Elon Musk has established a new Montessori preschool called Ad Astra in Bastrop, Texas, located near several of Musk’s business operations. The school, which recently received a state license to operate, can accommodate up to 21 students aged 3 to 9 years.
Designed with a STEM-focused curriculumAd Astra reflects Musk’s educational philosophy of hands-on learning and skill development. The preschool emphasizes exploration, where children learn tasks such as sweeping, drawing and conflict resolution, while maintaining a Montessori approach that prioritizes self-directed learning and cooperative play.
The school is part of Musk’s broader educational ambitions, with the Musk Foundation allocate nearly $100 million to develop elementary and secondary schools, and potentially a future university. Collaborating with Xplor educationwhich operates another Montessori school in Hawaii, Ad Astra is positioned to become more than just a local childcare center.
Musk’s education initiatives align with his political views and recent endorsements of former presidents Donald Trump. Both have been vocal critics of diversity, equity and inclusion programs in schools, advocating a more competency-based approach to education.
Situated on 40 acres and housed in a converted 4,000-square-foot farmhouse, the preschool is in a region increasingly dominated by Musk’s companies, including the Boring Company and a SpaceX Starlink satellite production facility. While it’s unclear whether Musk’s own children will attend, the school’s job postings suggest a focus on raising the children to be innovative parents.
