Southard Middle School
General Information
About Southard Middle School
Southard Middle School, situated in Princeton, Texas, is a public middle school serving grades 6 through 8 within the Princeton Independent School District. The school is committed to delivering a robust academic program while fostering growth in character, leadership, and citizenship. At Southard Middle, students engage in a diverse learning environment where educators emphasize critical thinking, collaboration, and preparing learners for high school and beyond.
Recognized for performing above state averages, the school cultivates student achievement through a combination of standard curriculum, enrichment opportunities, and supportive services tailored to middle-schooler needs. Southard Middle aims to create a community atmosphere where each student feels valued, challenged, and supported in their academic and social development. The school’s culture underscores respect, responsibility, and readiness, helping students transition smoothly from elementary settings and build strong foundations for future academic success.
Contact Information
- Address: 455 Monte Carlo Boulevard, Princeton, TX 75407
- Phone Number: (469) 952-5400
- Email Address: [Please contact the school directly for email]
- School Leader: Mr. Richard Boring (as listed)
School Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | Not publicly detailed |
| School Type | Public Middle School (Grades 6–8) |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | Approximately 15 : 1 |
| Enrollment | Approximately 809 students |
| School District | Princeton Independent School District |
| Rating (GreatSchools) | 8 / 10 |
Southard Middle School Rankings
| Ranking Organization | Category | Rank / Position |
|---|---|---|
| Niche | Best Public Middle Schools in Texas | #643 of 2,272 |
| Niche | Most Diverse Public Middle Schools in Texas | #208 of 2,383 |
| GreatSchools | Overall School Rating (TX) | 8 / 10 |
Southard Middle School Academics
Southard Middle School Faculties / Departments
- English Language Arts
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Studies
- Physical Education
- Fine Arts (Art & Music)
- Technology / Computer Science
- Special Education & Support Services
- Gifted & Talented Programs
Southard Middle School Courses and Programs / Majors
- Standard core courses in Grades 6–8 (ELA, Math, Science, Social Studies)
- Accelerated/GT (Gifted & Talented) classes
- Enrichment electives such as Art, Band, Choir, Computer Technology
- Support courses for students with learning needs
- Physical Education and Health programs
- Technology integration across the curriculum (Chromebooks, digital tools)
Online Learning
While Southard Middle School primarily delivers in-person instruction, the school incorporates digital learning tools and platforms to supplement classroom instruction. Students may use online resources for homework, tutoring, or course extensions. As part of the district’s efforts, technology integration supports blended learning approaches, though full remote-learning programs are not the norm at the campus.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average Performance |
|---|---|
| Texas State Assessment (Math) | ~59% of students proficient |
| Texas State Assessment (Reading) | ~57% of students proficient |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Given that Southard Middle School serves grades 6 through 8, a traditional graduation rate does not apply. However, the school emphasizes student retention from year-to-year and transitions successfully into high school. The supportive academic environment helps ensure that students remain enrolled and advance through each grade level with the preparation needed for the subsequent educational stage.
Southard Middle School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
As a public middle school, Southard Middle School does not require standardized test scores like the SAT or ACT for admission, nor does it use GPA ranges as part of an admission process. Enrollment is based primarily on district zoning and residency within the Princeton Independent School District.
Southard Middle School Acceptance Rate
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | Not applicable (public school zoning) |
Southard Middle School Application Requirements
Enrollment at Southard Middle School involves verification of residency within the school district’s attendance boundaries, submission of required registration paperwork, and provision of necessary records such as birth certificate, immunization records, prior school transcripts (for students transferring in), and any special education documentation if applicable. Families also complete a registration packet during the district’s designated registration period. The process ensures that students are placed appropriately in grades and programs according to their needs and prior achievement.
Application Process
- Verify residency within the Princeton Independent School District boundaries.
- Gather required documentation: birth certificate, immunization records, previous school records or transcript if transferring.
- Submit registration forms during the district’s registration period at the Southard Middle School office.
- Complete any program elective selection or special support program requests (e.g., Gifted & Talented).
