Vista Academy of Austin-Mueller - Austin, TX

Austin Classical Academy (formerly Vista Academy of Austin-Mueller) is a public charter school with a history of closing achievement gaps for all students. The campus offers a great learning environment thanks to student diversity and a dedicated staff that recognizes and addresses student learning holistically.

Research has shown that diverse classrooms increase academic persistence, college enrollment, and college graduation rates. With a socioeconomically, racially, and culturally diverse campus, Austin Classical Academy students grow and learn through everyday exposure to individuals from different backgrounds. On a campus of fewer than 160 students, at least six different languages are spoken fluently among families who identify as Hispanic, African-American, Caucasian, and Asian.

Like many National Blue Ribbon School nominees, Austin Classical Academy teachers use data to differentiate instruction and follow a curriculum built on critical thought. The human component is the differentiator at Austin Classical Academy. Teachers and administrators go beyond the numbers to understand each child's unique story and address barriers to learning. "Our goal is to understand the needs of each student and do everything we can to meet those needs," said the Campus Director. "Whether that means additional classroom support, working with families to provide support at home, or leveraging community support, each member of our campus staff is dedicated to giving students a learning environment where they feel safe and connected."

Operated by ResponsiveEd, Austin Classical Academy is a tuition-free public charter school located in northeast Austin serving grades K-8.