Hispanic Heritage Month Staff Spotlight: Karla Jacobo 🌟
Administrative Assistant to the Superintendent
This Hispanic Heritage Month, we’re celebrating the voices and stories that make Dalton Public Schools such a vibrant community.
What Hispanic Heritage Month means to Karla:
Hispanic Heritage Month is a chance to honor the beauty and strength of my culture and the journey of my family. Being a first-generation Mexican American has shaped my heart for service. Those values of hard work, family, and community guide how I serve at DPS, where I’m proud to help families feel seen, heard, and supported.
Thank you, Karla, for your dedication and the warmth you bring to our students, families, and staff every day!
Administrative Assistant to the Superintendent
This Hispanic Heritage Month, we’re celebrating the voices and stories that make Dalton Public Schools such a vibrant community.
What Hispanic Heritage Month means to Karla:
Hispanic Heritage Month is a chance to honor the beauty and strength of my culture and the journey of my family. Being a first-generation Mexican American has shaped my heart for service. Those values of hard work, family, and community guide how I serve at DPS, where I’m proud to help families feel seen, heard, and supported.
Thank you, Karla, for your dedication and the warmth you bring to our students, families, and staff every day!
October is National Principal's Month, and we want to take a moment to appreciate our incredible principals at Dalton Public Schools.
Their dedication, leadership, and hard work are the foundation of our educational community. Thank you for all you do to support our students and staff!
Your words of appreciation mean the world to our principals! Don't hesitate to leave a comment on this post to show your support for their hard work and dedication.
Their dedication, leadership, and hard work are the foundation of our educational community. Thank you for all you do to support our students and staff!
Your words of appreciation mean the world to our principals! Don't hesitate to leave a comment on this post to show your support for their hard work and dedication.
October is National Bullying Prevention Month!
At Dalton Public Schools, we are committed to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment where every student feels valued and respected. Together, we can take a stand against bullying and promote kindness, acceptance, and unity.
At Dalton Public Schools, we are committed to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment where every student feels valued and respected. Together, we can take a stand against bullying and promote kindness, acceptance, and unity.
Fall Break Reminder 🍁
Just a friendly reminder that Fall Break is right around the corner! Thursday, October 9 is an early release day. Friday, October 10th is a student holiday and a staff work day.
Monday, October 13th is a student and staff holiday.
We will see you all back on Tuesday, October 14!
Just a friendly reminder that Fall Break is right around the corner! Thursday, October 9 is an early release day. Friday, October 10th is a student holiday and a staff work day.
Monday, October 13th is a student and staff holiday.
We will see you all back on Tuesday, October 14!
Hispanic Heritage Month Staff Spotlight: Veronica Sandoval 🌟
Cybersecurity Specialist
As we continue celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, we’re honored to highlight staff members whose stories, traditions, and values enrich our schools and community.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you personally or professionally?
Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to honor the values, traditions, and hard work that my family and community have carried through generations. Personally, it’s about celebrating the rich culture I grew up with — the food, music, language, and deep sense of family — and sharing that with others. Professionally, it’s a reminder that diversity is not just something we acknowledge, but something that strengthens our work in education and technology. Our unique perspectives allow us to problem-solve creatively, build stronger relationships, and connect with people from all backgrounds.
How has your culture influenced who you are today or how you approach your work in education?
My culture has taught me resilience, resourcefulness, and a deep respect for community. In my role in education, I carry forward the value of "servir con el corazón" — to serve with heart. Whether I’m working on cybersecurity initiatives or supporting my colleagues, I approach every task with dedication, collaboration, and the belief that everyone’s success is interconnected. The work ethic and pride instilled in me from my upbringing help me go the extra mile and build trust with those I serve.
Is there a tradition, value, or memory from your heritage that you are especially proud of and would like to share?
One of my favorite traditions is how food becomes a language of love in our culture. From big family gatherings with homemade recipes passed down for generations, to sharing sweets I create through my baking, I’ve learned that food is more than nourishment — it’s connection. It’s the joy of seeing someone’s face light up because they feel cared for. That same spirit drives how I build relationships at work, whether I’m helping a colleague solve a problem or celebrating a team milestone — it’s about creating moments that matter.
