New Approach to Education: The Compass School Opens Doors for Curious Learners
AUSTIN, TX. The Compass School (TCS), a non-profit Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 8 (PK-8) school, is now accepting applications for its first class starting Fall 2025. This innovative school, rooted in research and progressive education principles, offers a unique learning experience that empowers students to thrive as fearless problem-solvers and lifelong learners.
TCS goes beyond traditional education with a focus on nurturing curious, compassionate, and confident individuals from PK-8. Offering personalized learning and a whole child approach, TCS creates a dynamic learning environment designed to support students in reaching their full potential. We aspire to be Austin's leading independent school, setting a new standard for the future of education and building a community of innovative thinkers.
With over forty combined years of experience in education, Head of School Geoff Harrison and Director of Learning Anna Yakabe bring a wealth of knowledge and passion to the school. Their commitment to creating a dynamic and supportive learning environment is evident in every aspect of the TCS experience. Project-based learning, experimentation, and real-world applications keep students actively engaged and help them discover their unique interests
"We're creating a joyful space where children can learn based on their natural curiosity. Our curriculum and learning journey is designed as a purposeful intersection of research and progressive education principles. We are equipping students with the confidence, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills needed to thrive in the future,” says Geoff Harrison, Founder and Head of School.
TCS offers a stimulating learning environment with an 8:1 student-teacher ratio. Designed with dual-grade classrooms, an innovation lab for hands-on exploration, and dedicated "Deep Dive" phases for focused inquiry-based learning, TCS enables students to creatively explore and develop a deep foundational understanding of concepts through a learner-centered approach.
Also built into the TCS student experience is a unique one-on-one coaching model for students in Grades 1-4. Weekly meetings with Learning Coaches help students set goals, celebrate successes, and explore their passions. This personalized approach fosters strong student-coach relationships and empowers students to develop a strong sense of self. Student voice and choice are central to TCS’s model, placing students at the heart of their learning.
Director of Learning Anna Yakabe emphasizes, "We strive to help children grow into courageously compassionate young adults who are able to see and solve problems from multiple perspectives, who lead with both head and heart."
TCS graduates will be innovative thinkers, effective communicators, and collaborative leaders. Prepared for high school and ready to thrive in a dynamic world, a TCS graduate is not only academically capable but also emotionally intelligent, adaptable, and resilient as lifelong learners and ethical citizens.
The Compass School is currently accepting applications for its Explorer Class (Kindergarten) and Discovery Class I (dual-grade class for Grades 1 and 2) for the 2025-2026 academic year. TCS’s Tuition Model is designed to provide families with a personalized and inclusive approach to tuition, allowing families to focus on their child's educational journey.
