Dowling Catholic High School is committed to serving the Greater Des Moines Catholic community and embracing learners of all faiths. Dowling will inspire a Christ-centered love of learning and a respect for fellow human beings through the application of moral principles, a commitment to service, and excellence in academics, athletics, the arts, and extra-curricular activities.
Quick Facts (2025-26)
- Top Ranked IA School
- Grades: 9-12
- Enrollment: 1,389 students
- Average class size: 23 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Dowling Catholic High School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Iowa for:
Category
Attribute
Student Body
AP Courses
Sports offered
School Overview
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 9-12
Year Founded
1918
Colors
Maroon, White
Summer School Offered
Yes
Awards
Blue Ribbon School - Selected in 2003
Student Body
Total Students
1,389 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
27%
State avg.: 16%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
90 teachers
Student-Teacher Ratio
15:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
57%
Average Class Size
23 students
Number of AP Courses
15 courses
List of Courses Offered
Advanced Courses
Advanced Placement Courses: Biologyan
CalculusChemistry
Computer ScienceEnglish and Language Composition
English Literature and CompostitionEnvironmental Science
European HistoryGovernment
MicroeconomicsPhysics 1 & 2
PyschologySpanish
Average ACT score
24
(Out of 36)
Matriculation DataMatric. Data
Classroom Dress Code
Formal
khaki, navy or black slacks with a DCHS polo
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Tuition Notes
We have participating and non-participating tuition. www.dowlingcatholic.org
% on Financial Aid
40%
Admissions Director
Tatia Eischeid
Admissions Associate
Kelly Lentsch
Application URL
Sports
Total Sports Offered
20 sports
School Notes
- School Motto: Leaders for Life, Centered on Christ.
- School Mascot: Maroons
- Dowling Catholic High School is committed to serving the Greater Des Moines Catholic community and embracing learners of all faiths. In an environment that is faithful, caring and dedicated, Dowling Catholic forms each student to become a Christ-centered leader.
- Sample of notable school alumni/alumnae:
- Shallee Keenan, Class of 2003 - notable for her contributions post-graduation. -
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are famous alumni from Dowling Catholic High School?
Dowling Catholic High School famous alumni include: Shallee Keenan, Class of 2003 - notable for her contributions post-graduation..
What sports does Dowling Catholic High School offer?
Dowling Catholic High School offers 20 interscholastic sports: Baseball, Basketball, Bowling, Cheering, Cross Country, Dance, Diving, Football, Golf, Polo, Rugby, Soccer, Softball, Swimming, Tennis, Track and Field, Volleyball, Weightlifting, Winter Track and Wrestling. Dowling Catholic High School is ranked as one of the top 20% of private schools in Iowa for most sports offered.
What is Dowling Catholic High School's ranking?
Dowling Catholic High School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Iowa for: Highest percentage of students of color, Largest student body, Most AP courses offered and Most sports offered.
When is the application deadline for Dowling Catholic High School?
The application deadline for Dowling Catholic High School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Calendar
View the Dowling Catholic High School yearly calendar below. Note key dates such as:
Event
Date
No School - Thanksgiving Break
November 26, 2025 (Wednesday)
No School: Spring Break
March 16, 2026 (Monday)
Last Day for Seniors!
May 15, 2026 (Friday)
School Reviews
Endorse Dowling Catholic High School. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
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