Boise School District Expands Mental Health Support Amid Positive Trends

The Boise School District is strengthening its commitment to student mental health, as highlighted in a recent Board of Trustees presentation. The district has added four new social workers and a full-time counselor for Boise Online School and the Treasure Valley Math and Science Center, while also expanding peer-led Hope Squads and completing the Signs of Suicide program for grades 7-12.

A recent Student Wellbeing Survey, conducted with Communities for Youth, shows encouraging progress, including fewer students reporting thoughts of suicide, lower depression rates, and a strong correlation between having a trusted adult at school and improved mental health.

“Our data shows that we are moving in the right direction, but we know there is more work to do,” said Superintendent Lisa Roberts. “We remain committed to providing students with the mental health resources they need to thrive both in and out of the classroom.”

For a deeper dive into the survey results and how the district is supporting students and families, listen to Jason Shanks, Supervisor of Counseling Services, in his recent Boise State Public Radio interview.

The full Board presentation is available on the Boise School District’s YouTube channel. More information on district mental health initiatives can be found here.

Capital High School Students Organize Free Mental Health Fair to Support Our Community

Mental health awareness is more important than ever in 2025. With the fast pace of life and global challenges, managing mental well-being can be difficult—no matter your age.

Recognizing this need, three Capital High School students took action to provide support and resources to their community. Alex Loveless, Jillian Thompson, and Lauryn Reed organized a free mental health fair, offering attendees access to local mental health resources.

The students are members of HOSA – Future Health Professionals, an organization that empowers young leaders in healthcare through education, collaboration, and hands-on experience. For their HOSA project, they wanted to launch a community awareness campaign on mental health. Their goal was simple: to ensure students and families know that free mental health resources exist and to emphasize that it’s okay not to be okay.

The mental health fair took place at the Boise Public Library at Cole & Ustick, providing attendees with connections to community organizations, educational materials, and a welcoming space for conversations about mental health.

KTVB recognized the students’ efforts in its 7’s Hero segment. Watch the full story here:

🔗 KTVB: 7's Hero – Capital High Students Organize Free Mental Health Fair

By taking the initiative, these students are helping to break the stigma surrounding mental health and ensuring their peers and community members know they’re not alone.

BOISE SCHOOL BOARD CORNER

Student Advisory Committee Explores Leadership, Class Rank, and Mental Health

The Boise School District’s Student Advisory Committee (SAC) gathered for a productive meeting focused on leadership development, academic policies, and student well-being. The SAC’s mission is to increase student engagement with the Board of Trustees and District Administration, ensuring student voices help shape district decisions.

The meeting at Boise High began with Community Resilience Model (CRM) training, led by Community Resource Social Workers Amy Rust and Gia Trotter. They guided students through strategies to manage stress and build resilience, equipping them with tools to support their peers and foster well-being in their schools.

A key discussion centered on class rank, as SAC members participated in a University of Washington Zoom session exploring its impact. Students examined whether class rank creates unnecessary stress, influences AP course selection, and affects college admissions. Their insights will help inform the district’s ongoing review of academic policies.

The committee also reviewed Community for Youth survey data, focusing on ways to support student mental health into the 2025-26 school year. Ensuring a positive and supportive school environment remains a top priority for SAC.

The meeting included team-building activities and a Boise High tour, reinforcing collaboration and leadership among student representatives. The SAC continues to play a vital role in bridging the gap between students and district leadership, advocating for meaningful changes that enhance the educational experience in Boise.

Calling All Future Kindergartners!

🎉 WELCOME CLASS OF 2038! 🎉

Kindergarten Registration for the 2025-2026 school year is happening on Thursday, March 6, 2025 at all Boise School District elementary schools!

📅 Times:

🕞 3:45 - 5:30 PM (Regular start schools)

🕓 4:00 - 5:45 PM (Late start schools*)

*Late start schools: Lowell, Whittier, Amity, Hawthorne, Hillcrest, Morley Nelson, Shadow Hills, Riverside, Dallas Harris

👧🧒 What to Bring:

✅ Your incoming kindergartener!

✅ Birth certificate

✅ Immunization record

✅ Proof of residency (a power bill works best)

💡 Save time by filling out your enrollment paperwork in advance! Online registration opens February 1, 2025.

🏫 Not sure which school is your boundary school? Check our online Boundary Locator.

📢 If applying for Open Enrollment, you must still attend registration at your boundary school. Learn more by visiting our 2025 Kindergarten Registration website.

We can't wait to welcome our newest learners! 🎒✏️

Celebrating Public Schools Week: February 24-28, 2025

Public Schools Week is a time to recognize the powerful impact of public education in our communities. From dedicated educators to engaged students and supportive families, our public schools play a vital role in shaping the future.

At Boise School District, we take pride in providing a high-quality education that prepares students for success in an ever-changing world. Public Schools Week, led by the Learning First Alliance, highlights the achievements, resilience, and innovation within public education. It’s an opportunity to show appreciation for the educators, staff, and advocates who make a difference every day.

