Columbus Community School District

🍎💙 BACK TO SCHOOL NIGHT IS TONIGHT! 💙🍎

We can’t wait to welcome our Wildcats back for the 2026–2027 school year! Join us TONIGHT for Back to School Night at both Roundy Elementary and the Secondary School!

📅 Tonight — Monday, August 24th
⏰ 5:00–6:30 PM
🎒 Bring your school supplies
🍎 Meet your teachers & building staff
🏫 Visit your classrooms
❓ Ask questions about the upcoming year

We are so excited to see our students and families and kick off another great year at Columbus! 💙🤍

See you TONIGHT! Go Wildcats! 🐾

If this timeframe does not work well for your family, please reach out to your child’s teacher to schedule another time that works for you.

🍎💙 ¡LA NOCHE DE REGRESO A CLASES ES ESTA NOCHE! 💙🍎

¡Estamos muy emocionados de darles la bienvenida a nuestros Wildcats para el año escolar 2026–2027! ¡Acompáñenos ESTA NOCHE en nuestra Noche de Regreso a Clases tanto en Roundy Elementary como en la Escuela Secundaria!

📅 Esta noche — lunes, 24 de agosto
⏰ 5:00–6:30 p. m.
🎒 Traigan sus útiles escolares
🍎 Conozcan a sus maestros y al personal de la escuela
🏫 Visiten sus salones de clase
❓ Hagan preguntas sobre el próximo año escolar

¡Estamos muy emocionados de ver a nuestros estudiantes y familias y de comenzar otro excelente año en Columbus! 💙🤍

¡Nos vemos ESTA NOCHE! ¡Vamos, Wildcats! 🐾

Si este horario no funciona bien para su familia, por favor comuníquese con el maestro de su hijo para programar otro horario que les funcione mejor.

Time is running out to get your Columbus Volleyball and Cross Country apparel. The volleyball store closes on August 25th and the cross country store closes on August 26th. To order follow this link - https://www.teamelitesports.com/columbus.html?fbclid=IwY2xjawT1YHhwZG9mAWV4dG4DYWVtAjEwAGJyaWQRMXBMbDVsaVdjbVZ0RmpZVW5zcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEe8tIqYcKxcna0BMRLUwvavyM2DZRMRhwT2gUUok2wa00MySuPNkA8o8d6soc_aem_SvOgrfAugJokYJmW03QHrQ,

There will be a parent meeting for junior high football players on Wednesday, August 26 at 5:10 pm outside of the high school office. Please let Coach Dennler or Coach Keltner know if you have any questions. Thank you.

JH volleyball practice will begin Monday, August 24 at 3:30 p.m. in the HS practice gym. Players will need a current physical and signed concussion form.

💙🐾 STRIVE FOR 5, WILDCATS! 🐾💙

Every day counts. Every Wildcat matters.

This year, Columbus Community Schools is launching Strive for 5, our districtwide commitment to helping students attend school regularly, feel connected, and succeed.

🎯 Our goal: 5 or fewer absences each semester.

Regular attendance is about more than simply being in a seat. When students are at school, they are learning, building relationships, developing confidence, and staying connected to their school community.

Strive for 5 directly supports our district goal to improve student attendance.

We know there will be times when students need to miss school. When challenges arise, we want families to know that we are here to help. Please reach out so we can work together to support your child and keep them connected.

🏆 Attendance awards will be given at both Roundy Elementary and the Secondary Building as we celebrate students who are showing up and striving for 5!

Strong schools are built when families, students, staff, and our community work together. Being here matters. YOU matter.

💙 Be Kind. 🐾 Be Strong. 💙 Be Well.
STRIVE FOR 5!

💙🐾 ¡ESFUÉRZATE POR 5, WILDCATS! 🐾💙

Cada día cuenta. Cada Wildcat importa.

Este año, Columbus Community Schools lanza Strive for 5 (Esfuérzate por 5), nuestro compromiso como distrito para ayudar a que los estudiantes asistan a la escuela regularmente, se sientan conectados y tengan éxito.

🎯 Nuestra meta: 5 o menos ausencias cada semestre.

La asistencia regular significa mucho más que simplemente estar presente. Cuando los estudiantes están en la escuela, están aprendiendo, formando relaciones, desarrollando confianza y manteniéndose conectados con su comunidad escolar.

Strive for 5 apoya directamente nuestra meta del distrito de mejorar la asistencia estudiantil.

Sabemos que habrá ocasiones en las que los estudiantes necesiten faltar a la escuela. Cuando surjan dificultades, queremos que las familias sepan que estamos aquí para ayudar. Por favor, comuníquense con nosotros para que podamos trabajar juntos para apoyar a su hijo(a) y mantenerlo(a) conectado(a) con la escuela.

🏆 Se otorgarán reconocimientos por buena asistencia tanto en Roundy Elementary como en el edificio de Secondary mientras celebramos a los estudiantes que asisten regularmente y se esfuerzan por alcanzar la meta de 5.

