Welcome to Dennis-Yarmouth Regional High School! The D-Y administration and faculty hope your time here will be academically challenging, rich with accomplishments and filled with many enjoyable and memorable activities and experiences.  Our mission steadfastly remains to prepare you intellectually, physically and socially for your role as an educated and responsible citizen.  Also, our ongoing goal is to provide a safe environment which respects, accommodates and celebrates diversity.  Working together as a community of innovative learners, we can continue to promote a school culture which embraces respect, civility and the principles of a civilized society. 

We must all share the common belief that the school community fosters a safe and secure environment which is conducive to learning and ensures the health and productivity of all its members.  This booklet was created to make students, parents, staff and members of the community aware of our academic, behavioral and social expectations.  Our school will not tolerate dangerous behavior in any form: verbal abuse, intimidation, threats, possession and/or use of weapons, and acts of violence are all unacceptable.  Alcohol and drug use will not be tolerated.   Everyone in the D-Y learning community should read and know the rules, policies and expectations listed in this handbook.  If we cooperate and accept our responsibilities to ourselves and each other, we will make Dennis-Yarmouth a model community of learning, respect and tolerance.    

This handbook includes information concerning a wide variety of activities.  D-Y offers numerous opportunities for participation in interscholastic athletics, competitive musical and theater groups, co-curricular activities, and student government.  We urge you to become an active member of the D-Y school community.  Look over your options, make positive choices and be involved!

We look forward to working with you and encourage you to drop by our offices, introduce yourself and say hello.  Don’t ever hesitate to see us regarding problems or concerns.  Our doors are open and you are always welcome.  We wish all of you life’s best in the coming year.  

Kendra Bennett

Principal

 

SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION

CORE VALUES

VISION OF A GRADUATE

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY

Academic integrity is an integral element of the positive learning environment at Dennis-Yarmouth Regional High School.  Students are expected to conform to all school and class regulations to support the learning process.  All examinations, tests, written papers or other assignments completed as a part of academic programs are also expected to be the product of the student's own work and effort.  Plagiarism, especially from Internet sources, is a major concern and should not occur. The use of AI tools in secondary education presents us with many compelling but complex opportunities to consider how students demonstrate their learning. At the same time, faculty and students are understandably concerned about how AI use intersects with academic integrity frameworks. Dennis-Yarmouth High School’s academic integrity guidelines are a critical starting place as we consider AI use in academic contexts. Three main areas that may be invoked by teachers and administration concerned about the use of AI: cheating, plagiarism and misrepresentation, falsification, or fabrication of data, which may be unintentional given the unreliability of AI-generated information.

In many classrooms teachers are utilizing group settings and cooperative learning.  When these methods are used, students are expected to follow the processes and procedures set down by the individual teacher in that classroom.

 

Dennis-Yarmouth is a member in good standing in the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA), the official organization in Massachusetts for regulating and conducting athletic events, contests and tournaments among member schools.  DY competes as a member of the Cape and Islands League.  The other members of the Cape and Islands League are Cape Cod Academy, Falmouth Academy, Falmouth, Martha’s Vineyard, Monomoy, Nantucket, Nauset, Rising Tide, Saint John Paul, Sandwich, Sturgis East,  and Sturgis West.  

 The "Dolphins" have enjoyed a fine athletic tradition since becoming a regional high school in 1957.  Over the years, the school has had numerous league championships, individual honors and appearances in postseason play.  The coaching staff is dedicated to each participant's development as an athlete and as a person and strongly believes that the preparation to compete at one's full potential — physically, mentally and emotionally — is the longest lasting lesson.  The discipline necessary and training learned through athletics can be applied to all areas of life.

We are proud of our athletic history and are excited about our future.  We are pleased that so many students are taking advantage of the athletic opportunities provided.  As participants in the athletic department, each student is establishing him/herself as an individual willing to make commitments and sacrifices.  We applaud this decision and wish all students the best of luck in all facets of their high school careers.

Ms. Mary B. O’Connor

Athletic Director

 

HEAD COACHING STAFF

 

PHILOSOPHY FOR HIGH SCHOOL INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETICS

We believe the interscholastic athletic program is an integral and vital part of the school's curriculum and is designed to meet the needs of those students who seek an intense and competitive level of participation.  We further believe that the competitive nature of interscholastic athletics dictates a dedication and effort towards winning; however, it is the philosophy of the Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District that at no time will this commitment take priority over the development of positive educational values. To this end we endeavor to:

1. Provide a diverse selection of equivalent activities, within necessary parameters, which allow for the involvement of the maximum number of students.

2. Provide a full, meaningful experience for every individual whether it be through practice or play.

3. Instruct participants in the skills, techniques, strategies, and rules of the games.

4. Promote and instill the values of self discipline, commitment, responsibility, and willingness to sacrifice.

5. Allow for and encourage the development of an individual's self esteem and sense of personal worth.

6. Foster respect for coaches, officials, opponents, and team members.

7.   Create a sense and understanding of fair play and positive sportsmanship.

Athletics are part of the educational program.  Athletics are a privilege.  Student-athletes are expected to follow all school rules and to demonstrate good school citizenship at all times.  Student-athletes may be ‘benched” and/or removed from a team for inappropriate behavior.

Participation of male and female students will be governed by and consistent with the MIAA rules and regulations.

RULES AND POLICIES GOVERNING ATHLETICS

The Athletic Department of Dennis-Yarmouth Regional High School, under the auspices of the Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School Committee, makes available to all students of the high school a wide variety of interscholastic athletic opportunities. Participation in the athletic program is a privilege which carries with it the individual's commitments and responsibilities to the school, faculty, student body and the towns of Dennis and Yarmouth.  While physical skill and demonstrated ability are primary considerations in determining team membership, it is also important to realize that the school must be represented by students who are responsible school citizens, satisfactory scholars and trained and conditioned participants who are willing to abide by all prescribed regulations and standards.  As members of the athletic department, all student-athletes are committing to excellence in these areas.

STATE RULES

The school is responsible for the enforcement of the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) rules relative to the eligibility of athletes for participation in interscholastic athletic events.  These rules are periodically reviewed and revised and are contained in the MIAA handbook.  Copies of the handbook are available for reference in the offices of the principal and athletic director.  Participation by an ineligible player may result in forfeiture of games played by their team.  Violation of other MIAA rules may result in suspension of a team or player.   Selected rules are listed below: 

1. ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY: The school is responsible for the enforcement of the MIAA rules relative to the eligibility of athletes for participation in interscholastic athletic events. MIAA rules for academic eligibility require that a student secure during the last grading term preceding participation a minimum of five (5) eligibility points.  An eligibility point is awarded for every period of instruction a student has passed except for pass/fail courses and those courses/programs listed below.  A single period class carrying a minimum of .50 credit is worth one eligibility point.  To be eligible for the first grading period in the fall, a student is required to accumulate a minimum of six (6) graduation credits during the previous academic year.  Pass/fail courses and courses/programs carrying less than .50 credit are not counted in determining a student’s academic eligibility for athletics.  Academic eligibility of all students shall be considered as official and determined only on the published date when the report cards for that ranking period are to be issued to the parents of all students within a particular class.

Academic eligibility for 8th grade students, including those who did not participate in activities, as they enter 9th grade: 

• As soon as a student participates in a MIAA sanctioned sport, that student is bound by the MIAA academic standard (and the stricter local standard, if one exists) from that point in time. 

• Non-participants will have a “fresh start” regarding academic eligibility when they first enter Grade 9. 

• The MIAA Board of Directors has stated that once athletes have had the privilege of participation, they are bound by the academic eligibility standard in place at the time of their participation.

D-Y Policy: A student ineligible under MIAA regulations may practice with a team but may not represent the school in a contest, travel with the team, or be issued a uniform.  If another report card is issued during the season and the student is still ineligible, they cannot practice any longer.  If the student becomes eligible because of this report card, the student may be granted full status.  A student ineligible at the end of the season forfeits all certificates, awards, letters, etc. they were due.

2. TRANSFERS:  A student who transfers from any school to a MIAA member school is ineligible to participate in any interscholastic athletic contest at any level for a period of one year in all sports in which that student participated at the varsity level or its equivalent during the one year period immediately preceding his/her transfer (some exemptions exist).  For the purpose of this rule, no transfer will be deemed to have taken place if a student returns to his/her former school on or before the eleventh school day from the date of last attendance there. Varsity participation is defined as any appearance as a competitor in a varsity interschool game, match or meet other than a scrimmage.

Foreign Students:  A student who transfers from a foreign country without parental change of residence accompanying the transfer will be ineligible unless such transfer is sponsored by a CSIET (Council on Standards for International Education Travel) approved foreign exchange program. Students who enter a member school under a CSIET approved program may be declared immediately eligible for athletic participation by the building principal as long as all other MIAA eligibility standards are met, and it is not a direct placement. If a direct placement, according to CSIET Standard 6b, a waiver is necessary. A CSIET student who has graduated from a secondary school in their own country will be exempt from the MIAA graduation rule (#61) if that student has not completed thirteen (13) years (including kindergarten) – or twelve (12) years (not including kindergarten) – of formal education.

3. AGE:  A student shall be under 19 years of age to compete in interscholastic athletics but may compete during the remainder of the school year, provided that student’s 19th birthday occurs on or after September 1 of that year. For Freshman competition only, a student shall be under 16 years of age but may compete during the remainder of the school year provided that the sixteenth birthday occurs on or after September 1 of that year. Principals must exercise great care in determining the age of contestants, and in all doubtful cases, must secure birth certificates from the town clerk of the pupil’s place of birth.  

4. TIME ALLOWED FOR PARTICIPATION:  A student shall be eligible for interscholastic competition for no more than four consecutive years after initially entering Grade 9. This limitation shall apply without regard to actual participation or attempt to participate.

5. PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS: All students must pass a physical examination prior to participation in High School Athletics. A physical exam covers the student for 13 months from the exam date. A student’s eligibility will terminate once a physical has reached the 13-month limit.  Physical examinations must be performed by a duly registered Licensed Physician, Physician Assistant or Nurse Practitioner. 

6. LOYALTY TO THE HIGH SCHOOL TEAM: BONA FIDE TEAM MEMBER:  (MIAA Rule 45) A bona fide member of the school team is a student who is consistently present for, and actively participates in, all high school team sessions (e.g., practices, tryouts, competitions). Bona fide members of a school team are precluded from missing a high school practice or competition in order to participate in a non-school athletic activity/event in any sport recognized by the MIAA. Students cannot be given special treatment (late arrival, early dismissal, etc.) for non-school athletic programs. 

PENALTIES: 

First Offense: Student-athlete is suspended for one (1) contest and shall not participate in the next scheduled interscholastic competition that is part of their regular season schedule or in tournament play.  Second Offense: Student-athlete is suspended for an additional 25% of the season and is ineligible for tournament play immediately upon confirmation of the violation.

 7. STUDENT (AND COACH) ELIGIBILITY:  CHEMICAL HEALTH/ALCOHOL/DRUGS/TOBACCO:  (MIAA Rule 62) From the earliest fall practice date, to the conclusion of the academic year or final athletic event (whichever is latest), a student shall not, regardless of the quantity, use, consume, possess, buy/sell, or give away any beverage containing alcohol; any tobacco product (including e-cigarettes, vape pens and all similar devices); marijuana (including synthetic); steroids; drug paraphernalia; or any controlled substance. This policy includes products such as “NA or near beer,” inhalants (defined as any substance that produces a mind-altering effect when inhaled), and misuse of over-the-counter medications and substances used for the purposes of altering one’s mental state. It is not a violation for a student to be in possession of a legally defined drug specifically prescribed for the student’s own use by their doctor. 

This MIAA statewide minimum standard is not intended to render “guilt by association”, e.g., many student-athletes might be present at a party where only a few violate this standard. This rule represents only a minimum standard upon which schools may develop more stringent requirements.

If a student in violation of this rule is unable to participate in interscholastic sports due to injury or academics, the penalty will not take effect until that student is able to participate again.

If a violation of this rule occurs while the student is serving a school suspension (either in-house or out-of-school), the chemical health violation penalty period will not begin until the school suspension period has concluded. 

If, on the other hand, the school suspension is directly related to the violation of the Chemical Health Rule, then the suspension and chemical health penalty will be served concurrently. 

Minimum PENALTIES: (also see MIAA Rule 32.8 – Ineligible Students)

First violation: When the Principal confirms, following an opportunity for the student to be heard, that a violation occurred, the student shall lose eligibility for the next consecutive interscholastic contests (regular season and tournament) totaling 25% of all interscholastic contests in that sport. No exception is permitted for a student who becomes a participant in a treatment program. It is recommended that the student be allowed to remain at practice for the purpose of rehabilitation. During the suspension the disqualified student may not be in uniform and attendance at the competition site is determined by the high school principal. All decimal part of an event will be truncated i.e. All fractional parts of an event will be dropped when calculating the 25% of the season.

Second and subsequent violations: When the Principal confirms, following an opportunity for the student to be heard, that a violation occurred, the student shall lose eligibility for the next consecutive interscholastic contests (regular season and tournament) totaling 60% of all interscholastic contests in that sport. All decimal part of an event will be truncated i.e. All fractional parts of an event will be dropped when calculating the 60% of the season.

Penalties shall be cumulative each academic year.  If the penalty period is not completed during the season of violation, the penalty shall carry over to the student’s next season of actual participation, which may affect the eligibility status of the student during the next academic year.

D-Y Policy:  Penalties that carry over from one season to another will count only if the player successfully completes the season that the remainder of the penalty has carried over to.  

8.  GOOD CITIZEN RULE: Inappropriate student behavior may result in a student being prohibited from play during games.  Student-athletes may not represent their school if they are on in-house or out-of-house disciplinary suspension.

THERE ARE MANY OTHER RULES THAT DENNIS-YARMOUTH AND ITS ATHLETES ARE OBLIGATED TO FOLLOW.  RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ENFORCEMENT OF THESE RULES RESTS WITH THE PRINCIPAL, ATHLETIC DIRECTOR AND ALL COACHES.

LOCAL POLICIES

In addition to the state regulations, there are a number of rules and policies that have been implemented by the School Committee in order to ensure the effective management and integrity of the athletic program:

1. AGREEMENT TO PARTICIPATE/PARENTAL CONSENT/INTERVAL HISTORY:  Before any student is allowed to practice/tryout, they must first have these forms completed in ArbiterRegistration.

2. USER FEE STRUCTURE: The School Committee has adopted a user fee of $25 per sport per individual for all who participate in athletics.  There is a $50 limit for both an individual and a family.  This is due to the implementation of the Dolphin Dash.  The fundraising project continues to help defray the cost of user fees for all our student-athletes.  

3. ATTENDANCE IN SCHOOL: Any student who is absent from school is not eligible to take part in any practice session or game which is scheduled for the same day.  To participate in any athletic activity, a student must be in school by 8:00 a.m. and attend school for at least one-half day. A student is considered absent if he/she reports to school less than three hours and twenty one minutes.  Any student who leaves the school grounds during the day without permission may not participate in any athletic activity.  If the student is absent on the last school day of the week, he/she may be ineligible for any athletic activity on the following day.  This rule may be waived in individual cases by the principal or athletic director if in his/her judgment the absences were for good reason and not willful disregard of responsibility.

4. CHANGE OF SPORTS:  A student may not change from one sport to another once the first game of either sport has been played until the original sport season has been completed (exceptions shall be decided by the Principal).  No student who has been suspended or dismissed from a team may transfer to another during that season. 

5. TRIPS TO CONTESTS:  Students are to depart and return from contests on the team bus or van.  Other arrangements due to extenuating circumstances must be made in advance and in writing to the Athletic Director by the student's parents.

6. RESPONSIBILITY FOR ATHLETIC EQUIPMENT:  Students are required to return all equipment issued to them in respectable condition or reimburse the school at current replacement cost of said equipment.  Athletes who do not return equipment or pay replacement costs will be prohibited from participation in any other sport until the debt is paid.  If necessary, outstanding obligations could result in the withholding of a student's cap and gown during his/her senior year.  Uniforms may not be defaced or altered in any way and they may be worn or used only for sanctioned events.

7. VACATIONS:  The athlete's commitment during vacations varies depending upon the sport, level, year, etc. Responsibilities will be outlined by the coaches prior to the start of the tryouts/practices.  A student who misses practices/games during vacations should expect to fall behind in the areas of skill development, fitness, game readiness, and trained reactions and as a result can expect playing time reduced upon his/her return.

8. INJURIES:  Athletes should report all injuries to the coach and the athletic trainer when available. The coach will make the judgment as to the athlete's ability to continue, and if they decide to restrict participation, the decision will be final.  If a trainer or the school physician is present, their decision to restrict participation will prevail above all others including the parents of the athlete.  Following an injury requiring medical attention, a statement from the athlete's physician certifying eligibility to return to sports must be filed in the nurse's office.

9. LATE REPORTING:   A student reporting late for team membership will be required to report regularly to all team activities for a period of two weeks prior to participating in a scheduled contest.  No student may try out for a team after final cuts have been made unless prior approval for extenuating circumstances is received (e.g. injury).  In such cases, no displacement from the team of any squad member may occur.  A student cut from one team may participate on another team and the two-week rule may be waived.

TEAM RULES 

The following rules are to be followed by all athletes.  Violation of these rules may result in disciplinary action in the form of suspension or expulsion from a team. Determination of the length of suspension will be dependent upon the circumstances in the individual situation and the past record of the athlete involved.  Coaches, during their competitive season, may have additional rules and are the discretionary authorities. They will outline their particular rules prior to the commencement of practices.

1. Athletes are expected to lead by example.  Athletes should be aware of school rules and abide by them.  Any violation could result in additional consequences by the athletic department.

2. Prompt attendance at all practices, games and team meetings is required unless the absence or tardiness has prior approval of the coach.  The need for makeup of academic work is of primary importance.  Likewise, family responsibilities will be honored.  However, there should be an awareness that loss of practice time, depending on circumstances, could affect a player's standing on a team.

3. Hazing or "initiations" are strictly forbidden.  Refer to the law pertaining to hazing in the Student and Parent Handbook.

4. The following behaviors are unacceptable and may result in disciplinary action including removal from a team:

a. Theft of any kind.

b. Fighting/battery (with teammates, opponents, coaches, officials, spectators).

c. Vandalism  willful destruction to private/public property or equipment of school, teammates, etc.

d. Insubordination failure to comply with any reasonable request of a staff member.

e. Intimidation or threats  behavior that harasses, embarrasses, or threatens bodily harm to another person, whether it involves obscene language, physical force, social media or group text message. 

f. Use of vulgar, profane or abusive language.

g. Lying to a staff member.

h. Cheating.

DUE PROCESS PROCEDURES

1. The school administration will notify the Athletic Director of school disciplinary offenses.

2. All suspensions from teams for disciplinary reasons must be communicated immediately and directly to the athlete's parent(s) and to the Athletic Director by the coach.

3. Disciplinary suspension for more than two contests must be approved by the Athletic Director and the Principal before becoming final.

4. Students and families have the right to appeal any athletic disciplinary suspension.  Such appeal must be made initially to the Athletic Director.

 

AWARD POLICIES AND LETTER REQUIREMENTS

One cloth letter will be awarded to a participant fulfilling requirements in any sport.  Subsequent awards will be certificates and sport pins.

Letter Requirements for Specific Sports:

Football:  A letter will be awarded to a squad member who has participated in half the total quarters played in regularly scheduled varsity games.

