Dazzlers Ring in the New Year

As a part of the 2012 Sugar Bowl festivities, the Dazzlers are ringing in the new year in style (as only a Silver Fox can do). Oh how wonderful it is to be a part of one of America's finest high schools.

Go Dazzlers!

Dazzlers Headed to the Allstate Sugar Bowl

The Dutch Fork High School Dazzlers and their coach (Mrs. Ginny Haynes) are headed to the Allstate Sugar Bowl to take part in the halftime show. Only a handful of schools were selected nationwide to take part in the experience. We are so proud of our students and their coach for their outstanding work. Stay tuned to the blog, Facebook page or twitter stream for updates on their extended learning experiences.

Happy Holidays from Dutch Fork High!

From all administrators, teachers, and support staff at Dutch Fork High, we would like to extend to you our best wishes for a safe and joyous holiday season.  We are looking forward to seeing all of our students back on January 2.

December/January Upcoming Events…

• December 19 - 30        Winter Break – No School
• December 19 - 20        Boys Basketball Tourney (Rock Hill, SC)
• December 21 - 23        Girls Basketball Tourney (North Myrtle Beach, SC)
• December 28 - 30        Girls Basketball Tourney (Keenan High School)
• January 2, 2012           School Resumes
• January 9, 2012           Semester Exams .5 Classes (1A & 3A)
• January 10, 2012         Semester Exams  .5 Classes (5B & 7B)
• January 11, 2012         Semester Exams  .5 Classes (2A & 4A)
• January 12, 2012         Semester Exams  .5 Classes (6B & 8B)
• January 19, 2012         Report Cards Issued to Students
• January 19, 2012         Registration Meeting for Rising 10^th, 11^th, & 12^th Grade Parents
• 6:00pm Auditorium
• January 24, 2012         Registration Meeting for Rising  9^th Grade Parents
• 6:00pm Auditorium

Semester Exam Schedule at Dutch Fork High

Dutch Fork High School Semester Exam Schedule for 2011-2012

Year Long Courses:
December 12            Blocks 1A, 3A
December 13            Blocks 5B, 7B
December 14           (Holiday Program / Reading Day - No Exams)
December 15            Blocks 6B, 8B
December 16            Blocks 2A, 4A

Semester Courses:
January 9                  Blocks 1A, 3A
January 10                Blocks 5B, 7B
January 11               Blocks 2A, 4A  (No Delayed Opening)
January 12                Blocks 6B, 8B

FINAL EXAM MAKE-UP POLICY

A student who misses a mid-year or final exam must obtain approval from the Assistant Principal for Instruction in order to make up the exam. Any exam not made up will severely jeopardize the student's ability to successfully pass the course. Recognizing that there may be some exceptions, the following are valid reasons for making up exams:

1. Death in the immediate family.


2. Confirmed move out of the district that will occur within two weeks prior to the end of the term.


3. Illness as confirmed by a written statement from a doctor. (Only a medical excuse from a doctor will be accepted.)

4. Out of town trips should not be scheduled during exams.  Students will not be allowed to take make-up exams because of travel.  Some make-up days for inclement weather are included at the end of the school year and may affect the exam schedule. Plan accordingly!

After the exam schedule has been completed, the make-up exam for the midterm/final (if approved by the Assistant Principal for Instruction) must be taken during non-instructional time at the classroom teacher's discretion.  The make up time for final exams will be determined by the Assistant Principal for Instruction.

EXAM EXEMPTIONS

Only A student who qualifies as a senior at the beginning of the school year may exempt the final examination for a course if she/he;

1. Has official senior status at the beginning of the school year;

2. Has an overall 85 or better average in the course; and

3. Have not received any suspensions or Twilight detentions during the entire school year.

With regard to a semester course, the final examination occurs at the end of either semester.

Interim Reports Distributed Today

Is your child making adequate progress in their classes? How can you find out?  Do you know that through the parent portal, you can have your child's academic progress (in all classes) emailed to you weekly? 

Interim Reports for the 2nd Quarter grading period are being distributed today at Dutch Fork High School to students during their advisor-advisee period. Anyone that is absent today can pick-up their interim's in the guidance office at the following times:

• Before School
• During Lunch
• After School

Students and parents are encouraged to communicate with teachers about any concerns they may have regarding student progress. These reports can also be access through the PowerSchool Parent Portal. If you do not have access to the parent portal, please contact the school (803-476-3300) so we can help you get signed up. 

