Spark Insider - Spring 2023 Issue

SHOWCASING OUR DYNAMIC STUDENTS, TEACHERS & STAFF

SPARK INSIDER

MEET DPS NOTABLE AYESHA RASCOE

DPS RECEIVES $18 MILLION GRANT

SALUTING OUR SENIORS

MESSAGE FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

MESSAGE FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

Last year, we saw incredible academic growth as we began our rebound from learning loss due to our students’ isolation during the early pandemic:

• Our percentage of schools meeting or exceeding academic growth expectations was the highest in eight years: 86.5 percent.

• Twenty-three of our schools were in North Carolina’s top 20 percent for academic growth.

• We had a double-digit percentage point increase in overall academic proficiency.

• We increased academic proficiency in every tested subject but one (sixth-grade reading).

We’re not content with that progress. We’re continuing to support our outstanding teachers and deploying additional resources to further accelerate academic excellence. But there are other exciting developments ahead.

Thanks to our community’s support of our schools in bond referenda, we’re opening and renovating new schools at a historic pace. Following this year’s opening of the new Lyons Farm Elementary, you can look forward to:

• a brand new Northern High School campus next year,

• the opening of Murray-Massenburg Elementary in 2024,

• a new campus for Durham School of the Arts, and

• substantial renovation projects for six of our elementary schools, with more to come as we work with county leaders on our building plan.

I am excited about the expansion of academic programming at every elementary school, starting in 2024, ensuring that every student has access to daily STEM instruction, visual and performing arts in dedicated classrooms, and global language exposure. That is part of our Growing Together initiative, which is also increasing the number of seats available for families seeking to apply for year-round, International Baccalaureate, and Montessori opportunities. All while increasing diversity, equity, and

access for all students. We are responding to Durham County’s incredible population growth.

We are also working with our community to revise and adopt a new strategic plan to guide DPS over the next five years—continuing to prioritize academic achievement, student social and emotional health, recruiting and retaining the best teachers and staff, fully engaging our families and community, and ensuring that we remain responsible with the financial and operational resources with which you have entrusted us.

DPS remains the best choice for Durham families, and that choice is becoming ever more apparent. Thanks to our educators, school leaders, staff members, and community supporters, we are moving in the right direction. I can’t wait to see what’s next for our students.

Pascal Mubenga, Ph.D. Durham Public Schools Superintendent

DPS PARENT AMBASSADORS Enhancing district and school relations

onnecting with Durham Public Schools families is critical, and the past two years made it even clearer how crucial schoolbased relationships and communication were to students and their families. In direct response to this need, the district launched the DPS Parent Ambassador Program last spring.

“Parent Ambassadors allow us to deepen connections with families in a meaningful way,” said Dr. Dietrich Danner, senior executive director of federal programs and community engagement. “These parents are champions not only for their children and schools, but for all of Durham Public Schools students and staff. They are our cheerleaders in the community, but also supporters and advocates for other families.”

DPS Parent Ambassadors are parents or guardians of enrolled students who proactively engage families, peers, and others in the community in conversations about district programs and initiatives. Additionally, Parent Ambassadors share DPS success and other important information with current and prospective families. DPS currently has 26 Parent Ambassadors. The goal is to have a Parent Ambassador identified for each of the district’s 55 schools by next year.

The Parent Ambassadors meet monthly and discuss district information and initiatives that can be shared among families at their schools. Ambassadors have engaged in conversations about DPS’s Growing Together Initiative, school performance data, and more. It’s also an opportunity for district leaders to hear directly from parents about issues impacting families and students.

“We’ve built a community of trust and accountability among Parent Ambassadors,” said Dr. Melissa Watson, director of student alternatives and supports and one of the program’s administrators. “Everyone is here because they care about student success, supporting families, and celebrating DPS beyond school campuses. It’s powerful.”

Tiffany Foster is passionate about advocacy. When the DPS Parent Ambassador opportunity presented itself, she was more than willing to be of service to the district and DPS families. Growing up, she said she didn’t always have someone use their voice for her.

“I’m trying to be what I didn’t have as a child,” she said. “Advocacy is not about you. It’s about caring for someone outside of yourself. I’m not advocating just for my child, but for all children in DPS while empowering other parents and individuals to better understand the needs and challenges of schools and the district.”

In addition to her Parent Ambassador role, Foster is on the Membership Committee of the National PTA.

The goal is to transform family engagement. Research shows that when families are engaged, student success soars. The connection that families have with their child’s school and other families creates stronger school communities and a stronger DPS. To illustrate that engagement, Parent Ambassadors are encouraged to share their own experiences with current and prospective families.

