Austin Children’s Academy is more than just a school; it’s a labor of love, a testament to resilience, and a legacy built on the values of family, compassion, and community. The journey to founding ACA began with a dream to make a difference—a dream that was deeply personal to Sam Gupta and his family.
A Brother’s Bond
Rooted By Family, Inspired By His Brother – Growing up in a tight-knit family, Sam Gupta always admired his older brother, Raj Gupta. Sam and Raj were the first-generation Indian Americans whose parents immigrated to Baltimore, Maryland, from India in October 1970 to provide a future for their children and family. To Sam, Raj was more than a sibling; he was a mentor, a best friend, and a guiding light. Known for his kindness, intelligence, and unyielding belief in the potential of others, Raj had an innate ability to inspire those around him. During his battle with non-Hodgkin’s T-cell lymphoma, Raj, even in his toughest moments, remained selfless and forward-thinking. While undergoing chemotherapy, he encouraged their mother, Krishna, to pursue her passion for children and education. This idea became the seed for what Sam would eventually grow into ACA.
Raj passed away on Thursday, November 18th at 12:10 PM, the day before their mother’s birthday on November 19th. This profound loss ignited a fire within Sam to do something extraordinary for his family. Determined to create something meaningful out of tragedy, Sam laid the foundation for his life-long vision and goal—to turn their grief into triumph and build a legacy that would honor his older brother and their family.
Building a Legacy
Crafting a Vision with Passion & Purpose – With unwavering resolve to honor his older brother, Sam transformed an idea into an extraordinary vision fueled by love, resilience, and an enduring commitment to his family. As a big-picture thinker with relentless ambition and drive, Sam, at the age of 24, envisioned creating a school that would not only fulfill his parents’ passion in education and giving back to the community but also unite his family through a shared mission. So in 2007, Sam founded Austin Children’s Academy, turning Raj’s inspiring words into a tangible reality by building a Montessori school that reflected their family’s values and dreams while transforming the lives of children and families in North Austin and Cedar Park.
Sam poured his heart into every detail of ACA. From shaping the organization, brand, and culture to designing the curriculum that sparked curiosity in young minds and creating classrooms where children could freely explore while fostering independence and creativity, Sam left no stone unturned. He carefully assembled a new family—the ACA Team—composed of hand selected passionate educators who shared his vision and worked tirelessly to create a supportive environment where every child could thrive.
Sam sought to create a nurturing environment where every child and family would feel seen, valued, and supported. But more than that, ACA became a way for Sam to ensure Raj’s legacy lived on. He transformed a simple conversation into what we now know as ACA—a place that has profoundly impacted families by fostering children’s growth and strengthening bonds within the community.
Family at the Core
A Family-Driven Community of Values and Trust – What makes ACA truly special is the deeply personal connection Sam and his family have to the school. As a locally owned and family-operated institution, ACA reflects their unwavering commitment to providing the highest quality education and care. Sam’s wife, Estella, has been a cornerstone of the school, bringing experience, warmth, empathy, and a shared vision to the ACA community. Together, they have created a family-oriented environment where every child and parent feels like part of the extended ACA Family.
ACA is more than a place of learning; it’s a community where bonds are built, and milestones are celebrated. From personalized care to deep-rooted relationships with families, the school’s family-first approach ensures that every family who joins ACA feels at home and supported in their journey.
A Vision for the Future
Empowering Minds & Building Futures for Two Decades – Today, Austin Children’s Academy stands as a shining example of what’s possible when passion, purpose, and perseverance come together. Over the past two decades, ACA has become a trusted partner to families in the Cedar Park, North Austin, Leander, and Round Rock communities. The school’s reputation for excellence is a testament to the Gupta family’s unwavering dedication to their mission.
ACA is a movement to nurture young minds and hearts. Through its Montessori philosophy, ACA empowers children by teaching practical life skills to become confident, compassionate, and independent thinkers. Sam and Estella’s vision ensures that every child has the tools to reach their fullest potential, guided by the principles of respect, curiosity, and kindness.
For Sam, ACA is more than a career; it’s a calling. Each time a child walks through the doors of ACA, Sam is reminded of Raj’s dream and the profound impact one life can have. “ACA is not just a school,” Sam often says, “it’s a tribute to my brother and parents, as well as a gift to our community.”
Joining the ACA Family
Choosing ACA Means Joining a Legacy of Love, Learning, & Family – You’re becoming part of a community that values every child’s unique journey and celebrates the joys of discovery and growth. At ACA, parents become partners, teachers become guides, and children become beacons of hope and inspiration for the future.
Sam Gupta and his family invite you to experience the difference that heart, dedication, and a personal touch can make. Together, we can continue to honor the memory of Raj Gupta and inspire the next generation of leaders, dreamers, and trailblazers.
Welcome to Austin Children’s Academy—where every child’s potential is nurtured, and every family is cherished.