School Resource Officer Training at Dutch Fork High!

On Thursday December 1, 2011, the Richland County Sheriffs Department will be conducting an Advanced School Resource Officer Site assessment on the campus of Dutch Fork High. The site assessment is designed to assess the safety and security of school buildings and grounds. This training will result in a large police presence on campus.

We are informing all stakeholders in an effort to eliminate any cause for alarm by students, parents, and/or staff members. This training will not interfere in any way whatsoever with normal school operations. Dutch Fork High is proud to partner with the Richland County Sheriffs Department in helping to further educate our law enforcement personnel.

Should you have any questions, please contact the school at 803-476-3300.

Dutch Fork High Students Excel In Wordmasters Challenge

Congratulations to Dutch Fork High students who recently participated in the Wordmasters Challenge. We received the highest honors, competing with 548 schools across the country. Our 9th graders tied for 12th place in the nation, while our 11th and 12th graders tied for 11th in the nation. The following students won high honors for individual achievement (and they will receive a copy of the press release with their names in it, as well):

Freshman Liam McGarry, sophomores Tyler Muehl,and Tulsi Patel, and senior Aubrey Leaman all earned near-perfect scores in the meet. They placed among the 65 highest scoring ninth graders, the 108 highest-scoring 10th graders and the 36 highest-scoring 12th graders in the country.  Juniors Taylor Larkin, Ir'raj Iftikhur and Caitlin Wagner placed among the 105 highest scoring eleventh graders at the same time. Freshmen Suzy Noblet, Aiden Barney, Tristan Yates, Austin Hays and Trista Knowles, and seniors Emily Condra and Kristy O'Keefe all earned honorable mention.

More than 54,000 students from across the country (and from four foreign nations) participated in the meet. We are so excited about their accomplishments and congratulate them on a job well done. They will participate in the second meet, held between Dec. 8 and 15. More information can be found on the Wordmasters website.

Dutch Fork High's November Teacher of the Month

Teachers are the backbone of our great school. They richly deserve all the recognition that we can give them. On that note, we are proud to announce November's Outstanding Teacher of the Month, Ms. Deborah Gascon from the School of Fine Arts and Humanities. Ms. Gascon teaches English and Journalism courses along with advising our yearbook staff and coordinating many of our school's social functions.


In her classes, students are rigorously challenged through meaningful and relevant instruction. When you visit her classroom, you will see very high levels of student engagement, an infusion of advanced technology, and an atmosphere where students are encouraged to take risks through project/problem-based learning as they work collaboratively towards content mastery.


Under her advisement, our yearbook is an annual winner of the "Best in State" award by the South Carolina Scholastic Press Association. She is an active member of the South Carolina Council of Teachers of English and regularly attends and presents at their conferences. Each year, she has initiated an annual "pancake breakfast" tradition for students on HSAP (High School Assessment Program) test days. Within her SLC, she develops brochures and newsletters for her school-of-study, and spearheads many initiatives that results in our continuous improvement.


We are extremely proud of Ms. Gascon! Her efforts continue to make Dutch Fork High one of the premier public schools in the country. 

By: Robert S. Jackson, Ed.S., Assistant Principal for Instruction

New National Board Recipients at Dutch Fork High

By: Robert S. Jackson, Ed.S., Assistant Principal for Instruction

Congratulations are extended to the following four teachers (Russell Young, Megan Estes, Kate Mewborne, and Hank Herring) for earning their National Board Certification. Also, six teachers (Karla Fulmer, Effie Howe, Amy Medlock-Greene, Sandy Rickenbaker, Elizabeth Sox, and Julie Vandiver) renewed their certification for the next ten years. This brings the total number of national board certified teachers at Dutch Fork High to fifty-two. 


We are extremely proud of these teachers and would like to thank them for all that they continue to do for our school. Their commitment towards excellence in the classroom is another example of the quality teaching staff at Dutch Fork High! 

Dutch Fork High Remains Excellent!

Recently, the school report cards were issued by the South Carolina State Department of Education. Again, Dutch Fork High has earned Excellent Absolute and Growth Ratings for 2011. Each school in the state receives an Absolute rating – Excellent, Good, Average, Below Average or At Risk – based on student test scores.  Report Cards also contain Growth ratings that compare student test scores from one year to the next. For the past five years, our absolute rating has remained excellent.  These results indicate our commitment to excellence while embracing a practice of continuous improvement. 

