A community engagement initiative of Harrisburg CUSD 3.
Dear Bulldog Nation,
Spring is a time of growth, renewal, and reflection, and as we celebrate this season, we also celebrate the incredible people who make Harrisburg Schools such a special place. The stories in this issue of Purple! capture the heart of our district—students striving for greatness, educators going the extra mile, and a community that rallies behind them every step of the way.
We see that determination in students like Mason Larsen, whose courage in the face of a life-changing diagnosis has inspired us all. Or Bella Teston, who found her voice and captured a state speech championship. And in Hannah Bartok, who led her middle school basketball team to an unforgettable state tournament run.
Beyond our students, we honor those who dedicate themselves to shaping young lives. The paraprofessionals at Bulldog Early Learning Academy are not only helping our youngest learners thrive but are also pursuing their own education to better serve our children. Meanwhile, Marj DeNeal is ensuring that local history lives on, honoring fallen veterans while shaping the future through her work in the classroom.
In every corner of our schools, people are making a difference. Mr. Bob at East Side isn’t just a safety officer—he’s a mentor, protector, and a daily source of encouragement for students. Jonathan Russell’s years of service on the school board have left a lasting legacy of advocacy. And West Side’s front office team keeps the school running smoothly with care, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to our students.
Our district is more than a place of learning—it’s a family. It’s a place where six-year-old Blakely Stacey leads by example with kindness, where Ray Bordoy dedicates himself to supporting students with special needs, and where every day, someone is going the extra mile to make a difference.
Thank you for being part of this incredible community. Your support, dedication, and belief in our students help make Harrisburg CUSD 3 a place of excellence, compassion, and pride.
With Bulldog Pride,
Dr. Amy Dixon
Superintendent, Harrisburg CUSD 3
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Empowering Students to Succeed: Harrisburg Middle School's Academic Enrichment Program
Mason Larsen's Journey of Courage
Welcome Letter From the Superintendent - Spring '25
More Than a Safety Officer: Mr. Bob's Literal Extra Mile at East Side
Going the Extra Mile: Ray Bordoy's Embodies Advocacy and Support
Full Circle: Hannah Bartok Leads Bulldogs to State Tournament
The Heart of West Side: Four Women Who Keep Things on Track
Eight Years of Educational Advocacy: Jonathan Russell's School Board Legacy
Honoring the Past, Shaping the Future: Marj DeNeal Goes the Extra Mile
Champions in the Lanes: Harrisburg High School Bowling Team Rolls to State Victory
Finding Her Voice: Bella Teston's Journey to State Speech Champion
Beyond the Classroom: Six Paraprofessionals Going the Extra Mile
