Dear students and Parents/Guardians,

 

I look forward to another productive year for students, parents, and teachers in our "Learning Village" under the Comer's School Development Model. The Comer model is designed to create the best environment for teaching and learning that will allow students to excel in academics, the arts, and athletics as their teachers prepare them to become productive citizens in the 21st century.

 

The faculty and I encourage all students to take advantage of the many learning opportunities for them at DMS that will enhance their ability to show growth in English, Mathematics, Social Studies, Science, Technology, and elective subjects throughout the school year. All students are encouraged to explore their interests beyond the classroom by particitpating in various extracurricular activities throughout the school year. These extracurricular activities may include sports, the fine arts, student council, and/or various clubs.

 

I am a firm believer, as our President, that a child's education must start in the home. Teachers are becoming excellent facilitators of learning via various high yield teaching strategies that will develop the child's intrinsic motivation to take responsibility for their own learning. I welcome parents to share their concerns and ideas with their child's teachers, guidance counselor and my administration to build stronger relationships that will assist their child to become a better learner during their cognitive and character building years at Dillard Middle School.

 

Students, I believe your years at DMS will be full of many challenges, both in and out of the classroom that will provide you with wonderful memories and some disappointments. However, your teachers will establish a nurturing climate with rigorous instruction that will prepare you for high school, college and other institutions of learning beyond DMS.

 

Finally, I ask all students to accept this challenge from our 44th President of the U.S. of America, "...and dropping out of high school is no longer an option. It's not just quitting on yourself; it's quitting on your country. And this country needs and values the talents of every American." DMS teachers and staff are committed to preparing every child to meet the challenge of the President to all children.

 

Sincerely,

 

Sylvester A. Townsend

Principal