoming environments, strengthening relationships, and ensuring that every student and staff member feels a sense of safety and belonging.
Members of the Dalton Public Schools Culture and Climate Committee
Blue Ridge School
Perla Hernandez
Mari Guijon
Brookwood Elementary School
Mariela Vazquez
Karen Cooper
City Park School
Jaz Belman
Rigo Gonzalez
Park Creek School
Denisse Avila
Gabby Rodriguez
Roan School
Dounia Shaaban
Sandra Rodriguez
Westwood School
Gaby Hefner
Maria Rodriguez
Hammond Creek School
Alma Fraire
Cassy Hile
Tyree Goodlett
Dalton Junior High School
Macavan Kalafut
Jennifer Woodson
The Dalton Academy
Nick Amonett
Kim Smyth
Elizabeth Lara
Dalton High School
Ana Goodlett
Annette Nietzsche
Tori Adams
District and Department Representatives
Jorge Miranda (Technology)
Kevin Bruce (Maintenance)
Michelle Long (Attendance)
Kendra Pannell (Communications)
Jessica Ochoa (Nutrition)
Nick Sun (Deputy Superintendent)
Dr. Steven Craft (Superintendent)
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