Ruth Dowell Middle School

“We choose to overcome the gravitational pull of the status quo so that we will be an 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.

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 reaching their true 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.

Principal Alan Arbabi brings more than 10 years of administrative experience to Dowell Middle School. Previously, he has served as an assistant principal at Dowell and has held assistant principal positions at Chickasha Junior High School in Chickasha, Oklahoma; Coyle Middle School in Rowlett and Scott Johnson Middle School in McKinney ISD. Arbabi received his master’s degree in Education Administration from the University of Oklahoma.

Campus Statistics
Year Opened:	1995
School Enrollment:	1,192
TEA Rating:	Academically Acceptable
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