DCHS Tiger Paw Prints
January 27, 2023
SCHOOL THEME: Don't Just Fly,..SOAR!
SCHOOL MOTTO: 5G Ready: Goals, Grades, Grind, Growth & Graduation
Look, in the Sky...It's a Bird, It's a Plane, It's Kirby Smart!!!!!!
Kirby Smart's Helicopter Visit to DCHS!!
The Georgia Bulldogs have been on the road since the conclusion of the National Championship, including collectively hitting one hundred high schools as a staff last Friday. One of those high schools was yours truly, Douglas County High School! That's right, UGA Head Football Coach, Kirby Smart touched down on our football field and was met with a mighty welcome from staff and students. Coach Smart met with our head football coach, Johnny White, to discuss our football program as part of the 100 high school visits in one day. Needless to say, it was our absolute pleasure to welcome Coach Smart, who has led the Georgia Bulldogs to back-to-back National Championship victories in 2022 and 2023. While Coach Smart is busy making his rounds, he graciously provided time for photo opps with DCHS staff. #GoDawgs
International Baccalaureate Pinning Ceremony


Class of 2023 ~ A Student Only Meeting





JROTC Military Ball


DCHS DECA Achieve THRIVE Level Recognition
Douglas County High School DECA was among 525 chapters that achieved THRIVE level recognition this year and will be commended at DECA’s International Career Development Conference (ICDC) held April 22-25, 2023 in Orlando, FL.
Each fall, DECA offers four campaigns for chapters to complete as part of their program of leadership for the year. These campaigns are designed to grow membership engagement and build lasting partnerships within the school and local community. Chapters that achieve THRIVE level receive a commemorative pennant, flag, and plaque. The chapters also have an opportunity to participate in ICDC. In order to receive THRIVE level recognition, the chapter completed two out of three chapter campaigns including the community service campaign, ethical leadership campaign and promotional campaign. Alternatively, the chapter could have participated in the membership campaign which challenged the chapter to attain two of three goals: recruit 20 professional members, recruit 20 alumni members, or increase student membership by 20 more members from the previous school year.
The Douglas County High School DECA members who contributed to the THRIVE recognition were Isabel Yang, Danielle Tabe-Ebob, and Khadijah Buke, and the DECA officers with the assistance of their advisor, Ms. Janice Ritchey.
This year our chapter focused on giving back to our community with several campaigns surrounding helping the local animal shelter, the homeless, and the local school community. In addition, our chapter focused on developing its brand of student engagement through chapter meeting activities, school store and selling projects along with increased student enrollment in competition.
DECA
DCHS DECA Bound for State Competition
On December 6th, 11 of DECA’s competition team members placed in the top spots and will be
moving on to state competition in January . This is a big accomplishment for the team. Overall,
we will have 15-16 students representing DCHS at state this year. Several additional students
have been working all semester on written events, which they will present, in order to move on
to our International competition in April.
DECA is a marketing, hospitality, finance and management club. DECA competitions are an
excellent way for students to prepare for their future, practicing skills required for their ongoing education and/or the workplace. There are two parts to the regional competition. The first part requires students to take a test over general marketing and business knowledge and score a higher percentage than others in the region.
Part two requires students to take on the role of marketing, business,
or finance consultants. On the day of the competition, students are given a business situation
and as a consultant, they must present how they would handle the situation. Students are
judged on their business knowledge, communication skills and presentation.

FBLA Emblem Ceremony
The officers of Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) presented the Emblem Ceremony
during a recent meeting. The ceremony was conducted to inform and inspire current and
potential members about the purpose and mission of FBLA, “To bring business and education together in a positive working relationship through innovative leadership and career development programs.” The ceremony featured a crest and reviewed the meaning of each letter of FBLA:
Future: The word “future” reminds us that the future of the world depends upon the quality of
leadership we are able to produce. We, in FBLA, will be the future business leaders.
Business: The world of “business” is our world. To be successful, one must be educated both
formally and informally in business methods.
Leaders: The word “leaders” represents the search for knowledge in order for us to become
better citizens. This knowledge will prepare us for the task of leadership.
America: Lastly, we think about “America”. The future of America depends on our generation.
We pledge ourselves to use our abilities to make this world a better place for us all.
Thank you to DCHS FBLA Chapter Advisor, Mrs. Brenda Hence for your leadership!

