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| Date |
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| 5/02/13 |
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Public Hearing on Proposed 2013-2014 Local Budget |
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| 4/22/13 |
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SWAP (System Wide Advisory Panel) Meeting |
Dr. Mock is excited to conduct the 39th DCS SWAP (System Wide Advisory Panel) Meeting.
S.W.A.P. meets one to three times during the school year; discussion topics are chosen by attending members who have questions or who want to become more informed about school matters.
This is the 14th year and the 39th meeting in which Superintendent Fred Mock has invited citizens to share their thoughts and questions with him in a discussion format. Residents of Davidson County school district are welcome to attend any and all meetings.
Our schools are in a transformation process and this open forum will provide a relaxed platform to discuss topics such as
The Common Core and Essential Standards, accountability for students and schools, possible legislation changes, and other contemporary educational issues.
Please see attached poster.
All media is invited to attend. |
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| 3/05/13 |
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DCS Board Meeting 3-4-13 |
Baseball, volleyball added to middle school sports
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
Middle school students in the Davidson County School system will have their chance to play baseball and volleyball at their respective schools starting next school year.
The board of education approved expanding athletic programs Monday at its monthly meeting. The schools currently have football, girls and boys basketball and softball teams.
"We talked to principals quite a bit. I think the schools are ready to go. We have a few hurdles, but we can cross them," said Dr. Phil Rapp, the system's special projects director.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20130304/News/303049978/1005?p=1&tc=pg |
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| 2/26/13 |
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Weather Alert - Tuesday, February 26, 2013. |
The message below is for Tuesday, February 26, 2013.
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| 2/22/13 |
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Weather Alert - Friday, February 22, 2013. |
The message below is for Friday, February 22, 2013.
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| 2/18/13 |
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Early College principal retires, believes school makes a difference |
Early College principal retires, believes school makes a difference
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
Being in education for 48 years comes with many changes and excellent experiences if you ask Dr. Larry Allred.
Allred, the principal of Davidson Early College High School, retired at the end of January. Catherine Gentry, who was an English teacher at the school, was voted as the interim principal until June 30.
"What makes my job worthwhile is seeing parents and students' faces at graduation and faculty faces," Allred said. "It gives you a sense of perception you have contributed to something good for the benefit of students. I think we have made a significant difference. That's what keeps me going. I appreciate everything the community has done."
Allred, who is originally from the Greensboro area, came to the Early College in 2005. Prior to Davidson County he had been an elementary and middle school teacher, district middle school coordinator, chairman of teacher education and dean of education at private and public institutions.
He received a doctorate in curriculum and instruction and master's degree in education, both from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. His elementary education degree is from Elon University.
He said the Early College struck his attention because it focused on students in between high school and college. The school opened in 2004 as the Middle College. Allred said there was a director in place before he became the first principal. Allred said the school went from 40 to 120 students.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20130218/News/302189998/1005?Title=Early-College-principal-retires-believes-school-makes-a-difference |
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| 2/11/13 |
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Davidson County Schools Teacher of the Year |
Brier Creek teacher chosen to represent county schools
Brier Creek fifth-grade teacher Brandy Reeder stands with her students in her classroom Friday morning. Reeder was recently named the Davidson County Schools Teacher of the Year.
Donnie Roberts/The Dispatch
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
THOMASVILLE | Brandy Reeder, fifth-grade teacher at Brier Creek Elementary School, gives praises to her students, colleagues and administrators for being chosen as the 2012-13 Davidson County Schools Teacher of the Year.
“I couldn’t believe it,” Reeder, 38, said. “All the people in the county are teachers of the year all the time. This is an awesome place to be. I work for some of the hardest-working people. It was amazing like I was on top of the world. It wasn’t just me … it was my kids, too.”
Reeder, who is in her 15th year of teaching, has taught at Fair Grove, Hasty and now Brier Creek elementary schools. She has been at Brier Creek for the past eight years.
She said it was an honor to be selected by her peers.
“I was so humbled because it means so much for the people you work with every day to recognize your efforts,” she said. “It’s like your family saying you’re doing a good job. I wanted to make sure I represented my (school) family and make them proud.”
She said the process on the district level was energizing to her because it gave her the chance to reflect. Reeder moved on to the regional competition and did not make it any further.
“It was an amazing experience,” she said. “I just appreciate the experience of representing the county. I’m so happy to be part of it. There are a lot of good things going on in Davidson County.”
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20130211/NEWS/130209970/1074?Title=Brier-Creek-teacher-chosen-to-represent-county-schools |
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| 2/05/13 |
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Davidson County Middle School Model UN Competition to be held at South Davidson |
The South Davidson High School Debate Club will host the Davidson County Middle School Model United Nations Competition on April 20, 2013. Model UN is an academic simulation of the United Nations that aims to educate participants about current events, topics in international relations, diplomacy and the United Nations agenda.
The participants role-play as diplomats representing a nation of the United Nations. Participants research a country, take on roles as diplomats, investigate international issues, debate, deliberate, consult, and then develop solutions to world problems. Over 90,000 students take part in Model United Nations Conferences in the United States each year.
Over the past two years, SDHS Debate Club members have won statewide awards for their participation in these competitions. These student leaders, who will serve as the committee chairs for the competition, feel this will introduce more students to the world of Model UN and expand participation within Davidson County.
Activities for the Davidson County MUN Competition will include a "boot camp" for participants to learn Parliamentary Procedure, resolution writing, and proper debate techniques as well as a real world simulation of the United Nations experience. Awards will be presented in each committee for outstanding participation. No experience is required, just an open mind and willingness to learn.
Any middle school student in Davidson County is welcome to participate and can contact Lisa Paul at lpaul@davidson.k12.nc.us to receive application materials. There is a participant cost of $20 that is used to provide materials as well as lunch. Financial need can be considered to waive the cost of participation.
Please click here for the application and other additional information.
Contact information:Lisa Paul
lpaul@davidson.k12.nc.us
336-242-5700 |
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| 2/05/13 |
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Brier Creek, Tyro elementaries request afterschool programs |
Brier Creek, Tyro elementaries request afterschool programs
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
More schools are jumping on board to take advantage of the afterschool program that is being offered by Davidson County Schools at their respectively schools.
Brier Creek and Tyro elementary schools filed applications to initiate learning academies for next school year. Both Northwest and Southwood Elementary schools served as pilots of the program this school year.
Superintendent Dr. Fred Mock said the schools requested to be considered for the 2013-14 year. No action was taken. Mock noted a vote will take place at the March meeting.
School officials decided in May 2011 to house its own program within schools after visiting similar programs in other counties. The focus of the academies is to offer remediation for students with staff members, offer homework assistance by highly qualified employees and educational game time for learning. Several hands-on activities and field trips are also part of the plan.
In a document, Brier Creek requested to have the program because there was a community stakeholder interest and the school wanted to create an opportunity for students to remain on campus to receive additional academic support. They projected 40 to 50 students to enroll. The weekly fee is projected at $35 and reduced fees for disadvantaged students will be determined on an individual basis.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20130204/NEWS/302049983/1005?p=1&tc=pg |
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| 1/28/13 |
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Weather Alert - Monday, January 28, 2013. |
The message below is for Monday, January 28, 2013.
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| 1/26/13 |
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SAT Cancelled - Saturday, January 26, 2013. |
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| 1/25/13 |
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Weather Alert - Friday, January 25, 2013. |
The message below is for Friday, January 25, 2013.
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| 1/18/13 |
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Weather Alert - Friday, January 18, 2013. |
The message below is for Friday, January 18, 2013.
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| 1/17/13 |
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Weather Alert - Thursday, January 17, 2013 |
The message below is for Thursday, January 17, 2013.
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| 1/09/13 |
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County schools seek input through graduation project survey |
County schools seek input through graduation project survey
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
Davidson County Schools is seeking feedback on the graduation project through a survey.
Dr. Denise Hedrick, assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction for the system, presented the board of education with the information Monday that will be sent to students, teachers and parents who participated in the project in the first semester of this school year.
The graduation project was implemented locally in 2007 starting with the graduating class of 2008 when seniors completed the project before graduation. In 2009, a change was made where students began working on their projects as freshmen and completed the assignments during their high school years. Then two years later the graduation project became part of the senior English project.
The work promotes academic research, community service and job shadowing. It consists of four components: research paper, portfolio, product and presentation.
This is the first time the survey has gone out to the community. After information is gathered, Hedrick said, a committee will be formed to analyze the data. She also requested a member of the board join the group.
The board also heard an update on the system’s credit recovery initiatives.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20130108/NEWS/301089978/1005?Title=County-schools-seek-input-through-graduation-project-survey |
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| 12/14/12 |
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Coble presents flag to Davis-Townsend students |
Coble presents flag to Davis-Townsend students
Rep. Howard Coble, R-6th, left, hands an American flag on Friday to Davis-Townsend Elementary School student Brandon Snipes, 11, and his younger sister, Lauren Snipes, 9. The flag is in honor of the Snipes' grandfather, Master Sgt. James C. Snipes, who served during World War II.
By Nash Dunn
The Dispatch
Davis-Townsend Elementary School will soon fly an American flag that once soared high above the U.S. Capital in Washington.
Rep. Howard Coble, R-6th, personally delivered the flag Friday to siblings Brandon and Lauren Snipes, in honor of their grandfather who served in World War II. In turn, the children gave the flag to Davis-Townsend Principal Steve Reynolds, to use at the school.
Brandon and Lauren never knew their grandfather, Master Sgt. James C. Snipes, who served on the front lines for seven months and later died in 1979 of pancreatic cancer, said Sharon Sellers, the widow of James Snipes and the grandmother of Brandon and Lauren.
“He was a very honorable man,” Sellers said, adding that her first husband received several Bronze Star Medals and was also honored with the Peace Medal.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20121214/NEWS/121219986/1005?Title=Coble-presents-flag-to-Davis-Townsend-students&tc=ar |
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| 12/04/12 |
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Academies are focus of meeting |
Academies are focus of meeting
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
School officials are excited to continue and strengthen the learning academy at two elementary schools, according to an update given Monday to the Davidson County Board of Education.
Principals Marivee Miles, of Northwest Elementary School, and Ashley Lemley, of Southwood Elementary School, reported positives and things to consider for the afterschool program that was started this school year.
The board approved hosting its own afterschool program this past May. At that time those schools were part of the J. Smith Young YMCA afterschool program where officials came to the school site in the afternoon and provided enrichment activities. The change created a little controversy between parents who were concerned about the prices being different, the students being familiar with the YMCA staff and the YMCA being faith-based, for example.
It was reported the system looked into the alternative afterschool program after school officials visited a similar program in Randolph County that housed its own program within its schools. The purpose of the academies is to offer remediation for students with staff members, offer homework assistance by highly qualified employees and educational game time for learning. Several hands-on activities and field trips are also part of the plan. Prices to attend range from $35 to $50 per week.
Lemley said the communication between staff that operates the program and faculty members has been good due to having someone on-site. There are 58 students enrolled and four staff members.
“Our program is going very well. We’re very excited to extend learning past the school day,” Lemley said.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20121203/NEWS/121209996/1005?Title=Academies-are-focus-of-meeting |
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| 10/09/12 |
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Reeds principal chosen to represent district in regional competition |
Reeds principal chosen to represent district in regional competition
Reeds Elementary School Principal Christie Weatherly, the Davidson County Schools' Principal of the Year, holds a card Wednesday that was made by students who raise their hands in celebration of Weatherly.
Donnie Roberts/The Dispatch
By Deneesha Edwards
REEDS | What better way to celebrate your 25th year in education than by being named the Davidson County Schools Principal of the Year.
Reeds Elementary School Principal Christie Weatherly has been selected to represent the district during the regional competition for Wells Fargo Principal of the Year.
"It was an honor to be recognized by my peers. I was quite shocked," Weatherly said. "It was an incredible group of principals I was up against. It could have been any one of us. I just want to do a good job and represent our county well. It's not just representing me, I represent all the administrators in Davidson County. It's not just for me, it's for all of us because I know how hard these guys work."
Dr. Fred Mock, superintendent of Davidson County Schools, congratulated Weatherly and wished her well.
"Mrs. Weatherly is highly valued by her school community and her peers in the school system," he said. "She models standards and ethics that encourage high level of performances. Her pleasant manner is accommodating and sensitive to the needs of her students and families."
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20121008/NEWS/310089973/1074?Title=Reeds-principal-chosen-to-represent-district-in-regional-competition |
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| 9/28/12 |
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Career Academy debuts to the public |
Career Academy debuts to the public
Dr. Tony Habit, president of N.C. New Schools Project, gestures toward the 51 students of the Yadkin Valley Regional Career Academy during his speech Wednesday at the school's official grand opening.
Donnie Roberts/The Dispatch
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
Davidson County showcased its newest addition Wednesday during a grand opening celebration that highlighted an innovative approach to education and the business industry.
The Yadkin Valley Regional Career Academy was the focus for nearly 90 people who in some way had input in the school's development or will partner with it in the near future.
"This is an exciting day as we officially open the doors to the Yadkin Valley Regional Career Academy," said Barry Sink, co-chairman of the steering committee. "Thanks to the hours of hands-on (work) … all of this has brought our dream to a reality."
Sink noted the academy on Holly Grove Road is a new model of innovative education focusing on entrepreneurship; the science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM, training workforce; and 21st century work skills. He said it will be an economic driver for Davidson County and the region. The project-based learning technique engages students, Sink said. He said the school's career paths focus on advanced manufacturing, global logistics and health sciences.
Sink also thanked Davidson County Community College for its partnership with the school. He said DCCC has provided phenomenal support. With the college's help, students will be able to take college courses and have the opportunity to graduate with an associate's degree.
DCCC President Dr. Mary Rittling reflected on early conversations that initiated ideas in 2004 to address what was happening in the community with job loss and the economy and what could be done to prevent it from happening in the future.
Read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120926/NEWS/309269983/1005?Title=Career-Academy-debuts-to-the-public |
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| 9/28/12 |
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Dedication planned for Oak Grove Middle School |
Dedication planned for Oak Grove Middle School
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
Oak Grove Middle School is preparing for its special day where community members are invited to tour the new facility.
Facts
Want to see?
Oak Grove Middle School's dedication will take place at 3 p.m. Oct. 7 at 1771 Hoy Long Road. There will be a tour of the school and reception after a ceremony.
Davidson County Schools and the Davidson County Board of Commissioners will hold a dedication at 3 p.m. Oct. 7 at 1771 Hoy Long Road that will also serve as an open house.
"We welcome anyone to come see the school we are truly proud of," said Carol Crouse, chairwoman of the Davidson County Board of Education.
Slightly more than 700 students have officially been in the building for about a month. The school was built to help with overcrowding at North Davidson and Ledford Middle schools. The mascot is the Grizzlies, and colors are black, silver and teal.
Sam Watford, chairman of the Davidson County commissioners, said a couple of months ago he and a couple of other commissioners visited the school. He's anxious to return to see the finished product.
"It's extremely impressive," Watford said. "It's something we all can be proud of."
Davidson County Schools hosts a dedication for each of its new schools. E. Lawson Brown Middle School was the last middle school built for the system in 1975.
Construction for the school started at the end of 2010. The 114,000-square-foot building is on a portion of 132 acres. A future high school will also be built adjacent to the middle school on the land.
"If there is a need, it's our job to fund it," Watford said.
Crouse asked attendees to be on the lookout for the cafeteria's solar lighting and the 16-foot hallways. The other schools have 14-foot hallways. She said the gymnasium is also something impressive visitors should see.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120927/NEWS/309279983/1005?Title=Dedication-planned-for-Oak-Grove-Middle-School |
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| 9/28/12 |
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Oak Grove Dedication |
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| 9/25/12 |
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SAT scores increase in county, decrease in cities |
SAT scores increase in county, decrease in cities
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
Davidson County Schools was the only system in the county to increase its Scholastic Aptitude Test scores from the previous year.
Facts
SAT AVERAGE SCORES:
School, 2012, 2011
Central Davidson, 1433, 1409
Early College, 1571, 1643
East Davidson, 1468, 1426
Ledford, 1491, 1494
North Davidson, 1509, 1476
South Davidson, 1520, 1394
West Davidson, 1480, 1433
Davidson County, 1486, 1461
Lexington, 1257, 1320
Thomasville, 1225, 1271
State, 1469, 1475
For more information, go to www.ncpublicschools.org
However, both Lexington and Thomasville City Schools had more students take the test in 2012 than 2011.
The N.C. Department of Public Instruction released the 2012 scores Monday that are based on the most recent SAT taken by public and private school graduating seniors.
The SAT, developed by the College Board, measures mathematical and critical reading reasoning skills that are related to academic performance in college. It also includes a writing component that is not commonly reported as part of the combined SAT scores but has been included in the test since 2006. The SAT is one of the major college entrance requirements for high school students.
On the state level, the average for mathematical, critical reading and writing scores for 2012 was 1469, which is a decrease from 1475 in 2011. The state reported scores of 506 in math, 491 in critical reading and 472 in writing. Also the state had 68 percent or 63,271 students take part in the SAT.
Davidson County Schools' combined average score was 1486. Last year, students from all seven high schools averaged 1461. The system's average score for math was 516, critical reading 497 and writing scores 473. The 2011 numbers were 510 in math, 488 in critical reading and 463 in writing.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120924/News/309249985/1005?Title=SAT-scores-increase-in-county-decrease-in-cities |
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| 9/05/12 |
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Pilot Elementary School receives state Title I award |
Pilot Elementary School receives state Title I award
Pilot Elementary School has been designated as a Title I Reward School for being among the highest performing in the state.
The recognition from the N.C. Department of Public Instruction identifies schools that are among the top 10 percent of all Title 1 schools in the state for sustaining student achievement over a number of years.
A letter from Dr. June Atkinson, N.C. Superintendent of Public Instruction , said, "The school has exhibited excellence by helping students achieve high academic performance for three consecutive years." Atkinson also said the school's hard work and determination have resulted in significant student success and should provide inspiration to other schools across the state.
read more:http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120905/News/309059994/1005?Title=Pilot-Elementary-School-receives-state-Title-I-award |
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| 9/05/12 |
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Policies touch on graduation requirements and exam exemption |
Policies touch on graduation requirements and exam exemption
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
Davidson County high school students could see a minor change in graduation requirements and exam exemptions if the board of education approves two policies.
Board members reviewed Policy 6.5.1 "High School Graduation Requirements" and Policy 6.6 "High School Exam Exemption" Tuesday during their meeting.
Christy Slate, director of student services for the system, said the revision to the graduation requirement policy stems from a mandated change by the N.C. Department of Public Instruction. The system just wanted to clean up wordage to make the policy easier to read, Slate said.
An important change that begins with ninth-graders who entered high school this school year will be the requirement of taking four social studies credits – World History, American History I and II, Civics or AP U.S. History – to graduate. In the past students just had to take three social studies classes. Slate said the current U.S. History course will be divided into two semesters creating American History I and II.
The change will not affect current sophomores, junior or seniors.
Slate explained with Policy 6.6, the system added an additional requirement of 'students not having more than three early dismissals.' The policy already stated that students could not have more than three accumulated tardies in the class they wish to exempt.
Slate noted students have made progress with student achievement in hopes of receiving benefits such as exempting exams. She said it was important for students not to miss too much time at the end of the instructional day as well.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120904/NEWS/309049972/1005?Title=Policies-touch-on-graduation-requirements-and-exam-exemption |
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| 8/30/12 |
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Doors of the Career Academy open to ninth-graders this year |
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
The creation of a vision to build a workforce to drive growing industries, increase high school graduation and college rates and prepare students for higher education and employment in regional industries came to life this week as students begin a new journey at the Yadkin Valley Regional Career Academy.
The Davidson County Career and Technical Education Roundtable was the driving force behind the concept of having a school focusing on science, technology, engineering and mathematics, known as STEM, as well as 21st century work skills — problem solving, creative thinking, teamwork, communication and entrepreneurship.
Barry Sink, co-chairman of the steering committee, said the academy is an economic driver for Davidson County and the region, it's a new innovative model of industry-focused education for the state, and it supports existing growth industries searching for STEM-trained employees.
"It's a huge point of pride for this county," he said. "It's cutting edge on what's happening right now. This model is so needed to help us come out of this recession. There is nothing like this in North Carolina. It's a neat opportunity to be able to be involved with what we're doing … reinventing high school."
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120830/NEWS/308309997/1005?p=1&tc=pg |
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| 8/28/12 |
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Oak Grove Middle opens; students begin new chapter |
More than 700 students started a new chapter in their lives as they attended the new Oak Grove Middle School for the first time Monday.
Students — who came from the North Davidson and Ledford districts — and teachers alike helped open up Oak Grove. Recently completed at the intersection of Hoy Long and Midway School roads, the school was built to relieve overcrowding at the middle schools in the two districts.
"It was really exciting," said Oak Grove Assistant Principal Cheryl Rich, referring to Monday's first day of classes. "Everything went very smoothly — very smoothly in fact. We are very pleased with how it went. Our traffic patterns went great, and the children seem to be happy."
A total of 734 students, Rich said, attend Oak Grove.
The students, the assistant principal said, "look very happy to be here" and are "settling in well." With the new school, Rich explained students will utilize the latest technology in computer labs.
"They are excited about their new equipment and just the new textbooks they are receiving," the assistant principal said. "They are connecting well. It's a green school — a high-technology school."
Read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120827/NEWS/308279992/1074?Title=Oak-Grove-Middle-opens-students-begin-new-chapter |
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| 8/21/12 |
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Community gets tour of new Oak Grove Middle School |
Community gets tour of new Oak Grove Middle School
Oak Grove Middle School principal Chris Johnston leads a group of parents and students through the new school's gymnasium during a tour Monday afternoon.
Donnie Roberts/The Dispatch
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
A handful of students, parents and family members received a sneak preview of Oak Grove Middle School Monday afternoon during an open house.
Members of the parent advisory board and booster club along with the media were invited to tour the 114,000-square foot building on Hoy Long Road with principal Chris Johnston and assistant principal Cheryl Rich . Nearly 750 students will begin a new legacy as the Grizzlies in less than a week. Open house is taking place this week for students.
"I'm excited because it's brand new," said sixth-grader Molly Feezor.
Molly attended Midway Elementary School and would have attended North Davidson Middle School if Oak Grove had not been built yet. She spent her summer attending a couple of summer camps, but Molly is anxious for school to start because she enjoys learning. She is ready to meet new people and of course see her friends.
"I'm excited about the smart board being in every classroom," Molly said.
School officials say the school is the most technologically advanced and environmentally efficient facility built in the system. It features terrazzo floors, solar panels, solar water heaters, motion detectors throughout the school to monitor movement to limit light usage and light sensors to help with the use of natural light.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120820/NEWS/308209985/1074?p=1&tc=pg&tc=ar |
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| 8/07/12 |
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School board sees Skype presentation from Calif. |
School board sees Skype presentation from Calif.
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
Davidson County Board of Education members saw a sneak preview Monday of the technology students will possibly use at the Yadkin Valley Regional Career Academy.
James Fitzgerald, principal of the academy, used Skype to talk with board members live from San Diego, Calif.
Fitzgerald and other staff from the school are attending a project-based training session all week in preparation for the opening of the school in two weeks. He shared a little information on what the participants learned on the first day Monday.
"It's been a good experience for our staff," Fitzgerald said. "It's giving us an opportunity to think about what are the ways our school can impact our community."
Fitzgerald said the staff will engage in curriculum, craft projects, course and objectives initiatives on Tuesday.
"We're really looking forward to the next four days ... so when we come back to Davidson County we will hit the ground running," he said.
Eight school systems are involved in the project, while Davidson along with Surry will be the host counties. Fitzgerald said with Lexington and Thomasville students involved, it creates a new community. There are currently 48 ninth-graders who accepted invitations to attend the school – 14 from North Davidson High; six from Central Davidson High; eight from Ledford High; four from West Davidson High; six from East Davidson HIgh; three from Thomasville High; and seven from Lexington Senior High School. Fitzgerald said more interviews are scheduled for next week.
The academy will be housed on the campus of Davidson County High School, which will be known as the southern campus.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120806/NEWS/308069974/1005?Title=School-board-sees-Skype-presentation-from-Calif- |
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| 7/30/12 |
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Palmer enjoying retirement from East Davidson |
Danny Palmer, wearing his usual East Davidson polo shirt, chatted amiably with Golden Eagles boys’ basketball coach Matt Jacobs, whose Jeep Wrangler was parked adjacent to the football stadium on a humid day in July.
That’s a typical scene except for one thing — Palmer retired on June 30. Palmer spent his entire professional career at East Davidson, the last 10 as co-athletic director with football coach Bryan Lingerfelt. But now he doesn’t have any assignments.
“It’s different,” Palmer said. “I’ve been accustomed to working 12 months a year. Even when I was athletic director, I still worked in the summer here at the school. It’s different to be at home and be able to do things.”
The things Palmer had to do at East will now be done by Kim Warrick, his replacement as co-athletic director, and Lingerfelt. The action really picks up starting Monday when practice begins for fall sports teams.
But even in the summer, Palmer feels the difference.
“I don’t get as many emails,” he said. “My cell phone doesn’t ring as much as it used to. That’s always good. There’s less on your mind and everything. A bus not starting. Officials not showing up. That aspect of it. It’s going to be easier on my mind.”
Palmer made life easier for his coaches.
“Everything was always in order,” Jacobs said. “Every bus was always ready. If there was an issue with a parent, he absorbed a lot of it before I had to. It has been great. I couldn’t asked for anything better.”
Palmer graduated from North Davidson and then Appalachian State. He came to East Davidson after that and never left.
“I’m excited for him,” said younger brother Donald Palmer, who is Ledford’s athletic director. “I was still in high school when he was at East Davidson. He grew up a Black Knight but when he got to East Davidson that’s what he became.”
read more:
http://dcpreps.com/news/article/35984/palmer-enjoying-retirement-from-east-davidson/?tc=ar |
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| 7/26/12 |
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STARS Academy teaches seventh-graders to work together |
STARS Academy teaches seventh-graders to work together
STARS Academy participants Matthew Paniagua, a seventh-grader at E. Lawson Brown Middle, and Jared Friday,a seventh-grader at Ledford Middle School (left to right) along with other students took part in an activity Wednesday called â??Cup Pyramids,â? where the ultimate goal is to stack plastic cups to make a pyramid using only one hand to control a piece of yarn that was tied to a rubber band.
Deneesha Edwards/The Dispatch
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
A group of middle school students are learning this week the characteristics of being a star.
Twenty-seven rising seventh-graders from all six middle schools in Davidson County have been participating in the Davidson County Education Foundation's academy — Students Teaching And Reaching For Success.
“Stars has inspired me to get out in the world and meet people,” said Jared Friday, a seventh-grader at Ledford Middle School. “We play different activities with people we never met. We're learning to speak up.”
Since Monday, the students have been partaking in a variety of activities where they had to analyze a problem, brainstorm ideas and discuss the consequences before choosing a solution.
“Stars helps you interact with other people,” said E. Lawson Brown Middle School's seventh-grader, Matthew Paniagua. “My favorite has been learning to work together and help each other. We're learning to interact with other people to see if we can help them with something. It's pretty good.”
Jared said the students are learning to share ideas and talk to each other. He thought the academy would help him.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120725/NEWS/120729984/1005?Title=STARS-Academy-teaches-seventh-graders-to-work-together |
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| 7/23/12 |
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Youths experience STEM initiative projects at DCCC |
Cassidy Phillips (left), 11, and Sophia Lyons, 11, watch as their Lego robot successfully follows the path they programmed for it during the STEM Camp on Thursday.
Donnie Roberts/The Dispatch
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
Friday was the big day for more than 70 students at Davidson County Community College because it was their time to shine and showcase projects they have been working on during the week at STEM Camp.
As a collaborate effort, the rising fourth-to-eighth-graders worked on four-person teams to present an engineering design problem that needed to be solved through Lego Mindstorm robots. This was the first time the college offered the camp with a focus on science, technology, engineering and math initiatives to encourage young students to be innovative creators.
“It was a really great experience to learn how to control a robot and meet people,” said Kassidy Everhart, a seventh-grader at North Davidson Middle School. “It's fun to learn new stuff. I like science.”
The students took turns in the Conference Center at DCCC watching what other campers created and seeing if their programs worked to complete projects with their robot. Nearly 100 parents were also in attendance to see firsthand what the students had learned.
