Itās officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldnāt be more proud to shine a light on some of our upcoming graduates!
Today weāre featuring Dalton Academy senior Miguel Angel Huerta!
During his time at the Dalton Academy, Miguel Angel Huerta enthusiastically participated in multiple school activities while centering his journey on self-improvement. In addition to playing soccer, he was a member of DECA, a global student organization that prepares high school students for careers in high-demand fields by transforming classroom learning into real-world business skills. Despite his involvement in key aspects of the Dalton Academy community, Miguel shares that his greatest achievement has been making his parents proud and overcoming past challenges to become a better person. He is currently undecided on which college he will attend in the fall but plans to major in welding and automotive mechanics. Ultimately, we are excited to see where Miguelās journey takes him and are confident that he will make a positive impact wherever he goes.
Way to go!
Early Release Times:
Elementary Schools: 12:15 PM
Hammond Creek Middle & Dalton Junior High: 11:30 AM
The Dalton Academy & Dalton High: 10:45 AM
Thank you for an amazing year of learning, growing, and achieving. Enjoy a well-earned summer break ā youāve earned it! #DaltonPublicSchools #LearnLeadSucceed
The Little Cats graduation was a delightful occasion filled with singing, dancing, and commemorating the children's accomplishments. We would like to thank Early Childhood Coordinator Saira Laruy and her team of exceptional educators who dedicated their time to making the graduation a success.
Little Cats is a bilingual, two-generation program designed to educate parents alongside their 3 and 4-year-old children. It focuses on educational strategies including playing, reading, and talking in preparation for Pre-K or Kindergarten readiness. #DaltonPublicSchools #LearnLeadSucceed
P.S. View our photo album on our Facebook profile for more photos from this event.šø
Itās officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldnāt be more proud to shine a light on some of our upcoming graduates!
Today weāre featuring Dalton High School senior Hiam Maldonado!
During his time at Dalton High School, Hiam has gone above and beyond in every aspect of his educational journey. He held leadership positions in organizations such as HoPe, where he served as Vice President. He also participated in multiple service-based organizations, including Interact Club, National Beta Club, and the National Honor Society. Hiamās community involvement also extended beyond the classroom, as he served on the Youth United Council of United Way, an organization focused on creating lasting community change throughout the North Georgia area. While dedicating himself to these organizations, Hiam also excelled academically, ranking in the top ten of his class and earning fives on nearly all of his AP exams. Among his many accomplishments, Hiam considers being named a STAR Student one of his greatest achievements. STAR, which stands for Student Teacher Achievement Recognition, honors Georgiaās highest-achieving high school seniors and their teachers. To receive this recognition, Hiam had to earn the highest SAT score in his senior class while also ranking among the top ten students in his class based on grade point average. In the fall, Hiam will continue his academic journey at the Georgia Institute of Technology, where he plans to study electrical engineering because of his interest in the invisible and abstract aspects of electricity. Hiam has stood as a beacon of student excellence within our community, and we are eager to see where his passion and unwavering drive will take him next.
Way to go!
Join us in celebrating the Class of 2026!
š The Dalton Academy ā May 20 at 7:00 PM | The Dalton Stadium
š Dalton High School ā May 21 at 7:00 PM | Harmon Field
Fifth-grade students from each of Dalton Public Schoolsā six elementary schools, along with students from Christian Heritage School and Whitfield County Schools, were honored with the Service Above Self Award for demonstrating kindness, compassion, and a commitment to helping others.
The Rotary Club also hosted a special luncheon recognizing outstanding seniors from high schools across Whitfield County for their scholarship, leadership, service, and achievements. Dalton Public Schools is especially proud of the students from The Dalton Academy and Dalton High School who were honored during the event. These students represent the dedication, hard work, and excellence found throughout our district. Their accomplishments in the classroom and beyond reflect their commitment to making a positive impact in their schools and community.
Several students were also recognized with scholarships, helping support the next chapter of their educational journeys. We are grateful to the Rotary Club of Dalton for investing in our students and celebrating their achievements as they prepare to graduate and pursue their future goals.
