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K-12 Districts in Iowa

2018 Best School Districts in IowaAbout this List

The 2018 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.

Best Districts
333 results
  1. Sponsored

    Cortona Academy

    • Private School
    • Herndon, VA
    • 7-12
    • 10

    Parent: Cortona Academy is the epitome of a great school. The classes are tailored to the needs of the students, and the teachers give them methods that they will use to be successful in College. My child has ADHD, and although very smart, he was failing in the other school he used to attend. Cortona Academy allowed him to get back on track, to develop method in a supportive and understanding environment. The cost is equal to most private schools in the area, but the investment is worth every penny! Before Cortona, my child was anxious and thought that he didn't have a future. In addition to a great education, Cortona Academy gave him back hope in his future!
    Read 10 Reviews

    • NG
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 75 Students
    • 9:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  2. Ames Community School District

    • School District
    • Ames, IA
    • 7
    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 7 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 8 Total Schools
    • 4,373 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  3. Iowa City Community School District

    • School District
    • Iowa City, IA
    • 48
    2 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 48 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 25 Total Schools
    • 13,661 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  4. Pleasant Valley Community School District

    • School District
    • Bettendorf, IA
    • 20
    3 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Senior: Pleasant Valley High School has been an amazing experience. I can't thank the teachers enough for helping me get ready for college. And the coaches I have had are true role models that every student should experience. The school sets the perfect balance between academics and extra curricular involvement. I have always felt safe in school both during class times and attending events. Parents and the community are very supportive which makes for a very positive experience. It's been 4 years I will always remember.
    Read 20 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 7 Total Schools
    • 4,482 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  6. Gilbert Community School District

    • School District
    • Gilbert, IA
    • 11
    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 11 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 4 Total Schools
    • 1,374 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  7. Cedar Falls Community School District

    • School District
    • Cedar Falls, IA
    • 17
    5 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Senior: I transferred from Sac City High School to Cedar Falls High School in the beginning of 10th grade. I was upset about many things at the time, but my high school counselor helped me through it. I have evolved into a better person with the help of my teachers at the high school, and I will continue to evolve as I go on to college. The teachers at Cedar Falls High School are so incredibly helpful and there for you. Students create an unbreakable bond with teachers here. Not only are the teachers wonderful, but I am provided with so much more opportunities than at my old high school. There's more honor classes, a better theater program, more classes in general, and able to get college credit for certain classes as well. Cedar Falls High School is an amazing school and I am proud to say that I graduated here.
    Read 17 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 10 Total Schools
    • 5,030 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  8. Bettendorf Community School District

    • School District
    • Bettendorf, IA
    • 9
    6 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Alum: The Bettendorf Community School district was, and remains to be today, an amazing educational experience. Students at this school know that they have teachers who genuinely care about their education and personal well-being. They push you to strive for success. Stressing the importance of being involved in both your school and your community, Bettendorf pushes students to join extra-curricular activities. Noting that it is both beneficial to your success now and in the future. Bettendorf Community School districts emphasizes "Passion, Purpose, and Pride". Recently introducing a program that sets time aside in the school day for students to receive support from teachers in the work they are doing and to discuss the elements of "P.R.I.D.E.", which are as follows: Poise, Respect, Integrity, Determination and Excellence. Taking note that there are things in which every person, every school, and every community can improve on--Bettendorf is an overall amazing school district.
    Read 9 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 8 Total Schools
    • 4,335 Students
    View Nearby Homes
  9. Sponsored

    Nysmith School for the Gifted

    • Private School
    • Herndon, VA
    • PK, K-8
    • 4

    Alum: Our 3 kids attended Nysmith from pre-K to 8th grade and it was the best decision of our lives! They never wanted to miss a day of school, because Nysmith knows how to make learning fun. Our kids went on to a great high school (TJ), that was perfect for their math/science/technology interests, and attended their #1 college choices. They were not only ready academically after Nysmith, but they were also happy and confident. The teachers, who are experts and passionate about the subjects they teach, treated the kids with kindness and respect, welcomed their questions, nurtured their curiosity, and helped my kids discover their gifts and abilities - sometimes before they even knew what they were. I highly recommend Nysmith. Or, better yet, don't listen to me...look at their website, see how their alums are doing, schedule a tour and a couple of student visit days for your child. See for yourselves what Nysmith is all about!
    Read 4 Reviews

