Purple Sage Elementary School in Austin

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.
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: July 23, 2026

As a parent and a teacher, I cannot recommend Purple Sage. While there are teachers and staff sprinkled in who care for children, the majority of adults live their school lives demeaning students and parents. The assistant principal does not enjoy children unless they are quiet and compliant, while the head principal will tell parents whatever they want to hear to get them to go away and talks in circles to get out of any situation. There is no situation, big or small, that they feel they're in the wrong, could improve on, or would accept partnership to help students. They always deny any wrongdoing. This behavior trickles down to the teachers, so then teachers feel confident that they can treat students and parents in any way, because they are also never in the wrong. If ever an issue, the school is always in the right and refuses to hear all sides, with the bottom line being that they did nothing wrong and it is the students' personal issues that cause issues.
Teachers are told they do not have to respond to parents, and that admin will handle issues; then the principals refuse to put anything in writing (email) and will only call over the phone to discuss matters. When they do email, they are vague and leave interpretation of them in a good light.
Learning disabilities are ignored, then poor classwork and grades are blamed on "bad behaviors"; students are told "they know better than that" and "your parents would be so disappointed" instead of being taught how to work through issues or even asking the students' point of view. If students cannot keep up with the work, they are blamed and called out in front of peers in the classroom.
Students see and hear adults treating students poorly - calling specific students out all the time, calling them unkind nicknames, and singling them out - then fellow students think it is okay to treat others this way, and they do. There is a bullying issue from teacher to student, and student to student; however, the student who is seen as different and being singled out is the one who ends up being called the problem. The school leads the outside world to believe that there are no issues on campus, and parents who don't have to deal with anything other than sending their kid to school and picking them up don't know what actually happens at PSE and just show up to PTA events believing everyone is experiencing a "good school". There is a huge number of families that are silenced and made to feel unwelcome every day.

Posted: July 23, 2026

Posted: June 29, 2026

As a parent, I cannot recommend Purple Sage based on our experience.

We came into Purple Sage new to the district after my child had already experienced a traumatic situation earlier in the year. We were hoping for compassion, patience, and support during a difficult transition. Instead, we encountered an environment that left my child feeling defeated.

Throughout the year, my child received multiple write-ups, often for behaviors that I felt should have been met with understanding, guidance, and appropriate support instead of repeated punishment. My child came home believing they were a "bad kid" and even told me they had been told that if they didn't improve, they would end up going to a "bad school."

I also felt pressured to pursue an ADHD evaluation rather than having meaningful conversations about the impact that trauma, grief, anxiety, and major life changes can have on a child's behavior. I never felt those factors were given the consideration they deserved.

The principal and assistant principal were dismissive of my concerns and showed very little empathy. Rather than partnering with our family to support my child's success, I often left conversations feeling like my child was viewed as a problem to be managed instead of a child who deserved compassion, patience, and support.

One incident that I will never forget was my child being placed alone in a room with the lights off and the door closed during lunch detention. Regardless of the intent, that is not an appropriate way to treat a child who is already struggling emotionally.

After just one school year, I made the decision to transfer my child to another school for next year. As a parent, I don't make a decision like that lightly, but I no longer felt this was an environment where my child could thrive emotionally or academically.

I hope this review encourages reflection and meaningful change because every child deserves to feel safe, understood, respected, and valued at school.

Unfortunately, that was not our experience at Purple Sage.

Posted: June 29, 2026

Posted: June 24, 2026

I will give zero if it could be an option.

When a boy hit a girl on the head with a pencil and she went to the teacher for help, the teacher's response was: "Did you ask why he hit you? Stop being a snitch." A child seeking protection was shamed for reporting it. And if you think that's bad - the administration is worse. Leadership operates with no integrity, and no matter what happens, it is always the student's or the parent's fault. Never theirs.Many families have already left quietly - transferring or homeschooling. Their silence does not mean there were no problems.
If you are considering PSE, ask hard questions before you enroll and pay close attention to how leadership responds. In our experience, that alone will tell you everything.

Posted: June 24, 2026

Posted: January 6, 2026

My kid was having a hard time in his 1st grade class and his teacher excluded him from activities in class and had a meeting set up to tell us he needed to get tested for a mental illness because he was below average. When we contacted the school about this, they were extremely disrespectful and dismissive. After that they gave up on my kid. Teachers and staff are absolutely terrible at this school. My kid was not comfortable being in that class.

