Dalton Public Schools -

Dalton, GA – 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.” 

Since joining Dalton Public Schools in 2021, Gillispie has embraced a philosophy that values continuous improvement and thoughtful, research-based instruction. Her unique metaphor for teaching—a bumper-sticker-covered minivan—captures her ongoing curiosity and evolving perspective. 

“My schema looks like the back of a well-loved minivan, plastered in bumper stickers from teaching philosophies past and present,” she said. “I’m always adding new ones, but I’ve also learned to choose which ideas stick. My goal is to think small, chip away at challenges, and create lasting growth through consistent effort.” 

Gillispie is known for her structured, student-centered classroom and her ability to meet learners where they are. Whether encouraging a child to read for just one minute or exploring neurobiological research in her spare time, she exemplifies the idea that great teaching is grounded in both science and heart. 

Her accolades include: 

Outside the classroom, Gillispie has pursued endorsements in dyslexia, ESOL, and gifted education—all while teaching full-time and raising a family. She credits Dalton Public Schools for supporting her professional growth and nurturing her passion. 

“I spend way too much of my non-working hours on work because I just absolutely love my students and my job,” she admitted. “Next year, my goal is to find more balance and also give back through volunteering—hopefully with children, of course.” 

As part of her recognition as District Teacher of the Year, Gillispie received a $500 financial award and was surprised with a 1-year lease on a brand-new vehicle, generously donated by Ford of Dalton. 

Dalton Public Schools extends heartfelt thanks to Ford of Dalton for their continued support of educators, and to the district’s many generous sponsors, including Carnes and Company, CWC, FirstStudent, Georgia United Credit Union, Geiger Legal Group, LLC, H.E. Hodge Company, James W. Buckley and Associates, Inc, Maryville Jewelers, McCamy Law Firm, and SmithBuilt Construction Group, who made this year’s celebration and awards possible. 

In addition to Gillispie, the following Teachers of the Year were recognized for their excellence and service at the school level, each receiving a $300 monetary award: 

Superintendent Dr. Steven Craft praised Gillispie’s leadership and devotion to her students: 

“Nicole’s story is a powerful reminder of what teaching is truly about. She approaches her work with purpose, curiosity, and compassion. She’s a lifelong learner who inspires the same in her students and colleagues, and we’re incredibly proud to honor her as this year’s District Teacher of the Year.” 

Dalton Public Schools celebrates Nicole Gillispie for her incredible contributions to the classroom, her students, and the future of education in our community.