Handley Stem Elementary

Handley Stem Elementary in Garland, TX, is a K-5 school in the Garland Independent School District (Isd) serving 563 students, and it stands out for its remarkable upward trajectory and exceptional support for English Language Learners (ELL) and students from low-income backgrounds.

This school is on a clear upward climb, jumping from the 34th to the 52nd percentile statewide in just one year. Its most impressive achievement is with English Language Learners, who rank in the 82nd percentile—far exceeding the school's overall performance and outperforming nearby schools like Watson Technology Center and Hillside Academy For Excel in this area. Handley Stem's Spanish-language STAAR scores are a clear strength, with 3rd Grade Reading proficiency at 48.39%, nearly double the district and state averages. The school also excels with its low socioeconomic status (SES) students, ranking in the 68th percentile, a full 16 points higher than its overall rank. This is especially notable given that 88.1% of students qualify for free or reduced lunch, a much higher rate than the nearby high-performing schools, which have poverty rates around 57-59%.

However, there are areas for growth. Despite its "STEM" label, math scores are a relative weakness, with 3rd Grade Math proficiency at just 32.05%, well below the district and state averages. This contrasts sharply with Watson Technology Center, another STEM school that excels in math. Additionally, 5th Grade Science proficiency was very low at 11.76%, a common challenge among high-poverty schools in the area like Heather Glen Elementary and Club Hill Stem Elementary. Special Education students also need more support, ranking in the 36th percentile. Overall, Handley Stem is a school that is effectively closing achievement gaps for its high-needs population, with a clear focus on literacy and language support that sets it apart.