Boise School District News
Wednesday, January 29, 2025
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BOISE SCHOOL BOARD CORNER
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Students Share Their Voice in Shaping Boise School District's Graduate Profile
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The Boise School District is committed to ensuring that every student graduates ready to succeed in life beyond high school. As part of this commitment, the district is working collaboratively with students, families, and community members to develop a Graduate Profile that defines the knowledge, skills, and qualities a Boise School District graduate should possess.
During the Boise School Board's workshop on January 24, 2025, members of the district's Student Advisory Committee had the unique opportunity to share their perspectives directly with board members and school and district administrators. These student leaders provided valuable input on what they believe should be included in the Graduate Profile, drawing on their own experiences and those of their peers.
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This meeting was part of a larger community engagement initiative designed to reflect the voices of all stakeholders in this important effort. In recent months, the district has collected input from families and community members through surveys, asking them to identify the areas they consider most important in preparing students for their futures.
By engaging students, parents, families, and the broader community, the Boise School District is ensuring that the Graduate Profile reflects the shared aspirations and values of the people it serves. This collaborative process demonstrates the district’s dedication to listening to all voices and using that input to shape a vision for the future of public education in Boise.
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The feedback collected from these efforts will guide the development of the Graduate Profile, ensuring it aligns with the needs and priorities of the community while providing a clear framework for student success. Together, we are building a shared vision for what it means to be a Boise School District graduate.
Thank you to the members of our Student Advisory Committee for their thoughtful contributions to this important process, and to the School Board for creating a space to listen and engage during this workshop! Stay tuned as this exciting work continues!
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Boise School District’s AVID Program Soars: Empowering Students for College and Beyond
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The Boise School District’s AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) program continues to achieve remarkable success, providing students with the skills they need to excel in secondary school and thrive in post-secondary education. This nationally recognized college preparatory program is making a significant impact, with Fairmont Junior High School serving as a National Demonstration School, showcasing best practices for AVID schools nationwide.
Enrollment in AVID across the district has reached an all-time high, and the number of AVID students taking Advanced Placement courses is at a five-year peak. Moreover, the percentage of AVID students pursuing college far surpasses Idaho’s state average, demonstrating the program’s effectiveness in preparing students for life beyond high school.
Aligned with the district's Strategic Plan, AVID ensures that all students have equitable opportunities to access and succeed in district programs. Looking ahead, plans are underway to expand AVID into elementary schools in all four quadrants of the district, extending its positive impact to even more students.
To learn more about the AVID program’s success and future plans, watch the presentation delivered by Teresa Iglesias, AVID Coordinator for the Boise School District, to the Boise School Board on January 13, 2025.
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Watch Teresa Iglesias, AVID Coordinator for the Boise School District, share how the nationally recognized AVID program is empowering students to excel in school and beyond during her presentation to the Boise School Board on January 13, 2025.boise
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East Junior High Robotics Team Earns Champion’s Award at State Championship
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East Junior High's robotics team, Potato Bricks, made their school and community proud by earning the prestigious Champion’s Award (Runner-Up) at the 2025 First Lego League Challenge, South Idaho Championship. Competing against 42 teams from across the region, the three talented 7th graders—Albert Hsu, Dishi Deliwala, and Siri Rajanala—demonstrated their incredible skills, dedication, and teamwork.
Since August, the young Hornets have spent over five months designing and programming their robot to complete simulated missions focused on ocean ecology restoration. Their hard work didn’t stop there; the team conducted extensive research on coral bleaching and took their project to the next level by creating an engaging and interactive website, along with a blog, to raise awareness about coral conservation.
In true collaborative spirit, the Potato Bricks team sought feedback from peers at East Junior High School and Treasure Valley Math & Science Center, family, and even community members worldwide to refine their website and blog through an iterative design process. Their commitment to learning, creativity, and teamwork shone through every step of the way.
