Central DeWitt School District -

🎉 Congratulations, Hagan Ackley! 🎉 We’re proud to celebrate Mr. Ackley, Special Education Teacher at Ekstrand Elementary, who received the Mississippi Bend AEA District Watch Award!

Each semester, Mississippi Bend AEA’s District Watch Award recognizes outstanding educators, administrators, and school staff in our partner districts who go above and beyond for students, colleagues, and their school communities.

Mr. Ackley is an incredible educator who consistently goes above and beyond for students, building strong relationships and working closely with colleagues to meet a wide range of learning needs. His thoughtful, student-focused practices help create positive experiences and support success across learning environments.

👏 Thank you, Mr. Ackley, for the meaningful work you do every day!

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #EkstrandElementary #HaganAckley #MississippiBendAEA #DistrictWatchAward #SaberStaff #SaberSuperstar #SaberPride #SabersSucceeding

💜💛 Good luck, Sabers! 💛💜 Wishing Joellyn Dwinal, Serenity Roberts, and Greenley Grell the very best as they begin competition this afternoon at the Girls State Wrestling Tournament!

CDHS proudly sent them off this morning, and we couldn’t be more excited—this is the most wrestlers our girls program has sent to the state tournament in a single season! 🏆🤼‍♀️

🕟 Matches begin today at 4:30 p.m.
• Each athlete will wrestle two matches today
• With a win, they’ll advance to wrestle tomorrow at 1:00 p.m.

🎥 Watch live: https://www.watchighsau.com/?B=3610573

We’re proud of you and cheering you on every step of the way! 💪💜💛

#GoSabers #CentralDeWttCSD #CDHS #SaberGirlsWrestling #SaberWrestling #GirlsWrestling #GoFightWin #StateBound #StateWrestlingTournament #SabersSucceeding #SaberPride

AP Physics 1 students braved the winter elements to put their egg catch projects to the test! After completing a unit on momentum and impulse, students were challenged to design an egg catch capable of safely stopping a raw egg dropped from increasing heights. The results were impressive - Landon Paasch, Luke Pawlowski and Ashton Schneider's eggs survived a drop from the top of the home bleachers!

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDHS #APPhysics #Science #EggCatch #LearningIsFun #HandsOnLearning #CriticalThinking #ProblemSolving #SaberPride #SabersSucceeding

💜💛 Congratulations to our January 2026 District Student of the Month Mason Brown! He is featured in today's edition of The Observer thanks to our friends at First Central State Bank.

Mason consistently demonstrates a strong commitment to helping others, a quality that guides his actions both in and out of the classroom. Each morning before the school day begins, he voluntarily gives his time to assist with setting up the middle school gym for a variety of physical education activities. He takes pride in his work and approaches each task with enthusiasm, initiative, and care.

Mason’s willingness to help goes beyond completing tasks. He demonstrates strong critical thinking skills by offering thoughtful suggestions to improve equipment setup or modify activities when he identifies opportunities for improvement.

“Mason’s initiative to help without having been asked, and his positive and proactive attitude is a very refreshing way to start my day,” Carl Small, physical education teacher, said. “Mason is a great reminder we have great kids, doing great things, every day here at school.”

To Mason, helping others is about earning respect and being a positive presence. He believes that being a SABER means showing kindness no matter what, maintaining a good attitude throughout the school day, and staying focused on learning. These values are evident in his interactions with peers and staff alike.

Looking ahead, Mason hopes to pursue a career in kinesiology so he can better understand how muscles work, stay active, and help others improve their physical health. His interests align well with this goal, as he is actively involved in archery, soccer, band, and participates in the Central DeWitt Middle School play. He enjoys being part of a team because it allows him to support and encourage younger students, reflecting his strong sense of teamwork and willingness to help wherever needed.

Mason’s positive attitude, initiative, and dedication to helping others demonstrate his strong character and make him a well-deserving District Student of the Month.

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

🏀 CDMS Student Leadership hosted a high-energy Student vs. Staff Basketball Game last Friday, and the gym was buzzing with school spirit! The students came ready to compete, but in the end, the staff members showed they’ve still got some moves—taking home the win. 😄

Thanks to everyone who played, cheered, and helped make this event such a fun and memorable event—what a great way to end a school week! 🎉

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDMS #MiddleSchoolMatters #StudentLeadership #StudentVSStaff #SaberFun #StaffWins #SaberPride #SabersSucceeding

‼️ 2026-2027 Preschool registration and Saber Cubs Care registration are now open!

