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. 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. 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. DULUTH Law enforcement officials in Duluth and Carlton County responded to swatting incidents at Denfeld and Esko high schools on Thursday. 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. 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. We see that you have javascript disabled. Taylor (1918 to 1945) Principals. If you feel you have received this message in error, please contact the customer support team at 1-833-248-7801. She was appointed to principal in July 2012. The numbers on the face were painted silver and the clock hands were gold painted wood. Previous alumni who served as principal were . 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.. The remaining students enter the military or the work force. Upcoming Events. Finally on July 29 the district informed principal Sconiers it intended to fire her, Kwan said. More information >>, Follow Denfeld on Facebook According to the settlement agreement, Sconiers. 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. Additionally, the school underwent major reconstruction in order to conform to state standards. They learned honesty, integrity and sportsmanship. He received his principals licensure from St. Marys University in 2007. 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 Greater Denfeld Foundation's purpose is to support. 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. Blake Eaton (Class of '22), wins 2 State Titles: 100 and 200 meter wheelchair dashes. "Swatting calls can potentially disrupt DPDs response capabilities to real and pressing public safety emergencies, and it can cause unnecessary panic to members of our community," he said. Twitter (opens in new window/tab) Family Student Handbook (opens in new window/tab) Directory; Read More about Meet the new assistant principal at Lowell. It has been listed on Rocket Homes since February 27, 2023 and is currently priced at $639,000. After the pageant are more skits and the winner of the hall decorating contest is announced. 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. 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. It relies on assumptions and information provided . It was the fifth swatting incident 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. You will also find a button to translate the websites into over 100 languages. At the same time, he provides challenging learning opportunities to those who are ready for more advanced work.. Dell Daedo (1948 to 1963) Denfeld High School, along with three other schools in St. Louis County have received a threat. The complaint also alleges that the district discriminated against Sconiers based on sex and race. The tournaments are free and open to the public to watch. Enrollment for kindergarten for the 2023-2024 school year is open and meet and greets have been scheduled. 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. On July 29, the School Board voted to terminate Sconiers. Sconiers informed Duluth Public Schools on April 29 that she had engaged lawyers to investigate her five days of unpaid suspension served in March. Adelle Whitefoot is a former reporter for the 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. When Tusken's name was called, he received a standing ovation from the audience. 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. To accommodate the new addition, Denfeld's signature brick chimney had to be removed. Thrana came to Duluth in 1889 from Norway where he was trained as a stone sculptor. James 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. Nate Burke (Class of '21) qualifies for State. Sconiers was placed on administrative leave by the Duluth school district in June.. It's an extensive hiring process run internally at Duluth Police Department which includes applications from interested officers, a review of the officers character, work ethic, and suitability to work in a school environment, as well as an interview process. 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. Available from yourneighborhood schoolor print them out using the links below. Read the latest news in the Carlton County, Dontcha Know newsletter published every Friday. 401 N. 44th Ave. W. Duluth. It saddens me that the district attempted to silence me by threatening me, then suspending me, and now firing me. Principal: Thomas Tusken Assistant Principals: Joanna Sackette, Eric Stang Activities Director: Tom . Personal/social development. The now-former Denfeld High School principal filed a federal lawsuit against Duluth Public Schools and key leaders Monday morning. 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.". These websites are still in the process of being tweaked and built out, so please have some patience in the meantime. 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. 55807. 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. Construction crews cafefully removed the bricks, and the school planned to preserve some bricks for historical purposes. 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. Denfeld High School - Principals. Tom Tusken will. The schools are only about 11 miles away from one another. Duluth architects Abraham Holstead and W.J. 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.. 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. 2020 Boys Soccer, Section 7A Champions. 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) Read 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.. 