Skip to Main Content

2019 Best School Districts in IowaAbout this List

The 2019 Best School Districts ranking is based on rigorous analysis of key statistics and millions of reviews from students and parents using data from the U.S. Department of Education. Ranking factors include state test scores, college readiness, graduation rates, SAT/ACT scores, teacher quality, public school district ratings, and more. Read more on how this ranking was calculated.

1 – 25 of 331
Best Districts
331 results

  1. Ames Community School District

    • School District
    • Ames, IA
    • 8
    1 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Junior: Really good experience, there's a lot of really good teachers, you have a lot of opportunities to join different clubs. From Feminist Club to Spectrum to Lettuce Club, there's just about anything. A lot of choices with AP classes, and there are multiple options for the types of classes you'd want to take. The cafeteria doesn't have many options for vegetarian foods, so you'd have to bring your own lunch if you'd want anything good.
    Read 8 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 8 Total Schools
    • 4,370 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  2. Pleasant Valley Community School District

    • School District
    • Bettendorf, IA
    • 27
    2 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Alum: I graduate from Pleasant Valley High School in 2012. I had a very good experience with the school district. I faced some heart issues during high school, I was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation recently but in high school they weren't sure what was causing my problems. Pleasant Valley worked with me on missing school and the counselors were very good with guiding me so that I could still graduate on time. The school nurse was especially helpful to me and always there for me if I ever had any problems.
    Read 27 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 7 Total Schools
    • 4,657 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  3. Iowa City Community School District

    • School District
    • Iowa City, IA
    • 52
    3 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Senior: I joined the Iowa City School District towards the end of my freshman year of high school. It has been a very interesting experience. The district is very diverse and that was something that I wasn't used to, but all of the students blend well and create a great atmosphere. The teachers, staff, and classes offered in the district are top notch and I really feel like they have prepared me well for not only college, but life after in whatever career I find myself in. There are numerous ways for any student to get involved, whether that be through clubs, sports, music, or any number of other extra curricular activities offered by the schools. No matter where you find your home in this district you will find students who are driven to learn, and support each other in everything they do!
    Read 52 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 26 Total Schools
    • 14,000 Students
    View Nearby Homes
  4. Sponsored

    BASIS Independent McLean

    • Private School
    • McLean, VA
    • PK, K-12
    • 8

    Parent: Our son is currently in the 2nd grade. He has been at the school for two years, and it has been a wonderful experience. The enthusiasm of the teachers, who are truly experts in the subjects they teach, is infectious. They consistently set high standards for all students at every stage of their academic career. This is a school that prioritizes academics and the students themselves; it is targeted to students with intellectual curiosity and a strong work ethic. We are very happy here!
    Read 8 Reviews

    • NG
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 375 Students
    • 6:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  5. Gilbert Community School District

    • School District
    • Gilbert, IA
    • 13
    4 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Parent: AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING!
    Read 13 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 4 Total Schools
    • 1,426 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  6. Waukee Community School District

    • School District
    • Waukee, IA
    • 37
    5 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Sophomore: I love how innovational and involved Waukee is and the only thing I wish the district would add is an orchestra and more programs for high schoolers in the science and math fields. Great, well run school overall! Wonderful theatre, choir, band, and sports departments. Definitely one of the top public districts in Iowa.
    Read 37 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 13 Total Schools
    • 9,524 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  7. West Des Moines Community School District

    • School District
    • West Des Moines, IA
    • 32
    6 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Senior: As a senior in the West Des Moines Community School District I believe the I am well prepared fro my college experience. The classroom opportunities at the high school level can get very specialized, such as business, accounting, automotive tech, engineering, and etc. I personally have taken advantage of the several of the engineering courses offered at Valley. In my middle school years, Stilwell required that all seventh graders take art, consumer education, cooking and sewing, and a woodworking class, one per quarter, to sprout new interests in the young adults. I enjoyed taking these classes very much.

