Del Norte’s 60th Anniversary “ReuKnighted for the Castle” was filled with smiles, surprise sightings of former classmates and teachers, student and alumni performances, memorabilia, alumni artists, music and cake during the October 5, 2024 event. Some 25 all-day volunteers were joined by over 500 former teachers & principals, DNHS graduates & their families, APS administrators, and various local elected officials as Del Norte High School in Albuquerque celebrated its 60th anniversary of opening in 1964.
Action was heavy at the registration table where participants received a 60th commemorative program, bracelet and pen. Former students from all seven decades of DNHS commented on the contrasts of the beehive shaped, six-sided, one story “old buildings” with the sleek, windowed multi-story building from 2012. All campus buildings were available to tour including the 1964 gymnasium-the only remnant from the original campus.
The cafeteria hosted the birthday cake, 35-plus item silent auction, video of the original school and sale of surplus yearbooks. Music of all seven decades, was courtesy of Alliance Audio Visual.
The 11am ceremony featured student participation from the junior ROTC honor guard, National Anthem sung by junior Aubrey Lujan, orchestra and band performances and dancing by the Folkorico class. Retired teacher Elaine Alarid brought some 25 alumni adult dancers and the “next generation” of children’s dancers. In colorful dancewear, they gave an energetic 30 minute program of traditional Mexican dances. Del Norte principal Ed Bortot accepted the Council proclamation of “Del Norte Day” signifying the historic occasion. It was presented by Dist. 4 Councilor Brook Bassan. Volunteers honored were board member Janet Saiers, class of ’66 and website manager, Dan Jones, class of ’70.
Festivities continued in the three story main building which had an alumni art exhibit on the 3rd floor, breath taking mountain views from the library, demos by the E-sports club, photo opportunities, displays of class pictures, the Lance student newspaper and sale of 60th merchandise from earrings to T-shirts, hats and hoodies. Visitors got to see the student decorated doors which showed the 1960s heritage of DN’s first years.
“Once A Knight, Always a Knight” was truly the theme of the celebration.
