Principal Hartman's Monthly Updates

Dear DCES Families,

Welcome to 2026! A new year can bring many different emotions, and for me, it provides an opportunity to pause and reflect. As a leader, I’ve been thinking deeply about three guiding questions that support growth and balance:
What will I stop doing? What will I continue doing? What will I start doing?

This reflection reminds us that growth doesn’t always come from adding more—it often begins by letting go of what no longer serves us. Removing something from our plate is not a sign of weakness; rather, it creates space for alignment, authenticity, and purpose. When we take time to reflect on what isn’t working anymore, we allow ourselves to show up as our best, most authentic selves.

As our staff continues our focus on “It Starts With You,” I wanted to invite our incredible DCES community to reflect alongside us. We all work hard and want the very best for our children, and caring for ourselves is a vital part of that process. When we are reflective, balanced, and grounded, our students/children benefit.

Below are the three reflection questions our staff will be using both personally and professionally. I encourage you to take a moment to consider them as well:

• What will you stop doing?

• What will you continue doing?

• What will you start doing?

I would love to hear how this reflection goes for you, as I continue working through these questions myself and deciding what I need to subtract before adding anything new.

I look forward to seeing you throughout the hallways and during arrival and dismissal. I have truly enjoyed getting to know our families and building strong relationships, and I am confident that the start of 2026 will be meaningful and impactful for our entire DCES community.

Your Proud Principal,
Destinie Hartman

We are proud to share some exciting news from Deer Crossing Elementary School!

Please join us in congratulating Emma Jozwiak, our DCES Teacher of the Year. Ms. Jozwiak is an exceptional educator who consistently demonstrates dedication, passion for learning, and a deep commitment to her students. Her positive impact is felt throughout our classrooms and school community.

We are also thrilled to congratulate Kelly Woodard, our Support Employee of the Year. Ms. Woodard is a cornerstone of DCES, known for her kindness, compassion, and unwavering support of students, staff, and families. Her contributions make our school a better place each and every day.

We are incredibly grateful to have such outstanding individuals serving our DCES community.

Congratulations to both Ms. Jozwiak and Ms. Woodard on these well-deserved honors!

Winter months can sometimes bring the “winter blues.”

Shorter days and colder weather may impact mood and energy levels. Families can help by encouraging outdoor play when possible, regular movement, and meaningful family connection time. A family game night is a wonderful way to connect—and it builds important life skills, too! Games promote turn-taking, patience, good sportsmanship, cooperation, and problem-solving. Board games also strengthen communication and emotional regulation skills that children use every day at school and at home. Staying connected both at home and at school can help make the winter months feel a little brighter for everyone.

School Counselor Contacts:

• Stacey Mitchell, Primary School Counselor (PreK–2) – stacey.mitchell@fcps.org
  

• Deena Michael, Intermediate School Counselor (Grades 3–5) – deena.michael@fcps.org
  
  

• Wednesday, January 6: Oakdale Feeder Chorus Concert @ 7pm OHS
• Thursday, January 15: Five Guys Spirit Night 4pm-8pm Location: 1700 Kingfisher Drive
• Friday, January 16: 2-Hour Early Dismissal
• Monday, January 19: Martin Luther King Jr. Day- No School
• Tuesday, January 20: Teacher Work day-No School