Derby High School

75 Chatfield Street

Derby, Connecticut 06418

(203) 736-5032 ▪ www.derbyps.org

Principal, Jennifer Olson

Update to Board of Education - January 2025 Recap

Academics:

Launched after school SAT prep program in partnership with TestWizards. This 14-session program provides students with individualized skill Provided at no cost to students/families through grant funding.
Derby High School earned the College Board AP® Computer Science Female Diversity Award for achieving high female representation in AP Computer Science Principles (CSP). Derby High School is one of only 847 recognized for improving female representation in AP CSP. Schools honored with an AP Computer Science Female Diversity Award have expanded access to AP computer science courses for female students in their communities. This course was added to the Program of Studies in 2023.
Held a successful midterm exam week from 1/21-1/27. Provided a schedule that promoted academic rigor and time management for students.
Worked with the RAISE Academy team, student support staff and pupil personnel to review the progress of students who are meeting with academic, behavioral or social- emotional challenges to develop recommendations and referrals. Enrolled 6 new students in the program

Hosted the John H. Collins American Legion Post 24 Oratorical Competition on January 15, 2025 at DHS. Vincent Trinh advanced to the regional competition. His first oration on the First Amendment (8-10 min) highlighted the connection between free speech and the influence of social media and journalists in sharing information responsibly. His second oration on the Eighteenth Amendment (3-5 min) advocated for eliminating alcohol to promote better decision-making, health and wellness, and opportunities for individuals and families. Regional competition will be held on Sat., Feb 7 in Naugatuck.
Received notification from US Presidential Scholars program that 2 students from Derby High School have advanced to the national level as 2025 Candidates (Brianna Kling & Kevin McGuire) https://www.ed.gov/grants-and-programs/recognition-programs/us-presidential-scholars-program . DHS Counselors and English Dept will work with students to complete and submit their applications which are due in February.
Held rehearsals for High School Musical with cast and DHS Drama/Theater class. Show is March 7 & 8. Tickets go on sale February 10th.
Held field trip to Lincoln Tech to introduce students to technical school program opportunities.

Human Capital

Participated in district PDEC Committee meeting
6 DHS staff members/administrators attended PMT Refresher Training
Planning in-person Career Fair on May 1st. Looking for guest speakers who love their career and can spare an hour or two to help get students excited about career possibilities after graduation. This event is an invaluable opportunity for students to explore a wide range of potential careers and connect with professionals who can share insights into their education, training, and career journeys. (feel free to recommend someone!) Career Fair Speaker Sign Up
Worked with the School Counseling Dept to review/prepare the 2025 DHS Scholarship book.
Held professional learning with teachers to review school climate survey data

Operations

Scheduled new course registration with incoming freshman and current students for the 2025-2026 school year
Met with DEA Building Representatives for weekly update and planning
Held monthly fire drill and debriefed/resolved any issues
Began follow up outreach with Grade 8 families. Goal to promote DHS and reduce the number of students leaving the district for HS. Event included presentations from students, faculty and administration. This will be followed up with individual outreach to students and families

Climate/Culture:

DHS students visited LRU to read books about kindness in honor of Martin Luther King Day. This experience allowed high school students to connect with preschool children in a meaningful way, fostering a sense of community and friendship. The stories of kindness, friendship and inclusion helped illustrate Dr. King's vision.
Attended the CT Music Educator Associations’ Southern Region High School Music Festival. The concert showcased talent from around the state with students selected to perform including Joseph Izquierdo (‘25) who sang in the Mixed Choir!
Attended the CT High School Coaches Association (CHSCA) All-State Football Banquet on Sunday, January 12, 2025 to recognize Jayzair Barbera (‘25) as Class SS/S Defense player.
Students attended the Derby-Shelton Rotary meeting for our chapter’s first Officer Pinning Ceremony. Recognized Cassie Silkoff, Emma Hyder, Kaelyn DiMartino and Raelynn Harris and club advisors Carlin Ali and Jenn Moffat.
Established a new health & wellness committee that includes students, staff, administrators
Held a "That's So 90's Day!" spirit day to mark the half-way point in the school year!
Prepared newsletters to communicate with students, parents, staff with important information, celebrations and recognitions:

Planned McTeacher Night w/PTO to raise money for Post Prom. DHS Teachers/Staff will work at McDonald’s from 5-8 pm and a percentage of sales will be donated. Event Wed 2/21 at McDonald’s on Division Street.