The Boise School District proudly celebrated its 2026 AVID Senior Class during a special districtwide recognition event held April 15, 2026 at South Junior High School, honoring students from Boise, Borah, Capital, and Timberline High Schools for their hard work, perseverance, and commitment to academic success through the AVID program.
The evening featured remarks from Deputy Superintendent of Teaching and Learning Wendy Johnson and Superintendent Lisa Roberts, along with an inspiring message from Boise High School Class of 2021 alumnus Stanislas Kabalika, who shared how AVID helped shape his pathway beyond high school. The celebration also included recognition of numerous scholarship recipients and student speakers representing each of the district’s four high school AVID programs.
AVID—Advancement Via Individual Determination—supports students in developing the skills, confidence, and college- and career-ready habits needed to succeed in rigorous coursework and beyond graduation. Through structured academic support, goal setting, collaboration, and strong relationships with teachers and peers, AVID students demonstrate what’s possible when determination meets opportunity.
This year’s celebration highlighted the accomplishments of dozens of graduating seniors across the district, including several students who earned districtwide AVID scholarships valued at up to $20,000, along with additional school-level scholarships recognizing leadership, persistence, and academic growth.
Photos captured during the event feature AVID seniors from each of the district’s four quadrants—Boise, Borah, Capital, and Timberline—coming together to celebrate their achievements and the supportive community that helped them reach this milestone moment.
We are incredibly proud of these students and grateful to the educators, families, and community partners who continue to make the AVID program such a powerful pathway for student success in the Boise School District.
Watch the full 2026 AVID Senior Celebration, held April 15, honoring Boise School District seniors from across the Boise, Borah, Capital, and Timberline quadrants for their hard work, leadership, and commitment to college, career, and life readiness. Congratulations to the AVID Class of 2026! 🎓👏
Timberline Senior Sandy Dang Named Idaho’s Only Recipient of Prestigious National Horatio Alger Scholarship
While many Boise School District students earn scholarships each year, Sandy Dang’s achievement stands out nationally. The Timberline High School senior and AVID student has been named the only student in Idaho selected as a national scholar by the Horatio Alger Association—one of just 105 students nationwide to receive this recognition.
The prestigious award honors students who demonstrate perseverance, leadership, and a strong commitment to earning a college degree despite challenges. As a recipient, Sandy will receive $5,000 per year for four years, along with ongoing mentoring and support. She also attended the Scholars Conference in Washington, D.C. last week.
Sandy is currently considering attending Seattle University to study Computer Science. Her recognition as Idaho’s sole national recipient highlights both her determination and the strength of students across the Boise School District.
🎓✨ Celebrating Academic Excellence at Capital High School
On Friday, April 10, Capital High School recognized outstanding students during its annual Academic Assembly, honoring achievement across subjects including English, science, math, P.E., and more. Students were celebrated alongside the educators who support their success each day.
These recognitions reflect the Boise School District’s commitment to student-centered learning and preparing students for success in college, career, and life. Events like this highlight the impact of strong public schools and dedicated staff across our community.
Similar end-of-year academic assemblies will be taking place at other Boise School District high schools in the coming weeks, continuing this important tradition of recognizing student achievement across the district.
👏 Congratulations to Capital High’s students and staff!
Borah Senior Genevieve Fink Earns BoiseDev Great Idaho Athlete Award
Borah High School senior Genevieve Fink has been recognized with the Great Idaho Athlete Award from BoiseDev, presented by Corwin Ford—an honor highlighting student-athletes who excel on the field and in their communities.
A seven-year volleyball player who competes in all six rotations, Genevieve serves as a leader for her teammates and plans to continue her education and volleyball career at the University of Puget Sound after graduation, where she will study education.
Boise School District is proud to celebrate Genevieve and other district student-athletes recognized through this program. Learn more online about the award and read about additional honorees.
Whittier and Liberty Elementary Schools Receive Support Through Idaho Lottery’s “Love Your School” Program
Students and staff at Whittier Elementary School recently received an exciting surprise—a $1,000 check from the Idaho Lottery, made possible through a parent nomination recognizing the school community.
Representatives from the Idaho Lottery visited Whittier to present the award in person, celebrating the strong partnership between families and schools and the many ways the Whittier community supports student success. The funds will help enhance learning opportunities and school experiences for students.
Earlier this year, Liberty Elementary School also benefited from the Idaho Lottery’s Love Your School program after a student’s family member was selected as the January winner. As part of the celebration, the student had the opportunity to spin the program’s prize wheel to multiply the award amount, adding extra excitement—and additional support—for the Liberty school community.