Posted: January 6, 2026

Posted: August 6, 2025

If you have a child going to the 5th grade at this school...run! Go somewhere else, even if it's inconvenient. It is worth it for the mental health of your child. There are a lot of great teachers at Purple Sage, but the Assistant Principal is ruthless and has no feelings whatsoever for the well-being of the children at the school. She will tell the kids the most condescending things to make children feel like they're a disappointment to their parents. She gets away with it because she's a personal friend of the Principal. They make it LOOK like they care, but it's all just a cookie cutter, white picket fence cover-up. One of the 5th grade teachers in the portable buildings is careless and hates her job and tells the kids that. She makes the kids cry regularly. She's disrespectful and will single your child out in front of the class to embarrass them. Many parents have this problem with the teacher and the administration at Purple Sage is aware and does NOTHING about it. It's sad that children are being taught that is an acceptable way to treat people.

Posted: August 6, 2025

Posted: May 26, 2025

This school may be a good fit for children who are neurotypical and easily adapt to traditional classroom expectations. However, families of children with special needs should be aware that, in our experience, the support for neurodivergent students is limited. We've found the school to be lacking in both understanding of social-emotional development and willingness to partner collaboratively with parents.

Securing even the most basic accommodations has been an uphill battle, they push back at nearly every step, often requiring excessive documentation and meetings with little meaningful follow-through. While there are definitely some dedicated and caring teachers, we've also encountered staff, both in teaching and administration, who respond defensively to parent concerns and are resistant to honoring individualized requests. This has made what was once a school we felt proud to be part of feel much less welcoming and inclusive. I hope the school continues to grow in its capacity to support all learners and foster true partnerships with families.

Posted: May 26, 2025

Posted: March 7, 2025

My child has been at this school for 3 years. This school does not care about the little human beings in their care. Their sole focus is on having classes full of kids who sit perfectly still and silent all day long because they think that will somehow ensure they get great state test scores. They focus on this at great cost to the mental well being of the children, stifling any genuine interest the kids have in school. Teachers keep tallies of the number of times students move or speak without raising their hands throughout the day. Many teachers hold kids back from recess for several minutes based on the number of tallies, all while these kids are forced to watch other children play. When you raise real concerns with proven evidence, even when you have a child with a documented disorder who needs accomodations, the administration will do the bare minimum, taking a meeting with you and saying "we take these concerns seriously" but those are words only. They try to usher you out the door as quickly as possible and hope you don't bother them again. I've spoken to many parents who say their children, like mine, suffer from low self esteem and anxiety from having teachers who seem to think they are running military training or a prison rather than an elementary school.

Posted: March 7, 2025

Posted: August 4, 2024

My student attended 1st, 2nd and 3rd here. Getting help for disabilities has been a very slow and painful process. My son developed an anxiety disorder due to the lack of support for disabilities coupled with the stressful season of Covid-19. My concerns were often dismissed by the teacher and administration. Later on, and after much determination, we discovered on our own that my student was dealing with mild ASD, ADHD and Anxiety Disorder. Staff kept telling me he was happy, but would not listen to me when I tried to explain what was going on after school. My student would unravel at the seams and not be able to cope, eventually refusing to go to school due to the sensory/ASD combo and him feeling like he wasn't going to be taken care of at school - no matter how hard I pleaded with them for help. He had no discipline problems at school.

Eventually, I was directed to the school Psychologist and we got him Evaluated. Positive for ADHD, but no support or direction on how I can help him, even though I was very honest with our situation.

Thankfully since the medical diagnosis of ASD and re-evaluations at the school, they added OT help at school and I have seen a lot of improvement. We are working on forgiving the admin and teachers, it's a process for sure. I just want to be honest about our experience here. I'm hopeful though for a brighter school experience in the future.

Learning:
Too much pressure and focus on achievements, success and grades instead of the emotional and well being of my kid.

Teaching: There have been a couple of awesome teachers. 1st grade was wonderful, 2nd was horrible and 3rd was a lot better.

Social-emotional support & Special Ed:
The system in place is geared towards helping relatively emotionally stable children. The student's needing proper diagnosis and support in special education is highly undeserved and extremely disappointing. The mental health of the children are not a priority, I have no idea if this is a nation wide problem, but the lack of needed executive functioning skills especially in the early stages of a child's life needs major improvement.

Safety:
I have trained my son on how to respond to bullying, as it is a decent sized problem at this school. I love the anon reporting that RRISD has implemented.

Family Engagement:
The school has a lot of events to attend with the family and the PTA seems to be well functioning. Family involvement during school hours is still very disappointing.

Posted: May 20, 2024

I was shocked by the bad reviews I read about this school so I feel compelled to provide my positive review. My daughter entered Purple Sage two years ago. I think Principal Nelson and her team are excellent. I know of two families of kids with special needs who specifically come to this school because they do such a good job meeting their children's needs.

