Puma News

Dear Puma Families,

Last week was a strong start to the new semester. Our Student Council leaders met to plan Homecoming, Prom, and other student-led events, and it was great to see their energy and ideas already taking shape. We also officially began ACCESS testing, and our students receiving language services have approached it with focus and determination. Staff stayed locked in all week, supporting students and keeping learning moving forward—thank you for that continued commitment.

This week, on Monday, we will observe Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a holiday for both students and staff. We hope everyone enjoys the long weekend and takes time to rest and reset.

When we return on Tuesday, we will launch the 3DE 9.4 Case, giving our 9th grade 3DE students another opportunity to engage in real-world problem solving and collaborative learning.

On Wednesday, all 9th and 10th graders will be taking the MAP test. This is our benchmark exam that is valuable in making instructional decisions.

As we move deeper into the semester, this is a great time to tighten routines, reinforce expectations, and help students get organized. Simple things like checking grades, using class time wisely, and staying on top of assignments will go a long way in setting students up for success.

• January 19 Staff & Student Holiday for MLK Day
• January 20 3DE 9.4 Case Launch
• January 21 MAP Testing 9th & 10th Grade

• January 22 – 4:30 PM: Basketball (Senior Night) vs. Coahulla Creek — Home
• January 22 – 5:00 PM: Wrestling vs. Gordon Central & Coosa — Gordon Central High School
• January 23–24 – Time TBD: Wrestling State Duals (Girls) — Location TBD

Congratulations to CPT Bill Jinright, our Staff Member of the Month!

As one of our dedicated JROTC instructors, CPT Jinright brings leadership, structure, and heart to our campus every single day. His commitment to developing student character, promoting discipline, and creating meaningful learning experiences is evident in every drill, lesson, and conversation. CPT Jinright’s positive energy and steady guidance make a tremendous impact on our cadets and on the entire TDA community. Thank you, CPT Jinright, for your service, your passion, and the example you set for our students. We appreciate you!

We’re proud to recognize Lina Al Hanini, a standout junior, as our Student of the Month!

Lina is deeply involved in school life and is known for her hard work, kindness, and willingness to step up wherever she’s needed. Whether she’s excelling in the classroom, contributing to clubs, or supporting her peers, Lina demonstrates what it truly means to be a Puma. Her dedication to her academics and her positive attitude make her a role model for students across our campus. Congratulations, Lina — keep shining!

Parents-- make sure you have downloaded the DPS App. We will be upgrading our communication channels through "Rooms", via Thrillshare. To make sure you are ahead of the game, download the DPS App Today!

Main Office Phone Number: (706)876-4700

(you can be transferred to anyone from this number)

Principal:

Jessica Ashlock

Assistant Principal:

Virginia Ruiz

Athletic Director

Michael Bolen

Academic Services Coordinator

Julia Cagle

Nurse: Traci Hopkins

Counseling Office: Questions concerning records or schedules, and personal issues.

Last Name A-L: Michaela Burke

Last Name M-Z: Dolores Carrillo

School Social Worker

Viri Ortiz

Cafeteria Manager:

Cynthia Hoeng

Email: jessica.ashlock@dalton.k12.ga.us
Website: www.tda.daltonpublicschools.com
Phone: 706-876-4700

Email: virginia.ruiz@dalton.k12.ga.us
Website: www.tda.daltonpublicschools.com
Phone: 706-876-4700