LAS VEGAS, Nev. (FOX5) – Construction to turn a former department store into a new charter school inside The Boulevard Mall is well underway.
Now, for the first time, parents are getting a look inside the hallways their students will pass through every day, come August.
The school’s name is ‘Wylees,’ short for Western Youth Leadership, Engagement and Empowerment.
If all goes as planned, the 46,000 square foot space will welcome hundreds of middle school students for the start of the school year in August.
“We’ve been assured we’re on time. We’re going to open, we’ll be here,” Founder Mike Taak said.
Taak welcomed dozens of parents to tour the school’s future campus to put any location or security concerns to bed.
“I think a lot of folks when they hear school in the mall, they think literally in the mall, there’s literally a roll up door, literally the food courts are right there,” Taak said.
Future Wylees parent, Graciela Rodriguez, said the school’s single point of entry put her mind at ease.
“Not everyone’s going to be able to just come in and say, ‘hey, I’m here,’” she said.
After touring, she said she’s more excited for the upcoming school year.
“As soon as you walk in, it’s not like a typical school, and that’s what made me feel better for my daughter,” Rodriguez said.
Another future parent, Fabiola Eugarrio, said seeing the campus brought Taak’s vision to life.
She has a message for any skeptics.
“Come check it out. Just come see it,” she said.
Taak said they have about 50 more spots open for students to enroll.
You can find more information about Wylees here.
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