Dripping Springs Independent School District
A+Official accountability rating: B (Texas Education Agency A–F rating, 2024-25 school year).
TEA released the 2024 and 2025 A–F accountability ratings on August 15, 2025, the most recent official ratings after a two-year pause from litigation. The letter grades shown elsewhere on this page are indicative composite grades compiled from public data, not the state’s official rating; confirm any district or campus rating at txschools.gov.
Dripping Springs ISD serves approximately 8,000 students in the charming Hill Country community of Dripping Springs, located about 25 miles southwest of downtown Austin. Often called the 'Gateway to the Hill Country,' Dripping Springs ISD is one of the top-rated smaller districts in Texas, earning an A+ rating for its strong academics, tight-knit community culture, and excellent student outcomes. The district is known for small-town values combined with high academic standards, and families are drawn to the area for its blend of rural Hill Country living and access to Austin's metropolitan amenities. Dripping Springs High School is highly regarded for both its academic programs and competitive athletic teams.
Top Schools
Walnut Springs Elementary
elementary SchoolDripping Springs Middle School
middle SchoolDripping Springs High School
high SchoolNeighborhoods in This District
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the community like in Dripping Springs ISD?
Dripping Springs ISD serves a close-knit community that values both academic excellence and small-town character. The area has experienced significant growth in recent years as Austin's expansion pushes westward, but it still retains much of its Hill Country charm. Parents are highly involved in school activities, and the district benefits from strong community support through booster clubs, volunteer programs, and local fundraising efforts. The area is also known for its wineries, breweries, and outdoor recreation.
How is Dripping Springs ISD handling enrollment growth?
Like many Hill Country communities near Austin, Dripping Springs has seen rapid residential development that is driving enrollment growth in the district. DSISD has responded with bond elections to fund new campus construction and facility improvements. The district has added new elementary campuses and expanded its middle and high school facilities to accommodate the growing student population while working to maintain the personalized, community-oriented education that families value.
What is the commute like from Dripping Springs to Austin?
The commute from Dripping Springs to downtown Austin is typically 30 to 45 minutes via US Highway 290, though traffic congestion during peak hours can extend this to an hour or more. Many residents work remotely or in hybrid arrangements, which has become increasingly common in the Austin tech sector. The town is also developing more local commercial and retail infrastructure, reducing the need for some trips into the city. Families who prioritize school quality and Hill Country lifestyle generally consider the commute a reasonable trade-off.