Common Questions
We've compiled every question families ask us before a tour, during admissions, and after enrollment. If something isn't here, schedule a tour or email us directly, and we'll answer those too.
ADMISSIONS & ENROLLMENT
What grade does The Magnolia School serve?
Magnolia serves students from Preschool (ages 3-5) through 8th grade, including Preschool, Elementary (Grades 1-5), and Middle School (Grades 6-8). We also offer a Part-Day program for homeschooled students who are looking for supplemental classroom instruction, enrichment or peer community.
How do I apply to The Magnolia School?
The first step is to schedule a tour. We don't ask familiar to fill out paperwork before they've seen the school to see if it's the right fit for them. Find a time that works for you. Meet Meghan and the team, walk through live classrooms and ask every question you have. If it feels like the right fit, we'll walk you through the application steps from there.
Is there an entrance exam or assessment?
We do conduct an initial assessment for incoming students during your Trial Day. This is not a pass/fail test. We use it to understand where your child is academically in each subject area, identify their learning style and build the individualized plan that every Magnolia school receives. The goal is understanding, not gatekeeping.
Can my child enroll mid-year?
Yes. Magnolia welcomes students year-round. We understand that the right time to move schools isn't always August. When a stduent joins mid-year, we conduct the same initial assessment, build their individualized plan and ensure they're integrated into the classroom community from day one. There's no waiting for a new semester.
Is Magnolia a good fit for my child if they've struggled in traditional schools?
This is one of the most common reasons families find us. Children who've struggled in traditional classrooms, whether due to learning differences, attention challenges, anxiety, social difficulties, or simply not a fit, frequently thrive at Magnolia because the entire school is built differently. The ratio is 1:10, which means no child is invisible. The BCBA leadership means behavioral and learning challenges are addressed with evidence-based strategies, not wishful thinking. That sad, we're honest. Magnolia isn't the right fit for every child. The tour is the best way to find out.
What is the student-to-teacher ratio?
Magnolia maintains a maximum 1:10 student-to-teacher ratio across all grade levels. This is significantly lower than most private schools in the Bee Cave and Lakeway area, and it's what makes genuinely individualized instruction possible. Research consistently shows that meaningful differentiation in instruction only becomes possible at ratios of 1:12 or lower.
Does Magnolia have a waitlist?
Sometimes. Many of our classes are meeting capacity and when that occurs we will begin a waitlist. We will inform you at the tour what availability is based on your child's needs.
TUITION & FUNDING
How much does Magnolia cost?
Magnolia's annual tuition ranges from approximately $19,000 to $23,950 for full-time enrollment. Contact our admissions team current pricing for your specific grade. There are part-time programs available.
Does Magnolia accept Texas TEFA school choice funding?
Yes. The Magnolia school is a TEFA-participating private school. The Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA) program, created by Senate Bill 2 in 2025, provides eligible Texas families up to $10,474 per year for K-12 students, or up to $30,000 for students with qualifying disabilities. Funds are disbursed directly from the Texas Comptroller to Magnolia. Families never handle the money themselves. The 2026-2027 TEFA application window has closed. The 2027-2028 application window is expected to open late winter or early spring 2027.
What does tuition include?
Magnolia tuition covers: - all core academic instruction across enrolled grade level - All enrichment and special during the school day (Art, Theater, Music & PE) - Daily Support Card and the "Kind of Day" ritual. - Access to in-school supplemental instruction - BCBA support and SEL groups - All school community events Lunch is available separately through the FACTS portal. Private therapy room rental for outside providers is an additional monthly charge.
Is there financial aid available?
Sometimes. Magnolia offers limited financial assistance on a case-by-case basis and when funds are available. We encourage familiar who are interested in Magnolia but concerned about the affordability to speak directly with Meghan during or after the tour. We are committed to making Magnolia accessible to familiar who are the right fit, and we'll have an honest conversation about what's possible. TEFA funding (see above) is also the single largest source of tuition relief available to Texas families and should be explored alongside any direct assistance conversations.
