fourth and eighth-graders did better in
science than other urban districts across
the nation.
We’ve also been recognized as one of the
country’s “top five intellectual capitals,” and
we’ve been ranked among the top
five cities in Forbes annual “Best
Place for Business and Careers”
listing for the last several years, in
part because of a highly educated
workforce.
GROWTH, EDUCATION AND
COMMUNITY SUPPORT
It’s not surprising that the city’s growth in
recent years has had a considerable
impact on education. School districts
have doubled in size to accommodate
more students, with residents consistently
approving bond packages in Austin and
surrounding communities to renovate and
build new schools.
The business community is also committed to
education, with alliances like Austin Partners
in Education ( www.austinpartners.org) – a
collaboration between the Austin
Independent School District and the
Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce in
which business community partners are
matched with schools or districts,
providing volunteer services, in-kind
contributions, or cash donations. A
nonprofit organization, the group offers
schools support with technology and
other necessary resources.
Other partnerships include the Skillpoint
Alliance ( www.skillpointalliance.org) – a
program that promotes workforce
development in such in-demand industries
as technology (especially semiconductor,
information technology and digital
media); healthcare; and construction.
AUSTIN RANKS HIGH ON
QUALITY OF LIFE, EDUCATION
No matter where you’re moving, or even
whether or not you have children in school,
education is an important consideration for
anyone considering relocation. After all, the
quality of education in a community affects
everything from resale value to
neighborhood schools.
One of the many reasons people are
drawn to Austin is that it’s a vibrant place
to be. Money magazine has consistently
named Austin among its “Top 10 Best Big
Cities” in its annual Best Places to Live
ranking, which is based on family
income, home price, schools and job
growth. And, the Worldwide Employee
EDUCATION IN AUSTIN