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Caldwell trustees celebrate student projects, Close-Up trip and teacher awards as district adopts 'future readiness' focus
Summary
The board heard multiple student recognitions May 11: freshman passion projects, senior project completion rates and a Close‑Up Washington DC trip; the district detailed a local 'future readiness' proposal aligned with new state civics standards and noted an Idaho Education Association teacher of the year honor.
Trustees spent a large portion of their May 11 meeting recognizing student work and program changes that school leaders say support civic engagement and postsecondary readiness.
Freshman and senior projects: Teachers Tracy White and Mrs. Gildisgard described a freshman "passion project" that builds research and civic-engagement skills and connects students with Treasure Valley nonprofits. Students presented examples addressing topics from mental-health awareness and bullying to sex trafficking and the "pink tax." Teachers said the project prepares students for larger, judged senior projects and National History Day.
Future readiness and civics updates: Olivia Whitell, who oversees the senior and future readiness projects, described a local proposal to align senior work with nine state competencies adopted by the Idaho State Board of Education. She summarized how students will select competencies, track growth and incorporate a reflection and portfolio. Whitell also said House Bill 397 led to a revised state civics test and discussed an Idaho State Seal of Excellence in Civics endorsement that takes effect July 1; the district will decide local timing for implementation.
Close‑Up trip and scholarships: Alexis Waterman and Seringa staff presented students’ experiences on a Close‑Up educational trip to Washington, D.C., funded by migrant-program support; about 13 Caldwell students attended and described meetings with Idaho congressional offices and visits to national memorials. Board members also recognized a student who received a Gates Foundation scholarship and honored Amy Gonzalez as the Idaho Education Association teacher of the year.
Why this matters: District leaders said the projects enhance student civic knowledge, provide connections to community organizations and create pathways to internships and job offers; trustees praised the programs and suggested continued community partnerships and parent outreach for future-readiness planning.
