Students at Northeast recently enjoyed a visit from Daisy Hollow Farm! From meeting friendly farm animals to learning more about agriculture and animal care, the experience brought hands-on learning and plenty of smiles. Thank you to Daisy Hollow Farm for sharing this memorable experience with our students.
4 months ago, ICSD Communications
A girl holds a small chicken with people around, some blurred, on a sunny day.
Woman with curly hair crouches to pet a small black and white goat on grass.
A group of children seated in a circle with a goat, a woman stands nearby. Green grass.
Kids in a park with green grass, trees, and cars in the background, some holding balls.
Two white rabbits are on grass in a fenced area with a girl and boy nearby.
A child in red and gray clothing pets a white rabbit in a wooden enclosure with a fence.
A boy kneels on green grass, petting a small grey dog behind a wire fence.
Kids sit on green grass, watching a small goat walk past them with a leash.
Girl in floral dress holding leashes for two sheep in a grassy park with vehicles parked in the background.
QUAD GOALS ❤️💛

Red and Gold spirit was on full display at our recent pep rally! IHS students showed off their class pride with creative quad decorations, school spirit, and plenty of energy as we celebrated together.

📸 credit: Anna Agrawal
4 months ago, ICSD Communications
A group of people on a lawn with inflatables and orange cones. Some wear maroon and white shirts.
A group of people outdoors. One person is carried on another's shoulders. Some wear maroon shirts.
A group of people in sports gear stand around a building with red ribbons. Trees and grass are visible.
A person with a microphone in a maroon jersey performs in front of a group of children wearing numbered shirts.
Group of people running across a grassy field with numbered jerseys, spectators standing behind them in front of a building.
Many people in casual clothing stand on a grassy area, some raising hands, in front of a colorful building.
Four women pose together in front of a wall with logos and lettering reading "ITHACA" and "ATHLETICS".
A runner with the number 32 on his shirt runs through a crowd of people on a sidewalk.
Fall Creek families came together last week for a Playground Party to celebrate the beloved wooden playground before its summer renovation. The event honored years of memories while helping raise funds for a future mural that will commemorate this special part of Fall Creek history.

Thank you to everyone who joined the celebration and helped give this community landmark a memorable sendoff!
4 months ago, ICSD Communications
A wooden bridge leads to a wooden play area with a green slide, surrounded by trees.
A group of adults and children standing around a mural on a wall, with one person painting.
Several people stand in an open, paved area with a basketball court. A tree stands in the center.
A children's play area with wooden structures, a swing, and a small fence, set in a grassy area with trees in the background.
A group of people stands in an outdoor area. Some are wearing hats, sneakers, and sandals. One person rides a bicycle.
A food truck labeled Babe's Burger. A woman and child stand in front of it. A pickup truck is parked to the right.
A children's outdoor play area featuring a wooden structure, dolphin figures, and a slide, with a building in the background.

This spring, students across the district participated in a range of performances that highlighted creativity, collaboration, and student voice. Ithaca High School presented 9 to 5; Lehman Alternative Community School shared the original climate-focused performance Above, Below, In, and of Cayuga's Waters, written by Annemarie Zwack in collaboration with LACS students; DeWitt Middle School performed My Fellow Students; and Boynton Middle School brought No Substitutes to the stage.

4 months ago, ICSD Communications
Performers on a stage with one in a green dress with leaves around her head.
Two people on a stage. One in a lab coat looks down at a clipboard. The other wears a beret.
A man wearing a hat plays a clarinet while a woman stands nearby, watching. The setting is dimly lit.
A group of performers on stage, one in a wig, others in work attire, raising their arms.
A group of seven children, some wearing jeans, stand on stage with arms raised in the air.
Six young people stand on a stage under a black backdrop. Four stand in line, one sits, and one stands slightly behind.
Two children on a stage. One holds a folder, another sits at a desk with a laptop. A banner reads "Congress President Janie."
A group of people on a stage, some with hands raised. One woman wears a red dress, another a white blouse, and others wear various outfits.
Performers on a stage, one wearing a hat and holding a prop, dancing with others in colorful costumes.
Several people on a stage, likely performing a play. Five women, one in a floral skirt, one in a blue jacket.
Last week, Caroline fourth graders released the trout they raised in their classroom into Six Mile Creek! 🐟

As part of the Trout in the Classroom program, students across our elementary schools participate in this meaningful hands-on learning experience, caring for trout from fall through spring while building connections to science, ecosystems, and environmental stewardship.

