DULUTH, Minn. - Duluth Public Schools officials announced on Tuesday that a new principal has been chosen for Denfeld High School. "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. Everyone stands throughout the entire assembly. On Jan. 25, we had to cancel two morning bus routes and two afternoon bus routes due to staffing issues. The districts disciplinary decisions related to Ms. Sconiers, including her discharge, were based solely on Ms. Sconiers inappropriate conduct.. Roxy Olsen-Hurst, Barnum Community Education. Denfeld High School. I also want to apologize to students and families who were negatively impacted. Students wear maroon and/or gold clothing and accessories. 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. 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. Denfeld High School is located in Duluth, Minnesota next to the shores of Lake Superior. The Carlton County Sheriff's Office is investigating the incident. 1926 Football Head of the Lakes champions, 1990 Soccer's inaugural season, unofficial "Area" Champs as local teams were only HS Club level until '91, 1994 Boys Soccer Lake Superior Conference Champions, North Sub-Section 4 champions, Section 4 runners-up, 1996 Football Sea Range Conference champions, 2002 Boys Soccer Lake Superior Conference champions, 2003 Boys Soccer Lake Superior Conference champions. 218-336-8830. Send this article to anyone, no subscription is necessary to view it, Anyone can read, no subscription required, See Knapp had retired in 2016. has taken over the role at Denfeld on a substitute basis Denfeld High School Counselors provide a comprehensive counseling model which serves to assist students in the following areas: Educational Planning. 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. After eight swatting incidents were reported at the beginning of the week, two more were reported at northeastern Minnesota high schools on Thursday. Denfeld is a community high school providing 21st Century classrooms and facilities, experienced teaching staff and excellent educational programs. They start at 9 a.m. Friday. . Knapp had retired in 2016. These websites are still in the process of being tweaked and built out, so please have some patience in the meantime. Previous alumni who served as principal were . Common Application) from a college or scholarship. The home of the Hunters, Denfeld High School was known as Irving High School when it opened for classes on 11 September 1905. 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. It relies on assumptions and information provided . Joe Eklund (class of '22) named a Minnesota Mr. Soccer Finalist, 2022 Boys Soccer, Section 7AA runners-up. On Friday, the video of the fatal beating of Tyre Nichols, who died after a traffic stop by police, was released by Memphis officials. By Adelle Whitefoot via Duluth News Tribune. Freshmen decorate the hall near the cafeteria and sophomores decorate the other half of the hall, while juniors decorate the second floor. There are two ways to enroll new students inschool. 311 Superior St Unit 705, Duluth, MN, 55802 - RocketHomes Career and Technical Education - Duluth Public Schools This 1,550 square foot home was built in 2007. Denfeld's Spirit creates a safe and welcoming environment that provides opportunities for all. Read the latest news in the Carlton County, Dontcha Know newsletter published every Friday. 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. "Difficult challenges mean difficult decisions and courageous leadership. The goal is to help students GET to work - that means high-paying careers, both regionally and globally. Scholarships and Aid - Denfeld High School 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.. Nate Burke (Class of '21) qualifies for State. Duluth's Denfeld High School names new principal - Star Tribune Principals are responsible for implementing cold weather guidelines for their school building. Duluth police deemed the Denfeld threat not credible. 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. Sconiers was given the opportunity to fight the termination through arbitration but decided to withdraw her request for arbitration on Monday. Adelle Whitefoot is a former reporter for the Duluth News Tribune. 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. The "Hunters" name originates from Walt Hunting who taught, coached and was the athletic director at Denfeld from 1927 to 1956. "Difficult challenges mean difficult decisions and courageous leadership. 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. They learned honesty, integrity and sportsmanship. Additionally, the school underwent major reconstruction in order to conform to state standards. Denfeld High School | Denfeld High School - Duluth Public Schools Finally on July 29 the district informed principal Sconiers it intended to fire her, Kwan said. 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 Adelle Whitefoot / awhitefoot@duluthnews.com. accomplished in 2018 after a resolution was passed by the School Board "Join us as we board a Minnesota Coach Bus and head to Chanhassen for a day of fun-filled adventure!" 