Core Values
Vanguard College Preparatory School
At Vanguard College Preparatory School, our core values, rigor, respect, and responsibility, are foundational to everything we do. These principles shape our culture, guide our students, and define the Vanguard experience.
Vanguard College Preparatory School Core Values
These core values are intrinsic to the success of Waco’s best high school and middle school.
RIGOR
Located in the heart of Waco, Vanguard’s small class sizes create an environment where students are both challenged and supported. Our demanding, college-preparatory curriculum encourages students to think critically, explore complex ideas, and discover their intellectual and personal passions.
Beyond core academics, students are inspired by both faculty and peers to apply their knowledge in meaningful ways, preparing them for success in college, careers, and life.
RESPECT
Vanguard fosters a safe, supportive environment built on mutual respect among students, faculty, families, and administration. This culture extends beyond the classroom into every aspect of student life, from campus interactions to community engagement.
Students develop a strong sense of self-respect and learn to value others, laying a foundation for success in all future endeavors.
RESPONSIBILITY
We cultivate responsibility by balancing freedom with accountability. Students are entrusted with age-appropriate independence while being guided by clear expectations and standards.
Through this balance, students develop integrity, self-discipline, and personal responsibility, essential traits for success at the collegiate level and beyond.
A Well-Rounded Education
Students are encouraged to pursue their interests while learning to balance a wide range of opportunities. Our programs are designed to prepare students not only for college admission, but for long-term success.
Vanguard is committed to developing the whole student through excellence in:
- Academics
- Arts
- Athletics
- Clubs and Community Service
- 100% of graduates matriculate to college
- Students develop discipline, compassion, and leadership skills that last a lifetime
Academic Excellence
- Average SAT score (Classes of 2024 & 2025): 1350
- 61 National Merit Finalists since 1994
- Approximately 1 in 9 students have been recognized by the National Merit Scholarship Program over the past decade
- 18 AP courses offered
Recognition & Achievements
- Voted Waco’s Best Private School by the Waco Tribune and The Wacoan
- Ranked among the top private schools by Niche
- Qualified for the National Debate Tournament
- 60+ TAPPS State Championships across athletics and academics
- Varsity Golf: 12 consecutive TAPPS State Championships
- Varsity Tennis: Back-to-back TAPPS State Championships (2020–2022)
- State award-winning Robotics Team
- Art District Winners (2018–2026)
- Liquid Paper literary magazine is ranked superior by the National Council of Teachers of English
- Vanguard Review Newspaper Staff earned Distinguished Merit in UIL journalism competition
Accreditation & Memberships
Accredited by:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS)
- Approved by the Texas Education Agency
Member of:
- National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS)
- Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS)
- Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS)
- Texas Association of Non-Public Schools
- The College Board
- National Association of Secondary School Principals
- National Association for College Admission Counseling
- Texas Association for College Admission Counseling
- Texas Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development
- Classical Association of the Middle West and South
Preparing Students for College and Beyond
At Vanguard, education is about more than college acceptance. It is about preparing students to thrive, lead, and live meaningful, successful lives.
For More Information
Chelsa Brindley Ressetar
Director of Advancement
📞 (254) 772-8111
📧 Email Chelsa Ressetar