Principals. By Based on the representations Ms. Sconiers and her counsel have made to the media, the district vehemently denies the allegations that any of its administrators engaged in discrimination or violated Ms. Sconiers free speech rights, the statement said. . A tribute to Hunting from his players, fans and the community at the silver anniversary of his coaching career in 1952 said, "It isn't the championships won that make Walt Hunting great. In a statement, Duluth Public Schools Superintendent John Magas thanked law enforcement for their quick response Thursday and touched on the effect of swatting calls. DULUTH Law enforcement officials in Duluth and Carlton County responded to swatting incidents at Denfeld and Esko high schools on Thursday. We consider it an honor to provide educational services for your child and look forward to preparing them for a successful future in the home, community and workplace. Teachers write these letters during their time off of school - nights & weekends. Blake Eaton (Class of '22), wins 2 State Titles: 100 and 200 meter wheelchair dashes. Submit family and student information electronically to enroll students from Birth to Grade 12. about Speech: Varsity Meet vs Walker-Hackensack-Akeley (Away), about Basketball: Boys Varsity Section Qtr Finals vs TBA, TBA (Away), about Basketball: Boys Varsity Section Semi Final vs TBA, TBA (Away), about Speech: Varsity Meet vs Eagan (Away), about Speech: Varsity Meet vs Moorhead (Away), about Basketball: Boys Varsity Section-Final vs Duluth East, TBA (Away), about Speech: Varsity Meet vs Grand Rapids (Away), Academic Excellence Online (AEO) High School, Speech: Varsity Meet vs Walker-Hackensack-Akeley (Away), Basketball: Boys Varsity Section Qtr Finals vs TBA, TBA (Away), Basketball: Boys Varsity Section Semi Final vs TBA, TBA (Away), Basketball: Boys Varsity Section-Final vs Duluth East, TBA (Away), Speech: Varsity Meet vs Grand Rapids (Away). Duluth Denfeld High School: 1918439: 02/24/23: 07:15 PM: . Denfeld is a community high school providing 21st Century classrooms and facilities, experienced teaching staff and excellent educational programs. The Carlton County Sheriff's Office received a call at 10:39 a.m. indicating people were injured "due to violence at Esko High School," according to a news release sent by chief deputy Dan Danielson. Denfeld High School serves approximately the western half of the city and has been in existence since 1905. Dr. Chester Wood (1945 to 1948) Former Denfeld High School principal Tonya Sconiers speaks at a press conference Monday, Sept. 9 about a lawsuit she filed against the Duluth Public Schools and two of its leaders. The Blue Plan: East and Denfeld would be transformed into middle schools. Students wear maroon and/or gold clothing and accessories. Personal/social development. Adelle Whitefoot / awhitefoot@duluthnews.com. Consequently, courageous leaders must stand up to the injustices of the status quo in policies and practices., One of Sconiers attorneys, Ben Kwan, said they filed a complaint in the U.S. District Court in Duluth Monday alleging the district and key leaders retaliated against Sconiers for speaking out as a citizen on matters of deep public concern., Issues like educational equity, the opportunity gap, the achievement gap and most recently district hiring practices, Kwan said at the news conference. Ed Crawford (2005 to 2010) Duluth Public Schools has yet to respond to a request for a statement. The auditorium was renovated for $1,200,000 and reopened in late 2006 after being closed for nearly a year. The schools are only about 11 miles away from one another. (Adelle Whitefoot /. Each contestant is allowed to flaunt their costume and spirit to the audience. The biggest event during the week besides the football game and assembly is the hall decorating contest, where the interior first floor of the building is covered in handmade posters, streamers, locker signs, balloons and other decorations. Construction crews cafefully removed the bricks, and the school planned to preserve some bricks for historical purposes. If you would like to provide feedback or have questions, please email communications@isd709.org. 2019 Track, Blake Eaton (Class of '22) sets State Record in 200 meter dash, wheelchair division at 35.70 seconds. Tusken is taking over the position previously held by Tonya Sconiers who was fired by the school board back in July 2019 for inappropriate conduct.. Tusken has served in his current position as assistant principal for two. This 1,550 square foot home was built in 2007. It has been listed on Rocket Homes since February 27, 2023 and is currently priced at $639,000. In September, the Duluth School District responded with a statement through its attorney Monday at Rupp, Anderson, Squires, and Waldspurger, P.A. Joe Eklund (class of '22) named a Minnesota Mr. Soccer Finalist, 2022 Boys Soccer, Section 7AA runners-up. Construction began in 2009 and continued until 2011. Tonya Sconiers and her attorney filed a lawsuit against Duluth Public Schools, superintendent Bill Gronseth and assistant superintendent Jeff Horton claiming a violation of First Amendment rights and discrimination