Gateway College Preparatory School in Georgetown

Category	Rating	Details
Test Scores	9/10	The Test Score Rating examines how students at this school performed on standardized tests compared with other schools in the state. The Test Rating was created using 2025 State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) data from Texas Education Agency.
College Readiness	9/10	The College Readiness Rating uses this high school's graduation rates, college entrance exam participation and performance, or AP, IB, or Dual Enrollment participation to determine how well schools are preparing students for success in college and beyond. The College Readiness Rating was created using the following data from the 2021 Civil Rights Data Collection: percentage of students enrolled in IB, AP or Dual Enrollment classes in grades 9-12, using 2024 ACT participation data from Texas Education Agency, using 2024 SAT percent participation data from Texas Education Agency, using 2024 SAT percent college ready data from Texas Education Agency, using 2024 4-year high school graduation rate data from Texas Education Agency, using 2024 Average SAT score data from Texas Education Agency, using 2024 Average ACT score data from Texas Education Agency, using 2024 ACT percent college ready data from Texas Education Agency, and using 2025 demographic data from Texas Education Agency.
Student Growth	8/10	The Student Progress Rating measures whether students at this school are making academic progress over time based on student growth data provided by the Department of Education. Specifically, this rating looks at how much progress individual students have made on state assessments during the past year or more, how this performance aligns with expected progress based on a student growth model established by the state Department of Education, and how this school's growth data compares to other schools in the state. The Growth Rating was created using 2025 Percentage of students meeting growth target data from Texas Education Agency.

Posted: September 9, 2025

If you are looking for something
different than public school, this is not it,
for a small tight-knit supportive community, this is not it,
a true college preparatory school, this is not it,
coaches that care about the whole student, this is not it,
flexibility that charter schools can offer, this is not it,
a choice school, not it.

Culture & Environment
This school often feels less like a supportive learning community and more like a tightly controlled environment. Many dedicated teachers have left, and the few long-term teachers remaining are burned out. The board seems focused on enrollment numbers rather than quality. High turnover among both staff and students suggests ongoing problems that parents and teachers concerns are not being addressed.
Parents are largely excluded from the school community. Access to buildings and events involving their own children is restricted, and policies are applied inconsistently. Spirit activities feel performative, and awards for academics and sports are minimal. Daily logistics, like drop-off and pickup, are inefficient, and families are penalized for tardies/incorrect absences/early check-outs, sometimes with required (and paid) Saturday school.

Academics & Support
Academic support is limited and inconsistent. Tutorials are often unreliable, and students are frequently left to self-teach with excessive busy work. Teachers often delay grading and do not respond to emails. College preparation is weak: students are pushed into AP classes rather than dual credit options, many are unprepared for AP exams, and guidance for college applications and recommendation letters is minimal. Core classes sometimes go without teachers.

Parent Involvement & Staff
Parent participation is discouraged; families cannot attend pep rallies, parades, or volunteer for events like dances. Front office staff are cold and unwelcoming, often failing to apply common-sense solutions.

Athletics / Coaches
Coaches show little regard for academics, making it hard for student-athletes to balance both. There have been instances of negligence leading to injuries, dishonesty, inappropriate relationships with parents, inconsistent policies, and coaches bullying students. Families are charged $375 in UIL fees, even if students do not participate, and team sizes are often reduced below requirements.

Posted: September 9, 2025

Posted: July 22, 2025

I started in kindergarten and it is significantly worse now. The heads of school don't care about you and all the teachers are leaving because the job isn't worth it to have to deal with the leadership team. The security isn't great and overall the teachers that do stay are terrible and don't help prepare you for the next grade. As a student the dress code and athletics are pretty good and not super strict but part of that is that no one really cares enough to enforce anything.

Posted: July 22, 2025

Posted: March 2, 2025

**BEWARE**
Do NOT come to this school! The parents are well meaning and try to be engaged and active. The administration does not care and does not want involvement per their shown actions. The head of school and superintendent want sheep to bow down to their dictatorship. If you do not comply or raise serious issues, they will retaliate and use the police to ticket you and ban you from the campus. There is no partnership with parents.

The head of school is unable to secure this campus and the TEA has been notified of SERIOUS security issues. She is not adhering to legal obligations from the state to secure our teachers and kids!

Teachers and parents are leaving in droves.
Please think twice about the move over to this school!!

Posted: March 2, 2025

Posted: January 14, 2025

They don't care about you they just want donations and money there car line sucks. I HATE THIS SCHOOL!

Posted: January 14, 2025

Posted: September 3, 2024

This school provides all the necessities to have fun whenever. You get to hang out with your friends, do homework, and also have teachers that understand your problems and knows how to solve it.

Posted: September 3, 2024

Posted: March 27, 2024

I graduated from this school last year, and have since moved to an R1 and D1 college experience. Gateway's workload when I was in middle school and high school is about what I am receiving now as a college freshman. However, the schooling at college is much better. Gateway relies on your children teaching themselves and lacks in effort to keep staff members that engage and truly teach students. As someone who has now graduated, you would have to pay me to step back on campus, the only positive here is the track and cross country team. The school is not rigorous, it is just workload heavy which are two different things. If you go to school expecting to pass easily, change your mindset. I learned things in this high school that I haven't even gotten to yet in college. However, this is mostly due to having to figure concepts out alone or with peers rather than teachers pushing us to do better.

Overall, Gateway is average in every sense of the word. However, the title of 'College Preparatory' and 'Charter School' may earn you more money with scholarships to colleges.

Posted: March 27, 2024

Posted: November 2, 2023

This school is the best for all people. Gateway make sure everyone is safe and helped if needed. Gateway has many helpful people on site in case of any emergencys like many school nurces, security, ext. Gateway teachers help educate corectly, helps with strength, and makes time for the students. Gateway is the perfect place for any type of kid. Gateway teachers are very kind and respectful to one another.

Posted: November 2, 2023

Posted: September 20, 2023

The school has gone bad for the past couple of years. Lots of well-experienced teachers quit (including the Principals). School is now filling up young new teachers with less/no experience, and I am not against them but they do not seem to have the enthusiasm of teaching and experience to deal with kids. There are teachers with young babies constantly taken off and lacking in teaching because of family issues. They didn't teach much during school time so my kid is falling behind, I have to sign him up for a private after-school program to catch up. Picking up and dropping off is another joke, it looks like a circuit every day where the teachers are running around with the kids back and forth between cars to look for their parent's cars. Last month, there was an accident within the pick-up line, and lucky no one got hurt. The school didn't send out any email about that.

