Central DeWitt School District -

After noticing her students’ creativity and talent in writing this year, Third Grade Teacher Mrs. Keith was inspired to take things a step further. She discovered Studentreasures Publishing and knew right away—writing a book would be the perfect challenge! When she shared the idea with her class, the excitement was contagious! The students decided to write about the 10 Character Strong Traits they've learned about this year and chose the powerful title: "Changing the World One Third-Grader at a Time." 🌍💜 From brainstorming to publishing, this project was more than just a fun learning experience—it was an opportunity for students to grow as writers, support one another, and make their voices heard. Mrs. Keith shared, “It was amazing to watch them grow as writers and cheer each other on. I will definitely be doing this again with future students!” 🎥 Watch the video to see this inspiring project come to life and hear from our young authors themselves: https://youtu.be/1yR-dhcihQQ Way to go, third grade authors! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #ekstrandelementary #StudentAuthors #CharacterStrong #YoungWriters #ChangingTheWorldOneThirdGraderAtATime #saberpride #saberssuceeding

👏 Congratulations to Coach David Moore on being named the 2025 Golden Plaque of Distinction recipient for tennis by the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union (IGHSAU)! 🎾 This prestigious honor recognizes not only his successful coaching career but also his outstanding impact on students, the community, and the coaching profession. We are so lucky to have him leading our girls tennis program—what a role model for our athletes! 💜💛 #GoSabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #GoldenPlaqueofDistinction #IGHSAU #IowaTennis #SaberPride #SaberGirlsTennis #sabertennis #saberssuceeding

Fourth graders brought history to life and laughter to the stage during two recent performances at CDIS. Last week, these students performed Girl. Fighter. Hero., a play based on the true story of teen Patriot Sybil Ludington and her vital role in the American Revolution. Often called “the female Paul Revere,” Ludington rode 40 miles through a stormy night to rally the militia in defense of Danbury, Connecticut. In the other performance, students presented their version of the humorous play A Mixed-Up Fairytale. They prepared the play during WIN time and proudly performed it for teachers, parents and classmates, bringing smiles and laughter to the audience. Great job, Sabers! GIRL. FIGHTER. HERO. Historian: Madeline Frame Narrator: Easton Munro Sybil: Mackenzie Mommsen Prosser: Oliver Schweitzer Colonel: Austin Makela Washington: Winston Skidmore Scribner: Cormac Kedley Mrs. Shaw: Ava Frazier Crosby: Case Knepper Bandit 1: Luke Kemmerer Bandit 2: Lane Adams Aide 1: Will Burke Aide 2: Ryne Hoepner Mother: Averi Wilder Mary: Gwen Law Messenger: Lane Adams A MIXED UP FAIRYTALE Cinderella: Allie Kennedy Frog: Lane Adams Wicked Stepmother: Gwen Law Magic Mirror: Piper Dahl Rumpelstiltskin: Winston Skidmore Little Bo Peep: Georgia Speas Little Red Riding Hood: Cami Robinson #gosabers #CDIS #centraldewittsd #centraldewittsabers #amixedupfairytale #girlfighterhero #cdisplay #saberpride #saberssuceeding

It may be the last week of school, but we’re already getting ready for next year — and you can too! Back-to-school can sneak up on you — and suddenly, you’re racing from store to store trying to find school supplies. But what if you could check it off your list today? With 1st Day School Supplies, you can! In just a few clicks, you’ll get exactly what your child’s teacher requested — packed in a beautiful new box and delivered on time, stress-free. ✅ 100% teacher-approved ✅ No guesswork ✅ No crowds ✅ Guaranteed delivery 👉 ORDER HERE: • EKSTRAND ELEMENTARY: https://1stdayschoolsupplies.com/gs/1178430 • CDIS: https://1stdayschoolsupplies.com/gs/38893 Make back-to-school easier than ever — order now and relax all summer! ☀️ #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdis #ekstrandelementary #1stDaySchoolSupplies #BackToSchool #SchoolSupplies

The Little Sabers Preschool Lab at CDHS wrapped up last week, and what an incredible experience it was for both preschoolers and our Early Childhood Development students! From story time and self-portraits to rainbow science experiments, gardening, and even a visit from the Grand Mound Fire Department 🚒—these future educators learned so much while helping these future Sabers grow, explore, and shine. #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #littlesaberspreschoollab ##earlychildhooddevelopment #futureeducators #futuresabers #learningisfun #handsonlearning #saberpride #saberssuceeding

