About JCSD

Excellence in Education

Approximately 7,250 K-12 students attend the Johnston Community School District (JCSD), located in Johnston – a thriving suburb north of Iowa’s capital city of Des Moines.

JCSD is one of the largest school districts in the state of Iowa and the second largest employer in Johnston. The school district employs more than 1,000 people, which includes and operates with a general fund budget of $100 million. The district covers 40 square miles and serves the community of Johnston as well as parts of Urbandale, Des Moines and Grimes.

Our district’s graduation rate of 97.4% is in the top 1% of the state. We are regularly home to several National Merit scholars. We have 1:1 iPads throughout the district, for each student in grades K-12. Beyond our academic achievement, Johnston has won several recent state championships including boys and girls soccer, boys baseball, boys track and field, boys golf, girls basketball and middle school mock trial. Our student council, show choirs, marching band, cheer and dance team are top-notch and have been recognized statewide and nationwide. The district had 11 coaches of the year in 2022-2023.

What started as a one building district in 1914 is now comprised of five elementary schools, two middle schools, a high school, a District Office, technology building, transportation building, and building and grounds facility. We are proud of our state-of-the-art facilities, serving learners of all ages. The desire to provide our youth with the best education possible is the driving force behind these changes.

In addition, Johnston Community Education provides before and after school child care, preschool, and youth and adult recreation and education programs. The district enjoys a strong partnership with the City of Johnston and many community businesses. Together, we are building the future for our children and families!