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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

Students and faculty in the 18 career and technical education programs at Dothan Tech, Dothan Preparatory Academy and Carver 9th Grade Academy will celebrate Alabama Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month February 1-28, 2026. 

Through this month-long celebration, we ask our community to join us by engaging and learning more about the critical role career and technical education plays in the future career success of our students, our regional and local workforce, and CTE’s importance to students’ academic achievement. This celebration  emphasizes the role of career and technical education in the future career success of students and its importance to their academic achievement.

"Our incredible staff works tirelessly to bridge the gap between the classroom and a career, truly changing lives in the process,” shares Ryan Richards, DCS CTE Director. “Being able to watch our students gain the knowledge and skills that will propel them into their future careers shows the true value of CTE. Having students ready to be Enrolled, Employed, or Enlisted before graduation is a focus of our work everyday. We remain committed to our mission of molding Today's Students into Tomorrow's Workforce.”

Currently, two out of every three high school students in Alabama participate in a career and technical education program. These students have an opportunity to explore their career options in more than 300 courses, earn advanced diplomas and credentials, and receive college credit. According to the Association for Career and Technical Education, research shows that many of the country’s fastest-growing occupations require the technical, communication, time management, and leadership skills taught in America’s career and technical education programs.

To learn more about Alabama CTE Month, CTE programs offered at DCS, or how your business can get involved contact Ryan Richards at ryrichards@dothan.k12.al.us and visit https://dothantech.dothan.k12.al.us/career-tech-programs for more information.

MORE INFORMATION:

Dothan City Schools has a total of 18 CTE programs between Dothan Preparatory Academy (DPA), Carver 9th Grade Academy and Dothan Tech.  The majority of our programs are located at Dothan Tech.

• Agriscience

• Army JROTC

• Automotive Technology - Dual Enrollment

• Aviation Maintenance - Dual Enrollment

• Aviation Maintenance - Dual Enrollment

• Biomedical Science

• Building Construction

• Business

• Cosmetology and Spa Techniques 

• Culinary Arts

• Graphic Arts

• Health Science

• HVAC - Dual Enrollment

• Education and Training

• Pre-Engineering

• Programming Essentials Short Certificate - Dual Enrollment

• TV Video Production

• Welding

• Worked Based Learning Co-Op

ADDITIONAL CTE MONTH ACTIVITIES:

• City of Dothan CTE Month Proclamation - Tuesday, February 3 at 10 AM at City of Dothan Commission

• Job Shadow Day - More than 100 participants will spend a half-day with local businesses on February 5th to observe and see how leaders in their potential career field interact and navigate the daily work responsibilities. 

• Be Pro. Be Proud. - C9A (February 17 - 18) - al.beprobeproud.org/

• Field Trips

  • Culinary and Ag - Beef 101 (Auburn University)

  • Cosmetology - Aveda Institutes (Atlanta, GA)

  • Engineering - University of South Alabama and AirBus tour (Mobile)

• CTSO State Leadership Conferences

  • Future Teachers of Alabama (FTA)

  • HOSA - Health Science

  • SkillsUSA (District)

• Recognition at Dothan City Schools Board of Education meeting - Tuesday, February 17, 2026

• CTE Registration for 2026-2027 School Year

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!

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Dothan City Schools to Operate on Two-Hour Delay Due to Extreme Cold Weather

Due to the forecasted extreme cold weather, all Dothan City Schools will operate on a two-hour delay tomorrow, Tuesday January 27th. All school start times will begin two hours later than their normal schedules.

School Start Times:

• Dothan City Early Education Center - 9:45 a.m.
• Head Start Center - 9:45 a.m.
• All Elementary Schools - 9:40 a.m.
• Dothan City Virtual School - 10:00 a.m.
• Dothan 6th Grade Center - 10:30 a.m.
• Dothan Preparatory Academy - 10:30 a.m.
• Carver 9th Grade Academy - 10:00 a.m.
• Dothan High School - 10:15 a.m.
• Dothan Tech - 10:15 a.m.
• PASS Academy - 10:15 a.m.

