District News and Announcements

Dothan High School students are taking their talents beyond the classroom and
into the community through a new partnership with the Dothan Regional Airport.

DHS will hold its art exhibition opening on Thursday, April 9 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Dothan Regional Airport, featuring student created works from the Dothan High School Visual Arts Department and the Dothan Technology Center. The exhibit highlights a range of artistic expression and craftsmanship, showcasing the skill and creativity of DHS students.

The partnership between the Dothan Regional Airport and Dothan High was created to both support the local community and provide students with a platform to display their work in a public space.

The opening event will include performances and student involvement throughout the evening. Members of the Dothan High School National Honor Society will welcome guests, while the DHS Jazz Band will provide live music. The DHS Cheerleaders will also take part in the event, along with student artists who will meet attendees and discuss their work.

Members of the public are encouraged to support the work of these talented student artists.The exhibition will remain on display at the Dothan Regional Airport through May 9th.

Beverlye Intermediate Students Complete Leadership Development Program.

62 students made up of 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders at Beverlye Intermediate School are building more than just academic skills. They’re developing the discipline, mindset, and life skills needed for long-term success. The school’s Leaders in Training (LIT) small group has officially completed a nine-week cycle focused on personal growth, positive decision-making, and accountability. 

Throughout this recently created program, students engaged in lessons centered around discipline, the value of hard work, and development of positive behavioral habits. These sessions were designed to equip students with practical life skills they can carry into the classroom and beyond. Led and spearheaded by Behavioral Specialist Ashley Tolbert, the group has demonstrated strong progress and commitment over the nine-week program period. Students actively participated in discussions, reflected on their experiences, and applied new strategies during each session.

“This group has shown tremendous growth,” said Torbert. “It has been rewarding to see students engage in the process and begin to apply what they’ve learned in meaningful ways.”

The LIT program also aligns with the district’s continued focus on strengthening student support systems. Under the guidance of Superintendent Dr. Garrick Askew, the role of Behavioral Specialists is evolving to incorporate a more clinical and data driven approach. This shift allows for more intentional intervention programs, targeted skill building, and deeper support for not only students’ behavioral needs, but also their emotional needs.

“LIT is the exact form of intervention that DCS' students need,” said Dr. Askew. “I have observed the program first hand. By equipping students with the skills to manage their emotions, resolve conflicts, and navigate day-to-day interactions with peers and staff, LIT is maturing the students at Beverlye which supports their academic success and the overall climate and culture of the school.”

As the students prepare for a program graduation ceremony, students are returning to their classrooms and homes with renewed confidence and a stronger foundation for success. They are equipped with strategies to help them stay focused, make positive choices, and continue growing both academically and personally.

Dothan City Schools remains committed to supporting every student and ensuring each member of our Wolfpack has the tools they need to succeed in school and in life.

Dothan City Schools is seeking a dynamic and proven school leader to serve as Principal at Jerry Lee Faine Elementary School.

This opportunity is more than a traditional principalship. It is a turnaround leadership role for an individual who is passionate about improving student outcomes, strengthening school culture, and leading meaningful, lasting change. To support this work, the position includes a $30,000 turnaround principal supplement.

The selected candidate will play a critical role in shaping the future of Jerry Lee Faine Elementary School by building a strong instructional foundation, fostering a positive and structured learning environment, and developing high-performing teams focused on student success.

Dothan City Schools is looking for a leader who demonstrates a strong background in instructional leadership and uses data, research, and stakeholder input to guide decision-making. The ideal candidate will have a proven ability to develop staff, build collaborative teams, and create a safe, student-centered school culture rooted in continuous improvement and measurable results.

Minimum Qualifications:

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Master’s degree (or higher) in Educational Administration or a related field

• Alabama certification in Educational Leadership/Principalship

• Minimum of three years of teaching experience and three years of administrative or supervisory experience

• Demonstrated success in public education leadership

This is a 12-month position reporting directly to the Superintendent, with salary and benefits aligned to the district’s established compensation plan.

Dothan City Schools encourages qualified candidates who are ready to lead, serve, and make a lasting impact to apply.

Apply here: https://alsde.hiretrue-prod.com/hiretrue/ce3/job-board/e64590f9-2bf7-449a-83a5-2e87b4bbf959/7c120323-4310-456b-84b4-a4395b393948

Dothan City Schools is celebrating a historic achievement as Dothan High School senior Alexis Saffold has earned an automatic bid to the prestigious International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), one of the world’s largest global science competitions.

