Puma News
Week of August 11-15, 2025
Week of October 13- October 17, 2025
What a Week at TDA!
Even with a shortened schedule, this week at TDA has been packed with excitement and progress!
Our freshman 3DE students competed in their very first Case Challenge Culminating Event, hosted by Shaw Industries. Tasked with identifying community partners to help build a talent pipeline of skilled workers for Shaw, students showcased impressive creativity and professionalism. The winning team wowed the judges with a proposal to partner with the Wounded Warrior Project—an innovative solution with real-world impact!
We also launched our flag football season with the first game on Thursday in Gilmer! This sport has gained incredible popularity at TDA, and we’re proud to bring it to our students and community.
Looking ahead, Monday is a holiday for both students and staff. Then on Friday, October 17th, all students will either be testing or participating in a field trip:
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🧠 Freshmen will take the YouScience Assessment, which helps uncover natural aptitudes and suggests best-fit careers and education pathways.
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✏️ Sophomores (and select juniors) will take the PSAT/NMSQT, a practice SAT that also serves as the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test.
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🎖️ Seniors will complete the ASVAB, a multiple-aptitude test used by the U.S. military to match students with potential career paths.
- 🎓 Juniors will head out on a college field trip to Dalton State College and GNTC, exploring opportunities for their next steps.
We’re proud of our students for embracing each of these opportunities—and we can’t wait to see what next week brings!
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Oct 13--> No School for Students or Teachers
Oct 16--> Flag Football vs Ringgold 5:00 @ Ringgold High
Oct 17 --> YouScience Assessment- all freshmen
--> PSAT- all sophomores
--> Dalton State Field Trip- all juniors
--> ASVAB Test- all seniors
*there will be no makeup sessions for PSAT or ASVAB testsOct 18--> Puma Raider Challenge ~8am-2pm
3DE Team Presenting to Shaw Executives
Fun Times at Shaw!
Driving the Forklifts!
👩🏫 Randa Hunt
This month, we proudly recognize Mrs. Randa Hunt for her incredible dedication and impact on student literacy at The Dalton Academy. As our Basic Reading and Writing teacher, Mrs. Hunt works tirelessly to support students who need extra guidance in strengthening their foundational reading and writing skills. Her passion for education shines through her calm, consistent presence in the classroom and her commitment to helping every learner grow.
Outside of school, Mrs. Hunt enjoys life on a beef farm with her husband and their two adult sons. Whether she’s coaching readers or raising cattle, Mrs. Hunt brings care and determination to everything she does. We’re lucky to have her as part of the TDA family!
🎓 Student Spotlight
Osvaldo Calderon, a TDA sophomore, has been nominated by Mrs. Alexander for his outstanding character, resilience, and academic effort. Osvaldo shows up each day ready to learn and consistently gives his best in class. Even when faced with challenges, he continues to push forward, modeling perseverance for his peers.
Osvaldo is also involved in FCCLA, one of our Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs), where he’s developing leadership and business skills under the guidance of Mrs. Holverson. His quiet strength and strong work ethic make him a standout student and a role model at TDA.
Principal, Jessica Ashlock
Email: jessica.ashlock@dalton.k12.ga.us
Website: www.tda.daltonpublicschools.com
Phone: 706-876-4700
Assistant Principal, Virginia Ruiz
Email: virginia.ruiz@dalton.k12.ga.us
Website: www.tda.daltonpublicschools.com
Phone: 706-876-4700
Website
Boys Soccer Players
Helping to Set UUp
