Skip to Main Content

2019 Best Schools for STEM in IowaAbout this List

Explore the best schools for STEM in your area. Read more on how this ranking was calculated.

1 – 25 of 79
Best for STEM
79 results

  1. West Senior High School

    • Iowa City Community School District, IA
    • 9-12
    • 291
    1 Best High Schools for STEM in Iowa

    Senior: West High is a large school, but there is always going to be a place for someone to fit in. We have tons of different clubs and if there isn't one for what you would have liked, you can start your own! The teachers are amazing and compassionate people who care about your well being, there is always someone to talk to if needed. We have some of the best test scores in Iowa, as well as many AP classes such as psychology, government, art and engineering courses.
    Read 291 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,993 Students
    • 20:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  2. Ames High School

    • Ames Community School District, IA
    • 9-12
    • 301
    2 Best High Schools for STEM in Iowa

    Senior: An awesome school. Great teachers make all the difference in the world. So many options in classes to take. They offer more than just Spanish! I especially enjoyed German class and host an exchange student each year. The school also allows as many clubs as the students want. I enjoy Board Game Club, Chess Club, and Young Americans for Freedom Club. It's not all about sports, but with awesome coaches we're great in that too.
    Read 301 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,270 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  3. Rivermont Collegiate

    • Private School
    • Bettendorf, IA
    • PK, K-12
    • 28
    3 Best High Schools for STEM in Iowa

    Works Here: I love the culture of Rivermont! It has a small, close-knit family of faculty and staff who go above and beyond in serving each other and their community. I have not seen such joyful sacrifice of time, treasure, and talents in a school as I see here. The students of Rivermont receive something truly unique in that faculty and staff care deeply about developing well-rounded, and centered people. This whole person development makes a beautiful paring with our top-notch academic scores.
    Read 28 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 200 Students
    • 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  5. Pleasant Valley High School

    • Pleasant Valley Community School District, IA
    • 9-12
    • 176
    4 Best High Schools for STEM in Iowa

    Parent: I am the parent of twin seniors that who've grown and flourished throughout their 13th years in the Pleasant Valley School system. I have been extremely pleased and proud with my experience throughout their education and how they've helped my children gain integrity, morality, kindness, respect for others and themselves, develop great character, retain wonderful memories and have lifelong friends. Thank you to all the staff and administrators for all your hard work in helping my children become wonderful adults.
    Read 176 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,336 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  6. Maharishi School

    • Private School
    • Fairfield, IA
    • PK, K-12
    • 41
    5 Best High Schools for STEM in Iowa

    Alum: Maharishi School is excellent as it allows students to grow in knowledge and excel without being unduly stressed out as sadly occurs in so many schools today. The main contributor to this is the inclusion of Transcendental Meditation as a central feature of the school, which enables the students to enjoy very profound rest and also enhances their intelligence and creativity.

    I also really appreciate the diversity of the school, the safe-space it offers generally, the low student-faculty ratios and its outstanding success in college acceptances!
    Read 41 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 179 Students
    • 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  7. Linn-Mar High School

    • Linn-Mar Community School District, IA
    • 9-12
    • 242
    6 Best High Schools for STEM in Iowa

    Senior: I enjoyed Linn-Mar. The teacher I had were most of the time very helpful and wanted me to succeed in that class. There are many opportunities for students to get extra help if they feel like they are struggling, and the administration is constantly trying to find ways to make student life better. There are many opportunities for students to get involved in a sport or music or any club. Students here are also given the opportunity to have a voice for their fellow students.
    Read 242 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,002 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  10. Valley High School

    • West Des Moines Community School District, IA
    • 10-12
    • 384
    7 Best High Schools for STEM in Iowa

    Senior: Valley High School has been a great experience and allowed me to grow as a person. I’m glad my parents have chosen West Des Moines Community School District as my high school path. the administration at Vally is beyond helpful and extremely open. The staff at Valley has helped me in a numerous amount of way, acedemic being one. More importantly the staff at Valley has helped me grow as a person and prepared me for the next chapter of my life. Valley High School offers great classes and has allowed me to earn college credit while in High School. Valley does a good job at making education fun and easy, with their amazing staff, helpful administration and useful classes.
    Read 384 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,998 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  11. Scattergood Friends School

