Lake Travis STEM Academy
Austin, TX 78726
Phone: (512) 784-7082
GreatSchools Rating
private • Grades KG,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9
Lake Travis STEM Academy, a private school located in Austin, TX, serves grades K-12 in the .
Lake Travis STEM Academy is a private school located in Austin, TX.
Posted: February 15, 2026
Posted: February 15, 2026
Posted: February 15, 2026
Posted: February 15, 2026
Posted: February 15, 2026
Posted: February 15, 2026
Posted: February 15, 2026
We are thrilled with our choice of Lake Travis Stem Academy for our child. The integrated, project-based learning model and standards-based grading focus on mastery and growth instead of letter grades, which has been a great fit for our family. As a microschool, the teachers are able to truly individualize instruction and meet each child where they are. In math, where our son is already strong, they moved him into more advanced topics instead of holding him back, which keeps him motivated and challenged.
The mixed-age classrooms have been wonderful for his social and emotional development. Older students are kind and inclusive, and the Big Buddy program has been especially meaningful. He looks up to his middle school buddy and felt welcomed from the very first days of school.
Communication from staff is excellent. There is a weekly newsletter, monthly coffee chats, and PTO meetings that keep parents informed and involved. The school frequently invites families to campus for events like Trunk-or-Treat, Thanksgiving lunch, and student Expos where kids proudly present their projects. Field trips happen every few weeks, which keeps learning engaging and hands-on.
We also really appreciate the four-day on-campus schedule with asynchronous learning on Fridays. It gives our son time to reinforce concepts at home and build independence. Overall, the school provides a supportive, innovative environment where students are known as individuals and encouraged to grow at their own pace. We are already looking forward to our younger child being old enough to attend.
Posted: February 10, 2026
Posted: February 10, 2026
Posted: February 10, 2026
Posted: February 10, 2026
Posted: February 10, 2026
Posted: February 10, 2026
Posted: February 10, 2026
Our experience at Lake Travis STEM Academy has been incredibly positive. From the moment our family joined, we felt welcomed, included, and treated as true partners in our childs education. The communication from teachers and leadership is clear and consistent, and there is a genuine openness to parent involvement.
What stands out most is the academic environment. The classrooms are structured, engaging, and focused on both critical thinking and real-world application. The emphasis on STEM subjects encourages curiosity, problem-solving, and creativity, while still supporting strong foundational skills in reading and writing.
My child is challenged in a way that builds confidence rather than frustration.
The culture of the school is respectful, safe, and community-oriented. Students are encouraged to collaborate, think independently, and take ownership of their learning. I also appreciate the schools commitment to high expectations, academically and behaviorally, while still maintaining a supportive and positive atmosphere.
As a parent, I feel informed, valued, and confident that my child is in an environment that prioritizes both academic excellence and character development. I would absolutely recommend this school to families looking for a strong academic foundation with meaningful family engagement.
Posted: February 10, 2026
Posted: September 11, 2025
Posted: September 11, 2025
Posted: September 11, 2025
Posted: September 11, 2025
Posted: September 11, 2025
Posted: September 11, 2025
Posted: September 11, 2025
I am a current student here in 11th grade. I really enjoy this school because I receive different learning experiences than those found in regular public schools, such as out-of-school learning opportunities, classes tailored to my needs, and individualized schoolwork. With all those experiences, I have had chances to grow as my own person. If I am more advanced in a subject, the teachers challenge me. No one is to hold me back. All of the teachers strive to have the students excel and provide the needed support. If you have personal goals with academics, all the teachers are on board to help you achieve those goals. We have tons of creative freedom when it comes to projects and assignments. We still have to meet the criteria, but we can add our own creativity, really showing who we are as a person. LTSA makes learning fun and interesting; rarely am I bored with the subjects being taught. LTSA has enabled me to grow as a person through academic pursuits. I have been a student here for 3 years and have really enjoyed my education.
Posted: September 11, 2025
Posted: May 29, 2025
Posted: May 29, 2025
Posted: May 29, 2025
Posted: May 29, 2025
Posted: May 29, 2025
Posted: May 29, 2025
Posted: May 29, 2025
Posted: May 29, 2025
Moving my kid (2nd grader) to LTSA has been seriously amazing for her. A year ago my daughter was so dysregulated at school all the time. She was "behind" in a lot of areas. She was struggling big time. Now she's ahead of grade level in many of the areas she was behind on a year ago.
I think she really benefits from the small class sizes, the hands-on projects, and the mixed age classes.
