This morning, kindergartners from South Hill and Enfield Elementary visited the Tompkins County Public Library as part of Kids Discover the Trail! (KDT!) Ithaca, a program that has connected ICSD students to their community for more than 20 years.

What started in 2004 has grown into a defining part of the elementary experience, giving every student hands-on learning opportunities at Discovery Trail sites across Ithaca. A unique part of the program is the Buddy Up initiative, which pairs students with peers from another school, helping build connections that carry into middle school and beyond.

Learn more about KDT's 20-year impact: https://www.ithacacityschools.org/article/2869698
3 days ago, ICSD Communications
A group of children are sitting on a floor facing two adults. One adult holds a book while the other speaks.
Library with bookshelves. Children sit at a table drawing on paper. An adult stands behind them.
Children at a library create art; two girls hold up finished work while smiling. A woman stands behind them.
A group of children looking at books in a library. A large wall tapestry is behind them.
People in a library with shelves of books. A woman holds paper and a screen, and a man stands behind a digital device.
Library with children gathered around a desk, an adult in the background, and a sign above.
Congratulations to 11th grader Emma Beer, winner of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition for New York’s 19th District. Congressman Josh Riley surprised her with the news during a visit on May 1.
5 days ago, ICSD Communications
A man and a woman stand outside Ithaca High School, holding framed certificates, with a cloudy sky in the background.
Three individuals stand before a building entrance, holding certificates. One holds a framed picture. The archway reads "ITHACA HIGH SCHOOL."
The voter registration deadline is tomorrow, May 5! If a qualified voter has previously registered with the district or with the County Board of Elections and has voted within the last 4 calendar years, they are eligible to vote in the May 19th election.

Read more about where you can register today at ithacacityschools.org/vote!
5 days ago, ICSD Communications
Text and images promoting registration for the Budget and School Board Election vote. A person studies at a desk.
The candidates for three open seats on the School Board are (in order of position on the ballot):

1. Madeline Cardona
2. Sara Garner
3. Garrick Blalock
4. Jill K. Tripp

For candidate bios and details on the Annual Budget Vote and School Board Election, visit ithacacityschools.org/vote.
9 days ago, ICSD Communications
A bulletin board displays "School Board Candidates" and lists Madeline Cardona, Sara Garner, and Garrick Blalock.
Earlier this month, BJM welcomed Senator Lea Webb, who spoke with students about her role in the New York State Senate and how her work supports our community.

During her visit, she recognized the school’s Green Team for organizing a petition opposing a proposed data center, highlighting their leadership and advocacy.

We’re proud of our students for using their voices and appreciate Senator Webb taking the time to connect with our school community.
16 days ago, ICSD Communications
People on stage at an event with a banner behind them. A person stands out in a photo.
A group of children and adults hold certificates while seated and standing on a stage, with a tiger logo behind them.
Large group of people in a hall with rows of empty seats. Some hold signs. A long table with items in front.
📝 Our End-of-Year Survey is open now through May 8!

Each year, we invite families, students, and staff to share their experiences with support, school climate, leadership, and communication. Your feedback helps us understand what’s working and where we can grow.

📨 Surveys were shared via email and text or use one of the links below to take yours.

📬 Families: https://edu.sogolytics.com/r/25-26FamilyEOYSurvey
🎓 Students: https://edu.sogolytics.com/r/25-26StudentEOYSurvey
🧑‍🏫 Staff: https://edu.sogolytics.com/r/25-26StaffEOYSurvey

Thanks for taking a few minutes to share your voice!
18 days ago, ICSD Communications
A collage of photos shows students engaged in activities. Text reads "We'd love your feedback! Take our end-of-year survey Open April 21 - May 8."
A look at the Caroline Elementary Pre-K Art Show 🎨🖌

In Pre-K, art supports early skill development, from fine motor coordination to language and self-expression, while giving students opportunities to explore, create, and share their thinking.

