Hispanic Heritage Month Staff Spotlight: Bianca Maldonado š
Assistant Director of Human Resources
As part of our Hispanic Heritage Month celebration, weāre proud to highlight the voices of Dalton Public Schools staff who share their culture, values, and perspectives with our community.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you personally or professionally?
"To me, Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate and honor our culture's history, contributions, and achievements. I believe it is important for us to share our diverse backgrounds and traditions as it promotes inclusivity and allows our students and staff to feel seen, respected, and appreciated."
Thank you, Bianca, for your dedication to uplifting others and for the positive impact you bring to our DPS family every day!
Assistant Director of Human Resources
As part of our Hispanic Heritage Month celebration, weāre proud to highlight the voices of Dalton Public Schools staff who share their culture, values, and perspectives with our community.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you personally or professionally?
"To me, Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate and honor our culture's history, contributions, and achievements. I believe it is important for us to share our diverse backgrounds and traditions as it promotes inclusivity and allows our students and staff to feel seen, respected, and appreciated."
Thank you, Bianca, for your dedication to uplifting others and for the positive impact you bring to our DPS family every day!
Classroom Spotlight: Mrs. Allison Chlebischās class at City Park School recently embarked on an exciting research adventure!
Students chose a country they would love to visit and explored its culture, language, holidays, food, currency, and transportation. Working with partners, they created detailed travel guides complete with maps and fun facts to convince others why their chosen country is the best destination.
Along the way, students read āCulture Shockā from their Savvas workbooks to spark meaningful questions, then developed research plansāasking questions, making claims, researching, writing, revising, and presenting. By sharing responsibilities, each team got hands-on experience in collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking.
Students chose a country they would love to visit and explored its culture, language, holidays, food, currency, and transportation. Working with partners, they created detailed travel guides complete with maps and fun facts to convince others why their chosen country is the best destination.
Along the way, students read āCulture Shockā from their Savvas workbooks to spark meaningful questions, then developed research plansāasking questions, making claims, researching, writing, revising, and presenting. By sharing responsibilities, each team got hands-on experience in collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking.
Dalton High School is proud to announce the 2025 Athletics Hall of Fame Class!
This year, we celebrate:
Football ā Bill Mitchell, Joe Bill Faith
Wrestling ā Hosea Lampley
Boys Basketball ā Bernard Betton, Jimmy Howell
Girls Basketball ā Mimi Crenshaw
Baseball ā Matthew Boggs
Swimming ā Jonathan Rehberg
Soccer ā Kobe Perez
Boys Track ā Joseph King
Girls Golf ā Brendie Rockholt
Coach ā Hayden Wagers
Community Contributor ā Ray Broadrick
Team Recognition ā 1967 State Championship Football Team
Join us in honoring these Catamount legends at the Hall of Fame Induction Dinner & Banquet on October 16 and at the community introduction on October 17 during the home football game.
Read the full press release with details and the complete roster of the 1967 championship team ā”ļø https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/article/2462518
This year, we celebrate:
Football ā Bill Mitchell, Joe Bill Faith
Wrestling ā Hosea Lampley
Boys Basketball ā Bernard Betton, Jimmy Howell
Girls Basketball ā Mimi Crenshaw
Baseball ā Matthew Boggs
Swimming ā Jonathan Rehberg
Soccer ā Kobe Perez
Boys Track ā Joseph King
Girls Golf ā Brendie Rockholt
Coach ā Hayden Wagers
Community Contributor ā Ray Broadrick
Team Recognition ā 1967 State Championship Football Team
Join us in honoring these Catamount legends at the Hall of Fame Induction Dinner & Banquet on October 16 and at the community introduction on October 17 during the home football game.
Read the full press release with details and the complete roster of the 1967 championship team ā”ļø https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/article/2462518
Hispanic Heritage Month Staff Spotlight: Jorge Miranda š
Network Administrator
For Hispanic Heritage Month, weāre honored to highlight Dalton Public Schools staff whose stories, traditions, and values strengthen our community.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you personally or professionally?
Hispanic Heritage Month is both a celebration and a reflection for me. Personally, itās a time to honor my parents and the sacrifices they made so I can be where I am today. Their hard work, dedication and perseverance laid the foundation for the opportunities I now have. Professionally, itās a chance to recognize the contributions of Hispanic leaders, educators, and innovators, while also reminding me of the responsibility I carry to ensure that students in our schools see themselves represented and know that their heritage is a source of pride and strength.
How has your culture influenced who you are today or how you approach your work in education?
My culture has instilled in me the values of hard work, family, and perseverance, and it has shaped the way I lead with empathy and collaboration. It has also reinforced my personal core values: Family, Integrity, Improvement, and Respect. These guide me dailyāwhether I am mentoring team members, supporting staff, or building opportunities for students. They remind me that supporting technology for education is not only about outcomes but also about how you treat people, the trust you build, and the example you set for others.
