Frequently Asked Questions

1. When do classes start and end?

For the 2008-2009 school year the school day will be 8:10 a.m. - 3:35 p.m .

2. Where can I find information about bus schedules?

Click here (opens pdf) to look up bus routes and schedules.

3. What can I wear to school?
You can find these answers in the Dress Code (MS Word).

4. What school supplies does my child need?

08-09 DMS School Supply List in English

08-09 DMS School Supply List in Spanish

5. What does the daily class schedule look like?
Will be updated before the 2008-2009 school year.

6. What about backpacks?
All backpacks must be clear plastic or see-thru mesh.

7. How do I request homework if my child is absent?
Please call 594-2600 and let the receptionist, Ms. Mancha know that you would like to request make up work for your child.

8. How do I find out if my child has any homework?
Please ask your student to write homework assignments in his/her Agenda Page. You can check this daily.

9. If my child loses his/her agenda, how can we get a new one?
New agendas are available in the Front Office for $5.00.

10. What do I do if my child has a doctor's appointment that will cause him/her to be tardy or miss class?
Please bring a note from the doctor when your student returns to school. If a student leaves during the school day, a parent must sign them out. When the student returns to school, don't forget the doctor's note. Absences due to a doctor's visit are considered excused absences.

11. How can I contact the teachers?
You may call the school and request to leave a message for the teacher(s) to contact you. You may also email teachers. All staff emails and voicemail numbers are listed on the Staff page. Please allow teachers at least 24 hours to respond to either a phone call or email.

12. How do I call the cafeteria if I have questions about lunch money?
Please call 594-2600 and ask to talk to the Cafeteria Manager.

13. What is the phone number for Durham Transportation, if I have a bus-related question?
(512) 251-3511

14. Can I have lunch with my student?
Parents/guardians, older siblings, and anyone with parent/guardian permission may have lunch with their student.

15. Can I bring flowers, gifts, or balloons to my student for their birthday or special occasion?
Please DO NOT BRING THESE ITEMS. Students don't have a place to keep these during the day. They can't carry them around during the day. The student would not get to enjoy them.

16. Can students bring blankets and stuffed animals to school?
Do not bring these items to school.

17. What time should I pick up my student from football games, volleyball games, dances, etc?
All "B" team football games end around 6:30pm or so while the "A" games end around 8:00pm. All "B" team volleyball games end around 6:30pm or so while the "A" games end around 7:45pm. Please try to be here before the event ends. You need to make sure to pick up your child by the time the event ends. Keep in touch with coaches, band, choir, and orchestra teachers for ending times of other events.

18. How do I find out how my student is performing academically?
We send home all Interim progress reports and all report cards with students. We typically indicate we are sending grade reports home on the marquee to alert parents. If you do not receive a report at the appropriate time, you may call the school. Click here to see the PISD 2007-2008 calender.

19. How much are PE uniforms, band instruments, etc?
PE Uniforms are $20. The school does not rent or purchase instruments, however, talk to the band director about your instrument options. Click here to visit the DMS Band website.

Last updated 6/24/08 mk