Hispanic Heritage Month Staff Spotlight: Viri Ortiz š
School Social Worker
Thank you for following along with our Hispanic Heritage Month staff spotlights! As the month comes to a close, we are grateful to our incredible DPS staff who shared their stories, traditions, and values with us. Their voices continue to enrich our schools and community every day.
How has your culture influenced who you are today or how you approach your work in education?
As a first-generation Mexican American and the oldest daughter in my family, I was the first to learn English. That experience taught me resilience, compassion, and the importance of being a bridge for others. In my work as a school social worker, I strive to create a safe, welcoming space and connect families to the resources they need to thrive.
Thank you, Viri, for your dedication to supporting students and families with care, strength, and compassion!
Classroom Spotlight: Tiffany Thompsonās Yearbook students at Dalton Junior High School have been busy capturing memories! From analyzing surveys to snapping photos and designing creative layouts, these talented students are hard at work bringing the 2025ā2026 yearbook to life.
Hispanic Heritage Month Staff Spotlight: Gabby Vasquez š
ESS Paraprofessional, Park Creek School & Middle School Cheer Coach (6thā8th Grade)
As part of our Hispanic Heritage Month celebration, weāre proud to highlight Dalton Public Schools staff whose stories, values, and dedication strengthen our community every day.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you personally or professionally?
"Hispanic Heritage Month means showing not only our schools but our communities that we are proud of our Hispanic community members and the diversity they bring to our town. I grew up in Dalton, and for a long time I didnāt see many kids who looked like me. As I got older, seeing more Hispanic students and families made me feel more at home and proud of who I am."
How has your culture influenced who you are today or how you approach your work in education?
"One of the values I carry from my heritage is a strong sense of family and unity that goes beyond our households. That value shows up in how I approach my work in education and coaching. I treat my students and athletes like family, and I always want them to feel seen, supported, and celebrated for who they are."
Thank you, Gabby, for inspiring students and athletes with your pride, positivity, and dedication!
ESS Paraprofessional, Park Creek School & Middle School Cheer Coach (6thā8th Grade)
As part of our Hispanic Heritage Month celebration, weāre proud to highlight Dalton Public Schools staff whose stories, values, and dedication strengthen our community every day.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you personally or professionally?
"Hispanic Heritage Month means showing not only our schools but our communities that we are proud of our Hispanic community members and the diversity they bring to our town. I grew up in Dalton, and for a long time I didnāt see many kids who looked like me. As I got older, seeing more Hispanic students and families made me feel more at home and proud of who I am."
How has your culture influenced who you are today or how you approach your work in education?
"One of the values I carry from my heritage is a strong sense of family and unity that goes beyond our households. That value shows up in how I approach my work in education and coaching. I treat my students and athletes like family, and I always want them to feel seen, supported, and celebrated for who they are."
Thank you, Gabby, for inspiring students and athletes with your pride, positivity, and dedication!
Hispanic Heritage Month Staff Spotlight: Faviola PeƱa š
6th Grade Social Studies Teacher, Hammond Creek Middle School
As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, weāre proud to highlight Dalton Public Schools staff whose culture and values help shape the learning experiences of our students.
What does Hispanic Heritage mean to you personally or professionally?
"In my Hispanic culture, family is everything, and itās all about how everyone helps and supports each other. That idea of strong relationships is really at the center of who I am and how I work with my students. I try to build lasting relationships that are impactful inside and outside the classroom. I am someone they can count on and who wants to see them succeed."
Thank you, Faviola, for the impact you make on your students and for showing them the power of connection, trust, and support!
6th Grade Social Studies Teacher, Hammond Creek Middle School
As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, weāre proud to highlight Dalton Public Schools staff whose culture and values help shape the learning experiences of our students.
What does Hispanic Heritage mean to you personally or professionally?
"In my Hispanic culture, family is everything, and itās all about how everyone helps and supports each other. That idea of strong relationships is really at the center of who I am and how I work with my students. I try to build lasting relationships that are impactful inside and outside the classroom. I am someone they can count on and who wants to see them succeed."
Thank you, Faviola, for the impact you make on your students and for showing them the power of connection, trust, and support!
Roan Schoolās Media Specialist, Mrs. Emily Elliott, created a unique reading experience for her students through a PAGE grant-funded hammock garden. Students are now enjoying books and fresh air in this relaxing outdoor space. šš
š¢ Enrollment Office Temporarily Moved
The Dalton Public Schools Enrollment Office has been temporarily moved to the lobby area of the City Park School Auditorium.
