Boise School District Students Shine in Holiday Card Art Contests

Each year, the Boise School District celebrates student creativity through two separate holiday art contests: the District’s own Holiday Card Art Contest and the Saint Alphonsus Festival of Trees Holiday Card Contest. Both contests highlight the artistic talents of students while spreading holiday cheer throughout the community.

This year, two students were honored for their outstanding artwork:

• Boise School District Winner: Olivia Dmytriienko, a 2nd-grade student at Roosevelt Elementary, under the guidance of teacher Rachel Sievers. Olivia’s vibrant and festive design captured the spirit of the holidays and will be featured on the District’s holiday cards.
• Festival of Trees Winner: Hara Jeon, a 4th-grade student at Dallas Harris Elementary, taught by Brooke Andrews. Hara’s beautiful and creative artwork was selected as the official holiday card for the Saint Alphonsus Festival of Trees.

In addition to these recognitions, two Boise School District students were honored by the Idaho Department of Education for their holiday card artwork: Avyakt Nataraj, a 2nd-grade student at Collister Elementary, and Akshara Nataraj, a 9th-grade student at Riverglen Junior High School.

During its regular monthly meeting on December 9, 2024, the Boise School Board recognized Olivia and Hara for their achievements. The Board celebrated the students’ creativity and hard work, emphasizing the importance of the arts in fostering self-expression and community connection.

Congratulations to Olivia, Hara, Avyakt, and Akshara for their incredible accomplishments, and thank you to all the students and teachers who participated in this year’s contests. Your talent continues to make our community proud!

Celebrating Creativity: Olivia Dmytriienko's Winning Holiday Card Design

Boise School District Holiday Card Artwork

Contest Award Recipient

Olivia Dmytriienko, 2nd Grade, Roosevelt Elementary School

Teacher: Rachel Sievers

Boise School District Fine and Performing Arts Supervisor Benji Simmonds poses with Olivia Dmytriienko and her family at the December 9, 2024, Boise School Board meeting, celebrating Olivia’s winning artwork in the District’s Holiday Card Art Contest.

Spreading Cheer: Hara Jeon's Festival of Trees Winning Holiday Card Design

Festival of Trees Holiday Card Artwork

Hara Jeon, 4th Grade, Dallas Harris Elementary School

Teacher, Brooke Andrews

Boise School District Fine and Performing Arts Supervisor Benji Simmonds joins Hara Jeon and her family at the December 9, 2024, Boise School Board meeting to celebrate Hara’s winning artwork in the Festival of Trees Holiday Card Art Contest.

Timberline Jazz Ensemble Earns Top Honors at District 3 Jazz Festival

On Friday, December 6th, the Timberline Instrumental Jazz Ensemble delivered an outstanding performance at the District 3 High School Jazz Festival, held at Columbia High School. Performing in the festival with 34 bands, Timberline earned a Superior (Division 1) Rating—the highest possible distinction—and achieved the highest score of all participating bands.

This exceptional recognition is particularly noteworthy, as only three Superior ratings were awarded across the two-day festival. Timberline’s achievement also continues a remarkable legacy, marking the 14th consecutive year the Jazz Ensemble has earned a Superior rating at this prestigious event.

Under the expert direction of Jose Rodriguez, II, Timberline’s bands continue to set a standard of excellence, showcasing the incredible talent and dedication of their students.

Congratulations to the Timberline Jazz Ensemble on this extraordinary accomplishment!

The Timberline Instrumental Jazz Ensemble, under the direction of Jose Rodriguez, II, celebrates earning a Superior (Division 1) Rating and the highest score at the District 3 High School Jazz Festival.

Celebrating Excellence: Boise School District’s Yes I Can! Award Recipients

The Yes I Can! Awards Program, sponsored by the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC), honors the achievements of children and youth with exceptionalities who demonstrate determination and success in various areas. This prestigious program recognizes outstanding students at the CEC Convention & Expo each year, celebrating their accomplishments in categories such as Academics, Arts, School & Community Activities, Self-Advocacy, Technology, and Transition.

In Idaho, the Yes I Can! Awards highlight the talents, aspirations, and perseverance of children and youth with disabilities while encouraging them to reach their fullest potential. The awards also serve to increase public awareness of the abilities and qualities of individuals with exceptionalities.