“To represent the district in this way, with true communication and transparency, is an honor,” said Foster. “My hope is that we can hear the stories of other families and if we can share these resources, information, and experiences with just one person, that’s how we can ignite the spark throughout Durham Public Schools.”

Parent Ambassador Tamara Vanie speaks with other ambassadors at a meeting.

DRIVING SUCCESS

It’s always good to see your work on paper come to life. I love the feedback that I get as well. I’m a big proponent of that. The drivers are actually out there.

New transportation assistant director is an advocate for students and ambassador for employees

chool starts well before the tardy bell rings for the professionals who transport our students to their respective buildings every day. For many of those drivers, it starts before 5 a.m. That’s when they board the vehicles in the morning darkness to warm them up and make maintenance checks to ensure they are road-ready.

But while we depend upon them, upon whom do they depend so that their work is performed efficiently and with proper support?

Enter Annie Fullwood, the district’s new assistant director for ridership and customer service. Fullwood says her mission is to coordinate the logistics required to ensure that all students get to school safely and on time consistently.

Although challenging, the work is exciting to Fullwood. She understands the impact that drivers have on a student’s school day, and the importance of listening to the families and making every effort to address issues that parents bring to the forefront.

A former data manager, Fullwood cut her teeth on the work after her supervisor in Pamlico County asked her to step in as an interim transportation coordinator. She had also worked as a data manager in Brunswick County for an elementary school, high school, and early college, so she wasn’t entirely new to the tasks associated with the job. The South Carolina native has also served the Elizabeth CityPasquotank, Craven County, Johnston County, and Wilson County school districts.

Angela Blake (left), Annie Fullwood (right)

In October, she brought her wealth and breadth of experience to Durham Public Schools.

“I really am happy to be here. I just hope that I’m able to make a difference and that I’m learning and imparting my experience with results,” she said.

She also serves as a bus driver’s ambassador and advocate. She wants the public to know that “drivers really do care about the kids,” she said. As a hands-on manager, Fullwood says understanding and compassion go a long way.

Just as important is data management, she adds. Student information and transportation must be on the same page, she insists. To that end, drivers need correct route sheets, and they need an opportunity to give feedback so that there is continuous improvement.

“It’s always good to see your work on paper come to life. I love the feedback that I get as well. I’m a big proponent of that. The drivers are actually out there,” she said. So she meets them where they are, visiting stops to investigate and “look at the big picture. Sometimes you have to go out into the field and listen to the drivers.”

Customer service begins internally with the professionals responsible for safe, efficient transport. Listening to parents is a priority as well.

“These are their babies, and if a parent is transferred to me, I try to fix it that same day. I believe in helping right away.”

Fullwood says her job requires re-evaluating stops, making sure stops are efficiently routed, making sure buses are on time, communicating with administration and parents, matching ridership information and real-time services, and complying with state requirements.

What most don’t know is that the district’s efficiency rating and its transportation budget are intertwined. “It’s an organized chaos that requires innovative thinking,” she says. How do you handle a 7:45 a.m. start time at a school when you can’t drop students off at the school until 7:15

and you have minutes before you have to be at the next school’s first stop?

And how do you handle bus driver vacancies when the demand doesn’t stop?

“I see what the challenge is, and I have to see it through,” she said. It’s a daily process with daily changes to our bus routes. There’s no stagnation in transportation. It’s always moving. Every single day, there’s an opportunity to learn and to improve. If we’re not doing that, we’re not doing what we need to do for our county and our students.”

Bus driver Larry Dixon proudly serves the students and families of DPS.

DPS ALUMNA BRINGING JOY IN A WORLD OF DARKNESS

hen Ayesha Rascoe settled onto her throne as host of National Public Radio’s (NPR) global newsmagazine NPR Weekend Edition Sunday on March 27, 2022, one of the jewels in her career crown represented her years as editorin-chief of *Southern High School’s newspaper.

“It had a really big impact on me,” she said. “It was a big role in my life.”

Rascoe says she’ll never forget receiving a letter of appreciation–that she thinks she still has today–from a state official for her fair coverage of a dignitary’s visit to the school. Being viewed as a fair, objective reporter is the biggest compliment she says she can receive as a journalist.

