Vandegrift High School - A Look At This Austin Area School
Table of Contents
- A Warm Welcome to Vandegrift High School
- Who Was Matthew Ryan Vandegrift, The Namesake of Vandegrift High School?
- What Makes Academics at Vandegrift High School Stand Out?
- How Does Student Life Flourish at Vandegrift High School?
- What Support Does Vandegrift High School Offer Families?
- Connecting with Vandegrift High School
- Considering Enrollment at Vandegrift High School?
- The Vandegrift High School Experience
A Warm Welcome to Vandegrift High School
When you think about schools that truly stand out, Vandegrift High School often comes to mind, especially for families in the Austin area. This school, which opened its doors in the fall of 2009, has a history rooted in the community it serves, and a reputation for helping its young people achieve great things. It’s a place where students are encouraged to grow, learn, and really, really find their own path. You know, it’s not just about textbooks; it’s about building a future, and that’s pretty much what this school aims to do for everyone who walks through its doors.
The school carries a special name, honoring First Lieutenant Matthew Ryan Vandegrift, a graduate from Leander High School's class of 1999. This connection to a local hero, a person who came from the very same community, adds a layer of meaning to the school’s identity. It’s a reminder of sacrifice and dedication, which, you know, helps shape some of the values the school tries to uphold. The spirit of accomplishment, something that runs deep in the school’s story, is very much connected to this significant namesake.
From its earliest days, Vandegrift High School has worked to create a place where students can truly shine. We see this in the many wonderful things its students achieve, whether it’s in their studies, on the playing field, or in various clubs and activities. It’s a school that, in a way, puts a lot of effort into making sure every student has a chance to succeed, and that really does make a difference for families looking for a good fit for their kids. The goal is to provide a supportive spot where young people can really make the most of their high school years.
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Who Was Matthew Ryan Vandegrift, The Namesake of Vandegrift High School?
The name "Vandegrift High School" isn't just a label; it carries a story, a memory of someone truly special from the local area. Matthew Ryan Vandegrift, a first lieutenant, was a graduate of Leander High School, having finished his studies there in 1999. His connection to the community runs deep, as he was a bright young person who grew up right here. His life, sadly, was cut short while he was serving his country, a really tough thing that happened in Iraq back in April 2008. So, the school being named after him is, in a way, a lasting tribute to his memory and the sacrifice he made.
It’s important, I think, for students and families at Vandegrift High School to know about the person whose name graces their school. It speaks to a sense of community, of giving back, and of the profound impact one individual can have. The school, in a sense, carries forward a piece of his spirit, striving for excellence and encouraging a sense of purpose in its students. It’s more than just a name on a building; it’s a constant reminder of courage and dedication, which, you know, can be pretty inspiring.
Understanding the history behind the school's name helps everyone connect more deeply with its traditions and the values it holds dear. It’s part of the school’s identity, a piece of its heart, if you will. The accomplishments of the students at Vandegrift High School, in a way, add to the legacy that Matthew Ryan Vandegrift represents, showing that the spirit of striving for something great lives on within the school’s walls. It’s a powerful connection, really, between the past and the present.
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Personal Details - Matthew Ryan Vandegrift
| Name | Matthew Ryan Vandegrift |
| Rank | 1st Lieutenant |
| High School Alma Mater | Leander High School |
| Graduation Year | 1999 |
| Date of Passing | April 2008 |
| Location of Passing | Iraq (in the line of duty) |
| Significance | Namesake of Vandegrift High School |
What Makes Academics at Vandegrift High School Stand Out?
When you look at what makes Vandegrift High School special, its academic offerings are, you know, a pretty big part of the picture. The school provides a really strong set of learning paths, giving students many ways to challenge themselves and get ready for what comes next. They offer Advanced Placement (AP) courses, which are college-level classes that students can take right there in high school. This means kids can get a head start on their college credits, which is, honestly, a pretty neat advantage for their future studies.
Beyond AP, Vandegrift High School also has the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. This is a globally recognized, comprehensive curriculum that encourages students to think critically, learn independently, and engage with different cultures. It’s a very rigorous program, so it’s for students who really want to push themselves academically and get a broad, well-rounded education. This kind of program, in a way, helps prepare students not just for college, but for life in a much bigger world, which is, you know, a valuable thing.
