Dutch Fork Elementary
Academy of Environmental Sciences - Week of December 31st -
District Goals 2018-2019
- Focus our work decisions on/around our district strategic plan.
- Identify areas of achievement to improve.
- Provide Chick-Fil-A and Moe's like customer service for internal and external community.
- Strengthen the structure and quality of communication both internally and externally.
- Promote a work and learning environment where students and staff feel safe physically, emotionally and socially.
DFES Goals 2018-2019
- Exceed family expectations in our communication, follow through, and sharing student progress.
- Strengthen grade level data team processes to accelerate student growth and achievement in mathematics.
- Implementation of student-led conference across all grade levels (as identified in DFES strategic plan).
DFES Beliefs
- We believe all people deserve to feel safe, valued, and loved.
- We believe all children are naturally curious about the world around them.
- We believe learning is a social process.
- We believe inquiry fosters an environment of noticing and questioning.
- We believe in learning from multiple perspectives.
- We believe in learning from authentic
- We believe in encouraging learners to be risk takers.
- We believe reflection should lead to change and growth.
- We believe learning should lead to social action.
- We believe our actions should be aligned with our beliefs.
Shout Outs
- The DFHS Lacrosse team donated gifts to one of our needy families and I would like to give them a shout out for their tremendous effort. This generous donation was spearheaded by our own Stacy Meade. I would also like to recognize all who donated to our mitten tree and pajama drive, in addition to a couple of other "secret santas" who helped out some needy families as well. They know who they are!
- There are several teachers who shared ideas and resources in their newsletters to keep learners engaged during the break. On behalf of our students and their families your thoughtfulness is greatly appreciated.
- Shout out to T. Peneva and our 5th grade strings students for their holiday performance. Additional shout to F. Myers and and 4th and 5th graders that rendered musical and dance performances as well.
Roman Gould - 4K Teacher
Romana began this school year on medical leave. Due to continued health challenges Romana has resigned from her position (effective next week) so that she can continue to kick cancer's butt and return to full health.
Romana taught for 11 years at DFES as a 4K teacher, kindergarten teacher, and first grade teacher. She is also a published author and will continue to pursue her passion as a writer.
Known for her love of cats Romana's good nature and positive enthusiasm will be missed. She epitomized making her students feel safe, valued, and loved. We are grateful for her work. Please keep beloved colleague in your thoughts, prayers, and well wishes!
5 minute Curricular Conversations January 4th
One of the goals that Dr. Melton has identified for our system this year is identifying areas of achievement to improve. Now that we have mid-year assessment results for DIBELS (kindergarten assessment) and MAP Mr. Gantt and I will meet with K-5 teachers on Thursday, January 4. All discussions will last 5 minutes (max) during planning. Please be prepared to share insights to the following questions:
- What did you notice?
What surprised you?
How well do these results line up to what you know about your readers and mathematicians?
What are you are your plans (teacher actions) to continue progress for readers and mathematicians?
How can we support your efforts?
This information was previously shared during the December 18 unit leaders meeting. Please see the google sheet below to sign up.
December 18 District Leadership Meeting Minutes
Minutes from the December 18 minutes are included. We had 3 teachers who had doctors appointments on that date and notified district leadership that they would be absent. Updates to be provided. See minutes below.
Birthday Wishes!
- 1/3 M. Congdon (Poston kindergarten assistant)
Learning Celebrations
We thought it prudent to share the schedule for learning celebrations as we return from the break. Please see the link below. For those that have led a learning celebration please send me a copy of your presentation if you have not done so. Thanks!
We develop students who care for the world we live in and express critical thinking through natural curiosity and wonder.
Email: jscott@lexrich5.org
Website: www.lexrich5.org/dutchfork/cfm/
Location: 7900 Broad River Road, Irmo, SC, USA
Phone: 803-476-3901
Twitter: @dfes_principal