Wednesday, May 6, 2015

DCS 7th Graders Recognized by Duke University's Talent Identification Program

7th Graders Kayla Torres and Miguel Taveras
For the past 35 years, Duke University's Talent Identification Program, or Duke TIP, has identified bright seventh graders based on standardized test scores achieved while attending elementary or middle school. The following DCS students participated this year: Katherine De Pani, Leila Medina, Miguel Tavares and Kayla Torres. Both Miguel and Kayla qualified for state recognition by scoring approximately at or above the national average of recent high school graduates on at least one part of the ACT or SAT. On Tuesday, May 5, Kayla and Miguel along with their families attended a special recognition ceremony held at Florida Atlantic University. 

Duke TIP is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving academically gifted and talented students. The program works with students, their families, and educators to identify, recognize, challenge, engage, and help students reach their highest potential. Candidates are invited to take the ACT or the SAT college entrance exams as seventh graders, which allows them greater insight into their academic abilities. In addition, they gain valuable benefits and have access to unique resources for gifted students.

One of the many opportunities available to candidates is the Summer Residential Programs, which are held on college campuses and in field study locations around the world. These programs offer advanced level courses in challenging and inspiring settings. This summer, Miguel will be attending the residential program at Rollins College. Kayla will be attending the residential program during the summer of 2016.

We would like to congratulate Kayla, Miguel, and all of the 7th grade participants for their efforts and wish them continued success. 
2015 Duke TIP Recognition Ceremony



Tuesday, May 5, 2015

DCS Students Named Best of Miami-Dade


Ivan Arenas - Varsity Soccer
Jared Johnson - Varsity Football













Each season, the Miami Herald recognizes the best athletes in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. Congratulations to DCS junior, Ivan Arenas, and senior, Jared Johnson, who earned the distinct honor of being part of the All-Dade teams! Go Crusaders!

All-County Noteworthy Achievements

Soccer | Second Team: Defender Abigail Clanton; Honorable Mentions: Phillip Edwards, Nicholas Ducheine, Timothy McIntosh, Aaron Garcia, and Jordan Wilson
Basketball | Honorable Mentions: Brock Stephenson, DeWayne Terry, and Iverson Williams
Football | Second Team Defense: Malik Wisdom; Third Team Offense: Michael Perera; Third Team Defense: Jose Valdivia; Honorable Mentions: Timothy McIntosh, Calvin Hart, DeWayne Terry, and Blake Janvion

Please join us in congratulating our students on their many achievements!  

Monday, May 4, 2015

Extraordinary Student Hannah Alvarado


Please join us in recognizing ninth grader Hannah Alvarado as DCS's most recent Extraordinary Student honoree. Hannah is a gifted artist who has called DCS home since she began 12 years ago in 3K. This special young lady balances a busy school schedule including, three honors classes, as well as extracurricular activities including, volleyball, soccer and tennis.  Art, she says, is her creative outlet. "Mr. Adams is a great teacher. He encourages good work and hearing his approval makes me proud of myself," said Alvarado. 

Hannah, who would like to study sports medicine, feels the skills she has acquired in art class will benefit her when she begins her post-secondary studies. "Taking art has given me a new perspective. I feel more creative now, and from an artistic standpoint, I can better  visualize the muscular system and how it connects."

In addition to being an excellent student, what makes Hannah truly extraordinary is her Christian character. Anyone who has had the pleasure of meeting Hannah quickly notices the sweet spirit she exudes. Always willing to lend a helping hand, Hannah regularly volunteers with the Children's and Youth Ministries at NTBC. She is a beautiful representative of Christ and our school.