Ad Astra, a pre-kindergarten Montessori school funded by billionaire Elon Musk, has officially received state approval to begin operations in Bastrop County, Texas. The school, which cleared earlier application delays, was granted its permit by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission on November 14, according to Fortune.
Located approximately 40 minutes from Austin, Ad Astra—meaning “to the stars” in Latin—will initially serve 24 children aged three to six. The school’s curriculum emphasizes STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education, incorporating a hands-on, exploration-based learning approach. Activities include creative exercises like coloring, geography lessons using maps and globes, and outdoor play with amenities such as a basketball court and tricycles.
Drawing inspiration from psychologists Alfred Adler and Rudolf Dreikurs, the school’s focus is on developing responsibility, respect, and resourcefulness in its students. These principles are outlined in the state’s permit documents, as reported by Fortune.
A Step Toward Musk’s Vision for Education
Ad Astra is funded by Musk’s X Foundation, a non-profit organization supported by the Musk Foundation, with nearly $100 million invested. The preschool is the first phase of Musk’s broader plan to revolutionize education, which may eventually include K-12 schools and even a university in Texas, depending on the success of the current program, Fortune reported.
Currently, the school operates from a modest white farmhouse near Musk’s company facilities in Bastrop County.
Innovative Learning and Management
The school is managed by Xplor Education, led by CEO Greg Marick. It already employs three faculty members. Ad Astra’s approach integrates structured periods of both “work” and “play,” during which children develop practical life skills such as sweeping, conflict resolution, and apologizing.
While Musk’s name is not directly mentioned in the application documents, his involvement is evident. The X Foundation owns the property, and Musk’s financial advisor, Jared Birchall, submitted the application on his behalf, Fortune revealed.
Plans for Expansion
Ad Astra’s current capacity is 54 students, though this could increase depending on community demand and the success of the program. The X Foundation has not yet disclosed tuition details for the Bastrop facility.
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