💜 PRESCHOOL REGISTRATION:
Your child must be 4 years old on or before September 15, 2025 to enroll. Click this link to register your child: https://forms.gle/joNsHZtBvprTrPJZ6

💛 SABER CUBS CARE REGISTRATION:
Saber Cubs Care registration is open for the Summer 2026 and 2026-2027 school year! Click this link to enroll your child: https://bit.ly/46iNMuc

Summer Child Care is available for children who will be 4 years old by June 1, 2026, through those entering 4th grade in the 2026-2027 school year, in accordance with state regulations.

School-Year Child Care is available for children who will be 4 years old through 3rd grade during the 2026–2027 school year.

For questions or issues with registration please contact Sarah Penniston at sarah.penniston@cd-csd.org or (563) 659-4711.

#gosabers #centraldewittcsd #PreschoolRegistration #SaberCubsCareRegistration #EkstrandElementary #Preschool #FutureSabers #Welcome #ChildCare #SaberPride

💚 Happy National School Counseling Week! We are grateful for our school counselors who amplify student success by supporting academic growth, social-emotional well-being, and future readiness every day.

Our school counselors do so much more than many realize—they are mentors, advocates, problem-solvers, and cheerleaders. Their work removes barriers, fosters success, and truly changes lives.

To the more than 131,000 school counselors serving K–12 students across the nation—and especially Mrs. Barbour, Mrs. Cain, Mrs. Wall, and Mrs. Schaible—thank you for your unwavering dedication, compassion, and support. Your impact is immeasurable, and we are so grateful for all you do. 💜💛

Please join us in showing appreciation for our school counselors!

#gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #cdms #cdis #ekstrandelementary #schoolcounselors #weloveourschoolcounselors #helpingourstudents #NSCW26 #AmplifyStudentSuccess #ThankYouSchoolCounselors #HelpingStudentsThrive #saberpride #saberssucceeding

👑 On Thursday, our kindergartners rolled out the red carpet for a royal tea party to celebrate the end of their royalty unit. Dressed in crowns, gowns, and regal attire, students stepped into the roles of kings and queens as they showcased everything they had learned.

The celebration concluded with a royal ball, where our young royalty danced to Disney favorites and proudly showed off the dance moves they had been practicing. It was a joyful, memorable experience fit for a kingdom—and one our kindergartners will surely remember!

#gosabers #centraldewittcsd #ekstrandelementary #kindergarten #royalteaparty #saberroyalty #learningisfun #handsonlearning #saberpride #sabersssucceeding

🏞️ Ms. Pickup’s 4th graders wrapped up their ELA and science units on geology with an engaging National Parks project! Students researched a National Park of their choice, learning about the animals and plants that inhabit each area, the landforms found there, and other interesting facts. They then created presentations and practiced how to effectively share their learning with an audience.

To wrap up the project, students invited staff, as well as a few students, to attend their presentations and celebrate their hard work.

This project has become a favorite over the years—thanks to an idea originally suggested by Ms. Pickup’s former student Eloise Ohnemus—and it continues to inspire curiosity, learning, and strong presentation skills.

Great job, Sabers!

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDIS #4thGrade #ELA #Science #Geology #NationalParks #NationalParkPresentations #LearningIsFun #SaberPride #SabersSucceeding

Thanks to the amazing and generous Central DeWitt PTO Ekstrand students enjoyed hot chocolate with marshmallows during lunch today! This treat was a PBIS incentive selected by students who earned tickets for demonstrating positive behavior. It was the perfect treat to add a little extra warmth to everyone’s day!

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #EkstrandElementary #PBIS #HotChocolate #CentralDeWittPTO #SaberPride #SabersSucceeding

🎨✨ Saber Artists Shine! ✨🎨 Please help us celebrate junior Kay Tracy, sophomore Bella Houston, and freshman Shayla Tapke for earning prestigious Silver Key awards in the 2026 Scholastic Art Awards—one of the highest honors a high school student can achieve in visual arts!

🏅 Silver Key Winners
• Kay Tracy — Ocean Eyes (Painting)
• Shayla Tapke — That’s a Wrap (Painting)
• Bella Houston — Nosey Nuthatches (Painting)

Their work was recognized by a panel of creative professionals for its outstanding originality, technical skill, and emerging personal voice and vision. Presented by the Belin-Blank Center for Gifted Education and Talent Development at the University of Iowa, in partnership with the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers, the Scholastic Awards have celebrated young artists since 1923—counting icons like Tschabalala Self, Stephen King, Kay WalkingStick, José Parlá, Amanda Gorman, Charles White, Joyce Carol Oates, and Andy Warhol among their alumni.

