Kinkaid high school. Top 10 Private High Schools in Texas for 2023: Comprehensive Guide and Application Process

What are the best private high schools in Texas for 2023. How can you apply to these prestigious institutions. What factors should you consider when choosing a private high school in Texas. How do Texas private schools compare to national averages in terms of SAT scores and academic performance.

Understanding the Texas Private High School Landscape

Texas, the second-largest state in the U.S. by both size and population, boasts a diverse and extensive educational system. With 427 private high schools and 2,813 public schools, the Lone Star State offers a wide array of options for students and parents. This article delves into the top private high schools in Texas, providing valuable insights into their characteristics, application processes, and what sets them apart.

Key Statistics of Texas Private High Schools

• Total number of private high schools: 427
• Average acceptance rate: 85%
• Minority enrollment: 40%
• Religious affiliation: 60% (primarily Christian and Catholic)
• Average private high school tuition: $11,149/year

These statistics paint a picture of a diverse and inclusive private school system in Texas, with a relatively high acceptance rate and a significant portion of schools offering religious education.

Academic Standards and Performance in Texas Private High Schools

Texas private high schools are known for their rigorous academic standards and impressive performance metrics. Understanding these standards can help parents and students make informed decisions about their educational choices.

Credit Requirements for Graduation

To graduate from a Texas high school, students must earn a total of 26 credits, distributed across various subjects:

• 4 credits in English and Language Arts
• 4 credits in Mathematics
• 4 credits in Science
• 3.5 credits in Social Studies
• 0.5 credits in Economics

This comprehensive credit system ensures that students receive a well-rounded education across core subject areas.

SAT Performance

SAT scores are a crucial metric for college admissions and a key indicator of academic performance. How do Texas private high schools fare in this area?

• Average SAT score for Texas private high schools: 1223
• Highest SAT score in Texas: 1525 (Awty International School)
• Texas overall average (public and private): 1022
• National average: 1059

These figures demonstrate that Texas private high schools significantly outperform both the state and national averages in SAT scores, with some schools achieving exceptional results.

NAEP Results

The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) provides another measure of academic achievement. In 2019, Texas students showed improvement:

• Average GPA: 244 (up from 231 in 2000)
• 44% of Texas students achieved NAEP proficiency or higher

These results indicate a positive trend in academic performance across Texas schools.

School Structure and Policies in Texas Private High Schools

Understanding the structural aspects of Texas private high schools can help students and parents better navigate the educational landscape.

School Calendar and Instructional Time

Texas has specific requirements for instructional time in schools:

• Minimum instructional time: 75,600 minutes per year
• Equivalent to 1,260 hours or 210 days per academic year
• One school day is defined as 420 minutes

This flexibility allows schools to structure their calendars to best suit their educational goals and community needs.

Class Sizes

Class size can significantly impact the quality of education. In Texas private high schools:

• Average class size: 23 to 30 students
• Schools adhere to class size regulations regardless of total enrollment

These manageable class sizes allow for more personalized attention and interactive learning experiences.

Attendance Policies

Attendance is a crucial factor in academic success. Texas schools have specific policies to address absenteeism:

• Pre-COVID chronic absenteeism rate: 12.5%
• Students must attend 90% of class days to receive credit

These policies underscore the importance of regular attendance in Texas private high schools.

Top 10 Private High Schools in Texas for 2023

Now, let’s explore the cream of the crop – the top 10 private high schools in Texas for 2023. These schools have been selected based on various factors including academic performance, college readiness, and overall educational quality.

1. St. Mark’s School of Texas (Dallas)
2. The Kinkaid School (Houston)
3. St. John’s School (Houston)
4. The Hockaday School (Dallas)
5. Greenhill School (Addison)
6. Awty International School (Houston)
7. St. Stephen’s Episcopal School (Austin)
8. The John Cooper School (The Woodlands)
9. Cistercian Preparatory School (Irving)
10. Episcopal School of Dallas (Dallas)

Each of these schools offers unique programs, exceptional faculty, and a track record of preparing students for success in college and beyond.