If you have the kind of kid who gets overwhelmed, who has sensory sensitivities, who can't just sit in a seat being lectured to class after class, who needs a little bit more individualized attention, who maybe behind or above grade level, who is seriously brilliant but maybe misunderstood - come on fam. We are your people.
Posted: April 23, 2025
Posted: April 23, 2025
Posted: April 23, 2025
Posted: April 23, 2025
Posted: April 23, 2025
Posted: April 23, 2025
Posted: April 23, 2025
Posted: April 23, 2025
It sounds like high schoolers and brand new families have generally good experiences, based on these newer reviews. However, you should know that the numerous negative reviews from last year are from elementary and jr high families who were at LTSA 2+ yrs. And admin routinely deflects or offers cherry-picked information in their responses to those reviews on these sites.
For example, multiple parents noted the high teacher turnover leading to inconsistent instruction. LTSA's response: "Our core group of teachers has been with us for nearly a decade. Last year, a few teachers needed to take a leave due to personal life events, such as the arrival of a new baby and health issues."
Thats not the whole picture. Those 2 teachers on leave" left permanently, and they are NOT what parents were even referring to. Since fall of 2022, there was a K1 teacher fired mid-year, an elementary ELA teacher let go after one year, a math teacher with excessive absences who quit with just weeks left of school, a science teacher who quit one month into this school year, a 1st/2nd teacher who left for public school, an elementary math teacher who left for public, and another science teacher who left after just one year.
In fact, comparing the 2022-23 staff to now, there are only 2 teachers remaining, or 3 if you count the director herself. Only one is certified. Admin says the core group" has been there 10 years, though thats a slick way to spin it, right?
And this is how the school responds to all concerns, from bullying to academic failings to why they went from 50ish kids in fall 2022 to just 13 kids in fall 2024.
After 10+ years in business, why would a school have this severe of a drop in students? It's a huge red flag, no matter how admin tries to spin it. The truth is that elementary and junior high families left in droves, *including the PTO officers* -- the most involved parents of all.
Sadly, it usually takes at least 2-3 years for parents to realize the deep issues at this school. By then, they also see the serious gaps in their child's education. For instance, kids at this school for 1st and 2nd went into 3rd this year (at new schools) without knowing how to tell time or count money, which should have been covered in both 1st and 2nd -- but were not. But no one is tracking that. The school points to a math curriculum that was maybe followed for older kids, but not these age groups. Be careful and be thorough in your research.
Posted: March 25, 2025
Posted: March 25, 2025
Posted: March 25, 2025
Posted: March 25, 2025
Posted: March 25, 2025
Posted: March 25, 2025
Posted: March 25, 2025
Posted: March 25, 2025
Since starting at LTSA, we have noticed a huge boost in our childs academic confidence and love for learning. He has always done well in school, but it is exciting to see him foster a love for learning.
Posted: March 25, 2025
Posted: March 25, 2025
Posted: March 25, 2025
Posted: March 25, 2025
Posted: March 25, 2025
Posted: March 25, 2025
Posted: March 25, 2025
Posted: March 25, 2025
My daughter is currently a junior in the high school and started at LTSA in 6th grade (the second half of which was 2020 so the rest of that year and the following was online, which LTSA handled beautifully and my daughter is right where she needs to be). This school is 100% the best match for our daughter. For us, we wanted a school with project-based experiential learning that teaches kids HOW to learn, not just to memorize a bunch of random junk and regurgitate it on a test (standardized or otherwise). My child has excelled in every subject at school and scored very well as a sophomore on her PSAT/NMSQT so even without that "teaching to the test" thing that other schools have going on, she still knows how to take a test and do well. As we approach her senior year and the college application process I feel very confident that she will be prepared for college and if last year's graduates are any indication, she will have no trouble getting into her top schools. She loves going to school and loves her teachers. She has particularly excelled in science and math (even though they aren't her favorite subjects)! I love the way the older kids get to mentor and guide the younger kids. Parent engagement is great and there are lot of field trip opportunities. I'm particularly excited about our school trip to Washington DC this year!
Posted: March 11, 2025
Posted: March 11, 2025
Posted: March 11, 2025
Posted: March 11, 2025
Posted: March 11, 2025
Posted: March 11, 2025
Posted: March 11, 2025
Posted: March 11, 2025
This our child's first year at LTSA. He has always done well academically and socially at school. Prior to starting at LTSA, we did not have concerns or struggles with his education. However, in the traditional education setting, our son did not love going to school. He did not have the same confidence at school that he has in sports. As a parent, it is exciting to see him to foster a love for learning and come home excited to share his knowledge. Despite him being in early elementary, we have noticed him having more confidence for public speaking, sharing knowledge across environments, and standing up for himself. Our hesitation with LTSA, is the lack of same aged peers in his classroom.
