Dear MCSD Families
Due to the potential for severe storms this afternoon, we will implement a 12:30 early out dismissal today (one hour earlier than our normal Friday dismissal schedule) to ensure the safety of our students and staff.
Based on information from the National Weather Service, there is concern that storms may impact our area this afternoon. Our goal is to ensure that students and staff are safe and not in transit during any severe weather.
Today’s dismissal will be one hour earlier than our typical Friday early out schedule. For example, if your student is picked up at 1:10 PM on Fridays, today their pick-up time will be 12:10 PM. If they are normally dropped off by the bus at 2:00 they will be dropped off at 1:00.
There will be no after school practices or activities today, Friday, April 17th.
We recognize that the exact timing of storms can be unpredictable; however, we always strive to err on the side of caution when it comes to the safety and well-being of our students and staff.
Thank you for your understanding, flexibility, and continued support in helping us prioritize the care and safety of our school community.
Sincerely,
Tara Notz
Superintendent
Maquoketa Community School District
Due to the potential for severe storms this afternoon, we will implement a 12:30 early out dismissal today (one hour earlier than our normal Friday dismissal schedule) to ensure the safety of our students and staff.
Based on information from the National Weather Service, there is concern that storms may impact our area this afternoon. Our goal is to ensure that students and staff are safe and not in transit during any severe weather.
Today’s dismissal will be one hour earlier than our typical Friday early out schedule. For example, if your student is picked up at 1:10 PM on Fridays, today their pick-up time will be 12:10 PM. If they are normally dropped off by the bus at 2:00 they will be dropped off at 1:00.
There will be no after school practices or activities today, Friday, April 17th.
We recognize that the exact timing of storms can be unpredictable; however, we always strive to err on the side of caution when it comes to the safety and well-being of our students and staff.
Thank you for your understanding, flexibility, and continued support in helping us prioritize the care and safety of our school community.
Sincerely,
Tara Notz
Superintendent
Maquoketa Community School District

Devyn came from Midwest Technical Institute to talk to the Intro Ti Health Careers class about what programs and opportunities they provide.


High school students participated in Teen Health Day during their lunch time today





A big thank you to Genie Carr and the United Church of Christ for their continued support of the Maquoketa schools. They use proceeds from their Treasure Sale to purchase needed items for each of the schools.

Thank you to Koppes Dairy for welcoming Mrs. George’s Animal Science class for a tour and hands-on learning experience! Students had the opportunity to learn more about genetics and artificial insemination, and gain a better understanding of how these practices play an important role in the dairy industry.
We appreciate the time, knowledge, and experience shared with our students from Gary, Matthew, and Zach! 🐄🧬
We appreciate the time, knowledge, and experience shared with our students from Gary, Matthew, and Zach! 🐄🧬



🌿🪴SUPPORT LOCAL STUDENTS 🌿🪴
The greenhouse students have been busy getting everything ready for our upcoming plant sale! They’ve been working hard to prepare a great selection for the community.
By supporting our plant sale, you’re also supporting hands-on learning and student-led projects in our agriculture program. We can’t wait to share all of their hard work with you!
Also… our geraniums are HUGE this year! 🌺 You won’t want to miss them!
The greenhouse students have been busy getting everything ready for our upcoming plant sale! They’ve been working hard to prepare a great selection for the community.
By supporting our plant sale, you’re also supporting hands-on learning and student-led projects in our agriculture program. We can’t wait to share all of their hard work with you!
Also… our geraniums are HUGE this year! 🌺 You won’t want to miss them!






Mr Hanken came dressed for success this Monday morning to kickoff PROM week!

Jesse Ihrig & Brittni Larkey took a group of students on a University of Iowa STEM visit where they go to visit a couple departments as well as the 8th floor museum.










🌟Work-Based Learning Student Spotlight 🌟
Barrett Wedekind is completing his work-based learning experience with the City of Maquoketa, gaining valuable hands-on skills and insight into community operations.
Thank you to the City of Maquoketa for supporting our students! 👏
Barrett Wedekind is completing his work-based learning experience with the City of Maquoketa, gaining valuable hands-on skills and insight into community operations.
Thank you to the City of Maquoketa for supporting our students! 👏

Intro To Health Career students were given first hand information about the career of Marinna, a marriage and family therapist as well as from Maggie who is finishing her degree to obtain her masters of science in clinical mental health counseling.



