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. 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. 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.". Nate Burke (Class of '21) qualifies for State. To accommodate the new addition, Denfeld's signature brick chimney had to be removed. In addition, grants are awarded to staff to provide valuable resources to enhance students' high school educational experiences. Sconiers, along with her attorneys, held a news conference to make a statement and answer questions from the media. There are two ways to enroll new students in school. Hiring of School Resource Officers is a collaboration between Duluth Public Schools and the Duluth Police Department. 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. Principal; Staff Directory; Hours and Attendance; Denfeld High School History; Safe and Welcoming; School Resource Officers; Academics. The now-former Denfeld High School principal filed a federal lawsuit against Duluth Public Schools and key leaders Monday morning. 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. 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. 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. 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. The Denfeld Marching Band and the Dance Team always perform during the halftime show. 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. 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. 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. Adelle Whitefoot Share. "Difficult challenges mean difficult decisions and courageous leadership. Denfeld High School is located in Duluth, Minnesota next to the shores of Lake Superior. 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). The Districts disciplinary decisions related to Ms. Sconiers, including her discharge, were based solely on Ms. Sconiers inappropriate conduct.. 2021 Track. 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. 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. I want to take this opportunity to explain why these routes were canceled and what our processes are to avoid these situations. At this time the federal case is still ongoing. 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) AS Login; TS Login; The lawsuit claims trouble for Sconiers started as far back as 2017 when she aligned herself with the Community-Based School Equity Initiative, a group of parents and community members who call for equity among the district. The boys who have played for him learned more than a game. 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. Serving over 1000 students from grades nine to twelve, Denfeld High School has become a West Duluth landmark. Sullivan designed the H-shaped English Gothic style building which features medieval carvings by Duluth master stone carver George Thrana. The current building was constructed in red brick and limestone at a cost of $1,250,000 and opened in September 1926. Denfeld High School. Former Denfeld High School principal Tonya Sconiers' termination letter lays out multiple reasons for termination, from misusing sick leave to violating a collective bargaining agreement.. Sconiers was given the opportunity to fight the termination through arbitration but has decided to withdraw her request for arbitration on Monday. 401 N. 44th Ave. W. Duluth. 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. Sconiers attorneys said her firing was retaliation for questioning and publicly speaking out against district policies and hiring practices. 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. DULUTH Law enforcement officials in Duluth and Carlton County responded to swatting incidents at Denfeld and Esko high schools on Thursday. Send this article to anyone, no subscription is necessary to view it, Anyone can read, no subscription required, See 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. About 20 minutes after the call in Carlton County, a similar incident was reported at Denfeld High School in Duluth. Sconiers was placed on administrative leave by the Duluth school district in June.. 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. MN. More information >>, Follow Denfeld on Facebook View Full Calendar. Denfeld is known for its large endowment - about $7 million currently - meant for only its students. 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.. 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. Denfeld is a community high school providing 21st Century classrooms and facilities, experienced teaching staff and excellent educational programs. Sconiers is seeking monetary relief, an amount to be determined by a jury. Policy Committee - Duluth School Board. 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. The now-former Denfeld High School principal filed a federal lawsuit against Duluth Public Schools and key leaders Monday morning. April 28, 2020 - 6:43 PM. The Greater Denfeld Foundation's purpose is to support. It saddens me that the district attempted to silence me by threatening me, then suspending me, and now firing me. Dell Daedo (1948 to 1963) The grant will allow students at the college to work with local producers to study the impact of rice hulls as mulch for crops. Read the latest news in the Carlton County, Dontcha Know newsletter published every Friday. 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. 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. If you would like to provide feedback or have questions, please email communications@isd709.org. 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 Ed Crawford (2005 to 2010) It can accommodate nearly 2000 people in the audience, 200 on stage and includes an orchestra pit. I also want to apologize to students and families who were negatively impacted. 