#YouMatter: This Year's Theme and Commitment

Welcome back to a new school year! I am so excited about this new year.  As we embark on this new school year together, we want to emphasize a powerful and fundamental theme for the year: #YouMatter. At DeWitt Public Schools, we understand that education is not just about imparting knowledge on students but it is also about nurturing character, compassion, and critical thinking skills. By fostering a positive learning environment, we will instill in our students a love for learning and the resilience needed to tackle the challenges that lie ahead. As we kick off this academic year, let us reaffirm our commitment to our families and students.

Our partnership with families is essential to continue fostering a culture of excellence. This year's goal is to ensure that every student, family, and staff member realizes they matter at DeWitt Public Schools. Each and every student is an integral part of our school community. Students' unique talents, ideas, and perspectives enrich our classrooms and halls, creating a vibrant tapestry of diversity and inclusivity. We celebrate individuality and recognize that the collective strength of the entire school community makes our district truly special. Let's make this school year one to remember- one where all staff, students, and families know they truly matter.  

We believe in the power of our team members and recognize that each and every staff member plays a vital role in shaping the future of our students. The dedication, passion, and expertise of our staff are what create a positive impact on the lives of those we serve. It is now more critical than ever that staff know (and feel) that they matter--not only to District leadership and to each other but to the countless students whose lives they touch. Their commitment to excellence and care for our students make all the difference in their learning experiences. Their contributions extend beyond the classroom; they serve as mentors, role models, and sources of inspiration. Their belief in the potential of our students helps students believe in themselves, empowering them to reach their fullest potential. 

In addition, this year, we have invested in resources to support our students, families, and staff. 

• We have partnered with the Cook Center for Human Connection to provide mental health awareness resources to families, including free resources on the ParentGuidance.org website and over 50 e-courses led by licensed therapists-led. In addition, we have 5 virtual (and anonymous) mental health nights, newsletters, and now parent coaching--a confidential service provided to families in our district.
• We have dedicated time during our opening week to train all teachers in Youth Mental Health First Aid training, which helps educators to identify, understand, and respond to students who may have or be developing a mental health or substance use problem or other related challenges and help them connect to the appropriate care. We are committed to offering ongoing training opportunities to all staff and, eventually, families and the greater community. 
• We are also in partnership with Opportunity Thrive this year to offer educator wellness coaching for all DPS team members. 

As a reminder, the DeWitt Public Schools Foundation has Pride Awards, where you can recognize any staff member in the District who has helped your children in school and, more importantly, demonstrated to them that they truly matter. This program benefits teacher grants, but more importantly, it recognizes staff who continue to make a difference. (We have a new foundation site and links coming soon!)

Together, we can significantly impact their lives and the world around us. Thank you for being an essential part of the DPS community, where it is our vision to equip students to build a better tomorrow.