Dickinson Public Schools thrives because of its outstanding students, staff, and faculty members. Congratulations to all for your remarkable achievements!
DICKINSON HIGH SCHOOL JUNIOR AVA HAUCK RECEIVES A $50,000 GRANT
Join us in congratulating Dickinson High School junior Ava Hauck for receiving a $50,000 grant to continue her research in the world of science and technology.
Last fall, Ava designed and coded an AI-powered computer program capable of recognizing hematological diseases (including malaria) with impressive accuracy. She originally developed the program to compete in the 2025 Southwest Central Regional Science Fair, building on her participation in science fair competitions since 2023.
Over the summer and fall, Ava set up a business, patented her program, and applied for a $50,000 grant to advance her research. She was awarded the grant and plans to begin her studies at UND after the holiday season, using her new equipment to continue developing her AI technology.
OLIVIA EASUM ELECTED NORTH DAKOTA ASSOCIATION OF STUDENT COUNCILS PRESIDENT
Please help us congratulate Dickinson High School junior Olivia Easum, the newly elected North Dakota Association of Student Councils President, and the FIRST from DHS!
Olivia ran on a powerful message of inclusion, and she’s already leading by example. She showcased to student leaders from across North Dakota what true peer-to-peer support looks like and how it can transform school culture. Her mission? To help every school in the state start a program similar to Peer-to-Peer, ensuring all students feel seen, supported, and included.
2025 NATIONAL CHRISTMAS TREE DISPLAY
Jefferson Elementary students were selected to create ornaments for North Dakota’s tree at the 2025 National Christmas Tree Display in Washington, D.C.
Thank you to Governor Kelly Armstrong for nominating his former elementary school and to the students and staff whose creativity brought this project to life. What an incredible honor for our district and for the young artists representing North Dakota on
a national stage.
ADDISON DAHMUS, A TALENTED ARTIST AT DICKINSON HIGH SCHOOL, IS MAKING HER MARK
Addison Dahmus, a talented artist at Dickinson High School, is making her mark! Her newest piece, “Her World in Bloom,” was created for the Denim & Diamonds Gala hosted by the SW Art Gallery and Science Center, and marks her third year donating art.
The piece sold twice, first for $6,500 and then again for $3,500 after it was donated back. The earnings will support Addison’s college plans.
Her visual arts teacher, Cassy Gebhardt, describes Addison as “an exceptionally talented young artist whose attention to detail and artistic maturity exceed the high school level.” She adds that Addison’s drive and curiosity continue to push her growth as an artist.
Dickinson High School Band Students Shine
Northwest Festival – Minot
Congratulations to the students selected to perform at this year’s Northwest Festival in
Minot:
- Alexys Croft – Flute
- Caroline Utt – Bassoon
- Christian Duchscher – Percussion
- Erin Martin – Baritone Saxophone
- Gabby Herman – Trumpet
- Jordan Hibl – Trumpet
- Lincoln Goettle – Trumpet
- Kaleb Binstock – Alto Saxophone
- Nevaeh Pierce – Clarinet
- Rainey Zettel – Percussion
- Roger Bobbe – Trombone
A huge congratulations to Christian Duchscher, Lincoln Goettle, and Nevaeh Pierce for earning four-year recognition at the Northwest Festival, a remarkable accomplishment that highlights their sustained excellence and commitment to music!
UND Honor Band – Grand Forks
We also congratulate the following students selected for the UND Honor Band, where they’ll perform in late January following a competitive audition process:
- Ellayna Berg – Flute
- Gabby Herman – Trumpet
- Gavin Dvorak – Alto Saxophone
- Lincoln Goettle – Trumpet
- Josie Kensinger – Trumpet
- Marlee Winkelspecht – Bass Clarinet
- Nevaeh Pierce – Clarinet