This Week at Dutchman Creek!



Week of 10-23-2023

Happy to report that both Dad and I are OK...dad after his second heart surgery and me after a huge deer ran into T'Challa on Museum Rd right as I was leaving the school on Tuesday to be with mom and dad!
Please be careful, Gator Nation!🙏🏾💚🖤🐊


From the Desk of Principal Moton

Dear parents, students, and school community:

This week marks the beginning of Quarter 2 for the school year. Report cards will go home this week and no matter how your scores look, it is time to reset and do just as well or better during Quarter 2.

We have a busy week of after school activities. Our 7th grade football team plays for the conference championship on Wednesday at The Swamp against familiar rival Saluda Trail. Game time is 5:15 pm. Also, be sure to make plans to join us at the DCMS Family Literacy Fun Night on Thursday. Renown author Dusti Bowling will be our featured guest, along with a variety of fun and food for the entire family. Lastly, tickets go on sale Monday through Wednesday for the Halloween dance on Friday. Walk-up entry will not be allowed, so don't miss your opportunity to have some fun with your classmates!

Parents and community, thank you for your partnership in making The Creek the place to be! Let's all have a great week! GOOOOOOOOOOO GATORS!

Yours in service,

Principal Clayton B. Moton

Gator Nation Celebrations!

Let's take a moment to recognize and celebrate our Gator Nation students, staff, and community members!

Congratulations to the 8th Grade Volleyball team for a successful season!

The DCMS 8th Grade Volleyball team finished their season as undefeated regular season champions and conference tournament runner-ups!

Over two years, these ladies have brought excitement and pride to The Creek with their amazing play and their outstanding character on and off the court!


We are proud of you, Gators! 🏐💚🖤🐊

Gators Teaching Gators!

Dean of Student Leadership Dr. Tara Bacote along with Dr. Tyson, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Allen, and Mr. Brandt spent time with staff members that are one to two years new to The Creek to listen and share experiences as colleagues.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month!

Dutchman Creek stands with the families in our local and greater community who have been affected by breast cancer!

October is National School Principal Month!

"Thank you for embracing me and entrusting me to lead this outstanding school community over the years! I have grown tremendously, both professionally and personally, because of your candor and compassion. I will continue to give my all until I have nothing left to give. Without you, there is no GNP! Go Gators!"
-Clayton B. Moton, GNP

Evidence of Engagement is Everywhere!

Giving our Gators hands-on experiences!

Our faculty and staff love supporting our Gators!

🚨NEW episode of The Gator Nation Podcast!🚨

Episode 7: The Ocho Flipped the Script! 🙃

In recognition of National Principals Month, Ethan took over the podcast and put The GNP in the hot seat!

Gator Nation PSAs!

Important news and information to note!

DCMS Family Fun Night!

6th Grade Field Trip: Don't miss out!

****Parents, this is the last week we will collect payment for our trip to Ovens Auditorium to see the Encore Plays.  Our trip is scheduled for Monday, November 20, but we need to make payment on our theater reservations by Friday.  The cost of our trip is $30.  We hope your child can join us!!



-DCMS 6th Grade ELA Teachers

ST-ARTS program returns

Information about ST-ARTS Program:

 Students interested in participating in this year's ST-ARTS program can self-nominate via the link provided: Nomination form All nominations must be in by Wednesday, October 25th, 2023. St-ARTS program auditions will take place on Tuesday, November 14, 2023 from 5;30-8:00p.m. Eligible students will receive additional information closer to the date. Please see information below as seats will be very limited since most students who participated last year will be returning. 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students are eligible to participate!

What is ST-ARTS? Special Talents in the ARTS (or ST-ARTS) is a weekday summer arts program held for 3 weeks during the month of June and is hosted and staffed by Winthrop University’s College of Visual and Performing Arts. Students in grades 6-8 are eligible to audition in Music (voice or instrumental), Dance, Drama, and Visual Art. Since its inception in 1989, the program serves nearly 300 gifted and talented students each summer. Participating public school districts are currently Chester, Clover, Fort Mill, Rock Hill, and York. 

How do I prepare for auditions/screenings? 

