Iowa offers strong public education and supportive school environments that help students succeed academically and socially. Middle schools across the state focus on building foundational skills, encouraging leadership, and preparing students for high school success. Families often consider class size, academic performance, and extracurricular opportunities when choosing a school.
Below is a carefully researched list of the best middle schools in Iowa for 2026 based on student support, academic quality, and learning environment.
Comparison Table
| Rank | School | City | Grades | Students | Ratio |
| 1 | Indian Hills Junior High School | Clive | 7–8 | 612 | 14:1 |
| 2 | Harding Middle School | Cedar Rapids | 6–8 | 570 | 16:1 |
| 3 | Taft Middle School | Cedar Rapids | 6–8 | 596 | 15:1 |
| 4 | Prairie Point | Cedar Rapids | 7–9 | 890 | 16:1 |
| 5 | Merrill Middle School | Des Moines | 6–8 | 651 | 17:1 |
| 6 | Prairie Creek | Cedar Rapids | 5–6 | 850 | 15:1 |
| 7 | Woodside Middle School | Des Moines | 5–8 | 560 | 14:1 |
| 8 | Sudlow Intermediate | Davenport | 7–8 | 503 | 13:1 |
| 9 | Franklin Middle School | Cedar Rapids | 6–8 | 620 | 16:1 |
| 10 | McKinley STEAM Academy | Cedar Rapids | 6–8 | 430 | 14:1 |
1. Indian Hills Junior High School
Indian Hills Junior High School in Clive serves grades 7–8 and is widely recognized for academic excellence and strong student support. The school emphasizes leadership, responsibility, and collaborative learning. With experienced teachers and a structured curriculum, students receive a balanced education that prepares them for high school and future academic success.
Address: 9401 Indian Hills Dr, Clive, IA, 50325
Ranking: #1 Middle School in Iowa
Grades: 7–8
Students: 612
Student–Teacher Ratio: 14:1
Link: Visit this school
2. Harding Middle School
Harding Middle School serves students in grades 6–8 in northeast Cedar Rapids. The school focuses on academic growth, critical thinking, and student engagement. Teachers encourage collaboration and participation through clubs and activities, helping students build confidence, teamwork skills, and a strong academic foundation.
Address: 4801 Golf St NE, Cedar Rapids, IA, 52402
Ranking: #2 Middle School in Iowa
Grades: 6–8
Students: 570
Student–Teacher Ratio: 16:1
Link: Visit this school
3. Taft Middle School
Taft Middle School provides a supportive learning environment for grades 6–8. Located in northwest Cedar Rapids, the school emphasizes academic achievement, character development, and extracurricular involvement. Students are encouraged to explore their interests while building strong foundational skills for future success.
Address: 5200 E Ave NW, Cedar Rapids, IA, 52405
Ranking: #3 Middle School in Iowa
Grades: 6–8
Students: 596
Student–Teacher Ratio: 15:1
Link: Visit this school
4. Prairie Point
Prairie Point in Cedar Rapids is known for its modern facilities and supportive learning environment. Serving middle-grade students, the school promotes collaboration, leadership, and academic excellence. Structured programs help students develop responsibility and prepare for future academic challenges.
Address: 401 76th Ave SW, Cedar Rapids, IA, 52404
Ranking: #4 Middle School in Iowa
Grades: 7–9
Students: 890
Student–Teacher Ratio: 16:1
Link: Visit this school
5. Merrill Middle School
Merrill Middle School in Des Moines offers a well-rounded curriculum for students in grades 6–8. The school promotes academic excellence and encourages participation in arts, athletics, and leadership programs. Its welcoming environment supports both intellectual growth and personal development.
Address: 5301 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50312
Ranking: #5 Middle School in Iowa
Grades: 6–8
Students: 651
Student–Teacher Ratio: 17:1
Link: Visit this school
6. Prairie Creek
Prairie Creek serves middle-level students in Cedar Rapids and focuses on building strong academic foundations. The school promotes creativity, teamwork, and critical thinking through engaging lessons and enrichment opportunities designed to support student success.
Address: 401 76th Ave SW, Cedar Rapids, IA, 52404
Ranking: #6 Middle School in Iowa
Grades: 5–6
Students: 850
Student–Teacher Ratio: 15:1
Link: Visit this school
7. Woodside Middle School
Woodside Middle School provides a safe and supportive learning environment for grades 5–8 in Des Moines. The school emphasizes academic growth, positive behavior, and student engagement. Extracurricular programs and teacher support help students develop confidence and essential life skills.
Address: 5810 NE 14th St, Des Moines, IA, 50313
Ranking: #7 Middle School in Iowa
Grades: 5–8
Students: 560
Student–Teacher Ratio: 14:1
Link: Visit this school
📚 Historical & Interesting Facts
- Iowa consistently ranks among top U.S. states for public education quality.
- The state emphasizes community involvement and student support programs.
- Many schools integrate STEM learning and technology early.
- Cedar Rapids and Des Moines districts are known for innovative education initiatives.
- Smaller class sizes help improve student engagement and learning outcomes.
8. Sudlow Intermediate
Sudlow Intermediate in Davenport serves grades 7–8 and is known for its inclusive and student-friendly environment. Teachers provide personalized support and focus on collaboration, academic growth, and student well-being to ensure success both inside and outside the classroom.
Address: 1414 E Locust St, Davenport, IA, 52803
Ranking: #8 Middle School in Iowa
Grades: 7–8
Students: 503
Student–Teacher Ratio: 13:1
Link: Visit this school
9. Franklin Middle School
Franklin Middle School serves grades 6–8 in Cedar Rapids and provides a balanced educational experience. The school promotes academic excellence, character development, and student participation through extracurricular programs and a supportive learning environment.
Address: 300 20th St NE, Cedar Rapids, IA, 52402
Ranking: #9 Middle School in Iowa
Grades: 6–8
Students: 620
Student–Teacher Ratio: 16:1
Link: Visit this school
10. McKinley STEAM Academy
McKinley STEAM Academy integrates science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics into its curriculum. Located in Cedar Rapids, the school encourages innovation, creativity, and problem-solving through hands-on learning experiences that prepare students with future-ready skills.
Address: 620 10th St SE, Cedar Rapids, IA, 52403
Ranking: #10 Middle School in Iowa
Grades: 6–8
Students: 430
Student–Teacher Ratio: 14:1
Link: Visit this school
Conclusion
Choosing the right middle school plays a vital role in shaping a child’s academic journey and personal development. The schools listed above offer strong academics, supportive environments, and enriching extracurricular opportunities. Parents should consider class size, academic focus, and school culture to find the best fit for their child’s needs and future success.
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FAQs
Indian Hills Junior High School is widely recognized for strong academics and student support.
Sudlow Intermediate has one of the lowest ratios at approximately 13:1.
Yes, McKinley STEAM Academy provides STEAM-focused education.
Most serve grades 6–8, while some include grades 5–8 or 7–9.
Consider academic performance, class size, extracurricular opportunities, and school environment.