Thank you, Veronica, for your dedication to serving with heart and strengthening our DPS family through your work and your story!
Cybersecurity Specialist
As we continue celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, we’re honored to highlight staff members whose stories, traditions, and values enrich our schools and community.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you personally or professionally?
Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to honor the values, traditions, and hard work that my family and community have carried through generations. Personally, it’s about celebrating the rich culture I grew up with — the food, music, language, and deep sense of family — and sharing that with others. Professionally, it’s a reminder that diversity is not just something we acknowledge, but something that strengthens our work in education and technology. Our unique perspectives allow us to problem-solve creatively, build stronger relationships, and connect with people from all backgrounds.
How has your culture influenced who you are today or how you approach your work in education?
My culture has taught me resilience, resourcefulness, and a deep respect for community. In my role in education, I carry forward the value of "servir con el corazón" — to serve with heart. Whether I’m working on cybersecurity initiatives or supporting my colleagues, I approach every task with dedication, collaboration, and the belief that everyone’s success is interconnected. The work ethic and pride instilled in me from my upbringing help me go the extra mile and build trust with those I serve.
Is there a tradition, value, or memory from your heritage that you are especially proud of and would like to share?
One of my favorite traditions is how food becomes a language of love in our culture. From big family gatherings with homemade recipes passed down for generations, to sharing sweets I create through my baking, I’ve learned that food is more than nourishment — it’s connection. It’s the joy of seeing someone’s face light up because they feel cared for. That same spirit drives how I build relationships at work, whether I’m helping a colleague solve a problem or celebrating a team milestone — it’s about creating moments that matter.
Thank you, Veronica, for your dedication to serving with heart and strengthening our DPS family through your work and your story!
Classroom Spotlight:
In Cesar Martinez’s classroom at Blue Ridge School, students recently brought math to life by creating giant multiplication charts! Through hands-on activities, they explored rectangles and multiplication in a fun and engaging way during their math instruction time.
In Cesar Martinez’s classroom at Blue Ridge School, students recently brought math to life by creating giant multiplication charts! Through hands-on activities, they explored rectangles and multiplication in a fun and engaging way during their math instruction time.
Today marked the very first meeting of the 2025 Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council!
We are so excited to welcome student leaders from across grade levels who will share their voices and perspectives to help shape the future of Dalton Public Schools.
In today’s session, students met with Superintendent Dr. Craft and Associate Superintendent of Student Services Dr. Shaw and explored positive ways Dalton Public Schools GA can implement the new Distraction-Free Personal Device State Law. Their ideas will help us focus on opportunities to enhance learning and keep students engaged in the classroom.
This is just the beginning, and we can’t wait to see the incredible ideas this group will share throughout the year!
We are so excited to welcome student leaders from across grade levels who will share their voices and perspectives to help shape the future of Dalton Public Schools.
In today’s session, students met with Superintendent Dr. Craft and Associate Superintendent of Student Services Dr. Shaw and explored positive ways Dalton Public Schools GA can implement the new Distraction-Free Personal Device State Law. Their ideas will help us focus on opportunities to enhance learning and keep students engaged in the classroom.
This is just the beginning, and we can’t wait to see the incredible ideas this group will share throughout the year!
Classroom Spotlight:
In Erie Stookey’s classroom at Roan School, students recently explored primary and secondary sources before putting their knowledge into action—writing their very own informative letters!
In Erie Stookey’s classroom at Roan School, students recently explored primary and secondary sources before putting their knowledge into action—writing their very own informative letters!
September is National Child Passenger Safety Month—a time to raise awareness about the importance of proper car seat use.
This week, the Dalton Police Department and our dedicated School Resource Officers partnered with several of our elementary schools during car rider line to help families ensure children are buckled up safely. Officers offered free car seat checks and even provided new seats if needed—no tickets issued, just support.
We are extremely grateful for their service, generosity, and commitment to keeping our students safe!
Happy Human Resource Professionals Day! Today, we’re shining a spotlight on our amazing HR team who make our district a great place to work. Mendy Woods, Bianca Maldonado, Emma Ruiz, and Liz Morales—thank you for your dedication to supporting our staff, fostering a positive work environment, and making sure everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. We appreciate all you do!
