Big news, Dalton Public Schools families! šŸ“š

This fall, every DPS student in grades 3ā€“6 will receive their very own copy of "Tufted: The Stitch & Story of Catherine Evans Whitener" by author Rachel Smalley as part of our upcoming literacy initiative!

But that's not all. Rachel will visit our schools to meet with students and talk about her writing process, why she wrote the book, how the story developed, and the people who inspired it. She'll also read "Tufted" alongside our students!

We can't wait to see our readers dive in.

#DaltonPublicSchools #LearnLeadSucceed #DaltonReads
13 days ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications
A hand holding up a copy of the children's book Tufted: The Stitch & Story of Catherine Evans Whitener against a brick wall background.
ROAR Day: The Greatest Show in Education brought Dalton Public Schools together for a day of learning, collaboration, and celebration! šŸŽŖ

Today, educators from across the district gathered at Dalton High School to connect, grow, and share ideas that strengthen the DPS community. With more than 100 sessions led by our own teachers, coaches, and staff, ROAR Day offered something for everyone, from classroom management and literacy strategies to AI, wellness, and school culture.

Under the big top, staff took center stage in hands-on experiences: racing the clock in an escape room, making puppets and stage props, learning pickleball, and even trying a little musical theater choreography. Between sessions, educators swapped ideas over refreshments and celebrated the passion and dedication that make our district special.

Today proved once again that when we step into the ring as one team, DPS is the greatest show in education! šŸ¦ #DaltonPublicSchools #LearnLeadSucceed
14 days ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications
A group photo of educators.
Two women on a tennis court.
A culinary class cooking.
Educators working on a craft in a science lab.
An instructional coach holding a card with the letter d on it.
Two educators listening to a speaker.
šŸŽ“ Big news for Dalton Public Schools!

Our 2026 graduation rates are in, and Dalton High School, The Dalton Academy and DPS as a whole are all above Georgiaā€™s 88.5% graduation rate! šŸŽ‰

šŸŽ“ Dalton High School: 93.24%
šŸŽ“ The Dalton Academy: 90.21%
šŸŽ“ Dalton Public Schools: 89.85%

We are incredibly proud of our students and grateful for the hard work and dedication of our teachers and staff who make successes like these possible! ā¤ļøšŸ¾

šŸ”— Read more: www.daltonpublicschools.com/news
14 days ago, DPS Communications
Graphic announcing Dalton Public Schoolsā€™ 2026 graduation rates. The DPS logo appears above large text reading ā€œ2026 Graduation Rates.ā€ Two graduates in red caps and gowns are pictured on either side, surrounded by a red border with black paw prints.
Happy Human Resource Professionals Day! Today, weā€™re shining a spotlight on our amazing HR team who make our district a great place to work. Mendy Woods, Bianca Maldonado, Ashley Hernandez, and Liz Moralesā€”thank 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!
16 days ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications
Four Dalton Public Schools staff members stand side by side in a hallway, smiling at the camera, with some wearing red district apparel. Overlaid text reads ā€œCelebrating Human Resource Professionals Day,ā€ and the Dalton Public Schools logo appears in the corner.

šŸ“£ We want to hear from our students!

The 2026 Believe Greater Dalton Community Survey is now open, and our students have an important role in helping shape what comes next for our community.

Students, please take a few minutes to share your voice. Families, we encourage you to ask your student to participate!

The survey takes approximately five minutes, responses are anonymous, and participants may enter to win one of five $100 Visa gift cards.

Take the survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/BGD2026

Your voice matters. Letā€™s help build the future of Greater Daltonā€”together!

17 days ago, DPS Communications
Believe Greater Dalton graphic inviting community members to participate. Text reads: ā€œWe want to hear from you! Your voice helps shape whatā€™s next for Greater Dalton. Take the surveyā€”it only takes five minutes.ā€
Loud pep rally, louder spirit šŸ¾ Great way to kick off Homecoming Weekend, Catamounts. Can't wait to see who takes the spirit stick tonight!
17 days ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications
Loud pep rally, louder spirit šŸ¾ Great way to kick off Homecoming Weekend, Catamounts. Can't wait to see who takes the spirit stick tonight!
Loud pep rally, louder spirit šŸ¾ Great way to kick off Homecoming Weekend, Catamounts. Can't wait to see who takes the spirit stick tonight!
Loud pep rally, louder spirit šŸ¾ Great way to kick off Homecoming Weekend, Catamounts. Can't wait to see who takes the spirit stick tonight!
Loud pep rally, louder spirit šŸ¾ Great way to kick off Homecoming Weekend, Catamounts. Can't wait to see who takes the spirit stick tonight!
Loud pep rally, louder spirit šŸ¾ Great way to kick off Homecoming Weekend, Catamounts. Can't wait to see who takes the spirit stick tonight!
Loud pep rally, louder spirit šŸ¾ Great way to kick off Homecoming Weekend, Catamounts. Can't wait to see who takes the spirit stick tonight!
Loud pep rally, louder spirit šŸ¾ Great way to kick off Homecoming Weekend, Catamounts. Can't wait to see who takes the spirit stick tonight!
Loud pep rally, louder spirit šŸ¾ Great way to kick off Homecoming Weekend, Catamounts. Can't wait to see who takes the spirit stick tonight!
Loud pep rally, louder spirit šŸ¾ Great way to kick off Homecoming Weekend, Catamounts. Can't wait to see who takes the spirit stick tonight!
Loud pep rally, louder spirit šŸ¾ Great way to kick off Homecoming Weekend, Catamounts. Can't wait to see who takes the spirit stick tonight!
What a night! Dalton Public Schools proudly represented at United Way of Northwest Georgia's Annual Campaign Kickoff Trike Race ā€” and we're bringing home the Best Pit Crew trophy! šŸ†