Posted: February 27, 2025
Posted: February 27, 2025
Posted: February 27, 2025
Posted: February 27, 2025
Posted: February 27, 2025
Posted: February 27, 2025
Posted: February 27, 2025
Posted: February 27, 2025
My child attends LTSA and is always happy to go to school. My child enjoys science class a lot and HUB class where they get to do hands on projects. The teachers are very involved and communicative. Teachers focus on social emotional learning and care about the student's happiness.
Posted: February 3, 2025
Posted: February 3, 2025
Posted: February 3, 2025
Posted: February 3, 2025
Posted: February 3, 2025
Posted: February 3, 2025
Posted: February 3, 2025
Posted: February 3, 2025
Our daughter has attended LTSA for 4 years since 7th grade. She is neurodivergent so the mentor-like relationships with her teachers and small class sizes have been beneficial. We are so happy we found LTSA!
Posted: August 12, 2024
Posted: August 12, 2024
Posted: August 12, 2024
Posted: August 12, 2024
Posted: August 12, 2024
Posted: August 12, 2024
Posted: August 12, 2024
I cannot say enough great things about this Lake Travis STEM Academy. The academics are top-notch, with challenging curriculum that really pushes students to think critically and problem solve. The teachers are dedicated and passionate about their subjects, creating a stimulating learning environment.
What sets LT STEM apart, however, is its emphasis on individualized learning plans, socialization, inclusion & community. My son has attended from 7th-12th grade and was very happy there while being challenged academically. LT STEM also creates a welcoming and accepting community where everyone feels valued and respected. I also love that, due small student teacher ratio LT STEM incorporates real life discussions around current events into the curriculum. This not only helps students stay informed about the world around them, but also teaches them how to think critically and articulate their opinions effectively.
Overall, I highly recommend LT STEM to any parent looking for a well-rounded education for their child. The academics are excellent, the social environment is inclusive, and the real-life discussions and course material add an extra layer of depth to the learning experience.
Posted: May 26, 2024
Posted: May 26, 2024
Posted: May 26, 2024
Posted: May 26, 2024
Posted: May 26, 2024
Posted: May 26, 2024
Posted: May 26, 2024
Posted: May 26, 2024
Theres a reason this place has a high student and teacher turnover rate. The director talks a good game, shes charismatic and will tell you everything you want to hear. When it comes to follow through there is very little, especially when she promises two different families two conflicting solutions to a problem. There was a lot of that last year, and 17 kids left the school. And despite the small class sizes and promises to differentiate instruction, my kids are behind in nearly every subject.
The director is a full time admin but also a full time ELA teacher which is also supposed to incorporate social studies and humanities, some classes only got that instruction 2 out of the 4 days the school is in session due to staff meetings she had to attend.
Also she will tell you the mass exodus was because she let people go due to behavior but thats not even close to true. She let 3 students go because their parents demanded that she take responsibility (all 3 of them were leaving anyway) and kept the 2 kids who had been in the most altercations all year.
And in 2 years nearly none of the technology fee budget was used but our kids complained daily that their computers died all the time and there werent enough chargers for everyone.
And yes, the Anne Frank role play with elementary kids playing Nazi hide and seek did happen. Did you know the school is in a building that is also used as a Jewish synagogue? Ask yourself if this aligns with your world view before considering.
Posted: May 24, 2024
Posted: May 24, 2024
Posted: May 24, 2024
Posted: May 24, 2024
Posted: May 24, 2024
Posted: May 24, 2024
Posted: May 24, 2024
Posted: May 24, 2024
When we decided to leave LTSA back in January, it was because we were repeatedly meeting with the director about our child getting hit/shoved; the spotty academics (ex: our math teacher last year couldnt share a curriculum scope and sequence, because there was none), and the lack of communication. There were times I wanted to take my kid out and not finish the year, because I no longer trusted the leadership at the school. However, my child had a good teacher and wanted to finish. Then, during the last week, her 1st/2nd grade class (its combined) was having a pjs-and-movie day to celebrate their hard work. At some point, another teacher came in to have them do a different kind of activity... She said the jr high kids were reading The Diary of Anne Frank. And this was their annex day, so they were hiding. She explained to the 1st-5th kids that they would be the bad guys called Nazis who were trying to find the people who were hiding, and the Nazis wanted to kill the other people. I asked my child how the activity made her feel, and she said it made her sad to have to be a bad guy who wanted to kill people. For a school that touts social-emotional learning, no one considered what this experience would be like for such young children? One of the 5th graders told his mom that he felt bad seeing the littlest ones involved in it. And a quick search on the US Holocaust Memorial Museum site shows that the recommended grade to introduce this subject is 6th, so age 11 or 12. Instead they introduced it to kids as young as 6, teaching them a word like Nazi and making it essentially a game for them without these kids understanding the what that really means or that it should *never* be a game. The Holocaust Memorial Museum also does NOT recommend classroom simulations, and the site suggests more pedagogically responsible activities. One jr high student stayed home because they objected to this activity. Unfortunately the 1st-5th parents were not notified nor asked to give consent. We found out later during bath time or at the breakfast table when our children started talking about pretending to be Nazis at school. And now were having to have tough conversations about a subject that kids this age dont fully grasp, since the vocab has now been introduced. And conversations about how adults in charge can make poor decisions. And how to respectfully study the hard parts of history. I cant overstate how glad we are to move on.
