Central DeWitt School District -

🎾💜💛 Congratulations to the Central DeWitt Boys Tennis Team on a 4th-place finish at the IHSAA State Team Tennis Tournament!

This historic season was filled with hard work, determination, and memorable accomplishments, including becoming the first boys tennis team in school history to qualify for the state team tournament. Competing among the top teams in Iowa and finishing 4th in the state is an achievement to be proud of! 💜💛

Congratulations to the players and coaches on an outstanding season and for representing Central DeWitt with excellence. The future is bright for Saber Tennis! 🎾🏆

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDHS #SaberTennis #SaberBoysTennis #StateTennis #4thPlace #SabersSucceeding #SaberPride

📣✨ Exciting things are ahead for CDHS Cheer & Dance! 💜💛

A new chapter is beginning for the Saber Spirit Program, and students interested in being part of the future of CDHS Cheer & Dance are encouraged to complete the tryout interest form!

Tryout form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf2iq8x1sS8Q9uT5rzEAwDa7Jpw1JJYMEAm5gjOHcZ5GxS2rw/viewform

Whether you have years of experience or are looking to try something new, there’s a place for you on the team. Coach Alyssa Gares is focused on building a program centered on Saber Spirit, strong team culture, and athlete growth.

📅 Interested in learning more? Attend the Cheer & Dance Information Meeting on Tuesday, June 9 at 6:30 p.m. in the CDHS Atrium.

Bring your energy, enthusiasm, and Saber Pride—we can't wait to see what's ahead! ✨💜💛

For more information about the program follow the Saber Spirit Program Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/SaberSpiritProgram

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDHS #CDHSCheer #CDHSDance #SaberSpirit #SaberPride

💜💛 Congratulations to our May 2026 District Student of the Month Cora Plumley! She is featured in today's edition of The Observer thanks to our friends at @firstcentralsb.

Whether she is encouraging a classmate, challenging herself to improve, or bringing positivity into the classroom, Cora makes a difference each and every day at Central DeWitt.

“Cora is one of those students who truly brightens our classroom every single day,” her teacher Mrs. Hamann said. “Her positivity is genuine and contagious, and she brings a joyful energy that lifts up the people around her.”

One of Cora’s most notable qualities is her quiet determination. She works hard, consistently pushes herself, and strives to do her best in all that she does. She takes pride in her growth and does not settle for anything less than her personal best.

“You should be proud of yourself every day. You should always do stuff and challenge yourself to be good at stuff and always practice all the time,” Cora said. Her mindset reflects the dedication and perseverance she demonstrates in the classroom each day.

Equally impressive is the way Cora treats others. She is a compassionate and thoughtful friend who makes a conscious effort to include everyone. She is attentive to the needs of those around her and responds with kindness and empathy, ensuring others feel seen, valued, and supported. Cora believes, “You should always treat people how you want to be treated,” a message she lives out daily through her actions.

Through her positivity, determination, and kindness toward others, Cora sets a great example for those around her. She is a wonderful role model for all Sabers, and we are proud to recognize her as the Student of the Month!

#gosabers #cdcsdstudentofthemonth #centraldewittcsd #CDIS #firstcentralstatebank #studentofthemonth #sabepride #saberssucceeding

🏆CDMS held its End-of-Year Awards Assembly last Friday, bringing the school together to recognize the 8th grade class. The ceremony celebrated their accomplishments, hard work, and growth throughout their middle school journey, while reflecting on the memories made along the way.

The assembly featured performances by the jazz band, reflections from Student Leadership Council members, recognition of outgoing staff, student participation acknowledgments, special awards, and closed with the 8th grade slideshow.

Congratulations to all of this year's award recipients:

⭐ American Legion Award: Shupriya Karki, Cade Converse
⭐ Rheingans Award: Sam VonMuenster, Jaxton Shimp, Isabella McQuistion, Bailey Ruggeberg
⭐ Vermazen Award: Talia Stroud, Brady Dies
⭐ Lahey Award: Shupriya Karki
⭐ Bertolino Math Award: Chloe Knepper, Ethan Grager
⭐ STEM Award: Zanyel Barys, Ben Doerscher
⭐ Peer STEM Award: Will Bauer, Karson Martens, Gunner Henderson, Caden Miller, Charlotte Pauly, Abi Burke, Tegan Spain, Payton Goldensoph
⭐ Band Director's Choice: Chloe Knepper
⭐ Choir Director's Choice: Makena Rickertsen, Tegan Spain
⭐ Blank Summer Institute Nominees:
• Field Science - Kenny Marshall
• Lab Science - Lauren Webinger
• Math Problem Solving - Elijah Blinks
• Creative Writing - Talia Stroud
• Visual Arts - Rachel Burke

Congratulations to all of our award recipients and to the entire 8th grade class on a successful middle school chapter. We look forward to watching them continue their journey into high school! 💜💛

For more awards and photos please visit our Facebook page.

