The start of a new school year is always an important moment in the life of a school community. It is a time for students to build routines, form new relationships, understand expectations, and begin to see themselves as valued members of the community. Across DSHK, students have been co-constructing essential agreements, learning about their teachers and classmates, exploring new courses, and building friendships. These early experiences matter because belonging is not something that happens by chance; it is something we build intentionally together.
This year is especially meaningful as we launch our high school. The Class of 2030 has had a fantastic start, bringing energy, curiosity, and leadership to this new chapter for DSHK. As our students begin their high school journey, we are focused not only on academic growth, but also on helping each student feel known, supported, and connected.
A key part of this work is our High School Advisory Program. Advisory is a daily structure designed to ensure that every student is known well, supported consistently, and guided intentionally in their academic, emotional, and cultural development. Each student has an advisor who serves as a consistent adult presence, someone who helps them reflect on their progress, build strong habits, navigate challenges, make effective use of academic supports, and strengthen their connection to the school community.
Advisory is not simply homeroom or announcements. It is a daily opportunity to build culture, support student well-being, and develop student leadership. Students participate in regular check-ins with advisors, reflect on their academic, emotional, and cultural well-being, and set concrete goals for the week ahead. They also learn to plan purposeful use of lab time, identify next steps, and ask for support when needed.
During Advisory this week, we held our first high school Town Hall, a weekly student-led gathering joined by teachers and principals. Town Hall gives students a platform to express their views, concerns, questions, and ideas. It is also a space to check in with one another, celebrate community members, share gratitude, and reinforce the values we want to live by as a school.
As the year begins, we are excited to see our high school students helping shape the culture of DSHK. Through Advisory, Town Hall, and everyday classroom experiences, they are learning that community is something we create through care, responsibility, voice, and belonging.