Today, our talented 5th graders wowed their peers with an unforgettable performance of Christmas in July—but with a creative twist! Earlier this year, the students were introduced to the original play, and over the past several weeks, they transformed it into something uniquely their own. From rewriting the script and adding fresh dialogue to memorizing lines and rehearsing scenes, these young performers poured heart and humor into every moment. The play follows New Year, who has just taken over the calendar from Last Year. But things quickly spiral out of control: fall shows up in March, Easter hops into October, and Christmas lands smack in the middle of July! As holidays scramble to find their rightful place, New Year must uncover what went wrong. In a surprising twist, it’s revealed that a trusted friend sabotaged the calendar—just so he could take over. Filled with laughter, lessons, and lots of holiday spirit, the performance was a testament to the students’ creativity, collaboration, and dedication. Bravo to our budding playwrights and performers! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdis #5thgradeplay #ChristmasInJuly #ELP #WINtime #saberpride #sabersucceeding

🏆 Congratulations to our May 2025 #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

A huge congratulations to these Central DeWitt students and recent EICC graduates! On May 19th, several Saber students proudly graduated from Eastern Iowa Community Colleges. Their dedication, hard work, and motivation have led them to achieve this incredible milestone while still in high school. We are proud to share the names of the Central DeWitt students who earned college credentials this year—an outstanding accomplishment that reflects their commitment to academic excellence. Associates of Arts: Lily Hartley Hannah Moore Christina Reyna Amaya Tallman Maddie Thiel Associates of Science: Isabelle Ostert Parker Petsche Matthew Shelby Automotive Certificate: Marana Boeding Xavier Brown Luke Detterman Megan Kramer Fundamentals of Welding Certificate: Benjamin Boyd Jayden Flammang Peyton Heileman Karson Hoenig Trevor Schmidtke Certified Nurse Aide: Mya Campbell Zoey Fuglsang Nazahra Gambleton Hailey Gerard Avery Owens Michael Palmer Addison Porter Ava Putman Zoey Rooks Brynlee Shimp Jordan Smith Landre Ruggeberg Ava Staub Small Business Management Certificate: Matthew Boeding Bryson Brewer Hailey Green Caden Huff IT/Networking for Systems & Security Certificate: Nathan Griffin Killian McManus CNC Machine Operator Certificate: Sam Robinson Ethan Roth Grant Roth Owen Willimack #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #eicc #associatesdegree #certificate #graduates #earningcollegecredit #saberpride #saberssucceeding

💜💛 Congratulations to our May 2025 District Student of the Month Jenny Claussen! She is featured in today's edition of The Observer thanks to our friends at First Central State Bank. Jenny is a shining example of leadership, academic excellence, and selfless service, and she has made an extraordinary impact on the school community. From early on, Jenny knew she wanted to be a leader, and she has fully embraced that role at Central DeWitt. This year, one of her greatest sources of pride has been mentoring younger students—whether in cross-country, drama, or band—and knowing her example has helped shape future leaders. Throughout her high school career, Jenny has volunteered in numerous demanding leadership roles. One of her most notable contributions has been to The Scribbler, the school’s literary magazine. After just two years on the team, she was named managing editor—a volunteer position that requires vision, dedication, and organization. In this role, Jenny leads meetings and events, supports team members, solves problems, and ensures publication deadlines are met. Her advisor describes her as the best student to ever hold the position, calling her leadership “invaluable.” She also serves as a student leader in the band program, a captain of the cross-country team, and the lights manager for Saber Drama. In addition, she is an active member of Saber Speech, the National Honor Society, and the girls' track team. This year, Jenny also stood out in the classroom, taking two college-level courses and distinguishing herself through her exceptional work ethic, strong writing skills, and critical thinking. She brings a growth mindset to every challenge, always pushing herself to learn more and do better. Looking ahead, Jenny plans to attend the University of Iowa, where she will apply for the nursing program to continuing to help others, learn from new experiences, and make a difference wherever she goes. Jenny embodies what it means to be a Saber—motivated, compassionate, and committed to leading with integrity. We’re proud to honor her as Central DeWitt’s Student of the Month. #gosabers #cdcsdstudentofthemonth #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #firstcentralstatebank #studentofthemonth #sabepride #saberssucceeding

