Alexander-Smith Academy was founded in 1968. The ownership changed hands in 1973 and became independently incorporated by its president, J. David Arnold. Under Arnold's administration, it has evolved into a college-preparatory high school, fully accredited in 1976 by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and in 1984 by the Texas Education Agency. In addition to college-preparatory courses, ASA offers curriculums in Advanced Placement courses, as well as Honors courses.

An ASA education stresses concentration on the individual and development of a personal sense of values. It provides clear-cut guidelines and boundaries within which students are given flexibility of action. Dedicated to the philosophy of individualized, educational instruction, ASA challenges students and enables them to realize their innate potential.