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. Knapp had retired in 2016. Read More about Meet the new assistant principal at Lowell. They conducted a thorough search and found no injuries and no threat to safety. 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. reported in St. Louis County in two days, and the second at Denfeld. Denfeld High School principal Tonya Sconiers, right, helps to organize students and staff in this file photo. The remaining students enter the military or the work force. This 1,550 square foot home was built in 2007. Common Application) from a college or scholarship. When Tusken's name was called, he received a standing ovation from the audience. 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. Phone 218-726-2559. Denfeld . Make a gift of any amount today to support this resource for everyone. 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. This home is located at 311 Superior St Unit 705 in Duluth, MN and zip code 55802 in the Downtown neighborhood. Community members donated more than 150 nonperishable food items, personal hygiene items and card games for the care packages. Dr. Chester Wood (1945 to 1948) Ed Crawford has returned to Denfeld as principal after serving with Laurie Knapp at East last year as co-principal. The tower features eight buttresses. At this time, no arrests have been made. Read The school district has denied the charges. (Adelle Whitefoot /. . The school is known for its architecture, including a historic auditorium and a 120-foot clock tower visible from Grand Avenue. The 2,000 sq. Online On Friday, the video of the fatal beating of Tyre Nichols, who died after a traffic stop by police, was released by Memphis officials. There are two ways to enroll new students inschool. As reported by Carlton County District Court. The face was later painted black, in order to make it more easily visible from Grand Avenue. We see that you have javascript disabled. Available from yourneighborhood schoolor print them out using the links below. In September, the Duluth School District responded with a statement through its attorney Monday at Rupp, Anderson, Squires, and Waldspurger, P.A. ft. home is a 5 bed, 2.0 bath property. Tom Tusken will. No State games due to COVID-19 restrictions. 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. 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. 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 We believe this is not a credible threat as the call came from out of state. It saddens me that the district attempted to silence me by threatening me, then suspending me and now firing me, Sconiers said. Tusken has served in his current position as assistant principal for two. Adelle Whitefoot is a former reporter for the Duluth News Tribune. 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.. If you would like to provide feedback or have questions, please email communications@isd709.org. Public; 9-12; 4.5 mi; Show More GreatSchools scores are based on a scale from 1 to 10, where 10 is above average. The auditorium was renovated for $1,200,000 and reopened in late 2006 after being closed for nearly a year. Tom Tusken will step into the principals office in August after serving as the schools assistant principal. 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. Denfeld High School's auditorium was built at a cost of $25,000 and is another of its most prominent features. The American School Counselor Association (ASCA) model. 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. Tonya Sconiers (2012 to present) The chimney was an original feature of the building, but had not been used in many years. T. H. Shutte (1916 to 1918) G. accomplished in 2018 after a resolution was passed by the School Board has taken over the role at Denfeld on a substitute basis "Join us as we board a Minnesota Coach Bus and head to Chanhassen for a day of fun-filled adventure!" On June 18, Sconiers was informed she was being put on administrative leave following allegations against her, allegations the complaint claims Sconiers still isnt aware of. 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. 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. The complaint alleges that Sconiers was told the suspension was due to student private data being exposed, but she believes it was retaliatory. 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. Denfeld High School, along with three other schools in St. Louis County have received a threat. 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.. A warm welcome to you and your family! In 2011, Central closed, leaving Denfeld and East as the only public high schools in Duluth. 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. To accommodate the increased student population, two new additions to the school were built. DULUTH, Minn. Duluth Public Schools officials announced on Tuesday that a new principal has been chosen for Denfeld High School. The complaint also alleges that the district discriminated against Sconiers based on sex and race. 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. Denfeld High School, along with three other schools in St. Louis County have received a threat. Three options were proposed: The Duluth School District ultimately chose a modified version of the Red Plan, leaving Denfeld open and adding approximately half of the Central population. 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. Denfeld High School Counselors provide a comprehensive counseling model which serves to assist students in the following areas: Educational Planning. , Star Tribune Previous alumni who served as principal were . Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Upcoming Events. DULUTH, Minn. - Duluth Public Schools officials announced on Tuesday that a new principal has been chosen for Denfeld High School. Former Duluth East High School Principal Laurie Knapp has taken over the role at Denfeld on a substitute basis. 