🏆Our Special Olympics team had an incredible showing at the Summer State Games in Ames on Thursday, May 22, and Friday, May 23! Check out the results below. 💜💛 The biggest highlight though was that Coach Megan Jackson was named the Special Olympics Coach of the Year and Coach Terri Smith received the Special Olympics Adult Volunteer of the Year award! These two outstanding leaders are the only recipients of these honors in the entire state of Iowa. We’re so proud of our athletes and grateful for the dedication, heart, and leadership of coaches Jackson and Smith. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition! 🥇 RESULTS Our Saber purple unified soccer team earned a bronze medal. Team members included athletes Nyna Sechrest, Christopher Shenker, Adrianna Flick and Skyler Raymond. Unified partners included Brynn Schroeder, Kennedy Lackas, Avery Meek, Molly Morris and Paityn Dingbaum. The team was coached by Unified partner Adriana Curtner. The Saber Gold Unified soccer team also earned a bronze medal. Team members included athletes Cole Michaelsen, Joslynn Mulholland, Jack Burken, Kayleb Goldensoph and Tatiana Raymond. Unified partners included Anna Rouse, Blaire Kueter and Finnley Smith. The team was coached by unified partner Evalyn House. Athletes also competed in track events: • Kayleb Goldensoph- running long jump bronze medal • Skyler Raymond- running long jump gold medal and 100 m dash gold medal • Marlee Michaelsen-25m walk gold medal (assisted by Unified partner Kennedi Green) • Joslynn Mulholland-50m dash- silver medal • Nyna Sechrest-50m dash- bronze medal • Erik Nicholas-50m dash- bronze medal and softball throw- bronze medal • Christopher Shenker-50m dash- 6th place • Ryland Taylor-shot put-silver medal Our cycling team was unable to compete due to the competition being canceled canceled because of the weather. Team members included: • Marlee Michaelsen and Lily Gruntorad • Erik Nicholas and Kennedi Green • Adam Harney and Emily Freeman • Ryland Taylor and Izzy Heitz • Ayana Gooch-Sims • Amya Gooch-Sims • Gage Heston #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #centraldewittspecialolympics #specialolympics #summergames #saberpride #saberssucceeding #choosetoinclude #coachoftheyear #adultvolunteeroftheyear

Saber Fans! Our boys soccer team hits the road to face Maquoketa tonight at 7:00 p.m.! Tickets must be purchased ahead of time through Bound: https://events.hometownticketing.com/boxoffice/iahsaa/L2VtYmVkL2V2ZW50LzYyOTE%3D Let’s all head north and cheer on our Sabers! 💜💛 #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #sabersoccer #saberboyssoccer #boysoccer #substate #saberpride #saberssucceeding

🎾 Wishing the best of luck to the doubles team of Hudson Krukow and Ashton Schneider, individual player Max Froeschle, and their coaches as they compete in the Iowa Boys State Tennis Tournament today! This is a historic moment—the first time in Saber boys tennis history that athletes have advanced to state. Your grit, dedication, and hard work have led you here, and we couldn’t be prouder. Go out there, give it everything you’ve got, and show ‘em what it means to be a Saber! 💜💛 #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #centraldewitttennis #boystennis #StateTennisTournament #SabersTennis #MakingHistory #StateBound #saberpride #saberssucceeding

🎮 Our Esports team wrapped up a great season with a tough run at the State Tournament. They faced the eventual state champion in the opening round, then took on the third-place finisher in the consolation bracket—two incredibly strong opponents that brought the season to a close. Only eight teams in the entire state were invited to compete at State, and earning one of those spots is an accomplishment to be incredibly proud of! This marks the second consecutive year our MarioKart team has qualified for the tournament. We’re especially proud of Team Captain Nate McDonald, who will continue his Esports journey next fall on a full-tuition scholarship to Coe College. Congratulations to the entire team on an impressive season! 💜💛 #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #Esports #SaberEsports #StateTournament #SaberPride #MarioKart #saberpride #saberssucceeding

REMINDER: There will be no school on Monday, May 26. We encourage you to attend one of the local Memorial Day events where the CDHS Band will perform the National Anthem and other patriotic music. • The Grand Mound American Legion Post 622 will hold a ceremony at 9:30 a.m. at Evergreen Cemetery. • The Eugene McManus Post 238 American program begins at 10:30 a.m. at the DeWitt Area Veterans Memorial. In case of rain, the ceremony will move to the American Legion Post. Visit the DeWitt American Legion and Auxiliary Facebook page for event details. Have a safe holiday weekend! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #cdms #cdis #ekstrandelementary #memorialday #noschool

Our 5th graders recently had the opportunity to visit the @Central Community Historical Society and Museum! President Ann Soenksen led a captivating presentation on the Underground Railroad, highlighting the powerful role Clinton County and surrounding areas played in this important chapter of history. Afterward, students toured the museum, exploring its many fascinating exhibits. They were so engaged—and many didn't want to leave! We're grateful for this hands-on learning experience and the wonderful volunteers that bring history to life right in our own community. #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdis #5thgrade #DeWitt #History #HandsOnLearning #CentralCommunityHistoricalSociety #fieldtrip

⚽️ Our girls soccer team takes on Western Dubuque tonight at 7 p.m. —right here at home! Come out to cheer on our Sabers and show your support! 💜💛 Tickets must be purchased through Bound: https://tickets.gobound.com/tickets/events/h202505150426180671cd86639f2564f/checkout #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #sabergirlssoccer #sabersoccer #girlssoccer #ticketinfo #saberpride #saberssucceeding