Four of our artists earned top placements at the River Valley All-Conference Art Competition on Wednesday. Our artists did an amazing job showcasing their creativity, dedication, and hard work.
Please join us in congratulating these outstanding students on a job well done!
Kahlan Baker - Drawing
MJ Tenney - Watercolor
Brody Hinz - Photography
Skylar Ingersoll - Mixed Media Sculpture




A big thank you to Keri Shady for taking time out of her schedule to come and talk to the Intro To Health Careers class about her profession as a ARNP, DNP, PMHNP-BC.



Work-Based Learning Spotlight:
Tate Streets is gaining hands-on experience through his Work-Based Learning placement at the Maquoketa Police Department. This opportunity is allowing Tate to explore his interest in law enforcement while learning more about the day-to-day responsibilities that come with serving and protecting the community.
A big thank you to the Maquoketa Police Department for providing Tate with this valuable experience and helping support student career exploration!
Tate Streets is gaining hands-on experience through his Work-Based Learning placement at the Maquoketa Police Department. This opportunity is allowing Tate to explore his interest in law enforcement while learning more about the day-to-day responsibilities that come with serving and protecting the community.
A big thank you to the Maquoketa Police Department for providing Tate with this valuable experience and helping support student career exploration!

Another successful blood drive hosted by HOSA! Thank you to all that participated. You truly are bringing good to the world.










Ethan Winegar is gaining valuable hands-on experience through his work-based learning placement at Winegar Plumbing. Through this opportunity, Ethan is developing real-world skills in the plumbing trade, learning the importance of problem-solving, precision, and a strong work ethic!

Save the date for the Maquoketa Ag Education Plant Sale! 🌼🪴

Work-Based Learning Student Spotlight: Max Notz
Max Notz has been gaining valuable hands-on experience through his Work-Based Learning placements this semester! He spent the first half of his placement at Till’s Flooring, building skills in flooring installation and customer service. For the second half, Max has been working with Bernie’s Heating and Cooling, where he’s learning the ins and outs of HVAC systems.
Thank you to Till’s Flooring and Bernie’s Heating and Cooling for providing these opportunities and supporting student learning!
Max Notz has been gaining valuable hands-on experience through his Work-Based Learning placements this semester! He spent the first half of his placement at Till’s Flooring, building skills in flooring installation and customer service. For the second half, Max has been working with Bernie’s Heating and Cooling, where he’s learning the ins and outs of HVAC systems.
Thank you to Till’s Flooring and Bernie’s Heating and Cooling for providing these opportunities and supporting student learning!

Please join us in celebrating the graduating class of 2026 at our commencement ceremony on Friday, May 29th at 6pm at Maquoketa High School!

🌟Work-Based Learning Student Spotlight 🌟
Kyra Nelson has been gaining valuable hands-on experience through her work-based learning placements at Wag More and High Meadow Equine Center. Through these opportunities, Kyra has been working with a variety of animals, building her skills, and exploring her passion for animal care.
A big thank you to Wag More and High Meadow Equine Center for providing Kyra with these incredible learning opportunities and for supporting the growth of our students. 👏
Kyra Nelson has been gaining valuable hands-on experience through her work-based learning placements at Wag More and High Meadow Equine Center. Through these opportunities, Kyra has been working with a variety of animals, building her skills, and exploring her passion for animal care.
A big thank you to Wag More and High Meadow Equine Center for providing Kyra with these incredible learning opportunities and for supporting the growth of our students. 👏

🌟Work-Based Learning Student Spotlight 🌟
Callie Biza has been gaining valuable hands-on experience through her work-based learning placement at the middle school, working alongside Mrs. Ackley. This opportunity has allowed Callie to build real-world skills while exploring her interests in education.
A big thank you to Mrs. Ackley for fostering this opportunity and supporting Callie’s growth and development—we appreciate your time, mentorship, and dedication! 👏
Callie Biza has been gaining valuable hands-on experience through her work-based learning placement at the middle school, working alongside Mrs. Ackley. This opportunity has allowed Callie to build real-world skills while exploring her interests in education.
A big thank you to Mrs. Ackley for fostering this opportunity and supporting Callie’s growth and development—we appreciate your time, mentorship, and dedication! 👏

