Today and every day, we appreciate our law enforcement partners who help keep our schools safe.
Spanish:
Hoy y todos los días, agradecemos a nuestros aliados de las fuerzas del orden que ayudan a mantener seguras nuestras escuelas.
Spanish:
Hoy y todos los días, agradecemos a nuestros aliados de las fuerzas del orden que ayudan a mantener seguras nuestras escuelas.
Families at South Sioux City High School who still need assistance completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) will have an opportunity to receive one-on-one support next week during scheduled help sessions with EducationQuest Foundation.
Victor, a FAFSA specialist with EducationQuest, will be on site at South Sioux City High School on Wednesday, January 14, and Thursday, January 15, to assist students and families with completing the FAFSA. Because these sessions are appointment-based, families are required to schedule a time in advance so that each appointment allows for focused, individualized support.
Completing the FAFSA is now a graduation requirement in Nebraska for high school seniors unless a waiver is submitted. In addition to meeting this requirement, the FAFSA serves as the gateway to federal, state, and college-based financial aid. Without a completed FAFSA, students will not receive financial aid packages from colleges or universities.
“We still have a significant number of seniors who need to complete the FAFSA or submit a waiver,” said Linda Swanson, school counselor at South Sioux City High School. “Roughly two-thirds of our senior class—about 200 students—still need to take this step. These sessions with EducationQuest are an excellent opportunity to get it done correctly and early.”
Swanson explained that families who have previously completed the FAFSA for an older sibling may already have an existing FSA ID, which can help move the process along. However, she emphasized that families should not feel discouraged or delay scheduling an appointment if they are unsure what information they have or where to begin.
“The important thing is to come in,” Swanson said. “If you don’t know something, if you’re stuck, or if you’re unsure what applies to your situation, that’s exactly why these appointments exist. Victor is here to help families work through the process step by step.”
During the sessions, laptops and Chromebooks will be available for use. Families are encouraged to bring their phones, as the FAFSA system may send verification or security codes during login. While tax information can be helpful, EducationQuest staff can still assist families who are missing documents or need help identifying what information is required.
One advantage of the EducationQuest sessions is the level of expertise available. Victor works exclusively with FAFSA completion and financial aid guidance and brings years of experience helping Nebraska families navigate the process. He is bilingual and provides assistance in both English and Spanish, making the sessions accessible to a broad range of families.
Because Victor is the sole specialist on site during these days, appointments are required. Families are encouraged to schedule early to ensure available time slots are filled and used efficiently. To make an appointment, families may call EducationQuest directly at 402-391-4033. Students may also contact the South Sioux City High School counseling office, where counselors or the school counseling secretary can assist with scheduling or answer questions.
While South Sioux City High School counselors will continue offering additional FAFSA support sessions later in the semester, Swanson stressed the value of completing the application as soon as possible.
“The earlier the FAFSA is completed, the earlier students can begin receiving financial aid offers from colleges,” she said. “Even if everything isn’t finalized in one sitting, starting now gives families time to follow up if additional information is needed.”
EducationQuest services are provided at no cost, and the organization also assists families with students who are already enrolled in college and need help completing the FAFSA. Additional details on preparing for a FAFSA appointment and required information can be found on this form. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1K50e7Ko8KpfrCIJMM96gVqQUY4lfsaBI/view?usp=sharing
Families with questions are encouraged to reach out directly to EducationQuest for assistance or contact the South Sioux City High School counseling office.
Victor, a FAFSA specialist with EducationQuest, will be on site at South Sioux City High School on Wednesday, January 14, and Thursday, January 15, to assist students and families with completing the FAFSA. Because these sessions are appointment-based, families are required to schedule a time in advance so that each appointment allows for focused, individualized support.
Completing the FAFSA is now a graduation requirement in Nebraska for high school seniors unless a waiver is submitted. In addition to meeting this requirement, the FAFSA serves as the gateway to federal, state, and college-based financial aid. Without a completed FAFSA, students will not receive financial aid packages from colleges or universities.
