Noel Grisham Middle School in Austin

Category	Rating	Details
Test Scores	9/10	The Test Score Rating examines how students at this school performed on standardized tests compared with other schools in the state. The Test Rating was created using 2025 State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) data from Texas Education Agency.
Student Growth	8/10	The Student Progress Rating measures whether students at this school are making academic progress over time based on student growth data provided by the Department of Education. Specifically, this rating looks at how much progress individual students have made on state assessments during the past year or more, how this performance aligns with expected progress based on a student growth model established by the state Department of Education, and how this school's growth data compares to other schools in the state. The Growth Rating was created using 2025 Percentage of students meeting growth target data from Texas Education Agency.

Posted: October 20, 2025

Really bad experiences in general. The athletics department is really bad with terrible coaches. The teachers won't input grades on time (a retest grade was never put in and the report card already came out, it's been a month). Rubrics for projects don't mean anything to the teachers. Kids who constantly disrupt class, calling the teacher a b**** and more, won't be pulled because of the least restrictive rule so every other kid in the class has to deal with the havoc.

Love the band department and we've had great math teachers so far. That's about it.

Posted: March 6, 2023

I do NOT recommend... this school awful. The teachers are especially rude and unpleasant. The kids here are very rude as well and the entire community of this school is genuinely a disgrace. Do better. I've even found roaches in the classroom and it's extremely disgusting and I feel repulsed. The only good quality of this school is the fact it is really easy to pass but other than that I don't suggest this school.

Posted: January 18, 2023

My daughter has thrived at this school, and is now well prepared for High School. This is one of the smallest middle schools in the area, and with that come some major perks. Teachers really know the kids, and my daughter has been able to easily ask for, and receive help when needed. Math and Science really excel here, as well as the fine arts. The school itself is a little vintage, but the heart and the soul are kind and academically focused. We have experienced both the theater and the music programs and we have been swept up in the enthusiasm the teachers have for their subjects. With the private lessons, in addition to the classroom instruction, my daughter is developing rapidly as a musician. We have previously attended a large capacity, new building, middle school, and both my husband and I have noticed, that at pick-up, the kids are kind and calm. The vibe at this school is really special, it doesn't seem overly troubled, or entitled, the school population seems to really care and lift each other up. I am so impressed. I would highly recommend sending your kiddo to this school.

Posted: March 6, 2022

Great teachers! Incompetent administrators who coddle the troublemakers at the expense of students who actually want to learn. They think that is what "equity" means. So pathetic.

Posted: May 18, 2021

My experience at this school is definitely not perfect. There are a few little things that bother me at this school, but nevertheless I am always able to learn and keep my grades up. This school has its flaws, but I do recommend it.

Posted: May 18, 2021

Posted: December 8, 2020

We have really enjoyed the last two years at Grisham and my son has just flourished since moving from elementary school. The staff are all approachable and have been great at providing feedback. This year has obviously been a challenge with dealing with virtual/distanced learning, but we've been able to continue being successful while still keeping our kids safe. Great program, great staff..great kids!

Posted: December 8, 2020

Posted: November 12, 2018

they explain the subject to the students ok

Posted: November 12, 2018

they really don't push it that much.

Posted: November 12, 2018

the don't do really any thing to romodle to the kids and when they do its not very good.

Posted: November 12, 2018

not that good and dis like front office people

Posted: September 7, 2018

Terrible when ever my daughter has forgotten something and I go to leave it for her the ladys in the front always have an excuse on why not to take it to her .

Posted: September 7, 2018

Posted: April 3, 2018

Grisham was our first experience with the public school system. I was wary at first when my oldest entered 7th grade. Now my middle child is finishing 8th grade and I'm sad we won't be at Grisham anymore. The three things I love best about Grisham are the teachers, the principal, and the focus on the whole child. The teachers at Grisham work hard to create dynamic learning environments and to make real connections with their students. The principal Ms. Hadji is encouraging, energetic and handles herself with grace and humility. And finally academics is important at Grisham but equal to that is the focus on character, students are recognized for their contributions and strengths and are supported and encouraged to give back to their community.