Saffold secured her spot at the Greater East Alabama Regional Science and Engineering Fair (GEARSEF) competition in Montgomery last Friday, bypassing the state-level qualification process. This is an extraordinary accomplishment that places her among the top student scientists in the world.

In May, she will travel to Arizona for an all expenses paid, week-long competition, where she will compete alongside finalists from across the United States and more than 65 countries. Participants will compete for nearly $9 million in scholarships and prizes.

Saffold’s success builds on her outstanding performance at the 2026 ACOM Science Fair in January, where she earned 1st Place in the Physics, Astronomy, and Mathematics division. Her project, “Using Arduino Pressure and Accelerometer Sensor Data to Determine the Least Painful Backpack Strap Position,” showcased the research and innovation that ultimately contributed to her earning an automatic bid to ISEF at GEARSEF.

Through her achievement, Saffold is making Dothan history. This milestone marks a first for the Wiregrass region, as Saffold is the first ISEF finalist from the area in the competition’s 75-year history. Dothan City Schools takes immense pride in Alexis and her remarkable achievement that not only reflects her hard work, dedication, and talent, but also the strength of the opportunities available to students across the district.

Dothan City Schools encourages the community to join in celebrating Alexis Saffold and wishing her continued success as she represents the Wiregrass on a global stage.

Dothan City Schools Kindergarten Registrations will begin on

March 10, 2026 for the 2026-2027 school year.

Children registering for Kindergarten

must be five years old on or before September 1, 2026.

Parents should bring proof of birth, a current Alabama Certificate of Immunization (blue card), and proof of residency.

All new students to Dothan City Schools must register at their zoned school. For more information, please contact your zoned school, or visit our website for school zone listings. Please refer to the current School Zone Map.

For more information, visit our website at www.dothan.k12.al.us

COMUNICADO DE INTERÉS PUBLICO

5 de marzo de 2026

La Inscripción para el Kindergarten de las Escuelas de la Ciudad de Dothan

para el año escolar 2026-2027 comienza el 10 de Marzo de 2026.

Los niños deben tener 5 años de edad

el o antes del 1º de Septiembre del 2026.

Los padres deben proporcionar el certificado de nacimiento, certificado de vacunas de Alabama

actualizado (tarjeta azul), y comprobante de domicilio.

Todos los estudiantes que van a asistir a las Escuelas de la Ciudad de Dothan por primera vez, deben de ser inscritos en la escuela de su zona. Para más información, por favor contacte la escuela de su zona o visite nuestra página de internet para una lista de las escuelas por zonas. Consulte el mapa de zonas escolares actual.

Visite nuestra página de internet www.dothan.k12.al.us

In March’s edition of Inside the Pack, you’ll find stories celebrating student success, staff excellence, and meaningful learning experiences across Dothan City Schools. As we recognize achievements and highlight important moments throughout the district, we invite you to explore the continued progress happening across our Wolfpack.

Click here to read Inside the Pack!

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En la edición de marzo de Inside the Pack, encontrará historias que celebran los logros estudiantiles, la excelencia del personal y experiencias de aprendizaje significativas en todas las escuelas de Dothan City. Al reconocer los logros y destacar momentos importantes en todo el distrito, le invitamos a explorar el progreso continuo que está ocurriendo en nuestra comunidad Wolfpack.

Haga clic aquí para leer Inside the Pack.

As Dothan High School advances to the AHSAA Final Four in Birmingham on Thursday, March 5, 2026, schools and families across the Wiregrass are rallying behind our team. We are proud of our student-athletes and the momentum surrounding this historic event.

Regarding district wide operational plans for the Final Four game, Thursday, March 5, 2026, will be a normal instructional day for Dothan City Schools students and staff.

Dothan High School students who choose to attend the game in Birmingham must present a valid game ticket and sign in at the designated DCS check-in location at the game. Students who complete this process will have their absence counted as a virtual day for March 5.

Students will be responsible for completing any required make-up assignments within three (3) school days, as established by Dothan High School administration.

Families of students at other DCS schools should contact their child’s principal directly with any attendance-related questions.

Dothan City Schools appreciates the community’s support and remains committed to ensuring both academic expectations and school spirit are upheld.

At their Regular School Board Meeting on Tuesday, February 18, 2026, members of the Dothan City Schools’ Board of Education approved the 2026-2027 School Calendar.

View the calendar below or click here.

Dothan City Schools recognized Andrew Scott Brady as the district’s February Employee of the Month during the February Board of Education meeting.

Mr. Brady serves as an Instructional Aide at Dothan Preparatory Academy (DPA) and is known for consistently placing students at the center of every decision he makes. He works to ensure students are supported academically, behaviorally, and socially, proactively identifying student needs and adjusting his approach when necessary.

