THS 3/28/25
3/28/2025
Dear Thornton High School Community:
Students, as we enter the 4th quarter, our focus for Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) is Self-Management, with an emphasis on developing a Growth Mindset. We will explore strategies to set goals, manage emotions, and persevere through challenges—skills that are essential for success both in and out of the classroom.
We also want to remind families of the importance of daily attendance. Being present every day helps students stay on track academically and build strong connections with peers and teachers. Let’s finish the school year strong!
Additionally, we encourage students and families to reach out for support from our Thornton staff. Whether it’s academic assistance, social-emotional support, or guidance on next steps, our team is here to help every student and family.
Save the Date! Join us for our Family Community Celebration on Thursday, April 3rd, from 6:00–7:30 PM. Enjoy music, food, raffles, and games—a great opportunity to connect and celebrate together!
Lastly, Spring Break will be from April 7th to 11th. Classes will resume on Monday, April 14th, at 9:00 AM.
Thank you for your continued partnership.
Respectfully,
Dennie Marenco, Ed.D.
Principal
"Failure is an important part of your growth and developing resilience. Don’t be afraid to fail."
- Michelle Obama
Dany, 12th Grader
You’ve completed your high school credits! How does it feel? Of course, I'm proud to be done. But, honestly, I feel mostly sad right now because it feels like childhood's over and I'm growing up really fast all at the same time.
How did you stay motivated? When I transferred to Thornton, I kept my dad's advice with me, which is to "never stress out and take things one at a time." And that created a pretty chill path for me while here.
What's next? I'm not leaving Thornton just yet, since I will work here as a TA and continue my job at Zumiez. But when I'm not working, I'll take some time with family that I've grown apart from and take some time for myself before I start college in the Fall.
What's your super power or hidden talent? I can rub my belly and tap my head at the same time. I can finish 2 double-cheeseburgers from Habit in 5 minutes (don't try this at home). Oh...and I guess I know how to produce movies.
How do you self-care? I go thrifting and I stay outside.
Can you share an example of when you applied a growth mindset to something? learning that I needed to put my foot down and [really] take school seriously and no more [messing] around when I transferred here two years ago
Anything else you want to share…I just found out today that my favorite word is "gruyère."
Photo: Dany (left), with Thornton bestie Kiko, with Sutro Tower in the distance
Dana Martinezmoles a.k.a. Ms. Mo, Transition Specialist
How long have you worked at Thornton? I worked at THS when I first came to the district in 2013. I have been back for 2 two years
What do you appreciate most about the Thornton community? Help will always be given at Thornton High School to those who ask.
What's a piece of advice you could give to your high school self? Your major will determine your income. Choose wisely, grasshopper.
What's your super power? I can pack a car for a road trip like a 90s kid playing Tetris
How do you self-care? I like to be outside. I walk the beach or the bluffs as often as I can.
Can you share an example of when you applied a growth mindset to something? I really struggle to apply growth mindset to life. I rolled in on the tail end of Gen X and cynicism flows through my veins, BUT... I have dedicated a career to helping students feel better about themselves, their academics and the choices they have in front of them. I believe that we all have intelligence and I want us all to capitalize on our strengths and find a hack to compensate for our areas that require growth. My advice is to always forge a path forward and spend less time looking behind you.
Anything else you want to share…My favorite ice cream is pistachio. I love the Giants. I am 3rd generation SF born & raised.
The Princess Project: March 1-29
Dress giveaways are back for the *Prom 2025 season! High School teens can now book an appointment to shop our boutique at 455 Market Street.
Boutique Dates and Appointment Times
• Saturday, March 29, 10 AM–12:30 PM
* Seniors and graduating Juniors in good standing are invited to the Jefferson HS Prom annually. Details above.
