WonderWell→

Location: Southwest Austin
Students served: Ages 2 (Pre-Primary) through 6 (Kindergarten)
Current enrollment: 100
Model/philosophy: WonderWell is a highly acclaimed private preschool that embraces emergent curriculum and the Reggio Emilia philosophy of early childhood education. The program endorses the belief that children learn best when their learning is personally meaningful and relevant to their own interests and lives. The school's mission is to inspire its students' innate curiosity and instill a deep love of learning. WonderWell passionately serves children ages 2 through 6 years, with its Primary and Pre-Primary programs as well as its exclusive Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten programs.
Special features: WonderWell’s innovative campus is an exemplar of progressive educational design. Each day, students participate in enrichment classes across uniquely tailored spaces, such as “Maker Day” in the Atelier, “Eat the Rainbow” in Health and Fitness, and learning about distinguished authors and children's books in “The Well,” the school's newly unveiled library. A dedicated school nurse and onsite security ensure a safe and nurturing environment. The school's layout also includes a carefully designed Courtyard, concealed from public view, providing a private, protected space for students and staff alike.
Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8am–4pm; closed in June and July; summer camps designed and offered by WonderWell staff
Tuition: See website for WonderWell's tuition and fee structure, payment plans: https://wonderwell.com/investment
Contact: Ashley Ivey, Founder and Director | ashley@wonderwell.com | 512-982-4310

Acton Academy Bee Cave→

Location: Bee Cave; serving Lake Travis, Lakeway, Oak Hill, Spicewood, Cuernavaca, and Dripping Springs
14820 Hamilton Pool Rd*
Austin, TX 78738
* Permanent location to open September 2026 at 15765 Hamilton Pool Rd | Austin, TX 78738
Students served: Spark Studio, ages 4–6; Explore Studio, ages 6–8; Travel Studio, ages 8–11; Adventure Studio, ages 11–15; Launch Pad, ages 14–18
Current enrollment: 50 students
Model/philosophy: Acton Academy is the most student-centered learning environment in the world and does education like you've never seen before. It is totally and completely different. Acton Academy believes that every child is born with potential to find their calling and change the world. Acton Academy promises your child will: begin a Hero's Journey; learn to be a curious, independent, lifelong learner; develop a deep respect for economic, political, and religious freedoms; cherish the arts, wonders of the physical world, and mysteries of life on Earth; discover his or her most precious gifts and learn to use them to solve difficult problems.
Special features: At Acton Academy children learn in a collaborative studio of multi-age learners. This flexible approach challenges each student to determine their own differentiated learning plan and inspires them through real-world projects and experiences. Acton's Learner Driven Community puts children at the center of their learning, allowing them to create and maintain personal goals and relational covenants and contracts, as they Learn to Learn, Learn to Do, and Learn to Be. Acton believes each child has a gift that can change the world in a profound way. Acton believes in a closely connected community of families and lifelong learners. The Acton Bee Cave middle and high school programs (Adventure Studio and Launchpad) feature apprenticeships, service, Socratic discussions, business fairs, group projects, and writing.
Schedule: Dropoff 8:15–8:45am; the first Socratic discussion of the day (called Launch) starts at 8:45am. School finishes at 3:15pm. School year runs early September to mid-July. There is a week-long break every 6 weeks.
Tuition: $1,375 a month for 11 months per year, or $15,125 a year
Contact: Matt Briggs | 512-387-4043 | matthew@actonbeecave.org | https://actonbeecave.org

