Frequently Asked Questions

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How do I get an application?

Applications are available online and at all Austin Independent School District (AISD) elementary and middle schools. Please see your school counselor to receive an application. Read more about the application process online.

What time does school begin and end?

Our schedule is 9:00 a.m.to 4:35 p.m.

Where is the school located?

The Ann Richards School for Young Women Leaders is located on the campus of the former Porter Middle School at 2206 Prather Lane, Austin, Texas 78704, in South Austin. The school is near the intersection of Ben White Boulevard and Lamar Boulevard. Our campus is also home to the AISD Professional Development Center for teachers. See a map and directions online.

How will students get to and from school?

AISD provides transportation with most of the bus stops at or near neighborhood schools. See more information on the AISD School Bus Transportation website.

What grades are scheduled for the 2010-2011 school year?

The Ann Richards School will eventually house 6th to 12th grades. The school opened with 6th and 7th grades with approximately 115 girls in each grade level. We will add a grade level each year through grade 12. During the 2010-2011 scheeol year, we will have 6th-10th grades.

Do I need a straight A report card to apply?

You don't have to be a straight A honor student, but you do have to be a student who enjoys learning, has the desire to succeed, wants to go to college and cares about the future of our world. Your hand-written letter, first semester report card, attendance, last year's Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) scores and teacher recommendations have equal value in the scoring of your application. So, even if you don't have the best grades or the highest test scores, you can still qualify by doing well in the other areas.

How are applicants chosen to attend the Ann Richards School?

All the applications that qualify will be placed in a lottery. Final selection will be determined by the lottery that will be conducted fairly and anonymously.

Do I have to pay a fee to attend this school?

No, there are no tuition fees. You must live in the Austin Independent School District (AISD) to attend this school.

Are there fine arts classes?

Absolutely. Art, choir, band, orchestra, and theater arts are offered.

Will girls be able to participate in athletics?

Yes. Beginning in the seventh grade girls may represent our school in a variety of sports. According to U.I.L. rules for middle school, sixth graders cannot participate in school sports competitions.

Are there school trips?

Because we know that learning can successfully occur outside the classroom walls, we have several school trips in the Austin area, including trips to colleges and universities. Each grade level has at least one out-of-town school trip that is connected to our curriculum.

How many hours of homework per night can be expected?

The estimated number of hours per night will range from 1 to 3 hours. Students may also have homework over the weekend.

Is tutoring available for students?

Our teachers usually designate at least one morning or afternoon a week for tutoring. Teachers also provide extra time for students as needed. Teacher tutoring times are provided on the course syllabi distributed on the first day of school.

Is Physical Education required every year in middle school?

Wellness is a very important component of our school. Our girls must take a semester of physical education every year. We offer a variety of activities including: sports, aerobics, dance and other physical activities that girls like and need.

Are there extra-curricular activities for students?

In addition to after-school practices in sports and fine arts, we will have unique academic clubs. Girls are also encouraged to organize clubs that they are interested in having.

Will I have to take the TAKS tests every year?

All AISD students must take the required subtests of TAKS every year. At our school, we expect our girls to not only pass TAKS, but also receive commendations for their scores.

What kind of electives will I be able to take?

We offer an array of electives in liberal arts, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) and fine arts, both performing and visual.

Is it hard to make friends at the Ann Richards School?

Making friends is one of the easier endeavors because everyone is in the same boat, coming from different schools and looking for new friends. Working on group projects and participating in extra-curricular activities are effective ways to make new friends.

Do I have to wear a uniform?

Yes, uniforms are required. Research shows that wearing uniforms benefits students by minimizing social, psychological, economic, and emotional distractions. Just think how quickly you can get ready for school without the time-consuming decisions of what to wear.

How does a new student obtain a transfer to your program?

We will obtain the necessary transfers for the girls who have been accepted into the program.

What is service learning?

Caring about others is valuable and necessary. Service learning is giving back to our community in an organized effort. We work on our service learning as a group and service learning hours are required for each grade level.

Will 6th grade girls take classes with the 7th grade girls?

For the most part, 6th grade girls are separated from the 7th grade classes. If there is a need to place a 6th grade girl in a 7th grade class, we will discuss this with her parent, guardian, caretaker and/or mentor in advance.

How can I as a parent/guardian/caretaker/mentor volunteer at the school?

We welcome your presence and participation in our school. We will circulate a list of volunteer opportunities at school meetings. If we don't list what you would like to do for us, just let us know. Thank you in advance for the interest.

How will you keep parents/guardians/caretakers/mentors informed about school events?

We use newsletters, flyers, communication from teachers and staff, email and our website. Our doors are always open to discuss any questions or concerns that you might have about your student's experience at the Ann Richards School.

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