Liberty Newsletter: Volume 178

Email: colbert.justin@iowacityschools.org
Website: https://liberty.iowacityschools.org/
Location: 1400 South Dubuque Street, North Liberty, IA, USA
Phone: (319) 688-1350
Facebook: www.facebook.com/LibertyHighSchool2017
X: @ColbertJust, @ICLibertyHS

Instagram: liberty_bolts

DANCES

• April 18 - Prom @ The Highlander Hotel (7:30-10:30 PM) Post-Prom @ Liberty (10:30 PM- 2:00 AM)

SENIORS

• March 2 - Senior photo due to Yearbook (Send photos to jabbari.anna@iowacityschools.org)
• May 20 - Senior Awards & Scholarship Recognition Evening (7:00 PM)
• May 28 - Senior Elementary Graduation Walk-Through (8:15 AM)
• May 29- Senior’s Last Day
• May 29 - Graduation Rehearsal (Xtream Arena @ 8:30 AM-10:00 AM)
• May 31 - Liberty High Graduation (Xtream Arena @ 12:00 PM)

MIDTERMS & END OF TRIMESTERS

• April 23 - Midterm
• June 5 - End of 3rd Tri. & Last Day of Classes (2-hr. early release)

Members of the ICCSD community can take a break from cooking by dining in or ordering takeout from any of our participating Dine Out partners. The next Dine Out for Education event will take place on Thursday, April 16.

Our restaurant partners have pledged to contribute 10% of their sales from the event days to aid the Foundation for the ICCSD. We appreciate the dedication of our Dine Out partners to the Foundation for ICCSD, our schools, our students, and our community.

A special thank you to current participating restaurants listed below and available on the Foundation's website.

Dear Liberty High School Families, Students, and Staff,

As you are aware, Principal Justin Colbert has accepted a new leadership opportunity, and while we are excited for him, this is also bittersweet for the Liberty High School community. With that, we are beginning the process of selecting the next principal for Liberty High School.

In the spirit of transparency, we want to clearly share how this process is evolving. The position was initially posted internally. We have now expanded the posting to include external applicants, allowing us to consider a broader pool of candidates. The posting will be open for a minimum of 14 days.

It is very important to us that the Liberty community is involved throughout this process. We are committed to including students, staff, and families in meaningful ways, both through gathering feedback and through representation on interview teams.

Staff will have the opportunity to participate in a group feedback session and individual surveys to help identify the qualities and leadership characteristics most important in Liberty’s next principal. In addition, we will work with the Liberty administrative team to select students and families who would be interested in serving on interview teams to ensure a range of perspectives are represented.

Our goal is to conduct a thoughtful, inclusive process that reflects the values and strengths of the Liberty community. We are confident that together we will identify a strong leader who will continue to support the success of the students and the school.

If you have any questions about the process or timeline, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We appreciate your partnership and look forward to working together through this important transition.

Sincerely,

Matt Degner
Superintendent
Iowa City Community School District

Dear Liberty High Families,

I am writing this morning to share some personal news with you. I have accepted the position of Deputy Superintendent in the Southeast Polk Community School District and will begin this new role on July 1, 2026. Southeast Polk is a district I am quite familiar with. I not only started my teaching career there, but I am also a proud SEP alumnus.

This decision has been incredibly difficult and brought about a wide range of emotions for my family and me throughout the process. Liberty is more than just a school, it is a community that I care deeply about. It has been an honor to serve as your principal and to be part of the lives of your students. Watching our students grow, achieve, perform and support one another has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my career.

I am so proud of what we have built together in our nine years as a school. The strength of Liberty comes from the partnership between our students, staff, and families, and I am grateful for the trust and support you have shown me and our entire staff over the years. I have no doubt that Liberty will continue to build on the progress that has already been made because of the support from our families.

While I am excited for this next chapter, it is not easy to say goodbye to a place and a community that mean so much to me. Liberty will always be special to me, and has been my most rewarding professional experience.

