Dalton Public Schools

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Be part of a team that supports, inspires, and prepares students for success. Explore opportunities in teaching, student support, nursing, clerical services, and more.

View current openings and apply: Dalton Public Schools job listings on SchoolSpring — dalton.schoolspring.com

about 8 hours ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications

During the June Board of Education meeting, the Dalton Board of Education celebrated outstanding achievements in financial stewardship, academics, and athletics across Dalton Public Schools.

The Board recognized Lisa Dobson, Selena Garcia, Kelley Lazo, Angela Macon, Theresa Perry, and Alex Walcott as recipients of the Award of Financial Reporting Achievement, honoring their commitment to excellence in financial management and transparency. The Board also celebrated Dalton High School and The Dalton Academy for earning AP Honor School distinctions, recognizing their dedication to academic excellence and student success.

In athletics, the Board recognized members of the Dalton High School Golf Program, including Lillian Bowers and Oscar Reyes, for their accomplishments during the season. The Board also honored the Dalton High School Boys Soccer Team for capturing the GHSA Class 4A State Championship, the program’s eighth state title and a remarkable achievement that reflects the dedication, talent, and teamwork of the players and coaches.

The Board congratulates all honorees for their achievements and for representing Dalton Public Schools with excellence both in and out of the classroom.

about 11 hours ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications

**Alt text:** Group photo of Dalton Public Schools staff members being recognized during a Board of Education meeting for excellence in financial reporting. Six individuals stand together in front of a stage with red curtains, several holding certificates. A presentation screen above them highlights the Government Finance Officers Association’s Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting and lists the recognized team members. Meeting tables with microphones and Dalton Public Schools branding are visible in the foreground, marking the district’s recognition of the finance department’s accomplishment.

Alt text: Group photo of the Dalton High School boys soccer team standing on a stage with coaches and school leaders during a recognition ceremony. Team members wear black-and-red Dalton soccer jerseys, and several students hold certificates. A large projection screen behind them displays a team photo and recognizes the Dalton High School Boys Soccer Team as the 2026 State Champions. Red theater curtains frame the stage, and the group poses together to celebrate their championship season and achievements.

**Alt text:** Two adults pose together in front of a stage during a Dalton Public Schools Board of Education meeting. One person holds a certificate recognizing The Dalton Academy as an **AP Access and Support School** and **AP Challenge School**. Behind them are meeting tables with microphones, nameplates, and Dalton Public Schools branding. A large projection screen above the stage displays information about The Dalton Academy’s Advanced Placement recognitions. The photo captures the presentation of the school’s achievement and recognition for expanding access to rigorous academic opportunities.

It’s officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldn’t be more proud to shine a light on some of our recent graduates!

Today we’re featuring Dalton Academy graduate Bianca Nunez!

Bianca Nunez was academically disciplined and always prioritized achieving her goals. While at The Dalton Academy, Bianca was a successful student-athlete who played soccer, flag football, and tennis while balancing her academic responsibilities. During her senior year, she was enrolled in a full dual enrollment schedule, taking college classes through Dalton State a year early. Although the workload was different and unfamiliar, she remained committed to keeping her GPA high and maintaining her athletic performance. Bianca’s greatest accomplishment was not only the goals she scored or the grades on her report card, but also her motivation to continue going beyond the bare minimum, making both her family and Dalton Public Schools proud. Now that she has graduated, she plans to study EMT at Georgia Northwestern Technical College in order to become a paramedic. Dalton Public Schools is proud of Bianca’s accomplishments and excited to see all that she will continue to achieve in this new chapter.

Way to go Students Bianca!

1 day ago, Communications Intern

A commemorative graphic celebrating Bianca Nunez, a graduate of The Dalton Academy Class of 2026. The right side features a photo of Bianca holding a decorated graduation cap covered in red and white fabric roses with a sign that reads "Con Dios Todo Es Posible." The left side contains red text detailing her high GPA and strong athletic performance. It highlights her motivation to go beyond the bare minimum, making her family and Dalton Public Schools proud. The text notes that she plans to study EMT at Georgia Northwestern Technical College to become a paramedic.