According to the statistics from Education Oversight Committee, School District Five of Lexington and Richland Counties remains one of South Carolina's top performing districts.  Echoing the sentiments of Dr. Stephen Hefner (Superintendent), at Dutch Fork High, we are extremely proud of our teachers, administrators, support staff, students, and parents for their continued hard work and commitment to excellence in all academic and extracurricular offerings.  

By: Robert S. Jackson, Ed.S., Assistant Principal for Instruction

Bring Your Own Device Survey

School District Five of Lexington and Richland Counties will be conducting a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) pilot program at Dutch Fork High School for the remainder of this school year and would like your feedback. We are sending this short survey to parents so that we are able to forecast the demand in future years. 

This pilot will allow current high school students the opportunity to bring their privately owned, WiFi enabled electronic computing device to school and connect to the district wireless network. By connecting to this network the student will have access to Internet based educational and research tools. 

Please take a moment to participate in the survey by

selecting the link below. You will be redirected

to the survey on the school's website. With your 

feedback we will be better able to understand what 

devices students have and potentially which types will 

be connecting to the district wireless network. 

Access Survey

Thank you taking your time to answer this short survey.

Free ACT, PSAT, SAT, and Advanced Placement Exam Reviews

The Office of eLearning in the Division of School of Effectiveness is pleased to offer free access to ACT, PSAT, SAT, and AP Exam Reviews for any Dutch Fork High School student who wishes to prepare for one or more of these exams during the 2011-12 school year.  This is also available to any public school, charter school, private school and home school students.  

Educators, students and parents can gain access to the reviews athttp://scvspconnect.ed.sc.gov/.  Simply click on the Course Information tab and then the Test Preparation tab.

If you have technical questions please contact Courtney Foster, administrative assistant for the South Carolina Virtual School Program at cpfoster@ed.sc.gov or 803-734-8039. 

Report Card Pick-Up Night at Dutch Fork High!

Dutch Fork High School will hold a report card pickup on this Thursday, October 27th from 5-7 pm. At that time parents/guardians will be able to pick up the first quarter report cards, standardized testing results, and meet their student's teachers. Also, there will be a food drive that night for canned food items that will be used for those in need in the Dutch Fork area. Any canned food items you bring will be greatly appreciated.

Additionally, we will be hosting a free, informational workshop entitled “How to Plan and Pay for College 101.”  The information you receive will be invaluable to all college-bound high school students, regardless of grade, and their parents.  We will cover scholarships, financial aid, how to get the most free money from colleges, selecting the right major and college, options for actually paying the bill, and much more.  The workshop will be held this Thursday, at 6:30 PM in the auditorium. 

The workshop is free, but we do ask that you register so we know how many sets of handouts to prepare.  Please register by going to http://www.cfcsc.com/ or by calling 798-0390.  We look forward to seeing you at the workshop and Report Card Pick-Up!

Dutch Fork Teacher Cadets Study Disabilities

- IRMO, SC

Using materials from both the DF Health Occupations class and a grant from Family Connection of SC, DFHS Teacher Cadets spent a day this week experiencing what it would be like to have a disability. The purpose of the lesson was to increase understanding and build empathy for those who navigate through school with needs ranging from visual impairment to physical disabilities.

"It's really frustrating," said senior Meghan Kircher. "You don't realize how much you use your senses until they are taken away from you." Meghan was referring to the visual impairment experience which required that she wear goggles smeared with Vaseline and then perform two tasks - reading from a book and trying to locate a snack in the vending machine.

Austin Williams agreed. "Being in a wheelchair makes me feel like I'm disturbing everyone around me, but it increased my understanding of how tough it is on a day to day basis getting around our halls."

The area between the old and new part of the building was especially hard for students using the wheelchair and crutches. "That incline isn't hard at all when you're walking, but trying to go up in a wheelchair is hard," senior Ramel Brown explained. Coming back down poses its own problems.

"I feel like I'm going to fall forward," said Brown. "This is a lot harder than it looks!"

Students experienced hearing impairment through listening to a CD with muffled directions. They also had to use a mirror to write their name and draw through a maze. Other activities included mouth painting, sign language, and blind-folded activities.

"This definitely helps make the students more aware and more sensitive," said teacher Carol Jackson. "While they are doing the activities, they think it's fun, but later when they write their reflections, they realize just how difficult it would be live 24/7 with some of these disabilities."