Her interest in journalism began at Carrington Middle School, and she nurtured it while in high school after being told about newspaper class. As a junior and senior, it was her favorite class where she made lifelong friends, spent lunchtime in the newsroom, and thoroughly enjoyed covering the news as a newspaper staffer. She also sought other opportunities to write and became a published journalist for the teen section of Durham’s The Herald-Sun

After graduating from Southern in 2003 (shoutout to her English and journalism instructor, Ms. Foster), the rest, as they say, is history. She reiterates that Southern had a big role in her trajectory “because I knew I wanted to be a journalist.” She loved history and writing, thinking she could “write tomorrow’s history today.” And over time, she learned that she could ask probing questions. But let’s be clear, she says, “I didn’t have a five-year plan.”

Now the “queen of questioning” brings 10 years of reporting for Reuters, six years covering the White House, and four years as NPR’s White House correspondent to the national airwaves as host of Weekend Edition Sunday. She’s earned her stripes. She’s traveled abroad, including to Japan and Russia, covering policy, energy, and the 2010 BP oil spill. She’s also covered American legal cases and the United States’ response to a meltdown at a Japanese nuclear plant. Then, she started filling in at the White House.

now encourages aspiring journalists to do the same. She said developing confidence in her ability to do the work was one of the biggest challenges she’s had to overcome. She told herself, ‘I can do this and I have something to offer.’ She faced uncertainties about who she was, what she could do, and what she was offering.

I hope that I can change lives (through information), so I hope that what I do makes a difference. The world is very dark so if I can bring you a little piece of joy and brighten your day a little bit, that’s a gift and that’s what I want to do.

“I thank God that over time, I have (developed confidence), and it has taken time to really develop the idea that I do have something to offer. I’m good at asking questions, I’m good at breaking down complex subjects into a way that people can understand. There’s worth in that. And sometimes the abilities that we have are not the abilities that everybody else has. And if you’re not like everybody else, you’re like well, what is my gift? But your gift is for you and so it can be different. But that doesn’t mean it’s not of value, it’s not of worth.” Her family taught her that she would be successful if she was honest, worked hard, and treated people well. She takes that to heart, and seeks out stories of inspiration to share with her readers and listeners because she wonders how the world will fare through this tumultuous time.

“I don’t think that I had recognized how much time and experience I had built up to that point, things that I could take with me all that time that were of value. And when I got to the White House, I was able to take my knowledge of policy and put that to work.” Her ability to ask thoughtful questions garnered attention, and NPR recruited her in 2018.

“I really felt like I found my voice,” she said.

Her discovery came through hard work. Because she had faced her internal and external difficulties head on, Rascoe

“I worry about the future of this country now… What I always wonder is how people are able to survive and… what can be done to help people live better, fuller lives, and not fall through the cracks. So that is something that I am always thinking about, especially for those people who are from marginalized communities who are often not necessarily thought of. So, I try to focus a lot of my reporting on those people.”

For her, information is key, and giving her subjects a voice is critically important to her work.

“I hope that I can change lives (through information), so I hope that what I do makes a difference. The world is very dark so if I can bring you a little piece of joy and brighten your day a little bit, that’s a gift and that’s what I want to do.”

*Southern is now named the Southern School of Energy and Sustainability.

A GRACIOUS GIFT

DPS receives $18 million grant from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott

ifts come in different shapes and sizes. That certainly rings true for the recent gift Durham Public Schools received from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott. This unexpected package just happened to be an $18 million grant.

“Ms. Scott’s recent gifts to public and charitable organizations have been focused on fostering equity, opportunity, and achievement for American communities,” said Dr. Pascal Mubenga, superintendent. “We are pleased and humbled that Ms. Scott has taken note of DPS’s commitment to embrace, educate, and empower each student.”

The grant, administered by the National Philanthropic Trust, is unrestricted, meaning it can be used how the district sees fit.

A contribution of this nature is rare for school districts and DPS leaders wanted to ensure that considerable thought went into how to prioritize the use of the grant funds. The DPS Board of Education, administrators, principals, teachers, students, and community members were brought to the table to share their thoughts and recommendations.

“When we received these funds, folks wanted to know immediately what we were doing with the funds,” said Mubenga. “It was really important for us to go through the process and ensure everyone was involved.”

A recommendation for how the district will use the funds was presented to the Board for a vote at its February work session and was unanimously approved.

“At the end of the day, these resources will support student achievement,” said Mubenga. “Hearing from our principals, teachers, and students helped inform our direction for how we comprehensively support our students. We look forward to seeing this gift at work in our schools.”

Grant spending includes six primary areas which are connected to the district’s strategic plan. Almost half of the grant - $8.22M - will support academics across the district including professional development for staff, instructional resources, interactive classrooms, and funds to enhance Career and Technical Education programs at high schools.

