Cedar Rapids Community School District

Testing season can feel like a marathon for both students and parents! If your child is feeling the pressure of the upcoming ISASP, here is a simple, research-backed tool to help them clear their head.

🧠 The "Brain Dump"
Anxiety acts like "mental clutter," taking up valuable space in the working memory that your child needs for problem-solving and focus. By physically writing those worries down and tossing them away, they can effectively "offload" that stress.

How to do it:
Set a timer: Give them just 5 minutes before they head to school or start the test.
No filters: Let them write anything—from "I’m scared of the math part" to "I’m worried I’ll run out of time."
The Release: Have them crumble the paper up and throw it in the trash. It’s a powerful symbolic way to say, "I’m not carrying this with me today."

A clear mind is a focused mind! You’ve got this! 🎓✨

#ISASP #TestingTips #StudentSuccess #IowaSchools #ParentingHacks … See MoreSee Less

Cedar Rapids Community School District

Today, we recognize the vital role paraprofessionals play in our district. Their commitment to inclusive education and individualized support ensures that every student has the opportunity to thrive. Thank you for all you do! … See MoreSee Less

Cedar Rapids Community School District

Hello, April!
Here are the important days to keep on your radar this month! From school board meetings to days off, we’ve got you covered.

Stay tuned, stay organized, and let’s make it a great month!
#MonthlyReminder #StayConnected … See MoreSee Less

Cedar Rapids Community School District

TONIGHT: Special Board Work Session
The CRCSD Board of Education will hold a special work session tonight to review two proposed school boundary scenarios. These proposals are a key part of our ongoing school redesign efforts to ensure long-term stability for our district and students.

When: March 31 at 5:00 PM
Where: In-person at the ELSC, or stream it live on the district’s YouTube channel –
www.youtube.com/@EngageCRschools.
Note: As a formal work session, there will be no public comment during this meeting.

Can’t join us tonight? Join us tomorrow, April 1st, from 6-7:30 PM, for a Community Open House to see the two boundary scenarios and how they may impact your students. We will hold simultaneous meetings in the cafeterias at Jefferson, Kennedy, and Washington High School. Translators will be available at each location. … See MoreSee Less

Cedar Rapids Community School District

While a lot of the magic happens in the classroom, it takes an incredible team behind the scenes to keep our schools running smoothly. Today, we’re shouting out Jacalyn "Jackie" Mason for her outstanding work in accounting!

Jackie is the master of organization—staying on top of student fees, account balances, and deposits with total precision. Whenever a question arises, she is there with quick, clear answers and a helping hand.

As a colleague shared:
"Jackie does an amazing job staying on top of all things related to Accounting! We are lucky to have her at CRCSD. Thanks for all that you do, Jackie!"

Thank you, Jackie, for your dedication to clarity and for keeping McKinley STEAM on track! 🚀✨

#McKinleySTEAM #CRCSD #StaffShoutout #SchoolAccounting #EfficiencyExpert … See MoreSee Less

Cedar Rapids Community School District

Join Us: Community Open House!

We’re hosting a Community Open House on April 1 to share updates on
proposed school attendance boundary changes. This is an opportunity to see the latest proposals, understand how they may impact your students, and provide feedback before the committee brings a formal recommendation to the Board of Education later in April.

When: April 1 | 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Where: Cafeterias at Jefferson, Kennedy, & Washington High Schools.
Format: The same info is shared at all sites; attend the one most convenient for you!
Translation Support: Translators will be available at each location.

Can’t make it? Additional information and the feedback survey will be shared in next week’s district newsletter. … See MoreSee Less

Cedar Rapids Community School District

It takes a special person to provide the kind of support our students need when navigating mental health challenges. Today, we are so proud to recognize Alisha Malamphy for being that person!

Alisha is known throughout Taft for her welcoming spirit and her unwavering willingness to help students in any way she can. Her presence ensures that every student feels seen and supported during their toughest moments.

As a colleague shared:
"Alisha has been so supportive with our students who are struggling with mental health challenges. She is always welcoming and willing to help… Taft is so lucky to have Alisha!"

Thank you, Alisha, for being a champion for our students’ well-being. We are so grateful to have you on the CRCSD team! 🏫✨

#TaftMiddleSchool #CRCSD #MentalHealthMatters #StaffShoutout #StudentSupport … See MoreSee Less