From the Director’s Chair
Dear Parents:
Our Scholars have had an amazing start to their DECATS adventure filled with fun, growth, and unforgettable experiences. From the moment they arrived, their enthusiasm and energy have been out of this world. Our morning assemblies are filled with lively songs, animated dancing, and heartfelt prayer. It’s inspiring to witness blossoming friendships in such a short amount of time.
From the morning to afternoon our Scholars engaged in a wide variety of exciting courses. The first two courses of the day are the foundational pieces of DECATS. In Manners, Scholars practiced shaking hands and introducing themselves to make an outstanding first impression. Our Executive Functioning Scholars worked on the skills of impulse control and shift. Wellness Scholars explored healthy living of both mind and body. Ethics and morality are the topics in Values and Morals. Meanwhile in Perspectives, we introduced our core philosophy — “better at” does not mean “better than” — and began cultivating the skills of self-awareness, leadership, and creative thinking. While visiting elective courses we saw Scholars designing their ideal home in “DECATS Dream House,” knocking it out of the park in the homerun derby of “Sportsplex,” expressing their artistry with cake icing in “Edible Art,” and facing each other in the mental battle of chess in “Game of Kings.”
As we move into the second week, much more “Exploration Awaits!” Our schedule is packed with new and stimulating activities designed to challenge and inspire our Scholars. They will have the opportunity to explore their interests, take on more complex projects, and collaborate even more closely with their peers. We encourage you to ask your Scholars about their experiences each day. Listen to their stories, ask about their favorite activities, and explore the new skills and knowledge they are gaining. Sharing in their excitement helps reinforce the positive experiences and memories they are creating here at DECATS.
Let us know what your Scholars are saying about their DECATS experience. If we may use your comments online and in other projects, let us know that as well. We are on a mission to provide a qualitatively differentiated learning experience, boldly devoted to excellence in mentoring, learning, and developing young leaders to use their gifts for the betterment of the world around them.
Sincerely in Christ,
Dr. Kendall Shamas
Program Director, St. Anne
