History of DMC

Throughout DMC’s 70+-year history our school has experienced God’s provision and protection as we’ve grown from 14 students learning in a church basement in Des Moines, to 1,271 students learning on our 26-acre campus in Urbandale. It all began with a visionary group of leaders from various churches interested in Christian education, gathering to prayerfully consider establishing a Christian school in Des Moines. 

Our leaders frequently state that we stand on the shoulders of those who have gone before us. DMC values our history and the generous gifts of time and resources given for decades. While many changes to our campus and programs have occurred, our mission remains rooted in our founding beliefs. 

 

 

1948

DMC opened its doors to 14 students and one teacher, Ms. Ruth Norquist, in a church located at Beaver and Adams Ave. in Des Moines.

1955

DMC moved to its own building located at 63rd and Franklin in Des Moines with seven teachers and 135 K-8 students.
 

1980

DMC moves into the former Franklin Junior High School and shares facilities with First Federated Church for the next 25 years.

1983

The school works toward its goal of establishing a high school with the addition of 9th grade.

1987

First graduating class receives DMC diplomas.

1996

DMC purchases 26 acres in Urbandale to become our school's future home.

 

1998

Gym opens at Urbandale campus for DMC home athletic competitions.

 

2003

DMC Votes to move K-12 students to new campus.

2005

Construction completed; DMC moves into Urbandale campus. 700 students are enrolled.

2011

First international mission trip to the Dominican Republic.

2015

Athletic complex opens and the first home football game is held.

  
 

2017

East end addition opens including the Performance Hall, STEAM labs, music and art rooms, and early education wing.

First year of independent middle school (6th-8th).

First home track meet.

Enrollment reaches 1,000 students.

2019

DMC athletics celebrates first State Championship (boys golf).

Enrollment reaches 1,147 students enrolled.

  
 

2020

15th anniversary of Urbandale campus.

Great Room is renovated.

First year operations are fully funded by tuition and fees.

DMC launches $29.5M Impact Tomorrow Today campaign.