Two Boise District Seniors Selected as Idaho's 2024 U.S. Presidential Scholars

Two exceptional high school seniors in the Boise School District have been selected as Idaho’s 2024 U.S. Presidential Scholars. They will be recognized alongside peers from around the country with one of the nation’s highest honors for high school students. This year, 161 students nationwide were selected for the award.

Austin Jackson Giffen of Timberline High School and Hayoon Lee, also of Timberline High School were selected by the White House Commission on Presidential Scholars for recognition based on their academic success, artistic and technical excellence, essays, school evaluations and transcripts as well as a demonstrated commitment to community service and leadership.

“The 161 high school seniors selected for the 60th anniversary of the U.S. Presidential Scholars represent the best of our nation’s schools and inspire hope in the bright future of this country,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. “On behalf of President Biden, I am delighted to celebrate their accomplishments, and encourage these scholars to continue to aim high, lift up others and embrace opportunities to lead.”

Of the 3.7 million students expected to graduate from high school this year, more than 5,700 candidates qualified for the 2024 awards determined by outstanding performance on the College Board SAT or ACT exams or through nominations made by chief state school officers, other partner recognition organizations and YoungArts, the National Foundation for the Advancement of Artists.

“These two bright scholars exemplify what it means to be fully prepared for the next step in their educational experiences,” said Superintendent of Public Instruction Debbie Critchfield. “Whether they are proving themselves in the classroom or are demonstrating a commitment to community outside of it, Hayoon and Austin are shining examples of all-around achievement. I want to congratulate them on standing out nationally with this distinction, as well as the Timberline High School community for helping prepare these exceptional students for success after their K-12 journey ends.”

National Merit Scholarship Recipients

Six of the 14 students in Idaho who have earned 2024 National Merit $2,500 Scholarships are from the Boise School District. Nationwide, a total of 2,500 Merit Scholar designees were chosen from a talent pool of more than 15,000 outstanding Finalists in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program. National Merit $2,500 Scholarship winners are the Finalists in each state judged to have the strongest combination of accomplishments, skills, and potential for success in rigorous college

studies. The number of winners named in each state is proportional to the state’s percentage of the nation’s graduating high school seniors.

Boise School District's 2024 National Merit $2,500 Scholarship Recipients

Taelyn J. Baiza

Boise High School

Adriana M. Curtis

Boise High School

Anthony Donegan

Capital High School

Austin J. Giffen

Timberline High School

Noe H. Kemper

Boise High School

Elena Li

Timberline High School

These Scholars were selected by a committee of college admissions officers and high school counselors, who appraised a substantial amount of information submitted by both the Finalists and their high schools: the academic record, including difficulty level of subjects studied and grades earned; scores from the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®); contributions and leadership in school and community activities; an essay

written by the Finalist; and a recommendation written by a high school official.

Boise School District's 2024 National Merit Corporate-Sponsored Scholarship Recipient

On April 24th, it was announced that Timberline High School senior Forrest Zeng (pictured) was one of three Idaho students to receive a 2024 Corporate-Sponsored Merit Scholarship. Nationwide, approximately 770 distinguished high school seniors have won corporate-sponsored National Merit Scholarship awards financed by about 94 corporations, company foundations, and other business organizations.

High School Senior Wins State Courtroom Artist Competition & Competes Nationally

We are proud to announce that Timberline High School senior Daily Adams, one of our talented courtroom artists, won the state competition and earned a spot in the National High School Mock Trial Courtroom Artist Contest held last week in Wilmington, DE. Out of 17 competitors in her category, Daily impressed the judges with her exceptional skills and received a score of 42 out of 50. Her artwork is featured below. The National High School Mock Trial Championship promotes an understanding and appreciation of the American judicial system through academic competitions and other endeavors for students. This is an outstanding accomplishment and we are thrilled to have Daily represent our Boise School District at such a high level. Congratulations, Daily, on this well-deserved recognition!