Students will be taking their new sensitivities into the classroom in the spring when they do a two-month internship called "field experience."

"This is one of the activities they will always remember," Jackson said. "They become different people after spending just one class walking in someone else's shoes. In fact, I ran into a Cadet who graduated in 2011 recently at Applebee's. She told me she had just changed her major from nursing to special ed. I can't help but think that this activity in her senior year may have had something to do with that."

Very Bright Ideas at Dutch Fork High!

Patrick Smallwood, Science Teacher has recently been awarded a Bright Ideas Grant from the Mid-Carolina Electric Cooperative. Bright Ideas is Mid-Carolina Electric Cooperative's way of "energizing innovative lessons" by educators at local schools. "The idea behind Bright Ideas," according to MCEC's CEO Jack Wolfe, "is to help empower good teachers, to provide support outside of normal public school funding for great projects that deserve to be used in the classroom, yet need that extra assistance."

The grant is titled "Renewable Energy Instruction Utilizing PASCO Data Acquisition Technology"

The grant supports new cross-curricular probeware instruction for 10th-12th grade students at DFHS. Students will use Horizon Renewable Energy equipment to obtain and analyze lab data for various renewable energy sources. The curriculum will be implemented in Biology and Chemistry classes, as well as other current courses.

We are very proud of this accomplishment and thank Mr. Smallwood for his leadership of our science program and helping to acquire additional financial resources for our school. Additionally, we would like to salute Mid-Carolina Electric Cooperative for their continued support of public education.

Students Qualify for National Merit Scholarship Competition

Dutch Fork High School would like to recognize and congratulate the following seven students who have been named semifinalists in the National Merit Scholarship Competition. Those students are as follows: Benjamin Aaron, Nicholas Kowalski, Aubrey Leaman, Justin Moore, Elizabeth Walker, Jessica Wang, and Zachary Wang. As a semifinalist in the competition, they have the opportunity to compete for some 8,300 National Merit Scholarships worth more than thirty-four million dollars that will be offered next spring.

Congratulations are also extended to Rachel Baughman, Brandon Giles, and James Mitchell. They are being recognized as Commended Students in the 2012 National Merit Program.  Finally, Charles James is being recognized as a National Achievement Program Semifinalist. As a recipient, he now has the opportunity to continue in the competition for approximately 800 Achievement Scholarship Award offerings.

We are very excited for these students and wish them the absolute best as they progress through the scholarship competition.

District SAT Champions!

Congratulations are extended to the SAT Team from Dutch Fork High. These students have been practicing for several weeks and recently competed in the Lexington/Richland 5 District SAT Competition on Friday October 7, 2011. In Lexington/Richland 5, the SAT competition is held annually to prepare students for exam, promote SAT excellence, and to continue producing high SAT scores in our district. Students on the Dutch Fork High School SAT Team met challenging standards, completed rigorous preparation, and demonstrated their excellence in both math and verbal skills as tested on the SAT.

After weeks of preparation coupled with a day of competition, we are pleased to announce that Dutch Fork High has won the competition and are the 2011 School District Five of Lexington & Richland Counties SAT Champions. We are extremely proud of our coaches (Susan Aplin and Erin Rivers) and players (Jacob B., Beau B., Glenn B., Fatema B, Arthur., James B., Ellen G., Brandon G., William G., Mary H., Madeline K., Nicholas K., Aubrey L., SeongSoo L., Rhianna L., Justin M., Alessandra M., Bryce P., Tulsi P., Mark P., Samadwara R., Benjamin S., Michael S., Elizabeth W., Zachary W., Jessica W., and Yi W.) who worked hard for this honor and recognition.

We appreciate the entire Dutch Fork family: faculty, staff, students, and parents for their effort and support of our continued pursuit of excellence.

By: Robert S. Jackson, Ed.S., Assistant Principal for Instruction

PSAT Administration at Dutch Fork High!

By: Robert S. Jackson, Assistant Principal for Instruction

On Wednesday, October 12, all 10th grade students and paying juniors will take the PSAT test during blocks 5B and 6B.  There will be NO delayed opening on Wednesday (10/12/11) for this reason.  Students need to be at school on time and report to their designated testing classroom. Alphabetical rosters are posted beside each testing room door on the 200 hallway and in the guidance hallway.  Please bring your own calculator and #2 pencils.  Get a good night's rest, eat a good breakfast before coming to school, and do your very best on the test! We plan to see more National Merit Award winners. 

