Why I’m running for Cedar Rapids school board

CR School Board District 2 | Mimi Daoud

My name is Mimi Daoud, and I am running for the Cedar Rapids Community School District Board because I believe strong schools are the foundation of a thriving community. Every child deserves to feel like they belong, every teacher deserves to be supported and valued, and every family deserves to have a voice in shaping education. I want to bring my experience as an advocate, nonprofit leader, educator, and community organizer to help build a school district where students, teachers, and families all thrive.

This fall, I am beginning a new role as a Student Engagement and Success Coach at Kirkwood Community College, where I will support students in navigating both their academic and personal journeys. This role reflects my lifelong passion for ensuring students have the resources, encouragement, and support they need to succeed. Prior to this, I served as a Survivor Advocate at Riverview Center, where I walked alongside individuals navigating medical, legal, and housing systems. I also served as Director of Operations at Advocates for Social Justice, coordinating volunteers, fundraising, and initiatives such as the Linn County Expungement Clinic. Additionally, I am a board member of Our Future, where I mentor fellows on community passion projects and lead fundraising efforts.

As an educator myself, I know the importance of institutional support. At ICCR Sunday School and through the ICCR Youth Committee, I’ve taught and mentored young people, and I’ve seen firsthand how essential it is that students’ basic needs are met before they can succeed academically. At the Eastern Iowa Arts Academy, I taught and guided students through creative expression, witnessing how opportunities beyond the traditional classroom can spark resilience and self-confidence. These experiences have shown me that schools must provide both academic and social-emotional supports if we want students to thrive.

My priorities for our district are clear. First, I will center students by supporting programs that expand academic and extracurricular opportunities, while ensuring equity and belonging for all. Second, I will support and retain our educators through competitive pay, manageable class sizes, and meaningful professional development. Third, I will ensure responsible investment in our schools, including maintaining and restoring historic facilities, maximizing walkability, and supporting bonds to fund long-term improvements. Above all, I will prioritize consistent communication with families and transparent dialogue with the community, so every voice is heard and respected in decision-making.

I am proud to already have the endorsements of Cedar Rapids City Council members David Maier and Ashley Vanorny, state Reps. Angel Ramirez and Aime Wichtendahl, and state Sen. Liz Bennett. Together, I know we can build a stronger district for our students, teachers, and families.

I believe in a future where Cedar Rapids schools are competitive, innovative, and inclusive—and I am ready to work every day to make that vision a reality.

Mimi Daoud is a candidate for Cedar Rapids school board District 2.