C.R. NAACP supports school bond referendum

The Cedar Rapids Branch of the NAACP stands in favor and full support of the $220 million bond referendum proposed by the Cedar Rapids Community School District.

It has been more than two decades since the Cedar Rapids Community School District made a significant investment in the lives of our children. Such high-quality investments have the potential to guide children toward healthy growth and learning. The middle and high school years in a child's life represent a period of substantial growth in intellectual, social, and emotional aspects. The experiences during this phase have the potential to influence a child's long-term health and overall well-being, either positively or negatively.

The educational system's care and concern for each child's development aims to nurture their young minds, ultimately benefiting not only the children and their families but also the broader community. Without a substantial investment, our children, families, and community cannot flourish or achieve their maximum potential. Essential updates and school resources are required to enable them to be at their absolute best.

On the upcoming November ballot, there is a $220 million bond referendum that would bring about substantial improvements in the district, greatly enhancing the lives of our children. A "yes" vote in November would signify support for our children's future. This support includes funding for the acquisition of land and the construction of a middle school within the Cedar Rapids district. It also includes investments in new turf fields to enable students to participate in enriching activities that shape their character and career, as well as additions to career and technical education classrooms at Kennedy, Jefferson, and Washington high schools, enhancing students' readiness for STEM careers.

Furthermore, this plan encompasses updates to Kennedy High's cafeteria and kitchen, and Metro High's gymnasium. Franklin Middle School would undergo renovation, transforming into an 800-student school for seventh and eighth-graders, while sixth-graders within the Franklin school boundary would attend McKinley, which would be converted into a school for 400 sixth-graders. All of these improvements within the Cedar Rapids Community School District will significantly enhance the health, vitality, and well-being of our students, families, and community. Our children deserve a brighter future, and it is our responsibility to build it for them."

Melissa K. McCollister, Ph.D., MSW Chairs the Criminal Justice Committee and is a member of the Executive Committee fro the Cedar Rapids NAACP.