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South Texas Independent School District – Texas

COVID-19 Update for Prospective Students and Families:

All South Texas ISD campuses with the exception of the STISD Virtual Academy returned to 100 percent in-person instruction for the current school year. STISD has safety protocols in place to help ensure the safest environment for our district community. Learn More

Report Card

1. Academics

   grade A+

2. Diversity

   grade B+

3. Teachers

   grade A+

4. College Prep

   grade A+

5. Clubs & Activities

   grade A minus

6. Administration

   grade A+

7. Sports

   grade C minus

8. Food

   grade A+

9. Resources & Facilities

   grade A+

editorial

South Texas Independent School District is a top rated, public school district located in MERCEDES, TX. It has 4,194 students in grades 6-12 with a student-teacher ratio of 16 to 1. According to state test scores, 84% of students are at least proficient in math and 80% in reading.

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South Texas Independent School District Rankings

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Academics

Percent Proficient – Reading

This is the percentage of students that scored at or above proficiency levels on their state reading/language arts assessment test. Because states implement these tests differently, use caution when comparing this data to data from another state.

80%

Percent Proficient – Math

This is the percentage of students that scored at or above proficiency levels on their state math assessment test. Because states implement these tests differently, use caution when comparing this data to data from another state.

84%

Average Graduation Rate

This is the percentage of 12th graders who graduated. Because states calculate graduation rates differently, use caution when comparing this data to data from another state.

99%

Average SAT

Average SAT composite score out of 1600, as reported by Niche users from this school.

1200

1,025 responses

Average ACT

Average ACT composite score out of 36, as reported by Niche users from this school.

26

559 responses

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Students

Diversity

grade B+

Based on racial and economic diversity and survey responses on school culture and diversity from students and parents.

Students

4,194

Free or Reduced Lunch

This is the percentage of students who are eligible to receive free or reduced price lunch. Not all eligible students exercise this option, especially at non-traditional schools like online schools.

53.1%

Teachers

Student-Teacher Ratio

Student-Teacher Ratio may not be indicative of class size. It is calculated using the reported number of students and full-time equivalent teachers.

16:1

National

17:1

Average Teacher Salary

$57,933

Teachers in First/Second Year

5.1%

Finances

Expenses Per Student

$0 

/ student

National

$12,239

• Instruction

  53%

• Support Services

  44%

• Other

  3%

1. Cost of Living

   grade A

2. Good for Families

   grade C+

3. Housing

   grade B minus

Median Household Income

$39,734

National

$64,994

Median Rent

$566

National

$1,096

Median Home Value

$74,400

National

$229,800

South Texas Independent School District Reviews

Rating 4. 66 out of 5  120 reviews

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My experience in STISD was great because STISD has a lot of great things to offer. STISD has a lot of great clubs and activities. One club that the students get most excited about is HOSA since STISD almost always places on top since STISD already focuses on the medical field. STISD gives you the opportunity to graduate high school with a certification! On your senior year, you get to choose a program that you want to get into. I choose dental and I am a registered dental assistant and I also have my Nitrous Oxide Sedation Monitoring certification. STISD also offers a lot of AP classes to gain college credit. STISD is barely starting to add more sports because when I entered, there was only volleyball and basketball but they are adding golf, soccer, and softball! What I really enjoyed in my school was when we had enrichment day. Enrichment day was a fun day since each teacher had a different activity in their classroom and the students got to choose the class they wanted.

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My experience with STISD is that I am a Science Academy alumni. In fact, I go back to Preparatory Academy in 2017 when I had started my middle school education. Overall, this district does not front when it says they push their students to excellence. The coursework is not only rigorous, but rewarding as well. The teachers, staff, and administration effectively prepare their students for their futures in college and the work force. There aren’t any emphasis on sports and fine arts (though, I’ve heard that they will be implementing such soon) however, I think that this may be a good thing– less emphasis on sports and fine arts created a more competitive, academics-based environment that pushed excellence in scholarship.

I loved the academic rigor that came with taking on the IB Diploma Programme. The teachers and staff genuinely helped me to succeed as a student and as a future leader. However, for World Scholars in particular, resources were lacking. The fine arts division is small and underfunded, and little resources are given for students to plan activities and fundraisers. Overall, I enjoyed my experience, but I believe that the district can improve its resource allocation — giving World Scholars the same funding as the schools in Mercedes.

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2023 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas

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1-25 of 4,995 results

1. #1 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas

   Junior: I have been to my school for 11 years now, and planning on spending my senior year staying at this school too. Overtime, I have watched as the school has changed and improved for the better. My teachers truly care about my education, and are passionate about what they teach, which makes for an overall engaging and educational class. The skills I learn at this school, such as time management and critical thinking, are not only applicable for the school itself, but for my outside life involving extracurriculars and for my future in college and in careers. Sometimes the school can push too hard, which is why there are so few students in my grade and in the higher grades as a whole, but overall I think its for the better. It forces us to adapt and conquer the challenges thrown at us, and be properly prepared for our future…. Read 52 reviews

   #1 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas.

