Education

For the seventh consecutive year, Tomball Independent School District has been named the No. 1 Best School District in Harris County by Niche, a national leader in data-driven school rankings and community insights. Released as part of the 2026 Niche Best School Districts list, the annual rankings once again shine a spotlight on Tomball ISD’s academic strength, highly rated teachers, and overall district culture—making it not only the best district in the county, but also the No. 1 Best Place to Teach in Harris County and the district with the Best Teachers in Harris County.

Superintendent Dr. Martha Salazar-Zamora credited the entire Tomball ISD community for the continued success. “These rankings are a reflection of the incredible work of our teachers, staff, students, and community,” she said. “We are proud to see Tomball ISD consistently recognized for educational excellence and as a great place to teach and learn.”

What Makes Niche’s Rankings So Influential?

Niche’s annual school district rankings are widely regarded as one of the most comprehensive and user-friendly evaluations of public education systems in the country. The Best School Districts list is based on a combination of:

• State test scores and academic performance
• Graduation rates and college readiness
• Student-teacher ratios
• Teacher quality and experience
• Diversity and student culture
• Surveys and reviews from students and parents

By analyzing millions of data points from the U.S. Department of Education alongside firsthand reviews, Niche helps families make informed decisions about where to live and where to send their children to school. Rankings are updated annually and are broken down not just by state, but also by metro area and county—making Tomball ISD’s local dominance even more meaningful for Harris County families.

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Tomball ISD: A Legacy of Growth and Excellence

Founded in 1908, Tomball ISD now spans 83 square miles across northwest Harris County and southwest Montgomery County, serving over 23,000 students across 25 campuses. Located about 30 miles northwest of downtown Houston, the district has grown significantly while maintaining a strong reputation for academic excellence, innovation, and community engagement.

The district’s continued top-tier ranking by Niche reflects a deep investment in both students and staff. Tomball ISD’s mission to “educate students to become responsible, productive citizens by providing innovative, individually rigorous, and personally valuable educational experiences” has been more than just a slogan—it’s been a blueprint for success.

With a strong support system for teachers, engaged parents, and a growing student body, Tomball ISD is often looked to as a model district in the Greater Houston area. Programs in STEM, fine arts, college readiness, and character education are just a few of the ways the district helps students thrive beyond the classroom.

What It Means for Local Families

For current and prospective Tomball-area families, this No. 1 ranking offers more than bragging rights—it’s a clear indicator of school quality, teacher investment, and overall student experience. As real estate websites and relocation services increasingly integrate Niche scores into their listings, Tomball ISD’s recognition also enhances local property values and contributes to a strong sense of community pride.

Whether you're a new family moving to northwest Harris County or a longtime resident watching the district evolve, Tomball ISD’s continued excellence is something the entire region can celebrate.

Stay tuned with My Neighborhood News for more updates on education in northwest Harris County and local school district highlights.

By Tiffany Krenek, My Neighborhood News 

Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.