A request was made to the Dalton Board of Education that a study of PK-5 grade organization be undertaken. The Board agreed and the committee was formed in October 2000. The group began its work by discussing the purpose of the committee. Principals from the current elementary schools shared their comments regarding grade organization. Surveys were mailed to all elementary schools in Georgia.
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The committee then reached consensus on the recommendation that would be presented to the Dalton Board of Education. The recommendation is that Dalton Public Schools move to a PK-5 grade organization as soon as possible . Students experience a greater sense of belonging. Knowing and caring about one another are positive outcomes. Surveys from Georgia elementary schools indicate the vast majority have a PK-5 organization and do approve of it as being effective in academic achievement, parental involvement and evaluating results of instructional programs.