Congratulations to all of this yearās honorees! Dalton Public Schools is proud to celebrate students who lead with character, serve with heart, and strive for excellence. #DaltonPublicSchools #LearnLeadSucceed šā¤
Itās officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldnāt be more proud to shine a light on some of our upcoming graduates!
Today weāre featuring Dalton High School senior Leslie Garcia!
During her time in high school, Leslie Garcia has gone above and beyond in every aspect of her academic journey. From band, to the classroom, to leadership opportunities, Leslie brings passion and hard work to DHS every day. She participated in marching band throughout all four years of high school and served as the flute section leader for two years. Leslie also expanded her leadership school-wide as a representative on student council, Vice President of the National Honor Society, and Treasurer of Beta Club during her senior year. In addition, she participated in several service-based organizations, including Interact Club, HOSA, Key Club, and the Buddy Program. Leslie also excelled academically, earning recognition as an AP Scholar with Distinction and a Georgia Scholar, an honor awarded to exceptional high school students who demonstrate academic achievement, community service, and strong SAT performance. She has remained in the top ten of her class throughout all four years of high school, an accomplishment she states she is extremely proud of. In the fall, Leslie will continue her education at the University of Georgia, where she plans to study psychology on the pre-med track with a focus on the neurological side of the medical field. Leslie is grateful to everyone who has supported her throughout her journey and is excited to begin a new chapter in her life. We are eager to see where her passion and dedication take her next, and we are incredibly thankful to have had her as such an active member of the Dalton Public Schools community.
Way to go!
Asaās writing journey began at the school level, where she was recognized as Brookwoodās kindergarten winner, before advancing as the district Kindergarten winner and later placing first at the Northwest Georgia RESA level. Her work then moved on to the state competition, where she earned top honors for kindergarten students across Georgia.
Read more about Asa's accomplishment: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/article/2893627
Meet the DPS Cabinet āØ
Our cabinet members play an important role in supporting our schools and helping ensure students and staff have what they need to succeed.
Today, weāre highlighting Pam Wiles, Assistant Superintendent of Exceptional Student Services.
We asked Mrs. Wiles a few questions about her role, what she enjoys most about Dalton Public Schools, and a little about who she is outside of work. Hereās what she had to say š
"I am honored to serve as the Assistant Superintendent of Exceptional Student Services for Dalton Public Schools. Leading a dedicated team, I facilitate the coordination of special education services and 504 supports, working to remove barriers to learning and championing equitable access for all students across the district."
"What I enjoy most is the unwavering commitment to a 'students-first' philosophy. From district leadership to the classroom, decisions are guided by the simple question: 'What is best for the student?' This mission is brought to life by our incredible ESS teamāfrom our dedicated teachers and paraprofessionals to our school psychologists, therapists, and support staff. It is a privilege to work alongside such a diverse group of professionals pulling in the same direction."
"Outside of the office, my life is centered around my family and my faith. Iāve been married to my high school sweetheart for almost 36 years, and we have two amazing sons in the Christian music industry, along with a precious daughter-in-love. For the majority of our marriage, my husband and I served together in ministry, and today we are also honored to serve as caretakers for his parents. To recharge, I head outdoorsāI love almost anything that involves fresh air and nature."
"Though my career started in preschool, private school, and business education, I found my true calling in special education. I have since dedicated the last 24 years to serving in public schools, working to ensure that every student has the support and resources they need to thrive."
Our talented young artists continue to showcase their creativity and passion, making us incredibly proud!
Itās officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldnāt be more proud to shine a light on some of our upcoming graduates!
Today weāre featuring Dalton High School senior Shepherd McKeehan!