Posted: May 23, 2024
Posted: May 23, 2024
Posted: May 23, 2024
Posted: May 23, 2024
Posted: May 23, 2024
Posted: May 23, 2024
Posted: May 23, 2024
Posted: May 23, 2024
Initially, the presence of teachers with real-world experience rather than traditional teaching backgrounds seemed like a positive aspect of the school. However, it became apparent that this contributed to a lack of effective teaching and behavioral challenges, resulting in my children not learning as much as expected despite small class sizes. Although the school attracted neurodivergent students, it lacked the resources and expertise to support them adequately.
Communication and organization were GLARING weaknesses, with important information often being relayed last minute or not at all. Field trip opportunities were also far fewer than anticipated.
The small size of the school had drawbacks, particularly concerning playground dynamics, broken promises, and declining enrollment. The Director prioritized recruiting new students over supporting existing ones, and there was a pattern of unfulfilled commitments, such as delayed yearbooks (a year late) and a lack of growth. The desperation to hire teachers led to poor choices, resulting in disappointing interactions between teachers and students, with inconsistent expectations for politeness.
Notably, there was a glaring absence of physical education in the elementary years, despite its importance, and supervision on the playground was inadequate, leading to frequent injuries. Mixed-age groupings did not benefit older students, who often faced immature behavior and a lack of differentiated learning.
For those who value organization, the school's poor planning and communication would be frustrating, although the community and schedule were excellent.
Posted: May 23, 2024
Posted: May 23, 2024
Posted: May 23, 2024
Posted: May 23, 2024
Posted: May 23, 2024
Posted: May 23, 2024
Posted: May 23, 2024
Posted: May 23, 2024
LTSA just lost a ton of kids. In K-5th, only 6 kids are returning. Our concerns:
>Leadership. The director was willing to talk about issues, but nothing came from it.
And her go-to responses were the kids need to speak up more, blaming parents for being toxic, and saying no one told me. But its her job to know whats going on. And in some cases, parents did speak up, but theres no system for sharing info amongst the staff.
The director never took any responsibility, even as parents wanted to help improve things. Shes also an (uncertified) teacher. Parents said the school needs a dedicated director, so she agreed to do that, other than the classes shell still teach next year.
>Communication. Some teachers were good about this, some not. And the communication from the school itself was terrible. Numerous parents brought this up on a survey in spring, and it was neither acknowledged nor addressed.
>Special Ed. LTSA enrolled kids with autism, ADHD, etc., yet didnt have qualified staff to support them. Small class size is not sufficient. And a lot of time is lost to classroom management, at least in K-5.
>Bullying. While some kids were dismissed for this, others bullied over multiple years if the director saw progress. When parents asked about the inconsistency, we were told the policy is enforced consistently, despite our experiences.
>No T&E in STEM. Last year my child had a technology class. This year, nothing. Often kids couldnt even use the laptops, because they needed a new battery or cord. Meanwhile $15,000 of parent-paid technology fees sat in a bank account all year.
>Safety. The main building has security, but kids walk between 3 buildings, including unaccompanied upper elementary kids with their teachers key card. The main door has also been propped open, allowing a visiting adult to walk right in. Its against policy, sure, but reminders after the fact dont equal security.
>Academics. You may get a good teacher, and you may not. And if you dont, theres no oversight into what the teacher is (or isnt) teaching.
LTSA also claims individualized learning, but advanced and older students often worked at a lower level with peers, without a plan for their own advancement. Some parents are hiring tutors to catch those kids up over the summer. If you enroll, I suggest at least monitoring whether your child is getting the basics for their grade (search for TEKS). Theres a reason the majority of students just left.
