Caldwell School District Update
From Superintendent Dr. N. Shalene French
November 18, 2024
MESSAGE FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT
With Much Gratitude
We are committed to providing high-quality educational opportunities for all students that foster academic growth and the development of learner competencies that lead to success in post-secondary education and the workforce. This guiding principle is woven within our strategic planning and guides our daily decision making.
Again, thank you for the opportunity to serve the children and youth of Caldwell.
HONORING OUR VETERANS
Veterans Day
We want to take a moment to honor and thank the Veterans of our US Armed Forces. Their sacrifices and dedication have preserved our freedoms and safeguarded our way of life. On Monday, our students had the honor to celebrate our veterans. We are grateful for their dedication, commitment, and for their selfless sacrifice to our nation.
Board Strategic Pillar: Community Engagement
ELEMENTARY SPOTLIGHT
Preschool Courtyard
Wilson Elementary School’s outdoor courtyard has had a “face lift”. The courtyard is now the Early Learning Playground. This beautiful outdoor space was redesigned with our youngest learners in mind. The courtyard features areas for hands-on learning, imaginative play, and joyful learning. The playground provides a safe and engaging outdoor space where children can explore, play, and grow.
Board Strategic Pillars: Stewarding Valued Resources
MIDDLE SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT
STEAM Night
Jefferson Middle School held a STEAM night for their students and families. This interactive event encouraged students and families to engage with Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math in a fun and hands-on way. By sparking curiosity and providing interactive experiences, STEAM night gives students the opportunity to connect classroom learning to real-world applications.
This event also gives families the chance to participate in their child's learning journey. STEAM careers are critical in today's world, and early exposure to these subject areas can inspire students to pursue STEAM careers that will shape our future.
Board Strategic Pillars: Inspiring Student Growth & Achievement
OUTSTANDING STUDENT COUNCIL
Caldwell High School's Student Council has added another 'Outstanding Student Council Award' to their collection. The Cougars have received this prestigious honor for the last 13 years. This award recognizes the hard work, dedication, and leadership of our student representatives, who demonstrate exceptional commitment to serving our school and the Caldwell community.
We are incredibly proud of these exemplary leaders.
Board Strategic Pillar: Inspiring Student Growth & Achievement
SPOTLIGHT ON FALL SPORTS
Congratulations to all of our fall sports teams on their successful seasons! Thank you to our student-athletes and coaches for representing Caldwell High School and the Caldwell Community.
GO COUGS!
Girls Soccer
The girl's soccer team had another outstanding season finishing with Senior Grace Sams earning All-Conference Co-Player of the Year. In addition, Chloe Sams, Ella Larson, and Brianna Rivera claimed 1st team All-Conference Honors for their respective positions. Anastasia Lopez and Aaliyah Lopez claimed 2nd team honors, while Malia Romero and Giselle Araiza received Honorable Mention.
Boys Soccer
This year the Cougars played in the 6A division amongst some tough competition, boosting a 5-8-2 record. Seniors Fabian Arguello and Sergio Gaxiola were named 1st Team All-Conference while Walter Romero received Honorable Mention.
Volleyball
After coming off their first winning season in over a decade, the Cougars had a lot to look forward to this year. Senior Tamar Callender earned 1st Team All-Conference honors, while her teammates Addi Sherman and Lilly Hernandez received Honorable Mention.
Football
This season was filled with a lot of adjustments but the Cougars played with heart, grit, and resilience every game. We're proud of their hard work, dedication, and sportsmanship.
Cross Country
Three Cougars qualified to run in the State Championship Meet. In Girls’ Cross Country, Nevaeh Jasso finished 47th out of 88 runners while in Boys’ Cross Country, Camus Book and Alan Navaro finished 52nd and 62nd out of 93 runners.
Golf
Each player showed great focus, commitment, and improvement, and we're proud of the progress they've made.
Board Strategic Pillar: Inspiring Student Growth & Achievement
BOARD MEETING LOCATION CHANGE
Starting January 2025, Board Meetings will be held at the District’s Instructional Technology Building, located at 107 Poplar St. Caldwell, ID. The Board of Trustees meets on the second Monday of every month at 7:00 pm. Those meetings are open to the public. The Board often holds work sessions to learn more about issues or to participate in training. Meetings are posted on the Caldwell School District website.
*The Board of Trustees meets on the fourth Monday of every month at 6:00 pm for a Board Work Session.
Visit the link below to view the Regular Board Meeting Schedule.
Board Strategic Pillar: Community Engagement
ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION DEVICES
New Cell Phone Policy
On Monday, November 11, 2024, the Caldwell School District Board of Trustees voted to approve Policy 3265, Electronic Communication Devices, which limits cell phone use and other electronic communication devices during the instructional day.
