DHS Weekly Update
Thursday, September 8, 2022
PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE
DHS Families,
Thank you all for a wonderful Curriculum Night last night! Several colleagues in other school districts who are our size or larger have also moved to a virtual event with much success. Thank you for your feedback as we plan for next year.
Starting Monday we will begin enforcing the CSD Dress Code which can be found here - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1qIhVDC0H5QpUmXO-UZu0NJ6hKbIdoMME/view. Please make sure your students are complying by not wearing hats or hoods inside the building and dressing to cover their waist, torso, midriff, chest, buttocks, and undergarments. I will share a reminder of this over the weekend with the consequences for not adhering to the dress code.
I hope you can all join us as we cheer on our JV Bulldogs on Thursday and our Varsity Bulldogs on Friday!
Rochelle L. Lofstrand, Principal
Decatur High School
Congratulations to the new DHS SLT members!
Thank you to everyone that voted.
We welcome them to the Bulldog Pack!
Tonight! - Spirit Night - September 8th
Decatur High School is having a fundraiser at City Barbeque Decatur on September 8th! Order online or in person and enjoy some BBQ—we’ll get 20% of sales from everyone who shares this post or uses our fundraiser code, FUNDA, when they order at https://www.citybbq.com/order or in the City BBQ app! Checkout the image on how to make sure the promo code is applied when ordering online. We hope to see you there and we hope this can be a fun place where people can socialize.
If you are not able to come in the evening, you can go at lunch. Just be sure to enter the code, FUNDA.
All the money fundraised will support the Blue and Gold Squad. Blue and Gold Squad matches our flag football, football players and cheerleaders with our CSD teachers and staff who have weekly check-ins with them, celebrate them at events, and surprise them with snacks on game day. We have close to 100 CSD faculty/staff sponsoring over 130 athletes through this program.
911 Ceremony
Hispanic Heritage Month
We celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 to October 15) to recognize the achievements and contributions of Hispanic American champions who have inspired others to achieve success. The observation began in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988. The theme for 2022 is "Unidos: Inclusivity for a Stronger Nation ."
NHS Applications Due before 8am on Wednesday, 9/28
On Wednesday, September 7th National Honor Society applications were emailed to juniors and seniors with a 3.700 GPA or above. If a student qualifies but did not receive an application and is not already a member, please email Ms. Walker at kwalker@csdecatur.net.
Applications are due before 8 a.m. on Wednesday, September 28th. Late applications are not accepted.
We look forward to receiving student applications. Students are encouraged to write a substantive paragraph in response to questions. Applications with sparse answers are unlikely to earn approval for membership. If you have any questions, please contact Ms. Walker (kwalker@csdecatur.net).
Gifted Review
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 and turn it in to the Gifted Specialist, Ms. Gonzalez, before October 5th. No additional information is needed. For more detailed information about the review process and to obtain a copy of the Recommendation for Review Form, please contact Jennifer Gonzalez or visit the following website: https://www.csdecatur.net/Page/581.
Class of 2023
Senior Quotes
Senior quotes are due Sep 29th. Quotes must be submitted by students via the Google form. Senior quote guidelines and the google link can be found here: Senior Quotes. Please encourage your students to leave their legacy behind.
Senior Baby Picture Spread
The class of 2023 has changed over the years and the yearbook staff wants to show these changes off! If your seniors wants to be a part of history, submit your baby picture before September 29th. Seniors OR parents can submit the photo. Learn how here: Baby Pictures.
Senior Pictures
Senior pictures need to be taken by October 31st by CADY in order to be included in the yearbook. The closest studio is the Atlanta studio located at 2030 Powers Ferry Rd., Suite 520 Atlanta, Georgia 30339 (near the Braves Stadium) and they have appointments evenings and weekends. There is one more Road Shoot here at Decatur on October 8 and there are still appointments available in the afternoon. Please go to cady.com/schedule in order to schedule your time slot now. Anyone who needs financial assistance for the sitting fee should reach out to Principal Lofstrand, rlofstrand@csdecatur.net. If you have any other questions please email the yearbook sponsor Ms. Lockhart at alockhart@csdecatur.net.
Senior Ads.
