Weekly Update
August 10th, 2023
Hello,
I want to be brief today and emphasize our commitment to the districtβs strategic goals of ensuring that All Means All . There is nothing more important to me than the safety and security of our students physically and mentally. One of the key reasons I have stayed at DHS as a parent and employee since 2007 is the community's dedication to valuing and accepting the diversity of our schoolβs viewpoints, perspectives, and beliefs. We will continue to support all students, staff, and faculty at DHS. It's important for you to know that we are here for our stakeholders, and we encourage anyone in need of assistance to reach out so we can provide help in any way possible. Sometimes, we may not be aware of those who require support. I want to reiterate, at DHS, All Means All, and we are committed to supporting all of our students, staff, and faculty.
Sincerely,
Duane Sprull, Ed.D
CSD Hosts Public Hearings for Homestead Exemption Opt-Out (Georgia HB-581)
CSD will host five hearings in January for the public to learn more about the district's plans to exercise the one-time option for local governments to opt out of Georgia House Bill 581, which establishes a statewide floating homestead exemption and cap on property taxes.
The schedule for the remaining public hearing is:
Thursday, January 30, 6:45 p.m. (virtual only, access the meeting here)
Passed during the 2024 Legislative Session, HB 581 impacts property taxes for cities, counties and school districts by capping the annual increase in property values for tax purposes, effective January 1, 2025. The bill aims to provide property tax relief for local residents, using the Consumer Price Index as an inflationary index. Since school districts rely heavily on property taxes for funding, this cap could impact the availability of CSD schools' resources and programs.
The Board of Education will follow the legal procedures to opt out of the exemption, including holding the three virtual public hearings. Following the hearings, the board will vote to adopt an opt-out resolution at the February Board of Education meeting and file the resolution with the Secretary of State by March 1, 2025.
ππ©πͺ Big Congratulations to the Decatur High School German Club! ππ©πͺ
On January 17th and 18th, 14 members of the club attended the 2025 Georgia State German Convention in Covington, GA. Competing against schools from all over the state, they brought home some amazing awards:
π Eleanor Sterne:
- π₯ 1st place Vocabulary Bee
- π₯ 2nd place Written Test
π Kendal Henderson:
- π₯ 2nd place Partner Work
π Allister Lowery:
- π₯ 2nd place Partner Work
- π₯ 2nd place Role Play
π Jack Diamond:
- π₯ 2nd place Vocabulary Bee
π Maia Eastman:
- π₯ 1st place Trivia Test
- π₯ 2nd place City Tour
π Charlotte Kemper:
- π₯ 1st place Written Test
- π₯ 1st place Spelling Bee
- π₯ 1st place Vocabulary Bee
- π₯ 1st place Extemporaneous Speaking
In group competitions, Decatur High School also claimed π₯ 1st place in the Quiz Bowl against a field of very strong teams! π
π« Most importantly, everyone had lots of fun and represented DHS with pride! ππ
β³οΈ Calling all Aspiring Golfers! β³οΈ
Sugar Creek Golf & Tennis is hosting tryouts! If you're interested in showcasing your skills and joining our talented group of players, mark your calendars for the following dates:
ππ»ββοΈDates: February 5, 6, and 7
ππ»ββοΈTime: 4:15 p.m.- dusk
ππ»ββοΈLocation: Sugar Creek Golf & Tennis
Important Note: You must register in advance to participate in the tryouts. Please CLICK HERE to register.
We encourage all interested players to come out and give it their best shot! This is your chance to impress the coaches and earn a spot on our team.
We look forward to seeing you on the course!
#SugarCreekGolf #TeamTryouts #GolfSeason
Sign up for the STEM Fair
Sign up for the STEM Fair and win up to $500 in prizes! The STEM Fair is great for building college applications, broadening your network of science-minded people, and getting big bucks.
The fair will be on Monday, March 10, 2025 in the DHS cafeteria. Groups can have up to five members. Filling out the Google form is not a commitment to be in the fair, but in order to be eligible to showcase your project and win prizes, you must pay a $5 sign up fee. Last year, Mr. Semrad said that he would change his last name to Mr. STEMrad if we got at least 100 people to sign up. This offer may still be available.
DCA Interview Skills Workshops-Prepare for Success
Exciting Workshop Opportunity for CTAE Students!
Weβre excited to announce that Neil Kent, Owner of Express Employment Professionals-Midtown Atlanta, will be hosting two interactive workshops on February 5th and 12th to help students prepare for job interviews.
These Preparing for an Interview Workshops are designed to build confidence and sharpen key skills for real-world success. Students will:
- Practice mock interviews and receive constructive feedback.
- Learn how to respond to common interview questions effectively.
- Improve communication, body language, and professional presentation.
- Gain tips on crafting strong resumes, professional email etiquette, and creating a polished online presence.
The workshops aim to equip students with tools to stand out and succeed in any job opportunity.
When: February 5 & 12
Donβt miss this chance to gain practical skills for your future career!
DHS School Climate Survey
Please take our schoolβs climate survey and make your opinion count! This survey expires March 31, 2025. Survey participation is critical because the data will be used to calculate School Climate Star Ratings for the 2025-26 school year. City Schools of Decatur appreciates the contributions of parents, students, and staff!
Call for Auction Donations
Plans are underway for another amazing event to raise money for Decatur Athletics β The Bulldog Bash! Save the date for this year's event on Saturday, March 22, at Independent Distilling Company. The event will feature a live online auction that includes everything from artwork and experiences to trips, restaurant gift cards, sporting event tickets, self-care, and more.
Do you have a connection, talent, vacation home or something unique that can help us raise money for our student-athletes? If so, please fill out this form! More information to come!