Happy First Day of School!🤩
We’re so excited to welcome everyone back and can’t wait for an amazing year of learning, growth, and fun. Let’s make it a great one! #DPSfirstday #backtoschool #LeaveYourMark
We’re so excited to welcome everyone back and can’t wait for an amazing year of learning, growth, and fun. Let’s make it a great one! #DPSfirstday #backtoschool #LeaveYourMark
We were thrilled to welcome everyone to our schools today for orientation! Seeing our students and families back in the buildings brought so much excitement and energy. We can't wait to kick off a spectacular school year together—see you in class tomorrow! #DaltonReady #LeaveYourMark
HEY DPS FAMILIES — OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS HAVE A MESSAGE FOR YOU!
Our friends at Dalton Parks & Recreation want to make sure EVERY student and family in Dalton Public Schools knows: The LAST DAY to sign up for fall programs is AUGUST 7! This is your chance to get involved, get active, and connect with your community.
📅 Deadline: Wednesday, August 7
🔗https://daltonparks.org/
Get involved and #LeaveYourMark, DPS!
Our friends at Dalton Parks & Recreation want to make sure EVERY student and family in Dalton Public Schools knows: The LAST DAY to sign up for fall programs is AUGUST 7! This is your chance to get involved, get active, and connect with your community.
📅 Deadline: Wednesday, August 7
🔗https://daltonparks.org/
Get involved and #LeaveYourMark, DPS!
It’s officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldn’t be more proud to shine a light on some of our recent graduates!
Today we’re featuring Dalton High School graduate, Maddie Breeden.
In her time at the Dalton High School Maddie participated in a variety of extra curricular activities including Competition and Sideline Varsity Cheer, Swim and Dive, Women’s Lacrosse, National Honors Society, and FCA. Her greatest achievements during high school include placing 6th in the state twice with her cheer team and being named Region Runner-Up for diving on two separate. She plans to continue her education and personal development by perusing higher education in the coming years.
Way to go!
Today we’re featuring Dalton High School graduate, Maddie Breeden.
In her time at the Dalton High School Maddie participated in a variety of extra curricular activities including Competition and Sideline Varsity Cheer, Swim and Dive, Women’s Lacrosse, National Honors Society, and FCA. Her greatest achievements during high school include placing 6th in the state twice with her cheer team and being named Region Runner-Up for diving on two separate. She plans to continue her education and personal development by perusing higher education in the coming years.
Way to go!
Our mission empowers every student to thrive in a changing world. See how our schools are bringing that mission to life! #MakeYourMark #DaltonPublicSchools
TOMORROW:
School orientations across Dalton Public Schools will be held on Tuesday, August 5. Get ready to kick off the school year!
🔴 Hammond Creek Middle School
6th Grade ONLY: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
7th Grade ONLY: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
🔴 Elementary Schools
1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
🔴 Dalton Junior High School
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
🔴 Dalton High School
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
🔴 The Dalton Academy
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
We can’t wait to welcome our students and families!
🚌 Bus Routes Now Available!
Our bus routes are now live on this webpage: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/page/bus-routes
Be sure to check your route ahead of time so you know what bus you'll be taking before school starts!
📣 Reminder: The back-to-school season is always an exciting time, but it may also require a bit of adjustment as we all settle back into our routines. We truly appreciate your patience and understanding as we work together to ensure a smooth start to the year.
We can’t wait to welcome everyone back!
Our bus routes are now live on this webpage: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/page/bus-routes
Be sure to check your route ahead of time so you know what bus you'll be taking before school starts!
📣 Reminder: The back-to-school season is always an exciting time, but it may also require a bit of adjustment as we all settle back into our routines. We truly appreciate your patience and understanding as we work together to ensure a smooth start to the year.
We can’t wait to welcome everyone back!
We recently welcomed our newest team members at New Employee Induction! These outstanding educators and staff are bringing passion, energy, and fresh ideas to Dalton Public Schools.