Posted: April 3, 2018

Posted: March 23, 2018

As a parent (and former teacher) with six children who have attended schools in Texas, Ohio and Washington state, I feel like I have a good bit of experience in assessing a school. My child started at Grisham mid-year after being at a private school in the area, and we have been thoroughly impressed! My child loves going to school, and very much enjoys his classes. He has spoken at length about the friendly, welcoming students and the interesting nature of most of his classes. He has an appropriate amount of homework and study. He loves his teachers and feels very at home at Grisham. We chose to apply to Grisham as a family who lives in-district but not in the neighborhood because of the IB curriculum and the small size of the middle school. I have children who have attended other "rated 10" huge (1500+) middle schools in RRISD; Grisham's small size is a tremendous asset, as your child is very personally known and not just a number. The school building itself is well-kept, charming and has a good vibe. The diversity of the students is wonderful, the theater program is outstanding, and the way the IB curriculum gives extra flair and teases out the curriculum is just a bonus. The House System adds a lot of fun as well! I also appreciate that there isn't an overwhelming, tense testing focus, and that education is viewed in a holistic manner. The administrators are approachable, kind, articulate, and very involved. They are well informed on research-based educational practices and are working diligently to ensure the kids are well-rounded, learning, respectful and happy. We are thrilled to be a part of the Grisham family.

Posted: March 23, 2018

Posted: February 19, 2018

I am a teacher at Grisham and have taught here for the past 15 years (and went here as a student in the mid 90s). It is my home away from home. I love that we have such a small student body (around 600) and staff. I know almost every kiddo by name along with their stories that make them who they are. We represent a diverse community (racial/ethnic, religious beliefs, socioeconomic classes, nationalities) which is important because it teaches kids awareness, acceptance, empathy and makes them open, well-rounded individuals.

Grisham has several fantastic programs (Fine Arts, IB, Athletics, Dance, Cheer, ESOL, AVID, WEB, NJHS) along with over 30 teacher-sponsored clubs. Since we are a small school, most teachers/faculty members wear many hats and are part of several different committees, teams, and roles on our campus, putting in many extra hours of dedicated overtime and voluntary buy-in to make Grisham the best in the district.

I genuinely love my little school and my students. I may be a bit biased, but I think we have some of the best kids in the district sent from ALL three of our feeder elementary schools. These kids and the relationships I form with them is what makes me passionate about my job and continue to do it year after year. I stand proud to be a Grisham Grizzly!

Posted: February 13, 2018

In terms of number students, Grisham is one of the smallest middle schools in Round Rock ISD. As such, teachers and administration really know our child -- she's not just a face in the crowd. She has gotten a good education in a supportive environment, and we know she is being well prepared for Westwood High School. The fine arts programs are top notch across the board, with UIL Sweepstakes trophies earned regularly. As an IB Middle Years Programme school, all students are encouraged to do at least 15 hours of community service each year -- and many students do much more. Eighth graders complete a community service project, either alone or in small groups, with faculty guidance. This emphasis on community service helps to foster empathy and outward focus, which are important traits to develop especially in this age group. We also like the fact that this school is diverse, both economically and racially. Kids here learn how to get along with others regardless of their race or their parents' income level. We feel fortunate that our child has had the opportunity to be part of such a well-rounded academic community.

Posted: February 13, 2018

Posted: February 8, 2018

Its amazing, everyone's a family, and we love each other and we get our freedom for the most part, i don't feel like the teachers baby us as much :)

Posted: February 8, 2018

Posted: January 30, 2018

The school has zero tolerance for bullying. Speakers are brought in to talk about bullying for both the parents and the students.

Posted: January 30, 2018

As a PTA leader for 5 years I feel confident that my children are receiving a good education. Im most impressed with our top notch teachers and supportive leadership. Its a small enough school that the adults know your kids name and little gets past them. The school is enriched by being culturally diverse and having active parent participation. My kids were well equipped for the next four years at an academically rigorous high school. All in all, my boys enjoyed their time at Grisham.

