Education Critics

This past semester I have had the oh-so rewarding opportunity to be partnered with the Cedar Falls Community School District as a Marketing Communication Specialist Intern under the direction of Janelle Darst, Coordinator of Communication & Community Relations.

A Little Background

The Cedar Falls Community Schools District consists of ten schools: six elementary schools, two junior-high schools, one alternative learning school and one high school. Currently, two of the elementary schools are over crowded along with a very, very, very (did I mention very) outdated high school. With a growing community, it is inevitable to start thinking about what the future holds for the school. As a community, citizens feel as though they are uninformed due to the district not providing necessary and precise  information as to what exactly the bond will pertain.

Projection

Little do some people know, Cedar Falls Schools is projected to grow over 900 students within the next 10 years. Yes, 900 students. Whether it may be from larger incoming classes or higher enrollment rates, this fact of the matter must be addressed. While some community members may be skeptical and unsure as to where their 1% tax increase went to, it is evident that the Cedar Falls School District is indeed planning for the future.

Comparison

As a top 15 school in Iowa, it is no secret that facilities need to be equipped properly to ensure this high standard rating. Keeping up with the "Jones" also comes into play. Neighboring school district, Waterloo Community School District provides great programs, opportunities for growth and the means to meet the needs of all diverse learners. As this is the case, Cedar Falls Schools also wants newcomers and open-enrolling students to pick Cedar Falls as an ultimate desitination. How can the school advertise and marketing their strong positioning without "stepping on the toes" of the city right down the road, the educators and stakeholders that you are supposed to be working hand-in-hand with.

Easier Said Than Done

Of course a brand new school would be great. Who wouldn't want state of the art facilities with the access to grow and learn with the best technologies available? This process will be challenging, yet hopefully so rewarding. As I continue to learn more about the education administration field, I become more passionate about my work after seeing it implemented. I ask of the community members to simply be an engaged citizen and member of the school district and become educated on the matter before accelerating with hesitation. Go Cedar Falls Tigers!