Principal’s RAMpage v3.19

Jan 10, 2023

Dear Dixon High School Families,

A little principal’s thought as we gear up for spring semester…

During winter break, I took some of our own advice and took time to “be present” with my family and self. No emails.  No work.  Just some rest, cooking, lots of walking, and time with my people.  It was almost difficult to do but so important to “unplug” from it all.
And then I went to supervise a basketball game at a neighboring high school (who, by the way, lost to our Rams).  As soon as I entered the gym, I was happily greeted by our kids.  It was nice to see them and it reaffirms I have the greatest job in the world.  Your kids are really very special.  It is so nice to be back on campus with students and staff as we continue to learn and grow.
I hope your families also enjoyed peace and time together before we launch into spring.  This edition of the RAMpage is a little different. I want to take the opportunity to share what is generally going to happen this semester.  Next week, I will have more important details

Students Will Complete Course Requests for Next School Year
All of our current 9th-11th graders (and current JKMS 8th graders) will be engage in a scaffolded process of course selection for next school year.  It’s very important that families read the RAMpage each week so you can stay on top of this process.  Here are some things to keep in mind for now:

  • Students need to make informed decisions about their educational programs that will prepare them for their post-secondary goals.  We will be providing information for students AND parents very soon.
  • Students and families need to check emails frequently.  This is how we communicate information.
  • Plan on attending the Course Expo Evening on Wednesday, January 25, from 6:00-7:30 pm. Students and families learn about DHS programs and get to know staff.  It is a really great evening!

It is Time to Start Thinking About the Class of 2023!
One of the bittersweet things about high school is celebrating our seniors.  We simultaneously celebrate and say goodbye to this awesome class of young people.  And, if you’re a parent of a senior, prepare to bounce between these extremes over the next months.   It is a wonderful, yet bumpy ride!
Here are some traditional senior celebrations and activities to be aware of.  Remember, we look forward to this every year and can’t wait to honor your students!

  • In accordance with California Legislative Policy, all seniors must complete a FAFSA to earn a diploma this year.  You can start this at home but we will have more opportunities for support soon.  
  • In late February/Early March, students will have the opportunity to apply for Community Scholarships. 
  • Our staff will be delivering a special surprise for your graduate’s home…as soon as it stops raining.  🙂
  • Our athletic teams will continue to celebrate senior athletes at home contests.
  • Award Ceremonies and Senior Nights (beyond athletics) begin in May.
  • Paint the Town Green and other events will take place in May as well.
  • Graduation for the Class of 2023 is on Saturday, June 3, at 9:00 am in the stadium.

Grades and Student Supports
You should be receiving your fall semester report card and transcripts this weekend.  If you have any questions about your student’s progress, please reach out to their teachers and/or counselor.  We are here to help.  Please remember that students need to earn credits toward a diploma.  If they do not pass classes, they do not earn credits.  

  • Encourage your student to attend teacher office hours and/or teacher resources.  These can be found in student planners.
  • Encourage your student to visit the Learning Center, every morning and afternoon, in the DHS library for free tutoring.

Learning Center hours

  • Encourage your student to study collaboratively with peers.  
  • Honor your student’s study time at home.  
  • We want to help your students succeed at school!  Please reach out to our admin team or counseling team for support.  

Other Stuff…
Purchase the 2023 Dixon High Yearbook
Yearbooks can be purchased online throughout the school year.  Purchase the 2023 Dixon High Yearbook online throughout the school year!  Order one by credit card or eCheck at www.yearbookordercenter.com  (Order# 7317) or by mail-in-check by calling 1-866-287-3096. 

Notes From Our Office

  • Requests for Short Term Independent Study (STIS).  Here is what you should know…
    • STIS is only an option for students missing 3-14 school days.
    • STIS must be pre-approved by an assistant principal at least 10 working days prior to the absence.  Student’s/families’ unofficial agreements with teachers or staff will not be recognized for attendance purposes. 
    • STIS is not an option for students with less than a 2.0 GPA or a student who has an incomplete STIS in the past.
    • STIS work must be turned in the day they are scheduled to return.  It will not be accepted late for any reason.
  • It is very important that students attend school every period, every day!   That said, we know your student may need to miss.  When they are out, please remember to communicate with us and bring in those doctor and dentist notes.   We are happy to work with you but if we don’t hear from you, we can’t excuse your student’s absence.  We know our phones are often busy so please feel free to leave a message or email Jennifer Parks directly at jennifer.parks@dixonusd.org. Voicemails are delivered to staff emails.
  • Reminder: DoorDash and other food delivery services will not be received at school for students.  

College Advising on Wednesdays for All Students
Our counseling office is hosting College Wednesdays at lunch in the College and Career Center.  All students are welcome to stop in and get their college and career questions answered.  This is a great opportunity for our seniors to get help with finalizing applications, completing the FAFSA, making career decisions, etc.  It is also a fantastic opportunity for our younger students who are exploring post-secondary opportunities.  

We Have Answers
Do you have questions about school policies and procedures such as dress code, attendance, etc?  Please take time to read through the DHS Student & Parent Handbook!  Many answers can be found here!

Upcoming Calendar Events – Get out those calendars!  🙂
January 16: No School
January 19: ASVAB Testing
January 20 & 21: Drama Club presentation of CLUE, 6:00 PM in Theater
January 25:  Course Expo

Site Information
Here are links to important documents you need:

As always, please let us know how we can help.  

Warmly,
Stephanie Marquez
Proud Principal of Dixon High School
smarquez@dixonusd.org, (707) 693-6330 ext.7113