Harmony School of Innovation Fifth Graders Launch Cereal Drive

When families search for charter schools near me that not only focus on academics but also teach compassion and leadership, Harmony School of Innovation stands out. This fall, 5th graders at the campus—part of the Harmony Public Schools-Central Texas district—are demonstrating that even small acts can lead to significant change.

Austin Charter Schools Teaching Leadership and Service

Guided by their teacher, Ms. Lira, students launched a Student-Led Service Learning Project that combines creativity with community service. Their idea: a Cereal Dominoes Drive to collect unopened cereal boxes for donation to El Buen Samaritano, a local nonprofit that provides vital food pantry support to families in need.

Projects like these highlight why Austin charter schools, such as Harmony, are often considered among the best schools in Austin and in Texas. Beyond academics, Harmony instills real-world lessons in teamwork, leadership, and service.

A Fun Twist to Raise Awareness

The cereal collection comes with a playful challenge. If enough boxes are gathered, students will line them up through the school’s hallways, creating a giant domino effect. On October 3 at 9:38 a.m., the entire school will gather to watch the “domino drop”—a chain reaction symbolizing the power of community.

This initiative also deepens students’ understanding of food insecurity. As part of the project, 5th graders visit classrooms to educate their peers, design flyers, and raise awareness—practicing public speaking and leadership in the process.

Why Families Choose Harmony Public Schools

As a TX charter school system with campuses across the state—including charter schools in Austin, Cedar Park, Georgetown, Leander, and Pflugerville—Harmony offers:

• Tuition-free education
• Emphasis on STEM education, character development, and college readiness that prepares students from elementary through high school
• Programs that make Harmony one of the top public charter schools in Texas

Building Character Beyond the Classroom

While private schools often emphasize service learning, Harmony shows that charter schools in Austin can offer the same enriching experiences—without tuition. The Cereal Dominoes Drive is just one example of how Harmony students learn to combine academics with empathy, preparing them to lead in their communities and beyond.

Harmony Public Schools is a Texas-born, Texas-wide public charter school system with more than 60 campuses serving pre-K through grade 12 students in 23 cities across the state, including nine campuses in Austin, Cedar Park, Georgetown, Leander and Pflugerville. Harmony’s curriculum places a strong emphasis on STEM skills, character education, project-based learning, and college readiness. Learn more about Harmony Public Schools-Central Texas HERE.

About Harmony Public Schools

Harmony Public Schools are more than 60 high-performing, pre-K–12, college-preparatory charter schools throughout Texas. Harmony blends the highest standards and expectations with a rigorous math- and science-centered curriculum, dedicated and engaged teachers, and supportive families to cultivate excellence and prepare students to succeed in college, careers, and life. At Harmony Public Schools, every child can succeed, and the system is committed to helping them realize their full potential.

To learn more about Harmony Public Schools, visit harmonytx.org. Harmony is currently accepting applications for the 2025-26 academic year. Students may apply at harmonytx.org/apply.