The First Lego League Challenge not only showcases innovation and problem-solving but also highlights the importance of having fun while learning. The Potato Bricks team embodied this perfectly, supporting each other through challenges and celebrating every success as a team.
Congratulations to Albert, Dishi, and Siri for this remarkable achievement! We are so proud of your hard work and dedication, and we can’t wait to see what you accomplish next.
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Albert Hsu
7th Grade
East Junior High School
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Dishi Deliwala
7th Grade
East Junior High School
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Siri Rajanala
7th Grade
East Junior High School
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Meet the Potato Bricks team! Albert Hsu, Dishi Deliwala, and Siri Rajanala worked together to design and program their robot, research coral bleaching, and create an interactive website and blog to raise awareness about coral conservation. Their teamwork and creativity earned them the Champion’s Award (Runner-Up) at the 2025 First Lego League Challenge, South Idaho Championship!
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Taft Elementary’s Student Cultural Liaisons: Creating a Welcoming School for All
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At Taft Elementary School, every student is valued, supported, and welcomed from day one. A perfect example of this commitment is the Student Cultural Liaison Program, where student leaders help new students transition smoothly into their new school community.
Each month, Student Cultural Liaisons participate in orientation meetings, where they introduce new students to Taft, answer questions, and ensure they feel at home. These student leaders play a vital role in fostering a sense of belonging, standing alongside their new classmates, sharing experiences, and offering a friendly face in a new environment.
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In the accompanying photos, you’ll see Student Cultural Liaisons proudly wearing their Taft Elementary t-shirts, warmly welcoming new students and leading a "Welcome to Taft" presentation. Their leadership and kindness reflect the strong, inclusive culture that Taft Elementary strives to create every day.
This program is just one of many ways your Boise Schools prioritize a positive, welcoming environment where every student feels they belong. By empowering students to support one another, we continue to build strong, connected school communities where all learners can thrive.
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Announcing the Boise Youth Well-Being Data Walk Road Show
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Boise High’s Alison Turcke Honored with Great Idaho Athlete Award
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Boise High senior and two-sport athlete Alison Turcke has been named a recipient of BoiseDev’s Great Idaho Athlete Award presented by Corwin Ford, which highlights high school athletes excelling in sports and their communities.
Turcke is a four-year varsity starter for both the girls’ basketball and tennis teams, helping lead her basketball team to three district championships and earning the role of captain her senior year. Off the court, she’s a member of Boise Bold, a student-athlete-led group focused on mental health advocacy.
In addition to her athletic achievements, Turcke excels in the classroom with a weighted GPA of 4.41 and plans to study chemical engineering in college.
Learn more about Alison’s inspiring story here: BoiseDev: Great Student Athlete Alison Turcke
Congratulations, Alison, on this well-deserved recognition!
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Promoting a Positive Future: Idaho Public Television’s “Unaltered State” Campaign
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The Boise School District is proud to support our partner, Idaho Public Television, in their latest campaign, “Unaltered State.” This powerful initiative invites all Idahoans to embrace a substance-free life and serves as a community call-to-action to fight for a brighter, substance-free future for our kids.
The “Unaltered State” campaign celebrates the beauty of Idaho and its young people, featuring local children in its inspiring advertising. The campaign aims to spark conversations about the importance of leading a positive, substance-free life and uniting as a community to protect the well-being of Idaho’s youth.
We encourage you to visit the campaign’s website at www.theunalteredstate.org for more information, resources, and ways to get involved. This site offers tools and ideas to help families, educators, and community members support our shared goal of a healthier future for all Idaho kids.
Together, we can make a difference by fostering a positive, supportive environment for our youth. Let’s work to create an Unaltered State where Idaho kids can thrive.