The Caldwell School District recognizes the importance of technology in the educational setting. While cell phones and smartphones may serve as a form of technology, they also pose a significant distraction to the learning environment. This month, Governor Brad Little and State Superintendent, Debbie Critchfield, provided guidance and encouraged districts to join in a statewide effort to curb cell phone use during the instructional day.
Since restricting the use of cell phones, we have noticed a positive change in student behavior. Students have been more engaged in classroom discussions and face-to-face conversations with their peers. If you have questions about Policy 3265, please contact your building administrator.
Board Strategic Pillar: Ensuring Quality Instruction
EMPOWERING PARENTS PROGRAM INFORMATION
2024-2025 Applications Are Open
HOW MUCH:
Eligible families may receive $1,000 per student and a maximum of $3,000 per family.
WHAT IS EMPOWERING PARENTS?
State of Idaho program that provides eligible parents and guardians grant funds to purchase education-related items and services for their students.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE?
Idaho students ages 5-18 regardless of whether they attend public school, private school, or are homeschooled. Income eligibility is based on the parent or guardian's Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) for the prior year as verified by the Idaho Tax Commission.
QUESTIONS?
empoweringparents@edu.idaho.gov
(208) 334-2270, Option 7
SAFETY UPDATE
How to Talk to Kids About Bullying - Tips for Parents and Caregivers
Children who experience or witness bullying may want to discuss it with their parents but not know how to bring it up. Some children may be afraid that they’ll be “in trouble” for what happened. Others may feel embarrassment or shame. A parent may notice changes in their child’s behavior and find it difficult to talk about it in a way that doesn’t make their child feel uncomfortable.
StopBullying.gov has resources for parents on how to talk with their child(ren) about bullying. Visit the link below to find resources.
Board Strategic Pillar: Safe & Supportive Schools
PARENT INFORMATION
Thanksgiving Break
There will be no school November 25 - November 29 for the Thanksgiving holiday. Regular Class schedules will resume on Monday, December 2, 2024.
Caldwell Mayor's Youth Advisory Council
The Mayor's Youth Advisory Council (MYAC) provides the youth of Caldwell an opportunity to voice their opinions and share a role in the decision making. If your child is interested in joining please contact Bryan Kida at bkida@cityofcaldwell.org.
TRIO Mariachi Christmas Benefit
TRIO Upward Bound will be holding a fundraising event on Monday, December 16, 2024. This event will feature many different Mariachi Bands including performances from Caldwell High School's very own Mariachi Band.
Board Strategic Pillar: Community Engagement
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Below are a few dates for upcoming community events happening in the City of Caldwell.
Volunteer Opportunities
Looking to get involved and positively impact the community?
There are opportunities to serve by assisting with events, service projects, office/greeting help in the city, and more.
Click HERE to find out how to get involved.
Miracle on the Dirt
Miracle on the Dirt will be held on Friday, November 22, 2024. All proceeds from this fundraising event will go towards the Boys and Girls Club of Canyon County.
Treasure Valley Night Light Parade
The Annual Treasure Valley Night Parade will be held on Saturday, December 7, 2024, in Downtown Caldwell. This year's theme is 'Gingerbread Village'. The parade begins at 6:00 pm.
Board Strategic Pillar: Community Engagement
CITY OF CALDWELL CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS
Several construction projects are underway in the City of Caldwell. Work is occurring at Middleton Road, Franklin Rd, 10th Avenue, and Indiana Avenue intersections.
Traffic will be impacted during the 2024-2025 school year. The city appreciates the community’s patience as improvements are made to these intersections.
To stay up to date on these projects, sign up for the email list:
https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/0Zu7FsU
For more info: https://www.cityofcaldwell.org/departments/engineering/projects
Board Strategic Pillar: Community Engagement
HEALTH SERVICES NOTIFICATION
Caldwell School District cares about the health and safety of students and families in our communities. Each school has a full-time nurse or health aide and counselor on staff. We also offer a wide variety of health screenings and services throughout each school year. Click the link below to view the list of services.
Board Strategic Pillars: Safe & Supportive Schools
Strategic Plan
The Caldwell School District strategic planning framework is comprised of six areas of focus: Safe & Supportive Schools, Community Engagement, Inspiring Student Growth & Achievement, Stewarding Valued Resources, Empowering College & Career Readiness, and Ensuring Quality Instruction.
Vision:
Destination Education
Mission Statement:
Nurturing growth, eliminating obstacles, strengthening the community.
Superintendent Dr. N. Shalene French
Committed to Caldwell School District's mission, vision, and values to ensure equity and access for all students.
Email: nfrench@caldwellschools.org
Website: www.caldwellschools.org
Location: 1502 Fillmore Street, Caldwell, ID, USA
Phone: (208) 455-3300
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/caldwellschools.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caldwellschooldistrict/