Today weāre featuring Dalton Academy graduate Gabriela Ruelas!
During her time in high school, Gabriela excelled in a myriad of extracurricular activities while also going above and beyond in the classroom, finishing high school in the top three of her class. Ultimately, her journey is one defined by dedication and a seemingly unending work ethic. Throughout high school, Gabriela participated in the National Podcast Project, Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA), the National Honor Society, Student Council, and 3DE. She also held various leadership positions during her four years, including serving as the Public Relations Officer for Junior Civitan and President of DECA, where she also competed at the state level. Along with these accomplishments, Gabriela received numerous other accolades, including AP Scholar recognition, Young Georgia Author Grade Winner, and Speak Up Whitfield Presenter and Winner. In both 2022 and 2026, Gabriela received a 3DE Certificate of Achievement for the Case Challenge with Engineered Floors, and she graduated as a Class of 2026 REACH Georgia Scholar, earning a $10,000 scholarship. In the fall, Gabriela will continue her educational journey at the University of West Georgia, where she plans to study Psychology with the ultimate goal of becoming a psychologist. She hopes to better understand why people act the way they do and use that knowledge to help those in need. Ultimately, Gabriela Ruelas was an exemplary member of the Class of 2026 who went above and beyond in every aspect of her journey, and we are certain that she will continue to shine brightly in whichever spaces she chooses to enter in the future.
Congratulations Gabriela!
Today weāre featuring Dalton Academy graduate Makayla Bartley!
Makayla Bartley was not only involved in a variety of unique extracurricular activities, but also became a trailblazer in multiple areas she participated in, all while bringing a positive presence to the Dalton Academy. Makayla was a member of French Club, French Honor Society, the Black Student Alliance, Cat University, and even participated in a Book Club. Alongside these extracurriculars, Makayla was also an energetic athlete, participating in track and field and wrestling, where she accomplished one of her greatest achievements. She became the first female wrestler at Dalton Academy to win a wrestling match and the first female student to win a regional wrestling match as well. Despite making Dalton Academy history, Makayla cherishes the smaller moments most, such as getting to meet new people throughout high school and forming meaningful relationships with her classmates, memories she says will stay with her as she moves on to the next chapter of her life. In the fall, Makayla will attend the College of Coastal Georgia, where she plans to study acting within the performing arts program. Ultimately, despite her many accomplishments, Makayla is most proud of being part of a wonderful school community that showed her love and helped shape the person she is today. We are immensely proud of Makayla and all of her achievements, and we thank her not only for breaking barriers but also for bringing such a loving and positive energy to the Dalton Academy. We are certain she will continue to do great things in the future.
Congratulations Makayla!
Weāre Hiring!
Support learning, growth, and confidence in every classroom. Explore opportunities in teaching, student support, nursing, clerical services, and more.
View current openings and apply: Dalton Public Schools job listings on SchoolSpring ā dalton.schoolspring.com
Today weāre featuring Dalton High School graduate Collier Andersen!
During high school, Collier excelled academically while maintaining strong connections with his fellow students, making the last four years an unforgettable experience. Throughout high school, Collier participated in a variety of activities, including cross country during his freshman and senior years, along with multiple volunteer-based organizations such as the National Honor Society and Beta Club. These experiences allowed him to connect not only with those around him at school, but also with his wider community, all while maintaining straight Aās throughout high school. Despite his many academic achievements, Collier is most proud of the close friendships he made during high school and is thankful for both those friends and the teachers who supported him throughout his journey. Collier also considers one of his greatest accomplishments to be his acceptance into the University of Georgia, where he will attend in the fall and plans to study electrical engineering because of his long-standing interest in computers. We are immensely proud of Collier and all of his achievements, and we are eager to see where his hard work and dedication will lead him in the future.
Congratulations Collier!
Today weāre featuring Dalton Academy graduate Ella Austin!
During her high school career, Ella was heavily involved in many different aspects of her school community, contributing her time, skills, and heart throughout all four years, making herself an indispensable part of her senior class. Ella participated in multiple sports, including tennis, golf, and cheerleading, where she served as captain. She also took part in several organizations within her school, including Junior Civitan, Melissa Quickās Service Learning Group, yearbook, the National Podcast Project, and the Buddy Program, where she served as a Big Sister to a local elementary school student. Ella believes some of her greatest achievements include being recognized as a Young Georgia Author, becoming a Scholar Athlete, and receiving multiple scholarships to support the continuation of her educational journey. However, she ultimately believes her greatest achievement was her contribution to Dalton Academy and helping make it feel like a home for both herself and many other students. She states that Dalton Academy helped shape the woman she is today. We would personally like to thank Ella for being such an important part of what has made Dalton Academy what it is today. Through her dedication and involvement, she has helped shape the culture of the school in a lasting way, and we are confident that she will continue to make a meaningful impact wherever she chooses to go next.