Please know that I will continue to serve our Liberty Community with the same dedication shown during these past nine years through the end of June. Additionally, In the coming weeks, district leadership will begin the process of selecting Liberty’s next principal. More information will be shared as that process moves forward.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve this community and for everything you do to support Liberty High School. I will forever be grateful.

Sincerely,

Justin Colbert

Liberty High School Principal

AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) is an elective course and school-wide support system designed to prepare students for college and career success. AVID has a proven track record nationwide for both bringing out the very best in individuals and ensuring that they are eligible and ready to enter a four-year college or university after high school graduation.

In the AVID elective class, students engage in writing, inquiry, collaboration, and reading strategies to help them master rigorous academic content. High expectations are paired with strategies for success (such as note taking, time management, organization and goal setting) and in-class Socratic-inquiry tutorial sessions so that students excel in advanced courses and are prepared for the rigors of university work.

Students must apply to be in the AVID elective class. AVID Site Teams members review student applications and interview students to determine students who meet the expectations and would benefit the most from the class. Participation in AVID is a high honor that any student would want to attain. Learn more about AVID at LHS here.

Students can apply for AVID for the next school year by completing the AVID 2026-2027 Application or picking up an application in the guidance office.

Art students from Digital Illustration, Painting, and AP Studio Classes across our district kicked off our new Digital Illustration class with guest artist Lauren Haldeman, a City High parent and longtime Iowa City creative. As a University of Iowa alum and former instructor in the Iowa Writers’ Workshop, Lauren has built an impressive career as an artist, comic creator, and author while working as a web developer at the University. Lauren shared her experience and examples of her work to inspire students as they begin exploring their own ideas and creative voices.

This opportunity was made possible through funding from the Robert Staley Memorial Endowment.

The Daily Iowan recently published an article on Hancher's Youth Art Show. The article featured Lilly Meyer, a freshman at Liberty, and her art work that was selected for the show. The show consisted of 555 artworks from 27 schools in the Iowa City Community School District.

AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) prepares motivated students for college and career readiness and success in a global society. One important part of AVID is our college visits. These field trips provide our AVID students the opportunity to come together across the grade levels to help them find their "college fit" and understand college on a deeper level. Our second field trip of the year was to the University of Iowa on April 7th.

As graduation inches closer, we have once again partnered with Alpha Graphics to offer graduation yard signs to celebrate and recognize the Liberty High Class of 2026. If you are interested in purchasing a graduation yard sign to honor your graduate, please click on this link for more information and ordering details. There are three different design styles available to choose from.

Additionally, we are also appreciative of Alpha Graphics generosity as $10 will be donated to The Liberty Fund for every graduation yard sign that is sold. The Liberty Fund is our Liberty specific foundation that raises and distributes funds to Liberty groups in order to provide students with a broad and rich learning experience, and help ensure greater access to opportunities for all students.

1. Senior Awards and Recognition Evening will take place on Wednesday, May 20 at 7:00 PM in the Liberty auditorium. Seniors will be recongized with various awards, honors, and scholarships at this event. Senior students will be notified if they have an award or recognition on this night and families & friends are encouraged to attend.
2. Senior Elementary Graduation Walk-Throughs are scheduled for Thursday, May 28 at 8:15 AM for all Liberty feeder elementaries, except Christine Grant, which will start at 9:15 AM. This different start time for Grant will allow seniors to attend another school in addition to where they attended in 6th grade, if they prefer. All ICCSD elementary schools will be hosting graduating seniors for a graduate walk-through. Seniors should wear their cap & gown and join their elementary classmates in walking through the elementary halls as current students and teachers clap and cheer for you. Parking is limited at our elementary schools, so please plan on walking or carpooling if possible. Students will then report to Liberty for their regularly scheduled courses. *If you did not attend elementary school in ICCSD, you are welcome to join a classmate of your choice at their elementary. Additionally, if you attended a different ICCSD elementary outside our northside feeder schools, we encourage you to reach out to those schools as they will also be hosting graduates on this same morning, but the times may differ slightly.
3. Graduation Rehersal is required for all students participating in the ceremony, and is scheduled for Friday, May 29 from 8:30 AM to 10:00 AM at the Xtream Arena. Friday, May 29 is also seniors last official day of school, but students will not need to attend their classes due to graduation rehearsal. However, seniors can still come to school to work with their teachers if they have any final assignments, tests, or projects to finish up.
4. Liberty's Graduation will take place on Sunday, May 31 at 12:00 PM. Graduation is held at the Xtream Arena (200 E. 9th St., Coralville, IA 52241), and doors will open at 11:00 AM. The ceremony does not require a ticket to enter, seating is general admission, and it is recommended that guests intending to sit together should arrive together. The ceremony will be livestreamed, and the link will be shared closer to the date. Please click here to view the complete Graduation Guide for additional information.

