Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Des Moines

Des Moines, may not be as internationally renowned as some of the world's major cities, but it still offers a selection of international and bilingual educational options for expat families and digital nomads. While the city itself may not have a vast array of international schools like larger metropolises, there are a few notable institutions that cater to the diverse educational needs of expat children. Among the most popular are the International School of Des Moines and the Des Moines Bilingual School, both of which are known for their robust curriculums and multicultural environments.

International School of Des Moines (ISDM)

Grades: Preschool through Grade 8
Location(s): Des Moines
Website: www.internationalschooldm.org

The International School of Des Moines offers a globally-focused curriculum with an emphasis on inquiry-based learning. ISDM provides the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme for younger students and is working towards offering the Middle Years Programme for older students. The school prides itself on its small class sizes, language immersion programs, and a diverse student body representing various nationalities. Extracurricular activities and a commitment to cultural understanding are also key components of the ISDM experience.

Des Moines Bilingual School

Grades: Preschool through Grade 6
Location(s): Des Moines

Des Moines Bilingual School is dedicated to providing a bilingual education to its students, with a strong focus on Spanish language acquisition. The school's curriculum is designed to foster fluency in both English and Spanish, preparing students for a globalized world. With a variety of cultural events and a curriculum that integrates perspectives from different cultures, students are encouraged to become global citizens. The school also offers a range of extracurricular activities to enhance the learning experience.

West Des Moines Community Schools - Valley High School

Grades: 9-12
Location(s): West Des Moines
Website: www.wdmcs.org/schools/valley/

While not exclusively an international or bilingual school, Valley High School in the neighboring city of West Des Moines offers an International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme for students in the 11th and 12th grades. This program is ideal for expat students looking to continue their IB education. The school boasts a diverse student population and a wide range of extracurricular activities, including language clubs, which can be beneficial for students from international backgrounds.

Ankeny Community School District

Grades: K-12
Location(s): Ankeny, IA
Website: www.ankenyschools.org

Ankeny Community School District, located just north of Des Moines, offers a comprehensive education with a variety of Advanced Placement (AP) courses that can be appealing to expat families. While not a traditional international school, Ankeny's schools provide a high-quality education with opportunities for students to engage in a globally-minded curriculum. The district is known for its strong academic programs, modern facilities, and a commitment to preparing students for success in a diverse and interconnected world.

Johnston Community School District

Grades: K-12
Location(s): Johnston, IA
Website: www.johnstoncsd.org

Johnston Community School District serves the educational needs of students in the Johnston area, which is a short drive from Des Moines. The district offers a variety of language learning opportunities, including Spanish and Chinese, and has a diverse student body. With a focus on academic excellence and cultural inclusivity, Johnston schools provide a supportive environment for expat children to thrive both academically and socially.