Dear parents, students, and school community:

Great start to the month of October! On Monday, the faculty and staff will engage in professional learning across the district and the Olde English Consortium. Students will not report to school on Monday. We will resume a regular school schedule on Tuesday,

Among many other recognitions, October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. Many of us have been personally affected by breast cancer as survivors, family members of survivors, or through a loved one who succumbed to complications due to breast cancer. Gator Nation stand with those affected by breast cancer and will help raise awareness in any way that we can. 

I hope you enjoy this week's newsletter. Continue to engage with us and be a partner on this journey! Let's all have a great week at The Creek! GOOOOOOOOOOO GATORS!

Yours in service,

Principal Clayton B. Moton

October is National Bullying Prevention Month!

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.

BIMAS Information for Parents

In our continuing efforts to support the well-being of all our students, teachers will be completing a universal assessment of behavioral health for all students. The assessment consists of a brief rating scale that will be completed by each child’s teachers. The universal  assessment will help our teachers to understand the needs of all our students and to make effective plans at the grade level, class level, and individual level. It is important that your child feels that academic learning is their focus at school and that the adults they work with each day are doing all they can to create a safe and supportive environment. 

If you would like more information about the universal assessment, please call Dutchman Creek Middle School or Dr. Nancy Turner, Director of Behavioral & Mental Health Services at 803-981-1397. This assessment is optional, but we hope you will allow your child’s teacher to complete it to help us gain additional insight into their needs. If you do not want an assessment completed for your child, please access our website HERE for the Opt-Out Form and submit it to your homeroom teacher.

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