During his time at Dalton High School, Shepherd McKeehan excelled academically while remaining deeply committed to his craft, ultimately pursuing his passion for entertaining others, all while growing immensely as an individual. He earned recognition as an AP Scholar by scoring a 3 or higher on at least three Advanced Placement exams, an achievement held by only approximately 10% of graduating seniors nationwide. In addition to being a member of service-based organizations such as Beta Club, Shepherd dedicated himself to his artistic pursuits as an active member of the DHS Drama Club and Catamount Singers. He participated in numerous theater productions throughout his high school career, including his part in the award-winning ensemble of Dalton High Schoolās 2025 production of Hadestown. Outside of school, Shepherd took part in the Georgia High School Musical Theatre Awards ensemble on three separate occasions, successfully passing a rigorous audition process and earning the opportunity to perform alongside some of the top performers in the state on live television, an achievement he is especially proud of. Shepherd plans to continue his education at Kennesaw State University, majoring in Musical Theatre and Dance. Ultimately, Shepherd shined not only in the classroom but also on the stage, and we look forward to seeing where his talent and dedication take him next.
Way to go!
In āVoices of Dalton,ā students Sophia Hernandez-Lopez, Ayowolemi Ilesanmi, Brandt Bowers and Tucker Rewis highlight what makes Dalton special, from community pride and culture to connection and belonging.
In āNew Beginnings: One Familyās Story,ā Sofia Hernandez-Lopez shares a meaningful story about family, resilience and the courage it takes to start a new chapter.
We are so proud to see our studentsā voices and storytelling featured on a statewide platform through GPBās Student Voices Collective!
Read and listen here:
Voices of Dalton: https://www.gpb.org/blogs/student-voices-collective/2026/04/30/hammond-creek-middle-school-voices-of-dalton-students
New Beginnings: One Familyās Story: https://www.gpb.org/blogs/student-voices-collective/2026/05/07/hammond-creek-middle-school-new-beginnings-one-familys
Today weāre featuring Cyber Academy senior Brianna HallQuintero!
Brianna HallQuintero was not only an observant student who cared deeply for her peers and teachers, but also a resilient member of the Cyber Academy whose graduation represents far more than a diploma. After unexpectedly losing her brother during her junior year of high school, many aspects of Briannaās everyday life became overwhelming. However, with the support of dedicated teachers like Katie Sloan and a desire to honor her brother's legacy, Brianna committed herself to her education, where every completed assignment, test, and school day became a quiet victory. Ultimately, she states that making it to graduation is her greatest achievement, as it represents not only academic success but emotional strength and personal growth. Brianna plans to pursue a career in healthcare, allowing her to follow her passion for helping those who need it most. Briannaās high school journey is a powerful reflection of strength and perseverance. We are incredibly proud to have her as a member of the Dalton Public Schools community and look forward to seeing where her hard work takes her in the future.
Way to go!
From investigating exhibits to practicing problem-solving, communication, observation, and curiosity, our youngest learners brought GELDS-aligned learning to life in meaningful ways. The day ended with a visit to Coolidge Park, where many students experienced their very first carousel ride while making real-world connections to simple machines and motion.
It was a joyful, memorable day of discovery for our Little Cats, their families, and staff! #DaltonPublicSchools #LearnLeadSucceed
This month, we celebrate our incredible RBT team and behavior support staff, including Alison Johnson, Morgan Hamby, Keen Johnson, Sendy Favela, Monica Gardner and Heather Lopez, for the unwavering support they provide to students and teachers every day.
Their commitment to serving students with the highest levels of need reflects the very best of Dalton Public Schools.
š Read more about the April Game Ball Winners: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/article/2842611
At Dalton Public Schools, weāre incredibly proud of our team of school communicators who go above and beyond each day! Not only do they shine in their regular roles, but they also serve as dedicated Webmasters and Publicists, ensuring our families stay informed and connected. Whether itās highlighting student success, sharing school events, or showcasing the everyday magic happening in our classrooms ā they make it happen!
Help us celebrate this awesome team:
Anna Collins ā Blue Ridge School
Emily Carpenter ā Brookwood School
Hannah Talley ā City Park School
Hannah Higgins ā Park Creek School
Jerre Leonard & Emily Elliott ā Roan School
Gaby Hefner ā Westwood School
Keri Faw ā Hammond Creek Middle School
Beth Mashburn ā Dalton Junior High School
Julia Cagle ā The Dalton Academy
Melanie Patrick ā Dalton High School
Ashley Grycz, Cindy Hernandez, Andrea Marsh, & Kendra Pannell ā Dalton Public Schools
Thank you for your creativity, dedication, and for telling the stories that make DPS shine!
