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When you think of a day in the life of a primary school student, it would include thoughts of academic lessons, specials classes, lunch and even recess.  However, one very large and important component is often left off the list – the social component of education.  It is this area that teaches children acceptable behaviors, proper coping strategies, and the ability to communicate with others.  At the primary level, this can be a difficult job as students can be shy, quiet, overly outgoing, or even unsure of his or her surroundings.  At Douglas Primary School, two individuals work with students, small groups and whole classes to build these vital social skills –Mrs.  Nicole George and Ms. Christie Jack.  Recognizing both of these amazing women is necessary as most of their day inter-twines as they work cooperatively with one another.  Nicole is the school’s Social Worker and Christie serves as a School Psychologist.

As the school’s Social Worker, Nicole has a number of responsibilities and duties.   Mrs. George has successfully integrated a new school-wide program, Kelso’s Choice.  Just ask any Primary School student the difference between a small and big problem and most importantly what actions can be taken.  These social skills are taught within the classroom and it allows the students time to listen to the lesson, ask important questions and develop a relationship with Nicole.  It is this relationship that fosters her popularity within the building and the success of her program, not to mention the resource dog Chimmey that hangs out with her as well.  Aside from her very full schedule, Nicole always makes time for individual student needs, disciplinary issues, small social groups, parent meetings, and even lunch duty.  Aside from meeting with students, Nicole is part of numerous committees including the PBIS/Bee Committee, RTI Committee, monitoring disciplinary referrals and the School Improvement Committee.  She is one of the hardest working individuals within the Primary School who makes a positive impact with students every day.

Christie Jack also plays a vital role in the daily routine at DPS.  Aside from her student assessment responsibilities; she also meets with students in order to fulfill Individual Education Program needs. However, Christie does not have sit down sessions with students, more than likely she will be found with students in their classrooms, outside on the playground or soccer field, during lunch with students, or even in the swimming pool.  Christie does whatever is needed to make her students feel comfortable as well as provide fun and exciting goals to work toward.  Like Nicole, Christie rarely uses the word no, instead she is more than willing to help out in any manner that will benefit kids and support their learning environment.  This includes meeting with parents, explaining test results, and even staff professional development – she takes that extra time to ensure it is a positive experience.  Christie will always go that extra mile, Ms. Jack is well known by all students!!

Douglas Primary School is very fortunate to have these two professionals within our school, the district, and community.  They are prime examples of educators who put student needs first and hold all components of academics sacred.  They are ensuring that the students get off to an excellent beginning as they jump start their educational career.

Thank you Nicole and Christie for always doing what is best for kids!

Bill Pearson - Douglas High School

Bill has been teaching Math for 14 years at Douglas High School; the last 5 years he has effectively served as the Department Head. He plans and prepares lessons that engage students in meaningful work. He integrates the latest technologies in the classroom, enhancing opportunities for students to grasp important curricular topics and standards in mathematics. Bill can always befound working with students…whether he is helping students with questions, visiting with them about their day, coaching basketball, or advocating for students, he builds outstanding rapport. Students truly enjoy having him as an instructor and coach. Bill is an invaluable member of the DHS staff.