Thank you to the staff and families who helped make the event possible.
29 days ago, ICSD Communications
A table displays aluminum foil sculptures with photos. A blue tablecloth covers the table, and several small pictures are arranged.
An orange bulletin board displays various colorful artwork on black backgrounds, with each piece labeled. The board is located in an indoor space.
A row of wooden geometric shapes arranged on a wooden surface with a gray curtain in the background.
Colorful artworks, including painted cards and clay figures, displayed on a purple table. Each piece has a label with names and ages.
Cardboard boxes stacked on top of one another with colorful construction paper glued to it.
Display of various animal silhouettes in blue and green on a green background. Several tables and chairs are visible in the background.
Figures made of aluminum foil attached to black bases with name tags. Displayed on a blue table.
Thank you to everyone who joined Cultural Community Night at Northeast Elementary! It was a wonderful evening filled with delicious food, vibrant performances, and a celebration of the many cultures that make up the community.
about 1 month ago, ICSD Communications
A group of students performing in the gym
A student in the gym playing the piano
A student in the gym playing the guitar
A student in the gym playing the cello
Families on either side of a long table, getting food.
Northeast cafeteria filled with families
NE Cultural Community Night programs spread across the table
BOTS! 🤖✨ Last week, fifth graders at Cayuga Heights Elementary shined on stage in their musical, the result of a year of hard work led by Elizabeth Dawson. Thank you to all who came out to support!
about 1 month ago, ICSD Communications
CHES 5th graders performing in the musical BOTS!
Cayuga Heights fifth graders on stage performing in the musical BOTS!
Cayuga Heights fifth graders on stage performing in the musical BOTS!
Cayuga Heights fifth graders on stage performing in the musical BOTS!
5th grade student singing on stage in the production of BOTS!
Cayuga Heights fifth graders on stage performing in the musical BOTS!
Cayuga Heights fifth graders on stage performing in the musical BOTS!
Cayuga Heights students sitting on the floor of the cafeteria watching the musical and waving.
Elizabeth Dawson, director of BOTS!, talking to the audience into a mic.
Last week, IHS seniors gathered for the annual tradition, Casino Night! ♣️🃏

The evening featured games, prizes, and food, and was made possible through the generosity of the Class of 2026 families, friends, and the community. A winning night all around!
about 2 months ago, ICSD Communications
IHS students participating in Casino Night
IHS Casino Night
IHS students participating in Casino Night
IHS principal Caren Arnold holding colorful tickets at casino night
IHS students participating in Casino Night
IHS students participating in Casino Night
Join the Conversation!

The Ithaca City School District (ICSD) invites community members to attend an upcoming Community Conversation to learn more about the proposed 2026 Capital Project and ask questions.

This long-range facilities plan would address key infrastructure, health and safety, accessibility, and sustainability needs across our schools. The proposed project would not exceed $43.9 million and would be funded through bonds with partial New York State aid.

🗳️ Community members will vote on the proposal during the Annual Budget Vote and School Board Election on Tuesday, May 19.

Learn more: ithacacityschools.org/o/icsd/page/2026-capital-project
about 2 months ago, ICSD Communications
Community Conversation Upcoming Events
Thank you to everyone who came out to support LACS Theatre this past weekend in their production of The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical (Theatre for Young Audiences Edition)!

We are incredibly proud of our talented students and their hard work in bringing this musical to the stage. 🎭✨
2 months ago, ICSD Communications
LACS students performing on stage in The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson musical
LACS students performing on stage in The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson musical
LACS students performing on stage in The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson musical
LACS students performing on stage in The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson musical
LACS students performing on stage in The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson musical
LACS students performing on stage in The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson musical
LACS students performing on stage in The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson musical
LACS students performing on stage in The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson musical

On February 12, 5th-grade students brought their learning to life during the school’s annual Human Rights Hero Wax Museum. As part of their study of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, students researched individuals from around the world who stood up for dignity, justice, and equality.

Students transformed into their chosen heroes and shared their stories with classmates, families, and staff, creating an interactive experience that highlighted the lasting impact of courage and advocacy.

Read more: ithacacityschools.org/o/bellesherman/article/2734532

2 months ago, ICSD Communications
Students from Belle Sherman participating in the human rights wax museum
Students from Belle Sherman participating in the human rights wax museum
Students from Belle Sherman participating in the human rights wax museum
Students from Belle Sherman participating in the human rights wax museum
LACS Theatre Company proudly presents The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical (Theatre for Young Audiences Edition).

Adapted from the novel by Rick Riordan, with a book by Joe Tracz and music and lyrics by Rob Rokicki, this engaging production showcases the talent and dedication of our student performers and production team.

Performances will be held in the Kulp Auditorium (1401 N. Cayuga St.) on:
• Friday, February 27 at 7:30 PM
• Saturday, February 28 at 7:30 PM
• Sunday, March 1 at 2:00 PM

Admission is free, and all are welcome to attend. We hope you will join us in supporting our students and celebrating the performing arts at LACS.
2 months ago, ICSD Communications
Poster for the Lightning Thief musical presented by the LACS Theatre Company
During Regent Week, LACS 6th graders participated in the 3rd Annual 6th Grade Science Fair, completing experiments and presentations within a challenging timeline.

Thank you to Gary and Susan, co-teachers of the 6th grade Inquiry and Tools class, an LACS tradition, for guiding students through the process.
3 months ago, ICSD Communications
A group of LACS 6th-graders seated in from of their poster boards at the science fair
An LACS 6th-grader stands in front of their yellow poster board at the science fair
An LACS 6th-grader stands in front of their yellow poster board at the science fair
An LACS 6th-grader stands in front of their yellow poster board at the science fair
An LACS 6th-grader stands in front of their yellow poster board at the science fair
A group of students gathered around a poster board at the 6th grade science fair at LACS

Across the Ithaca City School District, educators are creating learning experiences that connect classroom lessons to real life. At Enfield Elementary, students recently explored weather patterns during a hands-on unit with educator Farmer Melissa and storm chaser Chimera Comstock.

