Dorchester County Public Schools

🎉🙌 It’s Community School Liaison Week, and we’re celebrating the BEST of DCPS! 🙌🎉

Our incredible Community School Liaisons and Community School Coordinator, and those who assume the role because they wear many hats, are the champions who connect students, families, and schools — making sure everyone has the support they need to thrive. From building bridges to breaking down barriers, these amazing individuals go above and beyond every single day to create stronger, healthier, and more connected communities across our county. 💙🌟

To all our liaisons and those who step up to fill this vital role — THANK YOU! Your dedication, compassion, and hard work don’t go unnoticed. You are the difference-makers, the problem-solvers, and the champions of our students’ success.

Alexis McBean - Hurlock Elementary
Brittany Taylor - Choptank Elementary
Chris Branch - Mace's Lane
Cleotrina Tinch - CSD Vikings
Connar Winn - Vienna Elementary
Cynitha Woolford - Sandy Hill Elementary
Jessica Johnson - North Dorchester Middle School
Katelyn Helwig - South Dorchester School
Nicole Higgins - Maple Elementary
Sarah Hopkins - North Dorchester High School
Stephen Scott - Warwick Elementary

Let’s give them the shoutout they deserve! Drop a comment below to share your appreciation or a story about how a Community School Liaison has made an impact in your life or school #withJOY!

Together, we #BelieveInUs and the power of community! 💪✨

about 10 hours ago, DCPS

Celebrating Community School Liaison Week

We are hiring — come join our team! 🚨

Dorchester County Public Schools is looking for Instructional Assistants and Physical Management Assistants to join our team immediately! 🎉

If you’re passionate about making a difference in students’ lives and want to be part of a supportive, energetic school community, this is your chance!

💡 Instructional Assistants help our students shine every day with hands-on learning support
💪 Physical Management Assistants play a key role in keeping our schools safe and positive for everyone

Ready to jump in and make an impact #withJOY? Apply today at https://dcps.schoolspring.com and start your rewarding journey with DCPS!

Tag a friend who’d be perfect for this! 👇#BelieveInUs

1 day ago, DCPS

You’ve heard us reference it again and again, now it’s time to dive in! ✨YOU'RE INVITED✨ to attend our upcoming community forums in October as we discuss our new strategic plan!

Don't miss this opportunity to learn about Believe in Us: Achieving Our Potential Together, Dorchester County Public Schools’ inspiring three-year roadmap to empower every student, support our educators, and strengthen our community! If you're looking to get a head start, you can find the strategic plan at https://heyzine.com/flip-book/9162e43a55.html

All community forums begin at 6 PM at the following locations:
📅 Monday, 10/6 @ St. Luke’s United Methodist Church (Cambridge)
📅 Wednesday, 10/8 @ South Dorchester School S K-8 (South Dorchester)
📅 Thursday, 10/9 @ Hurlock Methodist Church (Hurlock)

Together, we’ll unlock potential, embrace innovation, and build a brighter future #withJOY for all learners in Dorchester County. Be part of the journey—your voice matters!

Let’s #BelieveInUs and achieve greatness—together. We'll meet you there! 🤝

2 days ago, DCPS

DCPS Upcoming Community Forums In October

Our Dorchester County Public Schools Board of Education members gathered with purpose and passion for a powerful
Board Retreat ahead of the new school year — and what a game-changer it was!

Since November 2024, this dynamic team — Dr. Cumberland, Ms. Lamonica, Mr. Wheedleton, Ms. Hubbard and Ms. Chikwendu — has been navigating some of the toughest budget challenges in decades, crafting a new Strategic Plan shaped by YOU, our community, and reimagining how various resources are used in classrooms.

While they have always championed professional development for our educators and staff, the Board realized they hadn’t taken that step for themselves — until now! Thanks to the incredible generosity of the John and Janice Wyatt Foundation (J2W), they partnered with Dr. Brian Perkins of Perkins Consulting to design a retreat focused on sharpening their skills, boosting collaboration, and setting the stage for an impactful year ahead — all at
no cost to DCPS.

