Dana Malone, a teacher at Kennedy High School, has been named the 2025 APA Charles T. Blair Broker Excellence in Teaching Award recipient, the Cedar Rapids Community School District announced on its Future Ready Today podcast.

The award, from the American Psychological Association, recognizes Malone’s creative teaching style and her work supporting student mental health and academic success. The podcast noted Malone also leads the Cougar Bandana program and the Psi Alpha Psychology Honor Society at Kennedy High School.

The district publicized the honor during its episode hosts’ remarks. Isabelle (host) said, "Congrats, Miss Malone. You represent the best of CRCSD." The announcement did not include a statement from Malone in the recording, nor did it specify any prize amount or additional award conditions.

The recognition was presented as part of the district’s broader update on staff and student achievements; no follow-up actions or board motions were recorded in the podcast.