    • Private School
    • West Branch, IA
    • 9-12
    • 29
    8 Best High Schools for STEM in Iowa

    Niche User: This school creates an environment where teenagers thrive. The sense of community responsibility pervades all aspects of school life. Not only are they helping clean, prepare meals and shovel snow, where else can students plant the farm and help with farm animals? Scattergood offers unique and exciting trips which students will have no where else, such as a week of community service in Chicago, Freedom School in St. Louis, cross-country skiing in the boundary waters and traveling to Bolivia, just to name a few. the diversity of this student population is second to none, which is so important when students explore and discuss school and social issues/subjects.

    Not only would I send my daughter here again, I wish she could have spent more than just the short time she did. The values instilled and knowledge gained will impact her life forever.
    Read 29 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 34 Students
    • 4:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  12. Gilbert High School

    • Gilbert Community School District, IA
    • 9-12
    • 109
    9 Best High Schools for STEM in Iowa

    Senior: Gilbert High School is an environment with high standards and friendly people. I moved into the school district from Illinois for my senior year. I was welcomed with open arms, friendly faces and a very comfortable environment. The diversity isn't great, but the minorities who do attend Gilbert High School are welcomed and friends with everyone. Academically, the teachers are top-notch and the school as a whole prepares students very well for college. Athletically, the sports teams are average, but the atmosphere at the games is always positive and the community and school district are very supportive.
    Read 109 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 435 Students
    • 15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  14. Johnston Senior High School

    • Johnston Community School District, IA
    • 10-12
    • 286
    10 Best High Schools for STEM in Iowa

    Senior: Johnston is a relatively balanced school, athletics and art take an equal share of the daily announcements. The school is predominantly white rich kids, but strong efforts are made to increase and embrace diversity. There are a number of social equity clubs: GSA, CORE, and We the People. While there are always crappy teenage boys, the vast majority of the student body is smart, kind, and respectful. There are a few great AP options and opportunities to take classes with Central Academy and DMACC. Only French and Spanish are taught here. Math classes extend to BC calculus. Science classes include bio, chem, and physics, and their ap counterparts. English classes only last 1 semester, and normally aren’t very rigorous. This is a good school to attend, solid 8.3/10.
    Read 286 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,548 Students
    • 19:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  15. Ankeny Centennial High School

    • Ankeny Community School District, IA
    • 10-12
    • 91
    11 Best High Schools for STEM in Iowa

    Sophomore: Ankeny High school is a very good school, everyone is welcoming and it is a very nice environment to learn and experience high school in. One of my favorite places would be the library, they have multiple opportunities for every student such as a music room, a 3D printer, a button maker, a ton of computers, and a staff that will help and accommodate for anything someone would like to do or needs for an assignment. Another part that many students enjoy is all of the activities available from show choir to any club that someone can think of and all of the athletics. Through sports and clubs at school I have met many people that are now my friends in my grade and older than me. Overall Ankeny Centennial is an excellent place for high school and I do not think there could be any improvements becuase it is a place I look forward to going too every day!
    Read 91 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,106 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  16. Ankeny High School

    • Ankeny Community School District, IA
    • 10-12
    • 248
    12 Best High Schools for STEM in Iowa

    Senior: I have been going to ankeny since 8th grade. I’m an incoming senior for the 2018-2019 school year, to be honest, I wouldn’t chose to graduate anywhere else. I moved around a lot growing up and now that I’ve consistently been in a district, it has become my home. On the contrary to my above opinion, ankeny has its tough points. I’ve done some rebellious things I shouldn’t have done and as I continue on and better myself, not only the students but some staff as well seem to have me marked to their judgement for my eternity at the school. Knowing half of the people I see don’t believe in me can hurt sometimes. Reputations are hard to reverse in ankeny. In conclusion I see going to ankeny worth some of the struggles I faced because in comparison to other school districts, ankeny is very accepting and has good nature as well as strong academics.
    Read 248 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 979 Students
    • 15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  19. Cedar Falls High School