Cross Country:  A letter will be awarded to a squad member who averages one- and one-half points per scheduled meet up to and including the allstate meet.  Scoring for dual meets will be 1st  5 pts., 2nd  4.5 pts. 3^rd-10th  .5 pts. Scoring for multischool meets will be 1st thru 10th  5 pts., 11th thru 20th  4.5 pts......21st thru 100th  .5 pts.

Soccer, Basketball, Field Hockey, Volleyball, Softball, Baseball, Golf, Lacrosse, Tennis:  A letter will be awarded to a squad member who has participated in half the total games/matches played in regularly scheduled varsity games/matches.

Ice Hockey:  A letter will be awarded to a squad member who has participated in three fourths of the regularly scheduled varsity games.

Track:  A letter will be awarded to a squad member who averages one and one half points per scheduled meet up to and including the All-State Meet.

Cheerleading: A letter will be awarded to a squad member who successfully completes two seasons as a member of the varsity squad.

Student athletes will only be recognized as twelve letter winners if they meet the above criteria for all of the twelve.

PARTICIPATION IS DEFINED AS AN APPEARANCE IN THE CONTEST REGARDLESS OF THE LENGTH OF TIME.

MISCELLANEOUS

1. A letter will be awarded to a player who has been a member of a varsity team for at least two consecutive seasons.

2. A letter will be awarded to a manager who has served in that position for two full seasons.

3. Letters, certificates and awards will be given only to those squad members who are active participants on the team for the entire season, barring injury.  The season includes postseason play (up to and including class championships in track and cross country).

4. A letter may be awarded in certain cases at the discretion of the coach and with approval of the Athletic Director.

5. Any individual found to be in violation of the Chemical Health Rule at any time during a season will not be eligible to receive any letter, certificate, All-Star designation, etc., for the competitive season in which the violation occurred.

DAILY PRACTICE SCHEDULE

Athletics should normally be considered a Monday - Saturday commitment.  However, depending on a number of factors, weekend days may or may not be used.  On certain occasions, voluntary Sunday practices may be scheduled.  Most spring and fall after-school practices run until approximately 5:00.  Winter sports and inclement weather cause variations to this general schedule due to facility availability.

VACATIONS

Varsity athletes in season can expect to have games scheduled during the December, February and April vacations.  

Sub-varsity contests are sometimes scheduled during these vacations.  Though we try to avoid games during the February vacation, postponements and tournament qualification sometimes dictate the use of this time.

SEASON LIMITS

NOTE: The end of seasons varies from team to team and in some cases from individual to individual, depending on tournament and championship qualifications (varsity level).

Fall: Practices/tryouts begin before school starts.  The actual starting date varies from year to year due to the calendar.  Most teams complete their seasons at the end of October.  Football, cross-country and any team qualifying for the state tournament extend into November.

Winter: Practices/tryouts start the Monday after Thanksgiving.  Most teams end their seasons aligned with the MIAA sports limitations, although the seasons may be extended due to tournament obligations.

Spring: Practices/tryouts start the third Monday in March.  Most teams end their seasons by the end of May.

LOCKER ROOMS

Athletic locker rooms are for the use of in-season student athletes only. 

Out of season athletes or non-athlete students are prohibited from being in the athletic locker rooms at any time without permission of a coach.

Athletic locker rooms will be locked from 7:22 a.m. to 2:04 pm and will be inaccessible to all students during that time.  Locker rooms will be inaccessible without a coach after school hours. 

Student athletes are discouraged from storing personal non-athletic items in the locker room unless actively engaged in athletic activities.

Student athletes are put on notice that any personal items stored in an athletic locker, such as money, physical education clothing or gear, lunch, or school materials such as books and homework will be inaccessible during the school day and irretrievable until 2:04 pm. 

Student athletes are issued a combination lock for use on their assigned athletic locker. Use of the lock is required. The combination should be kept secret and not shared with anyone. The lock is to be properly used and fully engaged to protect property stored in the locker. 

Report all theft immediately to your coach.

Dennis-Yarmouth Regional High School is not responsible for theft of property from the locker room. 

ATHLETIC OFFERINGS

* Sports listed as “CUT” sports have the potential for cuts to take place.  In a number of instances, the number of candidates does not necessitate cutting.

** These levels are not contained in the school budget, and they may or may not be conducted depending on numbers of participants and adequate funding.

INTRAMURAL ATHLETICS

Intramural athletics are an extension of the physical education program and are offered to all students who attend Dennis-Yarmouth Regional High School on a voluntary/elective basis.  The content of the intramural program consists of league play, tournament play, physical fitness and general activity.  Physical education department facilities and equipment are used in this program.  A variety of activities is offered in an organized fashion without the time commitment necessitated by interscholastic athletics.  Teaching methods and supervision are employed to enhance skill development, safety, knowledge and sportsmanship.

Activities offered in this intramural program may include tennis, open gymnasium, weight training and fitness, badminton, volleyball, 3-on-3 basketball, field hockey, basketball, indoor soccer, golf, aerobic fitness, and flag football.  

As of this date there are currently no intramural athletics but there are open gyms days and nights as arranged by staff.

 

BULLYING PREVENTION AND INTERVENTION PLAN

HARASSMENT GUIDELINES

HAZING

POINTS OF CONTACT FOR COMMUNICATION

Students and families will periodically need to discuss grades, coursework, and other educational topics with teachers.  Effective communication and collaboration among school staff, students, and families are critical to achieving academic success.Students and parents should use the following steps in order to reach a prompt resolution and use our Points of Contact as another helpful resource. 

Step 1: Contact the teacher to discuss and address the issue.

Step 2: If students and families are unable to resolve the issue after meeting with the teacher, they should contact either the student’s counselor or the teacher’s department chairperson for assistance.

Step 3: If the problem remains unresolved, the next step should be to contact the student’s assistant principal.

Step 4: The assistant principal may refer the issue to the principal.

*A reasonable timeframe for a response is within 2 school days.

A conference may be requested by calling the following numbers and leaving a message:  administrators and teachers (508-398-7630), or counselors (508-398-7650).  In addition, staff may be reached via the Staff Directory.

DISSEMINATION OF SCHOOL INFORMATION

The school and local communities may be informed in a variety of ways concerning school events and activities: 

1. ParentSquare:  Student safety and keeping parents informed are top priorities of the Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District.  The District has adopted the ParentSquare communication platform.  This service will allow schools to send a text, email, or app based message to ALL our families within minutes if an emergency occurs at school.  Parents can be informed immediately by app, email, or text and will receive accurate and timely information from a reliable source. 

The ParentSquare service will also assist us in passing along key information regarding school events.  This portion of the service will help us communicate with you regularly and will cut down the chances of missing important information. 

The ability to deliver a message is only as successful as the contact information we have for our families, so please make certain we have the most up-to-date text numbers and email addresses (if desired).  If this information changes, please let the school know immediately.

 2. District Website: In addition to its standard purpose of providing information to families, the district website will also be used to alert the community of school closings and special events.

 3. Social Media: The district maintains an assortment of district and school-based social media accounts that can be a source of information for the community.

4. DYRSD Photo/Media Opt-Out Process

Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District uses photos and/or videos of students and student work to showcase educational activities and programs in our schools and share the D-Y experience with families and the community. 

Student photographs and/or videos may be used on the district website, yearbooks and/or social media. 

Student photos and videos are generally used without student names, unless a specific award, honor, or achievement by the student is being highlighted. 

Student names are released without photos for Honor Rolls.

Names of Dennis-Yarmouth High School graduates are shared each year.

Occasionally, student photos and/or news may be shared with local media outlets.

If you DO NOT give Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District permission to include your student’s image or name in any way, please send a letter to your school principal explicitly stating your wish to opt out. This letter must be received by October 1 (or 30 days after registration for students entering mid-year).

Please note that DYRSD does not control the disclosure or use of photographs or video taken by participants at events that are open to parents, community members, and/or the news media. Additionally, this form does not apply to students participating in public events, such as performances, academic competitions, and athletic events. Student photos and names from these events may be published by the news media.

Upon receipt of an opt-out letter, school staff will document your student’s status in PowerSchool Student Information System for the current school year.

5. PowerSchool Parent Portal: For grading and class assignment information.

SCHOOL CLOSING

In the event of inclement weather or mechanical breakdown, school may be closed.  "No School" or “Delayed Opening” announcements are made using ParentSquare. School closing and/or delayed opening announcements will also be posted on the district website and over the following radio stations beginning at 6:00 a.m.: WXTK 95.1 FM and WCOD 106.1 FM and on the following TV stations:  WRKO/WHDH (CH 7, CH 56), WCVB (CH5), WBZ (CH4) and Fox 25.  

 

HUMAN SEXUALITY EDUCATION CURRICULUM

Purpose of Policy: The purpose of this policy is to implement Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 71, Section 32A, which requires every school district that implements or maintains curriculum that primarily involves human sexual education or human sexuality issues to adopt a policy ensuring parental/guardian/family notification.

Parental/Guardian/Family Notification: The school principal shall give parents, guardians, and families of students effective notice, not less than once a year, of all courses offered in which the curriculum primarily involves human sexual education or human sexuality issues.  Effective notice means a notice that is reasonably likely to inform parents and guardians, including those with disabilities and those whose primary or home language is not English, of their rights.

Inspection of Instructional Materials: To the extent practicable, all instructional material, including teachers’ manuals, films, tapes, or other supplementary material, for curriculum that primarily involves human sexual education or human  sexuality issues shall be available for inspection by parent/guardian/family, educators, school administrators, and others.