And then there’s Project Lead The Way (PLTW), which is another unique offering at Vandegrift High School. This program focuses on hands-on learning in subjects like engineering, computer science, and biomedical science. It’s all about getting students involved in real-world problems and projects, helping them develop practical skills and a deeper appreciation for these fields. So, basically, it’s a chance for kids to really get their hands dirty with subjects that could lead to some pretty interesting careers, and that’s something many families really appreciate.
The results of these strong programs are pretty clear when you look at the numbers. Vandegrift High School has a very high graduation rate, which, you know, shows that students are staying in school and finishing their studies successfully. This is a good sign for any school, as it means students are getting the support they need to reach that important milestone. It’s a testament to the school’s commitment to seeing its students through to the end of their high school journey.
Not only do students graduate, but they also show strong readiness for college. This means they are leaving Vandegrift High School with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in higher education. The test scores at the school are also quite good, indicating that students are grasping the material and performing well on standardized assessments. In fact, the school has even received a "College Success Award," which, you know, really highlights its effectiveness in preparing students for post-secondary education.
When it comes to how Vandegrift High School stacks up against others, it’s ranked among the top 10% of all public schools in Texas. This is a significant achievement, showing that the school consistently performs at a very high level across the state. It’s a top-rated public school located in Austin, Texas, and its standing is, in a way, a source of pride for the whole community. This kind of recognition helps families feel confident that their children are getting a good education.
Looking at specific academic achievements, state test scores show that a good portion of students are doing quite well. For example, 60% of students are at least proficient in math, and an even higher 83% are proficient in reading. These figures suggest that the school is doing a good job of teaching core subjects and helping students master important skills. It’s clear that, you know, the focus on academics at Vandegrift High School is paying off for the students.
How Does Student Life Flourish at Vandegrift High School?
Life at Vandegrift High School isn't just about what happens in the classroom; there’s a lot going on outside of it too, which, you know, makes the whole experience much richer. The school has a very active student community, with many opportunities for young people to get involved in things they care about. Take, for instance, the band department, which is quite something. Over 300 students, from ninth through twelfth grades, are part of the instrumental music program. They learn from a group of very dedicated teachers, and they also get guidance from private lesson instructors. It’s a pretty big commitment, but it really does help students develop their musical talents.
The Vandegrift High School band and the Vision Dance Company recently had a huge success, winning the UIL Area H Championship. This kind of achievement, you know, really shows the dedication and hard work of these students and their instructors. It’s a proud moment for the school and for everyone involved, highlighting the excellence that can be found in the school’s extracurricular activities. These kinds of wins really do build school spirit and give students something special to work towards.
Then there are the Viperbots, which is the school’s competitive student robotics program. This group is connected with FIRST, an organization that promotes science and technology. The Viperbots are, honestly, one of the best ranked high school robotics programs, not just in Texas, but pretty much around the world. It’s a big deal, and it shows the kind of innovation and talent that Vandegrift High School students possess. The program is about more than just building robots; it’s about students learning important life skills, like teamwork, problem-solving, and perseverance, which are, you know, really valuable for anything they do later on.
These kinds of programs give students a chance to explore their interests, develop new skills, and connect with their peers outside of regular classes. It’s how students, in a way, find their place and build friendships that can last a lifetime. The school really does put an emphasis on providing these kinds of outlets, understanding that a well-rounded education means more than just academics. It’s about growing as a person, too, and that’s something Vandegrift High School seems to get very right.
What Support Does Vandegrift High School Offer Families?
For families with students at Vandegrift High School, or those thinking about joining the school community, there are many resources and support systems in place. The school is part of the Leander Independent School District (LISD), which provides a wide range of district information and resources. This means families can get details about advanced academic programs, which, you know, helps them understand all the options available for their children’s learning journey.
LISD also has important resources for things like bullying prevention, which is, honestly, a very serious topic for parents. Knowing that there are clear policies and support systems in place can provide a lot of peace of mind. Bus routes and information are also available, which helps with the practical side of getting students to and from school safely. These kinds of details are, basically, essential for daily school life.
