Dalton Public Schools -

Dalton, GA—Dalton Public Schools proudly announces that Dr. Lisa Hackney, a longtime educator and former Director of School Support for the district, was honored with the 2026 Margaret Bynum Award at the Georgia Association for Gifted Children (GAGC) annual conference.

The Margaret Bynum Award is presented to an organization or individual for outstanding contributions to gifted education in the state of Georgia. This distinguished recognition highlights Dr. Hackney’s decades of dedication, leadership, and lasting impact on gifted learners and programs within Dalton Public Schools and across Georgia.

The award is named in honor of Margaret O. Bynum, a pioneer in gifted education in Georgia who was instrumental in developing the state’s first programs for gifted children and served as the first director of the Governor’s Honors Program.

Dr. Hackney dedicated 41 years to Dalton Public Schools, including 28 years in the classroom and 13 years in administration, leaving a lasting mark on generations of students and educators. She currently serves as the Program Specialist for Gifted Education and Advanced Academics at the Georgia Department of Education, where she continues to support and advance gifted programming statewide.

“Margaret Bynum was instrumental in developing the first programs for gifted children in Georgia, and to receive an award bearing her name is truly humbling,” Dr. Hackney said. “I am deeply honored. To be recognized by the Georgia Association for Gifted Children (GAGC),an organization that shares my passion and lifelong commitment to gifted and advanced learners, makes this moment even more meaningful.”

In addition to her professional work, Dr. Hackney remains deeply involved in education through service and leadership. She is the Vice President of the Dalton Education Foundation and serves as the Association Director for Georgia Odyssey of the Mind, a program that fosters creativity and problem-solving skills in students.

“Having the privilege of teaching in the district that raised you is a gift that not everyone receives,” Dr. Hackney said. “During my first year with Dalton Public Schools, I became intrigued by a gifted student and knew I had found my calling in the place that is home. My 41 years with DPS is a treasure I hold close to my heart, and the students and teachers I was fortunate to work beside throughout those years are cherished.”

“Dr. Hackney’s impact on gifted education extends far beyond Dalton,” said Superintendent Dr. Steven Craft. “Her passion, expertise, and commitment to students have shaped programs and opportunities that benefit learners across Georgia. This recognition is incredibly well deserved.”

Dalton Public Schools congratulates Dr. Hackney on this outstanding achievement and thanks her for her continued dedication to students, educators, and the community.

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