Dunbar Middle

Dunbar Middle in Dickinson, TX, serves 4th and 5th graders in the Dickinson Independent School District (Isd) and has shown impressive improvement, rising from the 35th to the 56th percentile statewide over the last two years. The school has a favorable student-to-teacher ratio of 12.9:1 and spends a relatively high amount per student ($12,974), reflecting a significant investment in its students. While it faces challenges common to schools with a high percentage of economically disadvantaged students (72% qualify for free or reduced lunch), its upward trajectory is a clear sign of positive momentum.

Dunbar Middle stands out for its rapid growth in key areas. For example, its Hispanic student population surged from the 27th to the 53rd percentile in just two years, and its African American students now rank in the 75th percentile statewide—a remarkable achievement. Math scores are a particular strength, with 4th and 5th grade math proficiency rates exceeding state averages. However, reading scores lag behind, and English Language Learners taking Spanish STAAR exams have shown very low proficiency rates, indicating a need for more support. In comparison, the nearby John And Shamarion Barber Middle has a slightly higher overall rank (57th percentile) but is improving at a slower pace, while schools in the Clear Creek Independent School District (Isd), like Henry Bauerschlag Elementary, consistently rank in the 80th-90th percentile but serve a much less economically disadvantaged population.

Overall, Dunbar Middle is a school on the rise, with effective strategies in math and targeted support for diverse student groups. While it still has work to do in reading and for English Language Learners, its rapid improvement and strong investment in students make it a compelling choice for families in the Dickinson area. The school’s progress is a testament to focused efforts that are yielding tangible results.