The Best Private Schools in Grimes, Iowa
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Grimes. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Bergman Academy
Independent Private School
Bergman Academy is an independent private school offering International Baccalaureate education for students from preschool through 5th grade, with expansion plans through middle school. Located in nearby Urbandale, the school serves families throughout the Des Moines metro area including Grimes. The school features a comprehensive Spanish immersion program and emphasizes STEAM education with dedicated makerspaces and technology integration. Bergman's innovative approach includes project-based learning, outdoor education, and individualized learning plans. The school maintains small class sizes with a student-teacher ratio of 8:1 and focuses on developing global citizens through its IB curriculum and international-mindedness.
Programs:
Dowling Catholic High School
Diocese of Des Moines Catholic Schools
Dowling Catholic High School is a premier private Catholic college preparatory school serving the greater Des Moines metro area, including Grimes. Founded in 1972, the school offers a rigorous academic program with 23 Advanced Placement courses and a comprehensive STEM Academy. The 40-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, performing arts center, and athletic complexes. With a student-teacher ratio of 15:1, Dowling emphasizes character formation alongside academic excellence through its Maroon & White leadership program. The school consistently achieves high college acceptance rates and boasts strong athletic and extracurricular programs.
Programs:
St. Augustin Catholic School
Diocese of Des Moines Catholic Schools
St. Augustin Catholic School provides a comprehensive faith-based education from preschool through 8th grade, serving families throughout the Des Moines metro including Grimes. Established in 1956, the school offers a strong academic foundation with specialized programs in Spanish language instruction and STEM education. The school features modern classrooms, dedicated science labs, and extensive athletic facilities. With small class sizes and individualized attention, St. Augustin focuses on developing the whole child through academic excellence, spiritual formation, and character development. The school maintains strong parent involvement and community partnerships.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Grimes, Iowa
Are there any private schools physically located within the city limits of Grimes, Iowa, or do families typically look to neighboring areas?
There are currently no private K-12 schools with a physical campus located within the city limits of Grimes itself. Families in Grimes seeking private education typically look to schools in the greater Des Moines metro area, which is a short commute away. Notable options include Dowling Catholic High School in West Des Moines, St. Augustin Catholic School in Des Moines, and Bergman Academy (formerly The Children's School) in Des Moines. Many of these schools actively enroll students from Grimes and the surrounding suburbs.
What is the average tuition range for private schools serving Grimes, Iowa, families, and are there any state-specific financial aid programs?
Tuition for private schools in the Des Moines metro area serving Grimes varies significantly by grade level and institution. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect ranges from approximately $8,000 to $12,000 for elementary grades and $12,000 to $16,000+ for high school. Iowa offers a unique financial aid option: the **School Tuition Organization (STO) Tax Credit**. Donations to STOs fund need-based scholarships for students attending private schools. Many Grimes-area families utilize scholarships from STOs like the **ACE Scholarship Foundation** or the **Iowa Catholic School Tuition Organization** to reduce out-of-pocket costs.
For a family in Grimes, what is the enrollment process and timeline for a competitive school like Dowling Catholic High School?
The process for Dowling Catholic, a popular choice for Grimes students, begins early. Prospective families should attend an open house (typically in the fall), submit an application by December or January of the student's 8th-grade year, and provide records and teacher recommendations. Placement testing usually occurs in January. Acceptance notifications are sent in February, with a registration deadline shortly after. It's crucial to start the process a full year before intended enrollment. For younger grades at schools like St. Augustin or Bergman Academy, timelines can vary, but applying in the winter/spring prior to the fall term is standard.
What specialized academic or extracurricular programs draw Grimes families to private schools in the Des Moines metro?
Private schools accessible to Grimes offer distinct programs not always available in all public districts. **Dowling Catholic** is renowned for its extensive STEM curriculum, competitive athletics, and vibrant fine arts programs. **Bergman Academy** emphasizes inquiry-based, International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years and Middle Years Programmes, focusing on global-mindedness and critical thinking. **St. Augustin Catholic School** offers a strong faith-based education with dedicated Spanish instruction and character development programs. These specialized offerings are a key reason families choose the commute from Grimes.
How does the transportation situation work for Grimes, Iowa, residents attending private schools outside the district?
The Grimes community is served by the Dallas Center-Grimes Community School District for public transportation. The district is **not obligated to provide busing** to private schools outside its boundaries. Therefore, transportation is primarily the family's responsibility. Many families form carpools with other Grimes-based students attending the same private school. Some private schools, particularly those with a large geographic draw like Dowling Catholic, may facilitate carpool lists or offer limited shuttle services from central locations, but this is not guaranteed. Planning for transportation is a critical logistical consideration for Grimes parents.