Young Women's Leadership School, Queens
Avionne Gumbs, PRINCIPAL
109-20 UNION HALL STREET, QUEENS, NY 11433Phone: 718-725-0402
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Frequently Asked Questions about The Young Women’s Leadership School of Queens
How does the application procedure work?
A. Every applicant and her family must attend an Open House. Open Houses include a tour of the school and a family conference with a TYWLS teacher. Applications will be sent to the 6th grade Guidance Counselor or you can get a TYWLS application at the Open House.
B. Complete and return the TYWLS application, with copies of the applicants 5th and 6th grade report cards to the school (address below).
C. You will be notified in May of our decision.
What criteria are used in making admissions decisions?
The Admissions Committee considers all aspects of a student’s application in making their decisions. The admissions committee is looking for students who show a particular interest in attending TYWLS, are eager to achieve academically, have the potential to develop as leaders of their peers and community, eligible for promotion, agree to wear the official school uniform, and have the necessary academic foundation to tackle the rigorous curriculum and other academic challenges offered by TYWLS. We do not have a minimum test score requirement. We believe that a students’ potential for academic success is revealed through other indicators than solely test scores. It is our goal to build a community of motivated learners who want to benefit from the opportunities of all-female education.
How many students from outside of District 28 does TYWLS accept?
The competitiveness of out-of-district selection depends on the number of applicants from out-of-district. We generally favor Districts 28 and 29 applicants. We also accept applications from students who live in Districts 28 and 29, but attend private or parochial schools in the area.
Are students who are accepted in to the middle school in 7th grade, automatically accepted into the High School for 9th grade?
TYWLS middle school students are given priority consideration for acceptance into TYWLS high school. However, academic or social records are reviewed to determine if
the high school is appropriate for each student.
What is the average class size at TYWLS?
Currently, the middle school classes have 20 students each. It is our goal to keep class sizes around 25 students. Students are also part of an advisory that is smaller, with 15-20 students.
What is the teaching philosophy at TYWLS?
TYWLS attempts to combine the best aspects of traditional and progressive teaching methods. It is our belief that all students should be supported in striving for high standards of academic achievement and a committed work ethic. We hope to continually challenge students to broaden their understanding of the subjects of study in an attempt to broaden their understanding of themselves and the world. Teachers utilize project based learning and cooperative learning to deepen students’ understanding while also focusing on discrete skills to prepare students for standardized tests.
What is the dress code at TYWLS?
Students at TYWLS are required to wear the school uniform. Parents buy the uniform from Flynn and O’Hara the company that the school contracts with. The uniform includes the school skirt or navy blue pants, a white pointed collar shirt, a navy blue bolero, or sweater with the school emblem on it, and white sneakers. On days when students have Physical Education they are required to wear a separate gym uniform.
What after-school activities are offered at TYWLS?
Since the primary focus of TYWLS is the academic success of the students, many teachers offer before and after school tutoring in the academic subjects. Some students are required to attend these tutorials. Other current after school programs include: the Human Rights Club, Queens Zoo club, dance with JCAL, Student Government, Student Ambassadors, School Newspaper, Big Sisters, and more. We are open to students spearheading clubs as well.
What is required of parents of TYWLS students?
TYWLS parents are expected to be actively involved in their daughters’ education. In addition to regular parent-teacher conferences at the end of each marking period, the school also hosts a curriculum night in September for parents to learn more about what takes place in their daughter’s classes. Parents are expected to attend these events and be available for conferences with teachers as needed. TYWLS also expects that all parents will support the school in giving students extra help and opportunities to succeed in after school programs and tutorials. Finally, there is an active PTA and School Leadership Team at TYWLS, which parents are encouraged to participate in.