Quick Links
Student Resources & Supports Systems
AVID
Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) is an in-school support program for students in grades 4–12 that helps those in the academic middle prepare for more rigorous coursework, including Pre-AP and AP classes, while building skills for college eligibility and success. Offered as an elective during the school day, AVID provides teacher instruction, tutor-led study groups, academic strategies, and motivational activities.
AVID’s mission is to close the achievement gap by equipping all students for college readiness and success in a global society, with 95% of AVID students attending college.
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Boys and Girls Club
Gus Garcia YMLA proudly partners with the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Austin Area (BGCAA) to offer high-quality, free afterschool programs directly on our campus. These programs focus on Academic Success, Leadership, Healthy Lifestyles, Workforce Development, and more, providing students with engaging opportunities to grow, learn, and develop essential life skills beyond the classroom.
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Breakthrough Central Texas
Breakthrough is the leading college access and success non-profit in Central Texas. For more than 20 years, the organization has partnered with thousands of middle and high school students who aspire to be the first in their family to graduate with a degree or certificate. Breakthrough makes a radical, long-term commitment to students, to and through college, unlocking the power of education and a lifetime of opportunity. We support the whole student with personalized services, work closely with community partners, campuses, and employers, and advocate for our students with lawmakers.
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Cedric Benson Mentoring Program
Garcia YMLA is proud to partner with the Cedric Myron Benson Trust to support student growth and advancement through the new Cedric Benson Mentoring Program. This program honors Cedric Benson’s legacy and his lifelong commitment to mentoring by providing young men with guidance, encouragement, and opportunities to pursue higher education. Open to all 6th–8th grade students, the program offers weekly on-campus meetings with mentors, off-campus activities with mentors and school administrators, and special guest speakers throughout the academic year.
Learn More:
- Learn more about the Cedric Benson Mentoring Program here.
- Learn how to volunteer or become a mentor here.
Community in Schools (CIS)
Community in Schools is a program that supports students and families holistically by connecting them with a coordinated network of programs and resources that enhance learning and address non-academic challenges. Services may include mental and physical health support, mentorship, crisis intervention, assistance with food or housing insecurity, dropout prevention, early childhood programs, and more.
Learn More:
- Learn more about Community in Schools at YMLA here.
- Learn more about the Coalition for Community Schools here.
- Learn more about CIS in AISD here.
Dual Language Program
The Dual Language program here at YMLA helps students excel academically while becoming bilingual and biliterate—able to understand, speak, read, and write in two languages. Students learn in a rigorous, multicultural environment that builds cross-cultural understanding and prepares them to be responsible global citizens. YMLA's Dual Language program is open to emergent bilinguals at any grade level and to all students entering our campus. Focused on academic excellence, bilingualism, and cultural competency, the program supports strong achievement in both languages.
Learn More:
- Learn more about Academics here.
- Learn more about our success in 2025 when 23 Students Passed the AP Spanish Exam here.
- Learn more about immersive field trips here.
Gifted and Talented (GT)
A gifted and talented student is one who performs at—or shows the potential to perform at—an exceptionally high level compared to peers of the same age, experience, or environment. GT students may demonstrate advanced abilities in intellectual, creative, or artistic areas, show an unusual capacity for leadership, or excel in a specific academic field, as defined by the Texas Education Code §29.121. These students benefit from specialized programs and supports designed to challenge and nurture their unique talents.
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House System
Gus Garcia YMLA cultivates leadership through a dynamic house system that builds brotherhood, accountability, and personal growth. At the start of each year, students join one of our houses, where they learn to lead, support one another, and celebrate shared success. Regular competitions challenge students to think critically, solve problems collaboratively, and showcase their strengths. Modeled after collegiate fraternal organizations, our house system gives young men early experiences in leadership, teamwork, and camaraderie—preparing them for success in high school, college, and beyond.
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PALS
At Gus Garcia YMLA, our PALS (Peer Assistance Leadership and Service) program proudly partners with LASA High School and Barbara Jordan Elementary to create a powerful cycle of mentorship and leadership. We are thrilled to have high school students from LASA mentor our young men, providing guidance, encouragement, and positive role models. In turn, our YMLA students visit Barbara Jordan Elementary to mentor younger students, passing on the same support and leadership they receive. Today, PALS continues to promote service, interpersonal skill development, and community-mindedness, helping to foster a more positive and productive school environment for students of all ages.
Learn More:
- Learn more about our PALS program here.
Phoenix House Texas
Gus Garcia YMLA partners with Phoenix House Texas (PHT) to provide a strengths-based, evidence-backed approach to substance use prevention. Unlike traditional fear- or shame-based methods, PHT’s positive prevention model helps students build awareness of their personal strengths and learn how to use them to make healthy choices.
Learn More:
- Learn more about Phoenix House at YMLA here.
- Learn more about AISD's partnership with Phoenix House here.
- Learn more about Phoenix House Texas here.
PTSA
The PTSA (Parent, Teacher, and Student Association) growing here at Gus Garcia YMLA. Students and the PTSA work together to build a strong, supportive school community. The PTSA provides opportunities for students to take an active role in campus events, leadership initiatives, and service projects that strengthen school pride and engagement. Through this partnership, students gain valuable experience in advocacy, collaboration, and responsibility, while families and community members stay connected to their child’s educational journey. Together, our students and PTSA help create a vibrant, united campus where every young man is encouraged to lead, learn, and thrive.
Learn More:
- Learn more about the PTSA here.
TRIO Talent Search-Austin
Gus Garcia YMLA’s Talent Search program encourages middle and high school students to explore college and career opportunities through hands-on activities. Grant-funded and free for participants, the program offers field trips, university tours, and lunch workshops during the school day. Talent Search is designed to support students—especially those who may be the first in their family to attend college or who need financial assistance—by providing early exposure to higher education and career pathways. Participation is optional, giving students the chance to engage in experiences that spark their interests, connect classroom learning to future goals, and build motivation for long-term success. Starting in middle school allows students to explore these opportunities early, laying a strong foundation for high school and beyond.
Learn More:
- Learn more about Talent Search here.
UT Tutors & Afterschool Tutoring
In school tutoring with UT Students or afterschool tutoring with teacher. Each provides students with a supportive and focused environment to strengthen their academic skills. Whether they need help reviewing class material, completing assignments, or preparing for upcoming assessments, students receive personalized guidance tailored to their needs. Our mission is to ensures that every student feels confident, supported, and equipped for success both inside and outside the classroom.
Learn More:
- Learn more about the Afterschool Tutoring here.
- Learn more about our partnership with UT Tutoring here.
- Learn more about YMLA Academics here.
- Learn more about the Cedric Benson Mentoring Program here.
Verde FC
Gus Garcia YMLA partners with the Austin FC Verde Leaders program through BGC to offer on-site, after-school soccer training twice a week, on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:30–6:45 PM. Students develop their soccer skills while also building important social-emotional learning (SEL) skills, including healthy communication, teamwork, and perspective-taking. This program combines athletics with personal growth, helping students thrive both on and off the field.
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Verizon Innovative STEM Lab
Coming in 2026–27, Gus Garcia YMLA will launch the Verizon Innovative STEM Lab through a partnership with Verizon Innovative Learning Schools (VILS). This transformative program promotes digital inclusion by providing students with access to cutting-edge technology and high-quality STEM education. The lab will offer hands-on learning experiences that inspire innovation, creativity, and problem-solving skills.