Recognized for his dedication, flexibility, and strong work ethic, Mr. Brady regularly goes above and beyond his assigned responsibilities. He takes initiative to provide additional time, guidance, and support to students in need while collaborating with staff to remove barriers to learning. His professionalism, compassion, and team-first mindset make him an invaluable member of the DPA community.

Dothan City Schools is proud to honor Andrew Scott Brady as Employee of the Month and thanks him for the lasting impact she makes on students, colleagues, and the school community

On Tuesday, February 17, 2026, Dothan City Schools (DCS) proudly announced their District Teachers of the Year that will represent Dothan City Schools at the state level for Alabama Teacher of the Year. DCS also announced their Principal of the Year as well as Support Employee of the Year.

Carver School for Math, Science & Technology’s Jessica Freeman was named the District’s 2026-2027 Elementary Teacher of the Year. Mrs. Freeman is a veteran educator with more than 22 years of experience serving students across multiple states. She currently teaches 6th grade mathematics at Carver MST. As a National Board Certified Teacher, she brings expertise in mathematics, science, gifted education, and instructional technology to her classroom.

Mrs. Freeman is known for her hands-on, student centered instruction that builds curiosity, confidence, and real-world problem solving skills. Beyond the classroom, she contributes to STEM programming, professional learning teams, and afterschool initiatives that expand opportunities for students.

Carver 9th Grade Academy’s Lisa Peacock was named the District’s 2026-2027 Secondary Teacher of the Year. With more than two decades in education, including 17 years in DCS, Mrs. Peacock serves as Lead Biology Teacher at Carver 9. She is recognized for bringing science to life through hands-on learning, research based instruction, and leadership in student academic initiatives.

Throughout her career, Mrs. Peacock has served as Science Fair Coordinator, mentor teacher, instructional leader, and active member of her school’s leadership team. Her commitment to student growth, innovation, and collaboration has made a lasting impact on both her students and colleagues.

Kelly Springs Elementary School’s Monica Montalvo was named the District’s 2026-2027 Principal of the Year. Mrs. Montalvo has dedicated 14 years of service to Dothan City Schools and became principal of Kelly Springs Elementary in 2022. Since stepping into the role, she has led with vision, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to student achievement. Under her leadership, Kelly Springs has continued to strengthen a culture grounded in meaningful relationships and a steadfast commitment to student success. She is known for her steady guidance, collaborative leadership style, and deep investment in both students and staff. Mrs. Montalvo works intentionally to create a learning environment where students feel supported, teachers feel empowered, and families feel connected to the school community. Through her dedication and heart for service, Mrs. Montalvo continues to make a lasting impact on Kelly Springs and DCS as a whole.

Beverlye Intermediate School’s Dena Enfinger was named the District’s 2026-2027 Support Employee of the Year. Mrs. Enfinger serves as an Instructional Aide in Special Education at Beverlye Intermediate and is known for consistently putting students first in every decision she makes. She demonstrates compassion, flexibility , and an unwavering commitment to meeting each student’s individual needs. Working primarily with students who face academic or behavioral challenges, she approaches every situation with patience and professionalism, believing that behavior does not define a child but often reflects an unmet need. Mrs. Enfinger goes above and beyond her assigned responsibilities to ensure students feel safe, supported, and capable of success. Whether modifying instructional resources, tracking behavior data, assisting in classrooms, or providing one on one support, she remains calm, solution focused, and dedicated to student growth.

Dothan City Schools is proud to recognize and celebrate these four individuals and grateful for their dedication to our students, staff, and school community.

Dothan City Schools is excited to welcome Dr. Kacia Thompson as the district’s new Assistant Superintendent, bringing more than 25 years of experience in K-12 education, instructional leadership, and student support systems.

Dr. Thompson joins Dothan City Schools after serving in multiple district level leadership roles within the Douglas County School System in Georgia, most recently as Director of Instructional Supports. Throughout her career, she has led districtwide initiatives focused on improving student achievement, implementing Multi Tiered Systems of Supports (MTSS), strengthening 504 services, and ensuring access to high quality instruction for all students.

Her leadership experience spans both district and school based roles, including service as a principal, assistant principal, and classroom teacher. Dr. Thompson has overseen large scale professional development efforts, guided data driven instructional improvement, and supported schools in meeting the diverse academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs of students. Her work has contributed to measurable gains in student performance and the expansion of innovative programs supporting early intervention, extended learning, and student wellness.

Dr. Thompson holds a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from Walden University, along with advanced degrees in educational leadership and administration.