    • NG
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 570 Students
    • 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  10. Decorah Community School District

    • School District
    • Decorah, IA
    • 11
    7 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 11 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 5 Total Schools
    • 1,486 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  11. West Des Moines Community School District

    • School District
    • West Des Moines, IA
    • 29
    8 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 29 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 14 Total Schools
    • 9,519 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  12. Johnston Community School District

    • School District
    • Johnston, IA
    • 35
    9 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Sophomore: Johnston is a suburban district, and the people are mostly very nice. The teachers are invested in the students' personal success, as they go out of their way to ask students how they are feeling. The facilities are great, although it is obviously apparent that the district is very sports oriented. However, there are many challenging classes for advanced students, and those teachers are great at getting to know each student. There's a very strong music program in each building. The music staff are the nicest people in each building, as they motivate you to do your very best, and provide someone you can relate to on a personal level. The administration is not really talked about. They do listen to students, though. The one negative thing I can say about Johnston is that many students think Johnston is the be-all-end-all, which causes students to be looked down upon by other schools at all competitions. Despite this, I recommend Johnston as a place to go for a quality education.
    Read 35 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 8 Total Schools
    • 6,858 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  14. Waukee Community School District

    • School District
    • Waukee, IA
    • 29
    10 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Senior: Waukee High School is a great place to learn! The teachers are friendly and kind, and willing to help! Waukee High School gives students the opportunity to be apart of many activities, sports, and even clubs! You can never be bored at Waukee High School! I wish they could add more basic classes, such as Physics, French (world language classes in general), and World History! Waukee is a growing community and it's becoming so hard to find the right classes especially when it's always full! Overall Waukee High School, is an amazing high school!
    Read 29 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 12 Total Schools
    • 8,836 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  15. Ankeny Community School District

    • School District
    • Ankeny, IA
    • 10
    11 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Works Here: Great community with the best scholastic record in the area. Even have a Before and After School Program for more kid friendly enrichment!
    Read 10 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 16 Total Schools
    • 10,719 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  16. Pella Community School District

    • School District
    • Pella, IA
    • 12
    12 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Alum: I grew up in Pella and feel like I was supported and challenged throughout my schooling experience. I was given many opportunities to join different groups, try new things, and take on leadership positions. The teachers at the schools truly care about students as individuals and want to see them succeed. They will do whatever they can to help their students be successful. Recent building updates have really helped improve the district facilities.
    Read 12 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 5 Total Schools
    • 2,221 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  19. Linn-Mar Community School District

    • School District
    • Marion, IA
    • 22
    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 22 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 10 Total Schools
    • 7,337 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  20. Western Dubuque Community School District

    • School District
    • Farley, IA
    • 7
    14 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Senior: The aspect I love most about Western Dubuque Schools is that teachers really take the time and effort to help their students get better. Throughout my years of school, I have always gone to a Western Dubuque school and I think it is for the best. The teachers attempt to teach kids how to be kind and how to be creative and work and think outside of the box. The one thing I think should be changed is how bullying is not a major aspect touched on. Being who I am, many people do not like me and have bullied me from a young age. Every time I ever said something, the teacher always looked at me and blamed me for it instead of telling the other kids why bullying is wrong.
    Read 7 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 9 Total Schools
    • 3,321 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  21. Garner-Hayfield Community School District

    • School District
    • Garner, IA
    • 11
    15 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
    • 2 Total Schools
    • 809 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  22. MOC Floyd Valley Community School District

    • School District
    • Orange City, IA
    • 10
    16 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Senior: Every teacher and staff member is caring and supportive of the students and has their best interest at heart. I have struggled with my mental and emotional health for years, and the administration is always willing to help me work through my personal issues while developing an academic plan to allow me to succeed in school. Not only do they care about how good of a learning environment they're creating for students, they care about the character of their students. They understand well that today's students are the world's future, and they do an outstanding job of preparing young minds for tomorrow.
    Read 10 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 4 Total Schools
    • 1,457 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  23. Dallas Center-Grimes Community School District

    • School District
    • Dallas Center, IA
    • 11
    17 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 11 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 6 Total Schools
    • 2,528 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  26. Solon Community School District

    • School District
    • Solon, IA
    • 3
    18 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Alum: I liked how the district was like one big family and how the schools kept the parents/guardians involved in their children's education and the activities that were provided by the schools and the community as well.
    Read 3 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 3 Total Schools
    • 1,362 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  27. Urbandale Community School District

