Richardson ISD officials presented preliminary 2026 state accountability projections to the Board of Trustees during its Aug. 6 meeting. The data indicates the district is projected to improve from a C rating in 2025 to a B district rating in 2026. The overall score is currently projected to be an 82.
The Texas Education Agency will release official accountability ratings on Aug. 14. District leaders noted that these results are preliminary and subject to change before the state’s official release. The presentation highlighted academic progress, college and career readiness outcomes, and the district’s commitment to its North Star Goal.
Richardson ISD students performed at or above the state standard in 14 of 20 tested areas on the Spring 2026 STAAR assessments. Students exceeded the state at the Masters Grade Level standard in 18 of 20 tested areas. Highlights include continued improvement in mathematics achievement across all grade levels and growth in Reading Language Arts.
The College, Career and Military Readiness rate increased from 95% to 97% for the Class of 2025. Student participation in rigorous academic and career pathways courses, including Advanced Placement, Dual Credit, OnRamps, and Industry-Based Certification courses, also increased. The district reported strong End-of-Course assessment growth compared with many North Texas districts.
Leaders identified continued areas of focus, including closing achievement gaps for economically disadvantaged students, strengthening special education outcomes, and improving performance on extended constructed-response questions. Officials also noted that recent modifications to STAAR assessments and scoring methods make year-to-year comparisons challenging.
Superintendent Tabitha Branum stated, "RISD students are more than a score measured by one test on one day." She emphasized the district's focus on instilling a lifelong love of learning and advancing the North Star Goal. Leaders acknowledged campuses requiring additional support and remain committed to providing resources, coaching, and instructional support to improve student outcomes.