Congratulations Ella!
Through Dalton High Schoolās participation in the Fox Theatreās All-Access Pass Program, students have the opportunity to explore careers in the performing arts, connect with industry professionals and gain insight into pathways in theater, music, dance, film, technical theater, arts education and arts management.
We are so proud of Olivia and excited to celebrate this outstanding achievement!
Read more about Olivia Bowenās Fox Theatre All-Access Pass Program Scholarship: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/article/2936811
Today weāre featuring Dalton High School graduate Amna Hussein!
During her time at Dalton High School, Amna was able to positively impact her fellow students through her leadership roles, and also developed a deep appreciation for not only her educational journey, but the aspects of her school and herself that might otherwise go overlooked, serving as a valuable reminder of some of our biggest moments in life are often the quietest in execution. Amna was an extremely active student, participating in Interact Club, National Honor Society, Beta Club, and HOSA. She also served as a leader in different areas of the Dalton High School community, acting as Head Editor of the Yearbook and serving as Student Council Executive Vice President. However, Amna also highlighted her love for the smaller aspects of her school experience, such as getting to hug Mrs. Susan in the mornings, warm cookies at lunch, and developing a deep appreciation for teachers even if she did not personally have them in class. Along with this, Amna demonstrated a deep appreciation for aspects of her journey that go beyond physical accolades or general recognition, as she is most proud of gaining confidence in standing out and believes her greatest accomplishment was discovering her passion for Biology. In the fall, she plans to pursue this passion by majoring in Biology at Dalton State College with the long-term goal of becoming a cardiovascular perfusionist. We are immensely proud of Amna and all of her accomplishments, and we are confident that she will continue to succeed in the future not only because of her dedication to hard work, but also because of her appreciation for the smaller things in life and within herself.
Congratulations Amna!
Nominated by their principals, these dedicated educators and team members enjoyed a chance to connect, recharge, and be celebrated for their hard work and commitment. It was a meaningful way to honor their contributions and send them into the weekend feeling appreciated.
Learn more about Dalton Public Schoolsā 2026 Advanced Placement Honor School recognitions: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/article/2912917
Today weāre featuring Dalton Academy graduate Geovany Aguirre!
During his time at Dalton Academy, Geovany participated in multiple extracurricular activities, accomplished many feats he is extremely proud of, and took on important leadership roles within his community. Throughout high school, Geovany participated in 3DE, Junior Civitan, Student Council, and the National Honor Society while serving as captain of the Dalton Academy soccer team for 3 years. Alongside his extracurricular involvement, Geovany participated in Young Georgia Authors, earned recognition as an AP Scholar by passing multiple AP exams, completed over 100 hours of community service, and received a Soccer All-Region nomination, an honor awarded to standout players selected by head coaches within the district, all while maintaining a 4.0 GPA! Geovany graduated with the title of Salutatorian and has also received acceptance offers from three different colleges, and we are eager to see where he chooses to continue his academic and athletic journey next. We are incredibly proud of the leadership and dedication he has shown throughout his time at Dalton Academy, and we know he will continue to make a positive impact wherever he chooses to attend college, as he has already shown a strong track record of success within our Dalton Public Schools community!
Way to go!
Registration for Dalton Public Schools Summer School 2026 is now open!
Summer School will be held at the Cyber Academy at The Annex and provides students with opportunities to earn credits, recover credits, and stay on track for graduation.
Registration Information
Cyber Academy at The Annex, 105 N. Thornton Ave.
Wednesday, May 27 | 9:00 AM ā 1:00 PM
Thursday, May 28 | 9:00 AM ā 1:00 PM
Summer School Schedule
June 1 ā July 9, 2026
MondayāThursday
Class Session Options
8:00 AM ā 11:00 AM
OR
12:00 PM ā 3:00 PM
Cost
$150 per credit
$100 for 0.5 credit
$200 per credit* for Initial credit courses (requires counselor/admin approval.)
Important Reminder
Payment for the first course is due at registration.
Cash or check only.
Holiday Schedule
There will be no school on July 2 in observance of Independence Day.
For additional information, please contact Dalton Public Schools.
We encourage families to register early to secure their preferred session.