Students learned to read thermometers, understand “feels-like” temperatures, and analyze how weather impacts daily decisions—including whether recess is held indoors or outdoors. To extend their learning, students collaborated to create a weather-focused morning announcement script. Students in grades 3–5 now take turns sharing daily weather updates with the school community, building confidence, communication skills, and real-world connections to their learning.

Experiences like this reflect ICSD’s commitment to authentic, student-centered learning that elevates student voice and makes learning meaningful.

3 months ago, ICSD Communications
The back of two students heads observing the temperature outside on thermometer.
Farmer Melissa and an elementary aged student sit outside looking at notebook and observing their surroundings.
Enfield student outside in the orchard looking up at the sky.
Three students gathered around a table writing in their journals.
Students seen through a classroom window out in the orchard at Enfield Elementary as part of their weather project unit.
Farmer Melissa leading a unit about weather inside a classroom at Enfield Elementary.
Farmer Melissa and two Enfield Elementary students in the main office reviewing the weather announcement.
Enfield elementary student in the main office reading the weather during the morning announcements.
An image of the script on the desk next to the phone. A market sits on top.
During the first half of January, ICSD elementary students experienced West African music and dance through a visit from the Mbangba Cultural Troupe. Artists Nani Agbeli, Logan Amaral, and Dr. Baruch Whitehead visited all eight elementary schools, leading hands-on drumming and dance workshops for upper elementary students and a schoolwide performance.

Students learned about West African culture, identified Ghana on a map, explored hand drums, and performed the Kpanlogo rhythm and dance. The tour was made possible through the collaboration of ICSD music educators and offered a joyful, engaging cultural experience for students and staff.
3 months ago, ICSD Communications
Elementary students smile and move together while learning West African dance in a school gymnasium with red padded walls.
Elementary students sit in a semicircle playing West African drums as an instructor leads the group during a cultural music workshop in the gym.
A visiting artist demonstrates West African dance movements while elementary students follow along in a gymnasium.
A diverse group of elementary-age children dance together in a school gymnasium with a wooden floor and red padded walls. The kids are mid-movement, smiling and stepping in rhythm, wearing casual winter clothes like hoodies, sweatpants, and sneakers.
A large group of children sit on the floor of a school gymnasium facing two performers standing at the front. The gym has red padded walls and colorful murals of people and books. Teachers and adults stand along the walls while the children watch attentively, suggesting a school assembly or cultural performance.
Pre-K Applications Now Open for 2026-27 School Year!

The ICSD Early Childhood Program is now accepting applications for the 2026–27 school year.

Caregivers must complete the pre-K application by April 1. If spaces remain, applications received after April 1 will be considered. Placement in the Universal Pre-K (UPK) program is determined annually by a random lottery, which will be held during the second week of April.

All children who will be four years old on or before December 1, 2026, and who live within the ICSD boundaries are eligible to apply for pre-K.

For more information, please visit our website: ithacacityschools.org/prek
4 months ago, ICSD Communications
A hallway display shows five smiling elementary-aged children standing in front of a tiled wall, each with their face placed on a life-size paper cutout body decorated with colorful tissue paper, buttons, and craft materials. The figures pose with raised arms and playful stances, creating a sense of movement. Above them hangs a large, handmade rainbow collage made from layered paper, leaves, and textured materials in red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple.
Ithaca High School has been named to the 2025 AP School Honor Roll, earning Gold-level recognition from the College Board.

This honor recognizes schools that expand access to Advanced Placement courses while helping students succeed. For the Class of 2025:

📚 69% took at least one AP exam
🎓 66% scored a 3 or higher
✏️ 27% took five or more AP exams

Congratulations to our students, educators, and families for continuing to set a standard of academic excellence and equity.

🔗 Read the full press release: ithacacityschools.org/o/icsd/page/press-releases
4 months ago, ICSD Communications
IHS graduates wearing red caps and gowns sit together at a commencement ceremony, with decorated mortarboards visible and a blurred American flag and audience in the background.
We’re proud to share that the Ithaca City School District has been recognized with the 2025 cashVest 90+ Award for excellence in financial stewardship, liquidity management, and responsible use of public resources. This honor reflects our commitment to transparency, accountability, and investing every public dollar wisely for our students.

🔗 Read the full press release: ithacacityschools.org/o/icsd/page/press-releases
4 months ago, ICSD Communications
Aerial view of a IHS athletic complex with a football field and red running track at center, bleachers on both sides, adjacent soccer fields and a baseball diamond, surrounded by trees and hills, with a large lake visible in the background.