Spotlight on The Kinkaid School

As one of the top-ranked private high schools in Texas, The Kinkaid School deserves a closer look. Located in Houston, this prestigious institution has been a cornerstone of excellence in education since its founding in 1906.

Key Features of The Kinkaid School

• Student-to-teacher ratio: 10:1
• Average class size: 15 students
• College matriculation rate: 100%
• Advanced Placement (AP) courses offered: 25+
• Athletics: 65 teams across 16 sports
• Arts programs: Visual arts, music, theater, and dance

The Kinkaid School’s commitment to academic excellence, combined with its robust extracurricular offerings, creates a well-rounded educational experience for its students.

Admission Process at The Kinkaid School

Gaining admission to The Kinkaid School is a competitive process. Here’s an overview of the steps involved:

1. Submit an online application
2. Provide academic records and standardized test scores
3. Submit teacher recommendations
4. Complete a student questionnaire
5. Participate in an on-campus interview
6. Attend a school visit day

The school evaluates applicants holistically, considering academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, character, and potential for contribution to the school community.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Private High School in Texas

Selecting the right private high school is a crucial decision that can shape a student’s future. Here are some key factors to consider:

Academic Programs

• Curriculum offerings (AP, IB, honors courses)
• College preparation programs
• STEM initiatives
• Foreign language options

Extracurricular Activities

• Sports programs
• Arts and music opportunities
• Clubs and organizations
• Community service initiatives

School Culture and Values

• Religious affiliation (if applicable)
• Diversity and inclusion policies
• Student support services
• Disciplinary approach

Location and Facilities

• Proximity to home
• Campus size and layout
• Technology infrastructure
• Athletic facilities

Financial Considerations

• Tuition costs
• Financial aid opportunities
• Scholarships available
• Additional fees (books, uniforms, technology)

By carefully evaluating these factors, families can make an informed decision that aligns with their educational goals and values.

The Application Process for Texas Private High Schools

While application processes may vary between schools, there are some common elements to expect when applying to private high schools in Texas:

General Application Steps

1. Research schools and attend open houses or information sessions
2. Submit an online application (typically available on the school’s website)
3. Provide academic transcripts from previous schools
4. Submit standardized test scores (ISEE, SSAT, or school-specific exams)
5. Obtain teacher recommendations (usually from Math and English teachers)
6. Write application essays or personal statements
7. Participate in interviews (student and sometimes parent interviews)
8. Complete a school visit or shadow day

Application Timeline

Most private high schools in Texas follow a similar application timeline:

• Fall: Begin researching schools and attend open houses
• December-January: Submit applications
• January-February: Complete interviews and school visits
• March: Admission decisions are typically released
• April: Deadline for families to accept offers and submit deposits

It’s crucial to check individual school websites for specific deadlines and requirements, as they may vary.

Financial Considerations for Texas Private High Schools

The cost of private high school education in Texas can be substantial, but there are various options to make it more accessible:

Tuition Range

• Average private high school tuition in Texas: $11,149/year
• Lowest tuition: $1,170 (Chinkuaping Preparatory School)
• Highest tuition: Varies by school (often $20,000-$30,000+ per year)

Financial Aid Options

Many private high schools in Texas offer financial assistance to eligible families:

• Need-based financial aid
• Merit-based scholarships
• Sibling discounts
• Payment plans to spread tuition costs over the academic year

Families are encouraged to inquire about financial aid options directly with the schools they’re interested in, as policies and availability can vary widely.

Additional Costs to Consider

When budgeting for private high school, remember to factor in these potential additional expenses:

• Application fees
• Textbooks and school supplies
• Technology fees (for laptops or tablets)
• Uniforms (if required)
• Athletic equipment or fees for sports participation
• Field trips and extracurricular activities

By carefully considering these financial aspects, families can make informed decisions about the feasibility of private high school education in Texas.

