🎃 Happy Halloween! 🕸️ Something spooky was brewing at CDMS Wednesday night —our Student Leadership team transformed the school into a Haunted Hallway adventure! 👻 Two classrooms and the cafeteria were transformed into eerie escape rooms filled with hidden clues and creepy surprises. Students had to find specific items in each room to break free—before it was too late! 😱💀

It was a spine-tingling, scream-worthy scavenger hunt that made for a frightfully fun night for middle school students! 🕷️🦇

A huge thank you to our Student Leadership team and staff who helped make this hauntingly good event come to life! 💜💛

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDMS #MiddleSchool #StudentLeadership #HauntedHallway #Spooky #ScreamWorthy #ScaredSabers #ScreamingSabers #SaberPride #SabersSucceeding

about 5 hours ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
Middle school students getting ready to enter the haunted cafeteria
CDMS Student Leadership
Middle school students in the haunted cafeteria
Student Leadership members dressed as ghosts
CDMS students in a haunted classroom transformed into a spooky forest
CDMS students in a haunted classroom transformed into a spooky forest
CDMS student getting chased by a spooky clown in the  haunted cafeteria
One of the student "ghosts" doing a back bend
CDMS student getting chased in a haunted classroom
Middle school students getting ready to enter the haunted cafeteria
🏈 Vote for Hudson Krukow! 🏈 Quarterback Hudson Krukow is a nominee for The Sporting News Class 3A Iowa High School Football Player of the Year! Today is the LAST DAY TO VOTE, so show your Saber pride and cast your vote here 👉 https://bit.ly/3LD7rgX

Hudson has had an incredible season — completing over 74% of his passes for 2,081 yards and 26 touchdowns with just four interceptions, breaking school records along the way! 💜💛

And don’t forget — tonight the Sabers take on Wahlert Catholic in the first round of the football playoffs! Let’s pack the stands and cheer loud! Purchase tickets here: https://bit.ly/4ol9bds

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDHS #SaberFootball #FootballPlayoffs #SaberNation #PlayoffBound #LetsGoSabers #SaberPride Central DeWitt Sabers Football
about 8 hours ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
Hudson Krukow
🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️ Good luck to our Sabers at State! 💜💛 Wishing our Boys Cross Country team and individual qualifiers Ashlyn Appleby, Cole Niemann, Kyle Olson, and Adam Wilke the best of luck as they compete at the State Cross Country Meet in Fort Dodge today!

Ashlyn will race at 2:00 p.m., and the boys will compete at 2:45 p.m.

We’re proud of your hard work and dedication—go represent the Sabers with pride! 💪

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDHS #SaberCrossCountry #SabersRunning #SaberPride #SaberStrong #StateBound #NotDoneYet #SabersAtState #SabersSucceeding
about 12 hours ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
Saber cross country state qualifiers
💜💛 October is National Principals Month so join us in celebrating our incredible principals — and all of our administrators — who lead with heart, vision, and a deep commitment to our Saber Family.

Our principals and administrators exemplify the Saber Standard: they’re all in, committed to growth, and dedicated to making Central DeWitt a place where every student can thrive. Through change, challenge, and celebration, they continue to lead with positivity and purpose — always putting students and staff first.

We are so grateful for their dedication, compassion, and the countless ways they help our district grow stronger together.

Thank you CDHS Principal Mark Bloom, CDMS Principal Pamela Hayes, CDIS Principal Michelle Jacobsen, Ekstrand Principal Mike Miller, Activities Director and Dean of Students Erik Johnson, Director of Curriculum and Instruction Bill Petsche and Superintendent Stephanie Mishler for all you do!

#nationalprincipalsmonth #thankaprincipal #centraldewittcsd #ekstrand #cdis #cdms #cdhs #SaberPride #GoSabers #SaberStandard #SabersSucceeding
about 24 hours ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
Central DeWitt Administrators
We know that life can change quickly, and financial circumstances are no exception. If your household income has recently changed due to layoffs, unemployment, or the government shutdown, your child(ren) may now qualify for the Free or Reduced-Price Meal Program.

Here’s what to know:

🍽️ Eligibility is based on your current income.
If your family’s financial situation has changed, eligibility is determined by your income today—not what it was earlier in the year.

🕒 You can apply anytime.
Applications can be submitted at any time throughout the year if your household income or size changes.

📅 Benefits last the rest of the year.
Once approved, your student’s eligibility remains in place for the remainder of the current school year—and continues through the first month of the next school year, if needed.

