Tiger Spotlight of the Week: Maria Montante, Reading Instructional Paraprofessional/Yard Duty and Cafeteria Supervisor/Reading Pals and Math Buddies Coordinator
1) Why did you become an instructional paraprofessional? I was a preschool teacher for 13 years before I decided to be a para at DES. My daughter was in Kindergarten at the time, and I felt like I wasn't able to be involved as much as I should because we were on different schedules. First grade year started for her and our district sent an email with an open para position. I took it as a sign, I applied for the job, and have been here since. This upcoming school year will be my 10th year at Durham Elementary.
2) What are your hobbies and interests outside of work? You might find me at a few places outside of work. The first place would be at a softball field with my loud cup and cow bells cheering for my daughter Catherine. Another place you can find me is at a live show. I've been to numerous concerts so many I have lost count. The last place you can find me is enjoying time with family and friends.
3) A fun fact about yourself or unique talent you possess, if any? I was a preemie when I was born. I weighed a pound and a half.
4) Favorite book, movie, or music (pick only one to share) and why is it your favorite? My favorite book is Les Miserables by Victor Hugo. My English teacher assigned the book my Sophomore year of high school and it just so happened my dad read it during school when he was growing up in Sicily. My favorite part of my day was dinner time when we had time to talk about the book together.
5) Favorite part about working at Durham Elementary School? My favorite part about working at Durham Elementary School are the awesome kids I get to see every day on the playground or at Reading Discovery and the amazing staff we have at our site. I am very lucky to be a part of such a great community.
Good luck to Mrs. Rigsbee and Anne Marie Spafford
Mrs. Rigsbee has been teaching at Durham Intermediate School for over three decades, but only three days remain before she heads into a well-deserved retirement.
We were able to recognize Mrs. Rigsbee for her dedication to Durham students at this week’s board meeting. The next day, Teri DuBose from United States Representative Doug LaMalfa’s office came to Mrs. Rigsbee’s classroom to honor her service to students. (see attached pictures).
Mrs. Rigsbee (and Raider too) will be missed terribly at Durham Intermediate School, but we wish her a very long and happy retirement.
After 24 years at Durham Elementary School, Reading Discovery Paraprofessional Anne Marie Spafford informed us she will also retire at the end of the school year.
A longtime Durham resident, she not only raised her children in this community but has spent decades shaping the lives of countless others through her passion for literacy. Her contributions extend beyond the school day—she has tutored students after school, devoting extra time to ensure every child had the opportunity to become a confident reader.
For the past two years, she has served as our volunteer coordinator for the Reading Pals program, playing a key role in launching and sustaining this impactful initiative. Thanks to her leadership, students have been paired with caring volunteers who support them on their reading journey.
Thank you, and enjoy your retirement.
Hello Families,
All students interested in participating in sports at DHS and DIS during the 2025-2026 school year must have a Physical Completed before participation. We are asking for a $10 donation to help offset any costs that may occur.
Please make sure to complete the following CIF Pre-participation Physical Evaluation (PPE) forms and bring them with you on June 3rd.
https://dhs.durhamunified.org/o/dhs/documents/athletics/athletics-forms/required/284494
Last week the high school hosted eighth grade students at the high school. The 8th grade students were in the gym for the Associated Student Body officer election speeches, and then shadowed older high school students around the high school for the day.
Meanwhile, at the intermediate school, fifth grade students received the grand tour of the intermediate school campus they will attend next year.
Tiger Spotlight of the Week: Dana DelCarlo, First Grade Teacher
1) Why did you become a teacher? After changing my major 3 times at Chico State, a counselor informed me that I was only 2 classes from having a Liberal Studies Degree. The next thing I knew, I was in the credential program and had discovered my dream job. After 31 years, I still can’t imagine doing anything else.
2) What are your hobbies and interests outside of work? I love fabric, planting in my yard, reading, music, pickleball, paddleboarding, 4 wheeling, and the mountains.
3) A fun fact about yourself or unique talent you possess, if any? I LOVE the water! Put me on a boat in the middle of a lake any day!
4) Favorite book, movie, or music (pick only one to share) and why is it your favorite? My favorite movie is Top Gun because “I feel the need for speed!”
5) Favorite part about working at Durham Elementary School? I get to see kids, family and friends every day!
