Imagine a group of students reaching out to help a classmate who has tripped and fallen in the hallway, rather than laughing or simply continuing on their way to class. For NYOS Charter School student Camp Box, that image captures what it means to be part of the school's community: one where students and teachers uphold the school’s core values, such as “Respect and Dignity for All” in this case, and where everyone supports each other through challenges, celebrates accomplishments, and builds relationships that extend far beyond the classroom.

"NYOS has formed in me a deep understanding of what belonging really is," Box said.

Serving students from pre-K through 12th grade, the Austin-based public charter school focuses on developing the whole child through individualized academic support, meaningful relationships, opportunities for students to discover their interests and methods to increase their college and career preparedness. It also offers a Dual Language program in pre-K and will be adding that program to first grade for the 2027-28 school year.

What makes NYOS unique?

Because NYOS serves students across multiple grade levels, classmates can grow up together, and teachers have opportunities to watch students develop throughout their educational journeys.

"There are so many people in my grade that I've known my whole life, and they truly create such an inviting environment that feels welcoming and safe," student Reyna Hernandez said.

Those relationships are strengthened by the school's emphasis on small class sizes, with no more than 20 students in academic classes across all grade levels.

Teacher Dan Omelchuck said smaller classes allow educators to understand each student's individual strengths and interests rather than focusing solely on academic performance.

"A student at NYOS has never been solely considered a data point in gauging the school's academic ratings,” Omelchuck said. “Here at NYOS, we look at each student as an individual  with unique gifts and talents, no matter their perceived ability to achieve academically.”

That approach also creates opportunities for teachers to help students navigate personal challenges, build confidence, and develop a sense of belonging.

Smiling students gather around a classroom table with an electrical circuit experiment and science posters.

How are students encouraged to explore their interests?

While academic achievement remains a priority, NYOS also recognizes the importance of helping students discover what excites them and where their talents lie.

Through clubs, organizations, athletics, and extracurricular activities, students can explore new interests, develop leadership skills, and build connections outside the classroom. Students can even establish their own clubs with support from teachers and administrators.

The school also incorporates dedicated time into the weekly schedule for academic support and personal development. Middle and high school students participate in homeroom periods focused on self-awareness, community involvement, and building academic soft skills, while additional scheduled time allows for tutoring, coursework, and extracurricular participation.

For student Hazel Buxton, who participates in Drama Club and takes dual-credit courses through Austin Community College, that flexibility has made a meaningful difference.

"Having a space in which I can choose what I want to work on, where I want to go on campus and who I need to meet with gives me a sense of freedom," Buxton said.

Large cast of a Seussical theater production poses on stage in colorful costumes before a palm tree backdrop.

How does NYOS support teachers in helping students succeed?

Behind those student experiences is a collaborative teaching environment designed to give educators the time and resources to provide top-tier instruction.

One example is the school's half-day Friday schedule. Students attend classes for part of the day, and teachers use the remaining time for lesson planning, professional development, and collaboration.

The structure allows educators to review student progress, share strategies, and develop lessons tailored to different learning styles. It also helps teachers build relationships with one another, creating a supportive professional community.

For teacher Melissa Hefner, that collaboration is an important part of what makes NYOS special, and so is the opportunity to follow students' progress from their earliest years through graduation.

"There is no greater joy than watching a student you taught in elementary school walk across the stage at Senior Graduation ready to succeed out in a crazy world," Hefner said.

How is NYOS preparing students for life beyond the classroom?

The school's whole-child approach extends to helping students develop the communication, leadership, and social-emotional skills they will carry into adulthood.

Beginning in elementary school, students learn how to express their feelings, communicate respectfully and advocate for their needs. Leadership development, community involvement and exposure to different cultures further prepare students for experiences beyond school.

Boy wearing headphones holds a cardboard box diorama of a jungle scene with a snake, tiger, and vines in a classroom.

For parent Mandy Walker, that approach, as well as the school calendar, which offers two-week fall and spring breaks with shorter summer breaks, is what drew her to NYOS. Today, all three of her children attend the school, and she has seen how its individualized approach supports students with different academic abilities and educational needs, including the special education services one of her children receives. Walker also credits the school's parents and teachers with strengthening the environment for students.

"I think the best part of NYOS is the teachers and parents,” Walker said. “The teachers truly care about all of the students and show so much compassion, fun, respect, and hard work. And the parents I have met have been so amazing. They show up, support staff and teachers, volunteer regularly, and advocate for our school to be the best it can be.”

For NYOS, preparing students for the future means helping them succeed academically while also giving them the confidence to explore their passions, build lasting relationships and understand their place in the larger community.

And as Box's description of helping hands in the hallway illustrates, that preparation begins with knowing there will always be someone willing to help them back up.

Applications for the 2027-28 school year are open now through early February 2027. Those interested in learning more or applying can find information here:

Three NYOS football players in gray jerseys numbered 3, 4, and 8 stand arm-in-arm on the field.

Frequently asked questions

What does the school calendar look like at NYOS?

NYOS follows a year-round calendar with four breaks, including two weeks off in the fall, two weeks off in the spring and a shorter summer. Students learn at a steady pace and come back rested. On Fridays, students are dismissed early so teachers can spend that time planning together, reviewing each child’s progress, and preparing lessons that fit how each student learns.

Is NYOS free?

Yes. NYOS is a free, public charter school serving students in PreK through 12th grade.

Who can apply, and how does the lottery work?

Any family living in one of 18 eligible school districts in the Austin area can apply, including Austin, Pflugerville, and Round Rock. The full list is on the school’s website at nyos.org.

When there are more applications than open seats, students are chosen by a random lottery. Brothers and sisters of current students, and children of NYOS staff, receive priority. Families are asked to apply for each school year they want to be considered. The lottery for the 2027-28 school year will be held in March 2027.

Does NYOS offer school meals?

Yes. NYOS serves breakfast and lunch through the National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs, and families may apply for free or reduced-price meals.

Does NYOS provide transportation?

No. NYOS does not provide transportation to or from the school.

What is the class size limit for academic classes at NYOS Charter School?

NYOS Charter School emphasizes small class sizes, with no more than 18 students in elementary classes and 20 students in secondary classes. These smaller class sizes allow for more individualized attention, stronger student-teacher relationships, and greater support for each student’s academic growth.

Large white "NYOS" letters outside a blue-paneled school building with US and Texas flags.

The above story was produced by Senior Multi-Platform Journalist Sydney Heller of Community Impact's Storytelling team, with information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.