This program helps ensure that every student has access to healthy, balanced meals—breakfast and lunch—to stay focused and ready to learn throughout the school day.

➡️ How to Apply: To access the free and reduced price meal application as well as more information about food service visit https://www.cd-csd.org/page/nutrition-services

If you have questions or need help completing the form, please contact Nutrition Services Director Dede Wagener at (563) 659-4725 or dede.wagener@cd-csd.org. We’re here to help!

Thank you for partnering with us to support the well-being of all our Saber students.

#gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #cdms #cdis #EkstrandElementary #NutritionServices #FreeAndReducedPriceMeals #HereToHelp #SchoolNutrition
1 day ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
Vegetables arranged in the shape of a heart
Our 6th Grade Kindness Crew members have been busy spreading smiles at Fieldstone of DeWitt! This month, they visited residents twice — first helping create fun “Ghost Pets,” and then joining in the Halloween festivities at the annual “Witches Brew!” 🎃👻

We’re so thankful for the partnership Kindness Crew has with Fieldstone and the special connections our students are building there! 💜💛

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDIS #KindnessCrew #FieldstoneOfDeWitt #SpreadingKindness #SaberPride #SabersSucceeding
1 day ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
Kindness Crew at Fieldstone of DeWitt for Witches Brew
Kindness Crew at Fieldstone of DeWitt making "Ghost Pets" with residents
Kindness Crew at Fieldstone of DeWitt making "Ghost Pets" with residents
Kindness Crew at Fieldstone of DeWitt making "Ghost Pets" with residents
Kindness Crew at Fieldstone of DeWitt for Witches Brew
Kindness Crew at Fieldstone of DeWitt for Witches Brew
Kindness Crew at Fieldstone of DeWitt for Witches Brew
Kindness Crew at Fieldstone of DeWitt for Witches Brew
Kindness Crew at Fieldstone of DeWitt for Witches Brew
Kindness Crew at Fieldstone of DeWitt for Witches Brew
🗞️ Extra! Extra! Read all about it! Saber Drama is making headlines this fall with their production of Newsies!

Save the date for an unforgettable show full of energy, heart, and show-stopping performances!
🗓️ November 14th and 15th at 7 p.m. & November 16th at 2 p.m.
📍 Central DeWitt High School
🎟️ Stay tuned for ticket information!

About the show: Inspired by real events, Newsies tells the story of a fearless band of newsboys in 1899 New York City who strike against powerful newspaper publishers to fight for fairness. Filled with high-energy dance numbers and unforgettable songs like “Seize the Day” and “Carrying the Banner,” this inspiring musical is a celebration of courage, friendship, and standing up for what’s right.

Don’t miss your chance to see our talented Saber performers bring this Broadway favorite to life! 💜💛

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDHS #CDHSMusical #Newsies #SeizeTheDay #SaberPride #SabersSucceeding #SaveTheDate #FallMusical
1 day ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
CDHS Fall Musical "Newsies" poster
Yesterday 10 of our middle school band students participated in the St. Ambrose Honor Band! These talented musicians spent the day rehearsing with other outstanding students from across the region, wrapping up the day with an afternoon performance. Great job representing Central DeWitt! 💜💛

🎺 7th Grade: Megan Morningstar, Robbie Schultz, Zoe Gibson, Tucker Thiel, and Cael Ceurvorst
🎷 8th Grade: Chloe Knepper, Shupriya Karki, Evan Sandberg, Ben Doerscher, and Zanyel Barys

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDMS #MiddleSchoolBand #HonorBand #StAmbroseHonorBand #SaberMusicians #SaberPride #SabersSucceeding
2 days ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
St. Ambrose Honor Band rehearsing
Chloe Knepper, Shupriya Karki, Zanyel Barys, Evan Sandberg,  and Ben Doerscher
Zoe Gibson, Megan Morningstar, Robbie Schultz,  Tucker Thiel
💜💛 Congratulations to our October 2025 District Student of the Month Addison Tucker! She is featured in today's edition of The Observer thanks to our friends at First Central State Bank.

Addison is a hardworking, kind, and engaged student whose attention to detail and genuine care for others make her stand out. She approaches each day with a positive attitude and a strong sense of purpose, always striving to do her best in everything she takes on. Addison goes above and beyond—reaching out to teachers when she’s absent, offering to help staff or classmates when she finishes her work, and stepping up whenever she sees a need.

“What I appreciate most about Addison is that she doesn't have to be asked and she doesn't always ask—she just sees or hears that something needs to be done or a peer could use help, and she just does it,” said FCS teacher Rebecca Barnes.

