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Student representatives spotlight Denfeld activities and criticize local news coverage; students urge clearer communication on staffing and policy
Summary
Student reps and a Denfeld staff recognition highlighted extracurricular activity and student-led advocacy; student representatives pressed the board for clearer follow-up on items such as library staffing, dean of students decisions, and solar and budget impacts.
At the Duluth Public Schools board meeting on March 18, student representatives described school activities and raised concerns about communication, staffing and media coverage at Denfeld High School.
Student Representative Dean, Student Representative, told the board she had not had a recent student forum meeting but shared multiple student-led activities and concerns, including composting efforts, Amnesty International letter writing and spring performance schedules. She praised staff who organized February break support sessions and urged better communication to keep students informed about district decisions. “I felt incredibly welcomed by this board, and I do believe that you really care about student voice, but simply having me here isn't gonna be enough,” Dean said, asking for clearer follow-up on topics students care about, including solar plans, library changes and budget effects.
Student Representative Garner, Student Representative, said she and other students were proud of Denfeld's boys basketball team reaching the state tournament and criticized what she called a one-sided local news segment on vaping and fire alarms that she said omitted context and positive coverage. Garner said the segment included “very hateful and horrible things said about Denfeld students” and that she contacted the outlet requesting a follow-up interview to present student perspectives.
The board recognized two staff members, Samantha Capan (mental health professional) and Maria Forstano (paraprofessional at Denfeld High School), for organizing February-break academic support that drew more than a dozen families. Assistant Superintendent Bonds asked the public to join the board in expressing appreciation for their work.
Why it matters: Student representatives asked for more transparent, timely information from the district so students can help shape policy, and they warned that community coverage of school incidents can affect student morale and public perception. Several students and board members urged that listening-session testimony be treated as individual stories that deserve full consideration.
Board follow-up: Student representatives said they will continue outreach to peers and invited board members to attend student forums; the board committed to sharing links and follow-up information with student reps and to consider greater inclusion of student feedback in committee work.