The Impact of Texas Private High Schools on College Admissions

Private high schools in Texas have a strong track record of preparing students for college admissions and success in higher education. Let’s explore some key aspects of this impact:

College Matriculation Rates

Many top private high schools in Texas boast impressive college matriculation rates:

• 100% college acceptance rates are common among the top-tier schools
• High percentages of students attend top-ranked universities and colleges
• Strong representation at Ivy League schools and other prestigious institutions

College Counseling Services

Private high schools often provide comprehensive college counseling services:

• Dedicated college counselors with low student-to-counselor ratios
• Personalized guidance throughout the college application process
• Assistance with college essays, interviews, and standardized test preparation
• Access to college representatives and alumni networks

Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) Programs

Many Texas private high schools offer rigorous academic programs that can give students a head start in college:

• Extensive AP course offerings (often 20+ courses)
• IB programs at select schools
• Opportunities to earn college credits while still in high school

Extracurricular Excellence

Private high schools often provide exceptional extracurricular opportunities that can enhance college applications:

• Competitive athletic programs with state and national recognition
• Award-winning arts programs in visual arts, music, and theater
• Leadership opportunities through student government and clubs
• Community service initiatives and global awareness programs

These factors contribute to the strong performance of Texas private high school graduates in the college admissions process and their subsequent success in higher education.

The Future of Private High School Education in Texas

As we look ahead, several trends and developments are shaping the landscape of private high school education in Texas:

Technological Integration

Private high schools are increasingly incorporating advanced technology into their curricula:

• 1:1 device programs (laptops or tablets for each student)
• Virtual and augmented reality in classroom instruction
• Coding and robotics programs
• Enhanced online learning platforms

Emphasis on STEM Education

There’s a growing focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education:

• Expansion of advanced science and math courses
• Partnerships with universities and tech companies
• STEM-focused extracurricular activities and competitions
• Integration of STEM principles across all subject areas

Global Perspective and Cultural Competency

Private high schools are increasingly emphasizing global awareness and cultural competency:

• Expanded foreign language offerings
• International exchange programs
• Multicultural curricula and diversity initiatives
• Global issues seminars and model UN programs

Personalized Learning Approaches

There’s a trend towards more individualized education:

• Adaptive learning technologies
• Customized academic tracks based on student interests and strengths
• Increased mentorship and advisory programs
• Project-based learning initiatives

Wellness and Mental Health Focus

Private high schools are placing greater emphasis on student well-being:

Top 10 Texas Private High Schools 2023 | How to apply

Are you a high school student looking for the best private high schools in El Paso, Sugar Land, Austin, Texas and other places in Texas and their tuition?

Want to know the odds of choosing a high school in Texas?

Want to know the cost of tuition at private high schools in Texas?

Texas is the second largest US state in terms of size and population.

Being big can be synonymous with having a hard time choosing a high school for your child.

This article made it easy to help you find your perfect high school or award.

We’ll give you key tips on what to look out for as we refine some of the best private high schools in Texas and their associated tuition costs.

There is a lot to see and do in Texas, and even more in its schools.

So, read on and we will briefly walk you through choosing the best high school in the list of high schools in Texas that is right for you.

ALSO READ: Top 10 Private High Schools in Kentucky | Requirements, Fees, and How to Apply

What You Need to Know About Private High Schools in Texas

Just like horses, cowboys and country music are common in Texas.

Below we have listed some key indicators that are common to all or most high schools in Texas.

#1. Credit Load

In Texas, high school students must earn 26 credits to graduate.

Includes four credits in English and Language Arts, four credits in mathematics, and four credits in science.

Half credit is also taken in economics, and 3.5 credits in social studies.

No. 2. SAT scores

The average overall SAT score for Texas public and private high school examiners in the class of 2019 was 1022, 10 points below the average for the class of 2018.