Thank you!
Our cabinet members play an important role in supporting our schools and helping ensure students and staff have what they need to succeed.
Today, weāre highlighting Stuart Davis, Executive Director of Technology.
We asked Mr. Davis a few questions about his role, what he enjoys most about Dalton Public Schools, and a little about who he is outside of work. Hereās what he had to say š
"I serve Dalton Public Schools as the Executive Director of Technology, helping lead the systems and support that keep our schools connected, secure, and ready for teaching and learning every day. My work focuses on making sure students and staff have reliable access to the tools, devices, and technology they need to succeed. I also work behind the scenes to help our district operate smoothly and efficiently."
"What I enjoy most is knowing that the work we do makes a real difference for students and staff across the district. While much of technology happens behind the scenes, it plays an important role in helping classrooms run well and keeping people connected. As a Dalton High School graduate, it means everything to me to serve the community that invested in me and to help todayās students grow and learn with 21st-century technology."
"Outside of work, I enjoy photography, especially nature photography. I love capturing the beauty in landscapes, wildlife, and small details that often go unnoticed. Itās a creative outlet for me and a great way to recharge, and I also enjoy the editing process because it lets me combine creativity with my more technical side."
"I have been serving in education for 10 years. During that time, I have been grateful for the opportunity to support students, staff, and schools in meaningful ways through technology and service. Before entering education, I worked as a web developer in the telecommunications industry, which gave me a strong technical foundation. Over the years, I have learned a great deal about the unique challenges and opportunities that come with serving in Kā12 education."
Itās officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldnāt be more proud to shine a light on some of our recent graduates!
Today weāre featuring Dalton High School graduate Karen Tercero!
During High School, Karen not only pursued her passions with pure focus but also excelled academically and participated in a variety of activities, making her not only a well-rounded student but also one who understands her own strengths. Karen was a member of multiple volunteer-based clubs, such as Beta Club and National Honor Society. Along with this, Karen was a member of the Fine Arts Academy, a state-based program that allows Georgia's art students to gain a special seal on their diploma if they complete a varied list of requirements, like 20 hours of arts-based community service, participation in arts-based clubs, and completing a capstone project in their chosen area, all requirements Karen has completed to be recognized by the state. Karen also took up a leadership role in Dalton High School's National Arts Honors Society, where she served as president! Along with these extracurriculars, Karen participated in work-based learning, AP classes, and dual-enrollment classes, earning multiple accolades, including AP Scholar recognition and recognition at Young Georgia Authors! And Karen is proud to say that she achieved all of these things while maintaining a good GPA. In the fall, Karen will attend Lee University, where she will pursue a degree in Digital Media Studies with an emphasis in Journalism. This stems from her love of public speaking and, specifically, from her hope for the opportunity to speak on her favorite subjects. We are certain that with her understanding of her passions and her devotion to them, Karen will go far in whichever path calls to her!
Way to go!
This month, we celebrate Angela Macon, Kelley Lazo and Selena Garcia for their commitment to financial accuracy, service and accountability in support of students, staff and schools across the district.
Their hard work and attention to detail reflect the very best of Dalton Public Schools.
š Read more: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/article/2899702
Today weāre featuring Dalton Academy graduate Valerie Huerta!
During her time at Dalton Academy, Valerie Huerta was extremely active within her school and took immense pride in serving her community. She participated in multiple sports, including soccer, cross country, track, and flag football. She also took part in several service-based organizations, including the Buddy Program, the Translation Academy, Student Council, and the National Honor Society. In the fall, Valerie will attend Dalton State College, where she plans to pursue a degree in Political Science on a pre-law track with the goal of becoming an immigration lawyer. Ultimately, Valerie is most proud of all she has accomplished without giving up. She considers one of her greatest achievements to be the time she dedicated to helping her community and the strong connections she was able to build with those around her. We are extremely proud of Valerie and all she has accomplished over the last four years. We know that her selflessness, determination, and passion for helping others will take her far in her future endeavors.
Way to go!
Itās officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldnāt be more proud to shine a light on some of our recent graduates!
Today weāre featuring Dalton High School graduate Olivia Bowen!
