This is a special gem of a place. It's filled with kind, caring compassionate people who teach your…read morekids how they learn. They have a rigorous academic environment while having fun. What a special place to learn and grow.. Truly one of a kind. And the impact on my son and our family has been life changing. The kids learn manners, kindness, friendship, & teamwork on top of the academics.

I wanted to love Magnolia. We carefully chose this program because it presented itself as a place…read morethat understood autistic children and used modern, supportive, ABA-informed practices. Unfortunately, our experience did not match those expectations. During a trial day, a young autistic child became upset after a developmentally typical frustration in a new environment. Instead of observing the calm support, co-regulation, and individualized approach we expected from a program with this stated level of expertise, we experienced a response that felt escalating rather than supportive. There were also concerns with the emotional regulation of the leading staff member, and online records that reinforced concerns related to emotional regulation and safety. The biggest concern was the disconnect between the program's stated philosophy and what we observed in practice. A moment that could have been handled as an opportunity for connection, regulation, and teaching instead left us questioning whether the environment was truly equipped to support autistic children in the way it represents, or any child. Ultimately I did not feel comfortable trusting my daughter to Magnolia. I am grateful we had the opportunity to see this before the school year began, but it was disappointing to have to reconsider so close to the start of school after believing we had found the right fit. Every child deserves a program whose practices match its promises.

While the access/traffic leaves much to be desired, I'm on my seventh year of being a Vandegrift…read moreparent, and I can't say enough good things about the athletic programs, staff and academics. Overall it's a wonderful community, and we are proud to be Viper parents!

Rating the athletic facilities: some of the best I've seen in Texas. Easy access to football…read morestadium and gym. The campus is adjacent to Four Points Middle School.

Our journey with Hill Country Christian School began in a unique and very personal way. I first…read morejoined the Hill Country family as a middle school girls volleyball coach in 2019 and was later hired on as a teacher in 2022. What I couldn't have predicted then was how much joy this place would bring to my family and me. Very early on, I knew in my heart that I wanted my own children to experience that same joy, love, and purpose. One of the most beautiful things about Hill Country is how the school truly lives out its mission: to know your child, love your child, and prepare your child. The teachers go above and beyond in caring for my child not just academically, but spiritually and emotionally. Every day, I see the intentional ways they invest in him, and it's deeply moving as both a parent and an educator. The spiritual growth I've witnessed in my son has been incredible. He's only in Pre-K, but already he's learning to pray, engaging with God's Word, and building a foundation that will last a lifetime. Hearing him pray every night before bed, without prompting, is one of the greatest blessings I could ever ask for as a mom. What makes Hill Country especially impactful is how every subject is taught through a Biblical worldview. It's not just about teaching math or reading; it's about teaching truth, character, and purpose. Our children are learning to love Jesus through every lesson and every experience. This matters so much to our family because we want our children to grow in their relationship with Christ, not just know about Him. Hill Country creates endless opportunities for families to be involved and serve together. It's a place where students and families are encouraged to be the hands and feet of Jesus in every area of life. That kind of culture is rare. If I had to choose one main reason to recommend Hill Country to a friend, it would be this: community. You will find a deeply caring, Christ-centered community here. We support each other in tangible ways through prayers, shared meals, encouraging words, and acts of kindness. It truly feels like family.

We had a very disappointing experience at Hill Country Christian School. My son struggled to stay…read moreengaged and focused, and instead of working with us as parents, the principal, Tracy, took it upon herself to intervene in ways that crossed boundaries. After I had specifically told her I would speak with both the teacher and my son's pediatrician, she removed my son from class and told him directly that he needed to see a doctor for his behavior. When I picked him up, he was crying and asking, "What's wrong with me, Mom?" No child should be put in that position, and that conversation should never have been had with him -- that was my responsibility as his parent. This was not an isolated incident. I had emails to teachers go unanswered, and overall the partnership we expected from a private school simply was not there. Since leaving, I've learned that other families have had similar experiences, where the principal seemed to push an ADHD diagnosis despite disagreement from teachers and parents. In our case, both my son's third- and fourth-grade teachers at HCCS and his pediatrician did not believe he had ADHD. When my son transferred mid-year into public school, the difference was night and day. His new teacher said he was incredibly bright, just likely bored, and he immediately began thriving. He made straight A's, came home happy, and was excited to return to school each day. The contrast showed me that the problem was not with my son but with the way he was being handled at HCCS. We expected much better from a private institution, but sadly, our experience was one of disappointment, lack of communication, and a principal who placed her opinion above parents, teachers, and even doctors.

