Education

  • The educational system in Mason City – public and private – is highly rated. The Mason City Community School District currently operates six elementary schools, two middle schools, a senior high school and an alternative high school (grades 9-12). Total enrollment for the district is approximately 4,700 with over 300 educators and support personnel. The parochial schools include Newman Catholic serving 700 students in K-12 with over 50 educators and support personnel and 7th Day Adventist Elementary and Secondary serving 8 students. Mason City students enjoy low student to faculty ratios. These low ratios coupled with dedicated staff, administration and school board help our students achieve an 85% graduation rate compared to the national average of just over 71%. The Mason City School District has developed a regional reputation for being a leader in the development of new education techniques at all levels.
  • Last year approximately 65% of Mason City School graduates began post secondary education, further demonstrating the major role our school system plays in economic prosperity and training.
  • Also located in Mason City is North Iowa Area Community College (NIACC). NIACC is recognized as a leader among Iowa’s community colleges in quality of educational opportunity, innovative responses to community needs and industrial training programs.
  • Additional higher education opportunities are provided by Buena Vista College and Drake University. Buena Vista College of Storm Lake offers a wide range of baccalaureate programs through their Mason City campus. Drake University also serves Mason City’s educational needs by offering several programs at the Masters level.
  • In Iowa, all teachers must be certified by the state of Iowa and have attained at least a bachelors degree prior to being allowed to teach in public schools.