Roosevelt High School

Roosevelt is the best high school choice within the DMPS school district. The teachers genuinely care and are more than willing to stay after school to help with homework or answer parent or student questions. As long as the student wants to learn, the teacher is willing to help. Extracurricular activities are also strong at RHS; the debate and wrestling programs are nationally ranked, the fine arts programs are well-supported, and even though RHS may not be #1 in sports in the state, Roosevelt's school spirit is unrivaled. Roosevelt is also unique in that the school's demographics are highly diverse and the students are friendly and welcoming. Student groups intermingle and set cliques are hard to find. Although Roosevelt's courses are not rigorous, high-achieving students have the option to attend Central Academy which offers extremely rigorous IB and AP courses in nearly every subject. Students can attend Central Academy for all or part of the school day, are offered free transportation, and are not charged extra to attend.
—Submitted by a student

Roosevelt is the best high school in the snow district. The fine arts program is amazing. The teachers there really encouraged me. The ones who don't want to learn or just get by will not do well here. If a student wants to learn this is the best school to go to.
—Submitted by a student

The amazing arts programs!
—Submitted by a parent

this is by far the best school in the district!
—Submitted by a student

I feel the education my daughter received at this school was far below par, she received all 'A's and yet, I don't believe she was ready for her college. All of the disruptions to class, she claims were almost daily. The principal was very sweet, but could not control the unruly children who went there
—Submitted by a parent

The behavior of the students here is not very good. Many students don't care about the rules, and do whatever they wish. I don't feel safe at this school, because I don't know what will happen to me. The teachers and staff should discipline the students here more, and make sure they follow the rules. Students should also take their education more seriously. If not, I am sure many students will want to get away from this school and go to ones in the suburbs, or somewhere that isn't so badly behaved, as far a students go.

I would say that out of the 5 high schools in Des Moines, Roosevelt and Lincoln are on top in terms of Education, Staff and Administration, students, and also Athletics.
—Submitted by a parent

Roosevelt is on the decline. The behavioral standards have dropped over the last six years. Students have lost respect for the administration. Too many violent incidents have taken place. The students feel free to break the minor rules because they are not held accountable. This has created an atmosphere where more serious offenses have taken place. If discipline is not emphasized more parents will move to the suburbs.
—Submitted by a parent

Staff at Roosevelt is very concerned with student safety. Students are almost always out of control -- very little discipline. Still a very fun school to go to. Very high Graduation rate.
—Submitted by Andrew, a student

As an alumni, I believe that TRHS provided me with an outstanding education, even compared to that of my classmates at a competitive East Coast school. The opportunities available at TRHS are plentiful, challenging yet nurturing. The extensive diversity provides a cosmopolitan learning atmosphere, where discussion is encouraged in and out of the classroom. Extracurriculars are strong and almost expected of students. College reps have told me that they enjoy visiting TRHS more than any high school in the state of Iowa because its students are more worldly and prepared for life beyond the walls of the school. I loved my days at TRHS, and look forward to supporting the school's efforts to provide high quality education to all of its students - no matter how different they may be.
—Submitted by a former student

This is the highest academic rated high school in Iowa. There is a place for all students in the Des Moines District. Diversity of people and programs provides for an expansive education for students. Most importantly the teachers and administrators at Roosevelt work night and day to ensure success for their students.
—Submitted by Florence Dusek, a parent