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!
4 days 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!
7 days 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
15 days 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
20 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.
22 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!
22 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.
26 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.
about 1 month 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!
about 1 month 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.
about 2 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.
2 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!
2 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!
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
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. 🎭✨
3 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

3 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.
3 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.
4 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.

4 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.
4 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.