Acton Academy Northwest Austin→

Location: Northwest Austin
8508 White Cliff Drive
Austin, TX 78759
Students served: Spark Studio serving ages 4–7; Discovery Studio serving ages 7–11
Current enrollment: Rolling admissions; see this page for upcoming deadlines; maximum of 50
Model/philosophy: Acton Academy Northwest is a student-led, self-paced, private accredited school. The school uses online adaptive software for math and language, project-based learning, Socratic discussion groups, and examination of the Hero’s Journey and how it applies personally to each student. Every child has a gift that can change the world in a profound way. The school’s mission is to inspire each child to find their calling and develop the passion to pursue it. The founders believe that “learning to do” and “learning to be” are even more important than “learning to know.”
Special features: Online adaptive software for math and language, project-based learning, Socratic discussion groups, examination of the Hero’s Journey and how it applies personally to each student, no homework, service learning opportunities, and outdoor education. Located on 1-acre property off Old Spicewood Springs Road and 360. Will be building out a large, separate makerspace for learners to explore and spend plenty of time outdoors!
Pandemic plan: Read this school’s COVID-19 response here.
Schedule: 8:30am–3:15pm, Monday–Friday; Acton Academy Northwest Austin follows an 11-month calendar that allows for students to have extended breaks throughout the year and maintains their interests and retention by shortening the summer break.
Tuition: $1,350 per month for 11 months
Contact: Angela Griffiths Lucas, Head of School | angela@actonacademynwaustin.org

Acton Academy West (the Westlake campus)→

Location: West Lake Hills (serving Westlake, Rollingwood, Barton Hills, Tarrytown, and surrounding West Austin areas)
3423 Bee Cave Road
West Lake Hills, TX 78746
Students served: Spark program (ages 4-5), Elementary (1st–5th), Middle School (6th–8th), and High School (9th–12th)
Current enrollment: 90
Model/philosophy: Every child has a gift that can change the world in a profound way. The school’s mission is to inspire each child to find their calling and develop the passion to pursue it. The founders believe that “learning to do”, “learning to be,” and "learning to learn" are more important than “learning to know.”
Special features: Acton Academy West Austin, founded in 2015, is a student-led, self-paced, private accredited school. The school uses online adaptive software for math and language, project-based learning, Socratic discussion groups, and examination of the Hero’s Journey and how it applies personally to each student. The campus is set back off of the road in Westlake, on a 6-acre magical property where the students enjoy a major focus on outdoor time and unstructured play. The campus participates in competitive private school league sports, including soccer, flag football, and basketball. Each team, in each sport, has held an undefeated season, and this year the all-girls basketball team won the championship.
Schedule: Monday–Friday 8:30am–3:15pm, year-round Sept–July. See the school’s calendar here.
Tuition: $1,200 per month for 11 months ($13,200 total per year)
Contact: Jayme Bynum, Head of School | info@actonacademywestaustin.com | actonacademywest.com (elementary & middle school) | high-school.actonacademywest.com (high school)

Apogee Cedar Park→

Location: North Austin / Cedar Park
12129 N FM 620
Austin, TX 78751
Students served: Currently serving ages 4–11; growing to middle school and high school as learners age up.
Current enrollment: 50 learners, with all studios at a 12:1 ratio or under. Year-round enrollment if space is available.
Model/philosophy: Apogee’s mission is to equip and shape young citizens into critical thinkers who take the onus of responsibility of all elements of their education.
Special features: At Apogee Cedar Park, children learn in a collaborative studio of multi-age learners. The flexible approach challenges each student with their own differentiated learning plan and inspires them through real-world projects and experiences. Apogee's Learner Driven Community puts children at the center of their learning, allowing them to create and maintain personal goals and studio contracts.
Schedule: 9am–3pm Monday–Friday, drop-off as early as 8am and a BJJ after-school program until 5:15pm (additional cost for after-school); September–June 30, with week-long breaks every 4–5 weeks.
Tuition: $14,000 annually or 10 monthly payments of $1,400. Sibling, pay-in-full, and first-responder discounts available.
Contact: Tim Kennedy, Owner; Michelle Myers, Program Director | info@apogeecedarpark.com