During her time at Dalton High School, Olivia Bowen not only pursued her own growth with determination but also encouraged growth in others through her passion for service and the arts. By dedicating herself to the things she loves, Olivia has shown her strength not only as a leader but also as a catalyst for positive change within her community. Olivia participated in several extracurricular activities throughout high school, including Beta Club, the National Honor Society, and volunteering with the Murray-Whitfield Historical Society. She also had the honor of serving in multiple leadership roles, including Drama Club and Troupe 1702 President, Color Guard Captain and Soloist, Catamount Singers Student Director, and Alto Section Leader. Some of Oliviaās greatest achievements include earning first place at the 2024 SAPA Winterguard Championships, receiving a nomination for Best Choreography at the Georgia High School Musical Theatre Awards, being selected as an All-Star Cast member for the 2025 Region One Act Competition, and winning a region title and placing third in the state for her Duo Acting Interpretation piece during her senior year. In the fall, Olivia will attend the University of Georgia, where she plans to major in Exercise Science with a minor in Theatre. In the future, she hopes to combine these two disciplines by becoming an occupational therapist who uses the nurturing nature of the arts to improve the lives of others. Reflecting on her time at Dalton High School above all, Olivia says that getting to watch others grow and discover themselves while serving in leadership roles has been one of her greatest blessings and is the reason she wants to continue helping others. She thanks those around her for allowing her to be part of their journeys toward becoming the best versions of themselves. We would like to thank Olivia for allowing Dalton Public Schools to be part of her inspiring journey. We are certain that she will continue inspiring positive change in others and making a meaningful difference in every community she becomes part of in the future.
Way to go!
Itās officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldnāt be more proud to shine a light on some of our graduates!
Today weāre featuring Dalton Academy senior David Leon!
During his time at the Dalton Academy, David Leon played an important role in his school community by participating in various clubs and sports teams, while above all else valuing the opportunity to be part of something larger than himself. Through his involvement, David not only demonstrated his leadership abilities but also became a vital member of his school family. David participated in the Dalton Academyās soccer, cross country, and track teams, along with multiple clubs and organizations, including DECA, the Buddy Program, the Translation Academy program, Walking Club, and Junior Civitan Club. In addition to these activities, David made a long-term commitment to the 3DE program at the Dalton Academy, participating in the program for all four years of high school. 3DE re-engineers high school education by allowing students to partner with local and national businesses to solve complex, corporate-based challenges. This opportunity is sponsored by Junior Achievement, and during his freshman year, David was inducted into the Junior Achievement Hall of Fame, an honor dedicated to individuals in the North Georgia area who serve as outstanding citizens within their local communities. He considers this one of his greatest achievements, along with his effort to consistently maintain high grades. In the fall, David will attend North Georgia Technical College to pursue welding, a field he feels capable of mastering and becoming passionate about in the future. Ultimately, despite his unique accolades and active involvement, David is most grateful for the different parts of his school community he was able to experience and the family he built at the Academy. We are grateful for David and the positive impact he has made on our community, and we are excited to see the difference he will continue to make in his future endeavors.
Way to go!
Itās officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldnāt be more proud to shine a light on some of our graduates!
Today weāre featuring Dalton High School senior Neha Shree!
During her time at Dalton High School, Neha Shree excelled in every aspect of her educational journey, from her classes and extracurricular activities, to the lifelong connections she formed with those around her. She not only succeeded in many different areas but did so while participating in a wide range of unique and challenging programs. Neha was involved in several extracurricular activities, including varsity lacrosse, cross country, and Mock Trial, a district extracurricular in which students act as attorneys and witnesses in a hypothetical criminal or civil case while learning about the legal system. In addition to these activities, Neha gave back to her community through several service-based organizations, including Interact Club, Key Club, Beta Club, and the National Honor Society. Among her many accomplishments, Neha is especially proud of remaining in the top ten of her class throughout all four years of high school, being recognized as an AP Scholar with Distinction, becoming a Governorās Honors Program finalist, and pursuing the IB Diploma. The IB Diploma is a rigorous, two-year academic curriculum designed to prepare students for university and global citizenship, and Neha is one of only eight Dalton High School students eligible to earn the full diploma. She also shares that some of her favorite memories came from this program and the close-knit IB group she became part of. In the fall, Neha will attend the Georgia Institute of Technology, where she plans to major in Neuroscience. She hopes to contribute to this constantly growing field and play a role in its future development. Ultimately, Neha Shree has exemplified what it means to be an excellent student throughout her four years at Dalton High School. We are certain that she will continue to excel in any area she sets her mind to next.
Way to go!
View all of the photos from this special celebration in our Facebook album!
#DaltonPublicSchools #LearnLeadSucceed #Catamounts
View all of the photos from this special celebration in our Facebook album!
#DaltonPublicSchools #LearnLeadSucceed #Pumas
