Family Engagement & Communications

Pau-Wa-Lympics wrapped up with an exciting Closing Ceremony, complete with podiums, medals, and cheers last Friday!

The Nevada Interscholastic Activities Association (NIAA) and Ingraham Trophies have announced the Academic Team Champions for Fall 2025, celebrating student-athletes who excel both in the classroom and in competition.

Third graders in the MES Kindness Club organized a sock drive this month to donate to FISH, which supports families experiencing homelessness in our community.

Last month, 35 students from PWLMS, CVMS, DHS, and ASPIRE had the chance to take part in a Work-Based Learning experience at the 8th Annual Construction Career Day in Reno.

The PWL News Crew took a field trip to KOLO 8 News, where students got a firsthand look at how a live news broadcast comes together.

Dear DCSD Staff & Families,

As summer comes to a close and we prepare for the first day of school, I want to welcome you back. Whether you’re returning or new to the district, we’re thankful to have you with us.

DCSD students participating in the Young Author program are being celebrated for their creativity and storytelling—so much so that the program was recently featured on the front page of The Record-Courier! Read the Article.

On Monday, May 5, 24 National Junior Honor Society students from Pau-Wa-Lu Middle School had the opportunity to visit the 82nd Nevada State Legislature. As part of the trip, students toured the historic building, met with State Senator Robin Titus, and were formally introduced on the Assembly floor by Assemblyman Ken Gray.

For the first time ever, Nevada has been selected to provide the 2025 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree—and SES students are helping decorate it.

Watch the video and see why French at DHS is more than just a class—it’s culture in action.

DHS Shark Tank, organized by business teacher Mr. Trent Tietje, gave students the chance to pitch their original product and business ideas to a panel of local “Sharks.” Watch the Highlight Video.

DCSD’s Gifted and Talented (GT) program has grown from 47 students to nearly 190 in just three years—and the impact goes far beyond academics.
 

Carson Valley FFA has been hard at work — from hosting their annual plant sale at DHS to representing at the last Tuesday Farmers Market in Minden.

On May 30th, Mr. Dave Giorgi’s 2nd grade class at Jacks Valley Elementary planted a pumpkin patch as part of their class service project.

Across Douglas County, students have been digging deep into hands-on learning—through gardening, hydroponics, and entrepreneurship. Read the Record Courier Article.

Congratulations to the DHS students recognized as Students of the Year by the Elks Club for their achievements in academics, leadership, and service! 

Gifted and Talented students from across DCSD recently participated in the Math Olympiads for Elementary and Middle Schools (MOEMS)—an international competition that challenges students with complex, non-routine math problems designed to build creativity, logic, and perseverance. View the photos on Facebook.

A few favorite moments from Whittell High School’s graduation night—congratulations to the Class of 2025! View on Facebook.

Second graders at Gardnerville Elementary School and Minden Elementary School received special reading pillows a few weeks ago, thanks to a generous partnership between the Rotary Club of Minden, the Carson Valley Quilt Guild, and the Douglas County Public Library. View the photos on Facebook.

Photographer Ron Harpin captured some great moments from Douglas High School’s graduation. Here are a few highlights—congrats to the Class of 2025! View the photos on Facebook.

As part of their Green Architecture class, a group of 7th and 8th grade students at Pau-Wa-Lu Middle School spent the last few months of school designing and constructing a functioning greenhouse that will be ready for use when students return in the fall. View the photos on Facebook.

Congratulations to our 2025 DHS Seal of Biliteracy graduates who have demonstrated a high degree of proficiency in reading, writing, speaking and listening of two or more languages! We are so proud of you! ¡Estamos muy orgullosos de ustedes!

Students from the MES and CCMES News Crew had the chance to step into the world of broadcast journalism during a special news crew field trip to PWL middle school. View the photos on Facebook.

Dozens of students were honored during Scholarship Night for their academic achievements, service, and future goals. View photos on Facebook.

Andrew Parrish’s art class Carson Valley Middle School—students used balloons and papier-mâché to create layered, textured hot air balloons. View photos on Facebook.

Students from Pau-Wa-Lu Middle School made a special delivery to Scarselli Elementary School—handmade clay monsters, each one inspired by the drawings and stories of Mrs. Hinojosa’s 1st grade class. View photos on Facebook.

C.C. Meneley Elementary School set sail on another unforgettable Pirate Literacy Night, an annual tradition that turns reading into a high-seas adventure. View the photos on Facebook.