“It was awesome. It was cool learning how to program the robot and just learning the logistics,” said Colton Richards, a fifth-grader at Friedberg Elementary School.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120720/NEWS/120729997/1005?Title=Youths-experience-STEM-initiative-projects-at-DCCC |
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| 7/10/12 |
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Schools see lunch charge total drop since passing of policy |
Schools see lunch charge total drop since passing of policy
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
According to the numbers, Davidson County Schools' lunch charge policy is working, administrators say.
When the 2011-12 school year ended in June, the system reported $8,306.76 of bad debt from the child nutrition program, compared to a year ago when $45,819.59 was accumulated by the end of the 2010-11 school year.
For meals that are unpaid, the system has to pay out of its local current expense budget. The policy in place was approved a year ago after school officials formed a committee to look at ways to address the cost of charges.
"We (couldn't) afford that," said Jay Temple, executive director of auxiliary services, of last year's total debt. "That $45,000 could be a teacher or two assistant teachers' salary. That money has to be paid by the system. I think this is positive. The policy changes made are obviously working."
With the policy, no charges were allowed at high schools. That's been the rule for years, however students are encouraged to talk with an administrator if they do not have any money. Elementary and middle-schoolers are allowed to charge three breakfasts and three lunches, whichever adds up to $11.25.
Once a student reaches their limit of charges, they are given an alternative meal choice — peanut butter and jelly sandwich or cheese sandwich with milk for lunch, or a choice of cereal or toast and milk for breakfast. Students will also be charged a reimbursable meal option.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120709/NEWS/307069963/1005?Title=Schools-see-lunch-charge-total-drop-since-passing-of-policy |
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| 7/03/12 |
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Afterschool program change upsets some parents |
Afterschool program change upsets some parents
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
Some parents have voiced concerns about Davidson County Schools eliminating the afterschool program at two elementary schools to pilot a learning academy while school officials believe the change will benefit the students.
The board of education approved in May starting the academy at Northwest and Southwood elementary schools. Those schools were part of the J. Smith Young YMCA afterschool program where officials come on-site in the afternoon to schools and provide enrichment activities.
"It's a wonderful opportunity for each of those two communities," said former Southwood principal Deana Coley, who is now the principal of Central Davidson Middle School. "It provides quality afterschool care to students, and at the same time it provides a service to the parents."
continue to read:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120702/News/307029984/1005?Title=Afterschool-program-change-upsets-some-parents |
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| 6/20/12 |
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County school board OKs administrators |
County school board OKs administrators
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
Additional administrative positions for Davidson County Schools were unanimously approved Tuesday morning by the board of education to fill open positions.
Kim Dixon, Tyro Elementary School principal, will go to Wallburg Elementary as the principal. Dixon replaces Donna Stafford, who was approved as the director of public relations at a previous meeting. Leah Leonard, assistant principal of Tyro and Reeds elementary schools, will succeed Dixon at Tyro.
Ashley Lemley, assistant principal of Northwest Elementary School, was voted as the principal of Southwood Elementary School. Southwood's former principal, Deana Coley, was transferred to Central Davidson Middle School at a previous meeting.
Marivee Miles, principal of Stoner-Thomas School, was approved as the principal of Northwest Elementary School, succeeding Angelia Kiger, who went to North Davidson Middle School. The Stoner-Thomas School principalship will be filled by South Davidson High School principal Jonathan Hayes.
William "Mike" Lawson, assistant principal at West Davidson High School, will become the principal of SDHS. North Davidson High School assistant principal Valerie Feezor will move to WDHS as the assistant principal.
Ronda Fletcher, a media coordinator at NDHS, will move up to an assistant principal at NDHS. She has a provisional contract due to her being enrolled for school administration.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120619/News/306199966/1005?Title=County-school-board-OKs-administrators |
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| 6/15/12 |
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A Davidson County teacher was chosen on the state level as an outstanding National History Day teacher. |
A Davidson County teacher was chosen on the state level as an outstanding National History Day teacher.
Ashley Coons of Ledford Middle School was the recipient of the Patricia Behring Teacher of the Year Award. National History Day focuses on making history come alive for youths by engaging them in the discovery of the historic, cultural and social experiences of the past, according to its website. With hands-on presentations, the programs aim at inspiring children through competitions that teach project-based curriculum and instruction.
Coons was one of two state winners — one each at the middle school and high school levels — chosen from each of the states. They receive $500 and a chance to win $10,000 at the national level.
"I thought it was a great opportunity. It recognizes the school and program," Coons said. "I was very surprised and honored because I do think the History Day program is important for the students, and it's a unique opportunity for them. To be recognized for doing something for them was very humbling."
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120614/NEWS/306149987/1005?Title=Ledford-Middle-educator-picked-as-top-history-teacher |
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| 6/05/12 |
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EDHS band director honored for impact on students, leadership |
EDHS band director honored for impact on students, leadership
David Deese, band director at East Davidson High School, was the recipient of the 2012 Jackson Parkhurst Award.
The award is given each year by the North Carolina Symphony to an outstanding music educator who is making a difference. Deese was selected due to his transformation with the high school band program and its national distinction. He was selected out of 10 nominees in the state and will receive $500 for the recognition.
Deese was recognized at the Davidson County Board of Education meeting Monday evening. James Daugherty, director of bands/instructor of music theory at Central Davidson High School and president of the N.C. Bandmasters Association, introduced Deese as one of the most important role models in the community.
"His impact on the lives of students is very well-known," Daugherty said.
Deese told the board that working for the system is a privilege because of the board members, administrators and staff. He said programs such as his are reducing the dropout rate.
"Davidson County is a great place for kids. I want you to know how much I appreciate you letting me teach these kids. This is a great place to work," Deese said.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120605/News/306059989/1005?Title=EDHS-band-director-honored-for-impact-on-students-leadership |
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| 5/31/12 |
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CDHS seniors open time capsule from first-grade year |
CDHS seniors open time capsule from first-grade year
Central Davidson High School seniors, who were first-grade classmates in Cindy Murphy's class at Southwood Elementary School in 2000, share laughs Wednesday as they look at items they placed in a time capsule 12 years ago.
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
As this school year comes to an end, seniors at Central Davidson High School took a stroll down memory lane Wednesday when they opened a time capsule that was put away in 2000.
Slightly more than 41 students and parents could be seen laughing, hugging and shedding happy tears in the media center at CDHS as they reflected on their first-grade year at Southwood Elementary through items placed in a big popcorn tin.
"This is a special time in their lives with graduating," said Cindy Murphy, who was the seniors' first-grade teacher at the time. "It's kind of a big deal with this group because I promised them I would find them. I'm real excited."
At the time Murphy had a little more than 15 years in education, and she figured when the year 2012 came she would still be teaching. She thought it would be a good project for the students. She keep the tin in the attic of her home. Murphy now teaches first-graders at Brier Creek Elementary. Murphy's assistant at the time was Michelle Norris Everhart, who is now at Southmont Elementary School.
"It's crazy. It's a lot of memories. They were my favorite teachers. They were extremely nice," said senior Charity Sturgell. "I remember being in that class. I don't remember doing the capsule. It's crazy she kept it all that time. I just can't believe a teacher would keep it all that time. It's such a sweet thing for them to do."
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120530/NEWS/305309978/1005?p=1&tc=pg |
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| 5/28/12 |
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Ledford principal calls trip in education rewarding |
WALLBURG | Bills Butts has seen a little bit of everything during his 30 years in education as a teacher, coach and administrator.
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Ledford High School principal Bill Butts stands next to the school's 'spirit rock' that students paint for special occasions. Butts is retiring after a 30-year career in education.
Donnie Roberts/The Dispatch
The Ledford High School principal recalls the ride as fantastic, however it is time for the wheels to stop rolling. Butts, 53, will retire at the end of June.
"My trip in education has been very rewarding," he said. "The coaching years were very rewarding. I have developed life-long friendships. As an administrator, I've been able to help a lot of students."
Butts, who was born in Salisbury, moved to Davidson County in the mid-1960s. He graduated from West Davidson High School in 1977 and received a physical education degree from Catawba College in 1981. In 2003, he earned a master's degree in administration from Gardner-Webb University. Being raised by a family of educators, Butts thought it would be a good idea for him to enter the same field. His father, Bob Butts, taught at West Davidson High School, and his mother, Betsy Butts, was a counselor at WDHS.
"It worked out really good for me," he said.
His teaching career started at Ledford High School where he also coached football, softball and baseball. In the late '80s, Butts went to North Davidson High School and stayed for 19 years. During that time he coached football and baseball. He served as the assistant principal at NDHS from 2002 to 2005. In 2005, Butts joined the Ledford community.
"Ledford High is a great place. I'm proud to be a Panther (the school mascot)," he said.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120528/NEWS/305289995/1074?Title=Ledford-principal-calls-trip-in-education-rewarding |
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| 5/22/12 |
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County school board makes four administrative appointments |
County school board makes four administrative appointments
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
The Davidson County Board of Education approved four positions in the administration office and one in a middle school that will be effective July 1 during a special called meeting Tuesday morning.
Dr. Tony Peele, assistant superintendent for human resources and administration, was appointed as the deputy superintendent for the system. Dr. Denise Hedrick, principal of North Davidson Middle School, was voted as the new assistant superintendent of instruction and curriculum, filling the open vacancy left by Dr. Sandi Lee, who retired in February. Those positions are for the next four years.
Donna Stafford, Wallburg Elementary principal, will become the director of public relations, succeeding Meredith Palmer, who is retiring after 38 years with the system. Deana Coley, principal at Southwood Elementary School, will move to Central Davidson Middle School as the new principal. Max T. Cole is serving as the interim principal at CDMS after former principal Chris Johnston was transferred to the new Oak Grove Middle School as the lead administrator. Stafford and Coley will remain on their current contracts.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120522/News/305229984/1005?p=1&tc=pg |
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| 5/16/12 |
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Attention DCS Employees |
To: DCS Employees
RE: Possible continued enrollment of your child(ren) in DCS for the 2012-2013 school year
If you are currently domiciled outside of the DCS school district and choose to bring
(1) your minor child, of whom you have custody, to attend school in DCS, or
(2) your spouse’s minor child, of whom your spouse has primary custody and who is domiciled with you and your spouse, to attend school in DCS.
This option is a benefit of your employment, and you are permitted to exercise this choice as outlined in School Board Policy 6.1.1. provided the following conditions are met:
You must secure a release from the school district in which you are domiciled and it MUST be on file in the DCS Office of Human Resources prior to the first day of school for the 2012-2013 school year or prior to the child’s enrollment at any time during the 2011-2012 school year.
THE CHILD WILL NOT BE PERMITTED TO ATTEND A DCS SCHOOL UNTIL THE RELEASE FROM THEIR HOME SCHOOL DISTRICT IS ON FILE IN THE DCS-HR OFFICE.
Note: Several school systems require approval of release by their board of education and this takes place at their monthly school board meetings. For this and other reasons, you should act promptly in securing this annual release from your home school district. It is very unethical for DCS to enroll a child from another school system, who has not been release to us, and we will not do it. This employee benefit is made possible by your employer, the Davidson County Board of Education, and is not to be taken for granted or abused in any way. It is a benefit of your employment.
School Board Policy 6.1.1
Children of full-time employees who have full or primary custody of the children and with whom the children are domiciled, and step-children of full-time employees with whom the children are domiciled, along with their primary custodial parent and said domicile is outside of Davidson County Schools’ district lines may attend Davidson County Schools (1) as long as one of the above conditions is met, (2) provided they obtain annually a written release from the school district of their domicile and it is on file in the DCS Office of Human Resources prior to enrolling for the upcoming school year, and (3) provided DCS has acknowledged receipt of the release and accepted the student for DCS enrollment. Only under these conditions may these out-of-district children be accepted for enrollment for the upcoming school year.
If you plan to enroll a child or step-child for school year 2012-2013, it is imperative that you give this matter prompt attention. I remind you again that many school systems require school board action prior to the release of any student. Moreover, many boards of education do not meet on a regular schedule during the summer months. Therefore, you must act promptly in securing a release for your child to attend the next school year in DCS. If you have questions, please call my office at 249-8181.
Sincerely,
Dr. Fred Mock
Superintendent |
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| 5/08/12 |
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Central Davidson asks to test athletes for drugs |
Central Davidson asks to test athletes for drugs
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
Another high school in Davidson County Schools is considering requiring student-athletes to submit to random drug testing.
Central Davidson High School requested it be added to the current policy in place for West Davidson High School at the Davidson County Board of Education meeting Monday night. A year ago, West Davidson became the first high school in the county to ask for the drug-testing policy for its athletics program and the school hopes to continue with the program.
Davidson County Schools Superintendent Dr. Fred Mock said the policy for Central Davidson will start next school year. The school board did not take any action on the school's request but will likely vote on it at its next meeting, June 30 at 7 p.m. at Davis-Townsend Elementary School.
Mock said the booster clubs of both high school are the driving forces behind implementing the policy and have said the effort is needed to promote healthy schools. He's proud of the concern the clubs have shown.
West Davidson piloted the program this school year to encourage students to remain drug-free and to enhance the safety of student-athletes while participating in sponsored events.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120507/News/305079976/1005?p=1&tc=pg&tc=ar |
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| 5/03/12 |
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Reeds Elementary gives books to students for summer reading |
Parents of students at Reeds Elementary School listen to Jane Koch, Title 1 teacher, in the media center on Wednesday during an informational session.
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
REEDS | Reeds Elementary School teachers gave a special literacy gift to 60 students to engage them in summer reading once school lets out.
Parents picked up backpacks filled with 60-70 books for their child Wednesday during informational sessions in the media center. The kindergartners, first- and second-graders selected were all participants of the Fountas & Pinnell Leveled Literacy Intervention Program.
"I'm excited," said parent Tracy Hanes. "I think it's great."
Hanes, who is the mother of first-grader Carter, said it was great to receive books that were on her son's level. Carter is also the son of Kenny Hanes.
"He really loves reading. I think some of the books I pick out for him are too hard. This will help him enjoy reading more," she said.
Jane Koch, Title 1 teacher, said two positive aspects about the backpacks were the fact the books were picked on each student's independent reading level and they were for the children to keep for their personal collection. She said the goal is for students to maintain or increase their reading achievement when school is out.
"We see how not reading over the summer causes a reading loss. Then we have to spend a month catching them back up when school starts," Koch said. "We found that students don't read because they don't have books. We wanted to put books in parents' hands to get them involved in the summer reading to get the students excited. We provided them with just the right books."
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120502/NEWS/305039992/1005?Title=Reeds-Elementary-gives-books-to-students-for-summer-reading |
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| 4/23/12 |
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NDHS grad wins competition at fashion event |
NDHS grad wins competition at fashion event
Hannah Goff, a North Davidson High School graduate, recently won the Emerging Design Competition at Charleston Fashion Week. Goff, 23, is the daughter of Richard and Sheila Goff of Lexington.
By Seth Stratton
The Dispatch
It takes a bold risk to stick out in the fashion world, and that's exactly what the Charleston Fashion Week judges saw in the collection of Hannah Goff, awarding her one of the week's most coveted distinctions as the winner of the Emerging Designer competition.
For Goff, a Lexington native and North Davidson High School graduate, it offered recognition for months of hard work. Her bold prints, which she made herself thanks to her bachelor's degree in textile apparel management with a concentration in fashion design at N.C. State University, stood out among those of her peers. Her runway collection at the fashion week also served as her master's project at the Savannah College of Art and Design, where she finished her graduate degree last month.
"It was a good feeling — I felt relieved — for people to recognize your hard work and appreciate it," Goff said. "It was gratifying."
National fashion publication Elle was also impressed with the humble Goff and her dozen pieces she displayed during the week. Goff was one of 20 finalists from all over the country and 180 applicants for the contest.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120423/LIVING/304239996/1074?Title=NDHS-grad-wins-competition-at-fashion-event |
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| 4/03/12 |
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Two new schools, fund reduction make for tight DCS budget |
Two new schools, fund reduction make for tight DCS budget
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
Davidson County Schools faces several funding challenges for the 2012-13 fiscal year including the opening of two new schools, a jump in the cost of benefits and a reduction in state and federal funds, the school board learned Monday night.
Over the past five years, the county has lost funding for nearly 60 teacher positions and more than 72 teacher assistants. The school system plans on adding 97 certified positions and five classified positions in its budget, which the board got its first peak at during the meeting.
To help offset these cost impacts, the board is seeking a 3 percent increase over last year's request, or $719,276, from the Davidson County Board of Commissioners.
If approved, the county schools will have a local operating budget of $27.3 million for the 2012-13 academic year Added to the amount requested, $21.8 million, from the commissioners will be $5 million from the system's fund balance and $439,264 from fines and forfeitures. The local budget does not include state or federal funds.
"I wanted you to review (the budget) and help us keep the positions we need to keep, and look after our folks like we always do," said Pam Sink , chief finance officer for the system.
Next school year the system is facing the loss of $10 million from last year's budget — the return of $6 million back to the state as discretionary reduction funds and $4 million, the last of federal stimulus funds which were initially given in 2009 and which the county will not receive next year.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120402/News/304029975/1005?Title=Two-new-schools-fund-reduction-make-for-tight-DCS-budget |
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| 4/03/12 |
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School board names new middle school; changes Extended Day's name |
School board names new middle school; changes Extended Day's name
Career academy gets funding for position, legislative support
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
The Davidson County Schools sign department will be busy over the next few weeks as the school board made two name changes at its meeting Monday night.
The 700 or so students who will participate in classes in the new facility being built at Midway School and Hoy Long roads, will attend Oak Grove Middle School, the name settled on by the board.
Alan Thompson, member of the board, said the name had significance in the area, referencing a one-room school house that was in close vicinity of the campus during the 1900s named Oak Grove. The Ledford-North Davidson Area Middle School committee's top three name suggestions were Oak Grove, Rich Fork and Rock Creek.
The board also voted on the schools colors of black, representing North Davidson Middle School, silver for Ledford Middle School and a new color, teal. The school has not settled on a mascot yet.
"We are very excited to have this new school in our school system," said Carol Crouse, chair of the board.
The board also approved a request from James Fitzgerald, principal of Extended Day School and administrator of the Yadkin Valley Regional Career Academy, to rename Extended Day as Davidson County High School.
He asked to make the business name of the Yadkin Valley Regional Career Academy to be "Valley Academy," which was also approved.
More good news surfaced for the Yadkin Valley Regional Career Academy Monday as school officials prepare for opening day in August at the newly renamed Davidson County High School.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120402/News/304029976/1005?Title=School-board-names-new-middle-school-changes-Extended-Day-s-name |
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| 3/27/12 |
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Three county students win honors at Youth Legislative Assembly |
Three county students win honors at Youth Legislative Assembly
-Dispatch
Three Davidson County students were among more than a dozen student leaders recognized with special honors during the 42nd annual Youth Legislative Assembly, which was held Friday through Sunday in Raleigh.
About 225 students from across the state participated in the event, which was presented by the Youth Advocacy and Involvement Office of the N.C. Department of Administration.
Joshua Llodrat of Ledford High School won two awards. He shared the Sud-Freemark Award of Service with Angelica Mack of Salem Academy. The award honors students who have participated in the YLA for four years, with three of those years being on the leadership team.
He also won the Jaime and Josh DeBottis Award of Service for a student who has dedicated three years of service to the YLA and the State Youth Council.
Two South Davidson High School students won the Jimmy Gibbs Award, named for a 1980 YLA Tri-speaker, given each year to the delegate from each committee who added the most to the discussion by asking questions, helping to rewrite bills and being creative and inspiring. Brandon Paul won for civil rights, and Christopher "Clay" Ayers won for health affairs.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120326/News/303269997/1005/news?Title |
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| 3/27/12 |
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State Music Performance Assessment for Middle School Bands |
On Tuesday, March 20, the 8th Grade Band at Central Davidson Middle School, under the direction of of Rodney K. Workman, participated in the State Music Performance Assessment for Middle School Bands held at the J.E. Broyhill Civic Center in Lenoir.
The band performed three prepared selections for a panel of three judges who critiqued the band's preparation and performance. In addition to their performance for the stage judges, the band was required to sight-read (read a piece of music without any previous practice or preparation) for one additional judge. On each of these judges sheets there are seven sub-captions which add up to an overall rating for the band. Bands are rated as "Superior", "Excellent", "Average", "Below Average", or "Poor".
The Central Davidson 8th Grade Band received a rating of "Superior" from each judge, which is the highest rating possible. It is very difficult for a band to achieve a superior rating from each judge. Less than twenty percent of all bands in the state achieved this overall rating from every judge.
Over the last 20 years middle school bands from Central have received 13 "Superior" Ratings. This year marks the 5th consecutive year the band has received an overall "Superior" Rating and the 3rd consecutive year in a row that the band has received a "Superior" from every single adjudicator.
The Middle School Bands will have year-end concerts on May 17th at 6 and 7:30PM and June 1st at 6PM. These performances will involve all 275 middle school band students and the community is invited to attend these performances.
-Submitted by the Central Davidson Band Boosters |
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| 3/06/12 |
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School board sets boundaries for new middle school |
School board sets boundaries for new middle school
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
Students attending the new middle school in the northern part of the county have been selected after the Davidson County Board of Education approved the boundary district lines at its meeting Monday night.
Board members chose Map No. 5 — the map recommended by the new middle school advisory committee — out of several possibilities.
The new school, under construction, is located on 132 acres off Midway School and Hoy Long roads. It will accommodate 864 students, and adjacent land will be the future home of a new high school. The unnamed middle school is scheduled to open next school year and alleviate crowding at both North Davidson and Ledford middle schools.
With Map No. 5, an estimated 287 students will come from the Ledford area and 418 from North Davidson, for a planned total enrollment of 705 students next year. The school's location is close to halfway between the two established middle schools.
Board member Alan Beck said the system reviewed all six maps presented at the February meeting by the Ledford-North Davidson Area Middle School Committee. The panel had been developing and reviewing district lines since October. Beck said the most positive input was received on the selected map.
"Some were easy picks to take out. Some had several merits," he said. "It's not perfect by all means. It's going to take a good group of people and will be a strong school."
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120305/NEWS/303059977/1005?Title=School-board-sets-boundaries-for-new-middle-school&tc=ar |
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| 3/06/12 |
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County school board OKs new middle school principal, other changes |
County school board OKs new middle school principal, other changes
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
Several transfers and appointments were approved unanimously Monday by the Davidson County Board of Education.
Christopher S. Johnston, principal of Central Davidson Middle School, has been moved to the new northern Davidson County middle school, which will open next school year. Max T. Cole, who came out of retirement in 2009 and served as interim assistant principal at Central Davidson Middle School since January, will replace Johnston as the middle school's next principal immediately. Ricky E. Harris, the assistant principal at Central Davidson High School, will move next door as assistant principal at Central Davidson Middle School. Another retired administrator, Vicky Jolly, will replace Harris and serve as interim assistant principal at CDHS.
The position changes are effective immediately.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120305/NEWS/303059978/1005?Title=County-school-board-OKs-new-middle-school-principal-other-changes |
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| 3/06/12 |
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County schools announces summer work schedule |
County schools announces summer work schedule
Published: Tuesday, March 6, 2012 at 9:26 a.m.
Last Modified: Tuesday, March 6, 2012 at 9:26 a.m.
Davidson County Schools released its summer work schedule on Monday that will apply June through August.
From June 18-21 and June 25-28, the schools will operate from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. July 2, 3, 5 and 6, the buildings will open at 7 a.m. and close at 3:30 p.m. Then between July 9-12, July 16-19, July 23-26, July 30-Aug. 2, Aug. 6-9 and Aug. 13-16 the operation times will be 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The facilities will be closed on Fridays during the summer.
All of the hours include a 30-minute lunch each day. The system will return to normal business hours Aug. 20. |
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| 3/06/12 |
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Preschools slots to be offered at Southwood next year |
Preschools slots to be offered at Southwood next year
Starting next school year, parents will have the option to pay for private pay preschool slots at Southwood Elementary School.
The Davidson County Board of Education approved the pilot program that will allocate 10 spaces in the preschool classrooms. Applications will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis. The preschools consist of students from the NC Pre-K (formerly known as More at Four) program and students with developmental disabilities. The additional slots would be blended with those students and will not take away from those positions.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120306/News/303069991/1005?Title=Preschools-slots-to-be-offered-at-Southwood-next-year |
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| 2/24/12 |
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Grants help teachers meet state goals with curriculum |
Grants help teachers meet state goals with curriculum
Fourth-grade students in Tracy Lester's class at Tyro Elementary School sit on stability balls instead of the regular classroom chairs thanks to a grant from EnergyUnited. Lester applied for the'Bright Ideas' grant to give the students a different way to learn, which also provides stimulation and relaxation to concentrate for longer periods.
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
Tyro Elementary School fourth-grade teacher Tracy Lester had an idea last summer to remove the hard-back chairs in her classroom and replace them with stability balls that would allow her students to feel more comfortable and be able to focus better in class.
With the system seeing budget cuts every year, Lester knew she would not be able to purchase the new seats with school money. She decided to apply for a "Bright Ideas" grant from EnergyUnited and received $1,905 for her project "Rock and Learn" this past December. Lester had researched the impact the balls had on other students and thought it would be something to help provide stimulation, give students a sense of relaxation during the day and assist with concentrating for longer periods of time. Lester noted research stated the balls promote good posture, and the student is literally rocking while they learn.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120223/NEWS/302239978/1005?p=1&tc=pg |
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| 2/17/12 |
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County schools assistant superintendent will retire after more than 40 years in education |
County schools assistant superintendent will retire after more than 40 years in education
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
For the past 15 years, Dr. Sandi Lee has overseen the curriculum and instructional division of Davidson County Schools by coordinating instructional planning and staff development for all curriculum initiatives in all of the schools.
Enlarge | Buy Photo
Dr. Sandi Lee, assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction for the Davidson County Schools, stands on the front porch of the Davidson County Schools administration building. Lee is retiring after more than 40 years in education.
Donnie Roberts/The Dispatch
After starting a career in education in 1968, Lee has decided to retire at the end of the month. She has accumulated a total of 46 years — two of the years are an accumulation of sick leave.
“I can honestly say I was doing something I love everyday — I do something exciting for students,” Lee, 64, said. “I love this school system. I looked forward to coming to work every day.”
During her career as a teacher, math consultant, director of professional services and assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction, Lee has worked at more than 15 school systems in the state. A majority of those visits at the other systems was in the ‘80s when Lee was a mathematics coordinator for N.C. Department of Public Instruction where she traveled to different districts to provide leadership in mathematics. In the early ‘90s she was the assistant superintendent at Lincoln County Schools and came to Davidson County to be closer to home in 1997 doing the same job.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120217/NEWS/120219981/1074?p=2&tc=pg |
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| 2/09/12 |
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County schools considers pilot program for new preschool option |
County schools considers pilot program for new preschool option
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
Davidson County Schools is considering offering parents a private pay option to place their children in quality preschools.
The pilot program would start at Southwood Elementary School next school year. Benefits of private pay are having an additional source of revenue for the district's preschool program, expanding inclusive preschool settings mandated by federal legislation and helping meet community needs for a high-quality preschool program.
"I would love to have a preschool at every elementary school. Funding is limited," said Rob McOuat, director of programs for exceptional children for the system. "We're trying to be more creative and think how can we support our preschools. There are a lot of benefits — all of our preschools have to be five stars. It's a service to the community to get high-quality day care."
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120209/News/302099984/1005?Title=County-schools-considers-pilot-program-for-new-preschool-option |
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| 2/07/12 |
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College Board honors county system for AP students |
College Board honors county system for AP students
Davidson County Schools was recognized as one of the five systems in North Carolina that was named to the Second Annual District Honor Roll.
The distinction, awarded by the College Board office, credits the system for expanding opportunities and improving performance for Advanced Placement students. Dr. Sandi Lee, assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction for the system, said the honor is based on the system having a high percentage rate of high school students taking AP courses and earning scores of 3 or higher on exams. The information was based on 2009-11 data.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120207/News/302079986/1005?Title=College-Board-honors-county-system-for-AP-students |
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| 2/07/12 |
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North Middle student named finalist for volunteer award |
North Middle student named finalist for volunteer award
A North Davidson Middle School student was named a Distinguished Finalist for 2012 in The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards, a nationwide program honoring young people for outstanding acts of volunteerism.
