Central DeWitt School District -

We are thrilled to share that our Esports team has once again qualified for the state tournament in Marshalltown on Thursday, Nov. 21st! Our 11th-ranked Rainbow 6 Siege team advanced to the tournament by defeating the 6th-ranked team from Abraham Lincoln High School in Council Bluffs, IA. Now the Sabers will likely face off against the top overall seed from Thomas Jefferson High School, also in Council Bluffs. This is the first season our Esports team has competed in this game title. A hearty congratulations goes out to the following team members: Senior captains Killian McManus and Mitchell Belk, fellow senior Daven Gard, juniors Diedrick Chance, Wyatt Jensen, Jaxon Martin and Connor Scott, and freshmen Jason Claussen, Jaxyn Dingbaum, and James Neuberg. Way to go, Sabers! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #cdhsesports #Esports #statetournament #headedtostate #statebound #goodluckatstate #saberpride #saberssucceeding

🎓Our first senior spotlight of the year is Hannah Grantz, one of our seniors who is making 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 #saberssucceeding

We proudly recognize Karl Burmester, also known as “Mr. B,” as our district’s October Employee of the Month. With an impressive 41 years of teaching experience, including 26 years at Central DeWitt, Mr. Burmester’s career has been marked by unwavering dedication to students, both in and out of the classroom. After retiring as a health and physical education teacher in 2016, he transitioned to transportation shortly after, where he continues to impact the lives of students and their families in remarkable ways. Mr. Burmester's dedication to helping every child feel comfortable and safe is evident in the extra steps he takes. When one young student faced challenges with transportation, Mr. Burmester took the time to visit the student’s classroom, engaging the child in story reading and playing to help build comfort and trust. He worked patiently through rides that were stressful for the student, handling each moment with calmness, patience, and a genuine care that did not go unnoticed by the student’s parent. Now that student looks forward to riding with "Mr. B" to school each morning. For Mr. Burmester, driving isn’t just a job—it’s a continuation of his work as an educator. “Transportation is an extension of the classroom,” he says, reflecting his dedication to building strong relationships with both students and their parents. On each ride, he creates a learning environment by reciting the ABCs or counting to 100 with the young students, turning the journey to and from school into a fun and educational experience. Beyond his role in transportation, Mr. Burmester has a long history of service in athletics. He has coached girls’ basketball, served as the assistant coach for boys’ track, and remains involved as the assistant coach for girls’ track at Central DeWitt today. Dedicated to student and community safety, Mr. Burmester is also a certified CPR instructor. He offers CPR training throughout the community and for our district’s bus drivers, aiming to ensure as many people as possible are trained in CPR. We are grateful to Mr. Burmester for the outstanding care, calmness, and dedication he brings to his role. His work is a testament to the positive difference that a compassionate and dedicated individual can make in our students' lives. Thank you, "Mr. B," for being an invaluable part of our school community! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdcsdemployeeofthemonth #employeeofthemonth #october2024employeeofthemonth #saberssucceeding #sabersuperstar

We are inviting district stakeholders to participate in developing our Long-Range Planning Committee. This committee will play a vital role in guiding our district’s financial priorities and ensuring that decisions reflect the diverse needs and perspectives within our community. As we prepare for necessary budget adjustments, this committee will be instrumental in helping us thoughtfully prioritize expenditures and gather feedback on district priorities. The Long-Range Planning Committee will consist of approximately 20 members, including staff, parents, and community representatives. By bringing together individuals with varied experiences and insights, we hope to create a balanced and inclusive planning process. Committee meetings are scheduled for January 6, January 15, and February 3, from 5:30 to 8:00 PM. Participation in all meetings is essential to providing consistent and valuable input. If you are interested in participating in this important work, please complete the interest survey by 4:00 PM on December 13, 2024. Your voice is essential as we shape the future of our district together. Interest Survey: https://forms.gle/Wk78t9p4hmaRce578 We look forward to working collaboratively to build a sustainable and successful path forward for our schools and community. #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #cdms #cdis #ekstrandelementary #longerangeplanningcommittee

DO NOT MISS the CDHS fall musical, “The Addams Family,” hitting the stage this weekend! This spookily spectacular performance by our incredibly talented cast is a comical feast for all ages. Tickets are still available, so get yours now before they sell out! 🎟️ Saber Box Office: https://www.cd-csd.org/page/saber-box-office 🍦 The Saber Speech Team will also be there selling these delicious treats during intermission on Friday and Saturday: • $3 - Scoops of Smilee's ice cream • $2 - Ice cream sandwiches • $1 - Bottled water Concessions are cash only. And, look for the Saber Speech “Giving Tree" for extra ways to support the Saber Speech Team. Grab your tickets and join us for a delightfully eerie evening with The Addams Family at CDHS! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #cdhsmusical #theaddamsfamily #saberdrama #ticketsonsalenow #saberspeech #smileesicecream #supportoursabers

