Central DeWitt School District -

On Saturday, July 12, 2025, musicians will gather in DeWitt to form a multi-generational tribute band performing in memory of Ed McMahon who inspired thousands through his leadership and music. Affectionately known as “Mr. Ed,” he served as the Central DeWitt High School band instructor from 1975 to 2007, then continued sharing his passion as a part-time educator at St. Joseph Catholic School until 2014. Beyond the classroom, he played with distinction in the Clinton Symphony Orchestra and served on its board. His musical journey began even earlier, performing as a clarinetist with the 15th Air Force Band during his time in the military. 🎶 Whether you played under Ed McMahon’s direction, sat beside him in the Clinton Symphony, or were part of an audience he inspired, this is your invitation to help honor him by taking part in a performance celebrating the impact of a life spent sharing music, mentorship, and joy. Please help us reach as many former students and fellow musicians as possible by sharing this post. For more information and to sign up to be a part of this tribute concert, please click here: https://bit.ly/4lWchnv For questions, please reach out to Josh Greubel at josh.greubel@cd-csd.org. The performance will be at 2 p.m. on July 12th at the Central DeWitt Performing Arts Center.

🎉 Senior Valerie Mickelson is ready to cruise into her next chapter behind the wheel of a 2013 Nissan Sentra thanks to Ed Morse Chevrolet GMC of DeWitt! After winning the grand prize at Central DeWitt After Prom, Valerie picked up her new ride this week. Moments like this truly put students on the road to success — thank you to Ed Morse and our incredible After Prom Committee for making it happen year after year! 💜💛 Pictured: Boris Cvijetic handing Valerie the keys, Tom Luther, Joni Kassa, Travis Kizzire, George Pickup, and Deb Assenmacher! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #CentralDeWittAfterProm #EdMorseChevroletGMC #KeysToTheFuture #CruisinWithTheSabers #CentralDeWittPride #ThankYou #WeLoveOurCommunity

🎓 Our next senior spotlight of the year is Grace Patterson, who has exciting 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

For the past 12 years, the Crossroads Health Foundation, partnering with the LincolnWay Community Foundation, has generously provided free bike helmets to second-grade students at local elementary schools. This is the second year this effort was supported through a collaboration with Central DeWitt High School’s Business Communication class, led by Mr. Christopher Law. The initiative offered students a rich, service-learning experience. They took on key responsibilities, including assembling and organizing helmets, coordinating with school staff, managing delivery logistics, and writing a press release to raise awareness about the program. This past week, the class distributed more than 200 helmets to second graders at Ekstrand Elementary as well as other area schools. The project not only advanced the mission of preventing head and brain injuries, but also empowered high school students to engage in meaningful community service. Great job, Sabers! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #cdhsbusinesscommunicationclass #crossroadshealthfoundation #lincolnwayfoundation #bikehelmets #ekstrandelementary #saberpride #saberssucceeding

On Wednesday, we celebrated the incredible therapy dogs who help make Central DeWitt a more compassionate, calm, and connected place to learn and grow. These four-legged friends play a vital role in supporting emotional wellness, reducing stress, encouraging social interaction, and creating a more positive school environment for students and staff alike. Malibu, Hershey, Digit, and Ottis continue to be some of the most beloved “staff members” in our district—and it’s easy to see why! A huge thank-you goes out to the Central DeWitt staff who care for and work alongside our therapy dogs—your commitment is truly appreciated. 📸 Pictured: Special Education Teacher Tara Michel and Ottis, CDIS School Counselor Tanya Glennon and Malibu, Technology STEM Teacher Terri Smith and Digit, 5th Grade Teacher Christina Walls and Hershey #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #cdms #cdis #ekstrandelementary #therapydogs #nationaltherapyanimalday #thanksforhelpingourstudents