DCSS District Swim Champs!
DC girls are county champions in the 400 Yard Freestyle Relay.
Pictured below from left to right are:
Sydnee Stepter, Bella Ortega, Gaby Ortega, and Sophia Turner

DCSS Swim Champion!

DCHS BASKETBALL GAMES
January 27: DCHS vs. New Manchester HS @ Home
4:30 JV Girls - Main Gym
4:30 JV Boy - Aux Gym
6:00 9th Gr. - Boys Aux Gym
6:00 Varsity - Girls Main Gym
7:30 Varsity - Boys Main Gym
January 28: DCHS vs. Paulding County @ Home
11:00 JV Boys
12:30 JV Girls
3:30 Varsity - Girls
5:00 Varsity - Boys
January 31: DCHS vs. Alexander HS @ Alexander
6:00 Varsity - Girls
7:30 Varsity - Boys
February 3: DCHS vs. Langston Hughes HS @ Home
6:00 Varsity - Girls
7:30 Varsity - Boys
February 4: DCHS vs. Alexander HS @ Home
Varsity - Girls
Varsity - Boys
2023 Douglas County Track Season

Remind Link: Enter the number 81010 and Text Message @cb3dh3
Uniform Order information:
If you need a uniform, we will have order forms available for you to fill out. All that will be required is the actual top and bottom. However, coaches recommend that you purchase the sweat-suit at the very least.
Coaches’ Numbers
Coach White 770-598-0028
Coach Forsh 770-630-5169
Coach Quinn 404-867-3275
Track Dues: $100.000 Payments can be made in two installments of $50.00
Dues cover the following: Snacks and Water during meets, Costs of meets, and Medical equipment needed during the season. IF YOU HAVE SERIOUS CONCERNS, PLEASE SEE THE COACHES!
CLEAR BAG POLICY AT ALL ATHLETIC EVENTS
DCSS has a clear bag policy at all sporting events. The policy will be similar to policies in place at college and professional stadiums and coliseums.
"The clear bag policy will help us keep dangerous or illegal items, including weapons, out of our venues," said Superintendent Trent North. "Just this month, someone entered a football game in a neighboring county with a semi-automatic firearm. By allowing only clear bags, we can monitor what's coming into our stadiums and gyms and keep everyone safer with only a minor inconvenience to those in attendance."
The following types of bags will be permitted inside DCSS sporting events:
- Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12"x6"x12"
- One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags
- Small clutch bags, with or without a handle or strap, that do not exceed 4.5"x6.5"
Did you hear the news?????
We have a "Hoopcoming" Dance February 4th.
Wear your finest winter formal attire and come dance the night away.
Check out the video below:
STUDENT OF THE MONTH
Dralen Jones

Drelan Jones - Ask any of his teachers and they will all tell you the same: Drelan is a respectable young man. He is loved by his peers who often come to him for assistance. He is always willing to lend a helping hand to others and does his best to be a voice of reason when needed. We are proud of this young man and glad to have him as a student at DCHS!
Faculty & Staff Recognition
Top Cat of the Month
Donne Taylor-Fraser - Mrs. Fraser is the speech language pathologist at DCHS. She goes above and beyond to ensure her students are serviced to the highest level. She works well with her colleagues, and communicates with parents regularly regarding the progression of their child's education.

Rookie Teacher of the Month
Priscilla Nelson - Ms. Nelson is always willing to lend a helping hand in her department when needed for morning bus duty. She goes out of her way to make sure her students participate in the Special Olympics. She gets along well with her colleagues and has her students' best interests at heart.

