Future Health Leaders: BSD Students Post Outstanding Results at HOSA Regionals
Boise School District students delivered an outstanding performance at the Region 4 Health Occupations Students of America Regional Competition, held December 12–13 at the Dennis Technical Education Center (DTEC).
Students from Boise High, Borah High, Timberline High, and DTEC earned 67 Top 10 finishes, including 12 first-place, 14 second-place, and 13 third-place results across a wide range of health science, leadership, and teamwork events.
This success reflects the strength of our district’s career and technical education programs and their role in preparing students for in-demand health careers that directly benefit our local community.
Qualifying students now advance to the HOSA State Leadership Conference in March.
KTVB Student News: Creating Real Opportunities for Student Voices
Boise School District’s partnership with KTVB through Student News is one more example of our commitment to student success through our Strategic Plan.
In a recent Student News segment, students from East Junior High School produced a story about a new mural that encourages classmates to think about future pathways after graduation. By researching, interviewing, and reporting on a story that matters to them, students are developing real-world communication and critical-thinking skills.
This student-led work reflects key Strategic Plan priorities, including student voice, student-centered learning, college and career readiness, and community engagement. Opportunities like Student News show how we are putting our plan into action — empowering students, amplifying their voices, and preparing them for success beyond the classroom.
Colorful display at East Junior High School showcases post-graduation possibilities for Boise students.
Students Give Back with Freshly Baked Bread Before Winter Break
Just before winter break, students in East Junior High’s Family and Consumer Science classes, led by Sandy Scott, put their learning to work in a meaningful way. Students baked fresh bread and donated it to local Boise Police Department stations.
The project gave students hands-on experience in food preparation while emphasizing the importance of community service. It was a thoughtful way to head into the break—sharing kindness, showing appreciation, and strengthening connections between students and the Boise community.
Just before winter break, East Junior High students from Family and Consumer Science classes shared freshly baked bread with Officer Pi—a thoughtful gesture of appreciation for the Boise Police Department and a great example of students putting their learning into action.
Koelsch Elementary Students Share the Joy of Giving Through Special Holiday Experience
Students at Koelsch Elementary recently took part in a special Giving Experience, thoughtfully selecting gifts for two important people in their lives. 💝
With support from generous community volunteers who donated items and wrapped presents—joined by Lisa Roberts, superintendent of the Boise School District—students experienced firsthand the joy of gratitude, kindness, and giving back.
A heartfelt thank you to our community partners and volunteers for making this meaningful experience possible and for spreading so much holiday cheer! 🎁
Boise School District Superintendent Lisa Roberts assists a Koelsch student during the school's special Giving Experience.
With the help of generous community volunteers who donated items and wrapped presents, Koelsch students learned the joy of gratitude, kindness, and giving back.
Koelsch Sixth Graders Cook Up Family Fun with BUGS
Koelsch Elementary sixth graders and their families recently came together for a fun and meaningful Family Engagement Cooking Event with Boise Urban Garden School (BUGS). The hands-on experience encouraged students and families to learn side by side while building practical cooking skills and a deeper understanding of healthy eating.
Student volunteers from the Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine (ICOM) led the cooking stations, guiding families step by step, answering questions, and sharing helpful tips about nutrition and balanced meals. Their support helped create a welcoming, engaging environment for learners of all ages.
The best part of the afternoon was enjoying the delicious meals everyone prepared together—an experience filled with learning, laughter, and connection. Events like this strengthen family engagement while creating lasting memories, one bite at a time.
Koelsch sixth graders and their families learn, cook, and laugh together during a Family Engagement Cooking Event with Boise Urban Garden School (BUGS), guided by student volunteers from Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine. 🌱👩🍳👨🍳
The best part of the day? Enjoying the delicious, healthy meals families prepared together—fresh, flavorful, and made with care at Koelsch Elementary. 🥗🍎😋
Taft Elementary Shared Holiday Cheer Through the Generosity Project
Recently, Taft Elementary was buzzing with kindness as students participated in the Generosity Project Holiday Store. Thanks to generous community donations, students wrote heartfelt notes of appreciation and selected gifts for two special people in their lives. Each thoughtfully wrapped gift was sent home in hand-decorated bags—turning simple moments into meaningful acts of generosity and reminding students that the best gifts truly came from the heart. 💫
Before winter break, Maple Grove Elementary students came together for a powerful Be the Light Assembly—an uplifting reminder that kindness, empathy, and respect made a big difference in their school community.