Dutch Fork wins 25th Chick-Fil-A Hall of Fame Classic

Dutch Fork Girls Tennis won 5 of 7 flights to earn 34 points and win the 25th Chick-fil-A Hall of Fame Classic high school girls tennis tournament in Belton this weekend.  T. L. Hanna and Greenville each earned 22 points to tie for second place.  The final teams standings were:
​Dutch Fork ​34 points
​T. L. Hanna ​22 points
​Greenville ​22 points
​Irmo ​20 points
​J. L. Mann ​20 points
​Wade Hampton 6 points
​Clinton​ 5 points
​Richland Northeast​ 4 points
Dutch Fork was also selected for the team sportsmanship award.  The last team to win both the tournament championship and the sportsmanship awards was Bishop England in 2000.
 
Ivey Welborn of T. L. Hanna captured two championships, #1 singles and #1 doubles.  The results of the championship matches were:
 
#1 Singles:  Ivey Welborn (TLH) def. Christina Merchant (GR) 6-0, 6-3
#2 Singles:  Lauren Joch (DF) def. Sally Nguyen (IR) 6-2, 6-3
#3 Singles:  Caroline Sloop (DF) def. Abby Cooper (IR) 6-2, 6-2
#4 Singles:  Ali Savage (DF) def. Caty Brown (JLM) 6-2, 6-3
#5 Singles:  Layla Asghari (DF) def. Megan Parke (GR) 6-1,6-1
#1 Doubles:  Ivey Welbron/Anna Rice (TLH) def.
​Emily Erickson/Aibgail Gregory (JLM) 1-6, 6-2, 10-5
#2 Doubles:  Bailey Shealy/Anna Maria Gardiner (DF) def.
​McLeod Stephenson/Anna Hamer (GR) 6-0, 6-1
 
The 2-day tournament is hosted by the Belton Tennis Association and sponsored by Chick-fil-A, and each year includes many of the top teams in the state.

Updates from the Guidance Department:

By: Monica Harvin and Trina Offing, 9th Grade Guidance Counselors During this transition period it is important for parents to know that the 9th Grade Counselors have been meeting with Freshmen for Classroom Guidance lessons during their JROTC or Physical Education classes.  High School presents students with a variety of new opportunities and challenges.  Students may have discovered that the coursework is more difficult and that they are expected to be more independent, focused and more responsible.  It is important that you continue to be involved in your children's lives and that they are doing well in school and making good choices and decisions.  This information was expressed to them during the classroom guidance lessons included 10 Steps for Success at Dutch Fork High School.  Step One- Understand Your Academic Record, Step Two- Know Your School, Step Three- Be In School Everyday, Step Four- Know How to Get Good Grades, Step Five- Set Goals, Step Six- Get Involved, Step Seven- Make Good Choices and Decisions, Step Eight- Know How to Handle Stress, Step Nine- Use Available Services, and Step Ten- Plan and Prepare for Your Future. Additional topics are included for college bound students and athletes including NCAA requirements.    Please be sure to ask your student about the information that was covered in our lesson.  As you already know high school students are old enough to make many of their own decisions, but still need their parents to provide guidance and set limits.  Talk with your child about what's happening in school and be a good listener.  Work together with the school.  If you have a question or concern about a class, make a phone call or send an e-mail to the teacher.   For other concerns, contact your child's counselor or principal.  A school counselor is not only an excellent resource for students, a counselor is also an excellent resource for parents.  Please contact the guidance department with any questions or concerns that you may have regarding your child's academic progress.  We look forward to seeing each of you for your Individual Graduation Plan Meetings with your student.  You will receive an appointment date and time in the mail from your students guidance counselor.

Welcome Coach Thompson to Dutch Fork High - New Staff Profile

Science Teacher, Brian Thompson

Can you tell us a little about your background?

The 2011-2012 school year marks my 12th year as a high school science teacher. I have taught just about every science that one could teach in high school and I have done so at a number of schools in both North and South Carolina. I am from the Columbia area. I graduated from Brookland-Cayce HS in 1993 and earned a B.S. in Geology from Elizabeth City State University in 2000. I recently completed my Masters in Sports Management and Administration. I am married to Rebecca Thompson who is the Assistant Principal for Instruction at DFMS and we have three beautiful children: Kayla (10), Natalie (9), and Hayden (5). In addition to teaching science I coach football for the Silver Foxes.

Why did you become a teacher?