Families can visit this temporary location for student enrollment, document submission, and assistance.
We appreciate your patience and understanding!
š Temporary location: Lobby of the City Park School Auditorium
āļø Need help? Call 706-876-4000
The Dalton Public Schools Enrollment Office has been temporarily moved to the lobby area of the City Park School Auditorium.
Families can visit this temporary location for student enrollment, document submission, and assistance.
We appreciate your patience and understanding!
š Temporary location: Lobby of the City Park School Auditorium
āļø Need help? Call 706-876-4000
Hispanic Heritage Month Staff Spotlight: Cindy Hernandez š
Communications Specialist
As part of our Hispanic Heritage Month celebration, weāre highlighting Dalton Public Schools staff whose stories and traditions reflect the pride and values of our community.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you personally or professionally?
"Hispanic Heritage Month gives me a moment to pause and be thankful for the sacrifices and love passed down through generations. Growing up in a Mexican household, family was always at the center of everything. The food, the music, and the stories my grandparents would share about their childhood will always be a happy memory. Those stories taught me to never forget my roots and to always try my best in everything I do."
Thank you, Cindy, for sharing your story and for the positivity and dedication you bring to DPS every day!
Communications Specialist
As part of our Hispanic Heritage Month celebration, weāre highlighting Dalton Public Schools staff whose stories and traditions reflect the pride and values of our community.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you personally or professionally?
"Hispanic Heritage Month gives me a moment to pause and be thankful for the sacrifices and love passed down through generations. Growing up in a Mexican household, family was always at the center of everything. The food, the music, and the stories my grandparents would share about their childhood will always be a happy memory. Those stories taught me to never forget my roots and to always try my best in everything I do."
Thank you, Cindy, for sharing your story and for the positivity and dedication you bring to DPS every day!
ROAR Day: Undisputed Champions Edition brought Dalton Public Schools together for a day of learning, collaboration, and celebration!
On Friday, educators from across the district gathered at Hammond Creek Middle to connect, grow, and share ideas that strengthen the DPS community. With over 75 presenters and guest speakersāincluding representatives from the Georgia Department of Education, Modern Jane, OTUS, and othersāROAR Day offered a powerful opportunity to learn from one another and celebrate what makes Dalton Public Schools truly exceptional.
The day was filled with energy, collaboration, and a shared commitment to excellence. DPS staff came together to exchange ideas, build new connections, and celebrate the passion and dedication that define our district. Together, our educators proved once again that when we step into the ring as one team, we are unstoppable. ššŖ
On Friday, educators from across the district gathered at Hammond Creek Middle to connect, grow, and share ideas that strengthen the DPS community. With over 75 presenters and guest speakersāincluding representatives from the Georgia Department of Education, Modern Jane, OTUS, and othersāROAR Day offered a powerful opportunity to learn from one another and celebrate what makes Dalton Public Schools truly exceptional.
The day was filled with energy, collaboration, and a shared commitment to excellence. DPS staff came together to exchange ideas, build new connections, and celebrate the passion and dedication that define our district. Together, our educators proved once again that when we step into the ring as one team, we are unstoppable. ššŖ
Last week, Dalton Public Schools celebrated Georgia Pre-K Week with a series of special storytimes across our classrooms. Throughout the week, our youngest learners had the opportunity to listen to a variety of books read aloud, sparking their imagination and fostering a deeper love for reading.
These moments were filled with laughter, curiosity, and meaningful conversations as students connected with stories and discovered the joy that books can bring. Experiences like these highlight the importance of early literacy and its lasting impact on a childās educational journey.
We are proud to provide our Pre-K students with opportunities that encourage a lifelong appreciation for learning, creativity, and exploration. Georgia Pre-K Week was a wonderful reminder of how powerful reading can be in shaping the minds and hearts of our future learners.
These moments were filled with laughter, curiosity, and meaningful conversations as students connected with stories and discovered the joy that books can bring. Experiences like these highlight the importance of early literacy and its lasting impact on a childās educational journey.
We are proud to provide our Pre-K students with opportunities that encourage a lifelong appreciation for learning, creativity, and exploration. Georgia Pre-K Week was a wonderful reminder of how powerful reading can be in shaping the minds and hearts of our future learners.
Dalton Public Schools is excited to celebrate National School Lunch Week, October 13ā17, 2025!š
This special week highlights the importance of healthy, balanced meals in schools through the National School Lunch Program. This yearās theme, āTaste the World: Your School Lunch Passport,ā invites students to explore global flavors and celebrate the diversity of school meals.
