Hello, Durham Community.
We hope all our students and families had a fantastic first day of school! We are super excited to share something really special about our Durham alums. Yesterday, we got to celebrate two former students, Nicole Luce and Precious Martinez.
They used to walk these halls and even raced back from the taco truck during lunch. Now, they are proud teachers, living their dreams right here at the school that helped them grow. We couldn’t be prouder of Nicole and Precious. Their journeys remind all current Durham students that with hard work and passion, you can achieve anything you set your mind to. Dream big, dream.
We hope all our students and families had a fantastic first day of school! We are super excited to share something really special about our Durham alums. Yesterday, we got to celebrate two former students, Nicole Luce and Precious Martinez.
They used to walk these halls and even raced back from the taco truck during lunch. Now, they are proud teachers, living their dreams right here at the school that helped them grow. We couldn’t be prouder of Nicole and Precious. Their journeys remind all current Durham students that with hard work and passion, you can achieve anything you set your mind to. Dream big, dream.
Hello Durham Community
This past Friday, our Community Booster Block Party was full of laughter, sunshine, and good times. A few of our future 6th graders were introduced to their new principal, Josh Rowe, in a fun and splash-filled fashion.. A few lucky students got to dunk Mr. Rowe, and he’s already joking that he remembers exactly who they were and that a little friendly payback might be in the works. 😄 Thank you for the great spirit, Mr. Rowe.
This past Friday, our Community Booster Block Party was full of laughter, sunshine, and good times. A few of our future 6th graders were introduced to their new principal, Josh Rowe, in a fun and splash-filled fashion.. A few lucky students got to dunk Mr. Rowe, and he’s already joking that he remembers exactly who they were and that a little friendly payback might be in the works. 😄 Thank you for the great spirit, Mr. Rowe.
Attention all SENIORS! Senior Sunrise will be on Wednesday, the 13th, at 5:30am in the senior parking lot. All seniors will be given their shirts either tonight at the Block Party or at Senior Sunrise to wear on the first day of school. We are asking for parent donations for breakfast items. Attached is a Google form. Seniors should bring blankets or chairs to watch the sunrise and lots of bug spray! We will be taking a class picture and holding a class meeting that morning. Parents are welcome to stay and help out with serving breakfast. We hope to see all seniors there!
Senior Sunrise Breakfast Sign-ups
Senior Sunrise Breakfast Sign-ups
Today, Durham High felt like back to school as the Class of 2026 picked up their last class schedule as Durham Unified students. Mr. Wilkes reminded them all with a motivational quote: “You only have 150 more days to go.” We are excited to see what the future holds for these amazing students.
DIS
Back to School Night
Date: Tuesday, August 12
Time: 5:00 PM
Parents will follow their student’s schedule to hear from each teacher about what to expect in their classes at DIS this year.
Important Notes:
PE Classes will meet in the Commons.
Chromebook Contract:
The Library will open at 4:30 PM for parents to sign the Chromebook Contract.
Completing this contract will allow your student to check out a Chromebook to take home.
Our librarian will be available from 4:30–6:00 PM to assist with the forms.
Students will not be issued a Chromebook until this is signed.
Back to School Night
Date: Tuesday, August 12
Time: 5:00 PM
Parents will follow their student’s schedule to hear from each teacher about what to expect in their classes at DIS this year.
Important Notes:
PE Classes will meet in the Commons.
Chromebook Contract:
The Library will open at 4:30 PM for parents to sign the Chromebook Contract.
Completing this contract will allow your student to check out a Chromebook to take home.
Our librarian will be available from 4:30–6:00 PM to assist with the forms.
Students will not be issued a Chromebook until this is signed.
As we approach the start of the new school year, we want to remind you about our upcoming schedule pick-up and orientation for Freshmen and new students. Here are the dates and times for each grade.
Please remember to complete the data confirmation process to ensure your student can receive their schedule.
We can’t wait to welcome everyone back for another exciting school year.
Durham Community.
We're just two weeks away from the start of the school year. Please keep an eye out for an email with important back-to-school information and data confirmation details.
Let's make this a fantastic year!
