Ruth Dowell Middle School

“We choose to overcome the gravitational pull of the status quo so that we will be the first Exemplary middle school in McKinney ISD, not because it is easy, but because it is hard, because that goal will serve to organize and measure the best of our energies and skills, because that challenge is one that we are willing to accept, one we are unwilling to postpone and one in which we intend to win!"
Adapted from President John F. Kennedy’s September 12, 1962 Speech.

Dowell Middle School achieved the TEA rating of Recognized during the 2008-2009 school year up from Academically Acceptable in 2007-2008. Our focus is to foster a collaborative culture that encourages everyone involved: student, teachers, parents, staff and community members. The faculty and staff at Dowell Middle School are committed to the students, parents, and community in promoting the learning of ALL students. Our goal at Dowell Middle School is to be a TEA Exemplary campus and for all students to learn and achieve. We are making a professional shift from a focus on teaching to a focus on learning. By committing to learning, we will adopt a more learner-centered approach. Our culture focus is centered on the Capturing Kids' Hearts process of fostering excellence by building strong relationships between students, teachers and parents. This will first manifest itself in a sense of family on campus that will develop into trust and then performance. We will increase our focus on high quality, collaborative team planning that produces rigorous, specific instruction that is engaging for students. Student learning is our only currency and mark of success. Our goals at DMS are to have every student being successful and are reaching their potential; to continue our implementation of a standardized student management plan and character education program; and, to promote and ensure a positive school climate. By building a cultural foundation on "Family" and high expectations, we intend to be committed in our efforts for every student's success.

Dr. Faris has over 15 years of experience as a teacher and administrator in Texas public education. Prior to coming to Dowell Middle School, Dr. Faris has served as an assistant principal at McKinney Boyd High School for two years. Before moving to McKinney, he was an assistant principal for curriculum at Center High School in Center, Texas and assistant principal at Nacogdoches High School in Nacogdoches, Texas. In addition, he taught secondary science, including: Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Environmental Science, and middle school science. Dr. Faris earned a Bachelor of Science degree (1993) and a Master of Education degree (1995) from Stephen F. Austin State University. He also earned a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Stephen F. Austin in December 2006.

Campus Statistics
Year Opened:	1995
School Enrollment:	1,118
TEA Rating:	Recognized
School Mascot:	Lion
School Colors:	Blue & Gold
School Hours:	8:45 a.m. - 3:45 p.m.
School Menu:	View Menu
School Web site:	Visit School Web site
Campus Improvement Plans	View Plans