Dalton Public Schools is proud to announce Ana Karen Ruiz, a first-year sixth grade social studies teacher at Hammond Creek Middle School, as the districtās Rookie of the Year.
The new Rookie of the Year program was created to recognize educators who demonstrate exceptional dedication, creativity and impact in their classrooms and schools from the very start of their careers. Through this recognition, Dalton Public Schools aims to support, encourage and showcase the important contributions of its newest teachers as they help shape student success.
Ruiz was selected from nominations submitted by Dalton Public Schools employees. To be eligible, nominees must be fully certified teachers who completed their first full year of teaching at the conclusion of the 2025-2026 school year.
Throughout her first year in the classroom, Ruiz has made a meaningful impact by building strong relationships with students, creating a positive classroom culture and maintaining high expectations for learning and growth.
Read more about Ruiz: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/article/3006841
The new Rookie of the Year program was created to recognize educators who demonstrate exceptional dedication, creativity and impact in their classrooms and schools from the very start of their careers. Through this recognition, Dalton Public Schools aims to support, encourage and showcase the important contributions of its newest teachers as they help shape student success.
Ruiz was selected from nominations submitted by Dalton Public Schools employees. To be eligible, nominees must be fully certified teachers who completed their first full year of teaching at the conclusion of the 2025-2026 school year.
Throughout her first year in the classroom, Ruiz has made a meaningful impact by building strong relationships with students, creating a positive classroom culture and maintaining high expectations for learning and growth.
Read more about Ruiz: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/article/3006841
Itās officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldnāt be more proud to shine a light on some of our recent graduates!
Today weāre featuring Dalton High School graduate Lucas Ceballos!
As Lucas Ceballos spent his time at Dalton High School, he demonstrated a strong dedication to his education, sports, and personal growth. He also learned how to balance a packed schedule between Marching Band, FCA, DECA, and the DHS lacrosse team, where he took pride in helping the team get the first program win in the 2024-2025 season. Lucas also got the opportunity in the summer of 2024 to be a part of the Atlanta CV All-Age Drum Corps, where he got to travel and perform at the Indianapolis Colts stadium. But out of all his accomplishments, he is most proud of his strong Christian faith and dedication to God. As he thinks back to all of his high school memories, his favorite is when he and the lacrosse team celebrated their last away game over dinner at Champyās, a time that was filled with celebration and food. This fall, Lucas will attend The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, where he will major in Business Entrepreneurship, because he was driven to have a major that is versatile and can be applied to many different fields in life. Dalton Public Schools is incredibly proud of Lucas and his achievements, and cannot wait to see him thrive in his next chapter!
Way to go Lucas!
Today weāre featuring Dalton High School graduate Lucas Ceballos!
As Lucas Ceballos spent his time at Dalton High School, he demonstrated a strong dedication to his education, sports, and personal growth. He also learned how to balance a packed schedule between Marching Band, FCA, DECA, and the DHS lacrosse team, where he took pride in helping the team get the first program win in the 2024-2025 season. Lucas also got the opportunity in the summer of 2024 to be a part of the Atlanta CV All-Age Drum Corps, where he got to travel and perform at the Indianapolis Colts stadium. But out of all his accomplishments, he is most proud of his strong Christian faith and dedication to God. As he thinks back to all of his high school memories, his favorite is when he and the lacrosse team celebrated their last away game over dinner at Champyās, a time that was filled with celebration and food. This fall, Lucas will attend The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, where he will major in Business Entrepreneurship, because he was driven to have a major that is versatile and can be applied to many different fields in life. Dalton Public Schools is incredibly proud of Lucas and his achievements, and cannot wait to see him thrive in his next chapter!
Way to go Lucas!
Itās officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldnāt be more proud to shine a light on some of our recent graduates!
Today weāre featuring Dalton Academy graduate Brisa Angeles!
During her time at The Dalton Academy, Brisa showed dedication and learned how to manage a packed schedule while still completing every task with her absolute best effort. She had an especially busy senior year, participating in flag football, soccer, and cheer while also serving as an active member of Student Council. Her dedication extended into the classroom, where, because of her intelligence and motivation, she graduated a year early with college credits. Because of her academic success, she was also involved in National Honor Society. While these achievements are spectacular, her favorite memory is attending prom in 2025, where she shared an amazing and memorable night with her closest friends. Now that Brisa has graduated, she plans to attend Dalton State College, where she will study child development. Dalton Public Schools is excited to see how she continues to grow her knowledge and leadership in this next chapter.