Is there a tradition, value, or memory from your heritage that you are especially proud of and would like to share?
One of the traditions that is most near and dear to my heart is how food brings people together in my culture. Meals are more than nourishmentāthey are moments to connect, share stories, and strengthen bonds. Growing up, those gatherings taught me the importance of community and belonging. Today, I carry that same value into my professional life by striving to create environments where people feel included, supported, and part of something greater than themselves.
Thank you, Jorge, for your dedication and the example you set in serving our DPS family with integrity and heart!
Network Administrator
For Hispanic Heritage Month, weāre honored to highlight Dalton Public Schools staff whose stories, traditions, and values strengthen our community.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you personally or professionally?
Hispanic Heritage Month is both a celebration and a reflection for me. Personally, itās a time to honor my parents and the sacrifices they made so I can be where I am today. Their hard work, dedication and perseverance laid the foundation for the opportunities I now have. Professionally, itās a chance to recognize the contributions of Hispanic leaders, educators, and innovators, while also reminding me of the responsibility I carry to ensure that students in our schools see themselves represented and know that their heritage is a source of pride and strength.
How has your culture influenced who you are today or how you approach your work in education?
My culture has instilled in me the values of hard work, family, and perseverance, and it has shaped the way I lead with empathy and collaboration. It has also reinforced my personal core values: Family, Integrity, Improvement, and Respect. These guide me dailyāwhether I am mentoring team members, supporting staff, or building opportunities for students. They remind me that supporting technology for education is not only about outcomes but also about how you treat people, the trust you build, and the example you set for others.
Is there a tradition, value, or memory from your heritage that you are especially proud of and would like to share?
One of the traditions that is most near and dear to my heart is how food brings people together in my culture. Meals are more than nourishmentāthey are moments to connect, share stories, and strengthen bonds. Growing up, those gatherings taught me the importance of community and belonging. Today, I carry that same value into my professional life by striving to create environments where people feel included, supported, and part of something greater than themselves.
Thank you, Jorge, for your dedication and the example you set in serving our DPS family with integrity and heart!
A great way to start the day! š
The Dalton Academy flag football team recently visited Westwood School to greet students with smiles, open car doors, and wish them a fantastic day of learning. Thank you, Pumas, for spreading positivity and showing what it means to lead with kindness!
The Dalton Academy flag football team recently visited Westwood School to greet students with smiles, open car doors, and wish them a fantastic day of learning. Thank you, Pumas, for spreading positivity and showing what it means to lead with kindness!
Happy School Custodian Appreciation Day! š We are beyond grateful for our dedicated custodial staff who work tirelessly to keep our schools clean, safe, and welcoming for students, staff, and visitors. Your hard work and commitment help create an environment where everyone can thrive. Thank you for all that you do!
Hispanic Heritage Month Staff Spotlight: Karla Jacobo š
Administrative Assistant to the Superintendent
This Hispanic Heritage Month, weāre celebrating the voices and stories that make Dalton Public Schools such a vibrant community.
What Hispanic Heritage Month means to Karla:
Hispanic Heritage Month is a chance to honor the beauty and strength of my culture and the journey of my family. Being a first-generation Mexican American has shaped my heart for service. Those values of hard work, family, and community guide how I serve at DPS, where Iām proud to help families feel seen, heard, and supported.
Thank you, Karla, for your dedication and the warmth you bring to our students, families, and staff every day!
Administrative Assistant to the Superintendent
This Hispanic Heritage Month, weāre celebrating the voices and stories that make Dalton Public Schools such a vibrant community.
What Hispanic Heritage Month means to Karla:
Hispanic Heritage Month is a chance to honor the beauty and strength of my culture and the journey of my family. Being a first-generation Mexican American has shaped my heart for service. Those values of hard work, family, and community guide how I serve at DPS, where Iām proud to help families feel seen, heard, and supported.
Thank you, Karla, for your dedication and the warmth you bring to our students, families, and staff every day!
October is National Principal's Month, and we want to take a moment to appreciate our incredible principals at Dalton Public Schools.
Their dedication, leadership, and hard work are the foundation of our educational community. Thank you for all you do to support our students and staff!
Your words of appreciation mean the world to our principals! Don't hesitate to leave a comment on this post to show your support for their hard work and dedication.
Their dedication, leadership, and hard work are the foundation of our educational community. Thank you for all you do to support our students and staff!
Your words of appreciation mean the world to our principals! Don't hesitate to leave a comment on this post to show your support for their hard work and dedication.
October is National Bullying Prevention Month!
At Dalton Public Schools, we are committed to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment where every student feels valued and respected. Together, we can take a stand against bullying and promote kindness, acceptance, and unity.
