English 1 Teachers Combine for Reading Groups

Students in Ms. Sparks and Ms. Simmons 2nd block classes have recently combined and split into focus groups to read and discuss the book "Speak." Students within the groups all have specific roles for more effective discussion and accountability. Even some of what you might call our more reluctant readers are enjoying this format and making great contributions to their groups. Thanks to these teachers for putting in the extra work necessary to provide this opportunity for our students.

Faculty Spotlight -- Ms. Fortney

Name- Debbie Wade Fortney

Family- I have been married to my high school sweetheart Mark Fortney (DCHS Girls Cross County Coach) for 30 years!!!

Children- Ryanne Fortney 25

Twins- Jacob Fortney and Jillian Fortney 23

What do you teach? I teach Algebra 1 and Acc Geometry

Teaching experience/education-Graduated from Western Kentucky University with a double major in Math and German. Earned my masters in Mathematics Education, and I am a National Board Certified Teacher.

I started my teaching career at Madisonville North Hopkins, taught there 4 years

Then went to Muhlenberg South High School, taught there 10 years and have been here at DCHS for 2 years.

Favorite part of your subject- I love the way math works in the world!!! It just makes sense. As Galileo said “Mathematics is the pen with which God has written the universe.” GEOMETRY is my favorite mathematics course to teach!

Interests/hobbies- I love sports!! I’m a big UK Wildcat basketball fan!! I also love the sport of cross country and track. I help my husband with the cross country and track teams. My kids played about every sport there was and I followed them to all their events……now that they are no longer competing I follow the DCHS sports teams!! My other hobbies are photography, scrapbooking, and gardening!!

One other interesting fact about you- I have run two Marathons, Chicago and St. George Utah. I’m slow but I finish!! I have a Siberian Husky name Blazer that trained with me. If you see me out on the belt I usually always have Blazer running with me!! She just recently helped me train for the Knoxville half-marathon which I ran in March.

A story about an educator that left an impression on you- I had many wonderful teachers in high school. One of the teachers who really stood out was my high school Geometry teacher. He not only taught me Geometry but he made class interesting and fun. He always had a story with a life lesson to share with us. I remember him telling me that I needed to be a teacher because I was good at helping my classmates with their assignments! It left an impression on me. I like to share with my students and hope that at some time in their life they will remember that Mrs. Fortney taught them something……be it mathematics or a lesson about life!

9th Grade Reward Trip Ready to Go!

All 9th grade students who meet the reward criteria for the school year will be treated to a great day involving a movie at Malco Cinema, followed by lunch and some time to enjoy the spring weather at Legion Park. The trip is planned for May 17th. Congrats to all eligible students, and thanks to everyone who contributed to their success!!