7 Best Schools in Austin for Elementary Students
Top Education Options
Finding the right elementary school for your child is a crucial decision that can significantly impact their educational journey. Austin offers a variety of top-notch public and private elementary schools, each providing unique environments and approaches to education, ensuring there is something for every family's needs.
This article explores the seven best elementary schools in Austin, providing insights into what makes each of these institutions stand out. From innovative curriculums to supportive communities, these schools are recognized for their commitment to fostering student growth and success.
1) Casis Elementary School
Casis Elementary School is located in Austin, Texas, and serves students from Prekindergarten through 5th grade. It stands out for its high academic achievements, ranking in the top 5% of schools in Texas for test scores.
The school has a student population of around 622, with a student-teacher ratio of 15 to 1. This relatively low ratio allows for more personalized attention to each student.
Math proficiency at Casis Elementary is impressive, with 73% of students meeting or exceeding state standards. Reading proficiency is even higher, with 87% of students achieving proficiency.
The school is known for its strong community involvement, where staff, parents, and students collaborate to enhance the learning environment. The principal, Samuel Tinnon, oversees the campus, ensuring a focus on both academic excellence and personal growth.
Casis Elementary's commitment to education extends beyond test scores. The school emphasizes character development and social-emotional learning, creating a well-rounded experience for its students.
Located at 2710 Exposition Blvd, the school is a pivotal part of the Austin Independent School District and maintains an active online presence through its website. With its solid reputation and strong community ties, Casis Elementary School remains a top choice for parents in Austin.
2) Eanes Elementary School
Eanes Elementary School, located in Austin, Texas, is recognized for its academic excellence.
Serving approximately 549 students from prekindergarten to fifth grade, this school has achieved top rankings in the state. The student-teacher ratio stands at an impressive 11:1, ensuring personalized attention for each student.
Academic performance at Eanes Elementary is notable, with 72% of students proficient in math and 78% in reading according to recent state test scores. This places the school in the top 5% for overall test scores in Texas.
The school fosters a strong academic environment, supported by dedicated teachers and staff. Eanes Elementary is part of the highly regarded Eanes Independent School District.
Parents and students alike appreciate the community atmosphere and the high level of support students receive. The focus on academic growth is evident, as students show significant progress year over year.
Eanes Elementary School's commitment to academic success and student well-being makes it a top choice for elementary education in Austin.
3) Bryker Woods Elementary School
Bryker Woods Elementary School is located at 3309 Kerbey Lane in Austin, Texas. It serves 365 students from Kindergarten to fifth grade. With a student-teacher ratio of 13 to 1, the school is able to provide personalized attention to its students.
The school ranks in the top 20% of all schools in Texas for overall test scores. Math proficiency falls between 55-59%, and reading proficiency is at 77%. These strong academic performances make it a desirable choice for parents.
Bryker Woods is known for its diverse student body. It is recognized as one of the most diverse public elementary schools in Travis County. This makes it a welcoming environment for students from various backgrounds.
The principal, Alicia Hill, leads the campus with a focus on both academic and social development. The school's website offers more information about their programs and community activities.
Ratings from multiple sources, including Niche and U.S. News, highlight Bryker Woods Elementary as a highly rated educational institution. This reinforces its reputation for delivering quality education.
Parents interested in this school can contact the administration at (512) 414-2054 for further details or to schedule a visit.
4) Mathews Elementary School
Mathews Elementary School is recognized for its high academic performance, ranking in the top 10% of schools in Texas for 2024.
Located at 906 West Lynn St, Austin, TX, the school serves 352 students from Prekindergarten to sixth grade.
Mathews boasts strong proficiency rates with 62% of students proficient in math and 82% in reading.
The student-teacher ratio is 17 to 1, providing a supportive and engaging learning environment.
The school's address and contact information are easily accessible, making it a practical choice for families in Austin.
5) Lee Elementary School
Lee Elementary School is a highly rated public school located in Austin, Texas. It serves 458 students across grades Kindergarten through 6th grade with a student-teacher ratio of 15 to 1. This favorable ratio allows for more individualized attention and support for each student.
State test scores reveal that 56% of students at Lee Elementary achieve proficiency in math, while 77% are proficient in reading. These scores place the school in the top 20% for overall test scores compared to other schools in Texas.
The school is situated at 3308 Hampton Road, Austin, TX 78705. Parents looking for a quality education in a public school setting often consider Lee Elementary for its strong academic performance.
In addition, Lee Elementary ranks 68th out of 290 in the category of Best Public Elementary Schools in the Austin area and 158th out of 292 for Most Diverse Public Elementary Schools. This makes it an attractive option for families valuing both academic excellence and diversity.
The school's contact information is (512) 414-2098, and more details can be found on their website, www.russellleepta.org. The principal of the school is Mr. John Hewlett, leading a committed team toward the goal of enhancing student achievement.
6) Highland Park Elementary School
Highland Park Elementary School, located in Austin, Texas, serves students from Prekindergarten through 5th grade. The school has an enrollment of approximately 655 students. It stands out for its academic performance, ranking in the top 10% of all schools in Texas for test scores.
The school shows strong proficiency in both math and reading, with 73% of students achieving proficiency in math and 87% in reading. This places Highland Park Elementary among the top performers in the state.
Highland Park Elementary benefits from a favorable student-teacher ratio. With a ratio of 16 to 1, the school ensures that students receive ample attention from educators, which can contribute to their high academic achievements.
The principal of Highland Park Elementary is Katie Pena. The school campus is located at 4900 Fairview Drive, Austin, TX 78731. The school's facilities and programs are designed to support student learning and development.
