Private Schools in Pleasant Hill, Iowa

Dowling Catholic High School is a premier private Catholic college-preparatory school serving the greater Des Moines metro area, including Pleasant Hill. With a rigorous academic program that includes 24 Advanced Placement courses and a comprehensive STEM academy, the school consistently achieves exceptional college acceptance rates. The 70-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities including modern science labs, performing arts centers, and extensive athletic complexes. The school emphasizes character development through its Maroon & White leadership program and offers over 60 clubs and activities alongside competitive athletic programs in the CIML conference.

Des Moines Christian School provides comprehensive Christ-centered education from preschool through 12th grade, serving families throughout the Des Moines metropolitan area including Pleasant Hill. The school offers a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum integrated with biblical worldview, featuring advanced STEM courses, comprehensive fine arts programs, and competitive athletics. The 40-acre campus includes modern classrooms, science laboratories, performing arts facilities, and athletic complexes. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, the school maintains strong academic outcomes and emphasizes character development through service learning and spiritual formation programs.

Bergman Academy is an innovative independent private school offering International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme education for students from preschool through 6th grade, serving the greater Des Moines area including Pleasant Hill. The school features a unique Spanish immersion program and emphasizes project-based STEAM education with dedicated makerspaces and technology integration. The campus includes outdoor classrooms, nature trails, and modern learning environments designed for hands-on exploration. With a focus on developing global citizens and critical thinkers, Bergman provides small class sizes with personalized attention and maintains strong partnerships with local middle schools for seamless transitions.