That initiative and compassion shine through in everything Addison does. She has always cared deeply about others and wants to make sure that everyone feels included, supported, and confident in what they’re doing. Inspired by her parents and by the kindness she observes in others, Addison strives to bring that same spirit of service to everything she does. Her involvement in FCCLA and her plans to play softball this spring reflect her dedication, teamwork, and positive energy.

Looking ahead, Addison hopes to pursue a career as a pediatric radiologic technologist or pediatric oncology nurse and plans to enter the CNA program next year. Her advice to other students is simple but powerful: “Find the right group of people and just follow what you believe. Don’t always copy other people—be yourself.”

Addison’s initiative, empathy, critical thinking and leadership make her an invaluable member of our school community and a shining example of what it means to be a SABER.

#gosabers #cdcsdstudentofthemonth #centraldewittcsd #CDHS #firstcentralstatebank #studentofthemonth #sabepride #saberssucceeding
2 days ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
Addison Tucker
Join us this Friday night in Dubuque as the Sabers take on Wahlert Catholic in the first round of the football playoffs! Let’s pack the stands, bring the energy, and show everyone what Saber pride looks like! 💜💛

📍 Loras College, 1450 Alta Vista St, Dubuque, IA 52001
🕖 Friday, Oct. 31st at 7 p.m.
🎟️ Tickets must be purchased here: https://events.hometownticketing.com/boxoffice/iahsaa/L2VtYmVkL2V2ZW50LzY4ODE%3D

📣 Let’s go, Sabers!

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDHS #SaberFootball #FootballPlayoffs #SaberNation #PlayoffBound #LetsGoSabers #SaberPride Central DeWitt Sabers Football
3 days ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
Football
This week, shoppers at Randy's Neighborhood Market in DeWitt can make a difference for the Saber Speech Team by choosing to “round up” at checkout! Your contributions help fund registration fees, scripts and royalties, props, and equipment—ensuring our students have everything they need for a successful season. Thank you for supporting our Sabers! 💜💛

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDHS #SaberSpeech #RandysRoundUp #RoundUpForSpeech #SaberPride #SabersSucceeding #ThankYouForSupportingOurSabers
3 days ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
Round Up for the Central DeWitt Speech Team
It’s time to nominate Central DeWitt employees for October’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: Friday, October 31st

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
4 days ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
Employee of the Month Logo
🐢🦁🐘It was a zoo at Ekstrand Elementary last Wednesday! Third graders brought the wild right into the classroom when they shared their Animal Classification Research Projects with our first graders.
This fun project began with a field trip to Niabi Zoo, where each student “adopted” an animal that sparked their curiosity. They researched facts before the trip, dug even deeper after visiting, and then turned their discoveries into Google Slides presentations to share with their younger peers.

This was more than just a fun project—it was a true showcase of our Portrait of a Saber competencies in action! Students explored habitats and ecosystems around the globe (global awareness), practiced speaking clearly and confidently (communication), took charge of their learning (initiative), and used smart decision-making to highlight the most important facts (critical thinking).

What a great experience for our 3rd Graders to step into the role of a teacher, share their passion, and inspire their younger peers. Now that’s Saber Pride! Great job, Sabers! 💜💛

#PortraitOfASaber #SaberPride #LearningInAction #NiabiZoo #GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #EkstrandElementary #ThirdGrade #FirstGrade #LearningIsFun #AnimalExperts #SaberPride #SabersSucceeding
4 days ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
Third graders sharing their Animal Classification Research Projects  with first graders
Third graders sharing their Animal Classification Research Projects  with first graders
Third graders sharing their Animal Classification Research Projects  with first graders
Third graders sharing their Animal Classification Research Projects  with first graders
Third graders sharing their Animal Classification Research Projects  with first graders
Third graders sharing their Animal Classification Research Projects  with first graders
Third graders sharing their Animal Classification Research Projects  with first graders
Third graders sharing their Animal Classification Research Projects  with first graders
Third graders sharing their Animal Classification Research Projects  with first graders
Third graders sharing their Animal Classification Research Projects  with first graders
🎓 Attention Central DeWitt Seniors! 🎓 No matter what your plans are after graduation, the Education Foundation of Central DeWitt has scholarships available to help you launch your next chapter with confidence. And with their ONE application, you can apply for 30 different scholarships. Your future is calling — don’t miss out on free financial support!

