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Decatur High School

2019-2020

Students and Parents Handbook

1

Forward 3

About DHS 4

Quick Contact List 9

Building Information 13

Attendance/Truancy Protocol 23

Counseling 31

Student Conduct 42

Transportation 53

Instructional Program 55

Decatur Career Academy 69

Fine Arts 73

Athletics 76

The policies and procedures contained in this handbook are designed to help

the school run smoothly so that you will have a successful year at Decatur

High School. This information has been carefully prepared so that it will help

you be successful in our school, and become an integral part of it.

attitudes, in large measure, determine the kind of place it is. The teachers,

administration and staff are eager to help you prepare for a successful adult

life, so study hard. Along with your studies, get involved in activities outside

of the school day. The activities are designed to help you enjoy school life.

Remember, your success is directly related to your efforts. It is within your

power to make a favorable contribution to the school.

Mission/Vision

At Decatur High School we believe that intercultural understanding provides

To this end, we work together to develop curious, self-directed learners who

engage in a rigorous and purposeful interdisciplinary curriculum. By

participating in inquiry, collaboration, the passionate exchange of ideas, and

self-reflection, we grow into responsible and productive citizens of the world.

Administration

Mr. Wesley Hatfield, Interim Principal

Dr. Taylor Cross, Assistant Principal

Mr. George Greene, Assistant Principal

Ms. Debra LeDoux, Instructional Coach

Ms. Kara Vona, MTSS Coordinator

Ms. Kelly Wren, Gifted Coordinator

Hours of Operation

8:30pm-3:30pm

School Motto:

Carpe Diem

Mascot:

ALMA MATER

In the heart of old Decatur,

With its skies of blue,

Stands our noble Alma Mater,

Glorious to view.

Lift the chorus, speed it onward, Loud

her praises cry,

Hail to thee, our Alma Mater!

Hail, Decatur High!

tradition bound,

Students Enter

8:20

1

8:30-9:25 (55 minutes)

2

9:30-10:20 (50)

3

10:25-11:15 (50)

4

Lunch (25)

Class

1st

5

12:50-1:40 (50)

7

CALENDAR

15

What’s my Lunch Period?

Students will be assigned a lunch period based upon their schedule, with a

student’s 4th period class determining whether they have Lunch 1st-3rd. 1st lunch

infrequent, lunch periods may shift at various points during the year (e.g. Testing).

In the event of a building-wide deviation from the standard lunch schedule, such

will be posted around the building as a reminder. ...in academics, arts, and

athletics.

building during school hours for consumption by students. Any parents delivering or

dropping off items for students (e.g. lunches, textbooks, gym bags, etc.) must sign

in at the Attendance Office and bring the items labeled with the student’s full name

other areas of the campus from the time lunch begins until the bell rings to return

medications. In the event that a student needs to leave the cafeteria for any

reason, the student must obtain permission from an administrator on duty.

Cleanliness

Students are reminded that everyone is expected to pick up his or her own trash in

the cafeteria and courtyard (this includes the floor and/or the ground). There are no

personnel available to “bus” tables! Failure to fulfill this responsibility is considered

as a disciplinary infraction. Students seated at tables that continually are found to

be left with trash on or below them will be asked to remain in the cafeteria to assist

with cleaning and those student groups may also be split up.

16

17

SCHOOL HEALTH PROGRAM

Clinic Student Information

For the safety and well-being of students, it is imperative that every student

has updated information online. Please make sure the following information

emergency numbers, and a parent contact information. If changes occur

during the year, parents should notify the clinic at 404-370-4170, ext. 2156.

.

Clinic Policy

The school nurse is present in Decatur High School to act as a liaison

between home and school regarding health concerns. Prompt arrival of the

parent/legal guardian upon notification of your child’s illness is extremely

important. By working together and keeping contagious illnesses contained

at home, we can strive to ensure the health and well-being of every student

The School Health Program supports the belief that healthy children are

setting, a role that supports the physical, mental, emotional, and social

health of students and their success in the learning process. Registered

nurses provide health related services for the students at each school.

Each student should have an updated health information form on file with

the nurse in the clinic every school year. The health form will be received

student during the first week of school.

