Detroit International Academy for Young Women

Opened in 2005, Detroit International Academy for Young Women stands as a beacon of opportunity. This isn’t just any school. It’s Michigan’s only public all-girls school, housed in the historic building of the former Northern High School. Detroit International Academy for Young Women began with just 78 students. It transitioned to an all-girls format in 2006. This change followed a new Michigan law. The law allowed the creation of single-gender public schools. The academy’s first year as an all-girls school saw an enrollment of 95 students in grades 9 and 10. By 2008, that number quadrupled to around 400. Detroit International Academy for Young Women wasn’t always a K-12 institution. It started as a high school and expanded to include middle school around 2009. Elementary grades were added around 2010, bringing the total student population to 530. As of 2014, there were 502 girls enrolled. Detroit International Academy for Young Women prides itself on its diverse student body. As of 2015, African-Americans made up 86% of the students. Asians comprised the second largest group at 5%. A significant 82% of the students were classified as economically disadvantaged. A unique tradition began at Detroit International Academy for Young Women in 2015. Graduating seniors wear white dresses instead of traditional caps and gowns. Many of these dresses are donated. This helps families manage the cost, especially since a large percentage of students qualify for free or reduced lunches. This white dress tradition mirrors practices in many private girls’ schools across the country. In 2015, 60 young women graduated in this elegant fashion. The school boasts a unique mascot: The Pink Panther, adding a touch of playful sophistication to the academic environment.