Introducing Des Moines Prep!
Opening in the Fall of 2025
Where Students Learn to Lead
Des Moines Prep provides student-driven learning that enables students to become leaders — in college, career, and life.
Our Mission
To empower students to own their learning, commit to growth, and prepare for purpose-driven lives. As part of that process, we help students forge their own paths through high school and into their chosen careers.
Our school community shares a core set of beliefs:
- The best learning happens when students are active and engaged.
- Students are motivated when they make decisions based on their interests.
- Every student can grow and excel with effort, practice, and persistence.
- Students learn better together—through collaboration and regular feedback.
Des Moines Prep was established by Opportunity Education. Cedar Rapids Prep is also opening in 2025. Learn more.
Meet Principal Matt Lakis
Matt Lakis has more than a decade of experience and a track record of success in public education. As Principal of Woodward-Granger High School, he fostered an environment of high academic achievement, with students reporting emotional safety at nearly twice the state average and physical safety at 14% higher than the state average (2024 Conditions for Learning Survey). Prior to Woodward-Granger, Matt worked in Des Moines Public Schools as an Associate Principal and Literacy Coach, and Johnston Community Schools as a High School English Teacher and Teacher Leader. When he’s not serving his students and community, Matt enjoys spending time with his wife and three children.
For more information, contact Matt Lakis at mlakis@desmoinesprep.org or fill out the form below.
“Students deserve a rigorous and dynamic learning environment that prepares them for an ever-changing world. Our goal is to support agency and innovation so our students develop the skills and confidence to author their own stories. I invite you to join us as we begin an exciting new chapter in Des Moines.”
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