Allatoona Elementary School marked a major milestone on October 3, 2025, celebrating its 30th anniversary with a ceremony honoring the school’s history, growth, and community impact.
Guests reenacted the groundbreaking of the school grounds by planting a tree donated from Busy Bee Plant Supply in the memorial garden.
The celebration welcomed past and present leaders, alumni, community partners, and current students, highlighting three decades of educational excellence. Principal Jennifer Suárez and Assistant Principal Mrs. Davis opened the event by reflecting on the school’s journey from its groundbreaking in 1994 to its dedication in August 1995, and the expansion that followed in 2001.
“Allatoona has been home to generations of students, families, and educators who have shaped its legacy,” Suárez said. “From the Lakers to the Wildcats, we are proud to call this school our home.”
Special guests included former Superintendent Dr. Davis Nelson, who oversaw the school’s opening; Ms. Dot Frasier, then-principal of Emerson Elementary; Allatoona’s first principal, Dr. Randolph Ford; Pastor David Franklin; and parent and mentor Mrs. Jayde Rivers. The program also featured performances and presentations by the school’s chorus, video production team, garden club, and fifth grade class.
Honored guests in attendance- Deputy Superintendent Mr. Chrisitan Suttle, Chief Leadership and Learning Officer Mr. David Stephenson, Bartow County School Board Chairman Mr. Butch Emerson, Board member Mrs. Sharon Viktora. Mark Justice from Cobb EMC, Major Mark Mayton and Officer Dextor Jones Bartow Sheriff's Department, United Way, Encourage Kids to Greatness, Lake Pointe church and many more.
Adding to the celebration, Allatoona Elementary announced it has been named a Title I Reward School, (for the first time in 18 years) one of only six schools in Bartow County to earn the distinction this year. The recognition places the school in the top five percent of Title I schools in Georgia for progress in English Language Arts and Math on the Georgia Milestones Assessment.
“This honor is a testament to the dedication of our students, staff, and families,” Suárez said. “As we celebrate 30 years, we also look to the future with a commitment to carry this strong tradition forward.”
Full article can be found at the Cartersville Daily Tribune-
Allatoona Elementary celebrates 30 years | News | daily-tribune.com