🎓 One week ago today, was the last day of school for our seniors. The halls feel a little emptier without them, but their impact on CDHS is felt in countless ways. This video highlights the Class of 2025, with a few sharing advice for the students following in their footsteps. 💜💛 Join us in celebrating this incredible group one more time. Congratulations, Class of 2025, and remember – once a Saber, always a Saber! Watch video: https://youtu.be/sWKRdfbMfaY 📷 For more photos of graduation visit Scott Hoag Photography: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/12KK9ttZVj4/ Graduate Keegan Peterson who served as the CDCSD Marketing Intern this semester contributed to this post. #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #cdhsclassof2025 #classof2025 #centraldewittgraduation #commencement #saberpride #saberssucceeding

🏐 Here are a couple of awesome opportunities for students entering grades 4–8 in the 2025-2026 school year to get involved with volleyball this summer! Whether you're just starting out or looking to sharpen your skills, this is the place for you! Check out the flyers for details and register for the camp at: https://manager.gobound.com/camps/h202505200523138907ce30f202db146/register #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdms #cdis #volleyballcamp #sabervolleyball #getinvolved #summercamps #saberpride #saberssucceeding

Central DeWitt teachers, support staff, family, and friends celebrated Central DeWitt grad Dylan Walker and others in a ceremony Wednesday night at Mercy Medical in Clinton. Dylan successfully completed the Project Search program this past year and has elevated his skills in communication, employability, and self-advocacy. Congratulations, Dylan! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #centraldewittgrad #ProjectSearch #congratulations #saberpride #saberssuceeding

Good luck to our boys and girls track and field athletes and coaches competing at State the next few days! Your hard work, dedication, and determination have brought you to this moment, and we couldn’t be prouder. Go out there, give it your all, and show what it means to be a Saber! 💜💛 📺 Watch Live: https://watch.ihssn.com/2025-iowa-high-school-state-co-ed-track-field-championships 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️ Follow Real-Time Results: https://results.wayzatatiming.com/meets/53818 🗓 Sabers Thursday Competition Schedule (times are estimated- 2A runs before 3A for each race) • 9:50 AM Girls 3A 3,000m run: Ashlynn Appleby and Adalyn Appleby • 10:10 AM Boys 3A 3,200m run: Adam Wilke • 11:05 Boys 3A 200m Prelims: Alexander Brown • 12:10 Boys 3A 4x800m relay: Kyle Olson, Parker Petsche, Greyson Dollar, Caleb Olson • 1:40 Boys 3A 400m Dash Final: Alexander Brown • 2:05 Shuttle Hurdle Relay Prelims: Abe Krukow, Beck Maricle, Sam Pfeifle, Jameson Gregoire 🗓 Sabers Friday Competition Schedule (times are estimated- 2A runs before 3A for each race) • 9:00 AM Boys 3A Long Jump: Cooper Small • 9:00 AM Girls 3A Shot Put: Natalie Cagle • 9:40 AM Boys 3A Distance Medley Relay: Michael Palmer, Jameson Gregoire, Nathan Butler, Caleb Olson • 10:45 AM Boys 3A 110m Hurdle Prelims: Jameson Gregoire • 11:35 AM Boys 3A 4x200m Relay Finals: Michael Palmer, Jonathan Garrison, Cooper Small, Sam Pfeifle • 12:30 PM Boys 3A 400m Hurdle Final: Abe Krukow • 1:00 PM Boys 3A 4x100m Relay Prelims: Sam Pfeifle, Michael Palmer, Brady Meadows, Jonathan Garrison • 2:15 PM Boys 3A 4x400m Relay Prelims: Abe Krukow, Nathan Butler, Caleb Olson, Alexander Brown 🗓 Sabers Saturday Competition Schedule (All Classes run in order 1A, 2A, 3A, 4A) • Boys 3A Sprint Medley Relay Final: Brady Meadows, Michael Palmer, Jonathan Garrison, Alex Brown • 11:20 Boys 3A 800m Final: Caleb Olson, Kyle Olson • 12:15 Boys 3A Shuttle Hurdle Relay Finals (TBD): Abe Krukow, Beck Maricle, Sam Pfeifle, Jameson Gregoire • 1:20 Boys 3A 110m Hurdle Finals (TBD): Jameson Gregoire • 2:05 Boys 3A 200m Dash Final (TBD): Alexander Brown • 2:15 Girls 3A 1500m Final: Adalyn Appleby • 2:45 PM Boys 3A 1600m Final: Kyle Olson, Adam Wilke • 3:40 PM Boys 3A 4x100m Relay Final (TBD) : Sam Pfeifle, Michael Palmer, Brady Meadows, Jonathan Garrison • 4:20 PM Boys 3A 4x400m Relay Final (TBD): Abe Krukow, Nathan Butler, Caleb Olson, Alexander Brown #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #sabertrackandfield #girlstrackandfield #boystrackandfield #statebound #statetrackandfield #saberpride #goosdluckatstate #saberssucceeding