📅 Deadline: March 15, 2026. A transcript and letter of recommendation are required. Reach out to Mrs. Schaible if you need help.
👉 Apply here https://www.cd-cef.org/online-scholarship-application/

SCHOLARSHIPS
• Ann (McClimon) Moyna Scholarship
• Beth A. Weiskircher Memorial Scholarship
• Bill and Ruth Hanesworth Scholarships (2)
• Camila Christine “CeCe” Barnes Memorial Scholarship
• Corrin Blandin Memorial Scholarship
• David A. and Sandra K. Deke Scholarship
• DeWitt Eyecare Scholarship
• DeWitt Police Foundation Scholarship
• Don Thiltgen Scholarships (2)
• Donald G. and John Henricksen Memorial Scholarship
• Dr. Alan R. and Myrna J. Tubbs Scholarship
• Elvis and Evelyn Wieck Fine Arts Scholarship
• Florence M. Schrader Scholarship
• Iowa Mutual Educational Scholarship
• James D. Owen Jr. Scholarship
• Lillian Fell Scholarship
• Mary and Gary Froeschle Scholarship
• Neil Padgett Scholarships
• Nellie LeMon Scholarships
• Paul and Sally Banowetz Family Scholarship
• Ray and Jan Meier Scholarship
• Robert and Joan Reynolds Family Scholarships
• Ron and Shirley Besst Scholarship
• Ryanne (Gillum) Davis Memorial Scholarship – Forever 42 Foundation
• Sam Potter Memorial Scholarship
• The Kilburg Family Scholarship
• The Krieger Family Scholarship
• The Mitchell Ertz Memorial Scholarship
• Tommy C. Capper Scholarship (Alumni Eligible)
• Vern Fleagle Scholarship

#gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #seniors #classof2026 #graduation #Scholarships #TheEducationFoundationofCentralDeWitt #OneApplication #30Scholarships #InvestInYourFuture
6 days ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
Money sign with graduation cap
Central DeWitt Intermediate School has introduced an exciting new Peer Music class, opening the door for students of all abilities to explore music, learn to read music, and grow new skills together.

With support from 4th grade peer helpers, Mrs. Jackson’s students are learning through adapted, hands-on activities tailored to them. Since there was no existing curriculum, Music Teacher Mrs. Soenksen and Special Education Teacher Mrs. Jackson have teamed up to create creative, engaging lessons that connect music with what students are learning in the classroom.

For example, while Mrs. Jackson’s students were learning about bears, Mrs. Soenksen taught them the song “Going on a Bear Hunt.” Students even got to write their own lyrics and learn choreographed movements to go along with the music.
This class is helping students grow in their musical abilities while also developing coordination, practicing teamwork, and building confidence — all while having fun! We love seeing our Sabers learn, lead, and support one another through music! 💜🎶

🎬 See the fun in action! Check out this short video of our students learning, creating, and making music together: https://youtu.be/VY1dyiNJdZA

#CDIS #SaberPride #PeerMusic #ChooseToInclude #Inclusion #OpportunitesForAll #MakingMusicTogether #SaberPride #SabersSucceeding
7 days ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
Students in Peer Stem class using a parachute while singing "Going on a Bear Hunt"
Students in Peer Stem class using a parachute while singing "Going on a Bear Hunt"
Students in Peer Stem class celebrating after successfully singing "Going on a Bear Hunt"
Students in Peer Stem class using Boomwhackers to learn about rhythm and how to read music
Students in Peer Stem class using Boomwhackers to learn about rhythm and how to read music
Students in Peer Stem class singing and dancing
Students in Peer Stem class singing and dancing
🥁🎺 Congratulations to the Marching Sabers Pride! 🎉 Our band earned a Division II Excellent rating at the IHSMA State Marching Band Festival and marched their way to a 3rd place finish at the Music on the Mississippi Marching Competition this past weekend! 👏

This talented group has had an incredible season, showing growth and improvement with every performance. We are so proud of their hard work, dedication, and Saber spirit!