With a shared commitment to championing education, they are ready to inspire, support, and empower our students throughout the upcoming school year. Let’s give them a warm DPS welcome!
Notice for Families and Visitors: Staircase repairs at the 101 Building will begin Monday, August 4. Parking may be limited during construction, but overflow parking is available at the annex.
Student enrollment will remain open—we’re here and happy to help!
It’s officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldn’t be more proud to shine a light on some of our recent graduates!
Today we’re featuring Dalton High School graduate, Lilly Graffe.
In her time at Dalton High School Lilly participated in a variety of extracurricular activities such as Varsity Competition and Football Cheerleading, Varsity Track and Field, and dancing with the Dance Theater of Dalton. Lilly was also involved in several clubs including the United Way Youth Council, National Honors Society, Pep club, and the Interact club. Her greatest achievements during high school include both athletic and academic accomplishment. She is proud of being top 10 in her class all four years of high school, being recognized as an AP Scholar, being a member of the National Honor Society, her Competition Cheer team being Top Six in the State for two years, and being the champion for the 300 Meter Hurdles event at regions competition for Track and Field. Lilly plans to continue her education at college and looks forward to continuing to grow her knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
Way to go!
Today we’re featuring Dalton High School graduate, Lilly Graffe.
In her time at Dalton High School Lilly participated in a variety of extracurricular activities such as Varsity Competition and Football Cheerleading, Varsity Track and Field, and dancing with the Dance Theater of Dalton. Lilly was also involved in several clubs including the United Way Youth Council, National Honors Society, Pep club, and the Interact club. Her greatest achievements during high school include both athletic and academic accomplishment. She is proud of being top 10 in her class all four years of high school, being recognized as an AP Scholar, being a member of the National Honor Society, her Competition Cheer team being Top Six in the State for two years, and being the champion for the 300 Meter Hurdles event at regions competition for Track and Field. Lilly plans to continue her education at college and looks forward to continuing to grow her knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
Way to go!
It’s here! Our new look, our bold mission, and our united vision for the future. Welcome to the next chapter of Dalton Public Schools. #WeAreDalton #LeaveYourMark
Debra Holbrook Named 2025 Dalton Classified Staff Member of the Year
During the Dalton Public Schools Annual Employee Convocation, Debra Holbrook, longtime Building Supervisor at Dalton High School, was recognized as the 2025 Classified Staff Member of the Year—an honor that celebrates her exceptional dedication, service, and leadership across 45 years.
Holbrook began working for Dalton Public Schools in 1980 at just 16 years old. Determined to be part of the school system where both her parents had built their careers, she started in custodial services and has since become an indispensable figure at Dalton High.
“From 16 to 61 – how time flies,” Holbrook reflected. “I started with a promise to work hard, and all these years later, I’m still here—three supervisors, eight principals, and countless memories later.”
As a leader, Holbrook is known for her hands-on approach and deep commitment to excellence. She oversees a close-knit custodial team that consistently maintains Dalton High as one of the cleanest, most welcoming school buildings in the state.
“There’s not a task I would ask my team to do that I haven’t done myself,” she said. “We take pride in our work because we know that how our building looks reflects how much we care.”
Read more: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/article/2333953
During the Dalton Public Schools Annual Employee Convocation, Debra Holbrook, longtime Building Supervisor at Dalton High School, was recognized as the 2025 Classified Staff Member of the Year—an honor that celebrates her exceptional dedication, service, and leadership across 45 years.
Holbrook began working for Dalton Public Schools in 1980 at just 16 years old. Determined to be part of the school system where both her parents had built their careers, she started in custodial services and has since become an indispensable figure at Dalton High.
“From 16 to 61 – how time flies,” Holbrook reflected. “I started with a promise to work hard, and all these years later, I’m still here—three supervisors, eight principals, and countless memories later.”
As a leader, Holbrook is known for her hands-on approach and deep commitment to excellence. She oversees a close-knit custodial team that consistently maintains Dalton High as one of the cleanest, most welcoming school buildings in the state.
