As we reflect on the holiday season, the Ottumwa Community School District remains dedicated to supporting the needs of our students and their families in every way possible. We are grateful to our staff for their unwavering commitment and for consistently going above and beyond to serve our community.

On Thanksgiving Day, Ottumwa Schools partnered with the Knights of Columbus to prepare and deliver thousands of meals throughout our community. This cherished tradition gives us an incredible opportunity to give back to our community. This meal is provided through the generous support of many businesses, especially the Wapello County Foundation, Van Meter Inc., Legacy Foundation, as well as many other individuals in the Ottumwa community. Thank you to the Knights of Columbus for organizing this yearly meal for the community. 

Our Bulldog Giving Tree initiative, in support of students and families in need within our community, provides a special opportunity for us to come together and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who may need it. All families who registered and were placed on the tree were sponsored. A total of 206 students, equaling 110 families, were on the Bulldog Giving Tree. This program would not have been successful without the many Ottumwa Schools staff members, community members, and agencies that stepped up to support the families within our district this holiday season. This initiative significantly impacted our students, who are the heart of everything we do.

On Wednesday, December 18, Ottumwa Schools prepared and distributed over 300 meals to Ottumwa families during our "Holiday Food Basket" giving event. With contributions from local agencies, our baskets were primarily filled with food items so a family could prepare a holiday meal. Families. We are incredibly grateful for the organizations that helped make our "Holiday Food Basket" event happen: Edward Jones - Dusty Stewart, Fareway, Hindman/Person, Hy-Vee, JBS, John Deere, Norris Asphalt, Reed Overhead Doors, Walmart, and Winger.

“It’s truly incredible to see the generosity and kindness of our supporters. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a meaningful difference in the lives of our families, helping to ensure every child experiences the joy of the season,” said Megan Logan, Ottumwa Schools At-Risk Family Services Coordinator. “Together, we’re showing the true spirit of giving and lifting those in need.”

In addition to these efforts, families within the district can access additional resources throughout the year. A Handle with Care form is available at ottumwaschools.com under Quick Links, to provide additional social-emotional support when needed. The district also operates a food pantry, open every Friday from 1:00-2:00 p.m. at Gateway High School, ensuring families have access to essential support throughout the school year.

Ottumwa Schools would like to thank everyone who personally helped meet this community's needs. We will continue our work to meet the needs of our families and our community. If you or someone you know needs further assistance, please reach us at (641) 684-6597.