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) Hiring of School Resource Officers is a collaboration between Duluth Public Schools and the Duluth Police Department. 218-336-8830. This home is located at 311 Superior St Unit 705 in Duluth, MN and zip code 55802 in the Downtown neighborhood. Career Clubs provide experiences beyond the classroom and help students connect to their schools. 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. Its ongoing mission is to sustain alumni relations and celebrate the spirit of Denfeld High School and western Duluth. Students were not at the school because of a snow day, but Duluth police Chief Mike Ceynowa said in a statement the agency "takes swatting calls very seriously as the safety of all is a top priority for DPD.". Based on the representations Ms. Sconiers and her counsel have made to the media, the District vehemently denies the allegations that it or any of its administrators engaged in discrimination or violated Ms. Sconiers free speech rights. The complaint alleges that the district repeatedly retaliated against principal Sconiers for her speech, reprimanding her in December 2018, then suspending her without pay in March and May of this year.. Phone 218-726-2559. Nathan Anderson started as the new assistant principal at Lowell Elementary Oct. 24. Online 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. Taylor (1918 to 1945) Some new features include a drop-down menu of all of our school websites at the topof your screen as well as a button to navigate to our district page. 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. Twitter (opens in new window/tab) Family Student Handbook (opens in new window/tab) Directory; When Tusken's name was called, he received a standing ovation from the audience. Roxy Olsen-Hurst, Barnum Community Education. 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. As reported by Carlton County District Court. If you would like to provide feedback or have questions, please email communications@isd709.org. Course Offerings; . Sconiers was first hired in Duluth in March 2000 to work as an assistant principal at Denfeld. 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. Serving over 1000 students from grades nine to twelve, Denfeld High School has become a West Duluth landmark. Denfeld's Spirit creates a safe and welcoming environment that provides opportunities for all. Jill Lofald was elected as the Duluth School Board chair for 2023 at the annual organizational meeting Tuesday, Jan. 3. 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.. The current building was constructed in red brick and limestone at a cost of $1,250,000 and opened in September 1926. You will also find a button to translate the websites into over 100 languages. If you feel you have received this message in error, please contact the customer support team at 1-833-248-7801. accomplished in 2018 after a resolution was passed by the School Board, has taken over the role at Denfeld on a substitute basis, Speech competition for high school girls in Minnesota welcomes applications through March, Duluth Polar Plunge makes a splash for Special Olympics. Duluth architects Abraham Holstead and W.J. Officers who arrived at the scene helped school staff secure the campus. Freshmen decorate the hall near the cafeteria and sophomores decorate the other half of the hall, while juniors decorate the second floor. Principals. VIRGINIA The Rock Ridge School District now has two new principals in place after two principals on the Virginia campus recently took other positions. Tonya Sconiers filed a lawsuit against the Duluth school district, superintendent Bill Gronseth and assistant superintendent Jeff Horton, claiming a violation of First Amendment rights and discrimination based on race and sex. What does that mean? In addition, grants are awarded to staff to provide valuable resources to enhance students' high school educational experiences. . We see that you have javascript disabled. We see that you have javascript disabled. To accommodate the new addition, Denfeld's signature brick chimney had to be removed. , Star Tribune Working together as educators, parents and citizens, we can make a difference for every student, every day. Denfeld was instrumental in the creation of a two-year program to train teachers which eventually grew to become the University of Minnesota Duluth. 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. Additionally, the school underwent major reconstruction in order to conform to state standards. Community members donated more than 150 nonperishable food items, personal hygiene items and card games for the care packages. 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. The boys who have played for him learned more than a game. At this time the federal case is still ongoing. Tom Tusken will step into the principals office in August after serving as the schools assistant principal. Duluth police deemed the Denfeld threat not credible. 