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. In 2011, Central closed, leaving Denfeld and East as the only public high schools in Duluth. Tom Tusken will. 2020 Boys Soccer, Section 7A Champions. Counselor Information - Denfeld High School Fees - Denfeld High School School Resource Officers - Denfeld High School Tusken has served in his current position as assistant principal for two. 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. He is the brother of Duluth Police Chief Mike Tusken. Sconiers said she was saddened to be at odds with the district leadership and school district. To submit an event to the community calendar, email news@pinejournal.com. On July 29, the School Board voted to terminate Sconiers. Nathan Anderson started as the new assistant principal at Lowell Elementary Oct. 24. 2019 Track, Blake Eaton (Class of '22) sets State Record in 200 meter dash, wheelchair division at 35.70 seconds. 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. View more property details, sales history and Zestimate data on Zillow. The Denfeld Marching Band and the Dance Team always perform during the halftime show. Home - Duluth Public Schools With a population of almost 85,000, the city of Duluth provides diversified business, professional and industrial services to northeastern Minnesota. Principal; Staff Directory; Hours and Attendance; Denfeld High School History; Safe and Welcoming; School Resource Officers; Academics. 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. The Blue Plan: East and Denfeld would be transformed into middle schools. 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. Its ongoing mission is to sustain alumni relations and celebrate the spirit of Denfeld High School and western Duluth. I want to take this opportunity to explain why these routes were canceled and what our processes are to avoid these situations. Tonya M. Sconiers (2012-Present) Ed Crawford (2005 to 2012) William Westholm (1995 to 2005) George F. Holliday, Jr. (1991 to 1995) Dr. Stephen Seyfer (1984 to 1991) Dr. Wayne Samskar (1970 to 1984) Robert Van Kleek (1963 to 1970) Taylor (1918 to 1945) 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. Adelle Whitefoot Share. Student success is new Denfeld High School principal's top priority Duluth Public Schools has yet to respond to a request for a statement. Working together as educators, parents and citizens, we can make a difference for every student, every day. With a population of almost 85,000, the city of Duluth provides diversified business, professional and industrial services to northeastern Minnesota. If you would like to provide feedback or have questions, please email communications@isd709.org. Denfeld High School - Principals. Ed Crawford has returned to Denfeld as principal after serving with Laurie Knapp at East last year as co-principal. DULUTH Law enforcement officials in Duluth and Carlton County responded to swatting incidents at Denfeld and Esko high schools on Thursday. Public figures who've visited in the auditorium include Richard Nixon and Johnny Cash. 3: 30 PM - 4: . About Us - Denfeld High School Submit family and student information electronically to enroll students from Birth to Grade 12. 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. She was appointed to principal in July 2012. Make a gift of any amount today to support this resource for everyone. G. Please enable javascript and refresh the page to continue reading local news. Perhaps the most iconic feature of the Denfeld High School building is its 120-foot clock tower. 319 N 60th Ave W , Duluth, MN 55807-1903 is a single-family home listed for-sale at $175,000. Sconiers was first hired in Duluth in March 2000 to work as an assistant principal at Denfeld. 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.. 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. Former Duluth principal alleges violation of First Amendment - InForum The auditorium is the annual venue for Denfeld's traditional Maroon and Gold Day assembly during the week of homecoming when the auditorium is adorned with maroon and gold decorations and the students are entertained with cheers, skits, music and school spirit. Two swatting incidents reported at northeastern MN high schools Denfeld principal, counselors worried for their students and future Communication with parents and staff per individual student . The current building was constructed in red brick and limestone at a cost of $1,250,000 and opened in September 1926. ft. home is a 5 bed, 2.0 bath property. DULUTH, Minn. - On Tuesday, the Duluth School Board approved a settlement agreement with former Denfeld high school principal Tonya Sconiers. It saddens me that the district attempted to silence me by threatening me, then suspending me and now firing me, Sconiers said. Robert 401 N. 44th Ave. W. Duluth. 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. 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. Denfeld High School serves approximately the western half of the city and has been in existence since 1905. Former Duluth principal files discrimination lawsuit | MPR News Please enable javascript and refresh the page to continue reading local news. 