Iowa schools — particularly those in districts with fewer than 1,000 students — are the “lifeblood” of their communities. But student numbers are declining, and data shows that trend will only intensify in the coming years. Many school leaders are turning to modern facilities, career education and innovation to attract and retain students.
More than 200 middle school students have enrolled
And what it could mean for education in Iowa
With the opportunity for a tuition-free experience similar to a private school, the school’s rigorous focus on college preparation plans to offer quality through small classes, a small faculty-to-student ratio and one-on-one interactions that reinforce a tight-knit community throughout middle and high school.
Thirty acres of the former Transamerica site at Edgewood Road and 42nd Street in northeast Cedar Rapids would be used for commercial development, while 19 acres would become home to Cedar Rapids Prep, a new charter school set to open this year.
The State Board of Education voted Thursday to approve Empowering Excellence’s expansion, as well as six additional charter school applications on Thursday.
Empowering Excellence offers students struggling in the traditional public school setting an alternative path to high school graduation.
Other laws taking effect Thursday cover child care, protests, diversity training, crimes
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