For the 2026 school year, there are 2 public elementary schools serving 454 students in 50309, IA.
The top-ranked public elementary schools in 50309, IA are Downtown School and Walnut Street School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Public elementary schools in zipcode 50309 have an average math proficiency score of 67% (versus the Iowa public elementary school average of 70%), and reading proficiency score of 69% (versus the 69% statewide average). Elementary schools in 50309, IA have an average ranking of 3/10, which is in the bottom 50% of Iowa public elementary schools.
Minority enrollment is 54% of the student body (majority Black), which is more than the Iowa public elementary school average of 30% (majority Hispanic).
Best 50309, IA Public Elementary Schools (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Downtown School
(Math: 70-74% | Reading: 80-84%)
Rank:
Rank:
7/
Top 50%10
1800 Grand Avenue
Des Moines, IA 50309
(515) 284-5848
Des Moines, IA 50309
(515) 284-5848
Gr: K-5 | 197 students Student-teacher ratio: 13:1 Minority enrollment: 33%
Rank: #22.
Walnut Street School
(Math: 60-64% | Reading: 55-59%)
Rank:
Rank:
2/
Bottom 50%10
901 Walnut St
Des Moines, IA 50309
(515) 242-8438
Des Moines, IA 50309
(515) 242-8438
Gr: PK-5 | 257 students Student-teacher ratio: 15:1 Minority enrollment: 71%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public elementary schools in 50309, IA?
The top-ranked public elementary schools in 50309, IA include Downtown School and Walnut Street School.
How many public elementary schools are located in 50309?
2 public elementary schools are located in 50309.
What is the racial composition of students in 50309?
50309 public elementary schools minority enrollment is 54% of the student body (majority Black), which is more than the Iowa public elementary schools average of 30% (majority Hispanic).
Recent Articles
AI Report Cards: Should Schools Evaluate AI Use?
Explore whether schools should assess student AI use, the benefits, risks, and what responsible AI report cards could look like in 2026.
The Parent’s Guide to School Cell Phone Bans in 2026
Learn how school cell phone bans work in 2026, why districts are adopting them, and what parents should expect.
Parental Involvement in Public Schools: 2026 Update
Explore the latest 2026 trends, research, and strategies shaping parental involvement in public schools and student success.
