As we approach an important decision point for our schools and community, I want to address the questions and concerns many of you have shared about the proposed school bond. I’m committed to providing transparent answers about how we’re planning to invest in Cedar Rapids’ educational future.

Cedar Rapids currently maintains the lowest school tax rate in our metropolitan area, but we face challenging realities about our aging facilities. Whether the bond passes or not, our district must make difficult decisions. We cannot continue maintaining all our current buildings as they age and become increasingly inefficient. Fiscal responsibility means making strategic decisions now to protect our district’s future.

A significant component of the bond addresses our elementary and middle school inefficiencies. Currently, we operate multiple schools under capacity, creating unnecessary costs in maintenance, staffing, and operations. Consolidating these resources would allow us to provide more comprehensive student support services, deploy specialized staff more effectively, and redirect operational savings to educational priorities.

While overall district enrollment has fluctuated, our data shows the northeast corridor is experiencing significant growth. We face increasing competition from neighboring districts with newer facilities that attract families across district lines. This isn’t just about accommodating current students — it’s about ensuring Cedar Rapids can attract and retain families for generations to come.

Many community members have asked about the $7.5 million land purchase for the proposed new middle school. The land was assessed at $1.5 million for agricultural purposes — not for its potential educational use. When land transitions from agricultural to development purposes, its value naturally increases. This purchase, made with Physical Plant and Equipment Levy (PPEL) funds, secured 51 acres in the fastest growing area of our community — a fact supported by demographic data. These PPEL funds are legally restricted to facility improvements and land acquisition — they cannot be used for teacher salaries or classroom expenses.

A strategic consolidation into more efficient, modern facilities offers benefits far beyond bricks and mortar:

● For students: Improved learning environments and equitable access to resources.

● For teachers: Better collaborative spaces and technology that support innovative teaching.

● For the community: Neighborhood anchors that enhance property values

● For taxpayers: More efficient use of resources and protection of educational investments

Cedar Rapids has a long history of investing in education. Previous generations built the schools that have served us well for decades. Now it’s our turn to continue that legacy by making investments that will benefit not just today’s students, but tomorrow’s community leaders, workforce, and caretakers.

As we approach this decision point, your perspective is invaluable. If you haven’t weighed in yet, today is the deadline. I encourage you to submit your bond survey online or by mail so your voice is heard. If you haven’t received your survey, please email us at futurereadyfacilites@crschools.us to receive a survey link and code today. Share your thoughts, ask questions, and be part of the conversation — so we can learn and adjust using your ideas. We need you to step up and help us do this better together!

The challenges facing our district won’t disappear regardless of the bond outcome. What matters is how we face them — together, with transparency, and with a commitment to making decisions that serve our community’s long-term interests. For more information, visit build.crschools.us.

Dr. Tawana Grover is superintendent of the Cedar Rapids Community School District.