Des Moines Public Schools has educated the students of Iowa’s capital city for more than a century. Today, the district is the largest provider of public education in Iowa, with more than 30,000 students and nearly 5,000 teachers and staff at work in more than 60 schools throughout the community.

Students, parents, teachers, and staff come from diverse backgrounds, all of which contribute to the richness of a DMPS education. The district is continually working to Reimagine Education and widen the range of opportunities to meet the academic interests, abilities, and goals of every student.

DMPS has the largest variety of educational programs in Iowa, including the only public Montessori schools. Students can begin enrolling at Central Academy – one of the nation’s top college prep academies – in 7th grade to focus on advanced learning. Central Campus is Iowa’s high school career and technical education epicenter drawing students from around the region to study in eight different academies offering everything from aviation to marine biology to welding and more. Virtual Campus high school gives access to curriculum online to make education more accessible for all.

A comprehensive and ongoing capital improvements campaign has renovated and updated many of our schools, dozens of which have now earned the Energy Star designation, contributing to a more sustainable future.

Des Moines Public Schools, one of Iowa’s pioneering public school districts, remains committed to becoming the destination of choice for families looking for the most diverse student body and widest range of educational opportunities for their children, inspiring the district motto: Come Here. Become ‘The Best You’ Here.