Posted: January 30, 2018

My son is currently an 8th grader. Grisham has come a long way since my daughter was a student there four years ago. It was not a bad school then, but it is a much better school now. Part of the difficulty was the frequent change in leadership. The principal we have now has been there as assistant principal for several years and seems very invested in her position at the school. The school has some excellent teachers, and Grisham has always been strong in the arts - Art, Band, Choir, Orchestra, and Theatre. They are UIL winners in some of those categories. All in all, I have found the school administration and teachers to be responsive. They are quick to deal with issues of bullying, and as far as I know there are no bad situations. That's a lot to say for middle school! They also have something called "Grizzly Pride," where kids are rewarded for being good citizens. I see a lot of positive changes and as they continue, I can see it not only being a good school but a great school.

Posted: January 30, 2018

Posted: January 23, 2018

That is a central component of the IB curriculum and emphasized in the home room (den) weekly.

Posted: January 23, 2018

The principal is awesome. She and her staff work so hard and want Grisham to be the best it can be

Posted: January 23, 2018

There is a significant ESL population and low income population.

Posted: January 23, 2018

They just had an anti bullying presentation for every student and the parents

Posted: January 23, 2018

They are very committed and experienced in general.

Posted: January 23, 2018

My son is a 7th grader and he has had a great experience at Grisham. It is a small school and your child is known. They arent one of the many. They get more attention because they are known. He is in band and that program is very strong as well as all the fine arts. As an in school all students must take foreign language all 3 years and have a mandatory service project in 8th grade. The new IB Coordinator is doing an incredible job facilitating this so the program will only get stronger. I could go on and on, but Grisham is a great school that gets a bad wrap and it isnt true.

Posted: March 31, 2016

This school really focuses on the students that fit into the perfect mold. Those that excell in academics and sports. But, if you have a child with special needs such as mine, they pretty much fall through the cracks. Bullying is rampant in this school and not much is done to stop it. My daughter is scared to go to school in fear that she'll be hit again and nothing is done about it.

Posted: March 25, 2016

Grisham Middle School has been a great school for both my kids. They have been very active in the school with clubs and have made so many good friends. The school really prepares them for Westwood High School and is very challenging. The Athletics and Theater and Art dept are fabulous with awesome teachers!

Posted: March 25, 2016

Posted: May 13, 2015

Middle school years are challenging, and so far this school has been pretty responsive to helping my child. He does have some learning differences and the teachers and administration made informal and then formal (504) accommodations to help him succeed. In some cases communication could be better but online "Home Access" is helpful for seeing what is happening with grades. Teachers have been responsive to my request for communication and clarification and tutoring but with some I have to initiate and with others they contact me first. The music, art, theater programs are fantastic and really some of the best things going at Grisham. My child hasn't complained about bulling or serious problems and enjoys school. Besides the mandatory second language requirement I would like to see and understand more about the IB content and what exactly kids who qualify for gifted and talented are doing. I'm excited about the new maker space that is being set up and think that will be a big win for the school and the kids.

Posted: March 2, 2015

This school is horrible it damaged by kids confidence. When we realized what was happening we moved him to private school and has a much better fit for him

Posted: October 24, 2014

I took my kid out of this school cause i was so scared it would harm him badly as a person please do not send your kid her.

Posted: October 18, 2014

GMS is an amazing school, and I love it. They're organised and always working hard. As a student, I can say that some of the teachers have bad days, and tend to show that with no hesitation, but at the end of the day... We've all learned. The hallways do get a bit hectic, as our schedules are all over the school. I now go to a different school, which is larger and has a lot more students, and I can say I am thankful for Grisham's size. It was easy to get from class to class if you used your time efficiently.

Posted: August 4, 2014

This school has a non-existent dress code. Morals and values of the general student population are very low. Uninterested school officials don't seem to mind the foul language, inappropriate conduct, and inappropriate dress. Over-emphasis on sports achievements and under-emphasis on real academic achievements. Smart, creative, and non-cookie cutter children won't thrive in the culture created at this school. There is little interest to "think outside the box" from staff.

Posted: April 29, 2014

Grisham middle school, Has been one great school for our daughters. It has the IB program and a small student body which means more time for each student and time for exploring each lesson....The students help one other and support each others goals.

Posted: August 25, 2013

This School Is Not to much too hype over. Most of the teachers Honestly are one sided. To me this school was horrible just in every way possible. You'll see it when you're child gets Enrolled

Posted: August 9, 2013

In the past year the new administration has strategized to make necessary changes in an attempt to attain a "recognized" status. As a parent, having met and spoken with the new principal and counselers there is a tremendous amount of motivation and forethought going into the future of success of the school. Of course, this is a school in transition. Time will tell.