based on race and sex. reported in St. Louis County in two days, and the second at Denfeld. Eva Gray, Etta Sorenson, Connor Gray Athletic Trainer: Steph Gogolin, Tom Rheaume School Administration Principal: Tom Tusken Athletic Director: Tom Pearson School Color: Maroon/Gold Nick Name: Hunters. To accommodate the new addition, Denfeld's signature brick chimney had to be removed. We see that you have javascript disabled. Adelle Whitefoot is a former reporter for the Duluth News Tribune. The school is known for its architecture, including a historic auditorium and a 120-foot clock tower visible from Grand Avenue. Nathan Anderson started as the new assistant principal at Lowell Elementary Oct. 24. Former Duluth East High School Principal Laurie Knapp has taken over the role at Denfeld on a substitute basis. The more notice that you give your letter writer, the better. Central would be used as the lone high school after being expanded to accommodate 3000 students. Parker Chastey (class of '23) named a Minnesota Mr. Soccer Finalist, This page was last edited on 14 January 2023, at 13:18. Former Duluth East High School Principal Laurie Knapp The "Hunters" name originates from Walt Hunting who taught, coached and was the athletic director at Denfeld from 1927 to 1956. has taken over the role at Denfeld on a substitute basis. Sconiers received another letter of suspension on April 30 and was given a one-day unpaid suspension and was warned that she may face immediate discharge, the complaint claims. Dr. Stephen Seyfer (1984 to 1991) "It was determined that the threat was false and the campus was determined to be safe," Danielson said. 319 N 60th Ave W , Duluth, MN 55807-1903 is a single-family home listed for-sale at $175,000. Upcoming Events. Sconiers was given the opportunity to fight the termination through arbitration but has decided to withdraw her request for arbitration on Monday. Denfeld is known for its large endowment - about $7 million currently - meant for only its students. We achieve academic success, build relationships and show respect for all, so our students can accomplish their dreams, contribute to their communities, and improve our world. MN. Serving over 1000 students from grades nine to twelve, Denfeld High School has become a West Duluth landmark. As reported by Carlton County District Court. The complaint alleges that the districts reasons for principal Sconiers' discipline and discharge were ginned up to paper her file and provide the district with a cover for its real motivation, which we allege is retaliation and discrimination.. If you feel you have received this message in error, please contact the customer support team at 1-833-248-7801. They learned honesty, integrity and sportsmanship. Until the fall of 2006, seniors traditionally decorated the auditorium, however after a renovation of the room in the 20062007 school year, seniors have since decorated the third floor hallway to ensure the auditorium's features remain preserved. Applicants will be able to choose which option they want want to apply for: a half-time superintendent or a merged superintendent and principal position. Brooks Johnson After a thorough search process, former Assistant Principal Tom Tusken has been picked to serve as the new Denfeld Principal and will begin his new position in August. According to a recent press release, Tusken has previous experience as Assistant Principal, Dean of Students, Barr Program Coordinator, PBIS Team Member & Coach, and football coach for Denfeld High School, District Social Studies Curriculum Specialist, and Social Studies teacher for both Denfeld and Duluth East High Schools. The complaint alleges that Sconiers was told the suspension was due to student private data being exposed, but she believes it was retaliatory. On Wednesday of Homecoming Week, a massive bonfire takes place in Merritt Park in West Duluth during which the game of Red Rover is usually played between the upper and lowerclassmen and every cheer in the cheerleaders' book is started. "Difficult challenges mean difficult decisions and courageous leadership. Sconiers was the districts only black principal when she was fired last July for what her discrimination lawsuit described as immoral character, conduct unbecoming a principal, insubordination and other charges. Tom Tusken will step into the principals office in August after serving as the schools assistant principal. 