Las escuelas fuertes se construyen cuando las familias, los estudiantes, el personal y nuestra comunidad trabajan juntos. Estar aquí importa. ¡TÚ importas!

💙 Sé amable. 🐾 Sé fuerte. 💙 Mantente bien.
¡ESFUÉRZATE POR 5!

💙🐾 TWO WEEKS TO GO, WILDCATS! 🐾💙

The first day of school is just two weeks away, which means now is a great time to start easing back into those school-year routines! 📚✏️

A little preparation now can make those first mornings back so much easier for the whole family. Over the next two weeks, try gradually bringing back a few school-day habits:
⏰ Start waking up a little earlier each morning
😴 Move bedtime closer to your school-night schedule
🎒 Practice getting backpacks and clothes ready the night before
📵 Begin winding down screens earlier in the evening
🚿 Bring back your regular morning routine
🚗 Talk through transportation, drop-off, or bus plans
💙 Most importantly, start getting EXCITED!

📅 First Day of School: Wednesday, August 26th

We cannot wait to have our hallways full of students again! Enjoy these last two weeks of summer, start practicing those routines, and get ready for an amazing 2026–2027 school year!

💙🐾 See you soon, Wildcats! 🐾💙

Please take a moment to read a special welcome back message from our new shared superintendent, Mrs. Wahls! 💙🐾

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PYqxtXKXotfLMF808ek4KUrnqpcXBZAxvG3nSmyAkIc/edit?usp=sharing

We are excited for the 2026–2027 school year and all that lies ahead for our students, staff, families, and community. Here’s to a great year, Wildcats!

📚✏️ Getting Ready for the 2026–2027 School Year! 💙🤍

As we prepare to welcome our Wildcats back, here are a few helpful links to get your family ready for the new school year!

📅 2026–2027 School Calendar: https://files-backend.assets.thrillshare.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4394/Ccsd/e298254f-ee90-4f8f-9d85-91fd365aa762/SY-26-27-Calendar.pdf
✏️ Roundy Elementary School Supply List: https://files-backend.assets.thrillshare.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4394/Ccsd/f142f7cc-a422-40b0-80ec-730e50b40cc2/Roundy_26-27_supply_list.pdf
📓 Secondary School Supply List: https://files-backend.assets.thrillshare.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4394/Ccsd/4083dc80-22e4-45a3-a9db-2a3dc08af6e1/Secondary_School_Supply_List_2025-2026.pdf?disposition=inline

We’re looking forward to another great year at Columbus Community School District! 🐾💙

🍎💙 Apples with Administration is TONIGHT! 💙🍎

Columbus families, come out and meet your 2026–2027 administrative team! We’re excited to welcome our Wildcats back and kick off another great school year together.

📅 Tonight: Monday, August 3
⏰ 5:00–6:30 PM
🍎 Enjoy an Apple Nacho Bar while you visit!

Stop by, say hello, ask questions, and connect with our team. We can’t wait to see our students and families! 💙🤍

Junior high football practice will start on Wednesday, August 19th at 3:30 pm. We will practice August 20, 21, 23, 24, and 25 at the same time. Please report to the locker room by the entrance to the secondary building. Make sure you have your physical and concussion forms completed and turned into the high school office or you can bring them to practice with you that day. If you have questions email Coach Dennler or Coach Keltner.

📣 Online Registration for the 2026–2027 School Year is NOW OPEN! 💙🤍

Columbus Community School District families can now complete online registration for the upcoming school year!

Whether you're registering a returning student or enrolling a new student, we've put together step-by-step directions to help make the process as easy as possible.

How to Register for Columbus CSD: https://www.columbus.k12.ia.us/o/ccsd/page/how-to-register

Registering early helps us prepare for another successful school year by ensuring we have accurate enrollment numbers for staffing, transportation, classrooms, and student services.

If you have any questions or need assistance with registration, please don't hesitate to contact the district office.

We can't wait to welcome our Wildcats back for an amazing 2026–2027 school year! 🐾💙

The Columbus pool will be closed on Friday, July 10, 2026, to allow our lifeguards to attend the services of Randy Phillips. Normal hours will resume on Saturday, we appreciate your understanding.

During difficult times, it's important to remember that none of us has to navigate grief or life's challenges alone. 💙

The links below provide resources to support our students, staff, families, and the entire Columbus community as we process this difficult loss and any other struggles life may bring.

For anyone who is struggling or simply needs someone to talk to, Columbus Community School District will have support available today in the Secondary Commons from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. We are here to support one another during this difficult time.