For significant conditions (ex: asthma, diabetes, life threatening allergies,

seizures etc.), please contact the nurse immediately to discuss your child’s

health needs at school. Your child will also need a specific medical care plan

school. The health information form as well as the medical care plans can be

(https://www.csdecatur.net/domain/140). Throughout the school year

18

Medications

Medications, including over the counter medications, can be administered to

students only if the parents/guardians have given permission. All medication

should be taken directly to the office/clinic by the parent. Prescription

medications must be brought to school in the original container labeled with

the student’s name, date, name of medication, the name of the prescribing

physician, dosage, time(s) the medication is to be given, and name of

under Medical Forms - Medication Authorization Form.

A student who has asthma or a severe allergy may possess and use the

indicated medications. The parent/legal guardian should submit a Medication

Authorization Form permitting the student to self-administer asthma

(inhaler)/allergy (epi-pen) medication. Emergency medications noted above

can be carried and self-administered by the student:

404-370-4170, ext. 2156

19

CAMPUS SAFETY

School Resource Officer

Decatur High School and City Schools of Decatur prioritize ensuring a safe

and secure campus for our students, faculty and staff. City of Decatur Police

on duty full-time during the school day and also provide supervision at

various extracurricular events.

When students arrive at school between 8:00 and 8:20 a.m. in the

mornings, students may proceed to the cafeteria or the library. Additionally,

the Learning Commons may be open for students from 7:30 to 8 a.m. on a

regular basis. We will post and communicate that schedule once it is

created. Decatur High School is not responsible for students dropped off on

campus before students are allowed to enter the building.

the building. Students are welcome to stand outside the building on the

of the building near the learning commons. Students who arrive to campus

after the 8:30 a.m. tardy bell must check in at the Attendance Office via the

entrance on the McDonough Street side of the building. After 8:30 a.m.,

students must enter through the front doors off of North McDonough Street.

After School

dismissed when the bell rings at 3:30 p.m., students should exit the building

either via the front doors, the Learning Commons doors or the Decatur

Career Academy doors. Unless a student is supervised by a faculty or staff

member (e.g. practices, club meetings, etc.), students should leave campus

no later than 3:50 p.m. Students waiting for parent pick up should exit the

game, etc.) students are not be permitted to remain on campus between

should make arrangements ahead of time to provide transportation to and

20

Parking Lot

Permission to drive and/or park an automobile on Decatur High Schools

campus is a privilege and not a right for students. In consideration of such

privilege, the student consents to any searches of the above-described

vehicle or any other vehicles driven by applicant by administrators of the

City Schools of Decatur for any reason at any time while said vehicle(s) is on

school property. Students are not permitted to leave the building during the

for class participation and extracurricular activities. Items considered

potentially dangerous or disruptive of school procedures will be confiscated.

Student theft will be dealt with as outlined in the City Schools of Decatur

Code of Conduct by the administration. Students are especially encouraged

not to bring valuables and large sums of money to school. Students who

participate in physical education should lock their assigned gym locker to

insure security of personal property. Valuable items should not be left

unattended.

principal or designee.

The City Schools of Decatur recognizes the importance of a safe environment

for students and staff. Parents and other visitors are welcome in the schools

at the discretion of the principal. Upon entering school property, each visitor

shall give reason for visit and complete the process to acquire a visitor’s

pass in the Attendance Office. When the visit has been completed, the visitor

shall return and sign out with the Attendance Office before their departure.

According to state law it shall be unlawful for any person to disrupt or

interfere with the operation of any public school, and any person violating

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Deliveries for Students

At Decatur High School, we believe that students should manage their needs

as young adults. Except in emergencies, please refrain from delivering

items to students at DHS during the school day. You might consider

delivering medications and urgently needed assignments. We ask that you

not deliver lunches (except in cases of significant dietary restrictions), gym

bags, textbooks, and notebooks. Any parents delivering or dropping off

for students from outside vendors will be refused, and the food will be

confiscated without a refund. Although we love to celebrate our students,

please know that for safety and security reasons, no flowers or balloon

deliveries will be accepted for Decatur High School students. No balloons

may be carried in the school building.

Title IX: Sexual Harassment, Sexual Assault, and discrimination

based on sex

The Education Amendments Act of 1972, prohibits sex discrimination in any

No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from

participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subject to discrimination

under any educational program or activity receiving Federal financial

assistance.

(Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972)

For step by step instructions related to Title IX Grievance Policies &

Procedures visit the website at: https://www.csdecatur.net/Page/2998

Sexual Harassment

Students, faculty and staff are protected against sexual harassment by

anyone in any school program or activity, including on the school campus,

22

Title IX Liaisons - School principals serve as local Title IX liaisons for each

school. You can report sexual harassment or discrimination based on sex to

the school principal, any staff member, or to the district's Title IX

Compliance Officer, listed above. You also have the right to file a complaint.

For additional information visit: https://www.csdecatur.net/Page/2998

23

ATTENDANCE/TRUANCY PROTOCOL

The compulsory attendance law dictates that students attend school until

age 16. It is the parent's responsibility to notify the registrar’s office

of a new telephone number or change of address and to provide

proof of residence for the new address.

The official day for Decatur High School students begins at 8:30 a.m. and

ends at 3:30 p.m.

Purpose

The purpose of the attendance/truancy protocol is to increase academic

achievement and reduce truancy among students in the school system in

compliance with the mandates of (O.C.G.A. § 20-2-690-2). Schools will keep

24

including handwritten notes or appropriate medical documentation (i.e.

doctor’s excuse, dental excuse, discharge papers, etc.) for all absences from

school within 3 school days of the student’s return to school. If no written

documentation or appropriate medical documentation (i.e. doctor’s excuse,

dental excuse, discharge papers, etc.) is received, then these absences,

tardies, early departures will remain unexcused and appropriate attendance

procedures will be followed.

the beginning of each school year (O.C.G.A. § 20-2-690.1 (c)).

By September 1 of each school year or within 30 school days of a student’s

enrollment in the City Schools of Decatur, both parent/guardian and student,

age ten or older, must sign a statement indicating receipt of the code of

conduct which includes the attendance/truancy policy and protocol (O.C.G.A.

§ 20-2-690.1). If a signed copy is not returned within thirty (30) days,

schools will send a copy of the written statement of possible consequences

via certified mail, return receipt requested, or First-Class mail to the parent.

out-of-school suspensions or expulsions shall not count as unexcused day for

the purpose of determining student truancy (State Board Rule 160-5-1.10).

The principal/designee may require medical documentation (i.e. doctor's

excuse, dental excuse, discharge papers, etc.) after receiving 10 emails or

hand written notes from parent for student illness.

Definitions

Truant A student is subject to the compulsory attendance laws when during

the year he/she has more than ten days of unexcused absences. School

days missed as a result of an out-of school suspension shall not count as

unexcused days for the purpose of determining student truancy.

31

COUNSELING

The Decatur High School Counseling Department is staffed by professional

school counselors who advocate, collaborate and facilitate individual and

system change to ensure every student has the knowledge and skills

necessary for academic success and personal growth. School counselors

strive to empower students to succeed and to achieve their personal and

group counseling services in the areas of academic, career, and

personal/social development.

Confidentiality Statement: Confidentiality is a key component for working

with students and parents. Every effort will be made to maintain that

confidentiality. Confidentiality is the counselor’s commitment to respect the

students’ privacy by not divulging anything shared in a counseling session

except under certain limited conditions. These conditions include mandated

reporting requirements, safety issues (to prevent serious and foreseeable

planning their academic programs. The counselors help students select the

most appropriate program of study to ensure success in high school and to

plan for the years after graduation. Should parents wish to opt out of such

services, they should contact the student’s counselor.

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Counseling Department Web Page:

https://sites.google.com/csdecatur.net/counseling/home

Counseling Caseload Distribution (according to student’s last name)

Course Registration

Advisors, teachers, counselors and parents/guardians are involved in the

proper selection of levels of coursework and choice of the student's

electives. Registration for the next school year occurs between November

deadlines related to course registration.

at the time the schedule was created. Schedule changes will only be

33

Schedule changes will not be considered for any other reason. Schedule

changes will only be considered after ten days if the change is recommended

by school administration or counselor.

schedule an appointment online.