   Imagine International Academy of North Texas

   Blue checkmark.

   Public School,

   MCKINNEY, TX,

   K-12,

   52 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.

   Featured Review: Junior says I have been to my school for 11 years now, and planning on spending my senior year staying at this school too. Overtime, I have watched as the school has changed and improved for the better. My….

   Read 52 reviews.

   Overall Niche Grade: A+,

   Students: 1,435,

   Student-Teacher Ratio: 19 to 1,

2. #2 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas

   Senior: The learning environment was very rigorous but it helped prepare me for college. They teach you advanced learning techniques and have an open and welcoming environment with equality for everyone through the use of school uniforms. It is a safer environment than any of the public schools I went to before going here. I’ve been going here for 10 years and have made a lot of friends. They are also very good and supportive of students with learning disabilities like ADHD and Dyslexia and Disgraphia, as well as students with depression and anxiety. They also provide more IB classes to help get the IB diploma to get college credits! Thanks to them, I got into my dream school!… Read 60 reviews

   #2 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas.

   Meridian World School

   Blue checkmark.

   Public School,

   ROUND ROCK, TX,

   K-12,

   60 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars.

   Featured Review: Senior says The learning environment was very rigorous but it helped prepare me for college. They teach you advanced learning techniques and have an open and welcoming environment with equality for everyone….

   Read 60 reviews.

   Overall Niche Grade: A+,

   Students: 1,679,

   Student-Teacher Ratio: 15 to 1,

3. #3 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas

   Parent: This school is a great fit for my kids but it’s not for everyone. In our experience the academic aspect is very strong. I like that the teachers don’t just teach to the staar like surrounding districts. However, it appears most teachers are still covering the staar material as 2 of my kids received perfect scores on the math and reading staar several times. The sports and extracurricular activities are limited compared to surrounding districts but most people who choose this school are aware of this and don’t expect the same. We actually prefer the low-key aspect of the sports since it allows kids the opportunity to be on their school team in sports they might not have a lot of prior experience in.
   Most the teachers and administrators have been very responsive when I have a concern.
   It seems some people who have issues don’t really research what the IB curriculum is actually like or what sports and extracurricular programs are offered before choosing to send kids here. Surprising…. Read 124 reviews

   #3 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas.

   Westlake Academy

   Blue checkmark.

   Public School,

   WESTLAKE, TX,

   K-12,

   124 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.

   Featured Review: Parent says This school is a great fit for my kids but it’s not for everyone. In our experience the academic aspect is very strong. I like that the teachers don’t just teach to the staar like surrounding…Most the teachers and administrators have been very responsive when I have a concern. It seems some people who have issues don’t really research what the IB curriculum is actually like or what sports and extracurricular programs are offered before choosing to send kids here…..

   Read 124 reviews.

   Overall Niche Grade: A+,

   Students: 865,

   Student-Teacher Ratio: 14 to 1,

5. #4 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas

   Senior: I absolutly love being apart of Stephen F. Austin State University. This is my senior year as a student, and it has been the best experience. There have been so many amazing opportunities for me educationally, and socially. SFASU has helped me strive for my dream job, as well as find forever friends. Thankful for these last couple of years! Axe ‘Em Jacks #SFASU2021… Read 20 reviews

   #4 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas.

   Stephen F. Austin State University Charter School

   Blue checkmark.

   Public School,

   NACOGDOCHES, TX,

   K-5,

   20 Niche users give it an average review of 4. 3 stars.

   Featured Review: Senior says I absolutly love being apart of Stephen F. Austin State University. This is my senior year as a student, and it has been the best experience. There have been so many amazing opportunities for me….

   Read 20 reviews.

   Overall Niche Grade: A+,

   Students: 255,

   Student-Teacher Ratio: 14 to 1,

6. #5 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas

   • Eanes Independent School District, TX•

   • K-5

   • •

     Rating 5 out of 5  2 reviews

   Middle School Student: This school is amazing! It literally changed my life! Before I came here in 3rd grade I had absolutely no interest in reading or math. However, after experiencing classes with their kind teachers and engaging classes I was reading in my down time and actually enjoying math (that’s very uncommon for a 9 year old!)! The classes and resources provided are perfect for all students! While the living costs are quite high in this area, it’s completely worth it if your kids go to this school!. .. Read 2 reviews

   #5 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas.

   Forest Trail Elementary School

   Blue checkmark.

   Eanes Independent School District, TX,

   K-5,

   2 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

   Featured Review: Middle School Student says This school is amazing! It literally changed my life! Before I came here in 3rd grade I had absolutely no interest in reading or math. However, after experiencing classes with their kind teachers and….

   Read 2 reviews.

   Overall Niche Grade: A+,

   Students: 550,

   Student-Teacher Ratio: 13 to 1,

7. #6 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas

   #6 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas.

   Jim Spradley El

   Blue checkmark.

