Central DeWitt School District -

Shoutout to these 10 talented 8th graders who represented Central DeWitt at the SE-ICDA Honor Choir at Assumption High School on Thursday! Your hard work, dedication, and incredible voices made us proud. Way to shine, Sabers! 1st row - Rachael Beaver, Addie Schroeder, Aria Soenksen, Grace English, Liz Cox 2nd row - Makinley Rock, Erica Lanning, Eva Burke, Ezra Housenga, Will Vickers #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdms #8thgradechoir #SEICDA #HonorChoir #saberpride #saberssucceeding

We are excited to meet the class of 2038 during Kindergarten Roundup on April 2, 2025! A parent meeting will be held on March 4th. If you haven’t already, please pre-register your child for kindergarten here: https://forms.gle/FEgKP5VZzRxmr7Lc7 You can also find the form and as well as other information here: https://www.cd-csd.org/page/registration Children must be five years old on or before September 15, 2025, to be eligible for kindergarten. More information will be shared once you have submitted the pre-registration form. #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #ekstrandelementary #cdcsdkindergartenregistration #kindergartenroundup #futuresabers #classof2038

On Saturday, senior Brady Herington played lead alto saxophone in the 3A NEIBA Honor Jazz Band! Students from Decorah, Waverly, Marion, Waukon, and other 3A programs gathered at Coe College for one day to rehearse and then perform an incredible concert that evening. Amazing job, Brady! Thank you for proudly representing Central DeWitt with your talent and hard work! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #cdhsband #NEIBAHonorJazzBand #saberpride #saberssucceeding

Congratulations to the Central DeWitt Robotics Team who shined at the regional robotics event hosted right here at Central DeWitt Middle School this past Saturday! With over 40 students competing across seven teams, that’s more than 16% of our middle schoolers embracing the challenge of robotics! We’re so proud of these students for trying something new and showcasing their skills. Amazing job, Sabers! Check out the results: SPECIAL OLYMPIC WHITE - INNOVATION PROJECT AWARD - STATE ADVANCER This team utilizes diverse resources for their Innovation Project to help them gain a comprehensive understanding of their problem; has a creative, well researched solution; and effectively communicates their findings to judges and the community. AVERY MEEK - MENTOR AWARD Coaches and mentors inspire their teams to do their best, both as individuals and together. This award goes to the coach or mentor whose leadership and guidance is clearly evident and best exemplifies the FIRST Core Values. ORANGE TEAM - RISING ALL-STAR AWARD This award celebrates a team that the judges notice and expect great things from in the future. GREY TEAM - ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE AWARD This award celebrates a team with an efficiently designed robot, an innovative project solution that effectively addresses the season challenge, and Core Values evident in all they do. PURPLE TEAM - LYNX ROBO RUMBLE The Lynx Robo Rumble is an invitation only, postseason robot tournament open to the top three robot scoring teams from each of the Regional and State Tournament. Teams will compete in an exciting day of robot runs with the best in the state. #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdms #centraldewittrobotics #robotics #STEM #saberssucceeding #saberpride Central DeWitt Middle School STEM

🏆 Congratulations to our December 2024 #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 #saberssucceeding #saberpride

🎓 Our next senior spotlight is Leah Marvin, who has a great future ahead! The Senior Spotlight is created by CDHS AmeriCorps Student Leaders Lauren Walker, Parker Petsche, and Natalie Cagle. In this role, these students 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 #americorpsstudentleaders #careerandcollegeready #postsecondaryoptions #saberssucceeding

🏀 Friday, Jan. 17th the DeWitt Youth Girls and Boys Basketball participants will be recognized in between the varsity girls and boys basketball games against Davenport West. The girls game begins at 6 p.m. followed by the boys game at 7:30 p.m. Youth participants should line up in the auxiliary gym during the 4th quarter of the girls game. We're looking forward to recognizing all of the youth basketball players!

