Des Moines Public Schools is undergoing significant operational transformation and facility modernization, driven by a voter-approved $265 million bond referendum. These efforts focus on enhancing learning environments, expanding access to early childhood education, and strengthening career pathways for students. The district currently operates with a comprehensive technology stack, including one-to-one devices, a robust learning management system, and an integrated student information system.
These initiatives create operational pressure across facilities, technology integration, and curriculum delivery. Systems for managing devices, securing digital learning environments, and coordinating modern learning spaces are becoming increasingly critical. Vendors can support Des Moines Public Schools by offering solutions that streamline facility upgrades, optimize instructional technology use, and improve student communication platforms.
Des Moines Public Schools Snapshot
Location: Des Moines, Iowa
School District: Des Moines Independent Community School District
Grades Served: PK-12
Technology Environment: One-to-one Windows laptops, Canvas LMS, Infinite Campus SIS, Clever, Microsoft 365, ParentSquare communication platform.
Key Initiative: Reimagining Education Plan
Website: https://www.dmschools.org/
Recent Funding and Procurement Activity
| Funding Activity | Amount | Operational Area | Current School-Level Relevance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bond Referendum for Reimagining Education Plan | $265,000,000 | Facilities Modernization, Technology, CTE, Early Childhood Education | Funds active construction and program expansion across numerous schools starting late 2025. |
| Sale of Bonds for Reimagining Education | $100,000,000 | Facilities Construction | Finances ongoing construction projects and facility upgrades in February 2026. |
| Brody Middle School CTE Addition | - | Career and Technical Education | Active competitive bid process, due April 2, 2026, for new learning spaces. |
| Construction Manager for Moulton Performing Arts School | - | Facilities Construction | Active Request for Proposal (RFP) due April 27, 2026, for new school construction. |
| K-12 PE Curriculum Adoption | - | Instructional Materials | Active Request for Proposal (RFP) due April 1, 2026, for new curriculum. |
| STEM Grant for Central Campus Welding Program | $50,000 | Career and Technical Education | Funds expansion of equipment and partnerships in February 2026. |
Leadership and Key Buying Personas
| Name | Role | Department | Public Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Matt Smith | Interim Superintendent | Administration | - |
| Kim Martorano | Board Chair | School Board | - |
| Bekah Harris | Project Manager, Reimagining Education | Facilities & Strategic Initiatives | - |
| Jeremiah Schwennen | Talent Support | Human Resources | jeremiah.schwennen@dmschools.org |
| - | Director of Digital Literacy and Instructional Technology | Technology | - |
| - | Instructional Technology Coordinator | Technology | - |
| - | Early Childhood Program Administrator | Early Childhood Education | 515-242-8424 |
Key Initiatives at a Glance
- Modernizing school facilities across the district.
- Expanding full-day preschool access and facilities.
- Enhancing Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs and spaces.
- Developing interest-based signature schools.
- Implementing a new ParentSquare communication platform.
- Strengthening the digital learning environment with Canvas LMS and one-to-one devices.
What Companies Can Sell to Des Moines Public Schools
| Who Can Sell Here | Current Initiative | Operational Pressure | Seller Positioning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Facilities Modernization Contractors | Modernizing school buildings and infrastructure district-wide. | Coordinating schedules across multiple active construction sites creates logistical challenges. | Offer integrated project management tools and modular building solutions. |
| Constructing new Moulton Performing Arts School. | Ensuring minimal disruption to ongoing school operations during demolition and new construction phases. | Provide rapid deployment construction methods and temporary learning space solutions. | |
| Early Childhood Program Providers | Expanding full-day preschool access and centers. | Equipping new preschool classrooms with age-appropriate and compliant furniture and learning materials. | Offer turnkey preschool classroom setup services and modular play equipment. |
| Career and Technical Education (CTE) Equipment Suppliers | Enhancing CTE programs at middle schools and Central Campus. | Acquiring specialized equipment that meets current industry standards for various CTE pathways. | Supply modern welding equipment, vocational training tools, and STEM lab resources. |
| Instructional Technology Vendors | Strengthening digital learning with existing one-to-one laptops. | Ensuring consistent device performance and managing software deployment across a large student body. | Provide device management software, endpoint security, and educational software licenses. |
| Utilizing Canvas as the primary Learning Management System. | Integrating Canvas effectively with other educational applications and student information systems. | Offer Canvas-compatible integrations, training platforms, and instructional design support. | |
| Communication Platform Providers | Implementing ParentSquare for district-wide family communication. | Ensuring high adoption rates among diverse families and consolidating communication channels. | Provide multilingual support features, analytics for engagement, and integration with existing school systems. |
| Curriculum Providers | Adopting new K-12 PE curriculum. | Selecting materials that align with state standards and are suitable for diverse student needs. | Offer evidence-based physical education curriculum with digital resources and professional development. |
| Educational Software Integrators | Coordinating Infinite Campus (SIS) with other platforms like Canvas and Clever. | Preventing data silos and ensuring seamless data flow between critical student management systems. | Deliver integration services and data synchronization tools for diverse educational platforms. |
| Cybersecurity Solutions | Recovering from a cyberattack affecting the LMS. | Protecting sensitive student and staff data and preventing future security breaches. | Offer robust cybersecurity measures, data loss prevention, and incident response services. |
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Why Companies Should Consider Selling to Des Moines Public Schools
- The district is actively investing $265 million in facility and program modernization.