Posted: February 25, 2023

This school should install class and sportsmanship in its athletic program. Incredibly sad to watch tastelessness because of a tied ball game. Can only imagine the way the teams they beat were spoken to. For any teenage boy to use the F word on a field is ridiculous. Values and morals are free even if your education is not.

Posted: February 25, 2023

Posted: January 25, 2023

This school has so much potential, so much. It's all thrown away on things the students don't ever see. Teachers are either inconsistent and nonexistent or the absolute best. The school doesn't tell students anything about what is going on within the system, and teachers seemingly have no experience or are being fired left and right. I have been attending for a while, and I have seen the best of the best teaching and the lack of teaching to a scary extent. However, the teachers that are the best are exactly that, being innovative, refreshing, and exciting. The inconsistency of a well-rounded education has been a consistent pattern, which is why I recommend to not attend here until it is fixed.

Posted: January 25, 2023

Posted: August 17, 2022

bad school no likey bad bad bad

Posted: August 17, 2022

Posted: May 5, 2022

If your child needs special ed assistance this is NOT the right school. I promise. And even if your children aren't SPED I'd think twice. They refuse to allow parents on campus. If you want to have lunch with yoor child you need to get permission. Parents are not allowed in the classroom ever. How many times have i asked myself, what are they hiding ?? They dont want you at the school board meetings and you're not allowed to ask questions if you go. Theres so much more. Not a good choice.

Posted: May 5, 2022

Posted: March 26, 2022

I'm a student at Gateway College Prep.. I am treated poorly because I am Asian also because of covid..... The learning is great but could use some help the teachers are poorly and kids that parents donate get treated with care and etc... They treat their special ED kids with dislike and like they are a burden to take care of. They are rude and don't and wouldn't care about your kids mental health... The bullying there is out of control-... Most of the students are treated poorly and we don't even get treated right. We get yelled at, at lunch also... their food is like eating something out of the trash can I. This school is worse than your average public school would not recommend.

Posted: March 26, 2022

Posted: September 27, 2021

This school is fantastic as a parent, I can say that this school helped my young boys understand the fundamentals of all of the classes provided.

Posted: September 27, 2021

I've thought about providing a rating for some time but wanted the opportunity to reflect on it a bit before writing. I had two kids at Gateway for 9 years with one graduating and one choosing to return to public schools for high school. Both my wife and I were very involved with the school and I think I can provide a real outlook based on our experiences with Gateway.
I'll start with the positive. The current head of schools, Mr. Boorman does an excellent job of communicating with parents and truly cares about the school and its students. I've never had a negative interaction with him. As you would expect, there are very good teachers and coaches along with some that need improvement.
I was personally very disappointed with the high school principal. He was well aware of multiple issues with certain teachers who did not follow school policies and it did not appear that there was any action at all taken by him to correct this. Moreover, he was just not a good leader of teachers and students based on my own interactions with him as well as being witness to other incidents. It was clear to us that he did not know how to evaluate or discipline either the teaching staff or students.
In addition, the turnover amongst teachers, coaches, and staff is high considering the size of the school. We saw an excellent counselor along with a good teachers leave for a number of reasons such as pay, lack of effective leadership, and better opportunities.
Lastly, the school's district, Orenda Education, really needs to do a better job in a number of different areas. First, the fundraising head does a pretty poor job with outreach and really is rarely seen on campus. Fundraising should be a foundational concept at a charter school and the current fundraising head lacks experience needed to increase the efforts. Second, the communication from Orenda is poor at best. There needs to be immediate improvement in how the district communicates with the school and vice versa. The vision coming from Orenda when we started with Gateway is really not what was delivered beyond just the buildings themselves. Now I do believe that parent involvement is needed to make that vision a reality but I think that both Orenda and Gateway bear some responsibility for any lack of parent involvement.
So to summarize, while I do not regret sending my kids to Gateway, I do see a need for improvement in all areas and significant improvement in some areas that I felt were subpar.

Posted: September 8, 2020

Overall very satisfied with academics and anti bullying rules.

Posted: February 19, 2020

I enjoyed my time here I think I missed out on a lot of diversity I wouldve got at a public school, but I grew close with my friends and was able to participate in multiple sports. This school isnt for everyone but it certainly does its job 8/10. Disclaimer I began in the 5th grade when the school was still in portable buildings through senior year, it now is completely built and teachers are different so my experiences could be different for students 8th and down.

Posted: February 19, 2020

Many classes give out a lot of busy work although majority of work is helpful for retention.

Posted: February 19, 2020

The teachers are qualified compared to other schools we were not prepared for AP tests, but in general I remember being able to understand what teachers are trying to teach. It just depends on the class and teacher.

Posted: February 19, 2020

Because the class size is so small a bad mark on you most likely wont ever live down, this encourages integrity and responsibility as word gets around quick here.

Posted: February 19, 2020

Teachers are very close to students and have strong connections and serve as good mentors to lead them.

Posted: February 19, 2020

I have dysgraphia and attentive adhd and I was able to meet 1 on 1 with principle and get accommodations needed, kids with disabilities arent left out and are widely accepted.

Posted: February 19, 2020

Over my course of time here we had lots of intervention of bullying and it was never grew out of control as they were able to recognize it before it did.

Posted: February 17, 2019

Awesome staff, great location rigorous academics and sports.

Posted: July 11, 2018

My first grader would come home in hives due to stress they were suffering there. The school wanted to test my child for special education. We changed schools. The school my child attends now says my child is completely average compared to the other students.

Posted: July 11, 2018

Posted: July 9, 2018

Very great school some people should stop complaining about the level of their kids.

Posted: July 9, 2018

The homework given is getting the students ready for college. If your kid wants an easier school than take them to an ISD.

Posted: February 24, 2018

A new to the school first grade teacher requested we go see our Pediatrician due to our sons performance in school. I went along and saw pur Pediatrician who has been practicing for twenty years. We came to the conclusion my child wasn't happy there. The administration refused to move him to another class and continued to tell me my child has a Learning disability (ADHD.)

