These rankings are based on parent surveys from Rowlett community groups, school review sites (GreatSchools, Niche), TEA performance data, and my own conversations with dozens of Rowlett parents. Every school on this list serves Rowlett addresses.
RISD schools serving Rowlett:
1. Amy Parks-Heath Elementary (RISD) TEA rating: A. Niche grade: A+. This is the crown jewel. Located in Heath (just across the Rowlett/Heath line), it serves the RISD portion of south Rowlett. Strong academics, excellent parent involvement, beautiful campus. Parents consistently rave about teacher quality and school culture. The only downside is the commute for Rowlett families on the far side of the attendance zone.
GISD schools serving Rowlett:
2. Herfurth Elementary (GISD) TEA rating: B. Niche grade: A-. The best-regarded GISD elementary in Rowlett. Strong test scores for a GISD school, experienced teachers, active PTA. Feeds to Schrade Middle School. Located off Lakeview Pkwy in a family-dense neighborhood. Parents praise the community feel.
3. Dorsey Elementary (GISD) TEA rating: B. Niche grade: B+. Solid school with good programs. Strong in math. Located in the Liberty Grove area, serves a stable residential community. Less turnover in teaching staff than some other GISD campuses.
4. Schrade Elementary (GISD) TEA rating: B. Niche grade: B+. Named after a long-time Rowlett family. Good school, active parent community. Located near Lakeview Pkwy. Some parents note larger class sizes compared to Herfurth.
5. Liberty Grove Elementary (GISD) TEA rating: B. Niche grade: B. Solid and consistent. Serves the northern Rowlett neighborhoods. Good reading program. Parents describe it as "no frills but reliable."
6. Coyle Middle School feeder elementaries: North Rowlett feeds through a couple of additional elementary campuses into the Coyle MS / Rowlett HS pipeline. Performance varies year to year.
Notes:
- These rankings shift when principals change. A great principal makes an enormous difference at the elementary level.
- All GISD schools in Rowlett offer pre-K for qualifying families.
- Before buying a home, verify the exact school assignment with the district — attendance zones change.
Sources:
- TEA — 2025 School Report Cards
- Niche.com — 2026 school rankings
- GreatSchools.org — parent reviews
- GISD and RISD — attendance zone maps
Herfurth parent here — 3 kids, all went through Herfurth. Wonderful school. Mrs. Patel in 3rd grade is the best teacher any of my kids have ever had. The PTA is active and the principal is responsive. Highly recommend.