However, the average overall SAT score for the country in 2019year was 1059, which is 9 points less than the average for the previous year.

The average SAT score at a private school in Texas is 1223.

Awty International School had the highest SAT score in Texas, with a SAT score of 1525.

Read More: Top 9 Private High Schools in Illinois | Requirements, cost and how to apply

#3. NAEP Results in Texas Private High Schools

Texas recorded an increase in the national report card.

The GPA for Texas students in 2019 was 244. This was not significantly different from their GPA in other years, such as in 2017 (241), and higher than their GPA in 2000 (231).

In Year 44, 2019, percent of students in Texas achieved NAEP proficiency or higher.

No. 4 School Days

Texas school districts were required to provide at least 180 days of instruction.

The Texas Education Code no longer defines 180 days of instruction as an acceptable school year.

Instead, the requirement was changed to at least 75,600 minutes of training, with one day defined as 420 minutes.

Simply put, 1260 hours or a minimum of 210 days per academic year.

This is a way for the county not to add extra days if they don’t want to.

No. 5. Absenteeism

Many high schools in Texas had problems with chronic absenteeism even before the pandemic.

Statewide, pre-COVID-12.5 chronic absenteeism was

% and varied greatly by region.

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Read More: Top 10 Private High Schools in Tennessee | Requirements, Fees, and How to Apply

#6 Average Class Size at Texas Private High Schools

Texas high schools have fairly decent class sizes.

Approximately 23 to 30 students per class in state high schools.

Texas high schools still adhere to class size and other rules, regardless of the population they enrolled in the schools.

By following these charts, you can analyze your chances of choosing a high school in Texas.

Make sure you check many of these boxes in the affirmative before making your selection.

How many private high schools are there in Texas?

As the second largest state in the US, Texas has a large population.

Accordingly, there are many high schools in Texas for this population.

He has 427 private high schools in Texas and 2,813 public schools, for a total of 3,240 schools in the state.

Texas ranks 2nd in enrollment and 2nd in total schools.

It ranks 35th in student-teacher ratio and 42nd in percentage of students receiving free or reduced lunches.

The average approval rate is 85%.

Enrollment of minorities is 40%.

60% of schools are religious (mostly Christian and Catholic).

What is the average Texas private high school tuition?

The average private elementary school tuition is $9,693/year and private high school is $11,149/year.

The lowest cost private school is the Chinkuaping Preparatory School, which has a tuition fee of $1,170.

Gateway Academy has the highest tuition fee in Texas at $44,000.

ALSO READ: Top 10 Private High Schools in Delaware | Requirements, Fees and How to Apply

List of Top 10 Private High Schools in Texas

Here is a list of some of the best and best private high schools in Texas.

#1. St. Mark’s School of Texas

• Location: DALLAS, TX 1-12
• Current Rating: 4.68 out of 5j 69 reviews
• Student population: 863
• Student-teacher ratio: 9:1
• Annual tuition fee: $29,496.

School Official Website

#2 St. John’s School

• Location: HOUSTON, TX K-12
• Current Rating: 4.28 out of 5 based on 96 reviews.
• Student population: 1,258
• Student-teacher ratio: 7:1
• Annual tuition fee: $30,515.

School Official Website

Read More: Top 10 Private High Schools in Indiana | Requirements, cost and how to apply

#3.

Greenhill School

• Location: Addison, Texas, PK-12
• Current rating: 4.37 out of 5 in 105 reviews.
• Student population: 1,333
• Student-teacher ratio: 8:1
• Annual tuition fee: $32,615.

Official website of the school

No. 4. Hokadey school

• Location: DALLAS, Texas, PC, K-12
• Current rating: 4.36 out of 5 in 154 reviews.
• Student population: 1,115
• Student-teacher ratio: 9:1
• Annual tuition fee: $32,900.

