CFHS Back to School Info
A special welcome to the 2025–2026 school year at Cedar Falls High School. We are excited to begin the year and partner with parents and guardians in making this a successful and memorable year for all of our students.
Our first day of school for all students will be Monday, August 25, with classes beginning at 9:25 a.m. and ending at 2:55 p.m. Please note that every Monday throughout the school year will follow this late start schedule, as the first two hours of the morning are dedicated to our teachers’ professional learning communities (PLCs). These collaborative sessions are an essential part of how we ensure continuous improvement in teaching and learning at CFHS.
Students deserve the very best education the Cedar Valley has to offer. As a district, we are committed to delivering a high-quality curriculum supported by the most effective instructional strategies and practices in our profession. Together, we are proud to be a part of what’s right with public education in Iowa, and we are deeply committed to preparing our students for success in college, career, and life.
As we begin this year, we would also like to share two important district-wide policies aimed at creating and sustaining a healthy and productive learning environment for our students:
Personal Electronic Device-Free Instruction
Beginning this fall, all Cedar Falls schools will implement a personal electronic device-free environment during instructional time. This means that during classes and study halls, students will be expected to set aside cell phones, personal laptops, and other personal electronic devices. This practice is designed to reduce distractions and allow students to fully engage in their learning. We ask for parent/guardian's support in discussing this policy with your students and helping them prepare to set aside their devices during instructional time and study periods.
Attendance and Chronic Absenteeism
Last year, Cedar Falls High School students reached a strong 94.9% average daily attendance rate. While this is very good, we know we can do even better! Research shows that consistent attendance is one of the most important factors in student success. This year, we will continue to enhance our efforts to communicate with families in a timely and respectful manner when student absences raise concerns. We encourage parents and guardians to talk with your students about the importance of being at school each day, ready to learn, and to let us know if we can support familes in addressing barriers to regular attendance.
Finally, a reminder about student and guest parking. Parking for students in designated areas is first come, first serve. Students are not allowed to park in spaces reserved for visitors or staff, but can park in lot areas east of the visiting team locker room and bleachers, as well as in the western-most section of the broader parking complex. There are plenty of spaces for students to park without compromising space for visitors and emergency personnel. See student parking diagram below.
We look forward to seeing everyone at our upcoming events and throughout the school year. Thank you for entrusting us with your student’s education. It is a responsibility and privilege that we take to heart every day.
Student Parking Locations Outlined in Green
Upcoming Events and Important Dates:
Tuesday, August 19th: Fall Kick-Off, 6:00 - 8:00 pm, CHFS Stadium
Monday, August, 25th: First day of school, 9:25 - 2:55 pm
Friday, August 29th, School Dismissal, 11:10 am.
Monday, September 1st, No School, Labor Day
