Cedar Rapids Prep

Cedar Valley Montessori School (CVMS) has been a cornerstone of family-centered education for over 50 years, dedicated to nurturing children aged two to six. With a mission grounded in authentic Montessori philosophy, CVMS emphasizes individualized learning that respects each child's unique developmental journey. The school's approach fosters social, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual growth, creating thoughtful and confident learners who respect themselves and the world around them. CVMS offers tailored academic programs for preschool and kindergarten students, encouraging independence and curiosity through the Montessori Method. This method aligns with children's natural instincts and promotes holistic development instead of a one-size-fits-all approach. Additionally, CVMS features summer programs rich with themed activities and excursions that enhance cultural awareness and social engagement. What truly sets Cedar Valley Montessori apart is its commitment to family involvement and its low student-teacher ratio, ensuring personalized attention that supports emotional stability alongside academic achievement. The school's welcoming environment encourages parents to engage deeply in their children's education, making it a beloved choice for families seeking an enriching educational experience.

Grant Wood Elementary opened on the southeast side of Cedar Rapids in the spring of 1951. A fifth grader won the Cedar Rapids Gazette contest to name it, and we became the first school in the city named after an artist, the Iowa painter of "American Gothic." Our students are the Grant Wood Griffins. Classroom instruction uses Amplify CKLA for reading, Bridges in Mathematics and the hands-on FOSS science program. Before the bell, students can join a running club in fall and spring, a fourth and fifth grade show choir, or LEGO League for grades 3 to 5. After school there is an art club, Eastern Iowa Arts Academy classes and Scouting, and the year ends with a spring talent show. Twice a year our PTA runs after-school enrichment classes taught by teachers, parents and volunteers, from swimming and bowling to sign language and cake decorating. Champions provides licensed before and after care on site, with homework time each afternoon. We also partner with the Foster Grandparents Program and AmeriCorps.

Iowa BIG is an innovative public school program within the Cedar Rapids Community School District, designed to empower students by fostering their passions and developing essential real-world skills. Catering to high school students, Iowa BIG serves a diverse range of learners, including those who may feel disengaged or frustrated in traditional educational settings. The school's core mission revolves around unleashing human potential through experiential learning, where students engage in meaningful projects that connect academic standards with community needs. This approach not only enhances their understanding but also cultivates critical 21st-century skills such as collaboration, communication, and problem-solving. At Iowa BIG, students earn credits in core subjects like English, Social Studies, and Business by participating in hands-on projects that resonate with their interests. The program emphasizes learning through authentic experiences, allowing students to work alongside community partners to tackle real-world challenges. This project-based methodology is complemented by seminar-style classes that mirror a college experience, encouraging independent learning and deeper engagement with the material. What sets Iowa BIG apart is its commitment to individualized education, characterized by a low student-teacher ratio and strong partnerships with families. This nurturing environment enables students to rediscover their love for learning and develop a strong sense of agency over their educational journey. With a focus on community involvement and a track record of impactful projects, Iowa BIG not only prepares students for academic success but also equips them with the tools to thrive in an ever-changing world.