Elevating Teacher Voices at Dalton Public Schools ✨
Dr. Steven Craft recently met with the Superintendent’s Teacher Advisory Council, a group made up of our outstanding school-level Teachers of the Year. Representing schools and grade levels across the district, these educators bring valuable insights, experiences, and ideas directly to the superintendent.
This collaborative council ensures teacher voices are heard in shaping decisions that impact classrooms and student success. By working together, we continue building strong relationships, sparking innovation, and moving forward to success for every student at Dalton Public Schools!
Dr. Steven Craft recently met with the Superintendent’s Teacher Advisory Council, a group made up of our outstanding school-level Teachers of the Year. Representing schools and grade levels across the district, these educators bring valuable insights, experiences, and ideas directly to the superintendent.
This collaborative council ensures teacher voices are heard in shaping decisions that impact classrooms and student success. By working together, we continue building strong relationships, sparking innovation, and moving forward to success for every student at Dalton Public Schools!
This week, DPS high school sophomores had the opportunity to participate in the interactive ‘game of life’ at the Teen Maze event organized by Whitfield Family Connection!
Taking place at the Dalton Fair Grounds, Teen Maze aims to educate students about the real-life consequences of their choices through a hands-on and engaging experience. By examining how their decisions can affect their future and understanding the importance of personal responsibility, this event empowers students to make positive choices in life.
We are proud of our students for participating and gaining valuable insights that will help shape their futures!
Classroom Spotlight: Mr. Damasch’s Art Class
As part of International Dot Day, students in Mr. Damasch’s art class at City Park School finalized their Obliteration Room project, inspired by artist Yayoi Kusama.
The activity encouraged students to “make their mark” in a shared space, transforming a blank room into a vibrant, collaborative work of art. Through this project, students learned the value of creativity, collaboration, and celebrating individual contributions that came together to create something extraordinary.
As part of International Dot Day, students in Mr. Damasch’s art class at City Park School finalized their Obliteration Room project, inspired by artist Yayoi Kusama.
The activity encouraged students to “make their mark” in a shared space, transforming a blank room into a vibrant, collaborative work of art. Through this project, students learned the value of creativity, collaboration, and celebrating individual contributions that came together to create something extraordinary.
Every Day Counts at Dalton Public Schools!
Did you know…
➡️Missing just 2 days a month adds up to over 3 weeks of learning lost in a school year?
➡️ Students with strong attendance are more likely to succeed in reading, math, and graduation?
That’s why DPS is rolling out a new attendance process to better support families:
-Clear, consistent communication when absences begin to add up
-Supportive phone calls and letters to keep families informed
-School and district teams working together with you to remove barriers
🔗 Learn more about how we’re supporting attendance year-round: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/page/attendance
Did you know…
➡️Missing just 2 days a month adds up to over 3 weeks of learning lost in a school year?
➡️ Students with strong attendance are more likely to succeed in reading, math, and graduation?
That’s why DPS is rolling out a new attendance process to better support families:
-Clear, consistent communication when absences begin to add up
-Supportive phone calls and letters to keep families informed
-School and district teams working together with you to remove barriers
🔗 Learn more about how we’re supporting attendance year-round: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/page/attendance
Three Dalton Public Schools counselors represented DPS at the first-ever Nourish Conference sponsored by Helping Hands: Ending Hunger (HHEH). Rosa Perez from Roan, Megan Marcus from Brookwood and City Park, and Emily Jones from City Park attended the event, which focused on addressing hunger in schools.
Helping Hands: Ending Hunger is a nonprofit organization that empowers students to reduce food waste and fight hunger in their communities by redistributing unopened and unused food from school cafeterias to local families in need.
Conference attendees heard a keynote address from State Superintendent Richard Woods and connected with Carla Harward, CEO of Helping Hands: Ending Hunger.
Currently, the HHEH program is offered at five Dalton schools: Blue Ridge, Brookwood, City Park, Park Creek, and Roan. We are excited to see this impactful program continue to grow and serve more of our students.
Helping Hands: Ending Hunger is a nonprofit organization that empowers students to reduce food waste and fight hunger in their communities by redistributing unopened and unused food from school cafeterias to local families in need.
