JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – In just over two weeks, students in Duval County will head back to class. On Saturday, some students and parents got a sneak peak at their new school.
The Virtue Arts and Science Academy -- an all-girls kindergarten through 12th grade charter school -- held its grand opening on the Southside.
The school was founded by some of the same people who opened the Valor Academy of Leadership in Jacksonville last year. It's leaders say the school's main goal is to help girls succeed.
"When I grow up I want to be a doctor. This will help me with technology and doing different kinds of education and stuff like that," said student Saniyah Branton.
Parents are excited, too.
"It's a change for her She's pretty much a gifted kid. She is always out for learning new things about education. So this is actually a great opportunity for her," Sally Branton said.
The school focuses on a STEAM program, which stands for science, technology, engineering, arts and math, and tries to integrate arts into other fields girls may not be as interested in.
"We know that a lot of young ladies are not going into that profession. Our goal is to push that issue. Get them prepared. We're getting support from NASA to push the science and engineering," said Tunji Williams, founder.
City leaders are looking forward to what the school will offer the community.
"Having more schools is great. I think it's gonna be a great opportunity for Jacksonville. It's going to be great for Jacksonville to have this school here," City Councilman Sam Newby said.
Students will wear uniforms.
Some parents who toured the school Saturday have heard that students who attend single-gender schools perform better academically.
"I think a lot of the distractions she won't have this year. It's only girls," said Sally Branton.
"Girls only is OK. That's not the only reason I'm looking at the school," said parent Sonya Smith.
Smith's daughter is heading into sixth grade. She has a particular interest on the one of the school's programs. .
"They said that some of the things they work on is science, and I really want to learn more about science," said student Alexandria Williams.
If you want to find out more information about the school, visit it's website.