All Four Boise School District High Schools Earn a Spot on the 2023-24 AP School Honor Roll

We are excited to announce that all four of Boise School District’s traditional high schools—Boise, Borah, Capital, and Timberline—have earned a place on the prestigious AP School Honor Roll for the 2023-24 school year! This recognition highlights our school district's commitment to expanding access to Advanced Placement (AP) courses and fostering a path to college success for students.

The AP School Honor Roll celebrates schools that work diligently to increase student participation in AP courses and support them in their journey toward college readiness. The recognition emphasizes how AP courses provide students with college-level academic challenges and opportunities to earn college credit while in high school.

In addition to being named to the AP School Honor Roll, Borah High School received an additional distinction: the AP Access Award. This special recognition is awarded to schools where the percentage of underrepresented and/or low-income students accessing the AP Program matches or exceeds the percentage in the school's overall graduating class. This honor reflects Borah's success in fostering an inclusive environment and ensuring equitable access to advanced coursework.

We are incredibly proud of our high schools and their efforts to provide a rigorous, supportive, and inclusive academic environment. Congratulations to all the students, teachers, and staff who made this achievement possible!

Boise Schools Lead the Way in Sustainability: ‘Green Teams’ Recognized for Environmental Efforts

Boise schools are making strides toward sustainability—and the results are impressive. As of August 16, 2024, 15 Boise schools have earned the prestigious 50001 Ready designation, a global standard for energy management systems (EnMS). To achieve this status, schools must self-monitor improvements in energy efficiency and overall performance.

The Boise School District has implemented several steps to achieve this recognition, including tracking electricity, natural gas, and water usage at each school. Additionally, all schools participate in energy-saving challenges during autumn and spring breaks to further reduce their energy consumption.

To learn more about this achievement and the district’s green initiatives, check out the recent article published by Boise State University’s The Arbiter—the student-run newspaper.



Boise Schools are setting the standard for sustainability, and we’re just getting started!

Dennis Tech Dental Assistant Students Volunteer at Love Heals Clinic: Learning, Growing, and Giving Back to the Community

Students from the Dental Assistant program at Dennis Technical Education Center recently stepped out of the classroom and into a real-world experience, volunteering at the Love Heals Dental Clinic. The day-long event gave them a chance to serve alongside local dentists, providing much-needed care to hundreds of members of our community.

Throughout the day, these students assisted dental professionals with a variety of tasks, gaining invaluable hands-on experience. The students played a key role in supporting the dental clinic by preparing instruments used in procedures and observed how a dental clinic operates, including all that is involved in supporting patients and their care.This experience not only allowed them to give back to their community but also provided a unique opportunity to learn the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their future careers.

For many of these students, volunteering at the clinic is an important step toward their goals of working in the medical field. By shadowing dental professionals, they gained practical insight and experience that will help them as they pursue careers as dental assistants, hygienists, or even dentists.

The Love Heals Dental Clinic served as a meaningful event for both the community members receiving care and the students who contributed their time and passion. Their efforts reflect the best of what the Boise School District and Dennis Technical Education Center strive to achieve: providing students with impactful learning opportunities while fostering a spirit of service and community care.

These future dental professionals left the clinic not only with new skills and confidence but also with the knowledge that they made a difference in the lives of those around them. Watch the following video to learn more.

Dennis Tech Dental Assistant Students Volunteer at Love Heals Clinic: Gaining Hands-On Experience While Giving Back to the Community.

Washington Elementary Students Read The Circles All Around Us and Create Artwork to Foster Belonging and Kindness

As part of a district-wide initiative to promote belonging and kindness during Suicide Prevention Month, Washington Elementary students are coming together under the theme of The Circles All Around Us. This school-wide focus aims to foster positive connections, inclusivity, and supportive relationships, contributing to students' emotional well-being.

To bring the theme to life, Principal Hannah Courtright read The Circles All Around Us to classrooms, inspiring students to widen their circles, make new friends, and contribute to a culture of kindness. Following the readings, the entire school participated in an art project where each student painted a circle, representing their commitment to inclusion and community. These colorful circles, displayed at the school, serve as daily reminders to practice empathy and create a welcoming environment.

The #CircleMakers initiative is part of a district-wide effort to support mental health and emotional wellness, emphasizing the power of belonging and kindness. Washington Elementary’s theme is already having a positive impact, as students actively work to build a supportive school culture where everyone feels valued and connected. Watch the following video to learn more.