Tiger Spotlight of the Week: JoAnna Richer, Behavior Intervention Paraprofessional
1) What made you decide to work as a Behavior Intervention Specialist?
Becoming Mrs. Jo began studying Behavioral Science/Psychology in college, followed by years working in Probation. After the birth of my daughter, I stayed home to raise my daughter and pursue Art. Then a friend, who worked at DES, shared my history with administration at the school. At that time there was a class that was struggling with behaviors and had a high percentage of children with a history of ACES (Adverse Childhood Experiences). I worked, part time, with only that class for three months and the focus was the whole class Social and Emotional instruction and 1:1 connection building. It was so successful that efforts were made to continue building a SEL program. What started out very specialized 15 years ago has become a normal practice nationwide. Durham Unified recognized, early on, that the social and emotional needs of our children directly relate to their academic and social success. But the best part!...I get to support the foundations of friendship and curiosity to last a lifetime.
2) What are your hobbies and interests outside of work?
If I'm not re-designing, building, or creating some form of art then you probably won't be able to find me...because...I'm probably hiking, fishing, or gold panning off grid.
3) A fun fact about yourself or a unique talent you possess, if any?
Fun fact, by the time I was 14 years old I moved with my family 12 times to different locations all over the world. My upbringing with my family is a Rags- to-Riches tale with parents from exceedingly humble beginnings that worked hard to get educated, disciplined enough to save money, and were brave enough to pursue interests.
4) Favorite book, movie, or music (pick only one to share) and why is it your favorite?
Favorite movie of all time is 300. Although I love the Greeks, Spartans knew how to collaborate. Close second...Speilbergs' The Color Purple...takes me home to Mississippi.
5) Favorite part about working in Durham Elementary School?
Laughing...a lot... with kids, parents, and DES staff!
Durham Intermediate School added a BCOE FOCUS special education classroom this school year. Today, the students in this class participated in the Special Olympics event at Harrison Stadium in Oroville. The students wore nice new Durham Intermediate School shirts for the events (A big thank you to Mr. Pena)
Over the weekend, the DHS Jazz band went to a competition in Santa Cruz where they took 1st place in their division and 2nd overall out of 14 schools! Alex Grandstaff won the overall jazz soloist award.
They did an awesome job!
This is an excellent opportunity for children to attend our Durham High Volleyball Team Fundraiser during an awesome week-long volleyball camp from July 14-17, 9 AM to Noon. This is a fantastic opportunity for incoming 2nd - 8th graders to have a great time, learn new skills, and make new friends on the court.
Sign up now, and let's serve up some excitement.
Volleyball Camp Registration:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfqlO_JP-l4dtsaDnNYGnPN245-2U9kFQO_4-oAlbrwoGX1Jg/viewform
Exciting News!
We are thrilled to announce that we have successfully installed over 50 Verkada cameras on our campuses.
This upgrade is an essential step towards improving the safety and security of our students and community.
Safety is our top priority, and these advanced security measures will help us protect our students, staff, and visitors, making our community a safer place to learn and grow.
So, when you visit Durham Unified, remember to smile because you’re on camera! 😊
Together, we’re building a safer environment for everyone.
Thank you for your support, Durham Community.
We finally made it to Spring Break! I hope everyone has the opportunity to regroup, visit with loved ones, and have some fun during spring break.
It is kind of crazy that we only have 23 days of school remaining when we return from break. We all have to work hard to make the final sprint as positive and meaningful as possible for all of our students.
As we hit May, we will hit the season of end of year events very quickly. Here are some of the bigger events:
Tiger Spotlight of the Week: Hayley Hughes, 3rd Grade Teacher
1) Why did you become a teacher? I became a teacher because I have always loved working with kids. After being a social worker for many years and a substitute for a few years I realized how watching students learn and grow is such a fantastic experience that I knew I wanted to be a part of on a deeper level!
2) What are your hobbies and interests outside of work? Outside of work I love spending time with my family and friends. I especially love watching my boys play sports and do all the things they love!
3) A fun fact about yourself or unique talent you possess, if any? I am teaching in the same classroom I was in as a 2nd grader!
4) Favorite book, movie, or music (pick only one to share) and why is it your favorite? Music is one of my favorite things! I love all types of music!
