8716 W Gate Blvd
Austin, TX 78745

When it comes to academics and teachers we like some things about the school and we don't like others. Administration has been supportive and good about communication. Our kid is happy and feel safe, so that's what matters most. Define arts program is excellent and I highly recommend the advanced classes.

If you are a parent considering this school, please read this carefully.My son was part of the wrestling program, and the emotional and physical treatment he received from the coaching staff caused long-lasting harm. The environment was extremely unhealthy, and several students—including my son—experienced humiliation, unsafe weight-cutting demands, and psychological pressure far beyond what is acceptable for teenagers.The coach routinely pushed students to gain and lose weight rapidly, made degrading comments about their masculinity, and used intimidation instead of guidance. Promises were made to motivate them, only to be withdrawn later in a way that damaged their confidence and emotional stability.This was not discipline.This was emotional abuse and negligence from adults who should have been protecting our children.Years later, my son is still dealing with the consequences of the trauma he experienced there. He is not the only one—other former students have privately shared similar stories.Schools should be safe.Coaches should build character, not break it.I hope this review encourages the administration to evaluate how students are being treated and to ensure no other child goes through what mine did.

The teachers are dedicated and kind. The school seems stretched thin with teachers needing to fund supplies, books, and other resources.Our daughter has flourished at Cowan and developed social skills alongside her educational growth. My biggest desire for improvement is with the arts. There isn’t an intentional music program. My daughter had one play in second grade but it was written and organized by a second grade teacher as a labor of love. There are so many children in each class it does seem like the focus goes to areas of concern. We haven’t had a parent/teacher conference in a couple of years because she’s doing great. I wish I better understood her untapped potential and how she could continue to grow even if it meant outpacing classmates. (We don’t have experience with the special education programs, so our rating is neutral.)