WELCOME

Team Expectations: Students will be active participants in highly collaborative classrooms that are focused on building critical thinking skills. Learning opportunities will be designed to cultivate student leaders, develop positive relationships, and showcase student achievement.

Weekly Updates 6/1-6/5

Final Grades/Report Cards

All missing work from the 3rd Quarter is/was due Friday May 29th, after May 29th, no late work will be accepted. Teachers will be finalizing grades over the weekend and early next week in order to update PowerSchools.

On Thursday June 4th, students and parents/guardians can log into PowerSchools to see the students 3rd Quarter grades and their final grades in each class. This is in place of report cards as we will not be sending out paper copies of report cards.

Please be reminded students will receive either a “Pass” (PC-19) or a “Withdrawal” (WC-19) for their final course grades in middle school courses. “PC-19” is a grade that will represent a “Pass” for the course while also noting that the grade was issued during the school closure due to COVID-19. “WC-19” indicates that the student was withdrawn from the course during the COVID-19 closure and is used when a student is not yet passing the course as of March 13 and/or through additional work during remote learning.

What will final grades be based on?

Grades through March 13 were used to determine the student’s grade in the course. To calculate this, teachers considered the following.

• In a yearlong course: each quarter average (Quarter 1, Quarter 2, and Quarter 3) to be worth one-third of the overall grade.
• In a semester or quarter course in the spring, whether the student is passing will be based on the Quarter 3 grade as of March 13.
• In all courses, students had the opportunity to improve their current grade through remote learning activities if they were not passing.
• Students will be held harmless for course content after March 13.

Student PowerSchool Access Directions

Students can access grades and attendance through PowerSchool by following the steps below.

• Logging into the WakeID portal
• Clicking the Home Base icon
• Entering your student ID number (lunch number)
• Clicking Go
• Clicking PowerSchool Student icon.

PDF of directions can be found here.

Parent and Student PowerSchool Access Directions

Due to Covid-19 school building closures, parent processes may be impacted.

PowerSchool Information(including Spanish directions) can be found at this site.

June 6th - Building Access / Closing Year Procedures

It is difficult to believe we are at the end of another school year. While this year has been unique in many ways, we are proud of the resiliency of our students and have been inspired by their growth and work. As we move into these final weeks of remote learning, we will offer one final day for Durant Road Middle School to be open for students to retrieve/return and pick-up items.

Saturday, June 6, 2020, will be a dedicated day for students to come in the building and retrieve all of their belongings, return school-owned materials and pick-up apparel, prizes and/or yearbooks.

We ask anyone who plans to come on June 6, 2020 to adhere to these health and safety guidelines. Our top priority is to ensure the safety of everyone.

• Anyone who plans to enter the school building is required to wear face coverings and it is recommended gloves are worn.
• Families are asked to limit the size of their group. A parent/guardian is encouraged to attend with their student from DRMS.
• In order to support social distancing guidelines, we will follow the schedule below. Please ensure you arrive during your assigned window of time only. Assigned times are alphabetical by student’s last name.
  • 1:30 - 2:30 - A through I
  • 2:30 - 3:30 - J through R
  • 3:30 - 4:30 - S through Z

On Saturday, June 6, 2020, there will be two designated areas for specific items. Please note the directions for each.

• If your student requires any of these areas or procedures, please follow the directions below first:
  • Please enter DRMS and park in the staff parking lot. There will be a traffic director and signs to guide you.
  • Please plan to enter your student’s grade-level hallway. Please note the sign of the appropriate grade-level on each wall. In order to promote social distancing, only 10 people will be allowed in each grade level hallway at a time.
  • There will be a cart in each grade-level hallway for students to return EL books, library books and school-owned books.
  • Medication pick-up will take place in Student Services.
  • Any student needing to pick-up artwork from art class may do so in the Art Room.
  • Anyone needing to pick-up medication or retrieve items from PE lockers, will be asked to exit the school through the carpool doors and walk back to the staff parking lot.
  • Grade Level Lockers, PE Lockers, Returning Books, Medication Pick-up, Artwork Pick-up
• After your student has completed the above tasks in the designated areas, parents will proceed and drive to the bus loop for the following needs:
  • Please enter the bus loop and stay in the line of cars.
  • Tents will be designated for stops and needs.
  • In order to promote the most efficient process with returning and delivering materials, we are asking everyone to remain in a single file car line through all “tents.”
  • Thank you for your patience during this process.
  • Returning of school-owned band instruments, pick-up of musical t-shirts, returning of chorus dresses, athletic uniform return, pick-up of athletic team pictures, prize pick-up from “Day of Awesomeness” and Yearbook pick-up

If you have any questions or concerns regarding details of the Saturday, June 6, 2020 building procedures, please reach out to your child’s grade-level administrator.

6th Grade - Destinie Hartman (dhartman@wcpss.net)

7th Grade - Jeff Kleiber (jkleiber@wcpss.net)

8th Grade - Dawn Edwards (dedwards@wcpss.net)

8th Grade Author Visit

All 8th grade dolphins are invited to attend a presentation with author Tommy Jenkins on Friday, June 5th from 10:00 AM -11:00 AM. His graphic novel Drawing the Vote illustrates the history of voting in the United States from the establishment of the country to current day concerns. Mr. Jenkins will share about his creative and research processes, and participating students will have the opportunity to ask him questions. Students will get the link for the Google Meet from their social studies teacher next week (6/1-6/4)

PTA Message

We are happy to share that our spring fundraiser with Step It Up/Power of Purpose brought in more than $18,000 to benefit our school! A huge thank-you to our students for all their hard work, and to all those who donated for their incredibly generous support. Unfortunately, the “Day of Awesomeness” was canceled because the school closed due to the COVID pandemic, but students who earned prizes for raising $60 or more will be able to pick them up at school on Saturday, June 6. The PTA will have a tent in the bus loop for families to drive by and pick up students’ prizes, following appropriate social distancing guidelines. See you next weekend!

8th Grade Awards

As we wrap up the 2019-20 school year, we wanted to keep you informed about our plans to celebrate the 8th grade students. We know that this is nowhere near how any of us expected to finish the school year but that will not prevent us from celebrating the accomplishments of our 8th grade students. The 8th grade teachers are working on a surprise to honor all of our 8th graders so be on the lookout for a "delivery" in the coming weeks. We also will be hosting a virtual awards ceremony on June 11th. This will be a time to recognize the accomplishments of our 8th graders and officially send them off to high school. Please plan on joining us on Thursday, June 11 at 9:20 a.m. for this virtual ceremony. We will be sending out more information as this date draws near. Thanks again for all of your patience and support as we try our best to honor our 8th grade students.

Weekly Updates 5/25-5/29

Week 5/25-5/29 Schedule

Please review the attached schedule for this week of Remote Learning. Remember, the students have one (1) remote core class each day they are expected to attend. The second class in their schedule is intended for students to complete work for the designated class and not a remote class to attend.

Author Q and A

All 8th grade dolphins are invited to attend a presentation with author Tommy Jenkins on Friday, June 5th from 10:00-11:00 a.m. His graphic novel Drawing the Vote illustrates the history of voting in the United States from the establishment of the country to current day concerns. Mr. Jenkins will share about his creative and research processes, and participating students will have the opportunity to ask him questions. Students will get the link for the Google Meet from their social studies teacher.

8th Grade Awards

As we wrap up the 2019-20 school year, we wanted to keep you informed about our plans to celebrate the 8th grade students. We know that this is nowhere near how any of us expected to finish the school year but that will not prevent us from celebrating the accomplishments of our 8th grade students. The 8th grade teachers are working on a surprise to honor all of our 8th graders so be on the lookout for a "delivery" in the coming weeks. We also will be hosting a virtual awards ceremony on June 11th. This will be a time to recognize the accomplishments of our 8th graders and officially send them off to high school. Please plan on joining us on Thursday, June 11 at 9:20 a.m. for this virtual ceremony. We will be sending out more information as this date draws near. Thanks again for all of your patience and support as we try our best to honor our 8th grade students.

Communication Regarding June 6, 2020 Building Procedures

It is difficult to believe we are at the end of another school year. While this year has been unique in many ways, we are proud of the resiliency of our students and have been inspired by their growth and work. As we move into these final weeks of remote learning, we will offer one final day for Durant Road Middle School to be open for students to retrieve/return and pick-up items.

Saturday, June 6, 2020, will be a dedicated day for students to come in the building and retrieve all of their belongings, return school-owned materials and pick-up apparel, prizes and/or yearbooks.

We ask anyone who plans to come on June 6, 2020 to adhere to these health and safety guidelines. Our top priority is to ensure the safety of everyone.

• Anyone who plans to enter the school building is required to wear face coverings and it is recommended gloves are worn.
• Families are asked to limit the size of their group. One (1) parent/guardian is encouraged to attend with their student from DRMS.
• In order to support social distancing guidelines, we will follow the schedule below. Please ensure you arrive during your assigned window of time only. Assigned times are alphabetical by student’s last name.
  • 1:30 - 2:30 - A through I
  • 2:30 - 3:30 - J through R
  • 3:30 - 4:30 - S through Z

On Saturday, June 6, 2020, there will be two designated areas for specific items. Please note the directions for each.

• If your student requires any of these areas or procedures, please follow the directions below first:
  • Grade Level Lockers, PE Lockers, Returning Books, Medication Pick-up, Artwork Pick-up
    • Please enter DRMS and park in the staff parking lot. There will be a traffic director and signs to guide you.
    • Please plan to enter your student’s grade-level hallway. Please note the sign of the appropriate grade-level on each wall. In order to promote social distancing, only 10 people will be allowed in each grade level hallway at a time.
    • There will be a cart in each grade-level hallway for students to return EL books, library books and school-owned books.
    • Medication pick-up will take place in Student Services.
    • Any student needing to pick-up artwork from art class may do so in the Art Room.
    • Anyone needing to pick-up medication or retrieve items from PE lockers, will be asked to exit the school through the carpool doors and walk back to the staff parking lot.
• After your student has completed the above tasks in the designated areas, parents will proceed and drive to the bus loop for the following needs:
  • Returning of school-owned band instruments, pick-up of musical t-shirts, returning of chorus dresses, athletic uniform return, pick-up of athletic team pictures, prize pick-up from “Day of Awesomeness” and Yearbook pick-up
    • Please enter the bus loop and stay in the line of cars.
    • Tents will be designated for stops and needs.
    • In order to promote the most efficient process with returning and delivering materials, we are asking everyone to remain in a single file carline through all “tents.”
    • Thank you for your patience during this process.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding details of the Saturday, June 6, 2020 building procedures, please reach out to your child’s grade-level administrator.

6th Grade - Destinie Hartman (dhartman@wcpss.net)

7th Grade - Jeff Kleiber (jkleiber@wcpss.net)

8th Grade - Dawn Edwards (dedwards@wcpss.net)

WCPSS Grading Guidelines

WCPSS sent out their grading guidelines for the 3rd Quarter and for Final Grades earlier this week. For detailed information regarding Grading View a copy of the message for families.

Google Docs - create and edit documents online, for free.

