Academic achievement for all JSA students is the prime focus of our teachers and staff.

Along with the basics: reading, writing, and arithmetic, students learn higher-order skills such as decision-making, critical thinking, and information analysis. When appropriate, technology is used to both encourage and facilitate academic growth.

As a STEAM magnet school, we also focus on student learning in the engineering design process.

We believe that all students can succeed and achieve, if not surpass, the Cedar Rapids Community School District elementary student learning expectations.

At Johnson, we also understand that each student has different abilities and needs, so each student’s academic growth is assessed throughout the year, using a variety of measurement techniques. Extended learning opportunities are created for students who either need additional challenges or additional help in different subject areas. As well our teaching staff takes special care to assure our children’s social and emotional needs are met.

Discovery days

Johnson STEAM Academy students participate in hands-on, elective classes on discovery days. Students sign up for their top three class choices and are placed in a class, with efforts made to place students in an area of preference. These elective classes are led by a classroom teacher or member of the admin team and are supported by community volunteers, with student interest in the focus. The multi-grade (kindergarten through second grade and third through fifth grade) offerings provide students with cross-graded leadership and collaboration opportunities. The 21st-century skills are deeply embedded in learning during discovery days.

Discovery Day classes take place during the school day from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. five times a year.