   Prosper Independent School District, TX,

   PK, K-5,

   Overall Niche Grade: A+,

   Students: 811,

   Student-Teacher Ratio: 16 to 1,

8. #7 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas

   #7 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas.

   Jenny Preston Elementary School

   Allen Independent School District, TX,

   PK, K-6,

   Overall Niche Grade: A+,

   Students: 550,

   Student-Teacher Ratio: 14 to 1,

9. #8 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas

   #8 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas.

   Liscano El

   Blue checkmark.

   Frisco Independent School District, TX,

   PK, K-5,

   Overall Niche Grade: A+,

   Students: 713,

   Student-Teacher Ratio: 16 to 1,

10. #9 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas

    #9 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas.

    Barton Creek Elementary School

    Blue checkmark.

    Eanes Independent School District, TX,

    K-5,

    Overall Niche Grade: A+,

    Students: 518,

    Student-Teacher Ratio: 12 to 1,

12. #10 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas

    Alum: I transferred to Chaparral my sophomore year of high school after having trouble fitting in at my public high school. I enjoyed my time at Chaparral, benefitting from the drama-free environment, small class sizes, and the teachers’ ability to bring their dogs to school. In addition, teachers truly care for and get to know their students. The school day only lasts 4 hours, with the curriculum more rigorous and more homework assigned. However, it would have been nice if more clubs were offered…. Read 26 reviews

    #10 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas.

    Chaparral Star Academy

    Blue checkmark.

    Public School,

    AUSTIN, TX,

    K-12,

    26 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.

    Featured Review: Alum says I transferred to Chaparral my sophomore year of high school after having trouble fitting in at my public high school. I enjoyed my time at Chaparral, benefitting from the drama-free environment,….

    Read 26 reviews.

    Overall Niche Grade: A+,

    Students: 370,

    Student-Teacher Ratio: 14 to 1,

13. #11 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas

    • Texas College Preparatory Academies, TX•

    • K-10

    • •

      Rating 5 out of 5  5 reviews

    Sophomore: Founders Frisco prides itself on instilling its students with a lifelong zeal for learning and a dedication to the pursuit of the good, true, and beautiful. While it doesn’t have the traditional high school experience with the Friday night football games or riveting theatre productions, there are more opportunities each year. It most definitely gets better!… Read 5 reviews

    #11 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas.

    Founders Classical Academy – Frisco

    Texas College Preparatory Academies, TX,

    K-10,

    5 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

    Featured Review: Sophomore says Founders Frisco prides itself on instilling its students with a lifelong zeal for learning and a dedication to the pursuit of the good, true, and beautiful. While it doesn’t have the traditional high….

    Read 5 reviews.

    Overall Niche Grade: A+,

    Students: 850,

    Student-Teacher Ratio: 16 to 1,

14. #12 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas

    #12 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas.

    Cedar Creek Elementary School

    Blue checkmark.

    Eanes Independent School District, TX,

    K-5,

    Overall Niche Grade: A+,

    Students: 539,

    Student-Teacher Ratio: 13 to 1,

15. #13 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas

    #13 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas.

    Bridge Point Elementary School

    Blue checkmark.

    Eanes Independent School District, TX,

    K-5,

    Overall Niche Grade: A+,

    Students: 605,

    Student-Teacher Ratio: 13 to 1,

16. #14 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas

    #14 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas.

    Curtsinger Elementary School

    Blue checkmark.

    Frisco Independent School District, TX,

    K-5,

    Overall Niche Grade: A+,

    Students: 563,

    Student-Teacher Ratio: 14 to 1,

17. #15 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas

    • Carroll Independent School District, TX•

    • PK, K-4

    • •

      Rating 5 out of 5  1 review

    #15 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas.

    Old Union Elementary School

    Carroll Independent School District, TX,

    PK, K-4,

    1 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

    Read 1 reviews.

    Overall Niche Grade: A+,

    Students: 466,

    Student-Teacher Ratio: 12 to 1,

18. #16 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas

    #16 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas.

    Carroll Elementary School

    Carroll Independent School District, TX,

    PK, K-4,

    Overall Niche Grade: A+,

    Students: 600,

    Student-Teacher Ratio: 13 to 1,

19. #17 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas

    #17 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas.

    Ralph And Mary Lynn Boyer El

    Blue checkmark.

    Prosper Independent School District, TX,

    PK, K-5,

    Overall Niche Grade: A+,

    Students: 785,

    Student-Teacher Ratio: 15 to 1,

20. #18 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas

    #18 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas.

    Eanes Elementary School

    Blue checkmark.

    Eanes Independent School District, TX,

    PK, K-5,

    Overall Niche Grade: A+,

    Students: 577,

    Student-Teacher Ratio: 11 to 1,

21. #19 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas

    #19 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas.

    Talley El

    Blue checkmark.

    Frisco Independent School District, TX,

    K-5,

    Overall Niche Grade: A+,

    Students: 586,

    Student-Teacher Ratio: 17 to 1,

22. #20 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas

    • Coppell Independent School District, TX•

    • PK, K-5

    • •

      Rating 5 out of 5  1 review

    #20 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas.

