116 3rd St SE
Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52401
A thoughtful approach is needed for Cedar Rapids schools
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Since moving to Cedar Rapids in 2011, I’ve been a proud and dedicated member of the Cedar Rapids Community School District. I began my teaching career just months after earning my Masters in Bilingual and Bicultural Education (in addition to my Bachelor's degree in Psychology and Spanish) — an experience that deeply shaped how I support and advocate for our district’s diverse learners.
I’m ready to serve — not just for my own children, but for all students who walk through our school doors. As both a current parent and a former educator within CRCSD, I bring a unique perspective grounded in hands-on experience and deep community involvement.
During my time as a teacher and coach, I took on leadership roles to help shape our schools. I served on Roosevelt’s Building Leadership Team, the High Reliability Schools team, and led the secondary English Language Learners (ELL) department for part of my career. I was also honored to receive the Grant Wood AEA Educational Partner award for building strong, lasting connections with students and families.
As a parent, I’ve stayed actively engaged, volunteering in classrooms, organizing schoolwide events, and serving two years as PTO president. I’ve also contributed to district-wide efforts through the Believe in CR Schools campaign and by bringing together parents and district leaders to influence key decisions and initiatives.
Outside the classroom, my volunteer work has focused on empowering families to engage in their children’s development and education, through Young Parents Network (YPN), and Parents as Educational Partners. I promise to bring a thoughtful approach to decision making that weighs in all perspectives and always puts the student first.
That’s who I am — an experienced educator, engaged parent, community leader, helping to support and advocate for our schools — and I hope you’ll consider me for the Cedar Rapids school board. Thank you.
Laura Zimmerman is a candidate for Cedar Rapids school board at-large.
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