TOTY semifinalists demonstrate skills,
meet with judges
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The honor of being selected as a semifinalist for Teacher of the Year (TOTY) comes with a little additional work.
A panel of judges observed the teachers either in person or by video on August 25. While most teachers are in their element in front of a group of students, being observed by adults adds some pressure. Handouts from the teachers helped judges understand all the work that goes into planning a lesson -- learning goals, standards, essential questions, vocabulary.
In addition, all six semifinalists participated in individual interviews in front of a panel of 10 judges at the DCSS Central Office on August 31.
All 34 Teachers of the Year will be honored at a banquet on September 23, and the 2021-2022 Teacher of the Year for Douglas County and the three finalists will be named. The overall Teacher of the Year will represent the county in the state competition. The 34 Teachers of the Year will meet with Superintendent North throughout the year and offer advice and feedback on district initiatives.
Pictured above, AHS Teacher of the Year Leah Mathis responds to questions from the panel of judges.
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Colette Bell, 8th grade math teacher and TOTY at Yeager Middle School, focused on geometric figures during her observation. |
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All eyes were on Winston Elementary Teacher of the Year Avery Zachery during her interview at the Central Office. |
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Judges enjoyed a reading lesson presented by Meagan Russell, 4th grade teacher and TOTY at Bright Star Elementary, |
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Figurative language found in the book Ghost by Jason Reynolds was the focus of Radiance Ruffin's 7th grade English Language Arts class. |
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New Manchester High School TOTY Tahira Chandler is the AVID coordinator for the school. Her lesson, enhanced with fun music, focused on important facts about college admissions and scholarships. |
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An exceptional time at MCMS |
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A little rain didn't spoil the fun for the Exceptional Wolves in Coach Ewing's PE class this week! The 8th Grade Ambassadors joined their friends for a fun indoor PE experience.
In 7th grade, students who are interested in becoming 8th Grade Ambassadors at Mason Creek Middle School go through an extensive application process involving an essay and teacher recommendations. Those who are selected use one of their connections class periods to assist with eight classes of Exceptional Wolves, who range in age from preschool to 8th grade.
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In addition to helping the Exceptional Wolves, the ambassadors keep a weekly journal of their experiences. Twenty-seven 8th graders serve as 8th Grade Ambassadors this year.
"This program means so much to my students," said Suzanne Butler. "I believe that providing my students meaningful experiences with their general education peers brings so many positive benefits."
The ambassadors also learn and grow from the experience. "They learn empathy and how to work with people different from themselves," said Ms. Butler. "And my students gain friends who demonstrate appropriate behavior and model social skills."
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Great things happening with FAME at NMHS |
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Todrick visits FAME classes, gives professional advice
When NMHS FAME Director Trey Giddens saw on Instagram that Todrick was in Atlanta to film a movie, he messaged him and asked if he would come speak to his students. While the students at New Manchester High School are often treated to entertainers visiting their classes and giving professional advice about the industry, they were extra thrilled with the visit from Todrick. The rapper, singer, songwriter, actor, director, choreographer and YouTuber gained national attention on the ninth season of the televised singing competition American Idol, where he made it to the semi-finals.
Todrick shared with the students about his life and career. He took questions and advised students that being successful takes hard work and determination. "Be on time, be easy to work with, and always put forth the extra effort." He added that they should be kind and put good in the world, and should always "check" themselves before commenting or reacting negatively on social media.
"He was overall just the nicest person ever, and I think all the kids were super starstruck, and the teachers, too!" said Mr. Giddens.
FAME students are pictured with Todrick, in red, and Mr. Giddens.
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NMHS band wins $10,000
Last week, the New Manchester High School (NMHS) band was awarded $10,000 for being one of three winners of the first annual Great Atlanta High School Band Challenge.
“You guys are very, very impressive. We’ve been to three great schools today, but I’ve got to say, we saved the best for last,” said Amy Witherite, one of the contest’s sponsors who awarded the prize along with Hot 107.9’s DJ Incognito.
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The challenge was presented by two Radio One Atlanta stations, who partnered with Atlanta attorney Amy Witherite of 1-800-TruckWreck.
The band entered the competition with a video of a performance from a battle of the bands held at NMHS last spring. On Aug. 2, the bands were narrowed to the top 10, and the three that received the most votes by Aug. 20 were named winners.
The winners will officially be announced at halftime of the MEAC/SWAC Challenge on Aug. 28.
View the video to see NMHS’ entry to the contest from last spring.