Exemption from Curriculum: The parent/guardian/family of any student may exempt the student from any portion of a course in which the curriculum primarily involves human sexuality education or human sexuality issues by written notice to the school principal.  No student who is so exempted may be penalized because of the exemption but may be required to leave and return to class at a time and in a manner that is least disruptive to the education of other students.  Students may be assigned work (health-related, not sexuality) which will be collected and factored into a grade in lieu of missing class.  When possible, students will be assigned to the library.  Students may also be assigned homework to be turned in upon returning to class.  This will be counted towards grades.

Local Process for Dispute Resolution: A parent, guardian or family who is dissatisfied with a decision of the Principal concerning notice, access to instructional materials, or exemption for the student under this policy may send a written request to the superintendent for review of the issue.  The superintendent or his or her designee will review the issue and give the parent/guardian/family a timely written decision, preferably within two weeks of the request.  A parent/guardian/family who is dissatisfied with the superintendent’s decision may send a written request to the School Committee for review of the issue.  The School Committee will review the issue and give the parent/guardian/family a timely written decision, preferably within four weeks of the request.  A parent/guardian/family who is still dissatisfied after this process may send a written request to the Commissioner of Education for review of the issue in dispute.

RESPECT FOR HUMAN AND CIVIL RIGHTS

Consistent with Massachusetts regulations, 603 CMR 26.05(1), the Dennis-Yarmouth Regional Public Schools, through its curricula and materials, encourages respect for the human and civil rights of all individuals, regardless of race, color, sex, gender identity, religion, national origin or sexual orientation.  In accordance with district guidelines, families may request information from the building principal on available accommodations related to curriculum content.

SPECIAL PROGRAMS

DUAL ENROLLMENT

Grades 11-12

The Dual Enrollment program, authorized in the Education Reform Act of 1993, enables qualified juniors and seniors to earn both high school and college credits by successfully completing courses at Cape Cod Community College.  This program is designed to complement the high school schedule.

Developmental courses at the community college will be awarded level 2 credits at D-Y.  Courses designated in the one hundred level will be awarded honors level credit.  

The full cost of Dual Enrollment courses must be borne by the student and family.  Applications for this program are available in the Guidance and Counseling office.  

 ENGLISH LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT

Grades 8-12

The English Language Development (ELD) program is available to multilingual learners (MLL).  Its purpose is to assist those students whose first language is a language other than English and who are unable to perform ordinary classroom work in English.  English Language Development (ELD classes are offered, as well as tutorial assistance in other content subject areas.  In ELD classes emphasis is placed upon the development of listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in English. Students will be placed in English Language Development (ELD) courses based on their proficiency levels. These courses may be separate from the standard English Language Arts classes. Depending on a student's proficiency level, they may attend an ELD course for up to ninety minutes per day.  The overall goal is to enable limited English proficient students to function independently in an English-speaking classroom and community. 

INDEPENDENT STUDY

Grades 11-12

Independent study may be pursued by those students who wish to develop a particular talent or special interest.  Students are required to develop a contract mutually agreeable to the teacher, family, counselor, department chair and administrator prior to the beginning of the course.  The contract will include a statement of purpose, time requirements both for student and teacher, specific learning objectives and evaluation procedures.  The amount of credit to be awarded and the level for each independent study proposal will be specified in the contract.  

Students must engage in independent study above and beyond their required program. Detailed criteria for participation in independent study are available in the Guidance and Counseling Office.

VIRTUAL HIGH SCHOOL

Dennis-Yarmouth offers over 150 Virtual High School courses in the arts, foreign languages, math, science, English language arts, social studies, and technology.  Advanced placement, International Baccalaureate, honors, and level 2 courses are available in both core and elective areas.  Courses are taught entirely via the Internet and are usually seminar-based.  Students interact, exchange information, and participate in group discussions with their classmates and their teacher.  Other students in the class may be in another state or country; this brings a real diversity to all classes.  

Because over 200 schools participate in the Virtual High School, the VHS program offers many learning possibilities.  VHS teachers clearly state course expectations and requirements, and provide all materials needed for the class.  Assignments are due on particular dates and are submitted through the VHS course pages.  Students may work either at home or in a D-Y class period during the day.  Students must complete a VHS application in order to register for classes.

The VHS semester can differ from the D-Y semester by a few days at either end of the semester, and this may require beginning or ending your work at slightly different times than D-Y semester dates.  VHS courses are developed and delivered by some of the best teachers across the US, are fully accredited, and receive regular D-Y credit.  Specific course listings can be found in the VHS Catalog. Your guidance counselor or the VHS site coordinator can assist you further in choosing and registering for a VHS course; there are no charges or fees to students taking VHS courses at D-Y.  Space in VHS courses is limited.

WAYFINDER CURRICULUM

The Wayfinder future-ready skills curriculum is a Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District initiative that boosts student performance and increases student purpose, engagement, and social awareness.

Who developed Wayfinder?

Wayfinder is an evidence-based program developed in collaboration with child development and educational psychology experts to address the unique challenges and opportunities our children face today.

What is the goal of Wayfinder?

Our primary goal in implementing Wayfinder is to support your child’s development,

focusing on six Core Skills: Self-Awareness, Collaboration, Empathy, Adaptability,

Agency, and Purpose.

Wayfinder Introduction Letter to Families 

 

AHERA MANAGEMENT PLAN

DYRSD AI VISION AND GUIDELINES

EXCERPTS FROM THE EDUCATION REFORM ACT OF 1993

MGL ch 71, 37H:  Notwithstanding any general or special law to the contrary, all student handbooks shall contain the following provisions:

(a) Any student who is found on school premises or at school-sponsored or school-related events, including athletic games, in possession of a dangerous weapon, including, but not limited to, a gun or a knife; or a controlled substance as defined in chapter ninety-four C, including, but not limited to, marijuana, cocaine, and heroin, may be subject to expulsion from the school or school district by the principal.

(b) Any student who assaults a principal, assistant principal, teacher, teacher's aide or other educational staff on school premises or at school-sponsored or school-related events, including athletic games, may be subject to expulsion from the school or school district by the principal.

(c) Any student who is charged with a violation of either paragraph (a) or (b) shall be notified in writing of an opportunity for a hearing; provided, however, that the student may have representation, along with the opportunity to present evidence and witnesses at said hearing before the principal.

After said hearing, a principal may, in his discretion, decide to suspend rather than expel a student who has been determined by the principal to have violated either paragraph (a) or (b).

(d) Any student who has been expelled from a school district pursuant to these provisions shall have the right to appeal to the superintendent.  The expelled student shall have ten days from the date of the expulsion in which to notify the superintendent of his appeal.  The student has the right to counsel at a hearing before the superintendent.  The subject matter of the appeal shall not be limited solely to a factual determination of whether the student has violated any provisions of this section.

(e) When a student is expelled under the provisions of this section, no school or school district within the commonwealth shall be required to admit such student or to provide educational services to said student.  If said student does apply for admission to another school or school district, the superintendent of the school district to which the application is made may request and shall receive from the superintendent of the school expelling said student a written statement of the reasons for said expulsion.

Amended by St.1987, c.285: St.1989, c.603; St.1992, c.133, § 430; St.1993, c. 71, § 36; St.1993, c.380, § 1; St.1994, c.51.

MGL ch 71, s 37L:  Section 37L of said chapter 71 of the General Laws, as appearing in the 1990 Official Edition, is hereby amended by adding the following paragraphs:

In addition, any school department personnel shall report in writing to their immediate supervisor an incident involving a student's possession or use of a dangerous weapon on school premises at any time.

Supervisors who receive such a weapon report shall file it with the superintendent of said school, who shall file copies of said weapon report with the local chief of police, the department of social services, the office of student services or its equivalent in any school district, and the local school committee.  Said superintendent, police chief and representative from the department of social services, together with a representative from the office of student services or its equivalent, shall arrange an assessment of the student involved in said weapon report.  Said student shall be referred to a counseling program; provided, however, that said counseling shall be in accordance with acceptable standards as set forth by the board of education.  Upon completion of a counseling session, a follow-up assessment shall be made of said student by those involved in the initial assessment.

A student transferring into a local system must provide the new school system with a complete school record of entering student.  Said record shall include, but not be limited to, any incidents involving suspension or violation of criminal acts or any incident reports in which such student was charged with any suspended act.

NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY

REGULATIONS PERTAINING TO STUDENT RECORDS

JRA-R STUDENT RECORDS 

The Federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Massachusetts Student  Regulations (“regulations”) together provide parents’ and eligible students’ (those who have reached  the age of fourteen or who have entered ninth grade) certain rights with respect to the student’s  education records. FERPA requires schools to protect the privacy of student records and gives parents  and students rights including inspection and review of student records. Massachusetts regulations are  designed to ensure parents’ and students’ rights of confidentiality, inspection, amendment and  destruction of student records and to assist school authorities in carrying out their responsibilities  under state and federal law. 

The Massachusetts regulations apply to all information kept by a school or school district on a student  in a way that the student may be individually identified. The regulations divide the record into two  parts: the transcript and the temporary record.  

The transcript includes only the minimum information necessary to reflect the student's  educational progress. This information includes name, course titles, grades, credits, and grade  level completed. The transcript is kept by the school district for at least sixty years after the  student leaves the system. 

The temporary record contains the majority of the information maintained by the school about  the student. This information clearly should be of importance to the educational process. This  may include such things as standardized test results; class rank; school-sponsored  extracurricular activities; evaluations and comments by teachers, counselors, and other  persons; disciplinary records; and other information. The temporary record is destroyed within  five years after the student leaves the school system. 

CONFIDENTIALITY 

Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) and the Massachusetts Student  Records Regulations, schools are prohibited from giving, either orally or in writing, a student’s  personally identifiable information contained in student records to third parties or access to such  information without the specific informed written consent of a parent/guardian, or eligible student or  absent a specific exception.  

ACCESS: Shall mean inspection and/or copying a student record, in whole or part. 