Parker Tilley, 14, an eighth-grader at North Davidson Middle, is an active leader at his school, where he spearheaded several "Extreme School Makeover" workdays to take inventory of usable textbooks, according to a press release from Prudential Financial. After that project, Parker initiated several eco-friendly projects including a "Lights Out" event and a "Going Green" campaign to improve the school's recycling program an
d purchase energy efficient appliances.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120207/News/302079974/1005?Title=North-Middle-student-named-finalist-for-volunteer-award |
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| 2/07/12 |
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County school board takes no action on new middle school district |
County school board takes no action on new middle school district
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
Davidson County Board of Education members received their first official glance Monday at the proposed boundary lines for the new middle school in northern Davidson County.
The board did not make any decisions on the maps presented. Carol Crouse, board chair, applauded the committee members and public interest during the process.
"In order to make the best possible solution, we need to weigh the pros and cons," she said. "That will allow us the time to make the best possible solution. It's not easy to decide where a new school will go. It's not easy to decide whose child will go to a new school. We know we're not going to make everybody happy. We do appreciate your input and concerns."
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120206/News/302069982/1005?Title=County-school-board-takes-no-action-on-new-middle-school-district |
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| 2/03/12 |
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Dropout rates rise in city systems, falls in county |
Dropout rates rise in city systems, falls in county
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
Davidson County Schools was the only system in Davidson County to see a decrease in its high school dropout rate during the 2010-11 school year, according to the annual dropout report released Thursday by the N.C. Department of Public Instruction.
The report showed that both Lexington and Thomasville schools had more students drop out in the 2010-11 school year compared to the previous year. A dropout is defined as a student who leaves school for any reason before graduation or completion of a program of studies without transferring to another school.
The report also listed both Lexington and Thomasville, along with seven other schools, as reporting the highest dropout rate percentages.
Lexington City Schools' rate increased by 54.1 percent. The system reported 57 dropouts for a systemwide dropout rate of 6.53 percent, compared to 37 dropouts and a rate of 4.36 percent during the 2009-10 school year.
Thomasville City Schools' rate rose from 5.13 percent in the 2009-10 school year to 5.69 percent in the 2010-11 year. That was a 10.5 percent jump. The system had 42 dropouts compared to 38 the previous year.
Davidson County Schools decreased its rate to 3.57 percent last year from 4.01 percent recorded in the 2009-10 school year. The system had 228 dropouts in the 2010-11 year compared to 258 the previous year, an 11.6 percent decrease.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120203/News/302039994/1005?p=3&tc=pg |
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| 2/03/12 |
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County spelling bee champ R-E-P-E-A-T-S |
County spelling bee champ R-E-P-E-A-T-S
Nejat Alkadir (left) of Ledford Middle School spells the winning word Friday to win the Davidson County Schools' 2011-2012 Spelling Bee as runner-up Lauren Sprouse of North Davidson Middle School listens.
Buy Photo Donnie Roberts/The Dispatch
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
By round 14 of the Davidson County Schools' Spelling Bee on Friday, the atmosphere was not only intense for the two last spellers battling for this year's title, but it also resembled the competition a year ago when middle-schoolers Nejat Alkadir and Lauren Sprouse were the two top finishers.
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Davidson County Schools Spelling Bee Championship
Lauren, of North Davidson Middle School, put up a tougher fight this year after losing to Nejat, who attends Ledford Middle School, in 2011 in the 13th round. The two went head to head until the 20th round Friday when Nejat won the bee with the word drapery, making her a back-to-back champion, after Lauren missed ghastly. She competed against 23 other students from all of the system's elementary and middle schools.
"I feel very good," said 12-year-old Nejat about her victory.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120203/NEWS/302039982/1074?p=1&tc=pg |
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| 1/27/12 |
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Bus Driver Training |
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| 1/25/12 |
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Retirement Planning Session |
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| 1/20/12 |
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Parents voice concerns over new middle school district |
Parents voice concerns over new middle school district
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
WELCOME | Parents and students voiced their concerns that communities would be split and generations of education would be forever changed by proposed maps for the new middle school in northern Davidson County.
Nearly 20 people spoke during the public comment period of the Ledford-North Davidson Area Middle School committee meeting at the North Davidson Middle School gym, most about Map 5, which was voted on as the top map at the group's Jan. 12 meeting. More than 100 parents, children and supporters attended the meeting.
"This is not a final decision," Davidson County Board of Education member and committee chairwoman Karen Craver said. "That will come when the board has time to digest the information. They will hear the pros, cons and concerns."
Craver reminded the crowd that the committee was established by the school board to assist with the district lines for the new school. She said the committee didn't have the authority to make final district decisions. The committee was charged with making a recommendation to the board, which can accept, deny or change. The panel is made up of principals from Ledford Middle and High and North Davidson Middle and High schools as well as athletic directors, two school board members and advisory chairs from the high, middle and elementary schools that will feed into the school.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120119/NEWS/301199977/1074?Title=Parents-voice-concerns-over-new-middle-school-district&tc=ar |
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| 1/04/12 |
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Two assistant principal positions approved by county board of education |
Two assistant principal positions approved by county board of education
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
Published: Tuesday, January 3, 2012 at 8:54 p.m.
Two new and temporary administrative positions were filled Tuesday evening by the Davidson County Board of Education.
At the monthly meeting, the board unanimously approved Lydia E. Mack, as the assistant principal of both Midway and Friedberg elementary schools, and retiree Max T. Cole as the temporary assistant principal of Central Davidson Middle School.
Mack replaces Dan Shamblen, who is now the principal of Midway Elementary School. Her contract is for the remainder of the school year. She received her bachelor's degree in elementary education from Appalachian State University in 2004 and a master's in elementary education from Catawba College in 2008. In 2010 she earned an add on licensure in school administration from Gardner-Webb University.
She joined the system as a teacher at Davis-Townsend Elementary School in 2004. She served as a teacher for four years before serving as the reading specialist at Southwood Elementary School from 2008 to 2010. This past year she was the lead teacher at Fair Grove Elementary School.
Cole is filling the position that was left vacant by Deborah Y. Hill, who was approved last month as the new principal of Tyro Middle School. After retiring from the system in 2003 as the principal of Ledford Senior High School, Cole has worked with the system in different capacities at the central office, as a teacher and assistant principal. He is in his 38th year of education. School officials reported the position is temporary until they fill it full-time.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20120103/News/301039965/1005?Title=Two-assistant-principal-positions-approved-by-county-board-of-education&tc=ar |
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| 12/16/11 |
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Tyro Middle School principal retires after 35 years in education |
Tyro Middle School principal retires after 35 years in education
Tyro Middle School principal Harry Mock stands at the school's front sign Thursday morning. Mock is retiring after 35 years in education.
Photo Donnie Roberts/The Dispatch
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
TYRO | For the past seven years, Harry Mock Jr. has been the top administrator in the same school building from which he received his diploma nearly 40 years ago.
Thirty-five years later after serving as a teacher, coach, assistant principal and now principal at Tyro Middle School, Mock is retiring.
"I've enjoyed it. I really have," said Mock, 57. "It's been an honor. I hope I've given as much as I received."
Mock graduated in 1972 from West Davidson High School, which was located where the middle school is now. He received a degree in intermediate education in 1976 from Appalachian State University and later a master's degree in intermediate education in 1982 from N.C. Agricultural and Technical University.
He had plans to come back to the place he grew up and began his teaching career with Davidson County Schools at Wallburg Elementary. A year later he went to North Davidson Junior High, what is now North Davidson Middle School, as a teacher before becoming an assistant principal in the early 1980s. His next term was at E. Lawson Brown Middle School as the assistant principal in 1989 until he came to West Davidson in 2003 as its assistant principal.
In 2004, Mock became the lead administrator at Tyro Middle. He thanked the school system for giving him the opportunity to work for them.
"I've enjoyed getting up and coming to school," Mock said about Tyro Middle. "I'm blessed with good help. There's some good people in this building. Teachers, parents and the community have all been wonderful. The kids have been outstanding."
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20111215/NEWS/312159969/1005?Title=Tyro-Middle-principal-retires-after-35-years-in-education&tc=ar |
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| 12/07/11 |
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School teachers receive Energy United grants |
School teachers receive EnergyUnited grants
Eight teachers are recipients of EnergyUnited Bright Ideas grants that aim at positively impacting students through instruction and innovative programs.
Five of the teachers are from Davidson County Schools while three are with Lexington City Schools. The teachers were all honored this week at their respective board of education meetings.
"EnergyUnited is committed to improving the communities we serve, and we believe there is no better way than through educating our students," said H. Wayne Wilkins, EnergyUnited chief executive officer. "Bright Ideas is the only grant program exclusively for North Carolina teachers, and we are proud to support this worthy cause."
The teachers from Davidson County Schools received a total of $6,212.85. Those educators selected by a review panel are Tracy Lester of Tyro Elementary School for her project "Rock and Learn," Nina Allen of Southmont Elementary for "Planting an Education," Janie Susanne Davis of West Davidson High School for "Growing and Marketing Heirloom Vegetables," Jeannette McNamara of Stoner-Thomas School for "New World Readers" project and Anna Brooks of North Davidson Middle School for "Reading + Math=F.U.N."
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20111207/News/312079991/1005?Title=School-teachers-receive-EnergyUnited-grants |
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| 12/07/11 |
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Committee down to four proposals for new northern middle school |
Committee down to four proposals for new northern middle school
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
WELCOME | The new Ledford-North Davidson area middle school committee has whittled the number of proposed boundary maps to four and will place them online for viewing in preparation for a public hearing next month.
Facts
want to take a peak?
To view the four suggested district boundary maps for the new Ledford-North Davidson area middle school, visit www.davidson.k12.nc.us. The maps will remain online for the public to view and a public hearing will take place next month where parents can voice their opinions before recommendations are taken to the Davidson County Board of Education.
More than 60 parents and a few students attended the committee meeting Tuesday at North Davidson Middle School's cafeteria to gain insight and voice concerns with the district lines up for discussion.
Beginning in October, committee began to study district lines and feeder elementary schools for the new middle school. The panel is made up of principals from Ledford Middle and High and North Davidson Middle and High schools as well as athletic directors, two school board members and advisory chairs from the high, middle and elementary schools that will feed into the school.
The school's location is about halfway between North Davidson and Ledford middle schools near the intersection of Midway School and Hoy Long roads. The 132-acre site will also be home to a future high school.read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20111206/News/312069965/1005?Title=Committee-down-to-four-proposals-for-new-northern-middle-school&tc=ar |
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| 12/01/11 |
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Bus Driver Training |
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| 11/16/11 |
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Science show highlights importance of education |
Science show highlights importance of education
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
Aliens roamed the hallways with students of Southwood Elementary School on Wednesday as teachers read and shared science fiction or fantasy books.
The students were participating in "Reading Is Out of this World" day, which gave them the opportunity to dress as aliens. To add to the excitement, the school received a special visit from Dr. K. Boom.
Boom, played by Derek Hagen, is a character from Mad Science, a hands-on science program for children that provides entertainment and education. The show is in 18 counties in North Carolina and Virginia. For the past couple of years, the program has taken place afterschool for students twice a year. After-school students have been learning about acids and bases and science magic.
"We're just trying to get kids excited about science and show them it's not just out of the book," he said. "The show went really well. The kids had a lot of fun and seemed excited about it. That's what I'm here for."
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20111116/NEWS/311169986/1074?Title=Science-show-highlights-importance-of-education&tc=ar |
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| 11/16/11 |
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A newcomer to North Davidson has a homecoming to remember |
A newcomer to North Davidson has a homecoming to remember
Jason Biles, an 18-year-old senior at North Davidson High School
By: TRAVIS FAIN | Winston-Salem Journal
Jason Biles' mother worried that he would run over a cheerleader. Who could blame her? The cheerleaders were so close together, just on the other side of a paper banner.
The North Davidson High football team bunched in behind Jason. They slapped him on the shoulders, whipping him up beyond the excitement he felt just sitting at the steering wheel.
Greg Simpson, from the team's medical staff, sat beside Jason in the John Deere Gator — basically a gas-powered golf cart with enough power to worry over.
Simpson's eyes widened as the banner broke and he saw the cheerleaders. So close. So close together, he thought.
The music was blasting. The stadium was going nuts. Jason was going nuts. The North Davidson Knights were going nuts, ready to take the field for homecoming. Jason gunned it. "Dropped that hammer," as Simpson would say.
The cart blew safely past the cheerleaders and headed toward the 50-yard line. Jason smiled a massive grin.
A blind senior had just led the high school football team onto the field for homecoming.
Who could say no?
This was not originally the plan, to have Jason lead the team out on that Friday night, Oct. 14. He wasn't really supposed to be driving around at all in the Gator, which Simpson uses to ferry water coolers around campus.
But Simpson came across Jason, a skinny, buzz-cut 18-year-old, one day outside the coaches' office. Jason started feeling around the gas-powered cart. The next thing Simpson knew, Jason was in the passenger's seat, saying, "Will you take me for a ride?"
How could Simpson say no? They rode around campus for 15 minutes, Jason "just yelling and screaming and singing" the whole way, Simpson said.
A few days later, there was Jason, waiting. They got in the cart and headed down to the soccer field. No one was around, except head football coach Mark Holcomb, who'd been mowing the grass nearby.
Holcomb sat in his truck and watched as Simpson told Jason to take the wheel.
"He hit the gas and he wants to go fast," Simpson remembered. "All he wants to do is go fast."
They drove around for half an hour, singing a Charlie Rich song that anyone who knows Jason learns, or learns to tune out. Holcomb watched from afar.
That night, the Black Knights played Reagan High School. Before the game, Holcomb talked about Jason in his pre-game speech.
"We take things for granted some times," he said. "He's never seen a football game."
The Knights won, 24-10. Homecoming came a week later, with the Friday afternoon pep rally and its traditional golf cart parade. Who could lead it but Jason, even if he'd been at Davidson only a couple of months by then?
Some teachers had tears in their eyes as Jason drove, slowly this time, past the pep rally, Simpson said.
From the passenger's seat, Simpson leaned over and told him, "There's 1,500 kids here right now, and they're all looking at you.
"It's your time."
Homecoming night
Some hours later, the sun began to set. Simpson was preparing for a football game, same as usual on a Friday night in October.
The West Forsyth Titans were due on campus soon. And Simpson heard, "Jason's here with his family. His mom says he's leading the team out tonight."
Where this idea came from, it's not hard to guess.
Jason leads with his head, literally and figuratively. He does not often say, "I can't do that. I'm blind."
When he was born 26 weeks after conception, he weighed 1 pound, 11 ounces, said his mother, Renee Moeller.
He wasn't supposed to live very long. But he learned to roller skate and how to ride a bike. He is pestering his mother for a car, and his 16-year-old brother, Zack, is backing him up.
"Everybody else treats him like he's got problems," Zack said. "I don't."
Jason is about to graduate from high school and dreams of being a deejay, even though his favorite songs often make him cry.
School hasn't been easy. But when Jason showed up at North Davidson this year, people "really opened their arms," Moeller said.
An assistant football coach, Rob Lingerfelt, goes everywhere with Jason while he's at school. He helps him through the halls, calms him down when he gets excited and listens to how much Jason loves Miley Cyrus. Federal Title 1 money pays for the one-on-one help.
"I love it," Jason said of North Davidson. "The people are always nice to me. They don't used the R word there."
The "R word" is "retard." It's been used against Jason more than once. As he talks about it, Jason bobs back and forth in his seat. At times, his forehead is nearly at his knees.
"Anybody that called me that — my brother taught me how to fight," Jason said. "Of course, my mom doesn't like that."
So this is the kid who showed up with his family on homecoming night, expecting to lead the football team onto the field. Simpson approached Coach Holcomb: "What do you think about a blind kid leading us out tonight on a Gator?" he asks.
They decided to put it to the players. It was their night. They should decide. It was an easy choice. Holcomb, Simpson said, had taught these young men well.
read more:
http://www2.journalnow.com/news/2011/nov/13/wsmain01-a-kid-who-always-says-go-north-davidson-e-ar-1604377/ |
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| 11/14/11 |
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DCTAA TAOY CHOSEN |
The Davidson County Teacher Assistants Association is honored to announce the recipient of the 2011-2012 Teacher Assistant of the Year Award. Angie Galimore has been a teacher assistant in the Davidson County School system for 28 years and now works at South Davidson High School. Angie has primarily worked as an autism specialist. She has her NCATA Advanced Level, WorkKeys, and Crisis Prevention Intervention certificates.
Angie was a founding member of the local teacher assistant association and instrumental in attaining incentive pay for teacher assistants who continue their professional development. She is a former president of the association and has served its members on special committees and in other offices throughout the years. Angie served as the District 5 Professional Development Program Committee Chair for the North Carolina Association of Teacher Assistants for eight years and as the NCATA newsletter editor.
Her mission statement is: "To be an advocate on the behalf of those that cannot fight for their own rights. To educate society about the autistic child in the classroom and raise public and professional awareness of autism while helping the child reach his/her full potential."
Angie will now represent DCTAA in the process for the NCATA District 5 Teacher Assistant of the Year award. |
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| 11/08/11 |
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Two county schools awarded for improving academics, behavior |
Two county schools awarded for improving academics, behavior
Two Davidson County Schools received recognition for improving student academic and behavior outcomes.
Pilot Elementary and Central Davidson Middle schools were named Positive Behavior Intervention and Support Green Ribbon Schools. PBIS is a systematic approach that establishes and creates school environments that are more predictable and effective for achieving academic and social goals. The goal is to make sure all students have access to the most effective and accurately implemented instruction and behavioral practices and interventions possible.
Green Ribbon status represents model and exemplar, which demonstrates an increase for at least two consecutive years in both implementation fidelity and school outcomes, using multiple data sources. The schools will be highlighted during a N.C. PBIS celebration at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro in January.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20111108/News/311089982/1005?Title=Two-county-schools-awarded-for-improving-academics-behavior |
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| 11/08/11 |
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County schools preparing for new elementary curriculum |
County schools preparing for new elementary curriculum
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
Steps were revealed Monday for the implementation of the Common Core State Standards and N.C. Essential Standards in Davidson County elementary schools at the county schools board of education meeting.
The board was informed on what steps have taken place to get the system prepared for the program, mandated by the state next school year. At the last school board meeting, updates for the middle and high schools were given. The system's kindergarten through second-grade teachers will begin the process this school year. The rest of the elementary grades are in the process of being trained for full implementation in the 2012-13 school year.
"Our K-2 teachers are very brave," said Loryn Morrison, district elementary lead teacher. "It has been so enlightening to see the rigor and how our K-2 teachers embrace this. This is a growing process."
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20111107/News/311079980/1005?Title=County-schools-preparing-for-new-elementary-curriculum |
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| 10/27/11 |
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Central forfeits four football games |
Central forfeits four football games
BY MIKE DUPREZ
The Dispatch
Central Davidson has been ordered to forfeit four football games for using an ineligible player, athletic director Gene Poindexter announced Wednesday afternoon.
Victories on the field over Bartlett Yancey, Ledford, Thomasville and East Davidson are now forfeits, leaving Central with a 1-9 overall record and 1-3 mark in the Central Carolina Conference.
“I don’t know if disappointing is a strong enough word considering the year these kids have had and what they’ve come back from and overcome,” Poindexter said. “We’re devastated. We had a chance to potentially play for a conference championship, which we haven’t done in 32 years. And at the last minute, we had the rug pulled out from under us.
“But we’re not blaming anybody because it was of our own making. We’re going to take the penalty, accept it and move on.”
Central self-reported the ineligible player, who subsequently transferred, last week. It was initially thought that the Spartans would not have to forfeit any games because the player was enrolled under a falsified address.
But N.C. High School Athletic Association Executive Director Davis Whitfield said last Friday that another school had complained and that the matter was under investigation.
Additional information came out that a member of the Spartan coaching staff was giving the player rides home after practice and knew the player did not live in the Central district. That changed everything.
“Some other circumstances led us to investigate further,” Poindexter said. “We found out the facts and reported ourselves.”
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20111026/SPORTS/111029972/1003?Title=Central-forfeits-four-football-games |
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| 10/21/11 |
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Festival performer educates children prior to city's big day |
Festival performer educates children prior to city's big day
The Pied Piper of Percussion Steve Gryb (right) visited Tyro Elementary School on Friday giving students a sneak preview of his show, "The Rhythm is Going to Get You!" that will be performed at the Barbecue Festival. During the show, students not only learned about different instruments, they also had the opportunity to play some such as tambourines, bongos and maracas.
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
TYRO | Giggles and smiles filled the atmosphere Friday at Tyro Elementary School when a special visitor taught students about rhythm.
The multipurpose room bubbled with excitement and enrichment as Steve Gryb shared his percussion show featuring more than 200 instruments for the youths to play.
The popular performer came a day early to give a sneak preview of his performance at the 28th Annual Barbecue Festival on Saturday.
"We're going to have a good time today," said Gryb, who is also known as the Pied Piper of Percussion. "The rhythm is going to get you! Everybody clap to the music, the rhythm is going to get you. The pied piper is here."
He entertained kindergarten through second-grade students in the morning and performed another show in the afternoon for the rest of the grades. Last year, Gryb also performed at the school.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20111021/NEWS/310219980/1074?Title=Festival-performer-educates-children-prior-to-city-s-big-day |
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| 10/19/11 |
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SWAP Meeting - October 25, 2011 |
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| 10/19/11 |
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County school system to hold S.W.A.P. meeting |
County school system to hold S.W.A.P meeting
The public can share their ideas and concerns on Davidson County Schools during an open discussion Tuesday.
Davidson County Schools will hold a System Wide Advisory Panel meeting at 6:30 p.m. at Extended Day School, 2065 East Holly Grove Road off U.S. Highway 64 East.
Parents and others are welcome to address any education topic with Dr. Fred Mock, superintendent of the system. For more than 10 years, Mock has held SWAP meetings for parents, staff members and citizens. No topic is off-limits.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20111019/News/310199987/1005?Title=County-school-system-to-hold-S-W-A-P-meeting |
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| 10/18/11 |
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District lines discussed for new north Davidson middle school |
District lines discussed for new north Davidson middle school
Building to house 700 pupils in '12
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
WELCOME | Details surfaced Monday evening on the new northern Davidson County middle school at the first meeting of a district line committee charged with setting the boundaries for the school set to open next year.
Facts
Want to know more?
For more information on the new northern Davidson County middle school go to www.davidson.k12.nc.us. A newsletter box appears at the top of the page titled "New Middle School." Click "HERE" to go to the school construction site. Information will be updated periodically.
More than 60 people attended the meeting at North Davidson Middle School's cafeteria to gain insight on the school set to alleviate crowding and provide a safer atmosphere at both North Davidson and Ledford middle schools. The committee is made up of principals from Ledford middle and high and North Davidson middle and high schools as well as athletic directors, two school board members and advisory chairs from the high, middle and elementary schools that will feed into the school.
"Welcome. We're glad to see a nice crowd," said Karen Craver, Davidson County Board of Education member and chair of the committee. "Thank you for coming out tonight. This is great. We're glad to see so many community leaders here."
The proposed plan — referred to as LANDAS — builds a school capable of an enrollment of 864 students. The school is currently under construction on 132 acres off Midway School and Hoy Long roads.
The school's location is close to halfway between North Davidson and Ledford middle schools, and will also be home to a future high school.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20111018/NEWS/310189976/1005?Title=District-lines-discussed-for-new-north-Davidson-middle-school |
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| 10/12/11 |
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Tyro Elementary, CDMS prinipals selected as top administrators |
Tyro Elementary, CDMS principals selected as top administrators
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
Two administrators with at least 20 years of education experience were selected as the 2011 Principals of the Year for Davidson County Schools.
Central Davidson Middle School principal Chris Johnston stands by a Spartan Cadet helmet painted by the school's art teacher, Jessie Clapp. Johnston is one of the Davidson County Schools' Co-Principals of the Year.
Tyro Elementary School principal Kim Dixon and Central Davidson Middle School principal Chris Johnston will share the title this year.
"I congratulate Kim Dixon and Chris Johnston on being named Davidson County Schools' Principals of the Year 2011," said Dr. Fred Mock, superintendent of Davidson County Schools. "Kim Dixon opened Tyro Elementary School in 2008 and has led the way in establishing its reputation as an innovative new school with a rich curriculum. As principal of Central Davidson Middle School, Chris Johnston has worked diligently to build strong relationships within school and community that strengthen the academic program of our young adolescents."
The two were nominated by other assistant principals and principals before going through an interview process, and then voted on by the administrators in the system. Both were modest about the work they do for their schools.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20111011/NEWS/310119975/1005?Title=Tyro-Elementary-CDMS-principals-selected-as-top-administrators |
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| 10/10/11 |
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Welcome teacher chosen to represent county |
Welcome teacher chosen to represent county
By Deneesha Edwards
The Dispatch
WELCOME | Helping students see their value and purpose in life is why Laura Clodfelter was named the 2011 Davidson County Teacher of the Year.
Welcome Elementary School fourth-grade teacher Laura Clodfelter stands in her classroom on Friday. Clodfelter is the 2011-12 Davidson County Schools' Teacher of the Year.
Clodfelter, a fourth-grade teacher at Welcome Elementary School, was notified she was the top teacher at the annual banquet the school system holds for all of the teachers of the year from each school and the administrators.
"I'm excited to be able to go out and represent Davidson County Schools," Clodfelter said. "I want to do a good job of representing them. I want to do my best to show them what a great job Davidson County has done to prepare us as better educators. They do a good job preparing us. I just want to feel like I'm representing many of the teachers who work hard and dedicate lots of hours in this profession."
continue to read:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20111010/NEWS/310079967/1074?Title=Welcome-teacher-chosen-to-represent-county |
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| 9/30/11 |
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Bus Driver Training |
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| 9/07/11 |
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Midway Elementary coping wthout cafeteria damaged by fire |
Midway Elementary coping without cafeteria damaged by fire
By Darrick Ignasiak
The Dispatch
Midway Elementary School Principal Lisa Nelson, standing in the school's gym, discusses how the school had to relocate seating and tables from the school's cafeteria to the gym after an apparent electrical fire charred part of the school's dining room on Sunday evening.
MIDWAY | Two days after an electrical fire at Midway Elementary School caused extensive damage in the cafeteria, Principal Lisa Nelson reported a smooth school day Tuesday, though students endured a few changes.
At 5:40 p.m. Sunday, a fire started in an office beside the cafeteria, Midway Volunteer Fire Department Chief Michael Craft said. Firefighters had the fire under control in about 20 minutes. Nelson said she didn’t have an estimate of the damages.
The fire was mostly contained to the kitchen. Most of the equipment in the kitchen was taken out to determine whether appliances could work or not, Nelson said. The fire also caused smoke damage in the dining room, which has since been repainted. The room’s air conditioning has been pulled out. There’s also no power in the dining room as it is being refurbished.
Davidson County Fire Marshal Brad Needham said Tuesday afternoon the fire appeared to be a result of an electrical malfunction. He said he’s continuing to collect data to determine the exact cause of the fire.
“I want to make sure 100 percent,” Needham said. “I’m currently trying to gather the lightning data for the area during the time frame and everything else from Saturday night into Sunday because we have had some storms through here. But everything that I have found appears to be some type of an electrical malfunction of some sort.”
Students, meanwhile, ate lunch in a make-shift cafeteria set up in the school gym. Meals were prepared at Friendship Elementary School.
continue to read:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20110906/NEWS/110909979/1074?Title=Midway-Elementary-coping-without-cafeteria-damaged-by-fire |
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| 9/07/11 |
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County schools planning for Common Core State Standards |
County schools planning for Common Core State Standards
By Vikki Broughton Hodges
The Dispatch
The Davidson County Board of Education on Tuesday night heard updates on the Common Core State Standards for the middle and high schools, the system's strategic plan and how Race to the Top stimulus funds are improving technology in schools.
The board also tweaked a relatively new policy on over-the-counter medication being administered at schools and honored an outstanding mentor.
Dr. Sandi Lee, assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction for Davidson County Schools, said the local system is actually ahead of most systems around the state in its planning for implementing CCSS next school year. Already adopted by 44 states, Lee said the aim of CCSS is to "provide a consistent, clear understanding of what students are expected to learn, so teachers and parents know what they need to do to help them. The standards are designed to be robust and relevant to the real world, reflecting the knowledge and skills that our young people need for success in college and careers."
continue to read:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20110906/NEWS/309069960/1005?p=1&tc=pg |
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| 8/26/11 |
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Opening of school provides day of firsts for teachers |
Opening of school provides day of firsts for teachers
Hasty Elementary School first-year third-grade teacher Ashley Blake interacts with students on the school playground Thursday morning during the first day of school.
