Success Starts with Me
Dysart Unified School District's decision to focus on core values stems from several key reasons, each serving to bolster the educational foundation we provide. Firstly, emphasizing these values stabilizes our programs, fostering consistency and coherence across all grade levels and subjects. Secondly, by ingraining these values into our curriculum and culture, we provide continuity throughout the district, establishing a common thread that unites us in purpose and direction. Prioritizing core values cultivates habits essential for success in academic, athletic, and artistic realms, equipping students with the tools they need to navigate an increasingly complex world. Finally, core values provide educators a structured framework to engage students in discussions about character and facilitate meaningful dialogue.
Dysart Core Values
Citizenship
Dysart students will actively participate in the school community by demonstrating a commitment to the values, rules, and responsibilities that contribute to a positive learning environment. Citizenship involves students developing a sense of civic responsibility, preparing them to become informed, engaged, and contributing members of both their school and broader society.
Success Criteria
Active Participation
- Actively engages in classroom activities, discussions, and group projects.
- Volunteers or attends school events, clubs, or extracurricular activities.
- Demonstrates a willingness to contribute to the overall positive atmosphere of the classroom and school.
Civic Engagement
- Shows an awareness of community and societal issues.
- Participates in school initiatives promoting social responsibility and community service.
- Understands and respects diversity within the school community.
Adherence to School Values
- Aligns behavior with the values and principles outlined by the school.
- Demonstrates an understanding of and commitment to the school's mission and vision.
- Make decisions that consider the well-being of others and the school community.
Digital Citizenship
- Practice responsible and ethical behavior online.
- Be aware of the impact of one's online actions on individuals and communities.
- Promote a positive and respectful digital environment.
Communication
Dysart students will effectively exchange information, ideas, and thoughts through both written and verbal communication. Communication includes students, teachers, administrators, parents, and support staff. These interactions facilitate understanding, collaboration, and the overall functioning of the educational community. Communication in schools encourages the development of critical interpersonal skills among students, including active listening, expressing ideas clearly, and engaging in constructive dialogue, preparing them for successful academic and social interactions within the school environment and beyond.
Success Criteria
Clarity and Expression (Verbal and Written)
- Clearly articulates thoughts and ideas and structures your message logically.
- Uses appropriate vocabulary for their grade level.
- Expresses ideas in a logical and organized manner.
Active Listening
- Listens attentively to teachers, peers, and other speakers while maintaining eye contact during conversations.
- Uses appropriate facial expressions and body language.
- Avoids interrupting others and waits for an appropriate time to respond.
Respectful Communication
- Speaks respectfully to teachers, classmates, and other members of the school community.
- Uses polite/positive language and appropriate tone.
- Demonstrates empathy and understanding in communication.
Collaborative Communication
- Works effectively in group discussions and projects.
- Encourages contributions from others and values diverse perspectives.
- Foster trust by sharing information openly and candidly.
Cooperation
Dysart students will actively collaborate with their peers, educators, administrators, and other stakeholders to achieve common goals. Cooperative behaviors in schools include teamwork, mutual support, and a willingness to collaborate on academic tasks, extracurricular activities, and community initiatives. It fosters a sense of community and collective responsibility, encouraging students to recognize the value of working together to create a conducive and enriching educational experience for everyone involved.
Success Criteria
Active Participation
- Actively engages in group activities and discussions.
- Contributes ideas and perspectives to collaborative projects.
- Demonstrates a willingness to take on responsibilities within the group.
Flexibility and Adaptability
- Demonstrates flexibility in adapting to changes in group plans.
- Adjusts to new ideas and perspectives with an open mind.
- Handles unexpected challenges with a polite/positive attitude.
Accountability
- Takes responsibility for individual tasks within the group.
- Follows through on commitments and obligations.
- Acknowledges mistakes and works towards improvement.
Shared Responsibility
- Distribute responsibilities and tasks equitably.
- Encourage a sense of ownership and accountability among team members.
- Recognize and celebrate individual and collective achievements.
Creativity
Dysart students will effectively generate, express, and explore original ideas, solutions, and expressions in various academic and non-academic contexts. Creative learning in schools encompasses forms of expression, including artistic endeavors, innovative approaches to academic subjects, and the application of imaginative thinking across various disciplines. It encourages educators to provide opportunities for students to think critically, question assumptions, and approach challenges with open minds.
Success Criteria
Original Thinking
- Generates original ideas and concepts.
- Approaches problems with a fresh perspective.
- Demonstrates a willingness to think beyond conventional solutions.
Risk-Taking
- Takes creative risks and explores new approaches.
- Learns from failures and sees them as opportunities for growth.
- Be willing to step outside of one's comfort zone.
Collaborative Creativity
- Works creatively in group settings.
- Collaborates effectively with peers to generate creative solutions.
- Encourage and appreciate diverse perspectives within collaborative projects.
Adaptability
- Adapts creative ideas to different contexts and challenges.
- Demonstrates flexibility in adjusting creative approaches based on feedback.
- Integrates creativity into various subjects and activities.