CDHS students traveled to Cedar Rapids last week to explore the main campus of Kirkwood Community Community college. While there they visited the simulation center, the diesel and vet tech buildings and learned all about the opportunities available to them at Kirkwood. Great job exploring options for your future, Sabers! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #collegevisits #careerandcollegeready #futureready #exploringoptions #saberpride #saberssucceeding

🏀✨ Our 2nd graders scored big today when they received their very own copy of Just Like Caitlin! Thanks to the incredible generosity of the Jensen family and @justlikecaitlin, EVERY second grader in Iowa received this inspiring book. Just Like Caitlin shares Caitlin Clark’s story, packed with 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 believe in a future full of possibilities! 🌟 #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #ekstrandelementary #JustLikeCaitlin #InspireIowaKids #WorldKindnessDay #BelieveInYourself #ThankYouJensenFamily

Congratulations to senior Katlin Truelsen who was the recipient of the $10,000 scholarship from the Herbert Hoover Foundation! Earlier this year we shared that she was one of 15 finalists in the state of Iowa who received the Herbert Hoover Uncommon Student Award for her Ladies in Livestock project. After presenting her project to the foundation earlier this month, she was selected as one of only four recipients to receive the top scholarship. We are beyond proud of your accomplishment, Katlin! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #HerbertHooverUncommonStudentAward #scholarship HerbertHooverFoundation #saberssucceeding #saberpride

It’s Work with Us Wednesday! We are looking for a Spanish Teacher to join our extraordinary CDHS team who will inspire our students to embrace language learning as well as the culture and customs of Spanish-speaking countries. To apply, visit https://phlaptweb36.applitrack.com/CDCSD/onlineapp/ #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #cdms #cdis #ekstrandelementary #workwithuswednesday #joinoursaberfamily #jobopportunities #spanishteacher

Last Wednesday and Thursday, eight of our middle school and high school students had an incredible opportunity to participate in the Iowa Youth Symposium held at the State Capitol in Des Moines. As part of the Iowa Model United Nations program, students delved into research and debated policy development in search of resolutions for real-world issues faced by the United Nations. The students conducted their work in the House of Representatives chamber and even received a visit from Representative Eddie Andrews from Iowa House District 43. Representing CDMS were Eva Burke and Lane Johnston, while Alivia Crandall, Hannah Moore, Taylor Houser, Isaac Lewis, Sophia Mickelson, and Ella Taylor proudly represented CDHS. We're so proud of our students for stepping up, engaging in policy, and representing Central DeWitt at such an impactful event! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #cdms #FutureLeaders #IowaYouthSymposium #IowaModelUnitedNations #saberpride #saberssucceeding

Last week current sophomores and juniors had a chance to explore the DeWitt Career Advancement Center to learn more about the high school academies. There are six academies located in DeWitt, and several more in Clinton. These academies allow students to explore career tech fields their junior and senior year, while earning college credits. We love having these opportunities available to our students! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #dewittcareeradvancementcenter #careerandcollegeready #planningforthefuture #saberpride #saberssucceeding

Today, our entire school district came together to honor Veterans Day, showing their appreciation for our nation's heroes. At an assembly hosted by CDHS Student Council members, our school community recited the Pledge of Allegiance followed by the 8th grade and high school choirs performing the National Anthem. Special guest Sergeant First Class (SFC) Carrion delivered an inspiring message on the importance of recognizing and honoring our heroes, leaving everyone with a renewed sense of gratitude and respect for those who serve. That was followed by the CDHS choir singing “God Bless America” and the CDHS band performing, “American Flourish” by Robert W. Smith. The assembly wasn’t the only way students and staff honored veterans. We shared earlier today how CDIS hosted an assembly last Friday and they also filled their halls with flags and silhouettes of soldiers featuring loved ones who served. Ekstrand Elementary students created pennants with their family members who served on them that were strung together and hung in the “Hall of Heroes.” The heartfelt artwork, assemblies and other thoughtful projects allowed students of all ages to express their gratitude and gain a deeper understanding of the values veterans embody. Thank you to all who serve and have served, and to everyone who made today a powerful reminder of the service and sacrifices of our veterans. #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #cdms #cdis #ekstrandelementary #saberpride #saberssucceeding #VeteransDay #ThankYouVeterans #ThankYouForYourService #HonoringVeterans

🇺🇸 This Veterans Day, we want to express our deepest gratitude to all who have served. Last Friday, our intermediate school students hosted a meaningful assembly to honor veterans, sharing the history and importance of this day. They performed patriotic poems and songs, spoke from the heart about the sacrifices made by our heroes, staff members recognized family members who served, and the students finished with a star-spangled routine. A big round of applause to Mrs. Hahn and her students for their outstanding work in bringing this event to life! Thank you to all veterans for your courage, commitment, and service to our country. Today and every day, we are grateful. ❤️💙 #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdis #cdisveteransdayassembly #saberpride #saberssucceeding #ThankYouVeterans #VeteransDay #Heroes

