Grant Wood Elementary School

Cedar Rapids Prep is a tuition-free public charter school open to any Iowa student, with no entrance exams. We serve grades 6 to 9 this year, launched our founding high school class in fall 2026, and will grow through grade 12. Our Towers Campus is on North River Boulevard, with a second campus in Hiawatha. We are operated by the Opportunity Education Network, a nonprofit network of independent and charter schools. New students take assessments at enrollment so we can build each schedule around their needs, with intervention courses for students who need to close gaps and math up to three years advanced for those ready to move ahead. Our 16:1 student to teacher ratio keeps classes small, every student keeps the same advisor throughout their time here, and advisory meets daily. Our special education learning specialist manages IEPs, and our counselors handle 504 plans. Middle schoolers pick two electives each semester from STEM, orchestra, band, choir, PE, and art. Clubs include Math Counts, Mock Trial, Robotics, French Club, and Show Choir. Students compete in football, volleyball, soccer, basketball, cross country, and track. Uniforms are required.

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.

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.