Central DeWitt School District -

💜💛 We are thrilled to recognize Pam Goldsmith as our March Employee of the Month! Ms. Goldsmith brings more than just her culinary skills to work—she brings heart, compassion, and a genuine love for the students she serves. If you’ve ever walked through the lunch line at Central DeWitt Middle School, chances are you’ve been greeted by Ms. Goldsmith’s warm smile and cheerful energy. It’s the small, thoughtful gestures she makes—day in and day out—that leave a lasting impact on our students. And they notice. One nomination shared, “Ms. Goldsmith always has a smile on her face and remembers small details about every student. For example, before I can even say anything, she knows that I want a ranch with my meal.” Another student wrote, “She always asks how I’m doing, and I noticed how she does this to everyone. There is no possible way to be mad after she greets you.” These everyday acts of kindness speak volumes about the care and thoughtfulness Ms. Goldsmith brings to her work. She takes time to connect with each student, offering a kind word or a smile at just the right moment. She is truly a beloved presence in the Central DeWitt Middle School cafeteria. Nutrition Services Director Dede Wagener shared, “Pam is extremely deserving of this recognition. Behind every warm meal is a warm heart, and Pam has the biggest, kindest heart. She takes her job very seriously, and when she's absent, students immediately notice and ask when she’ll be back. Thank you for making our cafeteria feel like a welcoming home to these kiddos.” We are so fortunate to have Ms. Goldsmith as part of our Saber family. Her influence goes far beyond the lunch line—it’s reflected in the relationships she builds, the joy she brings, and the care she shows every single day. As Ms. Wagener so perfectly put it, “her kindness is the key ingredient in everything she does.” Congratulations, Ms. Goldsmith! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdcsdemployeeofthemonth #employeeofthemonth #march2025employeeofthemonth #saberssucceeding #sabersuperstar

REMINDER: There is no school tomorrow, April 18th. Enjoy the long weekend and we’ll see you again on Monday! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #cdms #cdis #ekstrandelementary #noschoolApril18th #seeyouMonday

Three Saber students hit the road last Wednesday to explore college opportunities in Dubuque! They visited Clarke University, the University of Dubuque, and Loras College—each campus warmly welcomed our students and gave them a great look at what’s possible after high school. Great job, Sabers, at explore future options! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #clarkeuniversity #universityofdubuque #lorascollege #planningforthefuture #collegeandcareerready #saberssucceeding

You’re invited to a night of fun and fierce competition as each high school grade level takes on the ultimate dream team of teachers in the Central DeWitt FBLA Students vs. Teachers Volleyball Tournament! 🏐 Who will you be cheering for? 📅 Wednesday, April 30th 🕕 6:00 PM 📍 CDHS Competition Gym 🎟️ $3 Admission Come cheer on your favorite team, enjoy the energy, and support our future business leaders. #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #centraldewittfbla #fbla #studentvsteachersvolleyballtournament #everyoneiswelcome #supportoursabers

Our Special Olympics athletes gave it their all at the Area Track Competition at North Scott last Saturday, and it paid off! See the results below. They’re just getting started, though! Next is the State Summer Games in Ames this May, where our athletes will compete in cycling, soccer, and track events. We can’t wait to cheer them on! 🥇 1st Place finishers in their events: • Jack Burken- softball throw • Marlee Michaelsen- softball throw and 25 m walk • Erik Nicholas-softball throw and 50 m dash • Joslynn Mulholland-50 m dash and standing long jump • Elliott Mink- standing long jump • Kayleb Goldensoph- running long jump • Amya Gooch-Sims-shotput • Lakota Raymond- 50m dash and running long jump • Skyler Raymond-100m dash and running long jump • Nyna Sechrest-50 m dash • Christopher Shenker- 100 m dash • Ryland Taylor-shot put • Sofiia Zakharchenko- softball throw 🥈2nd place finishers in their events: • Kayleb Goldensoph- 100 m dash • Ayana Gooch-Sims- shot put • Gage Heston- 100 m dash • Cole Michaelsen- running long jump • Tatiana Raymond- 100m dash • Nyna Sechrest- standing long jump • Christopher Shenker-shot put • Ryland Taylor- 100m dash • Sofiia Zakharchenko- 50 m dash 🥉3rd place finishers in their events: • Cole Michaelsen- 50 m dash • Elliott Mink- 50m dash 🏅4th place finishers in their events: • Jack Burken 100 m dash Way to go, Sabers! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #cdms #cdis #ekstrandelementary #specialolympics #centraldewittcsdspecialolympics #areatrackcompetition #choosetoinclude #saberpride #saberssucceeding

