At Bergman Academy in Des Moines, you matter. As children walk through Bergman’s doors each morning, they hear their name several times, as teachers, school leaders, parents, mentors, and fellow students greet them warmly. They experience the joy that being a part of a school community brings, knowing they are valued and recognized as unique individuals and learners.
About Bergman Academy
Located in the heart of historic Greenwood Park, the former Science Center of Iowa, Bergman Academy is an independent school which keeps its class ratios intentionally small to benefit its learners (7:1 preschool, 9:1 pre-kindergarten, and 16:1 kindergarten-8th grade).
The halls and classrooms of Bergman Academy are filled with tomorrow’s leaders, scientists, artists, teachers, innovators, and more. Curiosity, kindness, integrity, and motivation permeate Bergman’s classrooms and community, inspiring students to be engaged and confident learners who not only can but will make a difference.
A Dynamic Curriculum
With weekly classes in Spanish, Art, Music, PE, Health, and Technology, every day is new and exciting for Bergman learners. Whether learning Spanish through story-telling, creating sculptures, learning songs, coding, or hiking the trails of Greenwood Park, children develop a genuine love of school.
Learning comes alive through the dedication and creativity of the teachers at Bergman Academy. Teachers and school leaders create an educational journey that combines hands-on learning with an integrated academic, artistic, bilingual, and STEAM-based curriculum.
The natural setting of Greenwood Park in Des Moines is an extension of Bergman Academy classrooms. Students enjoy the numerous hiking trails which surround the school. From conducting experiments at the pond to sledding on Greenwood’s hills, Bergman takes full advantage of incredible outdoor learning and recreational opportunities.
Middle Scholars Who Lead
Middle Scholars (sixth-eighth grades) serve as the leaders of Bergman Academy. Whether mentoring younger students, creating websites and apps, directing films, asking questions of guest speakers, writing poetry, participating in Model UN, or managing philanthropic projects, students are encouraged to share their own voices, and unique gifts, to make a difference.
During this time of growth, smaller classrooms allow teachers to get to know their students. At Bergman Academy, no student feels like “a number.”
As Bergman graduate Bella explains, “Bergman Academy teaches us so much educationally, but just as many life lessons. The teacher does not just give you an assignment and tell you to finish by a certain date but helps you through the process and supports you. This school does not just offer learning experiences but opportunities to explore.”
A Welcoming Community
Bergman’s more than 300 learners come from 13 districts across greater Des Moines and families all over the world, including India, China, Brazil, Germany, Mexico, France, and Colombia.
At Bergman Academy, educators value diversity and invite their students to become committed and curious global learners. Bergman Academy is a team-oriented learning community. Educators, administrators, families, and students all work together toward a common goal, ensuring the best education possible for children.
The Bergman Academy community seeks to welcome new families to the school through the Parent Ambassador Program. Current Bergman Academy families welcome new families and plan playdates, answer questions, and provide continued support. The school also inspires a sense of community through special all-school events throughout the year, including the Academic Fair, the Hispanic Festival, and Family Fun Night. Bergman Academy’s highly engaged parent volunteer committee connects families and encourages multiple levels of parent involvement to fit all types of schedules.
Admissions for the 2019-2020 Academic Year
Education is a foundation for life. Wish to learn more about a Bergman education for your child? Please set up a tour of the school with Bergman Academy’s Director of Admissions, Julia Gaulter, at [email protected]. During this tour, you can place yourself on the interest list, view classrooms in action, learn more about the admissions process, and receive a calendar of events.
Tuition Assistance
Did you know Bergman Academy offers confidential tuition assistance for qualifying families? Choosing an independent school is an investment for families. Assistance comes from donors who receive a tax credit that was created by the State of Iowa to promote school choice.
Connect with Bergman Academy
Get in touch with Bergman Academy online or via Facebook. Alternatively, email the Director of Admissions, Julia Gaulter, at [email protected] to arrange to visit the school.
Main Office/ Admissions: 515-274-0453