We’re excited to introduce Alicia Braaksma as the new Principal of ASPIRE Academy High School, Douglas Nevada Online & Jacobsen High School for the 2025–26 school year.

Carson Valley Middle School hosted its annual Career Fair on May 23, giving students the chance to explore future paths and connect with local professionals. View the photos on Facebook.

Minden Elementary School rocked their annual Rock On Walk-a-Thon, raising an impressive $40,090! View the photos on Facebook.

Mrs. Micki Dixon’s art students at Douglas High School recently explored a new kind of canvas—virtual interior design. Check out their final designs on Facebook!

GES students (and staff!) had so much fun during the Necklace Gourd Workshops. Check out photos on Facebook!

Huge thanks to everyone who donated, volunteered, and cheered on our Cougars! Check out photos on Facebook!

Scarselli 3rd graders recently hit the stage for their second play of the year—this one focused entirely on weather science. From types of clouds to the water cycle, students brought their learning to life through music, movement, and storytelling. View the photos on Facebook

Led by Inclusive Education Teacher Brandi Gramolini, third through fifth grade students at Jacks Valley Elementary School participated in an Exploration project called Graffiti for Good: Using Art to Positively Impact Our School Community.

We’re excited to announce that Jennifer Worthington has been named the Vice Principal of Pau-Wa-Lu Middle School for the 2025–26 school year.

We’re excited to share that Greg Thetford will be stepping in as the new Principal of Carson Valley Middle School starting in the 2025–26 school year.

Zephyr Cove Elementary School recently received an Epic Promise Grant from Vail Resorts, giving all 3rd, 4th, and 5th-grade students the chance to experience skiing and snowboarding—many for the first time. View the Photos on Facebook

PHES lit up with literacy fun during Nevada Reading Week!

Students in Ms. Martin’s middle school drama class created a stop motion animation inspired by a Dr. Seuss book. Using handmade props, colorful materials, and a mini studio built from cardboard, the class brought the story to life in a short film that showcases their creativity and hard work.

This past week, our incredible Carson Valley FFA students attended the Nevada FFA State Convention, showcasing their dedication, resilience, and passion for agriculture. Their hard work truly paid off, and Miss Rieman could not be prouder!

Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) is a framework used across DCSD to encourage students to be safe, respectful, and responsible. At both Pau-Wa-Lu Middle School and Minden Elementary School, PBIS has become deeply embedded in school culture—with each school putting its own spin on how they recognize and reward students for positive behavior.

Cougars logged an amazing 108,561 minutes of reading and raised over $17,800 for their Library and Literacy Programs!

WHS's 7th grade volleyball team finished second overall this season—but came out on top when it counted.

Congratulations to Whittell sophomore Alyssa Edie! Alyssa represented Douglas County at the 20th annual Poetry Out Loud Nevada State Finals at UNR, taking the stage alongside students from across the state.

On March 7, the curtain rose at CVIC Hall for one of Douglas High School’s most anticipated events—Mr. DHS 2025. This year’s “Men in Black” theme brought together 13 senior boys for a night of talent, humor, and heartfelt moments, all in support of a great cause. Read the Record Courier Article

Meet Olive Hamner-Jillson, a 12th grader at Whittell High School and National Merit Finalist, who is excited to shine a spotlight on the lake schools and foster a stronger connection across the district as the new Student Representative on the Board of Trustees. Read Olive's Q&A

CCMES 5th graders had an unforgettable day learning about avalanche safety at Spooner Lake with the Kirkwood Rescue and Avalanche Dogs Foundation. View the photos on Facebook.

Congratulations to Lewis S. (6th grade) and Nathan G. (8th grade) from PWL, and Jack J. (7th grade) from CVMS for winning the 24-25 district spelling bee!

Douglas High School Girls’ Ski Team delivered an impressive performance at the state championships at Kirkwood, taking 2nd place in points overall across both days of competition.

The DHS Drama Department recently attended the Northern Nevada Regional Thespian Festival, and for the second year in a row, they have qualified to bring their One-Act Play to State.

Congratulations to the DHS Boys Basketball team for earning the title of 4A Basketball Academic State Champions.

Steve Jobs, Michael Phelps, Albert Einstein, and Abraham Lincoln all made an appearance at PHES — thanks to the creativity and hard work of 3rd graders.