Posted: August 17, 2023
As the Academic Advisor at Lake Travis STEM Academy for the past six years, I am proud to offer an endorsement of the educational experience that our institution provides. I have had the distinct honor of witnessing firsthand the profound impact of our school's resolute commitment to maintaining high teaching standards, fostering innovative approaches to education, and prioritizing the holistic well-being of our students.
Over the years, I have personally observed how our distinctive project-based learning environment serves as a catalyst for student growth and development. Our teaching approach is not just about the transmission of knowledge; it's about igniting a lifelong passion for learning.
Central to our ethos is the commitment to cultivating a nurturing and supportive atmosphere that goes beyond academics. Our school prioritizes the emotional and social well-being of our students.
Yes, it's important to acknowledge that our commitment to these high teaching standards can also lead us to make difficult decisions when necessary. We believe that the educational experience is only as strong as the educators delivering it. As such, we hold our teaching staff to an elevated standard, ensuring that they not only possess subject expertise but also the capacity to provide the care and support our students deserve. Occasionally, this entails making challenging decisions, including the possibility of parting ways with teachers who may not meet our expectations. Throughout this process, we consider feedback from students, parents, and staff.
Lake Travis STEM Academy's commitment to student success extends even to situations that require tough choices. While we strive to cater to the diverse learning needs of our students, there may be instances where we realize that our school may not be the optimal fit for a particular student. We understand and respect that each student's educational journey is unique, and we humbly acknowledge that there are times when more specialized support is essential. As a private institution without a dedicated special education program, we place the well-being of our students at the forefront.
Our commitment to maintaining high teaching standards, nurturing innovation, and prioritizing the well-being of our students is at the heart of our mission. Whether through personalized learning experiences, fostering emotional growth, or even making challenging decisions.
Posted: August 16, 2023
Posted: August 16, 2023
Posted: August 16, 2023
Posted: August 16, 2023
Posted: August 16, 2023
Posted: August 16, 2023
Posted: August 16, 2023
I've been a teacher at LTSA for 8 years. In my time here, I have been both supported by administration and given the freedom to structure activities and curriculum to engage students and help them grow.
Our approach is research-based, so it differs significantly from that of a traditional school. For example, our standard-based grading system allows students many attempts to master concepts without penalty. This results in a grade that accurately reflects a student's mastery at the end of the year, rather than one that unfairly penalizes students for mistakes made during the learning process.
This grading system, along with our project-based, student-centered curriculum, fosters a mastery-motivational climate in which students are focused on learning and creating, rather than taking shortcuts or gaming the system. Students are able to experiment, take risks and incorporate formative feedback from teachers rather than simply regurgitating content they memorize just long enough to pass a test. While no school is a perfect fit for every teacher, student or family, our is a great fit for many, particularly adults who consider themselves lifelong learners and children who are curious and creative.
Posted: August 16, 2023
Posted: August 16, 2023
Posted: August 16, 2023
Posted: August 16, 2023
Posted: August 16, 2023
Posted: August 16, 2023
Posted: August 16, 2023
Posted: August 16, 2023
Posted: August 16, 2023
I have been a teacher at LTSA for three years now and have loved every moment of it. I have the freedom to meet my students where they are at academically and teach content that aligns with my student's interests and values without the pressure of standardized tests. My students love getting hands-on learning opportunities and thrive in this non-traditional school setting. LTSA has a focus on social emotional learning and understand that students need time and space to help build their executive functioning skills. Teachers and admin work hard to ensure that each student's individual needs are being met both academically and socially. The small school provides a safe and comfortable community for each of the students. The LTSA families are so supportive of teachers and are great partners in their student's learning. This school is a great fit for curious students who love to learn by doing.
Posted: June 30, 2023
Posted: June 30, 2023
Posted: June 30, 2023
Posted: June 30, 2023
Posted: June 30, 2023
Posted: June 30, 2023
Posted: June 30, 2023
LTSA is a mess. The administrators hold no degrees in education and are wholly unqualified to provide the education and support that these children require and deserve. A great number of the students at this school have emotional problems and/or learning disabilities, some of which are severe. There is no discipline in the classrooms . Students routinely are disrespectful to the teachers, ignoring them, yelling at them , throwing things, with no consequences. Teachers are often called out for trying to provide any type of structure or accountability to the children. Parents run the school on the basis of rumor and innuendo.
Many students are sorely lacking in basic writing, spelling , phonics and math skills. There are few standards for the quality of the childrens work or their effort or lack of same.
Bullying is common and is not addressed. Students wander the campus without anyones knowledge.
Check out the attrition rate of the teachers.
The school itself is filthy and reeks of mold which is everywhere-a fact kept from the parents.
