For the 2026 school year, there are 3 blue ribbon private high schools serving 2,319 students in Iowa.
The top-ranked blue ribbon private high schools in Iowa include Newman Catholic School, Dowling Catholic High School, and Pella Christian High School.
Blue Ribbon schools have been recognized by the Department of Education for achieving superior standards of academic excellence. Read more about this and .
Top-Ranked Iowa Blue Ribbon 草榴社区 High Schools (2026)
School
Location
Quick Facts
Dowling Catholic High School
(Catholic)
1400 Buffalo Rd
West Des Moines, IA 50265
(515) 222-1015
West Des Moines, IA 50265
(515) 222-1015
Gr: 9-12 | 1,389 students Avg. class size: 23 students Sports: 20 Blue Ribbon year: 2003 Tuition listed
2445 19th St Sw
Mason City, IA 50401
(641) 423-6939
Mason City, IA 50401
(641) 423-6939
Gr: K-12 | 628 students Avg. class size: 39 students Sports: 17 | Extracurrculars: 4 Tuition listed
300 Eagle Ln
Pella, IA 50219
(641) 628-4440
Pella, IA 50219
(641) 628-4440
Gr: 9-12 | 302 students Avg. class size: 18 students Sports: 16 | Extracurrculars: 11 Tuition listed
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked blue ribbon private high schools in Iowa?
The top-ranked blue ribbon private high schools in Iowa include Newman Catholic School, Dowling Catholic High School, and Pella Christian High School.
How many blue ribbon private high schools are located in Iowa?
3 blue ribbon private high schools are located in Iowa.
Recent Articles
Ask Current Parents What Admissions Won't Answer
Learn how to ask current private school parents revealing questions about culture, academics, communication, costs, discipline, and community life before deciding whether a school truly fits your family well.
When School Anxiety Is Really a School Fit Problem
Learn when school anxiety may signal a poor school fit, how parents can identify academic or social mismatches, and when changing private schools deserves serious consideration for families today.
Will My Child Find Their People? Evaluating School Culture
Learn how to evaluate private school culture, student belonging, friendships, teacher relationships, social dynamics, and authentic community fit so your child can find the right place to thrive and connect.