Elon Musk’s new private preschool in Bastrop, Texas, known as Ad Astra, has quickly become a focal point in the growing debate over education in America. With a curriculum that emphasizes hands-on learning and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) activities, Musk is challenging the traditional educational system and its liberal agenda. Elon Musk is creating his own university in Austin, Texas.
Musk is starting with an elementary and high school focused on STEM, which will slowly expand into a massive university. His new venture, which serves children aged 3 to 9, promises to prioritize critical thinking and creativity over the left-wing indoctrination seen in many schools today. Musk, long an advocate for change in education, believes that American students should be taught skills that will prepare them for the real world rather than be bombarded with progressive ideologies.
Musk’s desire to reimagine the education system aligns perfectly with his broader “anti-woke” stance. He has been vocal about his opposition to leftist policies, especially those that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). In fact, Musk has repeatedly criticized what he sees as the rampant spread of left-wing propaganda in schools, stating in August that “a lot of schools are teaching white boys to hate themselves.” This comment, made on social media, reflects his deep dissatisfaction with how schools are teaching children about race and gender, issues Musk believes should be left out of the classroom entirely. “We need significant reform in education,” Musk said at a Trump campaign event, emphasizing the importance of teaching practical, useful skills that students can use later in life. With Ad Astra, Musk is creating a learning environment that reflects his personal values, including the belief that the focus of education should be on intellectual development, not on political agendas.
As he explained on the Joe Rogan podcast in 2020, Musk believes that “too many smart people go into finance and law” and that society should place more value on practical professions such as electricians and plumbers. This vision is reflected in Ad Astra’s curriculum, which is designed to foster creativity, problem-solving, and a strong work ethic in children from an early age. Musk’s educational pursuits are not without controversy, however. His public stance on issues such as gender identity and his criticisms of progressive policies have made him a divisive figure. Many on the left are deeply concerned by Musk’s approach, fearing that his school could promote anti-LGBTQ sentiments and reinforce conservative ideals. But Musk is unwavering in his commitment to removing politics from the classroom. “Our schools must be totally refocused to prepare our children to succeed in the world of work,” Musk wrote in his campaign platform, clearly signaling his priorities for education reform.
In addition to his personal involvement in the school, Musk’s connections to Texas are strategic. The state has become a key location for several of his companies, including SpaceX and the Boring Co. Musk’s move to Texas, coupled with the opening of Ad Astra, signals his broader intent to reshape not only the educational system but also the cultural landscape. Critics, however, see his actions as part of a larger ideological push to create an education system that reflects his own political views.
Despite the controversy, Musk’s education initiative has received support from those who believe his focus on STEM and critical thinking could offer a refreshing alternative to the status quo. “If Ad Astra prioritizes STEM and critical thinking, it could fill gaps in traditional education systems,” said @STEM_Educator on social media. Others have expressed optimism about the potential for Musk’s school to offer high-quality education, with @EduReformAdvocate tweeting, “Musk’s Ad Astra could revolutionize early education with its STEM focus. Excited to see the outcomes.”