Dear DMPS Families:
Now that we have arrived at the end of the first quarter of the school year, I just want to tell you how honored I am to serve as your interim superintendent. I am learning so much, and each day I'm reminded of the genius and talents of our students, staff and families.
Our students have been working so hard following all of the disruption that came with the COVID-19 pandemic. The most recent state academic assessments show it is paying off. Most student grades are ahead of where they were pre-pandemic in English and science... but, like across the country, we have work to do in math. We're positioned well to make significant gains this year with the implementation of our new math curriculum and instructional alignment from Pre-Kindergarten to high school.
Our team of educators aren't solely focused on academics. We have also been thinking a lot about mental health. The technology department installed new software on their devices – called Beacon - to help counselors identify students in crisis. The software notices search patterns that indicate mental health challenges in children so we can intervene and help.
Thanks to all of you who participated in the community read of Esperanza Rising this fall. The Des Moines Public Library hosted in-person discussions about the book, which is part of our 5th grade curriculum. We received a lot of positive feedback.
I have two other exciting things to note: Our preschool playgrounds received a half-million dollar, much-needed upgrade. And Harding Middle School counselor Emily Hackbarth appeared on Jeopardy! She was awesome! In fact, we've had so many awards bestowed on our staff this fall, I don't have room to include them all here. Just know your child's educators are working hard, and they're being honored by statewide professional organizations for their efforts.
Right now, the 2023-24 calendar survey is underway. Make sure you take time to weigh in on one of the most impactful decisions we make each year. The survey remains open through Saturday. Click here to get started.
A new legislative session is right around the corner. I have been working with the School Board’s Community Legislative Action Team (CLAT) to meet with key lawmakers and talk about expanding preschool funding, among other topics. Our research is showing this simple change can have positive ripple effects all the way through elementary school. It’s one piece of the larger puzzle. To participate in CLAT and help us achieve our collective goals, click here to join the mailing list.
I also have some great news to share from the world of activities!
- The first official high school girls wrestling practices started on Monday. They are already more than 15 girls strong!
- Student journalists from East, Hoover and North won three of the five best news team awards presented at the Iowa High School Press Association conference - the equivalent of a state championship for student-run newspapers!
- Congratulations to the Lincoln High School cheer team for finishing 3rd at the Iowa Cheerleading Championships.
- Roosevelt's Adrienne Buettner-Cable won the Iowa High School Cross Country Championship. She ran a 17:41.24 5K to earn the state title.
- Congratulations to the Lincoln High School cheer team for finishing 3rd at the Iowa Cheerleading Championships.
- And the Board just voted to name the East High School gymnasium after longtime girls basketball coach and mentor – Sam Powell.
Hang on, I'm almost done. We have great things on the horizon at DMPS!
Beginning with our current 9th grade students, the district will change over from class rank to a Cum Laude honors system. It will mean more students with a GPA 3.6 and above will be acknowledged for their academic achievement.
DMPS is partnering with the University of Nebraska at Lincoln to address human trafficking. It’s a five-year program aimed at educating everyone about this critical issue impacting Iowa kids.
And, speaking of important issues - Tuesday, November 8 is Election Day. There is no school on Monday and Tuesday. But, do not forget to exercise your right to vote - and please keep our students in mind when you do.
Thank you for choosing Des Moines Public Schools and for your continued support of our schools. It’s an honor to work alongside you to make sure every student is loved, valued, and challenged to achieve academic excellence in a learning community that supports each student's growth to become the person they were created to be.
Love and appreciate you,