We're just two weeks away from the start of the school year. Please keep an eye out for an email with important back-to-school information and data confirmation details.
Let's make this a fantastic year!
Happy International "Durham Elementary" Tiger Day! 🐯
We can't wait to welcome our DES students back to campus. Their unstoppable energy lights up our school and makes it so special.
So get ready to roar, because once a tiger, always a tiger. 🐯
We can't wait to welcome our DES students back to campus. Their unstoppable energy lights up our school and makes it so special.
So get ready to roar, because once a tiger, always a tiger. 🐯
Hello Durham Community.
We are thrilled to introduce our new DIS English Teacher Danielle Schnitzius (Ms. S), a passionate first-year teacher who has recently earned her credential from Chico State. With a love for poetry and all things writing, she brings creativity and enthusiasm to her classroom.
Let's show our support and make her feel right at home in Durham. Welcome to the team, Danielle Schnitzius
We are thrilled to introduce our new DIS English Teacher Danielle Schnitzius (Ms. S), a passionate first-year teacher who has recently earned her credential from Chico State. With a love for poetry and all things writing, she brings creativity and enthusiasm to her classroom.
Let's show our support and make her feel right at home in Durham. Welcome to the team, Danielle Schnitzius
Hey DHS Students!
High school dance that’s open to all incoming and current DHS students! Whether you’re a part of Block D or not, everyone is invited to join in on the fun!
August 8 from 8 to 10 PM in the cafeteria
High school dance that’s open to all incoming and current DHS students! Whether you’re a part of Block D or not, everyone is invited to join in on the fun!
August 8 from 8 to 10 PM in the cafeteria
Join the Butte County Sheriff’s Office for National Night Out at Durham Community Park on Tuesday, August 5th, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM. Enjoy free hot dogs, popsicles, and Shubert’s ice cream.
Hello Durham Community.
We are thrilled to introduce our new Agricultural Mechanics teacher, Brady Deaton, who will be joining us this upcoming school year at Durham High.
Brady brings with him a wealth of experience and a deep passion for agriculture. Originally from Alturas, CA, he grew up surrounded by cattle, alfalfa, and show lambs, which sparked his love for the field.
Let's show our support and make her feel right at home in Durham. Welcome to the team, Brady Deaton.
We are thrilled to introduce our new Agricultural Mechanics teacher, Brady Deaton, who will be joining us this upcoming school year at Durham High.
Brady brings with him a wealth of experience and a deep passion for agriculture. Originally from Alturas, CA, he grew up surrounded by cattle, alfalfa, and show lambs, which sparked his love for the field.
Let's show our support and make her feel right at home in Durham. Welcome to the team, Brady Deaton.
Tiger Spotlight of the Week - Ashli Escobar, Supportive Learning Instructional Paraprofessional
1) Why did you become an instructional paraprofessional? I became an Instructional Paraprofessional because I love working with kids and watching them grow and learn new things. I’ve always enjoyed working in roles that help children, including being a SPED para, a foster parent, and working in daycare. Helping students reach their goals is one of the most rewarding parts of my job.
2) What are your hobbies and interests outside of work? I love spending time with my family and four kiddos, and I also enjoy time with friends. I love to paint and read. I love travel and seeing new places.
I’m especially excited (and feeling a bit bittersweet) because two of my kids are graduating from high school this year! Many Congrats to Christian and Kalina!
3) A fun fact about yourself or unique talent you possess, if any? A fun fact about me is that my first flight was to Bogotá, Colombia. It was such an exciting adventure and sparked my love for travel and new experiences.
4) Favorite book, movie, or music (pick only one to share) and why it is your favorite? My favorite book is The Midnight Library by Matt Haig. I love how it shows that different life choices can lead to different experiences, and it really makes you think about the paths we take.
5) Favorite part about working at Durham Elementary School? My favorite part about working at Durham Elementary is the staff I work with. It is also rewarding seeing the excitement on students’ faces when they learn something new. I feel blessed to be part of a team that supports and encourages each child to grow and succeed.