Thank you to the 4th grade teams and our partners at @discovercayugalake for helping create learning experiences that bring classroom lessons to life.
5 months ago, ICSD Communications
Group of people in a river valley. Some are in the river while others sit on the bank.
Children walk along a sidewalk outside a building with a brick wall and trees. Some wear sneakers, others wear hats.
A person holding a bucket walks along a path with several children, greenery, and a building in the background.
Group of children outdoors on a playground, some wearing hats, near a basketball hoop and playground.
Several small fish with yellow fins swim in a green-tinted aquarium against a blurred background.
A group of children standing in a paved area with trees and a playground in the background.
Group of children standing around a woman with green jacket under a wooden gazebo with a grassy field and trees in the background.
A group of people on a riverbank, some near water, others near a fire pit, with trees and grass.
South Hill Elementary students explored exciting career paths during this week’s Career Day! Students rotated through presentations in small groups, asked questions, and learned from community volunteers about a variety of professions.

Thank you to all of our presenters, including the Fire Department and local dance instructors, for volunteering your time to inspire our Hawk students and help make the day a success!
5 months ago, ICSD Communications
Fire extinguisher demonstration with a fire truck and open hood in a wet area with onlookers.
Several children play a game with a ball on a playground, near a basketball goal.
A woman and a girl sit on a floor with toys and a circle. Behind them is a table with toys and a red wall.
A child in a red T-shirt holds a baseball, making a peace sign in a gymnasium.
A woman with a green top stands behind a table with others. A banner hangs on a wall.
Last month, Ithaca High School students took the stage for 9 to 5: The Musical, showcasing months of hard work, creativity, and collaboration. Thank you to everyone who attended and supported our students!
5 months ago, ICSD Communications
On a stage, several people perform a dance. Some wear dresses, skirts, and suits. A yellow wall is behind them.
Group of women in vintage clothing on a stage. Some are dancing, others are standing. Background includes a backdrop and a set.
Two individuals sit on a stage; one reads a book and the other converses, with a wooden ladder and bookshelf in the background.
Person resting head on desk in an indoor setting with a yellow wall, window, and staircase.
Three women stand on a stage in front of a white backdrop and audience; two perform; one watches.
Two women perform on a stage with a yellow backdrop. One stands by a desk, while the other sits at a typewriter.
Performers on a stage with a pink backdrop, wearing various costumes, one person in a dark suit and glasses.
Two people perform on a stage, one wearing a suit and the other a dress, with a pink backdrop and a bookshelf behind.
Congratulations to the Ithaca High School student-athletes who recently signed to continue their academic and athletic careers at the collegiate level! We are proud to celebrate their hard work, dedication, and achievements both on and off the field. Best of luck in this exciting next chapter!

Read more: ithacacityschools.org/o/icsd/page/press-releases#signing
5 months ago, ICSD Communications
People seated at tables in a gymnasium with banners on the walls and bleachers in the background.
Indoor court with a monitor, a person standing at a podium, and a table with seated people.
A woman speaks at a podium in a gymnasium, facing an audience. Behind her, maroon and yellow bleachers are visible.
Five women holding certificates stand on a basketball court, smiling. One wears green, two in white, one in black.
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
5 months 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 months 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 months 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.
5 months 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.
6 months 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!
6 months 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.
6 months 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.
7 months 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!
7 months 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!
7 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
7 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. 🎭✨
7 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