Ankeny Community School District

The Ankeny Community School District is a public school district located in Polk County, Iowa, approximately six miles from Des Moines, the state capital. Established in 1850, with its first graduating class in 1914, the district has evolved significantly over the years to become one of the premier educational institutions in Iowa and the Midwest.

District Information

• Type: Public School District
• Grades: Pre-K through 12
• Superintendent: Dr. Erick Pruitt
• Accreditation: Iowa Department of Education and North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (AdvancEd)
• Schools: The district operates 17 school buildings across various levels, including elementary, middle, and high schools.

Student Demographics and Enrollment

As of the 2022-2023 academic year, the Ankeny Community School District serves over 12,600 students from Pre-K to 12th grade. This enrollment ranks it as the 7th largest school district in Iowa by student enrollment. The district is known for its rapid growth, averaging an increase of more than 300 students annually over the past decade.

Academic and Athletic Achievements

Ankeny Community School District is recognized for its academic excellence, boasting a graduation rate of 96.4% and an average ACT composite score of 23.3. The district is also part of the Central Iowa Metro League (CIML) and is home to two athletic teams: the Hawks and the Jaguars.

Structure and Facilities

The district encompasses 51.93 square miles and includes a variety of educational levels:

• Elementary Schools: Offering education from K to 5th grade.
• Middle Schools: Divided into two-year levels (6-7 and 8-9 grades).
• High Schools: The district operates two high schools: Ankeny High School and Ankeny Centennial High School.

Ankeny Centennial High School was opened in the 2013-2014 academic year, marking the first expansion to two high schools in the district in over 40 years. This expansion reflects the district's commitment to accommodating its growing student population.

Budget and Staff

The district's budget is nearly $217 million, supporting a workforce of approximately 1,997 employees, including over 891 certified teachers. More than 70% of the teaching staff hold Master's degrees, underscoring the district's emphasis on quality education.

Mission and Core Pillars

The Ankeny Community School District focuses on equipping students with skills to succeed in an ever-changing world. Its core pillars include:

• Rigorous & Relevant Academics: Preparing all students for post-secondary success.
• Talented People: Ensuring effective teachers and leadership in every classroom and building.
• Supportive Environments: Providing collaborative, dynamic, and secure learning environments.

The district's strategic vision includes continuous improvements and expansions to meet the needs of its growing community, with a recent unveiling of a 10-year plan to enhance academic and facility investments.