Create a new document and edit with others at the same time -- from your computer, phone or tablet. Get stuff done with or without an internet connection. Use Docs to edit Word files. Free from Google.

docs.google.com

Missing/Late 3rd Quarter Work

The deadline for any missing or late work from the 3rd Quarter is Friday May 29th. After this time students will not be able to make up assignments. Please pay close attention to this approaching due date.

4th Quarter PowerSchool Updates:

Some teachers will be using PowerSchools to communicate work completion and Google Meet attendance to families. The grades in PowerSchools for the 4th Quarter are simply informative and have no impact on student's final grades. If you have questions regarding anything in PowerSchools please reach out to the individual teacher.

From Wakefield High School

In an effort to better inform our rising freshman, NW Academy students, and any possible transfers to WHS for the 2020-2021 school year, we have created two links (new student athlete contact information and tentative summer workouts.) This will help our staff connect with all student athletes and keep them apprised of sport-specific information. These links will also be posted to the WHS athletic website.

New-Student Athlete Contact Information: https://forms.gle/NWxjg9pwrxWdJsSc9

Tentative Summer Workouts are posted to our Athletics Website: https://www.wakecountyathletics.com/wakefieldhs

Virtual Opportunities

The CTE department, local CDCs, and Junior Achievement have put together some virtual opportunities for our students. Feel free to join in on these:

Wednesday, May 27, 3:00 p.m.

Virtual chat with Mark Cuban (https://www.juniorachievement.org/web/ja-usa/virtual-summit)

Use this link to register and then you will receive an email on how to join.

Virtual College Fair

This can be accessed at any time. We think that this might be especially interesting to our 8th graders.

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1DPSOnGQeDSB0GagLkrdFYbD94rLzTXr6GrHVoDTC5og/present?slide=id.p

Weekly Updates 5/18-5/22

WCPSS Grading Guidelines

WCPSS sent out their grading guidelines for the 3rd Quarter and for Final Grades earlier this week. For detailed information regarding Grading View a copy of the message for families.

4th Quarter PowerSchool Updates:

Some teachers will be using PowerSchools to communicate work completion and Google Meet attendance to families. The grades in PowerSchools for the 4th Quarter are simply informative and have no impact on student's final grades. If you have questions regarding anything in PowerSchools please reach out to the individual teacher.

From the Elective Teachers:

This week the Elective Olympics will be taking place at Durant! The elective teachers have come together in the spirit of the Olympics to present a special week for you! Each day of the week a different elective team will have their Olympic themed lesson shared with all students. Monday is PE day, Tuesday is CTE day, Wednesday is Arts day, and Thursday is Spanish/ESL day. Students, all you need to do is log in to your electives' Google Classrooms/Canvas/Weebly like you normally would each day for lessons. Don't be alarmed if you see your band teacher posting a lesson from PE, or your Spanish teacher posting a lesson from CTE! You're in the right place and your teachers haven't gone crazy...yet! All elective teachers will be posting lessons from outside their discipline to ensure that you receive all 4 lessons. If you have any questions, please watch this screen cast, read this Olympic Week directions page, or ask one of your elective teachers. Have fun!!

Memorial Day Schedule

Monday, May 25th is the Memorial Day holiday for WCPSS students and staff. We will not be conducting Virtual Learning on this day. DRMS will follow an amended schedule May 26-29 to ensure that all students have the opportunity to attend all classes and interact with all teachers. Grade level specific schedules will be sent to families in newsletters on May 22nd.

Guidance

Students can access the DRMS Counseling Corner on Google Classroom with the following code "gtfruyp." If you need to talk to a guidance counselor during this time please utilize this resource.

Help Desk

If Students are having Technology Issues, WCPSS has set up a Help Desk for them. Use the link below to access this resource:

https://sites.google.com/wcpss.net/instructinal-continuity-wcpss/technology-support-for-families

Weekly Updates 5/10-5/15

Building Open Dates and Times

As we move into these final weeks of remote learning, we will offer two days for Durant Road Middle School to be open for students to retrieve/return items.

Saturday, May 9, 2020: A dedicated day for students to come in the building and empty out their lockers, including PE lockers. Please note, Saturday, May 9th will be designated for students to pick-up personal items from the school, which includes any medications that may be still at school. A different day has been designated for students to return school-owned items. Once students have cleaned out their lockers on the hallway, they will leave their lock (unlocked) on their locker. Also, a cart will be posted at the end of each grade-level hallway for students to lay any books they no longer need (library books, EL books, etc.) During this time, students will have an opportunity to pick-up their personal band instruments and/or medications. We will be following social distancing guidelines, only allowing so many families in the hallway at a time.

Saturday, June 6, 2020: This will be another dedicated day for families to come in the building and return WCPSS-owned items (i.e. band instruments, athletic uniforms, library books, EL books, etc.) If our yearbooks arrive by the June 6th date, they will be available to pick-up as well.

To help us follow social distancing guidelines, we are asking only students and one parent or guardian to accompany. We encourage anyone entering the building to wear face coverings and gloves. Thank you for your understanding as we attempt to promote the safest environment for all.

Schedule for May 9 and June 6, 2020

1 PM - 2 PM Students whose last name begins A-M

2 PM - 3 PM Students whose last name begins N-Z

If you have any questions or concerns regarding either of these dates, please reach out to your child’s grade-level administrator.

Memorial Day Schedule

Monday, May 25th is the Memorial Day holiday for WCPSS students and staff. We will not be conducting Virtual Learning on this day. DRMS will follow an amended schedule May 26-29 to ensure that all students have the opportunity to attend all classes and interact with all teachers. Grade level specific schedules will be sent to families in newsletters on May 22nd.

Guidance

Students can access the DRMS Counseling Corner on Google Classroom with the following code "gtfruyp." If you need to talk to a guidance counselor during this time please utilize this resource.

Help Desk

If Students are having Technology Issues, WCPSS has set up a Help Desk for them. Use the link below to access this resource:

https://sites.google.com/wcpss.net/instructinal-continuity-wcpss/technology-support-for-families

Class Updates

Please continue to check our team website, individual teacher websites, and Google Classroom for the most up to date information regarding assignments and due dates. Thanks to all students who are staying engaged and up to date on your assignments, your commitment to school has not gone unnoticed, and your teachers are extremely proud of you.

Weekly Updates 5/4-5/8

Building Open Dates and Times

As we move into these final weeks of remote learning, we will offer two days for Durant Road Middle School to be open for students to retrieve/return items.

Saturday, May 9, 2020: A dedicated day for students to come in the building and empty out their lockers, including PE lockers. Please note, Saturday, May 9th will be designated for students to pick-up personal items from the school. A different day has been designated for students to return school-owned items. Once students have cleaned out their lockers on the hallway, they will leave their lock (unlocked) on their locker. Also, a cart will be posted at the end of each grade-level hallway for students to lay any books they no longer need (library books, EL books, etc.) During this time, students will have an opportunity to pick-up their personal band instruments and/or medications. We will be following social distancing guidelines, only allowing so many families in the hallway at a time.

Saturday, June 6, 2020: This will be another dedicated day for families to come in the building and return WCPSS-owned items (i.e. band instruments, athletic uniforms, library books, EL books, etc.) If our yearbooks arrive by the June 6th date, they will be available to pick-up as well.

To help us follow social distancing guidelines, we are asking only students and one parent or guardian to accompany. We encourage anyone entering the building to wear face coverings and gloves. Thank you for your understanding as we attempt to promote the safest environment for all.

Schedule for May 9 and June 6, 2020

1 PM - 2 PM Students whose last name begins A-M

2 PM - 3 PM Students whose last name begins N-Z

If you have any questions or concerns regarding either of these dates, please reach out to your child’s grade-level administrator.

Google Meeting Attendance

Teachers are taking, and submitting, Google Meet daily attendance logs to the administrators. Students, if you are unable to attend your class meeting time please be sure to make every attempt to visit at least one session of your teacher's daily office hours to make sure you understand any concepts and assignments for the week.

Work Completion

Please make every effort to have work submitted on time to teachers. We have a large percentage of students who have not submitted one assignment in the first 3 weeks of Remote Learning in any classes. Teachers are continuing to provide feedback on assignments and students should be able to see this in Google Classroom.

We are also noticing a large number of students who are "Turning In" work that they have not even attempted to complete. As teachers go to review turned in assignments we are noticing more and more students who receive the assignment and just turn it in without ever making an attempt on any part of the assignment. It would be comparable to turning in a blank worksheet immediately after the teacher handed them out. It may be a good idea to have your students show you all of the work they have submitted in Google Classroom. There you will be able to see any feedback teachers may have provided on completed graded assignments and/or if the students are actually doing the work before turning it in.

Students, this message is directed to you. Writing "IDK" or "No Idea" down as all of your answers on an assignment is not completing the assignment. If you have questions please visit us during office hours, SMART Block on Fridays, post a comment in Google Classroom, or email us. We are happy to assist you all but cannot help if you are not telling us you need the help.

DRMS Student Distance Learning Commitments

As we enter our 4th week of Distance Learning it may be a good time to review the expectations and commitments we are asking from our students. Please review this presentation as a reminder of what our new version of school looks like and what teachers are expecting from our students.

Guidance

Students can access the DRMS Counseling Corner on Google Classroom with the following code "gtfruyp." If you need to talk to a guidance counselor during this time please utilize this resource.

Help Desk

If Students are having Technology Issues, WCPSS has set up a Help Desk for them. Use the link below to access this resource:

https://sites.google.com/wcpss.net/instructinal-continuity-wcpss/technology-support-for-families

Weekly Update 4/27-5/1

Class Updates:

Below you will find a list of assignments that students have been responsible for over the past 2 weeks in their core classes. This weekend would be a great opportunity to discuss with your student his/her individual progress on these assignments. Think of it as a mini Student Led Conference, similar to what we did in the fall. Here are some questions to get you started:

Are you attending Google Meet Classes (Monday-Core 1; Tuesday-Core 2; Wednesday-Core 3; Thursday-Core 4)

Have you done your assignments?

Have you turned them in? (You would be surprised how many assignments are competed in Google Classroom but not yet turned in for us to provide feedback.)

Do you know how to access all of the information for the assignments in each class?

Do you watch the videos posted by teachers that go over the lesson or the expectations of the assignment?

Are you taking advantage of office hours to get help?

Are you asking questions in your Google Meet classes?

The core teachers met this week to discuss work completion. There are a large number of students not completing assignments. We encourage you to talk with your student about their assignments and confirm they are completing them in a timely manner. Teachers will continue to provide feedback on completed assignments.