Meet the DPS Cabinet ✨

Our cabinet members play an important role in supporting our schools and helping ensure students and staff have what they need to succeed.

Today, we’re highlighting Dr. Steven Craft, Superintendent.

We asked Dr. Craft a few questions about his role, what he enjoys most about Dalton Public Schools, and a little about who he is outside of work. Here’s what he had to say 👇

"I love serving the students and staff of Dalton. This is an amazing community, filled with incredible students and staff at every level. Dalton is a place where people show up for one another in both good times and difficult ones."

"Outside of work, I love staying active. I enjoy working out, and I’m slowly starting to find joy in running, which has been a fun new challenge for me. I’m also a huge Georgia Bulldogs fan and love football season. I’m a big Star Wars fan, and I love taking cruises whenever I can."

"I am currently finishing year 27 in education."

1 day ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications

Graphic featuring Dalton Public Schools Superintendent Steven Craft as part of the district’s “Cabinet Spotlight” series. The main image shows Craft speaking to a crowd inside a school gymnasium while holding a microphone and a championship-style belt, with Dalton Catamounts branding visible in the background. An inset professional portrait shows Craft smiling in a dark suit with a red tie. The design includes Dalton Public Schools branding and identifies him as Superintendent.

It’s officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldn’t be more proud to shine a light on some of our recent graduates!

Today we’re featuring Dalton High School graduate Blakely Thornton!

Blakely Thornton is one of many accomplished graduates in the Class of 2026. During her time at Dalton High School, she was involved in many clubs and programs, including National Honor Society, National Beta Club, United Way Youth Council, and the Big Brothers Big Sisters Program. She also served as president of Pep Club during her senior year. Throughout the past four years, Blakely was also an outstanding athlete, participating in varsity sideline and competitive cheer. While competing, she and the cheerleading team placed in the top six in the state twice. In addition to her athletic and community involvement, Blakely also excelled in the classroom, graduating in the top 10 of her class. She was also recognized as an AP Scholar with Distinction. Lastly, in an accomplishment that brings great pride to both Blakely and Dalton Public Schools, she was accepted to her dream school, the University of Georgia, where she will begin studying psychology. Dalton Public Schools is excited to celebrate Blakely’s success and wishes her the very best as she begins this next chapter.

Way to go Blakely!

1 day ago, Communications Intern

A commemorative graphic celebrating Blakely Thornton, a graduate of the Dalton High School Class of 2026. The right side features a portrait photo of Blakely wearing a pearl necklace. The left side displays red text detailing her accomplishments, highlighting her as an outstanding varsity sideline and competitive cheerleader whose team placed in the state top six twice. It notes she excelled in the classroom, graduating in the top 10 of her class, and was recognized as an AP Scholar with Distinction. The text concludes by celebrating her acceptance into her dream school, the University of Georgia, where she will study psychology.

It’s officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldn’t be more proud to shine a light on some of our recent graduates!

Today we’re featuring Dalton Academy graduate Lizeth Avila!

While Lizeth Avila attended The Dalton Academy, she was involved in many community-based organizations, including FCCLA and DECA. She was also involved in TDA’s Student Council, where she served as a representative for the senior Class of 2026.

During her senior year, Lizeth enrolled in dual enrollment classes, which both she and school faculty believe helped improve her leadership and academic discipline. Lizeth continued to strengthen these traits by attending Mrs. Quick’s community service class, which later resulted in her being recognized with the Presidential Service Award for Outstanding Community Service.

In addition, she received the Young Georgia Authors Award, where she was recognized by the district for submitting an excellent piece of literature. When Lizeth reflects on her time in high school, she feels that her biggest accomplishment was receiving the Dalton Rotary Club Award and Scholarship.

Dalton Public Schools is excited to see all that Lizeth will accomplish as she continues her journey at Dalton State College, where she plans to major in accounting and minor in business administration.

