About

Our Story 

Holy Family is at PS-8th grade school committed to providing an exceptional learning environment that celebrates the diversity of its students. With a mission to nurture families and provide for students’ quality education rooted in the Gospel of Jesus and the traditions and practices of the Catholic Church, Holy Family has helped its students reach their highest potential for more than 40 years. This mission and a deep commitment to multiculturalism have helped the school draw students across the Des Moines metro.

Mission  

It is the mission of Holy Family Catholic School, as an extension of church life, to nurture families and provide for students’ quality education rooted in the Gospel of Jesus and the traditions and practices of the Catholic Church.

Therefore, we believe that Holy Family School exists to: 

  • Provide an environment in which the richness of each student’s heritage is celebrated.
  • Provide an academic program that challenges students to reach their highest potential.
  • Utilize current technology to prepare students for the world tomorrow.
  • Enrich student and family life by facilitating access to a variety of church and community resources.
  • Partner with parishes in the formation of parents and children as active participants in their community of faith.

Fast Facts

240+ Students in PS-8
98% Receive Tuition Assistance
1:11 Teacher to Student Ratio
97% Student Diversity
16 Languages Spoken
15 Additional Learning Days

Portrait of a Graduate 

At Holy Family, excellence is relentlessly pursued by instilling a culture of continuous improvement, innovation and growth. As a result, our graduates are prepared to:

  • Apply technology competently.
  • Think critically and creatively.
  • Solve problems independently and cooperatively.
  • Reason scientifically, mathematically and historically.
  • Accept Church, civic and personal responsibility.
  • Anticipate and constructively react to change.
  • Communicate ideas and emotions effectively.
  • Demonstrate global awareness, cross-cultural understanding and social justice principles.
  • Cultivate an understanding and appreciation of the arts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What grades does Holy Family serve?

 Holy Family serves students in Preschool through 8th grade.

What is the cost to attend?

Tuition is $6,475 annually per student for parishioners and $7,475 for non-parishioners before tuition assistance. 98% of our students qualify for tuition assistance.   

What are Education Savings Accounts?

Governor Reynolds signed Education Savings Account (ESA) legislation into law on January 24, 2023. This legislation allows families that meet the eligibility guidelines below to receive an ESA in the amount of approximately $7,600 annually to enroll their child at the accredited school of their choosing. 

For the 2024-2025 school year, all incoming kindergarteners and current public school students qualify for an ESA. Plus, many families already enrolled in Catholic schools may qualify for an ESA based on income. By 2025-2026, All K- 12 students in Iowa will qualify for an ESA, regardless of income. Students accepted for enrollment will be able to use their ESA funds toward tuition at Holy Family.

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Is Holy Family accredited?

Yes. Our school is fully accredited through the state of Iowa and meets or exceeds the education standards of Iowa Code section 256.11

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What credentials do your teachers have?

All teachers are licensed by the State and certified to teach in their assigned areas. In fact, more than 30% of our faculty hold advanced degrees. Special endorsements held by teachers include reading, mathematics, social studies, talented and gifted, health, special education, learning disabilities, early childhood, English, speech, communications, and coaching.

What curriculum is used?

Standards and benchmarks are used in each subject area to guide teacher instruction and student assessment. Students are assessed on these standards and benchmarks using a standards-based reporting system. Currently, all Diocese of Des Moines Catholic Schools, including Holy Family, follow the Iowa Core mandated by the State of Iowa.

What if my child has diverse learning needs?

We are committed to working with all learners to the best of our ability, including children who may require additional academic support. Our school has faculty endorsed in special education to meet the needs of diverse learners. Moreover, all faculty benefit from professional development designed to aid our schools in differentiating instruction to ensure academic growth and success for all students. Our ultimate goal is to ensure all students receive an education that leads them to discover their individual strengths and abilities in order to reach their God-given potential.

Do you have to be Catholic to attend?

No. While the Catholic faith is integral to all aspects of school life, we welcome families of all faith traditions into our school community.

Are students involved in service projects?

We value service to God and others. Our students discover servant leadership by participating in various service projects throughout the school year. Projects benefit a variety of non-profit organizations and social causes throughout the Des Moines community.

How is technology used in the classroom?

Our school is committed to research-based teaching strategies and innovative applications of technology. Desktop computers, laptops, iPads, tablets, interactive whiteboards and other equipment are integrated into the classrooms.

Are extracurriculars offered?

Yes. We offer opportunities for students to participate in numerous academic, fine arts, leadership, service, and enrichment activities. 

Staff

Paulette Theisen

School Administrator

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Darin Origer

Business Manager

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Antonia Lechuga

Administrative Assistant

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Staff

Holy Family Foundation

Since 1991, the Holy Family Foundation has helped ensure that Holy Family Catholic School has sufficient resources to provide an exemplary education. The financial support that the Foundation provides is critical to the operating budget and long-term sustainability of Holy Family Catholic School. Donations to the Foundation have a profound impact on the future of Holy Family students, the well-being of their families, and to the community as a whole.

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Career Opportunities  

Want to discover the Catholic school difference by working at Holy Family? We are always seeking high performing educators and staff with passion and purpose! Contact our Main Office at 515.262.8025 for more information or learn more about working for the Diocese of Des Moines Catholic Schools by clicking the button below.

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