DMMS: In The Middle
December, 2020
Message from the Principal
Happy New Year!
At the end of each calendar year, I reflect on the past and select one word to serve as my focus for the upcoming year. I honestly do not know where to begin with last year! In all my time as an educator, I have never experienced anything like this. So with that said, I am leaning towards the word “Grateful” for 2021. With all the unusual events there are so many things to be grateful for as we begin a new year.
Here are a few things related to our past school year:
I am grateful for the amazing DMMS Teaching and Paraprofessional Staff: They are working tirelessly to create new and engaging learning experiences for our students. Distance learning has forced all of us to rethink what and how things are taught. This is no simple task, as all of them are managing their own homes and missing the normalcy of having students in the building.
I am grateful for the committed DMMS Students: I am beyond proud to share that our students have a 98.7% attendance rate!! This is amazing and shows the commitment that our students have to their education and future! This will truly pay off when we return to in person learning .Stay committed to your learning in 21 by attending class and completing all assignments.
I am grateful for the DMMS Support Staff: They work with students and staff to make everyone successful! They are spending time with students to help them be successful both academically and emotionally. They have even been known to show up at a students homes to connect and support! Please call DMMS if we may be of assistance.
I am grateful for the DMMS Staff that Serve our Students, Families and Community: They work everyday to make a difference in the lives of our students, staff and families. They answer the phone with a smile in their voice, they clean and make sure our learning spaces are tidy and safe, they prepare meals to be given to our students, families and community. These folks make us awesome!
I am grateful for the DMMS Parents and Guardians: We literally could not have made it through the past year without the support and partnership you have given! We understand these are tough times but you have shown up, motivated and encouraged our students to participate in their learning, and for this we are GRATEFUL!
In closing, I challenge you to think of a word to focus on for 2021. Trust me - it is so much easier than a resolution! If you are feeling grateful, please reach out to an educator and share your gratitude. Everyone needs to feel appreciated. Stay healthy and have a Happy New Year!
In Gratitude,
Carmen Strahan-Molter
Holiday Break Schedule:
How to Help Students Focus on What They’re Learning, Not the Grade:
3 REASONS TO FOCUS ON PROCESS(learning) OVER PRODUCT (grade):
1. Reduce stress and anxiety
2. Develop expert learners
3. Measure what matters
Now Available! Technology Help Desk Phone Number:
Dakota Meadows Staff Gives BIG this Holiday Season!
They also shopped for, wrapped, and donated Christmas gifts for an entire family, who will not wake up to an empty Christmas tree because of their generosity.
DMMS PTA ROCKS!
Would you like to get more involve this year? The PTA offers virtual monthly meetings (you do not have to attend to be a part of PTA) , opportunities to support students and staff and a great way to serve, meet and give back to your children and their school! Get involved today!