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Protecting Your Children in the Digital World
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Many parents believe that their child is unlikely to be affected by online dangers, but the reality is that cyberbullying, sextortion, and sexting are threats that can impact any child. The Boise School District is hosting an important event to help parents understand these risks and how to protect their children. A guest speaker from Homeland Security’s Know2Protect program and a panel of experts will share valuable insights on these issues. Join us at South Junior High on January 29th from 5:30-7:30 pm to learn how to keep your child safe online. Free childcare is available until capacity is reached so RSVP soon! Check out the flyer for more details!
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Building a Bridge to Better Behaviors
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Join us at Whitney Elementary on January 30th from 5:30-7:00 pm for a parent workshop provided by Dr. Michelle Alden. She will share valuable insights and practical tips for parenting children who are wired differently, including those with executive functioning challenges, ADHD, Autism, and/or Dyslexia. Childcare will be provided, but space is limited, so RSVP soon! Please see the flyer for more details.
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Dennis Technical Education Center Open House
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Boise School District Partners with City of Boise to Share Information About IRS Direct File
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The Boise School District is excited to partner with the City of Boise to help spread the word about a valuable resource for our families: IRS Direct File. This new program allows 32 million taxpayers in 25 states, including Idaho, to file their federal taxes for free, providing an easy, secure, and cost-effective way to meet tax obligations.
IRS Direct File is designed to simplify the tax filing process for eligible individuals and families by offering a free, online tool to file federal tax returns directly with the IRS. With tax season now underway, this resource can make a significant difference for many households, particularly for those who might otherwise face financial barriers in completing their returns.
As part of our partnership with the City of Boise, we encourage families to explore this program and see if they qualify for free filing. By removing the cost of tax preparation, IRS Direct File empowers families to maximize their returns and reduce financial stress.
For more information on how to access IRS Direct File and determine eligibility, visit IRS Direct File.
We are proud to collaborate with the City of Boise in sharing resources that support the well-being of our community. Together, we can ensure families have the tools and support they need for a successful tax season.
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Boise School District Announces Spring 2025 Graduation Dates
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Boise School District is pleased to announce the following spring 2025 high school graduation dates.
- Frank Church High School
- May 15th at 6:00 p.m., Capital High School Auditorium
- Boise Online School
- May 16th at 6:00 p.m., Borah High School Auditorium
- At Extra Mile Arena at 7:00 PM
- May 19th - Timberline High School
- May 20th - Boise High School
- May 21st - Borah High School
- May 22nd - Capital High School
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Boise School District Partners with Varsity Tutors to Offer Free 24/7 Online Tutoring for Secondary Students
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Boise School District is thrilled to announce a new partnership with Varsity Tutors, bringing 24/7 online tutoring and academic resources to secondary students, free of charge through 2030. This innovative partnership ensures students in grades 7-12 have access to a comprehensive suite of academic support tools, empowering them to learn at their own pace and succeed in any subject.
Through Varsity Tutors, students can connect with flexible, on-demand support, including live tutoring sessions, essay reviews, enrichment classes, and access to celebrity-led StarCourses. The platform offers a variety of self-study tools, recorded lessons, and group classes designed to cater to every learning style.
Key Features Available:
- 24/7 Chat Tutoring – Instant help for any subject, anytime
- Essay Review – Expert feedback on written assignments
- Enrichment Classes – Supplemental courses to enhance learning
- Self-Study Resources – Tools and recorded lessons for independent study
Access for Boise Secondary Students (Grades 7-12):
All secondary students in Boise School District already have a Varsity Tutors account, accessible via Classlink on “My Apps.” Parents and students are encouraged to explore the Varsity Tutors Academic Support Launchpad for an overview of available resources. For login support, students can follow instructions provided through Classlink (myapps.boiseschools.org).
With this partnership, Boise School District is dedicated to providing students with the academic support they need to succeed anytime, anywhere.
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Explore Boise School District’s Comprehensive Curriculum Website
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The Boise School District is committed to providing every student with a rigorous and relevant curriculum designed by highly-qualified educators and administrators. This curriculum ensures students are prepared for success in college, careers, and citizenship.