Scarselli Elementary 5th Graders Turn Research into Rolling Masterpieces

MES’s Minden Marvelous Mondays (3M) program gave students the opportunity to explore new interests through hands-on learning experiences this semester.

On January 9, 2025, Douglas High School’s Leadership students took part in the DREAM IT project, presenting their innovative proposals for improving DHS.

DCSD’s 3rd and 4th-grade teachers recently participated in professional development sessions designed to enhance teaching practices and support student success.

Led by Music Teacher Leslie Campbell, all CCMES students participated in winter concerts this month, with 4th and 5th graders shining in these captured moments.

CVMS students recently presented their creative solutions to real-world resource challenges as part of a project on the “Tragedy of the Commons.” View the photos on Facebook

Mrs. Hukkanen’s 1st-grade class at Minden Elementary School recently hosted a delightful book-tasting event! View the Photos on Facebook.

Jacks Valley Elementary's "No-Sew Fashion" exploration class, led by teacher Dayna Haley, is combining creativity, sustainability, and education in the most stylish way. Watch the Video!

Last week, 2nd grade families at Piñon Hills Elementary School enjoyed a memorable Family Night. Students decorated aprons, wore them proudly to serve snacks from the popcorn bar, and ended the evening with an entertaining Readers Theater performance.

Congratulations, Cade Baligad!

Cade Baligad, DCSD's Career and Technical Education (CTE) Coordinator, has been honored with the Nevada Association of School Boards Innovative Educator of the Year Award for 2024!

Congratulations to Xavier R., Zach P., Shawn H., Alex E., and Jeremy F. for their tasty culinary creations during DHS’s Restaurant Wars last week. View the photos on Facebook.

The 4th and 5th Grade Choir at Gardnerville Elementary School, led by music teacher Heather Kuehner, brought holiday cheer to the community during their Winter Wonderland Concert and Sing-Along on December 19th! Take a peek at their practice on Facebook.

Last week's Night of Artistry at PWL was a true celebration of talent and creativity! View the photos on Facebook.

Exploration Mondays at JVES got an exciting upgrade as eight The Home Depot volunteers joined a mixed-age group of pre-K through 2nd graders to help build and paint snow globes. Read the article and Watch the Video.

Students from Jacks Valley Elementary School recently wrapped up an enriching six-week after-school program focused on responsibility, horsemanship, and emotional growth, offered through Between Horses and Humans. Read the article.

As we approach the winter season, we want to ensure that everyone is informed about our inclement weather protocols. The safety of our students, staff, and community is our top priority. Visit our Closings & Delays page.

DCSD is proud to announce Amy Kidman-Delaney as the new Assistant Director of Inclusive Education. Read the News Release

DCSD has appointed Dr. Cheryl Mayfield as the new Executive Director of Inclusive Education. Read the News Release

As we reflect upon Veterans Day, Minden Elementary School students are sharing their appreciation in a unique way. Watch the Video.

On November 6th, Gardnerville Elementary School hosted a memorable Veterans Day assembly to honor and thank those who have served our country. View the Photos on Facebook

Minden Elementary School's Halloween costume parade was full of adorable and creative costumes! View the photos on Facebook.

Congratulations to Whittell High School's Logan Robertson! Read the SouthTahoeNow.com Article

Our 3rd graders from Minden Elementary had a fantastic Halloween field trip to ASPIRE High School's Fall Fest! View the photos on Facebook.

Students had just one week to rehearse, putting in nearly 30 hours of practice, and their hard work paid off with two great performances on October 11.

Our Jacks Valley Elementary students kicked off the 2024-25 school year with a vibrant art project titled "Unity in Diversity," led by art teacher Elizabeth Hastings.

Well into its second year, Gardnerville Elementary School's Student Ambassadors Leadership Team (SALT) empowers 4th and 5th graders to lead and create a welcoming school community.

Sixth graders collaborate with the Nevada State Museum to develop innovative strategies for connecting with their generation. Watch the Video

This month’s Board Trustee Spotlight shines on Carey Kangas! Read the Spotlight

If you’re interested in shaping the future of Douglas High School's basketball program, apply today!

As a 12th grader at Douglas High School, Ender is passionate about giving back to the community that shaped him. Read his Q&A

We’re proud to announce that Coach Mays, in his 4th season as head coach, has been named the Las Vegas Raiders Tom Flores High School Coach of the Week!

Douglas High School Earns Best High Schools Award and AP School Honor Roll Recognition!

Olive's strong academic achievements have placed her among the top 1% of students nationwide.

