Des Moines Public Schools has been awarded a $48,800 Individuals with Disabilities Education Act – Differentiated Accountability Continuous Improvement Grant from the Iowa Department of Education to strengthen instructional systems and leadership practices that support students with disabilities.

The funding will support professional learning for PK–12 building and district leaders focused on implementation science, an approach that ensures teaching practices are introduced thoughtfully, used consistently, and sustained over time. Through this training, leaders will strengthen systems, better align resources, and support high-quality Specially Designed Instruction (SDI) across the district.

By investing in leadership development, the district is laying the groundwork for lasting improvements in instruction and stronger outcomes for students with disabilities.

Des Moines Public Schools was one of 10 districts statewide selected to receive the IDEA-DA Continuous Improvement Grant, alongside Burlington, Clarke, Danville, Dubuque, Maquoketa, Moulton-Udell, Newton, South Tama, and Storm Lake community school districts.