Parents and guardians can contact the school via phone at (512) 414-2090 for more information. The school is part of the Austin Independent School District.
7) Barton Hills Elementary School
Barton Hills Elementary School is located at 2108 Barton Hills Dr, Austin, TX. It's renowned for its strong academic performance, ranking in the top 10% of all Texas elementary schools.
The school serves 351 students in grades K-6 with a student-teacher ratio of 14 to 1. This ratio allows for more personalized attention and support for each student.
State test scores show that 69% of students are proficient in math, while 89% are proficient in reading. Such high proficiency rates reflect the school's commitment to academic excellence.
The school has made significant progress in academic growth. Students are achieving strong academic skills, which is recognized by its high progress scores.
Parents looking for a public school in Austin will find Barton Hills Elementary a solid choice. The school's environment supports both academic and personal growth for its students, ensuring a well-rounded education.
Curriculum and Educational Approach
Schools in Austin offer a balanced mix of rigorous core academic programs, diverse extracurricular activities, and advanced technology integration to provide a comprehensive education for elementary students.
Core Academic Programs
Austin's elementary schools focus on providing a solid foundation in math, science, language arts, and social studies. Classes maintain a low student-to-teacher ratio, such as 14:1, ensuring personalized attention. Many schools employ experienced teachers averaging over 10 years in education, contributing to high academic standards and impressive graduation rates.
Charter schools often focus on accelerated learning techniques, claiming to deliver "twice the education in half the time." Public schools like Spicewood Elementary are known for their strong academic focus and dedication to developing well-rounded students.
Extracurricular Activities
Extracurricular activities are essential in Austin’s elementary schools, which aim to develop students' skills beyond the classroom. Activities vary widely, including sports, music, arts, and special interest clubs. For instance, Patsy Sommer Elementary is notable for its diverse student population and broad range of extracurricular options.
These activities help foster social skills, leadership, and personal interests. Schools recognize the importance of a holistic development approach, ensuring students aren't just academically proficient but also well-rounded individuals.
Technology Integration
Integrating technology in the classroom is a priority for Austin’s elementary schools. Many institutions utilize interactive smart boards, tablets, and educational software to enhance learning. Schools are equipped with technology labs where students learn essential computer skills, coding, and other STEM-related subjects.
Teachers incorporate digital resources to make lessons more engaging and accessible, offering tools that cater to various learning styles. This modern approach prepares students for the tech-centric world, ensuring they gain relevant skills early on.
Teacher Qualifications and Student Support
In Austin, top elementary schools prioritize well-qualified teachers and robust student support systems. Parents value teacher certifications, reasonable student-to-teacher ratios, and comprehensive special education services.
Teacher Certifications
Teacher credentials are a primary factor in evaluating school quality. Austin's premier elementary schools employ educators with advanced degrees and specialized certifications. Many teachers hold master's degrees in education or specific subject areas, enhancing their expertise.
Certificates such as ESL (English as a Second Language) and special education are common. These qualifications ensure teachers can cater to diverse student needs. Schools often require ongoing professional development, ensuring staff stays updated with the latest educational practices and innovations.
Student-to-Teacher Ratio
A favorable student-to-teacher ratio is crucial for individualized attention. Barton Creek Elementary School, for example, boasts a student-to-teacher ratio of 12:1, which is significantly lower than the national average.
This low ratio allows teachers to better monitor student progress and provide targeted support. In addition, small class sizes foster a more interactive and engaged classroom environment. Parents looking for personalized education should consider schools with low student-to-teacher ratios.
Special Education Services
Special education services are integral to accommodating diverse learning needs. Austin's top elementary schools offer various support programs, ranging from in-class aides to dedicated special education teachers.
These schools typically conduct individualized education plan (IEP) meetings to tailor support to each student's needs. Services might include speech therapy, occupational therapy, and behavioral support. Schools also emphasize inclusive education, encouraging special needs students to participate in mainstream classes when appropriate. This commitment ensures all students receive the resources necessary to succeed.
School Environment and Facilities
The best elementary schools in Austin prioritize creating safe and engaging environments. This includes ensuring strong security measures, maintaining nurturing classroom settings, and providing ample recreational facilities.
Campus Safety
Campus safety is a top priority for these leading schools. They have implemented advanced security systems such as CCTV cameras, secure access points, and regular safety drills. Schools like Spicewood Elementary and Cedar Creek Elementary ensure that their campuses are closely monitored to protect students and staff.
Dedicated security personnel are present in many schools to manage and respond to any safety concerns. Additionally, established protocols are in place for emergencies, which are regularly reviewed and practiced to ensure efficiency. Schools often work closely with local law enforcement for enhanced security measures, creating a safe learning environment.
Classroom Environment
The classroom environment in these schools is designed to foster learning and growth. Classrooms are equipped with modern technology including smart boards, computers, and interactive learning tools. The student-teacher ratio is kept low to allow for personalized attention, making the learning experience more effective.
In addition, schools emphasize creating an inclusive and supportive atmosphere. Students from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to collaborate and learn from each other. Teachers are well-trained and use innovative teaching methods to keep students engaged. The physical layout of classrooms is often flexible, allowing for group work and individual study as needed.
Recreational Facilities
Recreational facilities are abundant, providing spaces where students can engage in physical activities and unwind. These facilities typically include playgrounds, sports fields, and gymnasiums. For instance, Cedar Creek and Spicewood Elementary have well-maintained play areas that cater to various age groups.
Many schools also offer specialized equipment for extracurricular activities such as basketball, soccer, and track and field. Indoor facilities ensure that students have the opportunity to exercise even during bad weather. Additionally, schools may provide after-school sports programs and clubs to encourage physical fitness and teamwork.
