About

Westchester Academy for International Studies (WAIS) is a public IB school in West Houston serving grades 6-12 and is part of Spring Branch ISD. Enrollment is through an open lottery system with no screening based on grades, economics or other factors and any Spring Branch family may apply. As SBISD is diverse, so is the WAIS community.

WAIS offers only advanced coursework, including AAC and IB classes, while remaining a public school that follows all state and district requirements. Students participate in STAAR, PSAT, ACT and SAT exams and funding comes from public tax dollars.

Since opening in 2000, WAIS has focused on providing families an academically rigorous education with international perspectives.

WAIS Mission

Strengthening learners to be designers and contributors to a dynamic, intercultural community.

WAIS Vision

WAIS graduates leave with the confidence and ability to be:

  • Critical and creative problem solvers
  • Compassionate communicators
  • Ethical decision makers
  • Globally self-aware individuals

History of WAIS

Westchester Academy for International Studies was developed in the late 1990s with a vision of creating a rigorous public school grounded in international perspectives and advanced academics. From the beginning, the International Baccalaureate philosophy closely aligned with the values and goals of the campus.

WAIS became an authorized IB World School in 2005 and has continued to expand its academic offerings and global focus under the leadership of several dedicated directors and staff members. Over the years, the school has grown in both enrollment and reputation while maintaining its commitment to strong academics, student support and intercultural understanding.

Today, WAIS remains deeply rooted n inquiry, critical thinking and real-world learning.