Way to go Lizeth!

3 days ago, Communications Intern

A Dalton Academy Senior Spotlight graphic features Lizeth Avila, a member of the Class of 2026. On the right side, Lizeth stands outdoors on concrete steps wearing a white dress and holding a red graduation cap, smiling confidently at the camera. The left side of the graphic contains a biography highlighting her involvement in FCCLA, DECA, Student Council, dual enrollment coursework, community service, and academic achievements, including the Presidential Service Award, Young Georgia Authors Award, and a Rotary Club scholarship. The graphic notes that Lizeth plans to attend Dalton State College to major in accounting and minor in business administration. Her name is displayed prominently at the bottom of the portrait, and the design includes graduation-themed graphics and the text “Dalton Academy Class of 2026.”

It’s officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldn’t be more proud to shine a light on some of our recent graduates!

Today we’re featuring Dalton High School graduate, Benjamin Charles Parsons

Benjamin was not only a dedicated student but also extremely talented in the fine arts. During his time at Dalton High School, he participated in theater, chorus, mock trial, FCA, concert band, and marching band. While performing alongside the Dalton High theater troupe, he had the opportunity to perform "Hadestown" at the Shuler Awards. He also competed in the GHSA Literary competition, where he won region for dramatic interpretation. Although those were some of his favorite high school memories, Benjamin is most proud of the connections he made with his peers and the lifelong relationships he created. Because of his experience, he recommends that all rising underclassmen get involved in extracurricular activities and take advantage of opportunities to make memories and build friendships. As Benjamin prepares to start a new chapter, he will attend Georgia Tech, where he plans to study chemical engineering while continuing to make new friends and memories. As Benjamin takes this next step, Dalton Public Schools celebrates his accomplishments and looks forward to seeing all that he will achieve in the future.

Way to go Benjamin!

3 days ago, Communications Intern

Dalton High School Class of 2026 graduation spotlight graphic featuring a student wearing a black tuxedo and bowtie against a red background. The graphic reads "Benjamin Charles Parsons." A text section highlights his pride in his high school connections, his recommendation for underclassmen to join extracurriculars, and his upcoming plans to attend Georgia Tech to study chemical engineering.

It’s officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldn’t be more proud to shine a light on some of our recent graduates!

Today we’re featuring Dalton High School graduate Charlie Anderson!

While Charlie Andersen attended Dalton High School, he showed what it truly means to be a student-athlete. During his time at DHS, he maintained straight A’s and earned an outstanding 4.5 GPA over four years while balancing a demanding schedule across three different sports: cross country, diving, and lacrosse. Alongside these impressive athletic and academic achievements, Charlie found immense pride in his time with the DHS lacrosse team. Though the team faced competitive challenges on the field, he notes that they consistently brought great attitudes, constant smiles, and strong team spirit, making him proud to have played nowhere else. Beyond his personal achievements, Charlie credits his tight-knit friend group for making his high school years truly unforgettable. He leaves underclassmen with a strong piece of advice: cherish every single moment because time flies by in a flash. This fall, Charlie will attend the University of Georgia to pursue a degree in finance, where he hopes to use his strong communication skills to help and work with others. Dalton Public Schools is incredibly proud of Charlie’s achievements and cannot wait to see all the amazing things he accomplishes as a Bulldog!

Way to go Charlie!

5 days ago, Communications Intern

Here is a descriptive ALT text for Charlie's senior spotlight graphic, ready to paste into Thrillshare: ALT Text: A senior spotlight graphic for Charlie Anderson from the Dalton High School Class of 2026. On the right side, a portrait shows the lower half of his face, wearing a formal black tuxedo and bow tie against a vibrant red background. On the left side, red text details how he credits his tight-knit friend group for making his high school years unforgettable, and notes that despite challenges on the field, his team consistently brought strong spirit and great attitudes. His advice to underclassmen is to cherish every single moment because time flies by in a flash. The text states that this fall, Charlie will attend the University of Georgia to pursue a degree in finance, and concludes with a congratulatory message of pride from Dalton Public Schools welcoming him as a Bulldog.

