Des Moines Prep, a tuition-free public charter high school, is now accepting applications for its inaugural 9th grade class beginning in Fall 2025. Des Moines Prep welcomes all current area 8th grade students who have a passion for learning and a desire to grow academically and personally to apply. The school will offer 9th grade instruction in the first academic year and will grow by one grade level each year until it includes grades 9-12 by the 2028-29 academic school year.

“We are excited to offer another public-school option that provides academic excellence and real-world skills to support every student’s success,” said Matt Lakis, founding principal at Des Moines Prep. “Our goal is to create a learning environment that best prepares them for success in college, careers and life.”

The school is open enrollment, meaning students do not need to pass any academic exams for entry and any current 8th grade student is eligible to apply for the 2025-2026 school year. Applications are being accepted at www.desmoinesprep.org/apply until March 14, 2025. 

If there are more applicants than the 150 available seats, a blind lottery will be held, followed by a waiting list for interested students and families. 

Des Moines Prep is located at 106 East 6th Street in Des Moines’ historic East Village Neighborhood. An existing building is being renovated to provide a state-of-the-art, high-tech environment that fosters collaborative learning for students. 

Des Moines Prep’s new campus is thoughtfully designed to inspire learning and connection with soaring ceilings, 20-foot walls of windows, and transparent classrooms that flood spaces with natural light. The campus will feature a dynamic blend of academic and student life areas, intentionally reflecting the feel of a state university or a modern corporate environment.

A broad range of extracurricular activities will also be offered at Des Moines Prep, from traditional athletics and performing arts to more contemporary interests, like e-sports and robotics. These extracurriculars will be added over time as the school grows and students take an active role in building out the programs. The Des Moines Prep campus will eventually include a second story theater, two-court gymnasium and a practice field – all of which will be available for community use.

“As a public charter school, our approach is free and open to any student, with a focus on academic rigor, a structured learning environment and college readiness,” continued Lakis. “Des Moines Prep offers students and families a new educational choice to complement existing public and private options.” 

A virtual informational session for prospective students and families is scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 20, 2025, from 6:00-7:00 p.m. An in-person informational session will be scheduled for a later date. To attend the virtual informational session, please visit the Virtual Open House registration page.   

To join the mailing list or for more information, please visit https://www.desmoinesprep.org/contact/. 

Media Resources: Please visit our press page for additional high-resolution architectural renderings, logos, and more. 

About Des Moines Prep 

Des Moines Prep is a tuition-free public charter high school opening in Fall 2025 with its inaugural 9th grade class. Additional grades will be added each year and will be a full 9-12 high school by the 2028-29 academic school year. The open enrollment public school is in Des Moines’ East Village neighborhood and is currently accepting applications. Des Moines Prep provides students and families with high-quality educational experiences, including a state-of-the-art learning facility, rigorous academics, dedicated teachers and a supportive community. Learn more at https://www.desmoinesprep.org/.