Way to go Brisa!
Today weāre featuring Dalton Academy graduate Brisa Angeles!
During her time at The Dalton Academy, Brisa showed dedication and learned how to manage a packed schedule while still completing every task with her absolute best effort. She had an especially busy senior year, participating in flag football, soccer, and cheer while also serving as an active member of Student Council. Her dedication extended into the classroom, where, because of her intelligence and motivation, she graduated a year early with college credits. Because of her academic success, she was also involved in National Honor Society. While these achievements are spectacular, her favorite memory is attending prom in 2025, where she shared an amazing and memorable night with her closest friends. Now that Brisa has graduated, she plans to attend Dalton State College, where she will study child development. Dalton Public Schools is excited to see how she continues to grow her knowledge and leadership in this next chapter.
Way to go Brisa!
Itās officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldnāt be more proud to shine a light on some of our recent graduates!
Today weāre featuring Dalton High School graduate Leah Cagle!
While Leah Cagle attended Dalton High School, she was very involved in both academics and athletics. She participated in varsity softball, tennis, Beta Club, and National Honor Society. One of her greatest achievements while participating in extracurriculars was winning region in tennis during her sophomore year. Leah is most proud, however, of how she used her high GPA and completed credits to begin a cosmetology dual enrollment program, allowing her to get a head start on her future career. One of Leahās favorite memories from her time at Dalton High was when her DHS Spanish class took a trip to Spain, which she described as an eye-opening experience that allowed her to see what she had learned in the classroom come to life. She will now attend Georgia Northwestern Technical College, where she will continue her path in the cosmetology program. Driven by a lifelong passion for helping others, Leah chose this field so she can help others feel more confident and beautiful in their own skin. Dalton Public Schools is incredibly proud of Leahās drive and heart, and we cannot wait to see her succeed in this next chapter.
Way to go Leah!
Itās officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldnāt be more proud to shine a light on some of our recent graduates!
Today weāre featuring Dalton High School graduate Jay Zhou!
While Jay Zhou attended Dalton High School, he demonstrated both athletic success and student leadership. Throughout his time at DHS, he dedicated his time to both band and the tennis team. Through his hard work, he accomplished many achievements, including being named Region Runner-Up and becoming an impressive four-time State Tennis Qualifier. Beyond his athletic achievements, Jay also showed excellent leadership within the school community, where he was elected as an officer for National Honor Society. Dalton Public Schools is incredibly proud of Jayās outstanding achievements and cannot wait to see the impact he makes in the future!
Way to go Jay!
Today weāre featuring Dalton High School graduate Jay Zhou!
While Jay Zhou attended Dalton High School, he demonstrated both athletic success and student leadership. Throughout his time at DHS, he dedicated his time to both band and the tennis team. Through his hard work, he accomplished many achievements, including being named Region Runner-Up and becoming an impressive four-time State Tennis Qualifier. Beyond his athletic achievements, Jay also showed excellent leadership within the school community, where he was elected as an officer for National Honor Society. Dalton Public Schools is incredibly proud of Jayās outstanding achievements and cannot wait to see the impact he makes in the future!
Way to go Jay!
Itās officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldnāt be more proud to shine a light on some of our recent graduates!
Today weāre featuring Dalton High School graduate Layla Smith!
During Layla Smithās time at Dalton High School, she showed a profound commitment to academic success and community involvement. Throughout her four years, Layla maintained straight Aās, earned recognition as an AP Scholar with Honor, and ranked within the top 10 of her graduating class. Aside from her academic schedule, she was a dedicated member of National Honor Society, Beta Club, Interact Club, Pep Club, and Dancersā Workshop. Looking back at her time at Dalton High, Laylaās favorite memories are the unforgettable moments she made with her best friends. Her motivation created the path to her biggest accomplishment: being accepted into her dream school. Layla will attend the University of Georgia to pursue a degree in psychology, driven by a genuine fascination with human nature. She chose to major in this field because she loves understanding the deeper reasons behind why people behave and think the way they do. Dalton Public Schools is incredibly proud of Laylaās outstanding achievements and cannot wait to see the incredible impact she makes in the future!
