Central DeWitt School District -

🦃 Happy Thanksgiving, Saber Nation! We’re sending a BIG helping of gratitude to our amazing students, hardworking staff, and supportive community. You make Central DeWitt a truly special place, and we’re so thankful for each of you!

Don’t forget: Thanksgiving Break is November 26th–November 30th! Enjoy the food, the laughs, the downtime, and all the little moments that make this holiday special. 🥧🍂

We’ll see everyone back and ready to roll on Monday, December 1st! Have an amazing break, Sabers! 💛💜

#gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #cdms #cdis #ekstrandelementary #thanksgiving #thanksgivingbreak #happythanksgiving #GratefulForYou #GiveThanks #SaberPride

🎓 Our next senior spotlight is Addison Porter, who has a great future ahead of her! Way to go, Addison!

The Senior Spotlight is created by CDHS AmeriCorps Student Leaders Niya Miller and Zoey Fuglsang. In this role, they serve as a resource for their peers in planning and preparing for post-secondary options. They help with scholarships, college applications, FAFSA, work-based learning opportunities, and more.

#gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #seniorspotlight #ClassOf2026 #americorpsstudentleaders #careerandcollegeready #postsecondaryoptions #saberssucceeding

🛠Our Building Trades program at CDHS is switching gears to create an even stronger hands-on learning experience for our students!

This year, students are constructing sheds from the ground up, gaining experience in every phase of the construction process—from concrete work and framing to roofing and finishing. The goal: give every student a full, start-to-finish building experience.

In the past, students remodeled homes, which offered valuable skills but didn’t allow them to see an entire project unfold. Instructor Michael Marshall said the shift was driven by two main factors.

“For one, the housing market is changing. It's hard to fix them up, sell them, and even make any money,” Mr. Marshall said.

He also explained that the old approach narrowed what students could learn. Since each renovation project took several years, individual classes only handled certain phases—like demolition, insulation, or drywall—meaning students walked away with only a fraction of the skills the program could offer.

“They weren't getting to see the whole process,” Mr. Marshall said. “And I really think it's valuable for the students to be able to see it from moving the dirt to putting the last piece of siding on.”

With the new shed projects, every student now gains comprehensive experience that better prepares them for a future in a variety of trades.

Currently, the students are working on a shed at Westbrook Park and hope to do more community projects in the future. With interest growing quickly, the program is booked with requests for the next two years — a testament to the quality of work and the impact Mr. Marshall and his students are making.

As the program transitions, Central DeWitt Community School District is accepting proposals for the purchase of the property students previously worked on in DeWitt. Those interested in learning more— including property details, submission requirements, and timelines can visit https://www.cd-csd.org/article/2530877

Offers must be received by Superintendent Stephanie Mishler at the District Administration Center at 1010 4th Ave. East, Door #15, DeWitt, IA 52742, before 12:00 p.m. on December 5, 2025.

We can’t wait to see our students gain real-world skills, support our community, and learn from local experts—this is an exciting new chapter for the CDHS Building Trades program! 💜💛

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDHS #CDHSBuildingTradesProgram #BuildingTrades #HandsOnLearning #NewApproach #BuildingSheds #CTE #CareerAndTechnicalEducation #RealWorldSkills #FutureBuilders #SkilledTrades #SaberPride #SabersSucceeding

❄️ Now that winter is approaching, here is a reminder of how Central DeWitt CSD handles potential interruptions or cancellations to the school schedule due to weather events. Decisions are made with safety as our top priority and are communicated as early as possible. See the graphic for more information.

‼️ If you were not able to connect with your child’s teacher about their Virtual Learning Day plan during fall conferences, please reach out to them so you have the information you need.

☃️ Also, here are some helpful tips to prepare for winter weather:
• Suggestions for Dressing For Cold Weather : https://www.weather.gov/images/safety/Winter-Dress-Infographic.jpg
• Suggestions for Driving in Winter Weather: https://iowadot.gov/maintenance/pdf/Winter_Driving_Tip_Sheet.pdf

Let’s hope for a safe and weather-friendly winter season ahead!

#gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #cdms #cdis #ekstrandelementary #weatherprotocols #winterweather #schoolcancellations #communication #weatherevents #safety

🎓 Meet Jack Butler, one of our seniors who is making big plans for his future! Way to go, Jack!