Winning Courtroom Art by Timberline High School senior Daily Adams

Student Videography Awards

Congratulations to Boise High sophomore Brando Armitage (pictured) for winning first place in the 2024 Veolia Water Conservation Contest. His winning entry earned $1,500 for the Video Broadcasting & Production course at Boise High School and will air on Idaho Public TV this summer!

Boise High sophomore Kate Raley won second place in the video portion of the Ninth Circuit Civics Contest. This year's prompt related to the lasting impacts of Brown vs. The Board of Education. Kate won $500 for her video submission!

Boise High junior Bones Allen took home first place in the drama category of the Idaho Teen Film Festival, held on May 4th at Hillcrest High School in Idaho Falls. Bones' submission, "About Face" earned him $300 and a trophy.

Boise HS junior Halle Lowman also took home high praise and a "Best Directing" recognition with her entry entitled, "The Confessions of a Homesick Poet." Halle's efforts also earned her $300 and a trophy.

Boise School Board Corner

Trustees to Discuss Boundary Process for Transition of Owyhee Elementary to Early Childhood Learning Center

Following the conclusion of two parent engagement meetings regarding the transition of Owyhee Elementary from a traditional K-6 elementary school to an Early Childhood Center, the Boise School District administration wants to take this opportunity to clarify the process and timeline. District officials have been clear that the Early Childhood Learning Center would not open until the 2025 - 2026 school year.

Ultimately, the decision to approve the transition will be made by the Boise School District Board of Trustees through the District’s boundary approval process. The first step in the decision-making process will take place Monday, May 13th at 6:00 pm at the Board’s regularly scheduled monthly meeting. Trustees will be briefed on the administrative recommendation, the process to redraw boundaries for nearby elementary schools, as well as feedback received from parents and staff. Parents and patrons will also have the opportunity to testify. 

Medevac Helicopter Provides Hands-On Experience for EMT Students

As part of their course training, emergency medical technician (EMT) students enrolled at the Boise School District's Dennis Technical Education Center were recently given the opportunity to get an up-close look at an Army National Guard Medevac helicopter. This experience provided valuable insight into the capabilities and limitations of air medical transport, as well as the role that the Army National Guard plays in emergency response situations. The students were able to ask questions and interact with the crew, gaining a better understanding of the complex logistics involved in transporting patients by helicopter. This hands-on learning opportunity will undoubtedly enhance the students' skills and knowledge as they consider continuing on the path towards becoming certified EMTs. Watch the following video to learn more.

Know Before You Go: Graduation Information

We are excited to announce that Boise School District's graduation ceremonies for the Class of 2024 are approaching! We look forward to celebrating the achievements of our graduates and wish them all the best in their future endeavors.

We kindly ask that you review the Know Before You Go/Graduation FAQ webpage to ensure a smooth and enjoyable event for everyone involved.

Dates, times, and links to the live stream broadcasts for our graduation ceremonies are provided below.

Spring 2024 Graduation Dates

ExtraMile Arena, 7:00 p.m.

(unless otherwise noted)

• Wednesday, May 15, 2024 - Boise Online School, 2:00 p.m.; Frank Church High School, 6:00 p.m. (both graduation ceremonies to be held at the Morrison Center)
• Frank Church High School Graduation Live Stream Link
• Monday, May 20, 2024 - Boise High School
• Boise High School Graduation Live Stream Link
• Tuesday, May 21, 2024 - Borah High School
• Borah High School Graduation Live Stream Link
• Wednesday, May 22, 2024 - Capital High School
• Capital High School Graduation Live Stream Link
• Thursday, May 23, 2024 – Timberline High School
• Timberline High School Graduation Live Stream Link

High School Students Promote Reusable Bags Initiative

Summer Driver Education Program - Enroll Today!

Are you a parent concerned about your teenager's safety on the road? Look no further! Our summer driver education program is designed to equip young drivers with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the roads safely. With a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on driving practice, we aim to instill confidence and responsible driving habits in teenagers. Enrolling your teenager in our program not only enhances their driving skills but also reduces the risk of accidents and promotes overall road safety. Give your teenager the gift of a comprehensive driver education this summer!