Join us in celebrating Boise’s public schools! Share your stories, support educators, and amplify the positive impact of public education using #PSW25. Together, we can continue building a strong foundation for our students and our community.

Timberline High School Student Athletes Earn Academic State Champion Honors

The Idaho High School Activities Association (IHSAA) has announced the 2024-25 Winter Sports Academic State Champions, recognizing varsity teams with the highest cumulative grade point averages in each classification. Sponsored by First Federal Bank, this prestigious award celebrates student-athletes who excel both in competition and the classroom.

Timberline High School is proud to have two teams earning this distinguished honor:

🏀 Timberline Boys Basketball – 3.807 GPA

🤼‍♀️ Timberline Girls Wrestling – 3.731 GPA

These outstanding student-athletes exemplify the balance of academic achievement and dedication to extracurricular activities. Their hard work, discipline, and commitment to excellence reflect the values of Timberline High School and the Boise School District.

Congratulations to these Wolves on their well-earned recognition!

Timberline High School’s “Tech Buddies” Program: Inspiring the Next Generation of Innovators

The Boise School District’s commitment to equitable access and student success is exemplified through Timberline High School’s “Tech Buddies” program—a mentorship initiative that brings high school students and elementary learners together to explore the world of technology.

Through hands-on coding lessons and interactive projects, Timberline students guide their younger peers at local grade schools, fostering both technical skills and a passion for STEM. More than just a technology program, “Tech Buddies” serves as a bridge—helping break down barriers to STEM education and ensuring that all students, regardless of background, have the opportunity to engage in meaningful learning experiences.

This initiative is a win-win: High school mentors develop leadership and communication skills, while elementary students gain confidence in problem-solving and critical thinking. As a result, “Tech Buddies” is shaping the future—one lesson at a time, building a collaborative community where students of all ages grow together.

Watch the video to see “Tech Buddies” in action!

Timberline High School's "Tech Buddies" program - Building the Future, One Code at a Time!

Boise High Chamber Orchestra Shines at Prestigious Regional Conference

Boise High School’s Chamber Orchestra, under the direction of Laurel Talley, delivered a standout performance at the NAfME All-Northwest Conference on February 14, 2025. They were the only orchestra from Idaho selected to perform at the prestigious event in Spokane, WA.

“This was an incredible experience for our students,” said Talley. “We’re honored to represent Idaho on this stage.”

The orchestra’s selection highlights their dedication and musical excellence. Congratulations to the Boise High Chamber Orchestra on this remarkable achievement!

Timberline Jazz Ensemble Shines at Northwest Conference

Timberline High School’s Instrumental Jazz Ensemble made history on February 15, performing at the National Association for Music Education Northwest Division Conference in Spokane, WA. Selected from a competitive audition process, Timberline was one of only three high school jazz bands chosen from six Northwest states—the first Boise School District jazz band to perform at the conference in its current form.

This achievement reflects the strength of Timberline’s music community, including feeder programs at East and Les Bois Junior Highs, seven elementary schools, and dedicated music educators. Under the direction of José Rodríguez, II, the ensemble’s performance showcased the district’s commitment to musical excellence.

Timberline High School’s Instrumental Jazz Ensemble, led by Director José Rodríguez, II, celebrates their historic performance at the NAfME Northwest Division Conference in Spokane, WA—marking the first time a Boise School District jazz band has performed at the event in its current form.

East Junior Advanced Orchestra II Shines at IMEA All-State

On January 31, East Junior High’s Advanced Orchestra II, under the direction of Ana Robins, delivered a stunning performance at the IMEA All-State Conference in Lewiston, featuring three original compositions by their director.

Joining them in representing the Boise School District’s musical excellence were the East Junior High Dolce Choir, led by Mark Anderson, and Capital High’s Varsity Choral Union, directed by Joie Cariaga.

This prestigious event showcased the talent, dedication, and passion of BSD’s young musicians. Congratulations to all the students and directors for their outstanding performances!

Boise High’s David Chehey Named a 2025 Counselor That Changes Lives

Boise High School career counselor David Chehey has been recognized as one of the 2025 Counselors That Change Lives by the Colleges That Change Lives (CTCL) Member Institutions and Board of Directors. This national honor highlights his dedication to a student-centered college search process, helping students find institutions where they can thrive.

David’s personalized approach and commitment to guiding students through college decisions have made a lasting impact. His recognition reflects the Boise School District’s mission to support student success beyond high school.

Congratulations, David, on this well-deserved honor!

Boise Students Spotlight Kindness and Community Through KTVB’s Student News Initiative

As part of KTVB’s Student News initiative, students from Boise High School and North Junior High are using video storytelling to explore impactful topics and inspire change in their school communities. These student-produced videos showcase the power of kindness, free expression, and music through a journalistic lens.

At Boise High School, student Max Carter takes viewers inside the local hardcore punk music scene, offering a firsthand look at the passion and energy behind the genre. Meanwhile, Maliah Clawson sits down with Boise High’s head librarian to discuss the controversial issue of book removals from school shelves, sparking an important conversation about access to literature and intellectual freedom.