Staff of the Month
Terrance Lindley - Mr. Lindley is a hard worker and has devoted his time to assisting after school with extra curricular activities. He is very helpful and does whatever is asked of him. He is loved by his students who light up when he enters the classroom. Mr. Lindley is flexible and dependable and always there when you need him.

ORDER YOUR YEARBOOK NOW!!

TRIVIA QUESTION OF THE WEEK
TRIVIA FOR TEENS: CAN YOU BEAT YOUR PARENTS?
What insanely popular website debuted on Valentine's Day in 2005?
Last Week's Question: Who founded Amazon?
Answer: Jeff Bezos
NEWS YOU CAN USE
PSST!!...Parents and Students, do you want to know EVERYTHING happening in and around DCHS? Then click on this NEWS YOU CAN USE link for all announcements. Everything from fundraisers to tryouts to how to sign up for various sports and clubs! All the happenings can be found here!
Upcoming Dates
January 26: International Baccalaureate Pinning Ceremony 6:30pm in the DCHS Theatre
January 31: Pre-IB Assembly at 9:30 to review registration
February 1: National Football Signing Day in the DCHS Theatre
February 2: Senior Class Graduation Meeting (for students only) 9:00am the DCHS Theatre
February 3: Pep Rally (2nd block, 9th & 10th; 4th block, 11th & 12th)
February 6: STAR Student Luncheon 11:45am Douglasville Conference Center
February 9: Junior Parent Night 6:30pm in the DCHS Theatre
February 10: JROTC Military Ball
February 20-24: Holiday for All (except annual employees)
March 7: ACT Online Test Day
March 10: ASVAB
March 13: Teacher Workday (No School for students)
April 3-7: Spring Break for All
April 18: Underclassman Awards Night 6:30pm
May 26: DCHS Graduation at Univ. West GA 2:00pm
June 2: Report Cards mailed
SAFETY AND SECURITY...A MESSAGE FROM MRS. PARKS
To maintain the safety of our school community, the Douglas County School System Police Department will continue to implement the use of trained canines from the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office. These skilled dogs will be accompanied by DCSS administrators, and will sniff items in and around our campus. Administrators will take every effort to minimize disruption to the learning process during these searches. Thankfully, the police department has not found any evidence of any violations during our previous searches.
The Douglas County School System will initiate the random unannounced searches in response to our commitment to protect our school community’s health, safety, and welfare. The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office will continue to partner with us in our proactive efforts to maintain a safe environment for our school community. We sincerely desire that nothing illegal or against district policy be recovered during these searches. However, we must remain vigilant to maintain a positive and secure learning environment for Douglas County students. Thank you for supporting us in our efforts to keep our campus safe.
To further aid us in our mission to keep our campus safe, we will institute "Dads on Duty" to help be a beacon of hope for our youth through their presence and mentorship. To further support our children who benefit from additional mentorship, guidance and support we will continue to meet every Thursday morning in our Tiger Focus Group. This group is designed to help children address their social and emotional needs, while aiming to improve student attendance, behavior and academics.
SAFETY UPDATE: Safety APP See it, Say it, Send it