Implementation and outreach for DPS’s Growing Together initiative for elementary schools will also be supported by the grant, as well as mental health supports, equity programs, and the creation of a Family Engagement Center.

DPS will also allocate:

• $1.28 million for school support including funding support for the DPS Foundation’s WHOLE Schools Movement and also for a teacher housing initiative, plus funding for high school clubs and activities,

• $2.5 million for human resources efforts including the Bull City Scholars “grow your own” program, which helps DPS students attend college and become teachers; math and science recruitment; assisting DPS employees with securing teaching credentials through the DREAM program, and more,

• $1 million for operational enhancements to emergency radio communications,

• $1.5 million for transportation service enhancements to support the Growing Together transition years and a replacement plan for district support vehicles, and

• $3.5 million for required transfers to charter schools.

“I want to thank Ms. Scott for witnessing and supporting the great work of DPS educators and staff to support students and families,” said Bettina Umstead, Chair of the Board of Education. “We will focus on using this to enhance our work with schools that will ignite the limitless potential of our students.”

TOP HONORS

Two DPS schools receive national recognition for magnet programs

akewood Montessori Middle and Middle College High School at Durham Technical Community College were two of only 24 schools nationwide deemed Top Schools of Excellence, receiving highest honors, from the Magnet Schools of America. A total of 10 Durham Public Schools magnet schools have been notified that their programs have earned merit awards for meeting the high standards set forth by the national organization:

The School for Creative Studies earned a Merit School of Excellence designation.

Schools of Distinction honors were bestowed upon:

• Burton IB Magnet Elementary

• City of Medicine Academy

• George Watts Montessori Magnet

• Hillside High School IB

• Lowe’s Grove Magnet Middle School

• Neal Magnet Middle School

• Southern School of Energy and Sustainability

“We are extremely proud of the work that our magnet school administration and teachers are doing to expand opportunities for our students. This achievement is well-earned and well-deserved. I am especially proud of Middle College and Lakewood Montessori for the national recognition that they have earned,” said Dr. Pascal Mubenga, Superintendent.

Principal Donald Jones of Lakewood Montessori said student-staff interaction is foundational to success.

“Lakewood Montessori has a dedicated and talented staff that cares deeply about the students and community we serve. We strive to create an educational experience that fosters academic curiosity and personal growth, and a social community that encourages a thoughtful, empathetic understanding of our relationship with others and the natural world in which we live. Through our Montessori curriculum, we hope students leave us with a deep appreciation of their individual worth and more importantly how that worth can, in turn, positively impact our community as a whole,” he said.

Principal Crystal Taylor-Simon at Middle College High School further states that student supports are non-negotiable.

“At Middle College High School, we use our data to be intentional about providing supports for students. The student supports team and our teachers are creative in

ensuring that the supports match the individual student’s academic and social/emotional needs. Our parents and our community partners also play an integral part of supporting our students and we couldn’t have done this without them,” said Taylor-Simon.

Durham Technical Community College President J.B. Buxton is proud of the partnership forged by DPS and DTCC.

“This designation by Magnet Schools of America is positive proof of the high quality education students receive at Middle College High School. We are a proud partner with Durham Public Schools in ensuring that every student at Middle College High School not only graduates prepared for postsecondary opportunities, but has the ability to earn a college credential or degree while enrolled at Middle College High School. Congratulations to Principal Crystal Taylor-Simon and her team for this achievement.”

The schools will be recognized and receive a Top Magnet School of Excellence Award on behalf of the school during an awards ceremony held at Magnet Schools of America’s 40th National Conference hosted by Dallas Independent School District, April 18-22, 2023.

To receive a national merit award, members of Magnet Schools of America must submit a detailed application that is scored by a panel of educators. These schools are judged on their demonstrated ability to raise student academic achievement, promote racial and socioeconomic diversity, provide integrated curricula and instruction, and create strong family and community partnerships that enhance the school’s magnet theme.

“Durham Public Schools is a top-notch district,” said Mubenga. “These accolades are a testament to the quality education that DPS offers students.”

The principal, students, and staff at Middle College High School at Durham Technical Community College celebrate their national recognition.

AN EVENING TO SHINE

The arts were on full display as more than 500 DPS students showcased the talent at the districtwide event held at the Durham Performing Arts Center in February.

LOWE’S GROVE AND FIDELITY INVESTMENTS PARTNERSHIP YIELDS DIVIDENDS

or more than a decade, Fidelity Investments has partnered with Lowe’s Grove to support teaching and learning. The longstanding partnership has yielded exemplary results, strengthening the relationship between public and corporate entities.

