Dalton, GA – Dalton Public Schools is proud to announce that Hannah Talley, Media Specialist at City Park School, has been named the 2025 Tom Jones Educator of the Year by the Dalton Education Foundation.
With over 25 years of dedicated service in Dalton Public Schools, Talley has made a profound impact on students, colleagues, and the broader Dalton community. Beginning her career as a fifth-grade teacher at City Park Elementary in 1999, she has continuously sought innovative ways to engage students and families both inside and outside the classroom.
Talley’s career has been marked by leadership in literacy and instructional technology, as well as a deep commitment to serving families. She has organized literacy nights, student-led news broadcasts, family engagement programs, and numerous community partnerships. Her influence extends beyond the classroom, as she has also worked closely with church and civic organizations to support students and families in need.
In her own words, Talley describes her purpose this way, “My life’s purpose, to minister to others in any way possible, eventually evolved from being a personal ministry to that of a family ministry that seamlessly intertwined with my students and colleagues at City Park. My personal growth soon mirrored my growth as an educator.”
She also reflects on the impact of her journey in Dalton Public Schools, “I truly have learned to just be ‘here.’ That’s my strength now—just being available, consistent, and dependable.”
And as she considers the many ways she has supported and learned from her students, Talley shares, “One of the most fulfilling accomplishments now is seeing the impact I have had on former students. One former student from my early fifth grade days recently took my family out to dinner and was so proud to be able to purchase us a steak dinner. I am proud to say that I work side by side with several former students as they have now become City Park staff members.”
The Tom Jones Educator of the Year Award recognizes educators who demonstrate exceptional relationships with students, parents, and the community, as well as outstanding professional accomplishments. The award is named in honor of the late Tom Jones, a beloved Dalton Public Schools administrator whose legacy of excellence continues to inspire educators.
“This award honors educators who go beyond the classroom to make a lasting impact, and Hannah does exactly that,” said Lindsay Lofty, President of the Dalton Education Foundation. “She is constantly seeking ways to grow, to uplift her students, and to improve her school community. Whether it’s through her involvement in the Grants for Instruction program or her everyday leadership, she truly represents the heart of this profession. We’re incredibly proud to recognize her as the 2025 Tom Jones Educator of the Year.”
This year’s recipient will receive a $4,000 award, with an additional $1,500 awarded to their school in recognition of the teamwork that supports their success.
In addition to Talley’s recognition, Dalton Public Schools also congratulates the 2025 finalists for their outstanding contributions to education:
Caitlin Autry – The Dalton Academy
Maggie Cantrell – Brookwood Elementary
Alison Chlebisch – City Park
Sandra Crow – Previously at Dalton High School
Amy Gleaton – Dalton High
Jeffrey Hutchinson – The Dalton Academy
Faviola Peña – Hammond Creek Middle School
Dalton Public Schools extends its sincere thanks to the Dalton Education Foundation for its continued support of teachers and schools. The foundation’s commitment to recognizing and investing in educators helps strengthen the learning experiences of students across the district.