Posted: February 24, 2018

Awful, at first it seemed okay. They promise a good education, every need will be met. Although when your children start to withdrawal at home you will start to realize something isn't right. My children started to cry claiming they had stomach aches in the morning they did not want to go to school. There is no advocate for the parents at the school if your child does not perform well or has a learning disability they do not tolerate you or your child. Your child will then be labeled a problematic child. I am appalled at the first grade teaching staff and the elementary principles behavior and unprofessionalism towards my family.

Posted: February 23, 2018

We had several issues, the staff only cares if your child is "academically blessed" if they are not they are considered "special education." We only had our children attend Gateway for a few months, the horror stories I've heard/seen of the P.E. coaches yelling at 3rd graders. The elementary principal yelling and belittling kids, she scares the children with the amount of make up she wears. Not a place where they treat children with kindness and consideration.

Posted: February 23, 2018

Posted: February 21, 2018

We have had no issues and love it!

Posted: January 15, 2018

Over all poor experience. The drawing factors to this school is the possibility of an advanced education and increased college readiness. In reality this school does have many mandatory AP classes, but they are taught the same as a regular class and subsequently most students fail the AP tests making the classes worthless. The teacher turnover is insane, on several occasions they have been without teachers for core classes for over half a year. For instance this year there was no AP US history teacher until January, and last year there was no Geometry or Pre Calculus Teacher until the spring. Most of the positive reviews you will read about this school are from parents of Elementary or Middle School teachers.

Posted: July 30, 2017

Agree with another poster that this school interprets the rules as they deem appropriate depending on the child in question. Academic health is exaggerated to say the least. They can't hold onto teachers because the administration is awful. If you have a student with any type of learning disability (I have three children enrolled here, one with a ld) then stay far away. We are returning to RRISD this year.

Posted: May 10, 2017

I have a current student and while I won't go into too much detail. My student has been assaulted by another student repeatedly, the response from the school is always, "the appropriate action was taken" I've never seen poorer communication in my entire life. Even if my student gets in trouble I'm told, "appropriate action was taken". I encourage you to read through the student handbook if you have a child attending or are considering it and promptly burn it. If you want a school were there is zero tolerance for bullying, look elsewhere. They do what they want.

Posted: November 18, 2016

My son has been going to Gateway since Kindergarten and is now in first grade. We couldn't be happier with the teachers he's had and his overall experience. Fantastic school!

Posted: November 18, 2016

Amazing teachers that truly care about their students.

Posted: November 18, 2016

My son in first grade currently has Un-homework, which has been great! 20 minutes of reading every night and the un-homework topic (i.e. find 5 things around your home with a short i sound or quiz your parents with some match problems).

Posted: October 25, 2016

My child began attending the first year the elementary school opened. Because the school has grown at such a phenomenal rate, we have certainly experienced growing pains, but through Gateway we have met teachers and staff who have changed my daughter's academic life. They know who she is; they care about how she is doing. They have high expectations of her, but those expectations are rooted in concern for her individually, and in their belief in what she is capable of achieving. Skills she will need in college - time management, online learning platform usage, proactive advocacy for herself, building positive academic relationships with teachers - have been part of her experience since the intermediate level. And on top of these learning experiences, she has been able to participate in both fine arts and UIL athletics to a degree she might not have at a larger school. For some kids, the big school environment is a perfect fit; for others, the smaller school environment and higher academic level is the right place to be. For students in the latter group, Gateway College Prep is a great offering in Williamson County.

Posted: October 25, 2016

Posted: September 29, 2016

I am currently a senior in HS, this being my 6th year at Gateway. I have seen Gateway's drastic changes over the years, and after 6 years, I have quite a lot to say about it. First off, most of the high school teachers here are amazing. All of my teachers (especially Burleigh, Larson, McDowell, and Stroube) have had such an incredible impact on my life, and I am extremely grateful that I have been given the opportunity to take their classes. By this, I am definitely not saying that their classes are easy. All of my core classes being AP, my workload is nothing to laugh at, and some stress/time management skills are definitely necessary. However, I do feel that I have a solid understanding of all of the material covered thus far, and I believe I have a good chance of passing my AP tests at the end of this year.

The teachers, though, are the only positive thing I have to say about this school. Under the administration of Mr. Santucci and Richard Ricky, all of the ideals that this school was created with have been torn to shreds. Our school motto, "Citizen. Scholar. Athlete", is no longer applicable, and should honestly be changed to "Athlete. Athlete. Athlete". All emphasis is put on athletics, and all available funds go directly towards new sports equipment or facilities. While the arts department is struggling to find money for replacement paint, costumes, etc., it has just been announced that new stadium lights are being built. And while the elementary and middle schools are being packed into supposedly temporary mobile buildings, a second field and gymnasium are in construction. It is a common phrase among the high schoolers (including the athletes themselves) - "if you're not an athlete, Gateway doesn't care". The teachers are put under so much stress that they can't handle it. It's rare for a teacher to stay longer than a school year, if they can even make that. I've seen teachers break down crying in the middle of class, due completely towards administration. That's another common phrase. "Gateway breaks you".

All of the school pride I used to have is gone. I am aware that I am biased, and am only a student. There is obviously a lot I don't know about going on behind the scenes. But I do know that I can no longer recommend this school. There is no longer any benefit over a public school. The Gateway dream is over.

Posted: August 6, 2016

They come and go and the kids may have 3 different Teachers in one school year. Very few of the Teachers stick around long.

Posted: August 6, 2016

Most sports and clubs the first picked are Teachers kids and people who donate and not skill.

Posted: August 6, 2016

The Teachers are not great. The teacher scream at the kids in the cafeteria to shut the hole in your face. The Teacher are for the most part not friendly or welcoming. They let the kids fail rather than trying to help them out or contact a parent. They believe that the kids should be 100% responsible and won't reach out to the parent if the child is struggling. They never respond to email, but when you call the office they tell you to email. Then after weeks of no response you call the Principal and they say email the Principal and he will get to it in 72 hours. That never happens either. If it is something that needs to be addressed immediately than you are just out of luck. The Teacher quit off and on all year long and your child will end up with 3 Teachers in one school year for one subject or they just won't hire another Teacher and have you do the class on the computers half way through the year. They won't give the Teachers a contract, so they start looking right away after starting to Teach at Gateway. There is way to much homework and outside of school work. The sports are a joke. The only sport that and great is track. The coaching staff is fair and great. The volleyball teams are a joke. You make top teams if your parent is a Teacher, your parent volunteers a lot or you donate money to the school. Then the rest of the spots are filled in the rest of the girls. If your rich, a parent does not work and volunteers or you are a Teacher this is a perfect school for your kid.

