On the Right Track: CRCSD

CRCSD
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Welcome to On the Right Track: CRCSD, the official podcast of the Cedar Rapids Community School District. Join us as we celebrate the stories, successes, and innovations shaping our schools and community. From heartfelt conversations with educators and students to in-depth discussions with district leaders and community partners, this podcast is your ticket to staying informed and inspired. Whether we’re sharing classroom triumphs, exploring initiatives that empower learners, or addressing the challenges and opportunities in education today, we’re always focused on one goal: keeping everyone on the right track to success. Tune in, engage, and discover how CRCSD is making a difference every day!

  1. Future Ready Today: District Newsletter April 16

    5D AGO

    Future Ready Today: District Newsletter April 16

    In this pivotal episode, we dive into the formal recommendations for the future of our schools and celebrate the outstanding achievements of our staff, students, and volunteers. With no school for students tomorrow (Friday, April 17th), we’re taking a moment to look at the big picture for the Cedar Rapids Community School District. In this episode: The Future of Our Boundaries: We break down the official recommendation of Boundary Scenario #2 for the 2027–2028 school year. Learn why this clockwise rotation was chosen over other proposals to ensure long-term stability, balanced enrollment, and true feeder patterns for our students.Have Your Say: A major call to action regarding the In-District Permit Survey. We discuss how families can help shape the process for attending schools outside their neighborhood during this transition.Award-Winning Educators: A huge congratulations to Avery Anderson (Harrison@Madison Elementary) for being named Orchestra Iowa’s Music Teacher of the Year!The Heart of Service: We recap the Volunteer Recognition Award Ceremony and celebrate Jenna Jandik, our District’s Outstanding Volunteer and nominee for the 2026 Iowa Governor’s Award.Innovation & Excellence: * Learn about our recent STEM BEST Explore Awards bringing cybersecurity, robotics, and national park conservation to our students.Our Finance Team hits a home run with the ASBO Certificate of Excellence, proving our commitment to transparency and fiscal responsibility.Glance Around the District: From 6th-grade blood structure studies at McKinley to "Frog Prince Day" at Cleveland and a massive 6th-grade pickleball tournament at Taft, we highlight the magic happening in our classrooms.📅 Key Dates & Links Friday, April 17: NO SCHOOL for students (Teacher Comp Day).Monday, April 27: Board of Education Final Vote on school consolidations and boundaries.In-District Permit Survey: Link available in the district newsletter—don't miss your chance to provide feedback!Truman Family Art Night: Tonight! (4:30 – 6:30 PM).

    5 min
  2. Future Ready Today: District Newsletter April 9

    APR 9

    Future Ready Today: District Newsletter April 9

    🎙️ Episode Description: Graduation Milestones & The Road to Summer Release Date: Thursday, April 9, 2026 Hosts: Isabelle & Justin In this high-energy episode, we celebrate a historic achievement for our students and take a look at the finish line for the 2025-2026 school year. From record-breaking graduation rates to upcoming theater magic, there is so much to be proud of in the Cedar Rapids Community School District. In this episode: A Historic Leap: We break down the phenomenal news from the Iowa Department of Education. CRCSD’s 4-year graduation rate has surged to 81.98%—a nearly 5% jump since 2023! We discuss what this means for our community and highlight the incredible progress in closing achievement gaps for our Black, ELL, and Special Education student groups.The Final Countdown: Mark your calendars! We officially announce the last day of school (Wednesday, June 3rd) and provide the specific early dismissal times for all levels.Leading the J-Hawks: Meet Derek Dixon, the newly appointed Activities Director for Jefferson High School. We discuss his "Together We Soar" vision for the future of J-Hawk athletics and fine arts.Titans on the Playground: We recap the "Titans Takeover" at Polk Alternative Education Center. Hear how professional football players are mentoring our students through reading and some legendary recess basketball games.Warrior Excellence: Student Spotlight on Washington senior Lily Barker as she heads into her final golf season with a clear focus on the state leaderboard.Arts & Stage: A guide to the upcoming "must-see" high school productions, including Kennedy's The Wizard of Oz, Washington’s The Princess Who Wouldn't Wear Pink, and Jefferson’s The SpongeBob Musical.Double Your Impact: How you can turn $50 into $100 for our schools this month through the GreenState Credit Union "Give & Grow" match program.📅 Key Dates & Links April 17: NO SCHOOL for students (Teacher PD Day).April 17-18: The Wizard of Oz @ Kennedy High School.April 23-25: The Princess Who Wouldn't Wear Pink @ Washington High School.April 30: Deadline for the GreenState Match.May 14-16: The SpongeBob Musical @ Jefferson High School.June 3: LAST DAY OF SCHOOL (Early Dismissal: 1:20 PM MS/HS; 2:20 PM Elementary).