- Ongoing construction projects and program expansions create immediate purchasing needs.
- The district maintains a one-to-one device program for all students.
- Significant operational pressure exists to integrate diverse technology systems efficiently.
- New curriculum adoptions drive demand for instructional materials and related professional development.
1. Facilities Modernization and New Construction
What Des Moines Public Schools Is Doing
Des Moines Public Schools is undertaking extensive facility modernizations and new construction projects, primarily funded by a $265 million bond referendum approved in November 2025. This includes the construction of new learning spaces, such as the Moulton Performing Arts School, and upgrades across numerous existing buildings. Seven construction projects are underway by the end of 2026.
Key Buyer Personas
- Interim Superintendent
- Project Manager, Reimagining Education
- Director of Facilities
- School Board Members
Operational Challenges
- Coordinating multiple simultaneous construction projects creates complex logistical issues.
- Ensuring school operations continue safely and effectively during renovation periods is difficult.
- Integrating new building systems with existing campus infrastructure requires careful planning.
- Managing timelines and budgets across large-scale projects can strain resources.
Company Categories That Can Sell to Des Moines Public Schools
- Construction Management Services
- Architectural and Engineering Firms
- Building Material Suppliers
- Security System Integrators
- HVAC and Energy Management Solutions
Relevant Companies
Gilbane Building Company — Offers construction management and general contracting services for K-12 education projects. Relevant for: Overseeing large-scale school construction and renovation initiatives.
HKS Architects — Provides architectural design and planning for educational facilities. Relevant for: Designing modern, flexible learning environments for new and renovated schools.
Johnson Controls — Delivers building automation systems and energy-efficient HVAC solutions. Relevant for: Optimizing climate control and operational efficiency in modernized facilities.
Sample Outbound Angle
"Noticed Des Moines Public Schools is actively managing several significant facility modernization projects through 2026.
Districts often encounter coordination gaps and unexpected delays when overseeing multiple complex construction initiatives simultaneously.
Many are finding value in specialized project management platforms that centralize timelines and subcontractor communication. Can share some insights if useful."
2. Expanding Early Childhood Education
What Des Moines Public Schools Is Doing
The district is increasing access to full-day preschool programs and establishing more pre-kindergarten centers at selected elementary schools. This expansion is a core component of the Reimagining Education Plan. The goal is to provide comprehensive early learning opportunities for a greater number of students.
Key Buyer Personas
- Interim Superintendent
- Early Childhood Program Administrator
- Curriculum & Instruction Director
- Elementary School Principals
Operational Challenges
- Securing sufficient and appropriately equipped physical spaces for new preschool classrooms.
- Developing and implementing a consistent, high-quality curriculum across expanded programs.
- Managing increased enrollment and transportation needs for younger students.
- Staffing qualified early childhood educators for new and existing programs.
Company Categories That Can Sell to Des Moines Public Schools
- Early Childhood Curriculum Providers
- Classroom Furniture and Equipment Suppliers
- Educational Play & Learning Materials
- Transportation Management Systems
- Professional Development for Early Educators
Relevant Companies
Lakeshore Learning Materials — Provides age-appropriate furniture, educational toys, and classroom resources. Relevant for: Outfitting new preschool classrooms with engaging and developmentally sound materials.
Teaching Strategies GOLD — Offers a comprehensive assessment and curriculum system for early childhood education. Relevant for: Supporting curriculum implementation and child development tracking in expanded preschool programs.
Brightwheel — Provides an all-in-one platform for early education, including parent communication and student management. Relevant for: Streamlining administrative tasks and enhancing family engagement in early learning centers.
Sample Outbound Angle
"Saw Des Moines Public Schools is expanding its full-day preschool access and establishing new centers.
Schools often face challenges ensuring consistent curriculum delivery and managing parent communication across newly added early learning sites.
Many are adopting integrated platforms that standardize curriculum resources and centralize family engagement. Happy to share what we're seeing."
3. Enhancing Career and Technical Education (CTE)
What Des Moines Public Schools Is Doing
Des Moines Public Schools is significantly strengthening its Career and Technical Education offerings, including building new CTE spaces at three middle schools. The welding program at Central Campus recently received a $50,000 STEM grant for equipment and partnerships. This initiative aims to provide students with hands-on, real-world learning experiences to prepare them for post-graduation futures.
Key Buyer Personas
- Interim Superintendent
- Director of Career and Technical Education
- Middle School Principals
- Central Campus Administrators
- CTE Department Heads
Operational Challenges
- Acquiring and maintaining up-to-date, industry-standard equipment for various CTE pathways.
- Developing partnerships with local businesses for internships and job shadowing opportunities.
- Ensuring curriculum aligns with current workforce demands and certification requirements.