This year's Red, White, and United: The Great American Trike Race theme was the perfect fit for us to spotlight our DaltonReads! literacy initiative, handing out free books to the community along the way.

United Way does incredible work year-round, and we're honored to be part of it. šŸ“ššŸš²
17 days ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications
Dalton Public Schools staff posing with the United Way "Best Pit Crew" trophy.
Cheerleaders in red gingham skirts performing a synchronized routine on the street during a community parade.
A participant riding a blue tricycle in a street race while spectators cheer.
A school staff member holding up the United Way "Best Pit Crew" award trophy outdoors.
A tricycle race participant navigating a downtown street course as crowds look on.
A pit crew team posing with a tricycle in front of a red, white, and blue balloon arch.
šŸ“š Want a peek into how reading skills are built? GPB's Literacy Shorts are quick, easy-to-watch videos for parents and guardians covering everything from phonics to vocabulary ā€” sorted by grade level (K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12). Take a few minutes this month to check them out!

šŸ”—https://www.gpb.org/education/learn/lets-learn-ga/instructional-support/literacy-shorts
17 days ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications
A square promotional graphic set against a red background featuring bold white text in the center reading "Literacy Shorts: Quick Videos, Big Reading Gains". A YouTube logo icon sits in the top right corner, and the border is decorated with illustrated school-themed stickers, including books, a pencil, a pushpin, a lightbulb, a crayon, a paper boat, puzzle pieces, a pen, and a paper airplane.
Classroom Spotlight šŸŒŸ

Amy Bagley's C3 class had a thoughtful discussion recently, exploring different personality types and what makes each of us unique. Students talked about how their varying personalities can actually strengthen teamwork, and considered how understanding these differences might shape their collaboration in future projects.

C3 is our district's gifted enrichment program for fifth graders, bringing together students from each of our elementary schools for advanced learning experiences led by Challenge teachers. This discussion was a great example of the deep thinking and self-reflection these students bring every day!
18 days ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications
Students standing up and smiling during an interactive group activity in a classroom.
Students standing up and smiling during an interactive group activity in a classroom.
Female students standing together in a line presenting to their class.
A teacher with outstretched arms leading a group presentation activity with students.
Four students standing at the front of the room presenting a project to classmates.
A group of students standing near a digital board sharing their work.
Students lined up along a classroom wall holding assignment papers.
A student smiling at her desk while participating in a group discussion.
A teacher gesturing toward a screen displaying discussion questions for the class.
A student seated at his desk attentively watching a teacher's presentation.
Schedule Reminder:
šŸ“Œ Friday, September 25: Early Release Day
Elementary Schools: 12:15 PM
Hammond Creek Middle and Dalton Junior High: 11:30 AM
TDA and Dalton High: 10:45 AM

šŸ“Œ Monday, September 28: Virtual Learning Day ā€“ Students will complete assignments from home.
We look forward to seeing our students back in class on Tuesday, September 29!
19 days ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications
A Dalton Public Schools schedule reminder graphic with a black background and paw print pattern. Text lists ā€œFriday 25 ā€“ Early Student Releaseā€ and ā€œMonday 28 ā€“ Virtual Learning Day.ā€ Along the bottom are small photos of students participating in school activities, including sports, classroom play, and sitting together in an auditorium.
Today, DPS high school sophomores had the opportunity to participate in the interactive ā€˜game 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!
19 days ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications
A student holding informational pamphlets while standing at an interactive prize wheel during a career fair.
A school staff member handing out mock diplomas to students dressed in graduation caps and gowns during a Teen Maze activity.
High school students learning infant care techniques using realistic doll models at an instructional booth.
A student wearing impaired-vision goggles driving a utility cart alongside a safety officer.
Emergency responders demonstrating first-aid and patient transport techniques to students.
High school students seated on bleachers listening attentively to a presentation.
A guest speaker holding a microphone while addressing a large audience of seated students.
A guest speaker in a suit speaking from a podium to a group of gathered students.
Classroom Spotlight šŸ“š

Rachel Bray's students at Westwood School had a great day recently diving into the world of books! They started at circle time learning the difference between fiction and nonfiction, then listened to an audio book reading together. Afterward, the class discussed whether the story was based on real events or came from the author's imagination.