The staff at Paragon make all the difference. You can see their commitment to the school and…read morepassion for the kids. We have 2 kids attending and like the diversity, high expectations, and school culture. They both love this school and enjoy events like "roller skating week", pool parties, lots of after school sport options and overnight trips. This helps them bond with both students and teachers. Paragon offers high academic standards mixed with life skills. We like the focus on a well-rounded education with academics at least 1 grade level above the standard. In elementary, they are also developing good social skills, learning responsibilities, and planning skills for future academic success. (For example, Paragon gives kids a daily planner to track their homework assignments and get parent signatures for visibility). In middle school, there are lots of team projects, hands-on opportunities, presentations, and field trips. (Projects like running a small business during lunch and breaks.) There are many resources for parents and a great community within and around the school. We recommend this school to friends also.

Paragon Prep School is truly phenomenal, and we give it our highest recommendation! One of the…read morefirst things that caught our attention when visiting schools was seeing how Paragon graduates--after high school and even college--return to visit their teachers. That speaks volumes about the lasting relationships and sense of community the school creates. We love Paragon's motto: "Work Hard. Play Hard. Be Kind." It perfectly reflects what life--and education--should be about. The school is also wonderful for busy families, offering a wide variety of before- and after-school programs, enrichment classes, sports, and summer camps. Paragon's Valor program ensures that new students immediately feel welcomed and connected. The school year even begins and ends with a pool party! There are countless fun traditions and celebrations, including Elvis Day, Chinese New Year, Día de los Muertos, and even a full week of roller skating. Students are placed into "colleges" and love earning points through school spirit, volunteering, and community service--culminating in friendly competitions to see which college wins at the end of the year. Engaging field trips are an integral part of the curriculum, and the school also offers international trips for families during the summer. We accompanied the sixth graders on a trip to Colonial Virginia, and it was a truly marvelous and enriching experience for the students and for us! Our middle school son is proud to be taking all honors classes, and even with the academic rigor, he is able to play three school sports while also practicing another sport outside of school. With Valor and study hall, students have ample time to complete homework and stay organized. We would also like to give a heartfelt shoutout to the incredible educators and staff: Mrs. Lype and Mrs. Correro for being outstanding math teachers; Coach Josh and Coach Nick for being terrific coaches; Mrs. Behr for being an inspiring World Cultures teacher and for teaching invaluable organizational skills; Mr. Wyatt for being relatable and humorous; Mr. Stubblefield for encouraging students to pursue their passions through English; Mr. Aidan for being a wonderful Valor teacher and Rutgers coach; Mr. Cory for planning impactful field trips and summer camps; Mr. Joey for being such an influential Dean of Students; and Mrs. Hay for being a truly one-of-a-kind Head of School who expands learning through meaningful travel experiences. Our son will undoubtedly become one of the many Paragon graduates who return to visit the teachers, staff, and administrators who have made such a lasting difference in his life.

Wow, what can I say, I feel like we won the jackpot when we found Magellan. our daughter started in…read moreKindergarten and although she isn't very good at adapting or transitions, she immediately fell in love with her teachers and school friends.. There are no cliques and no bullying and when we have had issues we have raised them with the teachers and they have jumped on them to solve them immediately, and unlike other private schools there's no sense of entitlement from the parents or students. Also, because the school is so good at awarding scholarships not everyone is 'rich'! The school also has a great parent teacher association which offer weekly meet-ups and play dates as well as adult only events. Each class also has a WhatsApp chat group so parents can easily communicate with each other. If it sounds like one big happy family you'd be right, that's exactly what it feels like. In terms of academics my adhd child has thrived. Diagnosed at 4 we thought she would struggle but the school has been amazing at supporting her needs and accommodating her. They also offer many different seating types from a bouncy ball chair, to cushions on the floor and other such. It's very holistic and non political and offers many diverse ways of learning. They have a calming corner, encourage reading and emotional open communication as well many other ways of teaching emotional and academic intelligence. They teach in Spanish from day one and introduce Mandarin from 3rd grade, they also teach following the international Baccalaureate which is amazing. It teaches the children self confidence through weekly presentations and teaches them autonomy. Honestly this school is amazing and now it goes until 12th grade we are obsessed and so you will be too. But, sshh don't tell anyone about our secret slice of heaven.

My son has attended Magellan since the age of three years old-- he is now in second and we have…read morealready registered him for third grade. Hands down, my husband and I feel it is best decision we have made for his education. Although it can be a bit pricey, we have felt that it has been worth every dollar. He is growing up to be a well spoken, well thought, caring little human. I love that he is bilingual, but I really love his open minded views and his eagerness to learn. The teachers... the teachers have all been so amazing. They are loving, caring and really take each student's personalities and abilities into consideration as they grow from year to year. As I said, it's not the cheapest option and we do discuss yearly if we will be renewing his tuition-- and, with each year this answer comes easier and easier with an astounding "YES". We love the school, the community, the parents and look forward to many more years at Magellan!

A science teacher regularly makes disrespectful comments about faith, particularly Christianity,…read moremaking religious students uncomfortable. Several students have reportedly complained about these remarks, which is especially troubling given St. Stephen's reputation as a Christian school. As well as, a few of the subjects are not being held to a high standard, such as Biology and Spanish.

