Cardinal Middle School #1 in Iowa for Conditions for Learning

posted March 31, 2022

We are excited to report that Cardinal Middle School was ranked first for best conditions for learning in Iowa middle schools.

Conditions for Learning (CfL) are determined by the Iowa Department of Education based on annual CfL surveys given to all public school students in 3rd through 12th grade. The anonymous, confidential, and voluntary responses ask questions about student safety, school rules, consistency, and positive student relationships. 

"A high score on this survey shows our staff that all the effort they put in day to day is very important to our students and families," Cindy Green, Cardinal Middle School principal says. "It also shows staff members that our students notice the little things we do to help them have the best day possible each day. It reinforces that we are fair and consistent."

The data is used to help Iowa schools identify both strengths and weaknesses, helping districts better understand growth areas and if students' needs are being met. 

"We just hope to keep focusing on our growth areas while maintaining the areas that we excel in," Mrs. Green says. "It is pretty normal to have some fluctuation on these surveys. When you have a year where scores are particularly high, there is some pressure to keep it high."

As Mrs. Green says, "the data is one piece of the puzzle" as our district continues to move towards its goals and focuses on building intentional relationships and making a difference in our students' lives.