We are incredibly proud to count these students among that legacy! Keep creating, Saber Artists—imagine what the world has yet to see! 👏 💜💛

Learn more about the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards: artandwriting.org

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDHS #SaberArtists #Painting #SilverKeyAwards #Congratulations #SaberPride #SabersSucceeding

REMINDER: Preschool registration for the 2026–2027 school year will open this Monday, Feb. 2 at 8 a.m. The registration link will be shared on our website and social media that morning.

Our preschool program will offer both full-day and half-day options. Children must be 4 years old by September 15, 2026, to be eligible.

Questions about preschool registration may be directed to Sarah Penniston at sarah.penniston@cd-csd.org or (563) 659-4711. For questions regarding the preschool program please contact Principal Mike Miller at mike.miller@cd-csd.org or (563) 659-0750.

#gosabers #centraldewittcsd #EkstrandElementary #preschoolregistration #centraldewittpreschoolregistration #preschool #SaberPride #WelcomeSabers

🎶 Saber Sounds on Display! 🎶 We are incredibly proud of our Central DeWitt High School musicians who have represented CDHS with talent, dedication, and Saber pride at multiple prestigious events this winter!
✨ TUBACHRISTMAS – University of Dubuque (Dec. 18)
Mr. Greubel and nine CDHS students joined musicians from across the region to spread holiday cheer through music. L-R -Alexander Brown, Eva House, Mr. Greubel, Melanie Miller, Emily Sutton, Sophie House, Anna Prosise, Oliva Lopez, Kelton Collins, Gracie Garrow

🎷 NEIBA District 3A Honor Jazz Band (Jan. 10)
Three talented CDHS students were chosen to perform under the direction of Ms. Toni LeFebvre, showcasing their jazz skills at the district level. L-R: Onyx Kildow, Gracie Garrow, & Anna Prosise


🎼 University of Dubuque Honor Band (Jan. 16)
Eight CDHS students were selected to perform under the direction of Dr. Nolan Hauta—an outstanding honor recognizing their musical excellence. L-R: Mikaylie Miller, Chloe Erskine, Anna Prosise, Emily Sutton, Melanie Miller, Trinity Tague, Marie Klostermann, & Adelynne Meyer

🎺 MAC Conference Honor Band Festival (Jan. 19)
The CDHS Instrumental Program hosted nearly 200 students from seven MAC Conference schools.Guest conductor Mr. Steve Stickney led the 11/12 Honor Band and Mr. Michael Omarzu directed the 9/10 Honor Band.

L-R (9/10): Front row - Isabel Drew, Trinity Tague, Mikaylie Miller, Colby Stoker, Grace Burzlaff, Ella Sunday. Middle Row - Ember Rucker, Kayley Daehler, Izabella Mayer. Back Row - Ruth Whitman, David Burke, Ben Paarmann, Lucas Nelson, Ellie Cagle

L-R (11/12): Front Row - Niya Miller, Melanie Miller, Sophie House, Adelynne Meyer, Audrey Wilke, Katherine Cloos, Marie Klostermann. Middle Row - Luke Pawlowski, Tori Brassard, Adam Wilke, Gabbie Ciriac, Emily Sutton, Anna Prosise. Back Row - Onyx Kildow, Ashlie Oronzio, Gracie Garrow, Alexander Brown, Aiden Costas
These experiences highlight the hard work of our students and the strength of our instrumental music program. Congratulations to Mr. Greubel and all of our musicians for representing Central DeWitt so well—your dedication hits all the right notes! 💜💛🎶

The Central DeWitt Community School District is at a pivotal moment—one that will shape how our schools serve generations of students to come. For several months, a committee has been working on a long-range facilities plan. As part of this process, we invite families, students, staff, and community members to join two upcoming meetings focused on reimagining how Central DeWitt will house and support its learners.

➡ February 4 | 5:30 p.m. | Boardroom
Board Work Session with Piper Sandler, DLR Group, & Denovo Construction
The purpose of this work session is to review and discuss phasing options related to the District’s long-range facilities plan.

This session is a Board work session, conducted in public but not intended as a public discussion. Community members are welcome to observe and may submit written questions for consideration as the Board prepares for its next meeting. Direct participation during the session will not be available.

➡ February 11 | 6:00 p.m. | Boardroom
Community Forum
The community is invited to learn about the proposed long-range facilities plan, ask questions, and provide input.

Important decisions are ahead, and this work represents a valuable opportunity to thoughtfully plan for the future of our schools! Join us to see the plans, ask questions, see how tax dollars and other resources are being invested, and help create inspiring learning spaces. Input from both meetings will help inform the Board’s work as it prepares to consider approval of the long-range facilities plan in April.