“We still have a significant number of seniors who need to complete the FAFSA or submit a waiver,” said Linda Swanson, school counselor at South Sioux City High School. “Roughly two-thirds of our senior class—about 200 students—still need to take this step. These sessions with EducationQuest are an excellent opportunity to get it done correctly and early.”
Swanson explained that families who have previously completed the FAFSA for an older sibling may already have an existing FSA ID, which can help move the process along. However, she emphasized that families should not feel discouraged or delay scheduling an appointment if they are unsure what information they have or where to begin.
“The important thing is to come in,” Swanson said. “If you don’t know something, if you’re stuck, or if you’re unsure what applies to your situation, that’s exactly why these appointments exist. Victor is here to help families work through the process step by step.”
During the sessions, laptops and Chromebooks will be available for use. Families are encouraged to bring their phones, as the FAFSA system may send verification or security codes during login. While tax information can be helpful, EducationQuest staff can still assist families who are missing documents or need help identifying what information is required.
One advantage of the EducationQuest sessions is the level of expertise available. Victor works exclusively with FAFSA completion and financial aid guidance and brings years of experience helping Nebraska families navigate the process. He is bilingual and provides assistance in both English and Spanish, making the sessions accessible to a broad range of families.
Because Victor is the sole specialist on site during these days, appointments are required. Families are encouraged to schedule early to ensure available time slots are filled and used efficiently. To make an appointment, families may call EducationQuest directly at 402-391-4033. Students may also contact the South Sioux City High School counseling office, where counselors or the school counseling secretary can assist with scheduling or answer questions.
While South Sioux City High School counselors will continue offering additional FAFSA support sessions later in the semester, Swanson stressed the value of completing the application as soon as possible.
“The earlier the FAFSA is completed, the earlier students can begin receiving financial aid offers from colleges,” she said. “Even if everything isn’t finalized in one sitting, starting now gives families time to follow up if additional information is needed.”
EducationQuest services are provided at no cost, and the organization also assists families with students who are already enrolled in college and need help completing the FAFSA. Additional details on preparing for a FAFSA appointment and required information can be found on this form. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1K50e7Ko8KpfrCIJMM96gVqQUY4lfsaBI/view?usp=sharing
Families with questions are encouraged to reach out directly to EducationQuest for assistance or contact the South Sioux City High School counseling office.
January is National Mentoring Month
This month, we’re proud to recognize the powerful impact of mentoring and to shine a spotlight on the difference our TeamMates Mentoring Program makes in the lives of our students.
Through TeamMates, caring mentors build meaningful, one-to-one relationships with students offering encouragement, consistency, and a trusted presence. These connections help students grow in confidence, strengthen their academic and social skills, and feel supported both in and out of the classroom.
Mentorship isn’t just about guidance it’s about showing up, listening, and believing in a student’s potential. We are incredibly grateful for the mentors who dedicate their time and hearts to uplifting our students and helping them see what’s possible.
Thank you to our TeamMates mentors, staff, and supporters for investing in our students and helping shape brighter futures one relationship at a time. ❤️
#NationalMentoringMonth #TeamMates #BuildingConnections #SupportingStudents #CardinalPride
This month, we’re proud to recognize the powerful impact of mentoring and to shine a spotlight on the difference our TeamMates Mentoring Program makes in the lives of our students.
Through TeamMates, caring mentors build meaningful, one-to-one relationships with students offering encouragement, consistency, and a trusted presence. These connections help students grow in confidence, strengthen their academic and social skills, and feel supported both in and out of the classroom.
Mentorship isn’t just about guidance it’s about showing up, listening, and believing in a student’s potential. We are incredibly grateful for the mentors who dedicate their time and hearts to uplifting our students and helping them see what’s possible.
Thank you to our TeamMates mentors, staff, and supporters for investing in our students and helping shape brighter futures one relationship at a time. ❤️
#NationalMentoringMonth #TeamMates #BuildingConnections #SupportingStudents #CardinalPride
🎄❤️ Lewis & Clark Students Make the Season Brighter ❤️🎄
We are so proud of our Lewis & Clark students and staff for their generosity and leadership this holiday season! Through their Coffee Sales and Pajama Day fundraiser, these students came together to support Cardinal Christmas Baskets.
