Austin Discovery School

Dear ADS Families,
It’s time for one final flight together.

Please join us on Saturday, August 9th from 4:00 to 8:30 PM for Last Fest: The Long Goodbye—a heartfelt celebration to honor our beloved school, the memories we’ve made, and the community that’s helped us soar. 🦉

What’s in Store:
🌀 Water slides, crafts (lantern making) & photo gallery starting at 4 PM
🥗 Potluck dinner at 6 PM (bring a dish to share!)
🎤 Assembly & open mic at 7 PM (2-min max per speaker)
🌕 Final Processional & Lantern Ceremony at 8 PM

Bring a lantern or craft one on-site (battery-operated only—no open flames, please!) as we light up the night and reflect on the joy, growth, and magic that ADS has brought us.

Hoot’s Helping?
We need volunteers for setup and cleanup. If you can lend a wing, please contact [email protected].
ADS merch will also be available for sale—take home a talon-ted keepsake!

Let’s make this a night to remember—because no matter where our nest leads us next, we will always be part of the same flock. 💙

With love and gratitude,
Austin Discovery School Board of Directors

Dear Austin Discovery School Family,

This is a message that comes with a heavy heart, deep reflection and of course, owl puns. 😏 🦉

I left teaching in 2012 and didn’t think I’d ever return. But in 2017, I stumbled upon a scrappy little school—and from the moment I walked through the doors, I knew I’d never leave. I had found my people. That school changed the trajectory of my life in the most unexpected and beautiful ways.

Fast forward to June of 2024, when I suddenly found myself stepping into the role of Head of School. I was terrified and honestly had no idea what I was doing. But I wasn’t alone. I was surrounded by a hoo-rific team of educators and a community that lifted and supported me every step of the way. The experience of this past year filled my heart in ways I didn’t even know it needed. For that—and for each of you—I will always be deeply inspired and grateful.

Which makes this part even harder to say: Austin Discovery School will not be operating for the 2025–2026 school year.

This decision did not come easily, and it certainly wasn’t one we ever owl-ginally imagined making. It’s the result of many complex factors, and while it’s bittersweet, we know it’s the wisest choice given where we are.

Please know that we are here to support you in every way we can:
• Guidance for families on new school options—so every student can spread their wings
• Employment support for our owl-standing staff
• Opportunities to gather, reflect, and celebrate the community we’ve built together

Even as we prepare to go our separate ways, please know: this has never just been a school. It’s been a nest—a home full of laughter, growth, learning, and love. And you will owl-ways be part of it.

With love, gratitude, and deep appreciation,

Michele

Summer camp sign up is here! You do not have to be an ADS community member to attend, all are welcome!

Sign up here --> https://www.austindiscoveryschool.org/summer-camp

Bugged out! An art show featuring student work from Eco-Wellness! Students learned about entomology and grew their appreciation for all bugs do for our enviorment!

Comment your favorite fun fact about bugs below!

We’re celebrating Creative Action’s 10-year anniversary at their FREE Community Art event this Sunday! Creative Action is an amazing organization that offers exciting camps and programs that encourage “4C students” – Creative Artists, Courageous Allies, Critical Thinkers, and Confident Leaders. The event will feature live performances, kids activities, an all-abilities indoor playground, and more! ADS parents and teachers will be there to show off Prism the Dragon, lead kids in a sustainable fashion activity, and answer questions about our school!

Make a donation and learn more about the event here: https://givebutter.com/CommunityArtSunday

Hope to see you there!

Campus is in full bloom! Scheduale a tour and see for yourself!

https://calendly.com/adsadmissions-austindiscoveryschool/ads-campus-tour?month=2024-11

Come one! Come all!

Spring flowers are here!

Come down and check out some of our students' art at this event!