It’s officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldn’t be more proud to shine a light on some of our recent graduates!

Today we’re featuring Dalton High School graduate Daenna Vasquez!

During her time at Dalton High School, Daenna Vasquez truly showed dedication, balance, and commitment to doing her best. Her schedule included being a dedicated member of National Honor Society, the Humane Society, and the DHS Color Guard team, where she celebrated winning Grand Champions with the 2026 Color Guard team. She also received a Young Georgia Authors Award for her written submission. As Daenna looks back on her time at Dalton High School, her favorite memories revolve around the high energy of Homecoming week, where she enjoyed seeing Dalton High School students and staff show their creativity and school spirit. Alongside her many extracurricular achievements, her proudest accomplishment was maintaining a high GPA so she could fulfill her dream of receiving her diploma for her mother. This fall, she will attend Georgia Gwinnett College to major in criminal justice and law, aiming to build a career centered on bringing equal justice to all people regardless of race, gender, or age. Dalton Public Schools is incredibly proud of Daenna’s achievements and cannot wait to see her thrive in this next chapter!

Way to go Daenna!

5 days ago, Communications Intern

Here is a descriptive ALT text for Daenna's senior spotlight graphic, ready to paste into Thrillshare: ALT Text: A senior spotlight graphic for Daenna Vasquez from the Dalton High School Class of 2026. On the right side, a portrait photo shows the lower half of her face and a black top against a red background. On the left side, red text highlights her favorite memories of Homecoming week and her proudest achievement of maintaining a high GPA to receive her diploma for her mother. The text notes that this fall, she will attend Georgia Gwinnett College to major in criminal justice and law, with a goal of bringing equal justice to all people. The graphic concludes with a proud congratulatory message from Dalton Public Schools.

It’s officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldn’t be more proud to shine a light on some of our recent graduates!

Today we’re featuring Dalton Academy graduate Isabella Celaya!

During Isabella Celaya’s time at The Dalton Academy, she was a highly involved student, participating in the National Honor Society, Junior Civitan, and 3DE. In every extracurricular activity that she was a part of, she worked extremely hard and showed excellent motivation. Her accomplishments also extended into her academic learning, allowing her to become an AP Scholar and be recognized as an AP Capstone certificate recipient. Isabella has decided to continue her dedication to learning and hard work; she will be attending Dalton State College, where she plans to study medicine and major in science. Dalton Public Schools is incredibly proud of Isabella and wishes her the very best as she begins this exciting next chapter.

Way to go, Isabella!

6 days ago, Communications Intern

Blakely Thorton is one of many well-accomplished graduates of the 2026 class. During her time at Dalton High School, she was involved in many different clubs and programs such as, National Honor Society, National Beta Club, United Way Youth Council, and Big Brothers Big Sisters Program. She was also president of Pep Club during her senior year. Throughout the past four years, Blakely was also an outstanding athlete who participated in Varsity Sideline and Competitive cheer. While competing, she alongside the cheerleading team placed in the top 6 in the state twice. While she has amazing athletic and community involvement; she also excelled in the classroom, graduating in the top 10 of her class. She was also recognized as an AP Scholar with Distinction. Lastly, an accomplishment that brings much pride to Blakely and Dalton Public Schools, she was accepted to her dream school - The University of Georgia where she will begin studying psychology.

Dalton High School Head Boys Basketball Coach Jonathan Adams has been invited to serve as a court coach at the USA Basketball Men’s U17 National Team Training Camp this weekend in Colorado Springs.

This opportunity places Coach Adams alongside some of the top young basketball talent in the country and reflects the continued growth, dedication and competitiveness of the Dalton High School basketball program.