Lowe’s Grove Principal Jessica Austin has served as the school’s lead learner for two years, and considers the partnership “a blessing. When I came in, they reached out to me.”

Every year, Fidelity agrees to work on a large project. They’ve helped to restore the school’s indoor garden, created a Zen garden, helped build outdoor learning areas, painted murals, and supported the 8th grade dance. Fidelity employees have also taught six-week-long grade level financial literacy classes, and hosted students at the Fidelity campus to engage in financial literacy activities. When teaching staff numbers were low as schools reopened after the pandemic, they filled in the gap with their financial literacy classes. They even created teacher wellness boxes after staff returned.

But the pandemic didn’t limit their accessibility, said Austin. They made themselves available, creating posters with quotes and positive affirmations.

“They have really partnered with us, not necessarily with finances, but people-rich assistance. They ask us what we

need and they send volunteers,” said Austin. It’s a simple formula, she says.

Jade Manley, community relations manager with Fidelity, says volunteerism is part of the organization’s culture.

“We value supporting the financial health of communities by creating access and opportunities for underserved students that encourage saving for the future, investing, and building generational wealth. We do this because we believe in a future where everyone is empowered to shape their financial futures and improve their lives.”

Manley added, “Through Fidelity Cares, we create opportunities for associates to volunteer in communities where Fidelity has a presence. In North Carolina, we partner with nonprofits like Activate Good to assist in transformation days at Lowe’s Grove Middle School. These are large-scale projects like building the Zen garden to assist those experiencing food insecurity. Also, partnering with Junior Achievement of Eastern North Carolina to help deliver relevant programming to help plant the seeds for planning for a secure financial future.”

Fidelity has been known to send 125-130 volunteers to the campus for beautification projects; hallway paint spruce-ups (“Sometimes a coat of paint will make you a feel a little bit better about the environment,” said Austin.); and other projects like planter restoration, weeding and mulching, painting benches, installing new benches, and even leaving the school with the gardening tools brought to do the work. Most of the murals in the schools have been painted by Fidelity volunteers.

Austin said she and her staff have a vision meeting with Fidelity representatives in the spring to discuss anticipated needs.

“They have really been a resource,” said Austin. They’ve become almost a thinking partner. It helps us to think a little bit outside of the box, dream just a little bit to positively impact the teaching and learning process. Just amazing. It’s been a huge asset, not just a monetary donation.”

Austin said the partnership has taught her much.

“One of the things that I have learned is that sometimes principals can get so busy and sitting in the principal’s seat can get so lonely. It was great to have a partner in Fidelity that made things a little bit easier. I knew I could reach out to them and they would support. They have been consistent.”

And that support continues to grow. The partnership is expanding to the PTA, and Fidelity employees have met PTA members and discussed initiatives.

“It’s been really great to know that they care so much for the community. It makes you feel like people are invested in our community and the teaching and learning process,” said Austin, who shared that she met a former Lowe’s Grove teacher whose commitment didn’t wane even after leaving the teaching profession. She now volunteers at the school through Fidelity.

That the former teacher would return to volunteer spoke volumes to the relationships and support that help build a school’s culture of success.

“I would really encourage leaders to cultivate that partnership with those who are willing to be with you consistently and be there in person. It’s great to have a partner that is really invested in the community. The staff and the students benefit because it helps to change the work environment,” she said.

One year, Fidelity donated a trailer for Career and Technical Education (CTE) classes to partner with agriculture and CTE.

Rosalind Garmon, the district’s CTE equity coordinator, said Fidelity’s support is invaluable.

“It shows the Durham community that we are connected. They also get the opportunity to see our students and our educators at work. I cannot say enough about Fidelity.”

Fidelity Investments staff pose for a group photo before kicking off Community Day. Fidelity has a longstanding partnership with Lowe’s Grove.

Members of the Fidelity team participate in a campus beautification project at Lowe’s Grove during Community Day.

CENTERING STUDENTS IN SCHOOL NUTRITION

DPS students help district craft menus that resonate with peers

im Keaten and Dr. Linden Thayer are utilizing the privilege of school nutrition leadership to do more than just feed students in Durham Public Schools. The director of school nutrition and assistant director for food systems planning are centering student voices in order to provide sustenance that satiates hunger and feeds the mind. They hope to elevate the school breakfast and lunch experience by listening actively to the ones who are actually eating the food being ordered, prepared, and served in DPS kitchens every day. They are soliciting feedback, thoughts, and ideas from student leaders like the members of Dr. Pascal Mubenga’s Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council, members of the Hillside student community, as well as outside youth advocacy organizations such as Student U and Pupusas for

Education, to get feedback on current operations as well as develop a vision for the future of school food. Keaten’s team is taste-testing menu items like Asian dumplings with teriyaki sauce and new vegetable blends, hosting brainstorming sessions, and holding space for concerns around everything from portion sizes to the cultural relevance of menu items.