Way to go Layla!
Itās officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldnāt be more proud to shine a light on some of our
recent graduates!
Today weāre featuring Dalton Academy graduate Jasmine Sanchez!
Jasmine Sanchez spent her time at The Dalton Academy dedicated to uplifting her community and pushing herself academically. She spent a lot of her senior year being a constant volunteer in her community service class directed by Mrs. Quick. As Jasmine reflects on her senior year, she is grateful for the opportunities she got to help others by volunteering at the events at Dalton Square Nursing Home. She is also proud of how she pushed herself to keep her GPA high and stay motivated all year long. Following graduation, Jasmine will be attending The Dalton Institute of Esthetics and Cosmetology to pursue her passion for cosmetology and master all fields. We are incredibly proud of Jasmineās hard work and selflessness, and we cannot wait to see her shine in her future career!
Way to go Jasmine!
recent graduates!
Today weāre featuring Dalton Academy graduate Jasmine Sanchez!
Jasmine Sanchez spent her time at The Dalton Academy dedicated to uplifting her community and pushing herself academically. She spent a lot of her senior year being a constant volunteer in her community service class directed by Mrs. Quick. As Jasmine reflects on her senior year, she is grateful for the opportunities she got to help others by volunteering at the events at Dalton Square Nursing Home. She is also proud of how she pushed herself to keep her GPA high and stay motivated all year long. Following graduation, Jasmine will be attending The Dalton Institute of Esthetics and Cosmetology to pursue her passion for cosmetology and master all fields. We are incredibly proud of Jasmineās hard work and selflessness, and we cannot wait to see her shine in her future career!
Way to go Jasmine!
Itās officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldnāt be more proud to shine a light on some of our recent graduates!
Today weāre featuring Dalton High School graduate Valeria Alvarez!
Valeria Alvarez was a student who not only showed up but also showed out for her school and community. While attending Dalton High School, she was involved with Student Council, serving as class president during her sophomore and junior years before being elected executive president for her senior year. Valeria was also involved in other community service-based programs, such as Beta Club, Interact Club, and National Honor Society. In addition, she was a member of the DHS volleyball and track teams. While Valeria accomplished so much during the last four years, there are a few memories that outshined the rest. During the Dalton High School homecoming game, Valeria was voted senior princess. She says that night meant so much to her because so many peers and staff members were there to support and cheer her on. Valeria was also recognized as a recipient of the Elbert Shaw Memorial Scholarship. Lastly, one of Valeriaās proudest accomplishments is being able to attend Georgia Tech. There, she plans to study biomedical engineering. Inspired by the fact that her father is a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) survivor, she hopes to learn more about TBI patients and develop more accessible and cost-effective treatments.
As Valeria continues on this powerful journey, Dalton Public Schools is proud to celebrate her accomplishments and look forward to seeing the impact she will make in the future.
Way to go Valeria!
Today weāre featuring Dalton High School graduate Valeria Alvarez!
Valeria Alvarez was a student who not only showed up but also showed out for her school and community. While attending Dalton High School, she was involved with Student Council, serving as class president during her sophomore and junior years before being elected executive president for her senior year. Valeria was also involved in other community service-based programs, such as Beta Club, Interact Club, and National Honor Society. In addition, she was a member of the DHS volleyball and track teams. While Valeria accomplished so much during the last four years, there are a few memories that outshined the rest. During the Dalton High School homecoming game, Valeria was voted senior princess. She says that night meant so much to her because so many peers and staff members were there to support and cheer her on. Valeria was also recognized as a recipient of the Elbert Shaw Memorial Scholarship. Lastly, one of Valeriaās proudest accomplishments is being able to attend Georgia Tech. There, she plans to study biomedical engineering. Inspired by the fact that her father is a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) survivor, she hopes to learn more about TBI patients and develop more accessible and cost-effective treatments.
As Valeria continues on this powerful journey, Dalton Public Schools is proud to celebrate her accomplishments and look forward to seeing the impact she will make in the future.
Way to go Valeria!
Weāre Hiring!
Be part of a team that supports, inspires, and prepares students for success. Explore opportunities in teaching, student support, nursing, clerical services, and more.