This year, the Boise School District is proud to celebrate its 2024-25 Yes I Can! Award recipients. These students exemplify excellence, determination, and resilience across nine categories: Academics, Arts, Athletics, Community Service, Employment, Extracurricular Activities, Independent Living Skills, Self-Advocacy, and Technology.

Click the link below to watch the video and meet our incredible honorees who are inspiring their peers and the community with their achievements!

Meet the Boise School District’s 2024-25 Yes I Can! Award recipients and celebrate their incredible achievements in this inspiring video. Click to watch!

Boise School District’s 2024-25 Yes I Can! Award nominees and their educators, who proudly nominated them, gather for a group photo at the Boise School Board meeting on December 9, 2024, celebrating their remarkable achievements and dedication.

Boise School District Inspires Future Innovators with Hour of Code

As part of the 2024 Computer Science Education Week, Boise School District hosted the Hour of Code in partnership with the Idaho STEM Action Center. This annual event aims to introduce students to the exciting world of computer science and inspire the next generation of tech innovators.

This year, the event was made even more special with visits from state elected officials. Superintendent of Public Instruction Debbie Critchfield joined students at Monroe Elementary School, engaging directly with coding activities and encouraging them to explore the endless possibilities of technology.

Idaho State Senator Carrie Semmelroth from Boise also participated, working alongside students as they tackled coding challenges. Her involvement underscored the importance of foundational computer science skills in preparing students for future careers. In addition, Boise School District Deputy Superintendent Nick Smith, Idaho STEM Action Center Administrator Dee Mooney, and Boise Mayor Lauren McLean participated in Hour of Code activities with students at Whitney Elementary School.

Their presence highlighted Idaho’s commitment to promoting STEM education and the collaborative efforts of schools, state leaders, and organizations like the Idaho STEM Action Center.

The Hour of Code is just one example of how the Boise School District empowers students to develop critical 21st-century skills. By fostering a love for learning and innovation, the District is preparing students to thrive in a tech-driven world.

Watch Monroe Elementary students dive into coding during the Hour of Code, with special guests Superintendent Debbie Critchfield and Senator Carrie Semmelroth inspiring the next generation of innovators!

Boise School District Educators Honored with 2024 Pesky Awards

Boise State University’s College of Education, in partnership with the Pesky family, has named Benjamin Ott of Les Bois Junior High and Nicole Rapp of Taft Elementary as recipients of the 2024 Pesky Award for Inspirational Teaching. The awards will be presented during Boise State’s Winter Commencement ceremony on December 14, 2024.

The Pesky Award, established in 2010, honors K-12 educators who make a lasting impact on students and communities. Each honoree receives $2,000, with $500 awarded to their schools.

Benjamin Ott

A 25-year teaching veteran, Ott fosters critical thinking through hands-on science lessons and serves as a mentor for Boise State teacher candidates and new teachers in the Boise School District. “Teaching is one of the ways I work to give back to my community,” Ott said.

Nicole Rapp

With 30 years of teaching experience, Rapp creates an inclusive environment for her multilingual second-grade students at Taft Elementary. Known for mentoring future educators, she emphasizes collaboration and community impact. “I love teaching in such a unique school where families and community partners join together to support students,” Rapp said.

Hawthorne Elementary Students to Connect with Astronaut Don Pettit in NASA In-Flight Education Downlink Event

Boise, ID -- 12/10/2024-- UPDATED 01/06/2025 -- Hawthorne Elementary School students will experience a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity on Friday, January 10, 2025 (Updated date and time), as they engage in a live virtual connection with astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS), now including NASA Astronaut Don Pettit. This extraordinary event, a NASA In-Flight Education Downlink, will take place from 10:30 a.m. to 10:50 a.m. MST at Hawthorne Elementary, located at 2401 W. Targee St., Boise.

Thanks to the efforts of Kellie Taylor, a dedicated 3rd-grade teacher at Hawthorne, students have spent weeks preparing thoughtful questions for Astronaut Pettit, which will be shared via prerecorded video messages during the live session. The event will also feature a special welcome address from Boise School District Superintendent Lisa Roberts.

