Advertisement

Hill Country Christian School

Private | PK-12 | 569 students

We are best known for our Christian, Classical, college-preparatory education.
 
 

Living in Austin

Situated in a suburban neighborhood. The median home value is $268,800. The average monthly rent for a 2 bedroom apartment is $1,010.

Source: Sperling's Best Places
 
Last modified
Community Rating

4 stars

Community Rating by Year
2013:
Based on 1 rating
2012:
No new ratings
2011:
No new ratings
2010:
Based on 43 ratings

Teacher quality

Principal leadership

Parent involvement

Rate this school

Click on stars to rate
Please select a star rating for this school.
    Helpful reviews answer questions:
  • What do you think others should know?
  • What do you like?
  • How could your school improve?
    Review Guidelines
    GreatSchools won’t post reviews that contain:
  • Inappropriate language
  • Allegations of criminal conduct
  • Names of students, teachers or staff
1200 characters remaining
Please indicate your relationship to the school.
Please read and accept our Terms of Use to join GreatSchools.
Indicates a required field

53 reviews of this school


Sort by:
Show reviews by:
Posted November 5, 2010

My family is new to Hill Country Christian School and have two elementary age children attending. As new parents we have been so impressed with the high level of communication that is provided to parents on a regular basis. It is huge to know what is happening at the school. The faculty has been simply fabulous and this includes not only the grade level teachers. This includes the librarians, school nurse, principal and head master. The beyond academic opportunities are also amazing. The school offers things such as a Chess Club, History Club and Pep Squad. One last point is the welcome by existing parents, faculty and admissions office has made for an easier transition.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted November 5, 2010

We have been members of the HCCSA family for 5 years now and look forward to MANY more! Their newly added Preschool is outstanding and provides a safe haven for our young students! My children still benefit from past teachers as they walk the halls. The staff is supportive and welcoming. I believe the most important thing you can instill into a child is their love of learning (and this school has excellent curriculum that the student's learn by singing, dancing and motions). The strong sense of Christ-centered behavior is evident in the education they receive from day one until the day they walk out the doors in the afternoon, along with great friendships that span many grade levels! We are truly blessed to have found a Christ-centered learning environment that enables us to not only watch our children learn, but participate in their growth as young adults!
—Submitted by a parent


Posted November 5, 2010

We switched from public school to HCCSA when our daughter was going into 1st grade. She is now in 5th grade and our son is in 1st. We love HCCSA and feel that the Christ centered values are priceless and worth the sacrifice that we make to afford a private education. I am a public school teacher and believe that children get a great education in our public schools; however, it is not Christ centered and that is what we want for our children. We believe the moral values and biblical teachings are the foundation for our children s successful future AND they get a great education too! If you feel the same then I encourage you to visit HCCSA.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted November 4, 2010

Hill Country Christian School of Austin has been a dream come true for our family! My children have attended public school, home school and other Christian schools. HCCSA has proved to be even more than what we hoped for in our search for an education of academic excellence! Our children are challenged daily in their classes and come home with a love for learning and a desire to learn more. They know that the headmaster, principal, nurse, their homeroom teacher and their Latin teachers know their name and care about them. There are so many opportunities at Hill Country for our children to grown into well-rounded adults: Latin, Speech Meet, Spelling Bee, Music, Art and History Events. As a parent who wants the best education for my children and has lived in three different states, I can promise that you won't find a better school in the Austin area!
—Submitted by a parent


Posted November 4, 2010

Our children have excelled at this school. They were in an "exemplary" school prior to enrolling at Hill Country and the quality of education was much lower at their old school. Their academics are far superior. The teachers absolutely love each child and works very hard to love and encourage each one. My only complaint is that they do not talk enough about other religions. I understand they are Christian focused, but the world is a diverse place. We would highly recommend them to anyone!
—Submitted by a parent


Posted November 4, 2010

Wonderful teachers with a genuine love for their students. Strong acedemics and a wonderful Christian atmosphere. It's very comforting to know my children are in a school that reinforces the Biblical teaching they get at home. They are excelling in all academic areas and are learning life-long skills as well.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted November 4, 2010

Finding a school with very high academic standards was our top priority, and we found that with HCCSA. The teachers are highly qualified and they have high expectations for students. We enjoy having our children in an educational setting with other highly motivated students, parents and teachers. Best of all, all learning at HCCSA leans toward higher education, so you never hear "Are you going to college?" Instead, you hear "WHERE are you going to college?"
—Submitted by a parent


Posted November 4, 2010

This is our first year at Hill Country Christian School and my kids could not be happier! The teachers make learning fun and interactive. They offer so many extra clubs that it is hard to choose! The administration is very organized and there is no pressure to volunteer in order to make the school run.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted November 4, 2010