🔥 Catch their performance of “Caliente!” one last time tonight at the football game during halftime. Then, join us Monday, October 27th at 7 p.m. to see them, as well as our other bands, perform in the Parade of Bands concert at CDHS. 🎶

Way to go, Marching Sabers Pride! 💜💛

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDHS #CDMS #CDIS #MarchingSabersPride #ParadeOfBands #Caliente #MusicEducation #SaberSound #SaberPride #SabersSucceeding
7 days ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
Marching Sabers Pride
Marching Sabers Pride
Marching Sabers Pride
Marching Sabers Pride
Marching Sabers Pride
Marching Sabers Pride
Marching Sabers Pride
Missing a yearbook that tells your Saber story? CDHS Publications will be selling past yearbooks this Friday, October 24th at 6:30 p.m. next to the concession stand at the Saber football game! 🏈

Perfect for:
📍 Catching up on memories
📍 Reliving your favorite high school moments
📍 Flipping through photos of friends, classmates & teachers
📍 Completing your collection

These yearbooks are packed with memories, milestones, and moments worth flipping through! Come grab yours before they’re gone — once they’re sold out, that chapter closes for good. 😉

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDHS #SaberPublications #Yearbooks #SaberFootballGame #SaberPride
8 days ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
Yearbook sale flyer
💜🏅💛STATE BOUND! What an incredible night for Central DeWitt Sabers Cross Country! Our boys team is coming home as District Champions, upsetting #4-ranked Grinnell in an outstanding performance! 🙌🔥

🎉 A huge congratulations to the boys team on qualifying for State and to our individual qualifiers Ashlyn Appleby, Cole Niemann, Kyle Olson and Adam Wilke! The Sabers will take on the best in Iowa next Friday, October 31st in Fort Dodge.

We are proud of ALL of our Saber competitors who showcased outstanding effort last night and all season! Let’s keep the momentum rolling — Fort Dodge, here we come! 💜💛

👚Show your support by ordering State apparel! Qualifier names will be printed on the back.

Order here ⬇️
https://stores.teamelitesports.com/central_dewitt_xc/shop/home

⏰ Store closes Friday, October 24 at NOON — don’t miss it!

#SaberPride #XCStateBound #GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDHS #SaberCrossCountry #HeadedToState #SabersSucceeding #NotDoneYet
8 days ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
Saber Cross Country state qualifiers
Ashlyn Appleby
Boys cross country state qualifiers

⚙️ Yesterday, CDHS proudly hosted the Clinton County STEM Festival & Manufacturing Day! Students from 8th–12th grade at Central DeWitt, along with peers from Northeast, Calamus-Wheatland, and Clinton, explored STEM and manufacturing careers through hands-on activities. Over 20 area businesses, unions, and organizations participated, sharing their expertise and inspiring our students!

Students had the chance to ask questions about careers, learn what employers are looking for, and gain valuable insights into the skills that matter most in these fields. A panel discussion also offered tips on career paths, workplace expectations, and how to stand out as future employees.

💜💛 A huge thank you to the DeWitt Chamber & Development Company for organizing this fantastic event and to all the participants for helping make it an unforgettable experience for these students:

Black Cat Wear Parts, EICC, Cram Chiropractic, Guardian Glass, National Guard, LyondellBasell Industries, Mediacom, Spahn & Rose, McCarthy-Bush Corporation, Maschio Gaspardo, Southeast Iowa STEM Region/Iowa Governor’s STEM Advisory Council, F&B Communications, U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Marine Corps, Wendling Quarries, CustomPak, Twin State Technical Services, Local Union 25 (Plumbers and Pipefitters), Alliant Energy, River Valley Cooperative, John Deere, Mid-America Carpenters Regional Council, Millwright Local 2158

#STEMFestandManufacturingDay #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #cdms #stemfestival #manufacturingday #dewittchamberanddevelopment #careerready #FutureReady #SaberPride #SabersSucceeding

9 days ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
Mediacom
Maschio Gaspardo
U.S. Coast Guard
Cram Chiropractic
John Deere
National Guard
Lyondell Basell Industries
Guardian Glass
Panel discussing career paths
Mid-America Carpenters Regional Council
Fourteen members of Central DeWitt High School’s FBLA chapter competed in the 2025 JA Stock Market Challenge yesterday at St. Ambrose University! Out of 78 teams from schools across the Quad City area, one of our DeWitt teams placed 3rd overall — an outstanding accomplishment! 🎉

Congratulations to team members Beckham Maricle, Dawson Petsche, and Jacob Van Der Merwe on their impressive finish!

The Junior Achievement (JA) of the Heartland Stock Market Challenge is a high-energy, live competition where students apply financial literacy skills in a fast-paced, simulated trading environment. We’re proud of our FBLA students for representing Central DeWitt with skill, teamwork, and Saber pride! 💜💛

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDHS FBLA #CDHSFBLA #JuniorAchievement #JAStockMarketChallenge #FutureBusinessLeadersOfAmerica #SaberPride #SabersSucceeding
9 days ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
Beckham Maricle, Dawson Petsche, and Jacob Van Der Merwe placed 3rd out of 78 teams at the JA Stock Market Challenge