On March 30, the Ann Richards School for Young Women Leaders celebrated the grand opening of the new modernized campus. Students, staff and community members gathered to officially cut the ribbon on the new building, which opened for learning in January 2021. The event kicked off with a performance by the Marching Stars, followed by remarks from students Lily Koppen and Alexandra Weatherford and district leadership. After the ribbon-cutting, guests were invited to enjoy refreshments and take a tour of the school led by the ARS Stars. 

The new school includes collaborative and flexible spaces, a large dining commons, makerspaces, learning neighborhoods for each grade level and a running track and practice field, a media center with a two-story slide, a learning staircase and outdoor reading porch overlooking the Austin skyline. The modernized facility recently achieved LEED Silver certification for its energy-efficient lighting, water-reducing fixtures and improved air quality filtration. 

Check out the photos below from the grand opening. 

Congratulations to the Ann Richards community and the ARS Stars!