Ascent: An Acton Academy→

Location: North Central Austin
5701 Cameron Road
Austin, TX 78723
Students served: Ages 4–12. Spark Studio serves ages 4–6, Discovery Studio serves ages 6–9, and Explore Studio serves ages 9–12.
Current enrollment: 65+; rolling admissions
Model/philosophy: Ascent Academy's mission is to inspire each child and parent who enters its doors to find a calling that will change the world. Ascent follows a one-room schoolhouse model that applies the philosophy of the Hero’s Journey and the Socratic method to empower young people. Combining Montessori principles with technology, Ascent has created a self-paced learning environment where children are equipped to become independent, lifelong learners. It is a bold and brave educational model that trusts children to master academic skills, strive for excellence in their choices, and learn how to live and work with others as a community.
Special features: Ascent’s vibrant community of young learners is situated on nearly two acres in the historic Windsor Park neighborhood, complete with an orchard, a yurt, a budding urban forest, a chicken coop, and a dynamic outdoor Loose Parts Play environment. Ascent's Spark Studio follows a Montessori-based program that empowers learners to make choices and sparks their curiosity. With a deep commitment to gross motor movement, Sparks spend part of their day in an outdoor, all-weather Loose Parts Play program. The Discovery Studio continues with a Montessori foundation in a blended environment encouraging curiosity and establishing supportive habits during session-long deep-dives. Learners develop a joy for learning through a balanced design that uses Montessori works, online adaptive software, project-based learning, Socratic discussion groups, service learning opportunities, and outdoor education. The Explore Studio builds on the foundations of Spark and Discovery and follows the child’s internal, interpersonal growth as learners develop more self-awareness and independence through reflective processes and experimentation with more freedom within boundaries.
Schedule: 8am–3:30pm Monday–Friday; year-round with week-long breaks every 5–6 weeks
Tuition: Tuition for the 2024–2025 academic year is $16,355. Sibling discounts and limited Hero grants available.
Contact: Janita Lavani and Samantha Jansky, Co-Founders | ascent@ascentacton.org

Bloom Preschool→

Location: Southwest Austin
near William Cannon & Mopac
Students served: Ages 3–5
Current enrollment: 8
Model/philosophy: Bloom offers a loving, creative environment where children are free to learn through play and exploration of their world. Children spend most of their days in an outdoor classroom. As a Reggio Emilia inspired program, children's learning is built upon their interests, and projects are ongoing, inspiring, and meaningful. Children use emotional learning to build an understanding of self and create meaningful relationships with friends.
Special features: Daily music, gardening, free play, storytelling, art, friendship, community, project-based learning, emotional learning, comfortable home-based environment, outdoor exploration.
Schedule: 9am–3pm Monday–Friday; 2-, 3-, and 5-day options available. Follows a basic AISD calendar throughout the school year and runs through the end of June.
Tuition: Starting at $650 per month
Contact: Mary Belton | mary.bloom.preschool@gmail.com

Bridges Academy Austin→

Location: West (Steiner Ranch)
4308 N Quinlan Park Rd Ste 100
Austin, TX 78732
Students served: K–12th grades; specializing in dyslexia, dysgraphia, gifted/2e, and other learning differences
Current enrollment: About 50 students and growing; average ratio 1:6
Model/philosophy: Bridges Academy Austin is a small accredited K–12 school specializing in dyslexia, dysgraphia, gifted/2e, and other learning differences. The school meets students where they are academically and helps them reach their potential. Teachers are certified teachers, reading specialists, and special education teachers who also have experience with gifted/talented learners. The school helps students advance in their areas of strength while receiving support in their areas of need. Students average two years of growth per year. In the words of a student, “We learn twice as much, but without the stress.” Bridges Academy Austin offers dual credit, so students may earn college credit while in high school. High school students typically go to college after graduation. the school is a welcoming environment for diversity. Students of all ethnicities, religions, genders, etc. are welcome. Students are kind to each other.
Special features: Specializing in dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, gifted/2e, and other learning differences; certified teachers and specialists; executive functioning support; onsite options for speech therapy and occupational therapy; no homework for K–8; minimal homework for high school students; a good option for students with hearing impairments
Schedule: Monday–Friday. Hours vary by the student and courses, but core classes are 9am–2:30pm, and some students have study hall, electives, and 1:1 interventions before or after these hours. August–May school year calendar.
Tuition: $19,900 annual tuition; enrollment and materials fee. This rate is subject to change. Please refer to the school’s website for current tuition information.
Contact: Alexandra Elliot, PhD, Director | 512-506-1980 | info@BridgesAcademyAustin.com

