Des Moines Public Schools Hits Record AP Enrollment

Local families now have record access to college-credit courses as exam scores reach an 11% two-year improvement.

Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Secondary Education

Bold vector editorial illustration of organized student supplies on a desk, representing the district's record student engagement in academic coursework. — Des Moines Public Schools reported a record 3,993 student enrollments in Advanced Placement courses this fall, marking significant growth in academic participation. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Des Moines Public Schools achieved record enrollment in Advanced Placement (AP) courses with 3,993 students signed up as of October 1, 2026. This district-wide growth spans 34 available AP classes across eight learning sites.

Why it matters

The increase in student participation and performance is a significant marker of academic progress for families within the district. As more students engage in college-level coursework, families can better project their future educational trajectories and potential credit-earning opportunities.

The district reports 3,993 students currently enrolled in its 34 offered AP courses. In Spring 2026, 61% of students achieved a score of 3 or higher, marking an 11% improvement in high-scoring outcomes over the prior two-year period.

The players

Des Moines Public Schools

The local school district serving the city of Des Moines that provides 34 AP course options across multiple high school and campus locations.

The details

Advanced Placement classes provide students with the opportunity to earn college credit while in high school. These courses are currently available to students at five comprehensive high schools, Virtual Campus, Central Campus, and Central Academy. Students who achieve a score of 3 or higher on their final exams generally demonstrate readiness for college-level work.

Spring 2026 marked the testing period for AP classes.
October 1, 2026 was the date of the record enrollment count.
October 27, 2026 was the official announcement date for these figures.

The Home Front

The rise in AP participation reflects a broader trend of school districts expanding advanced academic opportunities to better prepare local students for higher education. This focus aligns with the College Board Advanced Placement program structure, which remains the national benchmark for early college-credit acquisition.

Families with students currently in middle or high school should review their course selection materials to identify potential AP tracks for the upcoming academic year. Consider meeting with a guidance counselor to determine if these college-credit-earning courses align with your child's academic goals.

The takeaway

Increased enrollment and success rates in these courses indicate a strengthening academic landscape for local families. Students should aim to review their own performance and credit goals ahead of the next spring testing cycle.