Stay informed about education news and updates in Des Moines, IA.
All Des Moines Public School buses are now equipped with free Wi-Fi, connecting over 14,000 students for educational purposes. Funded largely by the FCC's E-Rate program, this initiative enhances the learning environment while also providing security benefits, such as live monitoring of bus cameras during emergencies.
Colfax-Mingo Community School District is collaborating with the Colfax Economic Development Corporation to establish a new childcare center, supported by a $1.7 million state grant. To unlock the funds, the community must raise a matching amount by spring 2025, emphasizing the urgent need for local support. The center aims to accommodate 100 children and provide essential preschool and after-school care services.
Lincoln High School in Des Moines, Iowa, celebrates the improved FAFSA application process following last year's issues that caused significant delays in financial aid packages for students. The new application, streamlined from over 100 questions to around 40, has made it easier for seniors to apply for financial aid and achieve their college aspirations. Students and school officials alike have praised the smoother application cycle, allowing them to focus more on their academic goals.
Former Grand View University student Emmitt Phillips has played a pivotal role in securing a grant that brings a heartfelt play to local elementary school children. This initiative, supported by the National Endowment for the Arts, aims to enrich the educational experience through the performing arts. The collaboration highlights the importance of community engagement in fostering creativity among youth.
Hoover High School in Des Moines has implemented a new cell phone policy banning phones in classrooms, which has reportedly shown promising results in the first month. Early indicators suggest improvements in attendance and student focus, contributing to a more conducive learning environment.
Iowa schools have revised their attendance policies in response to new legislation aimed at addressing chronic absenteeism. The changes include whether a doctor's note is required for students missing school, creating potential implications for parents and school administrators alike.
Des Moines Public Library has secured $1 million in federal funding to enhance early literacy programs, significantly impacting community outreach efforts. This funding, part of the American Rescue Plan Act, will expand initiatives aimed at fostering reading skills among children and support outreach to more families and educational institutions.
Des Moines Parks and Recreation offers a variety of engaging activities for families during spring break, from arts programs to sports clinics and nature workshops. Taking place from March 16 to March 20, 2020, these events aim to keep children entertained and active while fostering community engagement. Families can enjoy structured activities at the Pioneer Columbus Community Recreation Center for minimal fees.
A new scholarship program initiated by Des Moines Public Schools and Des Moines Parks and Recreation aims to make recreational activities accessible to around 25,000 students by allowing eligible participants to register for youth sports and swim lessons for only $5. This initiative is designed to enhance youth engagement in extracurricular activities, particularly for those qualifying for free and reduced meals, thereby promoting vital life skills such as swimming and teamwork.