☕ Coffee Sales: $595
🛌 Pajama Day: $796
✨ Grand Total Raised: $1,391 ✨
This incredible effort is a true reflection of Cardinal pride, kindness, and the power of giving back. Thank you to our students for leading with heart, and to our staff and families who supported these fundraisers. Because of you, our community will feel a little more warmth this holiday season.
❤️ Way to go, Lewis & Clark! ❤️
We are so proud of our Lewis & Clark students and staff for their generosity and leadership this holiday season! Through their Coffee Sales and Pajama Day fundraiser, these students came together to support Cardinal Christmas Baskets.
☕ Coffee Sales: $595
🛌 Pajama Day: $796
✨ Grand Total Raised: $1,391 ✨
This incredible effort is a true reflection of Cardinal pride, kindness, and the power of giving back. Thank you to our students for leading with heart, and to our staff and families who supported these fundraisers. Because of you, our community will feel a little more warmth this holiday season.
❤️ Way to go, Lewis & Clark! ❤️
Calendar Reminder for SSC Families
As we head into the holiday season, here are a couple of important upcoming dates to keep in mind:
📌 Friday, December 19
• K–12 Half Day for Students
• Pre-K- No School Staff SIP/Work Day
📌 December 22 – January 6
• No School for PK–12 Students (Winter Break)
We hope our Cardinals enjoy a safe, restful, and joyful break with family and friends. ❤️
Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to welcoming students back in January!
🐦 #SSCschools #CardinalPride #WinterBreakReminder
🎓 Seniors & Parents — FAFSA Help Available TOMORROW! 🎓
Planning for life after high school? Completing the FAFSA is a key step in accessing grants, scholarships, and low-interest federal student loans — and help is available!
📅 Tomorrow, Tuesday, December 16
🕓 4:00–6:00 PM
📍 High School Library
Whether you’re just getting started or have questions along the way, staff will be on hand to assist you. Completing the FAFSA does not commit students to accepting aid, but it does keep important options open.
If your senior hasn’t completed the FAFSA yet, we encourage families to stop by and take advantage of this support before winter break.
👉 Walk-ins welcome. We hope to see you there!
Planning for life after high school? Completing the FAFSA is a key step in accessing grants, scholarships, and low-interest federal student loans — and help is available!
📅 Tomorrow, Tuesday, December 16
🕓 4:00–6:00 PM
📍 High School Library
Whether you’re just getting started or have questions along the way, staff will be on hand to assist you. Completing the FAFSA does not commit students to accepting aid, but it does keep important options open.
If your senior hasn’t completed the FAFSA yet, we encourage families to stop by and take advantage of this support before winter break.
👉 Walk-ins welcome. We hope to see you there!
Attention Seniors and Their Parents
Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is an important step in accessing grants, scholarships, and low-interest federal student loans for education after high school. Completing the FAFSA does not obligate students to accept aid, but not completing it can limit future options.
To support students and families, FAFSA help sessions will be available:
📅 Thursday, December 11
🕓 4:00–6:00 PM
📍 High School Library
📅 Tuesday, December 16
🕓 4:00–6:00 PM
📍 High School Library
If your senior has not yet completed the FAFSA, we encourage you to stop by and take advantage of this assistance before winter break.
Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is an important step in accessing grants, scholarships, and low-interest federal student loans for education after high school. Completing the FAFSA does not obligate students to accept aid, but not completing it can limit future options.
To support students and families, FAFSA help sessions will be available:
📅 Thursday, December 11
🕓 4:00–6:00 PM
📍 High School Library
📅 Tuesday, December 16
🕓 4:00–6:00 PM
📍 High School Library
If your senior has not yet completed the FAFSA, we encourage you to stop by and take advantage of this assistance before winter break.