    • School District
    • Urbandale, IA
    • 17
    19 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Junior: Very good High school, and great community within district! They have great teachers, and parent involvement.
    Read 17 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 8 Total Schools
    • 3,599 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  28. Northeast Community School District

    • School District
    • Goose Lake, IA
    • 5
    20 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Alum: I loved everything about my school. The teachers are amazing. There are lots of opportunities. Great community. I loved it so much that I hope to return there as a teacher.
    Read 5 Reviews

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

  29. Southeast Polk Community School District

    • School District
    • Pleasant Hill, IA
    • 45
    21 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Senior: I have gone to Southeast Polk since I was in kindergarten, and my two sisters before me went to SEP from kindergarten-graduation as well. The staff and resources, in my opinion, is what makes this school stand out so much. Every teacher is so willing and happy to help their students to the best of their abilities. Classes range in difficulty levels, but the available help and resources allows to make a good grade very possible. The atmosphere of SEP is always fun, especially when it comes to sports. We get the most excited about football and wrestling season. Our assemblies are full of fun and positive energy. I would be more than willing to send my children to Southeast Polk.
    Read 45 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 11 Total Schools
    • 6,878 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  30. Exira Community School District

    • School District
    • Elk Horn, IA
    • 2
    22 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Senior: I have gone to the Exira Elk Horn Kimballton Community School District from preschool to senior year. I have enjoyed every year at the school because we are a close community and there is a lot of love and support from teachers, fellow students, and parents. Although our school is small, we have a lot of love for each other, and we work together to accomplish goals. We have great sports programs including basketball, football, baseball, softball, wrestling, and more! The teachers here at Exira Elk Horn Kimballton are always willing to put in extra time and effort in order to help their students achieve their goals. Of course, if I had a choice in where I went to school, I would absolutely choose to go to Exira EHK again because I have had an incredible experience.
    Read 2 Reviews

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

  32. Cedar Rapids Community School District

    • School District
    • Cedar Rapids, IA
    • 43
    23 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Senior: In the CRCSD I really enjoyed how tied together all the Cedar Rapids Schools were. Everyone so passionate about there own school. Starting very young the schools all have club sports teams which is a quick and easy way to meet people you will be going to high school with, and there's nothing better than having a rivalry or playing against some of your best friends for multiple years! CRCSD has prepared me for college with the great amount of college courses provided. Here at Kennedy, academics are very important and teacher want to see students excel. One thing I would like to see change is a wider variety of foods. We have the same foods on the same schedules and it gets a little old, especially when you have a few of the same options 3+ times a week. Another thing I would like to see change is to have other administrators more connected with students, not just the principal. Overall the CRCSD is a great community, but with a few slight changes it would be perfect!
    Read 43 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 31 Total Schools
    • 17,368 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  33. North Scott Community School District

    • School District
    • Eldridge, IA
    • 10
    24 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Alum: Overall, a very good school. Academics are strong and they offer a decent variety of classes. Unfortunately, I've experienced things that make me say that they sometimes put their sports programs before academics or other extra-curricular activities. Their foreign language courses are limited and I believe they only offer Spanish currently. They offered a good selection of college courses from Scott Community College. Most of the teachers are nice and adequate. Diversity is severely lacking. A majority white school but I believe the school has been putting in an effort to add more diversity. Regarding school culture, my experience was that it was a normal average high school. People separated themselves into groups based on interests and I think there was some bullying but not an excessive amount when dealing with immature students.
    Read 10 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 7 Total Schools
    • 3,203 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  34. Harlan Community School District

    • School District
    • Harlan, IA
    • 11
    25 Best School Districts in Iowa

    Senior: There are many things I like about the Harlan Community School District. To start, we have amazing staff, and teachers! All are committed to helping us students learn. We have awesome coaches in all of the sports offered at Harlan Community High School. The art classes are my favorite, taught by a skilled artist Dough Renkly. Him and his class made me want to continue on my art journey and become and art teacher! We do not have block scheduling, which might be one thing I would like to change. Also, the food is not that good, I would love to have more options at lunch and better quality food. I feel like if they changed this, there would be a lot more students eating lunch at school rather than going out to eat and bringing their own cold lunches everyday.
    Read 11 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 4 Total Schools
    • 1,429 Students
    View Nearby Homes
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2018 Best School Districts in Iowa