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). Sconiers was placed on administrative leave by the Duluth school district in June.. Denfeld is a community high school providing 21st Century classrooms and facilities, experienced teaching staff and excellent educational programs. 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. Blake Eaton (Class of '22), wins 2 State Titles: 100 and 200 meter wheelchair dashes. The remaining students enter the military or the work force. The school is known for its architecture, including a historic auditorium and a 120-foot clock tower visible from Grand Avenue. Jen Zettel-Vandenhouten is the regional editor for Duluth Media Group, overseeing the Cloquet Pine Journal and the Superior Telegram. Read the latest news in the Carlton County, Dontcha Know newsletter published every Friday. 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. The Fond du Lac Tribal Police Department and Minnesota State Patrol also responded to the scene. The more notice that you give your letter writer, the better. 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. G. Denfeld High School Counselors provide a comprehensive counseling model which serves to assist students in the following areas: Educational Planning. Previous alumni who served as principal were . It saddens me that the district attempted to silence me by threatening me, then suspending me and now firing me, Sconiers said. To submit an event to the community calendar, email news@pinejournal.com. Sconiers has since filed a federal lawsuit against ISD 709 claiming that she was retaliated and discriminated against for speaking out against district leadership regarding policies and practices as well as the hiring of Duluth School District Assistant Superintendent Jeffrey Horton. Keegan Chastey (Class of '21) named a Minnesota Mr. Soccer Finalist. 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. Dell Daedo (1948 to 1963) In 2011, Central closed, leaving Denfeld and East as the only public high schools in Duluth. The school district has denied the charges. Read 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.. The complaint alleges that Sconiers was told the suspension was due to student private data being exposed, but she believes it was retaliatory. 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. 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. After the pageant are more skits and the winner of the hall decorating contest is announced. The tournaments are free and open to the public to watch. The news, analysis and community conversation found here is funded by donations from individuals. Former Denfeld High School principal Tonya Sconiers speaks at a news conference Monday about a lawsuit she filed against the Duluth school district and two of its leaders. The home of the Hunters, Denfeld High School was known as Irving High School when it opened for classes on 11 September 1905. Sconiers was given the opportunity to fight the termination through arbitration but decided to withdraw her request for arbitration on Monday. The now-former Denfeld High School principal filed a federal lawsuit against Duluth Public Schools and key leaders Monday morning. It can accommodate nearly 2000 people in the audience, 200 on stage and includes an orchestra pit. This will be Lofalds fourth year serving as board chair. As principal, I have been entrusted by the parents and our community to ensure that decision-making, financing and hiring, which impact our students, are always made in their best interest, Sconiers read from a prepared statement. The complaint also alleges that the district discriminated against Sconiers based on sex and race. 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. The Districts disciplinary decisions related to Ms. Sconiers, including her discharge, were based solely on Ms. Sconiers inappropriate conduct.. I will not be silenced. It was later called Duluth Industrial High School. A warm welcome to you and your family! Winners are chosen by three judges, all Denfeld staff, based on audience reaction. This is evident in that three quarters of our students go on to some form of further education or training. Principal; Staff Directory; Hours and Attendance; Denfeld High School History; Safe and Welcoming; School Resource Officers; Academics. Career Development. Please enable javascript and refresh the page to continue reading local news. 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. The White Plan: Denfeld and East would become middle schools capable of holding 1100 students. Our school community strives to provide high achievement and a welcoming environment for all. 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. 2019 Track, Blake Eaton (Class of '22) sets State Record in 200 meter dash, wheelchair division at 35.70 seconds. The Blue Plan: East and Denfeld would be transformed into middle schools. Personal/social development. The American School Counselor Association (ASCA) model. Sconiers is seeking monetary relief, with the amount to be determined by a jury. Sconiers, along with her attorneys, held a news conference Monday morning. Approximately 34% of graduating seniors go on to four year colleges or universities and 37% go on to two year schools. 