Top-Rated School Districts in DFW: A Comprehensive Guide for Families
When choosing a place to live in the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area, access to quality education is often a top priority for families. Fortunately, DFW is home to some of the most recognized public and private school districts in Texas. Below is a curated list of top-rated districts that stand out for academic excellence, extracurricular opportunities, and strong community engagement. Each listing includes direct links for families to explore and evaluate schools on their own terms.
1. Carroll Independent School District (Carroll ISD) – Southlake, TX
Carroll ISD serves the affluent community of Southlake and is often recognized as one of the premier public school districts in the state. With a graduation rate near 100% and standardized test scores consistently above state and national averages, Carroll ISD exemplifies academic excellence. The district includes 11 schools and offers a robust selection of AP courses, dual credit opportunities, and gifted/talented programs. The district is also home to the celebrated Southlake Carroll Dragons, known for their state-champion athletics programs in football, swimming, and baseball. Arts and music programs are equally strong, with consistent UIL recognition.
2. Dallas Independent School District (Dallas ISD) – Dallas, TX
Dallas ISD is the second-largest district in Texas, serving over 140,000 students across more than 230 schools. Known for its diverse student population and commitment to innovation, the district features some of the highest-rated magnet and transformation schools in the country, including the School for the Talented and Gifted (TAG) and the School of Science and Engineering (SEM). Dallas ISD offers early college high schools, two-way dual language academies, and career institutes that provide pathways in technology, health science, and business. The district is continually improving through initiatives such as the Accelerating Campus Excellence (ACE) program, which places high-performing teachers in high-need schools.
3. Coppell Independent School District (Coppell ISD) – Coppell, TX
Coppell ISD is a forward-thinking district known for innovation, technology integration, and academic rigor. The district serves more than 13,000 students across 17 campuses and regularly ranks among the top in state assessments. Coppell High School is recognized for its high college acceptance rates and award-winning fine arts and athletics programs. The district places an emphasis on personalized learning through its CHS9 and New Tech campuses, and students benefit from various leadership, STEM, robotics, and dual credit opportunities. The district also has a strong partnership with the local community and businesses, supporting career and technical education initiatives.
4. Frisco Independent School District (Frisco ISD) – Frisco, TX
Frisco ISD is one of the fastest-growing districts in the United States, now serving over 65,000 students across 77 campuses. Its "small school model" keeps campuses intimate, with high schools capped at 2,100 students to ensure individual attention and participation opportunities. The district is known for academic strength, with a wide selection of AP and dual credit courses, as well as extracurricular excellence in athletics, band, and fine arts. Frisco ISD is also a leader in special education and gifted programs, and has a strong commitment to mental wellness and whole-student development.
5. Highland Park Independent School District (Highland Park ISD) – Highland Park, TX
Located in a historic neighborhood north of downtown Dallas, Highland Park ISD is one of the most academically accomplished districts in the state. With seven campuses serving around 7,000 students, the district boasts a 99% graduation rate and SAT/ACT scores well above national averages. The district offers a broad curriculum including multiple AP courses, gifted education, and dual language instruction. Its strong athletics program has earned numerous state titles, and students also thrive in fine arts, with award-winning music, visual arts, and theater departments. Community involvement and private funding help maintain smaller class sizes and leading-edge facilities.
6. Plano Independent School District (Plano ISD) – Plano, TX
Plano ISD serves over 50,000 students and spans multiple communities including Plano, Richardson, and North Dallas. Known for academic excellence, the district offers an extensive menu of options including International Baccalaureate (IB), Advanced Placement, career academies, dual credit, and gifted programs. Plano ISD has more than 70 campuses and several Blue Ribbon award-winning schools. The district supports students with robust college and career readiness resources, strong extracurriculars, and competitive athletics. A focus on leadership and civic engagement further distinguishes Plano ISD as a top-tier choice for families.
7. Lewisville Independent School District (Lewisville ISD) – Lewisville, TX
Lewisville ISD serves more than 50,000 students in communities including Lewisville, Flower Mound, Highland Village, and parts of The Colony. The district emphasizes 21st-century learning with its "One Vision, One Voice" strategic plan, focusing on real-world readiness and digital integration. LISD features two collegiate academies that allow students to graduate with both a high school diploma and an associate degree. The district is also known for its competitive fine arts, leadership, and athletics programs. Innovation spaces, project-based learning, and robust mental health support ensure holistic student development.
Additional Resources for School Research:
Disclaimer: This post is intended for informational purposes only. Real estate professionals are encouraged to provide links and resources without guiding clients toward or away from specific schools to remain in compliance with Fair Housing guidelines.
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Gustavo Ramos
Realtor – Keller Williams Dallas Metro North
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