Dr. Buck’s Bulletin: November 2024
Dear Waukee CSD Families,
Happy November! In this issue, I would like to share the recently released 2023-24 Iowa School Performance Profile scores from the Iowa Department of Education. The framework evaluates schools based on core indicators such as state assessment results, chronic absenteeism, and postsecondary readiness. I’m happy to say that as a district, Waukee CSD continues to perform well in many areas:
- Graduation rate (9% above state average)
- Students earning college credit in high school (26% above state average)
- Students participating in work-based learning (16% above state average)
- Proficiency in Math (16% above state average)
- Proficiency in English Language Arts (14% above state average)
- Proficiency in Science (14% above state average)
- English Language students’ growth toward English proficiency (13% above state average)
Visit our website to learn more about our scores as well as changes to the rating system that impacted how schools were evaluated this year. Please remember that these ratings are just one measure and don’t tell the whole picture of who we are. I am proud of our impressive facilities and unique opportunities that allow students to pursue their passions, build essential skills, and prepare for the future. And I am extremely proud of our compassionate staff who work tirelessly every day to create a better world.
Wishing you all a wonderful fall break next week, and a happy Thanksgiving!
Sincerely,
Dr. Brad Buck
Superintendent
Important Information
Legislative Advocacy Town Hall is Dec. 7
You’re invited to our annual Legislative Advocacy Town Hall on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Waukee Innovation & Learning Center. During the event, District leadership and lawmakers representing our community will discuss our legislative priorities for the year. Community members are invited to attend and ask questions about topics impacting Waukee CSD. The event is free and open to the public.
Join Us for APEX Showcase on Dec. 12
Waukee Aspiring Professional Experience (APEX) and Career & Technical Education (CTE) will host their fall Showcase and Career Fair on Dec. 12, 6-8 p.m., at the Waukee Innovation & Learning Center. Featuring interactive displays from this semester’s work-based learning projects, the showcase will allow you to interact with students, staff, and business partners, as well as learn about our programs that prepare students for the future.
Recent News
Fourth Grader Gets Wish Granted
Major Strube, a Sugar Creek Elementary fourth grader who has cystic fibrosis, learned that his wish has been granted by Make-A-Wish Iowa. He will attend a San Francisco 49ers game to cheer on his hero, Brock Purdy! The WHS football team — where Major’s dad is an assistant coach — surprised him with the big news during practice.
Students Hold Book Character Election
On Election Day, Mrs. Bradford’s first grade class at Waukee Elementary held a book character election to learn about the voting process. The students registered to vote, researched the candidates, and cast their ballots, ultimately naming Clifford the Big Red Dog as the winner! The class was featured on KCCI, WHO-13, and Local 5.
Celebrating Fall 2024 Sports Season
Video: WHS Athlete Gains National Attention
Big things are happening for WHS junior Evan Jacobson! The standout tight end has received 20+ offers (and counting!) from college football programs around the country. Watch this video to hear about his recent college visits and get the scoop on when he’ll announce his commitment.
Igniting Innovation
Exploring Physics with Collisions
Students in Mr. Briggs’ AP Physics I class at Waukee High School are bringing physics to life with hands-on collision experiments! Using carts and motion sensors, they tested elastic and inelastic collisions — analyzing how energy behaves in each scenario and feeding real-time data directly to their iPads.
Safety & Security
Parent Reunification Procedures
During an emergency, it’s a natural instinct for families to want to rush to their child. However, it’s important that parents follow the District’s systematic procedures to help us effectively respond to the crisis and keep students safe.Here are some reminders in the event of a crisis:
- Remain calm, follow procedures, and cooperate with school and public safety officials.
- Do not go to the school. Traffic may block emergency responders from getting to the scene or transporting injured students or staff to emergency medical facilities.
- Do not call the school. It is essential to keep phone lines open so school officials can make outgoing emergency calls.
- Remain close to your phone or computer. We will send updates and instructions to you via ParentSquare.
The District may require families to pick up their children at a reunification site other than the school. In this case, you would need to bring your photo ID. The District will communicate the location of the reunification site and further instructions. Learn more about our parent reunification procedures.
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
