Best Public Schools in Des Moines, IA

The city of Des Moines, Iowa is home to 64 schools, including 45 elementary schools, 11 middle schools, 7 high schools, and 1 alternative school. These schools are primarily part of the Des Moines Independent Community School District, with a few exceptions like Clive Learning Academy and Delaware Elementary.

While many schools in the district struggle, a few standout performers include Cowles Elementary School, Downtown School, and Perkins Elementary School. These schools consistently rank among the top in the state and demonstrate strong academic performance, particularly in English Language Arts and Mathematics. In contrast, schools like Edmunds Elementary and King Elementary have high poverty rates and struggle with low test scores and state rankings.

The data reveals significant disparities in academic achievement across the district, with a strong correlation between poverty and low performance. Schools with the highest free and reduced lunch rates tend to have the lowest test scores and state rankings. However, the success of schools like Cowles Elementary and Downtown School suggests that with the right resources and strategies, even disadvantaged schools can achieve high levels of success. Addressing these systemic challenges will be crucial for the Des Moines Independent Community School District to improve educational outcomes for all its students.