While we haven't been able to be together in person during the start of school, our educators across DPS have been getting creative to build strong connections with students to kick off the 2020-21 school year. Thank you to all of our team members who found ways to check in with their students during the past few weeks!

And a special thanks to Kimberly Gray, assistant principal from Summit Academy, for sharing her school's story:

How are you staying connected with students and team members during remote learning? Share your stories and photos here!

The employee wellness team is offering programs and resources to support Team DPS in staying informed, healthy and resilient during these unusual times.

Find out more about these programs and how to participate:

Looking for a mindfulness tool that is accessible any time? All DPS team members are eligible for free access to Headspace, which provides guided mediation and much more. Click here to learn more and sign up. Also, employees enrolled in a health care plan with Kaiser Permanente have free access to Calm and MyStrength apps. Learn more here.

Are you interested in supporting the wellness needs of your teammates by sharing and championing wellness opportunities like these? This is your last chance to apply for a paid "Employee Wellness Champion" position at your school, site or department for the 2020-21 school year. Applications are due Sept. 2. Employee Wellness Champions receive a stipend up to $600, swag and incentives throughout the year, and funding of up to $1,200 for site-specific wellness initiatives. If you work at a school, submit your application here; and if you are not school-based, submit your application here.

The start of this school year is different than any other -- and while there are a lot of unknowns, there is also an opportunity to create new and meaningful experiences. Tell us what you are looking forward to this year here for a chance to win a giveaway!

As some team members are choosing to return to their schools and offices, please continue following The DPS 5: Complete Health Screenings, Wear a Mask, Maintain Physical Distance, Meet Virtually, and Practice Good Hygiene in order to protect yourself and others.

As a reminder, at this time no one is required to report to their school or office unless directed by their supervisor. If you are required or choose to return to your school or office, please remember to complete the Employee Health Screening Form every day. If you are a central office employee, please also complete a reservation form.

Keep in mind that free COVID-19 testing is available for all DPS employees. Click here to learn more and to make an appointment.

"Debbie is my teammate in our ESL department and always lives our Shared Core Value of Equity! She has gone above and beyond to make sure that our students have equitable access to resources. Debbie has texted, called and even gone on many home visits to make sure students' computers are working and they understand how to access their online classrooms. This summer she even held a small-group, socially distanced summer camp at her home, and almost all of her ESL students came! Debbie wanted to make sure that her students still had access to some summer learning and fun, even though times are hard and money is tight for many families! She has just gone above and beyond supporting families during this time!"

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