What makes YMLA stand out?

In an environment of brotherhood, the Gus Garcia Young Men’s Leadership Academy develops scholars who are empathetic, service-oriented problem-solvers; lifelong learners who succeed in high school, college, career and life. 

Our all-boys academy in East Austin offers a world of opportunities—from arts and athletics to science and engineering—to help students achieve their greatest potential.

Garcia makes lessons come alive for the young men by connecting the classroom to the community through service-learning projects, or combining students' love of music with computer science so they can have a conversation with Usher during the international Hour of Code.

Garcia features career and technology classes through Project Lead the Way, a national leader in science, technology, engineering and math programs. With a rigorous curriculum and higher education and industry partnerships, students develop the skills needed to succeed in the global economy.

The academy invests in the whole child, nurturing scholars’ creative minds and talents through robust fine arts and athletic programs.

Community support is key to the students’ success. Garcia connects each student with champions on campus and through the national My Brother's Keeper initiative.

Garcia is part of the LASA, LBJ, and Northeast family of schools. As Early College High Schools, these campuses offer students the opportunity to earn college credit and graduate with a diploma in one hand and an associate’s degree from Austin Community College in the other.

School of Choice

Gus Garcia Young Men's Leadership Academy is an Austin ISD school of choice.

Young men in sixth- through eighth-grades—regardless of where they live in Austin—are eligible to apply to Garcia YMLA.

Austin ISD provides home to school transportation for any student who wishes to attend—all are welcome.

Our brotherhood-centered environment, as well as our first rate programming, make Gus Garcia YMLA a great choice for your student.

It's easy to apply to transfer.

• Online through the parent portal (register for a parent portal account);
• By mail; to the Office of Student Services, Austin ISD Central Office, 4000 S. IH-35 Frontage Rd., Room 151, Austin, TX 78704.

Please visit the Austin ISD transfer page for more information and further instructions on how to apply.