Dallas ISD’s Early STAAR Testing Numbers Show Improvement — An A-Plus When Looking for a Home 

A city’s school district can make or break the sale of a home, and Dallas ISD’s early State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) scores could offer some peace of mind to those who are house-shopping within the district. 

A report released by DISD Deputy Superintendent Susana Cordova in June showed: 

• Despite falling significantly during the pandemic (from 2019 to 2021), Dallas has made significant gains in reading and has surpassed the pre-pandemic results of 2019. 
• Mathematic gains from 2021 to 2022, ranged from +5 to +12 percentage points for all students still not hitting pre-pandemic performance. 
• Gains for African-American and Emergent Bilingual students overall were greater, indicating movement toward closing the gap.

That’s big news in the wake of concerns about “pandemic learning loss.” STAAR testing was canceled during the 2019-2020 school year due to COVID-19.  Of course, there are tons of other nearby districts that have made big gains, too.

These Dallas-area homes not only make the grade, but they’re also hosting open houses this week. 

University Prep in University Park

This $3.5 million custom build offers more than just close proximity to highly-ranked public schools. 

The five-bedroom, four-and-one-half bath home at 3417 Lindenwood Ave., University Park, is adorned with museum-finish walls, designer fixtures, and elegant touches throughout. The chef’s kitchen features beautiful cabinetry and marble countertops.

The great room is highlighted by a slate tile fireplace and overlooks the patio and backyard. Bonus features include a private library, elevator, and game room with a wet bar and balcony. The master suite is covered in natural light and has a walk-in closet and a spa-like bathroom. 

The 5,146-square-foot home is steps away from the Katy Trail, Abbott Park, and high-end shopping and dining on Knox Street. 

Schools in this area are in the Highland Park school district. Armstrong Elementary received a 10 out of 10 in test scores from GreatSchools.org. 

Highland Park Middle School and Highland Park High School also scored perfect 10s in test scores. 

STAAR data shows that, over time, HPISD has remained a leader in state performance, according to the district’s website. 

“Results from the combined STAAR scores from all grade levels and content areas for the past 18 years indicate that HPISD students consistently outperform state peers by an average of 24.5 percentage points,” the district reports. “HPISD 2021 student performance data shows HP students scored 28 percentage points above the state, six points higher than HPISD’s 2017 results.” 

Realtor Nora Kutob with Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Real Estate is hosting an open house from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 14. 

Home Sweet Home at Kessler Park

This just-listed gem offers way more than close proximity to DISD schools.

The $1.3 million home at 2023 Timbergrove Circle is nestled between the golf course and nature preserve at Kessler Park. 

With solid custom iron doors, brick and maple floors, and quality craftsmanship throughout, this is the perfect spot for the family.

The four-bedroom, four-and-one-half bath abode features an updated kitchen with luxury appliances, a coffee center and wet bar, two pantries, and granite countertops. A private nanny suite upstairs has its own kitchenette with a full-sized refrigerator, oven, and wall of shelves. 

All bedrooms have walk-in closets, and if that’s not enough of a retreat, the backyard is pretty spectacular, too. Two electric gates provide security as guests sit out back shaded by mature trees. The roof was replaced this year, and the home comes with solar panels, a washer, a dryer, and a new refrigerator. 

The area is zoned for DISD’s high-ranked W.E. Greiner Exploratory Arts Academy and Rosemont Elementary School. Sunset High School scored above average in student progress. 

Realtor Julie Stewart with Stewart & McGee Real Estate is hosting an open house from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 13. 

Spacious And Stunning

Deep in the heart of Dallas ISD is this four-bedroom, four-bath abode at 10802 Dove Brook Circle in North Dallas. 

We’ve featured this listing before, but the price has dropped to $899,000 just in time for a weekend open house. 

The updated corner-lot home on a cul-de-sac features three living rooms, a three-car garage, and a special throwback front porch beckoning neighbors to stop by for a glass of sweet tea. 

Guests will love the covered back porch with a remote-control screen wall and swimming pool. An open great room with soaring ceilings and a wood-burning fireplace is a great spot for gathering after dinner. Kids can retreat upstairs to the updated media room while the adults gather in the modern open kitchen.

The 4,252-square-foot space also features Schuler cabinets, dual walk-in pantries, a gas cooktop, a coffee bar, and an eat-in space. The primary suite includes a spa-like bath with separate vanities and a custom closet. 

The location offers easy access to Ursuline Academy, Hockaday School, and NorthPark Center. Public schools in the area include Arthur Kramer Elementary, Benjamin Franklin Middle School, and Hillcrest High School. The elementary school ranked above average in test scores on GreatSchools.org. 

Realtor Neva Warnock with Homestart Stars is hosting an open house from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, July 17.