Chisum Independent School District (Isd)

The Chisum Independent School District (Isd) is a small, unified district in Paris, Texas, serving approximately 1,184 students across three schools—Chisum Elementary (PK-5), Chisum Middle (6-8), and Chisum High School (9-12)—all located on a single campus.

Chisum Middle is the standout performer, ranking in the 86th percentile statewide with a 4-star rating and a perfect 0.0% dropout rate. It is a math powerhouse, with 6th, 7th, and 8th-grade math scores far exceeding state averages, and its Algebra I proficiency rate (71.79%) is dramatically higher than the high school's 22.86%. In contrast, Chisum High School ranks lower at the 59th percentile (3 stars) and struggles with Algebra I, though it boasts a strong 97.4% graduation rate and excels in Biology (82.05%) and English. Chisum Elementary provides a solid foundation, ranking in the 65th percentile (3 stars), with reading scores well above state averages but math scores that lag behind, particularly in 3rd and 5th grades.

A key takeaway is that spending does not correlate with performance: the high school spends the most per student ($12,820) but has the lowest ranking, while the middle school spends the least ($10,700) and achieves the highest ranking. Science is a district-wide strength, with all tested grades outperforming state averages. The "Algebra I gap" between middle and high school is a critical issue, suggesting that the middle school's advanced math gains are not sustained for the general high school population. Overall, the district ranks in the 79th percentile (4 stars), with consistent socioeconomic status across schools (38-42% free/reduced lunch) and a strong emphasis on academic progression.