    Town Center Elementary School

    Coppell Independent School District, TX,

    PK, K-5,

    1 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

    Read 1 reviews.

    Overall Niche Grade: A+,

    Students: 480,

    Student-Teacher Ratio: 14 to 1,

23. #21 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas

    #21 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas.

    Robert H. Rockenbaugh Elementary School

    Carroll Independent School District, TX,

    PK, K-4,

    Overall Niche Grade: A+,

    Students: 506,

    Student-Teacher Ratio: 12 to 1,

24. #22 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas

    • Allen Independent School District, TX•

    • PK, K-6

    • •

      Rating 5 out of 5  1 review

    Senior: I went to Norton Elementary from kindergarten through second grade and from what I can remember, it was a great school in the neighborhood. Even though I attended almost ten years ago now, and much has probably changed, would rate my experience as excellent from my student perspective. The parent involvement was always spectacular, and the teachers cared for the students…. Read 1 review

    #22 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas.

    Frances E. Norton Elementary School

    Allen Independent School District, TX,

    PK, K-6,

    1 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

    Featured Review: Senior says I went to Norton Elementary from kindergarten through second grade and from what I can remember, it was a great school in the neighborhood. Even though I attended almost ten years ago now, and much….

    Read 1 reviews.

    Overall Niche Grade: A+,

    Students: 634,

    Student-Teacher Ratio: 15 to 1,

25. Review your school

26. #23 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas

    #23 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas.

    Walnut Grove Elementary School

    Carroll Independent School District, TX,

    K-4,

    Overall Niche Grade: A+,

    Students: 636,

    Student-Teacher Ratio: 14 to 1,

27. #24 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas

    #24 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas.

    Campbell Elementary School

    Blue checkmark.

    Katy Independent School District, TX,

    PK, K-5,

    Overall Niche Grade: A+,

    Students: 1,356,

    Student-Teacher Ratio: 15 to 1,

28. #25 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas

    #25 Best Public Elementary Schools in Texas.

    University Park Elementary School

    Blue checkmark.

    Highland Park Independent School District, TX,

    PK, K-4,

    Overall Niche Grade: A+,

    Students: 446,

    Student-Teacher Ratio: 13 to 1,

30. Junior: I was a sophomore during the 2020-2021 school year, when everything was via technology and part of the school year was exclusively remote. It was difficult, yes, but Georgetown Independent School District and specifically Georgetown High School did an exceptional job at making the year feel as normal as possible. They kept grading systems the same, gave us somewhat normal athletic and fine art seasons, and kept standard procedures for the most part. Although it was not the sophomore year I thought I would have, I still had a great time and formed bonds with fellow students despite all the differences. I was very impressed with the effort of GISD and GHS during my sophomore year!… Read 68 reviews

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Best Girls’ Boarding Schools in Texas

If you’re looking for a type of education where your girl learns outside of the classroom, consider a girls’ boarding school.

Students in a comprehensive school for girls with teachers study together in a safe and secure environment.

This helps raise their moral standards and set them on the path to professional, social and cultural prosperity.

In addition, there are several types of boarding schools for girls in Texas, including alternative schools and therapy schools. nine0003

These schools serve specific needs such as emotional and disciplinary issues. They provide qualified, experienced staff to ensure the best possible outcome for your child.

Before you read the list of schools, you should know important facts about boarding schools for girls. The table below will help you review the content.

Why attend a boarding school?

A recent study by TABS (Association of Boarding Schools) shows that 91% of boarding students said their school was academically challenging, compared to 70% of private day students and 50% of public school students.

However, what gives boarding school students an edge over their classmates is the sheer number of classes, programs and challenges they face on a daily basis.

Anyone who can afford a boarding school will want to take advantage of this huge opportunity where learning and personal growth are top priorities. nine0003

In addition, a boarding school has a great positive impact on students, and until you go to school yourself, you may not understand the depth of these impacts.

Still wondering if a boarding school is worth the struggle? then take a quick look at some of the benefits listed below just to clear your doubts.

Self-confidence

Boarding school students learn to manage their time and become independent very quickly. nine0003

They strictly follow the time allotted to them, perform household chores and complete school assignments on their own.

This helps them to mature quickly and learn to cope with any task even without supervision.

Fewer distractions

The boarding school curriculum is designed in such a way that students can better focus on their studies.

They are not distracted by TVs, video games and other distractions, unlike day students. nine0003

This has a positive effect on their studies, as they tend to do better in their studies.

Character development

Boarding students have a great moral advantage. They live in an environment that emphasizes core values ​​such as honesty, hard work and respect.

Global Atmosphere

Boarding schools provide the university with a diverse environment. Students in this system are fluent in other languages ​​by interacting with others.

They also learn how to communicate better with people from different cultures. In fact, students who stay at a boarding school for at least three years usually become bilingual and this gives them a significant advantage in the international workforce.