“There’s not a task I would ask my team to do that I haven’t done myself,” she said. “We take pride in our work because we know that how our building looks reflects how much we care.”
Read more: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/article/2333953
Nicole Gillispie Named 2025 Dalton Public Schools Teacher of the Year
During the Dalton Public Schools Annual Employee Convocation, Nicole Gillispie, a passionate educator at City Park School, was honored as the 2025 District Teacher of the Year. The award celebrates her deep commitment to her students, her reflective and research-driven approach to instruction, and her unwavering belief in the power of education to change lives—one small step at a time.
Gillispie’s path to teaching was shaped by personal experience. As a parent of three, she was drawn into the field after supporting her daughter, who was later diagnosed with dyslexia and autism. That personal journey sparked a desire to better understand learning differences, which ultimately led her to pursue a Master of Education in Early Childhood Development and Special Education.
“So, it is with starry eyes and an overflowing heart that I can say that my greatest accomplishment in education is that I get to teach,” Gillispie shared. “I feel called to teach and am so proud to be an elementary school teacher. We get to introduce young people to books and ideas that light a fire in them—and that has a lasting impact.”
Read more: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/article/2333908
During the Dalton Public Schools Annual Employee Convocation, Nicole Gillispie, a passionate educator at City Park School, was honored as the 2025 District Teacher of the Year. The award celebrates her deep commitment to her students, her reflective and research-driven approach to instruction, and her unwavering belief in the power of education to change lives—one small step at a time.
Gillispie’s path to teaching was shaped by personal experience. As a parent of three, she was drawn into the field after supporting her daughter, who was later diagnosed with dyslexia and autism. That personal journey sparked a desire to better understand learning differences, which ultimately led her to pursue a Master of Education in Early Childhood Development and Special Education.
“So, it is with starry eyes and an overflowing heart that I can say that my greatest accomplishment in education is that I get to teach,” Gillispie shared. “I feel called to teach and am so proud to be an elementary school teacher. We get to introduce young people to books and ideas that light a fire in them—and that has a lasting impact.”
Read more: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/article/2333908
Dalton Public Schools Celebrates a Spectacular Start to the 2025-2026 School Year at Annual Employee Convocation
Dalton Public Schools launched the 2025-2026 school year with energy and pride during its Annual Employee Convocation, held at Dalton High School. With the theme “The Undisputed Champions of Learning,” staff from across the district gathered to kick off the year united, inspired, and ready to serve students with excellence.
Read more on our website: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/article/2333833
Dalton Public Schools launched the 2025-2026 school year with energy and pride during its Annual Employee Convocation, held at Dalton High School. With the theme “The Undisputed Champions of Learning,” staff from across the district gathered to kick off the year united, inspired, and ready to serve students with excellence.
Read more on our website: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/article/2333833
It’s officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldn’t be more proud to shine a light on some of our recent graduates!
Today we’re featuring The Dalton Academy graduate, Kimberly Lemus.
As a student at The Dalton Academy Kimberly was an active participant in basketball cheer for three years, DECA, the Translation Academy, and the Big Brother Big Sister program. Her greatest achievement in high school was embracing challenges beyond her comfort zone to foster personal growth. In the fall Kimberly will be attending Dalton State College to study nursing so that she can have a positive impact on individuals and communities.
Way to go!
Today we’re featuring The Dalton Academy graduate, Kimberly Lemus.
As a student at The Dalton Academy Kimberly was an active participant in basketball cheer for three years, DECA, the Translation Academy, and the Big Brother Big Sister program. Her greatest achievement in high school was embracing challenges beyond her comfort zone to foster personal growth. In the fall Kimberly will be attending Dalton State College to study nursing so that she can have a positive impact on individuals and communities.
Way to go!
Free & Reduced Lunch Applications Are Now Available – in English & Spanish!
The 2025–2026 Free & Reduced Lunch Application is open!
