Focus on test scores first, facilities plan second

Cedar Rapids Public Schools should follow Linn-Mar's example and set goals to increase test scores for all students. A day before the Linn-Mar goal was published, CRCSD reported poorer scores for all students. Let's concentrate on what will work for improving scores. The district knows what it will take.

I cannot support any bond issue. When I was on the school board, we studied middle school configuration and decided sixth, seventh and eighth was best. Why make some buildings grades 6-8 and others 7-8?

How much did the current plans cost the district? Better use would be to increase test scores. That means hiring more personnel — teachers or paraprofessionals who would free other teachers to work with those who need extra help. To build a new middle school, plus the cost of more busing is not best use of tax dollars.

I congratulate the Cedar Rapids City Council, which recommended CRCSD go back to the drawing board on the school facilities plan. I reiterate, improving test scores is the best goal. When the public sees improvements over consecutive years, then a revised, less expensive plan could be drawn and presented to the public for a vote.

On another note, that beautiful English Tudor school, Harrison, must be saved. Its leaded glass windows with sun shining through inspires children and adults alike to achieve and dream. We don’t want schools to be factories. The cost to rewire, upgrade plumbing, and support current technology will be less than $30 million. Keep Harrison open!

Mary Ann Kucera

Former board member, CRCSD

Cedar Rapids