Dalton Public Schools -

The Dalton Education Foundation is pleased to announce that applications are now being accepted for the 2026 Tom Jones Educator of the Year Award.

This prestigious endowed award is named in memory of Mr. Tom Jones, a respected Dalton businessman and longtime member of the Dalton Board of Education. Mr. Jones served on the board for 26 years and held the position of chairman from 1967 to 1986. Established in 1987, the award honors his legacy as a dedicated supporter of Dalton Public Schools and the Dalton community. A co-founder of J&J Industries, Inc., Mr. Jones was a proud graduate of Dalton Public Schools and is fondly remembered for his unwavering commitment to education. The award is generously sponsored by his family, who have been longstanding supporters of Dalton Public Schools.

Last year’s recipient was Ms. Hannah Talley, current media specialist at City Park Elementary School. Ms. Talley is in her 28th year in education, all of which have been spent serving Dalton Public Schools. She has devoted her entire career to City Park School, teaching fifth grade for seven years before serving as the school’s media specialist for the past 21 years. Throughout her distinguished career, she has earned numerous honors, including City Park Teacher of the Year and Dalton Public Schools Teacher of the Year. Ms. Talley joins a long and respected tradition of outstanding educators recognized through this award.

The Tom Jones Educator of the Year Award includes a $4,000 cash award for the recipient, along with a crystal apple trophy and permanent recognition on the Educator of the Year plaque displayed at the Dalton Public Schools Central Office. In addition, the recipient’s school will receive $1,500. Finalists, selected through a scoring system based on nomination applications, will also receive a plaque and a small financial award. The winner is announced annually during halftime of the first Dalton High School home football game.

Any individual may nominate an educator employed by Dalton Public Schools who has served in the district for a minimum of three years.

The deadline to submit nominations is Friday, March 20, 2026.