Summary:
The Cedars International Academy district in Austin, TX, contains two schools serving grades PK-12, presenting a stark contrast between a high-performing high school and a struggling elementary/middle school.
The standout is Cedars Academy Next Generation H S At Highland, a small high school with 116 students that has earned a 4-star rating for three consecutive years. It achieves a 100% graduation rate and significantly exceeds state averages in Biology (82.76%), English II Reading (77.78%), and U.S. History (91.67%). This success is supported by a low student-to-teacher ratio of 9.2:1 and high per-student spending of $16,529. In contrast, Cedars International Academy (PK-8) ranks in the bottom 10% of Texas elementary schools with a 1-star rating. It serves 408 students with a higher poverty rate (87.75% free/reduced lunch) but receives less funding per student ($10,002) and has a higher student-to-teacher ratio (15.3:1).
The most compelling finding is the dramatic academic growth within the PK-8 school. While early grades struggle—3rd grade math proficiency is just 15%—performance surges by 8th grade, with reading reaching 75% and math reaching 65%, both well above state averages. This suggests the school effectively closes achievement gaps in later years. However, year-over-year volatility, such as 8th grade social studies jumping from 4% to 75% proficiency, indicates the school's success is not yet stable. The high school's consistent excellence makes it a clear choice for families seeking strong secondary education, while the PK-8 school offers a promising trajectory for students who can weather early challenges.
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