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. Programs of study are offered in 6 broad Minnesota Career Fields with exposure to over 13 career clusters and pathways. I will not be silenced. Denfeld's Maroon and Gold Day is Friday of homecoming week. Denfeld's Spirit creates a safe and welcoming environment that provides opportunities for all. 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. 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. Ceynowa urged anyone with information about potential school threats to report tips through the "See It, Say It, Send It" app created by the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. During his tenure, the number of schools in Duluth increased from seven to 34. 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. 2004 Boys Soccer Section 7A champions, State participants. Homecoming Week activities include daily dress-up days such as "Kid Day" (usually on Tuesday) and "Maroon and Gold Day" (every Friday for the last 100 years.) 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. Sconiers was first hired in Duluth in March 2000 to work as an assistant principal at Denfeld. 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. 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. . 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 Features: 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. 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.. It saddens me that the district attempted to silence me by threatening me, then suspending me and now firing me, Sconiers said. Winners are chosen by three judges, all Denfeld staff, based on audience reaction. Send this article to anyone, no subscription is necessary to view it, Anyone can read, no subscription required, See Robert students of Duluth Denfeld High School by providing awards and scholarships to assist with expenses directly related to post-secondary education. Construction began in 2009 and continued until 2011. Esko and Denfeld high schools were victims of the swatting calls about 20 minutes apart, at 10:39 a.m. and 11 a.m., respectively. 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. (Adelle Whitefoot /. 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. Sconiers was given the opportunity to fight the termination through arbitration but has decided to withdraw her request for arbitration on Monday. Its ongoing mission is to sustain alumni relations and celebrate the spirit of Denfeld High School and western Duluth. In September, the Duluth School District responded with a statement through its attorney Monday at Rupp, Anderson, Squires, and Waldspurger, P.A. Playoff Hockey Hair: A Minnesota Phenomena, All The Buzz In The Northland, Weekend of March 3, 2023. As a result of the construction, Denfeld and Central students both attended Central during the 201011 school year. 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 Sconiers is seeking monetary relief, an amount to be determined by a jury. Roxy Olsen-Hurst, Barnum Community Education. Ed Crawford (2011 to 2012) These websites are still in the process of being tweaked and built out, so please have some patience in the meantime. Central Principal Lisa Mitchell-Krocak retired this summer. 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. 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 see that you have javascript disabled. Sconiers said she was disappointed to be at odds with the district and its leadership. At this time, no arrests have been made. The Districts disciplinary decisions related to Ms. Sconiers, including her discharge, were based solely on Ms. Sconiers inappropriate conduct.. By Adelle Whitefoot via Duluth News Tribune. If you would like to provide feedback or have questions, please email communications@isd709.org. Knapp had retired in 2016. On Friday, the video of the fatal beating of Tyre Nichols, who died after a traffic stop by police, was released by Memphis officials. A main portion of the proposed tax levy increase includes more money for the township's road and bridge fund, which is expected to grow from $725,000 to $764,190. Duluth Public Schools has yet to respond to a request for a statement. The football team starting lineup is announced and the school song is played again at the end of the assembly. "Difficult challenges mean difficult decisions and courageous leadership. 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.. Be sure you ask them before they get an email request (i.e. 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. has taken over the role at Denfeld on a substitute basis. After eight swatting incidents were reported at the beginning of the week, two more were reported at northeastern Minnesota high schools on Thursday. 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. 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. 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.. Students wear maroon and/or gold clothing and accessories. Tom Tusken will step into the principals office in August after serving as the schools assistant principal. The school district has denied the charges. Sconiers was given the opportunity to fight the termination through arbitration but decided to withdraw her request for arbitration on Monday. Denfeld High School is located in Duluth, Minnesota next to the shores of Lake Superior. 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. Tonya Sconiers (2012 to present) Officers who arrived at the scene helped school staff secure the campus. Staff at the sheriff's office contacted high school officials and "initiated the necessary safety and response protocols," Danielson said. Central would not be used, as Ordean and a new western high school would be created to accommodate 3000 total students. 