Best Elementary Schools in Des Moines, IA (2025-26)

A: 1B: 2C: 3D: 11F: 24

7% of the 41 ranked elementary schools in Des Moines, IA earn an A or B (1 A grades, 2 B, 3 C, 11 D, 24 F), against 46% of elementary schools nationwide. 37 schools meet or beat the proficiency projected from their student context (90% here, 70% nationally), and 14 exceed it. On average 51% of tested students meet the state bar against a projected 34% (national averages: 46% actual, 37% projected).

The biggest overperformers, by actual proficiency above projection: Cornell Elementary School (79% against 45%, B), Willard Elementary School (54% against 28%, D-), South Union Elementary School (48% against 22%, F), Moulton Elementary School (43% against 17%, F), Clive Learning Academy (70% against 45%, C).

Districts with the most schools in the top quarter (the top 11): Des Moines Independent Comm School District (8).

The largest ranked elementary schools: Brubaker Elementary School (622 students, F, #28), Clive Learning Academy (528 students, C, #6), Cornell Elementary School (527 students, B, #2).

What is the best elementary school in Des Moines, IA?

Cowles Elementary School in Des Moines ranks first among the 41 ranked elementary schools in Des Moines, IA with a SchoolGrade of A, 87% of tested students meeting the state bar against a projected 70%.

How are elementary schools in Des Moines, IA ranked?

By SchoolGrade, the 2025-26 model that scores each school's actual test proficiency against the level projected for its student context, then by actual proficiency to break ties. Regular public schools that are open, not fully online and have at least 30 students are ranked; the rest are listed below the table with the reason.

How many elementary schools does Des Moines, IA have?

SchoolGrade grades 42 public elementary schools in Des Moines, IA; 41 are ranked here and 1 are listed as not ranked.