Del Norte Unified School District and Del Norte County Office of Education Receive CSBA Golden Bell Award Recognizing Tribal Partnership Initiatives

Crescent City, CA — January 22, 2026 — The California School Boards Association (CSBA) has recognized the collaborative partnership between Del Norte Unified School District (DNUSD), the Del Norte County Office of Education (DNCOE), and the region’s tribal nations with a 2025 Golden Bell Award. The honor acknowledges the shared leadership and long-standing collaboration of the Yurok Tribe, Tolowa Dee-ni’ Nation, Elk Valley Rancheria, Pulikla Tribe of Yurok Indians, and other Native-led organizations whose cultural knowledge and sustained partnership continue to strengthen educational opportunities for students across Del Norte County.

One of the most respected recognitions in California public education, the Golden Bell Award highlights programs that demonstrate meaningful impact, innovation, and deep community partnership. This year’s award reflects relationships built over years of trust, mutual respect, and shared responsibility—relationships that tribal leaders emphasize are central to the progress being recognized.

“The Yurok Tribe congratulates the school district and local tribal nations for the tremendous progress we’ve made toward establishing a more equitable educational system,” said Jim McQuillen, Director of the Yurok Tribe Education Department. “This award is proof that collaboration is the best way to build a strong and prosperous future for our students. The positive momentum we’ve achieved must continue, and we remain committed to cultivating a high-quality, inclusive learning environment in every classroom.”

For years, tribal governments, education departments, cultural teams, and school staff have worked together to expand cultural and language programs, improve communication pathways, co-develop student supports, and integrate culturally informed practices into classrooms. These efforts have strengthened attendance, wellness, family engagement, and academic outcomes—contributing to rising graduation rates for Native students.

Building on this foundation, DNUSD and DNCOE’s partnership with tribal nations has evolved into a comprehensive, culturally grounded approach that includes Title VI Indian Education programming, locally developed American Indian curriculum, Yurok and Tolowa Dee-ni’ language classes, career and technical education opportunities, and tribally led cultural instruction. These efforts have supported major milestones such as the renaming of ’O Me-nok Learning Center, the expansion of the Redwood Coast Indian Career Pathways Program, the Klamath River Promise Neighborhood initiative, and new collaborative projects focused on early literacy and college-and-career readiness.

Tribal leaders underscore that the success of these initiatives is rooted in collaboration that centers Native students and culture.

“The Tolowa Dee-ni’ Nation appreciates our ongoing partnership with the school district and the success it has produced in curriculum development, student support, and addressing students’ unique needs through collaboration,” said Debbie Boardman, Tribal Council Chairwoman. “By supporting Native cultural events and language resources in schools, this partnership ensures that Native students feel seen and respected, counters stereotypes, and increases their opportunities for academic success.”

District leadership echoed that the award reflects a shared vision shaped by tribal leadership and community voice.

“This recognition affirms the direction our community has chosen together,” said Superintendent Jeff Harris. “Our work with tribal nations is reshaping how we think about education—not as a system that students must fit into, but as one that reflects and honors the cultures and communities it serves. Student success is the result of strong partnerships and a shared commitment to a better future.”

Staff across DNUSD and DNCOE—including teachers, transportation, nutrition services, athletics, family engagement, and student services—play a role in sustaining this community-wide effort, contributing to a system shaped by tribal leadership and collective responsibility.

“Together—with our tribal nations, school leaders, and local partners—we’re reshaping education to honor Native culture and support every child,” said School Board Member Mike Greer. “This award shows what’s possible when everyone works together. It’s a true team effort, sustained by strong relationships.”

Media Contact:
Michael Hawkins
Director of Communications / Public Information Officer
Del Norte Unified School District & County Office of Education
mhawkins@delnorte.k12.ca.us | dnusd.org

Photo caption: Mike Greer (left) and Jeff Harris (right) pose for a photo after accepting the CSBA Golden Bell Award.