Happy School Communicators Day! (Part 2!)
At Dalton Public Schools, weāre incredibly proud of our team of school communicators who go above and beyond each day! Not only do they shine in their regular roles, but they also serve as dedicated Webmasters and Publicists, ensuring our families stay informed and connected. Whether itās highlighting student success, sharing school events, or showcasing the everyday magic happening in our classrooms ā they make it happen!
Help us celebrate this awesome team:
Anna Collins ā Blue Ridge School
Emily Carpenter ā Brookwood School
Hannah Talley ā City Park School
Hannah Higgins ā Park Creek School
Jerre Leonard & Emily Elliott ā Roan School
Gaby Hefner ā Westwood School
Keri Faw ā Hammond Creek Middle School
Beth Mashburn ā Dalton Junior High School
Julia Cagle ā The Dalton Academy
Melanie Patrick ā Dalton High School
Ashley Grycz, Cindy Hernandez, Andrea Marsh, & Kendra Pannell ā Dalton Public Schools
Thank you for your creativity, dedication, and for telling the stories that make DPS shine!
Currently, the Canvas website is completely down and inoperable for students, parents, and teachers.
Please know that the cyber incident involved the third-party Canvas software program, not the technology infrastructure of Dalton Public Schools. According to the vendor (Instructure), student passwords, social security numbers, and financial information were not involved. However, some limited user information ā such as names, email addresses, school assignments, and internal Canvas messages ā may have been involved. Dalton Public Schools does not share social security numbers or financial data with Canvas, so please be assured that your studentās most sensitive information has not been compromised.
We are continuing to work with appropriate investigative and law enforcement agencies as additional information becomes available.
Our district technology, teaching and learning, and administrative teams are working to identify alternate instructional plans to minimize disruption while Canvas remains unavailable.
We understand that this situation may be concerning and appreciate your patience as we work through it. Our team is closely monitoring updates from the vendor and will continue to keep you informed as we learn more.
For more information and updates, please visit: http://daltonpublicschools.com/instructure
Itās officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldnāt be more proud to shine a light on some of our upcoming graduates!
Today weāre featuring Dalton Academy senior Samantha Gonzalez!
During her time at The Dalton Academy, Samantha not only excelled academically but also made a lasting impact on those in her community by leading with kindness and intention. She was involved in several career-focused and service-based organizations, including HOSA, FCCLA, DECA, 3DE, Junior Civitan, and the National Honor Society. Within her school, she also worked diligently to complete both the sports medicine and entrepreneurship pathways. Beyond school organizations, Samantha participated in multiple meaningful community efforts, such as blood donation drives and volunteering at the Humane Society. One of her greatest achievements was winning a challenge through 3DE by Junior Achievement in partnership with Believe Greater Dalton. Her project focused on improving and promoting Future Fest in an effort to increase student engagement. She is currently enrolled at Dalton State College through the school Dual Enrollment program. She plans to complete her core classes before transferring to a university to pursue a degree in pediatrics, fueled by her desire to care for others. Ultimately, Samantha is most proud of the positive impact she has made through her volunteering and service. We are incredibly proud of Samantha and all her efforts to care for her community, and we know she will continue to make an even greater impact in the future.
Way to go!
The 40 Owls Under 40 program recognizes alumni under the age of 40 who are making significant impacts in their professions and communities.
Since joining Dalton Public Schools in 2024, Pannell has elevated the districtās communications and branding efforts through innovative storytelling, strategic marketing, crisis communications, and community engagement initiatives that continue to strengthen the districtās connection with students, staff, families, and stakeholders.
Recognized as one of Georgiaās leading school communicators, Pannell has earned numerous state and national honors for excellence in communications, branding, publications, photography, and digital media.
READ MORE: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/article/2868925
