Top 10 Best Iowa Alternative Public Schools (2024)

For the 2024 school year, there are 13 alternative public schools serving 1,788 students in Iowa.
The top ranked alternative public schools in Iowa are Belmond-klemme Alternative School, Pocahontas Area Regional Learning Center and Greenview Alternative School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Iowa alternative public schools have an average math proficiency score of 20% (versus the Iowa public school average of 64%), and reading proficiency score of 35% (versus the 68% statewide average).
Minority enrollment is 51% of the student body (majority Black), which is more than the Iowa public school average of 27% (majority Hispanic).

Best Alternative Public Schools in Iowa (2024)

School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Grades
Students
Rank: #1 - 21. - 2.
Belmond-klemme Alternative School
Alternative School
(Math: <50% | Reading: ≥50%)
Rank:
2/
10
Bottom 50%
303 E. Main Street
Belmond, IA 50421
(641) 444-4300
Grades: 9-12
| 10 students
Rank: #1 - 21. - 2.
Pocahontas Area Regional Learning Center
Alternative School
(Math: <50% | Reading: ≥50%)
Rank:
2/
10
Bottom 50%
202 1st Ave Sw
Pocahontas, IA 50574
(712) 335-5971
Grades: 9-12
| 15 students
Rank: #3 - 43. - 4.
Greenview Alternative School
Alternative School
(Math: <50% | Reading: <50%)
Rank:
2/
10
Bottom 50%
106 16th St Sw
Waverly, IA 50677
(319) 352-9273
Grades: 9-12
| 30 students
Rank: #3 - 43. - 4.
Wisdomquest Education Center
Alternative School
(Math: <50% | Reading: <50%)
Rank:
2/
10
Bottom 50%
401 E. Monroe Street
Mount Pleasant, IA 52641
(319) 385-7709
Grades: 10-12
| 23 students
Rank: #55.
Individualized Learning Center
Alternative School
(Math: 40-59% | Reading: <50%)
Rank:
2/
10
Bottom 50%
940 Lincoln Street Sw
Le Mars, IA 51031
(712) 546-5858
Grades: 9-12
| 37 students
Rank: #66.
Mid City High School
Alternative School
(Math: 20-24% | Reading: 45-49%)
Rank:
1/
10
Bottom 50%
3801 Marquette Street
Davenport, IA 52806
(563) 336-7600
Grades: 9-12
| 125 students
Rank: #77.
Alternative School
Alternative School
(Math: 20-29% | Reading: 40-49%)
Rank:
1/
10
Bottom 50%
19 N. Illinois Ave.
Mason City, IA 50401
(641) 421-4426
Grades: 9-12
| 86 students
Rank: #88.
Walnut Creek Campus
Alternative School
(Math: 25-29% | Reading: 35-39%)
Rank:
1/
10
Bottom 50%
1020 8th Street
West Des Moines, IA 50265
(515) 633-6480
Grades: 9-12
| 129 students
Rank: #99.
Elizabeth Tate Alt. High School
Alternative School
(Math: 6-9% | Reading: 35-39%)
Rank:
1/
10
Bottom 50%
1528 Mall Drive
Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 688-1080
Grades: 9-12
| 149 students
Rank: #1010.
Expo Alternative Learning Center
Alternative School
(Math: 17% | Reading: 31%)
Rank:
1/
10
Bottom 50%
1410 Independence Ave
Waterloo, IA 50703
(319) 433-1930
Grades: 6-12
| 688 students
Rank: #1111.
Metro High School
Alternative School
(Math: 10-14% | Reading: 25-29%)
Rank:
1/
10
Bottom 50%
1212 7th St Se
Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
(319) 558-2193
Grades: 9-12
| 308 students
Rank: #1212.
West Alternative School
Alternative School
(Math: 11-19% | Reading: 20-29%)
Rank:
1/
10
Bottom 50%
1302 1st Avenue West
Newton, IA 50208
(641) 792-0335
Grades: 10-12
| 73 students
Rank: n/an/a
Woodward Academy
Alternative School
1251 334th St
Woodward, IA 50276
(515) 438-3150
Grades: 5-12
| 115 students

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top ranked alternative public schools in Iowa?
How many alternative public schools are located in Iowa?
13 alternative public schools are located in Iowa.
What is the racial composition of students in Iowa?
Iowa alternative public schools minority enrollment is 51% of the student body (majority Black), which is more than the Iowa public schools average of 27% (majority Hispanic).

Recent Articles

How “Collaborative Reasoning” Could Be the Next Public School Trend
How “Collaborative Reasoning” Could Be the Next Public School Trend
Collaborative reasoning, which encourages independent critical thinking, is growing in popularity amongst public schools. Learn about collaborative reasoning and how it benefits public school classrooms.
Understanding ADHD in Children: Signs, Diagnosis, and Support Strategies
Understanding ADHD in Children: Signs, Diagnosis, and Support Strategies
This comprehensive article explores the complex nature of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children, providing insights into its symptoms, diagnosis process, and effective support strategies. From recognizing early signs to navigating the diagnostic journey, parents will gain valuable knowledge to help their child thrive. Expert insights, real-life examples, and practical tips empower readers to create a supportive environment that meets the unique needs of children with ADHD.
Teaching in Contemporary Times
March 04, 2024
Teaching in Contemporary Times
We explore why individuals choose teaching, illuminating intrinsic motivations, the influence of role models, the pursuit of lifelong learning, and the aspiration to impact society.