DALTON, Ga. — Dalton Public Schools is proud to announce the launch of its inaugural LEAD DPS (Learn. Empower. Advance. Develop.) program, a yearlong leadership development initiative designed to identify, cultivate, and prepare future leaders within the district.

Following a competitive application and interview process, 13 educators and staff members have been selected to participate in the first LEAD DPS cohort. The program reflects the district's commitment to developing a sustainable leadership pipeline while investing in employees who demonstrate strong leadership potential, a commitment to excellence, and a desire to positively impact students, staff, families, and the broader school community.

The inaugural LEAD DPS cohort includes:

"Developing strong leaders is essential to the future success of our schools and our students," said Dr. Steven Craft, Superintendent of Dalton Public Schools. "LEAD DPS creates opportunities for talented educators and staff members to grow their leadership skills, expand their impact, and help shape the future of Dalton Public Schools. By investing in our people, we are investing in the success of every student we serve."

LEAD DPS was created to develop a sustainable leadership pipeline by identifying, cultivating, and preparing future leaders within Dalton Public Schools. 'Ask What You Can Do' serves as the foundation of the LEAD DPS experience, encouraging participants to approach leadership with a servant's heart and a commitment to making a meaningful difference wherever they serve. Throughout the year, participants will apply their learning through authentic leadership experiences while building the knowledge, skills, and relationships needed to positively impact their schools and the district.

The program is grounded in the Dalton Public Schools mission: "To empower students through innovation, excellence, and opportunity to thrive in an ever-changing world."

It also supports the district's vision: "To cultivate a safe and innovative environment where every student gains the skills and confidence to learn, lead, and succeed."

Participants will engage in monthly leadership development sessions focused on key areas of educational leadership, including instructional leadership, school climate, planning and assessment, organizational management, human resources management, staff evaluation, professionalism, and communication and community relations. The experience will culminate with capstone presentations and a celebration recognizing participants' growth and accomplishments.

A cornerstone of LEAD DPS is mentorship. Each participant will be paired with an experienced district leader who will provide guidance, support, and opportunities for reflection throughout the year.

"Leadership begins when we focus less on what leadership can do for us and more on what we can do for others," said Lauri Johnson, Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Schools of Dalton Public Schools.

"LEAD DPS is designed to help participants discover their strengths, develop their leadership capacity, and learn how to create opportunities for others to succeed while also making them aware they can lead from where they are," said Deputy Superintendent Nick Sun "We are excited to walk alongside this inaugural cohort as they grow into the next generation of leaders for Dalton Public Schools."

The inaugural cohort officially launched with an orientation and mentor introduction on July 27 and will now embark on a year of learning, leadership development, and service to the Dalton Public Schools community.