View current openings and apply: Dalton Public Schools job listings on SchoolSpring ā dalton.schoolspring.com
During the June Board of Education meeting, the Dalton Board of Education celebrated outstanding achievements in financial stewardship, academics, and athletics across Dalton Public Schools.
The Board recognized Lisa Dobson, Selena Garcia, Kelley Lazo, Angela Macon, Theresa Perry, and Alex Walcott as recipients of the Award of Financial Reporting Achievement, honoring their commitment to excellence in financial management and transparency. The Board also celebrated Dalton High School and The Dalton Academy for earning AP Honor School distinctions, recognizing their dedication to academic excellence and student success.
In athletics, the Board recognized members of the Dalton High School Golf Program, including Lillian Bowers and Oscar Reyes, for their accomplishments during the season. The Board also honored the Dalton High School Boys Soccer Team for capturing the GHSA Class 4A State Championship, the programās eighth state title and a remarkable achievement that reflects the dedication, talent, and teamwork of the players and coaches.
The Board congratulates all honorees for their achievements and for representing Dalton Public Schools with excellence both in and out of the classroom.
The Board recognized Lisa Dobson, Selena Garcia, Kelley Lazo, Angela Macon, Theresa Perry, and Alex Walcott as recipients of the Award of Financial Reporting Achievement, honoring their commitment to excellence in financial management and transparency. The Board also celebrated Dalton High School and The Dalton Academy for earning AP Honor School distinctions, recognizing their dedication to academic excellence and student success.
In athletics, the Board recognized members of the Dalton High School Golf Program, including Lillian Bowers and Oscar Reyes, for their accomplishments during the season. The Board also honored the Dalton High School Boys Soccer Team for capturing the GHSA Class 4A State Championship, the programās eighth state title and a remarkable achievement that reflects the dedication, talent, and teamwork of the players and coaches.
The Board congratulates all honorees for their achievements and for representing Dalton Public Schools with excellence both in and out of the classroom.
Itās officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldnāt be more proud to shine a light on some of our recent graduates!
Today weāre featuring Dalton Academy graduate Bianca Nunez!
Bianca Nunez was academically disciplined and always prioritized achieving her goals. While at The Dalton Academy, Bianca was a successful student-athlete who played soccer, flag football, and tennis while balancing her academic responsibilities. During her senior year, she was enrolled in a full dual enrollment schedule, taking college classes through Dalton State a year early. Although the workload was different and unfamiliar, she remained committed to keeping her GPA high and maintaining her athletic performance. Biancaās greatest accomplishment was not only the goals she scored or the grades on her report card, but also her motivation to continue going beyond the bare minimum, making both her family and Dalton Public Schools proud. Now that she has graduated, she plans to study EMT at Georgia Northwestern Technical College in order to become a paramedic. Dalton Public Schools is proud of Biancaās accomplishments and excited to see all that she will continue to achieve in this new chapter.
Way to go Students Bianca!
Today weāre featuring Dalton Academy graduate Bianca Nunez!
Bianca Nunez was academically disciplined and always prioritized achieving her goals. While at The Dalton Academy, Bianca was a successful student-athlete who played soccer, flag football, and tennis while balancing her academic responsibilities. During her senior year, she was enrolled in a full dual enrollment schedule, taking college classes through Dalton State a year early. Although the workload was different and unfamiliar, she remained committed to keeping her GPA high and maintaining her athletic performance. Biancaās greatest accomplishment was not only the goals she scored or the grades on her report card, but also her motivation to continue going beyond the bare minimum, making both her family and Dalton Public Schools proud. Now that she has graduated, she plans to study EMT at Georgia Northwestern Technical College in order to become a paramedic. Dalton Public Schools is proud of Biancaās accomplishments and excited to see all that she will continue to achieve in this new chapter.
Way to go Students Bianca!
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 Dr. Steven Craft, Superintendent.
We asked Dr. Craft a few questions about his role, what he enjoys most about Dalton Public Schools, and a little about who he is outside of work. Hereās what he had to say š
"I love serving the students and staff of Dalton. This is an amazing community, filled with incredible students and staff at every level. Dalton is a place where people show up for one another in both good times and difficult ones."
