It's an exciting day for basketball! Today, we have games both away and at home against East Nicolaus. Our boys team will be playing at home, with the JV game starting at 5:30 PM. Our girls team will be away, and the JV game also starts at 5:30. Good luck to both teams, and Go Trojans.
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT! Mark Davis, who graduated in 2023 and enlisted in the US Air Force. He officially graduated from basic training on March 6th and 7th, 2024.
One of our favorite stories about Mark is how he looked forward to lunchtime each day, eagerly anticipating the sweet surprise of candy from home for dessert. The surprise always brought a smile to his face.
Thank you for your service, Mark. We’re proud of you.
The District Office will be closed tomorrow, December 27, and reopen on December 30. Thank you, and have a great weekend.
Happy Holidays to all.
What a wonderful surprise for the students at Durham Elementary! A visit from Santa and his elf, Mr. and Mrs. Pisenti. It's such a special way to celebrate the holiday season!
The weekly District updates are now live! Check out the news here:
https://www.durhamunified.org/o/dus/page/superintendents-weekly-update
Tiger Spotlight of the Week: Stacey Blake, Librarian
1) Why did you become a teacher? It's been a long and crazy journey to get to this position at DES, but being the school librarian is where I fit best. Reading to students and interacting with them daily truly fills my bucket. The joy and excitement they bring to each reading session is incredibly fulfilling. It's rewarding to see their curiosity spark and to be part of their learning journey. I truly love my job.
2) What are your hobbies and interests outside of work? Outside of DES, I enjoy reading, spending time with my family and friends, playing games, and taking weekend trips with my wonderful husband of 33 years. These moments of relaxation and connection are incredibly important to me, and I cherish the time I get to spend with loved ones, creating lasting memories. Whether it's exploring new places or simply enjoying a game night, these experiences bring joy and balance to my life.
3) A fun fact about yourself or unique talent you possess, if any? My children share a birthday. My son, Nicholas, was born on June 14, 1994, and my daughter, Madeleine, was born on June 14, 1996. It's always a special day for our family, celebrating both of them together!
4) Favorite book, movie, or music (pick only one to share), and why is it your favorite? I've watched many movies that I've loved, but my favorites will always be Disney movies. Many Thanksgivings have been spent watching a Disney movie with my whole family, laughing and crying together. These movies hold a special place in my heart, as they've created lasting memories and brought my family closer through shared moments of joy and emotion.
5) Favorite part about working at Durham Elementary School? Over the last 16 years, I've seen many changes in the Durham district. I've gained new friends, met many people, and watched students grow into wonderful human beings. The one thing that has remained constant, however, is the sense of community. The staff and students truly become a family here. It's a great place to live and work, and I'm grateful for the connections and experiences I've had along the way.
Just a reminder that tomorrow is a minimum day for all schools as we kick off winter break. We wish all our students and families a joyful holiday season filled with fun and relaxation. We'll be back to school on January 6, 2025.
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT!
Jake Ilukowicz is a member of the 2023 graduation class and a Durham student from K-12. Not only did Jake excel in academics at Durham, but he was also a section champion in baseball and basketball.
Jake is attending Texas A&M, pursuing a Sports Management degree with a Marketing minor. Jake is on the path to achieving his dream of working for a professional sports team.
Congratulations, Jake. We're all so proud of you.
🍕🥤🥗It’s time for some MOD Pizza!!! Durham High School PTS is holding a TROJAN TAKEOVER at MOD PIZZA TODAY (all day long). DHS PTS will receive 25% of sales* during this fundraiser. Participate by ordering online using the code MODGIVES25 or by visiting MOD located at 851 East Avenue, Suite 150 in Chico, and show this fundraiser flyer or mention the fundraiser at checkout. 🥗🥤🍕PLEASE SHARE with your family, friends, and neighbors!!!
* Tax, gift cards, and retail sales are excluded from the donation.
The weekly District updates are now live! Check out the news here:
https://www.durhamunified.org/o/dus/page/superintendents-weekly-update
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT!
Weston Stumbaugh, a member of the graduation class of 2023!
Weston currently serves in the 3rd Marine Division and is stationed at Camp Courtney on Okinawa. Weston exemplifies dedication and excellence. He began his journey at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego, where he completed boot camp from January to April. Through hard work and determination, Weston earned the rank of Private First Class.
Weston's commitment continued at Military Occupational Specialty training at Ft. Sill in Lawton, OK, from May through August. His exceptional performance led to a well-deserved, meritorious promotion to the rank of LCpl as an honor graduate.
His achievements reflect his hard work, determination, and the values instilled in him as a Marine. We couldn't be more proud of him and his accomplishments! We admire his accomplishments and are proud of him.
Thank you for your service and your contributions to our nation!
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
Hailey Corona is a member of the class of 2021. She has been working at Azads Martial Arts Center for almost three years. She is an instructor on the floor and runs the summer camp program. Hailey teaches students five days a week and absolutely loves what she does! She is currently two belts away from earning her First-Degree Black Belt and is excited to reach that goal very soon.
Thank you, Hailey. Your passion and commitment truly make a difference.
We have a girls basketball tournament happening this Thursday! Come out to support our talented players as they compete and show their skills. Go Trojans!
Our pre-enrollment for new students is officially LIVE on our website. https://durhamunified.aeries.net/enrollment/Eligibility.aspx?step=year This is specifically for NEW TK or Kindergarten students, as well as any NEW students entering other grades. If you're new to the district or know someone who is, now is the perfect time to get started! Spread the word and visit our website for more information. https://www.durhamunified.org/
Exciting things are happening at Durham Elementary. Our outstanding teachers are embracing the season with tons of fun art and activities. Today, we had a door decorating contest, and the creativity on display was truly impressive. The district staff judged the entries and selected two classes to be rewarded with a party of their choice. Fun times at DES today.
DHS
Student of the Month
December’s Student of the Month is Ty Webb. Ty has a 4.15 GPA and is on Durham’s Ski and Golf team. Ty has applied to several colleges this year, including Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, University of Utah, University of Nevada, Reno, and Chico State. Ty would like to major in Civil Engineering or Construction Management. He is currently taking Physics, SOU English, AP government, and Calculus at Butte College.
Ty has been attending Durham School since kindergarten.
The weekly District updates are now live! Check out the news here:
https://www.durhamunified.org/o/dus/page/superintendents-weekly-update
The Herb Jergentz Boys Basketball Tournament begins tomorrow at 9 AM.
All tickets can be purchased at Gofan.com or with a debit/credit card at the door. No cash will be accepted at the door but cash will be accepted at the concession stand. Use the QR below to make a purchase on your phone. Sports Boosters Passes will not be accepted.
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
Mike Crete is a member of the Class of 2006. He went on to work for CalFire and is now a fire captain in Butte County. We are proud of Mike and thankful for his service.