Through meaningful messages and shared moments, students were encouraged to shine their light by supporting one another, making positive choices, and leading with compassion. 💛 What a wonderful way to head into winter break—lifting each other up and carrying that light beyond the classroom. ✨
25 Marathons, One Powerful Message: Cynthia Mann Students Run Alongside Parent to Celebrate Perseverance
On December 12, Cynthia Mann Elementary proudly cheered on parent Justin Levine, founder of Inspire Kidz, as he completed his 25th marathon of 2025—an incredible milestone focused on inspiring kids through perseverance and purpose.
For his final run, Justin chose a special route around the Cynthia Mann Elementary campus. During recess, students and families joined him for a few laps, transforming the school grounds into a celebration of community, resilience, and giving back.
Students saw firsthand what dedication looks like—and how one person’s commitment can inspire many. Congratulations, Justin, and thank you for motivating our students to dream big and never give up. 👏💪
Cynthia Mann Elementary parent Justin Levine gives a thumbs up as he runs his 25th marathon to inspire kids at the school.
Justin Levine, founder of Inspire Kidz, runs alongside Cynthia Mann Elementary students during his final marathon of the year—turning the school campus into a powerful moment of inspiration, perseverance, and community support.
Les Bois Junior High Spanish Teacher Recognized Statewide
Les Bois Junior High Spanish teacher Sierra Atkins was recently named the 2026 Idaho Language Teacher of the Year, honoring her passion for language instruction, cultural connection, and student engagement. Selected from five statewide finalists, Atkins brings more than two decades of experience to her classroom and is known for creating meaningful, real-world learning experiences for students. Her recognition is yet another example of Boise School District’s Strategic Plan in action—hiring, supporting, and retaining high-quality educators who help every student thrive.
Timberline’s Hudson Lewis Named Idaho Press Football Athlete of the Year
Timberline High School senior Hudson Lewis has been named the Idaho Press Football Athlete of the Year, recognizing an outstanding 2025 season for the Wolves. A dominant presence on both sides of the ball, Lewis recorded more than 1,000 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns while also contributing key defensive stops and interceptions.
His leadership and playmaking helped guide Timberline High School to a 10–2 record and the program’s first appearance in the 6A state championship game. Lewis’s performance earned him multiple all-state honors and solidified his reputation as one of Idaho’s premier high school football players.
The recognition from the Idaho Press caps an exceptional high school career and highlights the strong tradition of student-athlete excellence at Timberline.
Hudson Lewis was a versatile weapon for the Timberline High School varsity football team all season long. Photo courtesy: Brian Myrick/Idaho Press
Each year, hundreds of volunteers identify needs, raise funds, prepare clothing, and personally support students as they “shop” for brand-new essentials. Their commitment helps elementary students across Ada County feel confident, supported, and ready to learn.
Thanks to this incredible program, every child receives new clothing, shoes, personal care items, and a book of their choice—funded through the Assistance League Thrift Shop, community donations, and generous grants.
We extend our deepest thanks to the volunteers whose time, care, and generosity make a lasting difference for Boise students every day. 💛
New Year, New Skills: Winter Community Education Registration Is Open
Boise School District is proud to continue its 55-year tradition of affordable, high-quality lifelong learning through Community Education.
Boise School District Announces High School Graduation Dates
Boise School District is pleased to announce graduation dates and locations for the Class of 2026. Families and community members are invited to join us in celebrating this important milestone as students from across the district prepare to walk the stage.
Frank Church High School
May 14 at 6:00 p.m.
Capital High School Auditorium
Boise Online School
May 15 at 5:00 p.m.
Borah High School Auditorium
Capital High School
May 18 at 7:00 p.m.
Extra Mile Arena
Timberline High School
May 19 at 7:00 p.m.
Extra Mile Arena
Boise High School
May 20 at 7:00 p.m.
Extra Mile Arena
Borah High School
May 21 at 7:00 p.m.
Extra Mile Arena
We look forward to celebrating our graduates and wish the Class of 2026 continued success as they take their next steps.
Boise Schools to Benefit from Youth Suicide Prevention Study
The Boise School District will benefit from a new $16 million national study focused on strengthening student mental health and preventing youth suicide. Co-led by St. Luke’s Health System and funded by the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI), the five-year BRITE Trial will bring proven, school-based prevention programs directly into Boise classrooms beginning in the 2026–27 school year.
