
Congratulations, Class of 2025!
This past weekend, the gyms at Cascade and Western Dubuque were filled with joy, pride, and celebration as our graduates crossed the stage and tossed their caps in the air.
To our seniors: your dedication, leadership, and perseverance have left a lasting mark on our schools and communities. As you take your next steps, know that you carry with you the strength of Cougar and Bobcat pride.
Thank you to the families, staff, and community members who supported these students every step of the way. The future is brighter because of them.
Well done, Class of 2025 — you made it! #wdbqschools





As graduation approaches this Sunday, our seniors took part in a powerful tradition—returning to the elementary schools where it all began. The annual graduation walk is more than a celebration—it's a chance to reflect, to say thank you, and to inspire the next generation.
You could see the pride in the smiles, the joy in the high-fives, and the emotion in every hallway. Staff who once guided these students as children now cheered them on as young adults ready to take their next step.
To our seniors—thank you for coming home one more time. And to our elementary students—your future is bright.
Graduation is taking place on Sunday, May 18. Ceremonies at CHS begin at 12:30, while WDHS will take place at 2:00 PM.
#wdbqschools





On National Teacher Appreciation Day, we honor the educators who bring our district’s mission to life—developing individuals through lasting education and opportunities.
In Western Dubuque Schools, teachers are not just instructors—they are mentors, leaders, and difference-makers. Every day, they model our core values by prioritizing people, embracing continual growth, and creating opportunities for all.
Whether guiding students through new learning, sparking curiosity, or offering support through life’s challenges, our teachers build the foundation for a brighter future. These images are just a glimpse into the passion, care, and excellence they bring to their classrooms and communities.
To our WD teachers: thank you for your commitment to students and for making our district better every day. #wdbqschools





This week, we proudly celebrate the nearly 300 dedicated teachers across Western Dubuque Schools who inspire, support, and empower our students every day. Whether it's in classrooms, labs, music rooms, or shop floors, our teachers meet the unique needs of learners with care, creativity, and compassion.
Thank you for making a difference—one student at a time. #wdbqschools





Today, we celebrate the 3,600+ reasons we’re grateful—our students—and the extraordinary team that nourishes them daily across 8 buildings in the Western Dubuque Community School District.
To our school nutrition professionals: you are the heart of our schools. From early mornings to the final lunch tray, you serve more than meals—you serve kindness, care, and consistency. You ensure every child is fed, welcomed, and ready to learn.
Your dedication doesn't go unnoticed. You are our everyday heroes, and today, we honor you.
Thank you for all that you do! #wdbqschools


Today we celebrate the unsung heroes of Western Dubuque Schools—our incredible office professionals. Your organization, support, and care keep our schools running smoothly. Thank you for all you do for our students, staff, and community. #wdbqschools


📣 Western Dubuque Families – Schedule Reminder
As we move into the final stretch of the school year, here’s a quick reminder about upcoming calendar adjustments and key end-of-year dates:
🗓️ Make-Up Days
• Wednesday, April 16 – School is in session with a 1-hour early dismissal (standard Wednesday schedule)
• Tuesday, April 22 – Full day of school
• No school on April 17, 18, and 21, as originally scheduled
🎓 End-of-Year Dates
• May 15 – Last day for seniors
• May 16 – Graduation practice
• May 21 – Last day for 3-day preschool (1-hour early dismissal)
• May 22 – Last day for 4-day preschool
• May 23 – Last day for TK–11th grade (2-hour early dismissal)
Please contact your building office with any questions. Thank you for your continued support as we finish the year strong!
📄 Full calendar: 2024–2025 WDCCSD Calendar


As the school year winds down, here are the final academic dates for students in Western Dubuque:
May 15 – Last day for seniors
May 16 – Graduation practice for seniors
May 21 – Last day for 3-day preschool (1-hour early dismissal)
May 22 – Last day for 4-day preschool
May 23 – Last day for TK–11th grade students (2-hour early dismissal)
Please contact your child’s school with any questions. Let’s finish the year strong! #wdbqschools


Paraprofessionals are the heart of our schools, providing essential support to students and staff every day. In #wdbqschools, we are fortunate to have over 100 dedicated paraprofessionals across our eight buildings who make a lasting impact on learning and growth. Their commitment, patience, and care help ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed.
On this National Paraprofessional Appreciation Day, we extend our deepest gratitude for all they do. Thank you for making a difference!




We are thrilled to welcome Clif Cameron back to Western Dubuque as our next Director of Food and Nutrition Services! After a thorough selection process, Clif emerged as the top candidate due to his extensive experience in food and nutrition services, including operational management, compliance, and student wellness.
Clif previously served as our Director of Food and Nutrition Services from 2014 to 2020 and has most recently worked as a Food Program Consultant for Iowa Area Education Agencies. His leadership emphasizes collaboration, efficiency, and a commitment to providing high-quality meals that support student success.
Join us in giving Clif a warm welcome as he returns to WDCCSD! We’re excited for the impact he will have on our students and school community. #wdbqschools


The WDCCSD school board has approved the 2025-2026 school calendar. Visit www.tinyurl.com/wdccsd2526calendars to view the K-12 and Preschool calendars. #wdbqschools


