Weekly Update
August 10th, 2023
Hello,
Growing up, I frequently cut grass with my dad, and in retrospect, he paid very well. Then, my brother helped me get my first “real job” as a hydro technician at Ryan’s Steakhouse, a buffet-style restaurant similar to Golden Corral. After working for a short time, I started dreaming about washing dishes. I was speaking to one of the managers, and I told him about the dreams of washing dishes. He told me I needed to quit if I was worried about washing dishes in the middle of the night.
I shared that story because I do not have dreams about being a principal, but I did lose sleep last Wednesday/Thursday morning. There was no thought of quitting, but instead of being better and doing better. I attribute the sleep loss to a few things, including student academic growth, grade point averages, and lunch. The loss of sleep clarified how I need to move as the principal of DHS.
As principal, I must devote time and energy to these three areas. We cannot let one area dominate the energy that each area deserves and needs. We have a role and responsibility to support the understanding and equity of grade point averages for our students. The understanding cannot come at the cost of the academic growth of our most struggling students, because they need us to act as well.
Finally, since the start of the school year, I have witnessed and had three different parents present to me lunch challenges centered around their students feeling included. In response, I am launching adopting an initiative called "We Dine Together." I am inviting anyone who may be interested to join me in working with me on this project. We aim to ensure that all DHS students feel included and have a sense of belonging.
We will address all things to support our students' growth and development to advance them in the next chapter of their lives. I ask parents to continue to advocate and help their students while remembering that DHS is here to serve all students.
Sincerely,
Duane Sprull Ed.D.
Go Bulldogs!
Join us for Curriculum Night on September 4th from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM to learn about your child's classes, expectations, and how to support their academic success. Meet their teachers, get course overviews, and understand grading policies. Don't miss this important event! For more information, CLICK HERE
Each fall semester the gifted review team looks at existing student data to discuss students’ needs and determine if further evaluation for gifted identification is needed. If you are interested in having the team discuss your child’s needs, you may complete a Recommendation for Review Form (found at the website below) and turn it in to the Gifted & Talented Specialist at your child’s school before Wednesday, October 2. No additional information is needed.
The Gifted & Talented Specialist for Decatur High School is Eleta Andrews. For more detailed information about the review process and to obtain a copy of the Recommendation for Review Form, please contact the Gifted & Talented Specialist for your school at eandrews@csdecatur.net or visit the following website: https://www.csdecatur.net/Page/581.
The Decatur Career Academy is launching a limited-spot workshop series during WIN, starting with Real Estate on Wednesday, September 4th!
Here's the deal:
- Learn about hot careers: Explore exciting opportunities like real estate agent, property appraiser, home inspector, insurance agent, and mortgage lender.
- Gain insider knowledge: Hosted by Olivia J Price Realty Group, you'll get real-world insights from industry professionals.
- Space is limited: Don't miss out – only 40 spots are available!
Ready to unlock your potential in the booming real estate market? Secure your spot now!
See you there!
Stay tuned for more exciting workshops coming soon!
9th-11th Grade Picture Day is right around the corner!
CADY will be set up at our school on September 9 to take student photos for the yearbook and IDs. Don't forget to dress for the occasion! Keep the memories alive! Right now CADY is offering $10 off your purchase when you pre-order your photos before 9.18 at CADY.com/pictureday. #smile #schoolpictures #CADY
National Honor Society Applications Coming Soon
At the beginning of September, National Honor Society applications will be emailed to juniors and seniors with a weighted 3.7 GPA or above. A message will also be sent through eBlast noting that those applications have been sent. If you have any questions, please contact Ms. Katrina M. Walker at kwalker@csdecatur.net.
Calling All Future Leaders! Applications Open for Decatur High School's Close Up Trip to D.C.!
Experience American Democracy Firsthand!
Calling all curious and civic-minded students! Join Decatur High School's unforgettable trip to Washington, D.C. with the Close Up Foundation program. This immersive experience takes place from March 30th to April 4th, 2025.
Want to Learn More?
Attend our informational meeting on Zoom on September 9th from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Learn about the program, ask questions, and discover how YOU can be a part of it!
Can't Make the Meeting? Don't Worry!
Visit our website for more information. We encourage all interested students to fill out the application form: Google Form.
Apply Today!
Don't miss this incredible opportunity to explore our nation's capital, engage in discussions with policymakers, and gain valuable insights into American government.
Buy your yearbook now!!
The 2024-2025 school year will be a memorable one for sure. We are planning on a full book, so don't lose those memories - get a yearbook now. Yearbooks can be bought at www.jostens.com and are $65 until the end of August! Through August if your purchase personalization, you get FREE icons to showcase your year! Get one today! If you have any questions please email alockhart@csdecatur.net.
Help Your School Win a $1000 Music Grant!
Attend DEF's Battle of the Bands, a family-friendly community concert, and you could help your school win a $1000 music grant! Head to the Legacy Park lawn on Friday, Sept. 6 from 5-9 p.m. for a fun evening of live music, yummy food, and community! Four CSD bands will be bringing the tunes – you BYOB (bring your own blanket) and your school spirit! The school with the largest percentage of representation will win the music grant for their school... along with a trophy and bragging rights, of course! We’ll have food vendors and sweet treats to supplement your picnic. Adults are $10 and KIDS ARE FREE! Buy tickets here.
*If cost is an issue, please email Drew@DecaturEducationFoundation.org.
PreP Rally Teen Talk
DeKalb Public Health is partnering with Decatur Housing Authority to host PreP Rally Teen Talk on September 9 from 5-7 p.m. One in five new HIV cases are among people ages 13-24. Our goal is to help youth improve their knowledge and skills related to reducing risky behaviors and effective preventive strategies to reduce the contraction of HIV/STIs.
Our program will feature a talk with a certified health educator and a safe space for students to ask questions and have open discussions. We will incorporate games, food, and giveaways including a party bus experience for Homecoming. We are asking educators and community leaders that work with our youth to share this event and encourage attendance. You can find additional information about the event at preprally.rsvpify.com.