"Outside of work, I love staying active. I enjoy working out, and Iām slowly starting to find joy in running, which has been a fun new challenge for me. Iām also a huge Georgia Bulldogs fan and love football season. Iām a big Star Wars fan, and I love taking cruises whenever I can."
"I am currently finishing year 27 in education."
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 Dr. Steven Craft, Superintendent.
We asked Dr. Craft a few questions about his role, what he enjoys most about Dalton Public Schools, and a little about who he is outside of work. Hereās what he had to say š
"I love serving the students and staff of Dalton. This is an amazing community, filled with incredible students and staff at every level. Dalton is a place where people show up for one another in both good times and difficult ones."
"Outside of work, I love staying active. I enjoy working out, and Iām slowly starting to find joy in running, which has been a fun new challenge for me. Iām also a huge Georgia Bulldogs fan and love football season. Iām a big Star Wars fan, and I love taking cruises whenever I can."
"I am currently finishing year 27 in education."
Itās officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldnāt be more proud to shine a light on some of our recent graduates!
Today weāre featuring Dalton High School graduate Blakely Thornton!
Blakely Thornton is one of many accomplished graduates in the Class of 2026. During her time at Dalton High School, she was involved in many clubs and programs, including National Honor Society, National Beta Club, United Way Youth Council, and the Big Brothers Big Sisters Program. She also served as president of Pep Club during her senior year. Throughout the past four years, Blakely was also an outstanding athlete, participating in varsity sideline and competitive cheer. While competing, she and the cheerleading team placed in the top six in the state twice. In addition to her athletic and community involvement, Blakely also excelled in the classroom, graduating in the top 10 of her class. She was also recognized as an AP Scholar with Distinction. Lastly, in an accomplishment that brings great pride to both Blakely and Dalton Public Schools, she was accepted to her dream school, the University of Georgia, where she will begin studying psychology. Dalton Public Schools is excited to celebrate Blakelyās success and wishes her the very best as she begins this next chapter.
Way to go Blakely!
Itās officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldnāt be more proud to shine a light on some of our recent graduates!
Today weāre featuring Dalton Academy graduate Lizeth Avila!
While Lizeth Avila attended The Dalton Academy, she was involved in many community-based organizations, including FCCLA and DECA. She was also involved in TDAās Student Council, where she served as a representative for the senior Class of 2026.
During her senior year, Lizeth enrolled in dual enrollment classes, which both she and school faculty believe helped improve her leadership and academic discipline. Lizeth continued to strengthen these traits by attending Mrs. Quickās community service class, which later resulted in her being recognized with the Presidential Service Award for Outstanding Community Service.
In addition, she received the Young Georgia Authors Award, where she was recognized by the district for submitting an excellent piece of literature. When Lizeth reflects on her time in high school, she feels that her biggest accomplishment was receiving the Dalton Rotary Club Award and Scholarship.
Dalton Public Schools is excited to see all that Lizeth will accomplish as she continues her journey at Dalton State College, where she plans to major in accounting and minor in business administration.
Way to go Lizeth!
Itās officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldnāt be more proud to shine a light on some of our recent graduates!
Today weāre featuring Dalton High School graduate, Benjamin Charles Parsons
Benjamin was not only a dedicated student but also extremely talented in the fine arts. During his time at Dalton High School, he participated in theater, chorus, mock trial, FCA, concert band, and marching band. While performing alongside the Dalton High theater troupe, he had the opportunity to perform "Hadestown" at the Shuler Awards. He also competed in the GHSA Literary competition, where he won region for dramatic interpretation. Although those were some of his favorite high school memories, Benjamin is most proud of the connections he made with his peers and the lifelong relationships he created. Because of his experience, he recommends that all rising underclassmen get involved in extracurricular activities and take advantage of opportunities to make memories and build friendships. As Benjamin prepares to start a new chapter, he will attend Georgia Tech, where he plans to study chemical engineering while continuing to make new friends and memories. As Benjamin takes this next step, Dalton Public Schools celebrates his accomplishments and looks forward to seeing all that he will achieve in the future.
Way to go Benjamin!
Itās officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldnāt be more proud to shine a light on some of our recent graduates!
Today weāre featuring Dalton High School graduate Charlie Anderson!