This is the perfect time to purchase a Senior Ad and send your senior off with the memories of the past and some wise words for the future!! Please see the Jostens website for more information. The final due date to purchase a Senior Ad is October 31 but space is limited and on a first-come, first-serve basis, so get your order in now! Ads will be designed by the yearbook staff, and once an ad is purchased, the yearbook staff will reach out to you to let you know how and when to send pictures and words in. If you have any questions please email the staff at indecatur@csdecatur.net
Buy a Yearbook!
The 2022-2023 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
Books can be bought at www.jostens.com and are $55 until Homecoming!
Get one today! If you have any questions please email alockhart@csdecatur.net.
CSD Athletics News and Updates
Tonight! DHS/BHMS Swimming & Diving Interest Meeting
All students and parents interested in learning more about our Swimming & Diving program at Decatur High and Beacon Hill Middle Schools should plan to attend the interest meeting scheduled for September 8th. The meeting will take place in the BHMS Cafeteria and begin at 6pm. If you have any questions, please contact Coach Buckley (DHS) kbuckley@csdecatur.net or Coach Randall (BHMS) mrandall@csdecatur.net
Decatur Bulldog Booster News
Next DBB Meeting: Sept. 12
Decatur Bulldog Boosters is made up of parents and guardians who plan fun events, build Bulldog spirit and raise money to support 750 student athletes on 25 teams representing 17 sports at DHS and BHMS. We’re always looking to expand our team. Join us at our next meeting in the DHS Performing Arts Center (PAC) hospitality suite at 6:30 p.m.
New Bulldog Spirit Wear
T-shirts, hats, football jerseys, flags, pennants and more. Come by the Booster table at home football games to load up on new Bulldog swag or shop online HERE.
Renew your DBB membership to purchase your GoFan ticket package in time for the game. Tickets are shareable among family members for game admittance and those purchasing at the Family Booster level and above will receive a free spirit item.
Concession Help Needed
Watch the game while helping to raise money for Decatur Athletics. Sign up HERE for both JV and/or varsity football games. More opportunities will be available throughout the year.
Next PTSA Meeting - In Person - DHS Learning Commons
DHS SLT News
Next SLT Meeting
DISTRICT NEWS
Free and Reduced Price Meal Benefits
To continue free or reduced-price meal benefits for students, each household must complete a new application every year. Free and Reduced Meal Benefits will end on September 13, 2022, if the household has not reapplied for SY 2022-2023. If there is an interruption in benefits or the household does not reapply, the household is responsible for payment of meals until the Free and Reduced Application is processed. To help assure the continuation of benefits, the household must have an online or paper application turned in to the school cafeteria manager before September 13, 2022, or complete an online application by September 13, 2022, on the City Schools of Decatur’s webpage. Parents should be sure to list all the students in the household on the application. Only one application is necessary per family. Keep in mind that the application may take up to 10-days to process. If your child receives SNAP or TANF, you do not need to complete an application.
If you have any questions, please contact Tiffany Lawrence, City Schools of Decatur Nutrition Program, at tlawrence@csdecatur.net or (470) 237-0368 ext 7607.
CSD Strategic Plan Input Session and Survey
Thank you to everyone that attended the input session on Tuesday! If you were unable to attend, you still have time to participate in the survey, which will remain open until September 13. Click here to participate in the survey.
Superintendent Search Community Conversation
The City Schools of Decatur Board of Education values input and feedback. The community is invited to engage in a facilitated conversation to share feedback for consideration as the Board prepares to develop the leadership profile for the Superintendent position. The Board is excited to offer two in-person opportunities for the community to engage and share their thoughts. You may attend either September 14, 2022, or September 28, 2022. A survey will be available for those unable to participate in one of the in-person events.
Although it is not required to attend, we are asking for anyone wishing to attend one of the in-person sessions to please register via this form.
Registering ahead of time will help us better plan the events and breakout sessions.
Event details:
Session One: Wednesday, September 14, from 6-7:30 pm in the Decatur High School cafeteria.
Session Two: Wednesday, September 28, from 6-7:30 pm in the Decatur High School cafeteria.
DHS Cheerleading Minicamp Fundraiser
The DHS Cheerleaders are hosting a minicamp to help promote Bulldog Spirit while raising funds to support the DHS cheer program.
If your child is between the ages of 4-12 and wants to experience cheering in the Homecoming parade and before the Homecoming Football game, sign up today for the minicamp!
