The Center for Teaching & Learning (CTL) is an innovative PK-12 private school located at 10431 Hufsmith in The Woodlands area. As a school of inquiry, CTL nurtures students' innate curiosities and fosters a love for learning through engaging, project-based instruction. Our approach is designed to honor diverse learning styles, challenging students in meaningful ways while cultivating critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. At CTL, we focus on educating the whole child-cognitively, socially, emotionally, and physically-ensuring that every student reaches their full potential. In our intentionally small school setting, students receive differentiated instruction tailored to their unique strengths and needs, empowering them to thrive beyond traditional, conventional models of education. CTL students discover their giftedness and develop essential habits of mind for lifelong success. They benefit from our private school model, which includes: Small class sizes and multi-age classrooms
A positive, caring learning environment Highly qualified, dedicated teachers and leaders
Inquiry and project-based learning Differentiated instruction and performance assessments
Character education and leadership development Strong parental and community involvement
Quick Facts (2026)
- Top-Ranked TX School
- Grades: Prekindergarten-12
- Enrollment: 181 students
- Yearly Tuition: $15,000
- Acceptance rate: 95%
- Average class size: 12 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Center for Teaching & Learning ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Texas for:
Category
Attribute
Advanced Degrees
School Overview
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-12
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Year Founded
2014
School Calendar
Campus Size
7 acres
Student Body
Total Students
181 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
1%
State avg.: 41%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
12 teachers
Student-Teacher Ratio
15:1
National avg.:
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
99%
Average Class Size
12 students
List of Courses Offered
Matriculation DataMatric. Data
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$15,000
Tuition Notes
Sibling discount
Referral discount
Acceptance Rate
95%
National avg.: 82%
College Acceptance Rate
100%
Admissions Director
Dr. Linda Ellis
Admissions Associate
Hope Pena
Application URL
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
6 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Arts and Music Programs:
artgroup piano
Nutty Scientist yogaRobotics Rule
We offer optional after-school activities including Rush Soccer
Arts and Music Programs:
Clubs are generated and selected by students and change each trimester. Clubs meet on Fridays.
School Notes
- School Motto: CTL's primary mission is to foster a LOVE of learning by teaching students to follow their curiosity, to think creatively, and to work both independently and collaboratively.
At CTL, assessment extends beyond traditional paper-and-pencil tests. We rely on authentic, alternative forms of assessment-projects, portfolios, and performance-based evaluations-that provide a more complete picture of each student's abilities, progress, and needs.We foster a strong sense of community by actively engaging parents and local partners, reinforcing the connections between classroom learning and real-world experiences. Families are valued as essential partners in their children's education.
Our learning environment encourages independent thought, creativity, and curiosity. Students have ample time to grapple with ideas, explore their passions, ask meaningful questions, and seek answers-all with the support of dedicated, highly qualified educators. We believe all children thrive in environments that act as catalysts for their natural curiosity, empowering them to develop, share, and take pride in their unique strengths.
CTL is a school of inquiry, where instruction is designed to nurture students' innate curiosity and accommodate diverse learning styles. Through project-based learning, students are challenged in meaningful ways, engaging in critical thinking, problem-solving, and creative exploration.
CTL's faculty consists of expert teachers-educators deeply committed to continuous learning and professional excellence (Berliner, 2001). Our expert teachers:
- Hold college degrees and certifications specific to their teaching assignments.
- Engage in ongoing professional development to refine their instructional practices.
- Stay informed by reading professional literature and research.
- Contribute to the field by publishing, presenting at conferences, and mentoring teacher candidates and interns at CTL.
At CTL, education is a journey of discovery-one where students, teachers, and families collaborate to cultivate curiosity, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Center for Teaching & Learning cost?
Center for Teaching & Learning's tuition is approximately $15,000 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of Center for Teaching & Learning?
The acceptance rate of Center for Teaching & Learning is 95%, which is higher than the national average of 83%.
What is Center for Teaching & Learning's ranking?
Center for Teaching & Learning ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Texas for: Highest percentage of faculty with advanced degrees.
When is the application deadline for Center for Teaching & Learning?
The application deadline for Center for Teaching & Learning is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Reviews
5 3/2/2019
Great school with hands on project based learning. Every child should have a school like this. I love all that they do to promote creativity and the love of lifelong learners.
5 3/2/2019
CTL is an amazing non traditional school. The concept is all about the love of learning. The teachers and staff are highly passionate and love what they do. My kids are happy being at CTL.
5 3/2/2019
This school is phenomenal. I have 3 children here and I was a teacher in Australia. I had high expectations about the school I wanted my kids to attend when we relocated to Houston. This school is founded on academic research of how kids learn and how you can empower them to succeed. I have seen first hand the power of the teaching and learning at CTL and it surpasses anything I have seen in my decade teaching. The engagement, knowledge and critical thinking the teachers deliver are fundamental to what education research says are the vital skills for 21st century learners. This school is the future of teaching and learning.
5 5/17/2016
I have registered my sixth-grade son for this brand new school in The Woodlands. I can't wait to see him thrive in this wonderful, rich, student-centered environment!
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