Our Story

A note from the Head of School

Trellis Academy is the fruition of a dream and hope

Trellis Academy is the fruition of a dream and hope: to create a school where children can discover their unique strengths and gifts while learning to celebrate the gifts of others. A place where students can respectfully disagree, form thoughtful opinions, and then head outside together for recess — still friends, still growing.

I envisioned a school where curiosity is protected, questions are welcomed, and there is ample time to think deeply. Where learning can happen in the sunshine, where children are taught to care for their bodies and their health, and where academic growth does not come at the expense of joy.

One of my greatest motivations for starting a small school was simple: time. Shorter school days that allow for more free play, deeper family connection, and space to grow beyond the classroom.

I am deeply excited to see Trellis take root and to partner with families in shaping an environment that honors each child’s individuality and each family’s unique vision for their future.

Courtney Murdoch
Head of School
Trellis Academy

Courtney Murdoch has lived in Austin for the past 13 years and is originally from Dallas, Texas. She is a graduate of Texas A&M University, where she studied industrial engineering.

Courtney and her husband, Matt, are raising their three children in the Austin area and are passionate about building a strong, connected community. They are excited to see Trellis Academy take root and serve families in their community.
Trellis Academy is located at 15000 Hamilton Pool Rd (also known as Star Hill Ranch).

The school will operate out of three small schoolhouses at the back of the property.
Star Hill Ranch also functions as a wedding and event space on weekends, and we’re excited to utilize this unique environment as part of the Trellis experience.
Trellis Academy is a nonprofit, non-denominational Christian Private school in Bee Cave, Texas that offers STEM-insprired academics with small-group learning and flexible pacing.
Grounded in Faith. Forming thinkers and cultivating character.

Website by Banner 61

Smiling woman in a yellow dress at Trellis Academy

Ms. Rae Klein

2ND - 4TH GRADE TEACHER
Trellis Academy logo: a delicate leaf illustration between two horizontal lines.
Rae Klein is a second-generation teacher with a passion for creating engaging, student-centered learning experiences.

She studied at Bennington College before transferring to Texas A&M University at Galveston, where she focused on marine biology and fisheries.

Ms. Rae has a background in both Montessori and Reggio-inspired education. She believes strongly in giving students ownership of their studies and classroom environment, encouraging self-paced learning and allowing children to take an active role in their education.

She is also a firm believer that nature is one of the best teachers, and you’ll often find her taking learning beyond the classroom and teaching outside.

Ms. Rae loves science, nature, SCUBA diving, and cooking. When she’s not on the water, you’ll most likely find her digging in the dirt with her daughter.
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