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 employee salaries. The Foundation does not receive any public funding.

Instead, we make sure everyone has a fair chance to provide and experience a quality education. 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 skills pave the way for all future learning.

Explore

Our Programs

Professional Excellence Grants

Funding supports professional and educational development opportunities for all
district staff.

College and Career Pathways 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.


“We, as Jim Bowen’s family, feel privileged to fund ‘The Jim Bowen Jefferson High School Senior Baseball Scholarship’. Jim was very involved at Jefferson as a student/athlete and was committed to education (and baseball) as an adult. I know that Jim would support our decision & be very proud.”