🎓 Yesterday, we celebrated the Class of 2025 and the diverse and inspiring paths they’re taking after graduation. Whether that’s college, trade school, the military, an apprenticeship, the workforce, or still deciding, we’re proud of each and every one of you. Congratulations, seniors—you’re almost there! 💜💛 This year, there was an exciting new addition to Senior Decision Day thanks to our AmeriCorps Student Leaders—they rewarded seniors who completed all of their postsecondary work by entering them into a drawing for gift cards generously donated by local businesses! What a fun and memorable way to end the celebration! Take a look at the exciting next steps our seniors are taking after graduation below and check out our Facebook page for more photos: KIRKWOOD COMMUNITY COLLEGE: Matthew Boeding, Karson Hoenig, Logan Huff, Grace Knutsen, Bo Lichtenstein, Macy Morningstar, Olivia Ortner, Caleb Sherwood, Avery Tapke, Owen Willimack IOWA WESTERN COMMUNITY COLLEGE: Max Burgmeier CAPRI COLLEGE: Isabella Taylor CLINTON COMMUNITY COLLEGE: Logan Blackburn, Luke Detterman, Autumn Harris, Courtney Kramer, Lilly Reed, Dalton Ruffner SCOTT COMMUNITY COLLEGE: Allison Brown, Xavier Brown, Will Henningsen, Megan Kramer, Abe Krukow, Leah Marvin, Caitlin Proctor, Melanie Reisner, Matthew Shelby, Samuel Robinson MUSCATINE COMMUNITY COLLEGE: Nathaniel Griffin BRIGHAM YOUNG UNIVERSITY: Julia Fielding COE COLLEGE: Nathan McDonald DEPAUL UNIVERSITY: Laura Martens DRAKE UNIVERSITY: Addie Appleby GRAND VIEW UNIVERSITY: Kade Burzlaff, Caden Huff IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY: Sam Arnold, Delany Barber, Adeline Bloom, Grayson Chrones, Liam Claeys, Rachel Clark, Livy Crandall, Hannah Grantz, Brody Grell, Ana Henningsen, Benson Hill, Sydney McNealy, Parker Petsche, Madison Poll, Christina Reyna, Jordan Tiefenthaler, Katlin Truelsen LORAS COLLEGE: Grace Patterson, Chris Wrage MOORPARK COLLEGE: Mackenzie Lukasik-Paasch NORTHEASTERN OKLAHOMA A&M COLLEGE: Caleb Kruse UNIVERSITY OF IOWA: Nathan Butler, Jenny Claussen, Lily Hartley, Jase Hawthorne, Brady Herington, Ayden Johnson, Ellie Lake, Alyssa Lippens, Aleigha Navin, Keegan Peterson, Ayla Riffel, Remi Ruggeberg, Ava Staub, Dolan Theisen, Maddie Thiel, Dexter Westbay UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA-LINCOLN: Greyson Dollar UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN IOWA: Rylan Edwards, Nora McAvan, Lanis Perkins, Abigail Tobey, Bry Tobey, Lauren Walker UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN – STEVENS POINT: Alaina White SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE: Amaya Tallman TRUMAN STATE UNIVERSITY: Hannah Moore WARTBURG COLLEGE: Caleb Olson, Ryan McGarry WINONA STATE: Ryan Watters ST. AMBROSE UNIVERSITY: Mya Campbell, Rylie Dunne, Callan Hursey, Killian McManus, Isabelle Ostert, Anna Rickertsen UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-PLATTEVILLE: Lauren Burmeister, Natalie Cagle, Lily Gruntorad, Emma Pillers APPRENTICESHIPS: Jake Bixby, Damarion Jackson, Nathan Jacobsen, Colton Sawyer WORKFORCE: Jayden Anderson, Landra Bell, Ben Boyd, Bryson Brewer, Daven Gard, Zach Lyness, Trevor Marcus, Jonathan Shadle, Jake VanderHeiden ARMY: Jayden Flammang UNDECIDED: Alligha Anderson, Marana Boeding, Emma Carr, Olivia Carr, Sarah Dever, Hailey Green, Detriana Hall, Autumn Harris, Tristen Henningsen, Liam Jess, Gunner Lamaack, Kaden Mahler, Kobe Mahler, Valerie Mickelson, Austin Miller, Ethan Roth, Grant Roth, Trevor Schmidtke, Skylar Whipple EARLY GRADUATES: Mitchell Belk, John Brassard, Joseph Coiner, Cole Coulter, Caleb Fisher, Landon Flynn, Jonathan Grell, Thomas Grell, Jamison Hodge, Keke Lee, Chole Neblung-Burmeister, Breanna Perry, Camryn Quick, Austin Terry #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #seniordecisionday #seniordecisionday2025 #cdhs #classof2025 #cdhsseniors #goodluckseniors #weareproudofourseniors #saberpride #saberssucceeding