BY DARRICK IGNASIAK
The Dispatch
THOMASVILLE | For three new teachers at Hasty Elementary School, the first day of class for Davidson County Schools brought jitters and excitement Thursday.
Photo Galleries
First Day of School
Beginning their careers in education, Ashley Blake, 27, Nicole Mathis, 26, and Lindsay Smith, 27, shook off any nervousness that came with the opening day and welcomed students to their classrooms. Hours into their first day, the three educators said their days were going smooth.
read more:
http://www.the-dispatch.com/article/20110825/NEWS/110829979/1005?Title=Opening-of-school-provides-day-of-firsts-for-teachers- |
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| 8/18/11 |
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Substitute Teacher Workshop |
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| 7/25/11 |
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Bus Driver Training |
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| 6/23/11 |
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New administrative jobs effective July 1, 2011 |
The Davidson County Board of Education voted unanimously this morning to approve the following people in their new administrative jobs effective July 1, 2011:
Central Davidson High School Principal Emily Lipe will replace retiring North Davidson High School Principal Gary Fishel.
West Davidson High School Principal Tabitha Broadway will replace Emily Lipe as Principal of Central Davidson High School..
North Davidson Assistant Principal Travis Smith will replace Tabitha Broadway as Principal of West Davidson High School. |
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| 5/31/11 |
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Attention all full time employees |
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| 5/12/11 |
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DCS Surplus Auction - May 14, 2011 at 8:00 AM - Administrative Office Parking Lot |
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| 4/23/11 |
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Despite frequent reports of labor-management strife in the nation’s schools, there are many school systems in which teachers and district leaders are working together to improve public education—and some of the best examples of this... |
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| 4/23/11 |
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How to raise student achievement through better labor-management collaboration |
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| 4/23/11 |
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Wisconsin protests grow as teachers balk at proposed legislation |
Wisconsin protests grow as teachers balk at proposed legislation » |
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| 4/23/11 |
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Ind. Democrats flee to Illinois, block labor bill |
Ind. Democrats flee to Illinois, block labor bill |
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| 4/23/11 |
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Using Multimedia to Increase Student Engagement |
Using Multimedia to Increase Student Engagement » |
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| 4/23/11 |
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Report: Apple to unveil iPad 2 on March 2 |
Report: Apple to unveil iPad 2 on March 2 |
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| 1/28/11 |
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SWAP meeting February 2, 2011 |
SWAP meeting February 2, 2011 |
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| 1/24/11 |
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Substitute Teacher Workshop |
SUBSTITUTE TEACHER WORKSHOP
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
6:00PM - 9:00PM
Central Davidson Middle School Auditorium
Anyone interested in substituting for Davidson County School System must attend a substitute workshop. No pre-registrations is necessary. For additional information or directions, please call Davidson County Schools at 336-249-8181. |
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| 1/20/11 |
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Davidson County Education Foundation Awards Special Mini-Grant to Teachers |
Davidson County Education Foundation Awards Special Mini-Grant to Teachers
West Davidson High School teachers Janie Davis and Trista Tew will now have an additional $350 to contribute toward their classroom project “Heirloom Tomatoes.” The special mini-grant was funded by Horace Mann Insurance Company and awarded through the Davidson County Education Foundation. A check will be presented to the two teachers on January 28 at West Davidson High School. |
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| 11/09/10 |
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S.W.A.P. - System-wide Advisory Panel Meeting Announcement |
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| 11/03/10 |
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Bus Driver Training |
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| 7/19/10 |
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Summer Theater: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat |
Enjoy the Davidson County Schools' production of
"Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat"
by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice; directed by Bob Dye.
This production will be performed at the
Edward C. Smith Civic Center, Lexington, NC on
Thursday, July 22, Friday, July 23, and Saturday, July 24 at 7:00 pm.
Tickets are $10 each. Advanced tickets available at the Civics Center Office. |
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| 7/01/10 |
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Administrative Appointments |
Administrative Appointments:
June 30, 2010
Sloan Denny will remain at Ledford Middle where she has been as interim principal since the retirement of Principal Evan Myers in February 2010.
James Fitzgerald has been the assistant principal of North Middle and will be the principal of Extended Day School upon the retirement of Principal Bruce Johnson.
Michael Foust has been the assistant principal of Denton and Brier Creek elementary schools and will be the principal of Denton upon the retirement of Principal Marie Casiday.
Billy Hunt, principal of South Davidson High, will be the principal of East Davidson High, upon the retirement of Principal Cathi Smith.
Jonathan Hayes, assistant principal of Central Davidson High, will be the principal of South Davidson High upon the move of Billy Hunt.
Stephanie Hall, co-assistant principal of Ledford Middle School, will be the assistant principal of E. Lawson Brown Middle School upon the leaving of Wendy Klutz who becomes the new ILT coordinator upon the retirement of Faye Patterson.
*All changes are effective July 1, 2010. |
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| 5/12/10 |
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AUCTION - Saturday, May 15, 2010 |
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| 5/06/10 |
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North Davidson High School Air Force JROTC, NC-951,Competes in the National Academic Bowl in Washington, DC. |
North Davidson High School Air Force JROTC, NC-951,
Competes in the National Academic Bowl in Washington, DC.
FINISHES 7TH IN GLOBAL COMPETITION ! ! !
Welcome, NC- After advancing through two phases of competition, the North Davidson High School AFJROTC academic team composed of Andy Andrews, Jacob Masters, Mari Rojas, Erica Steele, Amanda Fadden, and instructor Major C. Damratoski, competed in the final Championship round of the College Options Foundation’s 2010 Air Force JROTC Academic Bowl in Washington, D.C., at Bolling Air Force Base, April 23-26, 2010. They finished 7th overall. Placing 1st was a team from Japan.
North Davidson HS AFJROTC, NC-951, competed in two rounds of competitive online play against hundreds of AFJROTC students from across the world to win a place in the championship and trip to D.C. In these rounds, students were tested on standard high school curriculum, including math, science, English, and leadership skills. The team is one of only 16 in the nation to advance to the finals.
The AFJROTC Academic Bowl is a nationally recognized academic competition created exclusively for JROTC students. By participating, cadets learn the values of citizenship, academic achievement, and college opportunity. The competition creates tremendous opportunities for JROTC cadets by highlighting their strong academic abilities and JROTC’s commitment to academic success.
The College Options Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to enriching the academic development of high school students and assisting them in their preparation for higher education. Using academic competitions, college exam study guides, college admissions tutorials and personalized counseling, College Options Foundation has assisted the nation’s 1.1 million JROTC cadets worldwide.
Contact:
Major C. Damratoski
North Davidson HS
7227 Old US Hwy 52
Lexington, NC 27295
cdamratoski@davidson.k12.nc.us
336-731-8431, ext 8532 |
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| 5/06/10 |
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Central Davidson Middle School Participates in Piedmont Young Writers Celebration |
Central Davidson Middle School Participates in Piedmont Young Writers Celebration
Several Central Davidson Middle School students were honored at UNCG on Saturday, May 1 as award winners in the 22nd annual Piedmont Young Writers Celebration. Twenty schools which included public, private, and charter schools participated. In March a total of 278 students submitted individual or group children’s books to the contest sponsored by the Center for Educational Studies and Development at UNCG. The submitted books were read and scored by retired teachers from Davidson and Rowan County Schools. Categories for the book entries were fiction, non-fiction, and going green. The following seventh grade students received award recognition and a trophy for their accomplishment.
In the group fiction category, first place went to Madison Beane, Kristi Payne, Kerry Perdue, and Pheaktra Te. Third place fiction went to Cullen Greene, Nathan Kearns, and Eli White. Fourth place fiction went to Anna Cranford, Abbie Doss, Melissa McMath, and Garrett Neal.
First place group non-fiction winners were Mamie Gates, Kirston Greene, Becca Grimes, Hayden Lively, and Julie Silva.
In the going-green group category, first place winners were Lindsay Everhart, April Kearns, Haley Westervelt, and Courtney Wilson.
Principal, Chris Johnston, Assistant Principal, Debbie Hill and 7th grade Language Arts teacher, Cheryl Rich attended the celebration ceremony. We are proud to celebrate the accomplishments of these students. |
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| 5/04/10 |
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Davidson County Early College High School |
Davidson Early High School began almost five years ago as a collaborative endeavor involving three school systems (Davidson County, Lexington City and Thomasville City) and Davidson County Community College. The original goal was to increase the number of high school students who graduate with college credit, preferably with the outcome being a two-year transferrable degree. That dream has been and is being achieved.
During the last five years, the high school has transitioned from a middle college to an early college high school. It has grown from approximately 35 students to its current enrollment of 115 students. It is anticipated that 38 students will graduate on May 22, 2010. More than 87% of this class will have a high school diploma as well as either an AA or AS college degree. Equally significant will be the fact that it is anticipated that 15 students will have achieved the high school diploma and TWO college degrees. This is truly a remarkable accomplishment in the short period of time. Of the 38 graduates, 20 are planning to attend a public 4-year university/college; 7 are planning to attend a private 4-year university/college; 8 are planning to attend a two-year community college; one is planning to join the military and one is planning to work for a non-profit organization. Among the schools where anticipated graduates have been accepted are: UNC-W, NC State, Johnson-Wells; Davidson Community College, UNC-Asheville, three will be attending UNC-Ch, Wake Forest, Piedmont Baptist College, UNC-G, Liberty University, East Carolina University, ASU, Salem College, Wingate University, John Wesley College, UNC-Charlotte, Western Carolina University, Elon University, and Guilford Technical Community College.
During the five-year period Davidson Early High School has been recognized for many accomplishments including the following:
- Recognized by US News and World Report as being one of the best
high schools in the nation
- Recognized by the SDPI as a School of Excellence and
School of Distinction with regard to the ABCs
- Achieving Adequate Yearly Progress
- 0 Drop outs in 2008/2009
- Received the Governor’s Award for Outstanding Teaching and
Learning Environment in 2009
- Recipient of a 1:1 technology grant which has afforded all students and
faculty with laptop computers, including training on appropriate use
- In March 2009, received one of the highest categories (“Well Established”)
by an external review team.
- Was recognized by Newschools on April 22, 2010 as being one of the
pioneering innovative high schools in the state.
One of the unique aspects of the school was the formation of a student technology team. That team was trained by the school’s technology facilitator, Ms. Christy Sarver Wolf, and serves as a leadership team for technology problem solving. In 2009, it led a professional development session for Newschools personnel. During the fall semester this team designed and developed a CD that captures the school’s story. |
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| 4/21/10 |
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Bus Driver Training |
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| 12/01/09 |
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Board of Education Public Hearing - December 7, 2009 |
The Davidson County Board of Education will hold a public hearing on the proposed 2010-2011 school calendar.
Monday, December 7, 2009 - 7:00 pm
Davidson County School System's Administrative Office
250 County School Road
Lexington, NC 27293 |
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| 11/30/09 |
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Open House and New Building Dedication South Dav. High School Sunday, Dec. 6 2:00 - 4:00 |
South Davidson High School Community Open House
Sunday, December 6, 2009 2:00 - 4:00
Comments and dedication at 3:00 in the New Band Room
Principal Billy Hunt invites parents, community, students and staff to celebrate South Davidson High School's new addition of band room, offices and classrooms.
The public is invited. Please come and bring family and friends. |
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| 11/30/09 |
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Open House and Dedication of new Southmont Elem. School Thursday, Dec. 10, 6:30 pm |
Southmont Elementary School invites the public to attend Community Open House and building dedication on Thursday, December 10, 2009 6:30 pm in the Multipurpose Room. Classroom visits and school tour will follow. Principal Tammy Bush invites parents, community, students and staff to celebrate Davdson County's newest school.
Anyone unable to attend at this time may call the school to arrange a time for a guided tour. Everyone is invited to attend and bring family and friends. |
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| 11/13/09 |
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Central Davidson Band Students in the North Carolina Honors Orchestra |
Four Central Davidson band students were selected for the North Carolina All-State Honors Orchestra which performed Saturday, November 8, 2009 as a part of the North Carolina Music Educators Association In-Service Conference in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
The performance of the orchestra included the Overture to La Forza del Destino by Giuseppi Verdi, Menuet Antique by Maurice Ravel, Adagio of Spartacus and Phyrgia from the Spartacus Ballet Suite No. 2 by Aram Khachaturian, and the Commando March by Samuel Barber.
The Honors Orchestra was conducted by Dr. James Allen Anderson, Director of Orchestra Studies and the Appalachian State University Symphony Orchestra.
Seniors Alex Branson (percussion), Oran Dickens (clarinet), and Matthew Hedrick (timpani) as well as junior Austin Nield (bassoon) gave a performance for well over 1,500 music teachers state wide as well as parents, friends, and spectators.
Selection to the prestigious All-State Orchestra is based upon placement and audition into a regional orchestra in North Carolina. Students who have the highest scores in the previous year are invited to return in the fall of the next year and perform with the All-State Orchestra. Annually, only around 100 North Carolina High School musicians are selected for this event.
This year marks the second time that all of these students have had the opportunity to perform with the group, a rare opportunity for most students.
The students from Central Davidson were the only students from Davidson County who were in the regional or state orchestra this past school year. The band directors at Central Davidson are James Daugherty, Rodney Workman, Christina DiGioia, and student teacher Wess Pasour. |
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| 11/12/09 |
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Substitute Teacher Workshop |
SUBSTITUTE TEACHER WORKSHOP
Monday, February 8, 2010
6:00PM - 9:00PM
Central Davidson Middle School Cafeteria
Anyone interested in substituting for Davidson County School System must attend a substitute workshop. No pre-registrations is necessary. For additional information or directions, please call Davidson County Schools at 336-249-8181. |
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| 11/02/09 |
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SystemWide Advisory Council SWAP Minutes Oct. 27, 2009 |
SWAP
SystemWide Advisory Panel
Minutes
October 27, 2009
• Superintendent Fred Mock gave an overview of the development process for the 2010-2011 school calendar.
• Dr. Mock and Jay Temple, executive director of auxiliary services, give an update on school construction projects. New Southmont Elementary School will open in late November.
• The status of the land purchase for new middle and high schools in the North Davidson/Ledford area is still in negotiations with the Board of Education.
• Wallburg Elementary School is served by two separate Enrichment Teams as opposed to one full time team because of the need to balance scheduling and travel evenly among all DCS enrichment teams.
• At this time there are no plans to redraw school attendance lines among Wallburg, Friendship and Hasty elementary schools. Enrollment in each school fluctuates from year to year.
• Computers and other technology are great needs in schools. PTOs are helping. Grant sources for meeting these needs are not known. Grants in general have suffered along with other funding sources in today’s economy. Updates are made as the budget permits.
• Safety Resource Officers (SROs) in middle schools were cut this year because of funding. We do value them greatly. High school SROs are available to help out in middle schools.
• We cannot expand Ledford High School’s parking lot to permit sophomores to drive because there is not funding to purchase land. Parents may give feedback regarding the quality of teachers via the survey questionnaire that is sent home with the first report card. They may also use Contact Us on the DCS Web site www.davidson.k12.nc.us Parents may telephone, write or email their concerns.
• The new band room at South Davidson High will alleviate crowding for those classes. Cafeteria and gymnasium additions would have also been nice, but they were not possible financially.
• DCS students may not opt out of senior projects. Over 80% of NC high schools require senior projects, and DCS leaders feel strongly that project work prepares students for college and work.
• School cafeterias will continue to serve whole grain bread instead of white bread. The Healthy Americans Act calls for reduced transfats, white flour and sugar and increases in whole grains and other fiber.
• School meals have changed, for the reasons listed above. Obesity is real among children and public schools are committed and required to change the way food is prepared. Dr. Mock stated his commitment to healthy menus and food preparation.
• DCS does not require substitutes for kindergarten assistants because of financial constraints. Principals may hire substitutes if they feel they are needed.
• Some schools permit parents to provide duty-free lunch for teachers and teacher assistants and others do not. That is the principal’s decision.
• Because of budget cutbacks in funding this year (as a result of the economy), school supplies have been effected e.g., desks, equipment, some books, technology etc. DCS financial transactions are audited annually by an outside firm. All results are public information.
• Movies and other instructional videos are supposed to be part of the classroom lesson being taught, as opposed to “entertainment.”
• DCS has extended the Literacy Initiative from the elementary grades to the middle and high school grades. Instructional techniques will differ because of students’ ages. Teaching methods should include interaction and sharing, as opposed to the lecture/note-taking methods of the past.
The next SWAP meeting will be announced on the DCS Web site at www.davidson.k12.nc.us |
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| 10/27/09 |
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All County Band Night Cancelled for tonight Oct. 27, 2009 |
All County Band Night is cancelled for tonight Oct. 27, 2009 and rescheduled for Tuesday Nov. 3, 2009. |
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| 10/20/09 |
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S.W.A.P. Meeting System Wide Advisory Panel |
S.W.A.P. Meeting
System Wide Advisory Panel
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
7:00 p.m.
Extended Day School
2065 East Holly Grove Road
Off Highway 64 East
Outside Lexington
You are invited to sit at the discussion table with Davidson County school superintendent Fred Mock.
Participants have the superintendent’s full attention for any subject on their minds.
S.W.A.P. meets several times during the school year; discussion topics are chosen by attending members who have questions or who want to become more informed about school matters. This is the eleventh year Superintendent Mock has invited citizens to share their thoughts and questions with him in a discussion format. Residents of Davidson County school district are welcome to attend any and all meetings.
Email questions or topics you would like to discuss. Dr. Mock will be sure to bring the necessary information for discussion.
fmock@davidson.k12.nc.us
Please plan to attend; bring a friend.
If you have attended S.W.A.P. meetings in the past,
you know there is always informative discussion.
No topic is off limits.
If there should be inclement weather and you have questions about our meeting,
please call Meredith Palmer at 242-5548. |
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| 9/24/09 |
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H1N1 or Swine Flu |
September 2009
For Families of DCS Students:
As you may have seen on the television or read in the newspapers, the flu season this year has started early and there is likely to be more cases as a result of the H1N1 (swine) flu virus. Our community, as most in the country, is already experiencing the presence of flu-like illnesses. We need your assistance as a parent/guardian of a school-age child in helping to control the spread of flu in our schools!
To help us in the effort to keep flu out of our schools please consider the following recommendations.
• Instruct your child to wash their hands frequently with soap and water and especially after using the bathroom, before eating, and after using a tissue to cough or sneeze.
• Instruct your child to cough or sneeze into a tissue, and if a tissue is not available, cough or sneeze into the bend of their arm. If they use a tissue, throw the tissue in the trash and wash their hands.
• Monitor your child’s well-being. If they are complaining of flu-like symptoms --- fever, headache, runny stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, body aches, or tiredness --- keep them at home and away from persons who are at risk for complications of flu. You should keep your child at home until they have not had any fever for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication. Please make plans in advance for your child if he/she becomes sick. In order to protect others in the school all sick children will be sent home.
• Get the seasonal flu and H1N1 flu vaccines when they are available at your doctor’s office, at the health department or wherever they are offered.
The Davidson County Schools take health precautions very seriously. We do not want sick children at school! After students are well, we will provide remedial work to help them catch up academically.
Your help will truly make a difference in controlling the spread of flu. The school system is working closely with the Davidson County Health Department to assist with infection control and flu prevention education. Some parents have asked about the possibility of schools closings. Current guidance from public health officials is to avoid school closings, if at all possible. Our intent is to implement control measures that, with your help, will prevent closings from ever becoming necessary. We want healthy students to be in school every day. With the schools, parents/guardians, medical providers and health department working together, we hope to lessen the occurrence of flu-like illness. |
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| 9/16/09 |
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2009-2010 Free and Reduced Lunch Applications |
Applications for Free and Reduced Lunch for the 2009-2010 school year can be completed at any time. However, if you received Free and Reduced Lunch for the 2008-2009 school year, your benefits will expire on October 6, 2009. If you had benefits during the 2008-2009 school year and have not completed an application for the 2009-2010 school year please do so as soon as possible. Please contact the Child Nutrition Department at 336-242-5635 with any questions. |
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| 9/11/09 |
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Peanut and Other Allergy Concerns |
DCS staff is committed to working hard to provide a safe school environment for all children. This includes addressing the individual needs of children, and at the same time not offering false assurances to parents and students about the lack of allergens in the environment.
DCS cannot guarantee any school or classroom to be “Peanut Free.” Therefore, there will be no signs anywhere in the school system that say “Peanut Free” classroom or area. All signs of this nature must come down as they offer false assurances about the school or classroom environment. There will be no letters sent home to parents asking for cooperation in removing peanut products from the school environment, since that offers some implied assurance of a “Peanut Free” classroom or area.
Parents of every child with a known allergy (including peanut allergies) are asked to come forward so an Individual Health Plan (IHP) / Food Allergy Alert Plan (FAAP) can be written for their child. Each child’s plan will be shared with the appropriate staff who come in contact with the child during the day.
The Child Nutrition Department will monitor all aspects of food service in the cafeteria. Parents may locate a “Diet Order Form” on the DCS Web site www.davidson.k12.nc.us Click on Administrative Departments in the left hand menu and then click on Child Nutrition.
Please review the School Guidelines for Managing Students with Food Allergies file attached below: |
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| 9/04/09 |
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President Obama's Speech to Students Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2009 12:00 |
Davidson County Schools will neither require nor prohibit the viewing of the address or alter the school day activities on this day. If classroom teachers desire to use the address as material that supports the curriculum objective from the NC Standard Course of Study they are teaching on September 8, they may do so. If parents have concerns, they are urged to contact their school's principal or instruct their child to ask for an alternative assignment. |
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| 9/02/09 |
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Flu and H1N1 (Swine) Flu in Davidson County Schools |
Dear Parents/Guardians:
As you may have seen on the television or read in the newspapers, the flu season this year has started early and ithere is likely to be more cases as a result of the H1N1 (swine) flu virus. Our community, like most in the country, is already experiencing the presence of flu-like illnesses. We need your assistance as a parent/guardian of a school-age child in helping to control the spread of flu in our schools!
To help us in the effort to keep flu out of our schools please consider the following recommendations.
• Instruct your child to wash their hands frequently with soap and water and especially after using the bathroom, before eating, and after using a tissue to cough or sneeze.
• Instruct your child to cough or sneeze into a tissue, and if a tissue is not available, cough or sneeze into the bend of their arm. If they use a tissue, throw the tissue in the trash and wash their hands.
• Monitor your child’s well-being. If they are complaining of flu-like symptoms --- fever, headache, runny stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, body aches, or tiredness --- keep them at home and away from persons who are at risk for complications of flu. You should keep your child at home until they have not had any fever for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication. Please make plans in advance for your child if he/she becomes sick. In order to protect others in the school all sick children will be sent home.
• Get the seasonal flu and H1N1 flu vaccines when they are available at your doctor’s office, at the health department or wherever they are offered.
The Davidson County Schools take health precautions very seriously. We do not want sick children at school! After students are well, we will provide remedial work to help them catch up academically.
Your help will truly make a difference in controlling the spread of flu. The school system is working closely with the Davidson County Health Department to assist with infection control and flu prevention education. Some parents have asked about the possibility of schools closings. Current guidance from public health officials is to avoid school closings, if at all possible. Our intent is to implement control measures that, with your help, will prevent closings from ever becoming necessary. We want healthy students to be in school every day. With the schools, parents/guardians, medical providers and health department working together, we hope to lessen the occurrence of flu-like illness. |
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| 8/12/09 |
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T-DAP Vaccination Cinic at Davidson Co. Health Department, Upcoming 6th Graders |
Entering 6th graders are required to have the T-DAP vaccination in order to attend school for the 2009-2010 school year.
Davidson County Health Department is offering vaccinations on Thursday, September 17, 2009 1:00 pm - 6:00 pm. Call for an appointment 336-242-2510. |
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| 8/12/09 |
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New Assistant Principals Appointed, Others Receive New Assignments |
Dan Shamblen is the new assistant principal at Friedberg Elementary. He was a teacher at Ledford Middle School.
Jim Sparks is the new assistant principal at East Davidson High School. He comes to DCS from Guilford County Schools.
Debbie Hege is the new assistant principal in a divided position between Pilot Elementary and Friendship Elementary. She was a teacher at Reeds Elementary School.
Kathy Elmore who has been assistant principal at Churchland Elementary will now be in a divided position between Churchland and Southmont Elementary School. |
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| 7/21/09 |
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School Board Appoints New Assistant Principals 7-21-09 |
Wendy Klutz, a former lead teacher, will be the new assistant principal at Brown Middle, replacing Kelli Dalton who became principal of Brier Creek Elem. after Dr. Susan Allen retired in the spring.
Valerie Feezor, a former lead math teacher, will be a new assistant principal at North Davidson High School, replacing Cheryl Lee whose family moved.
Patricia Boehm will be the new shared assistant principal at Reeds and Tyro elementary schools. She is a former teacher.
Kimberly Money will be the new assistant principal at Hasty Elem. replacing Beth Goins who became the new principal of Churchland Elem. after Tammy Bush was appointed principal of the new Southmont Elem. Kimberly is a former ESL teacher.
Natasha Bumgarner, former assistant principal at Friedberg Elem. transferred to Welcome Elem. as assistant principal, replacing Tonya Baity who became a lead teacher. |
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| 7/17/09 |
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Sports Illustrated Names North Davidson High School #1 in NC |
Headline reads: “Top athletics program in each state and the District of Columbia”
Whether it’s school size or the depth of the regional talent pool, not all state champions are created equally. After sifting through state tournament results for the 2008-2009 school year, contacting athletic directors from top programs, examining all-around success rates as well as weighing the importance of producing star athletes and teams that excelled on the national level, SI.com has assembled a list of the top high school athletic programs in each of the 50 states, plus the District of Columbia.
SI Named North Davidson High School #1 in NC |
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| 7/07/09 |
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Bus Driver Training |
Bus Driver Training July 20, 21, & 22, 2008
First and Second Day 8:30 am - 3:30 pm
Third Day 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Extended Day School on Holly Grove Road off Highway 64 East outside
Lexington toward Asheboro. (The old Davis-Townsend School building)
There is no cost to attend the classes.
Contact the school(s) of your choice for positions available. |
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| 6/18/09 |
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Title IV, Part A, Safe and Drug Free Schools Application Submitted |
Public Notice: Title IV, Part A, Safe and Drug Free Schools application will be submitted to the NC Department of Public Instruction by Davidson County Schools on or before June 30, 2009. |
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| 6/11/09 |
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North Davidson High School Makes Top High School List for Third Year |
North Davidson High School made Newsweek’s Top High Schools list for the third year in a row, ranking 791 up 334 points from their 2008 ranking of 1125 and 501 points up from their 2007 ranking of 1292.
Public schools are ranked according to a ratio, the number of Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB) and/or Cambridge tests taken by all students at the school in 2008 divided by the number of graduating seniors. All schools making the list are in the top six percent of public schools measured in this manner.
“I commend North Davidson High staff and students for working hard and achieving high standards. This achievement brings honor to North Davidson and to the Davidson County School System,” said Superintendent Fred Mock.
North Davidson High School is the largest high school in DCS with 1542 students in grades 9-12.
For more information go to http://www.newsweek.com/id/201160/?s=NC&q=2009/rank/1 |
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| 6/03/09 |
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Students will take all classes on line at Extended Day School 2009-2010 |
All curriculum will be Internet based.
All curriculum will be provided through North Carolina Virtual Public School (NCVPS) or Nova Net.
Additional responsibilities will be given to personnel within the Alternative to Suspension Center (ASC).
All classroom teachers will facilitate daily Internet-based curriculum in 4 labs, with a maximum of 25 students per lab.
Each classroom teacher will assist students in seminar-style classes, according to the teacher’s area of specialty and certification.
The new academic model will remove the restrictions of time and place. Students may work on Internet-based curriculum from any location, thus providing extraordinary flexibility for students to access instruction and academic support.
Likewise, the model provides the ability for students who are absent from school to continue to work from home.
The model provides a means for students to work at their own speed.
The model primarily focuses on student performance, student learning, and content mastery, as opposed to focusing primarily on teacher performance. Teachers will facilitate learning and provide individual assistance to students as they need it.
Each student will be assigned to 3 labs and 1 face-to-face seminar.
The teacher of Exceptional Children will use the inclusion schedule and individual seminars with students as needed.
Students who are assigned to NCVPS courses may also have access to the same course via Nova Net for support, practice and review.
Students who do not succeed with NCVPS may be redirected to the same course via Nova Net which will provide more local teacher support and direction.
Students must be registered for NCVPS classes immediately to secure course assignments.
