Jessica Doyle Visits DCTS!

On Thursday, April 8th 2010, first lady Jessica Doyle and her assistant Ashley came to visit DCTS. She was a wonderful guest to have, and we shared a lot of stories with her during a sit-in (something we really like to have with visitors because it helps them get to know us and how we feel about our school). Here are some things Mrs. Doyle said about DCTS:

• "Had I known nothing about this place, I would have been sold just by hearing your stories."


• "A great testament to the school and yourselves."


• "I don't think I've ever seen a group that's been so attentive and so respectful to one another."

Here are a few highlighted quotes by students:

• My mom's actually proud of me for once!


• This place is the best thing that's happened to me.


• I was 2 years behind on credits because my family moved a lot. The "New Student" meeting explained the program and mission; it was at this meeting that I saw how DCTS strays from the traditional school program. We are able to be free to be ourselves at DCTS.


• Without this place, there was no way I was going to graduate. After I was expelled from my old school, I lost hope. Now I have direction.


• I ended up coming to DCTS due to a disease. I was receiving NO help from my home district. Finally, I got the state involved, and I made it here. I no longer have to sit at a computer and do online programs like Plato (I really hate Plato).


• I came to DCTS because I was being harassed by teachers and police. It was recommended that I come to DCTS. I decided to give it a shot. Now, I have a second chance.


• I have been through some terrible things in my life - this school has saved me - I hope that other people can come here and grow in the same way.


• Cliques at my home district were annoying. At DCTS, we're all one big family. This school has completely changed my life. My friends from my old school call and ask, "Hey, you wanna skip today?" I say, "Nah, I'm going to school."

A staff member's opinion:

• The curriculum is flexible and integrated. I can teach students carpentry and integrate elements of math and science that are linked to state standards. All curriculum is designed to be useful to life after high school. I am amazed, after all these years, that graduates come back and are doing really well. Nine out of ten kids walk out of here and are going some where. This job is very fulfilling - it's where I want to be.

We would like to extend a special thanks to Jessica Doyle for coming to visit DCTS! It meant so much to us.