June 2025 Panther Pitch

As the school year draws to a close, I often find myself asking: Where did the time go? Reflecting on the 2024–2025 school year, I am incredibly
proud of our students, staff, and community. Your patience and support throughout this year of change have been truly appreciated, especially as
our staff worked hard to engage students and support their academic and social-emotional growth. Our schools are the heartbeat of the
community, providing opportunities not just for our students, but also for community members to experience the talents and achievements of our
young people through concerts, performances, athletics, and other events.

Last fall, we introduced a new state law focused on improving attendance and reducing truancy. We shared our district’s plan to support this
legislation by partnering with families, students, and the community. I’m proud to share that these efforts have resulted in an estimated 70%
decrease in truancy and attendance cases. We will continue this important work and maintain clear expectations for student attendance as we
strive to keep students engaged and in school.

Also, last fall, we broke ground on our new Early Childhood wing, which includes a secure main entrance. These improvements enhance student
safety and better align with modern school security standards. While construction has temporarily impacted traffic flow, you navigated those
changes with patience and care. Thank you for your continued cooperation in keeping safety a top priority.

Although we do not yet have all of the final state assessment data, early indications suggest continued improvement in student learning. Over the
summer, our teams will closely review the data to better inform our planning and instruction for the upcoming school year.

Beginning in the 2025–2026 school year, students will be released early at 2:30 on Wednesdays. This time will support Professional Learning
Communities (PLCs)—a structured way for our teachers to collaborate, analyze student data, and refine instructional practices. We understand
that early dismissals may present challenges for some families, and we are committed to communicating and planning ahead as much as possible.
We appreciate your understanding and support as we invest in high-quality instruction and ongoing school improvement.

Starting next school year, we will implement a new policy limiting the use of personal electronic devices during the school day, in compliance
with Iowa House File 782. We believe this change will help foster stronger peer interaction, reduce distractions, and promote a more focused
learning environment.
● The school day is defined as any time students are in the building for educational purposes, generally between 7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.
● This includes classrooms, hallways, lunch, study halls, restrooms, and locker rooms.
● Students must keep personal devices stored in lockers unless specifically authorized for educational use.
● Parents needing to reach their child during school hours should contact the school office, and we will promptly deliver the message.

As we head into summer, I encourage families to continue engaging children in learning activities—whether through reading, exploring new
interests, or simply spending quality time together. Summer is also a time to rest, recharge, and create lasting memories. Thank you for your
continued partnership, trust, and support. Creston Community Schools remains committed to helping every child thrive. I wish you and your
family a safe and enjoyable summer.


Deron Stender
Superintendent