Earlier this month we learned that Liberty Girls Wrestling Coach Derek Coorough was selected as Coach of the Year in the Mississippi Division of the Mississippi Valley Conference. The girls wrestling team had a historic season, which included the championship of the Mississippi Valley Conference Tournament. This is a well-earned award for Coach Coorough, his coaching staff, and the Liberty girls wrestling program!

The team also exceeded expectations later in the season and finished in 5th place at the State Meet!

Last week the Liberty Lightning Theater held four showings of Shrek the Musical. The audience was treated to a large cast of talented students and their performance received rave reviews from all who attended. Depending which showing attended, various staff members had a brief cameo.

Congratulations to the the performers, crew, directors, and everyone else who played a part in making this production a success! If you are interested in joining the Liberty Lightning Theater or becoming part of the tech crew, reach out to Mrs. Symmonds or Dr. Schott for more information.

The 2026 Liberty Prom is quickly approaching. Tickets will be on sale throughout the week of April 13 during lunch, and the cost is $25 each. The cost of the ticket covers your admission at the Highlander Hotel for the dance and admission to post prom back at Liberty.

Students planning on attending prom need to maintain passing grades in all of their classes, not have skipped classes or excessive unexcused absences, or any major behavior referrals.

Additionally, if you are brining a non-Libety guest you will need to complete the electornic form if they attend another Iowa City High School, or pick up a paper form if they attend a school outside the district.

Penn Elementary is seeking volunteers to assist with their Glow Art Show on Monday, May 11. This year their theme is Passport with a focus on world travel, art and culture from around the world. If you are intersted in volunteering, please sign up here.

This activity is eligible for Silver Cord Hours.

SAFETY VILLAGE IS LOOKING FOR 30-VOLUNTEERS to help during this year’s camp.

Safety Village is located at Grant Wood Elementary School, 1930 Lakeside Drive, Iowa City.

Safety Village is a two-week summer safety camp where children learn about safety in a hands-on way.

WHEN:

June 15 through 19, 7:15 AM to 1:00 PM

June 22 through 26, 7:15 AM to 1:00 PM

We ask that if you sign up, it is for the entire week if you want to volunteer. Volunteers can sign up for one-week or both weeks.

Potential to earn 28.75 hours of volunteer time per week.

Please use the sign-up genius link below:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A0845ADAB2AA4FE3-62604627-safety

REMEMBER TO BRING VOLUNTEER FORMS TO BE SIGNED.

We will contact you with more information, after you sign-up.

Safety Village is a child-size "village," complete with buildings, streets, traffic lights, and pedal-driven cars, providing a setting where children can prepare and practice real-life situations.

Safety Village is staffed by a director and community volunteers, with participants organized into small groups for plenty of individual attention.

Safety Village - YouTube

Stacy Fisher, Director, will be in contact that individuals that sign-up.

For more information contact:

Stacy Fisher, Director

fischer.stacy@iowacityschools.org

Big news, Liberty High School students! You can travel to Europe with me (Mr. Ochoa) in the Summer of 2028! Register for the information meeting to learn more about this exciting opportunity here: https://bit.ly/4sWi6nN

Students will have the opportunity to travel to the United Kingdom, France, and Germany experiencing the culture and learning about World War II history. This fantastic trip is filled with adventures that you will remember forever!

