TABLE OF CONTENTS
Why These Best High Schools in Des Moines Iowa Stand Out
Waukee High School: Excellence in Academics, Activities, and Character
Dowling Catholic High School: Tradition of Excellence
Valley High School: Comprehensive Excellence
Ankeny Centennial High School: Innovation and Achievement
Ankeny High School: Tradition Meets Innovation
Factors That Drive High School Excellence in Des Moines
Choosing the Right High School: A Key to Your Real Estate Search
If you're a parent, guardian, or student searching for the best high schools in Des Moines, Iowa, you're in the right place.Â
Education is a major factor to consider when evaluating the cost of living in Iowa's capital. High-quality schools not only contribute to your child's future success but also increase the value of your home.Â
When considering a move, families often look at the top neighborhoods to live in Greater Des Moines to ensure they're choosing an area with top-tier schools and easy access to family-friendly activities in the metro area.
This article will explore the top high schools in the Des Moines region, including what makes them stand out, their locations, course offerings, and nearby neighborhoods.Â
Why These Best High Schools in Des Moines Iowa Stand Out
The best high schools in Des Moines, Iowa, are selected based on academic performance, extracurricular opportunities, student support services, and overall reputation. These schools have been highly rated by both Niche.com and GreatSchools.org (based on 2024 data), making them top choices for families in the area.
1. Waukee High School: Excellence in Academics, Activities, and Character
Location: | 555 SE University Ave, Waukee, IA 50263Â |
Niche.com Grade: | A |
GreatSchools Rating:Â | 5/10 |
Waukee High School, part of the rapidly growing Waukee Community School District, is a public institution that consistently ranks among the top high schools in Iowa. Its academic excellence, extracurricular opportunities, and focus on character development make it a sought-after choice for families in the Des Moines metropolitan area.
Key features:
Consistently high test scores and college admission rates
Extensive extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and student-led initiatives
Strong emphasis on leadership development and community engagement
Nearby neighborhoods:
Waukee: Rapidly growing suburb with a mix of new development and established communities
Urbandale: Suburban area known for its family-friendly amenities and highly-rated schools
2. Dowling Catholic High School: Tradition of Excellence
Location: | 1400 25th St, West Des Moines, IA 50266Â |
Niche.com Grade: | A+ |
GreatSchools Rating:Â | NOT AVAILABLE |
Dowling Catholic High School is a private, college-preparatory institution that has long been heralded as one of the top high schools in Iowa. Its reputation for academic rigor, vibrant extracurricular offerings, and strong Catholic values attract families from across the Des Moines metro area.
Key features:
Consistently high test scores and college acceptance rates
Extensive Advanced Placement (AP) and Honors course offerings
Robust athletic programs and performing arts opportunities
Nearby neighborhoods:
West Des Moines: Upscale suburb with a high quality of life and excellent school system
Clive: Rapidly growing community with a mix of new developments and established residential areas
RELATED ARTICLE: Top 5 Elementary Schools in Des Moines: A Parent's Guide to Excellence in Education
3. Valley High School: Comprehensive Excellence
Location: | 3650 Woodland Ave, West Des Moines, IAÂ Â |
Niche.com Grade: | A |
GreatSchools Rating:Â | 6/10 |
Valley High School, part of the West Des Moines Community Schools district, is known for its comprehensive approach to education and diverse offerings.
Key features:
Wide range of AP and honors courses
Strong focus on STEM education and innovation
Exceptional fine arts and athletic programs
Nearby neighborhoods:
West Des Moines: Mix of established neighborhoods and new developments
Windsor Heights: Charming suburb with easy access to downtown
4. Ankeny Centennial High School: Innovation and Achievement
Location: | 2220 NW State St, Ankeny, IAÂ Â |
Niche.com Grade: | A |
GreatSchools Rating:Â | 7/10 |
Ankeny Centennial High School, opened in 2013, has quickly established itself as a leader in academic excellence and innovative programs.
Key features:
State-of-the-art facilities and technology integration
Strong emphasis on college and career readiness
Diverse extracurricular offerings and competitive athletics
Nearby neighborhoods:
Ankeny: Rapidly growing suburb with new housing developments
Saylorville: Scenic area near Saylorville Lake with larger lots
5. Ankeny High School: Tradition Meets Innovation
Location: | 1155 SW Cherry St, Ankeny, IAÂ |
Niche.com Grade: | A |
GreatSchools Rating:Â | 7/10 |
Ankeny High School combines a rich tradition with forward-thinking educational approaches, consistently ranking among Iowa's top public high schools.
Key features:
Comprehensive academic programs including AP and dual enrollment
Strong focus on character education and leadership development
Excellent sports programs and community involvement
Nearby neighborhoods:
Ankeny: Mix of established neighborhoods and new communities
North Ankeny: Growing area with newer homes and amenities
Factors That Drive High School Excellence in Des Moines
The best high schools in the Des Moines Iowa share several key characteristics that contribute to their outstanding reputations:
Rigorous academic programs and college-preparatory curriculums
Dedicated and experienced teaching staff committed to student success
Diverse extracurricular offerings, from sports and the arts to student-led initiatives
Strong focus on character development, leadership, and community engagement
Integration of cutting-edge technology and innovative teaching methods
Comprehensive student support services, including counseling and mentoring
Positive school culture and high levels of parental involvement
Choosing the Right High School: A Key to Your Real Estate Search
When assisting clients in the Des Moines area, I always emphasize the importance of researching local high schools as part of the home-buying process. Factors to consider include:
Academic performance and college acceptance rates
Curriculum and course offerings, including advanced and specialized programs
Extracurricular activities and athletic programs that align with your child's interests
School culture, community engagement, and student support services
Student-teacher ratio and class sizes
Proximity to your home or workplace
Reputation and rankings from reliable sources like Niche.com and GreatSchools.org
Here's the thing:Â no matter what your kids are into or what kind of community you're looking for, we've got a high school that'll fit the bill. And the best part? I can help you find a great home near whichever school catches your eye. It's all about matching your family with the right school and the right neighborhood. That's what I do best!
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