Best Greater South Side Public Schools (2026)

For the 2026 school year, there are 2 public schools serving 2,623 students in the neighborhood of Greater South Side, Des Moines, IA.
The top-ranked public schools in Greater South Side are Lincoln High School and Wright Elementary School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
The neighborhood of Greater South Side, Des Moines, IA public schools have an average math proficiency score of 44% (versus the Iowa public school average of 68%), and reading proficiency score of 56% (versus the 70% statewide average).
Minority enrollment is 60% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is more than the Iowa public school average of 30% (majority Hispanic).

Best Public Schools in the neighborhood of Greater South Side, Des Moines, IA (2026)

School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Lincoln High School
(Math: 37% | Reading: 50%)
Rank:
1/
10
Bottom 50%
2600 Sw 9th St
Des Moines, IA 50315
(515) 242-7500
Gr: 9-12 | 2,364 students Student-teacher ratio: 25:1 Minority enrollment: 70%
Rank: #22.
Wright Elementary School
(Math: 40-44% | Reading: 40-44%)
Rank:
1/
10
Bottom 50%
5001 Sw 14th St
Des Moines, IA 50315
(515) 242-8442
Gr: K-5 | 265 students Student-teacher ratio: 12:1 Minority enrollment: 60%

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-ranked public schools in the neighborhood of Greater South Side, Des Moines, IA?
The top-ranked public schools in the neighborhood of Greater South Side, Des Moines, IA include Lincoln High School and Wright Elementary School.
How many public schools are located in the neighborhood of Greater South Side, Des Moines?
2 public schools are located in the neighborhood of Greater South Side, Des Moines.
What is the racial composition of students in the neighborhood of Greater South Side, Des Moines?
the neighborhood of Greater South Side, Des Moines public schools minority enrollment is 60% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is more than the Iowa public schools average of 30% (majority Hispanic).

Recent Articles

How to Evaluate School Safety Beyond Headlines
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
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
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.

Quick Links