"See it, Say It, Send It" App Launch Allows Students to Anonymously Report Potential Threats
With the addition of a student app, Douglas County students are bringing safety to their fingertips. The added layer of school safety is called See It, Say it, Send It.
Sending a message through the anonymous app is quick and easy. First, students download the See It, Say it, Send It app. From there, students send a video, audio or text message. In their message, they can include anonymous information about potential school violence, drug use or bullying. When students use the app, sharing information with administrators is easier.
The app gives students a voice. Students can share information through the app, and parents can also use the phone or website to submit information. This accessibility allows pertinent information to be shared with those who need to know.
Director of School Discipline and Safety Management James Strong says this technology empowers students.
“See It, Say it, Send it not only empowers our students, but acts as an early warning system,” Strong says. “It facilitates reporting potentially dangerous situations and allows administrators to continue providing the best learning environment. This technology allows us to be more proactive in resolving matters before they ever become an issue.”
The student communications tool reflects the district’s efforts to improve safety in the school community.
“Meeting students where they are is critical,” Superintendent Trent North says. “Board members believe we must offer students a mobile way to interact with our district. Our students live in a digital generation and are redefining how we communicate. This app allows them to share critical information through text, picture messages, or video any time of day.”
Superintendent North encourages students to download the app. Along with school administrators, he sees the app as an additional way for students to share safety concerns.
Students can download the free app from Android, Apple, or Classlink. From there, they can submit a quick or detailed tip and follow the tip’s progress.
Parent Portal Login
To access your students progress reports, report cards, attendance, and grades, click the "Infinite Campus Parent Portal Set Up" link above for directions on registering for a Parent Portal account.
13.5 weeks progress reports were made available online on Nov. 11th via the Infinite Campus Parent Portal for all students and parents to view. Progress reports will not be printed, so please create an IC Parent Portal account to keep track of your child's progress.
If you need help with Parent Portal, contact the Douglas County Help Desk at parent@dcssga.org or (770) 651-2330.
Click the link below for Instrucciones del portal para padres de Infinite Campus (Espanol)
Counselor's Corner
Do you know your counselor? Your counselor is based upon your last name. The alphabet breakdown is as follows:
Last Names A-D: Shay Barnby; shay.barnby1@dcssga.org
Last Name E-K: Jari Christmas; jari.christmas@dcssga.org
Last Name L-R: Christopher Mason; christopher.mason@dcssga.org
Last Name S-Z: Genobia Babalola; genobia.babalola@dcssga.org
International Baccalaureate Academic Advisor: Suzanne Helms; suzanne.helms@dcssga.org
If you need to meet with your counselor, please schedule an appointment with him/her directly. Signs are posted throughout the school building with the QR code you can scan in order to make an appointment.
Google Class Codes:
Class of 2023 (Seniors): 24efsuw
Class of 2024 (Juniors): xsjkje7
Class of 2025 (Sophomores): 3gfsjgk
Class of 2026 (Freshman): pijk6rs
Parent-Teacher Conferences
Parents, if you would like to meet with your child's teacher, a parent-teacher conference may be scheduled through your child's counselor. Appointment times will be before or after school and may be virtual or in-person.
TECHNICAL COLLEGE SYSTEM OF GEORGIA
Find out why TCSG may be the right choice for your higher education by clicking this link.
DCHS January 2023 Scholarship Newsletter
STUDENT EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Attendance
When students are present daily, their grades and reading skills often improve—even among those students who are struggling in school. Students who frequently attend school feel more connected to their community and develop strong social skills and friendships, which are important life skills.
High School hours are 8:20-3:25.
Daily attendance is strongly encouraged.
Transportation
Late Bus Information: https://www.dcssga.org/departments/transportation/late_bus_information
HERE COMES THE BUS!
Available to parents of the Douglas County School System students
• View the real-time location of your child’s bus
• Access the app from your smartphone, tablet or computer
• Receive push notifications or email alerts
• Send your child to the bus stop at just the right time
How to Get Started
1. Download the Here Comes the Bus app or visit herecomesthebus.com
2. Click the sign-up button
3. Enter school code 79003 and click “Next” followed by “Confirm”
4. Complete the “User Profile” box
5. Under “My Student” click “Add.” Enter your child’s last name & student ID#
6. Once you confirm your information, you are ready to begin using Here Comes the Bus!
Email questions, concerns or comments to: herecomesthebus@dcssga.org
NEED A PARKING PASS?
See Mrs. Flanagan in the main office.
Students can complete the Student Parking Application prior to visiting Mrs. Flanagan
Bring your driver's license and a copy of your insurance and registration
Cost is $50 and it is payable by cash, check or money order
Parents, if your child drives to school, then they must have a parking pass.
Click here for the Student Parking Application and Vehicle Registration Form.