For Coach Adams, this recognition is also a reflection of the student-athletes he works with every day.
“Our players and our program are the reason opportunities like this matter,” Adams said. “I am honored to represent Dalton High School, our community and the young men who continue to put in the work to grow our basketball program.”

Congratulations to Coach Adams, our Catamount student-athletes and the Dalton High basketball program!

Read more about the USA Basketball Men’s U17 National Team Training Camp: https://www.usab.com/news/2026/06/thirty-six-athletes-expected-to-participate-in-usa-basketball-mens-u17-national-team-training-camp

7 days ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications

Graphic celebrating a Dalton High School basketball coach’s selection to a national coaching opportunity. The image features a smiling coach wearing a red Dalton Catamounts Basketball shirt, standing in front of a large basketball on a red background. Dalton and USA Basketball logos appear in the upper corners. Text highlights Coach Jonathan Adams’ role as a court coach at the USA Basketball Men’s U17 National Team Training Camp, recognizing his achievement and representing Dalton Public Schools on a national stage.

It’s officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldn’t be more proud to shine a light on some of our recent graduates!

Today we’re featuring Dalton High School graduate Benny Phung!

Benny was a driven student who pursued his passions thoroughly, earning recognition for his artistic talents while focusing heavily on personal growth, a trait that will undoubtedly take him far as his journey continues. During high school, Benny was involved in track and field, where he created some of his favorite memories with his friends. However, above all else, Benny is an artist as he states that his artistic creations are what he is most proud of! Not only is he proud of his work, but he has also gained significant outside recognition for his creations, such as becoming a finalist for the Bernice Spigel Award, an honor given to young people in the community who exhibit excellence in visual art. Additionally, Benny was nominated for the Governor’s Honors Program, a summer program for talented high schoolers that offers instruction significantly different from the typical classroom. In the fall, Benny will attend the University of Georgia, where he intends to further his artistic pursuits by majoring in Architecture. He plans to capitalize on his years of artistic experience to create and design on a larger scale. Despite committing to a rigorous future course load, Benny also intends to take up new hobbies with the ultimate goal of self-development. We are so proud of Benny, not only for his achievements but for his choice to grow as an individual. We are certain his mature outlook will take him far.

Way to go Benny!

8 days ago, Communications Intern

"As Associate Superintendent of Academics for Dalton Public Schools, I lead districtwide teaching and learning efforts focused on improving student achievement and strengthening instructional excellence across all schools. My work includes supporting principals and educators, leading curriculum and instructional initiatives, advancing high-quality Tier 1 instruction, coordinating professional learning, and guiding strategic academic planning. I work to ensure schools and educators have the resources, support, and research-based practices needed to create rigorous, engaging, and meaningful learning experiences for all students. Through collaboration and continuous improvement, I am committed to helping every student succeed and be prepared for future opportunities."

"What I enjoy most about working in Dalton Public Schools is the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on students, educators, and schools each day. It is truly an honor to give back to the school system and community that invested so much in me throughout my own educational journey. I deeply value the strong sense of community, the relationships built with leaders and educators across the district, and the collective commitment to ensuring all students are successful. One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is supporting initiatives that strengthen teaching and learning, build educator capacity, and create opportunities that positively impact the future of our students and families."

"I have been married to my high school sweetheart, Demond, for 22 years. We both graduated from Dalton High School in 1997 and are proud parents of two wonderful children, Madison and Mayson. Madison is pursuing a career in education and will graduate from the University of West Georgia with a degree in elementary education, which means the world to me. I could not be more proud of her passion for students and teaching. She already reminds me of myself when I first began my career in education. Mayson currently attends Dalton High School, where he recently earned a Scholar Athlete award. He enjoys playing basketball and golf, and most weekends are spent in the gym cheering on Mayson and his AAU basketball teammates. He definitely keeps our family busy with his demanding athletic schedule. Outside of my family, one of my proudest accomplishments is becoming a published author in 2021. I had the honor of co-authoring the book Math by the Book with Sue O'Connell, published by Heinemann. The project took two years to complete, and one of the most rewarding aspects was collaborating with outstanding educators and respected mathematicians while building lasting relationships throughout the writing and publishing process. I enjoy reading, singing, and dancing. I was a ballerina for 14 years, and one of my most cherished experiences was performing as the soldier doll in The Nutcracker for several years. I also have a strong passion for learning and continuously seek opportunities to read, study, and stay current with educational research and trends. One of the most exciting aspects of being an educator is that the learning never stops, and there is always an opportunity to grow both personally and professionally."