Posted: May 18, 2016

We are completing our 3rd year at Gateway and have had a great experience! We came here seeking a smaller environment and challenging academics and have received that and much more. We transferred out of highly rated and sought after schools in RRISD looking for rigor and smaller size. At Gateway, the teachers get to know the kids and hold them to a high standard. Classwork, lectures, homework, projects, etc. are meaningful. Often my child will surprise me by talking about history or current events in conversation and I know that is coming from discussions in class. Teachers guide students through transitions (ie intermediate/middle school) and ultimately get them to the point of independance in their school work. Students should feel responsible for their own work and success without parents and teachers handholding them. A lot of homework and assignments are done or submitted online. This works for my child who can manage to lose a piece of paper 2 seconds after you hand it to her. The online tool also allows for easy access for my student to check in and make sure all assignments are completed..and I have access to that information as well. This is in stark contrast to the feedback I have received from friends whose kids go to our local middle and high school where information, assignments, feedback, tutoring, etc. are not easily obtained or consistently available. Extra curricular activities at Gateway are plentiful and we appreciate the efforts the school makes to participate in UIL and non UIL activities. I am a huge proponent of giving kids the opportunity to try different clubs and activities. This makes them well rounded kids and ultimately good citizens in the community. Local ISDs pigeon hole kids into one activity because of scheduling conflicts. Gateway works with kids who want to participate in sports and fine arts. Basketball, baseball, volleyball, lacrosse, swimming, dance, theatre, choir, art, robotics, etc..and the teachers and coaches involved in these activities are passionate about what they do. They do alot with the small amount of resources they are given. Parents are asked to donate to help offset the lack of funding from local tax revenue. If more parents would donate, a lot of the complaints made here could be rectified.There is room for improvement at Gateway, but this school is currently the best fit for our family.

Posted: May 18, 2016

Posted: April 17, 2016

It used to be a great school. I went there for 4 years. The last year I was there, it completely fell apart. My younger sister transferred out and refused to graduate from there. I stayed because it was too late for me to change but I hated it.

Posted: April 17, 2016

I am a parent of two students, one in middle school and one in high school. I had one high school student who no longer attends there. These people are not good educators. The idea is no different than any other public school....test, test, test with less resources and bad teachers. It was once a really different place, small and very unique. Now it could be any ole public school. I agree with the person who says it went downhill after the Boggs left, but I don't think it was just that...the whole direction changed.

Posted: April 17, 2016

They don't know what they are doing. Georgetown is so much better. The music program is good though.

Posted: April 17, 2016

Its a joke. They teach by overworking and call it honors or advanced or whatever. If your kid wants a life, don't send him here

Posted: April 17, 2016

Lots of dishonesty when you ask questions. HS teachers are pretty inexperienced compared to how they used to be. The original group was better

Posted: April 17, 2016

My children have been attending for the last 3 years. Now in 9th, 8th, and 4th grade. I was not a fan of the Boggs. I thought the free day was a joke and was never used for its intended purpose and they never did anything to discipline those who were disruptive to others. With them gone, I have noticed the school is much more structured. There has been a high turn over rate this year in the elementary school but Gateway does not do teacher contracts so they are free to leave at any point during the year. I wish this would change to provide some stability for the students.

Overall, the school does a good job and I am pleased. They do push their students and as the name implies to be more independent and ready for college. They provide all the homework assignments at the beginning of the week so students are aware of expectations. Gateway teachers reached out to the parents to inform them their child is expected for tutoring. No other school would take the initiative to encourage tutoring by the teachers for their students.

I am the parent that doesn't pamper my children and yell at the teachers for assigning homework. I work with them and do our best to achieve success. If you are looking for a school to pamper your child, this is not the place.

Posted: March 27, 2016

It was once a great school, back when the Boggs were there. When they left, everything crashed. Too bad.

Posted: February 1, 2016

We have been at this school since it opened the elementary in 2011. My child is in 4th grade now. I would agree that the school is moving in the wrong direction. Your child's experience will be teacher dependent. Teacher turn over is common. The 4th grade has lost 3 out of 5 teachers this school year. We have had 3 different elementery school principals. Each time we get a new principal there are new policies. The new honor roll policy is absurd. It is no longer the average of the semester in each class (like every other educational institution in the world). Your child has to receive all A's in every subject for each 9 weeks. It is hard to motivate your child to bring up their average in a class with this new policy. I will no longer recommend this school and we plan to leave. Too bad since their saying is "start here, finish here."

Posted: February 1, 2016

It depends upon the teacher. Some teachers promote honesty and integrity, others do not seem to care.

Posted: December 9, 2015

Might as well go to any public school and take AP classes. Boring and repetitive homework. No excitement.

Posted: August 11, 2015

Homework is leaning on the heavy side of this, but I'd say OK. Homework is pretty much daily from the get go, all ages.

Posted: August 11, 2015

I've seen this supported through consequences for bad behavior and communication with parents. Some teachers are more stringent than others but the standards are there and enforced. Judging elementary only...

Posted: August 11, 2015

I have two kids who have been here since kindergarten, starting the first year they had elementary. I'm a little surprised to see all the negativity here because that is far from what I've heard from other parents and that inspires me to actually write a little something here. My personal experience has been that most teachers do a great job and my kids are ahead of the game. What I've heard most from other parents is that they liked how there were so many involved parents and great teachers. I've also heard teachers say they can actually teach at Gateway, because they don't spend all their time trying to teach kids the basics and simply trying to motivate them to put some effort in (AKA parents doing this more at home). The teachers have always offered advanced sub-groups in subjects where they were exceeding and my kids have gone on to far surpass what they should know at their ages in key subjects. I've had 5 different home teachers to judge from so far, with no disappointments. I had one teacher that I thought was a bit disorganized but not that big of deal and my son still did great. I also personally appreciate the field trips they've done. Many have been learning based trips to caves, zoos, farms... not sure why people would have a problem with this and typically only 5 or 6 bucks if that. Good way to hone the social skills too. Anyway, that's my take.
-Stilla Gator

Posted: July 2, 2015

DO NOT SEND YOUR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS HERE. Attending Gateway was an absolute nightmare. I felt bullied by my counselor/psychology teacher. (same person, didn't do do either job well). there is so much favoritism in this school, it's ridiculous. The teachers/administrators only care about the students whose parents donate to the school. I left the school to go back to my public school (which is rated a 5 on this website) and I learned SO MUCH more at the public school. I do not understand how this school is rated a 7. It should be a 1.