The PTA is involved and organized too. It puts on a fabulous event called The Celebration of Cultures. I honestly thought the event would just pay lip service to diversity and be a kind of a fake celebration. I was pleasantly shocked at how diverse our community and student population is, and how engaged the parents are. 50+ families/cultures cooked meals to share & organized student performances. It truly is a high-achieving school with a diverse group of kids. That's not easy to find. We are thrilled to send our kids here.

My son will enter Purple Sage in the Fall 2024. As long as Principal Nelson remains at Purple Sage I feel confident they are meeting the needs of all students as much as is humanly possible. Texas is ranked 29 out of 50 in K12 education according to US News and World Report in May 2024; it's highly unimpressive. However, I've been pleasantly surprised by the school and the community. Purple Sage is located in the city of Austin but belongs to Round Rock ISD. Students who attend Purple Sage will filter into Westwood High School, one of Texas' top 100 high schools. I feel confident my kids will be well educated and prepared for whatever career or higher education path they choose upon graduation.

Kudos to Ms. Nelson and her staff!

I'll gladly update this review as needed in the coming years if I have experiences that cause me to feel differently. At this time, I would encourage parents who are looking for schools to consider this as an excellent option.

Posted: November 13, 2023

As a parent I was excited for my daughter to start her 5th grade year at a new school. However, my daughter dealt with so much foolishness at this school from her teacher. It was a lot of favoritism going on in the school. My daughter also came home telling me concerning things her teacher would say to her which was out of line; HIPAA violation and also microagression. I even brought this to administration attention but they wanted to talk to my child before talking to me and because my child was not comfortable speaking to them about the incidents that had occurred throughout the school year the school didnt do anything about it. I absolutely believe my daughter didnt do her absolute best because of the teacher she had at this school. She is now in middle school and thriving with no complaints from her teachers of her behavior so I know for sure that it was the teacher she had that caused her to not do her best.

Posted: November 13, 2023

Posted: October 28, 2022

We have been sadly disappointed in this school. They talk as though everyone is a team, like the school is one big, loving family, but the treatment of the students shows that's only talk. Kid are overly disciplined for small things, like having to go to the principal's office for laughing. Students with disabilities are technically helped just enough so that they won't get in trouble, but they are extremely difficult to work with, and will fight tooth and nail to avoid adding accommodations. Some of the teachers are fantastic, but if you get stuck with a lemon, the administration will do literally nothing to help, and will only support bad teaching practices. I know they are short on teachers, but that's really no excuse. The student teacher ratios are much higher than stated here. Currently, some of the 5th grade classes have as many as 33 students. The school work is repetitive and excessive. The administration was unhelpful (to say the least) during virtual schooling. I'm honestly sad to have to write this review; this is not at all how I envisioned my child's elementary school years, and I'm hoping we can transfer out before he has a permanent anxiety disorder due to their "teaching" methods. Don't let the A rating fool you, they don't want kids to act like kids, they want tiny, obedient robots.

Posted: October 28, 2022

Posted: April 24, 2019

See above regarding teacher support. They provide additional interventions when needed.

Posted: April 24, 2019

We have honestly not experienced bullying. The teachers tend to be watchful, and if there is an issue, it is quickly addressed.

Posted: April 24, 2019

While homework may be limited for some classes, I have found the teachers to be more than accommodating when asked for supplemental materials. They also utilize various avenues of technology and encourage students to explore at home.

Posted: April 24, 2019

These teachers go above and beyond. I have had two children that have needed additional instruction, and the teachers have worked diligently to make sure their needs are met, sometimes even outside of normal school hours.

Posted: April 24, 2019

My children have always been encouraged to be the best they can be, not just at school, but in life in general.

Posted: April 24, 2019

This is our second elementary school in RRISD and the leadership far exceeded my expectations. On the first day of school, the principal remembered both of our children's names from summer registration and welcomed them at the door. She makes an extra effort to know her students and their parents.

Posted: April 24, 2019

This school has been incredible for my children! They know my children and have provided constant support and encouragement for growth. My third grader loves school, and is disappointed whenever she has a day off. My eldest child started middle school this year, and was completely prepared due to the efforts of her fifth grade teacher last year. I honestly could not have asked for a better experience.

Posted: March 12, 2019

The school doesnt offer any homework and the children are underprepared for middle school.

Posted: March 12, 2019

Only a couple teachers actually care about their students. Others spend the days gossiping and defend each other when one gets into trouble.

Posted: March 12, 2019

Children are regularly bullied not only by students but by parents and teachers as well. Any pointing out of areas of growth results in defensive posturing.

