New Partnerships, Bilingual Success, and Expanding Opportunities

January 2023 Updates: New Partnerships, Bilingual Success, and Expanding Opportunities

As we kick off the new year, Dover School District has been hard at work launching new partnerships, expanding student opportunities, and supporting families. Here’s a summary of the key updates shared during the latest meeting.

New Partnership: ACT Raising Safe Kids Program

In collaboration with Morris County’s Child Care Resource and Referral Agency, Dover is offering families the opportunity to participate in the ACT Raising Safe Kids Program, endorsed by the American Psychological Association. This research-based parenting program focuses on:

• Child Development: Understanding behavior change and positive discipline.

• Violence Awareness: Addressing young children’s exposure to violence.

• Anger Management: Techniques to control emotions and encourage healthy relationships.

The program, available in English and Spanish, will be offered via Zoom. Registration is still open, and families are encouraged to take advantage of this valuable resource.

Support for Health Insurance Enrollment

As part of the Governor’s Cover All Kids initiative, Dover families can work with United Healthcare to apply for health insurance. To simplify the often daunting application process, the district is hosting three events:

1. February 1st at the Dover Board of Education Building.

2. January 26th at East Dover Dover Middle School (includes dinner and a nutrition presentation).

3. January 31st at the Dover Public Library.

Families can register through a Google Form shared via School Messenger.

Seal of Biliteracy: A Major Milestone

The district has made significant progress in offering the Seal of Biliteracy to students, recognizing proficiency in English and another language. Highlights include:

• 31 Students achieved a score of 4 or 5 on the AP Spanish test as juniors in Spring 2022.

• An additional 36 students passed the STAMP test, an alternative pathway to the Seal.

• A total of 67 students are now eligible, more than double the 29 students from the previous year.

These students will be celebrated during the honors event in June, marking a proud achievement for the district.

Dover High School Program of Studies

A draft of the 2023-2024 Program of Studies was presented, showcasing new courses and pathways. Highlights include:

• Final Cut Pro 2: A continuation of the popular course, now offering Apple certification.

• Potential CCM Partnerships: Discussions are ongoing for a Certified Business Analyst (CBA) program.

• Theater Program Expansion: A proposal is in the works to strengthen the performing arts curriculum with new theater-specific courses.

• Certifications in Cybersecurity and CompTIA: These initiatives reflect the district’s commitment to 21st-century skills.

Clarifying the Seal of Biliteracy Pathways

Two main pathways allow students to earn the Seal:

1. Scoring a 4 or 5 on the AP Spanish Test during junior year.

2. Passing the STAMP test, an alternative assessment offered by the district.

The district’s proactive approach in adding the STAMP test has significantly increased student participation, showcasing Dover’s commitment to fostering bilingualism.

Advocacy for the Whole Child

The district’s initiatives—whether focused on parenting programs, healthcare access, or bilingual achievements—reflect a deep commitment to supporting the whole child. As one board member noted, these programs not only enhance education but also help meet the foundational needs of students and families.