It’s officially the end of Senior Spotlight season, and we couldn’t be more proud to shine a light on our final recent graduate!
Today we’re featuring Dalton High School graduate, Kaylee Tatum
During her time at Dalton High School, Kaylee was a member of the National Honor Society and an integral part of the varsity softball team. Her largest accomplishments during high school was maintaining strong grades while committing to continue her athletic career at the Division I level. In the fall, she will attend Alabama A&M University, where she will major in science as part of the radiologic technology program, working toward her goal of becoming an X-ray technician. While at Dalton High School, Kaylee developed a meaningful connection with Mrs. Jewell, an educator whom she believed had a genuine love for her students. One of Kaylee’s proudest moments was refusing to give up on herself after being told she wouldn’t be able to play softball at the university level, much less in Division I. Instead of letting those words define her, she used them as motivation to work harder and achieve her goals. She encourages younger students to do the same: use others’ negative words as the fuel that pushes you forward!
Way to go Kaylee !
Today we’re featuring Dalton High School graduate, Kaylee Tatum
During her time at Dalton High School, Kaylee was a member of the National Honor Society and an integral part of the varsity softball team. Her largest accomplishments during high school was maintaining strong grades while committing to continue her athletic career at the Division I level. In the fall, she will attend Alabama A&M University, where she will major in science as part of the radiologic technology program, working toward her goal of becoming an X-ray technician. While at Dalton High School, Kaylee developed a meaningful connection with Mrs. Jewell, an educator whom she believed had a genuine love for her students. One of Kaylee’s proudest moments was refusing to give up on herself after being told she wouldn’t be able to play softball at the university level, much less in Division I. Instead of letting those words define her, she used them as motivation to work harder and achieve her goals. She encourages younger students to do the same: use others’ negative words as the fuel that pushes you forward!
Way to go Kaylee !
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, SaMya Simpson.
During her time at Dalton High School, SaMya was an active member of the Dalton community both in and out of school. She was a four-year varsity softball player, contributed to the yearbook, and participated in Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). Beyond school, she completed an Athletic Training Program with Hamilton Medical Center and served as a Big Sister in the Buddy Program. Among her proudest achievements were maintaining a 3.4 GPA, staying engaged in numerous programs, and embodying the Dalton Difference mindset. SaMya’s favorite teacher, Mrs. Carol, played a meaningful role in her high school journey, offering support, honesty, and encouragement through challenging times. Her advice to younger students is to take everything with a grain of salt: maintain good grades, find someone who will advocate for you, don’t rush to graduate, make as many memories as possible, and strive to become someone unforgettable.
Way to go SaMya !
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, Brady Haynes
During his time at Dalton High School, Brady participated in a variety of extracurricular activities, including four years of football, baseball, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). He earned multiple accolades, such as Scholar Athlete, membership in the National Honor Society, and the prestigious Chuck Harris Award in football. In addition to athletics, Brady pursued his varied interests, including disc golf and engineering, a passion he has cultivated since the fourth grade. He plans to further explore this passion by majoring in mechanical engineering at Dalton State College before transferring to the University of Georgia. Brady credits his parents as his greatest influence, keeping him on track and instilling in him the importance of being a kind hearted person.
Way to go Brady !
Today we’re featuring Dalton High School graduate, Brady Haynes
During his time at Dalton High School, Brady participated in a variety of extracurricular activities, including four years of football, baseball, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). He earned multiple accolades, such as Scholar Athlete, membership in the National Honor Society, and the prestigious Chuck Harris Award in football. In addition to athletics, Brady pursued his varied interests, including disc golf and engineering, a passion he has cultivated since the fourth grade. He plans to further explore this passion by majoring in mechanical engineering at Dalton State College before transferring to the University of Georgia. Brady credits his parents as his greatest influence, keeping him on track and instilling in him the importance of being a kind hearted person.
Way to go Brady !
DPS Students Shine on 2025 Georgia Milestones!
Dalton Public Schools is celebrating strong academic growth in the 2025 Georgia Milestones, with gains in 18 of 27 performance areas compared to last year!
- Big wins in literacy, with more students reading at or above grade level. - Double-digit growth in 8th grade math—above the state average! - Gains in science and social studies, with standout improvements in 8th grade.
Congratulations to our students, teachers, and families for their hard work and dedication. Together, we are building momentum and ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed.
READ MORE: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/article/2351756
#DaltonPublicSchools #LeaveYourMark
Dalton Public Schools is celebrating strong academic growth in the 2025 Georgia Milestones, with gains in 18 of 27 performance areas compared to last year!