    In conclusion, I have had a wonderful experience the West Des Moines Community School District.
    Read 32 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 13 Total Schools
    • 9,416 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  10. Johnston Community School District

    • School District
    • Johnston, IA
    • 43
    7 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Senior: First off the Johnston community is a great place to live! I have had a great experience from Kindergarten to Senior year. Most of my teachers have been a great source of inspiration especially my music teachers. My band and chorus teachers have taught me so much about not only how important it is to be a good student, but to be a good person. I have always felt safe and cared about in my school.
    Read 43 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 8 Total Schools
    • 7,021 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  11. Cedar Falls Community School District

    • School District
    • Cedar Falls, IA
    • 22
    8 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Senior: The Cedar Falls Community School district has a strong reputation for excellence. Most of the teachers here are very good at covering the topics required in their classes and making sure the students understand the material. I have gone to the school district since first grade, and have enjoyed my time here thoroughly. Most of the students here are very open and kind, but I cannot say that for all of them. The inquisitive nature of those who attend these schools allows them to learn more easily and provide an atmosphere of learning for the rest of the student body. They are over capacity in many of their schools, but the addition of a new elementary, additions to the existing schools, and plans to build a new high school will soon alleviate that stress. Overall, I love this school district and rate it quite highly!
    Read 22 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 9 Total Schools
    • 5,183 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  12. Ankeny Community School District

    • School District
    • Ankeny, IA
    • 17
    9 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Junior: There are so many opportunities and ways to get involved. Most of the teachers are great! The staff cares about your education and helps you. There are also a ton of classes to chose from. I have been going to Ankeny since kindergarten and haave had a pretty good experience overall.
    Read 17 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 16 Total Schools
    • 11,206 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  14. Decorah Community School District

    • School District
    • Decorah, IA
    • 13
    10 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Alum: The academics that are offered in the Decorah Community School district is incredible. I would not change anything about the academic side of the school, because there are a variety of classes so anyone can find their niche. There are also many courses offered that will challenge students who are looking to prepare themselves for the next level of schooling. One of the downsides of Decorah is that there is a lot of parent involvement in all of the sporting activities. It really puts a damper on what athletics should be about during your high school career.
    Read 13 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 5 Total Schools
    • 1,463 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  15. Bettendorf Community School District

    • School District
    • Bettendorf, IA
    • 11
    11 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Alum: As a current college student, looking back at my time at Bettendorf, it was mostly filled with lots of fun, learning, and great experiences. I was a part of the FTC Robotics team at the high school, the marching and concert bands, varsity soccer for four years and varsity basketball for two. It's super easy to get involved and teachers are excited about those students who put for the effort to be in extracurriculars. I believe Bettendorf got me ready for college as well as it could and I'm appreciative of that. One of the only true downfalls of the high school was the admin. The Athletic Director was an awesome guy who truly looked out for ALL athletes and worked hard to make sure our experience was one to remember. But other than him... the Principal and Vice Principal were not widely liked. Odd people, but if you steer clear, you'll have no problems. All in all an excellent school and a great place to learn!
    Read 11 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 8 Total Schools
    • 4,419 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  16. MOC Floyd Valley Community School District

    • School District
    • Orange City, IA
    • 14
    12 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Senior: I loved the community of our small school district. Every one knew each other and the teachers made it their priority to build a connection with every student. One thing that I would love to see change is our school rules on water bottles. Last year the school made it a rule that you must have a completely clear water bottle. This allowed for the staff and faculty to see the contents of it. Tinted yet transparent water bottles would be taken away. This was very frustrating because some students could not find completely clear bottles. Hydration has kind of swept our school, with many kids choosing to decorate their water bottles with stickers and decals. I would love to see the restrictions on water bottles loosened because hydration never takes a vacation!
    Read 14 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 4 Total Schools
    • 1,475 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  19. Linn-Mar Community School District

    • School District
    • Marion, IA
    • 27
    13 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Alum: Linn-Mar offers a great sense of community that continues to grow alongside it's students. We succeed in all catgegories, including academics, music and theater, sports, and organizations. There are many clubs that allow all students to gain a sense of belonging and continue to grow in areas they are most passionate about. There are many college level classes offered, in every school subject from Literature to History, and even to start student's journey to becoming a nurse or EMT. We are proud of the level of college and real-life readiness Linn-Mar supports it's students in developing.
    Read 27 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 10 Total Schools
    • 7,380 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  20. Dallas Center-Grimes Community School District