The Senior Spotlight is created by CDHS AmeriCorps Student Leaders Niya Miller and Zoey Fuglsang. In this role, they serve as a resource for their peers in planning and preparing for post-secondary options. They help with scholarships, college applications, FAFSA, work-based learning opportunities, and more.

#gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #seniorspotlight #ClassOf2026 #americorpsstudentleaders #careerandcollegeready #postsecondaryoptions #saberssucceeding

🎄We’re excited to share that Central DeWitt student artwork will once again be featured at the Quad City Arts Festival of Trees! A huge congratulations to Keely Nielson, who placed 3rd in the Festival’s High School Art Competition!

We’re also incredibly proud of the 57 Saber artists whose paintings, drawings, and 3D pieces were selected to represent CDHS in this year’s show. Their creativity and talent will be on display for the entire community to enjoy.

🗓️ Artwork on display: Nov. 22–30
👉 Click here for Festival of Trees hours, location, and details: https://www.qcfestivaloftrees.com/

With work showcased from 20 area schools, this is an amazing celebration of student artistry—be sure to stop by and check it out if you go! ✨


PAINTINGS: Nicole Maher, Asher Haedike, Kaelyn Denahy, Karina Lisnichenko, Emma Putman, Greenley Grell, Erica Lanning, Ellias Kinrade, Audrey Lewis, Yeva Matiitsiv, JJ VanDerGinst, Lexi Thiskahone, Kolt Miller, Tinsley Fowler, Kylie Lake, Tristen Fowler, Miykala Farmer, Kinsley Hanrahan, Nevaeh Locey, Ember Dykstra, Amelia Rickertsen, Jameson Gregoire, Olivia Lopez, Marissa Fee, Emily Sons, Willow Mueller, Ashlyn Puck, and Adel McAvan, Carlee Garrity, Lily Pauly, Keely Neilson, Eva Burke, Kay Tracy, Avery Speas, Shayla Tapke, Kinley Naughton, Isabella Houston, Amelia Griffin, Lena Perrone, Audri Guldner, Jack Butler, Jacob Risden, Khalief Tanner, and Paisley Kitchen

3D WORK: Meredith Grant, Miykala Farmer, Riley King, Colton Penniston, Jonathan Garrison, Madelyn Thole, Shayna Lopez, Taylor Feuss, Keely Nielson, Paisley Rathje, Ayden Scherer, and James Woolard

💜 It’s National Substitute Teacher Day! Our incredible substitute teachers step in at a moment’s notice to keep learning on track, bring calm to the chaos, and help students stay focused and moving forward. In long-term roles, they provide consistency, build meaningful relationships, and create a steady sense of routine for students.

Their willingness to help also gives teachers the space to care for their health, attend trainings, accompany students to events, or manage family needs—knowing their classrooms are in great hands.

To every substitute teacher: thank you for your commitment, your adaptability, and the heart you bring to our schools. You truly make a difference and we appreciate you! 💜💛

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDHS #CDMS #CDIS #EkstrandElementary #NationalSubstituteTeacherDay #SaberSubstitutes #WeLoveOurSubstitutes #WeAppreciateYou #SaberPride #SabersSucceeding

🏀 Achieve Challenge Iowa Basketball Games – SAVE THE DATES! We’re excited to host this year’s Achieve Challenge, featuring our boys and girls basketball teams and our incredible Unified Special Olympics Basketball Team! This annual event highlights competition, community service, and the spirit of giving back.

Let’s pack the stands and cheer on all of our teams as they represent Central DeWitt with pride, purpose, and heart—both on the court and in our community. 💜💛

💜 SABER BOYS GAME vs. CAMANCHE HIGH SCHOOL — Saturday, 11/29
📍 Central DeWitt High School Competition Gym
⏰ JV – 12:00 PM
⏰ Varsity – 1:30 PM
➡️ Admission: Non-perishable canned or dry goods

💛 SABER GIRLS GAME VS. OLATHE (KANSAS) WEST HIGH SCHOOL — Saturday, 12/6
📍 Central DeWitt High School Competition Gym
⏰ Unified Special Olympics Scrimmage with JV Saber Girls – 1:00 PM
⏰ Varsity – 2:00 PM
🟨 Admission: Free-will donations to support Unified Special Olympics

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDHS #SaberBasketball #SaberBoysBasketball #SaberGirlsBasketball #CDUnifiedSpecialOlympics #UnifiedBasketball #SaberNation #AchieveChallenge #AchieveChallengeIowa #ServiceThroughSports #SaberPride #SabersSucceeding

🎓Our next senior spotlight of the year is Kalli Barber whose hard work in high school has paved way for an exciting future ahead! Great job, Kalli!