Keaten and Thayer are also conducting informal community conversations to bring school food and nutrition to the forefront of our students’ in-school experience, and have received positive anecdotal messages about the improved meals. During one informal conversation, a high school student told them that the dumplings were tasty but they needed dipping sauce. A sauce was then added to the menu.

“We’re excited to engage,” said Keaten, who added that his department is committed to more family and parental involvement as well. “We want to be a part of this

community, and continue to offer things that meet their needs.”

People’s needs change over time, added Thayer. “We need to continue to evolve to meet the needs,” she said. “For example, we have to take on allergies and dietary restrictions in a more holistic way. We have to take on issues that are salient to our student population, like the climate crisis and health disparities.”

That evolution in DPS school food includes expanded partnerships with the Durham County Department of Public Health’s DINE (Durham’s Innovative Nutrition Education) program, which sends food specialists into schools and the community to conduct nutrition lessons, provide hands-on cooking experiences, and teach the history and origin of certain foods. Designed and implemented by the public health department, the program is supported by funds from both SNAP-Ed and Durham County.

In addition to partnerships that help students and the community embrace good nutrition, DPS hosts special events and initiatives like National School Lunch Week (October) and National School Breakfast Week (March) to celebrate and recognize the importance of healthy eating, and events like NC Crunch Day (October) and Taste of NC Day (January) to showcase North Carolina-grown products and producers.

DPS is shifting priorities and values in other ways in its operations. Examples of these changes include prioritizing professional development for staff, participating in DPS Maintenance & Environmental Services and Don’t Waste Durham’s pilot recycling program, and considering how to implement reusable trays and serviceware. Recent USDA grant funding will also facilitate the purchase of an additional $122,000 in local and regional products for programs between January 2023 and March 2024.

Keaten and Thayer ensure that the district’s school nutrition department is represented and participates in a host of wellness, career, food security, and food production spaces within DPS and in the greater Durham community. Keaten co-facilitates the DPS SHAC (Student Health Advisory Committee), and Thayer participates in the Durham Food Security Network and County-City Food Security Team. Keaten and Thayer are cultivating

partnerships with local and regional food producers and distributors to lay the groundwork for future mutually beneficial partnerships.

The department represents a large, reliable institutional buyer for local and regional products, which is key for healthy growth of local and regional producers, aggregators, and value-added processors; at the same time, as DPS looks to a different food future with many more scratchmade items, DPS school food needs to build up the farmer and producer base to support those scratch-cooking efforts. Early pilot menus have incorporated local products from Farmer Foodshare, Firsthand Foods, Guglhupf Bakery, and Lantern Restaurant, to name a few; conversations are continuing to happen with farmers large and small, from the Black Farmers Market to Dawnbreaker Farms to Piedmont Microgreens, about how DPS school food can be a positive player in a healthy regional food system.

Keaten and Thayer believe that food is a central part of the larger conversation in our district around equity, wellness, and belonging. They are committed to listening, learning, and acting for positive change in school food, and through school food; and they are committed to student leadership in this work.

For students and families interested in learning more and engaging in these efforts, please contact Dr. Linden Thayer ( linden_thayer@dpsnc.net ).

SALUTING OUR SENIORS

The Class of 2023 gears up for graduation and life after DPS

s another school year comes to a close, seniors across Durham Public Schools are preparing for a new beginning. Over the years, our DPS family has watched them learn, grow, and persevere. We’ve witnessed them overcome challenges and explore new opportunities. Our school communities and the Durham community honor the work they have done to reach this milestone. Our seniors are to be celebrated. Whether college or career is their calling, the future is bright for the Class of 2023. As we congratulate them for their collective success, we are pleased to highlight a few members of this graduating class as we count down to caps and gowns.

Deniya El-Amin has achieved a 4.5 weighted GPA and will major in criminal justice after graduation. She’s maintained perfect attendance despite a house fire that totally consumed her home. It’s no wonder that her mantra is, “In the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity.” And if you were to ask her what advice she’d give to younger DPS students, she easily offers, “The most important lessons are learned in the difficult times, not the easy ones.”