Here is what they have been assigned in each class over the past 2 weeks:

Language Arts:

In order to be current, by Sunday, April 26, students should have completed:

Lesson 1 & Short Response

Lesson 2 & Short Response

Lesson 3 & Short Response

Lesson 4 & Short Response

Ch 1 & 2 Reading & Text Dependent Questions

Ch 3 & 4 Reading

Ch 5 Reading & Text Dependent Questions

Ch 6-9 Reading

Link to our text, The Omnivore’s Dilemma: https://www.buffaloschools.org/site/handlers/filedownload.ashx?moduleinstanceid=8224&dataid=43485&FileName=the%20omnivore_s%20dilemma.pdf

Social Studies:

-Week 1-US Imperialism Unit-DBQ (6 Docs and Questions with Docs); Reflection Paragraph. This is all in Google Classroom under US Imperialism or United States Imperialism. This was due the following dates depending on the class: Core 1-Sunday 4/19; Core 2-Monday 4/20; Core 3-Tuesday 4/21; Core 4-Wednesday 4/22

Week 2-Wilson's 14 Points vs. Treaty of Versailles-Complete the 2 Charts and Answer the 2 Questions. This is all in Google Classroom under WWI Unit

Due Dates-Core 1-Sunday 4/26; Core 2-Monday 4/27; Core 3-Tuesday 4/28 Core 4-Wednesday 4/29

Math 8:

Week of 4/13-4/17

Video: Scatter plots

Assignment for feedback: openup 6.3 submit when finished

Week of 4/20-4/24

Digital Breakout Scatter plots and Two Way Tables

Dreambox (4 lessons)

Scatter plot and two way table assignment for feedback submit when finished

Math 1

Week of 4/13-4/17

Video: Factoring quadratics part 1

Quizziz game

Factoring quadratics WS assignment for feedback submit when finished

Week of 4/20-4/23

Video: Factoring quadratics part 2

Kahoot game

Dreambox (4 lessons)

Factoring quadratics ws assignment for feedback(included padlet) submit when finished. Everything is linked in google classroom!

Science

Please continue to check teacher websites and Google Classroom for updated assignment information and due dates. Our Team Website can be accessed by clicking here and from there you can access each of our individual class pages.

Students will be receiving feedback through a Google Form or in GC. Please follow the instructions given by your teacher to know where to go to read the feedback!

Guidance

Students can access the DRMS Counseling Corner on Google Classroom with the following code "gtfruyp." If you need to talk to a guidance counselor during this time please utilize this resource.

Help Desk

If Students are having Technology Issues, WCPSS has set up a Help Desk for them. Use the link below to access this resource:

https://sites.google.com/wcpss.net/instructional-continuity-wcpss/technology-support-for-families

Weekly Update 4/20-4/24

Thank you to all of our students who participated in our first week of Digital Learning. It was great to reconnect with you all. We hope the week was fairly smooth as we begin this new chapter in our school year. Please know that we recognize the challenges this presents and are doing everything we can to make this process as pain free as we can.

Student/Parent/Guardian Survey

Please take a minute or so to complete this brief survey regarding our first week of Digital Learning. This will provide us with some valuable feedback as we move forward. Thanks so much for your cooperation with this.

The survey can also be accessed by clicking this link: https://forms.gle/C6kgWyEr2zhmsMvx6

Help Desk

If Students are having Technology Issues, WCPSS has set up a Help Desk for them. Use the link below to access this resource:

https://sites.google.com/wcpss.net/instructional-continuity-wcpss/technology-support-for-families

What's going on in our classes?

For updates in each of our classes please continue to check teacher websites and Google Classroom. Our Team Website can be accessed by clicking here and from there you can access each of our individual class pages.

Students will be receiving feedback through a Google Form or in GC. Please follow the instructions given by your teacher to know where to go to read the feedback!

Field Trip Refunds

Field Trip refunds were processed and mailed out earlier this week. If you have any questions regarding these please do not hesitate to ask.

Weekly Update 4/13-4/17

On Wednesday 4/8 we had a Virtual Meeting with our students. It was great to see many of our students join us, it reminded us all how much we really miss them. During this meeting we reviewed expectations, procedures, and answered many questions the students had. If you were unable to attend the meeting or wanted to review any of the information you can view the presentation here.

As we informed the students yesterday, they should be checking Google Classroom and teacher websites a few times each week to make sure they have an idea of due dates and what is going on in our classes. These will be updated initially each week by Monday morning at 8 a.m. so when students begin their week each week they should by checking websites and Google Classroom.

We have had many questions regarding elective classes. Please see below for the answers we have received in the past 24 hours:

-Mrs. Dimond's Class - Information will be posted on her website and an email will be sent out with Google Meet links. Her student teacher will be running her Google Meets, as Mrs. Dimond is still on maternity leave.

-Mrs. Latham's Class - She is sending an email out to her students that will include a weekly agenda, directions, links, etc. Watch your email...

-Ms.Matthews (Spanish Class)-She will have a Google Classroom set up by Monday. Please be on the lookout for that.

-Mrs.Duryea (Band) will be returning from her maternity leave early to finish teaching her classes this year. Please pay attention to her website for class updates.

-Attention all students who had Mr. Jones and Mr. Gold for healthful living this year. You will be able to meet your new healthful living teacher, Mr. Pettiford, virtually when we track in on April 23rd. Mr. Pettiford is excited to return to Durant (he worked here from 2008-2012) and end the school year with you. To help make sure you are ready for learning on April 23rd, please go to Mr. Pettiford's website to access important information in regards to communication and learning. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to any healthful living teacher: Trina Cicco-tcicco@wcpss.net; Matt Mauder-mmauder@wcpss.net; Cathy Stone-cstone@wcpss.net.

As we move forward with online learning please be patient with us and allow for some bumps in the road the first week or so. This is new to all of us and we are going to do our absolute best to continue to engage the students in meaningful learning. As we reminded the students yesterday and will continue to do so, the most important thing for all of us is the health and safety of our students and their families. If there is something that is going on at home that prevents students from attending a virtual class we understand. We just ask that students do their best to stay engaged and participate.

Weekly Update 3/31-4/13

You can find the WCPSS announcement here. In short, we will begin distance learning on April 13th. That is what you really need to know. We have a list of things we need the students to try and complete prior to April 13th.

1. You can log into your Wake ID here. This needs to become your morning routine come April 13th. Everything you will need to access distance learning resources can be found in the Wake ID portal. One of your applications is your Wake County Email. Please open that email and delete any that are not of use. When you see the schedule below, that 8:00-8:25am time is when you should be logging on and making sure you are prepared for the day.

2. We understand that not everyone will be able to access each class, each day. Information for our classes must be put in secure places, like Google Classroom or if put on a website, you will have to be logged into your Wake ID to access them.

3. Review the schedule I have put above. This will be the schedule, AS OF NOW, that we will follow each day. When it says "Google Meet" you will have access to that teacher via Google Meet. Your teacher will provide you with the link to access that meeting and we hope to do a "trial run" sometime next week.

4. Teachers will also have office hours each day. What that will look like is uncertain, but that will be a time for you to have access to those teachers to ask questions, get assistance or clarification. In addition, your teachers will be doing flipped lesson of new instruction each week.

5. Friday is set aside for us to try and do some small group work, answer any lingering questions, or even just do a check in to make sure everyone is healthy physically and mentally.

All of this is new to us and we are going to do our best to provide each family with as authentic a classroom as we can. As we continue to receive new information we will be sure to update you all.

Take care, enjoy your (abbreviated) Track Out and we love and miss you all!

WCPSS Retrieval of Student Medications, Other Items April 1

Parents,

Due to the extended closure of all public schools, families who need to pick up a students' medication or any personal items may do so on Wednesday, April 1 between 12 and 3 p.m.

Parents will be required to follow the same medication administration guidelines that were in effect before schools were closed. Due to state and local health directives, please limit the visit to only the family member needed to pick up the medication or personal item and always practice safe social distancing by staying at least 6 feet apart from others. Do not come to the school to pick up items if you are sick. Call your school instead to discuss other arrangements.

Millbrook High School Digital Media Career Academy

Dear Rising High School Freshman and Sophomore Parent(s),

We hope you are getting excited for the transition from middle school to high school in a few short months. Soon you will be stepping through the doors of Millbrook High as the newest Wildcat! Don’t get us wrong, Millbrook can be a big place. However, we wanted to reach out to you beforehand and help make you aware of a program that you might consider.

Founded in 2014, the Millbrook Digital Media Career Academy strives to take a high school of 2400+ students and make it feel smaller. Within the smaller environment of the Career Academy you’ll experience an array of supports to make your high school journey more fulfilling. These supports include:

1. Smaller Class Sizes
2. A Cohort of Common Peers
3. Multiple field trips at each grade level
4. A curriculum focused on project based learning
5. Hands on activities as part of interpersonal development
6. Soft skills workshops not available to the general
7. Millbrook population
8. Annual opportunities to Showcase your work to the general public
9. Guaranteed participation in an Internship outside of Millbrook during the Senior Year
10. Access to industry credential exams in
11. Adobe programs for FREE

These cohorts take two classes together each year with other Academy students. This helps to create a collaborative learning environment as well as friendships with students who are going through the same events as you at the same time. Simply put the Academy creates a “family” approach to high school.

While the Academy is a four year program, participation does not exclude you from other programs at Millbrook (Band, Sports, etc). Many students participate in multiple programs each year. In addition, graduates from the Academy go on to enroll in two or four year colleges, join the armed forces, or enter the workforce.

Ready to be the next DMCA Rockstar? Complete the online application today at:

https://millbrookdmca.weebly.com/applications--surveys.html (Created by 2020 Senior Interns)

https://millbrookdmca.weebly.com/apply.html (Created by 2019 Senior Interns)

Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions you may have,

April L. Smith

Career Academy Coordinator

Email: asmith13@wcpss.netPhone: 919-850-8787 x 21420

Updated Info (Email sent out on 3/25)

Dear 8th Grade Families,

We hope this email finds all of our families in good health and good spirits. We wanted to give updates on WCPSS decisions, and also provide you with resources and timelines moving forward. First, all WCPSS schools are closed until at least May 15th. The most recent correspondence from our district can be found here.

Current state of DRMS: Teachers will continue to post practice/skill based lessons on their websites and/or Google Classroom until March 31st. At 3pm on March 31st we begin track out. During this time, we will not be providing resources on those sites, but if you want to have access to school related activities, you can visit this link from WCPSS.

Distance Learning for our students will begin on April 23, 2020. We are currently working on what a ‘typical’ distance learning day will look like. We will be sending out an update, with expectations, in mid April. In an effort to provide the necessary content, we need to gather information from our families. We need all families to fill out this form by Friday (if possible). Any students for whom we do not get a response will be contacted by phone. It is our goal to call each and every student in our homeroom later this week or by Tuesday at the latest. There are lots of questions about what this new learning format will look like. Please be patient with us as we work through the details. Face-to-Face instruction would be through Google Meet which is part of a student Google account through WCPSS.

Any students who have medications on campus will be allowed to pick them up on April 1st. The timeframe for that has not been established. We will send that out as soon as we receive it. Field trip refunds are still going to be given, however, the timeline and logistics are being ironed out. If you need any resources, please visit the WCPSS Covid-19 website for information on food sites, correspondence from the district and more.

We know there are probably more questions than answers right now. We ask that you all keep yourselves healthy; physically and mentally. Your teachers are very much missing you. This is all new territory for everyone...hang in there! We love you, and we look forward to catching up soon!

March 23-27

Please continue to check our personal web pages and Google Classroom for review assignments and updates regarding our class. We will continue to send out updates as we receive them from the county. We miss seeing our students daily and hope you all are staying safe.