I knew that I wanted to become a teacher before I graduated from high school. The opportunity to teach a subject that interests me and coach a sport that I love is amazing. There is nothing more satisfying than witnessing a young person's "AHA" moment. This is especially true when that person has worked hard to accomplish an objective. I am blessed to have influence over the lives of young people and that is something that I take very seriously.

What appealed to you about Dutch Fork High School?

To me, Dutch Fork High School is the total package. I have taught at a number of schools and Dutch Fork stands apart in that it is serious about academics, athletics, and the success of its students. I wanted to become part of a community school where I could help people succeed. One of the most important things about the high school teaching/coaching experience is becoming part of something bigger than myself. I desired to become part of a school where I can become part of the family. Being a strong team member is something that is important to me as well. Dutch fork has a reputation for exemplifying high standards for students and staff and that is an environment that I wanted to become a part of. I am proud to be able to call myself a Silver Fox!

Tell us something interesting about yourself?

Outside of teaching and coaching, I enjoy playing poker. My wife and I once lived in Hawaii. I went on a mission trip to Romania in 2004.

Welcome Coach Brown to Dutch Fork High - New Staff Profile!

Social Studies Teacher, Matt Brown

Can you tell us a little about your background?

I am from Fort Wayne, Indiana.  I went to Indiana University for my undergrad and UNC Charlotte for my masters.  I have coached basketball at Pfeiffer University for 1 year, UNC Charlotte for 2 years, Stanford University for 1 year, and 1 year at Leo High School in Indiana before coming to Dutch Fork.  I have just recently gotten married on August 6th of this year to former Nicole Cummings.  We currently live in Lexington.  This is my first year of teaching

Why did you become a teacher?

 I became a teacher to help mold kids into young adults, to serve the community, and to help the students realize and pursue their goals and dreams.

What appealed to you about Dutch Fork High School?

 What attracted me to Dutch Fork High School was their terrific administration and staff that works at the High School, as well as the high academic standards the Dutch Fork prides themselves on.

Tell us some interesting about yourself?

Something interesting about myself is that I love the arts.  I have played the guitar for the past 16 years, I enjoy photography, and I love to oil paint in my spare time.

Welcome Mrs. Daichdent to Dutch Fork High - New Staff Profile

Math Teacher, Ana Daichendt

Can you tell us a little about your background?

I am Math Major of the "Babes-Bolyai" University of Cluj-Napoca, Romania, and in 1996 I earned my Master in Mathematics. After 4 years of teaching in Romania I moved to South Carolina, where I held positions as Mathematics teacher and Academic Coach in the school districts Orangeburg Five and Four.

Why did you become a teacher?

I think I was born as a teacher. During my high school years I was helping my classmates when they had problems in Math. Teaching is my everlasting passion. 

What appealed to you about Dutch Fork High School?

Honestly I was a little bit frightened by the size of the school, but I had known that Dutch Fork HS is one of the top high schools in the state, but I have known that I'm up the challenge.

Tell us some interesting about yourself?

I like the Appalachian mountains of North Carolina. I like to ride jet ski. 

Welcome Mrs. Ray to Dutch Fork High - New Staff Profile

Business Ed. Teacher, Yvonne Ray

Can you tell us a little about your background?

University of South Carolina (Coastal) - 30 hrs. Above Masters - Education Specialist

SC State University -  M.Ed.  - Business Education

                                     B.S. - Business Administration and Education

 

Professional Certification in Business Education

20 yrs. of Teaching Experience

Honors and Awards

National Youth Leadership Forum on Medicine Honorary Member (2010-2011)

Why did you become a teacher?

My desire to teach began in my childhood years when I would make my younger sisters and brothers sit in chairs as I taught them how to read, write, do simple math and spell.  My chalkboard was the wall in the family basement.

My passion and pursuit really began when my high school business teacher inspired me to pursue a career in Business Education.  She told me that I had a gift with my hands and that I was very strong with computer technology.  I would also mimic her and desired to be like her because she was such an awesome teacher.

What appealed to you about Dutch Fork High School?

My appeal to Dutch Fork is because it is an award winning school that offers a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum for high school students;  it is one of South Carolina’s finest and best schools in the Metropolitan area; ranked as one of the country’s top high schools in the Newsweek magazine; excellent administrators, faculty and staff; great parental support; and students are focused on high achievement.

The school is the envy and model for all schools in South Carolina.

Tell us some interesting about yourself?

