The Young Women’s Leadership Academy (YWLA) in San Antonio celebrated a major milestone this week when U.S. News & World Report placed the school on its national list of the best high schools in the United States. The all‑girls, tuition‑free public academy is now ranked the 11th‑best high school in Texas and the second‑best in the San Antonio area.
Local impact and selection process
Founded in 2008, YWLA serves students from sixth through twelfth grade, though it stops accepting new students after ninth grade because of the intensive nature of its curriculum. Admission is determined by a lottery that is open to any eligible family in Bexar County, giving a broad cross‑section of the community a chance to apply for a spot at the school.
STEM focus and leadership development
YWLA’s curriculum is heavily weighted toward STEM—science, technology, engineering, and mathematics—preparing its graduates for competitive careers in fields that are critical to the nation’s future. In addition to rigorous academics, the academy places a strong emphasis on confidence, leadership and personal responsibility. Principal Priscilla Alfaro explains that the school’s culture encourages every student to see herself as a leader: “Everybody is a leader here, so when you have that type of environment then our girls all want to be leaders. They see their friends all doing positive things, and that really allows them to speak up and really use their voice.”
Graduation rates and national recognition
The U.S. News rankings note that YWLA is tied for the best graduation rate in the country, a testament to the school’s supportive environment and high expectations. The academy’s success reflects the power of school‑choice options that give families alternatives to traditional neighborhood schools, especially for parents who seek a faith‑aligned, academically rigorous setting for their daughters.
Why the achievement matters to San Antonio families
For parents in Bexar County, YWLA’s national recognition provides a concrete example of how public‑sector school‑choice can deliver outstanding outcomes without charging tuition. The academy’s emphasis on STEM aligns with the region’s growing demand for skilled workers in technology and engineering, while its leadership focus reinforces the Christian‑based values that many families hold dear.
Looking ahead
With the latest accolades, YWLA is poised to attract even more applicants in the upcoming lottery round. The school’s leadership remains committed to maintaining its high standards, expanding its STEM offerings, and continuing to nurture the next generation of confident, capable young women who will lead their families, churches, and communities.
Community members who wish to learn more about the application process or support the academy’s mission can visit the school’s website or attend upcoming informational sessions hosted by the Bexar County Education Office.
Original reporting: San Antonio, TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
