For the 2026 school year, there are 5 public elementary schools serving 2,056 students in 50316, IA.
The top-ranked public elementary schools in 50316, IA are Cattell Elementary School, Madison Elementary School and Capitol View Elementary School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Public elementary schools in zipcode 50316 have an average math proficiency score of 37% (versus the Iowa public elementary school average of 70%), and reading proficiency score of 37% (versus the 69% statewide average). Elementary schools in 50316, IA have an average ranking of 1/10, which is in the bottom 50% of Iowa public elementary schools.
Minority enrollment is 84% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is more than the Iowa public elementary school average of 30% (majority Hispanic).
Best 50316, IA Public Elementary Schools (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Cattell Elementary School
(Math: 55-59% | Reading: 50-54%)
Rank:
Rank:
2/
Bottom 50%10
3101 E 12th St
Des Moines, IA 50316
(515) 242-8403
Des Moines, IA 50316
(515) 242-8403
Gr: K-5 | 314 students Student-teacher ratio: 12:1 Minority enrollment: 72%
Rank: #22.
Madison Elementary School
(Math: 40-44% | Reading: 35-39%)
Rank:
Rank:
1/
Bottom 50%10
806 E Hoffman St
Des Moines, IA 50316
(515) 242-8420
Des Moines, IA 50316
(515) 242-8420
Gr: PK-5 | 285 students Student-teacher ratio: 12:1 Minority enrollment: 79%
Rank: #33.
Capitol View Elementary School
(Math: 38% | Reading: 41%)
Rank:
Rank:
1/
Bottom 50%10
320 E. 16th
Des Moines, IA 50316
(515) 242-8402
Des Moines, IA 50316
(515) 242-8402
Gr: PK-5 | 533 students Student-teacher ratio: 13:1 Minority enrollment: 83%
Rank: #44.
Hiatt Middle School
(Math: 32% | Reading: 33%)
Rank:
Rank:
1/
Bottom 50%10
1430 E. University Ave
Des Moines, IA 50316
(515) 242-7774
Des Moines, IA 50316
(515) 242-7774
Gr: 6-8 | 488 students Student-teacher ratio: 14:1 Minority enrollment: 87%
Rank: #55.
Carver Elementary School
(Math: 32% | Reading: 29%)
Rank:
Rank:
1/
Bottom 50%10
705 E University Ave
Des Moines, IA 50316
(515) 242-8418
Des Moines, IA 50316
(515) 242-8418
Gr: PK-5 | 436 students Student-teacher ratio: 14:1 Minority enrollment: 93%
50316, Iowa Public Schools (Closed)
School
Location
Quick Facts
1401 E 12th St
Des Moines, IA 50316
(515) 242-8437
Des Moines, IA 50316
(515) 242-8437
Gr: PK-5 | 368 students Student-teacher ratio: 11:1 Minority enrollment: 69%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public elementary schools in 50316, IA?
The top-ranked public elementary schools in 50316, IA include Cattell Elementary School, Madison Elementary School and Capitol View Elementary School.
How many public elementary schools are located in 50316?
5 public elementary schools are located in 50316.
What is the racial composition of students in 50316?
50316 public elementary schools minority enrollment is 84% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is more than the Iowa public elementary schools average of 30% (majority Hispanic).
Recent Articles
How to Evaluate School Safety Beyond Headlines
Learn how to evaluate school safety beyond headlines by examining reliable data, school climate, emergency planning, bullying prevention, communication, student experiences, and everyday security practices before choosing a school.
Choosing a Public School for Executive Function Needs
Learn how to choose a public school for a child with executive function challenges by evaluating routines, classroom support, organization, accommodations, communication, transitions, and special education services before enrollment.
What School Climate Surveys Tell You Before Enrolling
Learn how school climate surveys reveal student safety, belonging, relationships, engagement, and support, and how families can interpret results carefully before choosing a public school for their child today.