🎨📚 Washington Elementary students are reading The Circles All Around Us and creating art to foster a sense of belonging and kindness! Watch how they’re becoming #CircleMakers by widening their circles and building a supportive school community. 💙 #Belonging #Kindness #PositiveSchoolCulture

Garfield Grizzlies Shine at the Great Grizzly Disposition Dash!

The Garfield Elementary community recently came together for an unforgettable celebration of teamwork, creativity, and growth at the Great Grizzly Disposition Dash! The event marked the culmination of five weeks dedicated to the school's key Learner Dispositions: Collaboration, Reflection, Curiosity, Perseverance, and Resourcefulness.

Throughout the afternoon, students rotated through engaging stations that brought each disposition to life. From working together in hands-on challenges to reflecting on their growth and exploring science experiments, our Grizzlies had the chance to apply their learning in fun and memorable ways.

The Disposition Dash was more than just an afternoon of activities—it was a celebration of the traits that help our students thrive in and out of the classroom. We are so proud of how our students embraced each challenge, supported one another, and demonstrated what it truly means to be a Garfield Grizzly.

Watch our video highlights to see all the fun and teamwork in action! 🐻💙

Garfield Grizzlies Shine at the Great Grizzly Disposition Dash! Our students showcased their determination, teamwork, and school spirit throughout the event, making this year’s celebration a huge success. Way to go, Grizzlies!

Junior High Musicians Shine in Boise Community Band

This past summer, six talented students from South and West Junior High Schools took part in the Boise Community Band, an inclusive, non-auditioned group open to musicians of all ages. The band, which rehearses and performs from May through August, held 3-5 concerts throughout the season at venues like Julia Davis Park and the Idaho Veteran’s Home.

Under the direction of Cathryn Gardner, a Boise School District elementary band teacher from the Borah Quadrant, these young musicians showcased their skills alongside fellow community members. Congratulations to these dedicated students for a successful season with the Boise Community Band!

Treasure Valley Students Explore Career Paths at Military Opportunity Fair

Students from across the Treasure Valley recently gathered at the Boise Schools Training Center on South Milwaukee for the Military Opportunity Fair, held on Monday, September 9, 2024. The event, which was open to the general public, offered students and parents the chance to explore the wide range of career and educational opportunities available through the U.S. military.

Attendees had the opportunity to engage with military recruiters from all branches, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. In addition, representatives from Idaho college and university ROTC programs, U.S. military academies, and senior and junior military colleges were on hand to provide information and answer questions.

The fair was a valuable experience for students and families interested in learning more about military service, ROTC scholarships, and the academic and leadership opportunities offered by military institutions. It was an informative event that highlighted the various paths available to those considering service and education within the U.S. military.

Check out some highlights from the event in the photos below!

Borah Career Counselor Sherise Porchia Recognized for Outstanding FAFSA Completion Efforts

Congratulations to Sherise Porchia, Career Counselor at Borah High School, who was recently honored by the State of Idaho for her exceptional work in increasing FAFSA completion rates. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a crucial tool that helps students apply for financial aid, including federal grants, work-study opportunities, and loans, to help cover the cost of college. Completing the FAFSA is often the first step for students seeking financial assistance for higher education.

Sherise was one of only 50 school counselors statewide to exceed the previous year’s FAFSA completion rate, playing a key role in helping students access the financial resources they need for college. She was recognized for her achievement at the Waypoint Conference.

Way to go, Sherise, and way to go Borah!

Hillside Junior High’s Sarah Sessions Named Junior High Art Educator of the Year for Idaho

We are proud to announce that Sarah Sessions, art teacher at Hillside Junior High School, has been selected as the Junior High Art Educator of the Year for Idaho by the Idaho Art Education Association (IAEA)! This prestigious award honors her outstanding dedication, creativity, and contributions to visual art education in the state.

Each year, IAEA recognizes exceptional art educators who have made a significant impact on art education in Idaho. Nominations come from the community, and award recipients are selected for their excellence in teaching and service. Sarah’s work in fostering creativity and artistic skills in her students has earned her this well-deserved recognition.

Sarah was honored at the IAEA’s annual Fall Conference on October 4, 2024, in Twin Falls, Idaho, alongside other outstanding art educators from around the state. This recognition highlights her commitment to enriching the lives of her students and advancing the arts in Idaho.

Please join us in congratulating Sarah Sessions on this incredible achievement!

Celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month with Elva Young

In celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month, we are proud to honor and highlight the rich diversity within our Boise School District community. This month is a special time to recognize and celebrate the contributions, cultures, and traditions of Hispanic and Latino communities across the country.

In this special episode, we are excited to feature Elva Young from Whittier Elementary. Elva shares a heartfelt message about the importance of her Hispanic heritage, the value of diverse cultures and languages, and how it shapes her work in making every student and family feel welcomed and valued.

Elva’s dedication to our community and her ability to foster inclusivity and support is something we deeply appreciate. We are grateful to have such passionate and caring staff members like Elva who enrich our schools and bring us closer together.

Check out the video to hear Elva’s inspiring perspective and join us in celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month!

Timberline High School Teams Win 2024 Fall Sports Academic State Championships

The Idaho High School Activities Association, in partnership with First Federal Bank, has announced the 2024 Fall Sports Academic State Champions. This prestigious award is given to varsity teams in each classification that achieve the highest cumulative grade point average (GPA). Boise School District’s Timberline High School has received recognition for its outstanding academic performance, with both the Football Team and Boys Golf Team being named Academic State Champions.

The Timberline High School Football Team earned the 2024 Fall Sports Academic State Championship with an impressive GPA of 3.570, showcasing their commitment to excellence both on the field and in the classroom. The Timberline High School Boys Golf Team also achieved top honors, earning the 2024 Fall Sports Academic State Championship with a remarkable GPA of 3.868.

These student-athletes exemplify the importance of balancing academic success with athletic participation, setting a high standard for their peers. Congratulations to the Timberline Wolves!

Timberline High School Football Team, 2024 Fall Sports Academic State Champions, achieving a GPA of 3.570.

Timberline High School Boys Golf Team takes home the 2024 Fall Sports Academic State Championship with an outstanding GPA of 3.868.

Stay and Play Kickball Tournament to Support Student Well-Being

The Kade Parrish Benefit Kickball Tournament will be held October 26th in memory of Kade Parrish, a 14-year-old Boise boy who tragically took his own life on November 17, 2023. Kade was passionate about sports. By using friendly competition to raise awareness about suicide prevention and mental health, we honor his life. Funds raised will support three suicide prevention nonprofits.

This tournament serves as a powerful example of our community’s commitment to supporting the mental health of our students, aligning with the Boise School District’s ongoing efforts to prioritize student well-being. By coming together, we can help foster awareness, provide support, and create a safe, caring environment for all.

For more information on programs or to register for the tournament, visit Kade Parrish Stay & Play.

*Please note that this is not a Boise School District-sponsored event. The district is simply informing the public about this important initiative.

Boise Schools Counselors Share Mental Health Tips: Talking to Teens, Warning Signs, and Seeking Support

As we near the end of National Suicide Prevention Month, Boise Schools counselors Sarah Campbell, Boise High School, and Angel Robison, Hillside Junior High School, share tips for better mental health, how to talk to your teen or tween about sensitive topics, and warning signs to look out for that may indicate a need to seek additional support for your child.

Student health and well-being are top priorities at Boise Schools. You matter. We care. And together, we can all help prevent suicide.

If you or anyone you know is considering suicide and needs support, call or text the Idaho Crisis & Suicide Hotline at 9️⃣8️⃣8️⃣, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week 365 days a year.

Boise Schools Counselors Share Mental Health Tips: In this informative session, our counselors discuss how to talk to teens about mental health, recognize warning signs, and find the right support. Valuable advice for parents, educators, and the community to help our students thrive.

Reminder: Opt-In for the Student Well-being Survey

Parents and guardians, we are approaching the administration of the Student Well-being Survey in partnership with Communities for Youth. This survey is a valuable tool for gathering student voices to help us better understand and address the strengths and needs within our schools and community.

If you have not yet opted in for your child to participate, we encourage you to do so as soon as possible. Your consent will allow your child to share their perspective, which is vital for us to support student well-being across the district.

Survey Dates: The survey will be conducted between October 28th and November 8th. Schools will select the best date for their administration during this window.

If you have not yet responded with a Yes or No, please take a moment to log in to your Infinite Campus Parent Portal and provide your consent. Here are instructions on how to access the "annual update" where the consent for the student well-being survey is located. Your participation is greatly appreciated, and it helps us ensure we’re capturing as many student voices as possible.

Thank you for your continued support!