#gosabers #gosabers #centraldewittcd #cdms #cdmsawardsceremony #saberssucceeding #congratulations #saberpride #8thGrade #Classof2030

Over the last few weeks, students from Jumpstart Kindergarten through 8th grade enjoyed Field & Fitness Days filled with fun, teamwork, and plenty of smiles. From obstacle courses, ring toss, potato sack races, tug-of-war, basketball, and relay races to a day at the pool for our middle school students, there was something for everyone to enjoy.

These special days gave students a chance for students to get active, have fun, and burn off some of that end-of-year energy. Thanks to all of the staff who helped make these events a success!

Take a look at some of the fun from Field & Fitness Days across the district! 📸 For more photos visit our Facebook page!

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDMS #CDIS #EkstrandElementary #FieldDays #FitnessDay #StayActive #SaberFun #EndOfTheYear #SaberPride

🎾 Good luck to our boys tennis team and coaches as they compete at the State Team Tournament today!

The Sabers are one of just eight Class 1A teams competing and will take on No. 4 Decorah at 9:00 a.m.
This appearance marks a historic milestone for the program—the first time in Central DeWitt boys tennis history that the team has advanced to the state team competition!

Congratulations on an incredible season, and best of luck as you represent Central DeWitt on the state's biggest stage. Go Sabers! 💜💛🎾

#GoSabers #CentralDeWIttCSD #CDHS #CentralDeWittBoysTennis #BoysTennis #SaberTennis #StateBound #SabersAtState #SchoolHistory #DistrictChamps #SaberPride #SabersSucceeding

We get asked about that new shed by the high school a lot, and if you've been wondering what it's for, here's your answer! 🎺🥁🔨

This new storage building was constructed by our CDHS Building Trades students under the guidance of Mr. Marshall and will serve as a storage space for the Marching Sabers Pride equipment.

Instead of transporting instruments and equipment back and forth from the band room for every practice, band members will be able to store them right next to their practice field—saving valuable time and allowing students to focus on learning their music and routines.

We're proud of this collaboration between two outstanding programs. Our Building Trades students gained hands-on construction experience while creating something that will benefit the marching band for years to come.

Great work by our students, staff, and everyone involved in bringing this project to life! 💜 👏 💛

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDHS #CDHSBuildingTrades #CDHSBand #HandsOnLearning #SaberPride #SabersSucceeding

📚🎉 It won’t be long before CDHS Yearbooks are here! 🎉📚 Central DeWitt High School yearbooks are expected to arrive mid-July, with pickup details to be announced once an exact delivery date is confirmed.

Students are encouraged to gather their friends, stop by to pick up their yearbooks, and spend some time signing each other's books while reliving memories from the school year.

✍️ A limited number of autograph kits will be available during pickup on a first-come, first-served basis.

More information, including the official pickup date and times, will be shared as soon as it becomes available. Stay tuned!

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDHS #2026Yearbook #CDHSYearbook #SaberPride

🎉 That’s a wrap on another incredible school year at Central DeWitt! 🎉

From classrooms filled with learning and laughter to concerts, competitions, celebrations, and everyday moments in between — thank you to our students, staff, families, and community for making this year so special. We are so proud of everything our students accomplished and grateful for everyone who helped make it happen.

Now it’s time for a well-deserved summer break filled with sunshine, popsicles, late nights, sleeping in, and making memories. ⛱️

Have a safe, relaxing, and fun summer, Sabers! 💜💛

☀️ CENTRAL DEWITT SUMMER HOURS
• School buildings will be open regular hours (7:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.) through June 12
• The high school will be open Wednesdays from 8 a.m.–12 p.m. through July 8
• Administration Center hours for June and July: Monday–Thursday, 8 a.m.–4 p.m.

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDHS #CDMS #CDIS #EkstrandElementary #SchoolIsOut #LastDayOfSchool #YouDidIt #CongratulationsOnAGreatYear #SaberPride #SabersSucceded #EnjoyYourSummer #SeeYouInAugust

💜💛 As the 2025–2026 school year comes to a close, we are proud to recognize a remarkable group of employees beginning their retirement. Together, these retirees represent an incredible 179 years of dedication, service, and care for our students, staff, families, and community.