While Charlie Andersen attended Dalton High School, he showed what it truly means to be a student-athlete. During his time at DHS, he maintained straight Aās and earned an outstanding 4.5 GPA over four years while balancing a demanding schedule across three different sports: cross country, diving, and lacrosse. Alongside these impressive athletic and academic achievements, Charlie found immense pride in his time with the DHS lacrosse team. Though the team faced competitive challenges on the field, he notes that they consistently brought great attitudes, constant smiles, and strong team spirit, making him proud to have played nowhere else. Beyond his personal achievements, Charlie credits his tight-knit friend group for making his high school years truly unforgettable. He leaves underclassmen with a strong piece of advice: cherish every single moment because time flies by in a flash. This fall, Charlie will attend the University of Georgia to pursue a degree in finance, where he hopes to use his strong communication skills to help and work with others. Dalton Public Schools is incredibly proud of Charlieās achievements and cannot wait to see all the amazing things he accomplishes as a Bulldog!
Way to go Charlie!
Today weāre featuring Dalton High School graduate Charlie Anderson!
While Charlie Andersen attended Dalton High School, he showed what it truly means to be a student-athlete. During his time at DHS, he maintained straight Aās and earned an outstanding 4.5 GPA over four years while balancing a demanding schedule across three different sports: cross country, diving, and lacrosse. Alongside these impressive athletic and academic achievements, Charlie found immense pride in his time with the DHS lacrosse team. Though the team faced competitive challenges on the field, he notes that they consistently brought great attitudes, constant smiles, and strong team spirit, making him proud to have played nowhere else. Beyond his personal achievements, Charlie credits his tight-knit friend group for making his high school years truly unforgettable. He leaves underclassmen with a strong piece of advice: cherish every single moment because time flies by in a flash. This fall, Charlie will attend the University of Georgia to pursue a degree in finance, where he hopes to use his strong communication skills to help and work with others. Dalton Public Schools is incredibly proud of Charlieās achievements and cannot wait to see all the amazing things he accomplishes as a Bulldog!
Way to go Charlie!
Itās officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldnāt be more proud to shine a light on some of our recent graduates!
Today weāre featuring Dalton High School graduate Daenna Vasquez!
During her time at Dalton High School, Daenna Vasquez truly showed dedication, balance, and commitment to doing her best. Her schedule included being a dedicated member of National Honor Society, the Humane Society, and the DHS Color Guard team, where she celebrated winning Grand Champions with the 2026 Color Guard team. She also received a Young Georgia Authors Award for her written submission. As Daenna looks back on her time at Dalton High School, her favorite memories revolve around the high energy of Homecoming week, where she enjoyed seeing Dalton High School students and staff show their creativity and school spirit. Alongside her many extracurricular achievements, her proudest accomplishment was maintaining a high GPA so she could fulfill her dream of receiving her diploma for her mother. This fall, she will attend Georgia Gwinnett College to major in criminal justice and law, aiming to build a career centered on bringing equal justice to all people regardless of race, gender, or age. Dalton Public Schools is incredibly proud of Daennaās achievements and cannot wait to see her thrive in this next chapter!
Way to go Daenna!
Itās officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldnāt be more proud to shine a light on some of our recent graduates!
Today weāre featuring Dalton Academy graduate Isabella Celaya!
During Isabella Celayaās time at The Dalton Academy, she was a highly involved student, participating in the National Honor Society, Junior Civitan, and 3DE. In every extracurricular activity that she was a part of, she worked extremely hard and showed excellent motivation. Her accomplishments also extended into her academic learning, allowing her to become an AP Scholar and be recognized as an AP Capstone certificate recipient. Isabella has decided to continue her dedication to learning and hard work; she will be attending Dalton State College, where she plans to study medicine and major in science. Dalton Public Schools is incredibly proud of Isabella and wishes her the very best as she begins this exciting next chapter.
Way to go, Isabella!
Today weāre featuring Dalton Academy graduate Isabella Celaya!
During Isabella Celayaās time at The Dalton Academy, she was a highly involved student, participating in the National Honor Society, Junior Civitan, and 3DE. In every extracurricular activity that she was a part of, she worked extremely hard and showed excellent motivation. Her accomplishments also extended into her academic learning, allowing her to become an AP Scholar and be recognized as an AP Capstone certificate recipient. Isabella has decided to continue her dedication to learning and hard work; she will be attending Dalton State College, where she plans to study medicine and major in science. Dalton Public Schools is incredibly proud of Isabella and wishes her the very best as she begins this exciting next chapter.
