Taft Middle School

Taft Middle School is a public school for students in grades 6–8. It is located at 5200 E Avenue NW, in the Northwest neighborhood of Cedar Rapids. There are 596 students enrolled, and the student-teacher ratio is 15:1. The school is doing well academically, with 70% of students able to read and do math. There are 47% female and 53% male students in the school. Taft Middle School is a safe and productive place to learn, and the staff is dedicated to making sure that happens. The school also encourages both social and academic growth. Students can also take part in a lot of extracurricular activities, such as competitive sports like basketball and soccer, as well as creative and technical groups like Show Choir and eSports. The school also uses programs like Best Buddies and Student Leadership to create a welcoming environment where every student is pushed to do their best. Most homes in the area cost between $240,000 and $415,000. Families often say that the teachers at Taft are always there for them, which helps make Taft one of the best middle schools in Iowa.

Taft has been identified in a new "Area 3" facility plan as a primary intermediate school hub for the district. This proposal, discussed in early Jan 2026, aims to streamline students into the Kennedy High School feeder system.The community is providing feedback on this transition via online surveys before the board's final decision.

Q1. What time do Taft Middle School students usually go to school every day in 2026?

Ans. In the Cedar Rapids district, middle school usually starts at 7:50 a.m. and ends at 2:50 p.m. Parents should check the school calendar for specific early dismissal days in 2026.

Q2. Does Taft Middle School have sports programs after school for sixth graders?

Ans. There are competitive sports between schools for 7th and 8th graders, but not for 6th graders at Taft.

usually play intramural sports and join different school clubs.

Q3. What are the rules for students at Taft Middle School to use their cell phones during the 2026 school day?

Ans. Taft has a "docked and away" policy that says phones must stay in lockers or other designated storage areas from the first bell until dismissal. This is to cut down on distractions.

Q4. Does Taft Middle School have special technology that students can use in class?

Ans. Yes, every student at Taft gets a Chromebook from the district to use for schoolwork. The school's media center is also there to help with technical issues.

Q5. How can parents help out with events or activities at Taft Middle School?

Ans. Parents can help with field trips and school events by joining the Taft Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) or passing a district-approved volunteer background check.