🏀 Today our 3rd graders scored their very own copy of "Just Like Caitlin!" Thanks to the generosity of the Dickson and Luann Jensen and @justlikecaitlin, EVERY 3rd grader in Iowa received this inspiring book. "Just Like Caitlin" shares Caitlin Clark’s story, full of life lessons about dreaming big, working hard, and valuing relationships over winning. A huge thank you to the Jensen family for this gift and for encouraging our students to read and believe in a future full of possibilities! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #ekstrandelementary #thirdgrade #justlikecaitlin #InspireIowaKids #BelieveInYourself #ThankYouJensenFamily

🎓 Our next senior spotlight is Aleigha Navin, who has a bright future ahead of her! 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 #saberssucceed

VOTE FOR MR. SCHWARTZ! We’re so excited to share that Mr. Schwartz is a Quarter-Finalist in the Reader’s Digest America’s Favorite Teacher contest! If you know Mr. Schwartz, you know just how much he pours into his students every single day. From inspiring lessons to his unwavering encouragement, he goes above and beyond in the classroom. Now he has a chance to be recognized on a national level but your support is needed to get him there! Voting ends tomorrow, April 17th, and you can vote once a day. Let’s rally together and show America why Mr. Schwartz is the best! ✅ Vote here: https://americasfavteacher.org/2025/bob-schwartz #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #mrschwartz #AmericasFavoriteTeacher #ReadersDigest #voteformrschwartz #saberpride #saberssucceeding

Our 7th and 8th graders just wrapped up their first cooking lab this quarter—and it was a sweet success! Seventh grade whipped up some tasty oatmeal energy bites, while eighth grade baked classic chocolate chip cookies. Beyond the delicious results, students are gaining valuable life skills in the kitchen—teamwork, following directions, measuring, and more! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdms #cdms #cdmsculinaryarts #cdmsfcs #inthekitchen #kitchenlab #saberpride #saberssucceeding

Junior and Senior students were busy planning for life after high school last week! On Monday and Wednesday, prospective EICC students had the opportunity to tour the Scott and Clinton campuses, meet with advisors, and even register for fall courses. Great job, Sabers, for exploring your options and making the most of these opportunities! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #collegevisit #scottcommunitycollege #clintoncommunitycollege #eicc #saberssucceeding #careerandcollegeready

On Thursday, May 1st, at 10:30 a.m. CDHS will host Senior Decision Day to celebrate the plans our seniors have made regarding their futures. Each senior will be recognized for their postsecondary plans whether it be attending a university, college, trade school, joining the military, starting an apprenticeship, entering the work force or still deciding. Families of our seniors are invited to join us for this event at the Central DeWitt Performing Arts Center. If you cannot attend, we encourage you to watch the live stream here: https://www.youtube.com/live/8p7zAyGeh3w?si=sD-uj3xJu70Hjv0h We're looking forward to this special event! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #seniordecisionday2025 #classof2025

🎶 This past weekend, 11 talented CDIS students took part in the Coe College Honor Bands and gave outstanding performances throughout the day. Way to go, students — you represented Central DeWitt with pride and excellence! #gosabers #centrldewittcsd #cdis #cdisband #CoeCollegeHonorBands #sabertalent #saberpride #saberssucceeding

On Friday, Ms. Sullivan took four CDHS students to the EICC Culinary Showcase! High schoolers from the Culinary Career Academy teamed up with the talented Culinary Arts students from EICC colleges to prep, cook, and serve a delicious variety of dishes for attendees. These students worked hard all morning and absolutely crushed it! On the menu: ▪️ Teriyaki Chicken & Rice ▪️ Indian Butter Chicken ▪️ Pasta Bake ▪️ Mediterranean Chicken & Couscous ▪️ Korean-Inspired Bibimbap Rice Bowl ▪️ Banana Cake ▪️ Crepes ▪️ Churros with Chocolate Sauce So proud of our students for their effort and enthusiasm—they did amazing! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #cdhsculinaryarts #culinaryartsacademy #EICCCulinaryShowcase #saberpride #saberssucceeding #yum