Hill Country Christian School of Austin has been an amazing experience for our child and our family. The academic opportunity is much more advanced than what we found in the public schools and previous private schools. We are so thankful to have found a place where our child can grow and learn in an environment that challenges her academically but also holds precious her Christian path and sense of community. The communication with the teachers is wonderful and we always feel like we are kept up to date on her progress. We recommend this school without hesitation to any family seeking academic excellence partnered with Christian values. We look forward to the years to come with HCCSA!
—Submitted by a parent


Posted November 4, 2010

HCCSA provides an environment where my kids love their teachers every year, are challenged to learn, and mature into responsible, happy kids. The staff and teachers know my kids strenghts and weaknesses and are interested in helping me, not just with the academics, but with the spiritual and social growth of my children as well. HCCSA is not only about preparing my kids for college but also for life.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted November 4, 2010

Hill Country Christian School of Austin exemplifies daily strong leadership and classical learning which is enriching our children with a strong biblical foundation to build upon for life and its many challenges. The daily activities and homework reflect the proper way to study and learn and prepare our children for college and career development. The investment we have in our children at this school is "priceless." The opportunities for each student is numberous and held to the highest standards to insure success in an excellent array of extracurricular activities with strong parental involvement encourage with each of your children at every grade level. Yes, the education I wish I would have received!
—Submitted by a parent


Posted November 3, 2010

We could not be more pleased with the spiritual and academic development of our children through our partnership with Hill Country Christian School of Austin. The teachers and administrators invest personally in the lives of the students and families who are part of this community of learners.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted November 3, 2010

We chose HCCSA because of the classical education model within the Christian environment. We've stayed eight years because of the phenomenal success our kids have experienced here. Yes, there have been administrative snafus and a few communication missteps along the way. But ultimately our yearly decision to re-enroll is based on the "bottom line" output, that is our children. They love the school mostly because of the supportive and loving environment from teachers and administrators. We love it because we see our kids challenged, enthusiastic and "shining", even at ages when many kids become sullen and withdrawn.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted November 3, 2010

We are so blessed to have found this school. Our son was bored to tears in 2nd grade and now in our 3rd year at HCCSA he is so happy, challenged and still has straight A's! Not only is the curriculum college prep but he has learned life skills from participation in Spelling Bee, Speech Meet, History Timelines, Latin, Bible verse memorization and field studies. HCCSA is so much more than a "school"; it is truly an educational success story!
—Submitted by a parent


Posted November 3, 2010

As a teacher at HCCSA I see the smile on children's faces as they connect the pieces to the learning puzzle. I love that our curriculum is connected and well thought out. It is also amazing to see the support and love not only within the classroom but from the parents who volunteer endlessly to support us! I am so grateful for such a nurturing place where learning is balanced with family, activities, the arts and languages all while focused on Christ at the center of all that we do and teach!
—Submitted by a teacher


Posted November 3, 2010

We are very proud to send our children to a school where respect and integrity matter, not to mention being a grade level plus above public curriculum. I have watched my children mature acedemically and grow spiritually.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted November 3, 2010

I am a dad who enjoys the football games, family "school" food nights out and great curriculum, all the while focusing on making a difference for Christ and sharing His love, with and in all you do. It is the place to educate our future leaders. They have it all!
—Submitted by a parent


Posted October 29, 2010

After researching and visiting several Christian schools in Austin, it became clear that Hill Country Christian offered the highest academic and spiritual quality than others. My two children have attended for 3 years and I can attest that HCCSA is an exceptional school. The classical education is excellent, the integration of a Christian worldview is present in every subject, and the teachers are educators, mentors and role models.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted October 29, 2010

I have 2 children at the school, & we have been at the school for 8 years. It has been a fantastic experience, & we would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a Christ-centered, classical education in a college-preparatory environment. The local public schools in this area are fine, but our family feels like our educational experience at Hill Country has been worth every single penny. No child or family is just a number; the staff takes the time to really get to know each one well. Our formerly shy child is thriving because she feels so comfortable and accepted. My kids want to stay here through high school. We hired a new headmaster two years ago, & he has provided great vision for the school , which has taken it to the next level.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted October 5, 2010

I have loved being a part of Hill Country Christian School. The community, teachers, and staff are a wonderful part of my family's life. My kids are at school more waking hours than they are with me. So it is a great investment I am making in their lives as they grow, learn, and stretch their faith. This school is definitely worth every penny. I encourage you to check it out and enroll your kids into this great Christian school.
—Submitted by a parent


Community ratings and reviews do not represent the views of GreatSchools nor does GreatSchools check their accuracy or verify the reviewers' identities. Use your discretion when evaluating these reviews.