The Senior Spotlight is created by CDHS AmeriCorps Student Leaders Niya Miller and Zoey Fuglsang. In this role, they serve as a resource for their peers in planning and preparing for post-secondary options. They help with scholarships, college applications, FAFSA, work-based learning opportunities, and more.

#gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #seniorspotlight #ClassOf2026 #americorpsstudentleaders #careerandcollegeready #postsecondaryoptions #saberssucceeding

Meet the 2025-2026 National Honor Society! Congratulations to the newest members who were inducted at a ceremony in October. NHS is student-driven organization that hosts several school and community service projects throughout the year. Students go through a lengthy application process to be accepted and are chosen based on their dedication to volunteerism as well as their strong academic and leadership skills.

💜 Congratulations to our 2025–2026 Officers:
Kalli Barber, Sophia House, Anna Prosise, Adam Wilke

💛 Returning NHS Members:
Dalani Beuthien, Molly Burken, Jackson Butler, Noah Ericksen, Zoey Fuglsang,
Hailey Gerard, Lucas Johnston, Clara LeConte, Brady Meadows, Ashton Schneider,
Brynlee Shimp, Benjamin Uttech, Addison Walls, Audrey Wilke

💜 Welcome to Our New Members:
Kinley Birt, Kallie Burzlaff, Katherine Cloos, Carlee Garrity, Allison Grager,
Max Froeschle, Keaton Hansen, Isabella Heitz, Luke Hill, Marie Klostermann,
Hudson Krukow, Beckham Maricle, Claire McGarry, Adelynne Meyer, Melanie Miller,
Maelea Neilson, Makenna Ohnemus, Kyle Olson, Ava Putman, Briah Reuss,
Hattie Rickertsen, Quinn Schroeder, Jacob Van der Merwe, Abraham Vickers

Congrats to all! We’re proud of these outstanding Sabers and can’t wait to see the impact they’ll make this year. 💜💛✨

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #cdhs #nationalhonorsociety #nhs #cdhsnationalhonorsociety #SaberPride #SabersSucceeding

🚍 We’re excited to roll out Crosswalk K-12, a secure and easy-to-use tool that keeps you connected to your child’s school transportation in real time—right from your phone, tablet, or computer.

With Crosswalk K-12, families can:
🔹 Track buses in real time
🔹 See route changes and updates
🔹 View pick-up and drop-off times
🔹 Access student ridership records
🔹 Use digital boarding passes directly from your device

⚠️ Important: Students must scan their assigned Bus ID every time they get on or off the bus for accurate information. If your child has a phone, taking a photo of the badge and scanning from the image works great!

📩 Getting Started:
Watch for an email from UniteGPS with your registration link. Check your spam folder if you don’t see it by the end of the week.

🚌 Once your account is activated, you’ll be able to log in with your email, accept the terms, and set your password. If your contact information has changed, please make sure your parent name and email are up to date in Infinite Campus so your access connects correctly.

💬 Need help?
Use the chat icon inside Crosswalk K-12 to message support, share screenshots, or join a quick video call with UniteGPS.

📘 Learn more here: https://bit.ly/4oWqGk7

We’re excited to bring this convenient, secure tool to our families and make managing transportation easier than ever!

It’s time to nominate Central DeWitt employees for November’s Employee of the Month! Each day, our staff go above and beyond—supporting students, lifting up their colleagues, and creating welcoming, engaging learning environments across our district.

Now it’s your chance to shine a light on someone who has made a difference—big or small—in your world or in our schools.

💜 WHO CAN BE NOMINATED?
• Any full-time or part-time Central DeWitt employee
• Employees may receive this honor once per school year
• Those not selected for the monthly spotlight will still be celebrated as Saber Superstars throughout the year!