5) Favorite part about working at Durham Elementary School? There are so many reasons I love working at Durham! Durham is my hometown and where my kids are growing up. Also, I love the staff and families in Durham, it is such a unique and special place!
Attention DES Parents!
Just a reminder that tomorrow is School Spirit Career Day. Students are encouraged to dress up for the job they want to have. We can't wait to see them showcase their dreams. Go Tigers
Attention Parents
Just a reminder that this Friday, April 18, 2023, all three schools will have a minimum day to kick off Spring Break. We wish everyone a fun break and can't wait to see everyone back at school on Monday, April 28.
The high school staff held an underground homecoming this week with dress up days each day of the week. The dress up days included Anything but a cup day, blackout day, Hat Day, Adam Sandler Day and holiday day
We are thrilled to introduce our new Intermediate Principal, Josh Rowe!
Hello, my name is Josh Rowe and it is my privilege and honor to be joining the DIS family. I have lived in the North State since moving to come to school at Chico State in 1998. As an undergrad student I was a 4 year letterman on the Chico State Track and Field team where I threw Hammer and Discus. My wife, Courtney, is a Chico native and she has the most difficult job I can think of, she is a homemaker staying home with our children. Together we have three children Lila (12), David (10) and Benjamin (7). Outside of work and family, I love swimming, camping, taking the kids fishing, and humbling myself regularly on the golf course.
My wife, Courtney, is a Chico native and holds what I believe is the most demanding job out there: she’s a full-time homemaker raising our three amazing (and very energetic) kids—Lila (12), David (10), and Benjamin (7). Outside of work and family, I love swimming, taking the kids fishing, and humbling myself regularly on the golf course.
Professionally, I started my career teaching History and English to grades 7–12 at Williams Jr./Sr. High. I spent 10 years in the classroom before moving into administration, where I’ve had the privilege of serving students from transitional kindergarten all the way through high school for the past decade.
As a school leader, I believe in the power of relationships—real, honest, human connections with students, staff, and families. Those relationships are the foundation for success in school and in life.
Returning to Durham feels a bit like coming full circle—I actually began my teaching journey here as a student teacher in 2003 at DHS under Brian Harvey. I’m excited to partner with each of you to provide our students with an exceptional education and an even brighter future.
My door is always open (figuratively and literally), and I can’t wait to meet you, work alongside you, and support you in any way I can. Looking forward to a great year together at DIS!
April’s DHS Student of the Month is Cayden Swain. Cayden has a 4.07 GPA and was on Durham’s swim team. Cayden will be going to Butte College in the fall. Mr. Swain would like to major in music. He is currently taking Advanced Biology, SOU English, Economics, and all the music classes you can take. Cayden has been attending Durham schools since Kindergarten.
We have the SWEETEST WAY to support Durham High School PTS!
Just in time for all of the upcoming springtime festivities, you can purchase vouchers for yummy treats from Chico Nothing Bundt Cake.
They can be used any time, don’t expire, and make great gifts!!!
Place your order TODAY! Click the link - https://durhampts.ejoinme.org/cakes
Tiger Spotlight of the Week: Molly Knobbe, 2nd Grade Teacher
1) Why did you become a teacher? I became a teacher because of all the amazing teachers I had growing up. I loved school as a child. My teachers made me feel safe, valued and heard. I aspire to create that same environment for my students.
2) What are your hobbies and interests outside of work? I have a lot of hobbies, my main focus outside of work is coaching high school golf. I played golf in HS and college and it brings me so much joy to help my team gain skills and achieve their goals within the sport.
3) A fun fact about yourself or unique talent you possess, if any? I’ve lived in Norway.
4) Favorite book, movie, or music (pick only one to share) and why is it your favorite? My favorite movie is My Fair Lady. It’s a classic.
5) Favorite part about working at Durham Elementary School? I love working at DES because of my amazing colleagues. It is also an added bonus that I get to see my wonderful nephews more often!
Happy Paraprofessional Day to all the amazing Paraprofessionals at DES. Mrs. Brown and the entire Durham Elementary staff want to express their heartfelt thanks to our incredible Paras. Your hard work, dedication, and support make DES an extraordinary school. Your efforts truly do not go unnoticed. We appreciate all that you do!
