Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District

In D-Y, our Core Values—Equity, Dignity, Excellence, Community, and Integrity—serve as the foundation for everything we do. They reflect what we believe in, what we stand for, and what we are committed to protecting as a school district. These values guide us through challenges, unite us with a shared purpose, and ensure that every decision we make is aligned with the principles our community holds dear. By establishing a clear and consistent set of values, we create a common language and shared expectations that transcend individuals and leadership changes. Our Core Values define who we are today and shape who we strive to be in the future—as a school system and as proud Dolphins.

Equity

• We provide fair access to education, allowing everyone to reach their full potential.
• We remove barriers that impact achievement.
• We provide equal opportunities for all and foster growth among all demographic categories.
• We believe every student deserves the support they need to thrive. By embracing an individualized approach to education, we empower each learner to overcome challenges and achieve their learning goals.
   

Dignity

• We honor and affirm the inherent dignity and humanity of every person, embracing our shared responsibility to recognize, protect, and celebrate the full spectrum of human experience.
• We cultivate a nurturing and empowering environment that actively supports the growth, well-being, and success of every individual, enabling them to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
• We are committed to fostering a culture of safety, respect, and inclusivity—one in which every individual feels genuinely seen, heard, valued, and protected
• We lead with compassion and empathy, embedding kindness into every action, interaction, and decision—recognizing the profound impact that understanding and care have in shaping a just and inclusive community. 
   

Excellence

• We strive for academic achievement and high standards. We promote rigorous intellectual engagement and mastery of subject matter that fosters critical thinking, creativity, and independent learning in our scholars.
• We embrace holistic development by fostering continuous growth and improvement. We actively seek opportunities that nurture well-rounded, lifelong learners.
• We empower students to take accountability for their learning and equip educators to master their craft using evidence-based and innovative models for instruction and classroom management.
• We provide students access to quality education with opportunities to explore and excel in a variety of subject matter and extracurricular activities that develop knowledge and skills that align with each student's interests.
   

Community

• We are one united community. We foster teamwork and partnership among students, staff, and the community.
• We collaborate with all. Through learning and cooperation, we foster collective growth, creating a positive impact that reaches our school, families, staff, volunteers, and all corners of the Dennis-Yarmouth communities.
• We value our relationships in our community. We unite to seamlessly embed character into our culture. This integration spans every facet of school life, enabling students to learn and apply essential social, emotional, and behavioral skills.
• We strengthen each other. We unite, working and celebrating our shared efforts. We serve and include all, looking out for everyone, and we own the responsibility to make our schools excel.
• We are committed to open, reciprocal, and transparent communication with our community.
   

Integrity

• We are accountable for our words, actions and decisions.
• We treat each other with respect by listening to the ideas and perspectives of others, even when we disagree.
• We model honesty and transparency in all our interactions.
• We exemplify the Dolphin Way.