Dragon Community Newsletter #27
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Dear House of Dragons Community,
Welcome to March! And Happy Women’s History Month! This month, we proudly celebrate the strength, leadership, and contributions of women throughout history and within our own DJMS community.
In just two short weeks, Spring Break will be here. However, before we get there, I want to emphasize that March is a critical month — arguably the most important month of the semester. This is the time when new content in the curriculum concludes before we transition into Spiral Review and EOC preparation. The foundation built now directly impacts student success in the weeks ahead.
Parents, I cannot stress enough the importance of high attendance and ensuring your child arrives at school ready to learn each day. This includes bringing their fully charged laptop and appropriate charger daily. Instructional time is precious, and every day counts.
I also want to address an area of concern. Recently, student behavior at DJMS has not reflected our standards — particularly within 7th grade. Parents, we need your partnership. Please have direct conversations with your child about the importance of learning, respect, and appropriate conduct. Most concerning, we have had multiple instances where teachers were bullied by students at high and dangerous levels. This is unacceptable and will be addressed with seriousness and consistency.
Historically, October and February/March are months that carry increased stress due to academic pressures and timelines. While we recognize this, our expectations remain unchanged. DJMS will continue to enforce all school policies with fidelity, including cell phone procedures, defiance, dress code, hallway expectations, and our core belief: #LearningIsRequired.
We know our students are capable of greatness. With strong attendance, positive behavior, and your continued partnership, we are confident that the vast majority of our school will reach proficiency across all areas.
Thank you for standing with us, supporting your child, and partnering with DJMS as we push through this critical stretch of the school year.
Together, we finish strong.
With F.I.R.E. & Gratitude,
-Administration
- Marc A. Hernandez (Principal)
- Frankie Franceschi (Assistant Principal of Instruction)
- Rafael Booker (Assistant Principal of Discipline & Operations)
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SDOC Math Competition
DJMS is hosting the middle school math competition on Wednesday, March 4, 2026. The competition starts around 5 pm! Come support DJMS!
Mathia Celebration
For all students that reached 50% completion prior to Feb. 27th deadline they will receive a free Mathia Celebration on Friday, March 6 (Wednesday Bell Schedule)
6th Grade Health Screenings
Parents, about 80 6th graders receiving health screening forms. DJMS did not meet the required threshold by the state to complete the health screening documentation. Though parents are not required to accept services from the SDOC/State, it is mandated that the form is returned outlining your choice in services. It is absolutely essential that you return these forms asap to DJMS.
West Ed- Student Survey
Parents, DJMS partners with Carnegie Learning for our math curriculum. DJMS does NOT use the SDOC math curriculum.
This year, a research company is evaluating the effectiveness of this program at DJMS. We need your help. Students are to complete survey; however, this requires parent consent. Any student who participates in this task will receive free Takis! Yum! Help us maximize this effort!
Link:
Yearbooks! For Sale!
DJMS will sale yearbooks for $30 until Feb. 28. After Feb. 28, the prices go to $35. See the flyer below for the URL purchase link. Only online transactions will be accepted.
Link: tinyurl.com/djmsyearbook
8th Grade- Gradventure Info!
8th Grade Gradventure information is here! All 8th graders received a letter outlining the cost, requirements, and expectations. See highlights below:
- Students must be present (all day) day of event
- Inappropriate behavior on site will not be allowed
- Refunds will be provided after May 19 for those who do not meet the qualifications
- No discipline referrals from the start of quarter 4 until May 8
- No F's (all school year)
- No more than 3 unexcused absences from 01/12/26 - 05/08/26
- Academic Requirement: level 3 or higher on PM 2, No Ds, or overall GPA above 2.0
Field Days Schedule
• 6th Grade – Monday, March 9, 2026
• 7th Grade – Tuesday, March 10, 2026
• 8th Grade – Thursday, March 12, 2026
This year, we are raising the standard for participation to promote responsibility, academic focus, and positive behavior.
Standards of Participation:
• 50% Mathia Syllabus Completion
• No discipline referrals from 02/18/26 – 03/06/2026
• No more than 4 unexcused tardies since the beginning of Quarter 3
For participating students: It is highly encouraged to bring one water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the activities.
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I want to address a serious concern regarding recent student behavior. We have seen an increase in incidents involving students bullying other students and, in some cases, bullying teachers. These behaviors have reached alarming levels. In all cases, such actions warrant a thorough investigation and will result in appropriate consequences in alignment with district policy and our student code of conduct.
Additionally, the level of name-calling among students has escalated significantly. Foul, hurtful, and especially racist language is completely unacceptable. This type of behavior is harmful, divisive, and not conducive to a safe and productive learning environment. It will not be tolerated at DJMS.
We are committed to maintaining a structured and respectful campus. Please note:
- Students mostly have assigned seats in all classes, and this expectation will continue to be enforced consistently.
- Under zero circumstances may students have a cellphone in their possession during the school day. This includes personal pockets.