Hands down the best education you can give your child in Austin, Texas. St. Stephens sets high…read moreexpectations for their student, faculty and staff. The faculty are present and ready to help students succeed and staff is friendly yet professional. St. Stephens also fosters an environment that teaches children about service to others and community, they have zero tolerance for behaviors that would be ignored at other private and public schools in Austin. This is an Episcopalian school that does a beautiful job of making students of diverse religious backgrounds feel welcome and accepted to include students from non-religious families. They offer multiple sports, clubs, and fine arts programs. The tuition is not for the faint of heart, it is costly when compared to other private schools however, it is worth the expense. Most private schools are just like public schools minus the larger classes. St. Stephens not only sets high expectations for their students, they set high standards for their teachers. This in my opinion is what sets them apart from other private schools and public schools. If you have a child who is less academic or perhaps more into athletics you may want to send them to another private school or public school. If you have a child that is hungry for knowledge or wants to be challenged St. Stephens is the school for you. Down side here is the high cost and though it pains me to say it, the cafeteria food is mediocre but hey you can always pack a lunch!

We couldn't be happier with our choice to send our girls to the Ivy School. The teachers are so…read morecaring, the director is communicative and kind, and the school is so clean. They are highly organized and loving. If you are looking for a super high quality Spanish immersion school for your little one, this is it!!

This review is long overdue! The Ivy International School is the only place I feel 100% comfortable…read moreleaving my children for care. Class sizes are small and every teacher there knows my children, even if they were not their specific teacher, which makes me feel like we are a part of a family. Facility is always clean, bright and comfortable. The staff are always smiling and genuinely happy to see the kids. They are open and willing to accommodate to my children's dietary needs and allow cloth diapering. My daughter attended for 4 years and loved every minute. She wanted to get there early and stay late every day. She is currently 9 years old and going into 4th grade. She is a TAG student and does well in all her classes. My son is 4 and is a current student. He loves his teachers and comes home everyday with proud stories of what he learned and the fun time he had with his teachers and friends. He comes home saying new Spanish words every week and seems to be understanding more and more since he first started 2 years ago. All of the achievements and happiness that my children have experienced while at the Ivy International School is because of the knowledgable and warm hearts of the staff which pours down from the top. Esmeralda, the director, always has a smile on her face to greet the children when they arrive. She clearly communicates upcoming deadlines and events. And is in the classrooms daily to help out wherever needed whether that means to clean a spill, assist a teacher or wipe a butt. When times were hard for us as a family, she was understanding, flexible and a great support for both myself and my daughter. I recently moved to Round Rock and the drive takes me 30-45 mins on some days but I wouldn't have it any other way because I know it is what is best for my child.

We began IST as one of the founding families this past fall, its first year. Words cannot express…read morethe camaraderie, energy and the love and warmth of the staff. My daughter is always so positively challenged and is exposed to so many different perspectives and cultures of the world. This is something very important to us as my husband is a 1st generation Cuban-American and I am 7th generation Central Texan.. To have the opportunity for her to attend is truly a perfect example of the American dream. Having the opportunity to provide and build this sacred space for our children is a true gift. As parents, we are all deeply committed as a whole. It simply does not get any better than this. To be a part of such a complete, quality IB program is something we never realized we could achieve for our daughter. But now, I could never imagine our lives any other way. The student body is collectively taught to respect and genuinely care for others. They are taught to honor and recognize each others' difference AND celebrate them. Each family and each child, each teacher and each staff member bring such amazing experience and life lessons to share to the table in this environment. You see it more and more with each visit. It just continues to grow stronger. The positive energy is palatable when you walk in the door to see the children and staff interacting. It is through building such strong foundations, socially and academically, that in just its first year, we are running strong with SO much progress. Such exponential growth has taken place at just at the turn of our 1st year anniversary this July. Again, no matter how much pride I try to convey, I cannot do it all justice. You must come see it for yourself to see where your family may become a part of such a vital, life-changing community. We hope to see you there! Blessed be.

$20k per year tuition fees with super average curriculum execution…read more As a parent expect to receive multiple extremely long winded emails every day requesting you make/bring something to school - I would count myself as very organized yet found it extremely difficult to keep up with all their requests Unusually high Headmaster attrition - we had 3 different Headmasters in 1 year - not a great sign Worst part of the experience was when we ended up needing to move a new town outside Austin and a new school - when I cancelled (2 months before the beginning of the school year) - IST insisted on not only keeping my deposit (I absolutely understand this) but the tuition fees I paid in advance. The school year wasn't even close to starting! For a not-for-profit this is a fairly shameful business practice and a terrible moral example to our children. After I explained my position to the (at least right now current) head Brian he looked me in the eye and agreed the tuition fee refund I was asking for was fair - to which he then sent an email days later rescinding this and denying me a refund. Shady beyond belief. For these reasons I would not recommend sending your child to IST.