A Thoughtful Process for a Transformational Journey
Choosing the right school for your child is one of the most
important decisions you’ll ever make—and we’re here to walk
alongside you every step of the way. At The Nest at Palm Valley,
admissions is a collaborative and personal process. You’ll begin
with a scheduled tour of our campus, where you can observe our
classrooms in action and witness the unique culture of
independence, curiosity, and mutual respect that defines our
community.
During this journey, you’ll have the opportunity to
meet with our guides, who are deeply involved in the admissions
process. Together, we get to know your child as an individual,
understanding their strengths, interests, and needs, so we can
ensure that The Nest is the right place for them to grow and
thrive. We are now enrolling for the 2025–26 school year. Space
is limited, and each placement is thoughtfully considered. Let’s
discover together if The Nest is where your child will become
who they’re meant to be.
Our Process at The Nest at
Anderson Mill include:
Admissions Process
A Personalized Path to Joining Our Community
We believe choosing a school should feel thoughtful, not
transactional. Our admissions process is designed to be
welcoming, transparent, and centered around your child.
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Schedule Your Tour
Begin by scheduling a guided tour of our campus. This is your opportunity to explore our vibrant environment, meet our staff, and get a firsthand look at how learning comes to life at The Nest. -
Classroom Observation & Conversation
During your visit, you’ll observe a working classroom in action. You’ll see students collaborating, creating, and learning with purpose. You’ll also have time to speak with our directors, Charlie and Ashlie, who lead the admissions process and are committed to understanding your child as an individual. If you haven’t received an application beforehand, we’ll provide one during your visit. -
Enrollment & Deposit
Once your family decides to join our community, complete the Enrollment Package. A one-time enrollment deposit of $1500 for the first child and $500 for each additional child is required. This deposit is fully refundable with a minimum 30-day written notice of withdrawal.
Unlike other schools, we don’t charge recurring registration or application fees.
To schedule a tour, click here:
Schedule A Tour
After receiving your application and deposit, we’ll contact you to confirm your child’s start date and begin welcoming your family into our community.
Parent Handbook
Providers Guide to Parent Rights
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Corvus at The Nest – Frequently Asked Questions
A transformative middle school alternative for curious, capable adolescents (Ages 12–14)
What is Corvus?
Corvus is a bold new option for middle school education—designed for families who want more than test prep, crowded classrooms, and disengaged learning.
Developed by a team of passionate educators, Corvus blends project-based work, STEM innovation, and real-world experiences into a personalized learning journey. Students build critical thinking skills, collaborate on meaningful challenges, and grow into confident, self-directed learners.
Is Corvus a Montessori program?
No. Corvus is an independent educational model inspired by research-based, student-centered learning. While it shares philosophical roots with Montessori and other developmental approaches, Corvus is its own framework—designed specifically for the adolescent stage.
Where is the program located?
Corvus is hosted at our Egger Avenue campus in Round Rock, TX (also known as The Nest at Palm Valley). Instruction, open houses, and daily operations take place at this campus.
Who are the educators?
Corvus was designed by Charlie Applegate and Ashlie Mazulo, experienced educators known for creating vibrant, intellectually rich adolescent programs. They are members of the team at The Nest at Anderson Mill and lead Corvus as part of that campus's educational offerings.
What does a typical day look like?
Students arrive between 7:30–8:30 AM, with classes beginning at 8:30 AM and ending at 3:30 PM. Each day balances academic depth, personal growth, and real-world learning through:
- Core Academic Blocks in math, language, science, and humanities — delivered through engaging lessons, research, and discussion
- Project-Based Learning that integrates core subjects into multi-disciplinary, student-led work cycles
- STEM Labs and Design Challenges including coding, robotics, and environmental science
- Creative Expression Time for art, music, and performance
- Executive Function & Reflection Workshops to build time management, goal setting, and personal accountability
- Community Partnerships and expert guest speakers to connect classroom learning to real-world impact
Is before- or after-care available?
Yes. Early drop-off starting at 7:30 AM is included in tuition. After-care is available until 6:00 PM for an additional fee of $360 per month.
What are the class sizes and age groups?
Corvus serves students in 7th and 8th grade, typically ranging in age from 12 to 14. Class sizes are capped at 28 students per cohort, maintaining a high level of personalized guidance, small group collaboration, and strong educator-student relationships. In special cases, 6th grade students who demonstrate readiness may be considered for enrollment.
What makes Corvus different from other middle school options?
Most middle schools ask adolescents to sit still, stay quiet, and fit in. Corvus does the opposite.
We invite students to:
- Ask big questions
- Create real solutions
- Build meaningful relationships
- And take ownership of their growth
Our students don't just prepare for the future — they start living it now.
Here's how we do it:
- Project-Based Learning – Real-world work that inspires critical thinking and purpose
- STEM & Maker Integration – Hands-on labs in robotics, engineering, coding, and science
- Creative Expression – Art, drama, and writing woven into daily life
- Service Learning – Community involvement that teaches empathy and leadership
- Mentorship & Independence – Students are known, guided, and respected
- A Positive Peer Culture – Inclusion, respect, and emotional intelligence are part of the curriculum
Can a child transition into Corvus from a public or private school?
Yes. Many of our students come from traditional school settings. We provide a supportive, structured transition into project-based and student-led learning. Our educators help students adjust at their own pace while building the skills they need to thrive in a more independent and engaging environment.
Will my child be prepared for high school after Corvus?
Absolutely. Corvus students go on to thrive in both public and private high schools — including magnet, honors, and early college programs. Because of their experience with critical thinking, planning, and public presentation, many are ahead of their peers in confidence, independence, and academic readiness.
Is there transportation?
Yes. We offer a shuttle pickup at the Georgetown Public Library at 7:50 AM and drop-off at 4:00 PM at the same location.
When can I visit?
We are hosting Open Houses on:
- Saturday, May 31st
- Saturday, June 7th
Each event will be held at our Egger Avenue campus:
1100
Egger Ave, Round Rock, TX 78664
Can't make an open house? Email leadership@nestatandersonmill.com to schedule a private tour.
How do I apply or learn more?
Email: admin@nestatpalmvalley.com
Corvus is a program of The Nest at Anderson Mill, hosted at our Egger Avenue campus in Round Rock.
