Opelika High School
DIG Advisory Period
Opelika City Schools
Principal: Mrs. Kelli Fischer
Superintendent: Dr. Kevin Davis
Dawg Impact Groups (DIG) was implemented at Opelika High School in response to academic, attendance, and social-emotional needs identified following the COVID-19 pandemic. Student survey data and focus groups revealed increased stress, difficulty managing coursework, and limited access to after-school tutoring due to transportation barriers. DIG embedded structured support within the instructional day to remove those barriers. Students met daily in small advisory groups led by teachers. This consistent structure ensured that every student was known, monitored, and supported. DIG provided protected time for tutoring, assignment completion, organization, academic monitoring, and credit recovery. The program also prioritized belonging and well-being. Weekly themes and Wellness Wednesdays focused on stress management, goal setting, resilience, communication, and relationship-building. Activities were developmentally appropriate and responsive to student feedback. DIG resulted in measurable improvements in school outcomes. Chronic absenteeism decreased from 27% to 20%. First-attempt course failures declined across multiple semesters. The school’s state report card score increased from 77 to 81 during implementation. Student and staff feedback reflected improved engagement, stronger relationships, and a more supportive school culture.
