
We are proud to share that the Western Dubuque County Community School District has been ranked as the #5 Large School District in Iowa based on the 2024 Iowa School Performance Profiles. In this comparison, large school districts are defined as those with 1,650 students or more (WDCCSD enrolls roughly 3,640 students). This recognition reflects the hard work, dedication, and commitment of our students, staff, and families.
Here’s how our schools performed:
Cascade Elementary: High Performing
Epworth Elementary: Commendable
Farley Elementary: Commendable
Dyersville Elementary: Acceptable
Peosta Elementary: Commendable
Cascade Junior/Senior High: Commendable
Drexler Middle School: Commendable
Western Dubuque High School: High Performing
While we are excited about our results, we are equally excited to continue our efforts to grow and achieve at higher levels. #wdbqschools


The Western Dubuque County Community School District wishes you and your loved ones a Happy Thanksgiving.
We are grateful for our students, staff, families, and community members who make our district special. We wish you joy, gratitude, and cherished moments. #wdbqschools

Upcoming Events in WDCCSD:
Wednesday, November 27: No School - Teacher Comp. Day
Thursday, November 28 and Friday, November 29: No School - Thanksgiving Holiday (All district buildings closed)
Monday, December 2: Classes resume
Wishing everyone a safe and joyful Thanksgiving!

It’s not every day that an MLB prospect steps up to serve lunch to elementary students! A big thank you to 2020 WDHS graduate and current catcher in the Chicago White Sox organization, Calvin Harris, for visiting Dyersville Elementary. Your positive influence and leadership left a lasting impression on our students and staff. What an incredible role model! #wdbqschools




As American Education Week draws to a close, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributes to making WDCCSD a place of growth, learning, and opportunity. From our dedicated educators and staff to our supportive families and community members, volunteers, and substitutes—your hard work and commitment shape the future of our students. We are truly grateful for all that you do! #wdbqschools

Congratulations to two talented #wdbqschools musicians selected for the Iowa High School Music Association All-State Band Festival! Kristine Hellmann (WDHS), a French horn player, and Nicole Felton (CHS), a clarinet player, will showcase their outstanding skills at this prestigious event held at the Hilton Coliseum in Ames. Best of luck!


This American Education Week, we’re grateful for the incredible community support that strengthens Western Dubuque Schools. Thank you to all who show such pride in our school communities and help our students thrive. Your support makes a lasting impact! #wdbqschools









As American Education Week continues, we celebrate our incredible support staff—paraprofessionals, food service teams, bus drivers, custodians, school resource officers, and many others who keep our schools running smoothly each day. Your work is valued, noticed, and deeply appreciated. Thank you for all you do to support our students! #wdbqschools










In the Western Dubuque County Community School District, we are dedicated to creating a productive learning environment through exemplary professional practices. As part of our strategic plan, we prioritize fostering an engaging workplace where staff can thrive and perform at their best.
Our bi-annual staff engagement survey underscores this commitment, with 500 staff members reporting an average satisfaction level of 5.93 out of 7 and an average fulfillment level of 6.09 out of 7. These results reflect our ongoing progress toward our vision of Better Every Day.
By contributing to a supportive and fulfilling environment, we aim to empower our staff to provide the best possible support for our students. #wdbqschools

During American Education Week, we want to recognize and thank our families for their deep connection and support of WDCCSD. Through countless hours of volunteer work and encouragement, our families play a vital role in advancing our students' success. We are truly grateful for our strong school-family partnerships!






Help us celebrate Mrs. Alyssa Dalsing, who has been named a finalist for Iowa Teacher of the Year! Representing Keystone AEA, she is one of nine exceptional teachers being considered for this prestigious honor. Mrs. Dalsing truly embodies our district’s commitment to growth, consistently challenging herself and her students to reach new heights academically and socially. Congratulations, Mrs. Dalsing—we’re proud of you!
For more information about this award, please visit: https://tinyurl.com/WDCCSDTOY2025.
An introductory video of Mrs. Dalsing can be found here: https://tinyurl.com/dalsingvideo
#wdbqschools


This week, we celebrate everyone who makes WDCCSD a strong and vibrant community! American Education Week honors the dedication of all those connected to our public schools—from support staff to teachers, administrators, families, and community partners. Each day highlights a different theme as we recognize the teamwork and commitment that support quality public education for all. Thank you to everyone who helps our students thrive! #wdbqschools









We're excited to kick off the second trimester on Monday, November 18! This new term brings fresh opportunities for growth, development, and progress for our students and staff. Let’s make it a trimester of reaching new goals and building on successes together! #wdbqschools

At our annual Board organizational meeting on Monday, November 11, Jessica Pape took the Oath of Office and assumed the role of Board President, while Mark Tilson took the Oath of Office to serve as Vice-President. We are excited for these leaders to continue supporting our district’s mission, along with Board members Kari Krogman, Jody Willging, and Mike Rea, who will continue their roles as engaged members.
The Board of Education plays a vital role in policy-making and planning for Western Dubuque Schools, without being involved in daily operations. Serving without pay, Board members elect their own leadership, appoint a secretary and treasurer, and hire the district’s chief executive, the superintendent. Thank you to all members for your dedicated service! #wdbqschools

Today may have been quiet in our classrooms without students, but our teachers were hard at work enhancing their skills and strategies! Our commitment remains strong: to create a productive learning environment through exemplary professional practices. Days like these empower our educators to bring their very best to our students every day. #wdbqschools


As we reach the end of the first trimester, we're proud of all that our students and staff have accomplished in the first twelve weeks of school! Let's take this time to recharge, reflect, and get ready for even more learning and growth in the upcoming trimesters. As a reminder: there will be no school on Thursday, November 14, and Friday, November 15. Classes will resume on Monday, November 18. #wdbqschools

We proudly honored the veterans in our school communities through special assemblies. Family members, friends, neighbors, and loved ones have served our country with courage and sacrifice, and we are grateful for their commitment to freedom, service, and honor. #wdbqschools






Today, Western Dubuque Schools honor the brave men and women who have served our country with assemblies in our schools. We are grateful for the sacrifices made by our veterans and their families to protect our freedoms. Thank you for your service. #wdbqschools

Congratulations to the students of Cascade High School and Western Dubuque High School on their fantastic fall performances! Cascade students brought Peter and the Starcatcher to life, while Western Dubuque students shined in How to Survive Being in a Shakespeare Play and Wild Strawberries. These productions showcased outstanding talent, engagement, and opportunities for all—truly embodying our commitment to continual growth. Bravo to everyone involved! #wdbqschools










Farley Elementary School was pleased to welcome members of the WDCCSD School Board for an insightful visit! Our board members had the opportunity to learn about the English Learners (EL) program at FES, which serves 26 students and offers cultural learning opportunities to enrich all students' experiences. With more than 90 students qualifying for the EL program across our district, WDCCSD is committed to creating a productive learning environment that supports growth and fosters diverse perspectives.



