Westlake Academy: A Pillar of Excellence Elevating the Town of Westlake

Westlake, Texas, has long been recognized for its natural beauty, low tax rates, and small-town charm. Yet, at the heart of what makes Westlake a true destination is Westlake Academy, an internationally recognized school that stands as a beacon of academic excellence. As one of the few International Baccalaureate (IB) public charter schools in Texas, Westlake Academy not only enhances the Town’s prestige but also plays a vital role in shaping its growth and appeal.

The Academy was founded back in 2003 as an alternative to the three school districts that serve the Town of Westlake: Carroll, Keller, and Northwest ISDs.  Instead of our students being split between three districts and creating a divide in our community, the Academy became a place to bring our families together and provide an IB curriculum that wasn’t offered by the school districts. It was envisioned as a Westlake-based school to truly call our own.  Now, 80% of school-age Westlake kids currently attend Westlake Academy. 

The Academy’s reputation for academic rigor and international curriculum is a powerful draw for families, professionals, and corporate executives seeking a world-class education for their children. The school’s IB program, known for emphasizing critical thinking, global awareness, and cultural engagement, attracts residents from across the country and beyond.

For the Town, this means a steady influx of families with a keen interest in education and a commitment to community involvement. Many families move to Westlake specifically because of the Academy, elevating property values and reinforcing Westlake’s reputation as a highly desirable place to live. “Many of my clients are moving from places like California and other states specifically for Westlake Academy. These families quickly become active in the community, participating in and supporting Westlake Academy events, which enriches the community for everyone”, says realtor and Westlake resident, Susan Mathews.

Realtors like Mathews consistently highlight Westlake Academy as a key selling point when marketing homes, and for good reason.  Families are willing to invest in properties that give their children access to top-tier education. “The presence of WA consistently drives property values and speeds up sales, with homes here often seeing a premium per square foot compared to neighboring areas. The demand created by the Academy’s unique academic standing means properties generally spend less time on the market and attract competitive offers, underscoring the financial benefits of buying in Westlake”, says Mathews.

While Westlake maintains a low tax rate, Westlake Academy provides an exceptional return on investment for the Town and its residents. Because it operates as a public charter school, the Academy is funded through a combination of state funding, local contributions, and charitable donations which creates a funding mechanism that shares the cost of education across a diverse and more stable revenue source.

The symbiotic relationship between the Academy and the Town is also evident in Westlake’s appeal to businesses. Many corporate executives, drawn to Westlake’s schools and lifestyle, have established global or national headquarters in the area. These companies benefit from the highly educated workforce and strong community values that Westlake Academy helps to cultivate. In turn, this bolsters the Town’s economic development and ensures long-term financial sustainability.

By attracting families and businesses alike, it helps secure Westlake’s position as a premier destination in North Texas. The Town, in turn, supports the Academy by maintaining high standards for residential and commercial developments, fostering a community that values education, and providing the resources necessary for the school to thrive.

Westlake Academy’s presence is integral to the Town’s identity and success. In return, the Town’s commitment to fostering a supportive environment ensures that the Academy will continue to shine as a key asset, elevating Westlake’s reputation as a premier destination for living, learning, and growth.  A stronger Academy makes for a stronger Town.  An important partnership that brings Westlake Together.