Next, students chose a table with a bucket of books and spent 15 minutes exploring a mix of fiction and nonfiction titles. To wrap up, the class shared their favorite books, explaining why they liked them and whether they were fiction or nonfiction. What a wonderful way to build a love of reading! šŸ“–āœØ
19 days ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications
A young student checking out a library book at the circulation desk.
Young elementary students working on drawing and writing activities at a library table.
Students gathered around a light green activity table reading library books.
A media specialist holding up a book about volcanoes during storytime.
Students listening to a librarian give a group presentation in the media center.
A librarian leaning over a blue table helping students with their reading choices.
Four students sitting around a green library table reviewing books together.
Dalton Public Schools is proud to announce the Game Ball winners for the month of September: Tucker Seay, Physical Education Teacher at Dalton High School, and Leslie Terry, District Math and Science Curriculum Specialist.

Superintendent Dr. Steven Craft launched the Game Ball recognition program to honor staff members who exemplify the district's four core values from Culturize by Jimmy Casas: expecting excellence, carrying the banner, being a merchant of hope and being a champion for students.

The Game Ball Awards recognizes individuals who work behind the scenes to ensure the district operates efficiently and responsibly in service of students, staff and families.

Tucker Seay, Physical Education Teacher, Dalton High School

Seay is recognized for his work in the weight room and his consistent dedication to showing up for both staff and students. His commitment to building strength ā€” both physical and personal ā€” has made a lasting impact on the Dalton High School community, and his reliability and encouragement have earned him the respect of colleagues and students alike.

Leslie Terry, District Coordinator of Data and Assessment

Terry is recognized for her incredible work supporting the district, teachers and staff. As Coordinator of Data and Assessment, she plays a vital behind-the-scenes role, ensuring educators across Dalton Public Schools have the data and resources they need to support student success.

Dalton Public Schools congratulates Tucker Seay and Leslie Terry on being named the September Game Ball winners and thanks them for their continued dedication to students, staff and families across the district.
20 days ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications
Dr. Steven Craft posing with a female Game Ball award winner holding her trophy football.
Superintendent Dr. Steven Craft shaking hands with a male staff member while holding a Game Ball award.
Dr. Steven Craft presenting a Dalton Game Ball football award to a male staff recipient.
A male staff member sitting at a conference table laughing and clapping during a staff meeting.
A male staff member sitting at a table smiling during a district presentation.
Dr. Steven Craft addressing a room of staff members while holding a Game Ball award.
A female staff member walking up to receive an award as colleagues applaud.
Dr. Steven Craft smiling at a female award recipient during a staff recognition event.
Classroom Spotlight šŸŒŠā›µ

The students in LoraRuth Maulding's class at City Park School had a blast with a floating and sinking experiment! Each student brought in a "boat" they made, and the class tested them out in the water to see which ones floated. Along the way, they learned all about which materials float and which ones sink. What a fun way to explore science!
21 days ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications
A teacher displaying a student's decorated boat design to the class.
A young student watching intently as a teacher places a toy boat in a water tub during a buoyancy lesson.
A student proudly holding up his handmade toy boat craft in a classroom.
A young student testing his aluminum foil boat design in a water bin.
Primary students sitting cross-legged on the carpet listening during a classroom experiment.
A young student carefully placing her decorated toy boat into a water container.
A student testing a craft-stick boat in a water tub under a teacher's guidance.
A teacher applauding a student as her handmade boat floats successfully.
A young student raising his hand while sitting on the carpet with classmates.
A student placing a recycled plastic jug boat into a water tub.
Classroom Spotlight šŸŽØāœØ
It's National Arts in Education Week! In Megan Walker's art class at Westwood School, students are diving into Op Art (Optical Art) ā€” exploring how shapes, lines, and color can trick the eye and create movement on a flat surface. Check out these photos of their optical art paintings in progress! šŸ‘€šŸ–Œļø
25 days ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications
An art teacher demonstrating 3D shading techniques using a basketball as a visual aid.
An art teacher seated with elementary students guiding them through a drawing project.
A finished student artwork displaying an optical illusion checkered pattern in blue and black.
An art teacher leaning over a student's desk to demonstrate line drawing techniques.
A student using a ruler and pencil to construct precise lines on paper during art class.
An art teacher giving instructions to a class of elementary students watching a demonstration screen.
An art teacher pointing out details on a student's drawing at a work table.
An art teacher gesturing while explaining a lesson to her seated students.
A student in a red sweatshirt using a ruler to draw grid lines on paper.
A close-up view of a student's hands drawing curved lines to create a 3D sphere effect on paper.
Dalton High School Homecoming 2026: Cata-Fest ā€” Celebrations Across the World! šŸŽ‰šŸˆ

Dalton High School is celebrating Homecoming on Friday, September 25, 2026, with festivities running through the weekend.

