Central DeWitt School District -

🇺🇸 Today, students and staff from across Central DeWitt came together for our district-wide Veterans Day Assembly, hosted by the CDHS Student Council, to recognize and honor the men and women who have served our country.

While the untimely storm kept Ekstrand students from joining us in person, they were able to take part by watching the livestream from their classrooms.

The assembly featured a presentation of the colors by the Color Guard, the Pledge of Allegiance, and a moving performance of the National Anthem by the CDHS and CDMS choirs, under the direction of Mr. Ryan Uttech and Mrs. Kerri Olson. The high school choir also performed “The Battle Hymn of the Republic,” followed by the high school band’s presentation of “Armed Forces – The Pride of America!” under the direction of Mr. Josh Greubel.

We were honored to welcome First Sergeant Mike Miller of the Iowa Army National Guard as our guest speaker. A 22-year veteran of the U.S. military, First Sergeant Miller shared his experiences and offered students an opportunity to reflect on the meaning of service, patriotism and leadership.

We also recognized the veterans in attendance, along with the family members whose strength and support are an important part of military service.

A special thank-you to the CDHS Student Council for hosting, our student performers and directors, the Color Guard, First Sergeant Miller, and everyone who helped make today's assembly possible.

Most importantly, thank you to all who have served and continue to serve our country. We are grateful for your service and sacrifice.❤️💙

#gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #cdms #cdis #ekstrandelementary #saberpride #saberssucceeding #VeteransDay #ThankYouVeterans #ThankYouForYourService #HonoringVeterans DeWitt American Legion and Auxiliary

🇺🇸 Today, we pause to recognize and thank the men and women who have served our country.

Yesterday, CDIS students took time to honor our nation’s veterans with a special Veterans Day assembly. Through music, poetry, and student reflections, they shared the meaning of Veterans Day and expressed their appreciation for those who have served.

We are grateful to the local veterans who joined us and gave our students the opportunity to recognize their service and sacrifice.

A special thank-you to Mrs. Hahn, Mrs. Soenksen, and all of the students and staff who helped make this tribute possible. Your efforts helped create a meaningful opportunity for students to learn about and honor those who have served our country.

To all who have worn the uniform, thank you for your service, sacrifice, and commitment to our country. We are proud to honor you today and every day. ❤️💙

#gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdis #SaberPride #ThankYouVeterans #VeteransDay

💀🌼 Our high school Spanish students recently welcomed middle and intermediate school students for an interactive learning experience centered on Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead).

Spanish students shared the cultural significance of this celebration, showcasing traditional altars (ofrenda) honoring their ancestors and helping younger students learn about the customs and traditions celebrated in Spanish-speaking countries.

Through artwork, food, music and hands-on activities, students brought the celebration to life while giving our younger students an opportunity to explore another culture and its traditions.

Experiences like these create meaningful connections between students across grade levels while giving our Spanish students the opportunity to share what they've learned.

¡Gracias to our Spanish students, Señora Schaller and Señora Jory for creating this opportunity to learn together! 💜💛

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDHS #CDIS #CDMS #SpanishStudents #DiaDeLosMuertos #PortraitOfASaber #initiative #communication #criticalthinking #globalawareness #CulturalAwareness #HandsOnLearning #SaberPride #SabersSucceeding

🏹 The 2026 Central DeWitt Archery Club Webstore is OPEN!

Show your Saber Archery pride with some new club gear! The online store is open until November 16.

🛒 Shop here: www.adcraftwebstores.com/CDACB26

Don't wait! Be sure to get your order in before the store closes on November 16!

For Mr. Oberfoell, teaching Language Arts at CDHS is about helping students find meaning in what they read and discover lessons they can carry with them long after they leave his classroom.

Named Central DeWitt's October Employee of the Month, Mr. Oberfoell was recognized by students and colleagues for the energy, enthusiasm, and personal attention he brings to his classroom and the school community.

One of his favorite parts of teaching Language Arts is the opportunity to connect with students through the works they read together. With a wide variety of texts throughout the year, he looks for opportunities for students to find something they enjoy and to which they can relate. Those readings also open the door for meaningful discussions, allowing him to share personal experiences and lessons while encouraging students to think beyond the pages.

"Connecting with students is my favorite part about being a teacher," Oberfoell shared. "I hope students see me as someone who cares about them and wants to see them excel in and out of the classroom and in their lives after Central DeWitt."

That care is evident in the everyday interactions his nominators described, from checking in with students about their progress to offering extra help and making time for conversations in QueST and in the hallways. He wants students to know they have someone in their corner who is invested in their success.

Oberfoell also sets a clear expectation for his students: give their best each day. He strives to model that mindset through the enthusiasm and passion he brings to teaching, encouraging students to bring that same energy to their own learning.

