D-R Dispatch
Bill Runey, Superintendent of Schools
Marching into Spring
Dear DRRSD Community,
As a former basketball coach, this month always means March Madness for me; and as the weather warms up, it certainly expands the opportunities for our young people as well. Fortunately, we are just a few short weeks from "springing forward" by setting our clocks ahead, resulting in longer days.
Together...WE ARE DR!
Survey for Strategic Planning
We want to hear YOUR voice!!
Focus Groups, March 2:
Grant Work
We wanted to update you on some of the grant submissions that we have recently made to the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). We are currently awaiting word from DESE on the following grants.
The Safer Schools and Communities Initiative grant proposal is aimed at enhancing the safety and security of our school buildings. If approved, this $150,000 multi-school building security camera project will enable us to install state-of-the-art security cameras, providing comprehensive coverage and real-time monitoring capabilities. This project will ensure the safety and security of all those within the building and promote transparency and accountability. The limit from the state is three buildings, but we are planning to use other revenue to augment security in the entire district.
We have also applied for the Evidence-Based Practice Grant Fund Code: 117/225B, which will enable us to develop a comprehensive early literacy plan that includes comprehensive screening. This will provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in reading, writing, and other forms of communication. Our aim is to close the gap in performance between different student subgroups and ensure that all students have access to the same opportunities for learning and growth.
Finally, we have submitted an application for the Accelerating Literacy Learning with High-Quality Instructional Materials Grant Fund Code: 730. Our district has made it a priority to improve K-8 reading outcomes, and we believe that evidence-based literacy practices must be integrated into the instructional materials and approaches being utilized to teach students reading/literacy in our elementary schools. This will be a stronger approach to combating learning loss.
We are committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment for all students, staff, and visitors. We appreciate your ongoing support and partnership as we work to enhance the educational experience for our students.