Q&A with Cedar Rapids School Board candidate David Tominsky

David Tominsky is running for the Cedar Rapids School Board for the District 1 seat. He is an incumbent. Here are his answers to a survey we sent to all of the candidates.

Occupation and Employer: Chief Relationship Officer at The New Bohemian Innovation Collaborative (NewBoCo)

How and who should determine curriculum?

The Cedar Rapids Community School District has a curriculum committee and I'd encourage people to learn about the role of the Office of Teaching and Learning.

Why do you want to serve on the school board? What relevant experience do you have?

I have served on the school board since 2019 and as Board President for the past two years. I'm an empathetic leader that is committed to serving our community in this critical role. We need people that are willing to listen and remain focused on how our decisions impact students, staff, families, and our entire community.

How would you describe your attendance at past school board meetings?

I prioritize attendance at school board meetings and can often be found in the board room an hour before meetings begin to prepare. Attendance and punctuality are essential for effective leadership.

What are your three top priorities for the school district? What will you do to address them?

As a school district, we have to keep our focus on many priorities at the same time and I believe they are best outlined in the recent Cedar Rapids Community School District Strategic Action Plan. The four core pillars are to elevate plans, pathways, and passions for our students, energize our staff, stabilize our district, and mobilizing our community. My believe is that this recently approved approved strategic plan is comprehensive and will prove to be the guiding document for our priorities.

Will you support the proposed Nov. 7 Cedar Rapids school bond referendum? Why or why not?

Yes. I appreciate the phased approach and Phase 1 of the plan will address some of the most critical needs we have as a district. Career and Technical Education (CTE) is just one part of the Phase 1 plan, but will expand opportunities for students that will have an immediate impact on our community by preparing students for current and emerging occupations.

Do you support the district's facility master plan? Why or why not?

Yes. Investments in our public education facilities are investments in our community and they will have a positive impact for generations to come. The comprehensive facilities master plan means that every facility in the district will be new or renovated by 2037. It's a bold plan that I believe will have our community thriving long into the future.

What do you see as strengths and weaknesses of the school district?

Our district has new leadership and with that tremendous opportunities to create a vision for our future. The focus is on building trust, finding opportunities to collaborate, and having the highest standards for a world-class education. This community succeeds when we work together. It's hard work that is worth doing.

Are there any curriculum concerns you have with the district? Why? How should the school board address these issues?

I trust educators. The Cedar Rapids School District's focus on High Reliability Schools and a guaranteed and viable curriculum are evidence of why I trust our educators. When I have a question about my child's education, I know I can connect directly with our teachers to learn more. Legislative advocacy is something that is critical for school boards and the entire community.

If you were required to cut the district's budget, what areas would you look to for savings and why?

It's best to take a comprehensive look when considering cuts of any kind. Our district is in a strong financial position. Looking for opportunities to be fiscally responsible without negatively impacting staff is certainly something I support.

What level of control do you think school boards should have?

Local control is something we should all advocate for in our communities. Decisions are best made closest to the issues being addressed.

If the school district had additional funds available, what should they be allocated to? Why?

I agree with the Iowa Association of School Boards when they say "supplemental state aid is a critical component in student success by providing districts with adequate general fund resources" and that it "should reflect cost-of-living increases to ensure schools can recruit, hire and retain teachers and staff."

What will you do to be responsive to parents, teachers and district staff? What types of communication should the public expect from you?

As a board member, I've received numerous emails, phone calls, and direct messages from people in the community and I always do my best to be accessible and responsive.