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Cambridge-Isanti Schools Logo

C-I Community Backpack

October 20, 2026

Cambridge-Isanti Schools Community Backpack logo surrounded by photos of students participating in activities and crafts.
C-I CommunityBackpackOctober 20, 2026

Welcome to our Community Backpack e-newsletter!

Crisp fall days, Halloween fun, and a community that cares - there’s a lot to enjoy this time of year! This issue highlights Lights On Afterschool and how Adventure Center gives students a safe, supportive place to explore interests, build friendships, and grow while supporting working families. You’ll also find local fall activities, winter weather reminders, and resources for students and families. We’re grateful for the generosity and connections that make our Bluejacket community such a special place to call home.

Happenings Around the District Happenings Around the District

Logo with a lightbulb graphic and text reading: Lights On Afterschool, a project of the Afterschool Alliance.
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We're Celebrating Lights on Afterschool

What happens after school matters! This Lights On Afterschool, we’re highlighting how Adventure Center helps students explore, connect, and grow in a safe, supportive environment. Every day brings opportunities to build confidence, spark creativity, and develop a love of learning - making a difference for kids, families, and our community!

Child laughing in snowfall with a knitted hat pulled over their eyes and tongue sticking out.
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Winter Weather Procedures

As winter approaches, please take a moment to review our School Closings and Alerts Webpage so your family is prepared for any weather-related changes. When conditions require it, Cambridge-Isanti Schools may call an eLearning Day, a two-hour delay, or an early release.
A rack of colorful winter jackets hanging on hangers.
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We are Here to Help!

We have school supplies, winter gear, and personal care products available for students in need. Generous donors and local businesses have stepped up to support Cambridge-Isanti students. If you, or someone you know, need help with basic needs for a student, please fill out this confidential form.

Special Events Special Events

A family of four dressed in cowboy and western costumes smiles together during a Halloween event
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Early Childhood Halloween Bash - Friday, October 23

Join us for a spooktacular evening at CPIS from 5:45–7:15 p.m. Enjoy games, music, dancing, face painting, and Trunk or Treat fun! Children are encouraged to come in costume. Don’t miss this family-friendly night full of smiles and spooky fun! Get details.

A smiling young student floats in a swimming pool while holding orange foam pool noodles.
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Spooky Swim - Sunday, October 25

Don’t worry… you’ll be safe… ghosts can’t swim… or can they? Join us at CIHS from 1–2:30 p.m. for some spooky swimming and games! This event is for children in grades K-6, and all participants will receive a snack. Preschoolers are welcome to join with an accompanying adult in the water and on the pool deck. Adults are welcome to stay and swim at no cost. Register today for a splash of spooky fun!

Fall Fun for All Ages Fall Fun for All Ages

We regularly feature select activities that begin soon. You can explore the full range of Community Education offerings here.

A smiling young child giving a happy adult a piggyback ride indoors.
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A Date with Dad (Children Ages Birth-5)

Make special memories together at A Date with Dad! Dads (or another special guy) and children can enjoy playtime, connect with other families, and share a short discussion with our licensed parent educator. It’s a great way to learn, play, and grow together!

A young student lines up a shot with a basketball in a school gymnasium during physical education class.
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Saturday Basketball (Grades K-6)

Junior Jackets boys and girls can build their basketball skills while having fun! Learn the fundamentals and rules of the game, including dribbling, passing, and shooting. Each session includes skills practice and the chance to put those skills into action with half-court or full-court games.

A black pickleball paddle and a yellow pickleball sit on a blue court near a white line.
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Pick-up Pickleball (All Ages)

Looking for fun, fitness, and social time? Join us for Pick-up Pickleball! Players of all ages and experience levels are welcome. Players rotate in and out so everyone gets a chance to play. Come enjoy the game and connect with others!

Community Connections Community Connections

Isanti County Community Connect event: Saturday, Oct 31, 11am-1pm at First Baptist Church, Cambridge. Free services, lunch, winter gear.
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Isanti County Mercy & Hope Operation Community Connect

Saturday | October 31 | 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. | First Baptist Church, Cambridge

Discover valuable programs, resources, and services available throughout our community at Operation Community Connect. Meet local organizations, connect with community members, and enjoy interactive activities at vendor booths while learning about support and opportunities available to individuals and families.