These recognitions highlight how community partnerships continue to make a meaningful difference for Boise School District students. Congratulations to the students, staff, and families at both Whittier and Liberty Elementary for this well-deserved support!
Representatives from the Idaho Lottery present a $1,000 Love Your School award to students and staff at Whittier Elementary School, made possible through a parent nomination recognizing the strength of the Whittier school community.
Students and staff at Liberty Elementary School celebrate receiving support through the Idaho LotteryLove Your School program, after a student’s family member was selected as a monthly winner and helped bring additional resources to their school.
The Red Apple and Golden Apple Awards highlight the incredible contributions of both certified and classified staff across the Boise School District. From classrooms to custodial teams, these individuals help create learning environments where students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Mike Smith, Head Custodian at Timberline High School, was recognized for his outstanding service and leadership supporting students and staff. Recently honored at Timberline by Area Director Dr. Teri Thaemert, Mike helps ensure classrooms are ready for learning each day and mentors team members across the district. Congratulations, Mike!
April 2026 Red Apple Award 🍎
Dr. Tatia Totorica, Mathematics Teacher at East Junior High School, was recognized for her outstanding commitment to student learning and academic success. Pictured with Boise School Board President Dave Wagers, Dr. Totorica helps students build confidence and strong problem-solving skills every day. Congratulations, Dr. Totorica!
April 2026 Golden Apple Award 🏅
Milan Klipa, Assistant Custodian at Hillside Junior High School, was recognized for his outstanding service supporting students and staff. Pictured with Boise School Board Trustee Dr. Alejandro Necochea, Milan helps ensure Hillside remains a clean, safe, and welcoming place to learn each day. Congratulations, Milan!
Congratulations to Anna Daley – 2026 Recipient of the Jeffrey D. Wilhelm Teacher Leadership Award
Congratulations to Anna Daley, an English and AVID teacher at Boise High School, on being named the 2026 recipient of the Jeffrey D. Wilhelm Teacher Leadership Award from the Boise State Writing Project.
The award recognizes educators who demonstrate leadership in inquiry-based teaching, literacy, and teaching for democracy. Anna has been an active Boise State Writing Project leader since 2008—leading inquiry courses, supporting statewide professional development, and contributing to National Writing Project initiatives. She is also known for generously sharing classroom strategies that support student success.
Anna teaches English 12, AVID 12, and concurrent credit courses, and her leadership continues to make a lasting impact on students and colleagues alike. Congratulations, Anna!
📊 Helping Families Learn About Standards-Based Reporting: Parent Information Sessions Scheduled
Boise School District is hosting a series of parent information sessions this spring to help families learn more about standards-based reporting (SBR). These sessions are designed primarily for elementary families, though secondary parents are also welcome to attend. Additional opportunities specifically for secondary families will be offered during the 2026–27 school year.
Each session will be facilitated by the area director for that quadrant and will provide helpful information, context, and opportunities for questions.
All sessions will be held from 6:00–7:00 p.m.:
April 28 – Boise Quad (Hillside Junior High)
April 30 – Capital Quad (Fairmont Junior High)
May 5 – Borah Quad (South Junior High)
May 7 – Timberline Quad (East Junior High)
Families are encouraged to attend the session most convenient for them. Staff are also welcome to join, as these meetings provide a great opportunity to connect with families and support understanding of this important work.
Please watch for additional details in upcoming school newsletters and communications.
Action Needed: Secondary Families Asked to Download Athletics Physical Forms Ahead of New Registration System Launch
Boise School District is transitioning to a new athletics registration platform for the 2026–2027 school year. Beginning in May, Rank One will replace Aktivate as the District’s system for managing student athletic registration and required Physical Education physical forms.
As part of this transition, families of current secondary student-athletes who already have a physical on file for next school year (including students entering 8th, 10th, and 12th grades) are asked to log in to Aktivate now and download a copy of their student’s physical so it will be ready to upload when Rank One launches.
Students entering 7th, 9th, or 11th grade athletics will need a new physical dated after May 1 to participate next year, in accordance with Idaho High School Activities Association and Boise School District requirements.
Once Rank One launches, families will upload forms directly into the new system and will also be able to access participation documents, team schedules, and athletic updates in one convenient place. 🏃♂️📋
Additional instructions and support resources will be shared soon.
READY! for Kindergarten at Lincoln Early Learning Center
Families with children ages 2–5 are invited to attend the annual READY! for Kindergarten workshops at the Lincoln Early Learning Center.
