Summary:
This analysis examines three elementary schools—Stinson Elementary, Schell Elementary, and Miller Elementary—all serving grades K-5 in zip code 75082 (Richardson, TX) and part of the highly-rated Plano Independent School District (Isd).
Stinson Elementary stands out as the academic powerhouse with the highest historical ranking, achieving a 5-star rating and 92nd percentile in 2024-2025, but it also shows dramatic volatility, dropping to a 3-star rating and 62nd percentile in 2025-2026. In contrast, Schell Elementary is the consistent performer, maintaining a 4-star rating for three straight years with stable test scores near or above district averages, making it the most reliable choice. Miller Elementary, the smallest school with 315 students, is the high-spending underdog, investing $11,293 per student—significantly more than Stinson ($9,067) and Schell ($8,608)—yet it has the lowest recent ranking at the 59th percentile, suggesting the extra funds are not directly translating into higher test scores.
Key metrics reveal clear differences: Stinson had the lowest free/reduced lunch rate (18.14%) and excelled in 5th Grade Science (51.32% proficient vs. 29.57% state average) during its peak year, while Schell had the highest rate (33%) but steady performance. Miller boasts the best student-teacher ratio (12.2:1) but struggles academically. The most interesting finding is Stinson's precipitous year-over-year decline, which could stem from a different student cohort or curriculum changes, making it a high-risk, high-reward option. For parents seeking stability, Schell is the safe bet, while Miller's high spending warrants further investigation into how those funds are used.
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