By: Dan Wille, Assistant Principal
My D’Evelyn experience began in 1999 as an incoming 7th grade student attending the Prep School. My parents entered me into the lottery knowing D’Evelyn was quickly earning a reputation as an incredible place for kids to develop their academic prowess. All 4 of my grandparents were educators, 7 of my 9 aunts and uncles were educators, my mom is an educator, and many of my cousins are educators. Needless to say, my family places an enormous value on education. Honestly, I had no idea what I was getting into when my parents asked me if I wanted to go to D’Evelyn instead of my neighborhood middle and high school. They explained it is a school known for its academics and high expectations, and I would probably be the only one from my elementary school to go to D’Evelyn. They made it very clear it would be a challenge. My parents are incredible people and they sensed my hesitation but helped me overcome any anxiety by building me up with encouragement, support, understanding, and love: “ We know you can do it, and we will be here to help you. And you know what, if you dislike it after a semester we can try something else.” I graduated 6 years later, never having the desire to leave D’Evelyn. I then returned in 2014 as a Junior High Social Studies teacher, and now have the pleasure of serving as an Assistant Principal. I came back to the Jaguar family after having a rich experience of professional adventures, world travels, and personal growth. Which leads me to the question I get asked a lot, “why did you come back?” The answer is simple: I believe in this program and know what it can do to help kids reach their full potential. Completion of the D’Evelyn curriculum is an investment that yields incredible opportunities for young individuals. Is it tough? Absolutely. Were there times when I doubted the point of it? Oh yeah. Was I frustrated that my experience was different from the vast majority of other kids my age? You bet. Did it cause me stress and make me lose sleep? Yup. Was it worth it? Without a doubt! Looking back now, I wish I had a time machine where the 2005 Freshmen at Regis University version of myself could go back in time to tell my high school self how lucky I was to be a D’Evelyn Jaguar. Not only does D’Evelyn bestow strong academic abilities in young individuals, it teaches invaluable life lessons. One of which is that resilience, dedication, discipline, integrity, and grit builds confidence enabling D’Evelyn graduates to thrive in any post secondary endeavors. Additionally, compassion, heart, humility, and grace are requisite to interact with others, creating a better world. Knowledge acquired during a student’s D’Evelyn tenure is an invaluable currency graduates get to invest in their interests as they explore life outside of our halls. The skills students develop (analytical reasoning, problem solving, time management, communication, resilience) becomes a toolbox of gifts enabling graduates to succeed in all areas of life. In conclusion, “Why D’Evelyn?” Because D’Evelyn teaches kids lessons inside and outside of the classroom that will benefit them for life. -Dan Wille 2005 D’Evelyn Graduate Current Assistant Principal at D’Evelyn Comments are closed.
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