Posted: March 19, 2015

We have been at Gateway for 4 years now, the first 2 were great, these last 2 years, it's plummeted. I've been very disappointed in the fact that the teachers there just walk away, leaving the kids with sub after sub after sub. Due to the fact they don't have their teachers sign a contract, leaves them open to struggle hiring another teacher in January. It has been a detriment to my kids going through this. We are currently seeking other schools who offer more extra curricular activities as well as more highly educated teachers. I truly thought this school had tons of potential, but have proven to fall by the waist side. I do like the small intimate environment, but if you can't keep a teachers, then it really doesn't matter if you're big or small.

Posted: March 1, 2015

School has great potential with UIL, athletics, etc., but not living up to that potential. Fourth grade teachers doing such a bad job of getting the kids ready for the STAAR test that they are now going to stop science and do double math for the next couple of months to try to raise the math scores. They are not worried about burning the kids out either, when asked about it they give their standard answer of "we're getting them ready for the next level". If they were really getting them ready for the next level would they have to stop science and double up on math? What have they been doing for the last 7 months?

Posted: October 16, 2014

We like the small school atmosphere. Our child is happy, we love the after school activities and electives and the academic program works for us. No school is perfect - there are lots of issues out there. Gateway fits for our family.

Posted: October 4, 2014

When I first enrolled my kids into Gateway, I thought it would be a great school. At the gator bites meeting they held, they made the school seem perfect. Trust me when I say, it is no where near perfect. My first complaint was that most of the teachers simply do not teach. I have actually been told this by a teacher herself! Gateway looks like heaven until you get here, which is all that the admin care about. I have heard from my kids, teachers and other parents that teachers just sit at their desks all day and expect the kids to look at the resources, learn it and actually do it all without any guidance. No school aged child is going to use their time that wisely without any structure. So kids sit around and play games in the classrooms half the time. I'm just not okay with that. My second complaint was the drama. I have a 10th grader and never in my life had I heard her complain about drama until she got here. Already this year there have been multiple kids suspended for HORRIBLE things that I won't name. The size of the school just makes the drama worse. Everyone and their mothers are involved in it and there's just no way to get around it.

Posted: August 11, 2014

I've heard of tons of kids that have been at this school and transferred out, and I don't blame them at all. This is not a worthwhile school at all, no matter how great they claim themselves to be. My child was there for 2 years and my close niece was there for 1, and it was constant aggravations at one thing or another. The teachers hardly teach anything, the kids play online all the time, and they watch an entire movie for fun every Friday in elementary school! Field trips are a joke - they go out all the time, and expect parents to pay for them, and at least a couple of the field trips each year are to play parks or movie theatres. A parent-friend said it best.... "this school is okay for kids who are completely average, but it's not a good place for anyone who is accelerated or has special needs." The school does absolutely NOTHING to help ANYONE with any kind of special needs or who is behind, and doesn't follow through with the programs it sets up for accelerated kids. At the beginning of the year, they talked about a sort-of honors program, but quit it about halfway through the year. Basically, never trust anything they say, and send your kid somewhere else for the best.

Posted: May 25, 2014

This school is a mess! When I enrolled my child into the elementary school he had already been identified as Gifted/Talented from RRISD. We believed the sales pitch they spewed and decided to give it a try. They made it sound like they knew how to differentiate education- yeah right! When I finally pulled my child out mid year and reentered him back into RRISD he was SERIOUSLY behind the other students- And this is an id'd G/T student. We managed to get him caught up, but I shudder to think where he would be academically if we had let him finish the year out!! BTW if you notice, all the 4/5 star comments are immediately following negative "true" parent comments. Gateway might be able to bury those negative comments by posting a bunch of fake comments after each bad review, but the dates speak for themselves. Kinda weird that following a negative comment there are 3-4 good ones following it but they were ALL posted on the same day. Hmmmmmm, sounds as fishy as this school is!

Posted: March 26, 2014

My child has been at Gateway for three years now. The school has come a long way from three years ago but still have a long way to go before I think it achieves the high-standards that they market to the out-side world. The school still suffers from signficant turn-over problems, "lazy teaching methods"..ie...too much on-line work and not enough actual teaching and mentoring. There still is not enough transparency. We really never know what is going on in the leaders head or what their educational plans really are...and they NEVER, EVER ask us (parents) how they are doing. Also. They encourage a $1200/per month/per student contribution but we get no influence at all in their decisions. Really ? Also needs to do better on STAR tests. Orenda board. Wake up !

Posted: February 7, 2014

We could not be happier. Our boys have been at Gateway for three years now and are flourishing. One of my son's teachers stated this is the first time in 12 years I feel like am teaching. I believe that is the common sentiment as they develop and manage their curriculum. Is it perfect? No. There are growing pains as we expected. It is a charter school that has to supplement with donations and that is fine with us. It is a private school atmosphere partially funded by the public. We look forward to the future as the school gets better every year. If you are complaining about this school you won't be happy anywhere.

Posted: January 27, 2014

Great salespeople, not so great educators. We bought the gator bites sales pitch and just feel so duped. This school constantly leaves me saying, "what a disorganized mess." There's just not much going on here. There is very little communication, no one seems very inspired, and teachers/admin are leaving. There are some great ones but I'd be surprised if they stuck around. After leaving, we found that our high schooler was far behind academically in a couple of subjects despite being ahead when we first enrolled. If you are close by and want something similar to other public schools but smaller, this might be the place for you, although you have to be ok with the disorganization. We pretty much want the usual stuff for our kids--kindness, respect, and a challenging, meaningful education. We couldn't get that at Gateway but we have found it elsewhere so definitely keep looking if you're with us on that!