READY! for Kindergarten is a free series of parent education workshops that shows how play-based activities help build the academic and social-emotional skills children need for kindergarten success. Parents learn simple, hands-on strategies they can easily use at home.
The three-part series includes:
Language & Literacy – March 11, 2026
Math & Reasoning – April 8, 2026
Social & Emotional Development – May 6, 2026
Workshops are held at Lincoln Early Learning Center, 300 W. Fort St. Meals and child care are provided. Register online.
📱 Digital Safety & Technology Night for Parents
Join us Thursday, April 16 from 5:30–7:00 p.m. at Washington Elementary for an informative evening focused on helping families navigate today’s digital world. Learn tips for monitoring your child’s school Chromebook, understanding tools like ParentSquare and Qustodio, and supporting safe technology use at home.
Please RSVP using the QR code or click on the flyer for a chance to win a raffle prize. We hope to see you there!
Boise School District Students to Participate in “Take It Outside Day” on April 24
Students across the Boise School District will have opportunities to take learning outdoors on Friday, April 24, 2026, as part of the District’s annual Take It Outside Day.
Held during Earth Week and on Arbor Day, the day encourages teachers to move lessons outside for all or part of the school day - whether on school grounds or through short walking field trips - to help strengthen students’ connection to nature. As part of the effort, Idaho Power will also track whether schools are able to “unplug” during portions of the day to help conserve energy, with results shared by quadrant.
Families are encouraged to help students come prepared for outdoor learning by dressing appropriately for sun or possible precipitation.
If a class is unable to participate on April 24, teachers may choose another day or incorporate nature-connected learning activities in the classroom.
For questions or to learn more, community members may contact the District Sustainability Team at sustainability@boiseschools.org.
Early May Is a Time to Celebrate the People Who Support Our Students Every Day 🍎🩺📚
The first week of May brings several opportunities to recognize the dedicated staff members who help students succeed across the Boise School District.
On School Lunch Hero Day (May 1), we celebrate our kitchen teams who create welcoming environments and support students each day. That same day, we also recognize School Principals' Day and the leadership principals provide to school communities.
Teacher Appreciation Week (May 4–8), including National Teachers' Day on May 5, honors the educators who inspire student learning every day.
On May 6, National School Nurses Day recognizes the nurses who help keep students healthy and ready to learn. Throughout May, Better Hearing and Speech Month also highlights the important work of speech-language staff who support student communication and success.
We invite families, students, and community members to join us in sharing a quick thank-you with these outstanding team members during this special time of appreciation. 💙
🌸 Spring Into Learning: Community Education Registration Now Open
Boise School District’s Spring 2026 Community Education session is now open for registration at www.boiselearns.org.
Classes run April 13–May 7 and are offered at Riverglen Junior High, Timberline High, West Junior High, multiple community locations, and online.
Choose from hundreds of affordable classes in arts, cooking, fitness, gardening, technology, career skills, languages, and more - perfect for trying something new or building your skills.
St. Luke’s Healthcare Career Festival for High School Students 🩺
High school students are invited to explore careers in healthcare at the St. Luke’s Career Festival on Thursday, April 30, from 4–7 p.m. at JUMP in downtown Boise. Students can connect with healthcare professionals, learn about training pathways, receive résumé support, and discover opportunities in fields such as nursing, imaging, emergency services, nutrition, pharmacy, behavioral health, and more.
Scan the QR code on the flyer below or visit Careers at St. Luke’s to learn more. AirPods giveaways and snacks will be available!
Get Ready for Kindergarten Summer Camp
The Boise School District is offering a Get Ready for Kindergarten Summer Camp for students entering kindergarten this fall who may benefit from extra support with early literacy, math, and social-emotional skills.
The program runs June 3 through July 2, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Breakfast, lunch, and transportation from neighborhood elementary schools are provided. Families are asked to commit to regular attendance throughout the program.
View the following flyer for location details and registration information:
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.
Get Informed: Subscribe to Beyond the Bell
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.
Beyond the Bell – Latest Edition 🔔
Stay informed on key issues impacting Boise School District, including legislative updates, research on our Free Breakfast for All initiative, progress toward Standards-Based Reporting, and the timeline for developing the 2026–2027 district budget.
June 2-26: Secondary Summer School - Semester 1 (18 days)
June 19: Juneteenth - No Summer School
June 30-July 23: Secondary Summer School - Semester 2 (18 days)
July 4: Independence Day - No Summer School
August 12: First Day of School - Early Release K-12
August 17: First Day of School - Pre K and Early Childhood Special Education Programs
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...
