CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (KCRG) – The trial of a former Linn-Mar Track and Field Coach accused of sexual abuse has been pushed back. The trial for Kameron Beets has been rescheduled from Sept. 8 to Dec. 6. Beets faces several charges, including kidnapping and sexual abuse. Investigators say he used his role as a high-school sports photographer and personal trainer to access minors before victimizing them.
CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (KCRG) -Districts across the state are looking for more bus drivers ahead of the school year. Indeed lists more than 200 openings for drivers in Iowa. On the side of Highway 151 near Springville, a yellow school bus acts as a billboard advertising the need for more drivers. Just days away from the start of school Springville is in need of nine more bus drivers. They say they’re set as far as regular routes go, but it’s the extra-curricular activities that need to be staffed. It does take time to complete the training and licensing process to drive a big yellow bus. That’s why the district is implementing a phase in process, starting new drivers with vans. They’re working to let drivers know they’re valued, as often times the first and last person a child sees during the school day. Large school districts are having trouble finding drivers as well. The Cedar Rapids Community School District just attended a job fair on Monday looking for bus drivers and other essential positions.
MARION, Iowa (KCRG) – The Marion Pool will close for the season at 5:30 p.m. on Aug. 19. City officials said the Aquatics Division looks for ways to keep the pool open as long as possible every year, while maintaining adequate staffing levels. But with the summer winding down, many of the lifeguards are heading to college or preparing for fall sports. The pool will also have reduced hours for the rest of the week. Lap swim will be from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., with open swim from 1 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. There will be no family swim. The city’s splash pads at Thomas and Gill Parks will remain available during normal hours through Labor Day. The city said the splash pads might remain open beyond Labor Day depending on the weather. Splash pads will be closed once the Marion Parks and Recreation Department begins the winterization process.
CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (KCRG) – Coe College has named their new lead diversity officer after a national search. In a post on the college’s website, the college announced Donald Jaamal is their Dean of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and Title Nine Coordinator. He most recently served as the Dean of Student Success at the Art Institute of Atlanta, and worked at Texas A&M University Central. In November, students protested at the college after discussions on the search led to the resignation of a board of trustees member. Protesters said it brought to light issues with the Board, and made several demands, including hiring a DEI Director.