Between preparing delicious food, adhering to strict nutrition standards, navigating student food allergies, and offering service with a smile, our nutrition professionals have a lot on their plate. These incredible heroes serve over 273,000 meals each school year, keeping our students nourished, energized, and ready to learn. Today, we celebrate their dedication, care, and the vital role they play in our school community. Thank you for all you do! 💛💜 #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #nutritionservices #cdhs #cdms #cdis #ekstrandelementary #weloveourschoollunchheroes #SchoolLunchHeroDay #ThankYou #FuelingSuccess #SaberPride

🎓 Our next senior spotlight of the year is Allison Brown, 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

With the end of the school year quickly approaching, there are only two more chances to submit a nomination for Central DeWitt’s Employee of the Month. We're now accepting nominations for the April Employee of the Month! This district-wide program invites parents, students, staff and community members to help us recognize outstanding employees by sharing your positive, personal experiences. Whether it’s a teacher, associate, bus driver, nutrition services employee, secretary, custodian, or any other full-time or part-time employee, your nomination makes a difference. 📅 Nominations are due Wednesday, May 7th! Nomination form: https://forms.gle/ksRVLaYC6XBXkAbw7 Thank you for helping us celebrate the people who make Central DeWitt such a great place to learn and grow. #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #employeeofthemonth #cdhs #cdms #cdis #ekstrandelementary #nominateanemployee

🎓 Our next senior spotlight of the year is Keegan Peterson, who has big plans for his 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

Today is National School Principals Day, but we’re taking this opportunity to celebrate all of our incredible school administrators! Thank you for your commitment to building meaningful relationships with students and staff, fostering school pride, setting the tone for a positive and empowering school culture, and driving the success of Central DeWitt. We love that you’re always up for a little fun, too! Your leadership not only supports us—it inspires us. 💜💛 Join us in celebrating Ekstrand Principal Mr. Miller, CDIS Principal Mr. Lueders, CDMS Principal Mrs. Hayes, CDHS Principal Mr. Bloom, Athletic Director/Dean of Students Mr. Johnson, Director of Curriculum and Instruction Mr. Petsche, and Superintendent Dr. Mishler! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #cdms #cdis #ekstrandelementary #nationalprincipalday #nationaladministratorsday #weloveouradministrators #thankyouforallyoudo #sabernation #saberpride #saberssuceeding

Eighth grade students visited the Career Advancement Center in DeWitt this morning for an engaging and informative tour of their campus. During the visit, students explored various career pathways to better understand job opportunities and the connection to courses they can take while in high school. The experience helped spark curiosity and encouraged students to expand their thinking on high school and future career goals. What a great opportunity for our 8th graders! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdms #careeradvancementcenter #planningforthefuture #planningforhighschool #careerandcollegeready #saberpride #saberssucceeding