Boise schools are among 20 Idaho schools participating in the study, which will compare evidence-based programs to determine which strategies best reduce suicide risk for students in grades 8–10.
“This program will help us identify the most effective strategies to support our students’ mental health,” said Boise School District Superintendent Lisa Roberts. “We’re proud to partner with St. Luke’s to keep our children safe.”
Montessori Program Enrollment Opens for 2026–2027 at Liberty Elementary
Boise School District is now accepting applications for its Montessori Program at Liberty Elementary School for the 2026–2027 school year. Applications opened January 6, 2026, and are due by 3 p.m. on February 9, 2026.
Families interested in learning more are encouraged to attend the Montessori Information Night on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, from 5:30–6:30 p.m. at Liberty Elementary, 1740 E. Bergeson St., Boise. This event will provide an overview of the Montessori philosophy, classroom environment, and enrollment process.
The Montessori program focuses on developing self-motivated, responsible, lifelong learners through hands-on, student-centered learning aligned with district and state standards. A lottery will be held on February 14, 2026, with results posted and families notified on February 17, 2026.
For full program details and application information, visit
Treasure Valley Math & Science Center Info Night and Intent-to-Test Now Open for the 2026–27 School Year
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 26th, 2026 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.
All Honors 6/7 and Compacted 7/8 students will have the option to test within their classrooms during the first 2 weeks of February. Please fill out the Intent to Test Form by 1/26/26 if you would like your student to test. Also, please see the TVMSC Informational Video.
2025–2026 Boise School District Sports Start Dates
Boise School District is excited to offer another great year of high school athletics! Below you’ll find the official start dates for the 2025–2026 school year’s sports seasons, including tryouts and the first day of practices.
We encourage all interested student-athletes to contact their school’s athletic office for details on specific tryout dates, times, and locations. Requirements such as physicals, eligibility paperwork, and registration deadlines may vary by sport and school.
This is another example of how the Boise School District offers a comprehensive public school education — one where all students can thrive, grow, and succeed both in the classroom and on the field. Whether you’re competing at the varsity level, joining a junior varsity squad, or supporting your team from the stands, athletics help build teamwork, resilience, and school pride.
We look forward to a safe, spirited, and successful season for all our student-athletes!
Want to know more about how our schools work behind the scenes? Beyond the Bell is a new publication from the Boise School District that offers an inside look at the financial, operational, and policy decisions shaping public education in our community.
Each issue dives into key topics like budgeting, strategic planning, student safety, and our instructional approach—providing timely insights for parents, employees, business leaders, elected officials, and anyone invested in the future of our schools.'
ParentSquare Update: Smarter Notifications, Same Great Connection
Boise School District uses ParentSquare to keep families connected—with district, school, and classroom updates all in one place. And now, ParentSquare is introducing an improvement that makes it even easier to stay informed — Smart Notification Delivery.
This new feature helps streamline communication by sending post notifications through the ParentSquare app first, and by text only as a backup. The goal is to reduce duplicate messages while keeping families fully informed.
What’s Changing:
📲 App-first delivery, text as fallback: Posts, post digests, and updates to posts will now send through the app first, with a backup text only if needed.
⏱️ No change for time-sensitive messages: Direct Messages and alerts will still go to all your preferred methods (text, email, and app).
📩 Email notifications: These will continue for all communications.
Why the Change:
This update helps simplify and streamline how you receive school notifications, making it easier to track important updates all in one place.
What You Need to Do:
✅ No action required — if you already use the app and have both app and text notifications turned on, you’ll automatically benefit from this update.
📱 If you haven’t downloaded the ParentSquare app yet, now’s the perfect time! It’s the best way to access, customize, and manage your school communications.
Download the free ParentSquare app from the App Store
January 12: Regular monthly meeting of the Boise School Board, 6 p.m., District Services Center, 8169 W. Victory Rd., Boise. When available, agenda will be posted online.
January 19: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day - No School Pre K-12
February 16: Presidents' Day - No School Pre K-12
February 19: Dual Language Informational Night at Whitney and Whittier elementary schools, 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
March 5: Kindergarten Registration/Open House, 3:45 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
March 13: End of Third Quarter - Early Release K-6 to work on Report Cards, No School Pre K
March 16-20: Spring Break - No School Pre K-12
May 14: Last Day of School for Seniors, Early Childhood Special Education Programs and Pre K
May 19: Pre K-12 No School; Teacher Directed Day/Professional Development
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...