Alternative activities

Boarding school students enjoy a wide range of extracurricular activities ranging from sports, games and music. This will help expand their learning. Sports activities help keep them in shape. nine0003

Why Girls’ Boarding Schools in Texas

In an educational or learning environment that is free of gender discrimination, girls are more academically successful and more self-confident.

A recent study from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) clearly shows this;

Nearly 6,000 university-entrant female students found that graduates of girls’ schools were more likely to demonstrate higher levels of scientific self-confidence, consider themselves critical thinkers, score higher in academic thinking skills, and demonstrate stronger learning skills nine0003

Thus, attending a boarding school can bring many benefits, regardless of whether it is general education, general education or general education.

How much does it cost to enroll in a good girls boarding school in Texas?

Typically, the cost of attending a boarding school in Texas depends on a number of factors.

The first type of school. Private schools usually charge higher fees than public schools and this may be due to some of the benefits they offer. nine0003

However, teaching at a medical boarding school may be different because different curricula are run.

So the cost of boarding schools for girls in Texas is typically between $20,000 and $50,661 per year.

If you live in Texas, you can choose one of the top 10 boarding schools in Texas USA

What are the best boarding schools for girls in Texas?

A list of boarding schools for girls in Texas is shown below. These schools are divided into public and private schools. nine0003

Our selection criteria for these schools include, but are not limited to, academic reputation, accreditation, tuition, student-teacher ratio, enrollment and graduation.

We obtained our data from reliable sources, reviews, interviews, and contact with individual schools. Before making your choice of school, read carefully to find out all the details about each school. The rating factors above will help you.

• Hockaday School
• Thrive Girls Ranch and House

1. Hockey school

Southwest (ISAS)

Hockaday is a girls’ comprehensive school in Texas. This school is accredited and delivers a challenging college prep program in an environment that promotes integrity, tolerance, respect, and responsibility.

As a standard boarding school, there is a wide range of curriculum and extracurricular activities such as sports, music and other related programs. nine0003

Hockaday trains girls with great potential to take on positions of responsibility and leadership in a rapidly changing world.

They instill in every girl a love of learning and an understanding of herself and the ethical principles that guide her life, and develop an understanding of excellence in all its forms with a commitment to what is right and good.

School Attendance

2. Thrive Girls Ranch & Home

School Type : Private
Tuition: No
Accreditation: National Council for Private School Accreditation (NCPSA)

Thrive Girls Ranch & Home is a therapeutic boarding school. This is for girls who exhibit inappropriate behavior, lose grades, or display traits that could threaten their future.

The teachers at this school are dedicated to helping students develop strong academic and interpersonal skills.

If your ward has a history of abuse, major life loss, or any attachment disorder, Thrive Girls Ranch & Home has what it takes to minimize these traits. nine0003

School attendance

Is there an alternative to boarding schools for girls in Texas?

When you think of an alternative to a comprehensive girls’ school, a co-educational school should come first.

A co-educational school is a place where male and female students study together in the same school or college, rather than separately.

Sending your parish to a boys’ or girls’ boarding school is not a bad idea, but on the other hand, a boarding school has its advantages. nine0003

According to a study by the American Council for Collaborative Education (ACCES), co-education improves communication and collaboration between young men and women in building relationships.

Learning how to communicate and work effectively with members of the opposite sex is a fundamental skill necessary for success outside of education.

The list below is the best boarding school in Texas. nine0003

• TMI – Episcopal School
• Brook Hill School
• St. Stefan
• San Marcos Baptist Academy

You can check other top boarding schools in Texas

What are the disadvantages of a boarding school?

Among the many benefits and unique educational opportunities that a boarding school offers, this is why parents need to be very selective about the type of school they send their children to. nine0003

While the shortcomings of boarding schools are based on opinion, there are some potential shortcomings or problems to be aware of.

• Bullying and related problems.
• Boarding school is more expensive than other options.
• Lack of personal space and privacy
• Moving awareness from home at a young age can lead to boarding school syndrome

Conclusion

The boarding school offers some significant benefits. In addition to quality education and extracurricular activities. Boarding schools serve as a preparatory platform for high school students. However, when choosing a school, make sure you focus on your child. Think about their most important traits and how they affect their ability to function in a variety of school settings.

Frequently Asked Questions for Girls Boarding Schools in Texas

The average cost to attend a boarding school in Texas ranges from $20,000 to $50,661 per year.

Hockaday School
Thrive Girls Ranch and Home

Below are the reasons why you should attend boarding school;
Self-confidence
Character development
Personal growth
Less distractions

A psychologist recommends that 12 years is the best age to attend a boarding school.