The Summer Lunchbox Program is a lifeline for many families in our district—and this year, it needs our community’s support more than ever. Unfortunately, funding is down, costs are up, and the need is growing. These weekly kits help bridge the gap when school meals aren’t available, providing essential non-perishable items and vouchers for fresh food. Last summer, over 800 kits were distributed to Central DeWitt families. Thanks to generous donors, nearly $1,200 in items have already been purchased—but there’s still a long way to go. 🛒 Shop the Amazon wishlist: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/34C5KIJ93BOY1 📦 Monetary or non-perishable donations can also be dropped off at the DeWitt Farmers Market. Please consider donating by May 14 to help ensure no child in our district goes without this summer. We are incredibly grateful to the dedicated volunteers from DeWitt United Methodist Church, First Congregational United Church of Christ, Grace Lutheran Church, St. Joseph Catholic Church, the DeWitt Referral Center, and the DeWitt Farmers Market who make this program possible. Their time, energy, and care truly make a difference for our students and families. 💜💛

🎓 Our next senior spotlight of the year is Bry Tobey, who has big plans for her future! 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 #saberssucceed

At the beginning of the month, 20 of our Central DeWitt FBLA members attended the Spring Leadership Conference in Des Moines. Over the course of the conference, students participated in workshops, competitive events, and testing—all designed to strengthen their leadership and business skills. Check out the results below! Not only were they evaluated on their performances, but they also brought back valuable experiences and improvements in soft skills like communication, teamwork, and professionalism. We’re proud of their growth and can’t wait to see how they continue to lead the way! • Spelling Relay - 1st Place: Ryan Watters, Caleb Olson, Parker Petsche • Accounting - 9th Place: Jacob Van der Merwe • Advertising - 5th Place: Beck Maricle • Agribusiness - 5th Place: Avery Mommsen • Banking & Financial Systems - 5th Place: Liam Watters, Avery Mommsen, Isaac Smith • Business Management - 3rd Place: Brady Meadows, Benson Hill, Rylan Edwards • Business Management - 2nd Place: Noah Ericksen, Max Froeschle, Dawson Petsche • Business Plan - 5th Place: Brady Meadows, Benson Hill, Rylan Edwards • Business Plan - 6th Place: Beck Maricle, Liam Watters, Kyle Olson • Entrepreneurship - 10th Place: Luke Hill, Keaton Hansen, Keegan Peterson • Financial Math - 5th Place: Parker Petsche • Financial Math - 2nd Place: Jacob Van der Merwe • Intro to Business Communication - 8th Place: Luke Hill • Marketing - 5th Place: Ryan Watters, Caleb Olson, Parker Petsche • Networking Infrastructures - 8th Place: Rachel Clark • NLC T-Shirt Design & Promotion - 9th Place: Keaton Hansen, Luke Hill, Keegan Peterson • Organizational Leadership - 5th Place: Adeline Bloom • Sports & Entertainment Management - 4th Place: Rachel Clark, Adeline Bloom • Sports & Entertainment Management - 3rd Place: Ryan Watters, Caleb Olson, Parker Petsche 🏆 Congrats to all of the members and their outstanding performances this year! ⭐️ CDCSD Marketing Intern Keegan Peterson, a senior at CDHS, contributed to this post. #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #fbla #centraldewittfbla #SpringLeadershipConference #softskills #leadership #saberpride #saberssucceeding

🎓 Our next senior spotlight is Caleb Olson, who has a bright future ahead of him! 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 #saberssucceed

🛠 These Central DeWitt students rolled up their sleeves and got their hands dirty at the Build My Future event at the QCCA Expo Center earlier this week! At the event students were able to connect with the construction industry and beyond—giving them hands-on experience with tools and machinery, and real insight into careers in electrical, plumbing, welding, HVAC, masonry, tree trimming, painting and more. They also had a chance to learn about in-demand medical careers and visit with the National Guard. Thanks to all the businesses and organizations who showed up to support the next generation of skilled professionals. We think it’s safe to say our students had a blast and left inspired! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #BuildMyFuture #constructioncareers #medicalcareers #trades #careerandcollegeready

🎓 Our next senior spotlight of the year is Camryn Quick, who has an exciting future ahead of her! 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 #saberssucceed

🌲 Grab your coats and your crew—this weekend, Saber Drama is lighting up the stage with their spring production of Almost, Maine! ❄️ Come laugh, feel the love, and experience a little winter magic right here in our own backyard. You won’t want to miss it! 📅 April 11th & 12th ⏰ 7:00 PM 📍 Central DeWitt Performing Arts Center Don’t miss this magical experience — grab your seats now by scanning the QR code or visiting: https://www.cd-csd.org/page/saber-box-office #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #cdhsspringplay #saberdrama #AlmostMaine #ticketsonsalenow #saberpride #saberssucceeding