About these ratings

The Community Rating is the school’s average rating from its community members (e.g., parents, students, and school staff). The highest possible rating is five stars; the lowest is one star.

We currently do not have any test score information for this school. Unlike public schools, private schools are not always required to report data about their schools or not required to take the same tests as public schools. Many private schools take different standardized tests; however, that information is often made available only to families of enrolled students. We strive to acquire additional private school data whenever available.

Student ethnicity

Ethnicity This school
White 96%
Hispanic 2%
Asian or Pacific Islander 1%
Black or African American 1%
American Indian or Alaska Native 0%

College readiness and student pathways

Percentage of students going to 4-year college 100% (2013)
Colleges most students attend after graduation University of Texas at Austin
Texas A&M
Abeline Christian University
Read more about resources at this school
Source: Manually entered by a school official.

Student-teacher ratio

  This school District averageState average
Students per FTE teacher 11N/AN/A
Source: NCES, 2007-2008

Teacher resources

Special staff resources available to students Art teacher(s)
College counselor(s)
Computer specialist(s)
Dance teacher(s)
Gifted specialist(s)
Instructional aide(s)/coach(es)
Librarian/media specialist(s)
Math specialist(s)
Music teacher(s)
PE instructor(s)
Nurse(s)
Poetry/Creative writing teacher(s)
Priest, pastor, or other religious personnel
Reading specialist(s)
Robotics/Technology specialist(s)
Speech and language therapist(s)
Teacher aid/assistant teacher
Tutor(s)
Foreign languages spoken by school staff Spanish
Read more about programs at this school
Source: Manually entered by a school official.

Special education / special needs

Level of special education programming offered
  • Moderate - the school consistently offers a full program for particular special education needs
Specialized programs for specific types of special education students
  • Specific learning disabilities
  • Speech and language impairments
Extra learning resources offered
  • Differentiated learning programs
Staff resources available to students
  • Speech and language therapist(s)

Science, Technology, Engineering, & Math (STEM)

Staff resources available to students
  • Computer specialist(s)
  • Math specialist(s)
  • Robotics/Technology specialist(s)
School facilities
  • Computer lab
  • Science lab
Clubs
  • Robotics club

Arts & music

Staff resources available to students
  • Art teacher(s)
  • Dance teacher(s)
  • Music teacher(s)
  • Poetry/Creative writing teacher(s)
School facilities
  • Art room
  • Music room
  • Performance stage
Visual arts
  • Design
  • Drawing / sketching
  • Painting
  • Photography
Music
  • Band
  • Choir / Chorus
  • Instrumental music lessons
  • Vocal lessons / coaching
Performing and written arts
  • Creative writing
  • Dance
  • Drama
Clubs
  • Drama club
  • Drum line
  • Student newspaper
  • Yearbook

Language learning

Foreign languages taught
  • Latin
  • Spanish
Staff resources available to students
  • Speech and language therapist(s)
Foreign languages spoken by staff
  • Spanish

Health & athletics

Staff resources available to students
  • Dance teacher(s)
  • Instructional aide(s)/coach(es)
  • Nurse(s)
  • PE instructor(s)
School facilities
  • Access to sports fields
  • Gym
  • Multi-purpose room ("cafegymatorium")

Gifted & talented

Instructional and/or curriculum models used
  • Accelerated credit learning
  • Advanced placement courses
  • Gifted / high performing
  • Honors track
Extra learning resources offered
  • Acceleration
Staff resources available to students
  • Gifted specialist(s)
College preparation / awareness resources offered
  • College prep programs/courses during the year
  • College presentations or information sessions
  • Community college courses
  • SAT/ACT prep classes
  • School-sponsored trips to college campuses
Clubs
  • Debate
  • National Honor Society
School leaders can update this information here.

