Dear Cobden Families,
It is with profound sadness that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of one of our high school students. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the student’s family, friends, and all those grieving this loss.
We understand that this news may be difficult for our students, staff, and families in our school community. Counselors and support staff will be available tomorrow from 8 AM - 12 PM in the high school library to provide assistance for anyone in need. We encourage families to talk with their children, listen to their concerns, and reach out for support as needed. We are here to support our school community in any way possible.
In light of this tragedy, we have made the difficult decision to cancel the basketball games and Hall of Fame recognition event scheduled for Saturday. We appreciate your understanding as we prioritize the well-being of our students, staff, and community during this time. We will share any updates about rescheduling events in the future.
If your child needs additional support please do not hesitate to contact school staff. Additionally, there are community resources available, including:
Crisis Hotline- Call or text 988 for 24/7 support
Cares Hotline- 800-345-9049
Arrowleaf Crisis line- Call 618-658-2611 for 24/7 support
As we navigate this difficult time together, we ask that you keep the student’s family and loved ones in your thoughts. We ask for respect and privacy for the student’s family while we come together to support one another.
With deepest sympathy,
Edwin Shoemate
Superintendent
Cobden Unit School District #17
Next week is homecoming week! Both Jr. High and High School students are encouraged to dress up and show your school spirit!
UPDATE for Saturday February 1, 2025
NO girls game due to illness
3:00 pm JV boys game
Approximately 4:00pm Hall of Fame Ceremony
Varsity boys game to follow after Ceremony
February Menu
An update from the Nurse
Tonights High School Girls Basketball game at Meridian is cancelled due to illness and injury.
4th, 5th, 6th grade boys basketball

Tuesday 1/28/25 at 6pm.

Congratulations to Lindsey Windings for advancing to district for the Voice of Democracy essay/speech contest, and Mallory Adamitis for advancing to district for the Patriot's Pen essay/speech contest. They both received certificates and money from the VFW District 15.


Cobden had the distinct honor of hosting the 107th Annual Union County Farm Bureau Meeting. The event commenced with Cobden FFA officers leading the Pledge of Allegiance, setting a tone of respect and tradition. We were also honored by the presence of State Representative Paul Jacobs, who joined us for the evening. We deeply appreciate the Union County Farm Bureau for its steadfast commitment to supporting our students' academic and professional growth during their high school years and beyond.





Cobden Appleknocker FFA had the privilege of attending the SIU FFA/Ag Night at the Saluki basketball game. Students explored the college career fair and joined the excitement of cheering on our very own Salukis. Can you spot the Appleknockers in the sea of maroon?





Congratulations to our Class of 2025 Outstanding Seniors: Thomas Coleman, Mackenzie Jackson, Lindsey Windings, Lillian Hawkins, Emma Roberts, and Garrett Basler. These students were nominated by faculty staff for their outstanding accomplishments in academics, character, and citizenship. They will represent Cobden High School at the SISHSA Banquet at SIUC on April 10th.

Tomorrow, January 17th, is a 2:00 dismissal day and Appleknocker Club will not be available. No school Monday, January 20th, in recognition of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

January Menu
Congratulations to the High School Scholar Bowl team for a varsity win over Sesser-Valier!!

Join us for Homecoming 2025 on Saturday, February 8th!

HS Beta Store now open! Last day to order is 1/30/25. Orders will ship / be available for pickup by mid February.
https://shopsilkworm.com/cobdenhs/
High School Beta fundraiser for My Daddy's Cheesecake.

Blood Drive scheduled for this week has been postponed to March 5, 2025.
Homecoming update

