In this anonymous reflection, a Dutch Fork Middle School student offers an honest and heartfelt look at the experiences, opportunities, and sense of community found at DFMS.

"Dutch Fork Middle School, also known as DFMS, is a STEAM school that focuses on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math.

DFMS is more than just a school—it gives opportunities to students that other schools might not. It gives students the opportunity to learn no matter their learning style (a common theme within the Lexington Richland 5 school district). The teachers at DFMS realize that teaching isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. They give the extra “spark” that students might need to go the extra mile. They also provide a strong support system, from counselors to teachers.

The environment within DFMS is extraordinary.  From the laughter in the hallways, to the student-teacher relationships, to the quiet work environment provided for tests, teachers give students multiple ways to learn and offer words of encouragement. Students can choose from a variety of programs and extracurricular activities, including basketball, softball, robotics, choir, band, orchestra, mock trial, and many others. These are offered as places for students to express themselves, freely.

Dutch Fork isn’t just a school that prepares students for the next grade; it also attempts to prepare students for life, from financial literacy classes to multimedia basics classes.

The way DFMS makes students feel is not just an experience—it’s a lasting memory shared by both students and staff."