Clearview Sudbury School and WonderCrafters PreK→

Location: East Central Austin
1507 Wilshire Blvd
Austin, TX 78722
Students served: (Clearview K–12) ages 5–18; (WonderCrafters PreK) ages 3–4
Current enrollment: (Clearview K–12) 21; (WonderCrafters PreK, which just launched in summer 2024) 1 full-time and 2 part-time
Model/philosophy: (Clearview K–12) Sudbury model school; (WonderCrafters) Reggio Emilia & play-based maker space
Special features: Clearview offers self-directed education, a democratically run school, with a supportive and proven model; WonderCrafters is a play-based, Reggio Emilia–inspired program with a makerspace vibe.
Schedule: (Clearview K–12) Monday–Friday 9am–4pm, follows AISD calendar for days off. (WonderCrafters PreK) Monday–Thursday 9am–3pm, with an extra hour before and after school available; follows AISD calendar for days off; summer months available as week-long, theme-based opportunities; weekly camps & Friday camps available during the school year.
Tuition: (Clearview K–12) Tuition is set at $10,900 per year for new families; there is a sibling discount of 25% for the second child and 50% for subsequent children; there is an option to apply for reduced tuition based on the family’s ability to pay. (WonderCrafters PreK) year round tuition $1,000/mo x 12 OR weekly Camps at $350/wk OR Friday camps at $75/day.
Contact: (Clearview K–12) Shawna Pitts, Admissions Clerk | 512-524-0085 | shawna@clearviewsudburyschool.org; (WonderCrafters PreK) Ali Ronder, Director | 512-777-0852 | preschool@clearviewsudburyschool.org

ESTEAM Academy→

Location: Round Rock
12 Lake Drive
Round Rock, TX 78665
Students served: Grades PreK–12th, ages 4–18/19
Current enrollment: 54 (Early Elementary 13, Upper Elementary 17, Middle School 17, High School 7); maximum enrollment at current facility is 70; rolling admissions
Model/philosophy: ESTEAM Academy (an Acton Academy affiliate) is an entrepreneurship, art, and tech focused community. It is a tribe, a group of passionate, bold people who believe their children’s learning journey should be inspired and empowered, and so have committed to actively working together, inspiring, equipping, and connecting each Hero who walks thru the doors to discover their passion and purpose and to develop the relevant life skills needed to be successful in their chosen endeavors. Lifelong Learners, actively working and growing together.
Special features: ESTEAM Academy removes arbitrary considerations like age or time as indicators of what a Hero should or should not be able to do and instead looks at the individual and works to customize their journey with the tools they need to succeed in their own time. No tests! No homework! No grades! It is mastery-based, hands-on, and life skills–focused! Self-paced, student-led, Socratic, Montessori-inspired, project-based learning.
Schedule: Mondays–Fridays 9am–4pm. The Academy Programs run September–May; two months of Summer Camps (June and July) are included in the full-time 5-Day Program and available as an optional add-on for part-time programs. Flexible Program options include 2-day, 3-day, 4-day, and 5-day programs.
Tuition: $13,700 for 5-day Full-Time Program; $12,050 for 4-Day Part-Time Program; $10, 510 for 3-day Part-Time Program; $8,510 for 2-day Part-Time Program. Pay-in-full or finance options are available over 9 or 11 months. An enrollment fee of $500 due at enrollment (deducted from total tuition cost). Some clubs will have additional materials costs. Hardship tuition assistance available. Call to learn more or schedule a tour via the school’s website.
Contact: Nicholle Walton-Durban, Co-Founder & Head of School | 310-384-3391 | esteamacademyrr@gmail.com

Figment Creative Labs→

Location: South Austin*
7809 Brodie Lane
Austin, TX 78745
* Planning to add a 2nd location in Southwest Austin at 11101 Signal Hill Rd., Austin TX 78737
Students served: All ages—toddler playgroups, creative pre-K, homeschool groups, after-school programs, adult classes on Sundays
Current enrollment: Maximum class size 12 children with 2 creative guides
Model/philosophy: Figment Creative Labs is a creative space for all ages. FCL focuses on process art and learning through play with younger artists, and maker ed. hands-on learning and STEAM education as artists grow with them.
Special features: Figment’s current location, at 7809 Brodie Lane, includes an art studio, a maker space, the discovery lab, and a creative preschool and toddler space, as well as an ever-evolving outdoor play area. It is home to rainbow colors, unbridled curiosity, and a menagerie of beloved class pets.
Schedule: Monday–Friday various programs with various schedules 9am–5:30pm, parties on Saturdays, and adult classes on Sundays. Follows AISD calendar for days off, with summer camps June–August.
Tuition: Monthly tuition for most programs; weekly tuition for summer camps; 10% sibling discount; see website for each program’s current tuition rates.
Contact: 512-551-3244 | figmentfrontdesk@gmail.com

