Origin Story
Headwaters School began with a shared vision for an education rooted in student-led exploration, inquiry, and discovery. Our founders—a team of innovative and experienced educators—believed that when students are propelled by curiosity and grounded empathy, they are prepared for every opportunity that life brings.
Our heritage: |  |
Primavera Montessori SchoolFounded in 2002 by educators Maria Claus, John Martin, Jennifer Phillips, and Jennifer Tyson, who wanted to create a school that supported the learning styles, spirits, and emotional intelligences of all children. Primavera Montessori’s mission is now the heart of our Early Childhood and Elementary program. | Khabele SchoolOur Middle and High School program traces its roots to The Khabele School, founded in 2001 by Lisa Dubuque, Khotso Khabele, Moya Khabele, and Hector Perez. Khabele offered a learning community that celebrated student voices and helped students pursue their intellectual and artistic ideals. |
Our PACT: Peacemakers, Advocates,
Creators, and Thinkers
 | Soon after the merger and adoption of the new Headwaters name, administrators, guides, and students in grades 5-12 came together to identify the guiding principles and outcomes of Headwaters education. Today, all students, guides, staff, parents, and trustees are invited to be Peacemakers, Advocates, Creators, and Thinkers. In many ways, the PACT also serves as a bridge from our past to our present. In 2014, we introduced the renowned International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme for our high school juniors and seniors as a challenging capstone to a Headwaters education. In 2026-27, we are implementing the IB Middle Years Programme beginning with grade 6 and gradually expanding through grade 10. The IB framework is a natural fit for our values. Like the Montessori education model that guides our early childhood and elementary program, IB is committed to growing compassionate global citizens who are self-directed lifelong learners and prepared to succeed in college and life. Headwaters was one of the earliest adopters of this framework among Austin-area schools. |
Rivers hardly ever run in a straight line. Rivers are willing to take ten thousand meanders and enjoy every one and grow from every one. James Dillet Freeman
Evolving to Meet the Challenges of Today and Tomorrow
Reflecting our heritage as a school founded by teachers, our inspiring guides remain central to our success and the heart of our culture of intellectual mentorship. As our community envisions Headwaters’ next 25 years, we are deeply committed to attracting and retaining inspiring educators, enhancing our programs, and reimagining our education facilities so our students can solve problems big and small.
At Headwaters, students and guides continue to ask thoughtful questions about what will be needed for tomorrow–in the classroom and in the world. And curiosity and compassion are cultivated for the future questions no one can even imagine today.