Over at North Junior High School, students focus on the impact of small acts of kindness. Their video highlights how simple gestures—like a friendly note, a helping hand, or an encouraging word—can create a ripple effect of positivity throughout the school community.

Check out these student-produced videos and see how Boise students are making a difference:

🔗 Max Carter - Inside Boise’s Hardcore Punk Scene

🔗 Maliah Clawson - A Conversation on Book Removals

🔗 North Junior High - The Power of Kindness

These projects showcase the creativity and thoughtfulness of Boise’s students, reminding us all of the importance of community, expression, and kindness.

Celebrating Our Ultimate Book Nerds!

Liberty Elementary students were recently honored for their achievements in the Boise Public Library’s Ultimate Book Nerd Challenge!

For four years, Amber Armstrong’s 1B Lower Montessori class has taken on this reading adventure, completing books across 30-50 categories annually. This year, Tenley Gagnerlutz’s class joined in, making the celebration even more special!

At a special ceremony, Superintendent Lisa Roberts, Timberline Area Director Dr. Teri Thaemert, Mayor Lauren McLean, and community leaders recognized the students' dedication. Thanks to Eliza Ruby and the Boise Public Library team, each student received prizes, certificates, and the coveted Ultimate Book Nerd t-shirt.

This event highlights the Boise School District’s commitment to literacy and lifelong learning. To our amazing students—keep reading, exploring, and turning the pages of new adventures!

📚❤️ Celebrating a love for reading together! Our Ultimate Book Nerds from Liberty Elementary, along with their amazing teachers, make the heart sign to show their passion for books and learning. Keep turning pages and chasing new adventures!

Promoting a Positive Future: Idaho Public Television’s “Unaltered State” Campaign

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.

Cultural Celebration: Whittier's Connection of Global Community

Boise Book Celebration at Valley View Elementary School

Taco-bout Teen Tour: A Fun & Flavorful Way to Shape Teen Activities!

Boise Parks & Recreation is inviting teens and teen allies to join the Taco-bout Teen Tour, a free, interactive event where participants can share ideas for future teen activities—all while enjoying delicious tacos! Sign-up today!

Join the Neurodiversity in Harmony Virtual Summit on March 7th

Join the Neurodiversity in Harmony Virtual Summit on March 7, 2025 (9:30 AM – 1:15 PM MST), hosted by Every Brain is Different. This free online event brings together 12 expert panelists, plus keynote speakers Samantha Foote and Katey Fortun, to share insights and strategies for supporting neurodiverse children.

✅ Expert advice on neurodiversity and child development

✅ Practical strategies for parents, caregivers, and educators

✅ Live Q&A and networking opportunities

Register now at EveryBrainIsDifferent.com and join us in celebrating neurodiversity!

Boise School District Partners with City of Boise to Share Information About IRS Direct File

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.

Boise School District Announces Spring 2025 Graduation Dates

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

Boise School District Partners with Varsity Tutors to Offer Free 24/7 Online Tutoring for Secondary Students

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.

Explore Boise School District’s Comprehensive Curriculum Website

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!

Explore Boise Schools: A Unique Opportunity to Discover How the Boise School District is Shaping Future Generations

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.

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!

Calling All Former Owyhee Elementary Students! Stay Connected with Owyhee’s Legacy

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!

School Resource Officer Newsletter | Boise Police Department

Enroll Now for Winter Community Education Classes!

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!

• 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

READY! for Kindergarten Event

Please join us for our annual READY! for Kindergarten event at the Lincoln Learning Center for children ages 2-5.

READY! for Kindergarten is a series of parent education workshops designed to teach parents how playing with their child is the best way to prepare them for Kindergarten. READY! has identified 26 skills most associated with academic success and social-emotional well-being in Kindergarten, known as the READY! Targets.

Parents attend a series of 90-minute workshops, each focusing on 10 of these 26 school readiness skills. In the workshops, parents engage in hands-on activities and discussions to understand and practice these targets.

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.

Spanish Language Flier

Becoming Better Grownups

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to be inspired and motivated! Join us at South Junior High on March 4th from 6-7pm for an unforgettable talk from Brad Montague, the producer of Kid President and a New York Times bestselling author. Brad has a unique perspective on how we, as adults, can better support the kids in our community. His message is not only impactful, but also entertaining and full of humor, making it a must-see event for all parents.

Whether you're a parent, guardian, or community member, Brad's insights will leave you feeling empowered and ready to make a positive difference in the lives of the young people around you. Childcare will be available. For more details or to RSVP, please see the flyer. We look forward to seeing you there!

Understanding Special Education Workshop

Please join us for our workshop that guides parents through the Special Education Process. This event will take place at Whittier Elementary on March 11th from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm. We will share valuable information for parents who are starting the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process or for those who have gone through it and want to review all the different components. Additionally, there will be an opportunity for parents to ask questions about special education to our district leadership. Dinner and childcare will be provided! Please register here or see our flyer for more information.

Free Developmental Screener (Ages 3-5)

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.

Boise School District | 208-854-4000 | 8169 W. Victory Rd., Boise, Idaho www.boiseschools.org

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...