BOISE SCHOOL BOARD CORNER

Board Designates November 5, 2024, as Non-School Day for Election Safety

No School on November 5, 2024, Due to General Election

The Boise School District Board of Trustees has decided that Tuesday, November 5, 2024, will be a non-school day for all students in grades Pre-K through 12. This decision was made during a special board meeting held on September 23, 2024, which included a presentation on school safety and security updates.

Why This Change Was Made

With a presidential election on the ballot, a large voter turnout is expected, and many of our school campuses will serve as polling locations. During the board meeting, it was determined that closing schools for students on Election Day would enhance both student safety and the overall voting process. By reducing congestion on school grounds, this decision supports Ada County Elections in managing the high volume of voters efficiently, while maintaining a secure environment for everyone.

What Families Need to Know

• No School for Students: All students will have the day off on November 5. Families are encouraged to plan ahead for this non-school day.
• Regular Schedule Resumes: Students will return to their regular schedule on Wednesday, November 6, 2024.

Ensuring Safety and Supporting the Election Process

The Board’s decision, made during the special September 23 meeting, reflects our ongoing commitment to school safety and security, while also supporting a smooth election process for the community. We understand that this may require adjustments for some families, and we appreciate your cooperation and support in helping to ensure a safe environment for both students and voters. Thank you for your understanding!

School Resource Officer Newsletter | Boise Police Department

Empowering Parents Grant Applications Opening Soon!

The Idaho State Board of Education recently announced that it will open applications for the next round of Empowering Parents grants in late October.

Once the application window is finalized, instructions and a link to the 2024-25 application will be posted on the Empowering Parents website. Idaho families with existing Empowering Parents grant balances are encouraged to continue shopping for educational items and services with 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. 

For more information, please review the Empowering Parents Frequently Asked Questions. 

Boise School District Hiring Testing Proctors

Boise School District is currently seeking individuals to serve as testing proctors for upcoming student assessments. Proctors play a critical role in maintaining the integrity of the testing process by overseeing exam sessions, ensuring students follow guidelines, and providing support during the testing period.

This position is ideal for individuals who are detail-oriented, dependable, and interested in contributing to student success. Proctors will be needed on a temporary, part-time basis, with flexible hours available depending on testing schedules.

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply through the Boise School District's employment portal. This opportunity is perfect for those looking to make a positive impact in the educational community. Email [email protected] for more information.

• October 9: National Walk, Bike + Roll to School Day
• October 11: End of First Quarter - (Pre K-6 only) No School
• October 16: (Pre K only) No School
• October 16-17: Parent Conferences
• Elementary evening conferences will be held Wednesday, October 16 and Thursday, October 17 until 7:30 pm
• Junior High evening conferences will be held Wednesday, October 16 and Thursday, October 17, 4-7 pm
• High School evening conferences will be held Tuesday, October 15 and Wednesday, October 16, 4-7 pm
• October 17: (Pre K-6 only) No Classes (Parent Conferences)
• October 17: Boise National College Fair (More info below)
• October 18: No School - all grades - Pre K-12

Boise National College Fair October 17th

The National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) invites students, parents, and counselors to explore the college search process at the NACAC National College Fair in Garden City, Idaho held on Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024, from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. at Expo Idaho.



• Meet with admission representatives from all types of colleges and universities (2-year, 4-year, public, private, in-state, out-of-state, international)
• Talk to a college counselor and visit our sponsor tables in the college advising center
• New user-friendly attendee app

Capital HS Holiday Bazaar November 2nd (Vendors Wanted!)

If you are interested in being a vendor, please contact Heather Asbury or Pam Arriola.

Serve with AmeriCorps as a Youth Instructor!

Mini Olympics | October 9th

Boise Music Week - Boise District School Night

Boise Music Week is next week, celebrating the musical performing arts! Join us next Tuesday, October 15th, for choir night! We have the amazing opportunity to perform with all the choirs in the Boise School District - High Schools and Junior Highs. Come support the Boise Schools!

Free Developmental Screener (Ages 3-5)

Community Education Fall Session Registration Open Now! (Classes run September 9 - October 17)

Technology Tips: Keeping Kids Safe

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: 

• GoGuardian Parent App - Welcome letter
• GoGuardian Parent App Instructions  

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.

• Parent Guide for Setting Up Parental Controls on Mobile Phones

Interested in Athletics?

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.

Keep In Contact: Emergency Text Notifications

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.