    • Cedar Falls Community School District, IA
    • 10-12
    • 275
    13 Best High Schools for STEM in Iowa

    Senior: I like that Cedar Falls High School is so active and lively. Our class is always involved in school events, fundraisers, and sports. Like every school, Cedar Falls High School has its problems such as the grading system, school lunches, and parking. I would like to see a change by having students and staff talk about the issues. As a school, we seem to ignore issues at hand. Then there are also times where we talk about issues but no actions are taken. Such as, our school doesn't have air conditioning which is a problem in the summer and then we don't really have heating either, so some rooms of the school are too hot and some don't have any heat at all.
    Read 275 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,156 Students
    • 14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  20. Iowa City High School

    • Iowa City Community School District, IA
    • 9-12
    • 194
    14 Best High Schools for STEM in Iowa

    Senior: I had moved to Iowa City High School my sophomore year and was overwhelmed in the best way possible. There are so many clubs to join, classes to enroll in, and people you want to get to know. The environment at this school is super supportive and friendly. Students are very diverse and accepting no matter of your race or religion. Teachers are outstanding! They are always there to help you. They push you to work harder. They encourage you. They are there to prepare you for your college and adult life.

    In addition to all this, the campus is absolute jaw-dropping! I remember visiting the school for the first time and I could not believe my eyes. I took about 30 pictures that day alone from every angle possible.

    Iowa City High School is a place that is wonderful both inside and out. This school is truly "The School That Leads". I have no doubt in my mind that anyone who attends will love it here!
    Read 194 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,650 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  21. Dowling Catholic High School

    • Private School
    • West Des Moines, IA
    • 9-12
    • 168
    15 Best High Schools for STEM in Iowa

    Alum: I loved Dowling! They have excellent academics that truly help prepare you for college. You are challenged to do your best work day in and day out, and that is an essential skill to have in college. You are also encouraged to determine your interests in not only potential career choices but also in service. There are so many opportunities for service and involvement at Dowling.
    Read 168 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,405 Students
    • 15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  22. Regina Catholic Education Center

    • Private School
    • Iowa, IA
    • PK, K-12
    • 65
    16 Best High Schools for STEM in Iowa

    Junior: Regina High school is a wonderful place for all students who want to either, have a good catholic education, or really just to be around good people. The environment is good for everyone, and we have a great time getting to know each other better. Regina is very well known for athletics, especially football. Our Arts department is also very good. We take pride in our Bands, choirs, and STEM groups that we have. Overall Regina is one of the best schools in Iowa City not only because of the athletics, as many people may think, but because of the atmosphere we hold, and how we get to learn more about who we are while discovering what it means to be children of God.
    Read 65 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 920 Students
    • 13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  23. Wahlert Catholic High School

    • Private School
    • Dubuque, IA
    • 9-12
    • 39
    17 Best High Schools for STEM in Iowa

    Senior: I am a strong believer in the power of change. Mahatma Gandhi once said, “be the change you wish to see in the world.” This is a motto I intend to shape my future around.
    The skills I continue to nurture and the new ones I embrace, will help me guide myself on the path in front of me and allow me to engage others in a confident manner. I have a knack for being able to read people and their emotions, the confidence to take on challenges, knowing I may fail, and the desire to face my future head on, with enthusiasm, passion and humility.
    Read 39 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 521 Students
    • 15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  26. Waukee Senior High School

    • Waukee Community School District, IA
    • 10-12
    • 352
    18 Best High Schools for STEM in Iowa

    Junior: The education and dedication to students from staff is very high. I would like to see more involvement in clubs and more opportunities in the district but I feel the opportunities the district does provide are very prestigious compared to other high school programs around the country. I feel the administration has a lot to manage and has not managed their responsibilities in the best way possible which has led to lots of distrust within the district. Overall my experience in Waukee has been something I will not forget, the opportunities exceed normal high school expectations and think there is still room for me, along with similar students to create a change and bring more to the Waukee Community School District.
    Read 352 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,685 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  27. Assumption High School

    • Private School
    • Davenport, IA
    • 9-12
    • 101
    19 Best High Schools for STEM in Iowa