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"Board at the Hill" connects students, provides fun after school |
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Betrayal at House on the Hill, Uno, Pandemic, King of Tokyo, Scrabble, Settlers of Catan, Ticket to Ride, Spendor, Kingdomino, Exploding Kittens, Chess -- These are just some of the games that students in a new club at Chapel Hill High School are playing.
"Board at the Hill" was founded by math teacher Jeremy Anderson as a way for students to meet others, learn games and feel connected. Students meet after school every Wednesday in the media center to join in the fun. At the first club meeting, 43 students attended. The next week it was 60.
Anderson is an avid board gamer and regularly plays with family and friends. He also uses board games in his lessons. "After a year with little social interaction for our students, I felt the need to start this club," said Anderson. "So far, it has wildly surpassed my expectations."
Anderson is assisted by fellow CHHS staff members Vinh Vu, Chris Haraszkiewicz, and Kevin Noel. All CHHS students are welcome to join the club on Wednesdays after school.
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Rewards for Ridership at ASES |
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Arbor Station Elementary 5th grader Danai Webb knows her bus route so well that she is often called upon to assist when a substitute driver is behind the wheel.
Danai's willingness to help and her exemplary behavior earned her the Ridership Certificate. Bus driver Aleitha Rodriguez personally presented the award and gave all 5th grade students at ASES popsicles to encourage and reward positive behavior on their buses. Pictured are ASES Principal Dr. Emily Felton, Danai and Ms. Rodriguez.
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Stay in the know:
COVID reporting on DCSSGA.org
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Beginning the week of September 6, 2021, DCSS will publish weekly COVID cases and the percentage of COVID cases by school on Mondays by 5:00. If Monday is a holiday, the report will be posted the following day. You may access the report at the page below.
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Are you ready for some football?
Spotlight on: Lithia Springs High School
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Lions hope to build on last season’s accomplishments
After hosting a state playoff game for the first time in several years, Lithia Springs High School returns a strong core of seniors looking to build on last season’s successes.
The Lions finished as runners up in Region 6-5A in 2020, just one game behind crosstown foe New Manchester High School.
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The Lions return a bevy of talent, with All-Region Honorable Mention recipients Jamius Duncan, Jai’Que Hart and Christen Williams leading the way. Lions’ head coach Corey Jarvis also expects contributions from defensive back Ollie Payne and wide receiver Davion Leslie as well.
The Lions look forward to an exciting matchup tonight against Southwest DeKalb.
Pictured left to right are Davion Leslie, Christen Williams, Ollie Payne, Head Coach Corey Jarvis, Jamius Duncan and Jai'Que Hart. The photo and video are from the football media day on August 3, 2021.
For a season schedule for all five teams, please click here. |
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September 6: Holiday for All
September 7: BOE Work Session, 6:00 p.m.
September 8: Progress Reports for Elementary and Middle Schools
September 20: BOE Meeting, 7:00 p.m.
October 4: BOE Work Session, 6:00 p.m.
October 5: FTE Count
October 6: Grading Period Ends
October 11, 12: Holiday (Except 240 Day Employees)
October 14: Progress Reports for High Schools; Report Cards for Elementary and Middle Schools
October 16: DCEF Fun Run at NMHS
October 18: BOE Meeting, 7:00 p.m.
November 1: BOE Work Session and Meeting
November 2: Teacher Work Day (No School for Students)
November 17: Progress Reports for Elementary and Middle Schools
November 22, 23: Holidays (Except 240)
November 24-26: Holidays for All
December 6: BOE Work Session and Meeting
December 17: Last Day of Semester; Grading Period Ends
December 20, 21: Holidays (Except 240)
December 22-31: Holidays for All
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DCEF Fall Fun Run: October 16 |
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Join us for the annual Fall Fun Run, sponsored by the Douglas County Education Foundation! For a PDF of the application, please click here. |
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LSHS continues the Christmas in Lithia tradition |
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Lithia Springs High School will once again host its annual Christmas in Lithia show on November 13 and 14. The community has come to rely on this great event to accomplish their holiday shopping. Vendor booths will line the hallways and spill into the gym with candles, home decor, custom cornhole boards, holiday wreaths, custom wood items, hand-painted crafts, laser-engraved signs, homemade jewelry, designer clothing and more.
Representative from popular commercial companies will be there, including Avon, Paparazzi, Tupperware, Scentsy, Colorstreet and Pink Zebra. Several food trucks and sweet treat booths will also be available.
The annual show supports local vendors in our community and allows LSHS to raise money for special projects. LSHS students earn service hours by assisting vendors with booth setup and take down.
Be sure to make Christmas in Lithia one of your holiday shopping stops this year!
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Check out opportunities that are available in our area by clicking the Community Bulletin Board below! |
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