Everyone is encouraged to complete a new application each year, even if you’ve qualified in the past.
Submit your application by September 1, 2025.
Apply online or pick up a paper copy at the front office of any Dalton school.
ENGLISH: https://www.myschoolapps.com/Home/DistrictRedirect/DaltonPS_GA?langid=1
SPANISH: https://www.myschoolapps.com/Home/DistrictRedirect/DaltonPS_GA?langid=2
🍎 It’s About More Than a Meal!
✅ Access to free or reduced prices on healthy, delicious meals
✅ Discounted fees for SAT, ACT, and AP exams
✅ Eligibility for college scholarships and academic programs
✅ Helps maintain critical student services and enrichment programs
Take a few minutes to apply—it’s a small step that supports big opportunities for your student!
The 2025–2026 Free & Reduced Lunch Application is open!
Everyone is encouraged to complete a new application each year, even if you’ve qualified in the past.
Submit your application by September 1, 2025.
Apply online or pick up a paper copy at the front office of any Dalton school.
ENGLISH: https://www.myschoolapps.com/Home/DistrictRedirect/DaltonPS_GA?langid=1
SPANISH: https://www.myschoolapps.com/Home/DistrictRedirect/DaltonPS_GA?langid=2
🍎 It’s About More Than a Meal!
✅ Access to free or reduced prices on healthy, delicious meals
✅ Discounted fees for SAT, ACT, and AP exams
✅ Eligibility for college scholarships and academic programs
✅ Helps maintain critical student services and enrichment programs
Take a few minutes to apply—it’s a small step that supports big opportunities for your student!
Love the open road and school spirit? Become an Activity Bus Driver with Dalton Public Schools and drive the adventure! Help students get to games, field trips, and fun events—safely and on schedule. Apply today and be part of the journey! This is a Dalton Public Schools position—join the DPS team! Apply today at: https://dalton.schoolspring.com/?jobid=5280435
PEACH TAX CREDIT PROGRAM: Looking to support education and save on taxes? Learn how you can benefit from the Peach Tax Credit program with Dalton Public Schools!
Visit https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/page/peach-education-tax-credit for more details!
Visit https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/page/peach-education-tax-credit for more details!
It’s officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldn’t be more proud to shine a light on some of our recent graduates!
Today we’re featuring Dalton High School graduate, Michael Idung.
As a Dalton High School Student Michael participated in Band, Marching Band, and Theater. He is most proud of receiving solos in band and having the opportunity to play in the orchestra for DHS Players’ Shuler competition musicals. In the fall, Michael will be attending Dalton State College to study engineering, a subject that he has been passionate about since he was a kid.
Way to go!
Today we’re featuring Dalton High School graduate, Michael Idung.
As a Dalton High School Student Michael participated in Band, Marching Band, and Theater. He is most proud of receiving solos in band and having the opportunity to play in the orchestra for DHS Players’ Shuler competition musicals. In the fall, Michael will be attending Dalton State College to study engineering, a subject that he has been passionate about since he was a kid.
Way to go!
2025-26 School Year Schedules Announced!
🕢 High Schools: 7:30 AM – 2:15 PM
Dalton High drop-off: begins at 6:45 AM
The Dalton Academy drop-off: begins at 6:50 AM
🕗 Middle Schools: 8:05 AM – 3:00 PM
Drop-off begins at 7:30 AM
🕣 Elementary Schools: 8:30 AM – 3:25 PM
Drop-off begins at 7:30 AM
Let’s get ready for a great year!
🕢 High Schools: 7:30 AM – 2:15 PM
Dalton High drop-off: begins at 6:45 AM
The Dalton Academy drop-off: begins at 6:50 AM
🕗 Middle Schools: 8:05 AM – 3:00 PM
Drop-off begins at 7:30 AM
🕣 Elementary Schools: 8:30 AM – 3:25 PM
Drop-off begins at 7:30 AM
Let’s get ready for a great year!
