Politics
Des Moines Public Schools Reimagining Education Plan Advances After 2025 Bond Approval
The $265 million bond funds grade-level shifts, fewer middle schools and new signature programs that will affect where Des Moines students attend classes and what they study.
How we reported this
Des Moines Public Schools voters approved a $265 million bond in 2025 to support the 10-year Reimagining Education plan. The measure funds reorganization of grade levels, creation of specialized schools and expanded preschool options across the district.
Grade Reorganization and Middle School Reductions
Sixth grade will move into elementary schools that serve pre-K through sixth grade. The number of middle schools will drop from 10 to 5, with those buildings serving only seventh and eighth graders. These shifts change daily school assignments for families whose children are currently in fifth or sixth grade and alter transportation routes for students entering middle school.
Eight interest-based signature schools will open with focus areas in STEM, performing arts or health sciences. Students completing requirements at these sites can earn a Diploma Plus marker that recognizes workforce-ready certifications. Residents with children in middle or high school will see new enrollment options tied to these programs rather than neighborhood schools alone.
Preschool Expansion and State Curriculum Rules
The plan adds six pre-K centers and 30 pre-K classrooms to increase full-day preschool seats for four-year-olds. Families with young children gain more district-provided early education slots without needing to locate private providers.
Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds signed state education laws in 2025 that limit LGBTQ instruction in kindergarten through sixth grade and remove books with sexual content from school libraries. These rules apply directly to Des Moines classrooms and affect materials available to elementary students and their parents.
The bond proceeds are allocated to modernize facilities while the enrollment changes take effect over the 10-year period. Residents can track implementation through district announcements on school assignments and program availability.