1. Parents’ (a student’s father, mother, or guardian or person or agency legally authorized to act  on behalf of the child in place of or in conjunction with the father, mother or guardian) and  eligible students have the right to inspect all portions of the student record upon request to the  school principal or designee. This record must be made available within 3 days after request,  unless the parent or student consents to a delay. If copying all or part is requested, a  reasonable fee for duplicating the materials may be charged. The parent and eligible student  may request to have parts of the record interpreted by a qualified professional from the school,  or may invite anyone else of their choice to inspect or interpret the record with them. When a  student is 18 years of age, the student alone may exercise their right; regardless of the  student’s age a parent maintains access. 

2. A non-custodial parent who does not have physical custody may have access to the student  record under the laws and regulations as detailed in KBBA- Non-Custodial Parent Rights.  

3. Authorized school personnel, subject to 603 CMB 23.00, shall have access to the student  records to whom they are providing services and in performance of their specific and official  duties. The consent of the parent or eligible student shall not be necessary. 

4. When Third Party access is requested in writing by the parent/guardian or eligible student, a  duplicate copy of such consent shall be placed in the student’s temporary record. When  granting written consent, the parent or eligible student shall have the right to designate which  parts of the school record shall be released to the third party. Third parties who obtain written  consent and receive personally identifiable information are prohibited from further releasing  the information without the specific, informed written consent of a parent, guardian or eligible  student. 

5. Third Party exceptions to the general rule permit disclosure of student information without  parental written consent under the following specific conditions:

1. Education department officials are provided access to student records that are  necessary for an audit, evaluation, or enforcement of federal and state education  laws or programs or otherwise required by law. Such data collection must be  protected so that parties other than education officials cannot personally identify  the students and their parents; and such information will be destroyed when no  longer needed for the intended audit, evaluation, or enforcement purposes, as  required by law.  
2. Authorized school personnel of other elementary or secondary schools in which a  student enrolls, or seeks, intends, or is instructed to enroll upon receipt of a request  from such authorized personnel.  
3. In connection with a health or safety emergency, the school may, (or in certain  situations must) release student record information to police, prosecutors,  Massachusetts Department of Children and Families (DCF) investigators, or health  department staff upon proof that knowledge of this information is necessary to  protect the health or safety of the student or other individuals. Specific examples of  situations when the school must release information: 

1. School health personnel and local and state health departments shall have  access to student health records such as immunization records in  performance of official duties  

2. If the school principal has a reasonable basis to believe that criminal charges  may be pursued against the aggressor, the school must disclose to local law  enforcement information regarding serious incidents of bullying, retaliation  or other criminal incidents. 

3. By law, schools must file a dangerous weapon report to appropriate agencies 4. Under 51A (mandated reporter of alleged child abuse or neglect), the school  must file a report with DCF 

5. A student or former student has been reported missing.

4. A lawfully issued judicial order or subpoena is presented. The school must make a  reasonable effort to notify the parent (or student if 18 years or older)of the judicial  order or subpoena in advance of compliance. Prior notification to a parent or student who is 18 or older is not required when: 

1. The court has explicitly prohibited disclosure in its order or the order was obtained by the US Attorney General concerning investigations of an act of terrorism or other specified offenses.  

2. The parent is a party to a court proceeding involving child abuse and/or neglect, dependency matters, or legal actions against the school. 

AMENDMENT  

The parent(s) and eligible student have the right to add relevant comments, information, or other  written materials to the student record. In addition, the parent and eligible student have a right to  request that information in the record be amended or deleted. They are entitled to meet with the  

principal (or the principal's designee) to discuss their objection to information that is in the record, and  to receive a written decision. A parent or eligible student who is not satisfied with the principal's  decision may appeal to higher authorities in the school district. 

MAINTENANCE and DESTRUCTION OF STUDENT RECORD 

At least once during every school year, the school shall publish and distribute to students and their  parents in their primary language a routine information letter informing them of the following: The standardized testing programs and research studies to be conducted during the year; the general  provisions of the Student Records regulations; and how to receive a copy of the Student Records laws  and regulations.  

An Access Log shall be part of each student’s record. The log shall indicate all, except authorized school  personnel, persons who have obtained access to the student’s record, stating: name and  position/signature of person releasing information; name, position of person/affiliation receiving the  information; date; the parts of the record to which access was obtained; and the purpose of such  access.  

The regulations require school authorities to destroy a student's temporary record within five years  after the student transfers, graduates or withdraws from the school system. School authorities are also  allowed to destroy misleading, outdated, or irrelevant information in the record from time to time  while the student is enrolled in the school system. In each case, the school must first notify the parent  and eligible student and give them the opportunity to receive a copy of any of the information before it  is destroyed. 

Legal Refs: Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) 

Massachusetts General Laws M.G.L. 4:7, 66:10, 30A 18-25, 71:34 A, B,D,E,H,L 

Revised & Approved by the School Committee on 5/19/2025

RESTRAINT OF STUDENTS

The Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District complies with the DOE restraint regulations, 603 CMR 46.00 et seq. (“Regulations”), to the extent required by law.  According to their terms, the Regulations apply not only at school but also at school-sponsored events and activities, whether or not on school property.  A brief overview of the Regulations is provided below.

Methods and Conditions for Implementation:  School staff may use physical restraint only (1) when non-physical interventions would be ineffective and the student’s behavior poses a threat of imminent, serious harm to self and/or others or (2) pursuant to a student’s IEP or other written plan developed in accordance with state and federal law and approved by the school and parent or guardian.  Physical restraint will be practiced in strict accordance with DOE Regulations and guidelines and Massachusetts General Law.  The School Committee will periodically be informed of any changes in physical restraint guidelines or regulations.

Physical restraint may not be used as a means of punishment or as a response to property destruction, disruption of school order, a student’s refusal to comply with a school rule or staff directive, or verbal threats that do not constitute a threat of imminent, serious, physical harm.  Chemical and mechanical restraints may only be used if explicitly authorized by a physician and approved by a parent or guardian.  Seclusion is prohibited.

The Regulations do not prevent a teacher, employee or agent of the district from using reasonable force to protect students, other persons or themselves from assault or imminent serious harm or from restraining students as otherwise provided in the Regulations.

Staff Training:  All school staff must receive training with respect to the district’s restraint policy (i.e., following the Regulations), including receiving information about interventions that may preclude the need for restraint, types of restraint and related safety considerations, and administering physical restraint in accordance with known medical or psychological limitations and/or behavioral intervention plans applicable to an individual student.  Additionally, the school must identify specific staff to serve as school-wide resources to assist in ensuring proper administration of physical restraint.  These individuals must participate in in-depth training with respect to restraint and implementation of the Regulations.

Reporting Requirements and Follow-Up:  In instances where a physical restraint (1) lasts more than five minutes or (2) results in injury to a student or staff member, the school staff must report the physical restraint to the principal or a designee.  The principal/designee must maintain an ongoing record of all such reported instances, which will be made available in accordance with state and federal law and regulations.  The principal/designee must also verbally inform the student’s parent or guardian of the restraint as soon as possible, and by written report postmarked no later than three school working days following the use of the restraint.  The written restraint report must be provided to the parent or guardian in the language in which report cards and other necessary school-related information are customarily provided.

In the event that a physical restraint (1) lasts longer than 20 minutes or (2) results in serious injury to the student of staff member, the school must, within five school working days of the reported restraint, provide a copy of the written report to DOE along with a copy of the school’s record of physical restraints covering the thirty-day period prior to the date of the restraint.

For students who require the frequent use of restraint because they present a high risk of frequent, dangerous behaviors, school staff may seek and obtain the parent or guardian’s consent to waive reporting requirements for restraints administered to an individual student that do not result in serious injury to the student or staff member or constitute extended restraint (longer than 20 minutes).

Follow-up procedures for restraint include not only the reporting requirements set forth above, but also reviewing the incident with the student, staff and consideration of whether follow-up is appropriate for students who witnessed the incident.

Complaints:  Complaints and investigations regarding restraint practices should be made orally or in writing to the building principal or the Director of Special Services, 296 Station Avenue, South Yarmouth, MA 02664, telephone 508-398-7624.

DYRSD Photo/Media Opt-Out Process

Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District uses photos and/or videos of students and student work to showcase educational activities and programs in our schools and share the D-Y experience with families and the community. 

Student photographs and/or videos may be used on the district website, yearbooks and/or social media. 

Student photos and videos are generally used without student names, unless a specific award, honor, or achievement by the student is being highlighted. 

Student names are released without photos for Honor Rolls.

Names of Dennis-Yarmouth High School graduates are shared each year.

Occasionally, student photos and/or news may be shared with local media outlets.

If you DO NOT give Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District permission to include your student’s image or name in any way, please send a letter to your school principal explicitly stating your wish to opt out. This letter must be received by October 1 (or 30 days after registration for students entering mid-year).

Please note that DYRSD does not control the disclosure or use of photographs or video taken by participants at events that are open to parents, community members, and/or the news media. Additionally, this form does not apply to students participating in public events, such as performances, academic competitions, and athletic events. Student photos and names from these events may be published by the news media.

Upon receipt of an opt-out letter, school staff will document your student’s status in PowerSchool Student Information System for the current school year.

STUDENT ACCIDENT INSURANCE

NON-ATHLETIC CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

PHILOSOPHY

Student co-curricular activities represent an integral part of our school's educational program and provide an opportunity to support, apply and extend learning.   Participating in clubs and organizations is a wonderful way to meet new friends, learn leadership skills, and put talents to use.  All students are strongly encouraged to join one or more of the clubs and organizations D-Y offers.

RULES AND PROCEDURES GOVERNING ACTIVITIES

1. No activities using school facilities, the school name or the school grounds will be permitted unless supervised by a designated faculty sponsor who will assume full responsibility for the students, the facilities and the premises.

2. Student activities and school functions are governed by the Behavioral Guidelines listed in Section E.

3. Students are to depart and return from student activities in transportation provided by the school.

4. New clubs may be started if a group of students has a particular interest and an adviser is available.  Students should meet with the administrator in charge of co-curriculars to discuss ideas for new clubs and to complete a new club charter or constitution.