Camp dates: September 12 - 14 Minicamp 4:30 - 6:00 pm
September 29 Practice and Mini Camp Swag Pick-Up 4:30 - 6:00 pm
Parade and Game date: September 30
Cost: $50
Click here to sign up. If you have any questions, please contact Ashaki Stinson (astinson@csdecatur.net) or Saadia Foy (sfoy@csdecatur.net).
Parent Literacy Events
The Teaching and Learning Department is excited to host several parent-focused literacy events this school year. The September sessions are listed below. Stay tuned for information about additional programs scheduled for the remainder of the school year.
September Events:
September 15 at 4:00 pm: American Reading Company (ARC) Virtual Parent Education: Comprehensive Literacy for Turbulent Times - The Power Behind a Knowledge Building Curricula
If you have any questions about these events, please contact the Teaching and Learning Department at csimon@csdecatur.net.
Connected Sessions
Connection Sessions are conversations between CSD's Equity Director, various invited guests, and the CSD POGM* community. During each session, community members are introduced to a person who is integral to supporting the school system while we discuss thoughts, interests, and concerns regarding City Schools of Decatur. Each session uses a racial equity lens - always asking the question - "What does race have to do with this?"
These sessions may not always have the answers, but they provide an opportunity for members of Decatur's POGM community (as well as all others) to explore perspectives, pose questions, and share thoughts.
Each meeting starts at 6 pm. Access it by using the following link: https://tinyurl.com/2yuj2tbs.
September TBD, 2022 - Adena Walker, Chief of Human Resources, CSD
October 17th, 2022 - Billy Heaton, Principal, Talley Street
November 14th, 2022 - Courtney Burnett, Chief of Staff, CSD
December 19th, 2022 - Karen Newton-Scott, Principal, FAVE
* People of color, despite being minoritized in the US, are a global majority. Thus, previously entitled BIPOC Connection Sessions, the name of this event is now Connection Sessions for POGM (People of the Global Majority). There is conflict regarding the use of the term BIPOC and this article details many relevant concerns. In short, the term BIPOC, which stands for Black, Indigenous, and Other People of Color, elevates some cultures over others in a way that does not reflect the respect each culture deserves.
Special Education Parent Engagement- September Meeting
disAbility Link - Empowering Youth
Mr. William Thomas, Youth & Diversity Supervisor for disAbility Link, will give an overview of the services and supports offered through the Empowering Youth program for youths ages 14-29. disAbility link provides but is not limited to employment support, self-advocacy, social activities, and peer support.
Target Audience: Parents of students with disabilities ages 14-22 years old
Date: September 15
Time: 6-7pm
Location: Virtual
To RSVP, click this Link or email Cheryl Grant at cgrant@csdecatur.net.
For more information, please see the August Welcome Back Flyer.
Community Partner Announcements and Updates
B.Y.O.P (Bring your own picnic) THIS SATURDAY to Legacy Park from 4-8pm for some incredible live music from JohnBoy & SurroundSound and The Sundogs. Opening artists are talented DHS students songwriters and musicians Payton Kashdan and Nate Helfrich. There will be kids’ activities led by Decatur Prevention Initiative and student groups selling drinks and treats. Bring the family and come celebrate DEF’s 20th anniversary of supporting Decatur’s kids with the community! It’s going to be a great afternoon. This event could not happen without our presenting sponsor, Bark Technologies and partner Amplify. Thank you, Bark and Amplify!
Would you make a great tutor, mentor or coach for a Decatur student? We’ve got spots available for all those types of positions! Make a big impact in as little as 1-4 hours per month, depending on the role you choose. Go to www.decatureducationfoundation.org/mentoring to learn more about each opportunity and sign up. Together, we make a difference for #ourkids.
MADISON AVE DERBY - REGISTRATION OPEN
Don't miss your chance to be a part of one of Decatur's most iconic neighborhood events! Driver registration is now open for the 11th Annual Madison Avenue Derby, the non-motorized racing event where amateur racers of all ages design and build human-powered soapbox cars to compete against the clock in a downhill race!
Join the excitement as a racer or spectator on October 15, 2022, for a day of family-friendly fun - proceeds from the event this year go to support the Friends of Refugees! REGISTER TO RACE NOW
Decatur High School
Email: noreply@csdecatur.net
Website: csdecatur.net/DHS
Location: 310 North McDonough Street, Decatur, GA, USA
Phone: 404-370-4170