Weekly Newsletter – 4/10/2026

News from the Nest

Dear Northfield Community,

As we move further into the spring semester, I want to take a moment to highlight an especially meaningful group in our school community (our 9th graders!)  and to share our excitement for the 8th graders who will soon join us as the Class of 2030.

The transition into high school is one of the most important moments in a student’s educational journey. Research and experience consistently show that 9th grade is a critical foundation year; one that strongly shapes a student’s confidence, sense of belonging, and long-term academic success. The habits, relationships, and skills developed during this year often set the trajectory for the rest of high school and beyond.

At Northfield, we are deeply committed to ensuring that every 9th grader is known, supported, and set up for success. Our 9th Grade Advisory model is designed to create a smaller learning community within the larger school, where students benefit from strong relationships with teachers and peers, consistent academic support, and a focus on building the skills necessary to thrive in high school and beyond.Through our personalized team structure, aligned instruction, and a focus on belonging and engagement, we work to make the transition to high school both meaningful and successful for every student.

For families and students interested in learning more about our 9th grade experience, including our approach to academic support, community building, and student success, we invite you to explore our Future Nighthawks page.

We are also excited to officially welcome our incoming freshmen, the Class of 2030, at our Welcome to the Nest event on April 14th. This event is an important first step in helping students and families connect with our community, meet 9th grade staff and student leaders, and begin to envision their high school journey at Northfield.

We are proud of the work happening in 9th grade and grateful for the partnership of families, staff, and students in making Northfield a place where all learners can thrive. We look forward to continuing to build a strong foundation with our current freshmen and to warmly welcoming the next class into our community.

Go Nighthawks!

Bonnie Martin
9th Grade Assistant Principal
Northfield High School


Key Dates & Events


Student Spotlight

Evo Montoya Receives #MyPlanDPS Achievement Award

Congratulations to Evo, a standout student-athlete and varsity basketball captain, for receiving the #MyPlanDPS Student Achievement Award.

Evo is a scholar in the IB Diploma Programme and the Gifted and Talented program, with a strong focus on STEM and business. Beyond his academic and athletic drive, he is a dedicated community leader who founded a nonprofit basketball camp for refugees and immigrants.

Evo’s commitment to being “world-ready” while lifting others up makes him a remarkable example of the DPS vision in action. Well done, Evo!

Weekly Highlights

April 13–17 Assessment & Schedule Updates

Quick Facts

DateEventStandard ScheduleExtended Time Schedule
Mon, Apr 13CMAS (11th)9:45 AM – 11:45 AM9:45 AM – 12:35 PM
Student SupportInvite Only: 9:35 AM – 2:45 PM 
(4 Blocks + Lunch)
Tue, Apr 14PSAT (9th & 10th)8:45 AM – 11:09 AM8:45 AM – 12:26 PM
Wed, Apr 15SAT (11th)8:45 AM – 11:19 AM8:45 AM – 12:26 PM
Baseball GameCoors Field @ 2:00 PM
Thu, Apr 16Regular ClassesGold Day Block
Fri, Apr 17Regular ClassesNavy Day Block

Nighthawks at Coors Field!

Join us for a Northfield tradition as our Baseball Team takes on Conifer High School at the home of the Rockies!

Important Details:

Come out and support our Nighthawks in this unique big-league setting!


Student Sci-Fi Western Short Film

Looking for a reason to smile? Check out this impressive Sci-Fi Western created by our talented Video Production 1 students! Dr. Dan Clarke’s class has been hard at work, and this specific project highlights the creativity and collaboration of our Nighthawks across all grade levels.

Featured Filmmakers:

“I think they did a great job,” – Dr. Clarke.

We agree! Grab some popcorn and enjoy this unique genre-bending short film produced right here on campus.

Watch the short film.


Military Service Academy Virtual Info Night!

Is your student considering a future at one of the U.S. Service Academies?

Colorado’s Congressional delegation, in partnership with each of the Service Academies, is hosting a Joint Virtual Information Night to guide students and families through the admissions and nomination processes. This is a vital resource for any student planning to apply this upcoming fall or winter.

Registration is required. To receive the meeting link, please pre-register at the following link: Register for the Service Academy Info Night

Don’t miss this comprehensive look at the path to serving as a future leader!


Senior Timeline

Review the senior timeline of events that keep you prepared for graduation!



Hawk Happenings

Northfield High School Poms Team Tryouts (Dance Team)

Searching for our next Pom Team members! We’d love to see our next talent at Information Night and Try It Nights leading up to our Tryouts this April. See flyer for more information on skills required, dates, and registration.  

Register via flyer QR or here: https://tinyurl.com/4nc9hrm7

Watch the team at a Denver Nugget game!


Summer Youth Employment Bonus

The City and County of Denver has launched the YouthWorks Initiative for residents ages 14–21. This program offers a $250 retention bonus in the fall for students who maintain summer employment and meet all program requirements.

Key Opportunities:

The application deadline is Monday, July 6. For full details and additional job fair dates, visit Denvergov.org/YouthSummer.


