Valerius Elementary School

Des Moines Christian School, located in Urbandale, Iowa, is dedicated to providing a holistic educational experience for students from kindergarten through 12th grade, including early education programming. The school's core mission is to equip minds and nurture hearts to impact the world for Christ, emphasizing a faith-based approach that recognizes each child as uniquely created by God. This commitment to academic excellence is evident in its comprehensive curriculum that integrates spiritual formation with rigorous educational standards. Des Moines Christian School employs a variety of therapeutic methodologies and programs designed to support diverse learning needs, fostering an environment where students can discover their unique God-given purposes and gifts. What sets this school apart is its strong sense of community, characterized by low student-teacher ratios that promote personalized attention and meaningful family partnerships. The school also offers specialized facilities and innovative STEAM programming, ensuring that students are well-prepared for both academic challenges and personal growth. Through its distinctively Christian framework, Des Moines Christian School cultivates a supportive atmosphere where families feel united in their mission to nurture their children's spiritual and educational development.

Koalaty Time Child Development Center and Pre-School began when our founder could not find childcare she trusted for her own children and spent years studying early childhood before opening the center. We care for children from 6 weeks to 6 years old in Urbandale and serve families from Des Moines and the northwest suburbs, including West Des Moines, Johnston and Waukee. We are open Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and part-time care is available. Our eighteen classrooms are grouped into four pods, so children move through the program as they develop: infants, toddlers, Inquisitive Twos, Investigative Threes, Prelude to Pre-K and Pre-K. Infants and toddlers learn sign language and enjoy music and sensory play. Preschool programming runs from 8:30 to 11:30 each morning, and our four-year-old classes study Spanish five days a week. Pre-K children work on phonics, sight words, reading, counting to 100, and cooking and baking, and lessons on manners, respect and bullying prevention run through every age. Children can add Drama Tykes, Soccer Shots and Tennis by Life Time. We offer tuition discounts to teachers, military families, law enforcement and firefighters.

Urbandale Community School District is dedicated to creating an inclusive and empowering educational environment for all learners, particularly those with unique needs. Serving students from preschool through high school, the district focuses on individuals with various diagnoses, including language-based learning disabilities and twice-exceptional students. The school's core mission, , Reaching All," reflects its commitment to adapting instructional methods to meet the diverse learning styles of each student. Through a comprehensive approach that includes specialized programs and therapeutic methodologies, Urbandale fosters a culture of collaboration among students, staff, and families. The district's emphasis on low student-teacher ratios ensures personalized attention, allowing educators to tailor their teaching strategies effectively. Additionally, Urbandale promotes strong family partnerships and community engagement through unique events, enhancing the overall educational experience. This holistic approach not only advances student achievement but also enriches the lives of all involved, making Urbandale a distinctive choice for families seeking a supportive and nurturing educational setting.