Please continue to take care of yourselves and those around you. Our thoughts are with everyone who has been impacted, and we hope these resources provide comfort, strength, and support. 💙

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_TEbDdLbresHlsqWXGPssmHGTH2PpzqE/view?usp=sharing

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_Kc-5Pn2MnMlz1KdfVLRWWKvAkAOf4xu/view?usp=sharing

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1MAlWNU5Wph2pOS5wRIHVCJWc1dyRUM1mFSOOPyutIcU/edit?usp=sharing

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Ly9w-igMXcerZrxjvgAXDbBq695Jouzs/view?usp=sharing

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Xu-Yg33UA72GsYVvjYunUG-yDow8TQrT/view?usp=sharing

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1OfKdFkfCcltxtpf_0LkuBXZ0Wr_GVYtq/view?usp=sharing

June 29, 2026

Dear Columbus Community School District Families, Students, and Staff,

It is with great sadness that we share the loss of our school employee, Randy Phillips. Randy was a valued member of our school community, and his passing has deeply affected many students, staff members, and families.

During times of loss, it is important that we come together to support one another and recognize that each person experiences grief differently. To provide support for our school community, counselors will be available in the High School Student Commons Area on Tuesday, June 30, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Any students, staff members, or families who would like someone to talk with are encouraged to stop by during these hours. Whether individuals wish to share memories, ask questions, or simply spend time with a caring professional, support will be available. Please note, as a district additional resources will be shared via Thrillshare as well.

We encourage families to check in with their children and provide opportunities for conversation and support at home. Children and adults often respond to loss in different ways, and it is important to listen, provide reassurance, and maintain routines as much as possible.

As a school community, we extend our deepest sympathies to Randy’s family, friends, and all those who knew and cared for him. We are grateful for the contributions he made to our district and the positive impact he had on those around him.

Please keep the Phillips family in your thoughts during this difficult time. Together, we will continue to support one another as we navigate this loss as a school community.

Sincerely,

Karinda Wahls
Superintendent
Columbus Community School District

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1bnmUSCH2RRATuEYzkP9OGl9gP9gLD5vqPSBuVTHoTK0/edit?usp=sharing

Today's JH softball game vs LM has been cancelled. Varsity will be postponed to a later date.

☀️ Looking for ways to keep your child learning, creating, and exploring this summer?

The AEA has compiled a fantastic collection of FREE summer learning resources for students and families! From reading and math activities to creative projects, virtual learning opportunities, and educational games, there is something for every age and interest.

Summer is a great time to build skills, spark curiosity, and continue learning in fun and engaging ways. We encourage our Wildcat families to check out these resources and find activities that fit their summer adventures!

📚✏️🎨🔬💻

View the Summer Learning Resources here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/11hH1sPXKtK2WIKdJmxG1UEgV95nZ3q-s/view?usp=sharing

Have a safe, fun, and learning-filled summer! 💙🤍🐾
#ColumbusWildcats #SummerLearning #WildcatPride #LearningBeyondTheClassroom

⛽💙 We're in the home stretch! 💙⛽

With just ONE month left in the Fuel Up & Give Back Program, our community has already raised an incredible $4,495.87 for Columbus Community Schools!

Our goal is $6,230.46, and with your help, we can get there by June 30th. Every gallon purchased at the Columbus Junction FAST STOP helps support our students and schools.

🚗 Fill up your tank.
💙 Support our students.
⛽ Turn gallons into giving.

Thank you to everyone who has fueled up and given back so far! Let's finish strong and make a lasting impact for Columbus Community Schools! #FuelUpGiveBack #WildcatPride #CommunityStrong #SupportOurSchools

⛽💙 ¡Estamos en la recta final! 💙⛽

¡Con solo un mes restante en el programa Fuel Up & Give Back, nuestra comunidad ya ha recaudado la increíble cantidad de $4,495.87 para el Distrito Escolar de Columbus Community Schools!

Nuestra meta es $6,230.46, y con su ayuda podemos alcanzarla antes del 30 de junio. Cada galón de gasolina que compre en Columbus Junction FAST STOP ayuda a apoyar a nuestros estudiantes y escuelas.

🚗 Llene su tanque.
💙 Apoye a nuestros estudiantes.
⛽ Convierta galones en donaciones.

¡Gracias a todos los que han participado y apoyado esta iniciativa hasta ahora! ¡Terminemos con fuerza y hagamos una diferencia duradera para Columbus Community Schools!

#FuelUpGiveBack #OrgulloWildcat #ComunidadUnida #ApoyeNuestrasEscuelas

🧠💡 Looking for a fun way to keep your brain active this summer?

Our K–12 TAG Teacher, Mr. Kehoe, has put together a collection of Online Extension Games & Activities for students and families to enjoy throughout the summer! These engaging puzzles and challenges help build critical thinking, problem-solving, math, vocabulary, geography, and logic skills while having fun.

From Wordle and Sudoku to math puzzles, reasoning games, geography challenges, and more, there's something for everyone! Whether you're looking for a quick daily challenge or unlimited brain-boosting activities, these resources are a great way to keep learning going all summer long.

Thank you, Mr. Kehoe, for sharing these excellent enrichment opportunities with our students! 🌟

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1LI05CFirSm2qYRUeBJ4BE2FvGQExv6Vp/view?usp=sharing

#ColumbusWildcats #TAG #SummerLearning #BrainBoost #LearningBeyondTheClassroom #WildcatPride