RATINGS
District Summary Ratings

A larger number of schools in this district are rated below average in school quality.

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Top 5 Schools in This District
These are some of the top-rated public schools in Des Moines Independent Community School District based on a variety of measures, including academic performance and equity. Find out more about GreatSchools ratings.
ACADEMICS
District Student Progress

This district has a mixed record of helping students improve over time. Look below to see what percentage of schools in this district are making more, less, or about the same progress as other schools in the state.

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ACADEMICS
Academic Summary
Is this district offering opportunity for all its students, or leaving some kids behind? Successful districts are working to close the achievement gap.
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ACADEMICS
Advanced Courses
Rigorous courses can help students prepare for and get into college, including coursework in STEM subjects. Find out more.
Parent Tip
Many successful high school students end up in remedial math courses in college. Is your student prepared for college-level math? Ask this district how they ensure students are well-prepared.
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ENVIRONMENT
Student Demographics
Schools that create a positive culture help all students thrive. See how.
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ENVIRONMENT
Teachers & Staff
Parents often value small class sizes, but the truth is more complicated.
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ENVIRONMENT
District Calendar
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ENVIRONMENT
District Finances
How a school district allocates funds can reflect its priorities. Learn more about how these decisions are made.
Parent Tip
District decisions about how to spend money impact your child’s schooling. Here’s how parents can have an influence.
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ENVIRONMENT
Reviews From Schools in Des Moines Independent Community School District
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Parent / Guardian
May 03, 2022
I'm surprised that the score is so low. It is a wonderful school. I guess when things went well, nobody would say much but those experienced differently. My older daughter have been going there for 4... More
Review for Pleasant Hill Elementary School
Other (school staff, family member, recent alum, etc)
April 08, 2022
As a former student at Cowles, who is also bi-racial, my experience at Cowles was often filled with microaggressions from both student and staff due to the very white demographic of once more, both... More
Review for Cowles Elementary School
Parent / Guardian
March 25, 2022
There are numerous barriers for most DMPS families to get in this school. The best way to in is to enroll your 3 year-old, but you have to be able to afford 3 year-old preschool. There is no... More
Review for Cowles Elementary School