Posted: January 16, 2014

My son has attended Gateway for 3 years now. While not 100 percent sold in the beginning I think it is a good fit for him. They had some growing pains the first year that they had middle school but it has improved 100 percent. I think the teachers are great and are very involved.

Posted: January 15, 2014

I am sorry to read of the prior reviewer's disappointment. Regarding recently posted graduation data, where is this data posted? Was the Tech campus (separate school) included? Sports are ABSOLUTELY affordable. We have paid far less for sports at Gateway than we have paid at any other school and received far more in terms of uniforms, coaching, facilities, UIL level competition, etc. We have had several children at Gateway for the last several years, and prior to Gateway they attended another charter school and a private school locally. We have found the teachers, coaches and administration at Gateway far more caring and involved. Our children have had far more opportunities here to "shine" academically and in extra-curricular activities. My children are older and have received numerous college acceptances, as well as generous academic and athletic scholarship offers. The school is not perfect, no school is. To the previous reviewer, your experience is what YOU make of it. You can take advantage of the opportunities offered to you, or not. After reading your review, I doubt if you'll see opportunities elsewhere either.

Posted: October 20, 2013

It's not easy but there is so much support at Gateway to help kids who want an advanced education. The teachers are nothing but incredible, they WANT to be there. No teacher contracts and there is an unspoken high bar the staff wants our kids to meet. Taking the STARR benchmark test was a breeze for my kids. Why? Because it's over material they have already learned and moved on from. No place is perfect but at Gateway situations are managed immediately, no tolerence is not just a couple of words. We feel blessed to be part of this growing school that deives excellence.

Posted: October 19, 2013

My son attends Gateway and loves it! The teachers and staff are very attentive. They are all very involved. We love the fact they are a 'bring your own device' school, leaving all those heavy books on shelves. Email, facebook, Moodle, face to face, anyway you want to communicate they're open to it. He also attends afterschool care which is cost effective and fun. There are lots of options for extra curricular activities and clubs. The campus is in a rural setting (unlike most charter schools which are in strip centers or office complexes); we thoroughly enjoy the drive, the beauty and the new, upcoming campus. They are a charter school, so kinda public but operate more like private. K-12, 100 kids max per grade level (4 classes per grade, 1000 student in the school) & both my kids can attend the same campus together. I would recommend Gateway to anyone!

Posted: October 19, 2013

My kids have been going to Gateway for three years now. It's been an adjustment for the whole family. There have been ups and downs and there were times I considered moving them back to regular public school. I think the biggest testimony to the school is that my kids actually love it. They are challenged to be the best they can be and they are constantly rising to that challenge and asking what's next. I am extremely happy with where Gateway is currently and I look forward to seeing where they go over the next few years.

Posted: October 19, 2013

Gateway has been a trajectory changing experience for my children. I am thrilled with the technology based learning and the ability for the teachers to creatively challenge the students according to their unique needs

Posted: October 19, 2013

Gateway is a wonderful school! My 3rd grade daughter has been going there since she began 1st grade, and now my son is in Kindergarten there. We absolutely love the teachers and staff. My kindergartener is already doing more than my daughter did in a public school when she was in Kindergarten. The classes are smaller, and the teachers have so much more freedom to teach than at a public school. We will be at Gateway until both of my children graduate!

Posted: October 19, 2013

I am very pleased with Gateway College Prep! Both of my children receive individualized attention and are challenged academically. Truly, a great opportunity to prepare my children for their future college experiences!

Posted: October 19, 2013

Great school, so happy to have my kids there. Love the freedom the teachers have. The level of education is superior.

Posted: October 18, 2013

This is our second year at Gateway CPS. All three of our children attend school here now. We were looking for an alternate solution for our kids education that would provide them a better education than what they were getting through RRISD and provide them a safe, constructive environment to go to everyday. Gateway CPS has far exceeded our expectations! We have seen our children grow so much more educationally than we ever did through RRISD schools. We fully support Gateway CPS and look forward to the coming growth of the school and watching our children and others succeed there!

Posted: October 11, 2013

Most misleading name for a school I have ever known. If it is such a great college prep school, then why aren't their AP and SAT scores better. Has one of the worst facilities I have ever seen for a school. If it is so great, why are kids leaving to go back to ISD schools. The only kids that can handle this schools are the one 's their parents let play games in their room all the time. What a depressing mess.

Posted: May 22, 2013

My child has been at Gateway for 5th grade and 6th grade and I have never felt like Gateway hasn't had an open door policy. When issues have arisen I spoke to the proper administrator and the concern was handled immediately. My child does not "teach" himself and he certainly does not have failing grades. In fact he has very high averages in every class. His science teacher and his math teacher have been extraordinary and have given him very good if not the best education he has ever had. He is extremely advanced compared to his peers so I'm not really sure what "teach themselves and taking a class online" means. My child has never taken a class online. Hmm. I know we all have our own opinion, but maybe we should address it with the administrators before going off on some public site and giving people the wrong impression. If one is not happy with the school, withdrawal is always an option. Just saying!

Posted: May 22, 2013

If you are interested in coming to Gateway, just ask around and talk to people who have their children there. It isa great school! I feel fortunate to have my children there. I also like the GISD schools we are zoned to, but we wanted something smaller that still provided a great learning experience and opportunities for our kids. That is what we got with Gateway. I have 2 kids in elementary and 1 in intermediate. The teachers are amazing! The administrators are proactive. The founder does have a business background and because of that he was able to take an idea and bring it to life. Gateway prepares your kid for college by utilizing technology, but they do not have the kids do online, self-taught classes. That is false. The teachers and the teaching are a big part of what makes GW so special. I liked that the high school kids were brought over work with the elementary kids one day. It is good for both the older and younger ones to interact and there is nothing wrong with doing something fun at school. There are less than 2 weeks of school left so give me a break! Gateway is not for everyone, but it is great for my family and hundreds of others!

