Principal’s Message – First Day of School 2020-2021
DSA Family,
Though this was a most unusual summer, I hope that you got a chance to unwind with your families and recharge for the start of a new (virtual) school year! The beginning of this year will be a little different, but the focus on high quality teaching and learning will most certainly remain paramount. For the past two weeks, our staff has worked tirelessly to participate in professional development, and plan lessons to best prepare for a fruitful school opening. I am thankful for such a dedicated staff, who are committed to giving their all to their students. I am also thankful for dedicated students and families who give so much to their school community. I am looking forward to our collaboration this year!
“They don’t care what you know, unless they know that you care”
This statement has guided my practice as an educator since the first time I heard it, over a decade ago. Our students will thrive in a supportive environment and we intend to do what is necessary to set the stage for that environment. During the first week of virtual learning, we will set the foundation by getting to know each other and making sure that everyone is prepared to receive virtual instruction. That’s it. No more, no less.
After that, we will dive right into instruction. Some classes will participate in what the district has dubbed “bridge activities” to reinforce learning from the previous semester. Other courses will introduce new content, laying the groundwork for accessing and using content knowledge throughout the school year. Either way, we’re here to support!
What you need for the first day
Most of us are new to virtual learning, so I understand that the first day jitters feel a little different this year. Don’t worry though, below is a comprehensive list of links to “how-to’s” and more information.
- What do I do on the first day? Click here
- I forgot/need to reset my password – Call Ms. Roohi at the Circulation Desk for assistance (678-676-2521), or send her an email: Nicole_roohi@dekalbschoolsga.org
- What’s our schedule look like? Click here
- I have questions about registration, Infinite Campus access, or IC Parent Portal: Click here
- I lost my DCSD-issued Chromebook charger, bag, or other accessory and need to request a replacement: Click here
- I missed the Back-to-School info and presentations. Where can I find them? Click here
- I need to email my teacher or another staff member, but don’t know their email address: Click here
Events for the first week
We will begin the week with two Early Release Days. Wednesday will be a work/meeting day, and Thursday and Friday will be regular days. I will deliver announcements at 8:45 am each school day via Teams. Feel free to listen along with your students (students must sign in with their S-number). The link is below:
+1 470-440-4499 United States, Atlanta (Toll)
Conference ID: 575 188 49#
DSA will also facilitate more Chromebook pickups, textbook pickup, and yearbook pickup on Wednesday, August 19th from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm. This pickup will be drive-through only. Since meal pick up will be taking place at the cafeteria door, we ask that students and parents enter the rear of the parking lot from Berkeley Rd and drive around to the theater lobby door for pick up. Officers Render and Russell will be assisting with traffic.
We’re going to get through this together
I would like to continue to thank you all for your patience and understanding as we work through ways to provide the best learning experience to your students at this time. We will continue to improve our practice to serve DSA students both in and out of virtual learning. We will also continue to reciprocate that grace that our students and families have shown us.
Again, we welcome you and welcome you back to what will be a FANTASTIC year!
Educationally and artistically,
-GG