Summary:
The 50309 zip code area in Des Moines, Iowa is home to 3 schools: 2 elementary schools (Walnut Street School and Downtown School) and 1 high school (Virtual Campus). The data reveals a stark contrast in performance, with Downtown School consistently ranking among the top 25% of Iowa elementary schools, while Virtual Campus struggles, ranking in the bottom 25% of Iowa high schools.
Downtown School stands out as the top performer in the area, significantly outpacing district and state averages on ISASP test scores across all grade levels and subjects. In 2024-2025, 85.7% of 5th graders were proficient or better in ELA, compared to just 50.6% for the Des Moines Independent Community School District and 69.8% statewide. Downtown School also maintains high math proficiency rates, with over 80% of 3rd-5th graders scoring proficient or better. In contrast, Virtual Campus lags behind, with proficiency rates 20-30 percentage points lower than district and state averages.
The data also reveals differences in student demographics and spending. Downtown School has a relatively low 18.72% free/reduced lunch rate, compared to 55.33% at Walnut Street School and 64.08% at Virtual Campus. Additionally, Walnut Street School spends the most per student at $16,042, while Downtown School spends $14,247 per student. These factors likely contribute to the performance disparities observed across the schools in the 50309 zip code area.
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