If you care about the well-being of your child do not consider Lake Travis Stem Academy.
Posted: June 30, 2023
Posted: September 20, 2022
Posted: September 20, 2022
Posted: September 20, 2022
Posted: September 20, 2022
Posted: September 20, 2022
Posted: September 20, 2022
We absolutely love being a part of LTSA. The hands-on learning and small class sizes really help the kids to be engaged and have their needs met. I also appreciate the parents can be involved and that the staff is friendly, welcoming, and continually striving to make the school better.
Posted: September 20, 2022
Posted: August 17, 2021
Simply put: our child is thriving at LTSA. We love the school's approach to meet children where they are. It's a wonderfully supportive environment for students to learn and grow.
The teachers and administration have also been wonderful throughout COVID and all of the changes the pandemic brought. It wasn't easy for anyone, but they made the transitions/changes as smooth as possible. We're grateful to have been at LTSA during one of the most tumultuous years as a family.
Posted: August 17, 2021
Posted: August 17, 2021
Posted: August 17, 2021
Posted: August 17, 2021
Posted: August 17, 2021
Posted: August 17, 2021
Posted: August 17, 2021
Posted: May 18, 2020
Our first year at LTSA has been great! We were home schooling prior to attending LTSA and I was nervous to send my kids back to school. I knew public wouldn't be a good fit for my youngest. He is loving the project base learning and all the hands on activities. Both children like having a smaller class size. The teachers know what each student needs and how they are progressing. No one gets lost or left behind academically. A 4 day school week allows for more family time, quick weekend getaways. I notice my children are not burned out by the end of the week and way more productive. We like LTSA so much our oldest will be attending high school this upcoming year. Overall, we have been very impressed and look forward to next year.
Posted: May 18, 2020
The elementary school doesn't give out homework. Kids are not suppose to have endless hours of worksheets to do at home. This allows for after school activities and more family time.
Posted: May 18, 2020
My children's teachers have done amazing job. My youngest can daydream and they have a way of pulling him in and refocusing.
Posted: May 18, 2020
The teachers and admin really express being kind, respectful of each other. My kids have never came home saying someone has been mean or bullying them.
Posted: May 18, 2020
Anytime I've had a question or concern, I've been given an appropriate response.
Posted: May 18, 2020
Yes, both my kids learn differently and both are thriving here.
Posted: May 18, 2020
We have not had any issues with bullying at this school. I feel it is a very safe place for my children to be.
Posted: April 15, 2020
It will seem like it in the beginning, but when adversity shows its face or you disagree with the leadership alienation of student occurs.
Posted: April 15, 2020
Leadership is only interested in what parents do foe the school and does. Ot take initiative to obtain resources on their own. They also alienate students who have a voice.
Posted: April 15, 2020
This school is not designed to support students with learning differences.
Posted: April 15, 2020
The leadership of this school bullies and very passive aggressively. If a student speaks out in disagreement, the student is alienated.
Posted: April 15, 2020
At first we loved it, but as it continued the lack of resources for higher grades became a problem and parents and school leadership do not want to get involved with securing the needed resources. The lack of follow through from leadership and effective communication also became a huge problem. Leadership also goes against their own handbook when dealing with certain situations and are very passive aggressive in their communication. I would not recommend this school unless you want your child to graduate without being prepared for college in a 21st century world.
Posted: April 15, 2020
No homework given fornfegilar classwork. For project based learning a lot of time is wasted with little result.
Posted: April 15, 2020
Depends on the teacher. This is a STEM based school with no STEM resources for upper grades, including technology, labs equipment resources, or support.
Posted: February 15, 2016
We had a choice of schools, both public and private (including the Lake Travis ISD) and chose LTSA for our daughter. We love the smaller class sizes, greater one-on-one attention, and the experiential learning curriculum. Our daughter is excelling in this environment and learning skills she'll need to be successful in high school, college and beyond. I highly recommend LTSA for those looking for a great learning environment for their children, regardless of their learning level.
Posted: February 15, 2016
The teachers at LTSA are unbelievable. They put heart into everything they do; they individualize for each and every student. They are so wonderful!
Posted: February 15, 2016
Posted: February 15, 2016
Posted: February 15, 2016
LTSA is a wonderful school!! The teachers work SO hard, administration staff is always helpful, and it is filled with endless materials for hands on experiential learning. Kids LOVE to learn at LTSA!
Posted: February 15, 2016
Posted: February 15, 2016
Never had a problem with the homework. Never had too much, never had too little. Highly manageable.
