Dear DMC Families,

Middle school is an incredible time of growth, students are discovering independence, building new friendships, and developing their personal identity. Alongside this exciting journey, however, today’s young people are also encountering risks and pressures earlier than any generation before them.

As a school, our commitment is not only to develop strong learners, but also to help students make safe, healthy, and informed choices. We want to partner closely with you as we address some of the most pressing challenges facing adolescents today.

Online Safety & Digital Behaviour

A student’s online life is now inseparable from their social world. The majority of concerning behaviours we address as a school begin behind a screen.

Common concerns include:

• Social media pressure and harmful comparisons
• Cyberbullying and group chats used to exclude or target peers
• Unsafe image sharing
• Anonymous apps that encourage risky behaviour
• Access to inappropriate or upsetting content

Children often feel invincible, but one poor decision online can have long-lasting consequences.

How families can help:

• Know what platforms your child is using
• Set clear boundaries and expectations
• Keep conversations open and judgement-free
• Encourage students to come to you before a mistake becomes a crisis

Vaping, Drugs & Risky Experimentation

We are seeing increasing availability of vaping products and substances marketed to young teens. It is not uncommon for students to be unaware of the health risks or of the addictive nature of nicotine and THC.

Key harms include:

• Breathing issues, asthma complications, lung damage
• Serious addiction that develops quickly
• Unknown and unregulated chemicals in cartridges
• THC impairing memory, learning, and mental health

Students often try these products to fit in or to appear older. They need strong guidance and firm boundaries to resist pressures in social groups.

Mental Health & Emotional Well-Being

Adolescence can be overwhelming. Anxiety, loneliness, and fear of judgement can push students toward unhealthy coping behaviours.

We encourage families to:

• Make space for daily check-ins
• Look for changes in sleep, motivation, or friendships
• Help students identify trusted adults they can talk to
• Normalize conversations about stress, disappointment, and struggle

When school and home work together, we can catch worries early, before they become emergencies.

The Home–School Partnership Matters Most

We are strongest when we communicate and support each other. If you ever become aware of risks or harmful behaviour, even outside school — please reach out. We are here to help, not to punish.

What we promise:

• We will always act to protect students
• We will respond with compassion and discretion
• We will provide support, guidance, and education
• We will involve families early and consistently

Your children are amazing. They want to do the right thing — they just need the tools, limits, and trusted adults to guide them.

Together, we can help them grow into responsible, resilient, and safe young people.

Thank you for your ongoing partnership.

With care,
Jason Hartl, Principal