One of our amazing parents recently shared their perspective in a Des Moines Register Letter to the Editor—and it’s a must-read. Their words reflect the heart of our mission and the real impact Des Moines Prep is having on students and families. Check it out and see why our community believes in what we’re building together.

Options available for those who can’t wait for Des Moines Public Schools overhaul

Thank you for your coverage of the Des Moines Public Schools’ proposed overhaul. As a proud alumna of Des Moines public schools who went on to earn a doctorate from Iowa State University, I represent what’s possible when the system works.

In my work with justice-involved men and women, I collaborate daily with DMPS teachers, counselors and SUCCESS case managers who care deeply about their students. But today’s system expects every student to start in the same place, making it hard to personalize learning paths for the kids who need them most.

That’s what many students are missing: educators who can meet them at their individual starting blocks. Every child deserves an adult who sees their potential, understands what it will take to get them there, and importantly, has the resilience — and the support — to help.

While I’m encouraged the DMPS plan was scaled back to five years, my incoming high school freshman doesn’t have that kind of time. Maybe the overhauled system will work for my youngest, but my oldest can’t wait.

That’s why he’ll be part of the founding class at Des Moines Prep. This is not some private, elite school. It’s a public, tuition-free charter school in the East Village where personalized learning isn’t a five-year goal; it’s starting this fall.

-Kennesha Rae Woods, Des Moines