South Sioux City FBLA to Host Canned Food Drive Night! 🥫🏀
Join us this Thursday, December 11, as our FBLA students team up with Cardinal Athletics for a special Canned Food Drive Night during the girls and boys basketball games!
🎟 FREE admission for every spectator who brings 2 canned goods or non-perishable items.
💖 All donations will support Cardinal Christmas Baskets, helping local families this holiday season.
🏀 Girls Game: 5:30 PM
🏀 Boys Game: 7:00 PM
Let’s pack the stands, support our community, and cheer on our Cardinals!
Thank you to our FBLA students for leading such an impactful event! ❤️
Join us this Thursday, December 11, as our FBLA students team up with Cardinal Athletics for a special Canned Food Drive Night during the girls and boys basketball games!
🎟 FREE admission for every spectator who brings 2 canned goods or non-perishable items.
💖 All donations will support Cardinal Christmas Baskets, helping local families this holiday season.
🏀 Girls Game: 5:30 PM
🏀 Boys Game: 7:00 PM
Let’s pack the stands, support our community, and cheer on our Cardinals!
Thank you to our FBLA students for leading such an impactful event! ❤️
✨ EVERY CARDINAL, EVERY DAY ✨
Attendance matters, every day is a chance to rise!
At SSC Schools, we know students do better when they show up. Strong attendance builds routines, relationships, and success.
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✨ CADA CÁRDENAL, CADA DÍA ✨
¡La asistencia importa — y hace una gran diferencia!
En las Escuelas de South Sioux City, creemos que cada día es una oportunidad para aprender, crecer y avanzar. Cuando los estudiantes asisten con regularidad, desarrollan rutinas fuertes, crean buenas relaciones y se mantienen encaminados hacia el éxito.
Reminder: Nov 26 PK-12 Half Day Students; Staff dismiss 1:00
Nov 27-28 Thanksgiving Break
Nov 27-28 Thanksgiving Break
At South Sioux City Community Schools, we are all learners — and listening is part of learning. Following the May 2025 bond election, we’re asking our school community to take a short survey to help us understand the outcome and guide our next steps.
Your feedback matters. Whether you voted in the election or not, your input will help us learn more about the priorities, concerns, and values that shape our community. The results will be used by district leaders and the Board of Education as we plan for the future of our facilities and continue providing safe, modern, and effective learning environments for all students.
The survey takes just a few minutes to complete and can be found at ssccards.org/survey
. Please take a moment to share your perspective before the survey closes on Sunday, November 23.
Thank you for your time and for being an active voice in shaping the future of South Sioux City Community Schools.
Attendance Matters!
🏀🤼♂️ Salt Drive is Back!
It’s that time of year again, Cardinals! We’re kicking off our annual Salt Drive Fundraiser to support the Boys Basketball and Boys Wrestling programs.
🧂This year’s drive will only run for one week due to the holiday schedule — so don’t wait!
You can place your order through any Boys Basketball player or Boys Wrestler.
Prefer email? No problem!
📩 Contact Coach Wilson at nelson.wilson@ssccards.org
or Coach Bonham at lucas.bonham@ssccards.org
Let’s rally behind our athletes and show that Cardinal Pride runs strong — on and off the court and mat! ❤️🖤
#GoCards #CardinalPride #SSCStrong
It’s that time of year again, Cardinals! We’re kicking off our annual Salt Drive Fundraiser to support the Boys Basketball and Boys Wrestling programs.
🧂This year’s drive will only run for one week due to the holiday schedule — so don’t wait!
You can place your order through any Boys Basketball player or Boys Wrestler.
Prefer email? No problem!
📩 Contact Coach Wilson at nelson.wilson@ssccards.org
or Coach Bonham at lucas.bonham@ssccards.org
Let’s rally behind our athletes and show that Cardinal Pride runs strong — on and off the court and mat! ❤️🖤
#GoCards #CardinalPride #SSCStrong
Hockey Day Fun!
Our students had an absolute blast at the November 6th hockey game!
