DHS January Newsletter
Welcome back! I hope you had a restful winter break. As we begin the second half of the school year, I am thrilled to share some excellent progress regarding our school-wide goals.
Chronic Absenteeism Progress
This fall, we set a target to lower our chronic absenteeism rate to under 10%. I am proud to report that we are on track. Our current rate is 9.5%, representing a 4% decrease compared to this time last year.
While we celebrate this progress, we must also acknowledge that our Average Daily Attendance (ADA) has dipped recently. This decline can be attributed, in part, to an increase in viral illnesses as colder weather set in. That said, we know that consistent attendance is the foundation of student success, ensuring our Huskies remain connected and engaged in their learning.
As we begin the new year, let’s recommit to showing up on time every day when students are healthy and able to do so. As we settle back into our routines after a long break, we ask families to support their children in re-establishing strong morning habits. Together, we can keep this momentum going, finish the school year strong, and meet our attendance goals.
With Husky Pride,
Mr. Garcia
Congratulations to Yamila T. & Victor C. on earning the November Students of the Month!
Yamila has shown amazing growth, juggling a strong academic work ethic while increasing her involvement in extracurricular activities. She is a peer helper and a fantastic self-advocate, demonstrating the very best of our Husky Spirit.
Victor is known for his contagious enthusiasm and kindness. He consistently brightens the hallways with his positive energy, building strong relationships with both his peers and teachers. His warm presence makes everyone feel welcomed and supported! Victor, you truly embody what it means to be a Husky!
DHS is proud to announce that senior Penelope and junior Analia are our December Students of the Month. Words such as dedicated, talented and hardworking come immediately to mind when thinking of how to describe them. Penelope has been a member of the Marching Band, Class of 2026 committee and Bowling to name a few of her extracurricular activities. She serves as the treasurer for the band and assists Mr. Bernat in collecting funds for trips and fees. Penelope has even learned to play additional instruments when she saw the band needed more low brass players. Penelope also earned a spot in the Bergen County Choir and will represent Dumont at the concert in January at Paramus HS. Analia’s dedication to DHS is unwavering. She has earned a spot on Marking Period 1’s High Honor Roll List and recently performed solo at the December Concert as a member of the choir. Additionally, she will be performing on stage during DHS’s production of Matilda in March. As a Uniform Manager for the marching band, Analia is responsible for distributing and maintaining the band’s uniforms. Furthermore, she serves as the treasurer for the Choir, assisting Mr. Bennett in collecting funds throughout the year.
These student leaders who will help lead the charge in strengthening our school’s online presence and deepening our connection with our community. Through this initiative, these students will gain invaluable, real-world skills such as digital communication, content creation, graphic design, video editing, analytics, collaboration, leadership, professionalism, and responsible digital citizenship. We are proud of their initiative and look forward to the positive impact they will make on our school community.
DHS Football - Sportsmanship Award
We are proud to announce that the DHS Football program has received the Super Football Conference Red Division Sportsmanship Award, an honor granted to only 19 of the conference’s 114 teams. Our Ad, Mr. Sutera put it best: "This award embodies what we want athletics to teach: leadership, discipline, and the ability to compete while upholding the values of our district."
PACC & PRIDE Gingerbread House Fundraiser
A huge shoutout to PACC & PRIDE for hosting an incredible Gingerbread House fundraiser. Our students traded their textbooks for icing and gumdrops to build some truly spectacular displays. The student with the most votes for best gingerbread house will win a gift card!
Holiday Spirit Week
This December, our school came alive with festive energy during Holiday Spirit Week! From cozy winter wear and creative themed days to student-led activities, our halls were filled with laughter, kindness, and school pride. Spirit Week was a wonderful reminder of the joy that comes from coming together as a community to celebrate the season.
Digital Displays
New digital displays have been installed throughout the building to keep students informed and engaged. These screens will showcase upcoming events, key announcements, and student achievements.We are launching this initiative by celebrating our Q1 High Honor Roll students. Congratulations to these individuals for their hard work—we are proud to spotlight your success!
School Spirit
The DHS Beautification Project has officially begun! We are starting with a vibrant refresh of the Student Entrance, using our school colors to create an inspiring space that reflects the Husky Way.
This is only the beginning—stay tuned as we continue to brighten and update our building in the coming months. Go Huskies🐾!
Youth World AIDS Day
A group of Dumont High School students participated in the impactful Youth World AIDS Day event, sponsored by Hackensack Meridian Health. They engaged in discussions with a panel of doctors, diving into the topics of HIV/AIDS, prevention, and cutting-edge treatments.
Youth Theater Trip to BCC
Our amazing Youth Theater group had a fantastic field trip! They traveled to BCC to see the thrilling performance of Murder on the Nile. They even got to meet and snap a picture with the talented cast! What an inspiring experience for our aspiring DHS Husky stars.
Varsity Debate @ DHS
DHS hosted a Varsity Debate on 12/12. Five schools participated: BCA, Cresskill, Leonia, River Dell, and Tenafly. Dumont competed as a “swing team,” led by captains Laila T and Michaela M. Athena P served as a Varsity judge and earned the Best Judge Award for the third time this year!
Live from Surgery
DHS students recently visited the auditorium for a "Live from Surgery" virtual field trip hosted by Liberty Science Center. Our Huskies watched a real-time brain tumor removal performed by Dr. Frisoli of Atlantic Health Overlook Medical Center. From surgical techniques to medical career paths, students gained a world-class look at life-saving science. We are proud to support our future doctors and nurses!