- Big wins in literacy, with more students reading at or above grade level. - Double-digit growth in 8th grade math—above the state average! - Gains in science and social studies, with standout improvements in 8th grade.
Congratulations to our students, teachers, and families for their hard work and dedication. Together, we are building momentum and ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed.
READ MORE: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/article/2351756
#DaltonPublicSchools #LeaveYourMark
Dalton Public Schools Little Cats Program Enrollment for 2025-2026
Dalton Public Schools is now enrolling 3–4-year-olds for the 2025-2026 Little Cats Program! This free parent and child program meets once a week for 2.5 hours, offering a range of activities including story time, music, movement, and literacy, math, and science activities to foster academic and motor skills development. Classes are led by the DPS Early Childhood Coordinator and are available at three locations:
CURRENT LOCATIONS:
CITY PARK ELEMENTARY: Morning and afternoon sessions will be offered. Classes will be every Wednesday, starting in January 2026.
Address: 105 N. Thornton Avenue, Dalton, GA 30720
BEECHLAND RESOURCE CENTER: Afternoon session will be offered. Classes will be every Wednesday, starting in January 2026.
Address:704 Beechland Circle. Dalton, GA 30721
ROAN ROUNDHOUSE: Morning and afternoon sessions will be offered. Classes will be every Tuesday, starting on September 9th.
Address: 400 Vann Circle Dalton, GA 30721For more information, please contact:
Saira Laruy: 706-463-7631
Click here for more information: https://5il.co/2t4qk
Dalton Public Schools is now enrolling 3–4-year-olds for the 2025-2026 Little Cats Program! This free parent and child program meets once a week for 2.5 hours, offering a range of activities including story time, music, movement, and literacy, math, and science activities to foster academic and motor skills development. Classes are led by the DPS Early Childhood Coordinator and are available at three locations:
CURRENT LOCATIONS:
CITY PARK ELEMENTARY: Morning and afternoon sessions will be offered. Classes will be every Wednesday, starting in January 2026.
Address: 105 N. Thornton Avenue, Dalton, GA 30720
BEECHLAND RESOURCE CENTER: Afternoon session will be offered. Classes will be every Wednesday, starting in January 2026.
Address:704 Beechland Circle. Dalton, GA 30721
ROAN ROUNDHOUSE: Morning and afternoon sessions will be offered. Classes will be every Tuesday, starting on September 9th.
Address: 400 Vann Circle Dalton, GA 30721For more information, please contact:
Saira Laruy: 706-463-7631
Click here for more information: https://5il.co/2t4qk
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, Jacqueline Hernandez.
During her time at Dalton Academy, Jacqueline Hernandez was a dual enrollment student and an active member of her school community. She participated in various activities, including the National Honor Society and the Translation Academy. Jacqueline plans to continue her education at Dalton State College, pursuing a future in the educational field—a path inspired by the teachers who supported her language learning journey. Throughout high school, Jacqueline enjoyed drawing and painting, earning second place in a district art competition. Her advice to younger students is to never give up, as she believes it is their time to shine and fight for their dreams.
Way to go Jacqueline !
Today we’re featuring Dalton High School graduate, Jacqueline Hernandez.
During her time at Dalton Academy, Jacqueline Hernandez was a dual enrollment student and an active member of her school community. She participated in various activities, including the National Honor Society and the Translation Academy. Jacqueline plans to continue her education at Dalton State College, pursuing a future in the educational field—a path inspired by the teachers who supported her language learning journey. Throughout high school, Jacqueline enjoyed drawing and painting, earning second place in a district art competition. Her advice to younger students is to never give up, as she believes it is their time to shine and fight for their dreams.
Way to go Jacqueline !
Dalton Public Schools Earn State Recognition for Excellence in Cursive Writing Instruction
Several Dalton Public Schools have been recognized by the Georgia Department of Education for their efforts in supporting cursive writing instruction, as part of the 2024–2025 John Hancock Awards program.
Brookwood Elementary School received the John Hancock Banner and Ribbon of Distinction, the highest level of recognition in the program. This award is given to schools where at least 90% of students demonstrate the ability to write both their name and the Preamble to the U.S. Constitution in cursive.
Additionally, the following schools were awarded the John Hancock Banner and Proficiency Ribbon, which recognizes schools where 90% or more of students can write their name in cursive:
Blue Ridge Elementary School
City Park Elementary School
Dalton Junior High School
Hammond Creek Middle School
Park Creek School
Roan School
The Dalton Academy
Westwood School
Read more: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/article/2348630
Several Dalton Public Schools have been recognized by the Georgia Department of Education for their efforts in supporting cursive writing instruction, as part of the 2024–2025 John Hancock Awards program.
