Houston Academy, founded in 1970, is committed to academic excellence and cherished traditions, offering students an education that extends beyond the classroom. We focus on developing strong character, leadership skills, and a sense of community, preparing graduates to succeed and make meaningful contributions to the world.
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At Houston Academy, we provide a personalized, college-preparatory education that empowers students to achieve their highest potential. With a focus on excellence in academics, athletics, and the arts, along with a strong sense of community and tradition, HA prepares students to thrive in a rapidly changing world. The HA Difference is seen in our dedicated faculty, engaged students, and the lasting connections that make our school truly unique.
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At Houston Academy, our mission is to develop the whole child, and we are proud to be one of the state’s leading independent schools. Serving students from PK3 through 12th grade, our college preparatory curriculum is enriched by strong core values, the arts, athletics, and time-honored traditions. The close connections among our teachers, students, parents, and alumni create a family-like community where every student can thrive.
Houston Academy students think critically, communicate effectively, and collaborate to solve problems as they strive to achieve their goals and redefine success on their terms. They maintain a balance between high achievement and personal well-being, fostering growth in all areas of life. Within a supportive and dynamic learning environment, students actively engage in the educational process and reflect thoughtfully on their experiences.
At Houston Academy, we value the visual, performing, and musical arts as essential components of a well-rounded academic experience. Committed to nurturing the whole student, we offer opportunities for creative exploration beginning with early instruction in music, art, and performance, continuing through advanced courses and full-scale productions in Middle and Upper School.
Houston Academy encourages all students to participate in athletics, offering exceptional programs that promote sportsmanship, determination, and teamwork. With 40 teams across 15 sports for students in Grades 7–12, and additional opportunities for younger athletes, we create an inclusive and supportive environment where students can excel. We are committed to fostering a culture of integrity and respect both on and off the field.
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Houston Academy offers a vibrant student life where students of all ages are encouraged to engage and thrive. With numerous opportunities for involvement in athletics, clubs, and social activities, our school fosters a supportive environment that nurtures personal growth, teamwork, and leadership. Our rich traditions create a sense of belonging, ensuring that every student can succeed both in and out of the classroom.
Support Houston Academy's mission of academic excellence and character development by contributing to our vibrant culture of giving. Your generosity impacts every student, every day.
Welcome to Houston Academy Admissions
We’re thrilled you’re considering Houston Academy for your child’s education. As the only college-preparatory, independent school in Southeast Alabama accredited by both the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) and the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS), we are proud to offer an exceptional academic experience. We are also the region’s only member of the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), providing our students with unique scholarship opportunities not available at non-accredited schools.
To help you navigate the admissions process, we’ve created a step-by-step checklist to guide you. Please note that applications will only be reviewed once all required documents are submitted, and it is the responsibility of parents or guardians to ensure everything is complete.
Our admissions team is here to support you every step of the way. For questions about admissions, campus tours, financial aid, or enrollment contracts, please contact Nicole Lisenby, Director of Admissions. We look forward to meeting you and your child—and to welcoming you into our vibrant school community.
Begin the Admissions Process
Start by completing the online inquiry form on our Houston Academy Admissions page. Our team is here to guide you through each step and answer any questions you may have. We also offer campus tours throughout the year, allowing you to experience the warmth and energy of our school community firsthand.
School Visits
We strongly encourage prospective students to visit Houston Academy and experience our dynamic learning environment firsthand.
Ways to Visit:
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Student Shadow Days – Spend the day with a current student and get a feel for the classroom experience.
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Annual Preschool Playdate – A fun and engaging event for younger prospective students.
Visits can be scheduled by contacting Nicole Lisenby, Director of Admissions.
Important Information:
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Parents: Please note that parents do not stay during the classroom visit.
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For Rising Grades 1-12: Students who are offered enrollment contracts in the spring will receive a personal invitation to participate in our Schoolwide Shadowing Day later that season.
Application &
Test Fee
Submit the online application, including all supporting documents, along with a $100 non-refundable fee, which covers processing and testing.
Payment can be made by check, payable to Houston Academy, and either mailed or delivered to:
Houston Academy
901 Buena Vista Drive
Dothan, Alabama 36303
If an applicant is placed in the wait pool, the fee will carry over for one year. After that, the application will become inactive, and a new application with fee will be required.
Application Checklist
These links provide grade-specific checklists of required documents. Parents or guardians are responsible for collecting and uploading all materials as part of the online application.
Please note: Houston Academy is unable to request documents from your child’s current school. Middle and Upper School applicants must also complete and upload a Student Profile Form with their application.
Click below to download the HA student profile form.
Academic Reference Forms
Applicants must submit a Houston Academy Reference Form from their current teacher(s). Parents are responsible for completing and signing the top portion of each form before providing it to the teacher.
Teachers should submit the completed reference forms directly to:
Nicole Lisenby, Director of Admissions
Email: lisenbyn@houstonacademy.com
Fax: 334-793-4053
Please note: References will only be accepted if submitted directly by the teacher.
3P – 4th Grade: Submit one reference from the classroom teacher
5th – 8th Grade: Submit three references (Counselor, Math Teacher, English Teacher)
9th – 12th Grade: Submit three references (Counselor, Math Teacher, English Teacher)
Interested in Houston Academy?
We’re excited about your interest in providing your child with an exceptional education. To make the admissions process as smooth as possible, we’ve created a step-by-step checklist to guide you. Parents and guardians are responsible for ensuring all required documents are submitted, as applications will only be reviewed once complete.
For any questions about admissions, campus tours, financial aid, or enrollment contracts, please contact Nicole Lisenby, Director of Admissions. We look forward to welcoming you!
Admissions Testing Information
As part of the admissions process, all applicants will complete an age-appropriate evaluation:
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For 3P & 4P Applicants: A developmental screening will be scheduled in early February, after the application and fee have been submitted.
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For 5K – Grade 2 Applicants: Parents will be contacted in early February to schedule an individual testing appointment once the application and fee have been received.
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For Grades 3 – 12 Applicants: Admissions testing will take place on in late February.
Testing includes:
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Assessments in reading, math, and a School Ability Test.
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Middle and Upper School applicants will also complete a writing assignment.
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For important dates, application deadlines, financial assistance details, and admissions events, please refer to the link below.
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Admission Decisions & Waiting Pool
The Admissions Committee carefully reviews each applicant’s materials and test results. Enrollment offers are extended to qualified students based on available space, with priority given to those who meet the February application deadline.
If a grade level is full, qualified applicants will be placed in a waiting pool and considered as openings arise.