    5 min
  3. Future Ready Today: District Newsletter April 2

    APR 2

    Future Ready Today: District Newsletter April 2

    We’re back from Spring Break and diving straight into the "big picture" for CRCSD. From the first look at new boundary proposals to setting the dates for our seniors' big walk across the stage, this episode is packed with essential updates for every family in the district. In this episode: Boundary Redesign Deep Dive: We recap last night’s Community Open Houses. What’s the difference between Scenario 1 (maintaining high school lines) and Scenario 2 (balancing enrollment district-wide)? We explain how these proposals aim to create long-term stability and equity.Your Voice, Your Choice: A guide to using the Online Address Lookup Tool to see how your family might be affected, plus the link to the Community Feedback Survey (don’t miss the April 8th deadline!).New Leadership at Viola Gibson: Introducing Kamber Boeckmann, a 22-year district veteran who will take the helm at Viola Gibson Elementary this July.Graduation Countdown: It’s getting real! We announce the official dates and times for the Class of 2026 commencement ceremonies—grab your tissues and planners.ISASP Success Strategies: Testing is officially underway. We share quick tips on how parents can help their students (grades 3–11) feel confident, fed, and focused through April 23rd.Iowa’s Got Talent: A preview of the Kennedy Choral League’s variety show competition happening tomorrow night, April 3rd, at CSPS Hall.Health & Safety Check: Important reminders on dental certificates for Kindergarteners and 9th graders, plus how to get free immunizations through Metro Care Connection.Glance Around the District: Meet Valley, the newest support dog at KLA, and hear about the Pancake Breakfast that kicked off testing week at McKinley.📅 Key Dates & Action Items: April 3: Iowa’s Got Talent @ CSPS Hall (7:00 PM).April 8: DEADLINE for the Boundary Feedback Survey (Noon).April 13: Formal boundary recommendation presented to the Board.April 17: School Bus Safety Poster Contest submissions due.April 28: Dental screening certificates due to school nurses.May 19–23: CRCSD Graduation Week!

    5 min

  4. MAR 26

    Future Ready Today: District Newsletter March 26

    Welcome back, CRCSD families! We hope your Spring Break was restorative because we are hitting the ground running for the final 11 weeks of the school year. In this episode, Isabelle and Justin discuss the "heart" of our schools—from kindergarten art showcases to the high-level planning that will shape our district’s future. In this episode: A Royal Showcase: Dr. Lannin shares a heartwarming story from Cedar River Academy’s art exhibit and how students like Abigail and Haven are building the confidence to lead.The Future of Our Schools: An update on the School Redesign & Boundary work. Learn about the two scenarios currently being refined and get all the details for the Community Open Houses on April 1st at Jefferson, Kennedy, and Washington.ISASP Testing 101: Everything you need to know to help your student (grades 3–11) shine during the Iowa Statewide Assessment of Student Progress window starting March 31st.Attendance Olympics Results: We reveal the final standings! Plus, a huge celebration of our community for achieving the highest February attendance in years.The Seidler Legacy: A look at the transformational impact of the Seidler Foundation, including a shout-out to 39 Jefferson juniors and a reminder for seniors to apply for Kirkwood scholarships by April 15th.Music Excellence: Highlighting Kennedy High’s Apricity Quartet and their prestigious selection for the Iowa Bandmasters Association Conference.Final Call for Receipts: How your grocery runs support our schools—the Hy-Vee Cash 4 Students deadline is March 31st!Glance Around the District: From rock climbing at McKinley to the "chick countdown" at Trailside and the greenhouse hustle at Metro STEAM Academy.📅 Key Dates & Action Items: March 31: Final day to turn in Hy-Vee receipts to your school office.March 31: ISASP Testing window begins (Grades 3–11).April 1: Community Open House (6:00 PM – 7:30 PM) at Jefferson, Kennedy, and Washington cafeterias.April 15: Deadline for Seidler Foundation Senior Scholarships.May 14: Expo Night at Cedar River Academy.