34

Decatur Student Center

The Decatur Student Center (DSC) provides wrap around services beyond

the scope of the school counseling program. Students can receive individual

and small group counseling as well as support for career and post-secondary

planning. Programming needs are determined through surveys, data review

and student voice. The DSC provides services through contracts with outside

therapists and organizations, as well as through collaborative programs with

35

STUDENT RECORDS

Parental Rights Under the Family Educational Rights Privacy Act and

Georgia Student Data Privacy, Accessibility, and Transparency Act

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and

students who are 18 years of age or older ("eligible students") certain rights

with respect to the student's education records. These rights are:

36

Family Policy Compliance Office

400 Maryland Avenue, SW

Washington, DC 20202

In accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, the

following information is classified as “directory” information, which may be

name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, participation in

clubs and sports, height and weight if students are involved in athletics,

grade level, parent email address, school name, dates of attendance,

37

photographs and recording. The form to opt out of disclosing this information

is available at https://www.csdcatur.net/forms.

FERPA permits the disclosure of PII from students’ education records,

lawfully issued subpoenas, disclosures of directory information, and

regulations requires the school to record the disclosure. Parents and eligible

school may disclose PII from the education records of a student without

) - (a)(1)(i)(B)(3

38

39

possible violation of rights under O.C.G.A. 20-2-667 or under other federal

who wish to file a complaint must use the privacy complaint form provided

City Schools of Decatur

from a custodial parent if the student is under 18 years of age except in

student seeks to enroll. If the student is 18 or older, he/she may grant

permission for the release. All financial and/or equipment obligations should

be cleared before requesting student records be sent.

Proofs of Residency

To classify as a resident, a student shall be required to reside with his/her

Decatur. For purposes of this policy, a resident is defined as an individual

who is legally domiciled within the city limits of the City of Decatur and who,

on any given school day, is likely to be at their stated address when not at

work or school. Where custody of a child is shared by two or more persons,

that person who has the majority of time in physical custody shall be the

but does not reside in the city, is not considered a resident for purposes of

school and whenever a change of residence occurs. For additional

40

Parents should contact the DHS Registrar (Davida Atwood, 404-370-4170

ext 2116 [email protected]) in Counseling Suite room 2541 if there

are any changes to student or family contact information (Home Phone, Cell

phone, Email Address, etc.). When changing address of residence, the

of approved documentation. This is essential in order for school information

and grade reports to reach the student’s home in a timely manner. Failure to

provide current phone numbers could create a situation for the student in

a current parent email address be provided to the school as well.

Driver’s License Certificate

Students may secure the Certificate of Attendance and ADAP forms required

for a driver’s license and permit in the Counseling Suite room 2541. The

signed and notarized form may be picked up in the Counseling Suite the

Parent/Guardian’s must notify the school 24 hours in advance) for withdrawl

required for all students under the age of 18. The student will circulate a

his/her new school. Students withdrawn by the school for non-attendance

47

CSD Acceptable Use Policy (AUP)

The information systems and internet access available through City Schools

of Decatur (CSD) are available to support learning, enhance instruction, and

support school system business practices. CSD information systems are

operated for the mutual benefit of all users. The use of the CSD network is a

privilege, not a right. Users shall not do, or attempt to do, anything that

necessary to maintain computing availability and security for other users of

the systems. Other disciplinary action may be imposed as stated in the City

Schools of Decatur Code of Conduct and Restorative Practices Handbook.

CSD implements internet filtering in accordance with the federal Children’s

Internet Protection Act. Schools will continue to educate students on

personal safety practices and effective techniques for identifying and

evaluating information and its sources. CSD cannot warrant that students

will be prevented from accessing inappropriate material or sending or

transmitted or received in any form through the CSD network and/or with

CSD equipment. All such information and files shall be and remain the

property of the school system.

This AUP applies to all students who have access to CSD resources, including

during e.g. school breaks, holidays, placement in alternative settings, and

study-abroad opportunities.

Respect for Others

Users should respect the rights of others using the CSD network by:

48

Ethical Conduct for Users

It is the responsibility of the user to:

Respect for Property

Internet Safety and Security

49

BYLD technology

means personally-owned, internet-accessible, wirelessly

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51

Cybersafety Notice for Families

City Schools of Decatur, as a recipient of E-Rate funds, is required to have in

place a versatile cybersafety system.