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. Also in 2007, he won the $25,000 Milken Family Foundation National Educator Award. Schools will not send children outdoors if the wind chill is 18 degrees below zero or less. Course Offerings; . Denfeld High. Denfeld High School. The Red Plan: Central and East would no longer function as high schools, leaving Denfeld as the only original high school in Duluth. The now-former Denfeld High School principal filed a federal lawsuit against Duluth Public Schools and key leaders Monday morning. 319 N 60th Ave W , Duluth, MN 55807-1903 is a single-family home listed for-sale at $175,000. Similarly, Ceynowa said such false reports can impact law enforcement's response to other incidents in the community. ft. home is a 5 bed, 2.0 bath property. Sconiers said she was saddened to be at odds with the district leadership and school district. With a population of almost 85,000, the city of Duluth provides diversified business, professional and industrial services to northeastern Minnesota. Denfeld High School principal Tonya Sconiers, right, helps to organize students and staff in this file photo. Sconiers is seeking monetary relief, with the amount to be determined by a jury. The home of the Hunters, Denfeld High School was known as Irving High School when it opened for classes on 11 September 1905. In this pageant, anybody can enter for a chance to become Maroon & Gold King or Queen. The award was presented to Tusken during an unexpected assembly, the purpose of which was unknown to students and staff. It was later called Duluth Industrial High School. They start at 9 a.m. Friday. To submit an event to the community calendar, email news@pinejournal.com. Career Clubs provide experiences beyond the classroom and help students connect to their schools. 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. He is the brother of Duluth Police Chief Mike Tusken. Nathan Anderson started as the new assistant principal at Lowell Elementary Oct. 24. 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. Principals are responsible for implementing cold weather guidelines for their school building. If you would like to provide feedback or have questions, please email communications@isd709.org. Jill Lofald was elected as the Duluth School Board chair for 2023 at the annual organizational meeting Tuesday, Jan. 3. DULUTH Law enforcement officials in Duluth and Carlton County responded to swatting incidents at Denfeld and Esko high schools on Thursday. Tusken has served in his current position as assistant principal for two. Duluth Denfeld High School: 1918439: 02/24/23: 07:15 PM: . Adelle Whitefoot / awhitefoot@duluthnews.com. "Difficult challenges mean difficult decisions and courageous leadership. 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. No State games due to COVID-19 restrictions. The districts disciplinary decisions related to Ms. Sconiers, including her discharge, were based solely on Ms. Sconiers inappropriate conduct.. 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. Serving over 1000 students from grades nine to twelve, Denfeld High School has become a West Duluth landmark. ", Coordinates: .mw-parser-output .geo-default,.mw-parser-output .geo-dms,.mw-parser-output .geo-dec{display:inline}.mw-parser-output .geo-nondefault,.mw-parser-output .geo-multi-punct{display:none}.mw-parser-output .longitude,.mw-parser-output .latitude{white-space:nowrap}464455N 920931W / 46.7485520N 92.1585243W / 46.7485520; -92.1585243[3], Learn how and when to remove this template message, "Letter Details District's Reasons for Firing Former Duluth Denfeld Principal", U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Denfield High School, Duluth Denfeld High School website Duluth Public Schools, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Denfeld_High_School&oldid=1133571246. Ed Crawford has returned to Denfeld as principal after serving with Laurie Knapp at East last year as co-principal. reported in St. Louis County in two days, and the second at Denfeld. 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 Duluth Public Schools announced Tuesday that Tom Tusken would be the next principal of Denfeld High School. Denfeld has a long tradition of excellence and demonstrates these standards in its classrooms. 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. Former Duluth East Principal Laurie Knapp has been serving as substitute principal at Denfeld since August. You will also find a button to translate the websites into over 100 languages. 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. . Community members donated more than 150 nonperishable food items, personal hygiene items and card games for the care packages. DULUTH, Minn. - Duluth Public Schools officials announced on Tuesday that a new principal has been chosen for Denfeld High School. Policy Committee - Duluth School Board. 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. Each contestant is allowed to flaunt their costume and spirit to the audience. 2021 Boys Soccer, Section 7AA runners-up. There are two ways to enroll new students in school. We believe this is not a credible threat as the call came from out of state. I want to take this opportunity to explain why these routes were canceled and what our processes are to avoid these situations. 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. 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.