Dalton, GA — Dalton Public Schools is proud to announce that Madison Clark, English Language Arts Instructional Coach at Blue Ridge School, has been selected as the school’s 2025-2026 Teacher of the Year.
Clark, a Dalton native and Dalton High School graduate, has been part of Blue Ridge School since her time as a student teacher while completing her undergraduate degree at Dalton State College. She later earned a master’s degree in Teacher Leadership from Columbus State University. Over her career, she has taught 2nd and 5th grade before transitioning to her current role as an instructional coach.
From an early age, Clark knew she wanted to teach. “Since I was a little girl, I knew I wanted to be a teacher. I would line up my stuffed animals and dolls to be my students and I would fill the role of ‘teacher,’” she recalled.
Her journey as an educator has been shaped by both her experiences as a student and her passion for relationships. “Aside from the accomplishments that look good on paper, my biggest accomplishment in education is the relationships I have built. My heart could burst every time I think about the students I have had the privilege of teaching, and now the adults in which I can prove to them that they are capable of amazing things.”
In addition to her role in the classroom and as an instructional coach, Clark has dedicated countless hours to mentoring new teachers, leading school initiatives, and coaching cheerleading. She also founded the Blue Ridge Cheer Club to expand opportunities for students and has volunteered with DaltonReads! to promote literacy across the community.
Clark said her philosophy of teaching is grounded in compassion, presence, and reflection. “I believe in establishing trust to foster meaningful relationships. I believe that once individuals have a foundation of trust, it is more likely that they will be invested in the learning process,” she explained.
Her principal and colleagues describe her as a leader who inspires students and staff alike, setting a standard of excellence at Blue Ridge School.
Dalton Public Schools congratulates Madison Clark on this well-deserved honor and thanks her for her commitment to students, colleagues, and the Dalton community.