Mother and Child
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ParentGuidance.org

ParentGuidance.org is a confidential online resource from licensed therapists, offering expert-led courses, practical tools, and support on topics like anxiety, depression, family stress, grief, and parent-child connections. Cambridge-Isanti Schools is happy to offer this new resource as one more way we partner with families to support students’ mental and emotional well-being, at school and at home.
Isanti County Integrated Collaborative logo featuring a black line drawing of a wildflower next to the organization name.
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Isanti County Integrated Collaborative

The Isanti County Integrated Collaborative is a local organization that works to strengthen our community. Their mission is to work in partnership and collaboration to empower and provide opportunities for children and families. Check out their calendar of free and low-cost family activities.

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Food Support in Isanti County

Isanti County residents in need of food support have several local options. Family Pathways Cambridge Food Pantry, the Isanti County Food Pantry, and monthly surplus distributions at the Cambridge Fairgrounds provide groceries and essentials for individuals and families. For help finding the nearest location or learning about additional resources, residents can also contact the Minnesota Food Helpline at (888) 711‑1151 or visit Second Harvest Heartland’s food‑finder tool.

Great things are happening in our communities!

We are excited to share information with you from community groups and organizations. If you have a flyer you would like us to share, please e-mail it to ce-communications@c-ischools.org

IIS/CISTEAM PTO Haunted Hallway & Halloween Party, Friday, Oct 30, 6:30-7:30 PM. Games, best costume contest, and fun.
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Schedule of IPS free family events for 2026-27, including reading nights, Morning With Santa, and Spring Family Fun Day.
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Schedule of IIS/STEAM free family events for 2026-27, including Bingo, Halloween, Trivia, and Dance nights.
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Flyer for free I Am Safe Training community mental health program. Workshops noon-1 pm Aug-Nov. Call 763-689-1711 to register.
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Faith Lutheran Church Trunk or Treat: Sat, Oct 24, 1-3 PM at 109 2nd Ave NW, Isanti. Email general@faithlutheranisanti.com.
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Operation Community Connect flyer: Saturday, Oct 31, 11am-1pm at First Baptist Church in Cambridge. Free services and lunch.
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Flyer for Free Family Bingo Night at IIS/CISTEAM Cafeteria on Sept 25 and March 12, 6:30-7:30 PM. Adults must attend.
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Free Candlelight Ski & Friluftsliv Event at Anoka-Ramsey Community College Cambridge Campus on Jan 29, 2026, 5:30-8 PM.
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Cambridge Public Library October calendar listing monthly events like Storytimes, Tech Help, and a book sale.
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Fernbrook Family Center flyer for Children's Therapeutic Supports & Services skills training for youth under 21.
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Flyer for The Fresh Start Program, a free tobacco treatment program at The Lost & Found Recovery Cafe, monthly on 2nd Tuesdays.
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Free Science and Art Night flyer: Dec 1, 5-8 pm at Anoka-Ramsey Community College Cambridge Campus. All ages welcome.
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Need a school document translated?

If you have a school form, letter, flyer, or other district communication that you'd like translated, we're here to help.

Translation Help
Have a language-related question? Click on Translation Help for a quick and easy way to connect with our Communications Team for assistance.

Need help with technology?

Our Technology Department is available to answer questions and provide support you or your student may need.
Technology Help Desk
The Technology Help Desk is one of the fastest and easiest ways to request assistance throughout the school year.

Looking for more district news and events?

Stay up to date with district news, upcoming events, school information, and resources for families.

Visit our Website

¡Estamos aquí para ayudarle! Envíenos un correo electrónico a ceregister@c-ischools.org si necesita ayuda para registrarse o si tiene alguna pregunta.


Peb nyob ntawm no los pab! Thov xa email tuaj rau peb ntawm ceregister@c-ischools.org yog tias koj xav tau kev pab sau npe lossis muaj lus nug.

Are you following us on Social Media?

Did you know that you can follow Cambridge-Isanti Schools on social media? Stay in the loop by following us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube!

The mission of Cambridge-Isanti Schools, in partnership with our community, is to EDUCATE, EMPOWER and INSPIRE EVERY STUDENT, EVERY DAY to achieve their full potential.

The Community Education office is located inside the Education Services Center at

625 Main Street North in Cambridge.

Our office hours are Monday-Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Stop in and see us!

Cambridge-Isanti Schools
Every Student. Every Day.
Main Office: 763-689-6189

Early Childhood Office: 763-691-6691

c-ischools.org

c-ischools.org/community-ed

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