School Official Website

No. 5 St. Stephen’s Episcopal School

• Location: Austin, TX 6-12
• Current Rating: 3.89 out of 5 with 82 reviews.
• Student population: 696
• Student-teacher ratio: 6:1
• Annual tuition fee: $35,070.

School official website

Other private high schools in Texas;

Read More: Top 9 Private High Schools in Alabama | Requirements, Fees, and How to Apply

No.

6. John Cooper School

• Location: WOODLANDS, TX, PC, K-12
• Current Rating: 4.17 out of 5 based on 127 reviews.
• Student population: 1.294
• Student-teacher ratio: 11:1
• Annual tuition fee: $28,790.

School Official Website

No. 7. Avti International School

• Location: HOUSTON, TX PK, K-12
• Current rating: 4.4 out of 5 based on 168 reviews.
• Student population: 1,717
• Student-teacher ratio: 8:1
• Annual tuition fee: $31,140.

School 9 official website0003

No. 8. Keystone School

• Location: SAN ANTONIO, TX PK, K-12
• Current Rating: 4.19 out of 5 based on 62 reviews.
• Student population: 495
• Student-teacher ratio: 8:1
• Annual tuition fee: $22,207.

School Official Website

Learn More: Top 10 Private High Schools in California | Requirements, cost and how to apply

No.

9. Cistercian Preparatory School

• Location: IRVING, TX 5-12
• Current rating: 4.54 out of 5 based on 39 reviews.
• Student population: 357
• Student-teacher ratio: 6:1
• Annual tuition fee: $22,500.

Official website of the school

№10. Kincaid School

• Location: HOUSTON, TX PK, K-12
• Current Rating 4.23 out of 5 in 92 reviews
• Student Population: 1,423
• Student Teacher Ratio: 10:1
• Annual tuition: $25,000.

School Official Website

READ ALSO: Top 10 Private High Schools in Colorado | Requirements, Fees, and How to Apply

What are the best private high schools in Austin, Texas?

Austin, Texas is one of the largest cities with the largest number of private high schools.

Austin, Texas has 113 private high schools with an enrollment of approximately 18,864 students and an average tuition fee of around $12,443.

In Austin, Texas, the top 113 private high schools are Griffin School, Challenger School – Avery Ranch and Challenger School – Pond Springs.

Another list of top private high schools in Austin, Texas includes:

• Austin Peace Academy
• Brentwood Christian School
• St. Mary’s Cathedral School
• Griffin School
• Prepare Educational Academy AESA
• Montessori School
• Austin – Twin Oaks Montessori
• Fusion Academy Austin
• All Saints Episcopal School
• Austin Montessori School Inc.
• Austin Waldorf School
• Austin Capitol School
• Austin Girls School
• Austin Hill Country Christian School

What are the best private high schools in Houston, Texas?

There are 63 private high schools in Houston, Texas with approximately 21,281 students.

Of the 63 private high schools, Lycee International de Houston, The Village School and Westbury Christian School are considered the best in Houston, Texas.

The average cost of tuition at each of the best private high schools in Houston, Texas is $16,998.

Here is a list of other private high schools in Houston, Texas:

• Memorial Private School
• Fusion Academy Houston Gallery
• Gateway Academy
• Al-Hadi Accelerated School

9013 1 Alexander-Smith Academy

• Avti International School
• Cristo Rey Jesuit College Preparatory School in Houston
• Cypress Christian School
• Sacred Heart Duchen Academy
• Emery/Weiner School
• Family Christian Academy
• Houston Christian High School
• Iman Academy – Southwest 9 0132
• Academy of the Incarnate Word
• Japan Educational Institute

best private high schools in el paso texas?

El Paso, Texas had 16 private high schools with a population of 3,460 and an acceptance rate of 90%.

If you want your student to attend a religious high school in Texas, 88% of El Paso’s private high schools have a Christian or Catholic religious affiliation.

