Iowa
U.S.
Rank
Rank
#5 B
Overall PPI Score: 84%
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Leadership
Your Governor:
Kim Reynolds (R) (75)
First term began in 2017 (no term limits). Re-elected in 2022.
Governor Kim Reynolds ignited a nationwide education freedom movement in 2023, making Iowa the epicenter of bold, parent-driven reform. Her relentless push to expand school choice continues as the state actively recruits innovative education providers to bring fresh, dynamic learning options to families. But Reynolds isn’t stopping there - she’s tackling literacy head-on with science-backed reading instruction, growing high-quality public charter schools, raising teacher salaries, and revamping special education to better serve students with disabilities. Her fearless leadership proves that when parents are empowered, students win - setting the gold standard for education reform nationwide!
STATE LEGISLATURE:
The legislature has been a strong ally in advancing Governor Reynolds' vision for education freedom. Their commitment to passing legislation that expands educational opportunities for families and students reflects a deep dedication to empowering parents and fostering real choice in education. Their efforts exemplify the true spirit of putting families first—a major win for Iowa's students!
Constitutional Issues
Iowa does not have a Blaine Amendment, but its constitution contains a Compelled Support Clause, "which the Iowa Supreme Court has interpreted as prohibiting direct payment of public funds to religious schools. In general, however, the Court has noted that the Compelled Support Clause seeks to achieve the same end as the federal Establishment Clause and should be interpreted in line with federal Establishment Clause precedent." (Institute for Justice)
Transparency
Iowa emphasizes transparency regarding school success. School report cards are featured on the main page of Iowa’s Department of Education homepage under Features, and clicking Iowa School Performance Profiles. Reports are displayed in a clear format, and give a summative rating of overall performance and a state average score,which is a useful feature for parents. The report includes detailed information on learning measures such as achievement, graduate rate, and postsecondary readiness. The report also includes important non-academic data to demonstrate school environment and culture.
Educational options are accessible on the Department of Education homepage, under the “PK-12 → Educational Choice” section in the dropdown, featuring sections for charter schools, homeschooling, open enrollment, school tuition organizations, and education savings accounts (ESAs). Choice options are also often featured under the “Popular Topics” section on the homepage, indicating the state’s Department of Education is a main point of reference for choice programming.
School Board elections in Iowa occur separately from the general election cycle, often resulting in reduced parental influence and a diminished ability to make their voices heard due to lower voter turnout.