CSD will:

Parent/guardian responsibilities:

Student responsibilities:

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53

TRANSPORTATION

Bus Route Information

after 8:30 am due to traffic or mechanical failure will be admitted to class

without penalty. For further information, contact the Transportation

Department at 470-237-0368 or visit www.csdecatur.net/Page/596 to view

must be brought to the attendance office by 8:30 a.m. All notes must be

verified and approved by an administrator. The note should contain the

number(s) for verification. The note should be picked up from the

attendance officer at the end of the school day and given to the bus driver

upon loading the bus in the afternoon.

minutes before the scheduled bus arrival time. The PM Stop time may vary

slightly depending upon actual bus dismissal from the school. Thank you for

Students are reminded that their conduct on buses and in the school parking

driver and an administrator, as soon as possible.

Students parking is a privilege at Decatur High School. Students are

expected to follow all laws as it relates to vehicle operation while on the

54

school campus. Students may be allowed to park on campus as space

allows. Students parking on campus are required to purchase a current

parking decal that will allow a student's vehicle to be identified. Seniors will

have first priority for parking, followed by juniors if space is

available. Students parking in the school parking lot(s) park at their own

risk, as the school, school board, or city authorities does not assume any

responsibility for loss, damage, or liability that may be incurred in the

Students must not

park on campus until they have submitted a parking

school, please reach out to:

● Work-based learning students

Ms. Terra Smiley

Mr. Duane Sprull

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INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAM

International Baccalaureate Programs

Decatur High is an authorized International Baccalaureate World School and

as such, we offer comprehensive options for students to participate in the IB

Career-Related Programme (CP) and IB coursework. The options for

participation in the programs are outlined below.

All ninth and tenth grade students at DHS participate in the Middle Years

Programme (MYP). Ninth and tenth grade courses are designed using the

MYP framework, and students are assessed against MYP objectives as well as

the state or national standards upon which their courses are based. As a

capstone to their MYP Program, all tenth graders complete a Personal

Project, which is assessed on the IB criteria for the project and is a

Student Scheduling

The school day consists of seven academic periods and a lunch period.

School hours are 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Students are also assigned an

semesters. Students earn one unit of credit for each course per year. The

school day is defined for specific disciplinary purposes as up to one hour

grounds or attending a school function.

grade level. 1 credit each of Math, Science, English/Language Arts, and

Promotion from 9th to 10th = 6 credits [including 1 credit each of Math,

56

Graduation Requirements

Class of 2018 and beyond

Graduation = A student has earned 25 credits [See above] and successfully

completed a Senior Capstone Project

4.0 Science

2.0 World Language

3.0 Career Technical/Fine Arts/Additional World Language

3.0 Elective

0.5 Health

0.5 Personal Fitness

**Each summer there is a review of credits earned and final transcripts to

ensure that (a) all credits are accurately recorded to DHS transcripts, (b)

Communicating with Outside Tutors

Teachers will communicate directly with parents about student progress and

allow parents to communicate with tutors. Parents may invite a tutor to a

scheduled conference with the teacher; however, the parent should notify

the teacher if a tutor will be attending the conference. IMPORTANT NOTE: As

a tutor is not a legal guardian, teachers cannot communicate student

records or information directly to tutors. Tutors cannot attend conferences in

lieu of parent or guardian.

63

Effort Grades

Effort grades are assigned on a scale from 1-4 based on the descriptions

below.

place on the date published in ManageBac. If a student fails to

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Gifted

The Georgia Board of Education defines a gifted student as "a student who

demonstrates a high degree of intellectual, creative, and/or artistic

ability(ies), possesses exceptional leadership skills, or excels in specific

academic fields and who needs special instruction and/or special ancillary

services to achieve at levels commensurate with his or her abilities.

families, schools, and the community. Special Education program and

services are provided on a continuum ranging from consultative to full

special education services. This continuum is designed to ensure that

programs are available to students with disabilities and that the least

restrictive environment is determined based on unique student needs.

The mission of the Special Education Program is to individualize the

instruction and support of special education students based on specific

identified needs in order for them to achieve at their highest level.

Inclusion Policy

At DHS, we believe that fostering environments of inclusivity—both in terms

of access and accessibility--benefits all students and is a cornerstone of a

free and public education.