Materials from the Long-Range Facilities Planning Committee are currently available on the District’s website for those who would like to review the work completed to date. Visit https://www.cd-csd.org/page/facility-planning

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDHS #CDMS #CDIS #EkstrandElementary #LongRangeFacilityPlanning #FacilityPlanning #ShapingTheFuture #PlanningForTheFuture #OurSchoolsOurFuture #CommunityEngagement #SaberPride #SabersSucceeding

🎓 Our next senior spotlight is Brady Meadow, who has big plans for his future! Way to go, Brady!

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

💜💛 Central DeWitt High School’s literary magazine, The Scribbler, has been recognized as a REALM First Class magazine by the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE). This is the highest honor in the Recognizing Excellence in Art and Literary Magazines (REALM) contest.

This year, schools in 44 states, Washington, D.C., and six countries nominated 456 student magazines. Magazines from middle school, high school, and higher education were welcomed for the 2025 contest. 135 magazines were awarded the contest’s highest distinction, REALM First Class.

Congratulations to Mrs. Mercado, the 2024-25 Scribbler staff, and all the amazing writers who shared their creative work! We’re proud of you all!

Check out the The Scribbler at https://www.cdhsscribbler.com/

For more information on the REALM contest, please visit the NCTE REALM website: https://ncte.org/awards/realm-awards/

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #CDHS #TheScribbler #CDHSTheScribbler #REALM #NCTE #REALMFirstClassAward #REALMRecipient #SaberWriters #AcademicExcellence #OutstandingOpportunities #AnExceptionalExperience#SaberPride #SabersSucceeding

📅 When the school schedule changes, have peace of mind knowing Saber Cubs Care is already part of your plan. Snow days. Virtual learning days. Non-school days. Summer break. School schedules don’t always line up with work schedules—but Saber Cubs Care is there when families need it most.

✅ Saber Cubs Care provides dependable care in a familiar environment with caring staff who understand kids—and school.
✅ On virtual learning days, students receive help with schoolwork and routines.
✅ Our Saber Cubs enjoy a fun, kid-centric space with a mix of structured activities and free play, along with access to the gym and playground for plenty of room to move and explore.
✅ Best of all, it’s offered at very affordable rates, with Child Care Assistance available for qualifying families, helping make quality care accessible to all (Fees: https://bit.ly/4rmHa6u).

Saber Cubs Care offers before- and after-school care, early-out care, and all-day preschool care on Fridays during the school year. During the summer, care is available Monday–Friday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

💡 Did you know? Families can sign their child up for Saber Cubs Care only on scheduled non-school days or when school is cancelled due to weather or other reasons. Even if your child doesn’t attend SCC regularly, being registered gives you a reliable option when schedules change. If you think you may ever need care on snow days or non-school days, registering during February 2 enrollment helps ensure SCC is part of your plan when it matters most.

If you want peace of mind when schedules shift, Saber Cubs Care is ready. Registration opens at 8 a.m. on February 2 for summer 2026 and the 2026–2027 school year. The link will be available on our social media channels and website.

Summer Child Care is available for children who will be 4 years old by June 1, 2026, through those entering 4th grade in the 2026-2027 school year, in accordance with state regulations. School-Year Child Care is available for children who will be 4 years old through 3rd grade during the 2026–2027 school year.

We can’t wait to welcome your Saber Cubs! 🐾💜💛

For more information visit https://www.cd-csd.org/o/cdcsd/page/saber-cubs-care or contact Saber Cubs Care Director Sarah Penniston at sarah.penniston@cd-csd.org or (563) 659-4711.

#GoSabers #CentralDeWittCSD #SaberCubsCare #EkstrandElementary #SCC #Registration #SaberCubsCareRegistration #EnrollFebruary2 #SaberPride #ChildCare #CaringForYourCubs

Each day, Central DeWitt employees make a difference for students, families, and one another through their dedication, care, and commitment to our schools. Help us recognize those employees by nominating them for the January’s Employee of the Month!

💜 WHO CAN BE NOMINATED?
• Any full-time or part-time Central DeWitt employee
• Employees may be selected once per school year
• Staff members not chosen for the Employee of the Month are recognized as Saber Superstars throughout the year

📣 HOW TO NOMINATE:
Please submit your nomination using the form linked below:
https://forms.gle/ksRVLaYC6XBXkAbw7

🗓 Nomination deadline: Monday, Feb. 2nd

Your nomination helps ensure the important work of our staff does not go unnoticed. Thank you for taking the time to recognize the people who make Central DeWitt a supportive and successful place to learn and grow.

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