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Our newest Maroons recently had the opportunity to explore ways to get involved during the Freshman Activities Fair. Thank you to the sophomores, juniors and seniors who shared information and answered questions. With more than 90 extracurricular activities offered at DCHS, there’s something for everyone to be a part of
📸: Elyse Risovi '27, Student Philanthropy Council
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ANNOUNCEMENTS
No School Dates
There will be no classes on Sept. 28 (Teacher P.D.), Oct. 15, 16 & 19 (Conference Break/Teacher P.D.).
School Picture Retakes
Retakes will take place on Oct. 8 during PRIME Time (2:40 p.m.) or after school in the small gym.
Freshman PreACT9 Testing
Sept. 29 (last names A-L) | Sept. 30 (last names M-Z)
Freshman In-School Retreat
Sept. 29 (last names M-Z) | Sept. 30 (last names A-L)
Leadership Opportunity
Chick-Fil-A Leadership Academy registration is now open! Encourage your student to apply and join the mission of being a servant leader. All students have received an email about this opportunity.
International Travel in 2027
There are a few spots remaining for a student travel opportunity to Japan in summer 2027. Over 11 days, students will visit Tokyo, spend a night outside of Mount Fuji, visit reindeer in Nara, ride a bullet train to Osaka and more! An informational meeting will take place on Sept. 14 at 6:30 p.m. in the Media Center. RSVP or request more information here. Contact Sarah Selinger with questions. Note: This trip is approved but not school sponsored.
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| ON CAMPUS
Fall Play
The Performing Arts Department presents This Murder Was Staged on Oct. 29 & 30 at 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 31 at 2:00 p.m. Tickets can be purchased through the QR code linked here.
Visitor Check-In
All visitors must check in with a photo ID at the greeter’s desk. Our updated system requires this even if you have checked in previously.
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| EVENTS
SEPT 24: Grandparents Mass
Grandparents are invited for a special morning where they will have the opportunity to tour the school, hear from student and faculty speakers, and celebrate Mass with their grandchildren. Click here for more information and to RSVP.
OCT 25: 65th Annual Pancake Breakfast
Join us at the Iowa State Fairgrounds for this time-honored tradition benefiting the Student Activities Endowment! Enjoy breakfast, activities hosted by student clubs, a bake sale, games, and live entertainment from the band and choir. Purchase tickets, volunteer, and explore sponsorship opportunities
We're seeking Pancake Breakfast Co-Chairs (Dining Room Operations) No experience required - you'll be trained by our current event co-chairs and learn from the best! Learn more here.
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| CAMPAIGN CORNER
We’re excited to share a new milestone in the Honoring Our History, Faith in Our Future campaign: more than 1,000 donors have now made gifts and pledges to support the future of Dowling Catholic!
Together, our community has raised more than $56 million toward our $76 million goal, bringing us closer to making these important campus improvements a reality for current and future generations of students.
Thank you to the parents, alumni and friends who have helped us reach this milestone. To follow our progress and learn more about the campaign, please visit dowlingcatholic.org/campaign.
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| COLLEGE & CAREER PLANNING
ACT Prep
Is your student interested in tips and strategies to improve ACT scores? The ZAPS ACT Prep Class will be held at DCHS on Sept. 14 and 15 after school. Register here. Cost is $100.
PSAT
The PSAT will be held at DCHS for interested sophomores and juniors on Oct. 19, 9-11:30 a.m. (this is a no school day during conference break). The PSAT is optional/not required, but is the sole qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship competition. Only junior year scores are considered. This is a digital exam on student Chromebooks. Cost: $30. Register here by Sept. 30.
Golden Circle College Fair
The Golden Circle College Fair will take place Sept. 20, 1-3 p.m. This is a great way to connect with Midwest colleges/universities.
Christian College Fair
Explore a variety of Christian colleges and universities at Pella Christian High School on Sept. 21, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Learn more.
Harvard Med Pre-College Online Certificate Program
This program is designed for motivated students interested in exploring medicine, science, or healthcare as they prepare for college. Learn more and register here.
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| Follow Us on Social Media!
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Yearbook Information
2026-27 yearbooks are on sale now! To purchase, log in to OnCampus, select Resources, Blackbaud Tuition Management, and Purchase Optional Items. Select your child’s name and complete purchase.
Senior Photos
Submit senior photos to yearbook@dowlingcatholic.org by Dec. 1. Photos must be a vertical headshot (waist or neck up) with no props (hats, equipment, etc.). If a senior photo is not received by Dec. 1 a school photo will be used in the yearbook.
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Nonpublic Transportation Reimbursement
Families who live more than three miles one-way from DCHS may be eligible for a nonpublic transportation reimbursement. Forms must be submitted each semester (by Dec. 1 & May 1). Eligible families will receive one check following the end of the school year. Instructions are available here.
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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
Support the people, programs, and resources that make a Dowling Catholic education possible. From faith formation and dedicated teachers to technology, classroom resources, student support services, and activities, the Maroon Fund helps provide the exceptional educational experience our families value.
While ESAs have helped make a Catholic education more affordable and greatly reduced out-of-pocket tuition costs, they do not cover the full cost of educating a student. The Maroon Fund helps bridge the $3,316 gap per student.
To learn more or make a gift, please visit our
website. Checks may also be mailed to DCHS, 1400 Buffalo Road, West Des Moines, IA 50265.
Thank you for your support!
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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), one-time 15% Campus Store discount, and a Dowling Club window cling.
Go Maroons!
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