Brookwood Elementary School received the John Hancock Banner and Ribbon of Distinction, the highest level of recognition in the program. This award is given to schools where at least 90% of students demonstrate the ability to write both their name and the Preamble to the U.S. Constitution in cursive.
Additionally, the following schools were awarded the John Hancock Banner and Proficiency Ribbon, which recognizes schools where 90% or more of students can write their name in cursive:
Blue Ridge Elementary School
City Park Elementary School
Dalton Junior High School
Hammond Creek Middle School
Park Creek School
Roan School
The Dalton Academy
Westwood School
Read more: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/article/2348630
Our vision is clear: Learn. Lead. Succeed. #DaltonPublicSchools
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, Jack Kersey.
During his time at Dalton High School, Jack has been deeply involved in the arts and leadership activities, showcasing his talent and dedication. He has performed on stage and contributed behind the scenes through lighting design in theatre, served as Chorus President for the Cats Singers Choral Ensemble, and held the role of Treasurer for the DHS Players.
Jack has also excelled in literary competitions, participating in both quartet performances and duo interpretive scenes. This fall, he will attend Western Carolina University to pursue a double major in Stage and Screen Production as well as Business Administration and Law.
For the past two years, Jack has worked as an intern on the Dalton Public Schools Communications team, supporting district communications in an invaluable way. We are so proud of Jack!
Today we’re featuring Dalton High School graduate, Jack Kersey.
During his time at Dalton High School, Jack has been deeply involved in the arts and leadership activities, showcasing his talent and dedication. He has performed on stage and contributed behind the scenes through lighting design in theatre, served as Chorus President for the Cats Singers Choral Ensemble, and held the role of Treasurer for the DHS Players.
Jack has also excelled in literary competitions, participating in both quartet performances and duo interpretive scenes. This fall, he will attend Western Carolina University to pursue a double major in Stage and Screen Production as well as Business Administration and Law.
For the past two years, Jack has worked as an intern on the Dalton Public Schools Communications team, supporting district communications in an invaluable way. We are so proud of Jack!
Dalton Public Schools Communications Team Honored with National NSPRA Awards
Dalton Public Schools is proud to announce that its Communications Department has been recognized with multiple national awards by the National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA) for outstanding achievement in school communications during the 2024–2025 school year.
The district earned two Honorable Mention awards in the 2025 Publications and Digital Media Excellence Awards, both in the Photo category.
In addition, the Communications team was the recipient of two 2025 Golden Achievement Awards, one of NSPRA’s highest honors for strategic communications excellence. These awards celebrate exemplary work that demonstrates outstanding success in school public relations, communication, marketing, and engagement.
The award-winning team is led by Executive Director of Communications Kendra Pannell and Assistant Director of Communications Ashley Grycz. Since these projects were completed, the team has welcomed Communications Specialist Cindy Hernandez, and they are excited to continue sharing the stories that make Dalton Public Schools exceptional.
As the 2025–2026 school year begins, the Communications Department remains dedicated to championing the voices, achievements, and values of the DPS community.
Read more: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/article/2346547
Dalton Public Schools is proud to announce that its Communications Department has been recognized with multiple national awards by the National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA) for outstanding achievement in school communications during the 2024–2025 school year.
The district earned two Honorable Mention awards in the 2025 Publications and Digital Media Excellence Awards, both in the Photo category.
In addition, the Communications team was the recipient of two 2025 Golden Achievement Awards, one of NSPRA’s highest honors for strategic communications excellence. These awards celebrate exemplary work that demonstrates outstanding success in school public relations, communication, marketing, and engagement.
The award-winning team is led by Executive Director of Communications Kendra Pannell and Assistant Director of Communications Ashley Grycz. Since these projects were completed, the team has welcomed Communications Specialist Cindy Hernandez, and they are excited to continue sharing the stories that make Dalton Public Schools exceptional.
As the 2025–2026 school year begins, the Communications Department remains dedicated to championing the voices, achievements, and values of the DPS community.
Read more: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/article/2346547
Happy First Day of School!🤩
We’re so excited to welcome everyone back and can’t wait for an amazing year of learning, growth, and fun. Let’s make it a great one! #DPSfirstday #backtoschool #LeaveYourMark
We’re so excited to welcome everyone back and can’t wait for an amazing year of learning, growth, and fun. Let’s make it a great one! #DPSfirstday #backtoschool #LeaveYourMark
We were thrilled to welcome everyone to our schools today for orientation! Seeing our students and families back in the buildings brought so much excitement and energy. We can't wait to kick off a spectacular school year together—see you in class tomorrow! #DaltonReady #LeaveYourMark
HEY DPS FAMILIES — OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS HAVE A MESSAGE FOR YOU!