This educational milestone is not limited to Hawthorne Elementary. Students from across Idaho have been invited to join the event virtually, making it a statewide celebration of science, exploration, and curiosity.

Local news media are invited to attend this unique event to capture the excitement and inspire the broader community. Media representatives planning to attend are asked to notify Dan Hollar, Boise School District Public Affairs Administrator at dan.hollar@boiseschools.org no later than Thursday, January 9, 2025.



The NASA downlink promises to inspire young minds by offering a unique glimpse into life aboard the ISS and the importance of space exploration.

NASA In-Flight Education Downlink Event

• Friday, January 10, 2025, 10:30 a.m. to 10:50 a.m. MST (Updated date and time)
• Hawthorne Elementary School, 2401 W. Targee St., Boise, ID
• Boise, Idaho
• NASA Astronaut Don Pettit
• Watch on NASA+

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 Saves Energy Over Autumn Break—Join Us for Winter Break!

At Boise School District, we’re dedicated to sustainability and using resources responsibly. Thanks to the efforts of our students and staff, we saved an impressive 177,291 kWh of electricity during the recent autumn break by ensuring our buildings were responsibly shut down before the break began.

We’re gearing up to do it again over Winter Break, and we invite District staff and students to participate! Use the following checklist and QR code (or link) to join the effort. By taking part, you’ll not only help the planet but also have the chance to win sustainable prizes.

Thank you for making a difference! Together, we can continue to promote a greener, more sustainable future for our community.

Winter Weather Procedures: Keeping Safety First

When winter weather strikes, Boise School District is prepared to prioritize student safety in all conditions. Our goal is to ensure that students can safely travel to school, whether by bus, on foot, or by bicycle, and that our schools can operate without risk. Education is important, and every school day counts, but when citywide weather conditions pose a danger, school may be canceled for the day.

We aim to make closure decisions by 5:30 a.m. to provide timely updates. However, please note that school will not close for typical winter conditions such as light snowfall, cold temperatures, or isolated ice patches. With proper winter precautions, our students can travel safely under these conditions.

Our District covers over 450 square miles, so weather conditions can vary significantly. Parents who feel that travel is unsafe in their area are encouraged to keep their children home. If school closures are necessary, they will apply to the entire District, including Boise Online School.

Winter driving can be challenging for drivers of all ages, but especially for high school students who are new to driving. With this in mind, review these safe winter driving tips to help you navigate winter weather.

Watch the following video to learn more about Boise School District's Inclement Weather Procedures, or visit our Inclement Weather Procedures on the Emergency webpage.

Stay Informed with Boise School District’s Communication Tools

At Boise School District, we believe clear and consistent communication is essential to student success and community engagement. We offer various tools to help parents, guardians, and community members stay up-to-date with important news and events across our schools.

Key Communication Tools:

• Text Messaging Alerts: Receive notifications about school closures, delays, emergencies, and important announcements.
• SchoolMessenger: Parents and guardians can opt-in for emergency texts by texting "Y" or "Yes" to 67587. SchoolMessenger is used for crucial alerts, including safety updates and closures.
• Remind: Widely used by teachers, schools, and the District, Remind provides timely updates about classes, clubs, and events. You can customize your preferred language and notification settings.
• Bus Zone App: Locate your student's bus by using the Bus Zone app.
• Social Media: Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, YouTube, LinkedIn, X (formerly Twitter), and Nextdoor for the latest news, event highlights, and success stories.
• District Newsletters: Approximately every two weeks during the school year, our e-newsletter brings stories of student and teacher success, news, and community engagement opportunities. Sign up online to receive it directly.
• Community Education Updates: Subscribe online for updates on our seasonal Community Education classes, open to all community members.
• District Website: Find a hub of information, from policies and school board updates to school calendars and enrollment details, at www.boiseschools.org.

Stay connected and learn more about all these tools by visiting our Stay Informed webpage. Thank you for partnering with us to support our students and community!

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.

BOISE SCHOOL BOARD CORNER

Boise School Board Recognizes Outstanding Staff with December 2024 Red and Golden Apple Awards

The Boise School Board is proud to recognize exceptional staff members who go above and beyond in their roles with the Red and Golden Apple Awards for December 2024. These prestigious awards, presented monthly during the school year, celebrate both certified and classified staff for their dedication, hard work, and contributions to the success of Boise School District students and schools.

