New partnership between Dalton State College, Murray County Schools streamlines region’s educator workforce pipeline

Published 2:00 pm Tuesday, March 4, 2025

Dalton State College and Murray County Schools have created a partnership aimed at enhancing the region’s teacher workforce pipeline.

The partnership guarantees all Dalton State education majors from Murray County student-teacher placement within Murray County Schools, and all qualified graduates of Dalton State’s School of Education who are from Murray County will be guaranteed an interview with Murray County Schools, ensuring a seamless transition from graduation to teaching opportunities.

“Strong partnerships with K-12 (kindergarten through grade 12) institutions like Murray County Schools are essential to building a robust educator workforce pipeline in our region. By working together, we can ensure that our education majors receive the practical experience and support they need to thrive as future educators,” said John Fuchko III, president of Dalton State. “This collaboration benefits our students and also strengthens the entire community by providing well-prepared, passionate teachers who are ready to make a positive impact in our schools.”

This is the second partnership aimed at strengthening the region’s educator workforce Dalton State has entered this year. Dalton State and Catoosa County Public Schools signed a letter of intent in January that provides the same streamlined process for educators in Catoosa County. The Murray County Schools partnership results in 27 K-12 schools being served by the partnerships.

“Murray County Schools is very excited to enter into this partnership with Dalton State College. As a graduate of the Dalton State teacher preparation program myself, I know how much work and care is put into training and supporting their students, and we are glad to welcome them into our schools to be mentored and guided as they work towards graduation and employment,” Tim Wright, Murray County Schools superintendent, said. “This gives us a front row seat to watch the next generation of teachers learn and grow.”

The partnership highlights a shared mission to encourage college students to consider the teaching profession and highlight the benefits of selecting Dalton State to prepare them for their teaching careers.

The partnership also supports regional workforce retention by providing qualified teachers with local job opportunities that offer competitive pay and benefits. Under the agreement, Murray County Schools will continue to offer a competitive salary and benefits package to all new teachers, helping to ensure the local talent is attracted and retained.

“Recruiting and retaining a quality and skilled workforce is a priority that impacts all organizations and institutions, including Murray County’s educational system,” Barry Gentry, president and CEO of the Murray County Chamber of Commerce, said. “Dalton State College offers exceptional opportunities for students whose path is becoming an educator, and having Dalton State College in our community provides the resources to create a solid partnership.”

Gentry added that the partnership assures and supports an ongoing recruitment and retention process that will supply Murray County Schools with quality candidates for positions as they arise, both now and in the future.

“We are confident Dalton State College will continue be a valuable resource to help build a quality workforce when it comes to educating Murray’s students,” Gentry said.

To learn more about the Dalton State School of Education, visit www.daltonstate.edu. For more information about Murray County Schools, visit www.murray.k12.ga.us.