"My career started in December of 2001."

8 days ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications

A “Cabinet Spotlight” graphic highlights Brandi Moore, Associate Superintendent of Academics for Dalton Public Schools. The graphic features a family portrait showing four individuals dressed in formal attire, including a young woman holding a bouquet, alongside an inset professional portrait of Brandi Moore. The design includes Dalton Public Schools branding and recognizes Moore’s leadership role in supporting academic excellence and student achievement across the district.

It’s officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldn’t be more proud to shine a light on some of our recent graduates!

Today we’re featuring Dalton High School graduate Camila Valdez-Barcenas!

Camila Valdez-Barcenas was not only an involved member of The Dalton Academy community but also a wise one, reflecting deeply on her high school career and sharing helpful insights for future students. During her high school career, Camila was active in many different extracurriculars; she was a cheerleader and competed on both the track and field and cross-country teams. Along with these sports, Camila served in multiple leadership roles, including Secretary for the National Honor Society, Student Leader for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and President of FCCLA. Despite these successes, Camila considers her greatest achievement to be the risks she took within her school. She encourages others to take risks while in high school, as "you never know what might happen." In the fall, Camila will attend Dalton State College, where she plans to study Criminal Justice with the goal of becoming a Crime Scene Investigator to understand why crimes occur and how to help prevent them. Ultimately, Camila is most proud of the obstacles she overcame during her journey. We are equally proud of her, not only for taking initiative within her school but for developing a deep appreciation for her own personal growth. This maturity will undoubtedly lead her to great success in the future.

Way to go Camila!

8 days ago, Communications Intern

We’re Hiring!

Join a team where every role supports student success. Explore opportunities in teaching, student support, nursing, clerical services, and more.

View current openings and apply: Dalton Public Schools job listings on SchoolSpring — dalton.schoolspring.com

9 days ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications

Nothing says summer like good food, smiling faces, and time with friends! ☀️

We spotted some of our awesome Summer Nutrition workers serving up lunches, and students enjoying healthy meals together at one of our summer meal sites.

Dalton Public Schools’ Summer Nutrition Program is open to all children 18 and younger through July 17. No registration or fees are required — just stop by, enjoy lunch on-site, and spend a little time with friends this summer.

Learn more about the Summer Nutrition Program, including locations and serving times: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/page/summer-feeding-program

9 days ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications

A young child and an adult sit together at a picnic table in a shaded park pavilion, smiling toward the camera. The child leans comfortably against the adult while enjoying lunch. On the table are a milk carton, a sandwich wrapped in foil, and pieces of fruit. The scene conveys a warm moment of connection and family engagement during a community event, with trees and green space visible in the background.

**Alt text:** Two young children sit together at a picnic table in a shaded park pavilion, enjoying lunch during a community event. One child holds a sandwich while the other smiles toward the camera and holds a slice of pizza. A milk carton, wrapped food items, and fruit rest on the table in front of them. Other families can be seen in the background, creating a welcoming atmosphere that highlights community connection, family engagement, and shared experiences.

**Alt text:** A staff member wearing a “Summer Nutrition” T-shirt hands food items to a young child during an outdoor summer meal program. The child stands beside a picnic table while receiving lunch, which includes fruit and packaged items. Bright sunlight and a grassy park setting create a welcoming atmosphere, highlighting efforts to provide nutritious meals and support children and families during the summer months.