Dr. Perkins guided them through essential topics like:

✅ Understanding the roles and responsibilities of a School Board

✅ Communicating effectively with each other and our community

✅ Planning intentional, student-focused Board meetings

✅ Supporting our Strategic Plan and DCPS goals with purpose

Board member Mr. Wheedleton, reflecting on his three summers of retreats, said, “This was the most well-planned, intentional, and outcomes-based retreat I’ve been a part of. We learned to work more collaboratively, gained tools to make meetings more effective, and will have ongoing support to keep improving.”

Board President Ms. Hubbard added, “I’ve been through 8 retreats, and I completely agree — with this generous support, we’re using this opportunity to be better than ever.”

This retreat wasn’t just a meeting — it was a commitment #withJOY to growth, teamwork, and excellence. Here’s to a year of strong leadership and bright futures for Dorchester County Public Schools! 💪✨#BelieveInUs

2 days ago, DCPS

🐯🦁 It was a ROARING good time today as Mace’s Lane Middle School and Maple Elementary School kicked off their first House Pep Rallies of the 25-26 school year! 🎉 At The Lane, our Tigers learned brand new cheers for their 4 houses, and the energy in the gymnasium was absolutely ELECTRIC ⚡️! The excitement reached a whole new level with a high-energy student vs. staff basketball game that had everyone cheering loud and proud! 🏀 Meanwhile, the Maple Elementary Lions welcomed their newest pride members by sorting them into houses right at the start of their rally. The fun didn’t stop there — their admin team surprised everyone—include themselves— with a hilarious “synchronized swimming” performance 🏊‍♂️😂! Plus, the Lions heard an inspiring message from a VERY special guest… but we’re keeping that a secret for now! Stay tuned for the big reveal tomorrow right here on the Dorchester County Public Schools Facebook page! 👀 What a fantastic way to build school spirit and teamwork #withJOY across our schools! ✨🐾

5 days ago, DCPS

THIS is partnership in action! 🤝🔥

We’re thrilled to announce that First Financial Credit Union stepped up with a generous $500 donation to support our schools during the Delmarva Shorebirds' Teacher Appreciation Night on Friday, September 4th!

Our very own Dr. Michael Collins, Assistant Superintendent of Administrative Services, proudly accepted this incredible gift on behalf of Dorchester County Public Schools — a true symbol of community coming together to lift up our educators and students.

A massive THANK YOU to First Financial and the Shorebirds for celebrating our teachers and fueling the amazing work happening across our district. This is what happens when we join forces — making a real difference, #withJOY, for every learner in Dorchester County! 📚 #BelieveInUs

5 days ago, DCPS

Assistant Superintendent, Dr. Michael Collins, accepts a $500 check presented by First Financial on behalf of DCPS

The Harlem Tricksterz brought the FUN and the FLARE to Hurlock Elementary today! 🏀✨ Our Mighty Eagles were absolutely amazed as these basketball pros dazzled us with jaw-dropping trick shots and incredible skills that had everyone on the edge of their seats! But it wasn’t just about the hoops — the Tricksterz also shared powerful messages about listening, respect, and doing the right thing. It was a day full of energy, excitement, and important lessons — all delivered #withJOY! And the fun doesn’t stop here! Catch the Harlem Tricksterz at the Cambridge-South Dorchester High School Gymnasium on Monday, September 29th at 5 PM for a Family Fun Night hosted by CSD, MLMS, and CES. Bring your family and friends for an unforgettable evening of hoops, heart, and community spirit! Many thanks to the Harlem Tricksterz for inspiring our students to aim high for success. Keep soaring, Mighty Eagles! 🦅 #BelieveInUs