Posted: March 12, 2019

The administration lacks any control over the school and pays lip service to parental concerns.

Posted: March 12, 2019

Either you keep up or are arbitrarily passed. Actual learning is secondary to testing and formulaic instruction metrics.

Posted: March 12, 2019

Accusers are shunned as troublemakers and are ostracized by the administration and faculty.

Posted: March 12, 2019

Poor. Weve attempted to work with the school to resolve concerns, but have been turned into scapegoats for others bad behaviors. Theres little authenticity to the work aside from a handful of legacy teachers. Dont send your kids here if you have a choice and if you do, dont ever complain or youll face strong opposition.

Posted: March 28, 2018

I really like this school. My daughter has never wanted to stay home from school lol! She honestly excels here and is learning so much. The teachers are excellent and there is just a good vibe here. I like the fact that it is a very small school. I really feel like I know just about everyone at this campus!

Posted: March 28, 2018

There is NO homework. I wish they would assign at least one thing for the students to do on their own. Just to get in the habit of doing homework. I know that in middle school it will be a huge adjustment to start having homework every night.

Posted: March 28, 2018

Great teachers! There was one teacher when my daughter was in kinder that I could not understand why they hired, but she was only there that year. Every other year I have been very happy with the teachers.

Posted: March 28, 2018

The principal is wonderful!! She is very involved and approachable.

Posted: December 2, 2015

We love this school! My kids have been there for the past three years. We really like the Dual language program, the small class sizes and the genuine care the teachers and staff show for the students. The new principal, Mrs. Nelson, has a great vision for the school for the next few years and we are excited to continue at Purple Sage!

Posted: April 22, 2012

"Recognized" status and moving up! This smaller sized school offers great student/teacher ratios, experienced teachers, and a true sense of community. PS gives both of my children the individualized education that they require. The art, music and TAG teachers are exceptional and the dual language program is a fantastic opportunity for both native Spanish and English speakers and a good alternative to the AP campuses in the district. The middle school and high school (one of the best rated in the nation) are in close proximity, making it convenient for a large family.

Posted: March 6, 2011

My son has gone to Purple Sage for almost 2 years now, kindergarten and 1st grade. I am shocked at how the teachers and administrators quit on a student that is having a hard time. We have done everything that they asked us to do, and they have done nothing that has been asked of them. I am appalled at the lack of communication and lackadaisical attitude of the teachers at this school. I would recommend finding a school with teachers and administrators that actually care about the kids that they are in charge of. I gave them a one rating only because it would not let me give them a lower score.

Posted: March 4, 2011

Our daughter has thrived here for the past two years. We are especially happy for the dual-language program that started this year. The school as a whole has a very safe community feel to it. Teachers and office staff know all of the students, and if there's a problem, they deal with it in a proactive, respectful way. I think they have one of the best music teachers in the district, too. We're amazed with our daughter's love and knowledge of music from school.

#	Name	Type	City	State	Distance
1	Anderson Mill	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Austin	TX	1.2 mi
2	Midtown Commons at Crestview Station	Apartment Complex	Austin	TX	10.1 mi
3	Mill creek	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Salado	TX	38.7 mi
4	Spanish Oaks	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Killeen	TX	41.8 mi
5	Evergreen Estates	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Harker Heights	TX	41.9 mi
6	Skipcha Mountain Estates	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Harker Heights	TX	42.2 mi
7	White Rock Estates	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Killeen	TX	42.2 mi
8	Timber Ridge Estates	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Killeen	TX	42.2 mi
9	Knights Ridge	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Harker Heights	TX	42.7 mi
10	Savannah Heights	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Killeen	TX	42.9 mi
11	Glenwood	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Killeen	TX	43.2 mi
12	Copperas Cove	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Copperas Cove	TX	45.4 mi
13	Skyline Flats	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Copperas Cove	TX	47 mi
14	Heartwood Park	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Copperas Cove	TX	47.6 mi
15	Oak View	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Belton	TX	48.4 mi

#	Name	City	State	Distance
1	Main street	Salado	TX	37.8 mi
2	Harker Heights	Harker Heights	TX	43.3 mi
3	Elms street	Killeen	TX	43.9 mi
4	East Rancier Road	Killeen	TX	46.8 mi
5	North Side	Copperas Cove	TX	48.2 mi

Base	Distance
Camp Mabry	10.6 mi.
Fort Hood	47.1 mi.

Purple Sage Elementary School

Austin, TX 78750

School Ratings

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Purple Sage Elementary School

Austin, TX 78750

School Ratings

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