2020 Boys Soccer, Section 7A Champions. The tournaments are free and open to the public to watch. AS Login; TS Login; Denfeld High School. Academic Excellence Online (AEO) High School, Offer engaging and differentiated academics with multiple tiers, Foster accountability through proactive and restorative systems, Prioritize relationships through social and emotional learning. The goal is to help students GET to work - that means high-paying careers, both regionally and globally. The home of the Hunters, Denfeld High School was known as Irving High School when it opened for classes on 11 September 1905. On October 11, 2007 Denfeld social studies teacher Thomas Tusken was presented with the Milken Educator Awards, established by Milken Family Foundation Chairman Lowell Milken to provide public recognition and individual financial rewards of $25,000 to elementary and secondary teachers, principals and specialists who are furthering excellence in education. It saddens me that the district attempted to silence me by threatening me, then suspending me and now firing me, Sconiers said. has taken over the role at Denfeld on a substitute basis DULUTH, Minn. - On Tuesday, the Duluth School Board approved a settlement agreement with former Denfeld high school principal Tonya Sconiers. An advocate of team teaching, Tusken has used hands-on and group activities, as well as passion and humor, to motivate those who find it difficult to attend school and complete routine assignments, according to the foundation. It saddens me that the district attempted to silence me by threatening me, then suspending me and now firing me, Sconiers said. Read the latest news in the Carlton County, Dontcha Know newsletter published every Friday. I will not be silenced. , Star Tribune Serving over 1000 students from grades nine to twelve, Denfeld High School has become a West Duluth landmark. There are two ways to enroll new students in school. Career Clubs provide experiences beyond the classroom and help students connect to their schools. The tower features eight buttresses. Kwan said six weeks after notifying the district in April that his law firm was investigating the basis of those unpaid suspensions, the district placed Sconiers on a paid administrative leave citing new allegations. Denfeld . I will not be silenced. Tonya Sconiers (2012 to present) I refuse to let another year, another month or another day go by without holding our education system accountable for fair, just and equitable actions that benefit all students in Duluth Public Schools., (From left) Former Denfeld High School principal Tonya Sconiers sits alongside attorneys Ben Kwan and Ted Haller, at a press conference Monday, Sept. 9 about a lawsuit she filed against the Duluth Public Schools and two of its leaders. Keegan Chastey (Class of '21) named a Minnesota Mr. Soccer Finalist. Denfeld High School principal Tonya Sconiers, right, helps to organize students and staff in this file photo. After the school song is played, the National Anthem is sung followed by several skits, speeches by alumni and the Maroon and Gold Day Pageant. Programs of study are offered in 6 broad Minnesota Career Fields with exposure to over 13 career clusters and pathways. Only 35 educators in Minnesota had received the award at that time and Tusken was just the second recipient from Duluth. The complaint also alleges that the district discriminated against Sconiers based on sex and race. The award was presented to Tusken during an unexpected assembly, the purpose of which was unknown to students and staff. The now-former Denfeld High School principal filed a federal lawsuit against Duluth Public Schools and key leaders Monday morning. In the spring of 2007, restructuring of Duluth's elementary, middle and high schools was discussed. MLS # Denfeld High School is located in Duluth, Minnesota next to the shores of Lake Superior. Duluth Public Schools is working to inspire every student to achieve their potential and preparing students to lead productive, fulfilling lives as citizens of Duluth and the wider world. If you have questions, please call your school or the Assistant Superintendent's office at 218-336-8739. In service since 1977, the 465-mile line has reached the end of its life, but a $700 million upgrade could boost its capacity from 500-900 megawatts and ready it for 1,500 megawatts or more. Sconiers, along with her attorneys, held a news conference to make a statement and answer questions from the media. It relies on assumptions and information provided . About $350,000 will go to Denfeld students who apply for a number of scholarships this year,. 3: 30 PM - 4: . Denfeld has a long tradition of excellence and demonstrates these standards in its classrooms. 2021 Boys Soccer, Section 7AA runners-up. During the assembly, the band marches from the back of the auditorium through streamers and balloons to the orchestra pit playing the cadence and school song. writes Roxy Olsen-Hurst. 2021 Track. After receiving the letter of termination, Sconiers exercised her right to put a hold on discharge pending a hearing pursuant to Minnesotas Teacher Tenure Act. At this time, no arrests have been made. Finally on July 29, the district informed principal Sconiers it intended to fire her, Kwan said. The chimney was an original feature of the building, but had not been used in many years. Adelle Whitefoot Share. DULUTH Denfeld High School named a new principal Tuesday, nine months after the firing of Tonya Sconiers, who is currently suing the school district in federal court. While more than 14 listings in Duluth, MN in January . Tuesday March 7. This home is located at 311 Superior St Unit 705 in Duluth, MN and zip code 55802 in the Downtown neighborhood. Duluth Denfeld High School, also known as Denfeld High School, is one of two high schools in Duluth, Minnesota along with Duluth East as of 2011 after the closure of Duluth Central and the previous closing of