Welcome to Dirksen Middle School – Home of the Super Senators!  Dirksen Middle School serves approximately 1100 students in the communities of Calumet City, Burnham, Dolton, and South Holland.  The educators at our school plan to fortify our vision in alignment with the National Middle School Association’s philosophy of educating young adolescence, “This We Believe in Action”.  However, Dirksen will continue to operate in accordance to School District 149’s mission statement.  Our highly qualified teaching staff not only values working with middle-level students but are prepared to do so by designing student centered lessons that are relevant, integrative, and exploratory.  Dirksen is sectioned into grade-level teams that provide organizational structures that support meaningful teacher-student relationships.

Our facility was designed specifically to support our educational program.  We have grade-level teams of classrooms; science labs, computer labs, a gymnasium, two cafeterias, and a media center (library).    The curriculum also incorporates a variety of exploratory class rotations.  Our students explore interests and careers through such exploratory classes as:  Computer Technology Resource, Conflict Resolution (which includes a character education component), Art, Reading/Math Enrichment, Physical Education, and Band.  We have just added our Musicology course (music, vocals, drama, and dance) which enhances our Fine Arts curriculum.  The school day also allows for an advisory period.  During homeroom advisory periods, students participate in activities and discussions about making good decisions, developing positive relationships with others, and building good character.

Dirksen Middle School has successfully implemented Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS).  This disciplinary program is designed to teach students the expected appropriate behavior.  This is achieved through “Cool Tools” which are lesson plans which addresses the following behavior expectations:  Be Here, Be Ready; Be Respectful; Value Learning; and, Be Safe.  Students are rewarded with Dirksen Dollars, which are put into a raffle for a weekly drawing of extraordinary prizes.  Students’ behavior continues to improve via the PBIS program.  

We are proud to announce that last school year, Dirksen Middle School made AYP (Annual Yearly Progress) based on outstanding results on the ISAT.  Our highly qualified teaching staff will continue to build a strong academic foundation across the curriculum in preparation for future standardized exams.  In support of increased student achievement, Dirksen will continue to operate its Homework Centers and Education Station after school tutorial programs for duration of October 2007 through March 2008.  Students must meet the set criteria for participation.  Information regarding these programs will be made available prior to their anticipated start dates.  Our after school programming also includes the National Junior Honor Society, the National Junior Beta Club, end-of-the-year competitive intramural basketball tournaments, and Band.  Under the direction of Mr. Jeffrey Brath, our award-winning band participates in local parades, local and state-wide competitions, and other community-based events.

It should be noted that Dirksen benefits greatly by the partnerships we have established with parents and the school community.  We believe that through these partnerships, Dirksen Middle School will be the school to watch.   We’re on our way to becoming an exemplary school of distinction.  We’re going to have a dynamic school year!

Dr. Brigitte Garth-Young,

Principal