**Alt text:** A child participates in a summer meal program while staff members distribute food and assist families at an outdoor park pavilion. One staff member wearing a “Summer Nutrition” T-shirt prepares meal items from a cooler while another helps nearby. The child holds a wrapped meal and looks toward the volunteers. Parked vehicles and green space in the background create a community-centered setting that highlights access to nutritious meals and supportive services for children during the summer months.

What a great day at our Dalton Reads! book giveaway at Civitan Park! 📚☀️

Families stopped by to pick up free books, enjoy literacy activities, and celebrate the joy of reading together. Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make this event a success!

Missed this one? There's still time to join us this summer! Keep an eye out for the Dalton Reads van at upcoming events across the community. We’ll have free books, fun activities, and resources for families to support reading and readiness at home.

📍 Upcoming Dalton Reads! Events:

📚 Wednesday, June 10 | 2:00–4:00 PM
City Park (Outside Gym Entrance/Inside if weather doesn't allow.)
405 School Street
Building Bright Readers Block Party, hosted in partnership with the STP program. Dalton Reads will be giving away free books!

📚 Thursday, June 18 | 11:30 AM–12:30 PM
Beechland Apartments
1013 Underwood Street

📚 Thursday, July 9 | 11:30 AM–12:30 PM
Mack Gaston Community Center
218 N. Fredrick Street

📚 Thursday, July 16 | 11:30 AM–12:30 PM
Westwood School
708 Trammell Street

We can't wait to see you at our next stop! ❤️📖

9 days ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications

A smiling student stands at the open door of a mobile library, holding a stack of books in her arms. She wears a black athletic top and has a small paw-print face paint design on her cheek. The books she is carrying include popular youth titles, and shelves filled with additional books are visible inside the mobile library behind her. The image highlights student engagement with reading and access to books through a school literacy outreach program.

**Alt text:** A young student browses books inside a mobile library, reaching toward a shelf filled with colorful children’s titles. The child, dressed in a red-and-blue outfit, carefully examines a book while other children and an adult stand nearby. Brightly illustrated picture books line the shelves, creating an inviting reading environment. The image captures students exploring book choices and engaging with literacy opportunities through the mobile library program.

Alt text: Several young children gather around an activity table outdoors, coloring and drawing on small worksheets with crayons. A child in a blue shirt focuses on coloring while another child nearby writes with a crayon. The table is covered with colorful crayons, activity sheets, and bookmarks. In the background, part of a mobile literacy vehicle is visible, suggesting a reading or community literacy event. The image captures students participating in a hands-on educational activity that encourages creativity and engagement with reading.

**Alt text:** Several young children gather around an activity table at an outdoor literacy event while a student volunteer in a red United Way T-shirt smiles and interacts with them. One child holds up a completed activity while another looks down at their work. The group stands beside a Dalton Public Schools literacy vehicle, which is visible in the background. Activity sheets, bookmarks, and educational materials are spread across the table, creating an engaging environment that encourages reading, learning, and community involvement.

**Alt text:** Two young children sit side by side at an outdoor activity table, concentrating as they color and complete literacy-themed activity sheets. Colorful crayons are scattered across the table alongside books, bookmarks, and educational materials. Sunlight illuminates the scene while the children focus on their work, highlighting a hands-on learning experience that encourages creativity, reading, and community engagement.

**Alt text:** Two young children sit in folding camp chairs beside a mobile literacy bus, quietly enjoying books during a community reading event. One child reads independently while the other is engaged with a colorful picture book titled *Paletero Man*. Dressed in bright summer clothing, the children appear focused and comfortable, illustrating a welcoming environment that encourages reading, learning, and a love of books.

It’s officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldn’t be more proud to shine a light on some of our recent graduates!

Today we’re featuring Dalton Academy graduate Yandi Diaz!