The district provides information on community flyers, high school curriculum details, and even services for students experiencing homelessness. There’s also a human sexuality curriculum, LISD policies, and the MLISD Parent/Student Handbook and dress code. These resources are, in a way, meant to keep families informed and ensure they have access to all the necessary guidelines and support. It’s about making sure everyone is on the same page and knows what to expect at Vandegrift High School.
Beyond that, there's the PTA Clothes Closet, which is a wonderful resource for families who might need a little help with clothing for their children. Student health information is also readily available, which, you know, is incredibly important for parents to keep their kids safe and well. All these things, put together, show that Vandegrift High School, and the district it belongs to, really do try to support the whole family, not just the student, and that’s pretty comforting.
Connecting with Vandegrift High School
Getting in touch with Vandegrift High School or finding specific information is pretty straightforward, which is, honestly, a good thing for busy families. The school's main address is 9500 McNeil Drive, Austin, TX 78750, so you know where to find it physically. There’s also a phone number available for direct contact, which is usually the quickest way to get answers to immediate questions. These contact points are, basically, the first step for anyone looking to reach out.
For more detailed information, like staff contact details, there's a staff directory available. This can be found in a Google Sheet version, which, you know, makes it easy to look up specific teachers or school personnel. This kind of accessibility is really helpful when you need to connect with someone about a particular class or student matter. It’s all about making communication as simple as possible for parents and community members.
The school also provides information on its enrollment numbers, state testing assessments, and a breakdown of the student body. This kind of data can be pretty useful for families who want to get a sense of the school’s overall makeup and academic performance. It’s a way to, basically, get a picture of what Vandegrift High School is like, based on factual information, and that can help with decision-making.
Vandegrift High School is one of ten high schools within the Leander Independent School District, which is, you know, a pretty large district. This context helps understand its place within the broader educational system in the area. Knowing this, in a way, gives you a better idea of the resources and standards that apply to the school, as part of a bigger network of learning institutions. It’s good to have that bigger picture.
Considering Enrollment at Vandegrift High School?
If you're thinking about enrolling your child at Vandegrift High School, especially if it’s their first time joining the Leander Independent School District, there are a few steps to follow. The process for online registration is pretty clearly laid out, which, you know, helps make things less confusing. It’s designed to guide you through what you need to do to get your child signed up for school. This kind of clear guidance is, basically, what parents need when they’re going through a new process.
To complete your child’s registration, there are a number of items that you’ll need to provide. These are usually things like proof of residency, birth certificates, immunization records, and previous school records. The school will list all the required documents, so you know exactly what to gather before you start the online process. Having everything ready beforehand can, in a way, make the whole experience much smoother and quicker for families, which is always a plus.
It’s important to make sure you have all these items ready before you begin the online registration. This helps prevent delays and ensures that your child can be enrolled without any unnecessary holdups. The school tries to make this as easy as possible, but, you know, having all your paperwork in order really does help on your end. It’s a pretty standard process, but getting it right the first time saves everyone a lot of trouble.
The Vandegrift High School Experience
Vandegrift High School, established in 2009, saw its first group of students graduate in 2012, marking a significant moment in its history. Since then, it has truly built a reputation as a school that expects a lot from its students academically, and, you know, helps them meet those expectations. It’s known for being a competitive place where students are challenged to do their very best, which, basically, sets them up for success later on.
The school has received some pretty important recognition over the years. For instance, it was named one of Texas’ best high schools in both the 2014 and 2015 US News and World Report rankings. This kind of acknowledgment, in a way, confirms that the school’s efforts to provide a top-tier education are really paying off. It shows that Vandegrift High School is consistently performing at a high level, and that’s something the whole community can be proud of.
From its dedication to honoring its namesake, Matthew Ryan Vandegrift, to its wide array of academic programs like AP, IB, and PLTW, the school works hard to give students a strong foundation. The strong performance in state tests, the high graduation rates, and the impressive college readiness all point to a school that is, you know, doing a lot of things right. The active student life, with programs like the award-winning band and the globally recognized Viperbots robotics team, shows that students have many ways to grow outside of the classroom, too.
The support systems provided by the Leander Independent School District, from health information to various community resources, also help create a nurturing environment for families. All these elements combined paint a picture of Vandegrift High School as a place that really cares about its students’ overall development and future success. It’s a school that, in a way, tries to make sure every student has the chance to thrive, and that’s a pretty powerful commitment.
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