Welcome to Kirsten Schroeder, who joins Farley Elementary as a special education teacher!

Ms. Schroeder is passionate about helping every student feel supported and empowered in their learning. We are thrilled to have her on our team. 📚
4 months ago, WDCCSD
Kirsten Schroeder
The first week of school is wrapping up strong! Western Dubuque High School and Dyersville Elementary were buzzing with energy and excitement as students filled the halls, connected with friends, and kicked off the school year with enthusiasm. The buzz in our buildings shows that our students and staff are ready for a year of learning, growth, and opportunities.

We can’t wait to see all that 2025–26 will bring! #wdbqschools
4 months ago, WDCCSD
DES Kindergarten 1
DES Library
DES Lunch
DES Assembly
WDHS 1
WDHS 2
WDHS 3
WDHS 4
WDHS 5
WDHS 6
Bring the whole family for an evening of fun, learning, and connection at our Family Wellness Event! From food trucks and kids activities to wellness booths and prize drawings, there will be something for everyone to enjoy. 🎉

Join us from 5:30 to 7:30pm on Tuesday, September 23, in the Western Dubuque High School Commons.

Admission is free. See you there! ✨
4 months ago, WDCSD
health event
August is National Truancy Prevention Month. When students attend school consistently, they experience greater engagement and improved academic outcomes.

Every day in school creates opportunities for growth and discovery. Let’s prioritize attendance together! 🙌
4 months ago, WDCCSD
Chalkboard-style graphic with the Western Dubuque Schools logo at the top. Large text reads: “This school year, Emphasize Consistent Attendance.” A hand writes chalk lines across the board, with doodles of a clock, light bulb, and stars. At the bottom, a blue banner reads: “National Truancy Prevention Month.”
We are happy to welcome Tori Freiburger as the new preschool teacher at Cascade Elementary!

Ms. Freiburger is excited to help our youngest learners grow through curiosity, creativity, and exploration. Please join us in welcoming her to the Western Dubuque family. 🌟
4 months ago, WDCCSD
Tori Freiburger
Each Wednesday, students dismiss one hour early so our staff can engage in professional learning and collaboration. This week, Cascade Jr./Sr. High School teachers gathered to dive into meaningful discussions on grading equity—ensuring fair, consistent, and student-centered practices across classrooms. Investing in our educators’ growth directly benefits our students and helps us live out our vision of being Better Every Day. #wdbqschools
4 months ago, WDCCSD
CJSHS 1
CJSHS 2
CJSHS 3
We are proud to see Dr. Biechler, one of our cross country and track coaches, featured for the incredible work she does to support student-athletes! Her dedication, knowledge, and passion for running make a lasting impact on our schools. 🏃‍♀️

View the full story:
https://www.kcrg.com/2025/08/25/shes-running-nerd-doctor-exercise-coach-behind-one-americas-best-high-school-runners/
4 months ago, WDCSD
In the news
Please join us in welcoming Meg Besler as our new 4th grade teacher at Farley Elementary!

Ms. Besler is eager to inspire her students through meaningful learning experiences and a supportive classroom community. 🌍

She brings energy and vision that align with our goal of enhancing student growth and achievement. 🌸
4 months ago, WDCCSD
Meg Besler
Today is the first day of school for our transitional kindergarten students! 🎒

We’re excited to welcome our youngest learners as they begin their journey with us. 🤗
4 months ago, WDCCSD
Red background graphic with playful school-themed illustrations including blocks, books, crayons, a school bus, and a chair. In the center, text reads: “August 27, 2025 – Happy First Day of School to our Transitional Kindergarten Students!” The Western Dubuque Schools logo with the phrase “Better Every Day” is shown at the bottom right.
The first days of school have been filled with smiles, new routines, and countless opportunities to learn and grow. From classrooms to cafeterias, our students and staff are already showing the importance of relationships, growth, and belonging. Here’s to a year of being Better Every Day in Western Dubuque Schools! #wdbqschools
4 months ago, WDCCSD
3rd grade
Drexler Middle
5th grade
EES Cafeteria
PES small group
5th grade small group
PES 1st grade
PES 3rd grade
coloring
PES First Grade
Our preschoolers begin on Tuesday, September 2, but our teachers and paraeducators are already preparing to meet the needs of every learner! 🌟

Today’s professional learning with Janet Felton from Keystone AEA focused on building vocabulary, strengthening instruction, and using prompts to support independence.

