This another in a series of articles about the REIMAGINING EDUCATION initiative at Des Moines Public Schools, looking at various aspects of this work, from why it is underway in the first place to how it could improve education for our students and community. In this article we look at the concept of Signature Schools, aimed at helping more students and families have a great experience on their academic journey at Des Moines Public Schools.

Signature Schools Will Allow Students to Learn by Following Their Interests

Providing learning opportunities that match student interests and prepare students for college, career and beyond is a cornerstone of the DMPS Reimagining Education initiative.

Signature Schools — sometimes known as magnet schools — are schools that focus on offering learning opportunities more tailored to the interests of their students. DMPS already has some examples, such as a K-8 Montessori high-school offerings at Central Academy and Central Campus.

“Imagine that every student in DMPS has the opportunity to immerse themselves in programming that aligns with their interests,” said Associate Superintendent Matt Smith. “As part of the Reimagining Education initiative, we can expand our current offerings and add new programs to focus on improving student outcomes.”

The offerings at Signature Schools would also align with Diploma+, a program DMPS is designing for all students to be more engaged in their learning and explore their areas of interest.

Diploma+ is designed for every student at their home school. Through this initiative, DMPS aims to enhance the academic and extracurricular experiences of all students, ensuring that they can engage with a variety of courses and activities right where they are. This program creates clear pathways for meaningful learning, tailored to individual interests, and recognizes each student’s achievements. At Signature Schools, every student will have the opportunity to participate in immersive experiences and earn valuable credentials or certifications that can open doors after graduation. As part of the Reimagining Education process, DMPS is exploring inclusive signature school models and specialized programs that will be integrated throughout the entire PK-12 continuum, making Diploma+ accessible to all

As part of Diploma+, students at Signature Schools could also earn credentials or certifications as part of their learning that could give them opportunities after graduation.

There are many examples of the Signature School concept around the country. Some here in the Midwest include the Northside College Preparatory High School in Chicago which focuses on in-depth study of topics such as physics, constitutional law and computer science; Osseo Senior High School in Osseo, MN, where students can study health sciences and have industry certification opportunities; Collegiate School of Medicine and Bioscience, part of St. Louis Public Schools in Missouri; and the School of Enviornmental Studies in Apple Valley, MN.

All DMPS students would be able to choose to attend one of the district’s traditional high schools or a Signature School. While existing school facilities are likely to be used as Signature Schools, it is also possible that a new facility would be constructed to serve as a Signature School. There are no plans to merge any of our five high schools.

“Our current magnet programs offer great opportunities for our students,” Smith said. “With the creation of Signature Schools, we will be able to serve a greater number of students with a greater number of offerings.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION BE SURE TO VISIT THE REIMAGINING EDUCATION WEBSITE.