The Cedar Rapids Community School District (CRCSD) has been awarded a $900,000 Therapeutic Classroom Incentive Grant from the Iowa Department of Education to enhance its ability to meet the social, emotional, and behavioral health needs of students.
This competitive grant, one of only eight awarded statewide, will help CRCSD create therapeutic learning environments designed to support students whose emotional or behavioral health challenges impact their ability to thrive in traditional classroom settings.
“We are thrilled to have been selected by the Iowa Department of Education to receive the Iowa Therapeutic Classroom Grant,” said Ryals Parker, Chief of Schools for Area 2, Special Services & Behavior Supports. “This valuable resource will enable us to accelerate and deepen our Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Health services and supports for students. The grant will allow us to respond more effectively to student needs by providing targeted support for both students and staff, ensuring that we can address challenges with greater speed and impact.”
The Therapeutic Classroom Incentive Grant was established through state legislation in 2020 and is part of Iowa’s broader commitment to expanding mental health services for children, youth, and families. Funds from this grant may be used to establish new therapeutic classrooms or strengthen the support systems within existing programs. These supports include mental health treatment, crisis intervention and prevention, stress and trauma coping strategies, and social-emotional skill-building.
“This grant represents an important investment in our students’ well-being and academic success,” said Dr. Tawana Grove, Superintendent of Cedar Rapids Community School District. “We are proud to join other districts across the state in creating spaces that prioritize healing, connection, and opportunity.”
CRCSD’s proposal will contribute to a statewide effort impacting more than 150 students in pre-K through grade 12, with a total of 17 therapeutic classrooms being established across eight Iowa counties. The funds will be distributed this fall to prepare for implementation during the 2025–26 school year.