Palm School

The Palm School is a County-owned property that holds significant historic and cultural importance, especially to Austin’s Mexican-American community. The property was a public school from 1892-1976. Most recently, it served as the Travis County Community Center at Palm Square from 1985-2020. Guided by community input, Travis County is working to reimagine the Palm School parcel in a way that maintains and balances the school’s cultural, historic, and market value.

This historical building, Palm School, and the surrounding area, have been instrumental in the formation and support of community and state leaders and members of civil rights and advocacy organizations, all of whom have played a significant role in Austin’s history. Travis County is committed to honoring those who helped build this city and as Austin continues to grow, parts of its history are being erased or forgotten, and rising costs and neighborhood changes have forced many residents out of their communities. The Palm School is one of the only standing buildings that remains of the downtown area that alumni remember from their past. Travis County Commissioners Court understands the importance of preserving history and making sure that future generations understand the sacrifice and the commitment of the entire community to help make Austin what it is today. You can learn more about the history of Palm School and its impact on the community by visiting the Palm School Oral History project, jointly done by Travis County in-collaboration with the Voces Oral History Center at the University of Texas at Austin.

The Palm School Steering Committee has begun its community engagement process and wants to hear from you! Learn more about the committee and upcoming engagement opportunities by visiting the Palm School Steering Committee page or by selecting the Palm School Community Engagement Opportunities button below.

Palm School Project