Posted: February 15, 2016
Posted: February 15, 2016
So much valuable time is lost in public or charter school due to class size, shuffling from room to room, or preparation for standardized testing. My child has always possessed a love for learning, but other schools killed that spark. Now that we've found LTSTEM, my child is excited to go to school again. The small intimate environment allows my child to excel in creative and productive thinking and in general intellectual ability through differentiated learning experiences. Could things be a little more focused? Maybe, but that's also part of the process. The hands on experiential approach is very different than the standard teaching approach. Some people may need the tight structure of the standard teaching method, working straight from an outline in a textbook or singular lecture, but certainly LTSTEM pushes independent study which persuades students to seek text and answers for themselves. It is a paradigm shift that can be difficult for some to embrace. The benefit is that LTSTEM pushes all students to apply creative and critical thinking skills to their learning experiences. I like the fact that my child is given the freedom to study on an accelerated pace, but in a blended age classroom. I could home school if I were only concerned about academic achievement, but LTSTEM recognizes the whole student by fostering a community of social learning opportunities as well. The PE teacher does an excellent job in that respect! We've never experienced bullying at LTSTEM, though the same cannot be said of our experience of public school and charter school.
Posted: February 15, 2016
Posted: February 15, 2016
Posted: February 15, 2016
Students are led through peaceful conflict resolution when disagreements occur, working to understand the source of the conflict and how to make things right.
Posted: February 15, 2016
As a teacher with experience in public, charter and private schools around Austin, I can proudly write that this has been the most rewarding experience I have had in education. I have access to a fantastic curriculum (Singapore Math), a great team of educators and a curious, compassionate student body. Rather than punishing students with poor grades for academic performance or detention for behavior issues, we help students learn from mistakes and move forward in a positive way. If you're looking for a small community that values the personal, social and academic development of every student, then you've found the right place!
Posted: February 2, 2016
It appears that there is a lot of turnover. This applies to students and faculty alike. It makes one nervous. I don't know if this school has a strong direction.
Posted: February 2, 2016
It varies. Sometimes there is way too much homework. Other times, there is hardly any.
Posted: February 2, 2016
I cannot recommend this school. It is chaotic, and disorganized and some children do not feel safe. The administration presents the school one way, then changes mid-stream into something totally different. A business should uphold their end of the bargain if they expect to keep their clients. You should not promise something you can't deliver.
Posted: February 2, 2016
I think they are as effective as they can be under the circumstances. Students still did not have textbooks in December. I don't know if the administration finally got around to purchasing all of them or not. It must be difficult for a teacher to teach without the necessary materials.
Posted: February 2, 2016
Students learn here that bullies often win. When the administration is informed of bullying, there is often no response or the response comes too late after much damage has already been done.
Posted: February 2, 2016
In trying to find the right learning environment for our highly gifted child (public schools, charter schools and now private school), I'm convinced that we've found a home at LTSA. Nothing is perfect, but my family hasn't had issues with delayed responses from teachers or administration and we've found them willing to talk about any challenges we have. My child WANTS to go to school here (and gets excited about it every day).
Posted: February 1, 2016
I am a parent @ LTSTEM academy and I was sad to see someone post what can only be an inaccurate and unjustified negative review of such a wonderful school. LTSTEM has always gone above and beyond in ensuring that our children are taught in small classes, by knowledgeable, friendly and passionate teachers... I cant think of another school that does this better, sorry.
Posted: February 1, 2016
We love the teachers,. They are passionate, knowledgeable and very attentive to the needs of their students,. Small class sizes mean they have time to dedicate to their students!
Posted: February 1, 2016
The homework is just right and is posted by teachers using several collaboration mediums and portals for maximum flexibility. Not sure I understand one of the comments about the homework being too much. the homework reflects the amount of research that needs to be performed outside of school hours in order to solidify the in-class acquisitions.
Posted: February 1, 2016
Yes! the curriculum caters to driving these very values, fostering strong bonds between the students, their fellow students, teachers and staff.
Posted: February 1, 2016
I can't speak highly enough of Lake Travis STEM Academy. The material is highly relevant. students learn by "doing" rather than memorizing. The teachers and material encourage critical thinking. Small classes mean our kids get plenty of one on one attention. The homework load and mandatory student projects and presentations can seem daunting at times but it pushes students to excel.
Posted: January 28, 2016
Posted: January 28, 2016
we could not be more disappointed in this school. The concept sounds intriguing and we truly wanted to believe in it. But in practice, at least at this particular start-up school, it has been a disaster on many levels. The poor communication, last-minute changes in schedules, short academic day, unclear and unreasonable expectations, bullying behaviors, and poor responsiveness from the school administration have all contributed to a horrible experience for our family.