6 days ago, DCPS

🎶Celebrate good times, come on! It's time for celebration! 🎶 There we go singing again, but this time it is because we are incredibly proud to celebrate Mr. Vaughn Evans, the dedicated and inspiring PROUD Principal of North Dorchester Middle School! Principal Evans was honored on Monday evening with a Proclamation and the Key to the Town of Hurlock! 🔑🎉 Mr. Evans exemplifies true leadership through his unwavering commitment to student success, his ability to foster a positive and inclusive school culture, and his passion for empowering both students and staff to reach their highest potential. His visionary approach, strong communication skills, and collaborative spirit have made a lasting impact on our community and the entire county. As a leader who leads #withJOY, integrity, compassion, and determination, Mr. Evans continuously champions innovation and growth, ensuring that every student at North Dorchester Middle School feels supported and inspired to achieve greatness. Thank you, Principal Evans, for your outstanding dedication and for being a shining example of the values we hold dear at Dorchester County Public Schools. We are proud to have you leading the way! 🔦 #BelieveInUs

7 days ago, DCPS

Principal Evans of NDMS receives a proclamation and key from the town of Hurlock

We were thrilled to welcome Maryland State Board of Education members Mr. James C. Bell, Jr. and Ms. Chuen-Chin Bianca Chang to Dorchester County Public Schools to kickstart our week! 🎉 Their first stop on the tour today was Cambridge-South Dorchester High School, where Mr. Bell and Ms. Chang engaged with students in MCAP prep courses and Freshmen Seminar, inspiring our young learners as they prepare for even greater success. Mr. Bell and Superintendent Dr. Thompson also had meaningful conversations with high school students about the incredible growth made last year and encouraged them to believe in their ability to achieve great things in the future. Over at Maple Elementary School, they worked closely with students to develop essential reading and active listening skills across multiple grade levels—building strong foundations for lifelong learning. 📚✨ A huge THANK YOU to Mr. Bell and Ms. Chang for spending the morning with us and showing your support for our students and educators. Together, we’re empowering the next generation to reach new heights! #BelieveInUs

9 days ago, DCPS

We’re kicking off our week #withJOY by highlighting our incredible secondary math teachers! 🎉

Our middle and high school math educators from across Dorchester County came together recently to celebrate the amazing progress made during the 2024-25 school year—both the big wins and the quiet, behind-the-scenes victories that often go unnoticed. 📊✨

Thanks to their hard work and dedication, DCPS climbed the state rankings in math, with Grade 8 earning an impressive 12th place statewide—one of our strongest performances to date! There was even a special shoutout for Crystal Carpenter and Stacey Meyers, our Grade 8 math leaders, who received flowers as a small token of appreciation for leading with big wins for this standout team! 🌸🌟

These leaders also took time to remind each other to affirm their impact, even when it’s not celebrated publicly— a reminder that very effort, every moment of support, and every student inspired adds up to real progress.

At the same time, they challenged each other to remain humble and focused—while our ranking is impressive, they know there is still work to be done!

Here’s to our dedicated math teachers—thank you for your passion, perseverance, and the unseen impact you make every day. You're a major part of why everyone should #BelieveInUs! 💪

9 days ago, DCPS

Recognizing DCPS secondary math teachers

We’re excited to invite ALL of our DCPS community to nominate outstanding Dorchester County Public Schools employees for our new Staff Member of the Month recognition! ✨

Do you know someone who goes above and beyond, makes a positive impact, or simply brightens the day for students and colleagues? Now’s your chance to shine a spotlight on their incredible contributions!

💬 Submit your nomination and tell us why your pick deserves to be celebrated. Whether it’s their dedication, kindness, creativity, or leadership—we want to hear your story!

Your voice helps us honor the everyday heroes who make our district and community thrive. Let’s celebrate those who make a difference every single day!

👉 Nominate now at http://bit.ly/4m0MyJ6 and help us recognize the amazing people who inspire others to #BelieveInUs!