CDHS Publications students hit the road to Iowa City on October 24th for the Iowa High School Press Association’s annual conference, diving into a day packed with journalism, photography, and writing workshops. In addition, yearbook staff members learned about developing leadership skills and marketing while also networking with fellow student journalists from across the state. What a great experience for our budding journalists! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #saberpublications #publicationstudents #learningisfun #IowaHighSchoolPressAssociation #saberpride #saberssucceeding

Last week, 18 CDHS juniors and seniors visited the University of Iowa campus. This was a great opportunity for our students to learn what the college has to offer and see if it’s a good fit for them. The next college visit for juniors and senior will be Kirkwood Community College. If any student or parent has a recommendation for additional career and college visits, we'd love to hear from you! Students and parents can email our College & Career Counselor at holly.hansen@cd-csd.org. #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #collegevisits #careerandcollegeready #futureready #exploringoptions #saberpride #saberssucceeding

Central DeWitt Community School District is pleased to announce that Jared Coury has been appointed to its Board of Directors, filling the seat vacated by Geoff Blandin. Coury will serve the remainder of the term through November 2025. His appointment follows a competitive selection process, with five highly qualified candidates applying. The Board used a blind scoring system to evaluate letters of interest and selected Coury based on the highest overall score. Reflecting on his commitment to the district, Coury shared his excitement for supporting the district’s progress. “I am interested in helping the school district continue on its current trajectory of focusing on core priorities of education, positive organizational changes, and financial stabilization,” Coury wrote. Coury, a chemical engineer who moved to DeWitt in 2018, brings a unique perspective, drawing from his experience solving complex problems and his dedication to community engagement. “The Central DeWitt school district’s strongest asset is its community pride and care. It’s this level of concern—a momentum towards excellence—that is the fertile ground with which a district like Central DeWitt can grow and overcome any obstacle in its path,” Coury noted in his letter. The Board is thrilled with the high level of community interest in the role and is grateful for the dedicated applicants who demonstrated their commitment to Central DeWitt’s vision of excellence in education.

In the spirit of Halloween, our 6th graders had a unique experience last week dissecting cow hearts. Learning about the heart’s anatomy was a hands-on, memorable way to bring science to life. Proud of these young scientists for boldly exploring the fascinating heart! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdis #6thgrade #6thgradescience #dissectingcowhearts #handsonlearning #learningisfun #youngscientists #saberpride #saberssucceeding

👑 Our 1st graders had a magical time at their Royal Ball last Friday! They practiced their best manners while dining on tea cakes and sparkling punch, crafted beautiful crowns, watched Cinderella, and showed off their finest dance moves. It was truly a day fit for all our little kings and queens! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #ekstrandelementary #firstgrade #firstgraderoyalball #royalball #learningisfun #magical #saberssucceeding

They're creepy and they're kooky... and coming to CDHS! Get ready to snap your fingers because tickets for the fall musical, “The Addams Family,” are ON SALE NOW! Step into the delightfully dark world of everyone’s favorite spooky family and experience a night that is sure to thrill and chill! To purchase tickets visit: https://www.cd-csd.org/page/saber-box-office PERFORMANCES Friday, November 15th at 7 P.M. Saturday, November 16th at 7 P.M. ADMISSION ADULTS: $10 CHILDREN, STUDENTS & SENIOR CITIZENS: $5 Activity tickets cannot be used for this event. WHERE Central DeWitt Performing Arts Center Don’t wait—grab your tickets now for an ooky-spooky performance you won’t forget! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #cdhs #cdhsmusical #theaddamsfamily #saberdrama #ticketsonsalenow #supportoursabers

Looking for a delicious addition to your Thanksgiving or Christmas gatherings? Central DeWitt Special Olympics team is here to help! Now through Nov. 15th they are selling frozen Texas Roadhouse rolls and cinnamon butter that are perfect for the holidays, plus gift cards for everyone on your list! Click the link below to purchase. 📅 Fundraiser Dates: November 4 - November 15 📍 Pick-Up Date: November 26 at 5:00 PM at the Central DeWitt Intermediate School 🔗 Order Here: https://txrhgiftcards.com/collections/txrh-10-100-5-brd-1?ref=103CentralDewittSpecOlympics103124 🧡 Why It Matters: Our Special Olympics team earns 50% of roll sales and 10% from gift cards, so every purchase goes a long way in supporting our athletes! Help us make a difference this season! #gosabers #centraldewittcsd #centraldewittspecialolympics #specialolympics #specialolympicsfundraiser #helpfortheholidays #supportourathletes #saberpride