💜💛 Congratulations to our December 2024 District Student of the Month 3rd grader Derrick Hall! He is featured in today's edition of The Observer thanks to our friends at First Central State Bank. Derrick Hall has been recognized as the District Student of the Month for his outstanding demonstration of SABER qualities. Derrick is new to Central DeWitt this year and from his first day, he has exemplified leadership, kindness, and a commitment to inclusivity that has made a lasting impression on his peers and teachers alike. Derrick’s leadership extends beyond the classroom. At the beginning of the year, he made it a priority to walk his first-grade cousin home every day after school, ensuring he was always on time to pick her up. This level of responsibility and care is just one of the many ways Derrick demonstrates his dedication to others. Ms. Herington, Derrick's third-grade teacher, spoke highly of his ability to connect with students of all abilities and backgrounds. "Derrick greets me every morning with a ‘Good morning, Ms. Herington,’ and leaves every day with a ‘Bye, Ms. Herington.’ It always brings a smile to my face," she shared. Derrick’s problem-solving skills and self-advocacy are equally noteworthy. When faced with challenges, he takes the initiative to resolve conflicts respectfully and thoughtfully. Mrs. Herington recalled being impressed by Derrick’s willingness to address issues independently before seeking her help, always with a focus on building friendships and understanding. Academically, Derrick consistently participates in class, strives to do his best work, and seeks help when needed to ensure he continues to grow as a learner. His dedication to both his studies and his relationships with others has made him a valued member of the school community. “Derrick has been a great addition to our district, and I am so thankful to have him in my class,” Mrs. Herington said. Congratulations, Derrick, on being named District Student of the Month!

🎓 Seniors, don’t miss this opportunity! No matter what your plans are after graduation, The Education Foundation of Central DeWitt has scholarships available to help you start your future off right! And, with their OneApp, you can apply for 29 different scholarships by submitting just one application! Your future is waiting—don’t leave this money on the table! 📅 Application Deadline: March 16, 2025 🔗 Apply now: 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 • NEW: Carolyn M. Eggleston Memorial Scholarship for Vocal Music (Alumni Eligible) • David A. and Sandra K. Deke 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 • The Krieger Family Scholarship • Lillian Fell Scholarship • Mary and Gary Froeschle Scholarship • Neil Padgett Scholarship • Nellie LeMon Scholarships • Paul and Sally Banowetz Family Scholarship • Ray and Jan Meier Scholarship • NEW: Robert and Joan Reynolds Family Scholarships (2) • Ron and Shirley Besst Scholarship • Ryanne (Gillum) Davis Memorial Scholarship – Forever 42 Foundation • Sam Potter Memorial Scholarship • The Kilburg Family Scholarship • The Mitchell Ertz Memorial Scholarship • Tommy C. Capper Scholarship (Alumni Eligible) • NEW: Vern Fleagle Scholarship #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #seniors #classof2025 #graduation #Scholarships #TheEducationFoundationofCentralDeWitt #OneApp #InvestInYourFuture

It’s time to nominate Central DeWitt employees for the December Employee of the Month! This district-wide program gives CDCSD parents, students and community members the opportunity to help us recognize our outstanding employees. Nominations are due Monday, Jan. 13th! Nomination form: https://forms.gle/ksRVLaYC6XBXkAbw7 #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #employeeofthemonth #cdhs #cdms #cdis #ekstrandelementary #nominateanemployee

This Friday, January 10th, enjoy dinner at The Education Foundation of Central DeWitt's Sloppy Joe Supper in the CDHS Atrium, followed by a chance to satisfy your sweet tooth at the Central Saber Athletic Boosters Club cake auction. The auction will take place in between the varsity girls’ and boys’ basketball games. Proceeds from the supper fund grants for Central DeWitt teachers, while the cake auction supports our athletic programs. Thank you for supporting our teachers and programs by joining these delicious events! REMINDER: It’s not too late to make a cake to donate! Reach out to jfkray@gmail.com or text (651) 472-1359. Completed cakes must be dropped off between 5-7 p.m. at the CDHS/CDMS Media Center on Jan. 9th for judging. #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #theeducationalfoundationofcentraldewitt #sloppyjoesupper #cakeauction #centralsaberathleticboostersclub #supportoursabers