In El Paso, Texas, the most popular private high schools are New Horizons HomeSchool Academy, Immanuel Christian School, and Faith Christian Academy.

Other private high schools in El Paso County, Texas.

• Cathedral High School
• Faith Christian Academy
• Father Hermo High School
• Father Hermo Schools
• Loretto Academy
• Lydia Patterson Institute
• Bethel Christian School
• Christian Academy ia Bethesda
• El Paso Bridge Academy
• Jesus Chapel School

best private high schools in san antonio texas?

There are currently 33 private high schools in San Antonio, Texas with 9,785 students and the average tuition is $9,968.

85% of private high schools in San Antonio, Texas have a religious affiliation with Christian and Catholic churches.

The top three private high schools in San Antonio, Texas are St. Anthony Catholic High School, Keystone Christian Schools, and Blessed Hope Academy.

Your other top private high schools in San Antonio, Texas include:

• Fusion Academy San Antonio
• Scenic Hill Christian Academy
• Winston School in San Antonio
• Redemption Academy
• Buckner Fanning School in Mission Springs 901 32
• Central Catholic High School
• Castle Hills Christian School
• San Antonio Grace Christian School
• Holy Cross Middle and High School
• Keystone School Day
• San Antonio Lutheran High School
• Providence Catholic School
• St. Anthony Catholic School

What are the best private high schools in Sugar Land TX?

Sugar Land, Texas has a total of 6 private high schools with 1,518 students and an acceptance rate of 78%.

3 private high schools in Sugar Land, Texas have religious affiliations with Christian churches.

The top 3 private high schools in Sugar Land, Texas are Logos Preparatory Academy, Fort Bend Christian Academy, and Global Innovation School.

Other of the best private high schools in Sugar Land, Texas include:

• Sugar Land Fusion Academy
• Fort Bend Christian Academy
• Global Innovation School
• Logos Preparatory Academy
• Excelsior Academy
• Christian Academy fraternities

What are the best private high schools in Fort Worth, Texas?

Fort Worth, Texas has 25 private high schools with 7,608 students and an average tuition of $11,608.

64% of private high schools in Fort Worth, Texas have a religious affiliation with Christian and Baptist churches.

The top ranked private high schools in Fort Worth, Texas are Fort Worth Country Day, Calvary Christian Academy, and Southwest Christ High School.

Other private high schools in Fort Worth, Texas include;

• Key School
• Christian Cottage Preparation
• St. Peter’s Classical School
• All Saints Episcopal School
• Bethesda Christian School
• Calvary Christian Academy
• Covenant Classical School
• Fort Worth Country Day
• Jane Justine School
• Lake Country Christian School
• Christ Southwest High School
• Southwest Christian Preparatory Campus
• Temple Christian Schools

What are private high schools in Plano, Texas?

There are currently 47 private high school schools in Plano, Texas with 7,413 students and an average tuition of $12,170.

23% of private high schools in Plano, Texas have a religious affiliation with Christian and Catholic churches.

Challenger School – Independence, Challenger School – Legacy, and Coram Deo Academy are considered private high schools in Plano, Texas.

Other Plano Texas private high schools include:

• Montessori Academy Kindergarten
• Prestonwood Christian Academy
• Spring Creek Academy Photo
• Plano Fusion Academy
• Great Lakes Academy
• Montes Castle Sori in Plano
• Einstein School
• John Paul II High School
• Tamil School Plano
• Prince of Peace Catholic School
• St. Mark’s Catholic School
• Montessori American Campus

What are the best private high schools in the spring in Texas?

Spring, Texas has a total of 7 private high schools with 2,249 students and an acceptance rate of 40%.

43% of private high schools in Spring, Texas have a religious affiliation with the Catholic and Baptist churches.

Of the 7 private high schools in Spring, Texas, Cunae International School, Providence Classical School and The John Cooper School are considered the best.

