The Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School for Government and International Studies (MLWGS) is an innovative public high school offering a comprehensive college preparatory program emphasizing government, international studies, science, mathematics, languages, and fine arts. The school serves students selected on the basis of aptitude and interest in its mission.
Established in 1991, MLWGS is the product of a public/private partnership to support the needs and interests of the region’s gifted high school students. In 1998, the Regional School Board facilitated the renovation of the historic Maggie L. Walker High School building to become the permanent home of MLWGS. Through a coordinated effort, the school’s Booster Groups, PTSA, and Foundation continue to partner with the Regional School Board and school leadership to raise parental and corporate support for the school. As a public school, MLWGS is also supported by the Virginia Department of Education.
A Richmond Times-Dispatch editorial for Saturday, May 18, 2013, said that “Maggie Walker is the finest comprehensive high school — public or private — in Metro Richmond.” On August 27, 2014, Maggie Walker Governor’s School was ranked by Newsweek/The Daily Beast/Washington Post as the 12th best public high school in the nation. Unfortunately, the author of this annual ranking has since retired the listing of Best Public Schools. In 2019 MLWGS ranked #8 in Best Public High Schools in the US by Niche.
Maggie Walker is described by students and alumni as “inclusive,” “friendly,” “fostering independence,” and “surprisingly non- competitive.” Students balance academics with high involvement in an eclectic set of courses, clubs and broad participation in successful athletic teams. MLWGS fosters an incredibly tightly-knit community of passionate students, dedicated teachers, involved parents, and connected alumni.