Conference attendees heard a keynote address from State Superintendent Richard Woods and connected with Carla Harward, CEO of Helping Hands: Ending Hunger.
Currently, the HHEH program is offered at five Dalton schools: Blue Ridge, Brookwood, City Park, Park Creek, and Roan. We are excited to see this impactful program continue to grow and serve more of our students.
Hispanic Heritage Month Staff Spotlight: Saira Laruy 🌟
Early Childhood Coordinator
This Hispanic Heritage Month, we’re spotlighting the incredible voices of Dalton Public Schools staff who share their stories, culture, and values with our community.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you personally or professionally?
Hispanic Heritage Month is a time of reflection, celebration, and pride, for both who I am and where I come from. Personally, it reminds me of the beauty and strength of my roots as a Puerto Rican woman, the traditions my family instilled in me, and the sacrifices my parents made to pursue the American dream. Professionally, it’s an opportunity to highlight the diversity within our Hispanic community and uplift the cultural richness our students and families bring into our schools every day. As an educator and Early Childhood Coordinator, it is also a powerful time to ensure our students see themselves reflected in the curriculum, literature, and classroom experiences. Hispanic Heritage Month is not just a celebration of culture, it’s a reaffirmation of identity, belonging, and the value each child carries into our learning spaces.
How has your culture influenced who you are today or how you approach your work in education?
My culture has shaped every layer of who I am, from my deep love of Latin music and family gatherings to my commitment to honoring identity and language. Growing up as the daughter of Puerto Rican parents, one raised in the States and the other on the island, I lived at the crossroads of tradition and assimilation. Experiences like having my name mispronounced and changed by a teacher as a child taught me how critical it is to affirm a student’s identity. That memory drives me daily as an educator: I am intentional in creating spaces where all students feel seen, valued, and respected. My bilingualism and cultural heritage give me the empathy and insight to build trust with families who may be navigating a new educational system, just as my own parents once did. Culture is not a side note, it’s central to how I build relationships, design instruction, and advocate for our youngest learners.
Is there a tradition, value, or memory from your heritage that you are especially proud of and would like to share?
One of my favorite memories is tied to music and dance, a tradition deeply embedded in my family’s culture. My mother often says I was born with dancing feet, and for good reason. She went into labor with me while getting ready to attend a wedding, fully intending to dance salsa all night, convinced that the rhythm and joy would help bring me into the world. To this day, I find comfort, joy, and connection through Latin music. That tradition symbolizes so much more than celebration, it reflects the energy, resilience, and sense of community that are hallmarks of Hispanic culture.
Another memory I hold close is the moment I reclaimed my name. For years, I was called “Sara” in school because a teacher couldn’t pronounce “Saira.” I didn’t realize how much of myself I had lost in that moment until, years later, another Hispanic student asked me why I didn’t use my legal name. That question sparked a powerful realization: my name carries history, meaning, and identity, and it deserves to be honored.
That experience solidified a lifelong commitment to affirming and respecting others' identities. Today, as a Pre-K leader, I champion that value by creating inclusive, welcoming environments where every child’s story, language, and name are celebrated, not silenced.
Thank you, Saira, for inspiring us with your passion for early childhood education and for ensuring every child feels valued and seen!
Early Childhood Coordinator
This Hispanic Heritage Month, we’re spotlighting the incredible voices of Dalton Public Schools staff who share their stories, culture, and values with our community.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you personally or professionally?
Hispanic Heritage Month is a time of reflection, celebration, and pride, for both who I am and where I come from. Personally, it reminds me of the beauty and strength of my roots as a Puerto Rican woman, the traditions my family instilled in me, and the sacrifices my parents made to pursue the American dream. Professionally, it’s an opportunity to highlight the diversity within our Hispanic community and uplift the cultural richness our students and families bring into our schools every day. As an educator and Early Childhood Coordinator, it is also a powerful time to ensure our students see themselves reflected in the curriculum, literature, and classroom experiences. Hispanic Heritage Month is not just a celebration of culture, it’s a reaffirmation of identity, belonging, and the value each child carries into our learning spaces.
How has your culture influenced who you are today or how you approach your work in education?
