The mission of South Douglas Elementary School is to provide a foundation that will enable students to become lifelong learners and productive members of society.

WE BELIEVE

...students are the most important participants in the learning process and need the understanding and support of home, school, and community in order to reach their full potential.

...a safe, clean, nurturing, stimulating, and disciplined atmosphere is conducive to learning.

...in challenging and motivating students by setting high expectations for learning and behavior.

...in meeting the individual needs of students by implementing a variety of teaching methods and assessments.

...students should be equipped with academic, creative, social, physical, and technical skills.

...students should be encouraged to respect the rights and feelings of others and realize that accepting the responsibility for their decisions and actions is an integral part of learning.

About The School

What makes SDES special?

Take a look and See!

After School Program

South Douglas was the first school in Douglas County to begin an After School Program to meet the needs of working parents in the community. Our After School Program has been in operation since 1992. The program operates weekdays until 6:15pm during the 36 weeks of school. We also offer before school care beginning at 6:45am. The ASP cost is $40.00 per week. The program includes educational support (homework time - reading time), and recreational activities. A snack and free choice of games and crafts complete the afternoon that allows parents to work without the concerns of children at home alone. Supervision is provided by SDES staff, college students, community adults, and high school students approved through the work-study program. Our after school program is under the direction of Mrs. Jacks.

Our Reading Program

South Douglas was the first school in Douglas County to become a Reading First school. SDES is currently in the fifth year of implementation using the Reading First concept. State funds are used to purchase materials to implement an exemplary reading program. Reading First is designed to promote grade-level reading proficiency for every student. The program components are phonics, comprehension, and the integration of language arts into the science and social studies curriculum.

Involving Students Through Clubs

Performing Arts Club

We are proud of our 4^th-5^th grade Chorus under the direction of Mrs.Griffin, Mrs. McKinley, Mrs. Reeves, and Mrs. Hoffmaster. This group will performed at the Douglas County Courthouse in December. They will present a program for students and parents prior to Winter Holidays. They will perform at the end of March in celebration of Youth Art & Music Month. We are looking forward to a wonderful year.

Junior Beta Club

Junior Beta Club is for 5^th graders who meet academic and character criteria. Our counselor, Mrs. Glick-Spencer is the BETA Club sponsor.

Bear Tracks Running Club

The Bear Tracks running club meets during the fall and spring. Third, fourth, and fifth graders participate in this fitness activity under the direction of Ms. Gray.

Good News Club

The Good News Club is sponsored by Mrs. Brown and Mrs. Mallory for students of all ages. The club meets every Tuesday morning, in the Art room, from 7:30 to 7:50am.

Parent Communication

At South Douglas Elementary School, Communication between home and school is encouraged. The school newsletter, the Bear Facts, is the vehicle through which most of the school news comes home. We also use a daily homework/conduct sheet for every child.

School Spirit

Our colors are Red and White and our mascot is the bear cub. The following song illustrates our character building efforts:

We are the Bear Cubs

From South Douglas School

We try to be our best

In everything we do

We strive for honor and excellence

Success and Dignity

To our friends and to our school

We pledge our loyalty....Yes!