At Dalton Public Schools, we are committed to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment where every student feels valued and respected. Together, we can take a stand against bullying and promote kindness, acceptance, and unity.
Fall Break Reminder š
Just a friendly reminder that Fall Break is right around the corner! Thursday, October 9 is an early release day. Friday, October 10th is a student holiday and a staff work day.
Monday, October 13th is a student and staff holiday.
We will see you all back on Tuesday, October 14!
Just a friendly reminder that Fall Break is right around the corner! Thursday, October 9 is an early release day. Friday, October 10th is a student holiday and a staff work day.
Monday, October 13th is a student and staff holiday.
We will see you all back on Tuesday, October 14!
Hispanic Heritage Month Staff Spotlight: Veronica Sandoval š
Cybersecurity Specialist
As we continue celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, weāre honored to highlight staff members whose stories, traditions, and values enrich our schools and community.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you personally or professionally?
Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to honor the values, traditions, and hard work that my family and community have carried through generations. Personally, itās about celebrating the rich culture I grew up with ā the food, music, language, and deep sense of family ā and sharing that with others. Professionally, itās a reminder that diversity is not just something we acknowledge, but something that strengthens our work in education and technology. Our unique perspectives allow us to problem-solve creatively, build stronger relationships, and connect with people from all backgrounds.
How has your culture influenced who you are today or how you approach your work in education?
My culture has taught me resilience, resourcefulness, and a deep respect for community. In my role in education, I carry forward the value of "servir con el corazĆ³n" ā to serve with heart. Whether Iām working on cybersecurity initiatives or supporting my colleagues, I approach every task with dedication, collaboration, and the belief that everyoneās success is interconnected. The work ethic and pride instilled in me from my upbringing help me go the extra mile and build trust with those I serve.
Is there a tradition, value, or memory from your heritage that you are especially proud of and would like to share?
One of my favorite traditions is how food becomes a language of love in our culture. From big family gatherings with homemade recipes passed down for generations, to sharing sweets I create through my baking, Iāve learned that food is more than nourishment ā itās connection. Itās the joy of seeing someoneās face light up because they feel cared for. That same spirit drives how I build relationships at work, whether Iām helping a colleague solve a problem or celebrating a team milestone ā itās about creating moments that matter.
Thank you, Veronica, for your dedication to serving with heart and strengthening our DPS family through your work and your story!
Cybersecurity Specialist
As we continue celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, weāre honored to highlight staff members whose stories, traditions, and values enrich our schools and community.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you personally or professionally?
Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to honor the values, traditions, and hard work that my family and community have carried through generations. Personally, itās about celebrating the rich culture I grew up with ā the food, music, language, and deep sense of family ā and sharing that with others. Professionally, itās a reminder that diversity is not just something we acknowledge, but something that strengthens our work in education and technology. Our unique perspectives allow us to problem-solve creatively, build stronger relationships, and connect with people from all backgrounds.
How has your culture influenced who you are today or how you approach your work in education?
My culture has taught me resilience, resourcefulness, and a deep respect for community. In my role in education, I carry forward the value of "servir con el corazĆ³n" ā to serve with heart. Whether Iām working on cybersecurity initiatives or supporting my colleagues, I approach every task with dedication, collaboration, and the belief that everyoneās success is interconnected. The work ethic and pride instilled in me from my upbringing help me go the extra mile and build trust with those I serve.
Is there a tradition, value, or memory from your heritage that you are especially proud of and would like to share?
One of my favorite traditions is how food becomes a language of love in our culture. From big family gatherings with homemade recipes passed down for generations, to sharing sweets I create through my baking, Iāve learned that food is more than nourishment ā itās connection. Itās the joy of seeing someoneās face light up because they feel cared for. That same spirit drives how I build relationships at work, whether Iām helping a colleague solve a problem or celebrating a team milestone ā itās about creating moments that matter.
Thank you, Veronica, for your dedication to serving with heart and strengthening our DPS family through your work and your story!
Classroom Spotlight:
In Cesar Martinezās classroom at Blue Ridge School, students recently brought math to life by creating giant multiplication charts! Through hands-on activities, they explored rectangles and multiplication in a fun and engaging way during their math instruction time.
In Cesar Martinezās classroom at Blue Ridge School, students recently brought math to life by creating giant multiplication charts! Through hands-on activities, they explored rectangles and multiplication in a fun and engaging way during their math instruction time.
Today marked the very first meeting of the 2025 Superintendentās Student Advisory Council!
We are so excited to welcome student leaders from across grade levels who will share their voices and perspectives to help shape the future of Dalton Public Schools.
In todayās session, students met with Superintendent Dr. Craft and Associate Superintendent of Student Services Dr. Shaw and explored positive ways Dalton Public Schools GA can implement the new Distraction-Free Personal Device State Law. Their ideas will help us focus on opportunities to enhance learning and keep students engaged in the classroom.