We are hosting an informational meeting on April 23, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. in the Liberty Auditorium to answer any questions and learn about this amazing trip!

We are very excited to announce that we are partnering with Camps International to offer students the opportunity to go on a life-changing, expedition to Kenya, during the summer of 2027. Students will work on a variety of meaningful and sustainable projects, having a lasting, positive impact on the local communities, as well as heading out on safari.

The North Liberty Youth Council is once again hosting a middle school (grades 6-8) flag football tournament. This tournament will take place on May 3rd at 10 AM in the Liberty Stadium.

Scan the QR code for more information and to register, or click this link.

Questions can be sent to vini26@icstudents.org

Students, Families, and Employees - The Ombuds Office is here to help. Check out our Ombuds webpage to learn more!

The Ombuds Office is a general concern office and conflict resolution resource for District constituents, including students, parent/guardians, and employees regarding school and/or District-related matters.

Take a moment to check out the Liberty High Spirit Store provided by BSN Sports. This store offers a large number of options for Liberty gear. You can search by your favorite brand and customize your own items.

Check it out by clicking on this link: https://sideline.bsnsports.com/schools/iowa/northliberty/liberty-high-school or by clicking the image below.

Support Student Programs. Leave a Legacy. Donate today!

The Liberty Fund needs your help! We want to ensure all Liberty students can participate in school activities where belonging and school pride come together through both academic and co-curricular activities.

The Liberty Fund has provided grants to students and groups to support student access to opportunities through fundraising. Here are a few program examples that grants have supported:

• New Student/Freshman Orientation
• National French Competition Exam
• Liberty Lightning Technical Theater
• Garden Club
• African American Literature Classes & Black Student Union
• Business Professionals of America Leadership Conference

Make a tax deductible donation to The Liberty Fund today! Donate at The Liberty Fund Website or email for more information at libertyhighfund@gmail.com.

Liberty families, please join Liberty PSTO for two upcoming parent meetings this spring.

Our April meeting is Thursday, April 16 at 12:00 p.m. on Zoom and will include regular updates and discussion.

https://uiowa.zoom.us/j/97525690621

Our May meeting is one you’ll especially want to mark on your calendar:

Thursday, May 21 at 6:00 p.m. in the Library

Principal Justin Colbert will be there to share updates specifically about Liberty and what current district financial decisions may mean for our school. This meeting will focus on information that directly affects Liberty students and families, and it’s a great chance to hear school-specific updates straight from Liberty leadership.

Follow us on Instagram: @libertyhighschoolpsto

Want to stay in the loop about important updates and upcoming meetings?
Join our email list: https://forms.gle/pCqK3q2U99dk75Lu8 or email us! libertyhspsto@gmail.com

Do you have a Cap & Gown from an older sibling or someone else that is taking up space in your closet? We would like to begin collecting lightly used purple Liberty cap and gowns to offer to students and their families who may not currently have the resources to purchase a new one for graduation. All donated cap and gowns can be dropped off in the main office during regular school hours.

It is the policy of the Iowa City Community School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, creed, age (for employment), marital status (for programs), sexual orientation, gender identity and socioeconomic status (for programs) in its educational programs and its employment practices. There is a grievance procedure for processing complaints of discrimination. If you have questions or a grievance related to this policy, please contact:

• Laura Cottrell (Executive Director of Educational Services & Student Success) for programming at cottrell.laura@iowacityschools.org
• Nick Proud (Chief Human Resources Officer) for employment at proud.nick@iowacityschools.org, 2255 N. Dubuque Road, Iowa City, Iowa 52245, (319) 688-1000; or
• If you are unsure how to proceed or would like assistance in discussing your options, you may also contact Janet Abejo-Parker at ombuds@iowacityschools.org or (319) 688-1312