65

IB Diploma Programme

Students who wish to pursue the IB Diploma Programme take a minimum of

six IB DP courses in their eleventh and twelfth grade years. All IB DP courses

are two-year courses, and when students enroll, they are committing to two

years of the course. In addition, Diploma candidates complete the DP core,

IB Career-Related Programme

The IB Career-related Programme (CP) is designed for students interested in

pursuing a career-related education in the final two years at Decatur High

School. It provides students with an excellent foundation to support their

further studies, as well as ensure their preparedness for success in the

workforce. Students who wish to pursue the IB Career Program take a

minimum of two IB courses in their eleventh and twelfth grade years. All IB

courses are two-year courses, and when students enroll, they are

assessments for each course. Students who complete all required core

elements and earn high enough marks on their papers are awarded the IB

Career Certificate.

IB Course Candidate

Students may also choose to take stand-alone IB courses

without

participating in one of our two IB programs

courses, and when students enroll, they are committing to two years of the

course. In addition to exams (papers) that students sit for at the end of each

two-year course, students must also complete internal assessments for each

course.

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institution can take approved courses, full-time or part-time, at colleges,

universities, or technical colleges. The student may also receive state

funding, postsecondary credit hours, and high school Carnegie units. Contact

the counselor's office.

Advanced Placement (AP)

Decatur High School offers Advanced Placement courses in English, Math,

advisement and communicated to parents via email. Once accepted,

students must commit to the course in order to get scheduled into the

course. The course request process takes place in October/November each

year for the following school year. When the time comes, the list of AP and

IB course options will be made available online.

DHS Beliefs or Guiding Principles regarding Course registration

Opportunity

can meet the learning expectations of their courses through both

classroom-originated (e.g. differentiation) or support staff-originated (e.g.

IEP, 504, etc.) approaches.

Partnerships

At DHS, we recognize that learning does not occur in a vacuum and that

successful learning requires the support and participation of students,

teachers, parents, administrators and support staff. We desire for all

students to feel welcome and recognize that students gain knowledge and

skills at different rates and through different means. We also recognize that

students are lifelong learners with different education and learning needs,

67

Students will...

Parents will...

68

Governor’s Honors

The Georgia Governor’s Honors Program (GHP) is a residential summer

program for gifted and talented high school students who will be rising

eleventh and twelfth grade students during the program. The program offers

college campus.

69

The Decatur Career Academy (DCA) offers pathways related to in-demand

career fields. The training will prepare students for college and/or entry-level

employment in a competitive market. Each classroom focuses on hands-on

to excel in the workforce. An emphasis is placed on employability (soft) skills

to prepare students to participate in work-based learning as a senior in high

school.

Georgia's Career, Technical and Agricultural Education (CTAE) Career

Pathways

Georgia’s Department of Education provides students in the Career,

Technical and Agricultural Education (CTAE) area the ability to complete

pathways: A Pathway is a series of three or four specified courses in a

specific subject area. It will take multiple years to complete any pathway

to technical drawing, computer-aided design (CAD), 2-D drafting, and 3-D

modeling. Emphasis is placed on developing design ideas for the built

environment and representing those ideas through technical sketches,

perspective sketching, computer modeling, and physical model building. This

pathway prepares students for careers and post-secondary education in the

architectural, engineering, and construction industries.

Army - JROTC The mission of the United States Army Junior Reserve Officer

Training Corps program is to motivate young people to be better citizens.

Program objectives are to: provide and encourage citizenship; promote high

school completion; develop leadership potential; strengthen self-esteem;

improve wellness and physical fitness; provide incentives to live drug-free,

Career and Technical Instruction Our goals are to provide support

Agricultural Educational (CTAE) classes in order to enable students to

70

(IDEA) and to coordinate the services needed for the student to acquire

his/her goals.

Convergence Media/Audio-Visual Technology Film This pathway

prepares students for employment or entry into a postsecondary education

program in the Broadcast/Video Production career field. Instruction covers

technical terminology, safety, basic equipment, reporting, script writing,

Convergence Media Pathway produce our award-winning school publication

the Carpe Diem several times each year.

Culinary Arts The Culinary Arts pathway creates an awareness of

opportunities within the vast areas of the foodservice industry. This pathway

incorporates developments in the areas of institutional food, fine dining, and

basic baking principles. Pathway completers will have a strong foundation in

the basics of food preparation, safety, nutrition, and restaurant operating

procedures.

