Hearts and Minds Learning Center

About this Nominee

Hearts and Minds Learning Center provides intervention-based tutoring and academic support for students of all learning styles and ability levels. With a heart-centered and data-driven approach, we deliver targeted instruction designed to meet each child where they are—and help them grow with confidence. On average, our students increase their reading, writing, or math skills by 1–2 grade levels within 3–6 months. We proudly serve students in grades K–12, with a strong focus on building both academic capability and self-belief.

We are proud to be Voted Best Tutoring Company by the West Austin Chamber of Commerce at the 2026 Best of West Austin Awards, a recognition that reflects our commitment to both academic excellence and compassionate support.

Founded by longtime educator Janet Alexander, Hearts and Minds Learning Center was created from a deep commitment to children who learn differently. As a former public school teacher, Janet witnessed how a one-size-fits-all model often leaves students behind—not because they aren’t capable, but because they aren’t being taught in the way they learn best. She saw students internalize harmful beliefs like “I’m not smart enough,” or “Everyone else gets it faster than I do.” Janet knew those narratives weren’t truth—they were symptoms of a system that wasn’t designed for every learner.

After leading a successful corporate education franchise and achieving some of the strongest test score growth rates in the nation, Janet felt called to do more in her local community—especially as academic anxiety and confidence challenges intensified for many students following the pandemic. She sold her franchise and launched Hearts and Minds Learning Center to bring her personal vision to life: a custom-tailored learning experience for every child—one that supports both the mind and the heart.

Services Include
• Comprehensive Academic Assessment
• Personalized analysis of school testing (Lexile Level, STAAR)
• Individualized academic plan
• Educational consultation
• ARD, IEP, & 504 support
• Subject tutoring (K–12)
• Spanish tutoring
• ACT/SAT preparation
• ISEE, SSAT, & STAAR preparation