Congratulations, 2021 Graduates!
I have had the opportunity to visit many of our schools throughout the school year—especially this spring. It has been so amazing to watch our vision, Every Learner: Future Ready, come to life in our schools. This weekend is about delivering on our ultimate purpose and our vision—witnessing our seniors graduate and be “Future Ready!”
We have six schools of graduates this year: Cedar Rapids Homeschool, Kennedy High School, Jefferson High School, Metro High School, Washington High School, and Cedar Rapids Virtual Academy.
At this time in our history, our community experienced a pandemic, a derecho, yet our community also experienced innovation, advocacy, tenacity, and resilience. That is YOU, Class of 2021—you have done things that no other graduating class in CRCSD history has ever done! So now—more than ever—let’s honor what all you have gained during the last thirteen years of your school life. You have created a complete orchestra of learning: from in-person traditional course work; to synchronous learning with teachers and classmates on the screen; to anytime, anywhere learning in your own space at your own pace. This is the absolute crescendo in the concert of your schooling!
You have tackled so much—especially in the last 16 months—and you have done it with grace and wisdom—you are greatly admired by all of us here at the Cedar Rapids Community School District.
To the families, community members, and staff that have guided these students along their academic journey, I hold a deep respect for your mentorship, caring and guidance that led these young women and men to this important moment in their lives.
To the Class of 2021—Congratulations! We are so proud of you!!
Noreen Bush
CRCSD Superintendent