Posted: August 6, 2013

Unresponsive administration. Very bureaucratic. When they respond to parent concerns at all it is to claim there is nothing they can do, rather than to work on solutions to problems.

Posted: July 19, 2013

This school has excellent teachers that excel in what they teach. They trust the students (though, due to recent changes in administration), and the students flourish through that. They have diverse course options.

Posted: November 28, 2012

The school is horrible with alot to do with the IB program that they are so proud of. The grade system is hard for the kids to understand. Very little feedback is given as to what is wrong with assignments, which don't count for grades. Many times an assignment will count for 2 or 3 separate grades, which may be half of the grades given for a grading cycle, and it makes it very hard to recover from a assignment that the student did poorly on. Many teachers seem to lack motivation and are not timely in posting grades or updating their calendars. No spelling or vocabulary in language arts, essays on math tests. Not enough time spent on core skills. A lot of time is spent working on projects at home that never count for a grade and receive little to no feedback about what needs improved. My son is an A student and in honors language arts and in accelerated math. When tested for tutoring placement for both was placed two grades lower than he is. I had suspected that both skills were below par and that confirmed it. The odd teacher that is engaged can't save a broken cirriculum. The new administation doesn't seem to be making meaningful changes.

Posted: September 1, 2012

we transferred to this school from an Austin isd school because my child was being bullied real bad. i have had the best experience with this school so far. when my child has an issue i have found the teachers to be a great help. even though the school year has just started, from my experience of being there a few months of last school year i have a very positive feeling about the school year this year. so far so good!

Posted: June 20, 2012

I've been slightly concerned by the influx of students, but I believe transfers have stopped for the coming year. That said, I'm glad this school is available to my kids and in our neighborhood. You can't blame the school for having to teach to a test mandated by the state. RRISD has been outspoken with their criticism (as have most school systems across the state) and only time will tell if these mandates are lifted. That said, I want my kids going to college and if they have to jump through hoops to get there I want teachers who are able to to make it happen. I think teachers have a good heart, but can feel very limited by the restraints placed upon them. Let's work on increasing our volunteer rate and taking an active role in our children's education so they can reap all the benefits this school has to offer. Teachers/admins can't do it alone, the community needs to come out. I think Grisham is doing the best with what they have and the band program is proof.

#	Name	Type	City	State	Distance
1	Anderson Mill	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Austin	TX	0.5 mi
2	Midtown Commons at Crestview Station	Apartment Complex	Austin	TX	9.6 mi
3	Mill creek	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Salado	TX	38.3 mi
4	Spanish Oaks	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Killeen	TX	41.7 mi
5	Evergreen Estates	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Harker Heights	TX	41.7 mi
6	Skipcha Mountain Estates	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Harker Heights	TX	42 mi
7	White Rock Estates	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Killeen	TX	42.1 mi
8	Timber Ridge Estates	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Killeen	TX	42.1 mi
9	Knights Ridge	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Harker Heights	TX	42.6 mi
10	Savannah Heights	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Killeen	TX	42.8 mi
11	Glenwood	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Killeen	TX	43 mi
12	Copperas Cove	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Copperas Cove	TX	45.4 mi
13	Skyline Flats	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Copperas Cove	TX	47.2 mi
14	Heartwood Park	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Copperas Cove	TX	47.7 mi
15	Oak View	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Belton	TX	48 mi
16	Northcliffe	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Belton	TX	49.8 mi

#	Name	City	State	Distance
1	Main street	Salado	TX	37.4 mi
2	Harker Heights	Harker Heights	TX	43.1 mi
3	Elms street	Killeen	TX	43.8 mi
4	East Rancier Road	Killeen	TX	46.7 mi
5	North Side	Copperas Cove	TX	48.3 mi

Base	Distance
Camp Mabry	10.4 mi.
Fort Hood	47 mi.

Noel Grisham Middle School

Austin, TX 78750

School Ratings

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Noel Grisham Middle School

Austin, TX 78750

School Ratings

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