I am gifted and fascinated with fashion and design of apparel and home decor.

Welcome Mrs. Carnes to Dutch Fork High - New Staff Profile

World Languages Teacher, Axa Carnes

Can you tell us a little about your background?

 I am originally from Ecuador but have lived in the United States since 1988. I am married and have two children, one a freshman at DFHS and another at Crossroads. My pastimes include going camping, hiking, attending my children's sports events and going to Zumba classes.

Why did you become a teacher?

Because I love to teach and I love kids.

What appealed to you about Dutch Fork High School?

Its reputation as a nationally ranked school and the fact that I wanted to teach in my children's school district.

Tell us some interesting about yourself?

 Right after high school, I travelled on an educational ship for 2.5 years and travelled to 20 countries around the world.

Welcome Mrs. Collins to Dutch Fork High - New Staff Profile

Media Specialist, Jennifer Collins

Can you tell us a little about your background?
I graduated from the University of Georgia with a bachelor’s in English. Prior to coming to Dutch Fork High (my first K-12 job), I worked in an advertising agency in Washington, DC, a talent agency in New Your City, and then in the Office of Fellowships and Scholar Programs at the University of South Carolina. I got my Master’s in Library and Information Science while working at USC.

Why did you become a teacher?
One reason for becoming a teacher/librarian was to learn something new every day- from students and other teachers. After working with college students through my job at USC, I knew I wanted to work with students to help prepare them for an optimal college or work experience. I knew that being in a K-12 environment as opposed to a public library or academic library would give me more opportunities to interact with students on a regular basis.
What appealed to you about Dutch Fork High School?
I’m fairly new to Columbia, but I’m certainly aware of Lexington/Richland Five’s reputation. I also heard through Mrs. Medlock-Greene and others that (Media Specialist)Evelyn (Newman) had a great program at DFHS. It was important to me to work in a very active media center.
Tell us some interesting about yourself?
My shameless claim to fame is that I went to high school dances with both of the guys in Lady Antebellum. But I also love to travel and I love food- I’ll try anything once!

Welcome Mrs. Mohr to Dutch Fork High - New Staff Member Profile

Visual Arts Teacher, Mary Mohr

Can you tell us a little about your background?

I grew up in the Midwest (Poplar Bluff, MO and Marion, IL). I have a degree in architecture from Southern Illinois University. I worked at an architectural firm and taught at a community college before deciding to get my master's in art education. I recently graduated from the University of South Carolina. I have been married to my husband, Austin, for five years.

Why did you become a teacher?

I love being able to share my knowledge with students and watch their skills and confidence in visual arts grow.

What appealed to you about Dutch Fork High School?

Dutch Fork High School has the reputation of a place where great students worked hard and were successful. Now I know it's true!

Tell us some interesting about yourself?

My husband's and my birthday are only a day apart- I am nine hours older!

SAT Weekend Workshop

Junior and Senior Parents,

If you would like to see improvement in your child's SAT score, you will want to sign him/her up for the PowerScore SAT Weekend Workshop, which will be Oct. 8th and 9th. Your child will work with experts from 9:00 a.m.-3:45 p.m. each day. The workshop guarantees a 150 point score increase (be sure to ask about this when you call to register)...which may be just what your child needs to qualify for scholarships or get into his/her college of choice! To register call 1-800-545-1750. Mention that your student attends DFHS and get the reduced rate/$150.

Welcome Mrs. Huckabee to Dutch Fork High - New Staff Member Profile

English Teacher, Stephanie Huckabee

Can you tell us a little about your background?
I did my student teaching in 1996 at Irmo High School and though I had a great experience there, I knew the minute I met some of the staff at DFHS that I wanted to be a part of the Silver Fox family. I began my teaching career in the English Department at DFHS in 1997 and after a couple of years in teaching, I entered the field of pharmaceutical sales. The company that hired me was recruiting teachers specifically as we are known to be incredibly organized and highly effective under pressure.

I've also been involved in the fitness industry since 1996 and spent some time focusing on workout video production, website marketing and television sales. Despite the success in other fields, I always felt like a little piece of me was missing. When my daughter entered her first year in our district, I knew without a doubt that I wanted to return to the classroom. I also knew that my goal was ultimately to return to DFHS.

