FAQs
When is the first day of school for 2011?
The first day of school for students is August 25, 2011. The first day back for teachers is August 22, with new teachers reporting on August 18.
When is the last day of school?
The last day of school for elementary and middle school students for 2012 will be May 31, 2012. The last day of school for high school students is June 1, 2012. Please access our school calendar for specific dates of district events.
How do I enroll my child in the Des Moines Public School District?
New families should call the Welcome Center to enroll their child at 242-7371. The district requests that new students have a physical examination and current immunizations prior to the first day of school. Children entering kindergarten must be five years old on or before September 15. Children entering first grade must be six years old on or before September 15. Visit the Enrollment section for more information.
What does the Des Moines Public Schools offer for Preschool and Day Care?
There are several early childhood programs throughout the district. Please visit the Early Childhood section for more information.
What opportunities will my child have at Des Moines Public Schools?
The district has a wide variety of athletic, academic and fine arts programs for student involvement. Special academic programs are available for students from preschool age through twelfth grade. Please visit the Academics section for more information.
How many schools make up the District?
The Des Moines Public School District has 65 schools, including 38 elementary schools, 12 middle schools, 5 comprehensive high schools, and 10 schools that provide a range of specialized and alternative educational programs.
How do I contact my child’s school?
For the phone number, fax number, e-mail address and mailing address of your child’s school, please visit the Schools section.
Who are the members of the school board?
The members of the Des Moines Public School’s board are:
- Teree Caldwell-Johnson, Chair
- Dick Murphy, Vice-Chair
- Connie Boesen
- Cindy Elsbernd
- Bill Howard
- Joe Jongewaard
- Pat Sweeney
- Dr. Nancy Sebring, Superintendent
How do I contact the school board members?
School board members are available by phone, e-mail and at school board meetings. Contact information is listed on each member’s biography. Please visit School Board Members for a list of the members’ biographies.
A schedule of the school board meetings is available on the Board Meeting Schedule web page. If you wish to speak at a school board meeting, please call 515-242-7713 to sign up.
When and where are the school board meetings?
School board meetings are held in the multi-purpose room on the second floor of Central Campus (1800 Grand Avenue in Des Moines). The meetings are also aired on DMPS TV. For a schedule of school board meetings, please visit the Board Meeting Schedule web page.
How do I apply for a job with the District?
Jobs are posted on the district website under Career Opportunities. Applications can be downloaded and printed or picked up at 901 Walnut Street in Des Moines. They can also be requested by mail by calling 515-242-7736.