We are entering a much-needed break this coming week, and also a time when an increased need for mental and physical health awareness is needed. We know that when students head into a break from school, there may be an increased risk for self-harm or other unhealthy behaviors because they are missing the structures and support systems provided at school. While this is not a universal statement, we ask for your partnership in supporting student wellness. To that end we suggest the following from you as parents and guardians:
Provide access to the Safe-2-Tell number and https://safe2tell.org/, 1-877-542-7233 - this is an anonymous way for students to report tips about unsafe behavior, peers they may be concerned about, and is the quickest way to get a school response alongside law enforcement.
Monitor your child’s cell phone and any device that they can use to communicate (computer, tablet, etc.) - this includes reading their text messages and other social media interactions.
Have clear boundaries for your children with electronic devices. For example, a set time when the device is no longer available for them (such as bedtime).
Safe2Tell includes resources for parents as well to support parents with addressing issues from suicide, bullying, and drug use: https://safe2tell.org/parents
Additionally, we would like to remind you about the importance of firearm safety around children, should you keep firearms in your home. This article has some excellent resources around this topic. It is important to note as well that “play” guns are also dangerous for students in terms of how they are perceived and can be responded to by authorities.
Overall, I wish you a wonderful break. Whether your time is spent traveling or close to home, may your time away from DCIS be filled with connection. I am so grateful for your continued support as community members. We look forward to seeing you on November 29th, 2021.
Thank you to all who attended “Romeo y Julieta” our first DCIS Drama Club show back in person! Bravo to the cast and the crew for working so hard in such a short amount of time!
Sources of Strength
Sources of Strength is an upstream suicide prevention program that uses Peer Leaders to enhance protective factors associated with reducing suicide at the school population level. The mission of Sources of Strength is to prevent suicide by increasing help seeking behaviors and promoting connections between peers and caring adults.
This past week, our student connectors led a campaign spreading hope, help, and strength. They shared hot cocoa and invited others to write on leaves of gratitude.
DCIS 5280 Challenge Team — Student Voice and Leadership Fall Roundtables
Shoutout to the DCIS 5280 Challenge Team who attended the DPS Student Voice and Leadership Fall Roundtables! Together, the team discussed possible social justice projects for the DCIS and DPS community. 🎉
Islamaphobia Training
At this week's staff meeting, we were honored to have guest speakers Sahar Khawaja, Ph.D. Student in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies, University of Denver and Mabruka Buaswaig, DCIS Educator.
As a school, we are committed to learning and continuing the critical work needed to better serve and support our communities. Across the district and nationwide, cases of reported hate and Islamaphobia remain on the rise — and as educators, we hold a responsibility to counter harmful rhetoric, discrimination, and shift the narrative to a place of deeper understanding.
No Justice on Stolen Land
DCIS Families! As we head into Autumn Break, we want to acknowledge the Indigenous land we occupy and lift up the importance of recognizing the real history of Thanksgiving.
Here is an article about "How To Teach Your Kids the Real History of Thanksgiving".
IMPORTANT UPDATES
December Schedule Update The leadership team at DCIS has decided to take Friday, Dec. 17, 2021 off as wellness day. Please keep in mind that the 17th will be specific to DCIS and if you have children in other DPS schools, please consult with them as to their days off. As always if you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us.
Friendly Reminders: Winter Break: December 20, 2021-January 3, 2022 Classes Resume: Tuesday, January 4, 2022
Transportation Services and Support
Background Info
For additional context regarding transportation challenges and bus route cuts impacting the 2021-22 school year, please read this letter from August 2021.
Take Action
If you would like to sign in support of a letter directed to the DPS Superintendent and DPS Transportation Services, add your name here.
Travel Center Updates American Exchange Project Registration Session
A project coordinator for AEP will be able to join any seniors who are interested in registering for this free experience. Once againHEREare the slides for AEP that is open to any Class of 2022 senior. Seniors and any family member can join thegoogle meetduring Advisement time (10:55-11:40) on Tuesday, November 30th.
Guatemala Follow-Up Meeting
Thanks to the families who attended the interest meeting this past Tuesday. We are incredibly excited about this service learning trip. Whether you attended the meeting or are just now interested in learning more please join Courtney and both confirmed and prospective travelers for a discussion around fundraising for the trip. Join thegoogle meeton Tuesday, December 7th at 5:30 pm. We will discuss fundraising opportunities. Courtney will also be available to recap any introductory information about the trip. Questions before then? Please email Courtney at courtney_wickham@dpsk12.org.
Free Financial Literacy Classes We realize that most trips require careful budgeting over time. Young Americans Center for Financial Education offers free Money Matters classes for both middle school and high school. Parents/guardians can sign their children up for course accessHERE.
Anti-Racism Literature for DCIS Families
Following a recent CSC meeting and request, the DCIS staff and leadership compiled a list of anti-racist resources for families. Please feel free to check it out HERE and share your favorites. Thank you!
🏀 DCIS Middle School Basketball Sign-Up If you are interested in participating in boys or girls basketball, please sign-up using the form below. Registration will close on December 2, 2021 at 4:00 PM.
Coffee with the DCIS Administration Team — Wednesday, December 1, 2021 Our next Coffee with the DCIS Administration Team will be Wednesday, December 1, 2021 from 9:00 AM - 9:30 AM. Coffee and light snacks provided! We can't wait to see you there!
Join us at the Southwest entrance for coffee with Ms. Wickham, AP for DCIS middle school, or the East entrance for coffee with Dr. Martin, AP for DCIS high school, and Ms. Vasquez will rotate between the two entrances.
