The top reported proficiency rate is 51% in English language arts. The lowest is 20% in Science.
Original Research by School Decision on Maria Moreno Steam Academy
Maria Moreno STEAM Academy is a public elementary school serving pre-kindergarten through fifth grade in southern Dallas. The school sits in a predominantly Hispanic, high-poverty neighborhood where most students qualify for free or reduced-price lunch. The enrollment is small and stable, distributed across seven grade levels from pre-K through fifth grade.
State assessment data shows mixed results across the elementary years. In third-grade reading, about half of students tested at or above proficiency on the English version of the state test, with a similar proportion reaching that bar in fifth-grade reading on the English test. In fourth-grade reading, performance was higher, around the majority reaching proficiency. Math results are more uneven. Fourth-grade math saw about half of students reach proficiency, while fifth-grade science testing showed only a modest share meeting the bar. The school's overall proficiency index across tested subjects and grades places it in the top quartile when compared to other schools in Dallas County, a meaningful position that reflects stronger results relative to peers in the region.
The school's name highlights STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, mathematics) as a focus, though specific program details from the school itself were not available in this data. The Texas testing data available shows results in reading, math, and science; whether the school integrates these subjects or offers distinct technology and engineering coursework cannot be determined from what we have.
The neighborhood housing market shows median home values below the state average, with rents modest relative to income. Monthly mortgage costs run less than what rent averages in the area, reflecting relatively affordable entry points for families buying. The Dallas economy itself is strong and diverse, with major employers in telecommunications, defense, health care, and technology, many within commutable distance.
Dallas ISD, the district that operates this school, recently approved a historic bond that will replace aging school buildings and eliminate portable classrooms over the next several years. The district has also shifted to an opt-out enrollment model for advanced coursework, automatically placing high-performing students in college-prep classes rather than requiring parents to request access. These systemwide changes reflect an equity-focused agenda that may benefit elementary students as they advance.
A parent considering this school should note that the data reflects only this most recent school year, so trends over time are not visible. The school is small in size for an elementary building, which can mean closer community ties but potentially fewer elective or program options. The testing data shows proficiency rates that are respectable relative to the county but mixed across subjects and grades. Someone interested in the STEAM focus specifically or in how the school implements its academic model would benefit from visiting and speaking directly with school staff.
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