Dalton, GA — Dalton Public Schools is proud to shine a spotlight on its 21st Century Programs as we celebrated Lights On Afterschool on Thursday, October 24. This annual event, launched in 2000 by the Afterschool Alliance, celebrates the critical role of afterschool programs in enriching the lives of children, families, and communities. The event also highlights how these programs provide students with opportunities to explore new subjects, build skills, and strengthen family engagement.
Georgia's 21st Century Community Learning Centers (CCLC) programs are specifically designed to improve student outcomes in reading, mathematics, positive youth development, and parent and family engagement. Dalton Public Schools is proud to offer four such programs: Kid City North, Kid City South, Cat City, and Cat University, serving students from Kindergarten through 12th grade.
Kid City North: Located at Roan, Park Creek, and Westwood Schools, this program provides after-school care and enrichment for students in grades K-5.
Kid City South: Located at Blue Ridge, City Park, and Brookwood Schools, this program also serves students in grades K-5.
Cat City: Designed specifically for 8th-grade students at Dalton Junior High School, this program offers targeted academic and social support.
Cat University: Serving students in grades 9-12 at The Dalton Academy and Dalton High School, this program focuses on college and career readiness and personal development.
The 21st Century Programs at Dalton Public Schools provide comprehensive support for students, focusing on both academic and personal development. Students receive homework assistance and tutoring to help them stay on track with their classwork and improve their skills in reading and mathematics.
In addition to academic support, these programs emphasize health and wellness, fostering positive habits for a balanced lifestyle. Relationship building and teamwork are central to the activities, helping students strengthen their social skills and form meaningful connections. At our nine sites, students are not only supported academically but are also cared for as individuals, ensuring they grow both in and out of the classroom.
As part of the Lights On Afterschool celebration, Dalton Public Schools and 21st CCLC programs across the state will join the Georgia Department of Education in showcasing how these programs impact students and families. By providing safe, engaging environments for afterschool learning, these programs ensure that students receive the support they need to thrive both academically and personally.
For more information about our 21st Century Programs, please visit our webpage.