Dothan City Schools looks forward to the expertise, collaboration, and leadership Dr. Thompson brings as the district continues its commitment to student success and excellence across all schools.

Dothan City Schools has announced a new Hiring and Retention Bonus Program aimed at attracting and retaining certified educators in the district’s most critical schools. The “Teach Where You’re Needed Most” initiative reflects the district’s continued investment in student success by supporting teachers who commit to serving in high need areas.

Certified teachers hired into designated Targeted Schools may qualify for a hiring and retention bonus up to $3,000, pending eligibility requirements and board approval. The bonus is designed as a prospective, nonrecurring incentive tied to future service and is separate from base salary and step placement.

The retention payment schedule includes:

• 25% paid after 60 days of employment
• 25% paid after completion of the first semester
• 50% paid by May 1

Participation in this program requires a three year service commitment.

To be eligible, educators must hold full Alabama certification, be placed at a designated Targeted School, fill a certified shortage-area position, complete all onboarding and credential verification requirements, and sign a service and repayment agreement.

“This program supports our efforts to recruit and retain highly qualified educators where they are needed the most. By investing in our teachers, we are strengthening our schools and creating greater opportunities for student achievement,” said Dothan City Schools leadership.

Program availability is subject to annual Board approval and funding, and repayment may apply if the service commitment is not fulfilled.

Educators interested in learning more about the “Teach Where You’re Needed Most” Hiring and Retention Program are encouraged to visit the Dothan City Schools website for additional details: https://www.dothan.k12.al.us/departments/hr/howtoapply

There’s a lot to love across Dothan City Schools this February! In this edition of Inside the Pack, you’ll find highlights that showcase student learning, community partnerships, and the everyday moments that make a big impact in our schools. Click here to check it out!

Para español, haga clic aquí.

Dothan City Schools is proud to recognize Emily Breedlove, a kindergarten teacher at Highlands Elementary School, as the district’s Employee of the Month. Mrs. Breedlove was formally recognized during the Dothan City Schools Board of Education meeting on Tuesday, January 20th.

Mrs. Breedlove is known for her caring and compassionate approach to teaching and her unwavering commitment to young learners who are just beginning their educational journey. She consistently spends extra time with each student to build strong, trusting relationships and to help ensure a smooth transition from home to school.

She places a strong emphasis on communication with families, working to keep parents informed, supported, and confident in their child’s education. Her dedication helps create a welcoming classroom environment where students feel safe, valued, and encouraged to grow.

Beyond academics, Mrs. Breedlove takes time to truly know her students, including their interests, hobbies, and social and emotional needs. A literacy expert, she actively participates in professional development to strengthen instruction and improve student outcomes. She also tutors students after school, demonstrating her commitment to student success.

Mrs. Breedlove’s ability to speak Spanish has been an invaluable asset to the school district, allowing her to support students, families, and staff in a variety of situations. Known for her kind, gentle, and professional demeanor, she builds meaningful and long lasting relationships throughout the school community.

Described as consistently positive and always willing to help others, Mrs. Breedlove is humble in her service and places the needs of students and colleagues before her own. Her daily actions reflect the values and mission of Dothan City Schools.

Dothan City Schools is proud to celebrate Mrs. Breedlove for her dedication, compassion, and the lasting impact she makes across the district.

Dothan City Schools is proud to recognize Jada Houston, Science Teacher at Carver 9th Grade Academy, as the district’s Employee of the Month for her exceptional dedication, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to student success.

Mrs. Houston was honored during a recent Dothan City Schools Board of Education meeting, where district leaders recognized her for consistently placing students at the center of every instructional and professional decision she makes.

When an unexpected teaching vacancy occurred, Mrs. Houston willingly stepped up—adjusting her workload and instructional planning to ensure students experienced continuity, stability, and high-quality instruction rather than disruption. Her flexibility and student-focused mindset ensured learning remained the priority during a challenging transition period.

Beyond her assigned responsibilities, Mrs. Houston took on additional classes, invested extra time in lesson planning and assessment, and continued to build strong relationships with students while maintaining high instructional standards. Her efforts helped preserve academic momentum and provided students with a supportive, engaging learning environment.

Mrs. Houston’s commitment to excellence also extends to her own professional growth. She recently completed her master’s degree, further demonstrating her dedication to continuous improvement and leadership in education.

Dothan City Schools is proud to celebrate Jada Houston as Employee of the Month and thanks her for the lasting impact she makes on students, colleagues, and the school community.

Dothan High School played host to 22 students from across the Wiregrass for the week-long camp.