Jefferson Academic Decathlon earns national silver; district celebrates athletic and arts wins

The Cedar Rapids district podcast on April 30 featured a roundup of student achievements, including Jefferson High School’s Academic Decathlon team placing second in the national competition.

Justin, a presenter, said the Jayhawks earned a national silver medal for the third time, congratulated coach Kevin Darrow and named student competitors including Avery Murray, who was named the team MVP and won gold in the interview portion.

Hosts also highlighted athletic performances at the Drake Relays: a Kennedy athlete won the discus with a throw reported as 176 ft, 5 in; other Kennedy athletes took individual medals and a shuttle hurdle relay posted one of the fastest times in Iowa history. The hosts noted art and oratory honors, with students named to all-state art teams and National History Day placings that will send students to Washington, D.C., in June.

In other announcements, Miss Well said Kendra Allred has been selected as principal at Grant Wood starting July 1; Allred has served seven years as Cleveland principal and will succeed Cindy Sock, who is retiring. The hosts also reminded listeners that May 1 is a teacher-directed day (no school for students), promoted a yellow-bus community experience at Kingston Stadium from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and listed graduation ceremonies for May 19–23.

The hosts directed listeners to the district newsletter for full results, schedules and links to registration and event information.