📣 HOW TO NOMINATE:
Submit your nomination here: https://forms.gle/ksRVLaYC6XBXkAbw7

🗓 Nomination Deadline: Tuesday, Nov. 25th

Your nomination matters. One thoughtful story can brighten someone’s week, acknowledge their impact, and remind them why their work is so important. Thank you for helping us recognize the people who make Central DeWitt such a special place to learn and grow!

#gosabers #centraldewittcsd #employeeofthemonth #cdhs #cdms #cdis #ekstrandelementary #nominateanemployee #SaberPride #SaberSpirit #SabersSucceeding

⚙️ CDHS students spent the day at the Trades Expo, diving into hands-on experiences across a variety of skilled trades!

From trying out real tools to learning directly from industry professionals, our students got an inside look at high-demand careers and the skills that power them. Opportunities like this help Sabers explore their interests, build confidence, and see the many pathways available after high school.

Proud of these students for getting curious, asking questions, and making the most of this experience! 💜💛

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDHS #Trades #Careers #CareerAndCollegeReady #HandsOnLearning #FutureReady #SaberPride #SabersSucceeding

🎟️ New Ticket Option for Central DeWitt High School Activities! For your convenience, fans can purchase tickets through Bound for CDHS activities starting this weekend. We encourage everyone to take advantage of this easy option to get you to the action faster!

👉 BOUND: https://www.gobound.com/ia/schools/centraldewitt
💵 Cash will still be accepted at the door.

Thank you for supporting our Sabers! 💜💛


#GoSabers #Central DeWittCSD #CDHS #Bound #BoundTickets #PurchaseTickets OnBound #SaberTickets #SupportOurSabers #SaberPride

The CDIS Kindness Crew wants to help our community this holiday season! 💜

They’re holding a food drive to support the DeWitt Referral Center & Thrift Store, collecting donations now through December 10. Items can be dropped off in the cart by the office, and Kindness Crew members will also be collecting before the winter programs on Thursday, December 4.

🌟 Every contribution helps brighten the holidays for local families in need.

Please see the flyer for a list of needed items, and thank you for joining our students in spreading kindness this season! 💛💜

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDIS #KindnessCrew #CDISKindnessCres #SaberKindness #FoodDrive #HelpingOurCommunity #ThankYouForSupportingOurSabers #StrongerTogether #WeLoveOurCommunity #SabersSucceeding #SaberPride

🏀 Congratulations to Senior Ava Putman! Yesterday, Ava officially signed with the Truman State Bulldogs to continue her basketball career at the collegiate level.

We’re incredibly proud of her hard work, talent, and leadership on and off the court. Please join us in celebrating this exciting next step for Ava!

Go Bulldogs, and Go Sabers! 💛💜🐾

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDHS #SaberBasketball #SaberGirlsBasketball #SaberPride #CollegeSigning #TrumanState #NextLevelSabers #SabersSucceeding

🎓 Meet Tori Brassard, one of our seniors who has a bright future ahead of her! Way to go, Tori! 💜

The Senior Spotlight is created by CDHS AmeriCorps Student Leaders Niya Miller and Zoey Fuglsang. In this role, they serve as a resource for their peers in planning and preparing for post-secondary options. They help with scholarships, college applications, FAFSA, work-based learning opportunities, and more.

#gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #seniorspotlight #ClassOf2026 #americorpsstudentleaders #careerandcollegeready #postsecondaryoptions #saberssucceeding

CDHS students have been busy exploring exciting opportunities for their futures! 🌟

Recently, sophomores and juniors attended Clinton Academy Preview Day which gave them a firsthand look at the career academies available their junior and senior years. Students got an up-close experience in the Criminal Justice Academy, including learning fingerprinting techniques, and gathered important info about enrolling in an academy while taking college courses during high school.

In addition, juniors and seniors have been on the road visiting colleges including Mount Mercy University, Coe College and University of Wisconsin-Platteville. They learned about academic programs, campus life, and in Platteville even connected with a Central DeWitt alum who shared insights from his own college experience.

From hands-on learning to exploring colleges, our students are gaining experiences that will inspire and guide them as they chart their paths ahead! Way to go, Sabers!

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDHS # #StudentOpportunities #CareerAcademies #CollegeVisits #CriminalJusticeAcademy #HandsOnLearning #SaberPride #ExploringPossibilities #CareerAndCollegeReady #SaberPride #SabersSucceeding