12 days ago, DCPS

DCPS Staff of the Month nominations needed

The dust is finally settling after welcoming back more of our amazing students for what we like to call “First Day, Round 2”!📚

Most of the students returning today for their “first day” were our secondary students, bringing bringing renewed enthusiasm and bright smiles to our campuses across the county—emphasis on the bright smiles, just check out the photos if you don't believe us! Our executive team and Board of Education President, Sheri Hubbard, made special visits to Dorchester Career and Technology Center, Vienna Elementary, Hurlock Elementary, and Warwick Elementary to cheer on students and staff as they kicked off another fantastic day. 🎉

#BelieveInUs

14 days ago, DCPS

We are incredibly proud to announce that Dr. Gaven Parker, Principal of Choptank Elementary School, has been named one of the winners of the Maryland Association of Elementary School Principals 2025 Connected School Leader Award! 🏆✨

This prestigious award recognizes Maryland school leaders who:

• Work With Connectedness: Helping colleagues understand how their efforts fit into the bigger picture.
• Lead With Connectedness: Moving beyond self-interest to grow the unique skills of others.
• Live With Connectedness: Showing how talents, actions, mission, and successes are all connected.

Dr. Parker exemplifies these qualities every day, inspiring collaboration, growth, and support throughout our schools. He is one of just 11 award winners who demonstrate the power of working together and mentoring others to strengthen our profession.

Please join us in congratulating Dr. Parker on this outstanding achievement!👏 #BelieveInUs

14 days ago, DCPS

Dr. Gaven Parker wins MAESP 2025 Connected School Leader Award

Do you hear that??? That's the sound of the last bell ringing to close out the first official school day of the 2025-2026 school year at Dorchester County Public Schools! 🎉📚

What a wonderful day filled with familiar smiles, new friendships, fresh ideas, and endless possibilities! Superintendent Dr. Thompson and the executive team, along with DCPS Board of Education President Ms. Sherri Hubbard, visited many schools across the county today, warmly connecting with students and staff to start the year with encouragement and support. Our educators and students are already hitting the ground running, motivated and ready to continue making progress toward becoming the 15th-ranked public school system in Maryland! From excited learners stepping into classrooms to dedicated educators inspiring from Day 1, the spirit across our campuses is truly uplifting. We can't wait to welcome back more of our students over the next two days!

📸 We hope you’ll take a moment to peer into the world we experience every day through the eyes of our educators — the images attached to this post capture the heart and soul of Dorchester County Public Schools, and the WHY behind what we do here!

Together, we’re showing the world why everyone — including ourselves — should #BelieveInUs! Here’s to a year filled with more growth, discovery, and creating meaningful memories! ✨

15 days ago, DCPS

All district offices and schools will be closed today, September 1st, in observance of Labor Day.

16 days ago, DCPS

DCPS schools and district offices are closed in observance of Labor Day

Get ready, Dorchester County! The Dorchester Chamber of Commerce is hosting their DOCO Goes Purple Kick Off event on Tuesday, September 2nd at 501 Court Lane, Cambridge, MD from 5:30-8:00PM — and it’s going to be unforgettable!

We’re thrilled to announce that our very own Superintendent, Dr. Jymil Thompson, will be making a splash with a special guest appearance in the dunk tank! 🎯💦

We hope to see you for this event filled with delicious sweet treat trucks, engaging activities, valuable information, and resources — all focused on raising awareness about opioid addiction and how we can come together as a community to fight it. 💪

Bring your family, friends, and neighbors for a evening of fun, support, and hope. Let’s stand united and show that Dorchester County is #DOCOGoesPurple strong! 💜

19 days ago, DCPS

DOCO Goes Purple event with guest appearance by Superintendent Dr. Jymil Thompson

Is that a... dinosaur???

Yup, sure is!

Meet Roary the Raptor — our fun and fearless mascot named after our amazing partners in safety, Raptor Technologies! Roary made a special visit to Hurlock Elementary School, presented by DCPS School Safety and Preparedness Coordinator, Mike Richardson, to celebrate two incredible safety champions, Ms. Michelle Dorsey and Ms. Angela Turner (not pictured), who lead by example every day to keep our Dorchester County Public Schools students safe.🙌💙

We’re so proud of their dedication and grateful for partners like Raptor Technologies who help us create a safe learning environment for our students.