New student selection and enrollment must take place at the earliest opportunity to secure NCVPS course assignments.
Extended Day School is part of the Davidson County Schools. Only DCS students are eligible to attend the school.
Curriculum is the NC required high school curriculum.
Students will graduate from Extended Day School with a high school diploma, if all requirements are met.
Questions should be directed to Bruce Johnson, principal 336-242-1459 |
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| 6/02/09 |
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DCS will NOT print big school calendar with art work 2009-2010. It is on line. |
The calendar months are currently posted on the DCS Web site www.davidson.k12.nc.us Click on the Publications tab and select 2009-2010 School Calendar. You may print the calendar for your convenience. All art work from the Superintendent's Art Choice Awards is also available on the Web under Art Gallery. The art work of the winners for elementary, middle and high school has been framed and is on display in the DCS boardroom.
Thank you for understanding the difficult economic times we all face. This decision will save dollars that can be used in classrooms. |
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| 5/20/09 |
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We want your feedback about this Web site |
We want you to give us some feedback about our DCS Web site. We want to know if it is meeting your information needs. Do you think it is user friendly? Is it easy to navigate? Is there information you would like added to the Web site? What is the best feature of our Web site? Please email mpalmer@davidson.k12.nc.us |
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| 5/06/09 |
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North Middle Schools Art Dept. Receives $800 Target Community Involvement Grant |
North Davidson Middle School Art Teacher receives Target Community Involvement Grant.
Rebecca Collins Dudley received a $800.00 grant from Target. Mrs.
Dudley wrote the grant to assist North Davidson Students in their study of art from around the world. After completing multi-cultural art projects in her class room students traveled by bus to the N.C.
Museum of Art in Raleigh NC to experience priceless art pieces first hand.
Parent chaperone, Sherri Dooley, commented "The children really seemed to be totally engaged in the art. I have never accompanied a group of middle school students who were so well behaved. The educational director of the museum and many of the museum patrons even complemented our kids on their good manners. I think it was because the students were so inspired by the art work. It was such a complement for North Davidson and Mrs. Dudley!"
When teachers, community leaders and businesses support education this is the type of results we can expect. |
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| 5/05/09 |
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Summer Hours for all DCS |
Summer hours for DCS will be as follows at all school locations and the administrative office:
June 15 - August 14
Monday - Thursday 7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (30 min lunch)
Friday 7:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
DCS has never changed work hours in the summer, but this year Superintendent Mock asked the DCS energy management to research energy cost savings and possible changes. Results indicated that working one extra hour Mon - Thurs and then Friday mornings (which would have benefit of the cooler morning air), and being closed on Friday afternoon would require less energy during the hottest time of the day. Estimated savings could be around $100,000. School officials will keep careful notes for review. School Board approved 5-0 May 4, 2009. |
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| 5/05/09 |
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Churchland's Tammy Bush named first principal of new Southmont Elem. |
Tammy Bush will leave Churchland Elem. as principal and be the first principal of the new Southmont Elementary School scheduled to open sometime next fall. |
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| 3/05/09 |
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Art Teacher Claudia Kates receives $1000 RJ Reynolds Grant NDMS March 09 |
RJReynolds Foundation Grant Awarded
Glenda Goodman, Community Involvement Coordinator, announced Claudia R. Kates the recipient of the $1,000.00 RJReynolds Foundation Grant.
The following employees have requested and received support through the Community Involvement Plan for Claudia R. Kates, Fine Arts teacher at NORTH DAVIDSON MIDDLE SCHOOL: Jason D. Beane, Craig A. Brown, William K. Shreve, Jenny L. Smith.
On behalf of the R.J. Reynolds Foundation a check for $1,000.00 was awarded to Mrs. Kates on November of 2008. Funds to be used to support ARTS AROUND THE WORLD STUDENT PROJECT. The foundation grant will incorporated reading, writing, math, technology and social studies into the creation of exciting art projects.
RJR commends Mrs. Kates and their employees for their volunteerism in the community and participation in the Community Involvement Plan. Through programs such as this teachers are assisting our children in exciting and innovative ways. |
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| 2/27/09 |
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SystemWide Advisory Panel (SWAP) Wednesday, February 25, 2009 |
SystemWide Advisory Panel --- SWAP
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Extended Day School
Hosted by Superintendent Fred Mock
35 citizens and staff in attendance
Questions:
There are rumors about redistricting in the Wallburg area to accommodate crowding and growth in the Ledford area. Any truth to it?
Yes. At the School Board’s work session on February 24, 2009, the board discussed the matter and appointed a committee to consider issues related to redistricting. The committee was to meet within 10 days under the leadership of Jay Temple, former Director of Transportation, and as of March 1, Executive Director of Auxiliary Services, replacing retiring Assistant Superintendent Buddy Kiger. The committee will report back to the school board. Dr. Mock explained there are many considerations. One is that buses cannot pick students up in one area and drive past one elementary school to get to another. Consideration is always given to dividing neighborhoods, and a difficult task is being able to look long term and forecast residential growth.
How close are we to actually building a new middle and high school in the North/Ledford area?
The School Board has an option to purchase 175 acres of land located between Old Thomasville Road, Gum Tree Road, and Friendship Ledford Road. The money for the land is part of the 2005 school bond referendum. Construction costs for a high school are $50-$60 million and $40 million for a middle school. Money for construction has not been secured. Federal stimulus money is not provided for school construction at this time.
What students will go to the new middle and high school?
Dr. Mock said that attendance lines for the schools have not been drawn yet by the School Board. It is a bit early, given there is no construction underway or funding available for construction at this time.
Several parents and students were present from Extended Day School.
They stated they were afraid that with budget cuts pending, their special school would be eliminated. Each spoke of the goodness of the school and how the caring staff had helped them graduate against great odds that they would become a dropout. The School Board has made no plans at this time to eliminate Extended Day School. Dr. Mock said he does not know what cuts will mean. There is a lot of information still to come from Raleigh, stimulus package and next year’s state funding. We have heard that Title I (a federally funded reading program for economically disadvantaged schools will be funded, along with IDEA --- Individuals with Disabilities Education Act --- which funds programs for Exceptional Children. Expected funds would equal $1.6 Million over two years for the eight Title I elementary schools and $3.7 million over two years for the IDEA program.) Dr. Mock urged citizens to contact their legislators regarding funding for “current expense,” which is money for the general operation of schools, and not earmarked for specific programs. Tell legislators you recommend funding to be at the level it is currently, no lower!
How will students in Exceptional Children’s Programs fare in larger schools? (meaning if Extended Day School is closed, how will the district meet the needs of students who need a smaller school environment. NOTE: Extended Day School is not just for Exceptional Children. In fact, most are not EC.)
EC students would continue to have an Individual Education Plan that guided their academic instruction, no matter what school they attend.
One student asked if his diploma would be valid if Extended Day School is eliminated.
Yes. It was awarded by the Davidson County School Board and earned legitimately by the student. It will always be valid.
What about No Child Left Behind?
Dr. Mock explained that NCLB is still in place and is a federal mandate that America’s schools will not allow the average of all students or the majority of students to overshadow the needs of any single student or subgroup of the school population. Teachers are evaluated by principals according to high standards. Teachers must meet “highly qualified” standards.
Director of Programs for Exceptional Children Rob McOuat spoke of CSST --- Collaborative Student Services Teams --- that include certain staff members in each school, saying that their role is to consider the learning needs of students who are referred to them and make recommendations about the best teaching and class placements for the students, including referral to Exceptional Children’s Programs. McOuat said the goal is to serve students within their regular classroom if possible ---- the least restrictive environment.
How does DCS justify the amount of money it spends on teacher inservice training and is the training worth the money spent?
Director of Elementary Education Sonja Parks stated that we actually receive funding from state and federal sources, such as Title I, that require we spend certain amounts on teacher training. She also said that teachers are asked to evaluate training sessions and her team bases future training topics on previous teacher feedback about speakers, topics, training activities and materials. Assistant Superintendent Tony Peele stated that teachers were required to have a given number of training hours in order to keep their teaching license active according to NC law. Dr. Mock stated that principals evaluate teachers and when weaknesses are identified may require specific training to help them improve in order to benefit the students they teach. The Governor conducts a “climate survey” each year. School employees are to respond about their work environment. Training is a part of that survey. Results are posted on the school district’s State Report Card each year --- available at www.ncpublicschools.org
Has any decision been made to merge schools?
School merger in Davidson County has been discussed for 30 years. Davidson Vision just this week released a very comprehensive study of merger issues. They stopped short of making any recommendation. The paper is available on line. Specifically, there has been no decision regarding merger made by the Davidson County School Board and it is not on the upcoming March agenda. |
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| 2/19/09 |
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SWAP Meeting Wednesday, Feb. 25 7pm Extended Day School |
Superintendent Fred Mock will hold his SystemWide Advisory Panel meeting on Wednesday, February 25 at 7 pm at Extended Day School on Holly Grove Road off Highway 64 East, outside of Lexington. It is a face to face time with Dr. Mock when citizens can speak informally with him about school issues. The public is invited. If you wish to submit questions to him ahead of the meeting, he will be sure to bring necessary information with him to the meeting. Email questions to fmock@davidson.k12.nc.us or call 249-8181. |
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| 2/04/09 |
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Changes to 2008-2009 School Calendar |
Changes to 2008-2009 School Calendar due to
February 4th Snow and Ice:
· February 4, 2009 changed to Annual Leave
(moved from June 12, 2009)
· June 9, 2009 changed to Early Release Day {students in school}
(moved from June 8, 2009)
· June 10, 2009 changed to Non-Instructional/Required (Protected)
(moved from June 9, 2009)
· June 11, 2009 remains as an Non-Instructional/Optional Workday
· June 12, 2009 changed to Non-Instructional/Optional Workday
(moved from June 10, 2009) |
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| 2/03/09 |
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Now Accepting Suggestions for Name of New Central Area Elementary School |
School System Now Accepting Suggestions for
Name of New Central Area Elementary School
Assistant Superintendent for Auxiliary Services Buddy Kiger announced at Monday night’s (Feb. 2, 2009) monthly school board meeting that the administration is now accepting suggestions for the name of the new elementary school under construction in the Central Davidson area of the county.
Anyone may submit a name for consideration. A committee will consider all entries and make a suggestion to the school board, hopefully at its March meeting. Suggestions may be sent in writing to
School Name Suggestions
% Buddy Kiger, Assistant Superintendent
Davidson County Schools,
PO Box 2057
Lexington, NC 27293
Entries must be received by the DCS Administrative Office
by 5:00 p.m. Friday, February 13, 2009.
Entries must include your name and address.
The new elementary school is scheduled to open some time during fall semester 2009. The school is located at 398 Owen Road in the Southmont community. |
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| 1/13/09 |
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Davidson Early College Finalist in Gov's 2008 Teacher Working Conditions Survey |
Davidson Early College High School was a finalist in the 2008 Teacher Working Conditions Survey. Former Governor Mike Easley announced the results in December 2008. 15 schools were recognized as Real D.E A.L. (Dedicated Educators, Administrators & Learners). winners for demonstration excellent working and learning conditions. The Governor has conducted this survey for the past six years. A record number of more than 104,000 educators from every public school in the state compelted the survey last spring.
More information http://ncteachingconditions.org |
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| 1/06/09 |
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James (Buddy) Kiger, James Palmer Retire --- Replacements Named |
Superintendent Fred Mock announced at the January 5, 2009 School Board meeting that Assistant Superintendent of Auxiliary Services James (Buddy) Kiger and Director of Maintenance James Palmer both plan to retire effective March 1, 2009. At the same meeting, the School Board voted to hire Jay Temple, current Director of Transportation, as Executive Director of Auxiliary Services to replace Kiger. The board also voted to hire Wynn Conrad, current Assistant Director of Maintenance, as Director of Maintenance, and Gary Buie, current Cost Clerk, as Director of Transportation. All positions effective March 1, 2009. |
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| 12/17/08 |
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Kindergarten entry: Required birthday cut off date changed from Oct. 16 to Aug. 31 |
North Carolina Law: Beginning with school year 2009-2010 the date used to determine whether a child is entitled to public school entry will change from October 16 to August 31. This means that a child must be five years old on or before August 31, 2009 to enter kindergarten for the upcoming school year 2009-2010. Please go to this link for information on Kindergarten registration
http://www.davidson.k12.nc.us/education/components/scrapbook/default.php?sectiondetailid=14451 |
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| 12/05/08 |
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Bright Ideas Grants Awarded to Three DCS teachers 12-08 |
Three DCS teachers received Bright Ideas grants from EnergyUnited at the school board meeting on December 1.
Claudia Kates, North Davidson Middle, received funding for "Bringing the Curriculum Together Through the Creation of Art."
Cathy Berrier, Ledford High, received funding for "Macroinvertebrates: bioindicators of water."
Brenda Willis, Tyro Middle, received funding for "Cross the Curriculum Landscaping." |
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| 12/02/08 |
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DCS Media Centers Receive $225,000 for Books 12-08 |
DCS Media Centers Receive $225,000 for Books
18 DCS Media Centers Receive Federal Grants to
Boost Student Achievement with More Library Books
The State Library of North Carolina, a division of the North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources, has awarded 18 Davidson County school media centers a grant to help strengthen their library book collection. Statewide, there were 101 grants awarded. Davidson County Schools had the largest number of recipients of any of the 114 public school district in North Carolina.
Each of the 18 schools receives $10,000 in grant funding from the State Library of North Carolina for a total of $180,000 in grant funding. DCS will match $1250 per school (total $22,500) and each school will match $1250 from school funds, including possible PTO funds (total $22,500). The total project brings $225,000 in resources to 18 DCS school media centers.
Recipients included the following:
Central Davidson Senior High
Churchland Elementary
Davis-Townsend Elementary
Denton Elementary
E. Lawson Brown Middle School
Friedberg Elementary
Ledford Middle School
Ledford Senior High School
Midway Elementary
North Davidson High School
Northwest Elementary
Reeds Elementary
Silver Valley Elementary
South Davidson Middle/High
Southwood Elementary
Tyro Middle School
Wallburg Elementary
Welcome Elementary
"These school library collection grants help us build strong book collections to support the curriculum,” said Christine Hunt, director of media services and instructional technology for Davidson County Schools. "We have a long way to go before our collections are where they need to be, but this helps,” she added, noting that the grant will be used to replace outdated books as well to add new books to library collections. Grant funds and matching funds for the entire district total $225,000 and will purchase over 7,000 books.
Research completed in North Carolina and other states shows a link between levels of spending on a school library's book collection and student achievement. The grant applications received by the State Library provide clear evidence that many school libraries have seriously outdated print collections. The grant funds assist school librarians in developing stronger book collections that support reading, reading readiness, and student achievement.
The grants are to buy books only, and are not offered to replace existing funding for the library. Each dollar of grant funds must be matched with at least 25 cents in local funds. The grant funding, made available through the federal Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA), must be used during the current school year. Through this program, 760 grants have been awarded to the more than 2,300 North Carolina public schools since 2000. These grants are one means to focus the attention of teachers, principals and parents on the need to maintain strong print collections in school libraries.
The federal Institute of Museum and Library Services administers the Library Services and Technology Act and distributes the funds through a grant to the State Library of North Carolina. |
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| 11/21/08 |
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James Daugherty CDHS elected President of NC Bandmasters Association |
James Daugherty Elected to State Leadership Position
James Daugherty, who is the Director of Bands at Central Davidson High School, was elected by the North Carolina Bandmasters Association to serve as President of their organization on Monday, November 10. This is the highest leadership role in which a band director can serve in North Carolina.
The North Carolina Bandmasters Association is the division of the North Carolina Music Educators Association, which serves all of the middle and high school band directors in North Carolina with the promotion of Band Music Education.
Daugherty is currently in his fifteenth year as the director of bands and instructor of music theory at Central Davidson High School in Lexington, North Carolina. Under "Mr. D’s" baton the school’s Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble have consistently earned ratings of excellent and superior at regional, state and national music festivals from North Carolina to Florida. In 2004 the band program was invited to represent the State of North Carolina at the National Festival of States in Washington, D.C. commemorating the new WWII Memorial there. The Wind Ensemble performed for the North Carolina Music Educators Annual In-Service Conference in November of 2005. Additionally, the Spartan Legion Marching Band (an all volunteer group) has also performed with the world renowned "Dallas Brass" at the North Carolina Music Educators In-Service Conference in 1997.
In 1996, he was named "Teacher of the Year" at Central Davidson High School and in 1997 for Davidson County School System. In January of 1998 he was presented with a distinguished service award of "Outstanding Young Educator" by the Lexington, North Carolina Jaycees and in April of 2006 was nominated for a "Young Alumnus Award" from Appalachian State University.
Currently, Daugherty serves as chairman for the Northwest North Carolina Bandmasters Association having previously served the Northwest District as treasurer for eight years (2000-2008). In 2003, Mr. Daugherty began serving as the state chair for the North Carolina High School Honors Band, a position he also continues to hold. Beyond his position of service for the state band directors, Daugherty was elected to serve as District Five President for the North Carolina Music Educators Association in 2006 and continues to serve the North Carolina Music Educators Association in that position. In February of 2007, Daugherty was selected by his colleagues as the “Award of Excellence” recipient for the Northwest North Carolina Bandmasters Association.
Active in the Lexington community, Mr. Daugherty is a member of Coggins Memorial Baptist Church and is a member of the sanctuary choir. |
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| 11/04/08 |
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Public Hearing on 2009-2010 Proposed School Calendar 12-1-08 |
At 7 p.m. on Monday December 1, 2008 the Davidson County Board of Education will hold a public hearing on the proposed 2009-2010 school calendar so any citizen may express concerns, questions, or comments. The hearing will be at the DCS Administrative Office on County School Road, off Highway 64 East, just outside of Lexington.
The Hearing will be followed by the December monthly meeting of the Board. |
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| 10/28/08 |
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NC School Innovation Day Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2008 10:00 am - 2:00 pm |
North Carolina School Innovation Day
Tuesday
November 18, 2008
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Public is Invited
The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction is coordinating an Open House of some of the Brightest School Innovations in NC schools. The event coincides with American Education Week and is a statewide showcase of outstanding programs.
Davidson County Schools is proud to showcase four programs on November 18. http://www.ncpublicschools.org/innovate/
No reservation. Free of charge. Great way to learn about innovative programs in local schools. Most participating school systems are showcasing only one exemplary program. DCS is pleased to offer four: North Davidson High: Academy of PreEngineering, Ledford High: Medical Academy and Academy of Biotechnology, Tyro Elementary School: Newest DCS school
NOTE:
American Education Week: http://www.nea.org/aew/index.html
Great Public Schools: A Basic Right and Our Responsibility, reflects the Association's calling upon America to provide students with quality public schools so that they can grow, prosper, and achieve in the 21st century. This year, AEW will be celebrated November 16-22: |
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| 10/16/08 |
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**NEW 403B Information** |
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| 10/08/08 |
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Dav. County Band Night 8 High Schools Tues. Oct. 21, 2008 West Dav. H.S. 5:30 pm |
DAVIDSON COUNTY BAND NIGHT 2008
Tuesday, October 21
5:30 p.m.
West Davidson High School
Our original date of 9/16 was rained out. Its purpose was to be sort of a "Pre- Festival" run thru in front of an audience before contest season began. Now with the rescheduled date being 5 weeks later, Band Night will have a different feel. We'll get to see everyone's full show which will be developed and polished much more. It will be a lot of fun, and a non-competitive, encouraging platform to showcase the great music programs in Davidson County. Adding Lexington and Thomasville is exciting for us and also speaks highly to the good relationship these bands share between school districts.
Lance Gaskill
West - Band Director
Original Release of Sept. 16:
Each fall, Davidson County high school bands from Lexington City Schools, Thomasville City Schools and Davidson County Schools ----500 students ----get together for a unified sonic event called Band Night. This musical showcase provides an opportunity for all high school band members, directors, parents, boosters and enthusiastic band fans of Davidson County to check out each other’s new marching show in a non-competitive and encouraging format.
With a focus on supporting each other and sharing with community and peers, this musical showcase provides an opportunity for all high school band members, directors, parents, boosters and enthusiastic band fans of Davidson County to check out each band's half-time or competition show in a non-competitive, encouraging format.
The event is sponsored by the Davidson County Bandmasters Association. Beyond being fun for everyone, is also a pre-competition performance before many of these bands compete in competitions later this Fall.
Shelley Highfill, a student at West Davidson High School says that, “The thrill of playing for an audience this large at band night really helped me to overcome fears of playing and encourage me and the rest of the band for future performances. It was awesome to have all of those people in the stands last year, not only parents but other band kids, too."
The event also serves a dual purpose. Funds from admission and concession sales help to underwrite and support the Davidson All-County Band Clinic held the first weekend of December where middle and high school students from all over the county audition to be a part of one of three bands that rehearse for one day and perform a concert with a guest conductor at Finch Auditorium in Thomasville.
“With funding for arts programs being critically low, local band directors must be very creative in finding ways to ensure that Davidson County students do not lose any musical opportunity,” said Lance Gaskill, director of bands and choral ensembles at West Davidson High School.
James Daugherty, band director at Central Davidson High School and also district president for the North Carolina Music Educators Association, commented that, "The mission of all our band programs is to advance music education by encouraging the study of music and making of music by everyone. While recent polls suggest the majority of the population supports music in our schools we must be vigilant to not let our music programs diminish with lowered financial support or attendance at concerts."
Details - -
What: Davidson County Band Night 2008
Where: West Davidson High School stadium (200 Dragon Drive, Tyro, NC)
When: Tuesday, October 21 at 5:30pm
Who: Davidson County High School Bands
Why: Supporting area band programs, pre-competition showcase
Features: Combined Band Star Spangled Banner Extravaganza!
The event opens at 5:30 with all the bands combined together on the field to play the National Anthem together. This year’s honored guest conductor is Davidson County’s retired band director Paul Freeman who taught at Tyro M.S. and Lexington M.S.
Each School’s new show for 2008!
The new “theme shirts” from each band!
Voting on “Band Night’s Director of the Day”!
Dinner and snacks available at stadium
Contact: Lance Gaskill
Director of Bands & Choral Ensembles
West Davidson High School |
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| 10/03/08 |
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Summary of SWAP Meeting Oct. 1, 2008 |
SystemWide Advisory Panel --- SWAP
October 1, 2008 7pm
Extended Day School
Hosted by Superintendent Fred Mock
8 staff members present
16 citizens
2 media
School Calendar 2009-2010
Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources Tony Peele spoke about how NC law and DCS School Board Policy provided for the development of the school calendar. Citizens were given working copies of all calendar information and invited to develop a proposal for the Board appointed Calendar Committee’s consideration. Public hearings are required as is a parent survey before the annual school calendar is voted on by the Board of Education.
Growth in the Wallburg area
Citizens expressed concern over the population growth in the Wallburg area and the impact of crowding on Wallburg Elementary School, in particular. They wanted to know when the new middle and high schools would be built to alleviate crowding at North Davidson Middle and High, and Ledford Middle and High. Dr. Mock said school officials were in final stages of land negotiations. Details about funding for construction, digress and egress, sewage, water etc. still must be worked out with various easements before construction can begin. Assistant Superintendent for Auxiliary Services Buddy Kiger said the new MS/HS would likely be build for 800 MS and 1000 HS. Question posed to build it larger with growth so great. Mr. Kiger said that was not the trend. We build for what is real and not for what might or might not happen. Extra money is just not available to address needs far into the future.
Redistricting of Wallburg Area Needed Due to Growth and Overcrowding
Dr. Mock hopes that options for redistricting or additional facilities in the Wallburg area can be proposed as early as January 2009.
Student:Teacher Ratio in Kindergarten Parent said 24:1 seems unacceptable. Dr. Mock said the State’s class size for K is an average of 21students across the system and a maximum of 24 students in any one classroom. The State give DCS a certain number of teachers based on our enrollment. If DCS wants to use local funds to purchase more teachers to reduce class size, it may do so. DCS has some locally paid teachers; however, we do not have extra locally paid teachers to reduce class size across the district. Davidson County residents tax themselves at a rate of .54 per $100 valuation. Other counties around us tax themselves at a much higher rate, putting more local money in the coffers for a variety of reasons, including education. DCS could choose to eliminate some or all teacher assistants and use those funds to reduce class size. DCS has not chosen to do that. Another related issue would be the need for more classrooms if class sizes were reduced. Presently, DCS does not have extra classroom space. In fact, we need more schools due to increased enrollment. If a class of 24 students received 1 more student, then the class would have to be split into 2 classes or the principal could choose to have a combination K-1 class.
Classes for Autistic Students
Parent expressed desire for high school self-contained classes for AU students. Rob McOuat, Director of Programs for Exceptional Children, said that at the high school there was a balance that had to be addressed. HS students must receive certain courses in order to graduate and the law requires these courses to be taught by highly qualified teachers. A self-contained class would not have all the HQ teachers. He said a student’s Individual Education Plan IEP would address a student’s specific needs across the curriculum.
Parent wanted more in-service training for teacher assistants in AU classes.
What is an Exceptional Children’s EC Liaison?
Rob McOuat explained that last year DCS had 6 EC teachers who were based in the Admin. Office to check legal paperwork and be a resource to teachers. He became director this year and made a change that placed 1 of these EC teachers (liaison) in each HS attendance area. They teach half a day and then do the paperwork and are a resource for teachers the other half. They are in each feeder school in their district one time a week, which gives them actual face time with all EC teachers. It is working very well. Rob is proud liaisons are out in schools where teachers and students are.
Vending Sales
Davidson County School officials learned earlier this week that the school system may be in violation of NC law 115-264.2 governing public school vending machine sales. School officials contacted the Child Nutrition Department within the NC Department of Public Instruction for clarification.
Presently, DCS elementary schools (defined by law as grades K-8) are selling ice cream snacks to students after the last child has been served lunch. School officials understood that snack sales were permitted as long as the last child had been served lunch, therefore meeting the mandate that school sales not compete with sales of the Child Nutrition Program.
A State consultant said the law prohibits vending sales at ALL times of the day in elementary schools, and vending sales include not only items from a vending machine but also any food item sold to a child, unless it is provided by the Child Nutrition Program. Therefore, the issue is not an “ice cream” issue, but rather a “vending” issue that is interpreted as being in competition with food sold by the Child Nutrition Program.
If a school wishes to sell any item from the Child Nutrition Program’s menu e.g., yogurt, frozen fruit pops or smoothies for afternoon snack, they may do so, with all monies paid to the Child Nutrition Program.
Law permits vending items, including ice cream, to be sold in high schools (grades 9-12) after the last child is served lunch, as long as items meet federal nutritional standards.
As a note: DCS Child Nutrition provides a variety of items that are part of regularly served meals. They include strawberry yogurt that counts nutritionally as a protein according to federal nutritional standards, frozen fruit pops that meet nutritional standards as a fruit, and smoothies that are fortified and count as a fruit according to nutritional standards.
Parents were concerned that ice cream profits would be greatly missed in schools since it cuts into fundraising. Dr. Mock said it is a matter of living and working differently. This rule is the law and holds high fines for infractions.
Peanut Allergies
Parent was surprised we still have peanuts on the menu with so many nut allergies. Health officials have warned us not to even try to establish a “peanut free school” because we cannot guarantee this, as peanut dust can even be in manufacturing plants that make a host of other foods. Dr. Mock stated that Personal Health Plans from physicians were honored and communicated to appropriate school staff.
