As our building construction progresses and students continue to apply and enroll, we are also busy hiring talented new staff members and teachers.

Read below to learn a little bit about three of our newest team members: our Dean of Operations and two of our founding teachers. 

Abby Turley, Dean of Operations

Experience
Abby brings 10 years of experience teaching in Iowa’s public schools. She taught middle and high school social studies for 8 years in the Wilton Community School District and the Cedar Rapids Community School District. For the past 2 years, she’s been teaching Business Leadership Studies at Roosevelt Creative Corridor Business Academy.

Community Leadership
Abby has held a variety of leadership roles. She developed Iowa’s first business course offerings for middle school, and coordinated over 30 field experiences to help students explore potential career options alongside professionals in our community.

Favorite Book
Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell, which is about the “10,000-Hour Rule.” The theory is that you have to practice a skill for 10,000 hours to become an expert. The book was given to Abby when she finished her student teaching. She’s continued to use the 10,000-hour reminder when she (or her students) gets frustrated. She believes that resilience is an important life skill.

Favorite Thing About Cedar Rapids
We have “big city” opportunities, ideas, and diversity while still creating a true feeling of community.

Samuel Hackbarth, Founding Social Studies Teacher

Experience
Samuel has more than 5 years of teaching experience right here in Cedar Rapids. 

Outside the Classroom
Samuel’s work with students isn’t limited to the classroom. He also likes to share his love of sports. In addition to teaching, he has spent the last four years coaching basketball, soccer, and cross country.

Favorite Teaching Quote
“It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge.” — Albert Einstein 

Why Cedar Rapids Prep?
Samuel is driven by purpose and connection, and he’s ready to jump in and help shape a school that puts students first. His fresh perspective and school spirit make him a perfect fit for our founding team.

Makayla Buck, Founding Science Teacher

Experience
Makayla earned her BS and Master of Arts in Teaching, Science Education from Iowa State University. She’s been teaching science for 5 years.

Why Science?
In Makayla’s own words: “We live on an incredible planet, and it’s worth exploring! I’m thankful for the opportunity to help students see how capable they are and the impact they can have.”

Outside the Classroom
When not teaching, you can find Makayla coaching. Sports hold a special place in Makayla’s heart, and she is passionate about being able to help students develop their character and athletic ability.

Why Cedar Rapids Prep?
Makayla brings positivity, passion, and a deep commitment to supporting students and families. She’s excited to be part of a school that values voice, choice, and community from day one.

Meet More Team Members

We also like to feature our new teachers and staff in our virtual events. If you missed our “Meet the Team” virtual event, you can watch the replay to meet Michael Daws, Founding Math Teacher; Kristen Robinson, Founding Math Teacher; and Vicki Hlubek, Dean of Academics.