The Dragon Chronicle # 14
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House of Dragons,
As we continue through the second quarter, we want to emphasize the importance of working together to support your child's academic achievement and growth. Student success is a partnership between the school, the student, and the family. Your involvement and encouragement make a tremendous difference!
Progress Reports & Upcoming PM2 Assessments
Progress reports will be shared at the end of this week. Please take time to review your child's grades, attendance, missing assignments, and overall academic progress. These reports provide an important opportunity to celebrate successes and address areas needing improvement before the end of the quarter.
Our PM2 (Progress Monitoring 2) assessments will begin shortly. These assessments help measure student progress, evaluate mastery of academic standards, and identify areas where additional instruction and support may be needed. Encourage your child to prepare and give their very best effort!
How Can You Support Your Child's Academic Success?
Here are a few ways you can help your child stay on track:
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Monitor grades: Regularly check FOCUS and address missing assignments or declining grades early.
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Establish routines: Set aside consistent time for homework, studying, and reading.
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Stay engaged: Ask your child about what they are learning and where they may need help.
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Prioritize attendance: Consistent attendance and punctuality are essential to academic growth.
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Limit distractions: Provide a quiet study environment and monitor recreational screen time.
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Communicate with teachers: Reach out with questions or concerns before they become larger challenges.
FREE Onsite Tutoring – An Additional Opportunity for Success!
We are excited to share that FREE onsite tutoring is now available at DJMS for ALL core academic subjects!
We encourage families to consider this valuable opportunity. Additional instructional time and targeted academic support can make a significant difference in student achievement.
Initial invitations have been sent to students identified as needing additional support. However, tutoring is not limited to invited students! Any interested family is welcome to contact us. We will gladly accommodate additional students based on available space and seating.
Our Commitment to Student Success
At Denn John Middle School, we believe every student can grow, achieve, and reach their full potential. Academic success requires consistent effort, accountability, and a strong partnership between home and school.
Let's continue working together to ensure our Dragons are prepared, confident, and successful!
Remember, Learning Is Required!
Thank you for your continued support and partnership!
With F.I.R.E. & Gratitude,
Marc A. Hernandez- Principal
Frankie Franceschi- API
Matt Pelc- APO
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FAST PM 2 Tutoring Begins Continues
Monday, November 9
NJHS Induction Ceremony
Tuesday, November 10 @ 5:00
Chocolate Sales Due @ DJMS
Friday, November 6
No School- Veteran's Day
Wednesday, November 11
7th Grade Social
Thursday, November 12
PBIS event - Spicy Chips Incentive
Friday, November 13
Qtr 2- Progress Report Period
Friday, November 13
Annual Turkey Trot
Friday, November 20
Thanksgiving Break
November 23-27, 2026
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Subject: Important Reminder – Proper Care of School-Issued Devices & Chargers
Dear DJMS Families,
Please remind your child of the importance of properly caring for their school-issued laptop and charger. These devices are essential instructional tools, and students are responsible for keeping them in good working condition.
Please reinforce the following expectations:
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Charge nightly: Students should charge their devices every evening so they arrive at school ready to learn.
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Use protective cases: Devices must remain in the school-provided protective cases.
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Report issues: Students should report any computer issues to their Math teachers. Math teachers have been asked to submit service tickets for necessary repairs.
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Label chargers: We strongly recommend labeling all chargers with your child's name to prevent loss or confusion.
Device Damage & Financial Responsibility
Students who fail to properly care for their devices and cause damage will be responsible for the associated repair costs. Unpaid repair charges remain on the student's record, including if they transfer to another school or are promoted to high school. Outstanding debts may also affect eligibility to participate in certain future school-related events.
Replacement Chargers
If your child's issued charger is lost, we highly recommend purchasing a replacement directly through Amazon. Prices are typically lower than school replacement costs, and families may receive the replacement sooner.
IMPORTANT: Please make sure you purchase the correct charger for your child's device. Using an incompatible charger could damage the computer.