During her high school career, Yandi participated in a variety of activities and proved to herself that she was capable of consistent hard work. She states that her perseverance throughout all four years was her greatest achievement. At The Dalton Academy, Yandi was a member of the successful women’s soccer team and took part in Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) and DECA, a global organization that prepares students for sought-after professions by transforming classroom learning into real-world business skills.Throughout her four years, she also developed a deep appreciation for the educators at The Dalton Academy. Rather than naming a single favorite, she feels that every teacher equally shaped who she is today. In addition to her perseverance, Yandi is incredibly proud of maintaining high grades throughout high school. In the future, Yandi hopes to pursue a career in nursing, and we are certain that her determination and resilience will take her far in all her future endeavors!

Congratulations Yandi!

10 days ago, Communications Intern

It’s officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldn’t be more proud to shine a light on some of our recent graduates!

Today we’re featuring Dalton High School graduate Laney Peterfreund!

During her high school career, Laney Peterfreund took advantage of every opportunity presented to her, going above and beyond inside and outside the classroom to cultivate an impressive resume reflecting four years of excellence. Laney was an active member of the Beta Club, Interact Club, and the National Honor Society, and she notably served as the Vice President of the Key Club. Adding to her professional experience, she worked at the Den Print Shop as a graphic designer. In addition to her school activities, Laney excelled as an athlete, competing in Level 8 Women’s Artistic Gymnastics. She placed 4th in the state and served as team captain all four years of high school. Her academic accolades are equally prestigious; Laney was recognized as an AP Scholar with Distinction, received the Georgia Certificate of Merit, and earned the Harvard Book Award during her junior year. Most recently, she was named a 2026 Georgia Scholar by the Georgia Department of Education, a prestigious honor received by fewer than 200 students annually. To earn this, Laney maintained a minimum 3.75 GPA, scored above a 1360 on the SAT, and demonstrated exceptional leadership within her community. This fall, Laney will continue her pattern of excellence at the University of Georgia, where she intends to study Ecology to pursue her passion for wildlife, conservation, and environmental protection. We are immensely thankful to have had Laney as part of the Dalton Public Schools community and are certain she will continue to excel in all her future endeavors!

Congratulations Laney!

10 days ago, Communications Intern

It’s officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldn’t be more proud to shine a light on some of our recent graduates!

Today we’re featuring Dalton Academy graduate Miricle Rosas!

During her high school career, Miricle Rosas took part in multiple extracurricular activities, challenged herself academically, and gave back to her community in unique ways, resulting in a vibrant impact on her school that will be deeply missed as she moves on to her next chapter. During her time at The Dalton Academy, Miricle participated in a wide array of programs, including the Buddy Program, National Honor Society, DECA, FCCLA, Junior Civitan, and 3DE. She even served as a board member for the National Podcast Project! In addition to these activities, Miricle worked alongside the Student Council to volunteer at an assisted living home, bringing joy to both her school and the larger Dalton area. Despite these achievements, Miricle is most proud of her decision to enroll in Advanced Placement and Honors classes, voluntarily seeking out rigorous coursework to grow as a student. Ultimately, Miricle’s desire to better both her community and herself has left a lasting mark, and we thank her for spreading such a positive influence over the past four years.

Congratulations Miricle!

13 days ago, Communications Intern

Today we’re featuring Dalton High School graduate Miricle Rosas! During her high school career, Miricle Rosas took part in multiple extracurricular activities, challenged herself academically, and gave back to her community in unique ways, resulting in a vibrant impact on her school that will be deeply missed as she moves on to her next chapter. During her time at The Dalton Academy, Miricle participated in a wide array of programs, including the Buddy Program, National Honor Society, DECA, FCCLA, Junior Civitan, and 3DE. She even served as a board member for the National Podcast Project! In addition to these activities, Miricle worked alongside the Student Council to volunteer at an assisted living home, bringing joy to both her school and the larger Dalton area. Despite these achievements, Miricle is most proud of her decision to enroll in Advanced Placement and Honors classes, voluntarily seeking out rigorous coursework to grow as a student. Ultimately, Miricle’s desire to better both her community and herself has left a lasting mark, and we thank her for spreading such a positive influence over the past four years. Congratulations Miricle!