- Securing funding for ongoing program development and specialized instructor training.
Company Categories That Can Sell to Des Moines Public Schools
- Vocational Training Equipment Suppliers
- Industry Certification Providers
- Workforce Development Program Platforms
- STEM Education Resources
- Safety Equipment for Labs
Relevant Companies
Lincoln Electric — Supplies advanced welding equipment, consumables, and training resources. Relevant for: Upgrading and expanding the welding program at Central Campus and other CTE facilities.
Amatrol — Offers integrated technical learning systems for various industrial and manufacturing skills. Relevant for: Providing comprehensive training modules for new middle school CTE spaces.
Nasco Education — Provides hands-on learning kits and supplies for STEM, arts, and vocational subjects. Relevant for: Equipping new and expanded CTE classrooms with practical educational materials.
Sample Outbound Angle
"Recognized Des Moines Public Schools' commitment to enhancing Career and Technical Education, including new middle school CTE spaces.
Districts scaling these programs often find it challenging to source industry-relevant equipment that remains current with workforce needs.
Many are collaborating with vendors who offer flexible equipment leasing and ongoing curriculum alignment services. Might be worth exploring."
4. Digital Learning Environment and Communication
What Des Moines Public Schools Is Doing
Des Moines Public Schools maintains a one-to-one laptop program for all students, utilizes Canvas as its Learning Management System, Infinite Campus for student information, and Clever for application management. The district also rolled out a new communication platform, ParentSquare, in August 2025, to streamline communication with families. A cyberattack on Canvas in May 2026 highlighted the criticality of these systems.
Key Buyer Personas
- Director of Digital Literacy and Instructional Technology
- Instructional Technology Coordinator
- Network Infrastructure Manager
- Student Information Systems Manager
- Communication Director
Operational Challenges
- Ensuring seamless integration and data flow between Canvas, Infinite Campus, and Clever.
- Managing and securing a large fleet of one-to-one student laptops effectively.
- Maximizing family engagement and adoption of the new ParentSquare communication platform.
- Protecting digital learning environments from cyber threats and ensuring data integrity.
Company Categories That Can Sell to Des Moines Public Schools
- Device Management Software
- LMS Integration Services
- Cybersecurity Solutions
- Communication Analytics Platforms
- Data Integration & Middleware
Relevant Companies
Jamf — Provides comprehensive device management solutions for Apple and Windows environments. Relevant for: Streamlining management and deployment for the district's one-to-one Windows laptop program.
Instructure (Canvas) — Offers the Canvas Learning Management System. Relevant for: Providing enhanced features, integration support, and professional development for Canvas users.
Gaggle — Offers student safety and content filtering solutions for digital learning environments. Relevant for: Enhancing online safety and managing student interactions within Microsoft 365 and other platforms.
Sample Outbound Angle
"Noted Des Moines Public Schools' active use of Canvas, Infinite Campus, and a district-wide 1:1 device program.
Schools often grapple with ensuring consistent data synchronization and smooth user experiences across multiple integrated learning platforms.
Many are implementing robust data middleware solutions to connect these systems, reducing manual errors and improving data accuracy. I have some case studies if that's relevant."
Final Take
Des Moines Public Schools is in a period of active investment and operational change, with the Reimagining Education Plan shaping its strategic direction through 2026. This comprehensive initiative, backed by significant bond funding, drives facility upgrades, curriculum enhancements, and technology integration across all schools. Vendors have opportunities to provide solutions for construction management, specialized CTE equipment, early childhood learning resources, and advanced digital learning tools.
Operational pressures exist in coordinating complex projects, ensuring technology interoperability, and maintaining secure, effective learning environments. Companies offering solutions that address these specific challenges, provide seamless integration, and support large-scale deployments will find a receptive audience within Des Moines Public Schools.
Need help selling to U.S. Schools?
Identify school buying signals like grants, contract renewals, and more, find key decision-maker contacts, and reach out to the right schools at the right time with Pintel.ai.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Des Moines Public Schools' primary initiatives for 2026? Des Moines Public Schools' primary initiatives for 2026 include extensive facility modernization, expanding full-day preschool, enhancing Career and Technical Education programs, and strengthening its digital learning environment.
What technology systems are currently in use at Des Moines Public Schools? Des Moines Public Schools utilizes a one-to-one laptop program, Canvas as its LMS, Infinite Campus for SIS, Clever for application management, and ParentSquare for family communication.
How is Des Moines Public Schools funding its modernization projects in 2026? Modernization projects are primarily funded by a $265 million bond referendum approved in November 2025, with $100 million in bonds sold in February 2026 to finance construction.
What operational challenges does Des Moines Public Schools face with its current initiatives? Operational challenges include coordinating multiple construction projects, integrating diverse technology platforms, protecting digital environments from cyber threats, and managing new curriculum implementations.
Are there current procurement opportunities with Des Moines Public Schools? Yes, there are active procurement opportunities for projects like the Brody Middle School CTE Addition and Construction Manager services for the Moulton Performing Arts School, with due dates in April 2026.