Cedar Rapids Community School District

This document outlines a proposal for a "2 High School Model" for a school district, transitioning from a 3-area to a 2-area system using natural geographical divisions. It details proposed feeder patterns, existing building capacities, and potential cost savings from closing buildings. The model also addresses family priorities, including universal preschool, integrated fine arts, and streamlined athletics. Further, it presents a comprehensive list of advantages and considerations for implementing this new structure.

This special work session outlines the exploration and vetting process for various school models, including 2 High School, 5-8, K-6, K-8, 5-1-1, and 'Cluster' configurations. The process evaluates models based on non-negotiable criteria such as true feeder patterns, utilization of existing buildings, achieving $6 million in cost savings, improved building utilization, and responsiveness to family priorities. The session details checks on feeder patterns, capacity and utilization, cost savings, and family priorities like preschool access, fine arts, and athletics, providing research and considerations for potential district restructuring.

This document outlines an Intermediate Model for school restructuring, proposing the conversion of middle schools into distinct 5th-6th and 7th-8th grade buildings. The plan aims to consolidate elementary school spaces, create pure feeder systems with preschool in every elementary school, and achieve approximate cost savings of $6 million. It addresses family priorities such as universal preschool access and earlier engagement in fine arts and competitive athletics. The model is supported by research considering developmental appropriateness, targeted instructional focus, reduced transition dips, and enhanced student and staff support, ultimately aiming for improved student achievement and a more cohesive PK-12 educational experience.

This document details a board work session focused on addressing a school district's budget deficit and optimizing its operational framework. It outlines strategic pillars including fiscal management through staffing adjustments and cost-saving recommendations, school reconfiguration via an intermediate model and consolidation criteria, and the establishment of true PreK-12 feeder patterns to enhance educational pathways. The session also emphasizes community engagement as a critical component in shaping these proposed changes.

This document details an analysis of an intermediate model concerning school feeder patterns, evaluating different grade configurations and their impact. Key areas of focus include capacity and utilization, cost efficiencies, and family priorities such as expanded preschool, fine arts, and athletics. The analysis incorporates relevant research on student development and provides a comprehensive overview of the benefits and considerations associated with the proposed model.