Way to go, Isabella!
Dalton High School Head Boys Basketball Coach Jonathan Adams has been invited to serve as a court coach at the USA Basketball Menās U17 National Team Training Camp this weekend in Colorado Springs.
This opportunity places Coach Adams alongside some of the top young basketball talent in the country and reflects the continued growth, dedication and competitiveness of the Dalton High School basketball program.
For Coach Adams, this recognition is also a reflection of the student-athletes he works with every day.
āOur players and our program are the reason opportunities like this matter,ā Adams said. āI am honored to represent Dalton High School, our community and the young men who continue to put in the work to grow our basketball program.ā
Congratulations to Coach Adams, our Catamount student-athletes and the Dalton High basketball program!
Read more about the USA Basketball Menās U17 National Team Training Camp: https://www.usab.com/news/2026/06/thirty-six-athletes-expected-to-participate-in-usa-basketball-mens-u17-national-team-training-camp
This opportunity places Coach Adams alongside some of the top young basketball talent in the country and reflects the continued growth, dedication and competitiveness of the Dalton High School basketball program.
For Coach Adams, this recognition is also a reflection of the student-athletes he works with every day.
āOur players and our program are the reason opportunities like this matter,ā Adams said. āI am honored to represent Dalton High School, our community and the young men who continue to put in the work to grow our basketball program.ā
Congratulations to Coach Adams, our Catamount student-athletes and the Dalton High basketball program!
Read more about the USA Basketball Menās U17 National Team Training Camp: https://www.usab.com/news/2026/06/thirty-six-athletes-expected-to-participate-in-usa-basketball-mens-u17-national-team-training-camp
Itās officially Senior Spotlight season, and we couldnāt be more proud to shine a light on some of our recent graduates!
Today weāre featuring Dalton High School graduate Benny Phung!
Benny was a driven student who pursued his passions thoroughly, earning recognition for his artistic talents while focusing heavily on personal growth, a trait that will undoubtedly take him far as his journey continues. During high school, Benny was involved in track and field, where he created some of his favorite memories with his friends. However, above all else, Benny is an artist as he states that his artistic creations are what he is most proud of! Not only is he proud of his work, but he has also gained significant outside recognition for his creations, such as becoming a finalist for the Bernice Spigel Award, an honor given to young people in the community who exhibit excellence in visual art. Additionally, Benny was nominated for the Governorās Honors Program, a summer program for talented high schoolers that offers instruction significantly different from the typical classroom. In the fall, Benny will attend the University of Georgia, where he intends to further his artistic pursuits by majoring in Architecture. He plans to capitalize on his years of artistic experience to create and design on a larger scale. Despite committing to a rigorous future course load, Benny also intends to take up new hobbies with the ultimate goal of self-development. We are so proud of Benny, not only for his achievements but for his choice to grow as an individual. We are certain his mature outlook will take him far.
Way to go Benny!
Today weāre featuring Dalton High School graduate Benny Phung!
Benny was a driven student who pursued his passions thoroughly, earning recognition for his artistic talents while focusing heavily on personal growth, a trait that will undoubtedly take him far as his journey continues. During high school, Benny was involved in track and field, where he created some of his favorite memories with his friends. However, above all else, Benny is an artist as he states that his artistic creations are what he is most proud of! Not only is he proud of his work, but he has also gained significant outside recognition for his creations, such as becoming a finalist for the Bernice Spigel Award, an honor given to young people in the community who exhibit excellence in visual art. Additionally, Benny was nominated for the Governorās Honors Program, a summer program for talented high schoolers that offers instruction significantly different from the typical classroom. In the fall, Benny will attend the University of Georgia, where he intends to further his artistic pursuits by majoring in Architecture. He plans to capitalize on his years of artistic experience to create and design on a larger scale. Despite committing to a rigorous future course load, Benny also intends to take up new hobbies with the ultimate goal of self-development. We are so proud of Benny, not only for his achievements but for his choice to grow as an individual. We are certain his mature outlook will take him far.
Way to go Benny!
