🌟 What a fantastic showcase of talent, creativity, and school spirit at the 6th Grade Talent Show!

The event kicked off with a special guest performance by the 8th grade jazz band, setting the stage with some great music. The celebration continued with awards and recognition, followed by a memorable appearance from the Peer STEM “Everyone Shines!” Drumline.

From dancing, singing, comedy skits, poetry, and magic acts, our 6th graders truly brought the stage to life with their energy and creativity. The excitement continued with the final round of Grab the Mic, featuring staff finalists, with Mr. Ehlers coming out on top!

The show wrapped up with a fantastic performance by the 6th grade choir.

A special congratulations goes out to our award winners:

6th Grade Medal of Merit Winners
• Eloise Ohnemus
• Calvin McCulloh

Lions International Peace Poster Contest Winners
• Brynlee Dies – 1st Prize
• Dennis Wold – 2nd Prize

The talent show was a wonderful way to celebrate the many talents of our 6th grade class and wrap up the year on a high note! 🎭🎶✨

#gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdis #cdis6thgradetalentshow #sabertalent #saberssucceeding #saberpride
2 days ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
6th grade choir performing
6th graders performing a "sticky chair" skit
6th graders performing a modern-day Rapunzel skit
6th graders doing a t-shirt toss
Students performing a dance
6th graders performing a comedy skit
6th graders performing a cheer routine
Students performing dance to "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun"
Staff members competing in "Grab the Mic"
Students in a band performing a song by Journey
🏃‍♂️🏃‍♀️Last week, the Central DeWitt PTO hosted the Saber Fun Run, a fundraiser that supports a variety of programs, activities, and opportunities for students and staff at Ekstrand Elementary and CDIS!

Both Ekstrand and CDIS students brought their enthusiasm and plenty of smiles as they ran laps, cheered on their classmates and enjoyed popsicles at the end. This event was a great example of what can happen when students, staff, families, and the community come together to support our schools. 💜💛

A big thank you to the Central DeWitt PTO, volunteers, and everyone who donated to make this event a success. Your support helps create meaningful experiences for our students throughout the year! 🎉👏

#CentralDeWittCSD #GoSabers #CentralDeWittPTO #EkstrandElementary #CDIS #PTOFundraiser #SaberFunRun #SaberPride #ThankYouToOurCommunity
2 days ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
Ekstrand Saber Fun Run
CDIS Saber Fun Run
Ekstrand Saber Fun Run
Ekstrand Saber Fun Run
CDIS Saber Fun Run
Ekstrand Saber Fun Run
CDIS Saber Fun Run
CDIS Saber Fun Run
CDIS Saber Fun Run
Ekstrand Saber Fun Run
🏆 Congratulations to our May 2026 #SaberSpotlight students! #SaberSpotlight recognizes Central DeWitt students who stand out in the classroom and represent what it means to be a SABER!

#gosabers #centraldewittcsd #SaberSpotlight #studentssucceeding #cdhs #cdms #cdis #ekstrandelementary
2 days ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
May 2026 #SaberSpotlight
May 2026 #SaberSpotlight
May 2026 #SaberSpotlight
May 2026 #SaberSpotlight
May 2026 #SaberSpotlight
May 2026 #SaberSpotlight
May 2026 #SaberSpotlight
🎾💜💛 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
3 days ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
Saber Boys Tennis Team and Coach Small and Coach Froeschle with 4th Place Trophy
📣✨ 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
3 days ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
Central DeWitt Cheer and Dance Team tryout information
Central DeWitt Cheer and Dance Team descriptions
💜💛 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
3 days ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
Cora Plumley
🏆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
4 days ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
Peer STEM Award: Will Bauer, Karson Martens, Gunner Henderson, Caden Miller, Charlotte Pauly, Abi Burke, Tegan Spain, Payton Goldensoph
CDMS End of Year Awards Assembly
American Legion Award: Shupriya Karki
American Legion Award: Cade Converse
Rheingans Award: Sam VonMuenster, Jaxton Shimp, Isabella McQuistion, Bailey Ruggeberg
Bertolino Math Award: Chloe Knepper, Ethan Grager
STEM Award: Zanyel Barys, Ben Doerscher
Choir Director's Choice: Makena Rickertsen, Tegan Spain
Band Director's Choice: Chloe Knepper
Vermazen Award: Talia Stroud, Brady Dies
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
4 days ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
Jumpstart Kindergartners playing tug-o-war
CDIS students field day
Third grade playing tug-o-war
CDMS at the DeWitt Aquatic Center
CDIS students field day
Students playing tug-o-war
Ekstrand student doing the long jump
Second grade playing tug-o-war
Ekstrand students participating in potato sack races
CDMS at the DeWitt Aquatic Center
🎾 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
4 days ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
Saber boys tennis team and coaches
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
5 days ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
Band students and Building Trades students in front of new shed
Mr. Greubel shaking the hands of the students who built the shed for the marching band
Building Trades students standing in the garage of the shed they built for the marching band
📚🎉 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
5 days ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
Yearbook pick up flyer
🎉 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
8 days ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
CDHS Student Council member celebrating the last day of school with popsicles
💜💛 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
8 days ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
•	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

We know it’s not Work With Us Wednesday… but these opportunities are too good not to share right away! 💜💛

We’re excited to highlight these open positions that offer the chance to make a real impact in our schools and community. Whether you’re passionate about guiding our youngest learners in kindergarten, preparing students for life beyond high school in business education, or leading the important work of maintaining safe, efficient, and welcoming school facilities, there’s a place for you on our team.

These roles support student success in different but meaningful ways and play an important role in promoting academic excellence, outstanding opportunities, and an exceptional student experience.

If you’re ready for something new this summer or looking ahead to the next school year, explore our openings and see where you might fit in!

Start here: https://phlaptweb36.applitrack.com/CDCSD/onlineapp/

Join our Saber family today!

#gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #cdms #cdis #ekstrandelementary #greatopportunities #workwithuswednesday #joinoursaberfamily #jobopportunities #directorofoperations #businessteacher #kindergartenteach #academicexcellence #outstandingopportunities #anexceptionalexperience

9 days ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
Director of Operations, CDHS Business Teacher and Kindergarten Teach job lisitngs
🥪 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
9 days ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
Watermelon wearing sunglasses and waving
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
9 days ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
Dr. Stephanie Mishler, Scott Steffens and Brent Rheingans
💜💛 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
10 days ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
Preschooler receiving his diploma
Preschool Graduation Walk
Preschoolers performing songs at their graduation ceremony
Preschooler receiving his diploma
Preschool Graduation Walk
Preschoolers performing songs at their graduation ceremony
Ms. Amy's Preschool Class
Ms. Erin's Preschool Class
Ms. Allie's Preschool Class
Ms. Allie's Preschool Class
✂️ 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
10 days ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
1st Day School Supplies
🎾 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
10 days ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
Max Froeschle and Ashton Schneider
🌟 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
11 days ago, Central DeWitt Community School District
Staff competing in the Grab the Mic competition
Students in a cheerleading pyramid formation
Students performing magic tricks
Students performing a dance
Students doing a t-shirt toss
Mrs. Magill handing out art awards
5th grade students performing a basketball routine
5th grade band students performing
Football commentary skit
Mrs. Hahn and the 5th grade hosts of the talent show