Community Partners

At Catalyst Circle Rock, we recognize the crucial role that partnerships play in our mission to provide a holistic education. Our collaborations with arts-based organizations, local service providers, and community neighbors help us create a well-rounded environment where scholars can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. These partnerships are vital members of the Catalyst family, helping us serve the diverse needs of our students and families.

El Sistema Ravinia

Our partnership with Ravinia is a cornerstone of the Renaissance Enrichment Program, offering students a unique musical outlet through the Sistema Ravinia Orchestra Program. Since 2012, Ravinia’s Women's Board has sponsored the Circle Rockets Orchestra at Catalyst Circle Rock, making it one of the largest elementary school African-American symphony orchestra in the country. This program provides students with the opportunity to engage in composition, instrument creation, and performance, using their feelings, dreams, and experiences as artistic inspiration.

Under the El Sistema model of music education, over 50 students participate in the orchestra, practicing 8-10 hours per week, completely free for 4th to 8th grade families. Catalyst has also become the hub of the west side orchestra program with three other elementary schools joining us weekly to practice in our space. Through this transformative partnership, students not only develop musical skills and discipline but also build teamwork, self-confidence, and an appreciation for classical music and the arts. This high-quality music education fosters creativity, personal growth, and a deep connection to the arts.

Kehrein Center for the Arts

The Kehrein Center for the Arts is an integral part of our school and serves as a dynamic space for artistic expression and community engagement. As the largest facility of its kind in the area, with an auditorium that seats 900, the Kehrein Center offers students unique opportunities to experience high-quality performances, workshops, and artistic exposure. The Kehrein Center allows scholars to explore various forms of art, including theater, music, and visual arts. Through this collaboration, students interact with professional artists, enhance their creativity, and deepen their appreciation for the arts, all while fostering cultural awareness and a strong sense of community involvement.

Circle Urban Ministries

For over 40 years, Circle Urban Ministries has been a vital partner in serving the Austin community. As a shared campus partner, Catalyst Circle Rock and Circle Urban Ministries collaborate closely to provide resources for neighborhood families. While Catalyst offers a high-quality education to local students, Circle Urban Ministries enhances our work by providing wrap-around services such as after-school programs, mentoring, a food pantry, and family support initiatives.

Rock Church

Rock Church plays a significant role in supporting Catalyst Circle Rock's mission by offering mentorship and outreach services for children and families in the neighborhood. Their involvement provides vital support and builds strong connections within the community.

Mentorship and Empowerment Partners

Towers of Excellence: This organization provides quality mentorship, academic guidance, and life skills development to help youth navigate the challenges of the world and achieve success in their daily lives. Scholars remain in the program through high school and are supported throughout their collegiate journey.
Ignatian Volunteer Corps: We are proud to partner with Ignatian Volunteer Corps, whose volunteers offer one-to-one and small-group tutoring for our scholars, enhancing their academic growth and providing personalized support.
Homegirl Huddle: Homegirl Huddle fosters empowerment, leadership, and a sense of community. The program helps young girls build confidence, self-esteem, and resilience through mentorship, peer support, and skill-building activities

Arts and Enrichment Partners

Bricklab Robotics: This program offers students hands-on experience with robotics, where they learn problem-solving, innovation, and teamwork. By working together to design and build robots, scholars develop critical thinking and technical skills.
Common Threads: Through Common Threads, students engage in culinary arts, learning not only how to cook but also about nutrition, teamwork, and cultural appreciation through food. This program builds skills that extend beyond the kitchen, fostering creativity and discipline.
Wellness4Every1: Through this dynamic program, our students are introduced to the art of ballroom dancing, exploring a variety of styles including tango, salsa, and waltz. This partnership offers students the opportunity to develop not only coordination and rhythm but also confidence, discipline, and teamwork. By engaging in this fun and interactive activity, scholars gain valuable life skills, enhance their physical fitness, and build self-esteem in a supportive and exciting environment.

Purifyed Dance: In this program, students explore the art of hip hop dance, building rhythm, confidence, and collaboration skills. The program encourages self-expression through movement while fostering a strong sense of teamwork and dedication.

Tumbling4Success: This program offers students the chance to develop strength, flexibility, and coordination through the art of tumbling. Students learn foundational gymnastics skills, such as flips, cartwheels, and balance techniques, while also improving their overall fitness and body awareness. Tumbling4Success encourages discipline, perseverance, and teamwork, all in a fun, high-energy environment that helps students build confidence and resilience as they achieve new physical milestones.

These after-school programs, along with our strong ties to community partners, help broaden our students' horizons and expose them to new experiences, career opportunities, and the arts.

Community Partners

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Catalyst Schools