Cedar Rapids Prep names Lauren Amicone next principal

Cedar Rapids Prep has named Lauren Amicone its next principal.

Amicone previously served as principal at Garfield Elementary School in the Kansas City Public Schools district according to The Gazette. She holds a doctorate in education leadership, policy and foundations from the University of Missouri-Kansas City and completed the University of Missouri’s executive superintendency program in 2024.

"Cedar Rapids Prep’s commitment to high expectations and genuine care for every student is what drew me here," Amicone said in a statement. "I’ve spent my career working to close the gap between the education students deserve and the education they too often receive, and I see a school that shares that conviction. I’m honored to join this community and eager to get to work alongside the staff, families and students who make Cedar Rapids Prep what it is."

The charter school, part of the Opportunity Education Network founded by Joe Ricketts, serves students in grades six through eight with an enrollment of more than 400 The Gazette reported. It completed its first year of operation in June 2026.

The appointment brings new leadership to the Linn County school as it begins its second year.