"I want students to give their best every day," he said. "I do my best to bring energy and passion on a daily basis, and I want my students to do the same."

It's that combination of enthusiasm, genuine care for students, and investment in the school community that makes his recognition especially meaningful. Oberfoell describes Central DeWitt as a special place, pointing to its close-knit nature and the relationships he has built with both staff and students.

Congratulations to Mr. Oberfoell on this well-deserved recognition and for the enthusiasm and care he brings to the Saber community!💜💛

#gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #cdcsdemployeeofthemonth #employeeofthemonth #saberssucceeding #sabersuperstar #saberpride

The CDHS Dance Team had a successful day at Saturday’s Stack the Stands competition, hosted by Cedar Rapids Prairie High School! Soloist Millie Wing delivered a spectacular performance, and the team earned 5th place with their routine among strong competition from across Iowa.

Both Millie and the team will take the floor again at the State Competition in December!
Congratulations, Sabers! We’ll be cheering you on! 💜💛

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDHS #SaberDance #SaberCheer #SaberSpiritSquad #StackTheStands #StateBound #SabersAtState #SaberPride #SaberSpirit #SabersSuceeding

💙💛 FFA CHAPTER APPAREL STORE IS OPEN! 🌽

Show your Saber FFA pride! Our chapter apparel store is open, and FFA gear would make great Christmas gifts! 🎁

📦 All orders will be shipped to the school, and we'll let you know when they're ready for pickup and will arrive in time for Christmas!

⏰ Order deadline: November 18 at 11:59 p.m.

Shop here: https://1800tshirts.chipply.com/store.html?eid=678259&action=viewall

🏆 Congratulations to our October 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

📣 CDHS SPIRIT SQUAD FAN STORE IS OPEN! 💜💛

Want to show your support for your favorite Saber cheerleader or dancer? The CDHS Spirit Squad fan store is open now through November 16!

Get your orders in and be ready to show your Saber spirit at basketball games this winter! 🏀

Shop here: https://adcraftwebstores.com/cwndc26/

On Wednesday, eight Central DeWitt students had the opportunity to visit with Shive-Hattery, Inc. Architecture & Engineering and Russell Construction to explore careers in engineering, architecture, and construction!

The day started at Shive Hattery, where students learned about the different types of engineers and how they contribute to projects from the initial planning and design stages through completion. From there, students visited the Russell Construction job site for the new Quad Cities headquarters of QCR Holdings and Quad City Bank & Trust in Bettendorf. Students got an up-close look at an active construction site and learned about the many people, skills, and materials involved in bringing a large-scale project to life.

The new headquarters is an impressive project, with 650 tons of structural steel, 158 tons of floor and roof decking, and 500,000 feet of wire being installed!

This trip was a great opportunity for students to connect classroom learning to real-world careers and see firsthand the variety of opportunities available in these industries. A big thank-you to Shive Hattery and Russell Construction for sharing their time and expertise with our students!

#GoSabers #CentralDeWitt #WorkBasedLearning #SkilledTrades #Construction #CareerExploration #FutureReady #SaberPride #SabersSucceeding

🏀💜 The Girls Basketball online store is open! Show your Saber pride and get ready for the to cheer our Sabers on with some new gear. From phone cases to sweatshirts they have something for everyone!

🛍️ Shop here: https://bit.ly/4jUWxCt

⏰ The store closes Wednesday, November 11! Be sure to get your orders in before it closes! 💛

🎶 Seven CDMS students represented our district at the St. Ambrose Honor Band on Tuesday! We are proud of these Sabers for earning the opportunity to perform alongside talented student musicians from other area schools.

Congratulations to:
• Zoe Gibson – Euphonium
• Harper Petersen – Alto Saxophone
• Rebekah House – French Horn
• Lily Soenksen – Trumpet
• Jonathan Stroud – Tuba
• Kinnick Olsen – Baritone Saxophone
• Caleb Adams – Bass Clarinet

Way to represent Central DeWitt and share your musical talents! 💜💛

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDMS #SaberMusicians #StAmbroseHonorBand #OutstandingOpportunity #AnExceptionalExperience #SaberPride #SabersSucceeding

💅 Three Central DeWitt students recently explored opportunities in the beauty industry during a Nail Technician information session at La James Beauty School!

Students toured the facility, watched a demonstration featuring a new nail trend application and learned more about the skills and knowledge needed to pursue a career as a nail technician. Topics included proper nail preparation, application techniques and the importance of sanitation and safety practices.

Experiences like this give students an opportunity to explore career paths, learn directly from industry professionals and consider possibilities for their future!