Growing Curiosity Community School→

Location: North Central Austin
9000 Georgian Dr
Austin, TX 78753
Students served: ages 3–6 years
Current enrollment: 18 students; maximum of 20 with a student-teacher ratio of 10:1
Model/philosophy: Growing Curiosity’s mission is to provide an affordable, quality Montessori preschool program with a focus on physical and social development, anti-bias education, and an appreciation for nature.
Special features: Anti-bias education, Montessori philosophy, mixed-age learning, gardening
Schedule: 8am–5pm (with part-time 8am–3pm option) Monday–Friday
Tuition: $765/month full-time; $625/month part-time
Contact: Dr. Breana Sylvester, Director | breana@growingcuriosity.org | 512-243-6924

Headwaters School→

Location: Multiple
Early Childhood Campus, South Austin
6305 Menchaca Rd.
Austin, TX 78745
Elementary Campus, Southwest Austin
9607 Brodie Ln.
Austin, TX 78748
Middle and High School Campus, Downtown
807 Rio Grande
Austin, TX 78701
Students served: Age 18 months through 12th grade
Current enrollment: 525 (Early Childhood: 113; Elementary: 191; Middle School: 114; High School: 107)
Model/philosophy: Headwaters School is an independent school in Austin, Texas, serving students from early childhood through grade 12. At Headwaters, they believe in the power of young people to solve challenges great and small. That’s why they’ve built a culture around student-led exploration and creativity. The school's approach to excellence is defined by challenge and growth--because they know when students are propelled by curiosity and grounded in empathy, they are ready for any opportunity life brings their way. Founded in 2001, the school begins with a Montessori foundation and progresses to the International Baccalaureate® (IB) Diploma Programme. The school invites its students, guides, staff, parents, and trustees to be Peacemakers, Advocates, Creators, and Thinkers.
Special features: The Montessori curriculum in the Early Childhood and Elementary programs empowers students to explore their individual curiosity, grow in kindness, and learn self-advocacy in a caring, supportive environment. In middle school, Headwaters students learn who they are, who they want to become, and what impact they want to have on the world. The downtown location for the middle and high school gives students real-world practice in developing executive function skills and navigating the world beyond the campus. In high school, the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme features depth over breadth and a mastery of writing across the curriculum. Headwaters offers a highly personalized college counseling experience.
Schedule: Headwaters follows a semester structure, with school typically beginning in late August and continuing through late May. Students attend school five days a week. On the Early Childhood campus, families can choose a half-day program or a full-day program. The school offers summer programming on all three campuses. The most up-to-date school calendar can be found here.
Tuition: Early Childhood tuition ranges from $15,700 to $16,600; Elementary tuition ranges from $16,900 to $17,300; Middle School tuition is $20,800; High School tuition is $22,900.
Contact: Amy Nylund, Director of Early Childhood & Elementary Admissions / Krista Phillips, Director of Middle & High School Admissions | 512-623-5406 | admissions@headwaters.org

Kirby Hall School→

Location: Central Austin
306 W. 29th Street
Austin, TX 78705
Students served: PreK(4)–8th grade
Current enrollment: 70
Model/philosophy: The mission of Kirby Hall School is to prepare bright young people for a life of academic success, personal fulfillment, and dedicated service while teaching them to lead with kindness, humility, and respect. Kirby Hall features small class sizes, hands-on learning, growth mindset instruction, tech-intentional approaches, regular time in the MakerSpace, Spanish language instruction in all grades, and frequent field trips, alongside a warm, nurturing, and inclusive environment.
Special features: Historic building; located within walking distance of UT Austin; small class sizes; warm, family community; high academics in a nurturing environment; ability to individualize class schedules
Schedule: 8am–4:15pm, depending on grade level, Monday–Friday; generally follows AISD schedule as relates to holidays and announcements concerning weather
Tuition: PreK4, $14,950; Kindergarten to 8th, $20,625
Contact: Emily Roberts, Director of Admissions | 512-474-1770 | eroberts@kirbyhallschool.org