My culture has shaped every layer of who I am, from my deep love of Latin music and family gatherings to my commitment to honoring identity and language. Growing up as the daughter of Puerto Rican parents, one raised in the States and the other on the island, I lived at the crossroads of tradition and assimilation. Experiences like having my name mispronounced and changed by a teacher as a child taught me how critical it is to affirm a student’s identity. That memory drives me daily as an educator: I am intentional in creating spaces where all students feel seen, valued, and respected. My bilingualism and cultural heritage give me the empathy and insight to build trust with families who may be navigating a new educational system, just as my own parents once did. Culture is not a side note, it’s central to how I build relationships, design instruction, and advocate for our youngest learners.
Is there a tradition, value, or memory from your heritage that you are especially proud of and would like to share?
One of my favorite memories is tied to music and dance, a tradition deeply embedded in my family’s culture. My mother often says I was born with dancing feet, and for good reason. She went into labor with me while getting ready to attend a wedding, fully intending to dance salsa all night, convinced that the rhythm and joy would help bring me into the world. To this day, I find comfort, joy, and connection through Latin music. That tradition symbolizes so much more than celebration, it reflects the energy, resilience, and sense of community that are hallmarks of Hispanic culture.
Another memory I hold close is the moment I reclaimed my name. For years, I was called “Sara” in school because a teacher couldn’t pronounce “Saira.” I didn’t realize how much of myself I had lost in that moment until, years later, another Hispanic student asked me why I didn’t use my legal name. That question sparked a powerful realization: my name carries history, meaning, and identity, and it deserves to be honored.
That experience solidified a lifelong commitment to affirming and respecting others' identities. Today, as a Pre-K leader, I champion that value by creating inclusive, welcoming environments where every child’s story, language, and name are celebrated, not silenced.
Thank you, Saira, for inspiring us with your passion for early childhood education and for ensuring every child feels valued and seen!
Classroom Spotlight: Barbara Alexander’s Economics co-taught class with Alex West and Lauren Holverson’s Dual Enrollment class joined forces for a hands-on commodities trading simulation. Students explored how the circular flow of economics connects markets and practiced negotiating supply and demand to discover equilibrium prices in real time!
Hispanic Heritage Month Staff Spotlight: Miguel Gonzalez 🌟
District ESOL Specialist
During Hispanic Heritage Month, we’re honored to highlight Dalton Public Schools staff whose voices, experiences, and values enrich our community.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you personally or professionally?
Hispanic Heritage Month is both a personal and professional reminder of pride, resilience, and community. Personally, it is a time to honor where I came from and recognize the sacrifices my family made when we immigrated from Guerrero, Mexico to Dalton, Georgia. At that time, the Hispanic population was very small, and I relied heavily on the support of my teachers. Their guidance not only helped me navigate a new culture and language but also inspired me to become an educator myself. Professionally, this month gives me the opportunity to celebrate the richness of Hispanic culture with my students and colleagues, while also reinforcing my commitment to removing barriers for the next generation of Hispanic learners.
How has your culture influenced who you are today or how you approach your work in education?
My culture has shaped me into the educator I am today by instilling the values of perseverance, family, and service. I do not take the approach of “I struggled, so it's ok if my students do too.” Instead, I focus on eliminating obstacles that I once faced so my students can have a clearer path to success. This mindset comes directly from my cultural values of collective responsibility and helping one another. I see my work not only as teaching academic skills but also as building bridges of support that affirm students’ identities and potential.
Is there a tradition, value, or memory from your heritage that you are especially proud of and would like to share?
One aspect of my heritage that I am especially proud of is the importance of family unity. No matter how busy we are or how much time has passed, my family always finds reasons—big or small—to come together. This sense of unity and celebration has carried over into my life and my work. It reminds me to create welcoming spaces in my classroom where students feel like they belong to a larger community. Just as my family remained close-knit after immigrating, I want my students to feel that same strength in connection, knowing they are supported and valued.
Thank you, Miguel, for your commitment to supporting students and breaking down barriers so they can thrive!
District ESOL Specialist
During Hispanic Heritage Month, we’re honored to highlight Dalton Public Schools staff whose voices, experiences, and values enrich our community.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you personally or professionally?