Early College Admissions
Parent wants to know how her young children can plan to be accepted into Early College. Dr. Mock said applications are accepted in January for a review process. There is a set number of students accepted, and it is not always the highest achieving students. Some students are admitted because they are seen as students who could greatly benefit from the Early College setting. Selection is conducted by an outside agency according to guidelines from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation that funds much of the program. Early College serves all three school systems in Davidson County and currently enrolls 120 students. |
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| 10/01/08 |
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DCS Teachers of the Year 2008-2009 |
2008-2009 Teacher of the Year
Congratulations to:
Sherri Hartley of Reeds Elementary
Finalists:
Ashley Hammond Brier Creek Elementary
Kimberly Pendry East Davidson High
Semi-Finalists:
Cynthia Orman E. Lawson Brown Middle
Kathy Koonts West Davidson High
Teachers of the Year:
Greg Peters Central Davidson High
Angela Semonco Central Davidson Middle
Dana Buie Churchland Elementary
Lisa Garcia Davidson Early College
Kimberly Glosson Davis-Townsend Elementary
Lynne Collins Denton Elementary
Rhea Pemberton Extended Day School
Joanie Williams Fair Grove Elementary
Bobbie Toler Friedberg Elementary
Karon Moore Friendship Elementary
LuAnn Craven Hasty Elementary
Jeff Teague Ledford Middle
Rebecca Ellington Ledford High
Elizabeth Jordan Midway Elementary
Miranda Proctor North Davidson Middle
Adrianne Quigley North Davidson High
Tina Compton Northwest Elementary
Gretchen Jacobs Pilot Elementary
Stephanie Saunders Silver Valley Elementary
Emily Phillips South Davidson High
Fonda Jackson South Davidson Middle
Kelly Greene Southwood Elementary
Cindy Armfield Stoner-Thomas
Allison Keene Tyro Middle
Ashley Barr Wallburg Elementary
Joy Walser Welcome Elementary |
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| 9/30/08 |
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Sherri P. Hartley, Reeds Elem. named DCS Teacher of the Year 2008-2009 |
Kindergarten teacher Sherri P. Hartley of Reeds Elementary School was named DCS Teacher of the Year 2008-2009 on Monday, September 29, 2008 at an annual TOY Banquet hosted by Lexington Home Brands at their corporate headquarters in Thomasville.
Sherri began teaching in 1991 at Davis-Townsend Elementary School where she taught kindergarten for seven years. She has taught first grade and kindergarten at Reeds since 2000. She holds a Master's Degree in School Administration.
Sherri will compete in district competition later this fall.
She received $500 from DCS and $1000 from NewBridge Bank.
Congratulations Sherri! |
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| 9/30/08 |
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Dr. Denise Hedrick, North Dav. Middle, Named Principal of the Year 2008-2009 |
North Davidson Middle School principal Denise Hedrick was named DCS Principal of the Year at an annual banquet Monday, September 29 that also honored all 32 DCS Teacher of the Year candidates and named Reeds kindergarten teacher Sherri Hartley Teacher of the Year for the system.
Dr. Hedrick began teaching at Ledford Middle School 28 years ago and has remained in DCS except for working as Assistant Principal at Trinity High School for two years and as Director of Exceptional Children's Programs in Randolph County Schools for one year. She has been Assistant Principal at East Davidson and Tyro Middle schools. She has been principal of East Davidson High, Hasty Elem., Wallburg Elem., and now North Middle.
She holds a Doctorate degree in Educational Leadership from UNCG.
Dr. Hedrick will go on to compete later this fall for the district title of Principal of the Year. |
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| 9/25/08 |
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SWAP SystemWide Advisory Panel Wed. Oct. 1 7pm |
You are invited to sit at the discussion table with DCS Superintent Fred Mock. Participants have the superintendent's full attention for any subject on their minds. SWAP meets several times during the school year. Participants may ask questions or ask for information about school matters. This is the 11th year Mock has held SWAP discussions. You may email questions or topics to him before the meeting and he will be sure to bring the necessary information for discussion. fmock@davidson.k12.nc.us If there should be inclement weather and you have questions about the meeting, please call the DCS Communications Office at 242-5548 or 249-8181. SWAP SystemWide Advisory Panel. One topic for discussion will be the 2009-2010 School Calendar. Public is welcome. Extended Day School, Holly Grove Rd. Lexington 7pm Wed. Oct. 1, 2008 |
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| 9/16/08 |
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Substitute Teacher Workshop Filled and Rescheduled 9-08 |
Davidson County Schools Substitute Teacher Workshop
Davidson County School System held a workshop today, Monday, September 16 for anyone interested in working as a substitute teacher. The tremendous response to this workshop resulted in people being turned away, as the room filled to capacity.
Consequently, an additional workshop will be held on Tuesday September 23, from
6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. This workshop will be held at Extended Day School (2065 E. Holly Grove Road, Lexington). Anyone who is unable to attend this workshop may attend the next regularly schedule substitute teacher workshop --- November 13 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Extended Day School.
IMPORTANT NOTE !!
Since the first substitute teacher workshop each year seems to be the best attended, DCS will hold next year’s first workshop in a larger facility to accommodate all interested participants.
END |
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| 9/16/08 |
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County Band Night Cancelled for Tues. Sept. 16 |
The County Band Night scheduled for Tuesday, September 16 will be re-scheduled at a later date. Cancelled tonight because of rain. |
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| 7/30/08 |
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Bus Driver Training Sept. 8, 9, 10 2008 |
Bus Driver Training September 8, 9, 10 2008
First and Second Day 8:30 am - 3:30 pm
Third Day 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Extended Day School on Holly Grove Road off Highway 64 East outside Lexington toward Asheboro. (The old Davis-Townsend School building)
There is no cost to attend the classes.
Contact the school(s) of your choice for positions available. |
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| 7/30/08 |
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Bus Driver Training Nov. 5, 6, 7 2008 |
Bus Driver Training November 5, 6, 7 2008
First and Second Day 8:30 am - 3:30 pm
Third Day 8:30 am - 11:30 am
Extended Day School on Holly Grove Road off Highway 64 East outside Lexington toward Asheboro. (The old Davis-Townsend School building)
There is no cost to attend the classes.
Contact the school(s) of your choice for positions available. |
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| 7/30/08 |
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Substitute Teacher Workshop Sept 16, Nov 13, March 5 |
Substitute Teacher Workshop 2008-2009. anyone interested in substituting for the Davidson County Schools must attend one of the following workshops.
Extended Day School 8:30 am - 12:00 p.m.
Tuesday, September 16
Thursday, November 13
Thursday, March 5
Classes are free. No pre-registration is necessary. No one will be admitted once the class has started. For more information or directions, please call DCS at 336-249-8181. |
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| 7/23/08 |
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Citizens Be Cautious of Door to Door Sales of School Products |
Citizens are cautioned to be aware that during the summer, particularly, there are people who go door to door selling what they claim are school handbooks, school books, and other supplies that DCS students will need, or be required to purchase, when they return to school. This type of sales is not school-sponsored or school-sanctioned. Please be cautious and call your child's school before purchasing any school supply items presented door to door. You deserve to know if the information you are presented is indeed legitimate. |
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| 7/15/08 |
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DCS Parents Are Asked to Register School Bus Riders |
Parents of Davidson County school children who will be riding school
buses in the fall should check with the school their child attends to
be certain their children are signed up properly. Bus riders should be
signed up by August 1.
Students who rode buses last year and will attend the same school this
fall, do not need to contact their school unless:
• The student did not ride the bus last year
• The student moved to a different address or
• The student's morning or afternoon transportation address is
different.
If parents need more information or have questions, they should contact
their child's school. |
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| 6/04/08 |
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School Meal Prices Increase for 2008-2009 |
The Board of Education approved the following prices at its 6-2-08 meeting. Increases were due to costs in the areas of labor, benefits, food and supplies and equipment.
Student Breakfast $1.00 increased to $1.25
Student Lunch Elementary $1.80 increased to $2.50
Student Lunch Middle/High $2.00 increased to $2.50
Adult Breakfast $1.50 increased to $1.75
Adult Lunch $3.00 increased to $3.25 (includes iced tea)
NOTE: With the increase one additional fruit or vegetable will be provided with the lunch meal. |
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| 5/21/08 |
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New Immunization Requirement for 6th Grade Entry |
A new immunization is now required for 6th grade entry, beginning with the 2008-09 school year.
The new rule states that a booster dose of Tdap vaccine is
required for all children before entering 6th grade that are enrolled
in public school, or by age 12 for those not attending public schools
(i.e., private, religious, home schools) on or after August 1, 2008, if
5 years or more have passed since the last dose of tetanus-containing
vaccine.
Tdap is a combination vaccine that provides protection against
three diseases: tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (commonly called
whooping cough). Please contact your health care provider or local
health department to schedule an appointment to receive this vaccine.
There is no cost for the Tdap vaccine, although your health care
provider may charge a small administration fee to give the vaccine.
Your child will need to bring proof of vaccination to the school
on the first day of 6th grade. Acceptable proof of vaccination is a
copy of the child's Certificate of Immunization. You will have 30 days
from the first day of attendance to present the required up-to-date
immunization record for your child. If proof of vaccination is not
provided by the end of the 30 calendar day period the child will be
suspended from school until he/she provides proof of immunization.
Do not delay! Make sure your child is ready and up-to-date on
his/her immunization prior to the start of the 6th grade school year.
For more information, visit www.immunizenc.com.
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| 4/23/08 |
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Jane Freeman Receives EC Teacher Award from Civitan Club |
Jane Gilliam Freeman, an Exceptional Children's teacher at Fair Grove Elementary School, received the Nancy Sink Frazier Distinguished Teacher Award in Special Education from the Davidson County Civitan Club. Jane is the sixth EC teacher to receive the award. Previously Donna Best, Stoner-Thomas School, received the award in 2003; Lee Roy Kearns, Stoner Thomas School, received the award in 2004; Linda Cook, Central Davidson High School, received the award in 2005; Dana Leonard, Ledford Middle School received the award in 2006; and Sarah Cude, Welcome Elementary School, received the award in 2007. A plaque with names of all winners hangs in the DCS Administrative Office. |
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| 4/17/08 |
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Auction of Surplus and Undesirable School Property, May 31 8AM DCS Maintenance |
Davidson County Schools will hold a public auction on Saturday, May 31 at 8:00 a.m. to sell surplus and undesirable property. Items include classroom items, equipment, vehicles, desks and chairs etc. Byerly, Shoaf Auctioneers will conduct the auction. The auction will be held in the parking lot of the DCS Maintenance Building on County School Road off Highway 64 East going from Lexington toward Asheboro. |
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| 4/14/08 |
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Battle of the Books:Friendship & Pilot, Central Middle take top honors |
The purpose of the Battle of the Books program is to encourage reading by all students. Students, regardless of ability, are exposed to quality literature representing a variety of literary styles and viewpoints by prominent authors in the area of young adult literature. The game format creates interest and excitement in reading. Through the fun and excitement of the competition, students improve reading skills, mature in their choices of reading materials, and acquire a broader knowledge base.
Battle of the Books - Elementary Schools: Pilot and Friendship share title
Battle of the Books - Middle Schools: Central Davidson Middle School |
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| 4/11/08 |
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Superintendent Fred Mock's Comments on 2008-2009 Proposed Budget 4/7/08 |
Presentation of Proposed Budget 2008-2009 to School Board and Public.
$28.2 local budget proposal for funding sent to County Commissioners. Does not include Federal and State funds.
Superintendent Fred Mock
April 7, 2008
The annual budget for our school system is the means by which we are able to provide an education for our 21,000 children.
• It doesn’t come cheap because in addition to teaching children, buses must bring them to school and take them home in the afternoon.
• Children must be fed two meals, kept warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
• They must have books, computers, science labs and gymnasiums.
• And above all, we must keep them safe.
Our goal is to accomplish these tasks in the most cost-effective way. This year we hired an energy manager to monitor all energy costs on our 31 campuses. In this first year, we have saved in excess of $325,000 in energy costs.
(To review all current construction projects within DCS, go to the School Construction button on this Web site's home page, left menu www.davidson.k12.nc.us)
Our school system is growing steadily --- approximately 200 students a year.
• Friedberg Elementary School opened in the November of 2001.
• Brier Creek Elementary School opened in November 2003.
• Friendship Elementary School opened in August 2005.
• Tyro Elementary School will open this coming fall.
• The Central area elementary school will come on board within the next two years, and we are looking for land for a new middle and high school in the North area.
48.5 million dollars in the 2005 bond referendum have already --- or are --- being spent on projects at Central High, Brown Middle, East High, Hasty Elementary, Tyro Elementary, and Central area elementary --- and some will be spent on land for a new middle and high school in the North area. Dollars have been stretched and spent wisely --- at a time of rising costs of fuel and petroleum-based products.
But, no matter how sound our buildings are, they will never hold a candle to the learning that occurs every day in classrooms. Educated minds are our products.
• The teachers, staff, students, and community are co-producers of educated minds. Davidson County takes its job seriously.
• We know that all students need a high school diploma and at least two years beyond that.
• It is an awesome challenge we Davidson County citizens face together.
Five to six years ago, we talked with astonishment about mills and plants closing, products going overseas. Well, we have accepted it now. We know it is real ---- right here in Davidson County. We have accepted the harsh news and we are moving on.
Tonight’s proposed budget will provide some computer upgrades because technology is ever-changing and doesn’t last forever.
• Several gym floors need repairing because of safety issues.
• A new classroom intercom system will follow the installation of a telephone calling system which will allow schools to contact parents at the push of a button in cases of emergency and threatened safety.
• The NC legislature has named this the third year of teacher raises, with the goal of paying NC teachers at the national average. Our children deserve the very best teachers we can find.
To the citizens of Davidson County: This is YOUR budget for YOUR school system. Federal, state, and Davidson County dollars fund YOUR schools. This budget is for the Davidson County dollars only. They are YOUR dollars, spent for YOUR children. YOU have an important place at the budget table. There are many opportunities for your input. You have a handout with a calendar that lists your opportunities for input. I urge you to be involved. |
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| 4/07/08 |
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Ledford Indoor Percussion Ensemble Takes Silver Medal in Competition |
The Ledford Indoor Percussion Ensemble traveled to Washington, D.C. this weekend to compete in the 2008 AIA Percussion Championships. The ensemble competed with 21 other percussion ensembles from all across North Carolina and Virginia. After a 6th place finish in preliminary competition on Saturday, Ledford surged to capture second place, silver medalist honors on Sunday. This is the second medal Ledford has earned in the past four years and the fifth consecutive year our group has been a percussion championships finalist.
Congratulations to all of the members of the indoor percussion ensemble on an outstanding 2008 season! |
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| 4/04/08 |
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Early Release Days for Students in 2008-2009 |
The 2008-2009 School Calendar includes four Early Release Days for students so teachers can attend professional training sessions. Parents are asked to mark their calendars so appropriate plans can be made for after school care and car transportation if their children do not ride school buses.
2008-2009 Early Release Days:
Elememtary Schools Release at 12:00
Middle and High Schools Release at 1:00
Monday, September 29
Tuesday, November 25
Friday, February 13
Monday, June 8 |
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| 4/03/08 |
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N.C. 1:1 Laptop Initiative Provides Laptop Computers and Professional Development for Davidson Early College High School Students |
Laptop computers are being made available through the N.C. 1:1 Laptop Initiative to all students at Davidson Early College High School.
All 101 high school students at Davidson Early College High School received a laptop computer Friday, March 28, 2008 in the Sinclair Building on the campus of Davidson County Community College where the Early College is located. Students may take the computers home to use with homework assignments. They are the first DCS students to be loaned a laptop computer for off-campus use.
Instructors have already received laptops and have been involved in professional development to implement teaching strategies using the new technology.
Students and their parents have already had the opportunity to view demonstration lessons taught with the laptops and have been briefed on the acceptable use policy and monitoring/security measures to prevent student abuse of the laptops.
“This is a wonderful move in the right direction,” said Superintendent Fred Mock. “Our high school students will likely be using computers every day on their jobs. Computers are our technology link to a world of information. They are essential learning tools that we must provide for students.”
The N.C. 1:1 Laptop Initiative is a public-private partnership that provides computers to students and teachers in school districts across our state, primarily focusing on rural communities. The 1:1 Learning Initiative involves teachers and students using computers and other technology tools to facilitate interactive personalized learning experiences through software applications like Curriculum Pathways and through access to the Internet.
“The Foundation became involved in the N.C. 1:1 Laptop Initiative to help stimulate student interest in school, reduce the dropout rate and make learning more relevant to the emerging jobs of the 21st century,” said Valeria Lee, president of Golden LEAF. “The future of our success lies in helping to prepare our students for the global economy by developing skill sets needed to meet the demands that this new economy will bring.”
N.C. 1:1 Laptop Initiative Partner Roles:
• Golden LEAF – Student laptops and related technology applications
• SAS Institute Inc. – Teacher laptops, professional development, and assistance with Curriculum Pathways
• The North Carolina New Schools Project – Professional development and implementation of the Initiative
• The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction – Connectivity, professional development and other related applications; and
• The William and Ida Friday Institute for Educational Innovation – Professional development and evaluation of the initiative.
For more information on the N.C. 1:1 Laptop Initiative, contact Rob Hines, Division CIO for Financial Services, Department of Public Instruction 919-807-3244 or rhines@dpi.state.nc.us
Christine Hunt, Director of Instructional Technology, DCS, 242-5586
Dr. Larry Allred, Principal, Davidson Early College High School 249-8186 |
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| 4/03/08 |
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Ledford High School Percussion Ensemble to Perform in Competition |
Ledford High School Percussion Ensemble to Perform in Competition
Saturday-Sunday, April 5 – 6
Will be rehearsing
Friday, April 4 1 – 5 pm
Will be performing locally
Friday, April 4 at 7 pm Ledford’s Gym
Ledford High School’s Percussion Ensemble will compete this coming Saturday and Sunday, April 5-6 in regional indoor percussion championship competition that features over fifty percussion ensembles from across Virginia and North Carolina.
Before going, Ledford’s ensemble will perform one final time for parents and supporters Friday at 7 pm in the Ledford High School gymnasium.
The ensemble will be rehearsing from 1:00 – 5:00 pm Friday, April 4.
Indoor percussion activity is relatively new to our area.
The Ledford Indoor Percussion Ensemble (L.I.P.E.) is comprised of over 30 students who attend Ledford High School. This unique group is completely extra-curricular and the students spend numerous hours after school, on weekends and even during teacher work days perfecting their production.
The ensemble is similar in structure to a marching band; however, only percussion and electronic instruments are used within their performance. The group performs in competitions which take place inside a gymnasium rather than on the football field, hence the phrase “indoor” percussion.
Founded in 2004, this season marks the 5th competitive year of the indoor ensemble. The group has been a championships finalist at the Atlantic Indoor Association Percussion Championships every year of their existence. In 2005, the group placed 2nd in their classification, earning silver medalist honors.
On Saturday, April 5, L.I.P.E. will travel to the Washington, D.C. area to compete in the 2008 Atlantic Indoor Association Percussion Championships. The group with perform with over 50 other percussion ensembles from across Virginia and North Carolina. Of those 50, Ledford will compete against 21 percussion ensembles in their classification in an Olympic-style prelims / finals event. The top ten groups in their classification will move on to compete in a finalist round on Sunday afternoon.
So far this season, the ensemble has taken 1st and 3rd place honors at two indoor events in the Raleigh area and the group was also a finalist at a large regional championships competition held in South Carolina earlier in March.
The ensemble is under the direction of Mr. Lenny Keesee and they are primarily sponsored by the Ledford Band Boosters.
For more information on the percussion ensemble, please visit http://www.lhsindoor.org
(information contributed by Lenny Keesee)
Lenny Keesee
Ledford High School
336-769-9671 |
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| 3/25/08 |
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NEW DCS School Construction Web Site posted March, 2008 |
The DCS Web site www.davidson.k12.nc.us now has a button on the home page left margin for School Construction. Click on it and then the project you want to review. It is designed to have current information, be very factual, and give viewers pictures of each project’s progress toward completion. Assistant Superintendent James Kiger has supplied rich details to make each project’s update very informational. He will add new data each month as he reports to the School Board. We want our publics to know of school construction progress and have readily available updates to review. |
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| 3/20/08 |
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Pre-Engineering Academy's Robotics Team Grabs Top Awards |
North Davidson High School's Pre-Engineering Academy's Robotics Team Siege exceeded all expectations in robotics competition in Atlanta by finishing 2nd and also receiving the Chrysler Team Spirit Award and the peer-given best tee shirt design award. This is exceptional for a rookie team!
The Chrysler Team Spirit Award celebrates extraordinary enthusiasm and spirit through exceptional PARTNERSHIP and TEAMWORK. This is the 3rd highest award that a team can receive at a competition.
During the 1½ day qualifying seeding matches, the team played 8 matches. During that time we never dropped out of the top 14 of 45 teams and were as high as 2nd. The finals competition, on Saturday afternoon, were built by taking the top 8 teams, who choose 2 other teams each to make an Alliance. These 8 Alliances compete in a double elimination bracket. Unfortunately, we were not chosen, but due to our high ranking, became the first alternate in case a robot failed during the competition. Fortunately for us, a robot failed and we were able to compete in the final round and our Alliance finished 2nd overall. Pre-Engineering Academy teacher Mark Davis, Director of High School Education and Career Technical Education Marty Tobey. |
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| 3/19/08 |
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Friedberg Elementary School’s Melinda Zarate Named NC Teacher Assistant of the Year 2008-2009 |
Friedberg Elementary School’s Melinda Zarate has been selected as the Teacher Assistant of the Year 2008-2009 by the North Carolina Association of Teacher Assistants. This is the first time Davidson County Schools has had a teacher assistant selected to receive this state honor.
Melinda competed Saturday, March 15, 2008 and was notified Sunday night that she was the new state NCATA Teacher Assistant of the Year. Melinda is the first NCATA Teacher Assistant of the Year from Davidson County. District 5 has not had a teacher assistant to win the state competition since 1995.
She will be recognized at the annual NCATA banquet at the Koury Convention Center on May 3, 2008.
Melinda has been a technology assistant at Friedberg Elementary School since 2001. Previously, she was a teacher assistant at Reeds Elementary School from 1995-1998 and then became a technology assistant at Reeds from 1998-2001.
The selection panel was made up of the eight District Presidents from the eight educational districts across the state, 1st and 2nd vice presidents and the state president. Each candidate was asked 30 questions. Melinda will be representing teacher assistants across the state and during the year will have speaking opportunities in other school districts.
“We are so proud of Melinda and congratulate her on receiving this prestigious honor from her peers. She will represent teacher assistants across North Carolina with the utmost professionalism. We are honored to have her represent Davidson County Schools as she holds this state title,” said Superintendent Fred Mock. |
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| 3/14/08 |
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Academy of Biotechnology: Teacher Cathy Berrier Selected for Academy |
Cathy Berrier, teacher of the Academy of Biotechnology at Ledford High School, has been selected to join the class or 2008 National Agriscience Teacher Ambassador Academy this summer in Chestertown, Maryland. She is the first teacher selected to represent North Carolina at the Academy.
Six to twelve teachers from across the nation will spend a week participating in an interactive, hands-on, application-based science training program. After training, participants will be expected to present at the National Future Farmers of America convention in October 2008 and the National Association of Agricultural Educators convention in December.
Berrier has taught in Davidson County Schools’ Academy of Biotechnology since it began in the fall of 2007. She has six previous years of teaching experience.
The Academy of Biotechnology is the newest of five academies in the Davidson County Schools. The other academies include the Medical Academy, located in each of the six high schools in DCS; Academy of Finance at East Davidson High School; Academy of Pre-Engineering at North Davidson High School; and Oracle Academy in the Technology Center at Extended Day School.
Academy of Bioetchnology
Biotechnology is defined as the use of microorganisms, such as bacteria or yeasts, or biological substances, such as enzymes, to perform specific industrial or manufacturing processes. Biotechnology companies throughout North Carolina are using living cells to produce medicines, vaccines, diagnostics, enzymes, amino acids, veterinary medicines and related products that improve our lives, create jobs and boost our economy. North Carolina is a national leader in this growing industry.
Agriscience Applications
This course focuses on integrating biological, physical and biotechnology sciences as related to the environment, natural resources, food production, science and agribusiness. Topics of instruction include agricultural awareness and introduction to all aspects of the agricultural industry. Skills in biology, language, writing, computers, mathematics, and physics are reinforced in this course.
Biotechnology and Agriscience Research I
This course provides instruction in the technologically advanced world of agriculture and life sciences. Students will be exposed to the latest techniques and advances in plant and animal biotechnology. Students will utilize scientific information for real-life application.
Biotechnology and Agriscience Research II
This course provides instruction in laboratory and safety skills needed by agricultural research scientists. Current application of biotechnology in animal science, environmental science, food science and plant science are emphasized. Basic concepts of genetics and microbiology are applies to the agriculture industry and its success in providing food and fiber for the world. Opportunities exist for students to conduct individual and team research experiments.
Biotechnology Advanced Studies
This is a three phased exit course for seniors that are career focused in biotechnology education. The three components of the program include a research paper, a product, and a presentation to a panel. Students demonstrate their ability to use content and apply knowledge to real-world situations. Students will demonstrate their ability to write, speak, apply knowledge, problem-solve, and use life skills such as time management, planning, follow-through and organization. Students work under the guidance of a teacher-facilitator in collaboration with community members, business representatives and school based personnel. |
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| 2/25/08 |
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Melinda Zarate Wins District Teacher Assist. Moves to State Competition !!! |
Melinda Zarate from Davidson County was selected as Teacher Assistant of the Year (TAOY) to represent the District 5 North Carolina Association of Teacher Assistants (NCATA). Melinda will now represent District 5 in the NCATA state TAOY competition on Saturday, March 15. 2008. CONGRATULATIONS MELINDA!!!!!! |
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| 2/20/08 |
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Southwood Kindergarten Goes Alaska!!!!!!! |
Southwood Elementary School kindergarten teacher Donna Byrd-Wyatt and her students recently learned about winter in Alaska and how it is different in Alaska than here. They even communicated with a class of first graders in Anchorage, Alaska. They also learned a lot about "Wants and Needs" and compassion. They collected over 400 coats, scarves and mittens for the needy. Take a look at the following link. It will take you her Project page on the Best Practices site with all the details on the project.
http://www.davidson.k12.nc.us/education/components/scrapbook/default.php?sectiondetailid=29738&pagecat=1683 |
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| 2/14/08 |
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Make up day for Feb. 14, 2008 will be June 10, 2008 |
Students were out of school February 14, 2008 due to snow. Employee Code A. The make up day will be June 10, 2008 as stated on this year's calendar. |
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| 2/14/08 |
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Parent/Guardian Questionnaire Results |
When the first report card went home with children in November, there
were two additional pieces of information included for families.
A Calendar Survey asked parents/guardians to share their thoughts about
the 2008-2009 Proposed School Calendar. A Parent/Guardian
Questionnaire was also included that asked families to rate safety at
school, school facilities, teacher qualifications and whether or not
they planned for their children to go to college. The results
were presented by Principal Randy Holmes to the DCS Board of Education
and public on February 4, 2008. The presentation of results is
printed here for public viewing. |
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| 1/29/08 |
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PSAT/SAT Night Mon. Feb 4, 2008 7-8:30 p.m. All HS |
PSAT/SAT Night
For Students in Grades 9-11 and Their Parents
Monday, February 4, 2008
7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Central Davidson High School
East Davidson High School
Ledford High School
North Davidson High School
South Davidson High School
West Davidson High School
Students who took the PSAT in October 2007 are invited to bring their PSAT report and speak with school administrators, school counselors and four-year college representatives.
Information will focus on the following:
• Using PSAT scores to help identify academic strengths and prepare students to do well on SAT.
• Learn about materials that are available at school to help students do well on SAT.
• How to select courses for next year that will help students do well on SAT.
• How SAT scores are used in college admissions and how requirements differ from college to college.
SAT resources are available on the Web. Practice questions are available along with answers. |
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| 1/16/08 |
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SWAP Wed. Jan. 23, 2008 7pm Extended Day School Everyone Welcome! |
You are invited to sit at the discussion table with DCS Superintent Fred Mock. Participants have the superintendent's full attention for any subject on their minds. SWAP meets several times during the school year. Participants may ask questions or ask for information about school matters. This is the 10th year Mock has held SWAP discussions. You may email questions or topics to him before the meeting and he will be sure to bring the necessary information for discussion. fmock@davidson.k12.nc.us If there should be inclement weather and you have questions about the meeting, please call the DCS Communications Office at 242-5548 or 249-8181. SWAP SystemWide Advisory Panel. |
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| 1/08/08 |
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PSAT/SAT Night Feb. 4, 2008 7-8:30 pm |
For Grades 9, 10, 11 Parents and Students
Event held in all 6 DCS High Schools. Students are asked to bring their PSAT report from the October testing. Administrators, school counselors, and a four-year college representative will be available to discuss: 1) PSAT scores as a diagnostic tool to assess academic strengths and as a predictor for SAT scores, 2) SAT resources that are available at school sites to help students increase SAT scores and know the importance of course selection in increasing SAT scores, and 3) the role of SAT scores in the college admission process and the range and average of SAT scores at various colleges. |
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| 12/05/07 |
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Please Note: January High School Exam Days may change due to inclement weather, thus break days will also change |
Superintendent Fred Mock mentioned at the November and December School Board meetings that parents and students should keep in mind the possibility that end-of-semester high school exams in January could be changed if bad weather occurs. If exam dates change, so will the break that follows the exams. Many parents, church groups and others schedule ski trips, and other events for these days out of school. Mock asks that careful consideration be given to bad weather possibilities and necessary changes thereafter. |
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| 12/05/07 |
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Tyro Elementary School: Proposed Attendance line maps for view at Reeds and Churchland |
The School Board voted December 4 to support proposed Map C for Tyro Elem. School attendance lines but leave the matter open until their January 7 Board meeting. The Board had narrowed its recommendation to Maps C and D. Both C and D were on display at Churchland and Reeds Elem. Schools. May C will remain on display through Jan. 7 for the public to view. Anyone wanting to give input may do so by contacting a Board member or the superintendent's office at 336-249-8181 or emailing DCS at www.davidson.K12.nc.us click on Contact Us on the right hand menu. |
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| 11/26/07 |
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RFP for Section 125 Cafeteria Benefits Plan |
Davidson County School System is accepting proposals from companies
wishing to provide Section 125 Cafeteria Benefits Plan for the system.