1. Any issues regarding dismissal from a club or organization will be referred to the administration.

PARTICIPATION

1. No student will be denied membership in any co-curricular activity because of economic status, race, color, political beliefs, religion, national origin, gender identity, or sexual orientation.

2. Any student who is absent from school is not eligible to take part in or attend any co-curricular activity which is scheduled for the same day.

3. A student must be in school by 8:00 a.m. and attend school for at least one-half day to participate in or attend any co-curricular activities.  Any student who leaves the school grounds during the day without permission may not participate in any activity.  If the student is absent on the last school day of the week, he/she is ineligible for any co-curricular activity on the following day.  This rule may be waived in individual cases by the principal if in his/her judgment the absences were for good reason and not to avoid student responsibility. 

4. A student who is suspended from school may not participate in or attend any activities until the day he/she has been re-admitted to school. 

5. Each individual club and organization have guidelines outlining participation in the specific group.

AWARDS, HONORS, AND OPPORTUNITIES

Dennis-Yarmouth Regional High School students are eligible for a wide variety of honors and awards.  These include opportunities from many sources including national, state, and local groups and organizations.  The Guidance and Counseling Department publishes on a regular basis notices which list the many possibilities for students to enter academic competitions, to compete for scholarships, and to take part in workshops and conferences.  These notices are posted in each classroom and in the guidance suite.  Please take advantage of these wonderful and varied opportunities!

CO-CURRICULAR OFFERINGS

The following co-curricular activities may be offered:

Gender and Sexuality Alliance (GSA)

D-Y’s GSA is one of a growing network of such organizations throughout the state.  GSA is a group for all students and staff who are interested in discussing and working toward diversity, social justice, an open-minded approach toward difference, and an end to prejudice and discrimination.  GSA meets weekly and holds social functions, attends conferences and marches, plans after school events for the students and staff, and does outreach into the district and community.

Ambassadors

Being chosen as a Student Ambassador is an honor and privilege. Students are nominated by staff. Approximately 15-20 rising seniors are chosen to represent the school each year. Approximately 2-4 rising juniors are chosen. Student Ambassadors should embody the following qualities: a role model, friendly and approachable, involved, helpful, kind, caring towards others, comfortable offering assistance and conversing with new people. They should consistently arrive on time to school and their classes and they should not have any recent disciplinary issues. Student Ambassadors will be responsible for assisting the guidance department in welcoming and touring students who are new to the school (many times this also means new to the town, new to the state, or new to the country). There are also responsibilities and commitments outside of the school day, including one meeting per month as well as assisting with select school wide events such as The New Student Barbecue, Open House, and Spring Showcase. Selected students will need to balance the responsibilities of their academic courses with participation in this group. They will be expected to communicate with teachers when they have a commitment pertaining to this group and are also expected to make up any work missed while tending to these responsibilities.

The Student Ambassador Program is a leadership opportunity for students who are dedicated to serving and representing DYRHS in a positive manner. Student Ambassadors provide campus tours, serve as a DY representative, and perform duties at various school and community events.

Art Club

The D-Y Art Club is open to all students interested in sharing their artistic talents with our community. The Art Club has painted murals at Station Avenue Elementary School as well as D-Y and The Hope Project within our community.  We have assisted other co-curricular clubs in creating floats for parades, painting items to sell for fund-raising, painted fire hydrants at the dog park in Dennis, and have created items for sale for our own fund-raising events.  The Art Club meets weekly, and members and officers work closely with the advisor to plan yearly goals, projects, field trips, dues and fund-raising activities.

German Club

The German Club is a fun, welcoming community where students explore German language and culture through events, crafts, fundraisers, and service projects. Activities also support the Germany exchange trip, one of D-Y’s most unique opportunities. All students are welcome—no German experience needed! Join us, bring a friend, and celebrate culture together.

Interact Club

Interact is an international club.  We have chapters in most countries of the world and in most communities of the United States.  Our goal is to help people in need, any way we can.  We believe in action, in taking a member’s ideas and making them happen while having fun in the process.  We are a very active club.  Internationally we send money to help the disabled of Ayacucho, Peru and to fund a pure water project in Honduras.  Here on Cape Cod, we have activities that enable us to work with the mentally disabled, the homeless, and the physically abused as well as Habitat for Humanity.  We sponsor a D-Y Volleyball Tournament and a Rotary-Interact Breakfast.  We also build a float every year for the Yarmouth Seaside Festival.   If you have ever had a vision of how you wanted to help others and make a difference in the world, then join Interact.  We will make that vision come true.  Meetings are every Thursday directly after school.

Hope Squad

Hope Squad is a peer-led initiative designed to reduce youth suicide through education, training, and early intervention. The program selects up to five students from each grade level annually, for a total membership of 25 students. While new members are welcomed each year, many participants continue their involvement across multiple years; eligibility for leadership positions requires at least one year of prior participation.

Hope Squad members are student volunteers who are identified by their peers as approachable, trustworthy, and supportive. Under the guidance of trained advisors, members receive structured instruction but are not expected to serve as counselors. Instead, they are prepared to act as peer advocates by recognizing warning signs of suicide risk, promoting help-seeking behaviors, and appropriately referring concerns to school staff.

Through scaffolded, evidence-based training modules, members develop skills in suicide prevention awareness, mental health literacy, and personal self-care. As visible and accessible members of the student body, Hope Squad participants serve as an important link between students and trusted adults, helping to foster a safe and supportive school environment.

Math Team

The math team competes in five regular season meets from October to March.  Playoffs occur after the regular season for the top regional teams.  Practices are held once a week during the year.  Students of all abilities and grade levels who are interested in mathematics are welcome to join.

Musical Programs

Dennis-Yarmouth Regional High School offers a wide range of co-curricular music ensembles that provide students with meaningful performance opportunities beyond the school day. These ensembles are an extension of the classroom experience and play a vital role in developing musicianship, discipline, teamwork, and leadership. The D-Y music program has a long-standing tradition of excellence, with ensembles regularly earning top honors at the regional and national level. Students participate in organizations such as MMEA, All-Cape & Islands, NESBA, USBands, and WGI, with opportunities to perform both locally and across the country. Participation in co-curricular ensembles requires a commitment to rehearsals and performances, and students are expected to remain in good standing within the music program.

Marching Band

The Dennis-Yarmouth Marching Band is a highly competitive and nationally recognized ensemble that performs throughout the fall season. Students rehearse throughout the summer on Tuesday evenings, followed by a band camp held in early August to prepare for the season. During the school year, rehearsals are held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6:00–9:00 p.m., as well as on Saturdays, with competitions taking place on Saturdays. The band performs at all home football games and competes in the USBands circuit as an Open Class ensemble, consistently earning top placements. Participation is open to all students, and no prior experience is required.

Fall Color Guard

The D-Y Fall Color Guard performs as an integral part of the marching band throughout the fall season. Members develop skills in dance, movement, and equipment work, including flag, rifle, and sabre, while building strength, coordination, and artistic expression. Students rehearse throughout the summer on Tuesday evenings alongside the marching band, followed by a band camp held in early August to prepare for the season. During the school year, rehearsals are held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6:00–9:00 p.m., as well as on Saturdays, with competitions taking place on Saturdays. The ensemble competes in the USBands circuit as an Open Class unit and performs at all home football games. Participation is open to all students, and no prior experience is required.

Winter Color Guard

The D-Y Winter Color Guard is a competitive indoor color guard that builds upon the skills developed during the fall season. Participation in the Fall Color Guard is required for membership in the winter group. Members continue to develop advanced techniques in dance, movement, and equipment work while performing more complex and theatrical productions. Rehearsals are held on Monday and Wednesday evenings from 6:00–9:00 p.m., as well as on Saturdays throughout the winter season. The color guard competes in the NESBA and WGI circuits, with competitions taking place on weekends and culminating in regional and national championship events. A high level of commitment is expected, including regular attendance at all rehearsals and performances.

Winter Percussion

The D-Y Winter Percussion is a competitive indoor percussion ensemble that combines music, movement, and visual design in a highly engaging performance setting. The group builds upon skills developed during the fall marching season while also providing an opportunity for students of all backgrounds to get involved in music. No prior experience is necessary, and percussion is not required to be a student’s primary instrument. In fact, many members of the ensemble are not traditional percussionists. Any student is welcome to join, making this a great entry point for those looking to become involved in the music program.

Rehearsals are held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6:00–9:00 p.m., as well as on Saturdays throughout the winter season. The ensemble competes in the NESBA and WGI circuits, with competitions taking place on weekends and culminating in regional and national championship events. A high level of commitment is expected, including regular attendance at all rehearsals and performances.

Select Choir

The D-Y Select Choir is an advanced vocal ensemble for students who are interested in a higher-level choral experience. Membership is open to students who demonstrate strong vocal ability, musicianship, and a commitment to ensemble performance. The group performs a wide range of repertoire, including classical, contemporary, and a cappella literature, and represents the school at concerts and special events throughout the year.

Rehearsals are held outside of the regular school day, and students are expected to maintain a high level of preparation and commitment. Members of the Select Choir often pursue additional performance opportunities, including auditions for All-Cape & Islands and MMEA festivals.

Fiddlers (String Ensemble)

The Fiddlers is a string ensemble for violin, viola, cello, and bass players that offers students a unique and engaging performance experience outside of the school day. The group explores a wide range of repertoire, including traditional fiddle music as well as classical and contemporary selections, allowing students to develop both technical skill and musical expression in a smaller ensemble setting.

Rehearsals are held on Mondays after school throughout the school year, and the ensemble performs at concerts and special events. Students are expected to come prepared and contribute positively to the ensemble, with an emphasis on collaboration, musicianship, and performance.

