Learning at TCS

TCS students develop their full potential to become lifelong learners and responsible citizens through our learner-centered program.

The Compass School is comprised of three divisional programs: Early Childhood (PK and Kindergarten), Childhood (Grades 1 - 6), and Adolescence (Grades 7 and 8).

Our learner-centered approach nurtures curiosity, critical thinking, and a lifelong love of learning. We offer a collaborative and engaging environment where students actively construct their own knowledge through exploration, experimentation, and real-world application.

Our educators and students build strong, trusting relationships that foster mutual respect and support. Students learn to set meaningful goals based on their developmental journey to take ownership of their learning. Children are encouraged to reflect on their learning, ask thoughtful questions, and engage in high-level problem-solving. Through group projects and community engagement, learners also develop essential skills like collaboration, communication, and empathy.

By shaping learning experiences around each class community, we create meaningful classroom experiences within a structured program that supports intellectual, social, and emotional growth.

Three Phases that Shape TCS

  • In this 9-week phase students solidify core skills in math, literacy, and World Knowledge. This phase equips students with the tools to navigate and learn from the vast information around them, helping them grow as confident, independent learners.

    • World Knowledge is a thematic-based, interdisciplinary area of study that includes elements of culture, science, history, geography, and technology.

    • Math at TCS is about understanding the "why" behind numbers. Students develop number sense through exploration, real-world problem solving, and games that foster reasoning and analytical thinking. From an early age, students work both independently and collaboratively, sharing ideas and learning from one another.

    • Our literacy program combines word study, reading, and writing, drawing from multiple established teaching methods.

  • Twice a year, students participate in a two-week Deep Dive phase (with the exception of Explorers, who partake only in Term 2). This phase gives students the freedom to explore questions that intrigue them. Over two weeks, they dive into research, seeking answers through independently or in small groups. At the end, they present their findings through creative modes of expression. This process strengthens their understanding and helps them learn to communicate their discoveries with others. The community then gathers for a showcase, where students present their work to family and friends.

  • Students participate in a week-long Cultural Investigations phase, exploring the city of Austin through field trips. These trips, which occur at the beginning of Terms 2 and 3, are designed for all grade levels and align with the thematic studies of each class, enriching their classroom learning. After each trip, students return to the classroom to reflect on what they’ve learned and deepen their understanding of the topics they explored. These investigations help foster a deeper appreciation for the city and spark curiosity that lasts a lifetime.

The Innovation Lab

The Innovation Lab is a dynamic space where students engage in hands-on learning that encourages creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving. All students participate in Innovation Lab twice a week, guided by Geoff Harrison. Lessons may connect to thematic studies or stand alone, depending on the day’s focus and programming.

Each session presents students with a query or challenge that encourages them to think like designers, engineers, and artists. Through building, testing, and refining their ideas, they develop autonomy and resilience. The Innovation Lab embodies progressive learning principles, emphasizing exploration, collaboration, and learning through experience. It is a space where students are encouraged to take risks, make discoveries, and grow as innovative thinkers.

Step inside to a day at TCS through the eyes of a 5 year old.