    6 min

  5. MAR 12

    Future Ready Today: District Newsletter March 12

    As we head into Spring Break, this episode focuses on the major decisions shaping the future of CRCSD. From a deep dive into the 2026-2027 staffing plan to celebrating a 26-year academic winning streak, Isabelle and Jennifer break down everything families need to know before the holiday. In this episode: Dr. Lannin’s Staffing Update: Learn how the district successfully reduced projected teaching staff cuts from 33 to fewer than 20 positions, prioritizing classroom stability and protecting fine arts programs.The Path Forward on Restructuring: Why the Intermediate Model is now the primary focus for the district’s future, and what to expect at the upcoming April 1st boundary open houses.Academic Decathlon Dominance: Celebrating Jefferson’s 26th consecutive state title (a true dynasty!) and Washington’s powerhouse 5th-place finish in their third year back in the competition.Magnet Lottery Countdown: A final reminder that the application window for our Magnet schools closes tomorrow, March 13th, at midnight.Construction Tour — Washington Rising: A "behind the fence" look at the new Freshman Academy and CTE labs currently taking shape at Washington High School.Spring Break Logistics: Reminders on student schedules and ELSC office hours for the week of March 16th.Health & Safety: Details on the district's new Bronze Tier safety certification and where to get free sports physicals for spring athletes.📅 Key Dates & Action Items: Magnet Lottery Deadline: Friday, March 13 (Parent Portal).Spring Break: No classes March 16–20.Boundary Open Houses: April 1, 2026 (Evening).Discover Summer Camp: Registration is open for June 15–26 [Link/QR Code].Next Update: There will be no newsletter or podcast during Spring Break. We’ll see you back here on Thursday, March 26th!

    6 min
  6. Future Ready Today: District Newsletter March 5

    MAR 5

    Future Ready Today: District Newsletter March 5

    In this episode, we step into Music In Our Schools Month by celebrating a legacy of artistry that dates back over a century in Cedar Rapids. From the national stage in Washington, D.C., to the "Great White Way" right here at Washington High School, our students are proving that the future of CRCSD is bright, bold, and incredibly talented. In this episode: Tonight’s Headliner — Warriors on Broadway: We’ve got your front-row seat to the details of tonight’s showcase at Washington High School. It’s free, it’s high-energy, and it’s a must-see for showtune fans!The Symphony of Growth: Dr. Lannin reflects on why music education is a pillar of our district. We look back at the foundation laid by Alice Inskeep in 1903 and look forward to new district-level leadership dedicated to the fine arts.Postseason Powerhouse: * Warrior Women’s Basketball: Celebrating a gritty 18–5 season and a historic State Tournament run.Team Santuario (Taft Middle School): How these young innovators took their 100-year vision to D.C. and placed 9th in the nation.Jefferson Boys Bowling: Highlighting their impressive 4th-place finish at the state lanes.New Leadership Spotlight: Introducing Adam Zimmermann as the new Chief of Schools, Area 1, and the strategic move to integrate our Data and Curriculum teams.The "March Deadlines" Checklist: * Everything you need to know about the Magnet Lottery (closes March 31).Registration reminders for our "littlest learners" in Preschool and Kindergarten.Required dental screenings for incoming 9th graders and Kindergarteners.Pardon Our Dust: A $30 million update on Jefferson’s transformation, featuring a first look at the new Freshman Academy and CTE labs.Glance Around the District: 5th-grade fiddles at Hiawatha, "river crossings" at Nixon, and team-led Reader's Theater at Erskine.

