ByDegreesDSM is a brand that partners with entire schools to improve high school graduation and postsecondary readiness rates in Des Moines' northside. Their comprehensive approach begins in kindergarten and follows students throughout their K-12 experience, immersing them in a future-focused culture of postsecondary education, career exploration, and planning. ByDegreesDSM actively builds partnerships with schools, community organizations, businesses, and postsecondary institutions to uplift students, families, and entire neighborhoods.

Founded in 1990 as the Des Moines I Have a Dream Foundation, ByDegreesDSM was initially affiliated with the National I Have a Dream Network. In 2018, they became an independent local nonprofit, committed to increasing graduation rates and postsecondary readiness in under-resourced communities. From 1990 to 2014, ByDegreesDSM supported three cohorts of 45 students each, providing guidance and support from elementary school to high school graduation.

In 2014, ByDegreesDSM introduced a whole-school program model, partnering with schools to address obstacles to student success and foster a culture of postsecondary education and careers. This program first launched at Findley Elementary, expanded to Harding Middle, and is now expanding into North High. Their vision is to create a K-12 pipeline of support and services that prepare students for the future and make education a transformative experience.

ByDegreesDSM's goal is to ensure more students graduate from high school well-prepared for their future