    Senior: Assumption is a great place for religion and it is a terrific tight-knit community. That being said, if you aren't into sports, extracurriculars are going to be very difficult for you. The fine arts department is hardly funded and/or talked about, plus there are hardly any academic clubs. If you are into sports, great; just be wary of the "winning is the only thing" mentality here, especially in track. Other than that, the academics are good, and the smaller size of the school allows for closer friendships and a more realized shared identity among students.
    Read 101 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 471 Students
    • 15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  28. Decorah High School

    • Decorah Community School District, IA
    • 9-12
    • 112
    20 Best High Schools for STEM in Iowa

    Junior: Overall I have been very pleased with my experience here at Decorah High school. The memories I've made and the new friends I've met will stick with me for the rest of my life. I truly feel comfortable and at home in this school and I'm glad to have the privilege of knowing a fair share of people throughout the school. Although I have seen it to be a struggle to find acceptance and openness in this school as well with a majority of the new kids moving here finding it rather difficult to be accepted into a friend group. Otherwise, I find the classes available to us students to be expansive and the teachers who teach these classes to truly care about your success. The sports and co-cirricular activities offered here are led by truly great individuals who strive for success and a positive representation of the school. The community that this school is in truly cares for the well-being of the students and supports the high school in vastly different ways.
    Read 112 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 571 Students
    • 15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  29. Dallas Center - Grimes High School

    • Dallas Center-Grimes Community School District, IA
    • 10-12
    • 83
    21 Best High Schools for STEM in Iowa

    Alum: As a recent graduate from DC-G, I can provide a summary in what I experienced throughout my years in terms of students and faculty. The district's etiquette is strong; professional, dedicated, and friendly. The faculty are very influential, providing 'passion' for students to strive for their greatest achievements. Some issues I encountered were difficult to cooperate with: other students, academic requirements and tactics the faculty don't apply. This may be personal issues, but when it came down to cracking on student bullying, depression and anxiety issues, it is a hassle for faculty to assist on these problems, as well as provide academic understanding in the courses taught, since things are on an 'itinerary' that teachers are unwilling to step out and have one-on-one tactics for students who struggle. Other than that, I am proud to be an alum of DC-G. It has an overall great education system, friendly staff, healthy environment, and a memory-making applicator throughout my life.
    Read 83 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 566 Students
    • 15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  30. John F. Kennedy High School

    • Cedar Rapids Community School District, IA
    • 9-12
    • 282
    22 Best High Schools for STEM in Iowa

    Alum: Kennedy High School was full of opportunities for everyone! Acedemics, sports, club involvement, show choir, band and college courses to keep everyone challenged and involved. Kennedy High School also prepared me for college and pushed me to find my interests in order to get me a head start on my college education while still a high school student! My school administration was point on and very involved.
    Read 282 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,761 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes
  31. Review Your School

  32. Solon High School

    • Solon Community School District, IA
    • 9-12
    • 69
    23 Best High Schools for STEM in Iowa

    Senior: Solon High School is in a small town of Solon, IA. At our school, we create an atmosphere of positive attitudes, self sufficiency, and determination. Every teacher works to better their school and the students attending it. In our small community, we have visitors come to school to help us plan our futures and prove to us that we all have the ability to succeed. In our district, we are #solonstrong.
    Read 69 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 441 Students
    • 15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  33. Dubuque Senior High School

    • Dubuque Community School District, IA
    • 9-12
    • 215
    24 Best High Schools for STEM in Iowa

    Senior: Great opportunities and many amazing teachers! Would have appreciated more help with school and scholarship searches, especially before the middle of senior year.
    Read 215 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,625 Students
    • 13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  34. Xavier High School

    • Private School
    • Cedar Rapids, IA
    • 9-12
    • 188
    25 Best High Schools for STEM in Iowa

    Senior: Teachers are great!, they actually listen to student’s questions but every year they come up with a new rule which usually doesn’t work or isn’t enforce. Teachers have their own rules in their classroom and (some teachers are more strict than others) and be ready to use uniform because you can only dress normally (1-2) times a month!
    Read 188 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 662 Students
    • 15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes
  • 1 of 4