Student Volunteers Needed: Community Golf Tournament

Looking for a fun way to earn service hours? We are seeking 10 student volunteers to help with the Northfield Community Golf Tournament and the Birdies & Brews Happy Hour!

This is a great opportunity to support the Northfield community and get outdoors!

How to Sign Up: If you are interested or have questions, please email mollyelacy@gmail.com or amykturner@gmail.com.



Athletics

Weekly Shoutouts

Nighthawk Athletics: Keeping the Momentum Alive!

Our spring teams are absolutely on fire right now! Let’s hear it for our athletes who are putting in the work and dominating the field:

Way to represent Northfield—let’s keep those Ws coming!

Upcoming Events

Good luck to all our Nighthawk athletes as they take the field, court, and track. Let’s show up, show out, and cheer them on!

Can’t Attend? Most games are available to watch via a HUDL subscription.

Stay Up to Date: Check the Full Nighthawk Schedule Here.

Note: Starting this season, the district has switched to ArbiterLive for real-time updates and schedule changes.

Tickets: Purchase online or in person via GoFan; for regular season events.

Let’s show up, show out, and cheer on our Nighthawks!



Staff Spotlight

Ann Faciane

This week, we’re shining the light on Ann Faciane, a vital member of our Career & College Success (CCS) team. When Ann learned she’d be placed at Northfield, she was thrilled to join a school known for its rigor and success. Now that she’s here, her favorite part of the job is helping Nighthawks explore the world around them and find their “spark.”

While Northfield is a big place, Ann felt right at home as soon as she received her very own personalized staff jersey. “I felt official!” she says. She’s been met with warm smiles and open doors ever since, collaborating with teachers across the building to make sure students know exactly what opportunities are available to them.

For Ann, nothing beats the excitement of a Career Exploration field trip. Watching students talk to professionals and walk away with a sense of “I can do this” is what it’s all about. Her best advice for anyone joining the flock? Don’t be afraid to lean on your co-workers for guidance—this is a community that truly looks out for one another.

When she’s off the clock: Ann is a fan of the simple joys. You might find her trying out a new coffee shop, reading a memoir, or listening to a podcast to gain new perspectives. She also loves to cook, ride her bike, and never misses a chance to watch women’s basketball.

We’re so glad you’re part of the team, Ann!



Community Notice

Celebrate Your Teachers: Student Submissions Needed!

Teacher Appreciation Week is May 4–8, and we want to hear from our Nighthawks! DPS is looking for student quotes to feature on their website and social media.

Deadline: All submissions must be in by Friday, April 24.

What to do: Have your student share why they love their teacher by completing the Student Quote Form.


Save the Date: Early Bird Registration

It’s almost time to gear up for next year! The “Early Bird” Online Registration window officially opens next month. Registering early helps ensure a smooth start to the fall and minimizes technical hiccups.

It’s almost time to gear up for next year! The “Early Bird” Online Registration window officially opens next month. Registering early helps ensure a smooth start to the fall and minimizes technical hiccups.


Join the Conversation: Board of Education Sessions

Our Board of Education members want to hear from you! Over the next few months, board members will host community engagement sessions to discuss district policies and gather family input.


E-Bike & Scooter Safety Panel

Central Park United Neighbors (CPUN) is hosting a community panel discussion on E-Bikes and Safety, and our school families are encouraged to attend!

As e-bikes and scooters become more popular for getting to school and exploring our neighborhood, this event aims to foster a positive, constructive conversation about how we can all share the road (and sidewalks) safely.

Who: Students, parents, and educators are all welcome!

What will be discussed? The panel will cover the benefits and risks of e-mobility, the rules of the road, and how riders can safely interact with pedestrians and cars in our parks and streets.

For more details, please visit the CPUN website or check out the attached flyer. We hope to see our school community well-represented in this important neighborhood dialogue!



Support Our School

Adult Volunteers Needed: IB Testing Support

We are looking for adult volunteers (parents and guardians) to help create a successful testing environment for our students during the upcoming IB exams. You will be paired with a licensed DPS staff member at all times to assist with student questions and monitor the room.

Our Goal: We need 4 volunteers per shift to meet our goal. Can you help us fill a slot?

Available Shifts:

Requirements & Tips:

Sign Up & Start Your Background Check

Thank you for supporting our Nighthawks during this important testing season!


Spring Showdown: Women’s Pickleball Tournament

Support the Northfield High School Women’s Soccer Program at our upcoming tournament! From seasoned pros to total beginners, all skill levels are welcome for a night of competitive pool play and a championship round.

Register Here to Play!

Smoothie King Fundraiser: Sip for Soccer!

Support the NHS Women’s Soccer Program by visiting Smoothie King Northfield! 10% of all sales all day will be donated directly to the team. Grab an acai bowl for breakfast or a refreshing smoothie before/after the NHS vs. Rangeview game!

No flyer needed—just stop by and treat yourself to help the team!