Our friends at Dalton Parks & Recreation want to make sure EVERY student and family in Dalton Public Schools knows: The LAST DAY to sign up for fall programs is AUGUST 7! This is your chance to get involved, get active, and connect with your community.
📅 Deadline: Wednesday, August 7
🔗https://daltonparks.org/
Get involved and #LeaveYourMark, DPS!
Our friends at Dalton Parks & Recreation want to make sure EVERY student and family in Dalton Public Schools knows: The LAST DAY to sign up for fall programs is AUGUST 7! This is your chance to get involved, get active, and connect with your community.
📅 Deadline: Wednesday, August 7
🔗https://daltonparks.org/
Get involved and #LeaveYourMark, DPS!
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, Maddie Breeden.
In her time at the Dalton High School Maddie participated in a variety of extra curricular activities including Competition and Sideline Varsity Cheer, Swim and Dive, Women’s Lacrosse, National Honors Society, and FCA. Her greatest achievements during high school include placing 6th in the state twice with her cheer team and being named Region Runner-Up for diving on two separate. She plans to continue her education and personal development by perusing higher education in the coming years.
Way to go!
Today we’re featuring Dalton High School graduate, Maddie Breeden.
In her time at the Dalton High School Maddie participated in a variety of extra curricular activities including Competition and Sideline Varsity Cheer, Swim and Dive, Women’s Lacrosse, National Honors Society, and FCA. Her greatest achievements during high school include placing 6th in the state twice with her cheer team and being named Region Runner-Up for diving on two separate. She plans to continue her education and personal development by perusing higher education in the coming years.
Way to go!
Our mission empowers every student to thrive in a changing world. See how our schools are bringing that mission to life! #MakeYourMark #DaltonPublicSchools
TOMORROW:
School orientations across Dalton Public Schools will be held on Tuesday, August 5. Get ready to kick off the school year!
🔴 Hammond Creek Middle School
6th Grade ONLY: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
7th Grade ONLY: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
🔴 Elementary Schools
1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
🔴 Dalton Junior High School
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
🔴 Dalton High School
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
🔴 The Dalton Academy
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
We can’t wait to welcome our students and families!
🚌 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!
📣 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 can’t wait to welcome everyone back!
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!
📣 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 can’t wait to welcome everyone back!
We recently welcomed our newest team members at New Employee Induction! These outstanding educators and staff are bringing passion, energy, and fresh ideas to Dalton Public Schools.
With a shared commitment to championing education, they are ready to inspire, support, and empower our students throughout the upcoming school year. Let’s give them a warm DPS welcome!
Notice for Families and Visitors: Staircase repairs at the 101 Building will begin Monday, August 4. Parking may be limited during construction, but overflow parking is available at the annex.
Student enrollment will remain open—we’re here and happy to help!
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, Lilly Graffe.
In her time at Dalton High School Lilly participated in a variety of extracurricular activities such as Varsity Competition and Football Cheerleading, Varsity Track and Field, and dancing with the Dance Theater of Dalton. Lilly was also involved in several clubs including the United Way Youth Council, National Honors Society, Pep club, and the Interact club. Her greatest achievements during high school include both athletic and academic accomplishment. She is proud of being top 10 in her class all four years of high school, being recognized as an AP Scholar, being a member of the National Honor Society, her Competition Cheer team being Top Six in the State for two years, and being the champion for the 300 Meter Hurdles event at regions competition for Track and Field. Lilly plans to continue her education at college and looks forward to continuing to grow her knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
Way to go!
Today we’re featuring Dalton High School graduate, Lilly Graffe.
In her time at Dalton High School Lilly participated in a variety of extracurricular activities such as Varsity Competition and Football Cheerleading, Varsity Track and Field, and dancing with the Dance Theater of Dalton. Lilly was also involved in several clubs including the United Way Youth Council, National Honors Society, Pep club, and the Interact club. Her greatest achievements during high school include both athletic and academic accomplishment. She is proud of being top 10 in her class all four years of high school, being recognized as an AP Scholar, being a member of the National Honor Society, her Competition Cheer team being Top Six in the State for two years, and being the champion for the 300 Meter Hurdles event at regions competition for Track and Field. Lilly plans to continue her education at college and looks forward to continuing to grow her knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
Way to go!