This is just the beginning, and we canāt wait to see the incredible ideas this group will share throughout the year!
We are so excited to welcome student leaders from across grade levels who will share their voices and perspectives to help shape the future of Dalton Public Schools.
In todayās session, students met with Superintendent Dr. Craft and Associate Superintendent of Student Services Dr. Shaw and explored positive ways Dalton Public Schools GA can implement the new Distraction-Free Personal Device State Law. Their ideas will help us focus on opportunities to enhance learning and keep students engaged in the classroom.
This is just the beginning, and we canāt wait to see the incredible ideas this group will share throughout the year!
Classroom Spotlight:
In Erie Stookeyās classroom at Roan School, students recently explored primary and secondary sources before putting their knowledge into actionāwriting their very own informative letters!
In Erie Stookeyās classroom at Roan School, students recently explored primary and secondary sources before putting their knowledge into actionāwriting their very own informative letters!
September is National Child Passenger Safety Monthāa time to raise awareness about the importance of proper car seat use.
This week, the Dalton Police Department and our dedicated School Resource Officers partnered with several of our elementary schools during car rider line to help families ensure children are buckled up safely. Officers offered free car seat checks and even provided new seats if neededāno tickets issued, just support.
We are extremely grateful for their service, generosity, and commitment to keeping our students safe!
Happy Human Resource Professionals Day! Today, weāre shining a spotlight on our amazing HR team who make our district a great place to work. Mendy Woods, Bianca Maldonado, Emma Ruiz, and Liz Moralesāthank you for your dedication to supporting our staff, fostering a positive work environment, and making sure everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. We appreciate all you do!
Elevating Teacher Voices at Dalton Public Schools āØ
Dr. Steven Craft recently met with the Superintendentās Teacher Advisory Council, a group made up of our outstanding school-level Teachers of the Year. Representing schools and grade levels across the district, these educators bring valuable insights, experiences, and ideas directly to the superintendent.
This collaborative council ensures teacher voices are heard in shaping decisions that impact classrooms and student success. By working together, we continue building strong relationships, sparking innovation, and moving forward to success for every student at Dalton Public Schools!
Dr. Steven Craft recently met with the Superintendentās Teacher Advisory Council, a group made up of our outstanding school-level Teachers of the Year. Representing schools and grade levels across the district, these educators bring valuable insights, experiences, and ideas directly to the superintendent.
This collaborative council ensures teacher voices are heard in shaping decisions that impact classrooms and student success. By working together, we continue building strong relationships, sparking innovation, and moving forward to success for every student at Dalton Public Schools!
This week, DPS high school sophomores had the opportunity to participate in the interactive āgame of lifeā at the Teen Maze event organized by Whitfield Family Connection!
Taking place at the Dalton Fair Grounds, Teen Maze aims to educate students about the real-life consequences of their choices through a hands-on and engaging experience. By examining how their decisions can affect their future and understanding the importance of personal responsibility, this event empowers students to make positive choices in life.
We are proud of our students for participating and gaining valuable insights that will help shape their futures!
Classroom Spotlight: Mr. Damaschās Art Class
As part of International Dot Day, students in Mr. Damaschās art class at City Park School finalized their Obliteration Room project, inspired by artist Yayoi Kusama.
The activity encouraged students to āmake their markā in a shared space, transforming a blank room into a vibrant, collaborative work of art. Through this project, students learned the value of creativity, collaboration, and celebrating individual contributions that came together to create something extraordinary.
As part of International Dot Day, students in Mr. Damaschās art class at City Park School finalized their Obliteration Room project, inspired by artist Yayoi Kusama.
The activity encouraged students to āmake their markā in a shared space, transforming a blank room into a vibrant, collaborative work of art. Through this project, students learned the value of creativity, collaboration, and celebrating individual contributions that came together to create something extraordinary.
Every Day Counts at Dalton Public Schools!
Did you knowā¦
ā”ļøMissing just 2 days a month adds up to over 3 weeks of learning lost in a school year?
ā”ļø Students with strong attendance are more likely to succeed in reading, math, and graduation?
Thatās why DPS is rolling out a new attendance process to better support families:
-Clear, consistent communication when absences begin to add up
-Supportive phone calls and letters to keep families informed
-School and district teams working together with you to remove barriers
š Learn more about how weāre supporting attendance year-round: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/page/attendance
Did you knowā¦
ā”ļøMissing just 2 days a month adds up to over 3 weeks of learning lost in a school year?
ā”ļø Students with strong attendance are more likely to succeed in reading, math, and graduation?
Thatās why DPS is rolling out a new attendance process to better support families:
-Clear, consistent communication when absences begin to add up
-Supportive phone calls and letters to keep families informed
-School and district teams working together with you to remove barriers
š Learn more about how weāre supporting attendance year-round: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/page/attendance
