Summary
Thomas Arnold Elementary in Salado, TX, is a large, high-performing school serving 1,073 students in grades PK-5 within the highly-ranked Salado Independent School District (Isd). This school consistently earns a 4-star rating, ranking in the 75th percentile statewide, and stands out as the clear academic leader in its area, outperforming many nearby schools like Jarrell Elementary and Southwest Elementary, which often rank in the bottom 20-30% of the state. While Richard E Cavazos Elementary is a strong competitor, Thomas Arnold is unique in combining top-tier performance with a very low rate of economic disadvantage, as only 24.5% of its students qualify for free or reduced lunch—a figure less than half that of most surrounding schools.
The school excels in several key areas, including a robust program for Gifted and Talented students, who rank in the 82nd percentile statewide. It also shows a strong upward trend in mathematics, with 3rd-grade math proficiency rising from 49% to over 61% in recent years, and 5th-grade science is a standout strength, with 50% of students proficient compared to the state average of just 29.6%. Furthermore, Thomas Arnold operates with impressive efficiency, spending only $7,763 per student—significantly less than lower-performing peers like Holland Elementary ($12,943) and Southwest Elementary ($12,276)—while achieving superior results.
However, the school faces a significant equity challenge. While its general population and GT students thrive, its most vulnerable groups struggle considerably. Low socioeconomic status students rank in the 16th percentile, and English Language Learner students rank in the critically low 5th percentile. This stark contrast highlights an area where the school needs targeted support to ensure all students, regardless of background, can benefit from its high-quality education. For families considering the area, Thomas Arnold offers a top-tier academic environment, but it is important to be aware of these disparities.
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