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
7 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

7 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

7 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
7 months ago, WDCCSD
Elementary Open House
We are honored to welcome Chris & Nik Nikic as our guest speakers. Chris made history as the first person with Down Syndrome to complete an Ironman and all six Global Marathon Majors—proving the power of getting just 1% better every day.

📅 Thursday, August 21
⏰ 7:15–8:15 PM
📍 Western Dubuque High School Auditorium
✅ Open to all

Don’t miss this inspiring evening at #wdbqschools!
7 months ago, WDCCSD
Chris and Nik Nikic 1% Better Every Day Community Presentation
Welcome, Lori Steward, to Epworth Elementary!

Lori will be supporting students as a paraprofessional in special education, creating opportunities for student success. We’re excited to welcome her to our school! ✨ #wdbqschools
7 months ago, WDCCSD
Lori Steward

Orientation for incoming 6th graders, 9th graders, and all new students is tomorrow starting at 8:00 AM.

Please note: incoming 7th graders at CJSHS will also attend orientation tomorrow.

We’re excited to welcome you to #wdbqschools!

7 months ago, WDCCSD
Orientation Day
Our teachers have kicked off the 2025–26 school year with opening day meetings and professional learning sessions, preparing to welcome our fantastic K-12 students on August 25. We will be ready for you! #wdbqschools
7 months ago, WDCCSD
Farley Elementary
Peosta Elementary
Western Dubuque High School
Farley Elementary 2

We are excited to welcome Sarah Sodoma as our new 3rd grade teacher at Peosta Elementary!

Ms. Sodoma is eager to spark curiosity and creativity in her classroom, supporting student growth and achievement in every lesson. 📚

Her dedication reflects our commitment to continual growth and opportunities for all. 🌟 #wdbqschools

7 months ago, WDCCSD
Sarah Sodoma
Welcome, Ashten Ludwig, to Dyersville Elementary!

Ashten will be teaching special education, helping students reach their potential through engaging learning opportunities. We are excited to have her expertise in our classrooms! 📘 #wdbqschools
7 months ago, WDCCSD
Ashten Ludwig
During National Truancy Prevention Month, we’re shedding light on the connection between attendance and student success. Students who show up consistently:

⭐ Perform better on tests and assessments
⭐ Participate more actively in classroom discussions
⭐ Develop problem-solving skills
⭐ Form strong connections with peers

Every day in school is an investment in their bright future! #wdbqschools

7 months ago, WDCCSD
Attendance Matters
Welcome, Michelle Eilers, to Epworth Elementary!

Michelle will be joining as a special education paraprofessional, supporting students as they build skills for lifelong success. We are thrilled to have her at our school! 🌟 #wdbqschools
7 months ago, WDCCSD
Michelle Eilers
Welcome, Hunter Schwoob, to Cascade Junior/Senior High School!

Hunter will be working as a custodian, helping to maintain a safe and welcoming environment for all. We appreciate having him on board! 🧹 #wdbqschools
7 months ago, WDCCSD
Hunter Schwoob
Welcome, Michael Garrett, to Cascade Elementary!

Michael will serve as a special education paraprofessional, supporting students in a positive and inclusive learning environment. We are happy to have him join the team! 😊 #wdbqschools
7 months ago, WDCCSD
Michael Garrett
Welcome, Alexis Meyers, to Western Dubuque High School!

Alexis will serve as the attendance secretary, helping students and families stay connected. We’re thrilled to welcome her to the team! ✏️ #wdbqschools
7 months ago, WDCCSD
Alexis Meyers
This week, our incredible K–5 elementary school teachers dove into the Bridges Intervention Workshop, a dynamic professional learning experience designed to help students make sense of mathematics. 🧠

Through hands-on activities, visual models, and a focus on problem-solving and fluency, these educators are now equipped with powerful strategies to transform math learning in their classrooms.

A huge shoutout to these passionate teachers for their dedication to student success! 👏

7 months ago, WDCCSD
Bridges Intervention 1
Bridges Intervention 2
Bridges Intervention 3
Welcome, Nicole Curoe, to Drexler Middle School!

Nicole will be teaching students as part of our special education team, helping every learner find opportunities for success. We look forward to the growth she will inspire. 📚
7 months ago, WDCCSD
Nicole Curoe
August is Get Ready for Kindergarten Month, and there's so much families can do to prepare for the first day of school! 🎒

From practicing morning routines to reading together at night, every little step builds confidence and excitement for the year ahead.

Our first day of school is Monday, August 25. We look forward to welcoming our new kindergarteners into the classroom! 😊
7 months ago, WDCCSD
Get Ready for Kindergarten Month
Welcome, Morgan Timmerman, to Cascade Junior/Senior High School!

Morgan joins our food service team, helping to create a welcoming and supportive environment for students each day. We are happy to have her as part of our focus on people first. 🍎
7 months ago, WDCCSD
Morgan Timmerman

National Immunization Awareness Month reminds us that good health starts with prevention. 🩺

All students entering 7th-12th grade need to have the meningococcal vaccine before the first day of school.

Students entering 7th grade also need the TDAP vaccination before the first day of school.

Documentation of a valid Certificate of Immunization Exemption (religious or medical) or Provisional Certificate of Immunization may be submitted in lieu of a Certificate of Immunization.

As we prepare to go back to school, schedule a checkup and talk to your child’s doctor to make sure their vaccinations are up to date!

If you have questions, please contact your school nurse:

👉CES, CJSHS: Jenni Green at jenni.green@wdbqschools.org 👉DES: Jacque Domeyer at jacque.domeyer@wdbqschools.org
👉DMIS, FES: Tara Noonan at tara.noonan@wdbqschools.org
👉WDHS: Ashley Ramler at ashley.ramler@wdbqschools.org
👉EES, PES: Laura Ryan at laura.ryan@wdbqschools.org

7 months ago, WDCCSD
National Immunization Awareness