Dalton, GA – 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.
Held in the gymnasium of Dalton High School, the convocation was a vibrant display of district-wide spirit and unity.
The presentation of colors was conducted by JROTC cadets: Cadet Lieutenant Colonel Genesis Perez (U.S. Flag), Cadet Sergeant Ilusion Rodriguez (State Flag), Cadet Command Sergeant Major Julian Chairez (Guard), and Cadet Private First Class Cesar Barrera (Guard).
Staff were treated to a performance by the Employee Chorus, a cherished tradition that continues to bring joy and harmony to this special event.
In a spirited new twist, elementary and secondary schools competed for the coveted “Spirit Stick”, a friendly battle of pride and passion. To everyone’s surprise, two championship belts were unveiled for the first time, symbolizing school pride and excellence that will be championed throughout the year.
Roan School brought unmatched energy and pride, earning the Elementary Spirit Belt in a lively display of school spirit. Hammond Creek Middle School defended their title, winning the Secondary School Spirit Belt for the second consecutive year with enthusiastic support from staff.
Superintendent Dr. Steven Craft delivered an inspiring address, sharing his bold and heartfelt vision for the new school year, energizing the audience with a commitment to learning, growth, and collaboration.
Also in attendance was the Dalton Education Foundation, which proudly announced its 2025-2026 grant recipients. The Foundation continues to support educators in their pursuit of innovation and excellence, investing in projects that positively impact teaching and learning.
The convocation was made possible by the generous support of community sponsors who value and uplift public education:
Carnes and Company
CWC
FirstStudent
Ford of Dalton
Georgia United Credit Union
Geiger Legal Group, LLC
H.E. Hodge Company
James W. Buckley and Associates, Inc
Maryville Jewelers
McCamy Law Firm
SmithBuilt Construction Group.
A highlight of the event remains the annual car lease donation from Ford of Dalton, who once again gifted a 1-year lease on a new vehicle to the District Teacher of the Year — a heartfelt gesture recognizing exceptional commitment to students and the profession.
2025-2026 Teachers of the Year:
Blue Ridge School: Madison Clark
Brookwood School: Sheree Patton
City Park School: Nicole Gillispie
Dalton High School: Whitney Lusk
Dalton Junior High School: Emily Weathers
Hammond Creek Middle School: Faviola Pena
Park Creek School: Katya Spence
Roan School: Kelli Scheunemann
The Dalton Academy: Dolores Carrillo
Westwood School: Kapua Torres
2025-2026 Classified Staff Members of the Year:
Blue Ridge School: Cassie Cochran
Brookwood School: Rosie Rivera
City Park School: Sandi Hannah
Dalton High School: Debra Holbrook
Dalton Junior High School: Aida Krnjic
Hammond Creek Middle School: Jacob Fields
Park Creek School: Nery Martinez
Roan School: Chandler Kinser
The Dalton Academy: Jessica Barbosa
Westwood School: Terah Blankenship
Special recognition goes to:
District Classified Staff Member of the Year: Debra Holbrook, Dalton High School
District Teacher of the Year: Nicole Gillispie, City Park School
As Dalton Public Schools embarks on another year of learning and growth, this convocation served as a powerful reminder of the district’s dedication to excellence, collaboration, and the championing of every student’s success.