Posted: May 21, 2013

My second grader came home today to say that the high schoolers were there to show them about MindCraft. Really??? they had it up on the screen and after they got to watch a "mind craft" movie! What in the world is the school coming to? that is disgraceful and beyond breaking the academic codes. High schoolers should NOT be in the same place during school hours as elementary children. And I have seen them in the playground same time as my elementary child. I heard some of the most graphic sexual conversation between the high schools students while the elementary kids played. I have seen my child walk across to the upper grade portables. The middle school/high school teach themselves on their own, like taking a class online. The school has low grades and according to people in there, about half of middle school and high school seem to have very low grades or failing. I can do college prep at home for my kids for all that matter, I can tell them to google everything and watch youtube videos and then can teach themselves. Parents seem to see what they want to see and not the reality of things. Very sad and scary to think they are brainwashed. Avoid the school.

Posted: May 21, 2013

Founder of school has a business background, not education, that should be a very BIG read flag! Obviously from the top of the chain we see the main interest is money. School doesn't have an open door policy. They do not return phone calls and very unorganized. Teachers are let to do what they want, no one to really sit down and have meetings there with them, to check on them and THEIR performance. I do admit, my child had the BEST teacher and I even gave her/him an application to apply at another school because I really think this particular teacher is gold and doesn't belong there. All teachers wear different hats, so no one teacher can focus on teacher that one subject. It's like the Tax Preparation commercial "during tax season I'm a tax expert, but now I'm a expert plumber." Some teacher give everything they got but the school doesn't deserve them. The school is a business and they use your child as bait.

Posted: April 24, 2013

To the parent who felt the need to say that the children at Gateway are very "different"...get off your horse! My kid can hold a candle to yours any day of the week. If you aren't happy, good, I'm glad you and your children are gone. Everybody likes to think that they're kids are so special and are angels, but that is not the case. This school has excellent teachers who do not teach to the test. They actually try to educate the kids. Let's get a few facts out the door - online instruction has NOT replaced classroom instruction. My daughter has pen and paper assignments and teacher interaction every day. Since it is the 21st century, the school is considering using online as a medium for homework assignments. What's so wrong with that? My job is trying to go paperless as well. What's the big deal? My daughter actually finds the online homework very motivating. The gym was constructed to ease the reliance on the private Triple Play sports complex, NOT because sports matters over academics. People really like to spew out a lot of half truths and fallacies here. I'm a real person leaving a real review too!

Posted: April 21, 2013

Gateway College Prep relies on the word college prep because of their teaching style, which is a self taught online type of teaching. As far as the academics go, they are at or below an average class at the public school. When my student transferred to public school, they were about two chapters behind the local ISD in several subjects. Gateway originally had good intentions of being a college prep school, however they quickly discovered that in Texas, the money is in SPORTS. Hence the multiple days of Cohorts so students can complete their work during school hours and be able to play sports after school and on weekends. That is also why the first permanent building completed was the gym and why the baseball field looks more well maintained than the main grounds where ALL the students walk not just the athletes. The restrooms in the building DO smell horribly unsanitary. As far as return calls or follow up to questions/issues, the Principal and Superintendent are horrible at return calls and feedback. I truly feel that the school had great intentions when they originally chartered as a College Prep School but they fell into the black abyss of Texas Sports rule who Texas is!

Posted: March 14, 2013

This is the first year for my son to attend this school. He was home-schooled previously, so I was against putting him in an ISD school. Therefore I chose to put him in Gateway due to the outstanding reputation it had amongst other parents I've met. I have been more than impressed with the administration staff, teachers, and principals. This school has been great for my son and has continued to challenge him on all levels from team building, following rules, being held accountable for his actions, and most importantly to his academics. I love that the teachers offer one-on-one time before, during, and after school to ensure my son is successful. My son absolutely loves that teachers and staff which is a huge deal to me. He feels very comfortable at this school. The communication has been fantastic with the teachers on anything from concerns to achievements. I voluntarily donate $100/per month, but have NEVER been asked to do so. This is a small contribution for a school that operates just like an expensive private school. I would love to see my son graduate from Gateway College Prep!

Posted: March 7, 2013

Our daughter is on her second year at Gateway. We have only had positive experiences associated with the school and the staff. We came from a school district where there was constant negativity and a lot of disorganization. It felt like the teachers were doing the bare minimum to get by. Being at Gateway has been a completely different experience. There is a feeling that the number one priority of teachers and staff is for the students to learn and excel. Their test scores reflect that. But there is also a family feeling with the school. A lot of parents volunteer and are part of the school. We are constantly updated on upcoming events and any news about the school thru Facebook, e-mail and even regular mail. We have never been pressured to donate. We do donate only because we know it is for the future of the school. We plan on keeping our daughter there until she graduates from high school. We highly recommend this school.

Posted: March 6, 2013

My son attends Gateway. This school has a lot of great features. Academics are excellent, an athletic program not always found in Charter Schools and the whole thing is held together by great teachers and coaches. The teachers are encouraged to be creative and the atmosphere is not " Stuffy or Stuck-up". They seem to adjusting to rapid growth. 0-820 in 4 years. All I know is my son's attitude and grades are the best he has ever had.

Posted: March 6, 2013

Gateway has been a blessing to my family. We were unhappy with the size and influences at the large elementary my children were attending. I was so thankful to have found this school. It has a family atmosphere due to the small size. The education my children have received is excellent, and the teachers/admistrators are very approchable.

Posted: March 6, 2013

I'm not sure what the negative reviewers are talking about, we have had nothing but good things to say about Gateway! My daughter was struggling at her old IB school, but has excelled at Gateway. The teachers are top notch, no "duds" that you get stuck with in public schools, they are the cream of the crop. I love the smaller class sizes and the "team" teaching approach, the other teachers know my child as well as her own teacher. There is just no pleasing some people. I think the administration bends over backward to accomodate all kinds of students, with their different issues and learning styles. The teachers are creative, fun and entertaining in their approach to learning. PTO seems friendly and open, and not nearly so clique-ish as I've seen. Yes, the facilities are a bit rough, but they are making the best of the situation, and I would much rather have A+ teachers than a shiny new school with substandard teachers that are under contract and the ISD can't get rid of. Gateway teachers really go out of their way to reach every child, kudo's to them!!