To support transparency and engagement, the District offers a comprehensive Curriculum Website where parents and families can explore detailed information about the curriculum taught in each content area. Boise School District’s curriculum aligns with Idaho Core Curriculum Standards, ensuring a high-quality, standards-based education for all students.
By visiting the website, families can gain valuable insights into what their students are learning and how the curriculum supports their academic and personal growth.
We encourage parents and families to explore the Curriculum website to learn more about the exceptional educational opportunities offered in the Boise School District.
Together, we can continue to support our students’ success and future achievements!
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Boise Students: Join the Climate Action Simulation and Make a Difference!
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Boise School District juniors and seniors have an exciting opportunity to tackle the climate crisis head-on during the Climate Action Simulation on February 20 at the Boise Main Library.
This interactive, half-day event invites students to participate in a realistic mock climate negotiation, modeled after an emergency UN summit. Representing diverse stakeholders—such as oil executives, farmers, tech innovators, and government leaders—participants will negotiate climate solutions to reduce global warming.
The experience uses the En-ROADS climate simulator, developed by MIT’s Sloan Business School, which is the same tool many global delegates use to prepare for real UN climate conferences. Hosted by the Citizen’s Climate Lobby and BSD Sustainability, this event is free, includes snacks, and promises to be an engaging and impactful learning experience.
Are you ready to save the world during your school day? Don’t miss your chance to collaborate, strategize, and make a difference. Space is limited, so secure your spot soon! Sign-up online today!
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Explore Boise Schools: A Unique Opportunity to Discover How the Boise School District is Shaping Future Generations
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Have you ever wondered about the range of opportunities the Boise School District offers its students? The Boise Public Schools Education Foundation invites you to discover some of the innovative ways Boise Schools enrich student experiences, foster growth, and prepare young learners for a bright future.
Join us on one (or all!) of our special tours to visit three schools that highlight the distinctive programs and supportive environments that make Boise Schools exceptional. Each tour provides a unique glimpse into programs that nurture skills, confidence, and success. To keep the experience personal and meaningful, space is limited to 35 attendees per tour. Register today online.
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Dennis Technical Education Center (DTEC)
Date: April 9, 2025 | Time: 9:00-10:30 am
Learn how DTEC prepares students for both career and higher education by offering hands-on programs that teach academic, technical, and real-world skills. See firsthand how students can explore a range of career fields and gain valuable, practical experience.
Each tour highlights Boise School District’s dedication to creating pathways for student achievement, and we hope you’ll join us to see these programs in action. We look forward to seeing you there!
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Calling All Former Owyhee Elementary Students! Stay Connected with Owyhee’s Legacy
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As we prepare for Owyhee Elementary's exciting transformation into an early learning center for Pre-K students beginning in the 2025-2026 school year, we want to keep the rich legacy of Owyhee Elementary alive. To celebrate the school’s storied history, we’ll be hosting events and activities to honor the memories and milestones shared by students, families, and staff over the years.
If you're a former Owyhee student, we’d love to keep you informed about these special events! Please complete a short form with your email address so we can send you updates and invitations as plans take shape.
Stay connected and be part of celebrating Owyhee’s wonderful legacy. Sign up today by filling out our online form.
Let’s keep Owyhee’s spirit alive together!
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School Resource Officer Newsletter | Boise Police Department
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Idaho State Board of Education Now Accepting Applications for Empowering Parents Grants
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Applications are now being accepted for the next round of Empowering Parents grants, as recently announced by the Idaho State Board of Education.
Families can find instructions and a link to the 2024-25 application on the Empowering Parents website. Idaho families with existing Empowering Parents grant balances are encouraged to continue using their funds to purchase educational items and services through Odyssey.
What are Empowering Parents grants?
The Empowering Parents program provides eligible families with grant funds ($1,000 per child, with a maximum of $3,000 per family) for use towards eligible education services and devices to help students recover from learning loss.