Posted: January 28, 2016
This may not be the case with all of the teachers at the school, but our child's teacher is disorganized, scattered, and communicates very poorly with the students and the parents. The teacher has not even taught much of material that she said was going to be covered this school year, basic things that should be part of the students daily - or at least weekly - lessons.
Posted: January 28, 2016
the homework is not well planned out or necessarily helpful for the students, and the communication of homework expectations is abominable. Often the more difficult homework would have been fine if advance notice had been given so students could plan ahead and break it into small pieces. And sometimes there is just a lot of silly busywork that is not consistent with the school's stated philosophy.
Posted: December 23, 2015
This school is absolutely a joke. I thought it would be a school focused on science, technology, engineering, math. These subjects are only briefly taught. The communication is so poor that you never know what your child is learning nor what is going on in the school. Teacher assignments are late, and email or phone calls are rarely answered. The administration is also hard to get in touch with. The students were suppose to get text books but as of November still didn't have them. If your looking for a school that will challenge your advanced child, then this not the school your looking for. There are practically no library books and students are assigned books that are below their reading level. The school is unorganized and children get blamed for things they didn't do. Blaming a few kids for behavior problems is the result of the teachers inability to motivate and control the classroom. Teachers were known to talk down to students and tell them the class was better when they were not at school. Very disappointed by the way the school handled certain situations.
Posted: December 23, 2015
Posted: December 23, 2015
Posted: December 23, 2015
Posted: August 23, 2015
We've been very pleased with the teaching staff. The teachers have been able to individualize the program to meet our child's abilities - for example, attending the higher grade math class.
Posted: August 23, 2015
The school requires a certain amount of homework - both to cover the basics but also to complete projects and presentations.
Posted: August 23, 2015
Because the class sizes are so small, all of the kids know each other very well. There is no reason to be anything but honest or fair because all of the kids are friends with each other. In addition, it's easy for the teacher and administrators to ensure everyone is treated well - again, due to the small class sizes.
Posted: August 23, 2015
We have been a part of Lake Travis STEM Academy since it began. One of the greatest things about LTSA is the class size - there is nothing better then the individual attention each student receives from their teacher. In addition, the students are all quite close - due to the class size but also due to all the projects that take place throughout the year. The school is very hands on ... instead of listening to the teacher explain simple machines, the students built them. Instead of listening to how a rocket works, the students built them and set them off. Instead of learning to give the right answer on a standardized test, the students are encouraged to think, to question, to invent.
Posted: March 8, 2015
I cannot speak highly enough of LTSA. I especially encourage you to consider LTSA if you have a child with dyslexia or dysgraphia. My dyslexic child has flourished and the experiential math program has resulted in her liking math. The success of LTSA is due to the Director, Kori McClain. Kori has met or exceeded my expectations at every turn. She treats the students with heartfelt love and respect. My kids feel like they are partners at this school, rather than students toeing the line. LTSA welcomes parental involvement. As a result, the school has a sense of community that is amazing. The teachers are very knowledgeable about their subject areas and are very responsive to student (and parent) needs. Their program embodies the philosophy in this article: "Things Every Kid Should Master.". Each quarter of the school year focuses on a hub that unifies what they are learning. For instance, the Flight Hub included experiments demonstrating Bernoulli s Principle and launching rockets that the kids built. A small thing: the 9:15am start time has reduced our family s stress level greatly.
Reviews provided by GreatSchools™
| # | Name | Type | City | State | Overall Rating | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Midtown Commons at Crestview Station | Apartment Complex | Austin | TX | 2.1 mi | |
| 2 | Anderson Mill | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Austin | TX | 9 mi | |
| 3 | Mill creek | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Salado | TX | 42.1 mi | |
| 4 | Evergreen Estates | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Harker Heights | TX | 47.3 mi | |
| 5 | Spanish Oaks | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Killeen | TX | 47.9 mi | |
| 6 | Skipcha Mountain Estates | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Harker Heights | TX | 47.9 mi | |
| 7 | White Rock Estates | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Killeen | TX | 48.1 mi | |
| 8 | Timber Ridge Estates | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Killeen | TX | 48.2 mi | |
| 9 | Knights Ridge | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Harker Heights | TX | 48.2 mi | |
| 10 | Savannah Heights | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Killeen | TX | 48.8 mi | |
| 11 | Glenwood | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Killeen | TX | 49.2 mi |
| # | Name | City | State | Overall Rating | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Main street | Salado | TX | 41.6 mi | |
| 2 | Harker Heights | Harker Heights | TX | 48.9 mi |
| Base | Distance |
|---|---|
| Camp Mabry | 5.2 mi. |