Living Oaks PEA→

Location: West Dripping Springs
Students served: Parent & Child Classes (child ages 0–3), PreK (ages 3–4), Mixed-Age Kindergarten (ages 4–6), Grades 1–8
Current enrollment: 80+
Model/philosophy: Living Oaks is a flourishing Waldorf initiative nestled on a serene 10-acre biodynamic farm! Living Oaks takes immense pride in offering a truly unique educational experience that blends the wisdom of Waldorf pedagogy with the wonders of nature. The campus, surrounded by the beauty of the hill country, provides the perfect backdrop for children to learn, explore, and grow harmoniously. Living Oaks offers an unmatched lunch program featuring locally sourced organic produce and meat. A commitment to sustainability not only ensures nutritious meals but also instills in students a deep appreciation for the environment and the food they enjoy.
Special features: Living Oaks is dedicated to nurturing the potential of every child, helping them bloom into confident, compassionate, and well-rounded individuals. The program includes handwork, games/movement, gardening, culinary arts, Spanish, art, music, and woodworking. The vibrant community comes together for traditional Waldorf festivals, regular family social events, moms’ and dads’ groups, and Steiner study groups.
Schedule: Monday–Thursday 8:15am–3:30pm
Tuition: $15,100 for Early Childhood and $15,700 for 1st–8th grades. Tuition includes organic locally sourced snack and lunch prepared by the onsite chef. Sibling discounts available.
Contact: Antonia Wilemon, Enrollment Coordinator | info@livingoaks.life

The Magnolia School→

Location: Gateway to Falconhead (Far West Austin / Lakeway / Bee Cave area)
3500 FM 620 S G-200
Austin TX 78738
Students served: Ages 3–14 (through 8th grade content)
Current enrollment: 140
Model/philosophy: Self-paced, individualized, and fun learning; students are grouped by their academic level and taught in groups of varied sizes; lessons are adjusted to meet each child's learning style and are fun so children want to come to school and enjoy learning
Special features: Low student-teacher ratios, with classes capped at 18 students and groups ranging from 5 to 15 students depending on content level; school year August–May; summer camps offered in June and July
Schedule: 8am–3:30pm Monday–Friday; after care 3:30–5:30pm Monday–Friday
Tuition: $16,695 for preschool; $17,500 for elementary school; $18,684 for middle school. Part time preschool also available.
Contact: Meghan Tapp | 512-266-9620 | meghan@TheMagnoliaSchoolATX.com

Mama Melli Childcare Center→

Location: Southwest Austin
10802 Kit Carson Dr.
Austin, TX 78737
Students served: ages 18 months–6 years
Current enrollment: Holistic Development Program (ages 18 months–4 years), max class size 16, currently 2 full time spots available; Forest Program (ages 3–6 years), max class size 10, no spots currently available
Model/philosophy: Both programs are play-based, nature-inspired, and child-led. It’s a space for kids to be kids, explore, get messy, and have fun! The majority of the day is spent outside, weather permitting. And with low ratios and a smaller environment, the teachers are able to create loving relationships with each child and their family.
Special features: Located on a 30-acre farm with goats and chickens, full time and year round, play-based, nature-inspired, child-led, low teacher to child ratios and small class sizes, healthy gluten-free snacks, weekly yoga class, weekly music class, family socials every other month
Schedule: 7am–6pm Monday–Friday, year round. Closed 1 week for spring break, 1 week for summer break, and 2 weeks for winter break
Tuition: $1,400 per month for full time; part-time options available; paid easily online
Contact: Melissa Peck, Owner and Director | 512-300-0987 | info@mamamellichildcare.com