ALL parents of Idaho students ages 5-18 who filed a 2023 Idaho tax return are eligible. Families with adjusted gross incomes (AGI) of under 60k receive priority. Grants are $1,000 per student and up to $3,000 per family. The grant funds can be used for a huge range of items to support student learning – including laptops or technology, extracurricular classes, camps, and school athletic fees, driver’s education, tutoring or speech therapy – and more!
Applications will close when funding is exhausted, so families are encouraged to apply as soon as possible!
The application guide is available in English and Spanish and phone customer service agents are also bilingual.
For more information, please review the Empowering Parents Frequently Asked Questions
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Enroll Now for Winter Community Education Classes!
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We’re excited to announce that registration for our Winter 2025 Community Education session is now open! At Boise School District, we believe in the transformative power of education and are proud to offer more than 300 engaging courses and workshops designed to inspire and connect our community.
Whether you’re looking to pick up a new skill, advance your career, or explore a creative passion, we have something for everyone. Choose from hands-on classes in arts & crafts, cooking, dance, fitness, and gardening, or delve into professional development opportunities in business and technology.
Don’t miss this chance to enrich your life and connect with others in the community.
Enroll today at www.boiselearns.org and explore our Winter 2025 course catalog!
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- February 12: Early Learning Open House (see information below); DTEC Open House (see information above).
- February 17: Presidents' Day - No School Pre K-12
- March 6: Kindergarten Registration/Open House, 3:45 p.m. -5:30 p.m. (check with your neighborhood elementary school to confirm times).
- March 14: End of Third Quarter - Early Release K-6 to work on Report Cards, No School Pre K
- March 17-21: Spring Break - No School Pre K-12
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READY! for Kindergarten Event
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Three sessions beginning March 12th from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. at Lincoln Early Learning Center, this initiative is particularly exciting as parents who attend will receive a range of free developmental materials specifically tailored to their child's age. These resources are designed to enhance learning and development at this critical stage.
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Early Learning Open House
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Free Developmental Screener (Ages 3-5)
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Technology Tips: Keeping Kids Safe
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Student Device Monitoring for Parents
Boise Schools are committed to providing a safe and supportive learning environment for our students, both in school and online.
We understand that smartphones and other devices can be a valuable tool for students, both for learning and staying connected with friends and family. However, it is important to ensure that your child is using their device responsibly and safely.
Parental Controls for Student Chromebooks
Boise School District provides parents/guardians with the ability to monitor their student’s activity on their District-assigned digital device via the GoGuardian Parent App:
Parental Controls for Mobile Phones
Parental controls allow you to set limits on your child's screen time, manage the apps they can install and use, and filter inappropriate content.
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Boise School District has always been highly regarded for academic achievements. At the same time, we have always been considered a leader throughout Idaho and the Pacific Northwest in the area of athletics. Many of our programs have become models for other districts. Below are the try-out dates and first days of practice for the 2024-2025 athletics program. Please contact your school for more information.
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Keep In Contact: Emergency Text Notifications
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Parents & Guardians: Sign-Up for Emergency Text Messaging The Boise School District offers emergency text messaging for parents/guardians.
Learn more and sign-up.
Not a Parent or Guardian?
Non-parents may receive emergency text messages by downloading the Boise School District’s Mobile app. The app is available in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
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Notice: If you are a Boise School District staff member, you are provided a District email address. This email address is provided to you in part for the distribution of District communications; as such, you are required to check your email and remain active on District mailing lists. If you are an employee of the Boise School District, please do not unsubscribe from this mailing list. If you are a parent or guardian of a student in the Boise School District, this newsletter is intended to inform you about happenings in the Boise School District. As such, we ask that you please do not unsubscribe from these emails. |
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Boise School District | 208-854-4000 | 8169 W. Victory Rd., Boise, Idaho www.boiseschools.org
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Boise School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its programs and activities and provides equal access to all individuals. Learn more...
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