March 16-20

Single Subject Acceleration (SSA):

The single subject acceleration (SSA) window is open from now until March 27. If you are interested in having you child tested to advance a full grade level in math or language arts please fill out a request form and return it to Mrs. Earnest. If you have any questions please email nearnest@wcpss.net.

https://www.wcpss.net/Page/3799

AIG / Single Subject Acceleration

Students meeting qualifying criteria in grades K‐7 can take advanced academic content in mathematics or English Language Arts through Single Subject Acceleration (SSA).

www.wcpss.net

From the PTA:

The fundraising period ends March 17. Click here for more information about Step it Up and how to set up your student's fundraising site if you haven't already done it, and to sign up to volunteer at our March 27 Day of Awesomeness celebration! In addition to the Day of Awesomeness, upcoming opportunities to donate items or volunteer time include 8th grade end-of-year activities in June, staff appreciation events in May, and a teacher luncheon in April right before we track back in. Stay tuned for more info on all of these!

Please keep those votes coming for Mr. Rene! Rene Rosas, our incredible custodian, has been nominated as a 2020 School Superhero. Nominees could win $10,000 for themselves and $10,000 for their school! Mr. Rene is so deserving of this award – please take a minute and vote. You can vote once per day, per device, until March 15.

Interested in getting more involved at school? If you would like to serve on the PTA board or one of our committees next year, please email durantroadmiddlepta@gmail.com for more information. Thanks as always for your support of DRMS!

Spring Dance:

A decision has been made to cancel the Family Academy and School Dances on Friday, March 13, 2020 due to precautionary measures. All students who have paid will receive a refund in the near future. Thank you for your understanding as our student's safety is always at the forefront of our decisions.

Message from Sanderson Athletic Club:

The Sanderson Athletic Club would like to invite rising Freshman parents and families new to Sanderson High School to a Sanderson Sports Meet & Greet. If you are interested in trying out for sports teams this is an opportunity to meet coaches, get summer/workout schedules, or learn tryout information. Athletic teams as well as Sports Medicine team will have representatives on hand to answer questions and greet potential athletes. The event is scheduled for May 20th from 6:30-8pm at Gregson Stadium. SAC will also have Sanderson Spirit wear on sale. Come out and learn about becoming a Spartan Student Athlete!.

March 9-13

Single Subject Acceleration (SSA):

The single subject acceleration (SSA) window is open from now until March 27. If you are interested in having you child tested to advance a full grade level in math or language arts please fill out a request form and return it to Mrs. Earnest. If you have any questions please email nearnest@wcpss.net.

https://www.wcpss.net/Page/3799

AIG / Single Subject Acceleration

Students meeting qualifying criteria in grades K‐7 can take advanced academic content in mathematics or English Language Arts through Single Subject Acceleration (SSA). www.wcpss.net

From the PTA:

We had a great fundraiser kickoff this week with Step it Up! Students had a great time at the kickoff assembly, won some cool prizes, and now have the opportunity to earn even more great rewards. The fundraising period ends March 17. Click here for more information about Step it Up and how to set up your student's fundraising site if you haven't already done it, and to sign up to volunteer at our March 27 Day of Awesomeness celebration!

In addition to the Day of Awesomeness, upcoming opportunities to donate items or volunteer time include 8th grade end-of-year activities in June, staff appreciation events in May, and a teacher luncheon in April right before we track back in. Stay tuned for more info on all of these!

Please keep those votes coming for Mr. Rene! Rene Rosas, our incredible custodian, has been nominated as a 2020 School Superhero. Nominees could win $10,000 for themselves and $10,000 for their school! Mr. Rene is so deserving of this award – please take a minute and vote. You can vote once per day, per device, until March 15.

Interested in getting more involved at school? If you would like to serve on the PTA board or one of our committees next year, please email durantroadmiddlepta@gmail.com for more information. Thanks as always for your support of DRMS!

Spring Dance:

Spring Dance-hosted by the Durant Road Middle School Performing Arts Boosters "The City Never Sleeps" at our spring dance which will take place on Friday, March 13 in the cafeteria. Sixth grade dance will be 3:45-5:15 and 7th & 8th grade dance will be from 6:00-7:30. Kona Ice, pizza, candy, and drinks will be sold. Dance tickets cost $5 and will go on sale during all lunches March 6-13. No tickets will be sold at the door. Students should bring signed dance permission slip and $5 to lunch on those days to get their ticket. See you there for a fun night!

The DRMS Parent & Family Academy on March 13, 2020 will host The Poe Center for a presentation addressing the growing concern of e-cigarettes and youth. Participants will explore adolescent brain development and effects of e-cigarette, risk factors for use, and the protective factors that help prevent use. A discussion on resources and strategies for increasing protective factors with our youth will leave attendees with tools for the next steps. RSVP at http://bit.ly/drmsrsvpspring20 or on the back of the dance permission slip.

Message from Sanderson Athletic Club:The Sanderson Athletic Club would like to invite rising Freshman parents and families new to Sanderson High School to a Sanderson Sports Meet & Greet. If you are interested in trying out for sports teams this is an opportunity to meet coaches, get summer/workout schedules, or learn tryout information. Athletic teams as well as Sports Medicine team will have representatives on hand to answer questions and greet potential athletes. The event is scheduled for May 20th from 6:30-8pm at Gregson Stadium. SAC will also have Sanderson Spirit wear on sale. Come out and learn about becoming a Spartan Student Athlete!

March 2-6

It's crazy to think we are already at the end of February and at the mid point of the 3rd Quarter already. Where has the time gone? Students brought home 3rd Quarter Progress/Interim reports today (Friday 2/28/20). Any missing assignments are due no later than Friday 3/6, after this date these assignments will remain a zero (0).

We have a busy week coming up. On Monday 3/2 we will have our kickoff assembly for our Spring Fundraiser (more information below). Wednesday we will be participating in the state wide severe weather drill and we also have our Cultural Arts Assembly. Thursday, students will be participating in the Reality of Money simulation. With all of these extra and exciting events taking place we really need our students to focus and commit to DRMS behaviors. Thanks in advance for your cooperation, and we look forward to a great week of learning with our students.

Here are a few important announcements for the coming week(s):

High School Registration:

High School registration forms were due to Mrs.Deen on Friday 2/28/20. If you have not completed your registration online AND/OR provided Mrs.Deen with your registration form please get this turned in ASAP. If you have questions regarding the registration process please contact Mrs.Deen.

Field Trip

Final/Full Payments were due on Friday 2/28/20. If you still owe a balance on the field trip please have that paid by Wednesday 3/4 at the latest. For a detailed itinerary of our trip click here. We will send home additional information regarding the field trip and what students need to bring with them in the coming weeks. Please be on the lookout for this.

Spring Dance-hosted by the Durant Road Middle School Performing Arts Boosters

"The City Never Sleeps" at our spring dance which will take place on Friday, March 13 in the cafeteria. Sixth grade dance will be 3:45-5:15 and 7th & 8th grade dance will be from 6:00-7:30. Kona Ice, pizza, candy, and drinks will be sold. Dance tickets cost $5 and will go on sale during all lunches March 6-13. No tickets will be sold at the door. Students should bring signed dance permission slip and $5 to lunch on those days to get their ticket. See you there for a fun night!

RSVP at http://bit.ly/drmsrsvpspring20

March 13 2020 Parent & Family Academy RSVP

The DRMS Parent & Family Academy on March 13, 2020 will host The Poe Center for a presentation addressing the the growing concern of e-cigarettes and youth. Participants will explore adolescent brain development and effects of e-cigarette, risk factors for use, and the protective factors that help prevent use. A discussion on resources and strategies for increasing protective factors with our youth will leave attendees with tools for the next steps.

http://bit.ly/drmsrsvpspring20

From the PTA:

We are excited to partner with Step it Up! for our spring fundraiser this year. Your students will bring home information on Monday about how they can win great prizes while supporting DRMS. Parent volunteers are crucial in making this fundraiser a success – click here to find out how you can help!

Volunteers are also still needed for the Reality of Money, an 8th-grade money management program on March 5. Please check out the Signup Genius and help if you can – especially in sessions 2 and 3.

Our outstanding custodian, Mr. Rene Rosas, has been nominated as a 2020 School Superhero. Superhero nominees who get the most votes can win $10,000 for themselves and $10,000 for their school! Mr. Rene is so deserving of this award – please take a minute and vote. You can vote once per day, per device, until March 15.

Our PTA is a great group of volunteers and we’d love your help! If you would like to serve on the PTA board or one of our committees next year, please email durantroadmiddlepta@gmail.com for more information – thanks as always for your support of DRMS!

February 24-28

Field Trip Update:

The final deadline for payments and permission slips is Friday Feb 28, 2020. If there are any students still interested in going who have not paid yet you can still reserve a spot on the trip as long as you pay the $100 on or before 2/28/20.

High School Registration Folders

All students were given a folder that contains all of the necessary information for students to register for their high school courses. Students must return their completed registration sheets to Mrs.Deen no later then Friday Feb 28, 2020.

Spring Dance-hosted by the Durant Road Middle School Performing Arts Boosters

"The City Never Sleeps" at our spring dance which will take place on Friday, March 13 in the cafeteria. Sixth grade dance will be 3:45-5:15 and 7th & 8th grade dance will be from 6:00-7:30. Kona Ice, pizza, candy, and drinks will be sold. Dance tickets cost $5 and will go on sale during all lunches March 9-13. No tickets will be sold at the door. Students should bring signed dance permission slip and $5 to lunch on those days to get their ticket. See you there for a fun night!

The DRMS Parent & Family Academy on March 13, 2020 will host The Poe Center for a presentation addressing the growing concern of e-cigarettes and youth. Participants will explore adolescent brain development and effects of e-cigarette, risk factors for use, and the protective factors that help prevent use. A discussion on resources and strategies for increasing protective factors with our youth will leave attendees with tools for the next steps. RSVP at http://bit.ly/drmsrsvpspring20 or on the back of the dance permission slip.

March 13 2020 Parent & Family Academy RSVP

The DRMS Parent & Family Academy on March 13, 2020 will host The Poe Center for a presentation addressing the the growing concern of e-cigarettes and youth. Participants will explore adolescent brain development and effects of e-cigarette, risk factors for use, and the protective factors that help prevent use. A discussion on resources and strategies for increasing protective factors with our youth will leave attendees with tools for the next steps.

Volunteers Needed!!

As part of our College & Career Ready Days, our 8th graders will be participating in The Reality of Money on Thursday, March 5. Reality of Money is a financial simulation that is sponsored by SECU. This event provides students an opportunity to make financial decisions about paying for housing, transportation, and other monthly expenses as they are "transformed" into young adults with jobs and other responsibilities to manage. Students are exposed to various financial learning points such as the value of furthering their education, the importance of saving, the limiting effect of bad credit, and "living within their means".

In order for this event to be successful, we need volunteers. Volunteers will be provided with training and all materials upon arrival for the event. No experience is required. Parents, grandparents, business community-all are welcome to volunteer. Please go to the following link to sign up:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/805054DAAA72B0-signup1

From the PTA:

It’s already time to start planning for the 8th grade picnic and dance! The dance is Friday, June 12, and the picnic is Monday, June 29. More information on these activities will be sent home in the coming weeks. Please email durantroadmiddlepta@gmail.com if you'd like to help with planning or to volunteer at either event. As always, please don’t hesitate to email durantroadmiddlepta@gmail.com with questions or concerns, and thanks so much for your support of DRMS!