Keep your eyes peeled and stay tuned to see where Roary will show up next! You never know when he might pop in to recognize more outstanding safety heroes! 👀🦖

#BelieveInUs #InvestInDCPS

19 days ago, DCPS

Roary the Raptor presented to school safety heroes at DCPS!

🎒📚 The countdown is on — our students head back next week and after the excitement of seeing them at open houses yesterday, we truly cannot wait to see them again! 🫶

Here’s the schedule to help you get ready:
📅 Tuesday, September 2nd: Grades 1-6, Grade 9, and SDS Grades 1-8
📅 Wednesday, September 3rd: Grades 7, 8, 10, 11, and 12
📅 Thursday, September 4th: Pre-K and Kindergarten

Earliest Drop-off & Dismissal Times:
🕒Elementary Schools - 8:30AM (Drop-off) & 3:45PM (Dismissal)
🕒CSDHS, NDHS - 7:30AM (Drop-off) & 2:45PM (Dismissal)
🕒DCTC - 7:30AM (Drop-off) & 2:35PM (Dismissal)
🕒MLMS - 7:20AM (Drop-off) & 2:35PM (Dismissal)
🕒NDMS - 7:25AM (Drop-off) & 2:40PM (Dismissal)

We’re so excited to welcome all our students back to campus for a year full of learning, growth, and new opportunities.
Let’s keep climbing, keep striving, and show everyone what it means to #BelieveInUs! ✨

19 days ago, DCPS

Dorchester County Drop-off/Dismissal times by school for school year 2025-2026

On Monday, August 25th, Eastern Shore Wellness Solutions hosted the 10th Annual Back to School Health and Readiness Event at Cambridge-South Dorchester High School! 🙌

From providing FREE school supplies to sharing important information about youth and family services, the event was packed with resources and services to help our students start the school year strong with confidence. We were thrilled to see so many community partners come together to support our students and families ahead of the start of the new school year!

A huge thank you to everyone who made this event possible and to all the families who joined us. Together, we’re building a stronger, healthier, and more prepared community! 💪

#BelieveInUs #InvestInDCPS

21 days ago, DCPS

Eastern Shore Wellness Solutions 10th Annual Back to School Health and Readiness Event

📰HOT OFF THE PRESS‼️

Last year, we rallied around the call: “DCPS 23, no more!” — and today, we’re proud to share that our students are CLIMBING THE RANKS in Maryland! Thanks to the hard work of our students, staff, and community, Dorchester has moved up to 19th in the state for English Language Arts and 20th for Math across all student groups. This is a huge step forward on our journey to be in the top 15 among Maryland’s 24 school systems!

Here are some highlights that show just how far we’ve come:
✨ 3rd Grade ELA: 13th in the state, and 2nd on the Eastern Shore!
✨6th Grade ELA: Ranked 17th statewide
✨8th Grade ELA: Ranked 16th statewide
✨Grades 3–8 Combined (ELA): Ranked 17th statewide
✨7th Grade Math: Ranked 15th statewide
✨ 8th Grade Math: 12th statewide — one of our strongest performances yet!
✨Geometry: Ranked 17th statewide

Superintendent Dr. Jymil Thompson says it best:
“Belief leads to action — and action leads to results. Our students, staff, and community are proving what’s possible when we all believe in us.”

We’re celebrating this progress, but we know the journey isn’t over. Our goal to reach the top 15 is within reach, and we’re more energized than ever to keep climbing — together.

Our Believe in Us: Achieving Our Potential Together plan is driving this success, focusing on early literacy, math readiness, and equity for every student. Stay tuned for more about this new strategic plan during our upcoming community forums in October 2025.

Thank you to everyone who continues to believe in our students and support their success. The best is yet to come!

#BelieveInUs #DCPS23NoMore #InvestInDCPS

22 days ago, DCPS

DCPS Students Climb State Ranks, no longer 23!