Here is the episode description for the first community podcast of 2026:

Future Ready Today: Episode Title (e.g., A New Vision for 2026: Dr. Lannin’s Update, Budget Proposals, and the Home-Based Learning Pilot)

Welcome back to CRCSD! In our first episode of the New Year, we discuss the path forward for our district’s facilities, introduce a new way to handle snow days, and celebrate our bold student poets.

A Message from Dr. Tawana Lannin: You’ll notice a name change! Our Superintendent, formerly Dr. Grover, is now Dr. Tawana Lannin. She joins us to discuss the district’s "redesign for results," focusing on "right-sizing" our schools to prioritize student achievement. Learn about the upcoming timeline for facility proposals and how you can stay involved.

The Snow Day Pilot: We’re trying something new this winter! Learn about Home-Based Learning Days, which allow students to keep learning during weather cancellations without adding days to the end of the year. We break down the "Noon Rule," teacher availability, and what to expect for your student’s grade level.

In This Episode:

• Student Spotlight: JSA 4th graders take their poetry to the community with a live performance at Craft'd.
• Kennedy High Orientation: Important details for all incoming Freshman and new Cougar families on January 15th.
• The Secret Gift-Wrappers: A look inside a 13-year-old tradition in the CRCSD Print Shop that spreads holiday cheer to staff.
• CRCSF Updates: Meet the three newest members of the Cedar Rapids Community Schools Foundation Board of Trustees.

Glance Around the District: We check in on shadow detectives at Hoover, busy bee artists at Wright, and classroom norm-builders at Kenwood.