Dalton Public Schools united with communities nationwide in acknowledging April as National Child Abuse Prevention Month. To highlight the importance of the month, students and staff across the district placed pinwheels in front of every school.

The pinwheels represent the district's commitment to creating a world where all children grow up happy, healthy, and prepared to succeed in supportive families and communities.

Today, student representatives from City Park School participated in the Whitfield County Pinwheels for Prevention Community Ceremony at Dalton City Hall, symbolizing children in foster care. Each child represented a counterpart in Whitfield County's foster care system, creating a poignant and impactful display.

Social Services Coordinator Jackie Taylor believes as a school district, our job is to educate children and prepare them for successful lives. 

"It is difficult for children living in unsafe homes, where abuse and neglect exists, to thrive," Taylor said. "Observing child abuse prevention month gives us an opportunity to raise awareness of child abuse in order to help prevent it. It also gives our students a chance to see that the adults around them at school care about their well-being in and out of the school day."

According to the National Child Abuse Prevention Month website, "Child abuse is preventable, but only if everyone gets involved. We must all work together to ensure that our children are safe from harm and that they have every opportunity to reach their full potential."

It is important for educators to recognize National Child Abuse Prevention Month because they are often the first line of defense for students who may be experiencing abuse or neglect.

By recognizing the signs of abuse and knowing how to report suspected abuse, educators can help protect children from harm and ensure they receive the support they need.

Similarly, it is important for students to recognize the signs of child abuse. Children who experience abuse or neglect may be hesitant to speak out or seek help, but by understanding the signs of abuse, students can play a role in preventing it. 

Dalton Public Schools is committed to promoting the safety and well-being of all students. Through initiatives like the National Child Abuse Prevention Month pinwheel display, the district hopes to raise awareness of the importance of preventing child abuse and creating a world where all children can thrive.

"The Pinwheels for Prevention campaign is a chance to remind ourselves, our students and our community that Dalton Public Schools believes that all children deserve safe and happy childhoods," Taylor said.