- Attend orientation or registration meeting if required, and receive schedule and classroom information.
Southard Middle School Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Date / Period |
|---|---|
| Registration Period | Annually typically in Spring |
| First Day of School | August (specific date varies each year) |
| Orientation/Check-In | Late July/Early August (varies) |
Essay Prompt
Southard Middle School does not require an essay for enrollment as it functions as a public zoned school and not a selective admissions institution.
Southard Middle School Scholarships
As a public middle school, Southard Middle School does not offer scholarships for enrollment. Students may participate in programs or receive support services but the school’s primary offer is a tuition-free public education funded by the district.
Southard Middle School Tuition and Fees
| Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Tuition | $0 (public school) |
| Additional Fees | May include optional fees for electives or extracurricular activities (varies) |
Southard Middle School Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
| Demographic | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Male | ~52% |
| Female | ~48% |
| Race/Ethnicity | Hispanic ~34.1% |
| White ~32.5% | |
| African American ~22.7% | |
| Asian ~4.4% | |
| Multiracial ~5.7% |
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
At Southard Middle School, approximately 51% of students qualify for free or reduced-price lunch, indicating a substantial percentage of students from lower-income households. The school also provides special education and support services to meet the needs of students with disabilities and those requiring additional academic or social-emotional support. These programs aim to ensure equitable access to instruction and success for all learners.
Student Body
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Students | ~809 |
| International Students | Not separately reported |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | ~15 : 1 |
University Diversity
Southard Middle School boasts commendable diversity in its student population, with representation from multiple racial and ethnic backgrounds. The balance of Hispanic, White, African American, Asian, and Multiracial students fosters an inclusive environment where different perspectives and cultural experiences converge. This diversity enhances the educational environment by allowing students to learn in a setting that reflects a microcosm of broader society, promoting respect, cross-cultural understanding, and collaboration. The school’s strong “A” diversity rating by external evaluators underscores its commitment and success in maintaining an inclusive and supportive community for all students.
Average Earnings
Since Southard Middle School serves grades 6-8, data specific to alumni earnings is not applicable. However, the school sets a strong foundation for future academic achievement and high school readiness, equipping students with the skills and mindset necessary to pursue advanced coursework, college readiness, and ultimately successful career trajectories. The robust academic preparation, supportive learning environment, and focus on student growth position graduates for future opportunities that may translate into competitive careers and earnings later in life.
Southard Middle School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The educators and support staff at Southard Middle School are dedicated professionals who prioritize student success, academic growth, and social-emotional development. The staff includes core subject teachers, special education specialists, support service staff, counselors, and administrators who collaborate to meet the diverse needs of the student population. With a student-teacher ratio of approximately 15 : 1, the school ensures close teacher-student interaction and personalized support.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty members at Southard Middle School bring a wide range of expertise in middle school instruction, support services, and educational innovation. Many hold state certifications in subject areas or special education and participate in ongoing professional development opportunities through the district. Their achievements include implementing effective instructional strategies, integrating technology into classrooms, and supporting growth for diverse learners. This collective competence creates a learning environment in which students are supported academically, socially, and emotionally throughout the middle school years.
Southard Middle School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Southard Middle School offers an engaging campus life that supports academic, athletic, and extracurricular involvement for grades 6-8. While the school does not offer housing (as is typical for public middle schools), its campus features facilities such as classrooms, library/media center, athletic fields or gymnasiums, and areas for arts and music instruction. Student life is enriched by clubs, activities, team sports, and events that help build camaraderie, school spirit, and leadership skills. The environment emphasizes student connection, involvement, and the development of well-rounded individuals prepared for high school.
Transportation
Transportation to Southard Middle School is facilitated by the Princeton Independent School District’s bus system for eligible students based on residency and attendance zone. Additionally, many students may be dropped off by parents or guardians given the suburban location of the campus. On-campus mobility includes designated drop-off and pick-up areas, pedestrian walkways, and safeguards to ensure safety during transitions into and out of school. The infrastructure supports efficient routing of buses and vehicles, promoting timely arrival and departure each school day.