About Nixon
At Nixon Elementary, we are committed to creating a learning community where every child feels valued, challenged, and supported. As part of the Cedar Rapids Community School District, we embrace our mission of ensuring every learner experiences a rigorous education that helps them develop a plan, a pathway, and a passion for their future.
Our dedicated staff works collaboratively to provide engaging, high-quality instruction while meeting the individual academic, social, emotional, and behavioral needs of each student. We believe every child can grow, and we use meaningful relationships, data-informed instruction, and targeted supports to help each learner reach their full potential.
Beyond academics, we strive to foster a positive school culture where students feel safe, connected, and empowered to learn. Our school-wide expectations of being Safe, Responsible, Respectful, and Part of a Team guide everything we do, helping students build the character, confidence, and skills they need both inside and outside the classroom.
Nixon is also fortunate to have an incredible partnership with our community and families, including an amazing PTA, that enriches our school through volunteerism, fundraising, and memorable events. Together, our staff, families, and community create a welcoming environment where students are encouraged to learn, grow, and thrive every day.
As Nixon enters its final school year, we are especially proud of the legacy our school has built over the years. We remain committed to making this year one of celebration, growth, and lasting memories as we honor the traditions that have made Nixon such a special place for generations of students and families.
School history
Nixon Elementary was named after Richard Milhouse Nixon, the 37th president of the United States, while he was still in office. Nixon Elementary opened on August 31, 1970.
In the 1986-87 school year, Nixon received the First in the National Education (FINE) Award. The walking trail around Nixon was dedicated on October 8, 1992.
Richard Nixon’s brother, Ed, visited Nixon Elementary for the 25th anniversary in April of 1995. The U.S. Department of Education named Nixon Elementary a Blue Ribbon School in 2009.
A message from our principal
Welcome to a new school year at Nixon Elementary! As we prepare to open our doors for the 2026–2027 school year, we are filled with excitement, pride, and gratitude for our amazing students, staff, and families. We are excited to welcome our new Bobcats to Nixon Elementary and to see the smiling faces of our returning students this fall!
Nixon is proud to offer a diverse and inclusive learning environment where every student is valued and supported. Our school provides a variety of opportunities and programs designed to meet the unique needs of our learners, including a large Autism Program, a PACT Program, English Language Learner (ELL) services, and specialized supports for students. Students also enjoy Specials opportunities, including Art, Physical Education, Library, Guidance and Music. These opportunities help create a well-rounded educational experience while fostering creativity, curiosity, and a love of learning.
Last year was filled with incredible accomplishments. Our students demonstrated tremendous academic growth, including a significant increase in reading achievement. We’ve also recently also improved our overall Iowa School Performance Profile rating by one level and came within one point of increasing by two levels. These successes are a direct reflection of the hard work, dedication, and partnership between our students, staff, and families.
At Nixon, we are committed to helping every child grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Our school community is built around four core expectations: Be Respectful, Be Responsible, Be Safe, and Be Part of a Team. These values guide our daily interactions and help create a positive learning environment where all students can thrive.
As we prepare for our final year as Nixon Elementary, we are committed to making the 2026-2027 school year our best one yet. Together, we will create lasting memories and celebrate the incredible accomplishments of our Bobcat community. We encourage families to get involved through volunteering and participating in school events throughout the year. Your partnership helps make Nixon such a special place, and we look forward to working together to make this final year one to remember. We can't wait to welcome both new and returning students back this fall!
Thank you for being an important part of the Nixon family. We look forward to an incredible year of learning, growth, celebration, and community. Let's make this final year one to remember!
Go Bobcats!
Warmly,
Kayla Nelson
Principal, Nixon Elementary School