The magnificent state of Michigan is renowned for its serene Great Lakes, automotive history, and exceptional educational system. It provides an environment that values education, creativity, and academic achievement.

Situated in the classic midwestern town of Dexter, Dexter High School provides students opportunities to explore their passions, develop their abilities, and start journeys of personal and professional growth because of their innovative programs, committed teachers, and long tradition of academic excellence.

The Visionary Strategies

Dexter High School (DHS) is a shining example of innovative and high-quality education. It is committed to Championing Learning and remains true to its vision. This is a pledge to create an environment where students not only learn but also grow, learn, and, most importantly, are inspired to be the best versions of themselves. It goes beyond textbooks and classrooms.

DHS’s unique designation as an Advanced Placement Honour District by the College Board is an excellent representation of its dedication to academic quality. Institutions that simultaneously achieved increases in access to Advanced Placement® courses for a broader number of students and also maintained or improved the rate at which their AP® students earned scores of 3 or higher on an AP Exam are awarded this distinction. In addition, DHS was given the esteemed Advanced Placement Achievement Award, highlighting the exceptional AP exam performance of its students.

Dexter’s accomplishments reach the national arena in addition to the state level. Ranked among the top high schools in the US by US News, this institution makes excellence a reality rather than just a goal. Numerous National Merit Scholars have graduated from Dexter High School, which is a demonstration of its constant commitment to getting children ready for success in higher education and beyond.

Dexter High School’s diverse range of educational opportunities makes it stand out. Here, students have access to various Advanced Placement courses, the demanding International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, and professional and technical education programs offered by the county-wide consortium. In addition to providing students with access to innovative learning opportunities and a bridge to higher education, Dexter Early Middle College also gives them the tools they need to forge their academic paths and the opportunity to get a head start on earning college or certificate credits.

Dexter High School is a place where the arts and athletics flourish in addition to academic success. The music programs, which highlight the creative abilities of Dexter’s students, routinely win top awards. In addition, DHS athletes have won numerous state titles in various sports, demonstrating that brilliance is not limited to the classroom.

But it doesn’t stop there. The school is a hub for extracurricular excellence. Clubs such as Ocean Bowl, Quiz Bowl, Robotics, Debate, Journalism, and Forensics have not only been successful at the state and national levels but have also cultivated the skills of future leaders and innovators.

DHS encourages athletic programs and provides platforms for high-achieving athletes. In 2023, the school celebrated exceptional achievements; one of the DHS graduates brought glory by winning a bronze at the FINA World Junior Championships, an extraordinary feat achieved just days after setting a new Michigan State Diving Record.

Numerous athletes from the Class of 2023 were also successful in obtaining Division I scholarships in various sports, such as hockey, football, soccer, cross country, baseball, and swimming and diving. In Division II and III, several students also left their mark by competing in lacrosse, basketball, track & field, tennis, softball, trap shooting, water polo, and cross country. DHS’s dedication to fostering sports brilliance proves its all-encompassing educational approach.

Every student finds a place to flourish in Dexter, where they can follow their passions and reach their full potential. In addition to being a place of education, Dexter High School is a place of transformation, where futures are shaped and young minds are nourished.

The Story of Expansion and Holistic Development

In 2019, the school took a significant step by involving its stakeholders, including current students, parents, alums, and the community, to collaboratively develop a Learner Profile. This profile lists the abilities, knowledge and characteristics that each DHS alum needs to be a successful adult. At Dexter High School and across the district, instructional strategies are guided by the Learner Profile, which sets up a framework for students to acquire essential abilities in teamwork, critical and creative thinking, and effective communication.

The curriculum not only covers the subject matter but also financial and information literacy, ensuring that each student is ready for the challenges of the contemporary world. The school strongly emphasizes developing character traits essential for success and personal development, such as kindness, empathy, accountability, resilience, and initiative.

Dexter Schools has a demonstrated track record of developing curricula to cater to a wide range of student needs. Its alternative school, also referred to as Alt Ed, was founded in 2016 to serve students experiencing particular difficulties in their academic journey. For kids who might not finish high school on time, the school’s small group settings and community organizational support provide a lifeline.

Dexter High School’s almost 100 percent graduation rate demonstrates its dedication to the academic success of its students. With the launch of Dexter Early Middle College in 2020, students can now obtain free college credit or trade/career credentials while still enrolled in high school.

Its leadership team remains dedicated to staying at the forefront of customized curriculum and experiential connections with community mentors and educational innovation. Their approach is not only engaging and data-driven but also highly individualized, catering to the unique needs and aspirations of each Dexter High School student. Dexter High School isn’t just a school; it’s a place where every student is empowered to reach their fullest potential.

A School of Success and Support

The school curriculum inspires students along with educating them with the right kind of strategies. It trains the students with assessment methods promoting individual growth and developing the whole student with co-curricular activities like strong athletics, arts, and extracurricular programs. The Student Council and National Honor Society provide base learning and a broader life perspective.

DHS has an excellent team of four guidance counselors for academic scheduling and general emotional support, along with the expertise of a school psychologist, a school social worker, a 504 accommodations coordinator, a district social worker, and graduation coaches; it ensures that students receive the necessary guidance and assistance to thrive in their educational journey. This dedicated support team closely monitors student attendance, grades, and other indicators to ensure that every student’s well-being is a top priority.

Here, equity and justice are a way of life, not just a catchphrase. The school fosters an inclusive learning and working environment by embracing a diversity of ideas, experiences, and views. This dedication includes numerous student organizations and initiatives that seek to establish a welcoming and safe environment for everybody.

DHS runs a peer-to-peer program in which students in regular education and special education work together on assignments and community service projects. In addition, the school has a full-inclusion special education program that guarantees a quality education to all Dexter students, irrespective of special needs or disabilities. A full-time nursing staff and other resources required to ensure every student’s well-being complement this inclusive approach.

There are numerous chances for parents to become involved in and support their children’s education, making them an essential part of the Dexter High School community. Webinars, curriculum nights, and open houses provide information on the educational options and help bridge the home-school gap. By joining focus committees and booster clubs that cover academic enrichment, athletics, the arts, and even the farm-to-school program, parents can become actively involved in school functions and events.

Regular community gatherings on educational subjects keep parents informed and involved. The school further strengthens the close relationship between parents, students, and staff by publishing a semi-annual magazine that features tales of exciting and distinctive learning opportunities occurring throughout the Dexter school system. It is a vibrant, inclusive, and supportive community where students, parents, and educators come together to ensure the success of every student.

Nurturing the Students with Modern-day Techniques

The school aims to create and sustain an environment that nurtures students and equips them to explore their passion and learn helpful skills. The students are provided with a tablet or laptop, ensuring access to a wealth of resources through learning management systems such as Canvas and Seesaw.

In-house expertise is fostered through the “geek squad,” where high school students learn to repair devices, and recent graduates have even found opportunities to contribute as full-time members of the technology team. This dedication to connecting students with community experts is a core value, providing real-world experiences that prepare them for the workforce and life beyond school.

Dexter High School’s commitment to education goes beyond the classroom, shaping an environment where students can explore their passions and develop essential life skills.

Community connections are an essential part of Dexter High School’s approach. Work-study jobs, including roles as athletics assistants, creative projects contributors, maintenance and landscaping positions, and positions involving younger children in preschool and aftercare programs, enable students to gain a valuable understanding of skills.