Proposal deadline is December 18, 2007 at 3:00 pm.
Click here to download the RFP in Microsoft Word format.
Click here to download the RFP in PDF format.
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| 11/20/07 |
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11 Teachers Awarded MiniGrants by Davidson Co. Education Foundation |
The Davidson County Education Foundation, with funding from Lexington Home Brands, awarded 11 teachers a total of $3,071 for innovative projects within their classrooms. DCEF and Lexington Home Brands have awarded a total of $63,485 since the mini-grant program began in 1995. Any DCS teacher within the North, Central and West Davidson attendance areas may apply for a mini-grant. Information is available on the Foundation's Web page at www.dcef.net
This year's winners are Shanna Leonard, Reeds Elementary, Old MacLeonard Had a Farm - $324; Cynthia Ends, West Dav. High, They Work Hard For Their Money - $165; Holly Leatherman, Welcome Elem., Let's Get Physical - $276; Claudia Kates, North Dav. Middle, Across the Curriculum with Arts and Crafts - $348; Tara Ring, Northwest Elem. Telling Time - $107; Tracy Lester, Southwood Elem., Mythical Readers and Magical Writers - $350; Elizabeth Hayworth, Midway Elem., Connecting Cultures - $346; Jana Brown, Southwood Elem., Teaching Readng Through Novel Units - $106; Meredith Penninger and Mandi Adkins, Southwood Elem., Alphabet Mystery - $347;Beth Cipicchio, Southwood Elem., Hands-On Equations - $350; and Heather Everhart, Churchland Elem., Leap Into Reading - $350.
Thomasville Furniture Industries awards mini-grants to teachers in the Ledford, Central, and South attandance areas. |
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| 11/16/07 |
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Class of 2008 Graduation Date |
Graduation will be held on Saturday following the last day of school. Graduation exercises will be held between 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. |
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| 11/09/07 |
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School Board Meeting November 13 and 19, 2007 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. |
The Davidson County Board of Education will hold a working retreat -type meeting on Tuesday, November 13 and Monday November 19 from 8:00 a.m. - approximately 3:00 p.m. Each of the 31 DCS principals will present their School Improvement Plans to the board on 15 minute intervals. Board members have the written plans for study and may ask questions of principals. The meeting is open to the public. It will be held in the administrative building off of Highway 64 East. |
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| 11/07/07 |
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2008-2009 School Calendar Information |
Student report cards go home today. A packet containing information regarding the 2008-2009 DRAFT school calendar, as well as a calendar survey and student
services questionnaire, will be included with the report card.
You can download a copy of the packet by clicking here.
Please click on the link below to complete the Calendar Survey and/or Student Services Questionnaire.
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| 11/07/07 |
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Tyro Elementary School District Line Options Being Considered |
District attendance lines are being considered for the new Tyro Elementary School scheduled to open Fall 2008 in the West Davidson attendance area. Assistant Superintendent Buddy Kiger presented two options to the Davidson County Board of Education at its November 5 monthly meeting. Maps illustrating these options are on display at Churchland and Reeds elementary schools. Anyone wishing to view the maps may do so in the schools' front offices or by contacting Buddy Kiger at the DCS central office 249-8181. Public input may be made in writing to Buddy Kiger, Davidson County Schools, PO Box 2057, Lexington, NC 27293-2057, by calling the DCS Communications Office 249-8181, or by submitting on line at www.davidson.k12.nc.us click on Contact Us. The school board holds an Open Mic time before each meeting for the public to speak. The next school board meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, December 4 7 p.m. DCS Administrative Office. The School Board is expected to vote on the options at that time. |
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| 11/07/07 |
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10 Teacher Mini-Grants Awarded by Northern Davidson Chamber of Commerce |
The Northern Davidson Chamber of Commerce presented 10 $250 classroom mini-grants to teachers who were in their first year of teaching. The Chamber has made this program available for approximately 10 years to first-year teachers in the North Davidson and Ledford attandance areas. Chamber President Mary Sue Stallings and Cindy Zimmerman presented checks to teachers at the regular monthly meeting of the Davidson County Board of Education November 5. New teachers in the designated areas may apply at the beginning of the school year. Chamber members determine the winners.
LeeAnn Triplett, North Davidson Middle School; Gail Roberts, North Davidson High; Brittany Long, Hasty Elementary; Kristen Turner, Northwest Elementary; Leigh Varilone, Midway Elementary; Leah Burnette, Wallburg Elementary; Amanda Stallings, Midway Elementary;
Meghan Thomas, Hasty Elementary; Catherine Deaton, North Davidson High; Amanda Wickline, Welcome Elementary. Congratulations to all winners. Thank you for taking the time to complete an application so your students and classroom can benefit from additional teaching resources. Always, Thank you Chamber!!!!! |
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| 10/26/07 |
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DCS Enhances Middle School Science Education |
Discovery Education Science, a comprehensive multimedia toolkit that supplements school curriculum, is now available at DCS middle schools. Awarded both the Teacher’s Choice Award and Technology & Learning Magazine’s Award of Excellence, Discovery Education Science provides middle-school science resources that engage today’s technology-savvy students and help educators grow scientific literacy and improve student achievement. |
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| 10/25/07 |
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MRSA |
MRSA
N.C. Division of Public Health - General Communicable Disease Control Branch
Staphylococcus aureus is a type of bacteria that lives in the nose and on the skin of about one out of every three people.
Methicillin resistant staph aureus, also called “MRSA”, are not killed by the type of antibiotics doctors used to prescribe most commonly for staph infections. However, most MRSA infections can be treated with other types of antibiotics.
Most people who carry MRSA on their skin will never get sick from it. Infections usually occur when the bacteria get in through small scrapes or cuts, sometimes too small to notice.
MRSA infections usually appear as skin infections and can occur in otherwise healthy people. The infected area usually begins with a small bump that resembles a pimple or insect bite. Less often, MRSA can cause pneumonia, or other severe infections.
People pick up MRSA from contact with people who already have it. MRSA is usually spread through direct physical contact with an infected person, or sometimes by touching objects (e.g. bandages, towels, sheets, clothing) that may be contaminated with the bacteria.
Outbreaks of MRSA have occurred in daycare centers, schools, prisons and sports teams where people have close contact and share equipment and personal items.
People with symptoms of MRSA should see a doctor. They should take all prescribed antibiotics and should also
• Keep draining wounds clean and covered.
• Wash any cut or break in the skin with soap and water and apply a clean bandage daily.
• Report new skin sores or boils to their doctor immediately.
• Wash their hands and forearms before and after caring for the wound and frequently throughout the day, using soap and warm water for 15 seconds and drying their hands on a clean towel or paper towel.
• Bathe regularly and do not share bath towels or washcloths.
• Avoid sharing personal items such as towels, wash cloths, razors, deodorant, clothing or bedding.
• Wear clean clothing.
• Wash clothing, sheets and towels in hot water and detergent, and dry them in a hot dryer.
People participating in sports teams and/or health clubs should:
• Immediately shower with soap and water after each game, meet or practice,.
• Keep abrasions or cuts covered with a clean dry bandage. Change bandage at least daily.
• Avoid sharing personal items, such as towels, razors, soap, or deodorant.
• Use a barrier such as clothing or a towel between their skin and shared equipment.
•Wipe down surfaces of equipment or gear before and after use with alcohol or an approved antibacterial solution (e.g., Lysol® or Mr. Clean® or household bleach solution).
• Report suspicious lesions to the school nurse/coach/manager immediately.
• Athletes with draining lesions should not participate in contact sports unless the abrasion or cut can be covered completely with a clean, dry bandage. |
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| 10/24/07 |
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North Davidson Band Festival Saturday Nov. 3, 2007 |
We are proud to have The North Carolina State Marching Band "The Power Sound of the South" as our featured entertainment. They will be performing two programs during the day. The NC State Band Members and Director will have a booth set up to meet students interested in NC State and answer any questions.
Additional information is available at www.marchingblackknights.org , click on Festival of Bands.
This is a great opportunity to interact with a major University Band. The NC State will have an information booth with the Director Dr. Paul Garcia and members of their Marching Band to answer any questions. |
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| 10/23/07 |
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Weather Make-up Days and High School Exams |
If inclement weather requires a change in the high school exam schedule, one or more of the following days maybe changed to regular school days: January 18, 22, 23, 2008. Please be aware of this possible change when making vacation or trip plans for January 2008. |
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| 10/06/07 |
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Substitute Teacher Training Dates and Times |
Dates and Times of Substitute Teacher Training are as follows:
Friday, October 5
Thursday, November 8
Thursday, March 6
All sessions are 8:30 a.m.- 12:00
Extended Day School on Holly Grove Road (Old Davis-Townsend School)
No pre-registration is required. Bring driver's license and social security card. No one will be admitted after the session begins.
Anyone interested in substituting in DCS is required to attend the training, except licensed teachers who are retired teachers from DCS or who have taught in DCS.
Substitutes must have a high school diploma or GED.
Extended Day School is located off Highway 64 East going from Lexington toward Asheboro. Turn left onto County School Road and take a right onto Holly Grove Road. Extended Day School will be 1/2 mile on the left. |
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| 10/05/07 |
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Substitute Teacher Training --- Overwhelming Response! |
Dear Citizens,
The Human Resources Department of the Davidson County Schools is grateful for the overwhelming interest citizens showed by attending Substitute Teacher Training on Wednesday, September 26. The large conference room at Extended Day School which accommodates 100 people was simply not large enough to seat over 200 people who showed up for Substitute Teacher Training. Never before have we had so many people respond. We are gladly scheduling another training session for Friday, October 5 at 8:30 a.m. at Extended Day School. Training is always free and will begin promptly at 8:30 a.m. Up to 100 people will be admitted. No one will be admitted after the session begins. Pre-registration is not required. Information is posted on the DCS Web site at www.davidson.k12.nc.us. We thank the citizens of Davidson County for being so responsive to education.
Fred Mock
Superintendent
Davidson County Schools |
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| 10/02/07 |
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New School Named: Tyro Elementary School |
The School Board named the new elementary school in the West Davidson area of Davidson County at its monthly meeting October 1. Tyro Elementary School is set to open sometime in the fall of 2008. The board took name suggestions from the public, then heard a recommendation from a citizen selection committee, waited 30 days for thought and input and voted Oct. 1, 5-0, before naming the system's newest school. (Related updates posted earlier on this Breaking News site.) |
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| 10/02/07 |
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Melinda Zarate, Friedberg Elem., Teacher Assistant of the Year 07-08 |
The Davidson County Teacher Assistants Association (DCTAA) met Saturday, September 29,2007 to select a Teacher Assistant of the Year(TAOY). Melinda Zarate from Friedberg Elementary School has been chosen to represent teacher assistants from Davidson County. Melinda will compete for the title of District 5 North Carolina Association of Teacher Assistants (NCATA) Teacher Assistant of the Year in February 2008. Melinda is a technology assistant at Friedberg Elementary School. She was congratulated at the Oct. 1 school board meeting by board members and Superintendent Fred Mock. Melinda has been instrumental in assisting fourth graders three years ago as they asked local legislators to propose naming Lexington's BBQ Festival North Carolina's Official Food Festival. Now, three years later, Lexington's festival was named the Piedmont Triad's Food Festival. Quite an accomplishment for tenacious fourth graders who have grown up to be seventh graders! Congratulations Melinda! |
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| 9/27/07 |
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DCS Partners to Build Habitat for Humanity House |
Community service, giving back, and learning by doing all come together for some high school students who are working alongside their teachers in building a Habitat for Humanity house. The Electrical Trades program at Ledford High School and the Carpentry and Masonry programs which enroll students from DCS and Thomasville City Schools (located on the Thomasville High School campus) give high school credits at the same time students are learning the importance of teamwork for community progress. Teachers Kenneth Cain, Steve Lambeth and Dwight Brodar work alongside their students. |
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| 9/26/07 |
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Cheryl Rich, Central Dav. Middle, Named DCS Teacher of the Year 07-08 |
Cheryl Rich, seventh grade language arts and social studies teacher at Central Davidson Middle School, was named DCS Teacher of the Year. Rich holds this title representing over 1300 teachers in the Davidson County School System, the 10 largest system among NC's 115 school systems. As Teacher of the Year, Rich received a beautiful, engraved clock, a check for $500 and strong support for moving on to regional competition in the Spring. The Teacher of the Year banquet was held Monday, Sept. 24 at the headquarters for Lexington Home Brands outside Thomasville. LHB President and CEO Phil Haney addressed all 31 DCS Teacher of the Year candidates and their guests. |
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| 9/26/07 |
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Cathi Smith, East Davidson High School, Named DCS Principal of the Year 07-08 |
Cathi Smith was selected DCS Principal of the Year by the Davidson County Principals and Assistant Principals Association on Monday evening at a banquet held at the headquarters of Lexington Home Brands outside Thomasville. Cathi holds the title for the second time. She was named Principal of the Year in 2001-2002. She has also taught mathematics and physics at East before serving as assistant principal at Ledford High and North Davidson High schools. Cathi has been Davidson County’s Assistant Principal of the Year in 1999 and went on to receive the state title of North Carolina Assistant Principal of the Year that same year. She received the title of Davidson County’s Teacher of the Year in 1992-1993. She was the first person in the Davidson County schools to receive all three titles as well as a state title. |
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| 9/26/07 |
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Teachers of the Year 2007-2008 |
DCS Teacher of the Year
Cheryl Rich, Central Davidson Middle School
Finalists:
Cheryl Rich, Central Davidson Middle School
Jody Smith, North Davidson High School
Shannon Jarrett, Southwood Elementary School
Semi-Finalists:
Mischa Williams, Central Davidson High School
Lorie Steed, East Davidson High School
Teachers of the Year:
Sandi Johnson, Brier Creek Elementary School
Kim Lingerfelt, Churchland Elementary School
Leigh Ann Bruff, Davis-Townsend Elementary School
Annette Hedrick, Denton Elementary School
Janice Griffin, E. Lawson Brown Middle School
Sherri Jones, Extended Day School
Donna Caldwell, Fair Grove Elementary School
Anette Bohannan, Friedberg Elementary School
Debbie Phillips, Friendship Elementary School
Julia Michaels, Hasty Elementary School
Larry Musser, Ledford Middle School
Cecilia Gonzalez, Ledford High School
Cheryl Hutchings, Midway Elementary School
Diane Howdeshell, North Davidson Middle School
Jan Wall, Northwest Elementary School
Robert Ware, Pilot Elementary School
Shanna Leonard, Reeds Elementary School
Andrea Rinaldi, Silver Valley Elementary School
Beth Davis, South Dvidson Middle School
Ginger Hill, South Dvidson High School
Pamela Wifford, Stoner-Thomas
Charles Cole, Tyro Middle School
Ashley Craven, Wallburg Elementary School
Missy Hege, Welcome Elementary School
Kate Lewis, West Davidson High School |
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| 9/13/07 |
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Davidson County Band Night Tues. Sept. 18 5:30 p.m. West Davidson High |
The West Davidson High School Music Boosters will be hosting the annual Davidson County Band Night at the West Davidson High School stadium. The event will be held on Tuesday, September 18 beginning at 5:30 p.m. with a joint performance of the Star Spangled Banner. The price of admission is $5 for Adults and $2 for students. Band Night will involve every high school marching band in Davidson County. This event provides an opportunity for local band students to perform for members of the community and other band students in the county. Funds raised will go to support local band programs and the Davidson County All-County Band. |
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| 9/11/07 |
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October 16, 2007, All County Chorus Performance, @ Lexington High School 7:00 |
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| 9/11/07 |
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November 27, 2007, All County Band Performance, @ Finch Auditorium, Thomasville, 7:00 |
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| 9/05/07 |
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Superintendent Invites the Public to Sharing Session SWAP |
Thursday, September 13, 2007 7PM Extended Day School, located on Holly Grove Road off Highway 64 East outside of Lexington ---the old DavisTownsend School. SWAP is a time of sharing school information , ideas and concerns. Citizens are invited to email qustions or topics they want to discuss fmock@davidson.k12.nc.us or just attend the meeting and engage in conversation with Superintendent Fred Mock. Bring a friend. Mock has been holding these community conversations for 10 years, and they have been very well-received. Citizens are invited to ask questions which may be stated or written on cards and given to Mock. |
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| 9/05/07 |
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Three names chosen as finalists for west Davidson's new school |
School board members heard Assistant Superintendent Buddy Kiger present three names that the name selection committee had chosen as finalists for the west Davidson elementary school scheduled to open Fall of 2008. They are: Tyro Elementary School, West Davidson Elementary School, Westwood Elementary School. The board will consider the names for 30 days and is likely to vote on the final name at their October 1 meeting at 7 pm. The public was invited to submit names for the selection committee and may again have input during the 30 days by contacting the school system or school board members. Contact information is available on this web site. |
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| 8/21/07 |
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Don Palmer to be honored at North Davidson-Ledford football game |
North Davidson High School will be honoring Mr. Don Palmer for his years of service to North Davidson and Davidson County Schools as a Coach, Assistant Principal, Principal, Secretary of the CPC and Chairman of the Board of Education at half-time of the North Davidson-Ledford football game this Friday night. Come and join us for this special presentation. |
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| 8/20/07 |
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100% Tobacco Free DCS Campuses Beginning August 1st |
REMINDER!
All DCS campuses will be Tobacco Free beginning August 1. NO smoking, tobacco products in buildings, on grounds, in stadiums, or away from campus at school-sponsored events. This includes in private vehicles on campus. There will be no designated smoking areas. |
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| 8/20/07 |
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Substitute Teacher Workshop |
Anyone interested in substituting for the Davidson County School System must attend one of the following workshops.
Where: Extended Day School
Time: 8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Wednesday, September 26
Thursday, November 8
Thursday, March 6
No pre-registration is necessary. Bring your driver's license and social security card. No one will be admitted once the class has started. For more information or directions, please call Davidson County Schools at (336) 249-8181.
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| 8/19/07 |
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For School Supply Lists, Call Your Child's School |
Room assignments and school supply lists are at each school. The Central Office does not maintain a list of student assignments or lists of requested school supplies. |
|
| 8/07/07 |
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Nominations for Naming West Area Elem. School Now Accepted |
Public Invited to Submit Names for
New West Davidson Area Elementary School
The public is invited to submit names for the new West Davidson area elementary school.
Please submit names to
West Davidson Area Elementary School Name
% James C. Kiger
Davidson County Board of Education
PO Box 2057
Lexington, NC 27293
Names may be submitted until 5:00 p.m. Monday August 27, 2007.
Please list your name and contact information. If questions arise about nominations, it is helpful to have this information. |
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| 6/28/07 |
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New Teacher Event Planned by Chambers of Commerce |
Two hundred new teachers are hired by our county’s three school systems every year. the Thomasville Chamber of Commerce and the Lexington Area Chamber of Commerce will host a New Teacher Expo on Monday, August 6 from 5:00 to 7:00 PM. The goal of the Expo is to help new teachers find local goods and services that they need. An 8x10 booth space with a table will be available for $100. Spaces are on a first come – first served basis. Register sooner rather than later, but the absolute deadline is July 27. Teacher recruitment and retention has long been a priority for our Chamber. Call the Chamber office at 475-6134 to get in front of these new teachers, welcome them to our county, and gain some new costumers. |
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| 6/07/07 |
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New High School Graduation Requirements for 9th grade class of 2009-2010 |
The State Board of Education today unanimously approved new high school graduation requirements, effective with the ninth grade class of 2009-10.
This action marks the first time that the State Board has approved one Core course of study that will prepare all students for career and college learning in a globally competitive society. In approving the Core, Board members noted that they had listened carefully to the ideas and concerns of educators, business leaders, citizens and students across the state. The policy approved includes ample elective units for student to customize their high school learning experience to match their plans for the future.
The following units will required for graduation under the Future-Ready
Core:
4 Mathematics Units
- Algebra I
- Algebra II
- Geometry (or Integrated Math I, II or III)
- 4th Math Course - to be aligned with the student's post high school plans (At the request of a parent and with counseling provided by the school, a student will be able to opt out of this math sequence. He/she would be required to pass Algebra I and Geometry - or Integrated Math I and II - and two other application-based math courses.)
4 English Units
3 Social Studies Units
- World History
- US History
- Civics and Economics
3 Science Units
- Biology
- an environmental science
- a physical science
1 Health and Physical Education Unit
6 Elective Units (two of which must be any combination of Career Technical Education, Arts Education or Second Language)
The State Board of Education also strongly recommends that local superintendents assist students in developing a four-course Concentration focused on student interests and postsecondary goals. The Concentration would provide an opportunity for the student to participate in a rigorous, in-depth and linked study. The Concentration would not limit a student's access to opportunities provided through Community College Concurrent Enrollment, Learn and Earn, Early College, Huskins or University Dual Enrollment. Local superintendents or their designees would approve student Concentrations.
Students will be required to successfully complete a minimum of 21 units.
The changes represent an increase in mathematics requirements for many students and an increase in the total number of units required under state standards by one.
The Occupational Course of Study continues to be available for those students with disabilities who are specifically identified for this program.
There are no changes to the Occupational Course of Study.
In addition to the Core course requirements, students will continue to be required to successfully complete a graduation project and to score proficient on the end-of-course assessments in Algebra I, Biology, English I, Civics and Economics and US History. Local school districts have the option of adding other requirements for graduation.
In approving the new standards, the State Board of Education stressed its desire that local school districts be given the flexibility to create curricula pathways that are innovative and rigorous. The Board's Globally Competitive Students committee charged the Department of Public Instruction with carrying out four activities to support the new standards: provide additional support to guidance counselors to help them guide students in making elective selections and taking advantage of opportunities to obtain up to two years of college credit, including an associate¹s degree; provide additional professional development and course development in mathematics; consider ways to to incorporate second language instruction in the K-8 grades along with a language proficiency test; and to continue to collect information about arts education in the schools to ensure that arts education continues to be widely available to all students. |
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| 6/06/07 |
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2-A State Softball Champions Central Davidson High School |
Coach Gene Poindexter and the Central Davidson High team showed Spartan spirit in celebrating the state win June 2 in Raleigh as they claimed the state title and player Chelsea Leonard took the series' Most Valuable Player. Central beat South Brunswick 4-0. Last year, Central was runner-up. |
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| 6/04/07 |
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Welcome Elem. Renee Adkins 4th grade wins Extreme Makeover Classroom Edition |
DCS sponsored its own version of Extreme Makeover and added Classroom Edition. Of the 441 eligible elem. teachers, over 200 put their names in the hat for a drawing. Renee Adkins, 4th grade teachers at Welcome Elem. won the drawing. She was surprised in her classroom on June 4 as the DCS Dream Team appeared with a chant of excitement and purple and gold balloons to match their yellow t-shirts with big letters "Dream Team." The nine members of the Dream Team are DCS teachers who have successfully created enriched learning environments in their own classrooms. Adkins said she was excited and pleased to be chosen ---"It is the first thing I've ever won." The Dream Team will meet with Adkins who will give the final approval before the makeover day on August 14, before school starts on August 27. Congratulations Renee Adkins! |
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| 6/01/07 |
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Outstanding Mathematics Teacher of the Year, Reeds' Tracy Varner |
Tracy Varner, second grade teacher at Reeds Elementary, has been named Davidson County Schools’ Outstanding Mathematics Teacher for 2007. We are honored to recognize Tracy for making mathematics exciting and fun for her students. |
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| 5/08/07 |
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New NBPTS Certified Teachers May 2007 |
Ashley Craven, Wallburg Elementary School
Rebecca Ellington, Ledford High School
Ashley Hammond, Brier Creek Elementary School
Caroline Hanes, North Davidson High School
Virginia Hill, South Davidson High School
Kerry Krawczyk, North Davidson Middle School
Christopher Miller, Brier Creek Elementary School
Kelan Rogers, West Davidson High School
Karen Watford, North Davidson High School
Mischa Williams, Central Davidson High School
Barbara Wrenn, Fair Grove Elementary School
Congratulations teachers on all your hard work. Each teacher who receives their National Board certification receives 15 renewal credits and a 12% percent pay raise. NC has more teachers with National Board certification than any other state in the US. |
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| 5/08/07 |
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School Meal Prices Increase for 2007-2008 |
Student Breakfast from $ .90 to $1.00
Student Lunch - Elem. from $1.65 to $1.80
Student Lunch - Middle/High from $1.80 to $2.00
Adult Breakfast from $1.00 to $1.50
Adult Lunch $2.50 to $3.00
Any family wanting to apply for Free or Reduced Priced Meals, please contact the school's office or call the DCS Adm. Office at 336-249-8181. |
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| 5/05/07 |
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Tour of Schools Bike Ride to be Saturday, May 5, 2007 |
The fourth annual Tour of Schools Bike Ride sponsored by the Davidson County Education Foundation will be held on Saturday, May 5, 2007 and begin on the campus of Davidson County Community College. 100K, 50K, 25K Walk/Run Rain or Shine. Registration at 7:30 a.m. Bike ride starts at 8:30 a.m. 5K Walk/Run starts at 9:30 a.m. For registration, details and more information please go to www.dcef.net This event is known for its BEAUTIFUL AND CHALLENGINS ROUTE. Also known for GREAT rest stops with lots of good food. Lunch is Lexington BBQ and Sub sandwiches. Great prizes and lots of them. Cool t-shirts and goodie bags for all participants. Our Foundation knows how to put on a Bike Ride. First Class all the way!!!! |
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| 4/30/07 |
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Teacher Sara Cude Wins Distinguished Special Educator Award April 2007 |
Sara Cude who teaches children with hearing impairments at Welcome Elementary School received the "Nancy Sink Fraizer Distinguished Teacher in Special Education Award" Tuesday evening, April 24th. The award was presented by the Davidson County Civitan Club. An individual plaque was presented to Cude. A larger plaque with the name of each year’s winner was presented to the school system to display for a year. Congratulations Sara Cude! |
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| 4/23/07 |
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Pilot Elementary Schools Wins Battle of the Books 2007 |
360 questions and 4 hours later.......the champions of Davidson County's FIRST Elementary Battle of the Books is PILOT ELEMENTARY! 115 students from 10 elementary schools competed in the April 19 competition at Denton Elementary School. Congratulations to all students who competed! Middle schools have held Battle of the Books for about the past five years. Battle of the Books supports reading and all related language arts skills such as comprehension, word recognition, content analysis, and literary knowledge. Students are so impressive as they work in school teams to answer detailed questions about authors, content and story lines. Their faces truly express their joy of reading and sound self-concept as they answer with knowledge and assurance. Congratulations to all 115 participants! Team members included: Mikayla Baldwin, Lauren Bodenhamer, Caleb Bryson, Ryan Cranford, Ally Hibbitts, Elijah Moffe, Sydney Plummer, Hanna Rowbury, Stone Simpler, Samantha Smith, Hannah Tysinger, and Olivia Grace Ward-Trent. The team was coached by media coordinator Pam Kanoy and teacher Kim Wheeler. |
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| 3/28/07 |
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Battle of the Books Elementary Schools April 19, 2007 |
Over 125 DCS students will be participating in the FIRST Elementary School Battle of the books! Churchland, Denton, Hasty, Pilot, Southwood, Davis-Townsend, Friendship, Northwest, Reeds, Welcome elem. schools will participate. The purpose of the Battle of the Books program is to encourage reading by all students. Students, regardless of ability, are exposed to quality literature representing a variety of literary styles and viewpoints by prominent authors in the area of young adult literature. The game format creates interest and excitement in reading. Through the fun and excitement of the competition, students improve reading skills, mature in their choices of reading materials, and acquire a borader knowledge base. It will be held at Denton Elem. 9:00 - 1:00. |
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| 3/28/07 |
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JROTC North Davidson High School Featured in Newsletter 3-07 |
The Air Force Junior ROTC adopted a two-mile stretch of US Hwy 52 from SR 1499 (Enterprise Rd.) North to SR 1506 (Eler Rd.) North of Welcome. Major Charles Damratoski is the Senior Aerospace Science Instructor for the AFJROTC which received its 10-year star from the NCDOT this year. The Office of Beautification programs applauded the efforts and commitment of Major Damratoski and all the cadets participating in the AAH program. The program was featured in Adopt a Highway's biannual newsletter, " Litterature" Winter 2007 edition. |
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| 3/22/07 |
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College Nights 2007 Scheduled for March |
College Nights 2007 are scheduled for 8-11 graders and their parents. Information will be presented on college admission requirements, courses of study, and SAT resources. An admissions officer from a 2-year and a 4-year college will be available, as well as a representative from College Foundation of North Carolina. All College Nights will be begin at 6:30 p.m. North Davidson High, March 12; South Davidson High, March 13; Ledford High, March 15; East Davidson High, March 19; Central Davidson High, March 20; and West Davidson High, March 22. |
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| 3/19/07 |
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Friedberg's Judy Barnes Elected 1st VP NCATA |
Judy Barnes, a teacher assistant at Friedberg Elementary School, was elected first vice president of the North Carolina Association of Teacher Assistants (NCATA) for the 2007-2008 school year. Barnes has served as NCATA District President. She has been Teacher Assistant of the Year for Davidson County Schools and the District NCATA. She was Second Vice President for the 2006-2007 school year. Barnes will be inducted into her new office during the state NCATA conference in
Greensboro on May 5. |
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| 3/01/07 |
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Battle of the Books Winners 2007 |
Congratulations to Central Davidson Middle School for winning the district-level Battle of the Books competition. 56 students from all 6 middle schools participated in the competition on February 27. Central Davidson will now move on to compete in the regional competition. Team members included: Jack Byrd, Sarah Cauble, Paige Chavis, Lauren Everhart, Adrian Garcia, Mark James, Daniel Martin, Mason Monk, Aimee Sink, John Swing, Hillary Wall, and Chandler Young. The team was coached by Tammi Rachels. |
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| 3/01/07 |
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Awards of Excellence for Band Directors 3-07 |
James Daugherty, band director at Central Davidson High School, has received the Award of Excellence from the Northwest NC Bandmasters Association. Ricky Harris, band director at Central Davidson Middle School, received the same award last year. How wonderful for DCS and the Central Davidson area --- for two years in a row. Congratulations to both of these accomplished musicians and teachers. |
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| 3/01/07 |
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School Social Work Week March 4-10 2007 |
Governor Michael Easley proclaimed the week of March 4-10, 2007 as School Social Work Week. This observance should serve to recognize the outstanding contributions made to the education of our youth by school social workers across NC. |
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| 3/01/07 |
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Pernell Collett, Ledford High,winner Minority Arts Contest, NCAE |
Pernell Collett, teacher Ledford High School, was one of three teacher winners in the statewide Minority Arts Contest sponsored by the NC Association of Educators (NCAE). He won for a teaching unit. Winners were recognized during the NCAE's annual Martin Luther King Jr. Banquet on Jan. 12, 2007. Their work will be on display at the NCAE Center, 700 S. Salisbury St. in Raleigh through February. |
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| 3/01/07 |
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For Elementary Students & Families Thursday evening, March 15, 2007 |
K-14 Special Event for elementary students and their families. Thursday, march 15, 2007 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. campus of Davidson County Community College. Fun for everyone learning about college life, creating the college dream, fun careers, parent information, student planning, free stuff. Just attend. That's all you have to do. Drive up to the Brinkley Gym that faces Highway 27-70. It has the peoples' faces on the front of the building. You can see it from the highway. Come on in and start having fun. No cost at all. Everyone else will be there waiting on you! Info flyers will be sent home with each elementary child in all three school systems in our county. |
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| 2/15/07 |
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SWAP Thursday, Feb. 15, 2007 7:00 p.m. Public Invited |
Superintendent Fred Mock will hold a SystemWide Advisory Panel meeting (SWAP) on Thursday 15 at 7 pm at the Extended Day School on Holly Grove Rd. off Hwy. 64 E going from Lexington toward Asheboro. This is the tenth year Dr. Mock has held these chat sessions which are open to the public. It is about 1 1/2 hours of conversation about schools. Anyone may attend. Dr. Mock usually begins by giving a 2 min. update on events happening around the school district. He then asks citizens to name good things that are happening throughout the district ---- things that are working well. Next, he wants to learn of challenges that face the district and that are on the minds of citizens. He covers many topics in the time frame so that citizens from all 6 attendance areas and interest in grades K-12 can have intput. At this meeting, Dr. Mock will speak specifically about the 2007-2008 budget. He wants input from parents about the budget. More info call 336-249-8181 Public Information |
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| 2/07/07 |
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Substitute Teacher Workshop - March 8, 2007 |
Substitute Teacher Workshop
2006 - 2007
Anyone interested in substituting for the Davidson County School
System must attend one of the following workshops.