Weāre proud to serve nutritious meals every day that fuel learning and success. Join us in celebrating the delicious and healthy choices on our school menus!
This special week highlights the importance of healthy, balanced meals in schools through the National School Lunch Program. This yearās theme, āTaste the World: Your School Lunch Passport,ā invites students to explore global flavors and celebrate the diversity of school meals.
Weāre proud to serve nutritious meals every day that fuel learning and success. Join us in celebrating the delicious and healthy choices on our school menus!
Hispanic Heritage Month Staff Spotlight: Katya Spence š
Third-Grade Teacher, Park Creek School
As we continue celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, weāre proud to share the voices of Dalton Public Schools staff whose culture and values shape the way they inspire students every day.
Is there a tradition, value, or memory from your heritage that you are especially proud of and would like to share?
"One tradition I carry proudly from my heritage is the value of hard work and the belief that education can open doors. Growing up, I was always encouraged to not only put effort into what I do, but to also love the process and show joy in it. That perspective has shaped how I approach challenges and opportunities in my own life. For me, education has been more than just learning, itās been a way to honor the sacrifices of those who came before me and to build a future with purpose. During Hispanic Heritage Month, Iām especially proud to share these values, because they continue to inspire me every day."
Thank you, Katya, for sharing your story and for inspiring students with the values of hard work, joy, and purpose!
Third-Grade Teacher, Park Creek School
As we continue celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, weāre proud to share the voices of Dalton Public Schools staff whose culture and values shape the way they inspire students every day.
Is there a tradition, value, or memory from your heritage that you are especially proud of and would like to share?
"One tradition I carry proudly from my heritage is the value of hard work and the belief that education can open doors. Growing up, I was always encouraged to not only put effort into what I do, but to also love the process and show joy in it. That perspective has shaped how I approach challenges and opportunities in my own life. For me, education has been more than just learning, itās been a way to honor the sacrifices of those who came before me and to build a future with purpose. During Hispanic Heritage Month, Iām especially proud to share these values, because they continue to inspire me every day."
Thank you, Katya, for sharing your story and for inspiring students with the values of hard work, joy, and purpose!
Hispanic Heritage Month Staff Spotlight: Zuleima Ferreira š
Dual Language Kindergarten Teacher, Westwood School
As part of our Hispanic Heritage Month celebration, weāre proud to highlight the traditions and values that inspire our Dalton Public Schools staff and enrich our studentsā learning.
Is there a tradition, value, or memory from your heritage that you are especially proud of and would like to share?
"When I was little, celebrating DĆa de Los NiƱos (Childrenās Day) was one of my favorite traditions. Since I became a Dual Language teacher, Iāve made it a point to share this special tradition with my students every year. It has become a meaningful memory for each student to cherish and that makes me proud."
Thank you, Zuleima, for sharing this special tradition and creating lasting memories for your students!
Dual Language Kindergarten Teacher, Westwood School
As part of our Hispanic Heritage Month celebration, weāre proud to highlight the traditions and values that inspire our Dalton Public Schools staff and enrich our studentsā learning.
Is there a tradition, value, or memory from your heritage that you are especially proud of and would like to share?
"When I was little, celebrating DĆa de Los NiƱos (Childrenās Day) was one of my favorite traditions. Since I became a Dual Language teacher, Iāve made it a point to share this special tradition with my students every year. It has become a meaningful memory for each student to cherish and that makes me proud."
Thank you, Zuleima, for sharing this special tradition and creating lasting memories for your students!
Dalton Public Schools proudly observes World Mental Health Day, recognizing the importance of mental well-being for our students and staff. We are committed to creating a supportive environment where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.
The Dalton Public Schools Enrollment Center will open at 1:00 PM on Friday, October 10, due to districtwide professional learning events.
We appreciate your understanding and support as our staff participates in valuable professional development to better serve our students and families.
We appreciate your understanding and support as our staff participates in valuable professional development to better serve our students and families.
RECENTLY FEATURED IN THE DALTON DAILY CITIZEN: Check out the incredible student artwork from City Park School, lead by art teacher, Josef Damasch.
Our talented young artists continue to showcase their creativity and passion, making us incredibly proud!
Our talented young artists continue to showcase their creativity and passion, making us incredibly proud!
Hispanic Heritage Month Staff Spotlight: Rigo Gonzalez š
ESOL Teacher, City Park School
For Hispanic Heritage Month, weāre spotlighting Dalton Public Schools staff whose stories, traditions, and values enrich our classrooms and community.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you personally or professionally?
