Good afternoon, I’m Jeff Harris, Superintendent of Schools for Del Norte, and this is the update for the week of February 10, 2025.

Dates to Remember

Just a quick reminder—schools will be closed this Friday, February 14, and Monday, February 17, in honor of Lincoln’s Birthday and Presidents’ Day. Hope you enjoy the long weekend!

Preschool, TK, and Kindergarten Registration Now Open

A big step for little learners—Preschool and TK/Kindergarten registration is officially open! We know how important this transition is for families, and we want to make it as simple as possible. Whether you’re enrolling your child for the first time or just need help wrapping up the paperwork, visit dnusd.org/register for everything you need or give us a call at 464-6141. We can’t wait to welcome your child to school!

Poetry Out Loud Champions Announced

Speaking of big moments, students from Del Norte High and Sunset High delivered some incredible performances in this year’s Poetry Out Loud competition. A huge congratulations to Melody Brennan and Tey-met-tret Hostler from DNHS and to David Hernandez and Evan Michael from Sunset for taking the top spots at their schools. At the County Finals, visiting poets Andru Defeye, J. Rowe, and Diamond Key brought inspiration to the stage before Melody Brennan was crowned the overall county champion. Melody will head to Sacramento in March for the State Finals—best of luck, Melody! A special shoutout to teachers Megan Pucillo-Slayton and Kelly Troyna for their guidance, and to every student who stepped up to the mic to bring poetry to life, and a special thank you DNACA for their support of our youth.

Building Bridges Family Summit—A Day to Remember

We had a wonderful time at the Building Bridges Family Summit last weekend at Crescent Elk. Families, educators, and community members came together for a day packed with meaningful discussions, hands-on learning, and great food. Keynote speaker Reid Powell shared valuable parenting insights, and attendees explored sessions on everything from AI in Education to Preparing for Life After High School. There were plenty of resources, interactive booths, and even prize giveaways—including jet boat ride passes! A big thank you to everyone who joined us. We’re already looking forward to next year!

A Night of Music & Sweet Treats

The Del Norte High Stage Band is bringing the love songs to Sweets and Treats on Saturday, Feb. 15, in the harbor. Expect classics from Sinatra and Dean Martin, plus modern hits like Every Breath You Take. And of course, it wouldn’t be Sweets and Treats without the desserts! Suggested donations are $15 per person, $25 per couple, and $10 for students, with all proceeds supporting the Jazz Band’s trip to the Mount Hood Jazz Festival. Great music, delicious treats, and a good cause—what more could you ask for?

See Something, Say Something—Your Role Matters

A quick but important reminder: if you ever see something that doesn’t seem right—a safety concern, a student in distress, or anything that raises a red flag—please report it. You can submit a confidential tip at dnusd.org/tip or through the DNUSD app. Your awareness helps protect our students and staff, ensuring that our schools remain a safe place for everyone.

DNHS Sports Update

The basketball season has come to an end, but that doesn’t mean that the Warriors aren't still going strong! This Saturday, the 15th, our Varsity Boys’ and Girls’ Wrestling squads will be on the road to Arcata High for the HDN Championships. Good luck Warriors!

You can stay up to date on all upcoming Warriors athletic events by visiting dnhigh.org/sports.

That’s it for this week’s update. Stay safe and we’ll see you next Monday.