Why did you become a teacher?
I went to college to become a broadcast news professional and along the way had roommates who were studying to become teachers. Though I enjoyed the work in the College of Journalism, I found myself often thinking of lesson ideas in context of teaching English after seeing their projects. The decision to go to graduate school to become an English teacher was a natural move for me. As an English teacher I'm able to do what I love most - teaching students the power of words and the benefits of communicating effectively with others through the written and spoken word.

What appealed to you about Dutch Fork High School?
Dutch Fork demands a level of professionalism among staff members at all levels of teaching. Whether you're teaching a struggling class or the brightest students, I believe that we as a staff honor one another with the respect our calling deserves. I love that our student body is diverse. I treasure the fact that in this one school we're charged with educating students from every end of the spectrum in abilities and resources so that they can graduate and take on the next challenge. And of course, we work hard, but we play hard too!

Tell us some interesting about yourself?I've choreographed and been the lead instructor for almost 30 workout videos for brands including the Firm, Weight Watchers and QVC and still have many titles on the market. Teaching fitness classes is my stress reliever and I'm also a certified personal trainer.

Smiling Faces in Special Places @ Dutch Fork High

By: Robert S. Jackson, Ed.S., Assistant Principal for Instruction

As we embark upon another successful school year, we are reminded each day of the quality of our staff members at Dutch Fork High and in School District Five of Lexington & Richland Counties. To highlight all new teachers at Dutch Fork High, we are running a series in the Silver Fox Report entitled "Smiling Faces in Special Places." We will spotlight all new and returning teachers to our school and share some interesting information about them. To learn all about our new teachers, make sure you follow the Silver Fox Report!

Dutch Fork High Meets Chris Crutcher

English Teacher Susan Aplin with Chris Crutcher

Several students and staff had an experience that will certainly extend the curriculum for Dutch Fork High. Recently at the Richland County Public Library, Dutch Fork High students, members of the Silver Screen Report, and staff members had the opportunity to listen to Chris Crutcher!  He is one of the most successful -- and most frequently banned -- authors of realistic fiction in the Young Adult industry, with 11 novels, two short story collections and one autobiography to his credit. His writing features teens coping with serious problems across a variety of topics. There were also two very eloquent high school students who spoke about their experiences with books and shared their thoughts on banning books.

An awesome experience for our students and staff!

All Clear!

At approximately 5:56pm, law enforcement officers completed their investigation, and determined that the campus (all buildings, parking lots, and adjacent fields) were clear and allowed all staff members to re-enter the building. Earlier this afternoon, the Richland County Sheriff's Department received a bomb threat of a credible nature through the emergency switchboard. In consultation with school officials, an order of evacuation was issued with teachers and students being moved to a safe distance (Dutch Fork Middle School) from the building. The response teams from the various state agencies worked aggressively to assess the extent of the threat and determined that the building was safe to re-enter.

We are thankful that students were never in any danger whatsoever. The precautions taken were in the best interest of all students and staff members. We appreciate the patience of all parents with the combined dismissals at both schools.

Evacuation

Dutch Fork High School has been evacuated because of an alleged bomb threat. All students have been relocated to Dutch Fork Middle School and are safe. Law Enforcement officials are assessing the building and we expect a decision shortly.

SAT Scores at Dutch Fork High

By: Robert S. Jackson, Ed.S., Assistant Principal for Instruction

Each fall, SAT scores are released by the CollegeBoard. This year, the composite average for Dutch Fork High is 1544. This is the combined average for the critical reading (515), mathematics (540), and writing (489) sections of the exam. Our composite average of 1544 remains seventeen points higher than the district average (1527), one-hundred eight points higher than the state of South Carolina Average (1436), and forty-four points higher than the national average (1500).

Last year, we set a goal for our school to continue to prepare students for experiences beyond our school walls. In order to do so, we wanted to increase the number  and percentage of test takers. Looking at figure 1.0 below, we were able to increase the number of test takers from 288 (2010) to 332 (2011). We also were able to increase the percentage of test takers (see figure 1.1) from sixty-five percent (2010) to seventy-five percent (2011).

Figure 1.0

Figure 1.1

Our three and five year comparative analyses indicate that we are consistently performing at a high level on the SAT (see figures 1.2 and 1.3 respectively).

Figure 1.2

Figure 1.3

While we remain positive, we are constantly looking for continuous improvement in all areas of standardized performance. Dutch Fork High personifies excellence in everything that we do and we will continue to work extremely hard in all aspects of our school and demonstrate that in our performance results.

We are extremely proud of our students, teachers, parents, and community for their continued academic excellence.