The 5th graders at CCMES recently participated in their highly anticipated annual Egg Drop Challenge, testing their engineering skills and creativity. View more photos on Facebook.

This month’s Board Trustee Spotlight features Linda Gilkerson, Vice President of the Douglas County School District Board of Trustees. With 30 years of dedicated service to our schools and community, Linda reflects on her journey from a PTO volunteer to a Trustee. Read the Spotlight

ZCES Maker Space Transforms Learning with Hands-On Fun
G. Pedro “Cubby” Kinner has been a beloved figure at Zephyr Cove Elementary School for nearly 30 years, starting as a parent volunteer and now evolving into the heart of the school’s Maker Space. Read the Record Courier Article

Last week, ZCES's 1st graders enjoyed the fruits of their labor by making delicious roasted garlic mashed potatoes with the potatoes and garlic they planted last year as kindergarteners! View the photos on Facebook

We're proud to recognize our talented culinary arts teachers, Sarah Crofton at Douglas High School and Katie Martin at W, who were featured for their outstanding work.
Read the Article

DCSD is excited to announce our new Fire Science program, offered as part of our Career and Technical Education (CTE) offerings at Whittell High School. Watch the Video.

We're excited to honor the outstanding achievements of our past DHS graduates and staff members who have made a significant impact in our community and beyond. Download the Form.

We are excited to invite you to an Informational/Enrollment Night for Douglas County’s online middle school, Douglas Nevada Online.

​Dear DCSD Students, Families, and Staff,

My name is Frankie Alvarado, and I am honored to join Douglas County School District as your new Superintendent. As we embark on this new school year, I extend a heartfelt welcome to each member of our school community.

DCSD is pleased to announce the appointment of Jeannie Dwyer as the new Executive Director of Human Resources, pending board approval.

DCSD is excited to announce the appointment of Amy Carter as the new Principal of Pau-Wa-Lu Middle School, effective for the 2024-2025 school year, pending board approval.

Douglas County School District is pleased to announce the appointment of Andrew Fromdahl as the new Principal of Minden Elementary School, starting with the 2024-2025 school year, pending board approval. Read the news release.

DCSD is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Alvarado as the new Superintendent, effective July 10, 2024.
View the News Release

 Watch the highlights from our graduation ceremony!
Watch the Video

This past spring, Carson Valley Middle School had an unexpected and delightful guest—a charming Swedish Blue Duck named Miss Quackerton! She decided to nest right outside the office with fourteen eggs.

Celebrating Washoe Culture at C.C. Meneley Elementary School!

View the photos.

Congratulations to all the GWHS graduates—see you at the graduation ceremony tonight at 6pm!

DHS Leadership students surprised Transportation Department DCSD-Nevada bus drivers with coffee and donuts early Tuesday morning.

This fall, ZCES Kinders embarked on a kale adventure! They planted kale in grow domes and conducted a classroom experiment with old and new seeds, where the new seeds thrived!

Way to go, Cougars! Gardnerville Elementary School raised $21,896 at their EPIC Walk-a-thon last Friday!

Join Minden Elementary's 3rd graders as they unveil their latest creation: "Healthy Snacks for Kids to Make" — a cookbook designed by kids, for kids! View the Video

KOLO TV News 1

KOLO TV News 2

They call themselves Farmprenuers!

They excelled with a strong 7-0 win over Spanish Springs and are now set to compete in the state championship.

Today's the Day! Join us at Fuji Park from 10 AM to 12 PM for the Giant Student Farmers Market, hosted by Green Our Planet.

Date: Wednesday, May 22, 2024
Time: 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Location: CVMS Auditorium

May 15 | 10AM-12PM | Fuji Park, 601 Old Clear Creek Rd.

Culinary arts teacher Katie Martin from Whittell High School and third-grade teacher Hannah Marks from Zephyr Cove Elementary School guided their students through a cooking class where third graders used mushrooms they grew from kits to prepare stuffed button mushrooms. #DCSDisEPIC

After winning the Northern Nevada Academic Olympics Championships, the DHS Academic Team is invited to compete in Nationals. Donate Here!

Last Wednesday, DHS Culinary Arts Room 106 was transformed into a culinary battleground as the Argentina Team (Liam M, Brinley G, Ethan M, Brent F.) introduced their Chimichurri Grill, setting the bar high for the start of the "Best DHS Restaurant 2024" competition.

