Ad Astra, a pre-kindergarten Montessori school funded by billionaire industrialist Elon Musk, has officially received its state permit to begin operations in Bastrop County, Texas. Approved by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission on November 14, the school cleared earlier delays in its application process, according to Fortune.
Located about 40 minutes from Austin, Ad Astra—Latin for “to the stars”—will initially cater to 24 children aged three to six. Rooted in exploration-based learning, the school emphasizes STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education. Activities range from creative exercises like coloring to geography lessons using maps and globes, all aimed at nurturing curiosity and foundational knowledge. Outdoor amenities such as a basketball court and tricycles further enhance the learning experience.
The curriculum draws inspiration from psychologists Alfred Adler and Rudolf Dreikurs, focusing on building responsibility, respect, and resourcefulness among students, as detailed in state permit documents obtained by Fortune.
From Preschool to a Broader Vision
Ad Astra is backed by Elon Musk’s X Foundation, a non-profit funded by the Musk Foundation with an investment of nearly $100 million. This preschool marks the first step in Musk’s ambitious plan to reshape education. Future phases may include the expansion to K-12 schools and the establishment of a university in Texas, contingent on the program’s success, Fortune reported.
For now, the school operates out of a modest white farmhouse near Musk’s company facilities in Bastrop County.
Innovative Management and Curriculum
The school is managed by Xplor Education, led by CEO Greg Marick, with three faculty members already on board. Ad Astra’s innovative approach integrates structured “work” and “play” periods, where children learn practical life skills like sweeping, resolving conflicts, and apologizing, according to the business website report.
Although Musk’s name is absent from the application documents, his involvement is clear. The X Foundation owns the property, and the application was submitted by Musk’s financial advisor, Jared Birchall, as revealed by Fortune.
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A Growing Legacy
Ad Astra’s current capacity of 54 students could increase based on community demand and quality metrics, as noted by the X Foundation. Tuition details for the Bastrop facility have yet to be disclosed.