💜💛 Congratulations to our April 2025 District Student of the Month Brody Maher! He is featured in today's edition of The Observer thanks to our friends at First Central State Bank. When it comes to setting a positive example, Brody leads the way. Known for his kindness, respect, and unwavering support for those around him, Brody is the kind of student who makes a lasting impression on classmates and teachers alike. Whether he’s lending a helping hand, standing up for someone in need, or simply making sure no one feels left out, Brody consistently goes out of his way to make others feel valued and seen. “Brody is one of those students who makes a positive impact on everyone around him,” his teacher Mrs. Keith said. “He’s kind, respectful, and always looking out for others. Brody brings a sense of calm and positivity to our classroom, and it doesn’t go unnoticed.” In the classroom, Brody is a dedicated student who gives his best effort every single day. He treats everyone—peers and staff alike—with genuine respect and compassion. His calm demeanor and positive outlook help create a welcoming environment where everyone can thrive. What truly sets Brody apart is the way he leads by example. He encourages others to be their best, reminds classmates to show kindness, and never misses an opportunity to do the right thing. His quiet leadership and steady presence make a big difference in our school community. We are proud to recognize Brody as the Student of the Month—not just for his academic efforts, but for the heart he brings to everything he does. Central DeWitt is a better place because of students like you, Brody. #gosabers #cdcsdstudentofthemonth #centraldewittcsd #ekstrandelementary #firstcentralstatebank #studentofthemonth #sabepride #saberssucceeding

🌱 Yard work season is in full swing — why not grab some quality top soil and support the Central Saber Athletic Boosters Club at the same time? All the details are on the flyer — don’t miss it! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #saberathleticboosters #topsoilsale #supportourathletes #thankyouforyoursupport

We’re rolling out some new buses starting this afternoon! As part of this update, four buses will have new numbers but schedules and routes will remain exactly the same. 🚌 Bus 42 is now Bus 53 🚌 Bus 3 is now Bus 54 🚌 Bus 40 is now Bus 56 🚌 Bus 43 is now Bus 57 If you have any questions, please contact the Transportation Department at (563) 659-0706. Thank you! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #cdms #cdis #ekstrandelementary #transportation #newbuses #newnumbers

🎓 REMINDER: Senior Decision Day is THIS Thursday at 10:30 a.m. in the CDPAC! We are looking forward to celebrating the Class of 2025 and their plans for the future—whether that’s college, trade school, the military, an apprenticeship, the workforce, or still deciding! Senior families are welcome—we hope to see you there! 📣 NEW live stream link for those who can’t attend in person: 🔗 https://youtube.com/live/LFgNgtVuka0?feature=share #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #seniordecisionday2025 #classof2025 #saberpride #saberssucceeding

It’s Work With Us Wednesday! Be part of a team that champions academic excellence, outstanding opportunities and exceptional experiences for every student! To apply, visit https://phlaptweb36.applitrack.com/CDCSD/onlineapp/ #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #cdms #cdis #ekstrandelementary #workwithuswednesday #joinoursaberfamily #jobopportunities #secondaryteacher

🌿🌸 It’s Plant Sale Day! 🌸🌿 The greenhouse is bursting with beautiful blooms and garden-ready veggies — and it all goes on sale TODAY from 3–5 p.m.! Come shop, stock up for the season, and support our hardworking FFA students in the process. You won’t want to miss it! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #dewittcentralFFA #FFA #PlantSale #Greenhouse #Horticulture #SupportOurSabers #saberpride #saberssucceeding

On Monday, our FFA students spent the morning giving back to the community by volunteering at local businesses and helping out at homes around town during their first-ever “Give Back, Kick Back Day.” Their hard work and positive attitudes made a big impact! After a productive morning, they got to kick back with some well-deserved pizza and bowling. It's great to see our students take pride in their community and work hard to make it an even more beautiful place to live! Thank you to everyone who supported this event — from community members to local businesses who helped make it a meaningful day for our students! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #dewittcentralffa #ffa #GiveBackKIckBackDay #HelpingOurCommunity #Volunteering #saberpride #saberssucceeding

🎓 Our next senior spotlight is Madison Poll, 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