National Honor Society

Most of the information provided in this section is based on material from the National Honor Society Handbook.  Reston:  National Association of Secondary School Principals, 1987.  Founded in 1921, the National Honor Society (NHS) is sponsored and governed by the National Association of Secondary School Principals.  The purpose of this organization is to create enthusiasm for scholarship, to stimulate a desire to render service, to promote leadership, and to develop character in the students of secondary schools.  Students may not apply for membership.  Membership in NHS is open to all qualified juniors and seniors who not only meet the academic criteria, but also have demonstrated the traits of character, leadership, and service, and are selected by a Faculty Council appointed by the principal.  Through NHS chapter service activities, members must maintain and extend qualities that won them selection.  Membership is both an honor and a commitment.  Members are required to abide by the NHS constitution and by-laws and Dennis-Yarmouth Regional High School policies.  Members who resign or are dismissed are never again eligible for membership or its benefits.

Selection Process 

Faculty Council:  A Faculty Council is formed and consists of five voting faculty members who express a desire to help with the selection process and are approved by the principal.  The chapter advisor and the Faculty Council cooperate in developing and periodically reviewing the selection and dismissal procedures not expressly provided for in the constitution.  This group is responsible for the decisions of selecting and dismissing members.

Selection of Members:  Membership is through a selection process and is extended only to those students selected by the Faculty Council.  Students do not have a right to be selected for membership in National Honor Society.  Membership is a privilege earned by high achievement in the four areas of selection — character, leadership, scholarship and service.  The following procedures have been developed to ensure a fair, impartial and consistently applied selection process.

Criteria for Membership:

Scholarship:  Candidates for the NHS must have spent at least one semester at Dennis-Yarmouth Regional High School and be members of the junior or senior class with an average of a 3.5 or better; however, membership is not based on scholarship alone. 

Procedure for Selection:

1. In the Fall, grade point averages will be reviewed by the advisor(s) to determine those students who are academically eligible for selection into the Dennis-Yarmouth Chapter of the National Honor Society.  Juniors and seniors with a grade point average of 3.5 or better are eligible.

2. Eligible students will be sent notification that they are being considered for selection in NHS and presented with copies of the national constitution, by-laws, and selection process.

3. The candidate for selection will be required to complete a student information form listing his/her achievements, community service, extra and co-curricular activities, and leadership positions.  The form must be completed and signed by the student.  Incorrect information may result in the candidate being disqualified.  In addition, a candidate may provide written information concerning any outstanding accomplishments and/or explanation for any past indiscretions or circumstances.  The deadline for returning all materials will be indicated in the notification letter.  No materials will be accepted after the deadline.

4. Students will have the opportunity to submit individual faculty questionnaires to no more than three members of the faculty, staff or administration.  This information is confidential and will not be available to anyone but the NHS advisor(s), the Faculty Council and the principal.

5. The advisor(s) will collect all materials and organize the information for the Faculty Council.  Using the student and faculty questionnaires, the Faculty Council will review each candidate’s qualifications in the following three areas: character, leadership, service.  (Note: Scholarship is determined by the 3.5 grade point average).

6. The Faculty Council will meet to determine the final list of candidates.

7. Selected students will receive invitations to become members of the NHS and an induction ceremony will be scheduled.  Accepting the induction invitation indicates that the candidate has accepted the rules and expectations of NHS and wishes to become a member.  A candidate becomes a member officially at the induction ceremony where he/she will receive the symbols of induction.

8. After the selection process has been completed all materials—including the student information form, staff questionnaires, and any other supporting materials—will be discarded.

9. Students may appeal the decision of the Faculty Council to the principal.

Leadership:  In addition to the number of offices a student has held in school or community organizations, leadership extends to the classroom and outside of elected offices (including school and outside activities).  The student who exercises leadership

• is resourceful in proposing new problems, applying principles, and making suggestions

• demonstrates leadership in promoting school activities

• exercises influence on peers in upholding school ideals

• contributes ideas that improve the civic life of the school

• is able to delegate responsibilities

• inspires positive behavior in others

• demonstrates academic initiative

• successfully holds school offices or positions of responsibility and without prodding, demonstrates reliability and dependability

• demonstrates leadership in the classroom, at work and in school or community activities

• is thoroughly dependable 

Service:  A candidate's contribution to school, peers, and community is examined and verified.  The student who serves

• is willing to uphold scholarship and maintain a loyal school attitude

• participates in some outside activity: scouts; volunteer services for the aged, poor, or disadvantaged; family duties; civic groups; church groups and the like

• works well with others and is willing to take on difficult or inconspicuous responsibilities

• cheerfully and enthusiastically renders any requested service to the school

• does committee and staff work uncomplainingly

• shows courtesy by assisting visitors, teachers and students

Character:  The student of character

• shows respect, courtesy, and concern for others

• takes criticism willingly and accepts recommendations graciously

• consistently exemplifies desirable qualities of behavior—cheerfulness, friendliness, poise, stability

• upholds principles of morality and ethics

• demonstrates the highest standards of honesty and reliability

• observes instructions and rules, punctuality, and faithfulness both inside and outside the classroom

• has powers of concentration and sustained attention as shown by perseverance and application to studies

• displays truthfulness in acknowledging obedience to rules, avoiding cheating in written work, and showing unwillingness to profit by mistakes of others

• acts as a positive influence in the school

National Art Honor Society

The National Art Honor Society (NAHS) is designed specifically for high school students in grades 9-12. In 1978, the National Art Education Association began the National Art Honor Society program to inspire and recognize students who have shown an outstanding ability and interest in art. The NAHS strives to aid members in attaining the highest standards in art scholarship, character, and service, and to bring art education to the attention of the school and community. 

Purpose

• Inspire and recognize those students who have shown outstanding ability in art
• Foster excellence and a dedicated spirit to the pursuit of art
• Further creative abilities and talents of the Society’s members
• Aid members in committing to provide 10 hours of service in our communities
• Bring art to the attention of the school and community
• Graduate with the distinction of NAHS member and wear the rainbow cord.

Membership

• Membership in this chapter shall be based upon art scholarship, service, and character.
• To be eligible for selection to membership in this chapter, the candidate must be a high school student enrolled in grade 9, 10, 11, or 12 in this school, and have completed a period equivalent to one semester of art in this school.
• An eligible candidate shall have a minimum art scholarship average of B, or this school’s equivalent. This is the national minimum standard of achievement required for eligibility and shall remain fixed.
• Members may remain active during such time when there is no art on their class schedule.

Tri-M Music Honor Society

The Tri-M Music Honor Society is the international music honor society for middle/junior high and high school students. It is designed to recognize students for their academic and musical achievements, reward them for their accomplishments and service activities, and to inspire other students to excel at music and leadership.

Membership Criteria- Candidates are selected from school music students that exhibit exceptional scholarship, leadership, service and character.

Music Participation-Candidates have to be (or have been) in a school music ensemble or class for at least one semester of the current school year.

Grades/Scholarship-Candidates have to have maintained a A average grade (or equivalent) in music classes, as well as at least a 3.0 average grade in your other classes during the last semester.

Leadership-Leadership roles in both school and community may be considered as long as they can be verified.

Service-The advisor can consider any school or community service activity as long as they can be verified.  Service activities include any actions undertaken by the student that are done with or on behalf of others without any direct financial or material compensation to the individual performing the service.

Character-Tri-M is looking for members who demonstrate respect, responsibility, trustworthiness, fairness, caring, and citizenship. Examples include being responsible, following school policies and procedures, being respectful of others and their property, being honest, being punctual, and being patient. 

German National Honor Society (Delta Epsilon Phi)

The German National Honor Society (Delta Epsilon Phi) recognizes students who demonstrate outstanding achievement in German and a strong commitment to cultural understanding. As German is offered in relatively few high schools across Massachusetts, membership in the D-Y chapter is a distinctive academic honor that reflects global awareness, initiative, and academic excellence.

Purpose

• Honor excellence in German and a commitment to global citizenship
• Promote cultural understanding and multilingualism
• Develop leadership through service and advocacy
• Provide a distinctive academic pathway that sets members apart through the study of a less commonly offered world language

Membership

Membership is based on scholarship, character, leadership, and service. Eligible students (grades 10–12) must have completed at least three years of German (or be enrolled in their third year), demonstrate strong achievement in German and overall academics, serve as model students, and actively participate in German Club and related activities.

Members commit to:

• Serve the community (10+ hours annually)
• Lead and participate in chapter events
• Advocate for language learning at D-Y
• Model integrity, initiative, and respect

Meeting Days: TBD (Dates shared in advance.)

The Nautilus

The Yearbook

The Dennis-Yarmouth Regional High School yearbook is produced by a staff comprised of freshmen, sophomores, juniors and seniors.  Under the direction of the advisor, the staff is responsible for all phases of the yearbook production, including publicity, sales, layout, finances and deadlines.  The final product will be distributed prior to graduation.  Any students interested can sign up in September and learn all aspects of generating the yearbook.  

Student Council

The sixty-member Student Council is the 1995 and 1996 recipient of the Massachusetts Association of Student Councils' Excellence Award, given to the "Most Outstanding Student Council in the Commonwealth" and Honor Council Recipient in 1998 and 2000.  Four grade representatives are elected from each grade to serve on the Student Council.  The sixteen grade representatives are joined on the council by the two School Council members, five Student Advisory Committee members, two Regional Student Advisory Council members, sixteen class officers and various appointed members not to exceed the sixty member maximum.

The Student Council meets every Thursday after school, with the principal during the school day as needed.  Mandatory training is provided during the Winter and Spring NEASC outings.

Any council member who holds dual positions must fulfill all requirements and responsibilities of both memberships.  If a student is removed from one position, he or she may be removed from the other.

Student Council elections are run before June 15 for the following school year.  Eighth grade elections are held before November 1 of each year.  To qualify for election, applications must be filed.  All candidates will give speeches at a class meeting.