⏰ Set your alarms Sunday night, Sabers—school is back in session on Monday. We’re excited to see everyone on our first day back from winter break! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #cdms #cdis #ekstrandelementary #backtoschool #winterbreak #seeyoumonday

The Central Saber Athletic Boosters Club is still looking for volunteers, especially on Sunday, January 5th, for one of their biggest fundraisers of the year—the 2025 Saber Shootout! All proceeds benefit Central DeWitt athletic programs, and your support will make this event a slam dunk! The Saber Shootout will take place January 4th for the boys' teams and January 5th for the girls' teams. Sign up to volunteer at: https://bit.ly/4g6ECnx. Over the years, Boosters have proudly donated over $500,000 to support ALL Central DeWitt athletic programs. Thank you for supporting all Saber athletics! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #centralsaberathleticboostersclub #SaberShootout #SaberShootout2025 #SupportOurAthletes #SaberPride

A cherished tradition at Central DeWitt, our talented staff filled the media center with holiday cheer on the last day before winter break. Known as the “Elf Band,” these dedicated team members dusted off their instruments to perform festive tunes, creating a joyful atmosphere to kick off the day. Thank you to all of our staff members for your creativity, enthusiasm, and the extra effort put into making the season special for our students! Check it out: https://youtu.be/tsPhnZOLfT0 #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #elfband #centraldewittstaff #weloveourstaff #saberpride #happyholidays

Have you ever stopped to think about the science involved in the delicious cookies and candy we enjoy during the holiday season? Well, that’s what Mr. Taylor’s Physical Science students learned about before break. They wrapped up their unit on physical and chemical reactions in the most delicious way possible—exploring the science of making sponge candy! Students learned about forced saturation through applied heat, how sugar molecule crystallization is interrupted with sodium bicarbonate and caramelization being a form of thermal decomposition. Who knew science could be so sweet! Take a look: https://youtu.be/hjcY4vusx5Y #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #cdhsphysicalscience #physicalscience #spongecandy #makingcandy #scienceissweet #saberspride #saberssucceeding #yum

Looking for ways to keep your kids engaged and learning during the holiday season? Reading Teacher Mrs. Roberts has put together a special video packed with creative ideas to keep students reading over winter break! 🎥 Watch the video here https://bit.ly/4iRrYdM and discover fun, meaningful ways to make reading a part of your family’s winter traditions! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #KeepReading #WinterReading #FamilyTime #LoveForReading

Last week, CDIS hosted its annual Poetry Slam, and it was nothing short of amazing! Over 50 poems were performed by our incredibly talented 4th, 5th, and 6th graders. Their words were inspiring, and showcased the creativity of our young poets. Thank you to everyone who joined us to celebrate their voices! And congratulations on a job well done, Sabers! More photos are available at https://www.facebook.com/CentralDeWittCSD #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdis #cdisannualpoetryslam #cdispoetryslam #sabertalent #saberpride #saberssucceeding

The Chamber Singers headed to Iowa City last Friday giving a heartfelt performance at the University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Children’s Hospital as part of Project Art. The mission of Project Art is to create a healing environment through art and music, reducing the stress and anxiety often associated with healthcare settings. The Chambers Singers also performed at Coral Ridge Mall while in Iowa City. We’re proud to have our Chamber Singers share their talents and be a part of Project Art! Outstanding job, Sabers! Check out this clip of them performing: https://youtu.be/iVbUXSxpLZw #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #cdhschambersingers #chambersingers #ProjectArt #UniversityofIowaChildrensHospital #holidayseason #spreadingholidaycheer #sabertalent #saberpride #sabersucceeding

This morning, Superintendent Dr. Stephanie Mishler brought the magic of the season to life by reading The Polar Express to these lucky first graders. What a fun and heartwarming activity on the last day of school before winter break! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #ekstrandelementary #firstgrade #ThePolarExpress #holidaymagic #holidayseason #readingisfun #saberpride

Due to winter road conditions, Central De Witt Community Schools are delayed 2 hours on Friday, December 20th. AM preschool and morning practices and activities are canceled.