Austin's private education landscape offers a diverse array of top-rated schools known for their exceptional academic programs and enriching student experiences. According to recent rankings and reports, institutions like St. Stephen's Episcopal School, Austin Peace Academy, and St. Andrew's Episcopal School consistently rank among the best private high schools in the Austin area, providing rigorous curricula and fostering environments that prepare students for success in higher education and beyond.
St. Stephen's Episcopal School in Austin, Texas, stands out as a pioneering coeducational institution serving grades 6-12 with both boarding and day programs1. Founded in 1950, it was the first integrated boarding school in the South and the first coeducational Episcopal school in the United States1. The school offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum within a balanced program that includes academics, athletics, arts, and service learning1.
Key highlights of St. Stephen's include:
A diverse and inclusive community that honors all faiths and traditions1
Small class sizes with an 8:1 student-teacher ratio, fostering personalized learning2
Extensive extracurricular offerings, including diverse clubs, sports teams, and activities3
A beautiful campus that provides opportunities for outdoor learning and exploration3
Strong college preparation, with graduates attending top universities nationwide2
A global perspective, with boarding students from around the world contributing to a rich cultural environment4
St. Stephen's commitment to academic excellence, combined with its emphasis on character development and community service, creates a unique educational experience that prepares students for success in college and beyond13.
Alpha School and Alpha High School stand out as innovative alternative private schools in Austin, offering a unique approach to education. These institutions leverage AI-powered learning to accelerate academic progress, with students completing core subjects in just 2-3 hours daily12. The schools emphasize mastery-based, self-paced learning, complemented by guide-led workshops focusing on essential life skills and real-world experiences1.
Key features of Alpha schools include:
Small class sizes with a 5:1 student-guide ratio
Emphasis on leadership, entrepreneurship, and critical thinking
Regular international trips and regional expeditions
State-of-the-art facilities including entrepreneurship labs and innovation spaces
Strong academic performance, with Alpha High School students averaging SAT scores of 15303
Opportunities for students to develop income-generating businesses before graduation3
While the annual tuition of $40,000 places Alpha schools in the high-end category of private education, they offer financial assistance and scholarship opportunities14.
Austin Peace Academy (APA) offers a distinctive blend of academic excellence and Islamic education, setting it apart from other private schools in Austin. The school's curriculum integrates Islamic teachings into a rigorous academic program, helping students develop a deep understanding of their faith while preparing for college and beyond1. APA's unique offerings include:
A comprehensive Islamic studies program with daily classes in Islamic studies, Quran, and Quranic Arabic2
An elective Hifz program for Quran memorization2
An Advanced Placement program ranked in the top tier worldwide2
A successful forensics program that has won first place in national Muslim tournaments3
Opportunities to earn college credit in Modern Standard Arabic2
A diverse student body representing 19 different countries4
These programs, combined with APA's strong academic foundation and emphasis on character development, create a unique educational environment that fosters both intellectual growth and spiritual awareness51.
Griffin School in Austin, Texas, offers a unique blend of rigorous academics and vibrant arts education, creating a well-rounded learning environment for its students. The school's curriculum is designed to prepare students for college success while fostering creativity and self-expression12. Key features of Griffin School's program include:
Small class sizes averaging 10-12 students, promoting interactive and engaging learning1
Advanced Placement (AP) courses offered across all disciplines23
A broad array of fine arts classes, including visual media arts, music, and theater43
Emphasis on critical thinking and authentic involvement in the school and Austin community2
Semester-end showcases featuring student artwork, live music performances, and readings4
Extra-curricular offerings such as Art Lab, AP Studio Art, and Theatre Production4
Griffin School's approach to education is rooted in the belief that a liberal arts foundation, combined with creative expression, prepares students to become informed, thoughtful, and active members of society13. This unique educational model has earned the school recognition, including being named the "Best Place to Be Yourself in School" by the Austin Chronicle5.