February 17-21

Reminder No School on Monday 2/17, we will see you on Tuesday 2/18.

Field Trip Update:

The final deadline for payments and permission slips is Feb 28, 2020. Students who have turned in a payment or permission slip received a letter attached to their report card with updated balance information, and whether or not we have their permission slip on file. If there are any students still interested in going who have not paid yet you can still reserve a spot on the trip as long as you pay the $100 on or before 2/28/20.

Yearbook:

If missed the February 13th deadline, but you'd like to purchase a celebration ad for your 8th Grade student, you can pay online at the link listed below, and send your message and up to 4 photos of your student to Mrs. Caroline Bardill at cbardill@wcpss.net.

Payments and submissions must be sent by March 6th! If you purchased and submitted electronically through Josten's before February 13th, this will not change your submission!

https://www.jostens.com/apps/jcom/router.mvc?affiliateId=1542971

Spring Pictures

Spring Pictures will be taken on Thursday 2/20. Flyers and information were sent home with students the week of 2/3. Only those students who prepay for pictures will have their picture taken. If you need additional information please ask your child's homeroom teacher.

Volunteers Needed!!

As part of our College & Career Ready Days, our 8th graders will be participating in The Reality of Money on Thursday, March 5. Reality of Money is a financial simulation that is sponsored by SECU. This event provides students an opportunity to make financial decisions about paying for housing, transportation, and other monthly expenses as they are "transformed" into young adults with jobs and other responsibilities to manage. Students are exposed to various financial learning points such as the value of furthering their education, the importance of saving, the limiting effect of bad credit, and "living within their means".

In order for this event to be successful, we need volunteers. Volunteers will be provided with training and all materials upon arrival for the event. No experience is required. Parents, grandparents, business community-all are welcome to volunteer. Please go to the following link to sign up:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/805054DAAA72B0-signup1

DRMS Science Night:

DRMS Science Curriculum Night is February 20th @ 5pm. Morehead Planetarium will be setting up their mobile site in our gym for all to enjoy! Come join us to learn about what students learn in science! (See attached flyer to this email)

From the PTA:

It’s already time to start planning for the 8th grade picnic and dance! The dance is Friday, June 12, and the picnic is Monday, June 29. More information on these activities will be sent home in the coming weeks. Please email durantroadmiddlepta@gmail.com if you'd like to help with planning or to volunteer at either event. As always, please don’t hesitate to email durantroadmiddlepta@gmail.com with questions or concerns, and thanks so much for your support of DRMS!

Thank you to everyone who participated in our City BBQ Spirit Night last week! Thanks to your support, our school will receive nearly $130 from City BBQ to help support school events, cultural arts, staff appreciation and other PTA activities. Bus Driver Appreciation Week was this week and the PTA enjoyed treating our bus drivers and thanking them for what they do every day!

DRMS is in need of volunteers March 5 for The Reality of Money, a financial simulation for 8th-grade students sponsored by SECU. Students will have an opportunity to make financial decisions about paying for housing, transportation, and other monthly expenses as they are “transformed” into young adults with jobs and other responsibilities to manage. Volunteers will be provided with training and all materials upon arrival for the event, and no experience is required. Parents, grandparents, business community – all are welcome to volunteer. Please follow this link to sign up: Sign-Up to Volunteer for Reality of Money Career Event-March 5.

February 10-14

Benchmark Testing:

Over the past two weeks students have been taking some benchmark tests. Teachers use this information to drive instruction and help create our SMART Block groups. These scores will be posted in PowerSchools but do not count towards the student's final grades. If your child has not completed these benchmark exams we will be working with them on Monday and Tuesday to get these made up.

From the PTA:

It’s already time to start planning for the 8th grade picnic and dance! The dance is Friday, June 12, and the picnic is Monday, June 29. More information on these activities will be sent home in the coming weeks. Please email durantroadmiddlepta@gmail.com if you'd like to help with planning or to volunteer at either event. As always, please don’t hesitate to email durantroadmiddlepta@gmail.com with questions or concerns, and thanks so much for your support of DRMS!

The DRMS PTA will be selling Valentine's during arrival at the top of each hallway for $1 as a PTA fundraiser. Sales will take place starting Wednesday, February 5, 2020 and run through Wednesday, February 12, 2020. Students and staff will have an opportunity to write a message to a friend, peer, colleague, etc. at the time of purchase. The message will be attached to a heart sucker and be handed out in homeroom on Friday, February 14, 2020.

Our NCFC “Reading Goals” literacy challenge comes to a close next Friday, Feb. 14. Student reading logs were sent home in December but you can get another copy here. Students who read at least 250 minutes or more can earn free tickets to an NCFC or NC Courage soccer game, and the classroom that earns the most minutes could get a professional soccer player to come visit their grade level! Thanks as always for supporting DRMS!

High School Registration:

Mrs.Deen will be in our SS classes on Wednesday Feb 19th to begin the process of high school registration. Please continue to check the High School Registration tab on our website for updated information. We will continue to update this site with any information we receive from the various high schools.

Millbrook High School will be here on Thursday 2/13 during SMART Block for a presentation for rising freshman. If your child is assigned to go to Millbrook or interested in attending Millbrook AND applied as a Magnet option please have them let Mr.Dunton know their interest in attending this meeting. Only the students who have expressed interest to Mr.Dunton by Wednesday 2/12 will be invited to this information session on Thursday 2/13.

Field Trip Update:

The final deadline for payments and permission slips is Feb 28, 2020. Students who have turned in a payment or permission slip received a letter attached to their report card with updated balance information, and whether or not we have their permission slip on file. If there are any students still interested in going who have not paid yet you can still reserve a spot on the trip as long as you pay the $100 on or before 2/28/20.

February 3-7

Report Cards:

2nd Quarter Report Cards were sent home Friday 1/31/20 with students. Please be sure to review these with your students and continue to have discussions surrounding their progress. There are a few items attached to the report cards including the policy regarding eligibility for after school activities. Please view the English version of the policy here. Please view the Spanish version of the policy here.

From the PTA:

Our next Spirit Night is Wednesday, Feb. 5 at City BBQ and it lasts all day long! Between 10:30 am to 9pm, 25% of all sales to DRMS friends and families will go toward supporting our school. A flyer is coming home this week and a digital flyer is attached here – you’ll need to show the printed flyer or digital image on your phone for DRMS to get credit for the sale.

It’s already time to start planning for the 8th grade picnic and dance! The dance is Friday, June 12, and the picnic is Monday, June 29. More information on these activities will be sent home in the coming weeks. Please email durantroadmiddlepta@gmail.com if you'd like to help with planning or to volunteer at either event. As always, please don’t hesitate to email durantroadmiddlepta@gmail.com with questions or concerns, and thanks so much for your support of DRMS!

High School Registration:

Mrs.Deen will be in our SS classes on Wednesday Feb 19th to begin the process of high school registration. Please continue to check the high school registration tab on our website for updated information. We will continue to update this site with any information we receive from the various high schools.

Field Trip Update:

The final deadline for payments and permission slips is Feb 28, 2020. Students who have turned in a payment or permission slip received a letter attached to their report card with updated balance information and whether or not we have their permission slip on file. If there are any students still interested in going who have not paid yet you can still reserve a spot on the trip as long as you pay the $100 on or before 2/28/20.

January 27-31

Welcome back and Happy New Year! We are excited for the 2nd semester with our students and all that comes with that including registering for high school. Speaking of registering for high school, be sure to check out the High School Registration Tab on this site for the most up to date information as we receive it from the various high schools.

December 16-20

It's hard to believe we are down to the last week of the first semester. We would like to take this time to wish all of our families a happy, safe, and enjoyable holiday season. Please take time over the break to relax and re energize for the second semester. Please see below for some important announcements.

High School Information Session:

DRMS will host a High School Information session on December 17th, 2019 @ 5:30 for parents of rising 9th grade students. This session will include general information about the registration process. Parents are strongly encouraged to attend high school open houses for specific questions about courses, schedules, athletics etc as some of these differ from school to school.

Only Magnet and Early College Applications are going on at this time. All other HS registrations will take place in the third quarter (February/Mar​ch) and all students will register for their base or magnet high school (if accepted).

Field Trip:

Payment 1 for our OBX trip was due on Friday November 1st. The cost of the trip is $100. Students can pay using installments. The first payment would be $35. The second payment for the trip is due prior to track out on Friday December 20th. If you are still interested in going please pay a minimum of $35 prior to the 2nd payment so we can get a more accurate count of those who plan on attending our field trip.

After School Activities Eligibility:

Students should have brought home with them a letter from the Administrative team regarding DRMS new policy for after school activities attendance. For a look at the policy please click here.

From the PTA:

Our literacy challenge with NCFC and the NC Courage soccer teams kicked off this week. Your student should have brought home a sheet to track their reading time – but if not, it’s posted here. Students can win free tickets to a soccer game for participating, and those who reach their top reading goals will be eligible for a drawing to win a free Kindle e-reader!

You can now order DRMS Spirit Wear online. Please place online orders by Tuesday, Dec. 17, if you want to receive your Spirit Wear in time for the holidays.

Speaking of holiday shopping, don’t forget you can support our school while you shop with Amazon Smile. Just visit smile.amazon.com and select PTA North Carolina Congress Durant Road Middle School PTA.

Holiday cookie boxes for our staff is a wonderful DRMS tradition, and we’d love your help. Treat boxes will be delivered to staff on Dec. 18. Please sign up here if you would like to bake or buy treats, or to help assemble or deliver. Thank you for helping to spread holiday cheer!

Our next PTA board meeting is at 8:30am Dec. 18 in the learning commons. All are welcome!

December 9-13

Literacy Night:

The DRMS Language Arts Department is hosting Literacy night on Tuesday December 10th. For more information regarding this opportunity click here. We hope to see many of our Spinner Dolphin Families there.

High School Information Session:

DRMS will host a High School Information session on December 17th, 2019 @ 5:30 for parents of rising 9th grade students. This session will include general information about the registration process. Parents are strongly encouraged to attend high school open houses for specific questions about courses, schedules, athletics etc as some of these differ from school to school.

For additional information click on the flyer(s) below:

High School Registration Information Session

High School Registration Information Session (Spanish Version)

Only Magnet and Early College Applications are going on at this time. All other HS registrations will take place in the third quarter (February/Mar​ch) and all students will register for their base or magnet high school (if accepted).

After School Activities Eligibility:

Students should have brought home with them a letter from the Administrative team regarding DRMS new policy for after school activities attendance. For a look at the policy please click here.

Field Trip:

Payment 1 for our OBX trip was due on Friday November 1st. The cost of the trip is $100. Students can pay using installments. The first payment would be $35. The second payment for the trip is due prior to track out on Friday December 20th. If you are still interested in going please pay a minimum of $35 prior to the 2nd payment so we can get a more accurate count of those who plan on attending our field trip.

From the PTA:

Thanks to your generous donations, we collected more than 70 coats and other items during our Winter Wonderland drive. They were delivered this week to InterAct Wake County for children in their domestic violence shelters, and to Note in the Pocket to distribute to local families. Thank you for helping kids and families stay warm this winter!