Please join us in welcoming Scott Kriegel as the next Activities Director at Western Dubuque High School! Pending board approval, Scott will officially begin his role on July 1, 2025, as Tyler Lown transitions to the Iowa High School Athletic Association.
With over 20 years of experience as an Activities Director, most recently at Center Point-Urbana, Scott is a proven leader who values collaboration, strategic thinking, and student development. His commitment to creating meaningful extracurricular opportunities will greatly benefit our students, coaches, and programs.
Welcome to Western Dubuque, Scott! We look forward to the impact you will make. #wdbqschools


Each month, the WDCCSD School Board visits one of our eight schools to learn about focus areas and progress. This month, they visited Western Dubuque High School, where Principal Ethan Lensch and Assistant Principal Andrew Carbajal shared updates on improved grades, the Student Assistance Team process, and higher attendance. Strong systems of support are allowing WDHS to perform as one of the best high schools in Iowa, as measured by the School Performance Profile!
During the visit, agricultural students showcased their learning by presenting a creative skit on solar energy’s impact on farming. Their well-researched and engaging performance sparked meaningful discussion among board members and administrators.
These visits highlight the great work happening in our schools and the dedication of our students and staff! #wdbqschools





📢 We're Hiring: Director of Food & Nutrition Services!
The Western Dubuque County Community School District is seeking a dedicated leader to oversee our food and nutrition services. This role is vital in ensuring students receive high-quality, nutritious meals while managing operations, compliance, and financial oversight.
🔹 Key Responsibilities:
Lead and develop a team of food service professionals
Oversee financial management and regulatory compliance
Ensure high standards in meal quality and service
Drive innovation in school nutrition programs
🔹 What We’re Looking For:
Expertise in food service management and leadership
Strong financial and operational skills
Knowledge of K-12 nutritional guidelines
Ability to manage multiple priorities and foster team growth
Do you have the vision and expertise to lead our food and nutrition services to new heights? Apply today and be part of our commitment to student wellness and success! #wdbqschools
📌 Application: www.tinyurl.com/wdccsdfsn



🌟 Celebrating Abilities, Embracing Inclusion! 🌟
March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, and we are proud to celebrate the incredible students in our district who inspire us every day with their talents, determination, and unique strengths.
Let’s continue to build Opportunities For All and a community where everyone belongs, where differences are celebrated, and where all students have the opportunities to grow and thrive! #wdbqschools





Out of an abundance of caution, Western Dubuque Schools will be closed today, Wednesday, March 5, due to anticipated dangerously high winds and blowing snow, creating hazardous travel conditions. Please stay safe. #wdbqschools


Farley Elementary School serves students in grades PK-5, providing a supportive and engaging learning environment where students are encouraged to explore, grow, and succeed. At FES, we celebrate achievements, nurture curiosity, and lay the foundation for lifelong learning.
Over the past six years, Farley Elementary has demonstrated a strong commitment to academic excellence, earning an Exceptional ranking once, a High Performing ranking once, a Commendable ranking three times, and an Acceptable ranking once on the Iowa School Performance Profile. These distinctions reflect our dedication to student success and continuous improvement.
Beyond the classroom, we offer a range of programs and activities designed to enrich student learning and foster growth in academics, the arts, and extracurricular involvement. With a dedicated staff and a supportive community, we strive to create an environment where every child has the opportunity to thrive.
At Farley Elementary, we believe every student deserves to feel valued and supported. Guided by the district’s core values—People First, Growth, and Opportunities for All—we work alongside families and the community to cultivate a love for learning and achievement. #wdbqschools




We are pleased to announce that Kevin Maiers has accepted the offer to serve as the next Director of Buildings and Grounds for Western Dubuque Schools, pending Board approval. Kevin will assume this responsibility July 1.
Kevin has been a dedicated member of our maintenance department since 2010, consistently stepping up as a leader and earning the trust of his colleagues through his strong skill set and reliability. His expertise spans industrial maintenance, electrical work, emergency management, carpentry, plumbing, HVAC, concrete, and more—making him an invaluable asset to our district. Beyond his technical skills, Kevin’s calm and steady leadership will be instrumental in maintaining and improving our facilities to ensure safe, efficient, and well-managed operations for students, staff, and the community.
He will be stepping into this role following the retirement of Bob Hingtgen, who has served Western Dubuque Schools with dedication for over 30 years. We are grateful for Bob’s commitment and leadership, and we look forward to honoring his contributions as he transitions into retirement. #wdbqschools


Due to school cancellations on January 21 and February 12, make-up days will occur as outlined in the WDCCSD 2024-2025 School Calendar. School will be in session on:
Wednesday, April 16 (one-hour early dismissal, per our typical Wednesday schedule)
Tuesday, April 22
There will be no school on April 17, 18, and 21, as originally scheduled on the school calendar.
At this time, a definitive last day for students has not been determined, as we are still in the winter season. We will finalize and communicate the last student day by mid-April. Thank you for your support and engagement. #wdbqschools


The WDHS bowling season has officially come to a close. Huge congratulations to Ethan Potter on his 3rd place finish at the Iowa Class 2A State Tournament, bowling a 268 in his final game! Congrats also to David Pettera for qualifying for the individual tournament! #wdbqschools