Throughout their careers, they have made a lasting difference through their hard work, compassion, and commitment to helping others succeed. Their impact can be seen in the relationships they built, the lives they touched, and the positive influence they brought to our schools each day. 🌟

We are deeply grateful for everything they have given to our district over the years. While they will be greatly missed, we are excited for them as they begin this next chapter.

Please join us in celebrating and congratulating our 2026 retirees! 🎉

• Vicki Brainerd, Ekstrand Library Associate — 15 years of service
• Susan Canaday Bormann, Secondary Instructional Facilitator — 25 years of service
• Tonia Dirksen, 1st Grade Teacher — 30 years of service
• Amy Haack, Preschool Teacher — 26 years of service
• Bobbie Hemesath, Ekstrand Cook — 10 years of service
• Roxy Kueter, CDHS Cook/Cashier — 15 years of service
• Penny Loomis-Roberts, Ekstrand Reading Teacher — 25 years of service
• Kim Lueders, CDIS Associate — 4 years of service
• Leann Walker, CDHS Associate — 29 years of service

#gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #cdms #cdis #ekstrandelementary #2026retirees #179years #dedication #inspiring #enjoyretirement #OnceASaberAlwaysASaber #thankyou

🥪 FREE SUMMER MEAL OPPORTUNITIES ☀️ There are several great opportunities for Central DeWitt families to access free, nutritious meals all summer long!

The DeWitt Referral Center & Thrift Store, along with volunteers from DeWitt United Methodist Church, First Congregational United Church of Christ, Grace Lutheran Church, St. Joseph Catholic Church, and the DeWitt Farmers Market, will once again offer the Summer Lunchbox Program. Families interested in signing up for this free program can contact the DeWitt Referral Center & Thrift Store.

Since 2014, the Summer Lunchbox Program has helped 2,746 children in the Central DeWitt Community School District by providing weekly summer food kits.

💛 Want to support the Summer Lunchbox Program?
You can donate in three ways:
• Purchase items from the wishlist: tinyurl.com/3kkbe9pm
• Make a monetary donation: https://secure.myvanco.com/L-ZY05/campaign/C-16BDA
• Donate in person at the DeWitt Farmers Market (3:30–6:30 PM at Lincoln Park)

Most-needed items include peanut butter, fruit cups, fruit or granola bars, crackers and canned pasta.

🍎 Central DeWitt families can also access free summer meals through neighboring school districts including Clinton, Davenport, Walcott, and Bettendorf. And, families can visit https://www.fns.usda.gov/sfsp/sitefinder to find additional summer meal sites in nearby communities.

➡️ Learn more about those summer meal options here: https://www.cd-csd.org/page/nutrition-services

We’re so grateful for these community partners and volunteers who help ensure kids stay healthy, happy, and well-fed throughout the summer months! 💜💛

#gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #cdms #cdis #ekstrandelementary #summermeals #SummerLunchboxProgram #summerlunchbox #weloveourcommunity #thankyouvolunteers #saberpride

We are proud to recognized Scott Steffens as our May 2026 Employee of the Month!

A caring attitude, genuine compassion, and a commitment to students are just a few of the qualities that make bus driver Scott Steffens deserving of this recognition. Whether he is greeting students on the bus, checking in with them at activities, or cheering them on throughout the year, Scott consistently goes above and beyond to make students feel supported and valued.

Those who work alongside Scott appreciate the way he communicates with kindness, asks thoughtful questions, and treats everyone with respect. At track meets and other school events, he always makes sure students and staff are taken care of while proudly following and celebrating the success of Central DeWitt students.

Scott is well respected for the consistency, reliability, and care he brings to his role as a bus driver each day. His dedication to students and pride in the community make a positive impact across the district.

Congratulations, Scott, on being named Employee of the Month, and thank you for all you do for our students and school community!

#gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #cdms #cdcsdemployeeofthemonth #employeeofthemonth #may2026employeeofthemonth #saberssucceeding #sabersuperstar

💜💛 Congratulations to our 2026 Preschool Graduates! From learning new skills and making new friends to growing in confidence each day, our youngest Sabers have accomplished so much this year and are more than ready for their next big adventure!

Last Thursday, Ekstrand students and staff helped kick off the celebration with a special graduation walk complete with high fives, cheers, and bubbles as they celebrated the preschool graduates. Later that evening, friends and family gathered for a heartwarming ceremony where our preschoolers performed songs and proudly received their diplomas.

