THE DASHWOOD HERALD Volume 1, Issue 2 | October 2025

WELCOME TO DASHWOOD ACADEMY PREP A Message from Leadership

A Message from the Board

November marks a season of progress and reflection. As Founding Families, your partnership has guided Dashwood through its formative stage. Every suggestion, every hour volunteered, and every act of trust continues to shape the identity of our enrichment program. Thank you for helping us lay the groundwork for something extraordinary.

Facilities Update

The new building remains in its inquiry phase while City inspections are completed. Areas of black mold and electrical concerns have been identified and are being corrected by licensed professionals. THIS MAY AFFECT OUR 2026 LAUNCH.

Per City direction, Debuts will not enter the building until final clearance is granted. A portable office space is being arranged for the Michie property to serve as a temporary workspace for those involved in the development of the program.

Additional site improvements underway:

• Installation of a new sliding gate and secondary entry gate.

• Replacement of the front glass door with a secure wood or metal door.

• Installation of updated signage over the coming months.

The board and Founding Families were aware of many changes and updates needed before our TBA launch. Updates will be available.

Routine building preparations and city inspections are ongoing

Community Partnerships

Dashwood continues to collaborate closely with The Red Door, whose outreach team and volunteers provide essential support.

• Lunches: Debuts should bring a lunch daily but may purchase one from The Red Door.

• Free Option: Oatmeal is always available at no cost — healthy, warm, and appreciated.

We also extend gratitude to both The Red Door and the original church location for allowing use of their spaces as needed during this transition.

Weather & Attendance

Because Dashwood operates as a hybrid enrichment program, sessions are not canceled for weather. When travel is unsafe, Debuts continue Connections Academy coursework remotely and may contact the Headmaster for Dashwood projects.

Absences must be reported to compliance-admissions@dashwoodschool.org, with a copy sent to the Headmaster.

Academics & Citizenship

Progress and Citizenship Reviews are being distributed this month. These reports recognize academic progress, leadership, and community engagement.

Curriculum & Enrichment

Current and upcoming readings include:

• The Watsons Go to Birmingham – 1963 – Christopher Paul Curtis

• A Time of Angels – Karen Hesse

• The Book Thief – Markus Zusak

• Time Enough for Drums – Ann Rinaldi

• Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry – Mildred D. Taylor

Topics in History: Focus on World War II and the Holocaust, explored through enrichment discussions using age-appropriate materials with the highest of standards. Parents will receive notifications and signature requests before certain materials are introduced.

Fundraising & Leadership Month

November is Fundraising Month!

Dashwood’s online auction will feature themed gift baskets, local experiences, and even guided hunting trips. Debuts will lead leadership-based fundraising projects, applying their organizational and community-building skills. Details and participation guidelines will be released shortly.

Dashwood sessions will pause for Thanksgiving Week, while Connections Academy sessions continue per their calendar.

Visibility & Conduct Expectations

Founding Debuts represent Dashwood in the community. They are expected to:

• Attend events in uniform and best dress, demonstrating courtesy and refinement.

• Be visible in the community — at the Civic Center, libraries, museums, and volunteer activities.

• Model leadership through public engagement and service.

This visibility is essential to the success of our founding cohort and helps introduce Dashwood’s mission to the broader public.

Program Development Reminder

Dashwood Academy Prep currently operates as a private enrichment and parent-led co-op program, following a hybrid model and functioning under license-exempt seasonal parameters. Founding Families remain enrolled with Washington Connections Academy for accredited academic records.

This is a developing program — policies, procedures, and partnerships will continue to evolve based on family feedback and regulatory guidance.

Upcoming Events

November 14 – Gallery Opening: 5th Annual Members Exhibition – Moses Lake Museum & Art Center
Week of November 21 – Moses Lake High School Production: Mamma Mia!
November 21 – Downtown Tree Lighting – Moses Lake Association
Thanksgiving Week – No Dashwood sessions (Connections Academy continues)

Founding Family Reminders

• Review requirements in the Dashwood Handbook, available online.

• Share feedback or requests anytime at community@dashwoodschool.org.

• Remember: Founding Families play an active role in shaping every aspect of Dashwood’s future.