    • School District
    • Dallas Center, IA
    • 16
    14 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Senior: I love my school because my teachers have made me feel safe, prepared, and excited for my future. Our recognition of AP scholars proves that we care as a district about the education students receive. Both academics and extra-curricular activities are strong at DC-G. Many activities are offered which allow students with varying talents to find a club or event that suits their interests. Although I faced some personal challenges along the road of life, I wouldn't change anything about my high school experience. I have been privileged to participate in activities that offered leadership opportunities as well as take AP classes that allowed me to learn at a more challenging pace. None of this could be possible without our amazing staff and administration.
    Read 16 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 6 Total Schools
    • 2,683 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  21. Pella Community School District

    • School District
    • Pella, IA
    • 13
    15 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Senior: In general the students are friendly and open to new students. The athletic programs and facilities are good. Most sports make it to state each year. The music and band programs are very successful, often winning state wide competition. The teachers are kind and respectful and very willing to listen to students questions and concerns. The students seem to score fairly high on academic tests. The high school has done a lot of renovating lately, so have top of the line resources for students. There is a huge lack of diversity in the Pella school system and causes a problem for some student of different races. This is mainly due to being in a small Iowa town.
    Read 13 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 5 Total Schools
    • 2,226 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  22. Urbandale Community School District

    • School District
    • Urbandale, IA
    • 19
    16 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Senior: Urbandale is a great community and puts education and learning at a very high standard. The schools do a great job of fostering and cultivating a great environment where students can have the best experience to learn and grow as individuals. I would like to see Urbandale expand even more and provide students, especially in the high school who are ready to go to college or higher education, with more academic opportunities.
    Read 19 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 8 Total Schools
    • 3,653 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  23. Solon Community School District

    • School District
    • Solon, IA
    • 5
    17 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Senior: I have enjoyed my years at Solon High School. I feel like it has prepared me academically for the future. I enjoy the small classroom/district atmosphere and knowing all my teachers and friends.
    Read 5 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 3 Total Schools
    • 1,348 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  26. West Central Community School District

    • School District
    • Maynard, IA
    • 2
    18 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Parent: Love the new school building plus the college classes offered and especially the 3&4 year old preschool . Samantha Gage is excellent
    Read 2 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 3 Total Schools
    • 292 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  27. Western Dubuque Community School District

    • School District
    • Farley, IA
    • 9
    19 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Senior: The Western Dubuque Community School District is a very inviting and family- like place. Our school district is unique because it contains two separate high schools. I attend the smaller high school in the district, Cascade High School. Although the two school are split, the administration does a fantastic job making it feel as if both schools were one big family. Nevertheless, Cascade High School also has its own strengths separate and unique from Western Dubuque. Three years ago, Cascade High School built an outstanding new gym, wrestling room, and music room which has contributed to an overall better athletic and fine arts program within the school. Additionally, each and every teacher at the high school is dedicated to the students and their success.
    Read 9 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 9 Total Schools
    • 3,374 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  28. West Liberty Community School District

    • School District
    • West Liberty, IA
    • 10
    20 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Senior: My experience at West Liberty community school district is something incredibly unique that I am 100% sure I wouldn't have found at any other school. It offers absolutely everything a school needs to supports both the students education and their need for extra curricular activities. My school offered a dual language program so that students could begin learning Spanish at a young age and bring that skill with them to High school. I loved the dual language program and it allowed me to get to know one of the most used languages in my town. Going to school here has shown me what diversity means and looks like. Academics has always been ideal as well, I receive all the help I ever need and then some. I am able to learn a lot of different things from construction work to the sciences and mathematics. I am able to access everything I need here, while learning in a diverse learning environment, West Liberty has a lot to offer its students.
    Read 10 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 4 Total Schools
    • 1,340 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  29. Waverly-Shell Rock Community School District