We can’t wait to see all the amazing things our Class of 2039 will accomplish next year in kindergarten! 🎓🫧

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #EkstrandElementary #PreschoolGraduation2026 #SabersSucceeding #SaberPride #KindergartenHereWeCome #WayToGo #Classof20239

✂️ Take the stress out of back-to-school shopping this summer by ordering your child’s school supplies through 1st Day School Supplies!

Our teachers worked directly with 1st Day School Supplies to build next year’s lists, so when you order, you’re getting exactly what your child’s teacher requested—no substitutions and no second-guessing. It’s a simple, organized way to start the school year feeling confident and prepared.

‼️ DEADLINE to order school supply kits is JULY 1.
🛒 Order here: https://1stdayschoolsupplies.com/

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #EkstrandElementary #CDIS #SchoolSupplies #1stDaySchoolSupplies

🎾 Good luck to Max Froeschle and Ashton Schneider as they compete in doubles at the State Tennis Championships today starting at 10 a.m.! 🎾

These two are not only representing the Sabers at state — they’re also making school history as the first district champions in Saber boys tennis history for either singles or doubles competition! 👏🔥

Help us cheer on Max and Ashton as they compete among the best in the state. Let’s go, Sabers! 💜💛

#GoSabers #CentralDeWIttCSD #CDHS #CentralDeWittBoysTennis #BoysTennis #SaberTennis #StateBound #SabersAtState #SchoolHistory #DistrictChamps #SaberPride #SabersSucceeding

🌟 Last Friday, our 5th graders took the stage for the very first CDIS 5th Grade Talent Show! The morning was filled with plenty of entertainment as students performed skits, dances, magic and musical pieces for their classmates and families. 🎭🎶

Students were also recognized for their involvement in Peer Music and the Kindness Crew, while Mrs. Magill presented special art awards. 🎨

One of the highlights was “Grab the Mic,” a hilarious staff competition where staff members faced off to see who could be the first to sing a song featuring a word they were given. The finalists will return to compete during the 6th Grade Talent Show later this week! 🎤

To close out the event, students surprised Mrs. Hahn with a heartfelt thank you for all of the time, effort, and care she put into organizing the show and giving students the opportunity to share their talents. ❤️

Thank you to everyone who helped make this first-ever 5th Grade Talent Show such a memorable event and great job to all of the performers!

For more pictures visit our Facebook page.

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDIS #CDISTalentShow #5thGradeTalentShow #SaberPride #SabersSucceeding

🏋️‍♀️💪 The Summer Strength Lifting Program starts Monday, June 1! CDHS and CDMS students are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to stay active, build strength, and prepare for the upcoming seasons. Check out the schedule below:

📅 Monday, Wednesday, Friday
• 6:30–7:30 AM — High School Boys
• 7:30–8:30 AM — High School Girls
• 8:30–9:30 AM — High School Boys & Girls

📅 Tuesday, Thursday
• 7:30–8:30 AM — Middle School Boys
• 8:30–9:30 AM — Middle School Girls
• 9:30–10:30 AM — High School Baseball

📅 College Athletes
• Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 8:30–9:30 AM
• Tuesday, Thursday: 7:30–8:30 AM

Make the most of the summer and keep working toward your goals! 💥

#gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdms #cdhs #summerliftingschedule #summerliftingprogram

📚✍️ The Scribbler, Central DeWitt High School’s award-winning literary magazine, is proud to present Volume 18!

The newest edition highlights the creativity and talent of CDHS students through original writing, poetry, artwork, and more. Volume 18 is a reflection of the hard work and creativity of the students who helped bring the publication to life. 💜💛

Read Volume 18 at https://www.cdhsscribbler.com/!

#gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #thescribbler #literarymagazine #saberwriters #saberartisits #saberpride #StudentVoices #CreativeWriting #saberssucceeding #thescribblervolume18

As we head into our final week of school, we want to take a moment to recognize our school board members. May is School Board Recognition Month and this year’s theme, “Because of You,” is a fitting reminder of the impact their leadership has on our students, staff, and community each and every day.

Because of their dedication and service, our students have the tools, opportunities, and support they need to succeed. Thank you to Jodi Prosise, Jed Ganzer, Michelle Martens, Roger Hill, and Dan Smicker for your leadership, guidance, and continued commitment to our schools and community! 💜💛

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDHS #CDMS #CDIS #EkstrandElementary #CentralDeWittSchoolBoard #SchoolBoard #SchoolBoardRecognitionMonth #AcademicExcellence #OutstandingOpportunities #AnExceptionalExperience #CelebrateIASchoolBoards #SaberPride