Western Dubuque Community School District

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

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/

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. 🌸

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. 🤗

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

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. 📚

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. 😊

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!

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.

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

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

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

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

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

✨ 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

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!

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

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