Graphic from Dalton Public Schools announcing leadership appointments. At the top is the Dalton Public Schools logo. On the left is a portrait of Dr. Sarida Hoy, who is named Assistant Principal at Dalton High School. On the right is a portrait of Adam Martinez, who is named Assistant Principal at Hammond Creek Middle School. The graphic features a red background with white text and framed staff photos.

Dalton Public Schools Announces New Assistant Principal Appointments

Kendra Pannell

March 10, 2026

Dalton, GA ā€” Dalton Public Schools is pleased to announce the appointment of two experienced educators to assistant principal positions for the upcoming school year. Dr. Sarida Hoy has been named assistant principal at Dalton High School, and Adam Martinez has been named assistant principal at Hammond Creek Middle School.

Dr. Sarida Hoy brings nearly three decades of experience in education to her new role at Dalton High School. She currently serves as an instructional coach at the school and previously served as science department chair for eight years. Dr. Hoy taught biology and related science courses at Dalton High School from 1997 to 2023, including Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate biology. She holds a Ph.D. in Teaching and Learning from Georgia State University, a Specialist degree in Educational Leadership, and a masterā€™s degree in science education. Her professional accomplishments include National Board Certification in Adolescent and Young Adult Science and recognition as Dalton Public Schoolsā€™ District Teacher of the Year in 2009. 

Throughout her career, Dr. Hoy has been committed to advancing science education and supporting students from diverse backgrounds. She has presented at numerous state and national conferences, contributed to professional learning opportunities for educators, and currently serves as a part-time instructor in the School of Education at Dalton State College. Her leadership experience and dedication to instructional excellence will support Dalton High Schoolā€™s continued focus on academic rigor and student success. 

Adam Martinez will serve as the new assistant principal at Hammond Creek Middle School. Martinez brings more than two decades of experience in education, athletics, and student leadership development. He currently serves at Dalton High School as a Drivers Education and Safety instructor, physical education and health teacher, and head track coach. Martinez has also served in multiple leadership roles within the schoolā€™s athletic programs, including Director of Football Operations and mentor to new teachers. 

Martinez previously served as assistant principal and athletic director at Dalton Middle School from 2012 to 2017, where he oversaw several academic departments, school safety and operations, and schoolwide communications while supporting parent involvement initiatives and district leadership efforts. He holds an Education Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from the University of West Georgia and an Education Specialist degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Lincoln Memorial University. Martinezā€™s extensive experience working with students, staff, and families will help strengthen the school community at Hammond Creek Middle School. 

Dalton Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Steven Craft said the appointments reflect the districtā€™s commitment to strong leadership and student success. ā€œDr. Hoy and Mr. Martinez both bring tremendous experience, dedication, and a deep commitment to supporting students and educators,ā€ Craft said. ā€œTheir leadership will strengthen our schools and help ensure that every student continues to have the opportunities and support they need to succeed.ā€

Dr. Hoy and Martinez will begin their new roles in July 2026 and will work closely with school leadership teams to support students, staff, and families across their respective campuses.

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