Morgan Park HS in 1982. Previous alumni who served as principal were . . The district treated principal Sconiers differently as a black woman going so far as to criticize things like the volume and the tone of her voice, Kwan said. Sconiers said she was saddened to be at odds with the district leadership and school district. Sconiers is seeking monetary relief, with the amount to be determined by a jury. DULUTH, Minn. - Duluth Public Schools officials announced on Tuesday that a new principal has been chosen for Denfeld High School. To accommodate the increased student population, two new additions to the school were built. Sconiers was given the opportunity to fight the termination through arbitration but decided to withdraw her request for arbitration on Monday. The 2,000 sq. No State games due to COVID-19 restrictions. He received his principals licensure from St. Marys University in 2007. As a result of the construction, Denfeld and Central students both attended Central during the 201011 school year. Its face was designed by Carl Shroer, a teacher at Central High School, and was completed by Denfeld students who welded together four sections cast in aluminum by the Duluth Brassworks Company. Kwan said six weeks after notifying the district in April that his law firm was investigating the basis of those unpaid suspensions, the district placed Sconiers on a paid administrative leave citing new allegations. Monthly cost; Mortgage Principal & interest Assumes 20% down, 30 yr. fixed, good credit This calculator is intended for planning and education purposes only. Hiring of School Resource Officers is a collaboration between Duluth Public Schools and the Duluth Police Department. The news, analysis and community conversation found here is funded by donations from individuals. Approximately 34% of graduating seniors go on to four year colleges or universities and 37% go on to two year schools. ft. home is a 5 bed, 2.0 bath property. "Difficult challenges mean difficult decisions and courageous leadership. Principal; Staff Directory; Hours and Attendance; Denfeld High School History; Safe and Welcoming; School Resource Officers; Academics. Documentation required in order to register: Note: To obtain a birth certificate for a child born in St. Louis County, contact the St. Louis County Recorder Vital Statistics, Room 101 Court House, Duluth, MN. Central Principal Lisa Mitchell-Krocak retired this summer. Additional documents required when registering your child for kindergarten: Open Enrollment and Transfers- Contact the Office of the Assistant Superintendent if you have questions, 218-336-8739: Academic Excellence Online (AEO) High School, MN Dept of Education Ethnic and Racial Demographic Designation Form, Open Enrollment Application for K-12 and Early Childhood Special Education, Statewide Enrollment Options Application for State-funded Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) or School Readiness Plus (SRP) Application. Lisa Mitchell-Krocak (2010 to 2011) The Denfeld Marching Band and the Dance Team always perform during the halftime show. The school district said in a statement through its attorney, Amy Mace, of Rupp, Anderson, Squires & Waldsurger, P.A., that it has not yet had an opportunity to review the complaint in detail and therefore cannot comment on any specific allegations. He carved for 40 years in sandstone, granite, marble and limestone and his work is featured on many Duluth buildings including the Lyceum Theater, Old Central High School, Glensheen, the Board of Trade Building, St. Louis County Courthouse and the St. Louis County Jail. To submit an event to the community calendar, email news@pinejournal.com. At this time the federal case is still ongoing. Former Denfeld High School principal Tonya Sconiers speaks at a press conference Monday about a lawsuit she filed against the Duluth Public Schools and two of its leaders. 2004 Boys Soccer Section 7A champions, State participants. Denfeld High School is located in Duluth, Minnesota next to the shores of Lake Superior. Jill Lofald was elected as the Duluth School Board chair for 2023 at the annual organizational meeting Tuesday, Jan. 3. 218-336-8830. Officers who arrived at the scene helped school staff secure the campus. More information >>, Follow Denfeld on Facebook The Denfeld Alumni Association formed in the spring of 2004 and was established on Feb. 9, 2005, as a Minnesota nonprofit public charity under sections 501 (c) (3) and 509 (a) (2) of the Internal Revenue Code. Communication with parents and staff per individual student . Denfeld was instrumental in the creation of a two-year program to train teachers which eventually grew to become the University of Minnesota Duluth. When Tusken's name was called, he received a standing ovation from the audience. The districts disciplinary decisions related to Ms. Sconiers, including her discharge, were based solely on Ms. Sconiers inappropriate conduct.. After a thorough search process, former Assistant Principal. Also in 2007, he won the $25,000 Milken Family Foundation National Educator Award. Dr. Wayne Samskar (1970 to 1984) Duluth architects Abraham Holstead and W.J. Please enable javascript