Our book fair is next week and we have evening hours twice: from 5-8pm Tuesday, Dec. 10, as part of ELA Night and our literacy challenge kickoff, and 4:30-9pm Thursday, Dec. 12, in connection with our home basketball games and winter band concert. Please come by to browse for books and enjoy cookies and cocoa.

Please join us in treating our staff to holiday cookie boxes! You can click here to sign up to bake or buy goodies, or to help with assembly or delivery Dec. 18. We’d love your help spreading holiday cheer and showing the DRMS staff how much we appreciate them!

Just in time for holiday shopping, our Spirit Wear store is now online – click here to go to our online store and check out our new items.

December 2-7

Literacy Night:

The DRMS Language Arts Department is hosting Literacy night on Tuesday December 10th. For more information regarding this opportunity click here. We hope to see many of our Spinner Dolphin Families there.

High School Information Session:

DRMS will host a High School Information session on December 17th, 2019 @ 5:30 for parents of rising 9th grade students. This session will include general information about the registration process. Parents are strongly encouraged to attend high school open houses for specific questions about courses, schedules, athletics etc as some of these differ from school to school.

Only Magnet and Early College Applications are going on at this time. All other HS registrations will take place in the third quarter (February/Mar​ch) and all students will register for their base or magnet high school (if accepted).

After School Activities Eligibility:

Students should have brought home with them a letter from the Administrative team regarding DRMS new policy for after school activities attendance. For a look at the policy please click here.

DreamBox:

Driven by Intelligent Adaptive Learning™ technology, DreamBox adapts to students’ actions to meet them at the right level–with personalized instruction that promotes student decision making and strategy development. An engaging, game-like environment motivates students to persist, progress, and achieve success. The expectation on the 8th grade hall is for each student to complete at least 4 lessons/week, with 6-8 being ideal. Students can complete their DreamBox lessons during Smart Block on team or by attending the DreamBox lab. Students can also work on these lessons at home if need be. Any students who do not complete at least 4 lessons/week will be back on team during lunch to complete these lessons. We encourage all students to ensure they are completing their DreamBox lessons.

Field Trip:

Payment 1 for our OBX trip was due on Friday November 1st. The cost of the trip is $100. Students can pay using installments. The first payment would be $35. The second payment for the trip is due prior to track out on Friday December 20th. If you are still interested in going please pay a minimum of $35 prior to the 2nd payment so we can get a more accurate count of those who plan on attending our field trip.

From the PTA:

Please keep sending in those Winter Wonderland coat drive donations! While we continue to accept all sizes, we have received some specific requests for LARGE OR ADULT-SIZED COATS for males and females. Please keep those sizes in mind when cleaning out your closets and/or checking out those great holiday sales. Our donation bin will remain near the front office until our Thanksgiving break. We're so grateful for your support and generosity!

Next month will be a busy one - our book fair runs Dec. 9-13, our literacy challenge with NCFC and the North Carolina Courage soccer teams will kick off Dec. 10, and we will be assembling and delivering holiday treat boxes Dec. 18 to all our wonderful teachers and staff. Details on all of these events are coming soon.

As always, please email durantroadmiddlepta@gmail.com with any questions or concerns, and thank you for supporting DRMS!

November 18-22

Student Led Conferences:

DRMS will be hosting Student Led Conferences on Thursday, November 21, from 3:30-6:30 p.m. These conferences will allow students and parents/guardians to reflect upon and discuss individual student’s progress and make a plan on how to continue their success, or improve in some areas where they may need a little extra support. Teachers will be available to answer any questions students and/or parents/guardians have as it pertains to the student’s class grades.

If you would like for your student to remain at DRMS until your conference time, please be sure to indicate this when you are signing up. Students who remain on campus will be supervised in study hall until their parents/guardians arrive for their designated conference time.

If you plan on attending Student Led Conferences please, sign up by clicking on this link.

Families may purchase dinner at the food trucks that will be on campus from 4-6:30 p.m.

We look forward to seeing as many families as possible to discuss our students’ academic progress. Please feel free to notify us if you have any questions or concerns. Thank you for your continued support as we prepare our students for future success.

High School Information Session:

DRMS will host a High School Information session on December 17th, 2019 @ 5:30 for parents of rising 9th grade students. This session will include general information about the registration process. Parents are strongly encouraged to attend high school open houses for specific questions about courses, schedules, athletics etc as some of these differ from school to school.

Only Magnet and Early College Applications are going on at this time. All other HS registrations will take place in the third quarter (February/Mar​ch) and all students will register for their base or magnet high school (if accepted).

Duke Football Tickets:

Please read the below message from Duke Football:

With many of our Duke Students leaving campus and heading home for Thanksgiving, Duke Football is looking for fill our student section with local students and their families for the November 30th game vs. Miami (Time TBD) at Brooks Field at Wallace Wade Stadium. This is a great opportunity for our area community to visit campus and watch a great football game.

We are offering all area students a FREE ticket to the game. Their families and friends can also purchase significantly discounted tickets for only $14. Parking is also free for all fans in our general public lots.

All the students and their families have to do is visit www.GoDuke.com/BeAStudent to register.

DreamBox:

Driven by Intelligent Adaptive Learning™ technology, DreamBox adapts to students’ actions to meet them at the right level–with personalized instruction that promotes student decision making and strategy development. An engaging, game-like environment motivates students to persist, progress, and achieve success. The expectation on the 8th grade hall is for each student to complete at least 4 lessons/week, with 6-8 being ideal. Students can complete their DreamBox lessons during Smart Block on team or by attending the DreamBox lab. Students can also work on these lessons at home if need be. Any students who do not complete at least 4 lessons/week will be back on team during lunch to complete these lessons. We encourage all students to ensure they are completing their DreamBox lessons.

Field Trip:

Payment 1 for our OBX trip was due on Friday November 1st. The cost of the trip is $100. Students can pay using installments. The first payment would be $35. The second payment for the trip is due prior to track out on Friday December 20th. If you are still interested in going please pay a minimum of $35 prior to the 2nd payment so we can get a more accurate count of those who plan on attending our field trip.

From the PE Department:

The Carolina Hurricanes have teamed up with Wake County again for their Power Play program. For middle schools, this program is to encourage students to lead a physically active lifestyle outside of school. The Carolina Hurricanes are challenging students to log their physical activity hours, with a goal of reaching 60 minutes a day. The students will log in their active minutes in the Power Play app in their Wake ID portal. This Power Play program runs from October 14-November 22. The Carolina Hurricanes will reward any student who achieves a minimum of 1200 logged active minutes with 2 free Hurricanes tickets! The Carolina Hurricanes will also reward the school with the highest percentage of students reaching the 1200 active minutes with a Carolina Hurricanes Field Day at their school in the spring! Let's get up and get moving! If you have any questions, please see a healthful living teacher.

From the PTA:

Our Winter Wonderland coat drive is under way. We are collecting any clean, new or gently used coats, gloves, etc. to help local children and families stay warm this winter. A donation bin is available by the front office until Thanksgiving break. We appreciate your help in making this community service project a school wide success!

November 11-16

We wish all of our students and their families an enjoyable long weekend. To any of our Veteran's we want to take a moment to "Thank You" for your service. We are thankful for all that you did to serve our country with honor. We will see all of our students on Tuesday morning, and please remember that we have Saturday school on Saturday November 16th.

Duke Football Tickets:

Please read the below message from Duke Football:

With many of our Duke Students leaving campus and heading home for Thanksgiving, Duke Football is looking for fill our student section with local students and their families for the November 30th game vs. Miami (Time TBD) at Brooks Field at Wallace Wade Stadium. This is a great opportunity for our area community to visit campus and watch a great football game.

We are offering all area students a FREE ticket to the game. Their families and friends can also purchase significantly discounted tickets for only $14. Parking is also free for all fans in our general public lots.

All the students and their families have to do is visit www.GoDuke.com/BeAStudent to register.

DreamBox:

Driven by Intelligent Adaptive Learning™ technology, DreamBox adapts to students’ actions to meet them at the right level–with personalized instruction that promotes student decision making and strategy development. An engaging, game-like environment motivates students to persist, progress, and achieve success. The expectation on the 8th grade hall is for each student to complete at least 4 lessons/week, with 6-8 being ideal. Students can complete their DreamBox lessons during Smart Block on team or by attending the DreamBox lab. Students can also work on these lessons at home if need be. Any students who do not complete at least 4 lessons/week will be back on team during lunch to complete these lessons. We encourage all students to ensure they are completing their DreamBox lessons.

Field Trip:

Payment 1 for our OBX trip was due on Friday November 1st. The cost of the trip is $100. Students can pay using installments. The first payment would be $35. The second payment for the trip is due prior to track out on Friday December 20th. If you are still interested in going please pay a minimum of $35 prior to the 2nd payment so we can get a more accurate count of those who plan on attending our field trip.

Student Led Conferences:

DRMS will be hosting Student Led Conferences on Thursday, November 21, from 3:30-6:30 p.m. These conferences will allow students and parents/guardians to reflect upon and discuss individual student’s progress and make a plan on how to continue their success, or improve in some areas where they may need a little extra support. Teachers will be available to answer any questions students and/or parents/guardians have as it pertains to the student’s class grades.

If you would like for your student to remain at DRMS until your conference time, please be sure to indicate this when you are signing up. Students who remain on campus will be supervised in study hall until their parents/guardians arrive for their designated conference time.

If you plan on attending Student Led Conferences please, sign up by clicking on this link.

Families may purchase dinner at the food trucks that will be on campus from 4-6:30 p.m.

We look forward to seeing as many families as possible to discuss our students’ academic progress. Please feel free to notify us if you have any questions or concerns. Thank you for your continued support as we prepare our students for future success.

From the PE Department:

The Carolina Hurricanes have teamed up with Wake County again for their Power Play program. For middle schools, this program is to encourage students to lead a physically active lifestyle outside of school. The Carolina Hurricanes are challenging students to log their physical activity hours, with a goal of reaching 60 minutes a day. The students will log in their active minutes in the Power Play app in their Wake ID portal. This Power Play program runs from October 14-November 22. The Carolina Hurricanes will reward any student who achieves a minimum of 1200 logged active minutes with 2 free Hurricanes tickets! The Carolina Hurricanes will also reward the school with the highest percentage of students reaching the 1200 active minutes with a Carolina Hurricanes Field Day at their school in the spring! Let's get up and get moving! If you have any questions, please see a healthful living teacher.

From the PTA:

Our Winter Wonderland coat drive is under way. We are collecting any clean, new or gently used coats, gloves, etc. to help local children and families stay warm this winter. A donation bin is available by the front office until Thanksgiving break. We appreciate your help in making this community service project a school wide success!

Durant is in a super-close race for a $1,000 grant from People's Bank, and your vote could help us win! The middle school with the most votes will receive the grant. It's so easy to vote and no sign-ups are required - simply take a second to click on the link and scroll down to vote for DRMS. You can vote once per day, per device, through the end of the day this Friday, Nov. 8. Thank you for your support! https://peoplesbanknc.shortstack.com/0V0F0K

As always, please email durantroadmiddlepta@gmail.com with any questions or concerns, and thanks for supporting DRMS!

