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. . Adelle Whitefoot Share. The complaint also alleges that the district discriminated against Sconiers based on sex and race. Duluth architects Abraham Holstead and W.J. 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. This home is located at 311 Superior St Unit 705 in Duluth, MN and zip code 55802 in the Downtown neighborhood. 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. writes Roxy Olsen-Hurst. Login; Search; Sitemap; Logins. It was later called Duluth Industrial High School. 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. If you would like to provide feedback or have questions, please email communications@isd709.org. The American School Counselor Association (ASCA) model. Denfeld High School principal Tonya Sconiers, right, helps to organize students and staff in this file photo. 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, Minn. Duluth Public Schools officials announced on Tuesday that a new principal has been chosen for Denfeld High School. To submit an event to the community calendar, email news@pinejournal.com. Denfeld High School Principals Denfeld High School. 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. Communication with parents and staff per individual student . 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. With a population of almost 85,000, the city of Duluth provides diversified business, professional and industrial services to northeastern Minnesota. MN. MLS # George F. Holliday, Jr. (1991 to 1995) 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. Joe Eklund (class of '22) named a Minnesota Mr. Soccer Finalist, 2022 Boys Soccer, Section 7AA runners-up. By Adelle Whitefoot via Duluth News Tribune. Roxy Olsen-Hurst, Barnum Community Education. 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. Finally on July 29, the district informed principal Sconiers it intended to fire her, Kwan said. Principal: Thomas Tusken Assistant Principals: Joanna Sackette, Eric Stang Activities Director: Tom . . Sconiers is seeking monetary relief, an amount to be determined by a jury. DULUTH Law enforcement officials in Duluth and Carlton County responded to swatting incidents at Denfeld and Esko high schools on Thursday. We see that you have javascript disabled. The schools are only about 11 miles away from one another. View more property details, sales history and Zestimate data on Zillow. Features: 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. There are two ways to enroll new students in school. After a thorough search process, former Assistant Principal Tom Tusken has been picked to serve as the new Denfeld Principal and will begin his new position in August. In the spring of 2007, restructuring of Duluth's elementary, middle and high schools was discussed. 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. More information >>, Follow Denfeld on Facebook On Friday, the video of the fatal beating of Tyre Nichols, who died after a traffic stop by police, was released by Memphis officials. On Jan. 25, we had to cancel two morning bus routes and two afternoon bus routes due to staffing issues. Be sure you ask them before they get an email request (i.e. The 2,000 sq. 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. Denfeld High School - Principals. 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. 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. About 20 minutes after the call in Carlton County, a similar incident was reported at Denfeld High School in Duluth. As reported by Carlton County District Court. Former Duluth East High School Principal Laurie Knapp has taken over the role at Denfeld on a substitute basis. In 2011, Central closed, leaving Denfeld and East as the only public high schools in Duluth. Denfeld is known for its large endowment - about $7 million currently - meant for only its students. Denfeld High School Counselors provide a comprehensive counseling model which serves to assist students in the following areas: Educational Planning. The Carlton County Sheriff's Office is investigating the incident. In addition, grants are awarded to staff to provide valuable resources to enhance students' high school educational experiences. 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. Minnesota Power seeks $25 million from Legislature for power line upgrade, Carlton County, Dontcha Know: A local language 'nest,' a robotics competition, a Bison NLI signing and more, Community Calendar: Poultry for Beginners Class, Health Care Fraud Prevention class and more, Carlton County 4-H Federation sends care packages to troops, Wrenshall Schools seek superintendent candidates, Levy increase of nearly 4% proposed for Thomson Township, Community Education Corner: Register for 'The Prom' today, Northland robotics teams to compete at DECC, Threats to Denfeld, other Northland schools deemed not credible, State extends sunset date for Carlton County Jail, Cloquet Board to hold special session for athletic facility project. 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. If you have questions, please call your school or the Assistant Superintendent's office at 218-336-8739. . Career Clubs provide experiences beyond the classroom and help students connect to their schools. Serving over 1000 students from grades nine to twelve, Denfeld High School has become a West Duluth landmark. DULUTH Law enforcement officials in Duluth and Carlton County responded to swatting incidents at Denfeld and Esko high schools on Thursday. accomplished in 2018 after a resolution was passed by the School Board During the assembly, the band marches from the back of the auditorium through streamers and balloons to the orchestra pit playing the cadence and school song. Please enable javascript and refresh the page to continue reading local news. Read the latest news in the Carlton County, Dontcha Know newsletter published every Friday. 