● Music: Bring a solo piece to perform and two copies of the sheet music. If needed, bring an instrumental track.

 ● Dance: Small group auditions. Wear appropriate clothing. Three audition tasks will include warm-up, improvisation, and technique.

 ● Drama: Small group auditions. Audition tasks will include warm-up activities and individual improvisation. No make-up, costumes, or props allowed. 

● Art: Student should bring a minimum of three original works that best represent the artist’s skills and interests. One must be a still life. Works should not be traced or copied (including cartoon images). Work can be 2D or 3D. No more than 4 works total. There will be a short interview and an on-site observation drawing. 

Interested in learning more? Access Winthrop's Summer ST-ARTS program here: 

Link to Summer ST-ARTS page

StuCo Halloween Dance

StuCo Annual Crafts Fair

DCMS Media Center

10-20-23 Media Center WAAG

Counselors' Corner

October is National Bullying Prevention Month!

Dear Students and Parents,


As we embark on the month of October, it is crucial to recognize that it is not just a month of falling leaves and crisp autumn air; it is also National Bullying Prevention Month. This is a time dedicated to raising awareness about the impact of bullying and fostering a community that stands united against such behavior.


Bullying is an issue that affects individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life. Its consequences can be severe and long-lasting, impacting not only the victims but the entire fabric of our community. As we strive to create a safe and supportive learning environment, it is essential for students, parents, and educators to come together to address and prevent bullying.

Here are a few key messages for both students and parents: 


**For Students:**


1. **Be Kind and Inclusive:** Small acts of kindness can create a ripple effect. Be mindful of your words and actions, and make an effort to include everyone.


2. **Speak Up:** If you witness bullying, don't be a bystander. Speak up against it and report incidents to a trusted adult or school authority.


3. **Seek Support:** If you are a victim of bullying, remember that you are not alone. Reach out to friends, family, or a teacher for support. There are people who care about you and are ready to help.


4. **Online Etiquette:** Cyberbullying is a growing concern. Be responsible and respectful when using digital platforms. Think before you post, and remember that your words can have a significant impact.


**For Parents:**


1. **Open Communication:** Create an environment where your child feels comfortable discussing their experiences. Encourage open communication about their day, friends, and any challenges they may be facing.


2. **Educate and Empower:** Teach your child about the different forms of bullying and the impact it can have. Empower them with the knowledge and skills to respond appropriately.


3. **Collaborate with Schools:** Establish a collaborative relationship with your child's school. Stay informed about their anti-bullying policies and initiatives. If you suspect or know your child is being bullied, work together with the school to address the issue.


4. **Model Positive Behavior:** Children often emulate the behavior of their parents. Model kindness, empathy, and respect in your own interactions, both online and offline.


By working together, we can create a culture of kindness and respect within our community. Let this month be a reminder of our shared commitment to fostering a safe and supportive environment for all.

 Red Ribbon Week is HERE!! 

6th Grade Counselor

Tiffany Smith

803.985.1715

tiffanys@rhmail.org

7th Grade Counselor

Shandra James

803.985.1716

shjames@rhmail.org

8th Grade Counselor

Christina Plantz

803.985.1718

cplantz@rhmail.org

Rock Hill Schools Strategic Plan Parent Survey

Dear Parents, our school district is working on our next Strategic Plan and Accreditation Process. Your input is needed on the Family Survey. Please help us with our journey to continuously improve our services for our students and families. All parents or guardians of the school district can complete this survey.

-Dr. Keith Wilks,
RHS Associate Superintendent of Support Service

Gator Athletics
#BeGREAT!

Congratulations to the 8th Grade Volleyball team for a great season! Undefeated regular season champions and conference tournament runner-ups!
 🏐💚🖤🐊

Fall Sports Schedule

ALL GAME TICKETS, both home and away, CAN BE PURCHASED ONLINE at gofan.co/app/school/SC74494. 

Concessions will be on sale in the snack area for all home games!! Please note: CASH ONLY! 

All proceeds will go towards DCMS Beta Club!! 

Got questions about sports at DCMS?
Contact Jason Werts, Athletics Director (jwerts@rhmail.org)!

Calendar of Events

Gator Vision: Behind the Lens!

Images from Week 9!