Welcome to Headwaters Elementary Program!

Thank you for your interest in Headwaters School — we’re so glad you’re here. This page is your hub for learning all about our Elementary program and how to begin the admissions journey.
Our Elementary program serves students in Kindergarten through 5th grade on our beautiful Creek Campus in South Austin. Rooted in the Montessori philosophy and deeply committed to student-centered learning, our approach fosters independence, curiosity, creativity, and a sense of belonging during these foundational years.
At Headwaters, we nurture the whole child — academically, socially, and emotionally — in a supportive, inclusive environment designed to meet students where they are and help them grow with confidence.

Elementary Program 2026 – 2027 Admissions Process Steps

Kindergarten Admissions Steps

List of 5 items.

  • Parent Campus Visit (Campus Tour OR Open House)

    Parent(s) must attend a campus visit – campus tour OR open house. Tours will begin in September 2025.

  • Submit an Application

    Submit application in The Nest.
    • 1 current teacher evaluation (if applicable)
    • Current progress report / report card (if applicable)

  • Small Group Visit for Prospective Student(s)

    Prospective student(s) will participate in a small group guest visit. Visits can be scheduled after submission of application and supporting documents.

    Guest visits will begin in January 2026.

  • Parent Interview

    Parent(s) will be interviewed by the Admissions Director once group guest visit is complete.

  • Decision Time!

    The admissions committee will render an admissions decision during one of three admissions cycles:
    • Elementary Early Decision: December 1, 2025 - February 1, 2026
    • Elementary Standard Decision: February 2, 2026 - April 2, 2026
    • Elementary Extended Review: Beginning April 3, 2026

Grades 1-5 Admissions Steps

List of 5 items.

  • Parent Campus Visit (Campus Tour OR Open House)

    Parent(s) must attend a campus visit – campus tour OR open house.

    Tours will begin in September 2025.

  • Submit an Application

    Submit application in The Nest.
    • 1 current teacher evaluation 
    • Current progress report / report card

  • Individual Classroom Visit for Prospective Student(s)

    Prospective student(s) will participate in an individual classroom guest visit. Visits can be scheduled after submission of application and supporting documents.

    Guest visits will begin in October 2025.

  • Parent Interview

    • Parent(s) will be interviewed by the Admissions Director once group guest visit is complete.

  • Decision Time!

    The admissions committee will render an admissions decision during one of three admissions cycles:
    • Elementary Early Decision:December 1, 2025 - February 1, 2026
    • Elementary Standard Decision: February 2, 2026 - April 2, 2026
    • Elementary Extended Review: Beginning April 3, 2026

Enrollment Timeline & Upcoming Events

We’ll share important dates here. You can even export to this calendar by following these steps.

List of 3 events.

  • Sep
    25

    Elementary Parent-to-Parent Q&A (Virtual)

    Google Meet
  • Oct
    1

    Grades 1-5 Guest Visits Begin

  • Oct
    8

    Rising Kindergarten Parent-to-Parent Q&A (Virtual)

    Google Meet
View All Events

What Is the Nest?

The Nest is our internal school portal that serves as your one-stop hub for all things Headwaters. It brings together admissions, assignments, grades, attendance, schedules, and school communications. It also supports tuition, billing, and contract signing.

After inquiring, you will receive information about how to set up an account in The Nest. Setting up this account will allow you to view your child's individual checklist steps. We recommend bookmarking the login page.

Helpful Links

Check out these links for some frequently asked questions:

Hear from Elementary Parents

Earlier this year we hosted conversations for each of our programs that connected current parents with prospective parents. Watch below!

Discover What Sets Elementary at Headwaters Apart

Elementary Parent

I wanted an environment where they could dabble in their own interests and also have a hand up in the things that come harder for them. Starting in second grade they’re doing research projects by themselves, which is what I look for in a college experience--becoming a person who can think, research, and present.

Ready to Schedule Your Tour?

Scheduling a campus tour is easy through your admissions portal. Here’s how:
  1. Go to The Nest
  2. Log In or Create an Account
    • If you’ve already started an application or inquiry, use your existing login.
    • Check your email for instructions
  3. Select “Visit & Events”
    Once logged in, choose Visit & Events from the menu.
  4. Pick Your Tour Date
    Browse the calendar of available tour times and select the option that works best for your family.
  5. Confirm & Submit
    You’ll receive an email confirmation with all the details, including parking and arrival instructions.
  • If you don’t see a tour date that works for you, email our admissions team at admissions@headwaters.org
  • Tours are designed for parents/guardians only
  • Please arrive 10 minutes early so we can start on time
Phone: 512-623-5406
Email: admissions@headwaters.org

Mailing Address:
Attn: Admissions Office
801 Rio Grande St.
Austin, Texas 78701

List of 3 items.

Welcome to Headwaters School! We're so glad you are here!

Springs Campus

List of 1 items.

Creek Campus

List of 1 items.

River Campus

List of 1 items.

As a 501(c)3 non-profit school, Headwaters School does not discriminate because of race, color, creed, national origin, religion, gender, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other classes protected by federal, state, or local law in its admissions, financial aid, hiring, or board membership processes.