and refresh the page to continue reading local news. Submit completed forms to yourneighborhood schoolor(if school is not in session)to the Assistant Superintendent's Officeat 4316 Rice Lake Road, Suite 108, Duluth MN 55811. The complaint also alleges that the district discriminated against Sconiers based on sex and race. Alumni return to Denfeld for this display, intended to build community among students -- as well as motivating the football team and fans for the annual Homecoming game at the end of the week. . Staff will monitor outdoor conditions at 0 degrees and below to determine if students need to remain indoors because of cold air temperatures and/or wind speeds. The football team starting lineup is announced and the school song is played again at the end of the assembly. Working together as educators, parents and citizens, we can make a difference for every student, every day. DULUTH Law enforcement officials in Duluth and Carlton County responded to swatting incidents at Denfeld and Esko high schools on Thursday. There are two ways to enroll new students inschool. Available from yourneighborhood schoolor print them out using the links below. They conducted a thorough search and found no injuries and no threat to safety. Career Development. The lawsuit also claims Sconiers was retaliated against for doing an on-camera interview with a documentary crew in October 2017, talking about opportunity gaps among students without permission from the district. I also want to apologize to students and families who were negatively impacted. I want to take this opportunity to explain why these routes were canceled and what our processes are to avoid these situations. Finally on July 29 the district informed principal Sconiers it intended to fire her, Kwan said. Be sure you ask them before they get an email request (i.e. It saddens me that the district would rather retaliate and discriminate than listen, she said in September when the suit was filed. Sconiers informed Duluth Public Schools on April 29 that she had engaged lawyers to investigate her five days of unpaid suspension served in March. When the school moved into today's MacArthur West school building at 725 North Central Avenue in 1915, its name was changed to honor Robert E. Denfeld, superintendent of Duluth schools from 1885 to 1916. more of the story, 2019: Duluth's only black principal sues district for discrimination, Northern Waters Smokehaus will move, but not far, Two Harbors residents renew 20-year fight for Lighthouse Point, MnDOT plans major construction project on Duluth's North Shore gateway, Man fatally shot by Duluth police officer last week identified, Feds to conduct two-year study of Park Point beach erosion in Duluth. T. H. Shutte (1916 to 1918) Denfeld High School serves approximately the western half of the city and has been in existence since 1905. Denfeld High School's auditorium was built at a cost of $25,000 and is another of its most prominent features. Public; 9-12; 4.5 mi; Show More GreatSchools scores are based on a scale from 1 to 10, where 10 is above average. 55807. Denfeld High. These websites are still in the process of being tweaked and built out, so please have some patience in the meantime. Send this article to anyone, no subscription is necessary to view it, Anyone can read, no subscription required, See We believe this is not a credible threat as the call came from out of state. Duluth Denfeld High School, also known as Denfeld High School, is one of two high schools in Duluth, Minnesota along with Duluth East as of 2011 after the closure of Duluth Central and the previous closing of Morgan Park HS in 1982. We believe this is not a credible threat as the call came from out of state. Ordean Middle School would be turned into a high school with both buildings being remodeled and expanded to accommodate 1500 students. Community members donated more than 150 nonperishable food items, personal hygiene items and card games for the care packages. In March, Sconiers received an 11-page Notice of Suspension, Notice of Deficiencies and Letter of Directives in conjunction with the investigation and was suspended without pay for five school days, the complaint said. Taylor (1918 to 1945) William Westholm (1995 to 2005) Principals are responsible for implementing cold weather guidelines for their school building. According to the complaint, Sconiers received a letter of reprimand on Dec. 21, 2018, was informed she was under investigation on Jan. 4 and underwent an interview with an outside attorney for the district on Jan. 11. For Grades 1-12, verification of your child's name and birthday will be obtained through a copyof last year's school attendance record or permanent/other scholastic school record. Denfeld High School. In addition, grants are awarded to staff to provide valuable resources to enhance students' high school educational experiences. Denfeld High School Principals Tonya Sconiers (2012 to present) Ed Crawford (2011 to 2012) Lisa Mitchell-Krocak (2010 to 2011) Ed Crawford (2005 to 2010) William Westholm (1995 to 2005) George F. Holliday, Jr. (1991 to 1995) Dr. Stephen Seyfer (1984 to 1991) Dr. Wayne Samskar (1970 to 1984)