School basics

School start time
  • 8:00 am
School end time
  • 3:35 pm
Before school or after school care / program onsite
  • After school
School Leader's name
  • Head Master - Mr. Bill McGee
Best ways for parents to contact the school
  • Email
  • Phone
Age at which early childhood or Pre-K program begins
  • 4 years old
Gender
  • Coed
Boarding options
  • Day school
Is there an application process?
  • Yes
Affiliation
  • Christian
Associations
  • ACSI
Fax number
  • (512) 257-4190

Programs

Instructional and/or curriculum models used

Don't understand these terms?
  • Accelerated credit learning
  • Advanced placement courses
  • Classical (e.g., focuses on the "classics")
  • College prep
  • Gifted / high performing
  • Honors track
  • Independent Study
Specific academic themes or areas of focus

Don't understand these terms?
  • Religious
Bi-lingual or language immersion programs offered

Don't understand these terms?
  • No
Level of special education programming offered
  • Moderate - the school consistently offers a full program for particular special education needs
Specialized programs for specific types of special education students
  • Specific learning disabilities
  • Speech and language impairments
Foreign languages taught
  • Latin
  • Spanish
Level of ESL/ELL programming offered
  • None
Vocational or skills-based training offered
  • None

Resources

Staff resources available to students
  • Art teacher(s)
  • College counselor(s)
  • Computer specialist(s)
  • Dance teacher(s)
  • Gifted specialist(s)
  • Instructional aide(s)/coach(es)
  • Librarian/media specialist(s)
  • Math specialist(s)
  • Music teacher(s)
  • Nurse(s)
  • PE instructor(s)
  • Poetry/Creative writing teacher(s)
  • Priest, pastor, or other religious personnel
  • Reading specialist(s)
  • Robotics/Technology specialist(s)
  • Speech and language therapist(s)
  • Teacher aid/assistant teacher
  • Tutor(s)
Foreign languages spoken by staff
  • Spanish
Extra learning resources offered
  • Acceleration
  • Career/college counseling
  • Differentiated learning programs
  • Mentoring
  • Remediation
  • Tutoring
College preparation / awareness resources offered
  • College prep programs/courses during the year
  • College presentations or information sessions
  • Community college courses
  • SAT/ACT prep classes
  • School-sponsored trips to college campuses
Transportation provided for students by the school / district
  • None
School facilities
  • Access to sports fields
  • Art room
  • Audiovisual aids
  • Auditorium
  • Chapel/spiritual reflection center
  • College/career center
  • Computer lab
  • Gym
  • Internet access
  • Library
  • Multi-purpose room ("cafegymatorium")
  • Music room
  • Performance stage
  • Playground
  • Science lab
School leaders can update this information here.

Sports

Boys sports
  • Baseball
  • Basketball
  • Cross country
  • Fencing
  • Flag football
  • Football
  • Golf
  • Soccer
  • Swimming
  • Track
Girls sports
  • Basketball
  • Cheerleading
  • Cross country
  • Fencing
  • Golf
  • Soccer
  • Swimming
  • Track
  • Volleyball

Arts & music

Visual arts
  • Design
  • Drawing / sketching
  • Painting
  • Photography
Music
  • Band
  • Choir / Chorus
  • Instrumental music lessons
  • Vocal lessons / coaching
Performing arts
  • Creative writing
  • Dance
  • Drama
Media arts
  • None

Student clubs

Clubs (distinct from courses)
  • Boy scouts
  • Chess club
  • Community service
  • Cub scouts
  • Debate
  • Drama club
  • Drum line
  • Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA)
  • National Honor Society
  • Robotics club
  • Student council/government
  • Student newspaper
  • Yearbook
School leaders can update this information here.

Photos

School culture

Dress Code
  • Dress code
Bullying policy
  • This school has a bullying and/or cyber bullying policy in place.
Parent involvement
  • Attend parent nights
  • Chaperone school trips
  • Coach sports teams or extracurricular activities
  • Join PTO/PTA
  • Monitor the playground
  • Organize cultural events
  • Organize fundraising events (school auction, bake sales, etc.)
  • Present special topics during curricular units
  • Serve on school improvement team or governance council
  • Tutor
  • Volunteer in the classroom
  • Volunteer time after school
School leaders can update this information here.

Apply

 

This school accepts applications on a

rolling basis

 
Apply now
 

What are your chances?


10 out of 10students were accepted for the 2012-2013 school year.


Students accepted for the 2012-2013 school year
569
Applications received for the 2012-2013 school year
589

What does it cost?

Tuition range for the 2013-2014 school year
$2000 - $10000
Vouchers accepted
No
Financial aid offered
Yes.
School-based aid

Planning ahead

Students typically attend these schools after graduating
University of Texas at Austin
Texas A&M
Abeline Christian University
College preparation / awareness offered
College prep programs/courses during the year
College presentations or information sessions
Community college courses
SAT/ACT prep classes
School-sponsored trips to college campuses
Students' post-graduation plans in 2013
4 year college - 100%
Notice an inaccuracy? Let us know!

12124 Ranch Rd 620 N
Austin, TX 78750
Website: Click here
Phone: (512) 331-7036

ADVERTISEMENT

Compare this school
to nearby schools

Compare schools »

Compare

Add this school to compare
ADVERTISEMENT