- All cellphones and electronic devices must be powered off and stored in backpacks, bags, or purses.
Our expectations are clear and remain unchanged. DJMS is a place of learning, respect, and accountability. We ask for your partnership in reinforcing these expectations at home by having direct conversations with your child about respect, responsibility, and appropriate conduct.
Together, we can ensure that DJMS remains a safe and focused environment where #LearningIsRequired and every student and staff member feels valued and protected.
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Bullying is a serious matter and one that we address with the highest level of urgency and care at DJMS.
It is important for families to understand that bullying is a legal term in the state of Florida with a specific definition. It is not simply a disagreement or conflict between students. Under Florida law, bullying involves repeated behavior that is intentional and causes physical, emotional, or psychological harm, including an imbalance of power between students. Because it carries a legal definition, schools are required to follow formal investigative procedures when allegations are made.
If your child believes they are experiencing bullying, it is critical that it is reported immediately. Quick reporting allows us to intervene promptly, gather accurate information, and ensure student safety. Reports can be made to a teacher, school counselor, administrator, or through any available reporting system on campus.
Please know this: We will ALWAYS investigate every claim. Every report is taken seriously. We conduct thorough reviews, gather statements, and determine findings in alignment with district policy and state guidelines. If the behavior meets the legal definition of bullying, appropriate action will be taken. If it does not meet that threshold but still violates our code of conduct, consequences and restorative measures will still occur.
Our priority is maintaining a safe, respectful learning environment where every student feels protected and valued. We encourage families to have open conversations at home about kindness, empathy, and the responsibility students have in creating a positive school culture.
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Flag Football and Track/Field Seasons are around the corner! Try-out information will be posted soon. Stay tuned! In the meantime, ensure your physical is on file.
(A current physical must be on file)- All SDOC Sports
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At Denn John Middle School, we believe that positive behaviors should be recognized and celebrated. That’s why we use the PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) framework to help students grow not only academically, but also socially and emotionally.
Our PBIS values are represented by F.I.R.E.:
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Focused – Staying on task and giving your best effort.
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Integrity – Doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.
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Respect – Treating yourself, others, and property with care.
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Engaged in Learning – Actively participating in lessons and school activities.
Students are rewarded with Dragon Dollars when they show these values in action. Each month, students can use their Dragon Dollars to participate in exciting school events and activities. This not only motivates students but also reinforces the importance of good behavior and strong character.
Thank you, parents, for supporting us in encouraging students to live out our values each day! Together, we are building a school culture where #LearningIsRequired and Dragons thrive.
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Here are a few meaningful ways you can support your child at home during this important stretch:
1. Prioritize Daily Attendance
Every instructional day matters. Avoid unnecessary absences and schedule appointments outside of school hours whenever possible.
2. Establish Strong Routines
Ensure your child has a consistent bedtime and morning routine. Adequate sleep significantly impacts focus, mood, and performance.
3. Check Academic Progress Regularly
Review grades, assignments, and teacher communications weekly. Ask your child specific questions about what they are learning and what support they may need.
4. Reinforce Preparedness
Make sure your child brings their charged laptop and charger daily. Being prepared reduces stress and lost instructional time.
5. Have Conversations About Behavior & Responsibility
Middle school can bring heightened emotions and peer pressure. Remind your child that respect, effort, and positive choices matter every single day. Encourage them to seek help from a trusted adult if they are feeling overwhelmed.
6. Promote a Positive Mindset
Remind your child that growth takes effort. Celebrate progress, not just results. Encourage resilience and perseverance.
March requires focus, consistency, and partnership. When school and home work together with shared expectations, students thrive. With your support, we are confident our students will finish this quarter strong and prepared for what lies ahead.
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Mathia Celebration!
Friday, Mar 6 (Last hour of the day)
Field Days
6th Grade: Monday, March 9
7th Grade: Tuesday, March 10
8th Grade: Thursday, March 12
No School- Friday, March 13
Teacher Workday
Spring Break- No School
Monday, March 16 - Friday, March 2
SAC
Tuesday, March 24 - 5 pm - Media Center
Yearbooks For Sale!
$30.00 until 02/28
$35.00 after 02/28
tinyurl.com/djmsyearbook
BEST Writes (FAST- 6th/7th Grades)
Tuesday, March 31
BEST Writes (FAST 8th Grade)
Wednesday, April 1
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Parent Volunteers @ School
Teacher assistants, hallway monitors, restroom monitors, lunches, & front desk assistance
As a friendly reminder, all volunteers must be Oasis Approved. Please see the information below to begin the registration process! It's quick and easy!
Parent Boosters- Build Programs @ School
Band, Orchestra, & Sports!
School Donations
Should you wish to donate (any item) to DJMS, contact Mr. Hernandez to seek more information about the process.
Parents & Community- if any of these items are of interest, simply contact Mr. Hernandez directly at Marc.Hernandez@osceolaschools.net or 689.261.3280 (District Cellphone)
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