School buses will run their normal routes 2 hours delayed.

This decision is being made out of an abundance of caution to help protect the safety of our students, staff, and bus drivers during extremely cold conditions.

The Dothan City Schools Central Office will open at its regular time and operate on normal hours. Due to the delayed start, Child Nutrition Programs (CNP) will not serve breakfast tomorrow. Lunch will be served as normal.

We encourage families to plan accordingly and stay warm. We appreciate your understanding as we prioritize safety for our DCS community.

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.

All Dothan City Schools will dismiss early for Christmas and Holiday Break on Friday, December 19, 2025. Below are the staggered early dismissal times for all schools:
 

11:30am

·  All Elementary Schools

·  Head Start (Transportation will not be provided to Head Start on early dismissal days.)

·  Dothan City Early Education Center

11:45am 

·  Carver 9th Grade Academy

·  Pass Academy

12:00pm

·  Dothan High School

12:15pm 

·  Dothan 6th Grade Center

·  Dothan Preparatory Academy

·  Dothan City Virtual School

Dothan City Schools Faculty and Staff will return on January 5 and students return on January 6.

Looking to make a meaningful way to make an impact in our schools? Join us at the Jingle Jangle Job Fair on December 18!

Kelly Education will be on-site at Dothan City Schools to share opportunities for substitute teachers, paraprofessionals, bus aides, and lunchroom staff.

Bring your resume, two forms of identification, and your holiday spirit! Come meet the Kelly Education team, learn more about opportunities, and start your application on the spot!

Where

Dothan City Schools

1665 Honeysuckle Rd

Dothan, AL

When

December 18, 2025

9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

What to bring

• Resume
• 2 forms of identification

Positions and Pay Rate

• Substitute Teachers: $95 per day
• Paraprofessionals: $15 per hour
• Bus Aides: $15 per hour
• Lunchroom Staff: $15 per hour

Why work for Kelly Education?

• Weekly pay
• Flexible schedules
• Meaningful work
• Supportive school community
• Great experience for future educators.

Questions before the event?

Email Kelly Education Account Manager, Stephanie Martin, at stephanie.martin@kellyeducation.com

Dothan City Schools Encourages Community Feedback on Superintendent Dr. Garrick Askew’s 100-Day Report

Dothan City Schools is inviting parents, guardians, and community members to share their feedback on Superintendent Dr. Garrick Askew’s 100-Day Report, which was officially released on November 24, 2025. The report outlines Dr. Askew’s early observations from multiple community listening sessions, national education expert analysis, and strategic initiatives for strengthening student success and district operations.

The full report is available on the Dothan City Schools website. Read the 100-Day Report here.

To continue fostering transparency and community engagement, the district has created a dedicated email address where stakeholders can submit comments on the report and its strategic initiatives, which the DCS board of education will vote on December 16th. 

Submit Feedback Here: feedback@dothan.k12.al.us

Today, Dothan City Schools Superintendent, Dr, Garrick Askew, released his 100-Day Report. The report compiles extensive data gathered through multiple community listening sessions, more than 100 school and classroom visits, one-on-one meetings with students, staff, community members, business leaders, and families, and independent evaluations conducted by national experts in literacy, mathematics, and special education. The result is a comprehensive roadmap that outlines what the district has accomplished, where improvement is needed, and which proposed strategic initiatives will guide DCS in the near future.The 100-Day Report can be viewed here.

The Community Listening Sessions will be held at:

• Highlands Elementary School on September 22, 2025
• Dothan High School on September 23, 2025
• Dothan Preparatory Academy on September 29, 2025
• Faine Elementary School on October 01, 2025
• Carver Math Science & Technology on October 2, 2025

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

Captain Nelson began working in law enforcement in 1996. 

The additions will help accommodate the growing student populations in the district.

She has 21 years of experience inside Dothan City Schools

DCS's Whole Child initiative is a district-wide effort focused on supporting students academically, socially, emotionally, and physically through meaningful collaboration with the broader community.

Dothan High School is playing host to summer science camps.