Posted: March 6, 2013

As far as the negative reviews, there is just no pleasing some people. I really cannot see anyone getting lost at Gateway, and I have NEVER been pressured to donate. My kid is getting a private school education, I am thrilled to pay $200 a month for. Smaller classes, top notch teachers, yes, the facilities leave alot to be desired, but I would much rather have A+ teachers than a bright shiny new school with substandard teachers the district is stuck with until their contract runs out. My daughter was struggling at an exemplary ISD school, and has thrived here. I have always found adminstration friendly and open to suggestion, and feeling that they really consider my suggestions. Everyone seems to work really hard to accomodate all different kinds of kids and learning styles. Teachers are fun, creative, and entertaining in their teaching approach. Any gripes I have are facility related, and that is temporary. There's a reason there is a waiting list to get in, I think Gateway is first rate in everywhere that counts!

Posted: March 5, 2013

Communication is a HUGE HUGE problem. While funding is important, a child is also important and should not be "lost at school". The others with Orenda Education are good at communication, but not those I have dealt with actually onsite @ Gateway College Prep. Safety protocols are an issue as well. Small class size is great. It may be said they want parent input, but quite honestly those I have dealt with will only do what THEY want and that is how it is because there are others on waiting lists to get in that will provide $$$. Will be pulling students out if communication and answers are not given to legitimate concerns. I WANT to love this school and not give up. Hoping and praying for a breakthrough!

Posted: March 5, 2013

I have no idea what school the negative reviewers are talking about. I have had nothing but good experiences here. The teachers get to know the kids and actually teach. My son learns a lot and has fun. All of the staff members are accessible and communicate. Yes-it is a new school and there are obvious growing pains, but as a parent it refreshing to be welcome at the school and to have my ideas listened to. There is no shortage of ways to be involved, and the school has grown by word of mouth and family/friend referrals. The upper grades are challenging--but it is a college prep school, and students are supported. Gateway does not have everything that all of the big 5a high schools have--but the most important factors in picking a school should be the academic program, school culture, and the teachers. Gateway excels in all three.

Posted: March 5, 2013

This is my son's first year at Gateway. He is in elementary. I have been very pleased with the education at Gateway. My son is taught on his level and pushed to excel by his teacher. His teacher is amazing! She communicates with us on a regular basis. The school feels like a tight knit community and there is a huge amount of parental involvement.

Posted: March 5, 2013

Gateway CPS is a different approach to learning, leading and structure in the educational environment. I have been in education for 20 years and the is the first time that I have ever been at a school where the rules can truly be enforced and students with improper behavior or inappropriate actions can actually be removed from the school setting and no longer have an impact on MY child's learning. Yes, it is web based... Yes, it is challenging... Yes, the expectations for parents and students alike, are high. Teachers do care, students do learn, and instructional strategies and practices are evident daily. It is not the place for students who were disruptive at their "previous school", it is not the place for students who are not invested in their own learning and parents who are not readily engaging in their child's daily life, homework and lessons. It IS a new way of thinking, and a new approach to guiding and facilitating students, rather than lecturing & direct teaching. I have read the negative reviews/comments and the qualms and concerns are often from parents who complain about communication when the Moodle page provides most answers, emails & upcoming events and grades. A+

Posted: February 14, 2013

This is the most unprofessional school I have ever put my kids in. All they care about is money! My 9th grader often says "we teach ourselves." It was a huge mistake to put my kids in this school. They don't care about the students or teaching anything. The principle will not listen to your problems. He just sits there nodding his head and coming up with excuses for the problems. Don't go to this school if you care about your child's future because they will have no future doing anything with this school!!!!!

Posted: February 13, 2013

Gateway is a school that relies on open and proactive communication between staff, students, parents, and the community. While the quality of our academic programs and extra-curricular offerings is a source of great pride, we need positive and negative feedback from our families as we continue to grow and evolve. All of the administrative, instructional, and support staff operates under an "open door/open school" policy and views our families as partners in the educational process.

Posted: September 7, 2012

This school is a terrible school. I will never send my child here ever again. This school had way too much freedom and not enough learning. All you see is children running around everywhere and not learning. My child before she came here, was a straight A student and now is failing some of her classes because she learned nothing from this school. The teachers here are terrible and don't teach. The teachers don't care where the heck they go during the day.. Some high school students have reportedly been banned from the school because of inappropriate activity. The principal doesn't care about anything that goes on either. I have personally met with the principal many different time and he doesn't focus on your needs. He just nods his head and makes up excuses. The school really only focus' on the elementary children because they are the future of their school they don't focus on the 6-12th grades. I feel bad for anyone that is going here.

Posted: July 24, 2012

I have 3 children in Elementary at Gateway and have had a wonderful experience. We are excited to return for a 2nd year and to begin middle school too. The teachers are EXCELLENT! The leadership is responsive and creative. My kids are challenged academically and enjoy going to school. It is a school filled with families looking for something different or perhaps better for their children and Gateway delivers.

#	Name	Type	City	State	Distance
1	Anderson Mill	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Austin	TX	13.8 mi
2	Midtown Commons at Crestview Station	Apartment Complex	Austin	TX	18.2 mi
3	Mill creek	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Salado	TX	25.7 mi
4	Evergreen Estates	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Harker Heights	TX	31.1 mi
5	Skipcha Mountain Estates	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Harker Heights	TX	31.7 mi
6	Spanish Oaks	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Killeen	TX	31.9 mi
7	Knights Ridge	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Harker Heights	TX	32 mi
8	White Rock Estates	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Killeen	TX	32.1 mi
9	Timber Ridge Estates	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Killeen	TX	32.2 mi
10	Savannah Heights	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Killeen	TX	32.8 mi
11	Glenwood	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Killeen	TX	33.2 mi
12	Oak View	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Belton	TX	35.4 mi
13	Northcliffe	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Belton	TX	37.5 mi
14	Copperas Cove	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Copperas Cove	TX	38.5 mi
15	Heartwood Park	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Copperas Cove	TX	41.1 mi
16	Skyline Flats	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Copperas Cove	TX	41.3 mi

#	Name	City	State	Distance
1	Main street	Salado	TX	25.1 mi
2	Harker Heights	Harker Heights	TX	32.8 mi
3	Elms street	Killeen	TX	35.2 mi
4	East Rancier Road	Killeen	TX	36.7 mi
5	North Side	Copperas Cove	TX	41.9 mi

Base	Distance
Camp Mabry	20.8 mi.
Fort Hood	38.2 mi.

Gateway College Preparatory School

Georgetown, TX 78626

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Gateway College Preparatory School

Georgetown, TX 78626

School Ratings

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