Other of the best private high schools in Spring TX include;

• Fusion Academy Houston Woodlands
• John Cooper School
• Esprit International School
• Christian School Founders
• Frassati Catholic High School

What are the best private high schools in Cypress, Texas?

Cypress, Texas has 11 private high school schools with 1,289 students and an average acceptance rate of 85%.

36% of private high schools in Cypress, Texas have a religious affiliation with Missouri Christian Lutheran Synod groups.

Of the 11 private high schools in Cypress, Texas, Covenant Academy and Primrose School Of Barker Cypress are ranked the best.

Other private high schools in Cypress, Texas include;

• Houston School of Communication
• Goddard School
• Lakewood KinderCare
• Montessori Children’s Dev. Center
• Montessori Longwood
• Oaks Adventist Christian School
• St. John’s Early Childhood Center
• Silverline Montessori School – Cypress

What are the most expensive private high schools in Texas?

The median annual tuition for a private school in Texas is $10,280.

The lowest tuition private high school is Chinkapin Preparatory School which has a tuition of $1,170 and the highest tuition for a private high school in Texas is The Gateway Academy which has a tuition of $44,000.

Other most expensive private high schools in Texas;

• Lamplight School
• Hockaday School
• Episcopal High School
• Alexander-Smith Academy
• Bridge Preparatory Academy
• British Houston International School
• Oak Post School
• Parish School
• St. Stefan’s
• Naval Military Academy
• San Marcos Academy
• Gateway Academy

What are the best private high schools in Dallas, Texas?

There are 39 private high schools in Dallas, Texas with 14,195 students and an average tuition of $18,283.

Top private high schools in Dallas, Texas include Coram Deo Academy, Dallas International School, and Dallas Christian Academy.

Other private high schools in Dallas, Texas include;

• Bending Oaks High School
• Dallas Fusion Academy
• Alcuin School
• Bishop Dunn Catholic School
• Bishop Lynch High School
• Dallas Cambridge School
• Cornerstone Crossroads Academy
• Covenant School
• Dallas Christian Academy
• Dallas Episcopal School
• Hockaday School
• The Hockaday School
• Japanese Language Improvement
• Jesuit College Preparatory School

Conclusion

Texas has a homely welcome and culture.

Getting into or finishing high school in Texas is always a great idea.

This is the ideal place for learning and networking.

We’ve made nearly all of the top 10 private high schools in Texas available.

Our recommendation

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René-Robert Cavelier de la Salle

René-Robert Cavelier de La Salle (November 22, 1643 – March 19, 1687) was a 17th century French explorer and fur trader in North America. He explored the Great Lakes region of the United States and Canada, the Mississippi River and the Gulf of Mexico. He gained fame thanks to the first expedition in 1682, in which he sailed in a canoe along the lower Mississippi River from the mouth of the Illinois River to the Gulf of Mexico and declared its entire basin the possession of France.

Mississippi Expedition

La Salle reassembled a team for another big expedition. In 1682, he left Fort Crevecoeur with a party of French and Indians and canoeed down the Mississippi River. He named the Mississippi Basin Louisiana after Louis XIV and claimed it for France. On what later became Memphis, Tennessee, he built the small Fort Prudhomme. On April 9, 1682, at the mouth of the Mississippi River near present-day Venice, Louisiana, he dug in an engraving and a cross, declaring the territory a French possession.

In 1683, on his return voyage, La Salle established Fort St. Louis, Illinois at Starved Rock on the Illinois River to replace Fort Crevequere. He put Tonti in command of the fort while he himself traveled to France for supplies.

