On the Right Track: CRCSD
Welcome to On the Right Track: CRCSD, the official podcast of the Cedar Rapids Community School District. Join us as we celebrate the stories, successes, and innovations shaping our schools and community. From heartfelt conversations with educators and students to in-depth discussions with district leaders and community partners, this podcast is your ticket to staying informed and inspired. Whether we’re sharing classroom triumphs, exploring initiatives that empower learners, or addressing the challenges and opportunities in education today, we’re always focused on one goal: keeping everyone on the right track to success.
Tune in, engage, and discover how CRCSD is making a difference every day!
On the Right Track: CRCSD
Future Ready Today: District Newsletter February 26
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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 2026–2027 staffing model. Dr. Lannin breaks down the difference between Core Allocations (the stable foundation) and Supplemental "Backpack" Funding (the flexible, equity-based resources).
- Guaranteed Graduation: Addressing community concerns, the district confirms that all required graduation coursework will remain available at every high school.
- Student Spotlight — Helen Mackey: Celebrate with us as we honor Kennedy High School senior Helen Mackey, recipient of the DAR Good Citizen Award. We discuss the four pillars she embodies: Leadership, Service, Dependability, and Patriotism.
- Clarity Corner with Dr. Grover: We tackle two big community questions:
- Why can’t we sell district land to fix the budget? (Hint: It’s a mix of Iowa Code 297.22 and long-term strategic readiness).
- How is the $1M savings from building closures calculated? A look at operational and human capital costs.
- Attendance Olympics — Week 1 Results: The "February Slump" doesn't stand a chance! We announce which feeder patterns are currently on the podium.
- Glance Around the District: * Cedar River Academy: 2nd graders taking to the water for free swim lessons.
- McKinley & Wilson: "Doodle Bots" with BAE Systems and a pop-up planetarium.
- Jefferson High: A hands-on forensic lesson with the CRPD Crime Scene Unit.
- In The News: Celebrating the Washington Warriors’ return to the Girls State Basketball Tournament after 13 years!