    • School District
    • Waverly, IA
    • 18
    21 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Senior: My experience at Waverly Shell Rock Schools has been excellent. The instructors and educational programs are exceptional! Our districts promotes a fun, safe working environment and allows us as students to to grow in the classroom, to prepare us for life's journey ahead. Our facilities our outstanding, adding recent updates to help keep students safe in the event of an emergency. Our academics are top notch, helping students to succeed at the highest level. Thank you Waverly Shell Rock for the education I have received for the past 12 years!
    Read 18 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 7 Total Schools
    • 2,080 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  30. Garner-Hayfield Community School District

    • School District
    • Garner, IA
    • 11
    22 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Senior: There is a great vibe at the GHV school system! Everyone is very friendly and wants you to feel that you are a top priority. The academics, sports, and drama all achieve a great degree of excellence. The staff strives to help student achieve their bests. The school is wonderful and has just completed a 7 million dollar renovation!
    Read 11 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 4 Total Schools
    • 972 Students
    View Nearby Homes
  31. Review Your School

  32. North Polk Community School District

    • School District
    • Alleman, IA
    • 9
    23 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Senior: I have been attending North Polk Community School District since kindergarten, and I attribute a large part of my personal development and character to my teachers and advisors. My elementary physical education teacher, Mr. Jungman, introduced me to the value of nutrition and fitness, which led to a life-long passion and declared major in dietetics. Many of my academic teachers, from elementary school through high school, have inspired me to dedicate myself to superior educational success. They have pushed me to not only be proficient, but exemplary. My educators have taught me that, without enjoyment, learning becomes trivial. I am certain that the passion for learning instilled in me while at North Polk will continue into my college education and into my future career. I cannot believe I will soon have to say goodbye to the people who have helped make me into the person I am today, and I am lucky to have been able to attend such a supportive and contributive school district.
    Read 9 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 4 Total Schools
    • 1,611 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  33. Rock Valley Community School District

    • School District
    • Rock Valley, IA
    • 5
    24 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Senior: The teachers are very helpful in anything. There are many opportunities at this school. The teachers are always trying to keep all the students "above the line", which means they try to keep us positive. They always ask about us and what is going on in our lives. One program we have is called Rocket Manufacturing. This allows students who are interested in welding to get practice. They do real world work and it prepares them for the work force. It is an awesome program. Rock Valley Community is an overall very welcoming community and school!
    Read 5 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2 Total Schools
    • 824 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  34. Nevada Community School District

    • School District
    • Nevada, IA
    • 2
    25 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Senior: This school is a great school if you want blending learning and a good learning environment. The Nevada Community School district is welcoming to all students. The teachers here are amazing to work with and are very understanding of your personal lives. They also understand that things come up out of the blue that you cannot control. While you still have to make the work up, they give you time to to it. They know how busy teenagers can be.
    Read 2 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 3 Total Schools
    • 1,624 Students
    View Nearby Homes
  35. Sponsored

    Kirov Academy of Ballet

    • Private School
    • Washington, DC
    • 7-12
    • 4

    Works Here: I have been working at the Kirov Academy since 2017, and have found the staff & students friendly. The students are very talented, even performing for a week at the Kennedy Center in conjunction with a major company! The teaching staff, both academic and artistic are professional, run an excellent program that prepares the students well for both companies and university placement.
    Read 4 Reviews

    • NG
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 43 Students
    • 2:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes
  36. Sponsored

    Roanoke Catholic School

    • Private School
    • Roanoke, VA
    • PK, K-12
    • 52

    Senior: Roanoke Catholic is a school that teaches students belong the classroom and prepares them for either college. In the past years, 100 percent of Catholic seniors have attended college and this year the seniors have received over 2.5 million in scholarships. I started Roanoke Catholic two years ago and it was a big change coming from public school. In public schools you could slide by without doing your homework, but at Roanoke Catholic all work is required and graded as a test grade. Roanoke Catholic does not let you fall through the cracks. I also must say the food is outstanding!!
    One thing I really did not like were the uniforms. In public school you basically wore what you want, but not in private school. My first year the gentlemen had to wear a shirt and tie during the winter and in the summer a polo shirt with the school’s logo and khaki pants or shorts. This year they changed the dress code to where gentlemen could wear the polo shirt and khaki pants all year around.
    Read 52 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 483 Students
    • 11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes
  • 1 of 14