Week in Review: Have a wonderful Thanksgiving Break!

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At the end of this day, we will enter the longest break we have had since summer. I can say it’s well deserved, but that would be an understatement.

A week away from work, to rest, to celebrate, to connect with those you love and with yourself awaits each one of us.

I end this week, like so many others - grateful. I know the work we do is challenging; it requires immense energy, and that is because it is work of impact, of purpose, and of love.

Thank you for finding purpose at DSST, for each student and each other. I wish each of you a special Thanksgiving.

¡Adelante!

NGU

DSST selects our next Chief People Officer

After many years at DSST, Chief People Officer Ashley Wiegner has relocated to be closer to family. We are deeply grateful to her for the incredible tenure she has had here and the gift of time to run an intensive selection process during Q2 with a highly competitive pool of candidates.

We are delighted to welcome Tamara Ghandour as the next Chief People Officer of DSST. With over 25 years of experience in HR and organizational culture, Tamara brings a strong commitment to equity and inclusion, essential for our mission. As Principal Consultant at LaunchStreet, she has led talent initiatives across diverse sectors of the people space, enhancing employee engagement while fostering diverse, inclusive workplaces at a global scale.

We will share more about Tamara and her transition closer to her start date. Ashley will continue to support us throughout this transition and we are grateful for her continued leadership at DSST.

A few reminders:

Your hard work day-to-day with students and your commitment to seeing and valuing our families in our academic culture are highlighted in our results from the Fall Family Survey. You can read more about the survey results here.
The Wednesday PD days have seen many bright spots based on feedback you have given. There was lots to say about the Nov. 13 session. You can read the highlights here.

Network Highlights

E-Ship teacher Alysyn Merrill inspires future entrepreneurs at DSST: Green Valley Ranch

Ever wondered what it takes to turn a big idea into reality? At GVR High School, students in the Entrepreneurial Studies program are learning just that, with hands-on experience and guidance from inspiring educators like Alysyn Merrill. From building their own businesses to hearing real-world advice from former NFL player turned entrepreneur Josh Martin, these young innovators are gaining skills to shape their futures. Read more.

DSST: Elevate seniors explore Colorado College, get a glimpse into the future

On Nov. 5, seniors from DSST: Elevate took a memorable trip to Colorado College in Colorado Springs. For many, this was more than just a campus tour—it was a chance to envision their next chapter. Read more.

Colorado Gives Day

Colorado Gives Day is December 10! Not only is it the biggest 24-hour giving movement in the state, but it is also one of the most successful giving days in the nation. DSST is proud to participate, and we are excited to share a few short opportunities to get involved:

Share with friends and family DSST’s Colorado Gives Day page
Consider making a contribution in support of a specific school or DSST’s general fund.
Early giving is open! Celebrate the success of our students and programs between Giving Tuesday (Dec. 3) and Colorado Gives Day (Dec. 10)

Important dates at glance

Nov. 25-29: Thanksgiving Break

Dec: 3: Giving Tuesday

Dec. 10: Half day for MS students

Dec. 10: Colorado Gives Day

Dec. 17: Half day for HS students

Dec. 19: Half day for HS students

Dec. 20: Half day for all students

Dec. 20: End of Q2

Dec. 23 - Jan. 3: Winter Break

Additional info

The DSST Inaugural Impact Report is now live! This report offers a glimpse into the 2023-2024 school year, highlighting the remarkable achievements of our students and staff. Click here to see the full report.
DSST is hiring! Click here to view current opportunities. Click here to refer someone to one of our open roles! You'll receive a $500 referral bonus for any referral who is hired.