SMOUSE OPPORTUNITY SCHOOL

Smouse Opportunity School is a public elementary school that is part of the Des Moines Independent Comm School District school district, located in Des Moines, IA with about 94 students offering grade levels from Pre-Kindergarten to 8th Grade. With about 16 teachers, Smouse Opportunity School has a student/teacher ratio of about 5:1. The national average for public schools is about 15:1. A lower student/teacher ratio is a key factor that determines how much a teacher can devote his/her time to each individual student thus improving, or reducing (in the event of a higher student/teacher ratio) the attention each student is given for their educational needs.

Smouse Opportunity School, located at 2820 Center Street in Des Moines, holds a unique place in the city's educational history. Originally established in 1931 as the Smouse Opportunity School for Physically Handicapped Children, it was designed with architectural features specifically tailored to students with physical disabilities, such as wide ramps, handrails, and a hydrotherapy pool. For decades, it served as a specialized sanctuary for children who required accommodations that were not available in mainstream public schools at the time, reflecting a pioneering approach to inclusive education long before such practices were federal mandates.

Today, the building is recognized for its historical significance and its beautiful Art Deco architecture, earning a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. While the school’s original mission evolved as the public school system integrated students with disabilities into general education settings, the facility has continued to serve the Des Moines Public Schools district in various capacities, including housing alternative programs and administrative offices. The site remains a landmark in Des Moines, symbolizing the city's long-standing commitment to providing specialized educational opportunities for all students.

For more information, contact Smouse Opportunity School at (515) 242-8210 or visit the school personally to speak with a faculty or administrative member about any specific questions you may have.