Reference

• Best Boarding Schools in Texas: boardingschoolreview.com
• Boarding Schools in Texas: usboardingschools.com
• 10 Reasons You Should Go to Boarding School: brookhill.org
• Drawbacks of Boarding Schools: gettherightschool. co.uk
• Boarding School Pros and Cons: ourkids.net
• Boarding School Benefits: ourkids.net
• Top 10 Boarding Schools in Texas USA | Ranking 2022
• Top 10 Boarding Schools in New England | 2022
• Boarding Schools 17 in Ohio
• Top 10 Boarding Schools for Students with Disabilities | 2022
• Top 10 Boarding Schools in North Carolina, NC | Ranking 2022
• Best Boarding Schools in Colorado | Ranked 2022
• Best Boarding Schools in Arizona for Boys and Girls | 2022
• Top 10 Boarding Schools in North Carolina, NC | Ranking 2022

Secondary education in the USA on the example of the state of Texas

Texas is conveniently compared to Ukraine. In terms of area, it is slightly larger, and its population is slightly smaller – about 26 million people.

The state has two million-plus urban agglomerations and several large cities with a population of just under a million.

Administratively, the state is divided into 250 counties (county), which roughly corresponds to the number of administrative districts in Ukraine (taking into account the division of regional centers and large cities into districts).

Let’s start with some interesting facts:

• When choosing a place to live in a new city, Americans determine the well-being of the area primarily by the rating of schools; The rating is based on the results of the final exams and is available on many sites.
• Areas with the highest ranking schools are the best to live in.
• Education is the state’s largest spending item, but despite this, approximately 19% of its residents cannot read. It should be noted that this figure is strongly influenced by the number of legal and illegal immigrants from Latin America. nine0098
• Of the 5 most “reading” cities in the US, 3 cities are in the state of Texas.

Who influences and sets policy in Texas schools:

• Federal – US Department of Education.
• State level – Texas Education Agency.
• Local level – school district.
• Headmaster.

Federal

United States Department of Education

Education, both secondary and higher, is the province of the states, the rights and opportunities of the federal government are negligible. Moreover, for 200 years the United States successfully managed without a ministry at all, which was created only in 1979.

The functions of the US Department of Education are completely different from our department. If our ministry regulates a lot, then the American counterpart has only three main functions:

• Monitor the compliance of schools and local governments with federal laws in the field of education. nine0098
• Collect and prepare reports on the performance of educational institutions and the US education system as a whole.
• Allocate and control the use of federal funding.

Federal programs (grants)

Lacking legal authority to directly influence schools, the ministry uses the carrot of grants to steer education in the right direction.

Conditions for receiving grants and requirements for organizations that can apply for them are published on the website of the Ministry of Education. nine0003

For example, if there is a goal to improve the quality of teaching American history, then the ministry creates a professional development program for teachers teaching this subject.

Local education departments (state, county, etc.) are eligible to apply. The program budget is $120 million, the grant is $900,000. The Ministry monitors compliance with the requirements: if in 2009 123 organizations received a grant, in 2010 – only 12.

Not only educational organizations can receive grants. For example, if the federal government is concerned about crime and drug use among Native Hawaiian youth, then the federal government creates a special program: the Native Hawaiian Program. nine0003

Organizations representing local residents can participate in the competition for the grant; The total budget for the program in 2009 was about $600,000, with funding per grant ranging from $200,000 to $300,000.

Grants are the main tool by which the federal government can actively influence secondary education. The full list of programs is extensive and includes many areas.

Federal legislation

At the federal level, only the following aspects of the education system are legally regulated:

• Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act.
• Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.
• No Child Left Behind / Elementary and Secondary Education Act (No Child Left Behind / Elementary and Secondary Education Act).

Summary

The Ministry can only mark the boundaries (rights of parents, students) that all states must respect. nine0003

The main instrument of influence of the federal government is a system of additional funding through a system of grants, which are a significant help to the budgets of local educational bodies.

Texas Government

Texas Educational Agency

The Texas Educational Agency (TEA) is responsible for state education. The head of the agency (commissioner of education) is appointed by the Governor of Texas (Governor) for a term of 4 years. nine0003

TEA Primary Tasks:

• Monitors curriculum compliance with state and federal laws.
• Collection and analysis of statistical data to improve the quality of education and student performance. Creation and development of pilot projects for the same purposes.
• Management of special grant funds.
• Development of rules for the selection and hiring of personnel.
• Allocation of funding to state and federal grant programs. In this case, it acts as a fiscal agent, i.e. performs the function of transferring money from the source to the final recipient. As part of this feature, TEA does not have the authority to change the recipient or redistribute the money received to other programs. nine0098
• Financial audit of budgets, verification of financial and tax reporting of schools, etc. (total 15 points).

The rights and obligations of the head of the agency are outlined separately (41 points in total).

Among them it is worth noting:

• Responsibility for the development of the budget for education.
• The right to delegate your duties to other employees of the agency, as well as the right to hire and fire employees.
• The right to make reductions in the agency. nine0098

The powers of TEA are limited by law, the limitation is formulated as follows: the agency’s responsibility includes only what is expressly stated in this law, all other rights and obligations are the responsibility of the school district.

This practice is common in the American system of state and local government – the functions of the central governing bodies are listed in the relevant laws.