Nature Pod Homeschool→

Location: Way South Austin
308 Hermosa Dr.
Manchaca, Texas 78652
Students served: PreK–5th grade
Current enrollment: 18 total students; 1:6 teacher-student ratio
Model/philosophy: This nature-based learning environment is situated on a 5-acre homestead with cozy indoor classrooms as well as ample outdoor learning space to include nature trails, playground, gardens, outdoor classroom, and farm animals. The use of mixed-age groups supports students in learning at their own pace as well as developing diverse social skills. Nature Pod delivers a blend of nature-based, play-based, and project-based curriculum that is guided by state standards (TEKS) and aimed to challenge young minds while keeping learning fun and engaging.
Special features: Nature Pod offers a shortened 4-day school week to support home/school life balance. There is also a Fun Friday option that can be added to the school week or be utilized as a stand-alone 1 day-per-week program. This is a small, close-knit community that gathers frequently, hosts weekly after-school playdates, and has lots of opportunity for (non-required) parent involvement. Their students learn American Sign Language as a foreign language and receive support from deaf interns throughout the school year.
Schedule: 9am–3pm Monday–Thursday with optional Friday enrichment; annual calendar is loosely based off of AISD with the school year running approximately mid-August to late May.
Tuition: Monday–Thursday $850 per month; Friday enrichment program $150 per month for enrolled students, $250 per month for standalone participants.
Contact: Victoria Shope, Founder | naturepodhomeschool@gmail.com | 512-922-1969

Nature's Schoolhouse Microschool→

Location: Cedar Park; operates out of Rockbridge Church
2001 W New Hope Dr
Cedar Park, TX 78613
Students served: PreK–5th grade
Current enrollment: 21
Model/philosophy: Nature's Schoolhouse provides a mixed-age learning environment for PreK–5th grade. Offering a new take on the one-room schoolhouse model, the homeschool-like program fosters creativity, critical thinking, and a deep connection with nature. Students thrive in a low-stress setting, blending structured academic learning with hands-on outdoor exploration and play.
Special features: The school features a 4-day (Monday–Thursday) core school week complemented by a unique Friday outdoor nature science program (which is also available as a stand-alone 1 day per week program). It hosts numerous community events throughout the year and holds monthly parent collaborative meetings. On-site ABA, Speech Therapy, and Occupational Therapy services support students' diverse needs. With ample outdoor playtime each day on a 5-acre campus, the school creates a low-stress environment that fosters a love for nature, encourages physical activity, and promotes social development.
Schedule: Nature's Schoolhouse follows a semester structure, with school typically beginning in late August and continuing through the end of May. Students attend school 4 days a week (Monday–Thursday) at our main campus and 1 day per week (Friday) at Twin Lakes Park. School hours are 9am–3:30pm.
Tuition: Full-time, $13,035 annually or 11 monthly payments of $1,185. $650 New Student Enrollment Fee. $600 annual Materials Fee.
Fridays only: $2,100 annually or $300 deposit + 9 monthly payments of $200.
Contact: Nicole Tomayko, Director | nicole@naturesschoolhouse.com

The Nest→

Location: South Austin
Students served: 18 months–2 1/2 years old
Current enrollment: 12
Model/philosophy: The Nest, a small and intimate environment, is primarily designed to provide opportunities that help support the young child’s initial transition from home to school. Indoor and outdoor prepared environments are thoughtfully designed to support the child’s budding independence as well as their need for exploration. The curriculum integrates nature and art while remaining strongly rooted in the Montessori philosophy.
Special features: The Nest provides engaging indoor and outdoor environments in a nurturing home setting in south Austin. Strong nature and art curriculum, including an annual Outdoor Art Show featuring the children's work. Regular community events and strong parent support, including support in the school search process.
Schedule: Families may choose between 3-day or 4-day enrollment, Tuesday–Thursday or Monday–Thursday. Hours of operation are 8:30am–12:30pm for both options. The Nest generally follows the AISD calendar with slight variations. The school year runs from August through May, with an optional month of summer camp through the end of June. The Nest closes for one week in the fall and spring and two weeks in the winter.
Tuition: Tuition can be paid monthly or annually. Annual tuition for 3-day enrollment is $7,750. Annual tuition for 4-day enrollment is $9,250. First-Time Enrollment Fee is $300. Annual Materials Fee is $400.
Contact: Laura Delgado, Owner/Director/Guide | themontessoritree@gmail.com