Electronics The Electronics Pathway is a three-course sequence located

within the STEM Career Cluster. This pathway is designed for students who

are interested in careers related to the design, production, analysis, repair,

and operation of devices that use electronics. Students will study and apply

using project-based learning activities the fundamentals of electricity and

electronic systems including the theory and operation of how the basic

components function, how a variety circuits are connected, and how to

design these circuits.

Fine Furniture & Cabinet Making At the introductory level, students will

71

introduced into the course. Students will learn the business side of the

profession related to the design, plan of procedure, and finishing of projects.

Graphic Design This pathway will enable students to develop basic

commercial art skills. Students will use basic typography, layout, and design

techniques to create images and products that reflect knowledge of the

elements of art and principles of design to attract and influence consumers.

Design, and Classic Design. This course is a two-year sequence beginning at

DHS in the junior year.

Jobs for Georgia Graduates The Jobs for Georgia Graduates (JGG)

program is a partnership of local schools, businesses, communities, and the

Georgia Department of Labor. JGG is a school-to-work transition program

designed to provide high school students with pre-employment training,

work skills, motivational activities, and job development. JGG provides

follow-up services to increase the graduation rate and encourage a

family and community partnerships, school law, and educational

philosophies.

Web and Digital Design This pathway exposes students to the skills

needed to develop and maintain web servers and the hosted web pages at

one or a group of websites, and to function as designated webmasters.

Includes instruction in computer systems and networks; web page design

and editing; information resources management; web policy and

procedures; Internet applications of information systems security; user

interfacing and usability research; and relevant management and

communications skills.

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internship, find an internship placement position (with assistance from the

Work-Based Learning coordinator) and adhere to internship requirements

throughout the year. Each intern is required to work a minimum of five

hours per week per high school credit.

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least eleven Carnegie units in the first and second

years of enrollment and must be passing five of

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Clubs and Student Organizations

years. Decatur’s academic, social, service, and performing organizations

reserves the right to remove students from clubs and student organizations

for violations of the City Schools of Decatur Code of Conduct.

The many organizations listed on the school’s website provides students with

information, including a complete list of clubs and student organizations that

found here or through contacting the principal.

control of the school should be available for parent review. The DHS clubs

https://www.csdecatur.net/domain/231.

definition of "clubs and organizations" under the state law. If you do not

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COMMUNITY SUPPORT

Decatur Education Foundation

https://decatureducationfoundation.org/about/

The Decatur Education Foundation helps Decatur youth realize their full

potential by removing obstacles to learning, fueling personal effort, and

supporting teacher innovation.

More specifically, DEF works to:

years it was administered out of the City Schools of Decatur offices. In 2009,

the Foundation hired its first paid staff member. Today, it operates with a

small staff and a large volunteer base.

Parent, Teacher, Student Association

https://www.decaturhighptsa.org/

Decatur High School is fortunate to have an outstanding unit of the National

PTSA to provide support for our school programs and student activities. Prior

Grants provided by the PTSA have facilitated, among other items, the

purchase of Chromebooks and Brain Models for the Social Studies

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educator's experience with our school engaging, relevant, empowering,

challenging and, ultimately, life-changing.

School Leadership Team (SLT)

https://www.csdecatur.net/domain/177

The Decatur High School Leadership Team (SLT) is an elected committee

consisting of Decatur parents/guardians, staff members and other personnel.

The SLT is focused on school governance, student achievement, and family

The SLT would like to hear from DHS parents and community members with

concerns, suggestions, and ideas to make Decatur a great place to learn for

Booster Clubs and Fundraising

The Decatur Bulldog Athletic Booster Club (DBB) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit

organization of interested parents and supporters who voluntarily assist to

The Decatur Bulldog Boosters have provided many opportunities for our

Run with the Dogs 5k, Golf Tournament, Concessions, Spirit Wear, and Mini

Grants.

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City Schools of Decatur Information

City Schools of Decatur

M. Elizabeth Wilson School Support Center

125 Electric Avenue

Decatur, GA 30030

(404) 371-3601

Heather Tell

Marc Wisniewski

Mission

City Schools of Decatur will build the foundation for all children to be their

best, achieve their dreams, and make the world a better place.

the second Tuesday of the month.