Hispanic Heritage Month is both a personal and professional reminder of pride, resilience, and community. Personally, it is a time to honor where I came from and recognize the sacrifices my family made when we immigrated from Guerrero, Mexico to Dalton, Georgia. At that time, the Hispanic population was very small, and I relied heavily on the support of my teachers. Their guidance not only helped me navigate a new culture and language but also inspired me to become an educator myself. Professionally, this month gives me the opportunity to celebrate the richness of Hispanic culture with my students and colleagues, while also reinforcing my commitment to removing barriers for the next generation of Hispanic learners.
How has your culture influenced who you are today or how you approach your work in education?
My culture has shaped me into the educator I am today by instilling the values of perseverance, family, and service. I do not take the approach of “I struggled, so it's ok if my students do too.” Instead, I focus on eliminating obstacles that I once faced so my students can have a clearer path to success. This mindset comes directly from my cultural values of collective responsibility and helping one another. I see my work not only as teaching academic skills but also as building bridges of support that affirm students’ identities and potential.
Is there a tradition, value, or memory from your heritage that you are especially proud of and would like to share?
One aspect of my heritage that I am especially proud of is the importance of family unity. No matter how busy we are or how much time has passed, my family always finds reasons—big or small—to come together. This sense of unity and celebration has carried over into my life and my work. It reminds me to create welcoming spaces in my classroom where students feel like they belong to a larger community. Just as my family remained close-knit after immigrating, I want my students to feel that same strength in connection, knowing they are supported and valued.
Thank you, Miguel, for your commitment to supporting students and breaking down barriers so they can thrive!
Dalton Public Schools Dedicates "Dalton Reads!" Mobile Library On Georgia Reads Day
Dalton Public Schools proudly launched the Dalton Reads! Mobile Library with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Monday, September 22, at the Junior Achievement Center in Dalton, Georgia. The event coincided with Georgia Reads Day, a statewide celebration of literacy.
Superintendent Dr. Steven Craft opened the event by highlighting the importance of expanding literacy access beyond the classroom and into the heart of the community. “The Dalton Reads! Mobile Library is more than a vehicle—it’s a promise to our students and families. By bringing books and resources directly into our neighborhoods, we are ensuring that every child has the opportunity to grow as a reader and a leader,” said Craft.
Read more: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/article/2438615
Dalton Public Schools proudly launched the Dalton Reads! Mobile Library with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Monday, September 22, at the Junior Achievement Center in Dalton, Georgia. The event coincided with Georgia Reads Day, a statewide celebration of literacy.
Superintendent Dr. Steven Craft opened the event by highlighting the importance of expanding literacy access beyond the classroom and into the heart of the community. “The Dalton Reads! Mobile Library is more than a vehicle—it’s a promise to our students and families. By bringing books and resources directly into our neighborhoods, we are ensuring that every child has the opportunity to grow as a reader and a leader,” said Craft.
Read more: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/article/2438615
Ready, Set, Read! It’s Georgia Reads Day!📚
Dalton Public Schools invites all families to join us today in celebrating the joy of reading. As part of the Ready, Set, Read! program, families are encouraged to:
✅ Sign up here: https://lrg.georgiaresa.org/campaign/ready-set-read?utm_source=chatgpt.com
✅ Read together at home – any book, any time, counts!
✅ Log the books you read to show your family’s progress
✅ Share photos of your family reading and tag us with #DaltonReads
✅ Try fun activities like acting out scenes, drawing favorite characters, or writing your own story endings
Together, we’re building stronger readers and a stronger community. Let’s show the power of reading in Dalton and across Georgia!
Dalton Public Schools invites all families to join us today in celebrating the joy of reading. As part of the Ready, Set, Read! program, families are encouraged to:
✅ Sign up here: https://lrg.georgiaresa.org/campaign/ready-set-read?utm_source=chatgpt.com
✅ Read together at home – any book, any time, counts!
✅ Log the books you read to show your family’s progress
✅ Share photos of your family reading and tag us with #DaltonReads
✅ Try fun activities like acting out scenes, drawing favorite characters, or writing your own story endings
Together, we’re building stronger readers and a stronger community. Let’s show the power of reading in Dalton and across Georgia!