Any authority not listed is under the jurisdiction of the lower level government (County, Borough, City, State). nine0003

Public oversight and community participation

The public exercises its right to control and participate in governance through the State Board Of Education, which came into being relatively recently, in 1987.

State Board Of Education

The Board is made up of 15 members who are directly elected. Since the territory of the state is large, a special territorial division of the state into 15 electoral districts is used for elections. This division, as well as the procedure for holding elections, are enshrined in a separate law. nine0003

It is also common practice in the United States for a separate government body to have its own electoral law and special constituency boundaries.

Specific requirements for candidates to the commission to reduce lobbying and promotion of corporate interests: no one who holds state government positions, is a party functionary, is registered as a lobbyist, or by virtue of their occupation, business or participation in associations of citizens are related to the field of activity of the Commission. nine0003

Interestingly, out of 15 commission members, 8 are elected for a term of 2 years, and 7 for a term of 4 years. In the event that they could not elect a member of the commission (for example, due to low voter turnout), then the governor of the state makes the appointment to the vacant seat.

Through the commission, the society has broad powers to influence the development and learning process in its state. The rights and obligations of the Commission include:

• Development of a long-term strategy for the development of education.

nine0097 Development of the curriculum and requirements for final examinations.
Conduct training for school district council members.

• Creation of special school districts.
• Development of examination rules and requirements for examiners.
• Development of criteria for the selection of talented and gifted children.
• Set reporting requirements that schools submit to TEA etc. (total 34 points).

It is worth noting that the society, with the help of the members of the Commission, can determine the content of the school curriculum and the requirements for final exams. nine0003

Accordingly, in different states there are different curricula, different volume of teaching subjects and there are differences, both in complexity and in the number of required final exams.

For example, in Arizona, starting next year, graduates will have to take an additional exam on knowledge of American history and the principles of the functioning of the state, to the extent that immigrants take it to obtain citizenship.

Summary

The interaction between the Commission and the Agency can be described using the following formula: The Commission develops the policy, and the Agency and the schools implement it. nine0003

Regarding the duties of the TEA leader, it is said that: The commissioner shall carry out the duties imposed on the commissioner by the board or the legislature.

The closest analogy with our realities is the “Community for the sake of the ministries”.
But the differences are immediately visible – if the composition of the Commission is formed through direct elections among all the inhabitants of the state, then the procedure for appointing members of our Councils is very opaque. nine0003

The second difference is functional. If the Texas Board of Education directly influences the learning process, then our councils have only an advisory function.

Local

School disctrict

School districts are directly responsible for the operation of schools, and their functions include everything that is not included in the functions of state and federal government. Strictly speaking, the concept of Special-purpose district has not been extended to school districts since 2007, but for the sake of simplicity, I omit this. nine0003

What is a district

The concept of “special-purpose district”, which is used in the USA, has no analogues in Ukraine.

Simplifying, we can say that in the case when there is a need to systematically solve some problem within the state, the state is divided into districts, which are engaged in solving this problem.

For example, in different states there are:

• In Colorado – ambulance districts. nine0098
• In New Jersey – Port Districts (ports districts).
• In Iowa – Library Districts (library districts – amazing, right?).
• Utah has irrigation districts.

What you need to know about the district:

• Its borders do not necessarily coincide with the administrative boundaries of the state, only part of a large city or city from different counties (county) can fall into the district, and in some cases it may include the territory of two states . nine0098
• Each county will choose its own method of accomplishing the task within the limits set by state law.
• Often, district leadership is chosen through direct elections.
• And usually, the management of the district functions independently of the local (municipal) government. Those. The mayor of the city of Iowa cannot fire the director of the city’s library if it is part of the Library District.

The mechanism of special districts contributes to high flexibility in solving problems and problems, since the solution is worked out “downstairs”, taking into account local specifics, and the election of district administration allows taking into account the interests of residents. nine0003

Texas School Districts

Administratively, Texas is divided into 250 counties (county), at the same time, for the organization of the educational process, it is divided into about 1000 educational districts. The smallest has only 13 students, and the largest has 202,000.

The difference between the state of Texas and others lies in the fact that the districts are independent of any local or municipal government and are called Independent School Districts (Independent School District, ISD).

Independence means:

• District leaders are chosen from among their residents.
• The District is not directly subject to federal, state, or municipal governments (but must comply with legal requirements).
• Has the power to independently determine the level of taxes.

Where school districts in New York City are funded by the city budget, an independent school district is completely independent of the city budget. nine0003

School District Funding

• The basis of the budget is a tax on real estate located within district boundaries.
• The district administration determines the tax rate independently.
• Real estate tax goes entirely to the needs of the county.
• Participation in federal or state programs plays a significant role in poorer counties.
• Also, the county may raise donations, participate in federal and state programs. nine0098

School District Administration

The school district is governed by a board of trustees of independent school district. The council may have 3, 5 or 7 members (trustees).

There are also districts that are governed solely – the board consists of one person (single-member trustee ISD).

