Moving to North Austin – best diverse + academically strong elementary schools? (BASIS / NYOS / TxEA Empowerment?)
Hi all — would really appreciate some honest input here.
My family is relocating from Houston to the North Austin area (likely near Wells Branch), and I’m trying to lock in a solid school for my son, who will be entering 1st grade this fall.
He’s very high-energy but also academically ahead (already reading at a 1st-grade level). We currently supplement with Kumon and plan to continue doing that.
We’re coming from a strong HISD public school, so I’m trying to find something that’s both:
- academically challenging
- diverse/inclusive (we’re a Black family and that representation matters to us)
We’re also both working professionals (tech), so ideally something within ~15–20 minutes of Wells Branch.
Beyond academics, we’re really looking to build roots — not just drop him off at school and leave. We’d love a community where he can make real friendships, we can have playdates, and we can actually get to know other families.
So far:
- Applied to BASIS Austin Primary
- Applied to Texas Empowerment Academy
- Waitlisted at NYOS
Would love candid thoughts on:
- BASIS (I’ve heard it’s rigorous but also intense?)
- NYOS (worth staying on the waitlist?)
- Texas Empowerment Academy (mixed things online so unsure)
Also open to any other schools we should be considering — charter, public, private, whatever’s actually worth it.
Not looking for perfect, just trying to make a smart decision and avoid learning the hard way.
Appreciate any insight 🙏