1) Why did you become an instructional paraprofessional? I became an Instructional Paraprofessional because I love working with kids and watching them grow and learn new things. I’ve always enjoyed working in roles that help children, including being a SPED para, a foster parent, and working in daycare. Helping students reach their goals is one of the most rewarding parts of my job.
2) What are your hobbies and interests outside of work? I love spending time with my family and four kiddos, and I also enjoy time with friends. I love to paint and read. I love travel and seeing new places.
I’m especially excited (and feeling a bit bittersweet) because two of my kids are graduating from high school this year! Many Congrats to Christian and Kalina!
3) A fun fact about yourself or unique talent you possess, if any? A fun fact about me is that my first flight was to Bogotá, Colombia. It was such an exciting adventure and sparked my love for travel and new experiences.
4) Favorite book, movie, or music (pick only one to share) and why it is your favorite? My favorite book is The Midnight Library by Matt Haig. I love how it shows that different life choices can lead to different experiences, and it really makes you think about the paths we take.
5) Favorite part about working at Durham Elementary School? My favorite part about working at Durham Elementary is the staff I work with. It is also rewarding seeing the excitement on students’ faces when they learn something new. I feel blessed to be part of a team that supports and encourages each child to grow and succeed.
Hello Durham Community.
We are thrilled to introduce our new TK teacher, Jessica Dean.
Jessica is from Etna, California, and moved to Butte County to attend Chico State, where she got her bachelor's degree in Liberal Studies. Recently, she finished her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and student taught at DES for two semesters. During her time here, she felt very welcomed by everyone and loved getting to know our students, families, and staff.
Let's show our support and make her feel right at home in Durham. Welcome to the team, Jessica Dean
We are thrilled to introduce our new TK teacher, Jessica Dean.
Jessica is from Etna, California, and moved to Butte County to attend Chico State, where she got her bachelor's degree in Liberal Studies. Recently, she finished her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and student taught at DES for two semesters. During her time here, she felt very welcomed by everyone and loved getting to know our students, families, and staff.
Let's show our support and make her feel right at home in Durham. Welcome to the team, Jessica Dean
Tiger Spotlight of the Week: Marilyn Bertolucci, Director of Student Services and Supports
1) Why did you become a Director of Student Services and Supports, and what do you do in your job? I became the Director of Student Services and Supports because it is important to me to make sure students and staff have the support they need to be successful. In this role, I oversee programs like Special Education Services, 504 Accommodation Plans, support for Homeless and Foster Youth, our Health & Wellness Team, MAA, Medi-Cal Billing, and really—anything else that comes up and needs attention. It’s a busy job, but I enjoy being able to make a difference wherever I can.
2) What are your hobbies and interests outside of work? Outside of work, I’m involved with the Paradise Ridge Elementary PTO and love spending time in my yard—it’s my way to relax and recharge. I also enjoy being with family, friends, and my pets. In my free time, I like messing around with digital photography and using technology to manipulate the photos to create fun art.
3) A fun fact about yourself or unique talent you possess, if any? My Italian family comes from a small town outside of Lucca, Italy. The town is Capannori and there is a street named Via Bertolucci.
4) Favorite book, movie, or music (pick only one to share) and why it is your favorite? I love all of Brené Brown’s books because she combines deep research with heartfelt storytelling, making complex ideas about vulnerability, courage, and connection both relatable and empowering. Her work consistently inspires me to grow, lead with authenticity, and embrace the power of being human.
5) Favorite part about working at Durham Unified School District? What I love most about working at DUSD is that it’s small enough to really get to know everyone. Our students aren’t just numbers—they’re seen, heard, and supported as individuals.
1) Why did you become a Director of Student Services and Supports, and what do you do in your job? I became the Director of Student Services and Supports because it is important to me to make sure students and staff have the support they need to be successful. In this role, I oversee programs like Special Education Services, 504 Accommodation Plans, support for Homeless and Foster Youth, our Health & Wellness Team, MAA, Medi-Cal Billing, and really—anything else that comes up and needs attention. It’s a busy job, but I enjoy being able to make a difference wherever I can.
