When you grow up one block from Roosevelt Creative Corridor Business Academy (RCCBA), a return to the school as newly-named principal is the adult version of “coming home.” Justin Blietz has been named RCCBA principal as of July 1, 2022. He grew up on Hinkley Avenue and has fond memories of playing basketball on the RCCBA outdoor courts and spending winter days on the beloved sledding hill. He also cites the great teachers and mentors throughout his time in the Cedar Rapids Community School District as the inspiration for him becoming a teacher and school administrator. 

As he becomes RCCBA principal, his goal is to build authentic relationships with the RCCBA families who come from the familiar neighborhoods where Blietz grew up. “I’m looking forward to working collaboratively to ensure that every student at RCCBA has a plan, passion and pathway for their future,” said Blietz. “We will ensure high academic achievement for all of our learners by providing rigorous instruction through our magnet theme and working collaboratively with families and the community.”

Blietz notes that the passion of the RCCBA staff is evident, and he knows their commitment to the RCCBA community will be the foundation for co-creating a successful, caring school environment. 

“CRCSD is pleased to have Justin join RCCBA as its new principal,” said Adam Zimmermann, executive director of middle schools. “His experience as a teacher, associate principal and secondary director of climate/culture transformation will enrich RCCBA and further strengthen the magnet school theme of community.”