We are grateful for the collaboration of all preschool staff working to give every child the best start. 📚
4 months ago, WDCSD
professional learning
We are excited to introduce Dana Rector as a new member of our food service team at Drexler Middle School! 🍽️

Ms. Rector looks forward to serving students with care, contributing to their wellbeing and readiness to learn.

Her work reflects our mission to prioritize all people within our school community. 😊
4 months ago, WDCCSD
Dana Rector
The first day of school is here in Western Dubuque Schools! 🌟

Our halls are filled with smiles, energy, and excitement as students and staff begin the 2025-26 school year together. Here’s to a year of learning, growth, and new opportunities for every student!
4 months ago, Emily Williams
IMG_8239 - Daniel Butler
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We are pleased to welcome Kyle Laufenberg to our maintenance team!

Mr. Laufenberg is committed to ensuring our schools remain safe, welcoming places for students, staff, and families.🔧

His role supports our strategic priority of creating productive learning environments.
4 months ago, WDCCSD
Kyl Laufenberg
Happy first day of school for our K-12 students! 🎉

We’re thrilled to see our students in our buildings again as we get ready for an incredible school year. Let’s get the learning started! 🙌 #wdbqschools
4 months ago, Emily Williams
Graphic with red, white, and blue balloons decorated with school-themed icons like a backpack, scissors, ruler, globe, and books. At the center is the Western Dubuque Schools logo with the text “Better Every Day.” Large bold text reads: “Happy First Day of School!” with the date August 25, 2025 below.
Bobcat and Cougar football teams took the field tonight for their scrimmages. Week 1 kicks off next Friday for both teams—time to bring the energy! Let’s go! #wdbqschools
4 months ago, WDCCSD
Bobcat Football
Cougar Football
Last night and this morning at Western Dubuque High School, our staff and community were inspired by Chris and Nik Nikic. Chris became the first person with Down syndrome to complete an Ironman triathlon—an achievement built on his mindset of getting 1% Better each day.

His story reminded us that growth happens step by step—through persistence, resilience, and the courage to keep going when challenges arise.

At Western Dubuque, our vision is Better Every Day. Chris’s journey is a living example of that vision, showing what’s possible when we stay focused and committed to improving, even in small ways, each day.

What a great kickoff to the 2025–2026 school year. We look forward to seeing our K–12 students on Monday, August 25! #wdbqschools
4 months ago, WDCCSD
Standing ovation
1% Better Every Day
Chris Nikic at the podium
Ethan and Chris Nikic
Community presentation
What would you do if you knew you couldn't fail?
Please help us welcome Meg Murphy, who joins Peosta Elementary as a paraprofessional!

Ms. Murphy looks forward to building positive relationships with students and supporting their success each day. ❤️

Her role strengthens our mission to develop individuals through lasting education and opportunities. 🌼 #wdbqschools

4 months ago, WDCCSD
Meg Murphy
We are happy to introduce Gretchen Glick as a new special education teacher at Epworth Elementary!

Ms. Glick is passionate about creating a safe and supportive environment where all students can thrive. ✏️

Her work embodies our value of putting people first by prioritizing the success of every learner. 💙 #wdbqschools

4 months ago, WDCCSD
Gretchen Glick
✨ Back to School Elementary Open House ✨

We are excited to welcome families to our district elementary buildings tonight (Thursday, August 21) from 5:30–6:30 PM!

This event jumpstarts a great school year, strengthening the partnership between schools, families, and the community.

We look forward to seeing you there!
#wdbqschools
4 months ago, WDCCSD
Elementary Open House