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!
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, Caroline Hogshead.
While attending Dalton High School Caroline was active at her school and in the community as a company member at dance theatre of dalton, a player on the Varsity Girls Lacrosse team, a member of the Varsity Competition and Football cheer teams, a member of the interact club, the pep club, National Honors Society, and FCA. She is most proud of being an AP scholar, getting into her dream college, receiving the IB german award, and keeping all A’s throughout high school. Caroline will be attending the University of Georgia where she will be studying Psychology on the Pre-Med Track.
Way to go!
Today we’re featuring Dalton High School graduate, Caroline Hogshead.
While attending Dalton High School Caroline was active at her school and in the community as a company member at dance theatre of dalton, a player on the Varsity Girls Lacrosse team, a member of the Varsity Competition and Football cheer teams, a member of the interact club, the pep club, National Honors Society, and FCA. She is most proud of being an AP scholar, getting into her dream college, receiving the IB german award, and keeping all A’s throughout high school. Caroline will be attending the University of Georgia where she will be studying Psychology on the Pre-Med Track.
Way to go!
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, Amani Momin.
While she was a student at The Dalton Academy Amani was active in DECA, Skills USA, the National Honor Society as an officer, HOSA as an officer, and Student council. She is most proud of making honor roll every year, having all A’s, taking all the AP classes available to her, and being in the top 5 of her class. Amani will be attending Kennesaw State University where she plans to study biology with the goal of pursuing the pre-med track.
Way to go!
Today we’re featuring The Dalton Academy graduate, Amani Momin.
While she was a student at The Dalton Academy Amani was active in DECA, Skills USA, the National Honor Society as an officer, HOSA as an officer, and Student council. She is most proud of making honor roll every year, having all A’s, taking all the AP classes available to her, and being in the top 5 of her class. Amani will be attending Kennesaw State University where she plans to study biology with the goal of pursuing the pre-med track.
Way to go!
Coming This August: Rooms!
Dalton Public Schools is launching Rooms, a powerful new two-way communication tool—built to keep you connected with your child’s school like never before!
✅ Direct messages from teachers and staff
✅ Real-time updates and announcements
✅ Text notifications, even without the app
Important! To access all features of Rooms, each parent or guardian must have their own individual phone number and email address on file.
📞 Make sure your contact info is up to date by calling 706-876-4000 or emailing enrollment@dalton.k12.ga.us.
Don’t miss out on important updates—get connected and stay connected with Rooms this school year!
READ MORE: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/article/2315925
Dalton Public Schools is launching Rooms, a powerful new two-way communication tool—built to keep you connected with your child’s school like never before!
✅ Direct messages from teachers and staff
✅ Real-time updates and announcements
✅ Text notifications, even without the app
Important! To access all features of Rooms, each parent or guardian must have their own individual phone number and email address on file.
📞 Make sure your contact info is up to date by calling 706-876-4000 or emailing enrollment@dalton.k12.ga.us.
Don’t miss out on important updates—get connected and stay connected with Rooms this school year!
READ MORE: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/article/2315925
NOW OPEN: Dalton High School Athletics Hall of Fame Nominations
Dalton High School is proud to announce that nominations are now open for the second annual class of the DHS Athletics Hall of Fame. This honor recognizes former athletes, coaches, administrators, and community members who have made a lasting impact on Dalton Athletics.
Key Dates:
Nominations Open: July 22
Deadline to Submit: September 3
Induction Ceremony: October 16
Public Recognition: October 17 (Halftime of the home football game)
Nomination Categories:
Former Athlete (must be 5+ years post-graduation)
Coach/Administrator (must be retired with at least 5 years of service)
Community Contributor (open at any time)
How to Nominate: Submit the official online nomination form here: https://dalton.iad1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9LksR1CZHKyeys6
Inductees will be permanently recognized on our new Virtual Hall of Fame website, honoring their legacy for generations to come.
To submit a nomination or learn more, visit here: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/article/2320436
✏️ School supply lists for the upcoming school year are now available on our website! View them here: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/page/back-to-school-information
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, Saige Elrod.
As a Dalton High School Student Saige played Lacrosse all four years of high school, as well as during her 8th grade year when she played with the high school team. Saige was a member of FCA, Beta Club, Pep Club, and National Honors Society. She was also a Georgia Merit Scholar nominee. She is proud to have earned straight A’s all throughout her high school career while taking advanced, AP, and Dual Enrollment classes. Saige plans to continue her education in the Fall seeking to study Business and Interior Design.
Way to go!
Today we’re featuring Dalton High School graduate, Saige Elrod.
As a Dalton High School Student Saige played Lacrosse all four years of high school, as well as during her 8th grade year when she played with the high school team. Saige was a member of FCA, Beta Club, Pep Club, and National Honors Society. She was also a Georgia Merit Scholar nominee. She is proud to have earned straight A’s all throughout her high school career while taking advanced, AP, and Dual Enrollment classes. Saige plans to continue her education in the Fall seeking to study Business and Interior Design.
Way to go!
Plan ahead with us! The 2025-2026 district calendar is now available. Check it out to stay informed about important dates for the upcoming school year. View it here: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/o/dps/page/academic-calendars
The Back-to-School Edition of Paws in Print is LIVE!
Get ready for an amazing start to the 2025–2026 school year! This special edition is packed with everything you need—important dates, school supply info, events, and helpful resources for families.
📰 Read it now and start the year strong: https://daltonpublicschoolsga.edurooms.com/engage/dalton-public-schools/newsletters/july-2025-newsletter
Get ready for an amazing start to the 2025–2026 school year! This special edition is packed with everything you need—important dates, school supply info, events, and helpful resources for families.
📰 Read it now and start the year strong: https://daltonpublicschoolsga.edurooms.com/engage/dalton-public-schools/newsletters/july-2025-newsletter
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, Ada Arevalo.
As a student at Dalton High School Ada was active in the Visual Arts Pathway, the DHS Band, the Cross Country team, and the Track team. Her proudest moments of high school come from personal growth she made, learning to be happier for herself and that she does not have to be doing something for someone else. She plans to attend Dalton State College where she will be studying biology due to her love of science.
Way to go!
Today we’re featuring Dalton High School graduate, Ada Arevalo.
As a student at Dalton High School Ada was active in the Visual Arts Pathway, the DHS Band, the Cross Country team, and the Track team. Her proudest moments of high school come from personal growth she made, learning to be happier for herself and that she does not have to be doing something for someone else. She plans to attend Dalton State College where she will be studying biology due to her love of science.
Way to go!