#CareerExploration #WorkBasedLearning #FutureReady #CareerConnections #LaJamesBeautySchool #CDHS #CentralDeWittCSD #GoSabers #SaberPride #SabersSucceeding

Five Central DeWitt students recently participated in a Union Visit in the Quad Cities to learn more about apprenticeship opportunities and career pathways in the skilled trades.

Students toured training facilities, learned about the opportunities available through each union, and explored the application process. They also had the opportunity to see apprentices in action and hear firsthand about their experiences as they develop skills and prepare for their careers.

Interested in learning more about apprenticeship opportunities? Here are the unions students visited, along with information about their application processes:

🔹 Carpenters Union – https://mactc.org/
Four application events each year, or applicants can schedule an appointment.
🔹 Millwrights Local 2158 – https://www.millw2158.com/
Four application events each year, or applicants can schedule an appointment.
🔹 Quad City Electrical Training Center – https://qcelectrical.org/
Accepts applications year-round. The application process takes approximately 6–9 months.
🔹 Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 25 – ttps://lu25.org/training/application.html
Next application deadline: January 29, 2027.

Experiences like this are an important part of Central DeWitt's Work-Based Learning program, connecting students with local industries and helping them explore career opportunities outside of the classroom. There are many paths to a successful career, and we're glad our students have opportunities to discover them!

Thank you to these Unions for welcoming our students and giving them an inside look at the opportunities available!

#GoSabers #CentralDeWitt #WorkBasedLearning #SkilledTrades #Apprenticeships #CareerExploration #FutureReady #SaberPride #SabersSucceeding

Thank you to everyone who voted in Tuesday’s election, and to all who took the time to learn about the Connected Campus plan, ask questions, and share their views. We are especially grateful to the petition signers and volunteers who helped bring this question to the ballot.

On Tuesday, November 3, voters did not approve the $33.7 million general obligation bond for the Connected Campus facilities plan. Unofficial results show 1,317 votes (29.9%) in favor, and 3,091 votes (70.1%) opposed; Iowa law requires 60% approval for a school bond to pass.

These results make it clear that the Connected Campus plan, as presented, did not have the support of our community. It would be premature to attribute that outcome to any one factor. Over the coming weeks and months, we will need to re-engage our staff and community to better understand the concerns and what a plan that can earn broad support might look like.

The infrastructure, safety, and learning space needs identified through our comprehensive facilities planning have not gone away. We remain committed to addressing those needs thoughtfully while continuing our most important work of improving student learning and outcomes.

We want to thank the many community members who attended tours, informational meetings, and other events this fall to learn about the bond issue. Your questions and feedback were valuable, and that kind of engagement will be just as important moving forward. In the months ahead, the district will continue to share information about our facilities and host additional opportunities for community members to learn more, ask questions, and voice their opinions. We encourage everyone to stay involved, because the path forward should reflect the priorities of the community we serve.

Thank you for your continued support of our students and schools.

🤼 Wrestling Season is Almost Here! Get geared up and ready to cheer on our Sabers this season! The Boys Wrestling Team Store is now open with gear for fans to show their support.

🛍️ Check out the store: https://www.teamelitesports.com/centraldewitt.html

📅 Orders must be placed by November 15!

Let's get ready to hit the mats, Sabers! 🐾

Central DeWitt Model UN students traveled to the Iowa State Capitol to participate in the Iowa Youth Symposium, where they served as delegates representing China. Students researched, discussed and debated policy issues, taking on the challenge of representing another country's perspectives.

Our delegation had the opportunity to work in the Iowa House of Representatives chamber, giving students a unique setting for their discussions and debate.

👏 A special congratulations to Central DeWitt junior Evalyn House, who earned an Outstanding Delegate Award for her work on the second day of the conference!

Experiences like these give students the opportunity to explore global issues, strengthen their communication and critical-thinking skills, and engage in meaningful discussions beyond the classroom.

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDHS #ModelUN #IowaYouthSymposium #GlobalAwareness #PortraitOfASaber #StudentLeadership #SaberPride #SabersSucceeding

Last Tuesday, 29 of our Central DeWitt Middle School students, accompanied by Mr. Mercado, attended the International Day Human Rights Conference at the University of Iowa.

Students had the opportunity to hear an incredible keynote speaker, explore important humanitarian issues, and engage with topics that encourage thoughtful discussion and a broader understanding of the world around them. They also enjoyed lunch in one of the university's residence halls and the chance to connect with students from schools across Iowa.

Experiences like these give our students new perspectives, meaningful learning opportunities, and a chance to see how the issues we study connect to the world beyond the classroom! 💜💛

#GoSabers #CentralDeWIttCSD #CDMS #InternationalDayHumanRightsConference #UniversityofIowa #OutstandingOpportunity #AnExceptionalExperience #UnderstandingTheWorld #Connecting #SaberPride #SabersSucceeding