About Us

Barksdale Elementary takes its name from a historic school that once served the White Rock Creek area, near present-day Midway Road and Plano Parkway. The original Barksdale School was established in 1860, just southwest of what is now Brinker Elementary. Over the years, the school relocated several times to meet the needs of the growing community before eventually closing its doors in 1940.

 

The exact origin of the name “Barksdale” has been lost to history and even longtime Plano residents are unsure of how it was first chosen. However, the legacy of the school lives on thanks in part to alumnus Clifton Haggard, who purchased the building after it closed and preserved many of its architectural features.

 

Continuing this tradition, Plano ISD opened the current Barksdale Elementary in 1996 as a modern, technologically advanced campus designed to support 21st-century learning. The school was built using a floor plan similar to several other Plano ISD schools, including Gulledge and Haggar Elementary, reflecting a commitment to both innovation and community connection.

 

Today, Barksdale Elementary honors its rich history while providing a forward-thinking educational environment where students can learn, grow and succeed.