How is tuition paid? Is there a payment plan?
Tuition is managed through the FACTS Family Portal, which supports monthly, quarterly and annual payment plans. Contact admissions for specifics on your payment plan options.
Does TEFA cover after-school care, tutoring or therapy at Magnolia?
TEFA funds have broad approval uses beyond just tuition, including school meals, tutoring, approved educational therapies, curriculum, technology and transportation. Speech and occupational therapy from approved TEFA providers may also qualify. We recommend visiting the TEFA page for the full approved expense list.
LEARNING & SUPPORT
What is BCBA and why does it matter at a school?
BCBA stands for Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). It is the highest credential in Applied Behavior Analysis, the evidence-based science of how people learn and how behavior can be meaningfully changed. BCBAs design individualized behavior plans, intervention strategies and learning programs grounded in decades of peer-reviewed research. Most private schools don't have a BCBA on staff. Magnolia was founded by a BCBA expert. It's the foundation the school was built on.
What accredidations does Magnolia have?
The Magnolia School is TAAPS-accredited. The Texas Alliance of Accredited Private School ensures Magnolia operates at the highest standards of private education.
DAILY LIFE & COMMUNITY
What are the hours or the school?
Drop off runs from 7:45 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. Classes start at 8:30 a.m. each morning. Standard dismissal is 3:30 p.m. After-care is available and is available for Elementary and Middle School students from 4-5:30 p.m.
Does Magnolia serve/provide lunch?
Yes. Through partnerships with local restaurants, Magnolia offers purchased lunches for students Monday, Wednesday and Fridays throughout the year. These can be purchased via FACTS Family Portal. Students may also bring lunch from home, but we are a peanut-free campus.
Is there a dress code or uniform policy?
Magnolia does not require uniforms. We ask that students dress in a way that is comfortable, appropriate for an active school day and respectful of the learning environment. Specific guidelines are outlined in the Student Handbook, available through the Parent Portal. For Spirit Days, Picture Days and special events, families are notified in advance and any specific dress guidance is provided.
How does Magnolia communicate with parents?
Magnolia parents have more insight into their child's daily school experience than families in most other schools. Communication happens through: - Daily Support Cards, daily trackers sent home with at least two teacher comments - FACTS Portal, where grades, attendance and schedules are posted. - Direct email access to every teacher and administrator - Regular family consultations & parent-teacher conferences
Is Magnolia a screen-free school?
While Magnolia is not screen-free, we do use it in a limited capacity with intentionality. We believe that the most meaningful learning at the elementary and middle school level happens through direct instructions, hands on experience, peer interactions and teach relationship. Technology is added when it genuinely adds educational value.
What is the parent community like at Magnolia?
Because Magnolia is small, the parent community is genuinely close. Families tend to know each other across grade levels, not just within their child's class. The PTO is active and runs community events throughout the year, including the Fall Festival, classroom parties, and fundraising activities. Visit the Magnolia School PTO website to see current events and volunteer opportunities.
Is Magnolia affiliated with any religion?
No. Magnolia is a non-sectarian, independent private school with no religious affiliations. Families come from all backgrounds and beliefs and are welcome. Our curriculum and school culture are grounded in evidence-based educational practice and positive communication values - not any particular religious tradition. The students are given opportunities throughout the year to learn about different places and cultures like International Day.
Does Magnolia offer afterschool activities or clubs?
Yes. After-school offerings vary by semester and include music lessons, Pokemon club, sports or etiquette class. A schedule of current after-school offerings is available through the Parent Portal each semester. Performance Camp and Summer Camps are offered seasonally.
How do I get involved as a parent?
Parent involved is encouraged at Magnolia and is run through the PTO, which coordinates room parents, event volunteers and community fundraising. You can also be involved through direct communication with your teachers or Nicole, a member of the admissions team.