Where: Extended Day School
Time: 8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Thursday, October 12, 2006
Thursday, March 8, 2007
No pre-registration is necessary. Bring your driver's license and
Social Security card. No one will be admitted once the class
has started. For more information or directions, please
call Davidson County Schools at 336-249-8181.
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| 2/02/07 |
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February 19, 2007 is Make-up Day for Missing February 1 |
Students will make up the missed day of February 1 on February 19 which was the first scheduled make-up day on the 2006-2007 calendar. The next missed day is scheduled to be made up on June 8. All make-up days are stated on calendars published by DCS and sent home with all students. |
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| 1/30/07 |
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DCS Receives Community Partner Award - YMCA Thomasville |
At the annual meeting of the Tom A. Finch Community YMCA in Thomasville on January 29, 2007, Laura Dout, Director of After School Care, presented the 2006 Community Partner Award to Davidson County Schools and Thomasville City Schools. Meredith Palmer, director of school/community relations, accepted for DCS. |
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| 1/09/07 |
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Tobacco Free Schools Passes 5-0, In effect August 1, 2007 |
DCS School Board heard the proposed policy on November 6, 2006, received public input for 60 days, and passed the policy 5-0 on January 8, 2007 to go into effect August 1, 2007. Opposition was little to none. 70% of the 115 school districts in NC have similar policies. Superintendent Fred Mock told the board it was the right thing to do. Teachers and adults are role models for students. Health and safety are top priorities for the system. The complete policy is available on this web site. Click on Board of Ed. and then on policy. An excerpt is below.
1. Tobacco Use Prohibited
No student, staff member or school visitor is permitted to use any tobacco product at any time, including non-school hours:
A. in any building, facility, or vehicle owned, leased, rented or chartered by the Davidson County Schools;
B. on any school grounds and property – including athletic fields and parking lots – owned leased, rented or chartered by the Davidson County Board of Education or
C. at any school-sponsored or school-related event on-campus or off-campus.
In addition, school district employees, school volunteers, contractors or other persons performing services on behalf of the school district also are prohibited from using tobacco products at any time while on duty and in the presence of students, either on or off school grounds. Further, no student is permitted to possess a tobacco product while in any school building, while on school grounds or property or at any school-sponsored or school-related event or at any other time that students are under the authority of school personnel.
Tobacco products may be included in instructional or research activities in public school buildings if the activity is conducted or supervised by the faculty member overseeing the instruction or research and the activity does not include smoking, chewing, or otherwise ingesting the tobacco product. |
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| 12/29/06 |
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For School Supply Lists, Call Your School |
Parents may call their child's school or check their school's web site to find out what school supplies are requested by their child's teacher. Lists are NOT kept in the Central Office. Room assignments and school supply lists are available at individual schools. |
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| 12/14/06 |
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Davidson County Education Foundation Awards Teacher Mini-Grants Fall 2006 |
Davidson County Education Foundation
Fall 2006 Mini-Grant Winners
Funding for the Mini-Grants is from Lexington Home Brands
Terry Martin - North Davidson Middle - Time Travelers - Living History Through the Decades of the 50's and 60's. $350.00
Jack Roach - North Davidson Middle - Map Maker Map Maker Make Me a Map $250.00
Heather R Everhart - Churchland Elem. - ABC, Come Learn with Me $350.00
Amy E. Dally - Churchland Elem. - Do You Hear What I Hear ? $342.76
Claudia R Kates - North Davidson Middle - Bringing the World Closer Together Through the Creation of Arts and Crafts $346.45
Amanda Zimmerman Fulton - Churchland Elem. - SciWorks Wonders $151.50
Diana Meredith Phelp - Southwood Elem. - Gardening Behavior $309.19
Susan L McWhorter - Welcome Elem. - Time Line $288.08
Cenda Q. Wooten - Churchland Elem. - Student Authors From the Black Lagoon $350.00
Tina W Comptom - Northwest Elem. - The Mystery of the Biltmore House $130.00
Pat Hooker - Friedberg Elem. - Time for Math $350.00
Elizabeth Kinney, Rachel Snyder - Central Davidson Middle - The Space Race Adventure $350.00
Laura Waddell - Friedberg Elem. - The More we Sign Together, the Happier we'll be $340.49
TOTAL $3,908.47 |
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| 12/14/06 |
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Energy United Awards Bright Idea Teacher Mini-Grants Fall 2006 |
Kim Russell East Davidson High $905
Brenda McGuinn, Ronda Dorsett Tyro Middle $1,000
Debra Paul Tyro Middle $1,500
Meredith Penninger, Mandi Gainor Southwood Elem. $466
Belinda Thomas Northwest Elem. $460
Samantha Murchison North Davidson High $1,500
Caroline Hanes, North Davidson High $1,500
Cathy Weaver Wallburg Elem. $1,000
Deborah Newsome, Pat Hooker, Leann Day, Deena Morgan, Donna Stafford Friedberg Elem. $1,000
TOTAL AMOUNT AWARDED, $9,331.
Thank you Energy United for funding teachers' dreams for teaching!!! |
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| 12/14/06 |
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DCS Strives for Greater Energy Conservation |
The Davidson County Board of Education contracted with Educon, an energy education and conservation company to help the system reduce energy costs which were $3.5 million in the 2005-2006 school year. Educon's program will use a detailed software program to track energy consumption and costs for each of the system's 31 schools and administrative complex. A trained Energy Manager will analyze energy data, monitor facilities, and communicate energy usage successes and needs for improvement. The school system has already given guidelines for improvement to employees. School officials hope to see increased energy conservation and cost savings in the areas of cooling, heating, and lighting. |
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| 12/06/06 |
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NO New Policy Regarding Religious Holidays |
NO New Policy
Regarding Holiday Observance in Davidson County Schools
A local TV station reported on Tuesday, December 5, 2006 that the Davidson County Schools had a new policy regarding religious holiday celebrations. This is NOT true.
The Davidson County Fire Marshall’s Office has asked schools not to have any lighted decorations or live trees in school facilities. The only exception to this regulation is in a school’s entry, office or foyer. An artificial tree with lights that are UL approved may be used in these locations. If trees are placed in these locations, hallways must remain clear with open access to any exit door.
The Davidson County Schools DO NOT have a new policy governing how religious holidays are regarded in schools. DCS appreciates the diversity of its community and embraces citizens’ rights and privileges to make personal choices in their lives.
The study of religious holidays and world religions is included in the curriculum, and specifically in subjects such as history, art, music, and literature.
Visitors to DCS schools see evidence of many lessons and projects that illustrate these studies.
There is no rule governing holiday symbols on students' clothing. DCS dress codes have not changed. |
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| 12/01/06 |
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Teacher Turnover Rate 2005-2006 Released 11/06 |
NC Dept. of Public Instruction released the annual Teacher Turnover Rate
for 2005-2006. NC's state DCS had a 10.93 % turnover rate for 2005-2006. Of the system's approximate 1400 teachers, 142 left the system in 2005-2006. Some teachers left for selected reasons. 22 percent left to teach in another system. 8 percent retired with full benefits. 4 percent resigned for another reason. 2 percent resigned for reasons unknown.
The following data reflect DCS and NC teacher turnover rates for the past 5 years:
2001-2002 DCS 9.22 percent NC 12.49 percent
2002-2003 DCS 9.11 percent NC 12.44 percent
2003-2004 DCS 9.51 percent NC 12.37 percent
2004-2005 DCS 10.93 percent NC 12.95 percent
2005-2006 DCS 10.48 percent NC 12.58 percent
5-year agerage DCS 9.85 percent NC 12.57 percent
2006-2007 rates will be released in 11/07 |
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| 11/29/06 |
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Teachers Holly Mosher, Ledford MS, & Brenda Willis, Tyro MS, Receive Activclassrooms |
Congratulations middle school teachers Holly Mosher and Brenda Willis for applying for and receiving Activeclassrooms which are an all-in-one solution that integrates various technologies, so every student benefits from an enhanced teacher/learning experience in math and science. |
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| 11/29/06 |
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Public Hearing for 2007-2008 School Calendar to be Dec. 4, 2006 7 pm |
The Davidson County Board of Education will hold a public hearing on
the proposed 2007-2008 school calendar on Monday, December 4, 2006 at 7
pm at the DCS Administrative Office on County School Road, off Highway
64 East, just outside of Lexington. Citizens do not have to sign up
prior to the meeting to speak.
Please click here to view the DRAFT version of this calendar.
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| 11/14/06 |
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SWAP SystemWide Advisory Panel |
Superintendent Fred Mock will hold a SystemWide Advisory Panel meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 15 at 7 pm at the Extended Day School on Holly Grove Rd. off Hwy. 64 E going from Lexington toward Asheboro. This is the tenth year Dr. Mock has held these chat sessions which are open to the public. It is about 1 1/2 hours of conversation about schools. Anyone may attend. Dr. Mock usually begins by giving a 2 min. update on events happening around the school district. He then asks citizens to name good things that are happening throughout the district ---- things that are working well. Next, he wants to learn of challenges that face the district and that are on the minds of citizens. He covers many topics in the time frame so that citizens from all 6 attendance areas and interest in grades K-12 can have intput. More info call 336-249-8181 Public Information |
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| 11/14/06 |
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Teacher Susan Adams Recognized at EC Conference |
The 56th Conference for Exceptional Children honored teachers and related service providers who have made significant contributions to the education of exceptional children. All persons being honored were nominated by their individual school system. Susan Adams, speech pathologist Midway Elementary, was Davidson County’s nominee. Adams was recognized at the opening session and was presented with a plaque at a special reception and awards ceremony on November 6, 2006.
Congratulations Susan Adams!!! |
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| 11/14/06 |
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Tobacco-free Schools Policy Under Board Consideration |
Davidson County School Board received info. on tobacco-free schools from consultant Suzanne DePalma-Morrison from the NC Health Wellness Trust Fund at their monthly meeting on Nov. 6, 2006. 78/115 NC school districts have such policies, including Thomasville schools. Lexington schools are also considering a policy. If implemented, no tobacco product would be permitted on any school campus, indoors or outdoors, or at any school function off campus. The Board will be asked to vote in January on the policy that would go into effect in July 2007. The first year is expected to be the toughest as citizens implement the new smoking and tobacco use restrictions. Communication and signage will be top priorities. The School Board welcomes citizen comments at 336-249-8181 public information office. |
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| 11/14/06 |
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School Board Recognizes North Middle Teacher Diane Howdeshell |
Language Arts teacher Diane Howdeshell was recognized by the School Board on Nov. 6, 2006 for a Capital Area Writing Project at NC State University, directed by Dr. Ruie Pritchard. It focused on the National Writing Project funded by US Congress. Last summer she graduated as a Capital Area Writing Project Fellow, and she now sits on the advisory board. This group is developing a prigram to improve and enhance teachers' writing ability in the classroom. They are coordinating outstanding conferences and progams for teachers and students. In October, Diane will conduct a workshop on Multigenre research for middle school teachers a the NC English Teachers' Conference in Durham. In November 2006, Diane's article "The Color Slides of Writing: Multigenre Research in Action" will appear in the NC Middle SChool Journal. Congratulations Daine Howdeshell!!! |
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| 11/14/06 |
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Northern Davidson Chamber of Commerce Scholarships Awarded |
Cindy Zimmerman and Judy Wimmer of the Northern Davidson Chamber of Commerce presented two $250 New Teacher Scholarships to teachers Allison Goins of Midway Elementary and Sarah Lovell of North Middle. The Chamber invites first-year teachers in the Northern Davidson area to apply for $250 scholarships to be used in their classrooms. Davidson County Schools' teachers and students are very fortunate to have such a strong instructional partnership with the Chamber. Thank you for enhancing teaching and learning --- and very importantly, supporting new teachers as they begin their careers and set up their very first classrooms. Thank you Northern Davidson Chamber of Commerce!!!! |
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| 11/14/06 |
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Kenny Meredith to Join School Board on Dec. 4, 2006 -Carol Crouse Re-elected |
Newly elected Kenny Meredith and re-elected Carol Crouse will be sworn into office as school board members at the Board's monthly meeting on December 4, 2006. Meredith replaces Don Palmer whose term expired and who chose not to run for re-election. Carol Burkhart Crouse was re-elected to her seat on the five member, non-partisan board.
As of Dec. 4, 2006 School Board members will include:
Alan Beck, elected 2000-2004, 2004-2008
Karen Craver elected 2004-2008
Carol Crouse elected 2002-2006, 2006-2010
Kenny Meredith elected 1996-2000, 2000-2004, 2006-2010
Allan Thompson elected 2000-2004, 2004-2008
Outgoing Chairperson Don Palmer elected 1990-1994, 1994-1998, 1998-2002, 2002-2006 |
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| 10/13/06 |
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Exceptional Children's Parent Advisory Committee |
The Exceptional Children’s Parent Advisory Committee held its first
meeting October 9. The mission of the Exceptional Children Parent
Advisory Committee is to share relevant information which may enhance
the education of special needs children and to foster effective
communication between schools and families.
Parent representatives from the following schools were in attendance:
Davis-Townsend, Stoner Thomas, Friendship, Reeds, Brier Creek,
Wallburg, and Friedberg. The goal is to have representation from
each school. For more information or to express an interest in
being a school representative, email Vickie Jolly at vjolly@davidson.k12.nc.us. Meetings are scheduled for the second Monday of each month from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. with various topics of interest.
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| 10/04/06 |
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Substitute Teacher Workshop - October 12, 2006 |
Substitute Teacher Workshop
2006 - 2007
Anyone interested in substituting for the Davidson County School
System must attend one of the following workshops.
Where: Extended Day School
Time: 8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Thursday, October 12, 2006
Thursday, March 8, 2007
No pre-registration is necessary. Bring your driver's license and
Social Security card. No one will be admitted once the class
has started. For more information or directions, please
call Davidson County Schools at 336-249-8181.
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| 9/27/06 |
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Sally Sturdivant Named Teacher of the Year 2006-2007 |
Biology teacher Sally Sturdivant of Central Davidson High School was named DCS Teacher of the Year 2006-2007, following Southwood Elementary School's Tim Williams, DCS TOY 2005-2006. Finalists included Cathy Berrier, Ledford High, and Tracy Varner, Reeds Elementary. Semi-finalists included Rose Moore, Denton Elementary, and Kathy Blackney, Ledford Middle. Teachers of the Year included: Donna Mintz, Brier Creek Elementary; Greg Dickens, Central Davidson Middle; Angie Wright, Churchland Elementary; Dr. Jane Bowser, Davidson Early College; Wendy Younts, Davis-Townsend Elementary; Brian Eddinger, East Davidson High; Todd Lomax, E. Lawson Brown Middle; Aaron Kokladas, Fair Grove Elementary; Ashley Kitts, Friedberg Elementary; Sherry Welch, Friendship Elementary; Teresa Harden, Hasty Elementary; Lucinda Black, Midway Elementary; Smith Leatherman, North Davidson Middle; Sani Davis, North Davidson High; Cheryl Harrison, Northwest Elementary; Frank McAdam, Pilot Elementary; Sharon Cox, Silver Valley Elementary; Cathy Jackson, South Davidson Middle; Cheree Loflin, South Davidson High; Lisa Snow, Southwood Elementary; Jeannette Walters-McNamara, Stoner-Thomas; Jeri Burkhart, Tyro Middle; Natasha Bumgarner, Wallburg Elementary; Christine Brinkley, Welcome Elementary; and Travis Smith, West Davidson High.
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| 8/18/06 |
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Updated School Web Addresses |
As we transitioned our web site to our new server, it was necessary for us to change some of the school URL's. You may navigate to your school's new web address through the "Schools" submenu on the district's page. |
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| 8/04/06 |
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DCS to Unveil New Web Site Design & Information |
Dear Community,
Schools are expected to provide good communication. Citizens and parents want a variety of information to be easily accessible from their home, wireless laptop computer, cell phone and BlackBerry. They want school web pages to be up-to-date resources with current facts, dates, schedules and announcements.
This summer, all 31 school web sites and the district web site are being overhauled. We have some specific communication goals in mind, and we are working hard to achieve each one.
(1) We want school web sites to be good communication tools.
(2) We want function and design to support communication.
(3) We will have a staff member at each school serve as web master to frequently update information.
(4) We will strive to address school and non-school audiences.
(5) We will try to accommodate cable/DSL and other types of users.
(6) We will reduce text to about 50% of what would be in print.
(7) We will invest time and resources to make this communication source beneficial to readers.
We are formatting individual school pages in a consistent manner, so information is easily accessible. Yet, we are encouraging each school to add unique elements, school colors, mascots, and student and program highlights.
School calendars, sports schedules, and driving directions are frequently requested information. School publications, curriculum information, and all test scores will also be available. All teacher and staff email addresses are available for personal communication.
New web sites will be launched in the next few weeks. I encourage parents and citizens to visit www.davidson.k12.nc.us and let us know what you think. We are committed to building strong web sites that meet a variety of communications needs.
Sincerely,
Fred Mock |
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| 8/03/06 |
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NC Tax Free Shopping for School Supplies August 4-6 |
Again this year, NC is offering Tarheel citizens three days of tax-free spending on school supplies. August 4 - 6, Friday - Sunday is set aside to help parents afford back-to-school supplies. DCS parents may obtain their child's list of needed school supplies by visiting the school's Web site which is linked to this site or inquiring at their child's school. |
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| 8/02/06 |
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Parents Call Schools for School Supply List |
Parents may contact individual schools to get a list of the school supplies their child will need in the upcoming school year. The first day for students is Friday, August 25. Tax-free weekend is August 4-6. |
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| 7/20/06 |
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New Assistant Principals Named for Midway Elem & Southwood Elem. |
The Davidson County Board of Education in a 4:30 p.m. called meeting on Thursday, July 20 named two assistant principals to fill vacancies left when former assistant principals were hired to fill vacancies in other DCS schools. Audrey Wagner, former assistant principal at Churchland Elementary School, was named assistant principal at Midway Elementary School to fill the vacancy left by Jeanne Snowa when she became assistant principal at North Davidson Middle School. James Cassada was hired in his first assistant principalship at Southwood Elementary School to fill the vacancy left by Diana Thomas-Louya when she became principal of Welcome Elementary School. Cassada has taught at North Davidson High School and Central Davidson High School. |
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| 6/30/06 |
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New Principals and Assistant Principals |
Julie Hamilton, Assistant Principal at Welcome Elementary School, becomes principal of Reeds Elementary School. She replaces Principal Deana Coley who has been hired as Principal of Southwood Elementary School to replace retiring Principal Ruth Spargo. Beth White, Assistant Principal of North Davidson High School, will be Assistant Principal of Welcome Elementary School. Vacant: Assistant Principal at North High School
Diana Thomas-Louya, Assistant Principal at Southwood Elementary School, becomes Principal at Welcome replacing Principal Jennifer Tuttle who requested to return to teaching. Vacant: Assistant Principal at Southwood
Marivee Miles, Assistant Principal of North Davidson Middle School, becomes Principal of Stoner-Thomas School, replacing Principal Rick Hoffman who retired. Jeanne Snowa, Assistant Principal at Midway Elementary School replaces Marivee Miles at North Middle. Vacant: Assistant Principal at Midway |
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| 6/16/06 |
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Southwood Elem. Gets $5000 Food Lion Grant for Science |
A pond with fish and plants will add to science clases for all 1100 students at Southwood Elementary, thanks to a $5000 grant from Food Lion Charitable Foundation. Southwood's courtyard will be both beautiful and instructional. Parent Tammie Jolly volunteered to write the grant, using her experiences in corporate marketing. Science lessons will be tied to North Carolina's Standard Course of Study, the required curriculum for all public school students and the material on which NC students are tested each year on the state-mandated end-of-grade tests for grades 3-8. |
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| 6/16/06 |
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TFI Awards Mini Grants to 39 Teachers Totaling $5,369 |
Thomasville Furniture Industries, Inc. hosted a banquet for recipients of its Mini-Grant program on June 7. Recipients are: Susan O'Brien, Christopher Miller of Brier Creek Elem.; Rose Moore of Denton Elem.; Lucinda Amos of Fair Grove Elem.; Tania Simmons of Liberty Drive; Connie Collins, Melissa Sarpy, Sharon Cox, Annette Barbee, Angela Stanley, Alisa Moran of Silver Valley Elem.; Tracy Burgess, Dawn Ingram, TJ Heath, Jeannette Walters, Ann Leonard, Shirley Everhart, Jennifer Davis, Lynne Troutman, Mary Morris, Terri Clark, Tanja Feezor, Belinda Moody, Luann Puckett, Connie Harrison, Pam Miller, Bennie Frank, Mandy Kepley, Frances Sletten, Kathy Kepley, Anne Hegler, Sherry Curry, Jan Wood, Mandy Adams, Joyce Jernigan of Stoner-Thomas School; Denise White of Wallburg Elem.; Jane DiBonaventura, Mary Hunter, Majorie Jaynes, Katheryn,Sweeney, Kevin Ward, Christy Wolf of E. Lawson Brown Middle; Stephanie Hall, Kimberly Vines, Jerry Jester of Ledford Middle; and Cathy Shoaf Berrier of Ledford High. Thomasville Furniture Industries Foundation began the program in October 1984. It is open to 18 schools in the area of Thomasville City Schools, Ledford, East Davidson, South Davidson and their feeded schools. Over the past 21 years, the Foundation has awarded 1,047 grants totaling more thatn $184,000. Round 41 was just completed with 39 grants awarded totaling $5,369.74. Grants ranged from $10 - $500. |
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| 6/13/06 |
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NC Tax Free Shopping for School Supplies August 4-6 |
Again this year, NC is offering Tarheel citizens three days of tax-free
spending on school supplies. August 4 - 6, Friday - Sunday is set aside
to help parents afford back-to-school supplies. DCS parents may obtain
their child's list of needed school supplies by visiting the school's
Web site which is linked to this site or inquiring at their child's
school.
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|
| 6/08/06 |
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Carla Carrick, South Davidson High, Named Outstanding Secondary Mathematics Teacher |
Algebra I teacher Carla Carrick of South Davidson High School was named DCS Outstnading Secondary Mathematics Teacher. Lead Mathematics Teacher Linda Rapp made the announcement at the Board of Education's June 1 meeting. Rapp mentioned Carrick's love of teaching Algebra I when, in fact, she could have her choice of teaching other more advanced mathematics courses. "Carla's dedication to beginning algebra and her passion for helping all students master abstract concepts make her an outstanding teacher," said Rapp. Carla attended the meeting along with South's principal Keith Overcash. Carrick will go on to compete with other nominees from across the state for state-wide recognition and a free membership in the North Carolina Classroom Teachers of Mathemtics (NCCTM) Association. Announcement of the state winner will occu at the Association's October conference. Congratulations Carla! |
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| 6/03/06 |
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Reeds' Deana Carrick Coley Named Southwood's New Principal |
The Board of Education named Reeds principal Deana Coley as the new principal of Southwood Elementary School at their called meeting at 7:30 a.m. on May 23, 2006. Superintendent Fred Mock recommended Coley's transfer effective July 1, following the retirement of present principal Ruth Spargo. Coley has been principal of Reeds since 2001. She was Reeds'Assistant Principal 1999 - 2001, Silver Valley Elementary School's Lead Teacher 1998 - 1999, a teacher at Davis-Townsend Elementary School 1997 - 1998, and a teacher at Churchland Elementary School 1991 - 1997. Coley holds a Master of Arts degree in Public School Administration from Appalachian State University. |
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