Serious about solving big challenges

I’ve learned during my first term on the School Board that school districts get pulled in a lot of directions. People have asked me if the school district can help with issues as diverse as affordable housing, traffic, historic preservation, neighborhood redevelopment, disaster recovery, social issues and more.

As I listened to ideas and concerns, I certainly understand all those things are important. But I’m running for re-election to do my best to keep our school board focused through all those distractions on its most important purpose — our students. And I mean all of our students — not just the highest or lowest achievers, but every single learner in every single one of our schools. Every student deserves to have a pathway to their future.

From my perspective as a business owner and a parent of two daughters who graduated from Cedar Rapids Schools, we have so much to be proud of, even as we roll up our sleeves and do the work that continues to move this district forward.

I’m also serious and clear-eyed about our challenges, and I’m motivated to bring together partnerships and coalitions that can help solve them. Big challenges that require complex solutions, including some student progress issues that have gotten even worse through the pandemic. I was proud to vote to approve our new strategic plan that is laser-focused on student outcomes and achievement, and builds a solid foundation based on supporting our teachers and staff.

I can’t say it enough — if we do not support our teachers and staff, we can’t expect great student outcomes.

We’ve made strides providing students with new ways to explore and prepare for their future careers. We’ve only begun to tap into our community that’s eager to invest in student pathways, and innovative learning structures.

Finally — we must ensure the emotional and physical safety and support of both students and staff. We need modern-day solutions to ensure kids come to school ready to learn and teachers are able to focus on teaching. Schools need to feel safe for both staff and students, with policies, practices and facilities that use state of the art technology and effective techniques to protect everyone from threats.

The past four years have brought intense challenges. We live in a world that will continue to provide those challenges. It is my job as a school board member to help the district prepare and meet those challenges, and to find opportunity in overcoming them. It isn’t easy, but it is important that we have steady, clear-eyed leadership that keeps their eye on the things that matter. I am here to help every student succeed, and I would appreciate your vote and another four years to help move Cedar Rapids Community Schools toward our common goal of every learner, future ready.

Jen Neumann is one of five candidates running for two at-large seats on the Cedar Rapids school board.