319 N 60th Ave W , Duluth, MN 55807-1903 is a single-family home listed for-sale at $175,000. 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. By Dr. Stephen Seyfer (1984 to 1991) Post High School Planning. 2021 Boys Soccer, Section 7AA runners-up. William Westholm (1995 to 2005) To accommodate the increased student population, two new additions to the school were built. If paying by Credit / Debit Card: Infinite Campus Log into your Infinite Campus Account Find Fees in the menu Select student you are paying for Select current school year "It was determined that the threat was false and the campus was determined to be safe," Danielson said. Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. 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. While more than 14 listings in Duluth, MN in January . 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. 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. It saddens me that the district would rather retaliate and discriminate than listen, she said in September when the suit was filed. "While we are relieved that there was no actual threat and students were not in school at the time, we are deeply concerned about the impact false calls like this can have on students and staff," Magas said. The "Hunters" name originates from Walt Hunting who taught, coached and was the athletic director at Denfeld from 1927 to 1956. The groups biggest push was for the Duluth school district to allocate compensatory education funds to the schools that generate them, a feat that was . MLS # On July 29, the School Board voted to terminate Sconiers. We will build on our shared beliefs and values of unity, high achievement and responsible use of resources to create Duluth Public Schools and classrooms that are safe, supportive and inclusive. Common Application) from a college or scholarship. At the same time, he provides challenging learning opportunities to those who are ready for more advanced work.. 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. 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. 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. These websites are still in the process of being tweaked and built out, so please have some patience in the meantime. 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. 2004 Football North Country Conference co-champions, 2005 Football North Country Conference runners-up, 2006 Two-time state third-place finisher in swimming (50 free and 100 butterfly), 2007 Football North Country Conference runners-up, 2010 Football North Country Conference champions, 2013 Boys Nordic Skiing conference champions, 2013 Girls Soccer Section 7A champions, State participants, 2016 Nathaniel Rosholt (class of 2016) goes to State in Nordic Skiing, 2016 Boys Soccer Section 7A champions, State participants, 2017 Benjamin Emmel (class of 2018) goes to state in Boys' Golf, 2017 Quinten Rimolde (sophomore) and Nick Anderson (senior) qualified for the State Debate Tournament, 2018 Boys Soccer Lake Superior Conference Champions, Section 7A Champions, State Participants, 2019 Baseball, Section Champs, Goes to State. It saddens me that the district attempted to silence me by threatening me, then suspending me, and now firing me. The school is known for its architecture, including a . The districts disciplinary decisions related to Ms. Sconiers, including her discharge, were based solely on Ms. Sconiers inappropriate conduct.. Duluth East High School, 301 N 40th Ave E, Duluth, MN 55804, USA, UnitedHealthCare, 4316 Rice Lake Rd, Duluth, MN 55811, USA, Lakewood Elementary School, 5207 N Tischer Rd, Duluth, MN 55804, USA, Lowell Elementary School, 2000 Rice Lake Rd, Duluth, MN 55811, USA, Homecroft Elementary School, 4784 Howard Gnesen Rd, Duluth, MN 55803, USA, Congdon Park Elementary School, 3116 E Superior St, Duluth, MN 55812, USA, about Enroll your kids in kindergarten now, about Threat at Denfeld High School believed to not be creditable, about Letter to families about Trye Nichols death, about Transportation Update: Jan. 25, 2023, about Jill Lofald elected as the Duluth School Board chair for 2023, about Meet the new assistant principal at Lowell, about Policy Committee - Duluth School Board, about Committee of the Whole - Duluth School Board, about HR/Business Services Committee - Duluth School Board, about Duluth School Board Regular Meeting, about Homecroft Kindergarten Meet & Greet, Academic Excellence Online (AEO) High School, Threat at Denfeld High School believed to not be creditable, Letter to families about Trye Nichols death, Jill Lofald elected as the Duluth School Board chair for 2023, Meet the new assistant principal at Lowell, Committee of the Whole - Duluth School Board, HR/Business Services Committee - Duluth School Board.