Dalton Public Schools is proud to announce significant improvements in student performance on the 2025 Georgia Milestones assessments, with gains in 18 of 27 measured areas compared to 2024 results. These outcomes align with the district’s strategic emphasis on high-quality Tier 1 instruction, the adoption of the Savvas K–8 literacy curriculum, and the continued implementation of Year 2 of Georgia’s K–12 mathematics standards.
Improving literacy proficiency has been a central district priority. Gains in reading were recorded in five of seven tested grades, with notable growth in American Literature. English Language Arts (ELA) scores improved in three of seven tested grade levels—fourth grade, sixth grade, and American Literature—with the largest increases observed in fourth grade and American Literature.
Mathematics outcomes demonstrated broad-based improvement. Six of seven grade levels increased the proportion of students scoring proficient or above. Eighth grade mathematics showed the most substantial growth, with a double-digit increase that exceeded the state average for proficiency.
In Science, eighth grade and High School Physical Science posted positive gains, with eighth grade demonstrating the largest improvement. Social Studies results showed advancement in both tested areas—eighth grade and U.S. History—with the most significant growth occurring in eighth grade.
To sustain and expand these gains, the district will continue to prioritize strong Tier 1 instruction. Plans include implementing Georgia’s new ELA standards, extending the Savvas literacy program, and providing targeted professional learning for teachers and administrators. Training will focus on evidence-based strategies, such as the Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling (LETRS), the Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol (SIOP), and programs designed for both early and adolescent literacy.
“These results show that our strategic investments in curriculum and professional learning are paying off,” stated Dr. Steven Craft, Superintendent of Dalton Public Schools. “We are proud of the progress our students and teachers have made, and we will continue to refine our instruction to ensure every student reaches their full potential.”
Dalton Public Schools’ 2025 Georgia Milestones results reflect meaningful academic progress and the success of targeted instructional strategies. With a defined plan for continuous improvement and a strong instructional framework, the district is positioned to build upon its momentum in the coming years.