Schedule of Events:
Pep Session: Friday, Sept 25 in the morning
Parade: Friday, Sept 25 at 4:00 PM (departs DHS; lineup/departure prep by 3:45 PM)
Grand Marshal: Deborah Norville from the Class of 1976
Coronation: Friday, Sept 25 at Halftime of the Football Game
Spirit Stick: Friday, Sept 25 between the 3rd and 4th Quarters
Homecoming Dance: Saturday, Sept 26

Parade & Alumni Information:
Featured Reunion Classes: 1976, 1986, 1996, 2001, 2006, 2011, 2016

Read more about Dalton High's Homecoming events: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/article/3094922
25 days ago, Ashley Grycz
A schedule flyer for Dalton High School Homecoming 2026 detailing events for September 25 and 26.
Several of our schools were excited to welcome our first Jonas artist for this year, Sean Driscoll, bringing an engaging STEAM-themed performance to our students. Here are some photos from Park Creek School!
25 days ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications
A performer in a detective costume presenting to a room full of clapping elementary students.
A presenter holding a colorful dragon puppet in front of seated elementary students during an assembly.
Elementary students standing and dancing along during an interactive school assembly in a gymnasium.
Elementary students sitting on the gymnasium floor listening to an interactive educational show.
A large group of elementary students sitting together and clapping during a gym presentation.
Students raising their hands to answer questions during a science presentation about precipitation.
Elementary students clapping along with a costumed presenter during a school assembly.
Young elementary students sitting on the gymnasium floor watching a stage performance.
Young elementary students sitting on the gymnasium floor watching a stage performance.
Today, Dalton Public Schools honors Constitution Day ā€” celebrating the enduring principles that unite us as one nation. šŸ“œšŸ‡ŗšŸ‡ø
25 days ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications
A square promotional graphic set against a textured dark blue background framed by American flags draped in the top corners. In the center, a white line-art graphic depicts the dome of the U.S. Capitol Building above bold white typography that reads "CONSTITUTION DAY". Beneath the main title, smaller text states "Recognizing the enduring principles that unite us." A row of five white stars flanked by red accent lines sits directly above the white Dalton Public Schools logo at the bottom.
Kim Smyth Named The Dalton Academy 2025ā€“2026 Classified Staff Member of the YearāœØ

Dalton Public Schools is proud to announce that Kim Smyth has been named The Dalton Academy's 2025ā€“2026 Classified Staff Member of the Year.

Smyth has worked in the office at The Dalton Academy since July 2022, handling records, attendance, and data.

Smyth said one of her greatest strengths is the connections she builds with students, including the seniors and juniors she has gotten to know through conversations about life after high school.

Dalton Public Schools congratulates Kim Smyth on being named The Dalton Academy's 2025ā€“2026 Classified Staff Member of the Year and thanks her for the dedication she shows to students and staff each day.
25 days ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications
A square promotional award graphic set against a dark gray background with a faint seal of The Dalton Academy watermarked in the center. A portrait of smiling staff member Kim Smyth appears on the right side. On the left, bold red text reads "Classified Staff of the Year" above a red box displaying the hashtag "#PUMAS". Along the bottom, the surname "SMYTH" is written in bold white lettering with "Kim" overlaid in red script, flanked by the Dalton Public Schools logo and "The Dalton Academy."
Schedule Reminder:
šŸ“Œ Friday, September 25: Early Release Day
Elementary Schools: 12:15 PM
Hammond Creek Middle and Dalton Junior High: 11:30 AM
TDA and Dalton High: 10:45 AM

šŸ“Œ Monday, September 28: Virtual Learning Day ā€“ Students will complete assignments from home.
We look forward to seeing our students back in class on Tuesday, September 29!
26 days ago, Dalton Public Schools Communications
A Dalton Public Schools announcement graphic with a black background and paw print pattern. Text reads ā€œSeptember 25th is an Early Release Day!ā€ and invites the community to celebrate Dalton High Schoolā€™s homecoming parade. It lists early release times: Elementary Schools at 12:15 PM, Hammond Creek Middle and Dalton Junior High at 11:30 AM, and TDA and Dalton High at 10:45 AM.