Cedar River Academy at Taylor Elementary School
720 7th Ave SW Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52404 | 319-558-2477A note from our Principal
Dear Cedar River Academy Families,
My name is Kendall Gent, and I am excited to introduce myself as the proud Principal here at Cedar River Academy. I am thrilled to be working with the great students, staff, and families here at CRA, and I can’t wait to make this a successful school year for our students.
As a school leader, my goal is to provide an equitable education where students feel safe and supported while reaching their full potential personally, socially, and academically. To achieve these goals, I will work with all of you to create a school culture that values continuous improvement, transparency, and collaboration from all stakeholders.
My professional experience has taken me from Iowa to Chicago, and my family and I are thrilled to be back home in Iowa. I graduated from the University of Northern Iowa and taught in Charles City before moving to Chicago to work in Chicago Public Schools. Most recently, I was the Resident Principal at Sayre Language Academy where I appreciated the opportunity to begin my educational leadership journey.
On a personal note, I grew up on a farm outside of North English, Iowa. I have been married to my wife, Hayley, for two years, and this past February, we welcomed our first child, our daughter, Annie. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with family, traveling around the world, trying new foods, making my own pizza, biking, and golfing.
I look forward to meeting everyone and am eager to get to know the amazing families here at Cedar River Academy!
Thank you,
Kendall Gent