Hawthorne Elementary Students to Connect with Astronaut Suni Williams in NASA In-Flight Education Downlink Event

Hawthorne Elementary School students will experience a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity on Tuesday, January 9, 2024, as they engage in a live virtual connection with astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS), including Astronaut Suni Williams. This extraordinary event, a NASA Education downlink, will take place from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. MST (11 a.m. to 1 p.m. CST - tentative) 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 Williams, 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 Monday, January 6, 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 Event Downlink

January 9, 2025

• 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. MST (11 a.m. to 1 p.m. CST) (Tentative)
• Hawthorne Elementary School
• Boise, Idaho
• Astronaut Suni Williams
• Watch on NASA+

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.

Riverglen Orchestra and Borah Choir Shine at Statewide Education Event

Students from Riverglen Junior High School and Borah High School showcased their musical talents at the annual Idaho School Boards Association Convention held in Boise this November.

The Riverglen Orchestra (pictured), under the direction of their dedicated orchestra director, Debbie Hynes, delivered an outstanding performance that highlighted their hard work and passion for music. Joining them was the Borah High School Choir, under the direction of Emmanuella Mazile, whose inspiring performance captivated education leaders from across the state.

These performances provided exceptional opportunities for both groups of students to demonstrate their skills and raise public awareness about the Boise School District's outstanding music education program.

Participating in such a prestigious event reflects the district's commitment to fostering artistic talent and providing students with enriching experiences that prepare them for lifelong success. Congratulations to the Riverglen Orchestra and Borah Choir for their stellar performances!

Timberline High Senior SayedMazharuddin Mirbacha Reflects on Prestigious St. Albans School of Public Service Experience

This past summer, Timberline High School senior SayedMazharuddin Mirbacha had the incredible opportunity to participate in the prestigious St. Albans School of Public Service (S.P.S.) program. Reflecting on the experience, Sayed shared, “It’s an honor to speak about this amazing opportunity at St. Albans. I don’t know where to begin because one month is a long time, filled with so many experiences and memories.”

Sayed first learned about the S.P.S. program in December and credits Ms. Tabitha Miller, U.S. History, one of Timberline’s dedicated teachers, for introducing him to the opportunity. After reaching out to Nichole Chapin Duke, the program director, he applied and was thrilled to receive a full scholarship to attend. “I was also the first student from Idaho to be accepted since the program’s inception, which is a great honor for me, my school, and the Boise School District,” Sayed said.

The S.P.S. program is designed for rising seniors from across the country and even internationally, fostering a community of young people passionate about public service and leadership. During his time in Washington, D.C., Sayed had the chance to meet influential figures in politics, public service, and media, including:

• James Roscoe (Deputy Chief of Mission of the British Embassy)
• Michael Gottlieb
• David Hogg
• Judy Woodruff
• Josh Bolton (Former White House Chief of Staff)
• Justice Elena Kagan
• Jen Psaki
• Dana Bash
• Jennifer Griffin
• Congressman Raul Ruiz
• Fiona Hill

These interactions were eye-opening and inspiring for Sayed, who remarked, “The most important part of this program was getting to know young people—the future of this great nation—and seeing their passion for public service. We have challenges in this nation, but I believe that this generation will one day change not just this nation, but the world.”

Sayed’s journey to Boise three years ago was marked by significant personal hardship. Forced to leave his homeland of Afghanistan due to political turmoil and the Taliban’s takeover, Sayed made Boise, Idaho, his new home. “It was not easy to leave the place where you were born and grew up and to have to leave overnight. But now, here I am, living in my second home, the United States of America.”

One of the standout moments of Sayed’s experience at St. Albans was a panel discussion night at the home of board member Susanna Quinn, where he met respected journalists Dana Bash, Jennifer Griffin, and Jen Psaki. “The respect, admiration, and applause I received that night were unforgettable. It was a beautiful, surreal moment,” Sayed recalled.

Perhaps the most remarkable honor came at the end of the program when Sayed was chosen to be the final speaker for the S.P.S. Class of 2024. “All the program’s speakers were incredible individuals who have had significant impacts in public service. To be selected as the last speaker was beyond my imagination. It is, and will always be, a great honor for me, my school, the Boise School District, and Idaho.”

As Sayed looks forward to the future, the experiences and connections gained through the St. Albans School of Public Service will continue to inspire and guide him as he pursues his passion for leadership and public service.

SayedMazharuddin Mirbacha stands proudly in front of the U.S. Capitol, reflecting on his impactful summer at the St. Albans School of Public Service.

BOISE SCHOOL BOARD CORNER

Boise School Board Approves 2025-2026 School Year Calendar

The Boise School District Board of Trustees has officially approved the 2025-2026 Student Calendar, following a thoughtful planning process led by the District Calendar Committee. The approved calendar reflects input from teachers, students, parents, and administrators, all working to balance the needs of students, staff, and families.

Key highlights of the new calendar include:

• Non-Student Days on Election Days: Both November and May election days will be non-student days, aligning with community priorities.
• Professional Development: Teachers will have dedicated professional development days throughout the school year, designed to enhance continuity in learning and minimize the need for substitute coverage.
• Holiday Breaks: Families can look forward to a full week off at Thanksgiving, two weeks at Winter Break, and a school year ending prior to Memorial Day.
• Calendar Alignment: Whenever possible, the calendar aligns with Boise State University and the West Ada School District, making scheduling easier for families connected to both systems.

This calendar balances important priorities identified through a staff survey and community feedback, providing a structured yet flexible approach for the academic year. Special thanks go to the Calendar Committee for their commitment to creating a calendar that works for everyone.

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

Child Holocaust Survivor to Share His Story in Boise and Meridian

The Council for Holocaust Awareness of Idaho (CHAI) is hosting a remarkable opportunity to hear from child Holocaust survivor Peter Metzelaar. These free, public events will take place on:

• Tuesday, December 3: Boise presentation
• Wednesday, December 4: Meridian presentation

Peter Metzelaar’s story of survival during one of history’s darkest times is a powerful reminder of resilience and the importance of understanding the lessons of the Holocaust. His presentations aim to educate and inspire attendees while fostering awareness of the dangers of antisemitism and hatred.

These events are open to the public, and Boise School District educators, students, and families are especially encouraged to attend. The presentations provide a meaningful opportunity to deepen historical understanding and connect with an eyewitness to history.

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.

chachch

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

• December 9: Boise School Board regular monthly Board meeting, 6 p.m., District Services Center, 8169 W. Victory Road, Boise. Agenda will be posted online, when available.
• 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

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...