2) What are your hobbies and interests outside of work? Outside of work, I’m involved with the Paradise Ridge Elementary PTO and love spending time in my yard—it’s my way to relax and recharge. I also enjoy being with family, friends, and my pets. In my free time, I like messing around with digital photography and using technology to manipulate the photos to create fun art.
3) A fun fact about yourself or unique talent you possess, if any? My Italian family comes from a small town outside of Lucca, Italy. The town is Capannori and there is a street named Via Bertolucci.
4) Favorite book, movie, or music (pick only one to share) and why it is your favorite? I love all of Brené Brown’s books because she combines deep research with heartfelt storytelling, making complex ideas about vulnerability, courage, and connection both relatable and empowering. Her work consistently inspires me to grow, lead with authenticity, and embrace the power of being human.
5) Favorite part about working at Durham Unified School District? What I love most about working at DUSD is that it’s small enough to really get to know everyone. Our students aren’t just numbers—they’re seen, heard, and supported as individuals.
Hello Durham Community.
We are thrilled to introduce our new sixth-grade teacher, Sabrina Skelly!
Sabrina grew up in Redding, CA, and spent some time in southern Oregon, where she completed her Bachelor of Science in Education Studies. After graduation, she worked as a substitute teacher in Shasta County before moving to Chico to earn her teaching credential.
Sabrina's journey is special because she student taught in sixth grade here at Durham Intermediate School during her credential program and was also a long-term substitute teacher for 6th grade last school year.
Let's show our support and make her feel right at home in Durham. Welcome to the team, Sabrina Skelly.
We are thrilled to introduce our new sixth-grade teacher, Sabrina Skelly!
Sabrina grew up in Redding, CA, and spent some time in southern Oregon, where she completed her Bachelor of Science in Education Studies. After graduation, she worked as a substitute teacher in Shasta County before moving to Chico to earn her teaching credential.
Sabrina's journey is special because she student taught in sixth grade here at Durham Intermediate School during her credential program and was also a long-term substitute teacher for 6th grade last school year.
Let's show our support and make her feel right at home in Durham. Welcome to the team, Sabrina Skelly.
Happy 4th of July, Durham Community. ❤️🤍💙
Tiger Spotlight of the Week: Tom Brosnan, DES Daytime Custodian
1) Why did you become a custodian? I started 11 years ago after leaving 10 years in special education. I enjoyed being a part of the school community.
2) What are your hobbies and interests outside of work? I am on the PVHS Sports Boosters board and I enjoy camping. I was also on the Sober Grad committee this year.
3) A fun fact about yourself or unique talent you possess, if any? I used to be head of concert security for bay area venues. I had to drive Alabama to their hotel in my car after their bus broke down after the concert.
4) Favorite book, movie, or music (pick only one to share) and why it is your favorite? I love country music.
5) Favorite part about working at Durham Elementary School? My favorite part of working at Durham are the families. Its fun to see people around town outside of school.
1) Why did you become a custodian? I started 11 years ago after leaving 10 years in special education. I enjoyed being a part of the school community.
2) What are your hobbies and interests outside of work? I am on the PVHS Sports Boosters board and I enjoy camping. I was also on the Sober Grad committee this year.
3) A fun fact about yourself or unique talent you possess, if any? I used to be head of concert security for bay area venues. I had to drive Alabama to their hotel in my car after their bus broke down after the concert.
4) Favorite book, movie, or music (pick only one to share) and why it is your favorite? I love country music.
5) Favorite part about working at Durham Elementary School? My favorite part of working at Durham are the families. Its fun to see people around town outside of school.
Hello Durham Community.
We are thrilled to introduce our new Special Education Teacher, Evelyn Franzella-Chiem. With 26 years of experience in special education, Evelyn brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to our school community.
Let’s show our support and make her feel right at home in Durham. Welcome to the team, Evelyn.
We are thrilled to introduce our new Special Education Teacher, Evelyn Franzella-Chiem. With 26 years of experience in special education, Evelyn brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to our school community.
Let’s show our support and make her feel right at home in Durham. Welcome to the team, Evelyn.
Free summer meals.
