Why we exist.
Hill Country Day School is something genuinely new in New Braunfels. A school built on nature, curiosity, and child-led learning with teachers who are paid what they deserve. We started the Hill Country Children's Foundation because we believe every child in this community should have access to it, not just the ones whose families can easily afford it.
Ten scholarships. One community. Real impact.
By the numbers.
- Up to 10 scholarships awarded per year
- $8,500: the value of each full scholarship
- 5.5 acres of nature-based learning environment
- $20+ per hour teacher compensation at Hill Country Day School
What we believe.
A child's zip code or family income should not determine the quality of their first school experience. We are working to change that, one scholarship at a time.
Hill Country Day School pays its educators $20+ per hour because great early childhood education starts with great, valued teachers. Every dollar we raise supports that mission.
Scholarship families are not just recipients. They are partners. They show up, they contribute, and they become part of something bigger. That is the kind of school community we are building.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Hill Country Children's Foundation?
The Hill Country Children's Foundation is a Texas nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding access to nature-based, child-centered early education for families across the Texas Hill Country. We award partial scholarships to qualifying families seeking enrollment at Hill Country Day School in New Braunfels, ensuring that a child's first school experience is rich and intentional regardless of financial means.
Can I combine the scholarship with CCS state tuition assistance?
No. Foundation scholarships cannot be combined with CCS state tuition assistance payments. If you currently receive CCS benefits, please reach out to us directly so we can talk through your options.
How is the foundation connected to Hill Country Day School?
The foundation was created alongside Hill Country Day School by the same founder, Haleigh Almquist. The school and the foundation share a mission but operate as separate entities. The foundation raises and distributes scholarship funds independently, awarding them to qualifying families who use them toward tuition at Hill Country Day School.
What is the community participation requirement?
Scholarship recipients contribute 10 hours per semester at Hill Country Day School -- roughly one hour a week during the school year. What that looks like is flexible and agreed upon together at enrollment. Some families help in the classroom, some support events, some bring a professional skill. The point is that you are part of the community, not just a recipient of it.
Is my donation tax deductible?
Yes. Hill Country Children's Foundation is organized as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation. Our EIN is 42-1898003. We recommend consulting your tax advisor for guidance specific to your situation.
If I receive a scholarship this year am I guaranteed it next year?
Scholarships are awarded one year at a time and require reapplication each year. There is no automatic renewal. Families who are in good standing -- meaning participation hours are fulfilled and tuition is current on their portion -- receive priority consideration in the next cycle, but renewal is not guaranteed. This keeps the program fair and ensures spots are available to families who need them most.
How do I know if I qualify for a scholarship?
To qualify, your child must be eligible for enrollment at Hill Country Day School (ages 8 weeks through Pre-K 4), your household income must be at or below 300% of the current federal poverty level, and you must be willing to contribute 10 hours of community participation per semester. Full eligibility criteria and the application are available on our Scholarship page.
How does my donation get used?
Every dollar raised by the foundation goes directly toward scholarship awards for qualifying families. Our operational costs are kept minimal and managed entirely in house. When you donate to the Hill Country Children's Foundation, you are funding a child's seat in a classroom -- nothing else.
Ready to get involved?
Whether you are a family looking for support, a business wanting to invest in the community, or an individual who believes every child deserves this kind of start -- there is a place for you here.