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. Online Schools will not send children outdoors if the wind chill is 18 degrees below zero or less. Post High School Planning. We see that you have javascript disabled. 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. 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.. The American School Counselor Association (ASCA) model. Serving over 1000 students from grades nine to twelve, Denfeld High School has become a West Duluth landmark. 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. Duluth School Board Approves Sconiers Settlement Agreement George F. Holliday, Jr. (1991 to 1995) The lawsuit claims Sconiers was retaliated against for aligning herself with this group; for asking that zero hour no longer be offered and funds allocated elsewhere; for questioning hiring practices; and for reporting the district to the Minnesota Department of Education for misuse of funds. About $350,000 will go to Denfeld students who apply for a number of scholarships this year,. 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. Duluth architects Abraham Holstead and W.J. While more than 14 listings in Duluth, MN in January . To accommodate the increased student population, two new additions to the school were built. 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. Principal's Picks: Top 5 features of new Denfeld High School 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. William Westholm (1995 to 2005) Principals. Dr. Chester Wood (1945 to 1948) Denfeld was instrumental in the creation of a two-year program to train teachers which eventually grew to become the University of Minnesota Duluth. He was for several decades a social studies teacher at Denfeld and has served as football coach, dean of students and as the districts social studies curriculum specialist. 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. Former Duluth East Principal Laurie Knapp has been serving as substitute principal at Denfeld since August. Dr. Wayne Samskar (1970 to 1984) 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. Scott Swatting incidents reported at Denfeld, Esko high schools 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. MN. Tuesday March 7. Sullivan designed the H-shaped English Gothic style building which features medieval carvings by Duluth master stone carver George Thrana. The tournaments are free and open to the public to watch. Denfeld High School - Principals Former Duluth East High School Principal Laurie Knapp has taken over the role at Denfeld on a substitute basis. On Monday, Sconiers withdrew her request for arbitration. This will be Lofalds fourth year serving as board chair. Denfeld High School principal placed on administrative leave DULUTH, Minn. Duluth Public Schools officials announced on Tuesday that a new principal has been chosen for Denfeld High School. The schools are only about 11 miles away from one another. Denfeld High School - Wikipedia Parker Chastey (class of '23) named a Minnesota Mr. Soccer Finalist, This page was last edited on 14 January 2023, at 13:18. 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. We believe this is not a credible threat as the call came from out of state. Denfeld High School principal Tonya Sconiers, right, helps to organize students and staff in this file photo. Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. More information >>, Follow Denfeld on Facebook VIRGINIA The Rock Ridge School District now has two new principals in place after two principals on the Virginia campus recently took other positions. , Star Tribune 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.. I will not be silenced. Sconiers is seeking monetary relief, with the amount to be determined by a jury. Sconiers, along with her attorneys, held a news conference to make a statement and answer questions from the media. View Full Calendar. "It was determined that the threat was false and the campus was determined to be safe," Danielson said. At this time the federal case is still ongoing. The 48-year-old educator graduated from Denfeld in 1990, the University of Minnesota Duluth in 1994 and earned a masters degree from the University of Wisconsin Superior in 2001. The complaint also alleges that the district discriminated against Sconiers based on sex and race. 2021 Track. Officers who arrived at the scene helped school staff secure the campus. They conducted a thorough search and found no injuries and no threat to safety. Winners are chosen by three judges, all Denfeld staff, based on audience reaction. 1414 Stanford Ave, Duluth, MN 55811 | Estately | MLS# 6107045 Central Principal Lisa Mitchell-Krocak retired this summer. Central would not be used, as Ordean and a new western high school would be created to accommodate 3000 total students. The school is known for its architecture, including a . It was the fifth swatting incident Denfeld Alumni Association - Duluth, MN Jill Lofald was elected as the Duluth School Board chair for 2023 at the annual organizational meeting Tuesday, Jan. 3. MLS # 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.