|
A Welcome Message From Secondary Principal, Deron Durflinger
My name is Deron Durflinger. I am the principal of the secondary building and I would like to welcome you to Van Meter Schools. Van Meter is a small, progressive school district about 15 miles west of West Des Moines and just south of Interstate 80 off of exit 113. Though the District is housed on one campus, the secondary section of the building is comprised of classes for grades 6 through 12. With a staff of 25, and approximately 360 students, Van Meter Secondary is able to keep most class sizes near 20 students per class. The smaller class sizes enable our staff to really get to know each and everyone of our students. The positive relationships established between staff and students have helped our students achieve at high levels academically and in extra-curricular activities for years.
Van Meter students have consistently scored above the state average on the ACT. Students averaged a composite score of 23 over the last three years. With ample opportunity to participate in activities, Van Meter students have performed well outside of the classroom as well. This is evidenced by excellent drama productions, SLT, NHS, our State Qualifying Jazz Band, our National Qualifying FCCLA program, successful sports teams, and many other quality extra-curricular programs. Because of our supportive environment, students can easily find their niche or be an active member of many organizations, whichever they prefer.
Van Meter Secondary is committed to providing the best education possible for each of its students. Through collaborative efforts with Iowa Learning Online, DMACC, Kirkwood, Graceland, Iowa State, Central Academy, and Madison County Academy, Van Meter students are able to offer students classes in almost any area they are interested including: Virtual Reality, Project Lead The Way, Culinary Arts, Construction, and Advanced Placement classes to name a few. This commitment to helping students learn within areas they are passionate about helps prepare all Van Meter graduates for careers and/or college.
Van Meter Schools is second to no other district when providing opportunities to learn while using technology. All students are provided with a MacBook in grades 6-12, mobile iPod and iPad labs are available for use and most classrooms have LCD projectors. Van Meter Secondary believes that providing students with the best tools enhances the learning opportunities we can provide. Combined with quality instruction focused on student-centered classrooms, assessment for learning, rigorous curriculum, teaching for learner differences, and teaching for understanding, Van Meter students are challenged and taught in environment designed to develop global, digital citizens who can THINK, LEAD, & SERVE.
Our website is designed to provide you with information about our school and the many great things we have going on in the classrooms and beyond. Be sure to check out the daily announcements and weekly administrator updates for relevant information. We welcome your input on ways we can improve communication and sharing of important information, and you are welcome to visit our building to see what is taking place at the Van Meter Secondary. I look forward to working with you in providing the best education possible for the students of Van Meter Schools.
GO DAWGS!
Deron Durflinger, Secondary Principal
| 
