Thank you for inquiring about Headwaters School — we’re truly grateful you're here, and we can’t wait to share more with you.
Our High School program, serving students in grades 9–12, offers a transformative, challenging, and rewarding experience grounded in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) and guided by our mission to cultivate identity, embrace challenge, and build community.
Located in downtown Austin at 801 Rio Grande Street, our River Campus is home to our Middle and High School programs. Each of our eight River Campus buildings is full of unique character, housing classrooms and administrative offices.
You’ll find details about our program, important upcoming dates, opportunities to visit, and insights from current families — all in one place.
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.
Earlier this year we hosted conversations for each of our programs that connected current parents with prospective parents. Watch below!
Discover What Sets High School at Headwaters Apart
Alumni, Class of 2024
I genuinely LOVE school when I’m pursuing my interests, and I feel that Headwaters has provided me with the opportunity to take genuine joy in learning. My goal now is to never lose that joy at wherever I’m headed next.
Athletics: Compete. Excel. Lead.
At Headwaters School, our high school athletics program is built on competition, teamwork, and excellence—on and off the field. With championship-winning teams in flag football, volleyball, basketball, and soccer, we compete and push our athletes to grow in skill, strategy, and leadership. Our dedicated coaches challenge players to reach their full potential, emphasizing discipline, resilience, and sportsmanship. With practices and games 4-5 days a week at top local facilities, Headwaters athletes train hard, compete fiercely, and build lasting camaraderie.
A Community That Values Your Voice
At Headwaters, education is done with students, not to them. Our small class sizes foster meaningful relationships, and students are encouraged to take ownership of their learning.
A Thriving Visual Arts Program
Creativity is central to our culture. Our visual arts program empowers students to explore their artistic vision through a range of mediums, from painting and drawing to film and photography. Whether you're refining your portfolio or just beginning your creative journey, you’ll have access to expert guidance and an inspiring environment.
Curriculum That Goes Beyond Tests
We don’t just teach for standardized scores. Through the The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme curriculum, students pursue deep, meaningful learning, developing critical thinking, research, and communication skills that prepare them for success in college and beyond.
Downtown Austin Is Your Classroom
Located in the heart of downtown, our #CityAsClassroom program connects students with real-world learning experiences. From visiting local businesses to research at museums and engagement with civic initiatives, our students learn by doing.
Outdoor Leadership
Learning at Headwaters extends beyond the classroom. Through outdoor adventures, students develop resilience, leadership, and teamwork. Our commitment to Peace Education teaches empathy, conflict resolution, and how to create positive change in the world.
At Headwaters, we Encourage Curiosity, Let Students Lead, Pursue Meaning, Foster Belonging, and Live the PACT—values that shape every student’s journey.
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Ready to Schedule Your Tour?
Scheduling a campus tour is easy through your admissions portal. Here’s how:
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.