February 26, 2009

Dartmouth: Ahead of the class

All eyes on Dartmouth Middle School

By Shana McLean Moore
Staff Writer

Dartmouth Middle School had plenty of reason for the fanfare on display Tuesday as they celebrated the rare and prestigious honor of being named a “School to Watch” by the National Forum to Accelerate Middle-Grades Reform.

Schools to Watch presents Dartmouth Middle School with a banner in honor of the rare and prestigious award presented by the National Forum to Accelerate Middle-Grades Reform.

The staff, parents and students all took well deserved pride in the distinction as Dr. Irvin Howard, state director of Schools to Watch, explained why their school stood out among the 1,800 middle schools in California.

To be considered for the award, Dartmouth had to demonstrate the three essential ingredients of a high-performing middle school. In addition to the expectation of academic excellence, in which all students are challenged to use their minds well, “Schools to Watch” must be developmentally responsive to the unique characteristics and needs of adolescents. The third ingredient required of Dartmouth and the other 23 schools throughout the nation that received the honor this year is one of social equity, whereby a school displays a climate that is democratic and fair so that all students have access to high-quality teachers, resources and support.

Howard explained that being named a “School to Watch” doesn’t mean that your work is done. In fact, it is quite the contrary. “We are all going to watch and see your vision be realized. We selected your school because we know Dartmouth can fly. Now we want to watch you soar,” Irvin said.

The organization notes in their literature that award-winning schools are those who have “visionary leaders who can articulate challenging goals and motivate faculty and staff to reach those goals.” It was no surprise then, that Howard’s introduction of Dartmouth Principal Carole Carlson was met with a standing ovation.

Vice Mayor Judy Chirco, left, Union Superintendent Dr. Jacqueline Horejs and Dartmouth Principal Carole Carlson celebrate Dartmouth’s “School to Watch” award at Tuesday’s ceremony. Photos by Shana Moore

It was evident to all in attendance that much of the credit for the establishment of this thriving school culture can be traced to the moment she stepped on campus 17 years ago.

Carlson chose to participate in the “Schools to Watch” program, in part, because it is a program approved by the state of California, but she has personal reasons, as well. “A school can’t only be about academic excellence, though that is a critical component. Children also need to be nurtured and cared for so they can develop socially and emotionally,” Carlson stated.

Peter Murphy, executive director of the California League of Middle Schools, singled out the importance of an active parent presence on campus. “The fact that all of you parents showed up today shows your interest and the high expectations you have for your children. The parent community makes this school what it is because of your high standards and level of engagement. This is not an ingredient that can be found in every school in this country,” Murphy said.

Carlson echoed Murphy’s sentiment when she declared that Dartmouth parents were the “wind beneath their wings.” Because the parents partner with a committed staff of teacher leaders, Carlson feels fortunate to manage a school that is academically rigorous that also maintains a caring atmosphere.

Sixth graders Alyssa Winckler, Shirin Bansal, and Caitlin Matts gather to show their pride. Photos by Shana Moore

Sandi Bretz, who has been a counselor at the school for 21 years, feels blessed to be a part of this experience. “It has been an extensive and intensive process leading up to this award,” said Bretz. “But I have never seen so many enthusiastic parents come out to talk about what they love about this school. The day Schools to Watch came out to interview parents, the library was wall-to-wall with parents who were clamoring to give their feedback,” she added.

Parents like Daneen Matts, a Dartmouth alumnus and current School Site Council parent volunteer, likened the experience of the parent interview to a revival. “In a room filled with parents of diverse backgrounds that all had such positive things to say about the school, you just wanted to shout out ‘Hallelujah,’” Matts said. “My daughter is quiet and reserved and felt comfortable here the minute she stepped on campus,” she added.

Linda DeMarco, Matts’ mother, now has the opportunity to know the school from a “grammy” perspective. “I participated in Dartmouth’s very first school plan and now I get to be here as a grandma. I am on the verge of tears every time I come here because of the wonderful feeling on this campus,” De Marco said.

The adults aren’t the only ones that experience the good vibes. Sixth grader Caitlin Matts agreed with her mother and grammy. “All the teachers are really supportive. They give me tips and help me do better,” the younger Matts said.

Eighth graders Berta Rodriguez, Haley Launer and Bailey Kroeger show off their school spirit.

Caitlin’s friend Shirin Bansal is impressed with the school “because of the choices. You can take band or some of the exploratory classes. I have cooking right now, and I already had life skills and art. After school there are activities like volleyball and track and field.”

Union Superintendent Dr. Jacqueline Horejs summed up her pride in the school with the feedback the students themselves had reported during the interview process. “You told us you feel you belong here; that everyone really cares about you at this school; that your teachers challenge you; and that you learn best when working in groups. We listened, and we know that Dartmouth is the launching pad for your dreams and aspirations. We believe in you, and your teachers will help you get there.”

Dartmouth Middle School is a school to watch, and emulate.