Choosing the right elementary school for your child is one of the most important decisions a parent can make. Dallas is home to some of the best elementary schools in Texas, offering a variety of academic programs, extracurricular activities, and specialized curriculums to fit different learning styles.
Whether you're looking for a top-rated public school, a private institution, or a charter school with a unique educational approach, this guide will help you understand your options and provide tips for picking the right school for your child.
Top Public Elementary Schools in Dallas
1. Hyer Elementary School (HPISD)
Location: Highland ParkWhy It Stands Out:
Part of the Highland Park Independent School District (HPISD), one of the best districts in Texas
High test scores and strong academic performance
Small class sizes and excellent teacher-to-student ratio
Hyer Elementary is a top choice for families in Highland Park looking for a rigorous academic environment and a strong sense of community.
2. Walnut Hill Elementary (Dallas ISD – Vanguard Program)
Location: Northwest DallasWhy It Stands Out:
Offers a gifted and talented Vanguard program
Strong focus on STEM and arts education
Diverse student body with advanced academic curriculum
Walnut Hill Elementary is an excellent option for parents looking for an advanced learning program within the Dallas ISD system.
3. Lakewood Elementary (DISD)
Location: East DallasWhy It Stands Out:
One of the top-rated public schools in Dallas ISD
Strong parent and community involvement
Emphasis on arts, music, and foreign language programs
Lakewood Elementary provides a well-rounded education with a focus on both academic excellence and extracurricular enrichment.
4. Bradfield Elementary (HPISD)
Location: Highland ParkWhy It Stands Out:
Exceptional academic performance and high test scores
Strong emphasis on reading, writing, and math fundamentals
Highly engaged PTA and community support
Bradfield Elementary is a great option for parents in Highland Park looking for a traditional, high-performing school.
5. Prestonwood Elementary (Richardson ISD – Magnet Program)
Location: North DallasWhy It Stands Out:
Recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School
Offers a magnet program for academically gifted students
Strong science and technology curriculum
This school is ideal for students looking for a more challenging curriculum with a focus on STEM subjects.
Top Private Elementary Schools in Dallas
1. The Lamplighter School
Location: North DallasWhy It Stands Out:
Focuses on experiential learning and creativity
Small class sizes and hands-on learning approach
Strong emphasis on science, technology, and outdoor education
The Lamplighter School is perfect for parents looking for a progressive, student-centered learning environment.
2. Greenhill School
Location: AddisonWhy It Stands Out:
One of Dallas’ most prestigious private schools
Strong STEM, arts, and athletics programs
Offers a diverse and inclusive community
Greenhill is a top-tier private school that provides a well-balanced education for students from Pre-K through 12th grade.
3. St. Mark’s School of Texas (Boys Only)
Location: North DallasWhy It Stands Out:
One of the top all-boys private schools in the country
Rigorous college-prep curriculum
Focuses on leadership, critical thinking, and character development
For parents looking for an all-boys academic environment with a strong track record of sending students to top colleges, St. Mark’s is an excellent option.
4. Hockaday School (Girls Only)
Location: North DallasWhy It Stands Out:
One of the top all-girls schools in the U.S.
Exceptional STEM and leadership programs
Strong emphasis on global awareness and women’s empowerment
Hockaday is an ideal choice for parents looking for a premier private school for girls.
5. The Episcopal School of Dallas (ESD)
Location: Northwest DallasWhy It Stands Out:
Offers a faith-based education with rigorous academics
Strong athletics and arts programs
Focuses on service-learning and character development
ESD is a great fit for families looking for a private school with a Christian foundation and academic excellence.
Tips for Picking the Right Elementary School
1. Consider Your Child’s Learning Style
Does your child thrive in a structured environment, or do they need a more hands-on approach?
Some schools focus on project-based learning, while others emphasize traditional academic instruction.
2. Look at School Rankings and Performance
Research test scores, student-to-teacher ratios, and extracurricular offerings.
Check sites like GreatSchools.org, Niche.com, and TEA (Texas Education Agency) reports.
3. Evaluate Extracurricular and Special Programs
Does the school offer STEM programs, fine arts, foreign languages, or gifted and talented programs?
If your child is interested in a particular activity, make sure the school supports it.
4. Visit the School and Meet the Staff
A school tour can give you a better feel for the learning environment.
Talk to teachers and principals to understand their educational philosophy and approach.
5. Check the Community and Parent Involvement
Schools with strong PTA programs and community engagement tend to offer better resources for students.
Ask other parents about their experience with the school.
6. Consider the Location and Commute
A long commute can impact your child’s daily routine and overall experience.
Proximity to home can make drop-offs, extracurriculars, and parent involvement easier.
7. Private vs. Public: What’s Right for Your Family?
Public schools in Dallas offer strong programs, especially in HPISD and magnet schools like DISD’s Vanguard Program.
Private schools provide smaller class sizes and specialized programs but come with higher tuition costs.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right elementary school in Dallas requires careful research and consideration of your child’s learning style, academic needs, and extracurricular interests. Whether you’re looking for a top-tier public school, an elite private institution, or a faith-based education, Dallas offers exceptional choices.
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