Urban Community School
Iris Witmer is a dedicated middle school science teacher at Urban Community School since July 2013, where responsibilities include project-based learning, curriculum development, and interdisciplinary co-planning. Active involvement in school committees and leadership roles highlights Iris's commitment to education, evident in initiatives like Trout in the Classroom and the integration of technology and the arts into science projects. Prior to this role, Iris gained valuable experience through various internships and field experiences in multiple school settings, focusing on inclusive education and technology integration in lessons. Iris holds an Educator License from Ashland University and a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Kent State University.
Urban Community School
Urban Community School (UCS) strives to break social and economic barriers to success for Cleveland's near west side children by providing an individualized, innovative, and challenging education. Rooted in the Ursuline Sisters’ tradition of faith, character, and educational excellence, UCS engages our faculty, families, and community partners in the successful whole child development of our students. UCS currently serves nearly 700 students from six weeks to 14 years old (8th grade). Our campus has grown with the addition of various partners. We are able to provide our students and families with wraparound services, serving the whole child. The UCS student body is representative of the eight neighborhoods we serve. Our students are 28% Hispanic, 27% White, 25% Multiracial, 19% Black or African American, and 1% Asian. The majority of children attending UCS are economically disadvantaged and approximately 75% qualify for the National School Lunch Program.