Head of School -Mr. John Davis

We will not hide them from their children; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, His power, and the wonders He has done – Psalm 78:4.

Whether it's reading a Bible story, discussing the economy, dissecting a cat, applying the law of circumference, analyzing the power of literature, competing in an athletic contest, or picking up trash as a service project; through our words and action, we can show and tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, His power, and the wonders He has done. These are activities that happen on a daily basis to fulfill the mission of DCS, which is to equip students to reach their full potential academically, spiritually, socially, and physically.

After reflecting on my first year at DCS, I have seen God's faithfulness at work in many ways. The school has grown steadily the past 18 years. Dr. Bult, the School Board, and the teachers have laid a solid foundation for the school to grow in numbers and quality. Our visionary Board has implemented a Strategic Planning process comprised of faculty and staff members, parents, students, and members of the community. After meeting with these different constituents, a Long Range Plan has been developed and is in the process of being implemented.

In looking at the academic future of DCS, the Board has granted approval for us to move toward accreditation with the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI), in addition to our current accreditation with the South Carolina Independent Schools Association (SCISA). ACSI is a well respected Christian school organization that provides high academic and professional standards for its schools. One benefit with ACSI is an avenue for all of our teachers to be certified. This process will ensure that teachers are placed appropriately and receive proper training in their areas of teaching.

Personnel changes next year will include Mrs. Stephanie Mark in second grade, who will replace Mrs. Proctor who is retiring. Mrs. Carole Lewis will lead our College/Career and Guidance services. Both of these ladies bring a wealth of experience to our school. Mrs. Sarita Bethea has taken on a new leadership role as Activities Director and she will teach in her area of expertise. We will have two third grades next year and Mrs. Cullum and Mrs. McCall will join together to team teach these students. Mrs. Teresa Davis will be teaching fourth grade, which will open a second grade position. Please be in prayer as we seek the right teacher for this position.

To close, let me share some initiatives that the School Board approved for implementation.

Academic initiatives include:

•  Analyze curriculum documents in all grades and all subjects

•  Incorporate a “Rigor and Relevance Framework” into the curriculum

•  Provide pedagogical approaches to enhance critical thinking and active learning

•  Add electives to the high school curriculum

•  Require summer reading

•  Add supplemental reading during the school year for elementary students

•  Test all new applicants to make certain they are on grade level

Spiritual initiatives include:

•  Involve students in Chapel with a “Leadership Team”

•  Provide professional training in biblical worldview integration and philosophy of Christian education

Social initiatives include:

•  Provide a class for seniors to serve in a community non-profit organization

•  Expand our educational field trip program for middle and high school students

Development/Public Relations initiatives include:

•  Add a “Parent Advisory Council” to provide input on improving both our elementary and secondary programs

•  Build relationships with businesses and churches in the community

•  Print a school brochure

•  Seek input from alumni and build an alumni organization

The 2009-2010 school year begins August 17, 2009. May God bless you and your family during summer break. For those who are leaving the DCS family, we wish you the best. Have a safe summer and know that we are praying for you and with you.

John Davis