High School Registration Information:

The Early College and Magnet application period is open from now until December 15th. If you are interested in attending any of the WCPSS Early Colleges or Magnet High Schools please be sure to pay attention to deadlines and dates. Many of these schools are currently hosting open houses and tours. Be sure to be checking the High School Registration tab on our website or by clicking here.

November 4-8

DreamBox:

Driven by Intelligent Adaptive Learning™ technology, DreamBox adapts to students’ actions to meet them at the right level–with personalized instruction that promotes student decision making and strategy development. An engaging, game-like environment motivates students to persist, progress, and achieve success. The expectation on the 8th grade hall is for each student to complete at least 4 lessons/week, with 6-8 being ideal. Students can complete their DreamBox lessons during Smart Block on team or by attending the DreamBox lab. Students can also work on these lessons at home if need be. Any students who do not complete at least 4 lessons/week will be back on team during lunch to complete these lessons. We encourage all students to ensure they are completing their DreamBox lessons.

Field Trip:

Payment 1 for our OBX trip was due on Friday November 1st. The cost of the trip is $100. Students can pay using installments. The first payment would be $35. The second payment for the trip is due prior to track out on Friday December 20th. If you are still interested in going please pay a minimum of $35 prior to the 2nd payment so we can get a more accurate count of those who plan on attending our field trip.

Student Led Conferences:

DRMS will be hosting Student Led Conferences on Thursday, November 21, from 3:30-6:30 p.m. These conferences will allow students and parents/guardians to reflect upon and discuss individual student’s progress and make a plan on how to continue their success, or improve in some areas where they may need a little extra support. Teachers will be available to answer any questions students and/or parents/guardians have as it pertains to the student’s class grades.

If you would like for your student to remain at DRMS until your conference time, please be sure to indicate this when you are signing up. Students who remain on campus will be supervised in study hall until their parents/guardians arrive for their designated conference time.

If you plan on attending Student Led Conferences please, sign up by clicking on this link.

Families may purchase dinner at the food trucks that will be on campus from 4-6:30 p.m.

We look forward to seeing as many families as possible to discuss our students’ academic progress. Please feel free to notify us if you have any questions or concerns. Thank you for your continued support as we prepare our students for future success.

Spirit Week:

Monday 11/4: 'Merica Monday – Come to school dressed in your red, white and blue!

Tuesday 11/5: Teal and Black Tuesday – Come to school dressed in your TEAL and BLACK to show support for your Durant Dolphins at the pep rally and volleyball/soccer games!

Wednesday 11/6: White Out Wednesday – Come to school dressed in WHITE to show your support for your Durant football team at their home game vs. Pine Hollow!

Thursday 11/7: Tacky Tourist Thursday- Come to school dressed in your favorite tacky tourist gear!

Friday 11/8: Sports Fan Friday – Come to school dressed in your favorite sports team apparel!

From the PE Department:

The Carolina Hurricanes have teamed up with Wake County again for their Power Play program. For middle schools, this program is to encourage students to lead a physically active lifestyle outside of school. The Carolina Hurricanes are challenging students to log their physical activity hours, with a goal of reaching 60 minutes a day. The students will log in their active minutes in the Power Play app in their Wake ID portal. This Power Play program runs from October 14-November 22. The Carolina Hurricanes will reward any student who achieves a minimum of 1200 logged active minutes with 2 free Hurricanes tickets! The Carolina Hurricanes will also reward the school with the highest percentage of students reaching the 1200 active minutes with a Carolina Hurricanes Field Day at their school in the spring! Let's get up and get moving! If you have any questions, please see a healthful living teacher.

Dance and Family Academy:

Our Athletic Booster Club is sponsoring a fall themed dance which will take place on Friday, November 8 from 6-8pm in the cafeteria. Pizza, concessions, and Kona Ice will be sold. Along with the school dance, a family academy will be taking place in the Learning Commons for parents/guardians/family members to learn about social media and how to keep their students safe.

For additional information regarding Family Academy click here.

For an additional copy of the dance permission slip click here.

High School Registration Information:

The Early College and Magnet application period is open from now until December 15th. If you are interested in attending any of the WCPSS Early Colleges or Magnet High Schools please be sure to pay attention to deadlines and dates. Many of these schools are currently hosting open houses and tours. Be sure to be checking the High School Registration tab on our website or by clicking here.

October 28-November 1

Report Cards:

1st Quarter Report Cards were sent home with students today (Fri 10/25). Please sign the cover sheet and return to your child's homeroom teacher.

Field Trip:

Payment 1 for our OBX trip is due on Friday November 1st. The cost of the trip is $100. Students can pay using installments. The first payment would be $35.

Student Led Conferences:

DRMS will be hosting Student Led Conferences on Thursday, November 21, from 3:30-6:30 p.m. These conferences will allow students and parents/guardians to reflect upon and discuss individual student’s progress and make a plan on how to continue their success, or improve in some areas where they may need a little extra support. Teachers will be available to answer any questions students and/or parents/guardians have as it pertains to the student’s class grades.

If you would like for your student to remain at DRMS until your conference time, please be sure to indicate this when you are signing up. Students who remain on campus will be supervised in study hall until their parents/guardians arrive for their designated conference time.

If you plan on attending Student Led Conferences please, sign up by clicking on this link.

Families may purchase dinner at the food trucks that will be on campus from 4-6:30 p.m.

We look forward to seeing as many families as possible to discuss our students’ academic progress. Please feel free to notify us if you have any questions or concerns. Thank you for your continued support as we prepare our students for future success.

DreamBox:

Driven by Intelligent Adaptive Learning™ technology, DreamBox adapts to students’ actions to meet them at the right level–with personalized instruction that promotes student decision making and strategy development. An engaging, game-like environment motivates students to persist, progress, and achieve success. The expectation on the 8th grade hall is for each student to complete at least 4 lessons/week, with 6-8 being ideal. Students can complete their DreamBox lessons during Smart Block on team or by attending the DreamBox lab. Students can also work on these lessons at home if need be. Any students who do not complete at least 4 lessons/week will be back on team during lunch to complete these lessons. We encourage all students to ensure they are completing their DreamBox lessons.

Spirit Week:

Monday 11/4: 'Merica Monday – Come to school dressed in your red, white and blue!

Tuesday 11/5: Teal and Black Tuesday – Come to school dressed in your TEAL and BLACK to show support for your Durant Dolphins at the pep rally and volleyball/soccer games!

Wednesday 11/6: White Out Wednesday – Come to school dressed in WHITE to show your support for your Durant football team at their home game vs. Pine Hollow!

Thursday 11/7: Tacky Tourist Thursday- Come to school dressed in your favorite tacky tourist gear!

Friday 11/8: Sports Fan Friday – Come to school dressed in your favorite sports team apparel!

From the PE Department:

The Carolina Hurricanes have teamed up with Wake County again for their Power Play program. For middle schools, this program is to encourage students to lead a physically active lifestyle outside of school. The Carolina Hurricanes are challenging students to log their physical activity hours, with a goal of reaching 60 minutes a day. The students will log in their active minutes in the Power Play app in their Wake ID portal. This Power Play program runs from October 14-November 22. The Carolina Hurricanes will reward any student who achieves a minimum of 1200 logged active minutes with 2 free Hurricanes tickets! The Carolina Hurricanes will also reward the school with the highest percentage of students reaching the 1200 active minutes with a Carolina Hurricanes Field Day at their school in the spring! Let's get up and get moving! If you have any questions, please see a healthful living teacher.

Dance and Family Academy:

Our Athletic Booster Club is sponsoring a fall themed dance which will take place on Friday, November 8 from 6-8pm in the cafeteria. Pizza, concessions, and Kona Ice will be sold. Along with the school dance, a family academy will be taking place in the Learning Commons for parents/guardians/family members to learn about social media and how to keep their students safe.

For additional information regarding Family Academy click here.

For an additional copy of the dance permission slip click here.

High School Registration Information:

The Early College and Magnet application period is open from now until December 15th. If you are interested in attending any of the WCPSS Early Colleges or Magnet High Schools please be sure to pay attention to deadlines and dates. Many of these schools are currently hosting open houses and tours. Be sure to be checking the High School Registration tab on our website or by clicking here.

October 22-25

Student Led Conferences:

DRMS will be hosting Student Led Conferences on Thursday, November 21, from 3:30-6:30 p.m. These conferences will allow students and parents/guardians to reflect upon and discuss individual student’s progress and make a plan on how to continue their success, or improve in some areas where they may need a little extra support. Teachers will be available to answer any questions students and/or parents/guardians have as it pertains to the student’s class grades.

If you would like for your student to remain at DRMS until your conference time, please be sure to indicate this when you are signing up. Students who remain on campus will be supervised in study hall until their parents/guardians arrive for their designated conference time.

If you plan on attending Student Led Conferences please, sign up by clicking on this link.

Families may purchase dinner at the food trucks that will be on campus from 4-6:30 p.m.

We look forward to seeing as many families as possible to discuss our students’ academic progress. Please feel free to notify us if you have any questions or concerns. Thank you for your continued support as we prepare our students for future success.

From the PE Department:

The Carolina Hurricanes have teamed up with Wake County again for their Power Play program. For middle schools, this program is to encourage students to lead a physically active lifestyle outside of school. The Carolina Hurricanes are challenging students to log their physical activity hours, with a goal of reaching 60 minutes a day. The students will log in their active minutes in the Power Play app in their Wake ID portal. This Power Play program runs from October 14-November 22. The Carolina Hurricanes will reward any student who achieves a minimum of 1200 logged active minutes with 2 free Hurricanes tickets! The Carolina Hurricanes will also reward the school with the highest percentage of students reaching the 1200 active minutes with a Carolina Hurricanes Field Day at their school in the spring! Let's get up and get moving! If you have any questions, please see a healthful living teacher.

Dance and Family Academy:

Our Athletic Booster Club is sponsoring a fall themed dance which will take place on Friday, November 8 from 6-8pm in the cafeteria. Pizza, concessions, and Kona Ice will be sold. Along with the school dance, a family academy will be taking place in the Learning Commons for parents/guardians/family members to learn about social media and how to keep their students safe.

September 23-27

It's hard to believe that we are already at the end of the 1st Quarter, where has the time gone? Let us have a strong commitment to finishing the 1st Quarter strong. Students should have all missing/late assignments turned in prior to tracking out. They have been reminded of this in all of their classes and should be checking PowerSchools to make sure they are aware of what they need to get finished. We will be finalizing grades over Track Out and have to submit our final grades no later than Monday 10/21 so students will not have time over the break to complete any late work.

Please continue to check student agendas as each week they are reflecting on their week at school and completing a weekly reflection. This is a great opportunity to have some meaningful dialogue with students and inquire as to what is going on at school and in their classes.

Here are a few announcements that are most important for the upcoming week.

Makeup Pictures:

We will take make-up Fall Pictures on Wednesday, September 25th. Only students who were absent on the original picture date or who enrolled after August 27th will need to have pictures taken.

From the PTA:

Thanks to all the families who participated in our Spirit Night on Tuesday with Manhattan Pizza! We raised more than $200 for our school thanks to your orders!!

Here are some upcoming events and volunteer sign-ups you may find of interest:

Saturday, 9/21, 9am-noon: School Beautification Saturday. We'd love to see some DRMS students and families on Saturday morning! It will be a beautiful day to spend time outside beautifying our school. We could really use some helping hands so please sign up if you are able to come, for any period of time. Having an idea of a headcount will help us deploy our resources most effectively.