Students from Middle School RISE, Cardinal House, and LEAP filled the stands with Cardinal spirit, cheering, learning, and soaking in all the excitement of the game. ❤️🤍🖤
A huge shoutout to the Three Musketeers, Caden Okovita, Max Anderson, and Travis Poliski who visited our schools a couple of weeks ago to teach our students about hockey before the big day. 🏒👏
What a fun way to learn, connect, and celebrate together!
#CardinalPride #GoCards #CommunityConnections
🏀 Special Olympic Basketball Season is Here! 🏀
We’re ready to hit the court!
Practices begin Wednesday, November 5th at SSC Middle School — please use the southeast door (Door 52) for entry.
We’re still looking for a few more teammates and volunteer coaches — come join the fun and help our athletes shine!
📞 For more info, contact:
Coach Marla Grier – 712-281-5317
Coach Vanessa Wiseman – 712-389-0229
Check out the flyer below to learn more about the amazing SSC Special Olympics program and how to get involved!
#CardinalPride #InclusionInAction #SpecialOlympics #OneTeamOneGoalOneCardinalFamily
Partnerships That Make a Difference 💪❤️🖤
This week, South Sioux City Community Schools completed district-wide health screenings — and it couldn’t have been done without the amazing teamwork of our community partners!
🩺 Nursing students from Briar Cliff University and Western Iowa Tech Community College joined forces with our district nurses to provide professional, caring service to our students.
👓 Vision screenings were made possible through the dedication of the Lions Clubs of Wakefield and Tekamah, whose volunteers continue to make a real impact across Siouxland.
Thank you to everyone who helped make these screenings a success! Together, we’re ensuring our Cardinals stay healthy, safe, and ready to learn.
#CardinalPride #CommunityPartners #OneTeamOneGoalOneCardinalFamily #HealthyCardinals
This week, South Sioux City Community Schools completed district-wide health screenings — and it couldn’t have been done without the amazing teamwork of our community partners!
🩺 Nursing students from Briar Cliff University and Western Iowa Tech Community College joined forces with our district nurses to provide professional, caring service to our students.
👓 Vision screenings were made possible through the dedication of the Lions Clubs of Wakefield and Tekamah, whose volunteers continue to make a real impact across Siouxland.
Thank you to everyone who helped make these screenings a success! Together, we’re ensuring our Cardinals stay healthy, safe, and ready to learn.
#CardinalPride #CommunityPartners #OneTeamOneGoalOneCardinalFamily #HealthyCardinals
Addressing #chronicabsence is key for improving graduation rates, increasing achievement & giving young people a good chance for success at school & beyond. #HereTodayReadyforTomorrow
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Abordar la #ausenciacrónica es clave para mejorar las tasas de graduación, aumentar los logros y brindarles a los jóvenes una buena oportunidad de tener éxito en la escuela y más allá. #AquíHoyListosParaElMañana
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Abordar la #ausenciacrónica es clave para mejorar las tasas de graduación, aumentar los logros y brindarles a los jóvenes una buena oportunidad de tener éxito en la escuela y más allá. #AquíHoyListosParaElMañana
Don’t miss your shot! 🏀 Sign up now for Redbirds Basketball—registration closes October 10. Let’s make this season one to remember! 🙌 #RedbirdsBasketball
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdy4YzMUet5REANGnw7B5GQn-WKzp5W-RiH3GohOcBhoFasOg/viewform
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdy4YzMUet5REANGnw7B5GQn-WKzp5W-RiH3GohOcBhoFasOg/viewform
Homecoming Parade Canceled — Wednesday, Sept. 17
Due to the forecast of rain and safety considerations, the SSC Homecoming Parade scheduled for today (Wednesday, Sept. 17) at 4:00 p.m. is canceled. School will release early and follow our Monday schedule as planned.
Please watch our official channels for updates on any adjustments to other Homecoming events. Thank you to all participants, volunteers, and community members for your understanding.
On Wednesday, September 17th, the students will follow our Monday early out schedule. See you at the Homecoming Parade, at the Powder Puff Game and at the Hercules Movie Night! Go Cards!
