Welcome to Dallas, Texas – a city renowned for its culture, delicious cuisine, and sports. However, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. Unfortunately, some schools in the city have developed a reputation for their underperformance. In this post, we will be discussing the 10 worst schools in Dallas today and how we determined this ranking. We used a few resources to identify the poor performing elementary, middle, high school, and college institutions in Dallas. Now let's examine the methodology used to identify these schools.
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Elementary Schools
To determine the worst elementary, middle, and high schools, we examined the test scores provided by greatschools.org. This served as an indicator for identifying schools that may require additional supports. The State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) evaluates students' proficiency levels in reading and math from grades 3 to 8. Additionally, it assesses writing skills in grades 4 and 7, science knowledge in grades 5 and 8, social studies understanding in grade 8, as well as end of course tests for English I and II courses, Algebra I, Biology, and US History.
STAAR is an exam based on state-defined standards that measure students' mastery of skills expected at each grade level according to Texas guidelines. The main goal is to ensure that all students reach or surpass the state scores. In the case of high schools, we also took into account graduation rates since we believe it reflects a school's success significantly. Now that you understand how we approached this analysis, let's explore the outcomes!
According to greatschools.org, the test score ratings at all of these schools are below 3 out of 10. This suggests that the students attending these schools might not be on the best academic path for success.
Cedar Crest Elementary
2020 Mouser Lane, Dallas, TX, 75203
Grades: PK-6th
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Test Score: 1/10
This school's performance compared to the state average suggests that students are not meeting the expected standards for their grade level. This difference in achievement could be attributed to the challenges faced by underserved students at this institution, which leads to disparities when comparing their progress with that of their peers statewide.
These statistics reflect the outcomes of the reading test administered annually to students and demonstrate variations in performance based on race and ethnicity. Significant score differences may indicate that certain student groups are not receiving the support needed for academic success.
The test scores of students at Cedar Crest are quite concerning as they show a level of proficiency in reading, with 11% achieving the desired outcome. In comparison, the state average stands at 46%. If we take a look, we find that among the Black student population, which makes up the majority at 60%, Cedar Crest's scores drop further to just 10%, while the state average for this group is 32%. Similarly, Hispanic students, who make up around 37% of the student body, achieved scores of 30% at Cedar Crest compared to 44% statewide.
It's worth mentioning that there are two reviews on the greatschools.org for this particular school. The most recent review was posted on August 08, 2013, for five stars. The reviewer expressed admiration and support for the school, particularly praising the principal's commitment.
KIPP Truth Elementary School
1545 South Ewing Avenue, Dallas, TX, 75216
Grades: PK-4
Test Score: 1/10
KIPP Truth Elementary is one of three elementary schools operated by Kipp in Dallas. As stated on their website, their primary goal is to cater to the needs of every child every day. Being a college preparatory institution, they extend the school day and year to offer instruction tailored to each student's requirements. However, despite these efforts, the school's performance on greatschools.org falls below average when it comes to test scores, student progress, and equity.
The students at this school achieve significantly lower test scores compared to the state average, which implies that they might not be meeting the expected proficiency level for their grade. Specifically, Kipp's math scores are at 24%, while the state's score stands at 46%. In reading, Kipp achieved 18%, whereas the state scored 43%. Lastly, for writing, Kipp obtained a score of 10% compared to the state's score of 33%.
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Middle Schools
Billy Earl Dade Middle School
2801 Park Row Avenue, Dallas, TX, 75215
Test Score: 1/10
This school's test scores are noticeably lower than the state average, indicating that students are not meeting the expected academic standards. Let's take a closer look at these scores. In terms of reading, Billy Earl Dade achieved only 16%, while the state average was 44%. In math, Billy Earl Dade scored 22%, compared to the state average of 46%. For writing, Billy Earl Dade's score was 16%, whereas the state average stood at 40%. In social studies, the score was 11% for Billy Earl Dade, while the state average was 35%. In science, Billy Earl Dade scored 21%, while the state average stood at a higher level of 49%. Lastly, in Algebra I, Billy Earl Dade scored slightly above the state average with a score of 65% compared to an overall statewide score of 62%.
This particular school has received a total of five reviews resulting in an average rating of 2.4 stars. The reviews consist of one five-star review, two four-star reviews, and three one-star reviews. Among these reviews, one four-star review highly praises a specific teacher for their hard work and dedication. On the other hand, both the five-star and one-star reviews focus primarily on student behavior concerns.
Oliver Wendell Holmes Humanities/C
2001 East Kiest Boulevard, Dallas, TX, 75216
Test Score: 2/10
- 4-serving meals starting at $3.77 per serving (up to 25% cheaper than HelloFresh).
- Incredible variety with 10+ weekly meal options, delivered directly to you.
- Easy to prepare meals ready in 30-minutes or less.
The school's website highlights its commitment to providing a curriculum fostering a collaborative environment, and having dedicated teachers who aim to develop responsible individuals. However, despite these efforts, the school's test scores fall below the state average, indicating that students may not be performing at their expected grade level.
At Oliver Wendell School, there are areas where improvement is needed, as indicated by proficiency scores. In math, the reading proficiency score is 31%, while the state average stands at 46%. For writing, the proficiency score is 15%, whereas the state average is 40%. Additionally, in science, the proficiency score is 27% compared to the state's 49%. In social studies, 9% of students demonstrate proficiency compared to the state average of 35%. On the other hand, Oliver Wendell School excels in Algebra I with an impressive proficiency score of 94%, surpassing the state average of 62%.
Regrettably, safety concerns have been raised by two out of three reviewers who gave the school a one-star rating. One parent even shared their child's experience of harassment and bullying.
