For the 2025-26 school year, there are 2 public schools serving 600 students in the neighborhood of Merle Hay, Des Moines, IA.
The top ranked public schools in Merle Hay are Hillis Elementary School and Moore Elementary School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
The neighborhood of Merle Hay, Des Moines, IA public schools have an average math proficiency score of 49% (versus the Iowa public school average of 68%), and reading proficiency score of 47% (versus the 70% statewide average).
Minority enrollment is 59% of the student body (majority Black and Hispanic), which is more than the Iowa public school average of 29% (majority Hispanic).
Best Public Schools in the neighborhood of Merle Hay, Des Moines, IA (2025-26)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Hillis Elementary School
(Math: 50-54% | Reading: 45-49%)
Rank:
Rank:
1/
Bottom 50%10
2401 56th St
Des Moines, IA 50310
(515) 242-8412
Des Moines, IA 50310
(515) 242-8412
Gr: K-5 | 291 students Student-teacher ratio: 12:1 Minority enrollment: 64%
Rank: #22.
Moore Elementary School
(Math: 45-49% | Reading: 50-54%)
Rank:
Rank:
1/
Bottom 50%10
3725 52nd St
Des Moines, IA 50310
(515) 242-8426
Des Moines, IA 50310
(515) 242-8426
Gr: K-5 | 298 students Student-teacher ratio: 12:1 Minority enrollment: 66%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top ranked public schools in the neighborhood of Merle Hay, Des Moines, IA?
The top ranked public schools in the neighborhood of Merle Hay, Des Moines, IA include Hillis Elementary School and Moore Elementary School.
How many public schools are located in the neighborhood of Merle Hay, Des Moines?
2 public schools are located in the neighborhood of Merle Hay, Des Moines.
What is the racial composition of students in the neighborhood of Merle Hay, Des Moines?
the neighborhood of Merle Hay, Des Moines public schools minority enrollment is 59% of the student body (majority Black and Hispanic), which is more than the Iowa public schools average of 29% (majority Hispanic).
Recent Articles
School Choice vs. Neighborhood Schools: Key Factors
Explore school choice vs. neighborhood schools in 2025. Learn key factors parents should weigh when deciding the best fit for their child.
Best School Match 2025: Public vs Charter vs Magnet
Compare 2025 public, charter, and magnet school options with updated data, trends, and strategies to find the best fit.
Public School Boundaries and Equity in 2025
Explore how public school boundaries shape access, equity, and opportunity for students in 2025. Learn the impact on families and education policy.