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. Denfeld's Spirit creates a safe and welcoming environment that provides opportunities for all. Please enable javascript and refresh the page to continue reading local news. 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. Tuesday March 7. 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. You will also find a button to translate the websites into over 100 languages. 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 biggest event during the week besides the football game and assembly is the hall decorating contest, where the interior first floor of the building is covered in handmade posters, streamers, locker signs, balloons and other decorations. 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.. 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) Ed Crawford (2011 to 2012) Denfeld High School serves approximately the western half of the city and has been in existence since 1905. The more notice that you give your letter writer, the better. Sullivan designed the H-shaped English Gothic style building which features medieval carvings by Duluth master stone carver George Thrana. Construction crews cafefully removed the bricks, and the school planned to preserve some bricks for historical purposes. DULUTH, Minn. - On Tuesday, the Duluth School Board approved a settlement agreement with former Denfeld high school principal Tonya Sconiers. 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. Staff at the sheriff's office contacted high school officials and "initiated the necessary safety and response protocols," Danielson said. After receiving the letter of termination, Sconiers exercised her right to put a hold on discharge pending a hearing pursuant to Minnesotas Teacher Tenure Act. At this time, no arrests have been made. Nate Burke (Class of '21) qualifies for State. Central Principal Lisa Mitchell-Krocak retired this summer. Our school community strives to provide high achievement and a welcoming environment for all. 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. I also want to apologize to students and families who were negatively impacted. These websites are still in the process of being tweaked and built out, so please have some patience in the meantime. Additionally, the school underwent major reconstruction in order to conform to state standards. I want to take this opportunity to explain why these routes were canceled and what our processes are to avoid these situations. In this pageant, anybody can enter for a chance to become Maroon & Gold King or Queen. Teachers write these letters during their time off of school - nights & weekends. 3: 30 PM - 4: . Thrana came to Duluth in 1889 from Norway where he was trained as a stone sculptor. The football team starting lineup is announced and the school song is played again at the end of the assembly. Dr. Stephen Seyfer (1984 to 1991) 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. Tusken has served in his current position as assistant principal for two. Common Application) from a college or scholarship. The Districts disciplinary decisions related to Ms. Sconiers, including her discharge, were based solely on Ms. Sconiers inappropriate conduct.. Phone 218-726-2559. A warm welcome to you and your family! According to the settlement agreement, Sconiers. The goal is to help students GET to work - that means high-paying careers, both regionally and globally. Post High School Planning. 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.) The school is known for its architecture, including a . 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. 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. Taylor (1918 to 1945) Only 35 educators in Minnesota had received the award at that time and Tusken was just the second recipient from Duluth. 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. The now-former Denfeld High School principal filed a federal lawsuit against Duluth Public Schools and key leaders Monday morning. "Join us as we board a Minnesota Coach Bus and head to Chanhassen for a day of fun-filled adventure!" (Adelle Whitefoot /. View Full Calendar. They learned honesty, integrity and sportsmanship. They conducted a thorough search and found no injuries and no threat to safety. 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.. 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. 2021 Boys Soccer, Section 7AA runners-up. 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. I will not be silenced. She was appointed to principal in July 2012. Former Duluth East Principal Laurie Knapp has been serving as substitute principal at Denfeld since August. students of Duluth Denfeld High School by providing awards and scholarships to assist with expenses directly related to post-secondary education. It has been listed on Rocket Homes since February 27, 2023 and is currently priced at $639,000. The award was presented to Tusken during an unexpected assembly, the purpose of which was unknown to students and staff. 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.. "It was determined that the threat was false and the campus was determined to be safe," Danielson said. 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. Parker Chastey (class of '23) named a Minnesota Mr. Soccer Finalist, This page was last edited on 14 January 2023, at 13:18. At the same time, he provides challenging learning opportunities to those who are ready for more advanced work.. In September, the Duluth School District responded with a statement through its attorney Monday at Rupp, Anderson, Squires, and Waldspurger, P.A. Denfeld was instrumental in the creation of a two-year program to train teachers which eventually grew to become the University of Minnesota Duluth. Online Robert At this time the federal case is still ongoing. 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 Sconiers informed Duluth Public Schools on April 29 that she had engaged lawyers to investigate her five days of unpaid suspension served in March. While more than 14 listings in Duluth, MN in January . 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.