To me, Hispanic Heritage month is a time when we can celebrate the Spanish language and the many cultures across the Spanish speaking world. Students, including our Hispanic students, may only be familiar with a few Spanish speaking countries. This month gives them a chance to explore unfamiliar Spanish speaking countries. By learning about different Hispanic countries and the different cultures, students (and teachers) are able to explore how customs differ from country to country. Most importantly, it allows us to move past superficial stereotypes and symbols we often see associated with HHM. Yes, sombreros, tacos, piƱatas, maracas, or chili peppers are cute and memorable, but we are more than that. We can all help our students develop a greater understanding and appreciation of the diversity within the Hispanic culture.
How has your culture influenced who you are today or how you approach your work in education?
In my culture, it is very much about the collective and how we can work together for the greater good. Togetherness is key. Now, as an ESOL teacher I have the opportunity to model what I wish I couldāve seen more as a student. As a first grader, I was fresh from Mexico and had no Spanish speaking teachers with whom I could trust or connect with - I was missing the feeling of community. Today, I am able to look around our school and see great changes. I carry my culture and personal experiences to better connect with my students and create authentic relationships.
Is there a tradition, value, or memory from your heritage that you are especially proud of and would like to share?
One tradition that I love sharing with my students is the art of sewing. I have had the pleasure of sharing this tradition for three years with students in the CATapult program. The CATapult program brings many Hispanic and non-Hispanic cultures together. No matter what the background, most students can connect sewing to memories of watching a mom, aunt, or grandmother sew. I am most excited when I have āexpertā students who have experience and knowledge of using a sewing machine or a simple needle and thread. I love to see my students use a skill theyāve learned at home and see it as their superpower. In the end, itās fulfilling to see how proud students are of their finished product and connect deeper to their traditions or culture - or to start a new tradition!
Thank you, Rigo, for your dedication to your students and for creating spaces where culture, language, and tradition are celebrated!
ESOL Teacher, City Park School
For Hispanic Heritage Month, weāre spotlighting Dalton Public Schools staff whose stories, traditions, and values enrich our classrooms and community.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you personally or professionally?
To me, Hispanic Heritage month is a time when we can celebrate the Spanish language and the many cultures across the Spanish speaking world. Students, including our Hispanic students, may only be familiar with a few Spanish speaking countries. This month gives them a chance to explore unfamiliar Spanish speaking countries. By learning about different Hispanic countries and the different cultures, students (and teachers) are able to explore how customs differ from country to country. Most importantly, it allows us to move past superficial stereotypes and symbols we often see associated with HHM. Yes, sombreros, tacos, piƱatas, maracas, or chili peppers are cute and memorable, but we are more than that. We can all help our students develop a greater understanding and appreciation of the diversity within the Hispanic culture.
How has your culture influenced who you are today or how you approach your work in education?
In my culture, it is very much about the collective and how we can work together for the greater good. Togetherness is key. Now, as an ESOL teacher I have the opportunity to model what I wish I couldāve seen more as a student. As a first grader, I was fresh from Mexico and had no Spanish speaking teachers with whom I could trust or connect with - I was missing the feeling of community. Today, I am able to look around our school and see great changes. I carry my culture and personal experiences to better connect with my students and create authentic relationships.
Is there a tradition, value, or memory from your heritage that you are especially proud of and would like to share?
One tradition that I love sharing with my students is the art of sewing. I have had the pleasure of sharing this tradition for three years with students in the CATapult program. The CATapult program brings many Hispanic and non-Hispanic cultures together. No matter what the background, most students can connect sewing to memories of watching a mom, aunt, or grandmother sew. I am most excited when I have āexpertā students who have experience and knowledge of using a sewing machine or a simple needle and thread. I love to see my students use a skill theyāve learned at home and see it as their superpower. In the end, itās fulfilling to see how proud students are of their finished product and connect deeper to their traditions or culture - or to start a new tradition!
Thank you, Rigo, for your dedication to your students and for creating spaces where culture, language, and tradition are celebrated!
We were so excited to bring some of our students together for the Community Kickaround! ā½ļø
Students had an incredible time at the Dalton Stadium showing off soccer skills, playing games, and connecting with our amazing community partners. They learned about teamwork, perseverance, and the power of community support while enjoying a fun day outdoors.
A special shoutout to The Dalton Academy students for helping lead games and activities throughout the event ā you all did an amazing job!
A huge thank-you to all our community partners who made the day possible ā especially Engineered Floors for generously providing lunch.
And of course, thank you to our dedicated staff who organized and led such a memorable event for our exceptional students!