All smiles at the annual C.C. Meneley Elementary School Friendship dinner! And Monty's friend, the Easter Bunny, hopped in for a surprise appearance!

Important information regarding school breakfast and lunches. View Information

Piñon Hills Elementary School second graders tracking the solar eclipse!

When: Wednesday, April 3rd, 2024 at 5:30 pm

Congratulations to Logan R. for representing George Whittell High School at the Western US High School Championships in Mammoth Mountain, CA!

Congratulations to the Carson Valley Middle School's Girls Volleyball Team on their TahNeva Championship victory!

Yesterday, the Douglas Animal Welfare Group (DAWG) alongside Douglas County Animal Services visited Carson Valley Middle School, inspiring our community about ways they can contribute to animal welfare.

On February 29th, Minden Elementary School was abuzz with excitement and innovation as their students showcased their math-focused Project-Based Learning experiences at the MES Family Math Showcase.

For the last 6 weeks kindergarten through 5th grade Minden Elementary School students have been working hard on math-focused Project Based Learning experiences during our Growing Mathematicians PBL time.

The Carson Valley Middle School music department is in full swing with honor groups and preparing for festivals that will be happening in the next couple of weeks.

Dive into the diverse range of CTE classes offered at DHS through our new brochures.

Minden Elementary School 4th Graders’ Hot Chocolate Sale Raises $871 for Northern Nevada Children’s Cancer Foundation.

Over the weekend, five DHS Metalworking students took part in an intensive two-day, 16-hour American Welding Society (AWS) Weld Qualification Seminar at Reed High School.

The Douglas County Backpack Buddies Program is dedicated to providing weekend food to families in need.

Join WHS for the 36th Annual South Shore Boosters Golf Tournament on May 4th & 5th at Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course!

Gardnerville Elementary School 4th and 5th graders from the Student Ambassador Leadership Team (SALT), led by the EL Teacher, Michelle Baugh, organized a school-wide door decorating competition.

Jacks Valley Elementary School has launched the second semester of its Explorations program, a hands-on, student-centered

Congratulations to our DHS Agriculture students (FFA) who recently competed in Fallon at the Churchill County 4-H Horse Judging and Livestock Judging on Feb. 9-10th.

Last night, Douglas High School's very own Kellan Pendola and Jordan Hoffman stood in the spotlight

At Whittell High School, Dr. Amy Hope's 6th graders have just wrapped up a semester filled with hands-on projects

Congratulations to the Whittell 8th grade girls' volleyball team for winning the Small School Tournament last night!

DHS Career & Technical Education Students are actively involved in SkillsUSA conferences and competitions.

The Minden Rotary Club has awarded grants to five Douglas County School District staff members: Angela Goff of PWL, Alicia Hill of CCMES, Pam Gilmartin of JVES, and Ethan Petite and Kelly Yost of DHS.

Our Carson Valley Middle School 6th graders have cooked up a winning sandwich - the "CVMS Crispy Chicken Sandwich"!

DCSD is celebrating a notable expansion of its Gifted and Talented Services, which has impressively grown from 47 to 113 students.

Our kindergarteners at Minden Elementary School have shown what little hearts can do in a big way!

PHES's 3rd graders recently took their biography reports to a whole new level by dressing up as the famous individuals they researched.

One of our favorite yearly events is on the horizon! Best of all, every penny goes towards supporting PWL's elective classes! Hope to see you there!

Flyer   |    Pre-order Food & Donate

Pinon Hills Elementary School's Family Reading Night was a huge success!

On October 21, 2023 the Douglas High School’s Interact Club participated in a volunteer tree planting project to help restore Turtle Rock Park following the Tamarack Fire. Students were taught about reforestation by certified arborists and planted over 45 trees!

Read the Record Courier Article Here.

Check out the awesome moments captured during our CCMES elementary school walk-a-thon in these pictures!

At Zephyr Cove Elementary School, a thriving school garden cultivates a sense of connection for young learners.

C.C. Meneley Elementary School's fifth graders just finished their science unit on gravity.

Congratulations, Olive Hamner Jillson, on your impressive performance at the 2023 NIAA Girls Golf Regionals and best of luck at the NIAA 2A state's next week!

Last week Aspire Academy High School had the privilege of hosting a College and Career Fair organized by Alicia Main, Executive Director at the Carson Valley Chamber of Commerce.

The Pipkin Foundation's generous $25,000 donation has breathed new life into the PAC Program