Our Founding Story

AESA Prep Academy was founded in 2009 in Austin, Texas, by Rick and Barbara Garza, parents of twin boys, Michael and Adrian, who were both passionate about tennis. As the boys grew into their teenage years, their commitment to the sport intensified, spending more than five hours a day training on the court and in the gym. They began competing across Texas, nationally, and internationally.

Despite being straight-A students, the demands of a rigorous athletic schedule began to clash with traditional school expectations. The Garzas were at a crossroads: support their sons’ athletic dreams or prioritize academic preparation for university. But for Barbara, a veteran educator, both goals were non-negotiable.

She searched for an academic institution that could offer two things:

1. 1. Flexibility for serious student-athletes
   2. High-quality, college-prep academics

When she couldn’t find one, she created one, and AESA was born.

Small by Design, Personalized by Nature

Barbara’s vision became the cornerstone of AESA’s identity:

• • Small class sizes, on purpose
  • Individualized academic support
  • A flexible educational model for high-achieving scholars, athletes, and artists

This “small-by-design” philosophy ensures that teachers can adapt to each student’s needs and provide truly personalized guidance, something that isn’t possible in classrooms of 20-30 students. And while AESA is an excellent choice for elite student-athletes, it is not only a school for athletes. AESA is a school for anyone who wants both a strong academic foundation and the freedom to pursue their passion.

Bringing the Vision to Barcelona

By 2015, AESA had earned a respected place in the Texas K-12 education community. Through international tennis connections, the Garzas were introduced to educators and families in Barcelona who were inspired by AESA’s model and encouraged them to expand.

Soon after, the Garzas sent Mr. Kyle Overby to Spain to explore the opportunity. His first step was to launch AESA Prep International, an online program for globally mobile students. In 2016, Kyle established a blended learning program in Barcelona that catered to international athletes training in the region.

Over time, that program evolved into a full academic offering, and in June 2020, it was officially recognized as AESA Prep Academy of Barcelona.

A Global School System with One Mission

Today, AESA operates three campuses:

1. 1. AESA Prep Academy (Austin, Texas)
   2. AESA Prep International (Online)
   3. AESA Prep Academy of Barcelona (Spain)

Though each serves different students in unique settings, they are all united by one educational philosophy: Students should not have to choose between an excellent education and the pursuit of their passion. At AESA, they can have both.

We are proud to serve a global community of learners in a tight-knit, student-focused environment. As we continue to grow, we remain true to our core values: academic excellence, flexibility, community, and passion.

We invite you to become part of the AESA family!