Expedition to Texas

July 24, 1684, he left France and returned to America with a large expedition aimed at establishing a French colony in the Gulf of Mexico, at the mouth of the Mississippi River. They had four ships and 300 settlers. The expedition suffered from attacks by pirates, hostile Indians, and poor shipping. One ship was lost due to pirates in the West Indies, the second sank in the bay of Matagorda Bay. They founded a settlement near the bay, which they called St. Louis Bay, on Garcitas Creek in the vicinity of modern Victoria, Texas. La Salle led the party east on foot three times in an attempt to locate the mouth of the Mississippi. Meanwhile, the flagship “La Belle”, the only remaining ship, ran aground and sank in the mud, throwing the settlers on the Texas coast.

During the last search for the Mississippi River, several of La Salle’s remaining 36 men rebelled near what is now Navasota, Texas. On March 19, 1687, he was killed by Pierre Duguay after being ambushed while talking to one of Duguay’s men, Jean L’Archevêque. They were “six leagues” from the westernmost Indian village of Hasinai (Texas). Dugua was killed in retaliation for La Salle. The people who remained in the detachment, fearing retribution, killed each other, only two survived.

The colony only lasted until 1688, when Karankawa-speaking Native Americans killed the 20 remaining adults and took five children prisoner. When Tonti learned of the fate of the settlers, he sent out groups of people to search in 1689year, but could not find survivors. Later, the children of the colonists were returned by the Spaniards.

Legacy

In addition to the forts, which also served as authorities for active fur trade, La Salle’s visits to Illinois and other Indian tribes cemented the French policy of allying with the Indians in the common interest of containing the influence of both the Iroquois and the Anglo-American colonization. In addition, he gave the name of Louisiana to the inner North American territory, which he declared the possession of France and which lives under the banner of one of the states of the USA.

Archeology

In 1995, La Salle’s main ship La Belle was discovered in the marshy silt of Matagorda Bay. It has been the subject of archaeological research. According to an international treaty, artifacts recovered from La Belle belong to France and are kept by the Texas Historical Commission. The collection is kept at the Museum of Science and History in Corpus Christi. Artifacts from La Belle are on display at nine museums across Texas. The wreckage of his ship L’Aimable has not yet been found.

The possible remains of “Le Griffon” were found in 1898 by lighthouse keeper Albert Cullis on a beach in western Manitoulin Island in northern Lake Huron. The results of checking some artifacts are called into question. Many of the recovered artifacts were lost and the wreckage was washed into the water in 1942. A possible wreck of Le Griffon was discovered near Poverty Island in Green Bay in northern Lake Michigan by Steve Liebert of the Great Lakes Survey Team in 2001. The organization filed a lawsuit against the State of Michigan over possession of the artifacts in 2012, and in 2013 a permit was issued to recover the wreck. Only one artifact, a wooden pole, was found, and it is not known if it was a shipwreck.

Place names

Many places, streets, parks, buildings and other objects have been named after La Salle.

Counties and cities

LaSalle, in Essex County, Ontario, south of Windsor on the Detroit River
LaSalle, Quebec is a district of the city of Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
La Salle County, Illinois, city of LaSalle and the La Salle Expressway in it.
La Salle Parish, Louisiana
La Salle County, Texas

Parks and Streets

La Salle Freeway, highway along Niagara Falls, through New York and its outer suburbs.
La Salle Street, located north to south of Chicago, leads directly to the Board of Trade, and is the center of Chicago’s financial district.
La Salle Dam connecting Kingston, Ontario to neighboring Barrisfield, Ontario.
Cavelier de La Salle Garden in the 6th arrondissement in Paris
La Salle Avenue, downtown street in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
La Salle Avenue, located in Shawinigan, Quebec, Canada.
La Salle Street in Navasota, Tajas. On it stands a statue donated by Robert Reines, local head of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Texas Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution.
La Salle Road, east-west highway south of Sarnia, Ontario, Canada.
La Salle Avenue, a driveway in South Bend, Indiana that runs through downtown and captures part of US Interstate 20 Business.
La Salle Boulevard and Cavelier Road in Marquette Heights, Illinois near Fort Creveker
La Salle Avenue in Waco, Texas.