Academics and athletics have come naturally for Marcus Webb. So much so that the senior–ranked among the top 10 in his class– is entertaining college scholarships for both. Excelling in all of his school endeavors has served him well and he’s thrilled about what that means for his future. Marcus’ mantra is, “Finish it early/now so I don’t have to worry about it later,” which has carried him far. In that vein, his advice to his younger peers is, “Stay on top of your work and don’t let the distractions get to you.”

DENIYA EL-AMIN NORTHERN HIGH SCHOOL

MARCUS WEBB SOUTHERN SCHOOL OF ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY

RUTENDO MUKELABAI RIVERSIDE HIGH SCHOOL

Rutendo Mukelabai’s philosophy on life is to try even if you fail. She’ll carry this belief with her to college when she matriculates to UNC Chapel Hill to pursue a degree in nursing, where she may very well be able to give her patients an opportunity to re-start their lives. She’s seen how effort can pay dividends by watching her parents accomplish much with humble beginnings after arriving in America with very few resources. They are the ones who give her the drive to succeed, she says. She thinks author, singer, and dancer Maya Angelou said it best, “Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.”

Harmony Fairley wants to pursue a double major in political science and criminal justice –then become a civil rights attorney after law school – after she chooses to attend one of the eight universities that have offered her full rides. She has earned the most scholarships in her senior graduating class of 65. “Being in an engaging environment with educators that have a desire and heart to not only educate but prepare you for the next [steps] is more than an amazing experience. It’s a lifetime achievement,” said Harmony. For her peers, she has wise counsel. “Make your school experience your experience! Don’t allow the input of others to stop you from engaging, evolving and being the best you! You are an original not a duplicate so radiate your atmosphere with your originality!”

HARMONY FAIRLEY THE SCHOOL FOR CREATIVE STUDIES

SENIOR SPOTLIGHT

SYDNEY HAWKINS CITY OF MEDICINE ACADEMY

Everything Sydney Hawkins has done as a student has positioned her for the next level of success. After she graduates in the top five percent of her class, the City of Medicine Academy student plans to attend the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill next year and continue her focus on health and medicine and major in chemistry on the pre-med track. Her ultimate goal is to become an orthopedic surgeon with a specialty in sports medicine. She specifically wants to work with athletes to treat their injuries and be a part of their total recovery. Her time at CMA has no doubt provided a solid foundation for her future endeavors. As she looks toward her future, Sydney wants to ensure that other DPS students have the opportunity to thrive in school as well. “I would tell younger students to advocate for themselves,” she said. “Don’t be afraid to speak up and ask questions, but also have fun and enjoy your time in school.”

EMMA CAIN JORDAN HIGH SCHOOL

Emma Cain credits her DPS education for providing her with the best experiences of her life.

“I have spent all of my schooling in DPS and have grown, both as a student and a person throughout elementary, middle, and high school,” said Emma.

“My best memories are the everyday memories I have of playing capture the flag at recess at Morehead, or learning in the glass house at Lakewood, or participating in open discussion in my classes at Jordan. The people I have met and the everyday hands-on learning have been the best.”

Fond memories also led to a lasting legacy of compassion and service within the Jordan High School community.

She and a friend established the JHS A Lotta Love Club, a partner club supporting local non-profit A Lotta Love which works to alleviate the trauma of homelessness by creating dignified, safe, and emotionally-inspired spaces for people living and working in shelters and crisis centers.

JHS A Lotta Love was active while many school organizations shut down during the pandemic. Once students returned to in-person learning, JHS A Lotta Love continued to flourish with an increase in membership and the tangible work they do to support those experiencing displacement - all due to Emma’s passion and organization.

Emma is driven by her future and the goals she hopes to accomplish. “I show up to school, ready to learn and excel so future [Emma] is able to achieve her dreams.”

Upon graduation, Emma will attend the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and major in journalism.

NICOLE ‘NIC’ MARTIN

Nicole Martin, who goes by Nic, says her Early College experience opened doors to a world of friendships and excellence.

“It is a very welcoming and supportive environment that allowed me to perform at my best and exposed me to many helpful resources…My fondest memory as a student is the experience of being able to meet new people and create amazing friendships with other students and faculty both in the J.D. Clement Early College High School and NCCU campus,” she said.

Her teachers and administrators agree that she is certainly a humanitarian.

Carrying forth her commitment to humanity, Nic plans to enter North Carolina Central University’s nursing program to earn a Bachelor of Science degree.

She repeats a quote that she says she’s heard from more than one influential person in her life: “‘Do not view challenges as problems but rather an opportunity to make you stronger.’ I think it is a very good mindset to have so you can continue pushing yourself and successfully arrive at your ultimate destination.”