Students had an incredible time at the Dalton Stadium showing off soccer skills, playing games, and connecting with our amazing community partners. They learned about teamwork, perseverance, and the power of community support while enjoying a fun day outdoors.
A special shoutout to The Dalton Academy students for helping lead games and activities throughout the event ā you all did an amazing job!
A huge thank-you to all our community partners who made the day possible ā especially Engineered Floors for generously providing lunch.
And of course, thank you to our dedicated staff who organized and led such a memorable event for our exceptional students!
Hispanic Heritage Month Staff Spotlight: Rosie Rivera š
Bookkeeper, Brookwood School
As part of our Hispanic Heritage Month celebration, weāre honored to share the voices of Dalton Public Schools staff whose culture and stories inspire our community.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you personally or professionally?
"Hispanic Heritage means so much to me. On a personal level, I am deeply proud of who I am, where I come from, and the culture I get to share with others. It fills me with happiness to see our traditions, our language, and our values being celebrated in such meaningful ways.
In my professional life, it makes me so proud and excited to see the presence of Hispanic culture growing throughout Dalton Public Schools. I see it in the voices, the faces, and the traditions that reflect our heritage, and it reminds me how far weāve come. Knowing that our students get to learn in such a vibrant and diverse community is truly special.
Sometimes I wish I could go back and visit my little elementary school self. I would tell her that one day her school would be full of so many different cultures and voices, and that she would get to be part of something beautiful. Most of all, I would remind her to always be proud, because her culture would not only be seen but celebrated."
Thank you, Rosie, for the pride, joy, and inspiration you bring to our DPS family every day!
Bookkeeper, Brookwood School
As part of our Hispanic Heritage Month celebration, weāre honored to share the voices of Dalton Public Schools staff whose culture and stories inspire our community.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you personally or professionally?
"Hispanic Heritage means so much to me. On a personal level, I am deeply proud of who I am, where I come from, and the culture I get to share with others. It fills me with happiness to see our traditions, our language, and our values being celebrated in such meaningful ways.
In my professional life, it makes me so proud and excited to see the presence of Hispanic culture growing throughout Dalton Public Schools. I see it in the voices, the faces, and the traditions that reflect our heritage, and it reminds me how far weāve come. Knowing that our students get to learn in such a vibrant and diverse community is truly special.
Sometimes I wish I could go back and visit my little elementary school self. I would tell her that one day her school would be full of so many different cultures and voices, and that she would get to be part of something beautiful. Most of all, I would remind her to always be proud, because her culture would not only be seen but celebrated."
Thank you, Rosie, for the pride, joy, and inspiration you bring to our DPS family every day!
Sheree Patton Named Brookwood Schoolās 2024-2025 Teacher of the Year
Dalton Public Schools is proud to announce that Sheree Patton, lead STEM teacher at Brookwood Elementary, has been named the schoolās 2024-2025 Teacher of the Year.
Patton began her career with Dalton Public Schools in 2006 at Westwood Elementary, where she taught kindergarten through third grade. In 2023, she joined Brookwood Elementary as a third grade teacher. Over her nearly two decades in education, she has worked to build meaningful relationships with students, families, and colleagues that continue long after students leave her classroom.
Read more: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/article/2458979
Dalton Public Schools is proud to announce that Sheree Patton, lead STEM teacher at Brookwood Elementary, has been named the schoolās 2024-2025 Teacher of the Year.
Patton began her career with Dalton Public Schools in 2006 at Westwood Elementary, where she taught kindergarten through third grade. In 2023, she joined Brookwood Elementary as a third grade teacher. Over her nearly two decades in education, she has worked to build meaningful relationships with students, families, and colleagues that continue long after students leave her classroom.
Read more: https://www.daltonpublicschools.com/article/2458979
Classroom Spotlight:
Students in Olivia Holmesā classroom at Westwood School celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month by creating colorful piƱatas! Guest speaker Mrs. Paniagua joined the class to share the fascinating history and cultural significance of piƱatas in Hispanic traditions ā symbols of joy, celebration, and community.
Through this project, students learned about the art of making piƱatas and the importance of honoring and appreciating different cultures.
Students in Olivia Holmesā classroom at Westwood School celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month by creating colorful piƱatas! Guest speaker Mrs. Paniagua joined the class to share the fascinating history and cultural significance of piƱatas in Hispanic traditions ā symbols of joy, celebration, and community.
Through this project, students learned about the art of making piƱatas and the importance of honoring and appreciating different cultures.
