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On Monday, our school community gathered for Mass in celebration of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. We are grateful to Bishop Joensen for joining us and making this Holy Day even more meaningful.
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The dance team excelled at the Iowa State Dance Team Association Championships, winning the state title in Pom, placing third in Lyrical, and fourth in Jazz. Five dancers qualified for state solos, with Claire Southard earning the Class X title, followed by Brooklyn Coen (2nd), Brooklyn O’Conner (3rd), Katelynn Larson (7th), and Taylor O’Conner (10th). Ella Larson was also recognized with the Kathy Enyart Senior Scholarship. Congratulations!
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ANNOUNCEMENTS
Early Dismissal
There will be a 2 p.m. early dismissal on Friday, Dec. 12 for Candlighting.
Final Exam Information
Tuesday, 12/16 – Semester Exams (periods 1 & 2)
1st pd: 8:15-9:45 | 2nd pd: 10:00-11:30
Teacher office hours: 11:30-12:30 and 1:30-3:30
Wednesday, 12/17 – Semester Exams (periods 3 & 4)
3rd pd: 8:15-9:45 | 4th pd: 10:00-11:30
Teacher office hours: 11:30-12:30 and 1:30-3:30
Thursday, 12/18 – Semester Exams (periods 5 & 6)
5th pd: 8:15-9:45 | 6th pd: 10:00-11:30
Teacher office hours: 1:00-3:30
Friday, 12/19 – Semester Exams (periods 7 & 8)
7th pd: 8:15-9:45 | 8th pd: 10:00-11:30
Click here for important information regarding exam procedures. Classes will resume on Monday, Jan. 5 with an A day.
Maroon Market - Christmas Break
Please fill out this form by Dec. 12 if you are in need of food or personal hygiene items during break. Orders are confidential.
Winter Formal
Winter Formal will be held on Jan. 31 at the Des Moines Marriott Downtown and the theme is "Midnight in Manhattan." Sophomores are invited to the dance this year!
Peru Trip
Learn about an upcoming student travel opportunity to Peru in the summer of 2027! The informational meeting will be held Dec. 11 at 7 p.m. in the Media Center. Learn more and sign up to attend here. Contact Maggie Harlow, DCHS art teacher, at mharlowtravel@gmail.com with questions. Please note this is a non-school sponsored trip.
Spirit Night
PF Chang's is hosting a spirit night on Dec. 11 to benefit Dowling Catholic athletics. Mention DCHS when dining in and 10% of proceeds will go back to the school!
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| ON CAMPUS
Winter Play
The Performing Arts Department presents The Twelve Huntsmen on Dec. 12 at 6 p.m. & Dec. 13 at 2 p.m. Purchase tickets online.
Madrigal Dinner
You’re invited to the Madrigal Dinner presented by the DCHS Performing Arts Department at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church on Jan. 9 & 10. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and festivities begin at 7. Tickets must be purchased online by Dec. 29.
Talent Show
DCHS is bringing back the talent show! Auditions will be held Jan. 15 and 16 from 3:45-5:45 p.m. in the auditorium, with a performance on Feb. 12 at 7 p.m. Students can sign up for auditions after Christmas Break with Mrs. Raymond in room 1001.
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| EVENTS
FEB 12: Evening of Style
Join us for a fun “Ladies Night Out” at St. Francis with dinner, drinks, themed tables and a style show. Proceeds benefit the Bash on Buffalo and will support the Bash on Buffalo and the Career Academy Endowment. Learn more and register online.
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| Campaign Corner: Check your Mailbox Ways to Give
There are many ways to support the Honoring Our History, Faith in Our Future campaign, tailored to your specific financial intentions and situation. Donors can make pledges over three years, give online, donate securities and retirement funds, or make an estate gift. To break ground in early 2026, we encourage an initial payment of 10% to 20%. Every pledge brings us closer to building the future for our Maroons.
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| COLLEGE & CAREER PLANNING
SAT and ACT Prep
Learn about live online SAT and ACT prep courses offered this winter at campusprep.org.
Fordham's Summer Leaders Academy
This immersive pre-college program offers innovative academic courses along with activities in New York City. On-campus housing and commuter options are available. Learn more here.
Drake Physics Prize
High school seniors are invited to participate in the 2026 Drake Physics Prize Competition. A variety of awards are available, and the first-place award is a four-year, full-tuition scholarship to Drake University to study Physics! Learn more here.
Wake Forest Online Immersion Program
Wake Forest offers pre-college online courses to help students explore their interests. The summer application period is now open. Learn more here.
Notre Dame Pre-College Programs
Click here to learn about a collegiate experience at Notre Dame offered in summer 2026. Please email precoll@nd.edu with questions concerning the programs or financial aid.
Study Abroad
Click here to learn about summer programs lasting 3-4 weeks in 40 different destinations across the world.
DMACC Career Discovery Events
Students are invited to learn about career pathways, tour local companies, and refine professional skills through interactive events hosted at a DMACC location. Learn more here.
Pharmacy Technician Certification Examination (PTCE)
The Drake University PTCE online program prepares students for the certification board exam and future roles. Learn more here.
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| Yearbook Information
The 2025-26 yearbook is on sale now! To purchase, log in to OnCampus, select Resources, Blackbaud Tuition Management, and Purchase Optional Items. Select your child’s name and purchase.
Senior Baby Ads
Information about placing a senior baby ad will come out in January. Baby ads are optional and cost $30.
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| Dowling Catholic Post
Did you know that DCHS has an amazing online student newspaper? Check it out at
dowlingcatholicpost.com.
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| The Maroon Fund
We invite all families to support the Maroon Fund, Dowling Catholic's Annual Appeal, to help us prepare Leaders for Life, Centered on Christ. Your gift strengthens every aspect of the student experience by supporting three essential pillars: Academic Excellence, Student & Faith Life, and School Services. To learn more or make a gift, please visit our website. Checks may be mailed to DCHS, 1400 Buffalo Road, West Des Moines, IA 50265. Thank you for your support!
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School Choice
Has your family been positively impacted by school choice (ESA, CTO)? We would love to hear your story. Please email DCHS Advancement to share your experience.
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| Dowling Club
Since 1941, Dowling Club has fueled the tradition of excellence in athletics by providing funding for equipment, facilities, and support for coaches and student-athletes.
Membership includes:
• Passes to all home events (excluding tournaments)
• A 15% one-time Campus Store discount
• A window cling to proudly display Maroon pride Purchase your membership online.
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| Athletic Sponsorships
Looking for a meaningful way to support DCHS AND spotlight your business or organization? We’re excited to offer exclusive athletic sponsorships, a perfect chance to support our student-athletes while gaining valuable exposure. Whether you’re interested in ads, field signage, or a custom package tailored to you, we’ve got options! Learn more here.
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