Principal's Corner

We are #DecaturProud of our school!  And, why not, we have so much of which to be proud.  Our students produce such outstanding performances on the stage, on the field, on the course, on the court, on the track, on the pitch, and in the classroom.  We have won state titles.  We have won awards.  But, to me, the most important thing is we have learned to create an environment where each person is seen and valued.  That's what makes DC unique.  Our SLC model allows each person to be part of something that feels right.  Where they can find a place and make a difference.  It is my sincere hope that we create a culture where each and every person learns to be better today than yesterday...better tomorrow than today!  Together we will be elite.  Because that's what HAWKS do, they SOAR!

Mr. Tom Wachnicki
DCHS Principal

Welcome to Decatur Central High School

Decatur Central High School is extremely proud of the many strong academic and co-curricular programs that we continue to offer for the benefit of the students in our community. Consistently, students graduate from Decatur Central High School and achieve great success.

Our school is deeply engaged in the work of reinventing the fundamental structure of education in order to provide the optimal learning environment for all students. Staff members and parents have joined together to work on behalf of our students to create small learning communities in order to meet the needs of each and every student. Our programs are learner centered and provide students with a rigorous, challenging and relevant curriculum. Establishing significantly higher academic expectations and accountability standards represent the cornerstones of our school.

Decatur Central High School employees are committed to providing every student with a high level of academic and critical thinking skills necessary to be successful in the 21st century. It is our goal for all students to be well prepared for life after graduation. In preparation for this goal, Decatur Central High School provides a personalized learning environment to meet each student’s unique individual needs. Through the small learning community structure we provide unique opportunities for students to master 21st century skills and provide hope for a successful life.

We are proud to be a part of the Decatur Township community. We feel that a strong, positive bond between community and school will benefit all learners. Together, we can make Decatur Central High School stronger than ever!

Decatur Central High School Information

Decatur Central High School is made up of five small learning communities. Each small learning community has 350 - 400 students, a director, a counselor, and a team of dedicated teachers. Students attend their core courses in their SLC. Students can choose to take courses outside their community through Learning Institutes that include higher-level courses, Advanced Placement, dual credit and other electives. Courses such as band and fine arts are also accommodated in this way.