was born in Stockton, MO April 5, 1872, to John and Syrena Dale.
Miss Dale began her teaching career in the Banner district school in 1890, teaching two terms there.
In December 1892 she was hired to teach the fourth grade. Miss Dale remained a teacher in the El Reno school system until she resigned in May 1942. She had completed 50 years of service. She was the first principal of Central School.
BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED by the Board of Education of the City of El Reno, OK, that Miss Etta Dale, Principal of the Central Elementary School of said City, shall be and is hereby designated as El Reno’s ALL-TIME MOST USEFUL AND VALUABLE CITIZEN.
Then because of WWII and the scarcity of teachers, she felt it her duty to return to the work that she loved. She did supervision work in all schools and taught in the Etta Dale Junior High.
She was a truly great teacher who inspired thousands of young people by precept and example. As a member of the Oklahoma Hall of Fame and many honored societies, she was applauded by grateful citizenship for her achievements. Her capacity of love and understanding sustained all who lived within her sphere of influence.
Miss Etta Dale passed away November 2, 1944, and is buried in the El Reno Cemetery
The Etta Dale Junior High School building was constructed in 1936 and 1937. It was dedicated on October 4, 1937, and named for the veteran teacher of the El Reno school system.