All Gator scholars will receive the resources and support needed to succeed in high school and beyond. There will be high expectations, high support, and no excuses in supporting scholars in being career and college ready.  We at Decatur High School believe all Gator scholars will have the mindset and skills to become future leaders that contribute a positive impact to our community and society as a whole.

The Decatur High School Counseling Department will respectfully guide all Gator scholars towards successful academic, college/career, and socioemotional development. In partnership with other educators, parents/guardians, and the community, we will facilitate the necessary support system for immediate and long term success. Regardless of race, socioeconomics, language, and cultural background, all Gator scholars will graduate ready for college, career, and post-secondary experiences. This will include the growth mindset to have emotional maturity, academic skills, and a sense of social responsibility.

· We believe it is our duty to create an environment that allows each scholar to embrace their own and others' cultural backgrounds and learning needs.

· With that environment, each scholar will be empowered and prepared to develop personal responsibility in order to be positive, productive members of society.

· We believe every Gator scholar can learn at their highest level.

· We believe race, socioeconomics, language, cultural background, and other exceptionalities should not be predictors of student achievement.