Financial Literacy Presentation — December 8, 2021 from 2:00-3:00 PM (Zoom link will be shared prior to the event)
Credit Abuse Resistance Education (CARE) offers FREE presentations given by bankruptcy judges, attorneys, and financial industry professionals. CARE is a nonprofit organization with a mission to prepare future generations for financial success through volunteer-led education. CARE offers in- person and virtual presentations to schools & youth organizations about student loans, credit, budgeting. Our customizable presentations have been developed by former educators and financial education professionals and conform to the National Standards for K-12 Personal Finance Education of the National Jump$tart Coalition for Personal Financial Literacy.
Night Moves Teen Takeover — October - December 2021 The Night Moves program is for teens ages 12-19 every other Friday night from 6-9pm to have the opportunity to go to one of the various recreation centers around the city and develop their skills and interests.
Roundup River Ranch Camp Roundup River Ranch offers old-fashioned, pure fun camp experiences for children with serious illnesses and their families. Roundup River Ranch is always free of charge for all kids and their families.
Upcoming COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic: Nov. 20 at Coors Field The state of Colorado is partnering with the Colorado Rockies to host a COVID-19 vaccine clinic at Coors Field on Saturday, Nov. 20. The clinic will be open for anyone age 5 and up to receive a first, second or booster dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.
This clinic will operate from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at Coors Field (2001 Blake St.) Those who get vaccinated can get a photo taken with Rockies mascot, Dinger, and can receive additional giveaways including Rockies promotional jerseys, hats, and baseball cards while supplies last.
Free COVID Rapid Tests Available for Home Delivery CDPHE recently announced the Rapid-At-Home program, in which they will ship free rapid antigen tests directly to homes. Students, families, and educators can enroll in the program here. Please keep in mind:
Due to significant interest, there may be a several-week delay in initial shipments after signing up.
These rapid tests are intended for ongoing screening; a rapid test cannot clear an individual with symptoms to go to school or clear someone from quarantine. Individuals can only be cleared with a PCR test at COVIDCheckColorado or your primary care physician.
Parents/Guardians!
Judi’s House for Grieving Children and Families
We are excited to let you know about the FREE services Judi’s House will be offering: Caring for Grieving Kids virtual workshops for parents and guardians
FREE Mental Health Support for Colorado Youth — Click HERE
Safe2Tell Colorado: 877-542-7233, https://safe2tell.org Note that DCIS staff and DPS Safety & Security and DPD monitor Safe2Tell 24 hours/day, 7 days/week. This is the quickest way to reach out if you have safety concerns that are imminent.
Colorado Crisis and Support Line: 844-493-8255, or text TALK to 38255
STUDENT SERVICES NEWS
Class of 2022 — Seniors
All things Senior Year! College Applications and Thanksgiving Break- Article Alternative Education for a CTE Path- Article FAFSA Info- Article
Graduation Cap & Gowns Please remember to order your student’s cap ‘n gown. Emails and packets have been sent home in the past week.
Senior Parent College Planning Night Senior Parents/Guardians - Did you miss the Senior Parent College Planning and Financial Aid Presentation? Here are the slides of the topics covered. Please feel free to reach out to your student’s School Counselor for further questions. Presentation Slide Deck
Financial Aid FAFSA Website is now open as of October 1, 2021. Please talk to your student about this process. Reach out to your student’s school counselor for further questions.
The CASFA is also available for in-state tuition opportunities. Reach out to your student’s school counselor for further questions.
Upcoming College Rep Visits Will be held in the courtyard unless otherwise noted Scheduled Visits
Class of 2023 — Juniors
Upcoming College Rep Visits Will be held in the courtyard unless otherwise noted. Scheduled Visits
Middle School can be an exciting time and sometimes a bit overwhelming, as well. Here are some resources to support you and your student through middle school:
DCIS Clothing Closet and Food Pantry We are continuing to accept donated food, water, and canned goods, as well as clothing to support students, families, and community. If you'd like to contribute or would like to receive support, please feel free to contact DCIS' School Social Worker, Vincent Scudella at vincent_scudella@dpsk12.org.
Please check outthis listof recommended foods and household items.
Resources Booklet from Denver Human Services
COMMUNITY NEWS
DCIS Baker PTSA We are so thankful for our amazing DCIS community! This week we will provide gourmet, heat & eat Thanksgiving meals from The Table to 92 students and their families. Your generosity makes everything we do possible. Thank you ❤
Looking for a New Host Home Community,
One of our exchange students, a wonderful 16 year-old student from Kazakhstan is in need of a host home. She is excelling in all of her classes and is very determined to make the most out of her year. She is very driven academically, participates in extra-curricular activities--she started a Russian club at DCIS-- and is a FLEX scholarship student. She loves volunteering, shopping, movies, hanging out with friends and experiencing the most that Colorado has to offer. Please contact Susan Erker at susan.erker@aspectfoundation.org or (415) 651-2476 (Broomfield office number). Thank you!
DCIS at Baker is hiring! Please share with your networks and/or apply if you're interested in the position below. Applicants may contact Principal Vasquez atmarisa_vasquez@dpsk12.org or visit https://careers.dpsk12.org/for additional info. We greatly appreciate your help finding candidates who would be a great fit for our school - thank you!
MIS Paraprofessional
New hires will be set at $16.505 per hour. The salary range for internal candidates is $16.505 to $23.585 per hour.
The Secondary Special Education paraprofessional supports the educational, behavioral, social-emotional, physical and daily living needs of middle and high school level students with disabilities in integrated, resource, self-contained and community settings.
Boletín Requests Please send bi-weekly boletín requests (key announcements, community updates, and feedback) to our School Communications Specialist at Stephenie_Lock@dpsk12.org.
