DALTON, Ga. ā The Dalton Board of Education has approved Ali Finley, current Director of Literacy, to serve as the Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Schools and Literacy for Dalton Public Schools, effective July 1, 2026.
In her new role, Finley will oversee elementary school leadership and instructional programs while continuing to lead districtwide literacy initiatives. She will also join the Superintendentās Cabinet, working alongside district leaders to support academic excellence, operational effectiveness, and student success across Dalton Public Schools.
āAli Finley has demonstrated exceptional leadership and a deep commitment to literacy and instructional excellence,ā said Superintendent Dr. Steven Craft. āHer ability to build meaningful programs, strengthen community partnerships, and keep students at the center of every decision makes her the right leader to support our elementary schools and advance literacy across the district.ā
Since assuming the role of Director of Literacy, Finley has led several impactful initiatives that have expanded access to reading and strengthened community engagement. Under her leadership, the Dalton Reads! initiative has grown into a year-round community asset and a point of pride for Dalton Public Schools. Through this effort, more than 1,000 books have been distributed to students across the community. The Dalton Reads! van has been utilized at literacy nights at all district schools, at Harmon Field during every home football game, and at numerous community events to place books directly into the hands of students and families.
Each elementary school now features a Dalton Reads! book vending machine, helping foster excitement around reading and providing ongoing access to books throughout the year. The initiative has also strengthened partnerships with community organizations, all working toward the shared goal of supporting literacy beyond the classroom. Recently, Wi-Fi access was added to the Dalton Reads! van, allowing families to explore summer learning opportunities and community resources. In collaboration with Director of Pre-K Saira Laury, Finley is also organizing parent workshops designed to help families support literacy development during the summer months.
Finley brings more than 24 years of experience in education, including six years of administrative leadership. Prior to serving as Director of Literacy, she was the principal of Blue Ridge Elementary School and has held roles as an assistant principal, instructional coach, literacy coach, early intervention program teacher, and fifth-grade classroom teacher. She has participated in leadership development through the Georgia Association of Educational Leaders, the Professional Association of Georgia Educators, and the Georgia Leadership Institute for School Improvement, and is currently enrolled in the Lexia LETRS program to further enhance literacy instruction.
She holds a Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership in Administration and Supervision from Lincoln Memorial University, a Master of Education in Early Childhood Education from the University of Tennessee, and a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education from Georgia Southern University.
Finley will continue serving as Director of Literacy until she officially assumes her new role on July 1, 2026.
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