Dr. Buck’s Bulletin: August 2024
Dear Waukee CSD Families,
As I write this, our employees are getting ready for the first day of school! Teachers are setting up their classrooms, the operations team is wrapping up summer projects, and coaches are preparing for fall activities. We can’t wait to see our hallways filled with students and the excitement that comes with a new year.
At last week’s all-staff back-to-school kickoff, we introduced this year’s theme: “For a Better World.” I love this reminder that every day, we’re preparing our students to make a positive impact both within our District and beyond. Together — as parents, guardians, teachers, coaches, counselors, and neighbors — we’re empowering our children to become innovative, engaged citizens who will make a difference.
Please read this email carefully, as it has important information about a new technology fee policy, the BusZone app, accepted classroom treats, and more. I wish your family the best school year ever. Let’s work together “For a Better World” and help our students grow, learn, and create a brighter future.
Sincerely,
Dr. Brad Buck
Superintendent
Important Information
New Absenteeism Policy
- Chronic absenteeism is defined as missing 10% of school (5 days in a quarter).
- Truancy is defined as missing 20% of school (9 days in a quarter).
- When a student is absent for 10%, the District is required to notify the county attorney and send a notice to parents.
- When a student is absent for 15%, a school engagement meeting is required between the student, parent, and a school official to create a prevention plan. If the plan is violated, the county attorney may get involved.
Read this article for more details and check out our FAQ for additional examples. If you have questions about your specific situation, please work with your school principal.
New Technology Policy
Waukee CSD introduced a new technology policy, which states the District’s repair warranty will cover two instances of damaged or lost technology per year. If a third instance occurs, parents will be billed for the replacement cost. If accessories (device case, cable, adapter, etc.) are lost or damaged, they will incur a fee at the time of replacement.
Other things to note:
- If your student has lost or damaged their device, call us at 515-987-2775.
- Students will not be allowed to use their own personal device at school in place of the District-issued iPad.
- Parents should not attempt repairing or purchasing their own chargers or cables.
Please review the following policies:
- Technology Device Policies and Procedures
- Technology Appropriate Use
- Technology Appropriate Use Regulation
See List of Accepted Classroom Treats
We have a new list of classroom treats for the 2024-25 school year. Here are the approved items:
- Fruit Roll-up brand
- Oreos and Oreos Golden
- Skinny Pop popcorn
- Made Good brand items
- Sweet P’s brand items
You can also order treats through the Nutrition Department and have them delivered to your student’s classroom.
Download the BusZone App
If you have a student riding the bus, download the BusZone app to track the bus route. The app is available on the App Store or Google Play. To sign up, you need to know the following information: 1) Student number, 2) Bus number, and 3) School access code: 3079WCSD.
If you didn’t receive an email about your student’s bus route, check PowerSchool. If you need to add or change any busing needs, visit our website and fill out the Transportation Request Form.
Register for Fall Community Ed Classes
Sign up now for fall Waukee CSD Community Ed classes! We offer fun, educational courses for all ages from kindergarten to adults, including:
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- Estate Planning 101
- Bricks 4 Kids
- Play in a Day
- PSAT/SAT/ACT Prep
- And much more!
Apply Now to Be An Associate
We’re hiring! Waukee CSD is looking for passionate and dedicated associates to join our team for the 2024-25 school year. Enjoy a supportive team, excellent benefits, and a rewarding job that allows you to make a difference every day.If you or someone you know is interested, learn more and apply on our website.
Recent News
New Wolves and Warriors Gear Released
Get ready for the school year with new apparel from Letterman Locker! Whether you’re a Warriors or Wolves fan, you can find a variety of shirts, sweatshirts, and more in youth and adult sizes. Shop now for Waukee Warriors or Northwest Wolves.
Waukee CSD Maintains High Credit Rating
Waukee CSD received a strong Aa2 credit rating from Moody’s Investors Service in recognition of the District’s solid financial management. As the District continues to plan for the future, maintaining a strong credit rating is essential. It directly influences the District’s ability to borrow funds at lower interest rates and provide savings to taxpayers.
Video: Natatorium Opening
We celebrated the opening of the Natatorium! This state-of-the-art facility will be home to our swimming and diving programs, as well as offer aquatic experiences for Waukee CSD students.
See photos from the ribbon-cutting and watch this video of the facility.
Safety & Security
Visitor Check-in
Waukee CSD encourages all parents to be an active part of their child’s educational experience. To maintain a safe environment, we use Visitor Aware, a visitor management software that screens all guests entering the building.
How Visitor Aware works:
- Visitors have the option to create a profile in advance or at the front office with an ID.
- The software’s facial recognition identifies visitors and runs a background check.
- All visitors must sign out at the office when leaving.
If you would like to create a profile before visiting, contact the school. Learn more about Waukee CSD safety and security.
For more news, stories, and updates, follow @WaukeeCSD on Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn.
Waukee CSD District Office
560 SE University Ave
Waukee, IA 50263