The following links provide compatible 65W charger options:
Please remind your child of the importance of properly caring for their school-issued laptop and charger. These devices are essential instructional tools used daily to access important online learning resources, including Mathia, Canvas, SDOC platforms, and state assessments. Maintaining a fully functional device is critical to ensuring students have consistent access to instruction, assignments, academic resources, and required testing.
Thank you for helping us ensure students take responsibility for their devices and have the technology they need to be successful.
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The safety of our students extends beyond the walls of Denn John Middle School. We want to remind all students to remain alert and aware of their surroundings while waiting at their bus stops and traveling throughout their neighborhoods.
Recently, we received a report involving an adult male who reportedly behaved suspiciously toward students at a bus stop. The concern was promptly reported to law enforcement for appropriate follow-up.
While we encourage our students to enjoy time with their friends while waiting for the bus, we must always remain mindful of our surroundings.
🚨 Important Safety Reminders for Students:
- Stay alert: Pay attention to unusual activity or individuals behaving in a way that makes you uncomfortable.
- Stay together: Whenever possible, wait with other students rather than standing alone.
- Trust your instincts: If something does not feel right, move to a safe location.
- Do not engage: Avoid approaching or interacting with unfamiliar individuals who make you feel uncomfortable.
- Tell an adult: Immediately report concerning behavior to a parent, trusted adult, school administrator, or law enforcement.
- Know your surroundings: Be aware of nearby homes, businesses, and safe places where you can seek help.
Parents & Guardians:
Please take a few moments to speak with your child about bus stop safety. Reinforce the importance of staying aware, recognizing unusual behavior, and knowing what to do if they ever feel unsafe.
If you observe suspicious activity or receive information regarding a potential safety concern, please report it to law enforcement and notify the school when appropriate. If there is immediate danger, call 911.
SEE SOMETHING. SAY SOMETHING.
Thank you to the students and families who continue to speak up and report concerns. Your willingness to communicate allows us to take appropriate action and work together to protect our Dragons.
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Dragons compete!
Daniel Kim - Athletic Director
Boys & Girls Volleyball Practice:
Mondays, Tuesdays, & Thursdays
4:30 - 5:50 pm
All potential athletes must have a physical through Aktivate and be ready to pay the $25 athletic fee. There is no exception.
Coaches: Daniel Kim (boys) and Kara Bailey (girls)
Volleyball Schedule:
- Fri Nov 13: DJMS @ Kissimmee 6pm
- Mon Nov 16: Westside @ DJMS
- Wed Nov 18: DJMS @ Celebration
- Tues Dec 1: Kissimmee @ DJMS
- Thu Dec 3: DJMS @ Westside
- Mon Dec 7: Celebration @ DJMS
Cheerleading Practice
Mondays, Tuesdays, & Thursdays
4:30 - 5:50 pm
**Athletes are to report to the cafeteria and check in with Ms. Bailey or Ms. Hennighan after school.
Student physical must be on file via Aktivate. In addition, students must meet grade criteria. No pass, no play. Lastly, all students must complete concussion test and pay an administrative fee of $25.00.
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FAST PM 2 Test Dates
8th Math: Tues. December 1
7th Math: Wed. December 2
6th Math: Thurs. December 3
8th Reading: Tues. December 8
7th Reading: Wed. December 9
6th Reading: Thurs. December 10
Math School City Assessments:
6th Math: M2T1
6th Math: M2T2
6th Accel: M2T1
6th Accel: M2T2
7th Math: M2T2
7th Math: M2T3
7th Accel: M2T2A
7th Accel: M2T2B
8th Math: M2T2
8th Math: M2T3
Alg 1: M2T2
Alg 1: M2T3
Science School City Assessments
7th Adv: Quarterly 1
7th Adv: Heat/Energy
8th: Properties/Matter
8th: Atomic Theory
Bio: Cells 2.0
Bio: Cell Cycle
Social Studies School City Assessments
W. History: Rise of Civilization
W. History: Ancient Egypt
US History: Toward Independence
US History: Revolution/Colonies
Civics: Amendments
Civics: Elections/Media
HS World: West Africa
HS World: First Global Age
Literacy School City Assessments
6th ELA: Poetry Collection
6th ELA: Biometric
7th ELA: Mars
7th ELA: Christmas Carol
8th ELA: Anne Frank
8th ELA: 3 Cheers
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At Denn John Middle School, we believe that a positive school culture begins with the choices we make every day. Every student deserves to learn in an environment that is safe, respectful, supportive, and focused on academic success. Creating that environment is a shared responsibility among students, teachers, families, and our entire school community.
