First all-girls public charter school opens in Nevada for 6th – 12th graders

by Victoria Saha
Published on 8NewsNow on August 22, 2022

LAS VEGAS (KLAS)– Being surrounded by only female peers is a new concept for many of the students at the Young Women’s Leadership Academy, but as they wrap up their first week many are realizing it is exactly what they needed to succeed. 

The Young Women’s Leadership Academy of Las Vegas opened its doors for the first time earlier this week near Flamingo and Harmon. 

Every morning Principal Whitney McIntosh gathers the sixth and ninth graders in a circle. 

“We use circles because circles are a shape that isn’t easily broken,” said McIntosh. 

In that unbroken circle, goals for the day are discussed to let the students know that together they have what it takes to achieve them. 

“We focus on academics, we focus on ourselves, and then we also provide them opportunities to advocate,” said McIntosh. 

The Young Women’s Leadership Academy is located on the east side of town, where opportunities are limited for many. 

“We are trying to make sure we tear down any barrier, so students receive the access that they need,” said McIntosh.