July Panther Pitch

The vision of the Creston C.S.D. is to provide the foundation for students to become lifelong

learners and positive, confident, and compassionate citizens.

Dear Panther Partners:

As the school approaches, it is with great anticipation and enthusiasm that I welcome you back to a new school year. The beginning of each year brings fresh opportunities, renewed energy, and a collective commitment to supporting every child, every day.

We are proud to support America’s Public Education Promise—a belief that public schools are the cornerstone of a strong, equitable, and hopeful future. Together, we will ensure that each student is engaged, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential.

Each year brings change and I appreciate your support and attention to the following:

Back-to-School Registration

Families are encouraged to complete online registration through the school portal.  During registration, families can update contact information, pay student and food service fees, and verify student details. Please note: Onsite registration uses the same process as online registration, which can be completed remotely. 

For those who need in-person assistance, we will host Back-to-School Registration on:

August 4
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Creston High School

Please note: Onsite registration uses the same process as online registration, which can be completed remotely. During registration, families can update contact information, pay student and food service fees, and verify student details. Families needing help with Free and Reduced Meal Applications can contact Food Service Director Teresa Clark at tclark@crestonschools.org or by calling the district office at 641-782-7028.

New Statewide Policy: Student Personal Devices
In accordance with a new Iowa law, personal devices such as cell phones and smartwatches are not allowed for student use during the school day, which is defined as 7:30 am to 3:30 pm at which time all personal devices must be shut off and stored. This shift is intended to minimize distractions and support a learning environment focused on academic engagement and well-being. We appreciate your support in reinforcing this change with your child.

Continued to Focus on Student Attendance
Last year, we made significant strides in improving attendance, and we are committed to building on that success. Regular attendance is vital to academic growth, connection to school, and long-term achievement. We ask for your partnership in ensuring your child is at school—on time and ready to learn—each day. Attendance matters.

Construction and Campus Changes
Construction on our new Early Childhood Center is currently behind schedule. We are actively working with contractors and pushing for the timely completion of the new office and kindergarten classrooms. In the meantime, there will be changes to routines at the elementary/middle school building to accommodate space and transportation needs. We ask for your patience and flexibility as we establish safe and efficient drop-off, pick-up, and school-day procedures.

Early Dismissal on Most Wednesdays

Please note that most Wednesdays throughout the school year will include early dismissal. This time allows our educators to engage in professional learning communities and focused training that support school improvement and student growth. We appreciate your understanding and support in making professional development a priority for our staff and we will share the schedule with families and post it on the district website and social media..

Learning, Wellness, and Belonging
Our staff will continue to provide high-quality instruction and support the mental, emotional, and behavioral needs of our students through trauma-informed practices and strong relationships.

Family and Community Partnership
You are an essential part of your child’s educational journey. We encourage you to attend school events, stay in touch with your child’s teachers, and take advantage of family engagement opportunities throughout the year. Together, we can create a strong support system that helps all children succeed.

A Note on Safety
As school activities resume, please be mindful of increased traffic, bus stops, and crosswalks. We all play a role in keeping our children safe as they travel to and from school.

Let’s work together to honor the promise of public education by creating a positive, inclusive, and inspiring environment where every student belongs and every student thrives.

Creston Cares,

Deron Stender

Superintendent

Web: crestonschools.org

Twitter: @CCSD_Panthers

Facebook: Creston-Panthers