Western Dubuque Schools will have a 2-hour delay today (Monday, December 16), due to dense fog and limited visibility. Please drive safely and take extra precautions while traveling. #wdbqschools
We are entering the last week before Winter Break in WDCCSD:
📅 Dec. 18: 1-Hr Early Dismissal (Teacher Professional Learning)
📅 Dec. 20: 2-Hr Early Dismissal (Start of Winter Break)
📅 Dec. 23 - Jan. 2: No School (Winter Break)
📅 Jan. 3: Classes Resume
#wdbqschools
School board members visited EES today to learn from the literacy leadership team! Teachers shared insights on the science of reading, specifically, UFLI—a targeted phonics instruction framework. Through this collaborative partnership, we are continuing to be better every day.
Each month, our school board meetings feature a building highlight that showcases the incredible work happening across our district.
This month, Dyersville Elementary took the spotlight, sharing the vital role their Parent/Teacher Organization (PTO) plays in fostering connections between families, staff, and the school. Their presentation highlighted how this group exemplifies our District’s commitment to building satisfying and engaging partnerships with families and communities.
Thank you to the Dyersville Elementary PTO for your dedication to enhancing the educational experience for students! #wdbqschools
On Wednesday, December 18th, the WDHS staff and students will be hosting their annual Bobcat Community Christmas event at the high school. This event is free for anyone wishing to attend. We have Dine-In, delivery & carryout options for the meal and pork, chicken, and pasta options for the entrees. Santa will also be here for any children who are dining in with us that evening. We would love to have you join us for some food, fellowship, and Bobcat family time! Please see the attached flyer for more information. To sign up to attend, please use the QR code on the flyer or click this link:
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60B094DADA72EABFF2-53703867-bobcat
Please RSVP by December 13th if you are wanting to attend. We look forward to seeing anyone who can make it on the 18th!
One of our strategic commitments in WDCCSD is providing a safe environment. We strive to create an atmosphere where students thrive! We're dedicated to creating safe spaces that empower social, emotional, and behavioral growth. Together, we’re shaping strong futures. #wdbqschools
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!
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
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
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
