On the Right Track: CRCSD

In this historic episode of Future Ready Today , Isabelle and Justin break down the Cedar Rapids Community School District’s "Path Forward" following the Board of Education’s landmark vote on April 27, 2026. We dive deep into what the new Intermediate School Model (Grades 5–6) means for your students, the details of the approved school consolidations, and the transition timeline that giv...

We are in a season of "full circle" moments in Cedar Rapids. As we look toward the final Board of Education vote on school boundaries, we also celebrate the traditions that make our district home. In this episode: The Defining Moment: Dr. Lannin previews the April 27th Board meeting and explains why the "Strategic Redesign" is focused on 2027 and beyond. Senior Walks: The Class...

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 o...

🎙️ 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 Rapi...

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 differenc...

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 heartwar...

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 s...

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 o...

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 2026–202...

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. Tawan...

We’ve officially crossed the 100th day of school ! This week, Justin and Isabelle celebrate the milestone—from the adorable "100-year-old" costumes in our elementary halls to the deeper reflections of Black History Month . Beyond the celebrations, we’re diving into the heavy-hitting updates from Monday night’s Board meeting and what they mean for the future of our district. In this episo...

Mother Nature must have finally heard our pleas! This week, Justin and Isabelle swap the snow shovels for sunglasses as they discuss the predicted 40-degree weekend "heatwave." Between debating the best Super Bowl snacks and commiserating over their shared (and slightly painful) status as Chicago Bears fans, the duo dives into a packed agenda for the Cedar Rapids Community School Distric...

In this episode, we brave the Iowa "industrial freezer" to bring you the latest on the district's long-term school redesign plans, celebrate student voices at the State Capitol, and get ready for the 2026–2027 school year! Designing for Success: Isabelle and Jennifer break down the three conceptual models presented to the Board by our Community Coalition. From the "Intermediate...

Urgent Weather Update: Due to dangerous temperatures, Friday, January 23, will be our district’s very first Home-Based Learning Day . In this episode, we break down exactly what that means for your family, how attendance works, and how our teachers will be supporting students from a distance to keep the learning going without adding days to the calendar. Building a Sustainable Future: Superintende...

In this episode, we discuss a significant update to the district’s facility planning timeline, celebrate major wins in music and ethics, and share why there were baby sheep roaming the halls of Jefferson High! A Message of Partnership: Dr. Tawana Lannin joins us to discuss the "why" behind our budget conversations. Most importantly, she shares a newly adjusted timeline for school consoli...

Here is the episode description for the first community podcast of 2026: Future Ready Today: Episode Title (e.g., A New Vision for 2026: Dr. Lannin’s Update, Budget Proposals, and the Home-Based Learning Pilot ) Welcome back to CRCSD! In our first episode of the New Year, we discuss the path forward for our district’s facilities, introduce a new way to handle snow days, and celebrate our bold stud...

Here is the episode description for your final 2025 community update: Future Ready Today: Episode Title (e.g., Holiday Wishes, A Milestone Name Change, and 1,126 Smiles ) In our final episode of 2025, we celebrate a record-breaking holiday dinner, a major tech grant, and share an important personal update from our Superintendent. Happy Holidays from CRCSD: As we head into winter break, we share ou...

Critical budget updates, an important weather announcement for today, and upcoming holiday events for Cedar Rapids families. 🚨 IMMEDIATE ANNOUNCEMENT: Classes will be dismissed 2 Hours Early today, Thursday, December 11th , due to weather conditions. All evening activities are canceled. Please check the newsletter for specific dismissal times. Budget & Transparency: Hear a direct message from...

A special message on transparency, news of a new winter weather plan, and student success highlights from the Cedar Rapids Community School District. Superintendent's Message: Hear Dr. Grover launch Clarity Corner , a new initiative for open communication, and address recent questions about her leadership, residence, and district consulting to ensure transparency and trust. Student & Scho...

A direct message on the path forward, critical assistance resources, and student highlights from the Cedar Rapids Community School District. Message from Dr. Grover: Superintendent Dr. Tawana Grover addresses the district’s enrollment decline , sharing an honest assessment and outlining the next steps, including the launch of a Strategic Planning & Community Coalition . Families are invited to...

A post-election message of resolve, resources for families, and celebration of student success from the Cedar Rapids Community School District. Message from the Superintendent: Hear Dr. Tawana Grover’s message of gratitude and resolve following the recent bond measure results. The district reaffirms its commitment to the mission: Every learner future ready. Learn what steps the leadership team is...

Time-sensitive reminders and celebrations of student excellence from the Cedar Rapids Community School District. Key Action Items: VOTE TUESDAY, NOV. 4: A direct message from Dr. Grover urging all community members to vote on the CRCSD Bond Referendum and school board elections. Find poll hours and locations. FALL BACK: Daylight Saving Time ends this weekend! Remember to set clocks back one hour o...

The current date is Thursday, October 23, 2025 . Given the content and dates in the script, this episode would be releasing around the time of the events mentioned (specifically before the Trunk-or-Treat event on Sunday, October 26th). Here is an episode description for the provided podcast script, formatted for an audience of community members and families: Future Ready Today: Episode Title (e.g....

An essential weekly update from the Cedar Rapids Community School District for our families and community. In this week's episode, hear a personal message from Superintendent Dr. Tawana Grover reflecting on Read Across America Day and sharing how a lifelong love of reading builds confidence and connection for all students. CRCSD is celebrating excellence! We spotlight the phenomenal achieveme...