The Waco Independent School District, serving approximately 15,000 students, provides diverse educational opportunities through its comprehensive network of schools. The district has made significant investments in STEM education, with programs like the Greater Waco Advanced Manufacturing Academy (GWAMA) and the Greater Waco Advanced Health Care Academy (GWAHCA) preparing students for careers in healthcare and technology.
Midway Independent School District, highly regarded in the region, consistently receives strong academic ratings from the Texas Education Agency. Midway High School offers an extensive Advanced Placement program with over 20 AP courses and maintains a high college acceptance rate. The district's STEM program includes robotics teams, computer science courses, and partnerships with local technology companies.
Several private schools offer alternative educational options. Vanguard College Preparatory School, known for its rigorous academic program, boasts a 100% college acceptance rate and averages 12 students per class. Live Oak Classical School combines classical education with Christian values, offering Latin instruction beginning in third grade and a strong arts program. Reicher Catholic High School provides college preparatory education within the Catholic tradition, featuring advanced placement courses and competitive athletics.
The Montessori School of Central Texas serves children from 18 months through sixth grade, offering authentic Montessori education with certified teachers. The school's programs emphasize hands-on learning, independence, and individual development.
For children with special needs, the Methodist Children's Center and Rapoport Academy public charter school provide specialized programs and support services. Both institutions maintain low student-to-teacher ratios and offer individualized education plans.
Higher education opportunities in Waco are anchored by Baylor University, a prestigious research institution with approximately 20,000 students. Baylor offers more than 125 undergraduate programs and 80 master's programs, including its renowned School of Medicine partnerships. The university's research facilities and academic resources contribute significantly to the community's intellectual capital.
McLennan Community College serves over 8,000 students with associate degree programs, workforce training, and continuing education courses. The college maintains strong partnerships with local healthcare providers, offering programs in nursing, respiratory care, and other allied health fields.
Texas State Technical College's Waco campus specializes in technical and vocational education, providing hands-on training in healthcare, manufacturing, and technology fields. The college's health sciences programs include surgical technology, dental hygiene, and nursing, with high job placement rates for graduates.
The education system is further enhanced by partnerships between schools and local healthcare facilities, providing shadowing opportunities, internships, and mentorship programs for students interested in medical careers.