Dalton, Ga. — Dalton Public Schools is proud to recognize Caitlin Autry as The Dalton Academy’s Teacher of the Year. A passionate science teacher and dedicated educator, Autry brings energy, innovation, and heart to everything she does—both inside the classroom and beyond.
Autry says her desire to become a teacher began at an early age. “My earliest memory as a child growing up was my desire to be a teacher,” she shared. “My mom was a teacher, and I grew up watching her as she would prepare for school each year. I wanted to be a teacher in every sense of the word.”
Autry has served Dalton Public Schools for more than a decade, beginning her career with the district in 2010. After nine years, she took on an international teaching experience in Abu Dhabi, UAE, before returning home to Dalton and joining The Dalton Academy team. Since her return, she has made a lasting impact by creating extracurricular opportunities for students, including establishing the school’s Student Council, Cheerleading squad, and a chapter of the National Honor Society.
She believes that great teaching starts with knowing and caring for her students. “Students don't care how much you know until they know how much you care,” Autry said. “I build an open and honest community within my classroom where students feel safe and valued.”
Autry uses student-driven instruction and real-world applications to make learning meaningful. “When students are in the 'driver’s seat,' they are more invested in their learning. That fact alone is immensely powerful,” she said. She encourages student exploration and creativity, often asking them to take the lead in their learning. One example of this is a chemistry project where students researched and applied the concept of “moles” on their own. Autry said many students gained a better understanding of the topic through the independent investigation.
Her commitment to professional growth has led her to participate in several national conferences, including the NSTA National Science Conference and multiple Kagan training events. She regularly implements Kagan strategies in her classroom, creating space for collaboration and peer interaction across varying ability levels and language backgrounds.
In addition to her work in education, Autry is deeply involved in the local community. She volunteers with organizations such as the United Way’s “Sharing is Caring” initiative, the Northwest Georgia Humane Society, and the Grateful Dalton Thanksgiving Meal. She has also supported youth activities and trips through First Baptist Church Dalton.
Autry’s work as a teacher, mentor, and community member reflects her dedication to making a lasting difference. “The joy I experience when my students have a 'win' is what feeds me and motivates me to continue in this career and continue to grow and learn as an educator,” she said.
Dalton Public Schools congratulates Caitlin Autry on this well-deserved recognition and thanks her for her outstanding contributions to The Dalton Academy and the greater Dalton community.