Meet Our Principals

Rediesha C. Allen

Campus Principal

Mrs. Allen is a proud native of Fort Worth and a distinguished graduate of Fort Worth ISD’s O.D. Wyatt High School. With a deep passion for education and community, she began her career teaching in a neighboring district before returning home to Fort Worth ISD in 2010 as a Founding Teacher of the Young Women’s Leadership Academy (YWLA). In this pivotal role, she helped establish the traditions, culture, and academic expectations that continue to define YWLA today.

Now serving as Campus Principal, Mrs. Allen considers her return to YWLA a full-circle moment and an incredible honor to serve the Girls Excelling in Math and Science (GEMS). Her leadership is grounded in the belief that every GEM has limitless potential and deserves an environment where she feels empowered to succeed.

Mrs. Allen champions the vision that at YWLA, Every GEM Shines. She understands that this vision is achieved through intentional collaboration among families, staff, and community partners. Guided by the belief that “it takes a village,” she is committed to fostering a strong, unified school community where every stakeholder plays a vital role in the success of the  GEMS.

Under her leadership, YWLA remains dedicated to its mission to develop the FULL potential of EVERY Girl. Through engaging, real-world learning experiences and a focus on critical thinking, GEMS are prepared to lead and excel. Mrs. Allen holds #TeamYWLA to the highest standards, ensuring that all GEMS are supported in a safe, positive environment that nurtures both academic excellence and social-emotional growth.

Laura Bennett

Assistant Principal 

Ms. Bennett hails from Indiahoma, Oklahoma, population 344, but has resided in Fort Worth her entire adult life. After completing her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with a minor in reading at Cameron University in Lawton, OK, Ms. Bennett had the opportunity to move to Fort Worth where she began her teaching career at JP Elder Middle School. Prior to becoming an administrator, Ms. Bennett also taught at Western Hills High School and was a member of the FWISD Instructional Support Team. Since earning her Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at UT Arlington, she has been an Assistant Principal and Dean of Instruction at Meadowbrook Middle School, Eastern Hills High School and Southwest High School. Ms. Bennett enjoys traveling, reading and spending time with her family. She is very proud to be a member of the YWLA family.