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High Schools
Dallas Can Academy Charter-Oak Cli
325 West 12th Street, Dallas, TX, 75208
Test Score: 1/10
Based on the information provided by greatschools.org, this particular school seems to have low performance in terms of both test scores and student progress. These test scores are significantly lower than the state average, which suggests that students may not be meeting the expected standards.
To provide some context on the test scores, let's look at some examples. In English, Dallas Can Academy achieved a score of 14%, while the state average was 51%. Similarly, in US History, Dallas Can Academy scored 22% compared to the state's score of 75%. For Biology, their score was 8% compared to the state's score of 63%. In Algebra I, Dallas Can Academy obtained a score of 42% lower than the state's score of 62%.
When it comes to graduation rates, this school has a four-year high school graduation rate of 29%, whereas the state average is much higher, at 90%.
In general, Dallas Can Academy falls short of meeting the anticipated benchmarks in terms of test scores and graduation rates. While there is a five-star review from August 24th, 2008, it appears that the school's performance is not on par with schools in the state.
Franklin D Roosevelt High School
525 Bonnie View Road, Dallas, TX, 75203
Test Score: 2/10
According to the school's website, they have been a part of the Oak Cliff community since 1963, aiming to equip students for life after graduation. However, it seems contradictory when considering data from greatschools.org, which indicates that the school performs below average in terms of test scores, student progress, college readiness, and equity.
It appears that this school's test scores are significantly lower than the state average. This suggests that students at this school may not be meeting the expected standards for their grade level.
In terms of subjects, Franklin D. Roosevelt School scored 24% in English I, 28% in English II, 37% in Biology I and 38 % in Algebra I, and 43% in US History. In comparison, the state averages for these subjects were 49%, 51%, 63%, 62%, and 75%.
These statistics indicate that students at this school may not be making the desired academic progress when compared to their peers across the state. The combination of test scores and slow progress suggests that these students may face challenges in keeping up with their grade-level courses.
Furthermore, this school falls below the state average when it comes to indicators of college and career preparedness. For example, its four-year high school graduation rate is at 68%, whereas the state's rate stands at a higher level of 90%. The school has received a total of four reviews with ratings including a one-star, three-star, four-star, and five-star. Taking all these reviews into account, the school's overall rating is calculated as 3.3 out of 5 stars.
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Colleges
For colleges and universities, we examined graduation rates and the average salaries earned by their graduates. Based on data from www.collegesimply.com, these four schools in Dallas, Texas, have the lowest graduation rates, which positions them among the 10 worst schools. Additionally, graduates from these institutions tend to have significantly lower average starting salaries.
Two-year colleges
Dallas College
801 Main Street Dallas, Texas 75202
The website claims that their education is an investment in students' future. However, it's hard to see this institution as an investment when both the graduation rate and postgraduate salary are notably low.
The graduation rate is 5%, which is significantly lower than the national average of 41.9%. After six years of enrollment alumni earn an annual income of $27,900, which is quite low. Even after ten years, graduates still earn an average of $32,800, falling below the national salary average.
Considering these factors, it would be wise to explore other options before committing to Dallas College.
- 4-serving meals starting at $3.77 per serving (up to 25% cheaper than HelloFresh).
- Incredible variety with 10+ weekly meal options, delivered directly to you.
- Easy to prepare meals ready in 30-minutes or less.
Mountain View College
4849 West Illinois Ave. Dallas, Texas 75211
The graduation rate at Mountain View College is 6.3%, which's much lower than the national average of 41.9%. According to data from collegesimply.com, tuition is approximately $17,594. After six years, alumni earn a salary of $29,300, which is significantly lower than the national median.
Interestingly ten years after enrolling, former students who are employed and no longer attending Mountain View College have an income of $33,000. This is 4% lower than the average. It's evident that there is room for improvement in terms of both graduation rates and financial outcomes for graduates.
4-year colleges
Paul Quinn College
3837 Simpson Stuart Rd Dallas, Texas 75241
The graduation rate at Paul Quinn College is 6.4%, which is much lower than the average of 41.9%. This statistic is important because it shows how effective the college is and what your chances of success might be. These numbers represent the percentage of students who manage to earn a bachelor's degree within four, five, or six years at Paul Quinn College. Unfortunately, Paul Quinn College falls below this average when it comes to student graduation rates.
In addition, graduates from Paul Quinn College may face difficulties in finding jobs with salaries in their fields. This is evident from the salary of $26,500 that graduates earn over a period of six years after graduation. However, this figure increases to $29,300 when considering the earnings of graduates ten years later. It's imperative for students to carefully think about this information before deciding to attend this college.
Dallas Christian College
2700 Christian Pkwy Dallas, Texas 75234
Dallas Christian College has a graduation rate of 32.4%, which is lower than the national rate of 41.9%. When it comes to graduating students, Dallas Christian College falls below the mark. According to data from collegesimply.com, the tuition costs at Dallas Christian College are $34,356.
However, what makes graduates of Dallas Christian College stand out is their postgraduate salary of $34,600 compared to the national average of $34,300. Additionally, their postgraduate salary after ten years is $41,200, which is 15% higher than the average. These numbers suggest that attending Dallas Christian College could potentially lead to job opportunities and higher salaries compared to previously mentioned institutions.
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In summary, this list of the 10 worst schools in Dallas reminds us of the hurdles the Texas education system faces. Although we should acknowledge that not all students or educators within these schools fit these criteria, we cannot disregard the need to improve academic success for students that are struggling. It is vital for both the state of Texas and school districts to come together to tackle these deficiencies and find solutions that will elevate the future of children residing in this area.
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