Summer 2024 Driver Education Program

• 1st Session: May 29 - June 26
• 2nd Session: July 2, July 8 - August 2
• Location: Fairmont Junior High School, 2121 N. Cole Rd., Boise, ID 83704
• Open to students age 14 1/2 to 21. Driving permit must be purchased from DMV in order to register for Driver Education Program.

Free Summer Meals

Boise School District will once again participate in the federally-funded Summer Food Service Program. Breakfast and lunch will be provided to children ages 1 through 18 at a number of school and park sites without charge. Depending upon the site, meals will be available beginning May 24th through August 9th. Further information will be available in early May on our Food & Nutrition Services website.

Our Schools Care

How to Talk to Your Child About Suicide

Parents, have you wondered how to talk to your child about suicide? Find ways to start this important conversation with your child of any age at our Mental Health Resources webpage, where you will also find helpful information about support and resources for all Boise Schools families.

Math Series Available for Kids

Turning Pages is a math series for kids available on YouTube! It features local members of the Boise community. In each episode, a local community leader explains how they use math in their career and reads a favorite story. There are even math activities you can do at home! Check it out in the following video:

Early Childhood Special Education - FREE Developmental Screener Available

Boise School District, in cooperation with parents and nonpublic school agencies, engages in Child Find services throughout the school year. Child Find activities are conducted (1) to create public awareness of special education programs, (2) to advise the public that students who qualify for services have the right to a free appropriate public education and confidentiality protections, and (3) to alert community residents that a process exists for identifying and serving children with disabilities from the age of 3 through the semester in which they turn 21. 

If you know of a child who is 3 through 21 years of age who may have individual needs that result from disabilities or developmental delays, and who is not enrolled in a school program, please contact Madison Early Childhood Center at 208-854-5520. These children may have difficulty walking, talking, hearing, or learning, or may display behaviors that appear different from other children their age. 

If you are part of a community agency or civic group that would like more information about educating children with disabilities or would like pamphlets to distribute to members, please call the school office or the above phone number.

BSD Developmental Screening Information 2023-2024 Spanish Language Version

Gifts. Passions. Dreams. Possibilities.

WE SEE IT, TOO.

Boise School District's Everything's Possible movement shares the dreams, aspirations and experiences of our students and teachers. As a parent, you see your child’s potential. And we see it, too. Everything’s possible.



Elevated character and perseverance through athletics and activities is one area where Boise Schools students shine brightest. Our exceptional programs, led by talented and trained coaches and advisors, help inspire students to learn to challenge themselves and set goals, pushing students to perform even better in academics. Boise School District offers an environment of healthy competition, where life skills and confidence are gained.

Student Device Monitoring 

A reminder to parents that Boise School District provides parents/guardians with the ability to monitor your student’s activity on their District-assigned digital device via the GoGuardian Parent App: 

• GoGuardian Parent App - Welcome letter
• GoGuardian Parent App Instructions  

Keep In Contact

Parents - Sign-Up for Emergency Text Messaging: The Boise School District offers emergency text messaging for parents/guardians. Learn more and sign-up.

Non-Parents - Mobile App Available: Boise School District has a mobile app to improve communication to you. The app offers emergency alerts and is available in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

• May 13: Regular monthly meeting of the Boise School Board, 6 p.m., District Services Center, 8169 W. Victory Rd., Boise. When available, agenda will be posted online.
• May 16: Last Day of School for Seniors, Early Childhood Special Education Programs and Pre K
• May 17: Early Release K-6
• May 21, 22, 23: Secondary End of Semester Testing - Early Release 7-12
• May 23: Last Day of School - Early Release K-6
• June 4-28: Secondary Summer School - Semester 1 (19 days)
• July 1-26: Secondary Summer School - Semester 2 (18 days)
• July 4th & 5th: No Summer School
• August 14: First Day of School - Early Release K-12
• August 19: First Day of School - Pre K and Early Childhood Special Education Programs

Boise School District | 208-854-4000 | 8169 W. Victory Rd., Boise, Idaho www.boiseschools.org

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...