Tuesday, 9/24, 6pm: PTA board meeting in the media center. All are welcome!

Monday, 10/21: Teacher workday luncheon. This is the day before we track back in and our wonderful staff will be at DRMS all day preparing to welcome our kids back to school. We are looking for parents to drop off chili, chips or other items to help provide our teachers with a delicious lunch. Here's the link so you can see what's needed: Oct. 21 Teacher Luncheon - Chili Party!. If you are not available Monday but could drop off items like bagged salad or bottled water prior to the event, please indicate that in the comments.

Thanks as always for supporting DRMS!

September 16-20

Wake Early College Visit:

Wake Early College of Health & Science will visit us on Friday September 27th to talk to interested students about their program. Please email Mr.Dunton (mdunton@wcpss.net) or Mrs. Deen (adeen@wcpss.net) if your child is interested in learning more about the Wake Early College Program. The only students that will be permitted to attend the information sessions are those whose parents we hear from.

Makeup Pictures:

We will take make-up Fall Pictures on Wednesday, September 25th. Only students who were absent on the original picture date or who enrolled after August 27th will need to have pictures taken.

Yearbook Announcement:

The 2019-2020 DRMS Yearbook is available for purchase now! Pricing information is below:

Now-September 30: $35.00

October 1-November 15: $40.00

November 16-January 31- $45.00

February 1-March 31: $50.00

Order before September 30th to receive the lowest pricing available for the 2019-2020 Yearbook! Order by January 31st if you would like to be guaranteed a yearbook! We will order a limited quantity of extra copies, and they will be sold on a first come, first serve basis for $50.00!

Purchasing online is the way to go! You can purchase your scholar's yearbook and accessories here: http://jostensyearbooks.com/?REF=A01095208

From the PTA:

The PTA's first Spirit Night of the year is Tuesday, Sept. 17, at Manhattan Pizza, located in the Falls Pointe shopping center (on the corner of Durant and Falls of Neuse). A portion of all sales to DRMS families from 5-8 pm will come back to our school. We hope to see you there!

We also hope you'll join us for a Saturday morning school spruce-up! Student, staff and family volunteers are needed from 9am to noon Sept. 21 to help pick up debris and trash around the school grounds, power-wash the front sidewalks, and help beautify our campus. Please click on our SignUp Genius to see what's needed and how you can help: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/805084cafa72ea5ff2-school

September 9-13

We have a message for our students from their teachers:

Enjoy the weekend, the weather looks like it will be nice, spend some time outside, relax, recharge, and be ready to go Monday morning. We have three weeks left until track out, let's focus and finish strong. Keep demonstrating those DRMS behaviors and stay on top of your assignments. We look forward to seeing all of our students on Monday morning.

-Spinner Dolphin Teachers

Progress Reports

Progress Reports went home on Friday August 30th. Please return the pink cover sheets to students' homeroom teachers as soon as possible.

Wake Early College Visit:

Wake Early College of Health & Science will visit us on Friday September 27th to talk to interested students about their program. Please email Mr.Dunton (mdunton@wcpss.net) or Mrs. Deen (adeen@wcpss.net) if your child is interested in learning more about the Wake Early College Program. The only students that will be permitted to attend the information sessions are those whose parents we hear from.

Yearbook Announcement:

The 2019-2020 DRMS Yearbook is available for purchase now! Pricing information is below:

Now-September 30: $35.00

October 1-November 15: $40.00

November 16-January 31- $45.00

February 1-March 31: $50.00

Order before September 30th to receive the lowest pricing available for the 2019-2020 Yearbook! Order by January 31st if you would like to be guaranteed a yearbook! We will order a limited quantity of extra copies, and they will be sold on a first come, first serve basis for $50.00!

Purchasing online is the way to go! You can purchase your scholar's yearbook and accessories here: http://jostensyearbooks.com/?REF=A01095208

From the PTA:

The PTA's first Spirit Night of the year is Tuesday, Sept. 17, at Manhattan Pizza, located in the Falls Pointe shopping center (on the corner of Durant and Falls of Neuse). A portion of all sales to DRMS families from 5-8 pm will come back to our school. We hope to see you there!

We also hope you'll join us for a Saturday morning school spruce-up! Student, staff and family volunteers are needed from 9am to noon Sept. 21 to help pick up debris and trash around the school grounds, power-wash the front sidewalks, and help beautify our campus. Please click on our SignUp Genius to see what's needed and how you can help: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/805084cafa72ea5ff2-school

September 2-6

We wish all of our students and families a relaxing Labor Day Weekend and enjoy our day off on Monday. If you are traveling near or far this weekend please be safe on the roads. Students, use this weekend as a way to recharge for the final month of school. When we come back on Tuesday let's stay engaged and focused in class, continue to use our DRMS behaviors, and finish strong for the 1st Quarter. The hard work we continue to put in now will pay off down the road. Happy Labor Day!

Progress Reports

1st Quarter Progress Reports were sent home Friday August 30th. Students should be sure to have all missing assignments made up and turned in no later than Friday September 6th. After this date any missing assignments will remain a zero. Please be sure to be checking PowerSchools and if students have missing assignments they should be making arrangements with their teachers to get these made up. SMART Block is a great opportunity to get caught up, be sure to utilize this period in your day.

Wake Early College Visit:

Wake Early College of Health & Science will visit us on Friday September 27th to talk to interested students about their program. Please email Mr.Dunton (mdunton@wcpss.net) or Mrs. Deen (adeen@wcpss.net) if your child is interested in learning more about the Wake Early College Program. The only students that will be permitted to attend the information sessions are those whose parents we hear from.

Yearbook Announcement:

The 2019-2020 DRMS Yearbook is available for purchase now! Pricing information is below:

Now-September 30: $35.00

October 1-November 15: $40.00

November 16-January 31- $45.00

February 1-March 31: $50.00

Order before September 30th to receive the lowest pricing available for the 2019-2020 Yearbook! Order by January 31st if you would like to be guaranteed a yearbook! We will order a limited quantity of extra copies, and they will be sold on a first come, first serve basis for $50.00!

Purchasing online is the way to go! You can purchase your scholar's yearbook and accessories here: http://jostensyearbooks.com/?REF=A01095208

Aug 26-30

Picture Day

Picture Day is Tuesday 8/27. Students were sent home picture day info with 1st Day of School information. If your child requires an extra form please have them ask for one in the front office on Monday.

Wake Early College Visit:

Wake Early College of Health & Science will visit us on Friday September 27th to talk to interested students about their program. Please email Mr.Dunton (mdunton@wcpss.net) or Mrs. Deen (adeen@wcpss.net) if your child is interested in learning more about the Wake Early College Program. The only students that will be permitted to attend the information sessions are those whose parents we hear from.

Yearbook Announcement:

The 2019-2020 DRMS Yearbook is available for purchase now! Pricing information is below:

Now-September 30: $35.00

October 1-November 15: $40.00

November 16-January 31- $45.00

February 1-March 31: $50.00

Order before September 30th to receive the lowest pricing available for the 2019-2020 Yearbook! Order by January 31st if you would like to be guaranteed a yearbook! We will order a limited quantity of extra copies, and they will be sold on a first come, first serve basis for $50.00!

Purchasing online is the way to go! You can purchase your scholar's yearbook and accessories here: http://jostensyearbooks.com/?REF=A01095208

From the PTA:

Our GoPlaySave fundraiser officially wrapped up this week, so please send in any outstanding orders and used books as soon as possible and thank you for making this fundraiser a success!

There’s still time to join the PTA if you haven’t already. There are so many great reasons to join! PTA membership helps build a stronger connection to our school; gives you access to information about policies and events that affect our school and its students; includes member benefits and discounts on things like insurance, office supplies and even hockey tickets; and so much more. It’s easy - just click here to join online or print a membership form to send back to school with your child.

There are still a couple volunteer spots available to help out Aug. 27 with Picture Day – you can sign up here.

Our first general PTA meeting is 4:30 Thursday, August 29, in the learning commons. We will be voting on the proposed budget and sharing key upcoming dates and events. Upcoming events also will be posted on our calendar page. Thank you as always for your support!

Aug 19-23

As we approach the mid way point of the 1st Quarter we are continuing to review DRMS expectations in our classrooms and throughout the school in order to provide the safest and best learning environment for all of our students. We encourage our students to review their weekly reflections with their parents/guardians to keep the lines of communication open between school and home. This is a an excellent time of the quarter to check PowerSchools and get any missing assignments made up and turned in. Let's continue to be proactive and on top of our academics.

Fall Sports

We wish all of our potential student athletes the best of luck at try outs. Fall sports try out begin on Tuesday August 27th. Be sure to have all of your paperwork and physicals turned in prior to the start of tryouts. If you have any questions or concerns regarding athletics be sure to check out the DRMS Athletics page.

Picture Day

Picture Day information was sent home in first day of school packets. Picture Day is August 27th.

Data Cards

If your child has not returned their Student Data Card please have these filled out and returned to your child's homeroom teacher as soon as possible.

An important message from our PTA:

Our GoPlaySave fundraiser ends next week! This great deal offers more than $12,000 in savings at local businesses while helping to raise money for our school: DRMS gets 50% of all coupon book or mobile app sales. Purchase options include a book, a mobile app or a discounted book/app bundle – and students can win great prizes for any sales they make.

Thursday, Aug. 29, will be our first general PTA meeting. The meeting will be held at 4:30 pm in the Learning Commons. We will vote on the proposed budget – which is posted on our PTA webpage – and hear about key dates and events coming up this year. All parents are welcome to attend, and registered PTA members may vote on the budget. We will continue to accept membership forms at this meeting and throughout the school year.

Volunteers are needed Aug. 27 to help school picture day run smoothly. Please see this SignUp Genius for available time slots:https://www.signupgenius.com/go/805084cafa72ea5ff2-volunteers.

Please email durantroadmiddlepta@gmail.com with any questions, concerns, or ideas – and thank you as always for supporting DRMS!

Aug 12-16

Data Cards

If your child has not returned their Student Data Card please have these filled out and returned to your child's homeroom teacher as soon as possible.

Picture Day

Picture Day information was sent home in first day of school packets. Picture Day is August 27th.

If you have not had a chance to sign up for our Remind notifications please click here. We will use this to keep families updated on important team and DRMS announcements.

August 5-9

If you did not receive a weekly email please use the "Student Data Collection" button above to enter contact information and Mr.Dunton will add you to the weekly newsletter email group.

Data Cards

If your child has not returned their Student Data Card please have these filled out and returned to your child's homeroom teacher no later than Friday August 9th.

Picture Day

Picture Day information was sent home in first day of school packets. Picture Day is August 27th.

Important message from PTA:

Please be sure to check your child's backpack for GoPlaySave information and coupon books. This is our first major fundraising effort, and offers more than $12,000 in savings at local businesses while helping to raise money for our school. Purchase options include a book, a mobile app or a discounted book/app bundle-and students can win great prizes for any sales they make.

If you have not had a chance to sign up for our Remind notifications please click here. We will use this to keep families updated on important team and DRMS announcements.