    7 min
  7. Future Ready Today: District Newsletter February 26

    FEB 26

    Future Ready Today: District Newsletter February 26

    In honor of Public Education Week, this episode is dedicated to the heartbeat of our community: our schools. Isabelle and Justin take a deep dive into the logistics of how we support our students, the transparency behind our district budget, and the incredible achievements of our learners. In this episode: A Message from Dr. Lannin: We discuss the "people-first" approach to the 2026–2027 staffing model. Dr. Lannin breaks down the difference between Core Allocations (the stable foundation) and Supplemental "Backpack" Funding (the flexible, equity-based resources).Guaranteed Graduation: Addressing community concerns, the district confirms that all required graduation coursework will remain available at every high school.Student Spotlight — Helen Mackey: Celebrate with us as we honor Kennedy High School senior Helen Mackey, recipient of the DAR Good Citizen Award. We discuss the four pillars she embodies: Leadership, Service, Dependability, and Patriotism.Clarity Corner with Dr. Grover: We tackle two big community questions:Why can’t we sell district land to fix the budget? (Hint: It’s a mix of Iowa Code 297.22 and long-term strategic readiness).How is the $1M savings from building closures calculated? A look at operational and human capital costs.Attendance Olympics — Week 1 Results: The "February Slump" doesn't stand a chance! We announce which feeder patterns are currently on the podium.Glance Around the District: * Cedar River Academy: 2nd graders taking to the water for free swim lessons.McKinley & Wilson: "Doodle Bots" with BAE Systems and a pop-up planetarium.Jefferson High: A hands-on forensic lesson with the CRPD Crime Scene Unit.In The News: Celebrating the Washington Warriors’ return to the Girls State Basketball Tournament after 13 years!

    6 min
  8. Future Ready Today: District Newsletter February 19

    FEB 19

    Future Ready Today: District Newsletter February 19

    In this week’s episode, we’re celebrating the powerful intersection of history and the future. From the moving student performances during Black History Month assemblies to the citywide recognition of our "14 Under 14" leaders, it is a week defined by student voice and community pride. In this episode: Dr. Lannin’s Message—Black History as a Bridge: We reflect on Superintendent Dr. Tawana Lannin’s visits to JSA, McKinley, and Washington. Hear about the "Sound of Color" poem that moved an entire auditorium and the spirit of "collective excellence" that transcends race and background.Sustainability of Self: Discover how Cedar River Academy is teaching students to manage "big emotions" and choose what they need to be their best selves through their unique monthly afternoons of student agency.The 14 Under 14 Awards: We read the names and celebrate the "quiet courage" and "bold hearts" of the 14 students recently featured in the Gazette and on Iowa News Now.Go for the Gold: An update on the CRCSD Attendance Olympics. Is your feeder pattern leading the medal count in the race to beat the "February Slump"?High School Transitions: Details for incoming J-Hawks regarding the Jefferson Rising 9th Grade Family Night on February 24th.Leadership & Recognition Opportunities: * How students can apply for the Student State Board of Education (Due Feb 27).How to nominate a deserving educator for 2027 Iowa Teacher of the Year (Due Feb 27).The first annual School Bus Safety Poster Contest (Due April 17).Glance Around the District: Rocket launches at Metro, "book tastings" at Trailside, acid experiments at Hiawatha, and McKinley’s MoShow Grand Championship win!

    6 min
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About

Welcome to On the Right Track: CRCSD, the official podcast of the Cedar Rapids Community School District. Join us as we celebrate the stories, successes, and innovations shaping our schools and community. From heartfelt conversations with educators and students to in-depth discussions with district leaders and community partners, this podcast is your ticket to staying informed and inspired. Whether we’re sharing classroom triumphs, exploring initiatives that empower learners, or addressing the challenges and opportunities in education today, we’re always focused on one goal: keeping everyone on the right track to success. Tune in, engage, and discover how CRCSD is making a difference every day!

Information

  • Creator
    CRCSD
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    55
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 On the Right Track: CRCSD
  • Show Website
    On the Right Track: CRCSD