They are creating a pipeline of female leaders prepared to enter the workforce in STEM industries where women are traditionally under-represented at the Ann Richards School. Nestled in the heart of Austin, Texas, the Ann Richards School for Young Women Leaders stands as a beacon of academic excellence and leadership development for young women. Founded in 2007 and named after the iconic Texas Governor Ann Richards, the school is a public magnet within the Austin Independent School District, serving grades 6-12.

Mission and Values

ARS’s mission is to empower young women from diverse backgrounds to become confident, compassionate, and ethical leaders who are prepared to make a positive impact on the world. This mission is woven into the school’s core values, which include:

• Academic excellence: ARS provides a rigorous college preparatory curriculum that challenges students to think critically and creatively.
• Leadership development: The school fosters leadership skills through its unique “Leadership Lab” program, which provides opportunities for students to participate in service-learning projects and community engagement initiatives.
• Diversity and Inclusion: ARS embraces a diverse student body and creates an inclusive environment where all students feel valued and respected.
• Social responsibility: The school instills a strong sense of social responsibility in its students, encouraging them to become active citizens who work to make the world a better place.

Academics and Achievements

ARS boasts a strong academic record, consistently ranking among the top schools in Texas and the United States. The school offers a wide range of courses, including Advanced Placement (AP) classes, dual credit opportunities, and electives in STEM, arts, and humanities.

Students at ARS consistently achieve impressive academic results. In 2023, 100% of graduating seniors were accepted into college, with many attending top universities across the country. The school also has a strong track record of preparing students for careers in STEM fields, with over 50% of graduates pursuing STEM majors in college.

Beyond the Classroom

ARS offers a vibrant extracurricular program that provides students with opportunities to explore their interests and talents. Students can participate in a variety of clubs and organizations, including robotics, debate, mock trial, and student government. The school also has a strong athletics program, with teams competing in various sports.

Admissions and Eligibility

ARS is a public school of choice, which means that students from any part of the Austin ISD can apply. The admissions process is competitive, and students are selected based on a lottery system. To be eligible for admission, students must be female and entering grades 6 or 9.

The Ann Richards School for Young Women Leaders is a unique and empowering educational institution that is making a significant impact on the lives of young women in Austin, TX. With its commitment to academic excellence, leadership development, and social responsibility, ARS is preparing its students to become the next generation of leaders who will change the world.