The Red Apple Award, given to certified staff members, highlights those who excel in their teaching and instructional roles, fostering a positive learning environment and inspiring students to achieve their best. The December 2024 recipient is Caroline Gantt, Multilingual Learner Teacher at Horizon Elementary School, for her outstanding commitment to her students and her role in supporting multilingual learners.

The Golden Apple Award recognizes classified staff for their invaluable behind-the-scenes support, from administrative roles to operations and maintenance, ensuring our schools run smoothly and efficiently. The December 2024 honoree is Elva Young, School Support Assistant at Whittier Elementary School, for her tireless dedication and warm presence that creates a welcoming environment for all.

These award recipients exemplify the Boise School District's commitment to academic excellence, student well-being, and a strong, supportive school community. Congratulations to Caroline Gantt and Elva Young for their outstanding contributions!

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.

Fairmont Junior High School - AVID Program

Date: January 28, 2025 | Time: 9:00-10:30 am

Experience a tour of Boise Schools’ national AVID Demonstration School. AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) is a program dedicated to closing the opportunity gap and preparing students for college, career readiness, and success in a global society.

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!

Boise School District Presents "LIKE" Documentary Screening: A Call to Action for Families

The Boise School District invites families to view LIKE, a powerful documentary that delves into the impact of social media on children’s lives. This event offers a meaningful opportunity for parents, students, and community members to come together, watch the film, and engage in open discussions about social media's influence.

To encourage thoughtful conversations, the District is providing discussion questions and resources. Families who complete the discussion questions will be entered to win a fun family night! We encourage you to watch LIKE with your family, neighbors, or friends by December 15th, the final date to view the film.



📽️ Here’s the link to watch:https://parent-engagement.boiseschools.org/call-to-action-like-film

School Resource Officer Newsletter | Boise Police Department

Idaho State Board of Education Now Accepting Applications for Empowering Parents Grants

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.

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

• December 18, 19, 20: Secondary End of Semester Testing - Early Release 7-12
• December 19: Early Release K-6 to Work on Report Cards, No School Pre K
• December 20: End of First Semester - Early Release K-6 to Work on Report Cards, No School Pre K
• December 23 - January 3: Winter Break - No School Pre K-12
• January 6: Staff Professional Development and Building Work Day; Non-Student Day
• January 6: Online Registration Opens for Winter 2025 Community Education Session
• January 7: School Resumes
• January 23: Spanish Dual Language Program Information Meeting (see information below).
• January 27: Treasure Valley Math & Science Center Information Night (see information below).
• February 12: Early Learning Open House (see information below).

Early Learning Open House

Boise School District’s Dual Language Program: Building Bilingual Futures

The Boise School District offers a dynamic Dual Language Program designed to provide literacy and content instruction in both English and Spanish. This innovative program integrates native English speakers with native Spanish speakers, creating a rich, immersive environment where students learn not just a second language but also gain a deeper understanding of diverse cultures.

Dual language programs focus on learning content through the language, giving children the opportunity to become bilingual, bi-literate, and bicultural. This unique approach equips students with essential skills for success in an increasingly globalized world.

The Dual Language Program is currently offered at Whitney Elementary and Whittier Elementary, providing families with an excellent option for fostering language development and cultural appreciation.

Interested in learning more? Don’t miss the upcoming Dual Language Information Night (see information below) to discover how this program can benefit your child.

Join us and explore how the Dual Language Program is preparing students for a bright, bilingual future!

Treasure Valley Math & Science Center Information Night

Treasure Valley Math and Science Center is an award winning, nationally recognized, free, public school magnet program of the Boise School District that prepares students for success in college, career and life. TVMSC students are focused on advanced studies in the areas of Math, Science, Research, and Computer Science. 

All interested students & families are invited to attend the TVMSC Information Night on Monday, January 27th, 2025 at Riverglen Junior High School, 6801 N. Gary Lane, Boise, from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Further information about the screening and the application process can be found on the TVMSC application website which contains our Intent to Test Form (please fill out by 1/24/25) and the TVMSC Informational Video.

Have questions? Please call TVMSC Principal Helga Frankenstein at 208-854-6803 or email her at helga.frankenstein@boiseschools.org.

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...