Friday Launch
9/13/24
Good Things
Mrs. Henry's 1st grade class remembers 9/11/2001!
In Mrs. Henry’s 1st grade class, the students learned about 9/11 by focusing on bravery and kindness. They then drew colorful pictures of firefighters and people helping each other, which were proudly displayed on the classroom wall, reflecting their heartfelt understanding of the day’s significance.
DCS Cross Country Meet in Cleveland hosted by Ocoee Middle School
Safety Message from Director Newsom
Safety and Security of your children is our first priority!
Dear Parents and Guardians,
In light of recent events and the increased concern for school safety in our community, I want to address the steps we are taking to ensure the well-being of our students and staff.
First and foremost, the safety of our students is our highest priority. Recent threats and events in our area have understandably heightened concerns, and we want to assure you that we are fully committed to providing a secure learning environment.
As part of our ongoing efforts to enhance school safety, we recently conducted a comprehensive safety drill. This critical practice exercise prepared our students and staff for various scenarios. We are pleased to report that the drill went smoothly and provided valuable experience for everyone involved.
These drills are intended to ensure that our students and staff are familiar with the procedures and protocols in the event of an emergency. By practicing these procedures, we aim to minimize confusion and ensure a quick, effective response should an actual situation arise.
We also want to highlight several key safety measures that have been implemented to safeguard our school community:
1. School Resource Officers (SROs): We have two dedicated SROs on campus. Their presence enhances our security and provides additional support and guidance for our students and staff.
2. Increased Police Presence: Police officers walk the halls during their shifts each day. Their presence contributes to a heightened sense of security and ensures prompt response to concerns.
3. Safety Film on Windows: All windows throughout the school have been fitted with safety film to enhance their durability and resistance to breakage, providing an additional layer of protection.
4. Secured Doors: All interior and exterior doors are locked throughout the school day. This controlled access ensures that only authorized individuals can enter the building.
5. Single Entrance: We have designated a single entrance for all visitors, which is closely monitored to ensure that everyone entering the school has been appropriately vetted.
6. Hall Pass System: This system requires all visitors to check in and be screened before being granted access to the school. It helps to ensure that we have accurate records of all visitors and enhances our ability to monitor access to the building.
7. Enhanced Security Protocols: We have implemented additional security measures, including increased patrols and updated communication systems to better respond to potential threats.
8. Regular Training: Our staff receives ongoing training to handle various emergencies, including lockdowns, evacuations, and shelter-in-place protocols.
9. Police/Fire Departments: These departments train within our building to become familiar with its layout, which enhances their effectiveness and response during emergencies. We work closely with the Chief of Police and the Fire Chief to ensure a coordinated and efficient approach to school safety.
10. Open Communication: We believe maintaining open communication with our parents and guardians is crucial. We encourage you to reach out with information, questions, or concerns about our safety procedures.
11. Community Involvement: We value our partnership with our community. Your vigilance and cooperation play a vital role in ensuring the safety of our school environment.
We understand that discussing safety can be unsettling, but please know we are doing everything possible to protect our students and staff. If you have any concerns or suggestions, please contact us. We can create a safe and supportive environment for our children to learn and grow.
Thank you for your continued support and cooperation.
Sincerely,
Director Newsom
Important Communication Update
To ensure you receive timely updates and important information about school safety and other key matters, we use Schoolcast for our communications. If you are not currently signed up to receive these messages, please text “START” to 22383 to enroll.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Truancy Information
I want to highlight the importance of regular school attendance and its impact on your child's academic success and overall development.
Next week, you will receive a brochure containing our district's truancy and discipline information. This resource will provide you with essential details and guidelines to support your child's consistent attendance and positive behavior.
Thank you for your attention and ongoing support!
Reminder: Action Required for New Medical Consent Form
We want to remind you about an important update related to a new law in Tennessee, known as the "Families' Rights and Responsibilities Act." This legislation mandates that school nurses obtain parental consent before providing non-emergency medical care to students.
Last week, you received a consent form that aligns with this new law. Please review, sign, and return this form as soon as possible to ensure that we can continue to support your child effectively with the necessary medical care.
If you have not yet submitted the completed form or if you have any questions about the new requirements, please do not hesitate to reach out for further clarification.
Thank you for your prompt attention to this important matter.
DCS OPEN HOUSE
PTO night - September 17
SAVE THE DATES!
September 17 - PTO BINGO night
September 24 - Open House - 4:30 -6:00
October 7 - 14 - Fall Break
October 14 - Teacher Professional Development Day
October 15 - Students return