Class Officers:  Each class will elect a president, vice-president, secretary and treasurer.  These four officers are responsible for working closely with their advisor to run class functions and fundraisers.  Three annual class meetings are to be run by structural decision making process and a written agenda must be pre-approved.  The class advisor must be present at any class meeting.

The officers of each class are full voting members of the Student Council and have all of the privileges and responsibilities of the council.  The vice-president of each class serves as a representative to the Parents’ Advisory Council.  The secretary is responsible for filing an annual class report by May 1^st and for the upkeep of the class bulletin board in the student google classroom The Lagoon.

Class Meetings: In support of our Core Values: Equity, Dignity, Excellence, Community and Integrity, Dennis-Yarmouth Regional High School conducts class meetings at least two times a year.

The meetings should be run with the following in mind:

1. Class meetings are run for the benefit of the class.  Students are to attend the meeting reflecting their official listed year of graduation regardless of their scheduled classes.
2. Class meetings are conducted by the officers of the class with the help and support of the class advisors.  Class delegates and other class members may be involved at the discretion of the class.
3. Class meetings are to model town meetings.

A simple form of structured decision making process is to be followed.

A formal call to order is to occur.  Any class member who wishes to speak is to stand and identify him/herself before he/she speaks.

The moderator repeats the speaker’s question if everyone doesn't hear it.

Any votes taken are to be taken electronically.

Class officers are to talk from the podium and use the public address system.

The meeting is to follow the pre-approved agenda.

4. The secretary of the class is to take the minutes, type them and post them on the class bulletin board.
5. Agendas are to model school committee agendas.

a. Presidents are responsible for typing and submitting agendas.

2. Agendas are to be submitted to the class advisors one week before the scheduled meeting.  Class advisors are to review and approve the agenda before class meetings.
3. Agendas are to include Call to Order, Review of Expectations for Student Behavior and Participation, Secretary’s Report, Treasurer’s Report, Old Business, New Business and Adjournment.  The secretary and treasurer are responsible for each respective report.
4. Open forum may occur only with pre-approval of the principal.  If   that option is approved and used, the moderator is responsible for regulating meaningful discussion and/or ending the forum if necessary.

5) On the day of the class meetings time should be set aside in advisor/advisee period to   review:

a.    The class meeting schedule.

b.     Proper meeting behavior.

c.     Who is eligible to attend which meeting.

d.     The purpose of class meetings.

6) The first class to hold a meeting is responsible for set-up as follows:

a.   Curtains closed.

b.    Lower the screen and partially open the curtains if an overhead projector is to be used.

c.    Orchestra pit cleared out or “tidied” up.

3. Podium centered in the orchestra pit.
4.  Orchestra pit lights turned on.
5.  Public address system set up on the podium.
6.  Set up chairs in the orchestra pit for each speaker.
7.  Students will sit front to back in all three sections.  Advisors and administrators may help the students to speed the process.

7) The last class to hold a meeting is responsible for the clean-up as follows:

a.    Return the podium to its original location.

b.    Return the public address system to the A-V Department.

3.  Check the auditorium and pick up any trash.
4.  Turn off all of the lights.
5.  Close all of the doors and be sure the auditorium is locked.

Student Advisory Council

(MGL cd 15, s 1E)

The Student Advisory Council is a statewide organization of high school students elected by their fellow students.  The SAC advises the Commissioner of Education and has voting representation on the State Board of Education.  There are eleven regional councils across the state that meet as five functioning councils.  By state law, each Massachusetts high school must elect two student representatives to RSAC. 

Any enrolled high school student who will not graduate that school year and who has resided within the Commonwealth for at least six months prior to the election is eligible for election from his/her school to the RSAC.  Each RSAC member must attend regularly scheduled meetings at which he/she represents the concerns of his/her student body with other students representing their schools' educational concerns and needs.  Most importantly, a RSAC member acts upon these needs and interests.  There are no salaries for RSAC members, although travel expenses to and from regional meetings are paid by the member's school committee.

The two members of the Regional Student Advisory Council are full voting members of the student council and have all privileges and responsibilities of the council.  Both RSAC members must attend school committee meetings.

Student Advisory Committee to the School Committee

(MGL c71, s 38M):  "School committees of cities, towns and regional school districts shall meet at least once every other month, during the months school is in session, with a student advisory committee to consist of five members to be composed of students elected by the student body of the high school or high schools in each city, town or regional school district.

The members of such student advisory committees shall, by majority vote prior to the first day of June in each year elect from their number a chairperson who shall serve for a term of one year.  Said chairperson shall be an ex-officio, non-voting member of the school committee, without the right to attend executive sessions unless such right is expressly granted by the individual school committee.  Said chairperson shall be subject to all school committee rules and regulations and shall serve without compensation.``

The five members of the Student Advisory Committee are full voting members of the Student Council and have all privileges and responsibilities of the council.

Multilingual Student Advisory Council

The Multilingual Student Advisory Council is a schoolwide group of high school students elected by their fellow students.  The MLSAC advises the Principal. Any enrolled high school student is eligible to be on the council.  Each MLSAC member must attend regularly scheduled meetings at which he/she represents the concerns of his/her student body with other students representing their schools' educational concerns and needs.  

School Council  

The Education Reform Act of 1993 mandates the establishment of a school council, comprised of faculty members, parents, community representatives, and students.  Two students are elected to serve on D-Y's School Council.  They attend the monthly meetings of the School Council.  School Council meetings are open to all students.

Technology Club

This exciting, project-based after school club will empower students to become creators of technology by learning the fundamentals of mobile app development. Students will use a beginner-friendly, block-based coding platform (like Code.org) to design, code, and test functional apps that specifically promote and support key areas of Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) and Digital Literacy.

The group will focus on creating Apps that address social emotional topics at the middle school level. 

Students will not only master core programming concepts—such as variables, loops, conditionals, and user interface design—but they will also apply these skills to solve real-world social and emotional challenges. Projects will focus on the five core SEL competencies: Self-Awareness, Self-Management, Social Awareness, Relationship Skills, and Responsible Decision-Making.

Key Learning Objectives:

 Students will be able to:

• Design a User Interface (UI): Plan and create intuitive and engaging screen layouts for mobile applications.
• Apply Foundational Coding Concepts: Utilize basic programming logic (like sequences, loops, and conditional statements) to create interactive app features.
• Integrate SEL Principles into Design: Translate specific SEL concepts (e.g., mindfulness, empathy, conflict resolution) into practical app functionality.
• Develop SEL-Focused Apps: Create working prototypes for apps that address student well-being, such as a “Self-Esteem Boosters”, "Mood Tracker," a "Conflict Resolution Chooser," or a "Gratitude Journal."
• Collaborate and Communicate: Work in teams to brainstorm, peer-test, and present their apps in a “Dolphin Tank” environment and with Middle School students. 
• Meeting Dates: Thursdays after school in room 514.

Theatre Company

The Theatre Company is D-Y’s after-school group dedicated to exploring all facets of theatre performance and management. The company strives for the highest possible level of professionalism both in the quality of its productions and in the attitudes with which members approach their work.  All students are encouraged to get involved.

French Club

Summary: French Club meets 2-3 times a month after school to explore French culture via food (making crepes, baking, etc), traditional games, music, trivia, as well as community service (making holiday cards, caroling, etc). Participation Requirements: An interest in French-speaking cultures. Meeting Information: Usually Thursday every other week but this can vary.

Amnesty International

Not Currently Running

“Amnesty International’s global mission is rooted in a fundamental commitment to the rights, dignity, and well-being of every person.”  There are people all over the world who lack these things which we take for granted, a place to live, food to eat, a school to attend, health care, safety to practice religion or say what they want, equality under the law, and the protection of their human rights, i.e. not being tortured or detained without a trial.  Meeting on Thursdays after school in Mr. Howell’s room, the AI Club would help you not only become informed, but involved as well.  We will join letter writing campaigns and hold fund-raisers for not only Amnesty International, but Doctors Without Borders, STAND Now, a student anti-genocide coalition, The Emancipation Network, and other organizations dedicated to improving the quality of life of those who really need it.  

Destination Imagination

Not Currently Running

Destination Imagination (DI) is a community-based, school-friendly program that builds participants’ creativity, problem solving, and teamwork in enjoyable and meaningful ways.  DI is a place where kids take what they know and what they are good at and learn to apply it to solve challenges, working together and cooperatively with a team and pushing the limits of imagination to best not their competition, but themselves.  Teams of five to seven members work together to apply creativity, critical thinking and their particular talents to solve a Team Challenge.  There are five competitive Team Challenges from which teams may choose, each with its own educational focus.  Each Team Challenge is designed to be open-ended and solvable in many ways and on many levels.  There is also an “Instant Challenge” component to DI which incorporates improvisation with fun and cooperative problem solving.

Dolphin Tales

Not Currently Running
Dolphin Tales is a magazine produced annually to showcase student literary and artistic talent. Any D-Y student may submit writing, art, or photography for consideration.  Students are encouraged to join the staff and to contribute their work. Submissions usually commence in January, with publication, in e-zine format, in early May.

Key Club

Not Currently Running

Key Club, sponsored by the Kiwanis Club, is an international youth organization dedicated to the ideals of seeking to provide service to school and community.  Key Club trains students to be leaders at the local and district levels.  The club consists of active, dedicated students who volunteer service to the D-Y community and school.  Anyone interested in serving our community and school is invited to join Key Club.  Meetings are held weekly.

Leo Club

Not Currently Running

The Leo Club is a service-oriented club guided by the ideals of Leadership, Experiences and Opportunity.  It is a program of the world’s largest service club organization, Lions Clubs International.  The Leo Club Program objective is “to provide the youth of the world an opportunity for development and contribution, individually and collectively, as responsible members of the local, national, and international community.”