SENIOR SPOTLIGHT

YANICE GIBSON MIDDLE COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL AT DTCC

Middle College senior Yanice Gibson plans to travel the world and expand her impact on others after graduation. Through a program called Verto Education, she will traverse to Spain to study business for a semester. After completing that program, she will enlist in the Air Force and earn a second associate degree. She then plans to return to school for her bachelor’s degree in business. While she plans to make many memories, she credits the ones she’s made as a DPS student with furthering her success and developing her character. She is particularly thankful for the impact her National Honor Society (NHS) experience has made. After she earned her membership into the NHS, she was intent on making her mark by prioritizing diversity within the organization. She became the chapter’s president.

Under her leadership, she said the chapter raised more than $1,100 to fight menstrual poverty thanks to a team that provided “amazing” support. The project’s goal is to manufacture feminine hygiene care packages and donate them to a non-profit organization in need.

“I am proud to represent Durham Public Schools as a part of my mission to innovate, lead, and to make a change,” she said.

J.D. CLEMENT EARLY COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL

SENIOR SPOTLIGHT

ADRIEN JACOBS DURHAM SCHOOL OF THE ARTS

Purpose-driven. Humble. Mature. Genuine. These are the words that have been used to describe Durham School of the Arts senior Adrien Jacobs. He leads with his heart in everything that he does, and that has certainly contributed to his success inside and outside of the classroom. He will attend Dartmouth College and major in biology as he plans to pursue a career in research. He will also compete as a collegiate athlete as a member of Dartmouth’s track and field team where he hopes to achieve more personal goals and records.

Adrien says one of his fondest memories as a student in DPS was sharing his college acceptance with friends and teachers. He received the big news while in class last December.

“There was a lot of screaming, crying, and happiness that day,” he said. “Finding out I got into my dream college was amazing, but having people in my school who were thrilled with my accomplishment was truly breathtaking.”

While the achievements continue to pile up for Adrien, he knows his greatest and hardest lessons are still to come. “If we never fail, how will we grow? Although failure can be disappointing and at times heartbreaking, it helps facilitate the journey. I believe that the purpose of living is to progress,” he said.

When Mikal Ali leaves DPS, he’ll be taking residence at a different address in the Bull City - Duke University. He is the recipient of the QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship that connects talented students who may otherwise be marginalized to leading institutions of higher education. He was one of 1,755 finalists to be considered for the scholarship. The work he’s put in over the last 13 years is a testament to his determination to succeed.

Mikal is one of the top 10 students in his graduating class. His academic achievements have led him to the Young Scholars Summer Research Institute at Duke as well as research opportunities with professors at NC State University. Learning hasn’t always been easy for Mikal. In his youth, he struggled with reading. His grandmother, who was a retired educator, relocated to help him overcome his challenges.

Mikal says Hillside’s International Baccalaureate program, supportive teachers at the school, his parents, and other mentors have served him well as he prepares for college. He

plans to major in psychology so that he can do his part to help maintain the well-being of Black males.

“I learned through Kamal Bell’s Sankofa program that the rewards in life are in direct proportion to the way you give back to your community. Do your best and give it back to the people,” he said.

MIKAL ALI HILLSIDE HIGH SCHOOL

SOUND OFF STUDENT

DPS students have high hopes this academic year.

We asked three students “What do you love about your school?”

I love the opportunity to take interesting classes and earn college credits while in high school.

Ryan Vook

12th Grade Middle College High School at DTCC

I really like the community. I like how everyone feels included and knows each other.

Zora Lentz

8th Grade

Lakewood Montessori Middle School

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Spark Insider

Spring 2023

Volume 3 Issue 1

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sheena Cooper

Crystal Roberts

Chip Sudderth

I love that all the kids treat me the way they want to be treated.

Diana Sauceda Lopez

5th Grade

Fayetteville Street Elementary School

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER GRAPHIC DESIGN

Tony Cunningham, Jr.

Kevin Brown

Harrison Brackett

Durham Public Schools

511 Cleveland Street

Durham, NC 27701

919.560.2000

dpsnc.net

A BOUT THESPARKINSIDER

The DPS Spark Insider is a publication produced by Durham Public Schools in partnership with Durham Magazine. The Spark Insider shares the stories of DPS students, teachers, and staff with the larger Durham community.

Durham Public Schools Board of Education

Bettina Umstead, Chair Emily Chavez, Vice-Chair Natalie Beyer

Jovonia Lewis Millicent Rogers Alexandra Valladares

The SPARK Insider is sponsored by