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 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.. 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. Adelle Whitefoot / awhitefoot@duluthnews.com. Tom Tusken is a 1990 Denfeld graduate and the fourth alumnus to serve as the principal of the high school, according to the Denfeld Alumni Association. The Carlton County Sheriff's Office is investigating the incident. Denfeld High School. 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. Denfeld High. Working together as educators, parents and citizens, we can make a difference for every student, every day. Denfeld High School Attn: Activities Office 401 N 44th Ave West Duluth, MN 55807 Or have your student drop it off at the front office or activities office. Approximately 34% of graduating seniors go on to four year colleges or universities and 37% go on to two year schools. Scott Students wear maroon and/or gold clothing and accessories. Ed Crawford (2011 to 2012) I will not be silenced. The football team starting lineup is announced and the school song is played again at the end of the assembly. The numbers on the face were painted silver and the clock hands were gold painted wood. Similarly, Ceynowa said such false reports can impact law enforcement's response to other incidents in the community. VIRGINIA The Rock Ridge School District now has two new principals in place after two principals on the Virginia campus recently took other positions. Blake Eaton (Class of '22), wins 2 State Titles: 100 and 200 meter wheelchair dashes. Sconiers informed Duluth Public Schools on April 29 that she had engaged lawyers to investigate her five days of unpaid suspension served in March. On July 29, the School Board voted to terminate Sconiers. 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. students of Duluth Denfeld High School by providing awards and scholarships to assist with expenses directly related to post-secondary education. Please enable javascript and refresh the page to continue reading local news. Only 35 educators in Minnesota had received the award at that time and Tusken was just the second recipient from Duluth. It has been listed on Rocket Homes since February 27, 2023 and is currently priced at $639,000. It was later called Duluth Industrial High School. 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. It saddens me that the district would rather retaliate and discriminate than listen, she said in September when the suit was filed. Ordean Middle School would be turned into a high school with both buildings being remodeled and expanded to accommodate 1500 students. The Duluth Public Schools announced Tuesday that Tom Tusken would be the next principal of Denfeld High School. Construction began in 2009 and continued until 2011. 2021 Golf. Denfeld High School is located in Duluth, Minnesota next to the shores of Lake Superior. 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. Denfeld has a long tradition of excellence and demonstrates these standards in its classrooms. 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. At Monday's meeting, the school board accepted the resignations of Virginia Secondary Principal Lisa Perkovich and Roosevelt Elementary Principal Dan Johnson, effective Sept. 14. 2020 Boys Soccer, Section 7A Champions. With a population of almost 85,000, the city of Duluth provides diversified business, professional and industrial services to northeastern Minnesota. 2004 Boys Soccer Section 7A champions, State participants. Everyone stands throughout the entire assembly. It saddens me that the district attempted to silence me by threatening me, then suspending me and now firing me, Sconiers said. After a thorough search process, former Assistant Principal. : The District has not yet had an opportunity to review the complaint in detail and therefore cannot comment on any specific allegations. Foster (1905 to 1916), Over thirty years ago, Dick Gastler's habit of wearing a ratty old leisure suit to class caught fire in more ways than one. Central would not be used, as Ordean and a new western high school would be created to accommodate 3000 total students. Jill Lofald was elected as the Duluth School Board chair for 2023 at the annual organizational meeting Tuesday, Jan. 3. At the same time, he provides challenging learning opportunities to those who are ready for more advanced work.. 55807. Dr. Stephen Seyfer (1984 to 1991) Duluth architects Abraham Holstead and W.J. Login; Search; Sitemap; Logins. The award was presented to Tusken during an unexpected assembly, the purpose of which was unknown to students and staff. Programs of study are offered in 6 broad Minnesota Career Fields with exposure to over 13 career clusters and pathways. 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.. With a population of almost 85,000, the city of Duluth provides diversified business, professional and industrial services to northeastern Minnesota. About $350,000 will go to Denfeld students who apply for a number of scholarships this year,. Denfeld High School Principals 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. Enrollment for kindergarten for the 2023-2024 school year is open and meet and greets have been scheduled. You will also find a button to translate the websites into over 100 languages. Duluth Denfeld High School: 1918439: 02/24/23: 07:15 PM: . Career Development. 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. Former Duluth East Principal Laurie Knapp has been serving as substitute principal at Denfeld since August. Nobody could possibly be associated with Walt Hunting and not be better for it because he symbolizes everything great about America. The home of the Hunters, Denfeld High School was known as Irving High School when it opened for classes on 11 September 1905.