Promoting Excellence Since 1982
Public school education is a powerful pathway for change.
Public schools have the power to impact young minds from all backgrounds. It’s a place to explore and be inspired beyond current circumstances. The mission of the Cedar Rapids Community Schools Foundation is to promote excellence and enhance educational experiences throughout our district.
The Foundation is NOT an extension of the district budget. The district is publicly funded, and that budget is used for operational expenses like building maintenance and teacher salaries.
Instead, we make sure everyone has a fair chance to provide and experience a quality education. Additionally, the Foundation does not receive any public funding. We rely on the generosity of private donors who believe in public schooling and the potential of the next generation.
Your Impact
See Our Funds in Action
Learn how Foundation funding empowers students, supports teachers, and breaks barriers throughout our district.
Young Minds, Bright Futures
Through the Student Enrichment Grant Program, we funded a classroom library. The teacher was able to buy books of various reading levels for her students. Giving young learners access to these reading materials leads to stronger phonic patterns. These skillsets pave the way for all future learning.
Metro High School Robotics
Participation in extracurriculars leads to greater success. But for many families, the cost associated with these activities isn’t always in the budget. That’s where the Ensuring Extracurriculars Fund comes in. At Metro, the Fund helped students explore the world of engineering through robotics. Now they can learn, present, and compete alongside other students.
Explore
Our Programs
Professional Excellence Grants
Funding supports professional and educational development opportunities for all district staff.
Career & Technical Education Grants
Funding enhances classrooms and equipment to ensure students are both college and career ready.
Ensuring Extracurriculars Fund
Funding covers costs of school-sponsored extracurriculars for students who are limited by financial constraints.
Invest
Show Your Support For Public School Education
When you donate to the Cedar Rapids Community Schools Foundation, you are contributing to equity and longevity in public school education — not just for students, but for the entire district.
You are investing in initiatives that expand perspectives and create opportunities for years to come.
- — Catherine O'Connell,
- Teacher, Trailside Elementary School