One of the ways we work toward this goal is through Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). PBIS is more than a behavior program; it is a proactive approach to building a positive school culture by teaching, modeling, recognizing, and reinforcing the behaviors that contribute to a successful learning environment.
When students feel safe, respected, connected, and supported, they are more likely to engage in learning, develop positive relationships, take academic risks, and achieve their full potential. A school environment with consistent expectations and positive relationships also allows teachers to maximize instructional time and focus on what matters most: student learning.
Our DJMS F.I.R.E. Expectations
As Dragons, we are committed to demonstrating F.I.R.E. in everything we do:
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F – Focus: Come to school prepared to learn, follow directions, stay on task, and give your best effort. Take responsibility for your learning and make choices that support your academic success.
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I – Integrity: Be honest, make responsible decisions, demonstrate good character, and do the right thing even when no one is watching.
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R – Respect: Treat classmates, teachers, staff, and visitors with kindness and consideration. Respect differences, school property, classroom expectations, and the learning environment.
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E – Engaged in Learning: Participate actively, complete assignments, collaborate appropriately, ask questions, and take ownership of your academic progress.
These expectations apply throughout the school day—in classrooms, hallways, the cafeteria, during transitions, on the bus, and at all school-sponsored activities.
Why Positive Behavior Matters to Academic Achievement
Student behavior and academic achievement are closely connected. When students consistently demonstrate positive behaviors:
- More instructional time is protected, allowing teachers to focus on teaching and students to focus on learning.
- Classrooms become more productive environments where students feel comfortable participating, asking questions, and taking academic risks.
- Positive relationships between students and staff strengthen trust, belonging, and school connectedness.
- Students develop essential life skills, including self-discipline, accountability, problem-solving, collaboration, and responsible decision-making.
- Fewer classroom disruptions allow all students greater opportunities to learn and achieve.
PBIS also emphasizes recognizing and celebrating positive choices. We want our students to understand that demonstrating good character, showing respect, making responsible decisions, and putting forth consistent effort are a
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As we continue through the school year, we want to remind families of the importance of consistently monitoring and maintaining their child's grades. Academic performance in middle school matters! The grades students earn reflect their mastery of academic standards, work habits, effort, and overall preparation for the next level of learning.
As students prepare to enter high school, both positive and negative academic habits and performance can have lasting implications. Strong grades help establish a solid academic foundation, build confidence, and prepare students for the increased rigor and expectations of high school. On the other hand, poor grades, missing assignments, and unfinished coursework can create academic gaps, require credit recovery or additional interventions, and make the transition to high school more challenging.
We encourage all parents to:
- Regularly monitor grades through the FOCUS Parent Portal.
- Check for missing assignments and communicate with teachers.
- Establish consistent homework and study routines.
- Encourage students to take responsibility for their learning.
- Address declining grades immediately rather than waiting until the end of the quarter.
The habits students develop today will influence their success tomorrow. Let's work together to ensure every Dragon is academically prepared, confident, and ready for high school!
Thank you for your continued partnership and support!
Denn John Middle School Administration
Learning Is Required! Ignite the Blue Flame!
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FAST PM 2 Tutoring Begins Continues
Monday, November 9
NJHS Induction Ceremony
Tuesday, November 10 @ 5:00
No School- Veteran's Day
Wednesday, November 11
7th Grade Social
Thursday, November 12
PBIS event - Spicy Chips Incentive
Friday, November 13
Qtr 2- Progress Report Period
Friday, November 13
6th Grade - Osceola Magic Field Trip
Thursday, November 19
Annual Turkey Trot
Friday, November 20
Thanksgiving Break
November 23-27, 2026
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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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