Procedures for changing the number of council members are enshrined in state law, and the decision is at the mercy of both the current council and the residents of the district. nine0003

The procedure for nominating candidates and conducting elections is spelled out in detail – about a third of the law governing the activities of the Council is allocated to this. And the Council section is the largest in the Texas Educational Code – the code of laws on education.

The department uses the common US practice of segregation of duties.

The council develops rules and policies, and its direct implementation is carried out by a hired leader – the manager (superintendent), who has executive power and ensures the implementation of the decisions made. nine0003

Powers and Responsibilities of the Board

The school district board has rights similar to those of a board of directors of a public company. The TEA and internal audit control abuses and impose restrictions on the activities of the Board. Rights and Responsibilities:

• Determine the goals the district must achieve this year, both academic and financial.
• Supervise the work of the manager.
• Set the county’s property tax rate annually. nine0098
• Issue bonds.
• Sell any property that is owned by the county.
• Set fees or charges for additional services (extra classes, parking, driving lessons, summer classes).
• Conduct annual financial audits.
• Conduct elections as required by law.
• Publish an annual financial statement for county residents.
• Board members are required to attend training as directed by the Training Commission. nine0098
• Establish uniform requirements for school uniforms, if uniforms are required, ensure uniforms are purchased for low-income families.
• The right to limit the scope of reports and responses to inquiries prepared by schools in order to reduce the non-academic workload of staff.
• Defines the rules and operating hours of the school campus, school libraries.

Superintendent

The superintendent is both responsible for the administrative and economic work and influences the learning process (educational leader). In fact, this is a mixture of supply manager, clerk and methodologist. nine0003

He has full authority over the administrative and service staff, his main task is to ensure the functioning of the district to fulfill the curricula.

Rights and duties of the school principal (Principal)

The principal is responsible for the educational process and discipline on the territory of his campus (school). He has full administrative power over the teaching staff: he hires, promotes/bonuses and fires teachers.

Parents’ committees

This issue is poorly covered in American literature, interviewing several US citizens makes it possible to state the following:

• As a system that covers all the states of the country, parents’ committees do not exist.
• Parent associations are possible for solving some one-time tasks – excursions, holidays and birthdays.
• Any problems that arise during the child’s education are dealt with by the principal or the superintendent of the district. nine0098
• The manager usually takes an active part in solving problems.
• At the same time, the rights of parents and the rights of educational institutions are quite strictly regulated by state law and district rules, and accordingly can be revised by all the same elected Councils.
• But in any case, all these statements about the role of parent committees are not absolute, but only evaluative.

Charter districts

The school curriculum is developed at the state level. The district has a certain freedom regarding the procedure for conducting training, but the district cannot change the list of subjects, the number of hours.

In the event that residents of the district want to change the teaching program, they can create their own, self-governing school district, develop their own curriculum and their own curriculum, and teach according to it.

In this case, the school is subject only to those requirements of state law that regulate the safety and accessibility of the educational process for students. nine0003

These schools and districts are used to test new teaching methods and pilot programs.

Schematically, the creation of the district looks like this:

• The district council decides by a majority on the transition to charter-based management and forms a special group to develop the curriculum and internal rules (charter).
• During the year, the working group must generate these documents and submit them to the head of state government (secretary of state). nine0098
• Once federal and state statute checks, the creation of a district is submitted to a local referendum where it must be approved, with a minimum turnout threshold of at least 25%.

District regulation by state government, separate provisions:

• TEM has no authority to regulate or determine the program for such schools, the requirements are vaguely worded: “reading, writing, math and basic civics (study of good citizenship)”. nine0098
• There are no requirements for the number of training days, training hours and duration of classes.
• Graduates of these schools have the right not to take compulsory final exams.

Private schools in Texas

Private schools are not covered by this article, but a few things may be noted:

• The TEA does not have the authority to regulate education in private schools.
• A private school may operate without a state accreditation (license), and graduates may not take the required final exams. nine0098
• But at the same time, schools are trying to get accreditation, as parents are more willing to send their children to such schools.

Building the education system in the US is fundamentally different than in Ukraine.

The federal government, unable to directly influence the learning process, creates a system of incentives that encourages development in the required direction.

At the state level, education policy is determined by the Board of Education, whose members are elected through direct elections. The commission determines the curricula, the list and number of subjects studied, the duration of classes, the level and composition of the final exams. nine0003

The state government, represented by the Texas Education Agency, implements the decisions of the Commission in life – namely, administrative, methodological and control work.

Less global decisions are made at the school district level, but more significant for the daily life of parents and children’s schooling: schedule, uniform, extracurricular activities, school bus, etc. The principle of management is the same – an elected council develops a policy, and a hired manager implements it. nine0003

The financial independence of the county is ensured by the property tax, and the administrative independence is guaranteed by law.

The problem with the Texas education system is the difference in the quality of schools in poor and affluent areas, due to the difference in property taxes, so current politicians are working to ensure equality in the educational level of all schools.