Dr. Buck’s Bulletin: October 2024
Dear Waukee CSD Families,
It’s hard to believe we’re halfway through October! Fall activities are gearing up for the postseason, while our elementary schools have been enjoying fall parties and fun runs. Here are some important things to note:
- Conferences are quickly coming up — look for more information from your child’s principal.
- Oct. 25 is the end of first term. There is no school on Oct. 28 for a teacher work day.
- We are working to assess bus fees over the next several weeks. You’ll be notified when they are ready to pay in PowerSchool.
Additionally, I want to thank everyone who completed the survey about our cell phone policies. We are evaluating the results and continuing our discussions with school leaders. I will communicate the survey data and key takeaways as well as our next steps soon.
Thank you for your continued commitment to the success and well-being of our students.
Sincerely,
Dr. Brad Buck
Superintendent
Important Information
Updates to Attendance Policy
In case you missed it, we recently communicated updates to our attendance policies based on new guidance from the Iowa Department of Education. Read about the policy updates and find more details in our Attendance Policy FAQ. If you have questions about your specific situation, please work with your child’s school principal.
Waukee Night with the Iowa Wolves
All families are invited to attend Waukee Night with the Iowa Wolves on Saturday, Nov. 9, at 6:30 p.m. at Wells Fargo Arena. A portion of the ticket sales will benefit the Waukee Community Schools Foundation, and students from Walnut Hills Elementary will perform the National Anthem. Purchase your tickets now.
Find Mental Health Resources
Waukee CSD is committed to connecting our students with the support they need. We partner with local providers to offer onsite mental health services for students during the school day. Our school counselors are also available to help you determine the best first steps for your child. Check out our family resources and find contact information for our school counselors.
Check Out the Waukee Backpack
- YMCA Flag Football League
- Trick or Trout event with the Iowa DNR
- Cheerleading and dance clinics
- Open studio at Hoyt Sherman Place
- Taekwondo for children and adults
Recent News
Congressional Debate Involves Students
On Oct. 8, KCCI hosted a live debate with Iowa’s 3rd District congressional candidates at Northwest High School. Though the event was closed to the public, Waukee CSD students had a front-row seat to the political action. Students enjoyed a behind-the-scenes tour, assisted with production, and even asked the candidates questions.
Students Release Monarch Butterflies
A Shuler Elementary teacher turned her passion for monarch butterflies into a school-wide project! Starting with 150 eggs, students watched the butterfly cycle unfold and released the monarchs to fly south for winter. The students also helped ISU Extension tag the butterflies for research.
Students Raise Awareness for Cancer
South Middle School students Breslyn, Ben, and Ethan collected over 400 boxes of band-aids in honor of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. The three students, who are childhood cancer survivors themselves, donated the band-aids to Blank Children’s Hospital.
Video: Going Above and Beyond
Officer Craig Weatherall spends his nights working for the West Des Moines Police Department and his afternoons volunteering at Walnut Hills Elementary (where his wife teaches and two of his kids go to school). Watch this short video recognizing Officer Weatherall’s dedication to keeping the parking lot and crosswalks safe for kids!
Igniting Innovation
Teachers Print 3D Writing Tools
With some teamwork and tech know-how, Sugar Creek Elementary is making a big difference for students with special needs. Teachers Hannah Platts and Abby Goeller used the school’s 3D printer to create custom stencils when they couldn’t find what they wanted online. These thick stencils ensure students have the perfect tool to hold pencils steady as they work on their writing skills. Read more.
Safety & Security
Anti-Bullying and Harassment
Waukee CSD is dedicated to providing a safe environment for all students and staff. The District prohibits harassment, bullying, hazing, or any other victimization of students, staff, and volunteers based on any of the following actual or perceived traits or characteristics: age, color, creed, national origin, race, religion, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical attributes, physical or mental ability or disability, ancestry, political party preference, political belief, socioeconomic status, or familial status.
If you or someone you know has experienced bullying or harassment, please inform a Waukee CSD staff member. Find the complaint procedures and anti-bullying and harassment form on our website.
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
