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.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 as the 12th best public high school in the nation.Maggie Walker is described by students and alumni as "inclusive," "friendly," "fostering independence," and "surprisingly non- competitive." Students balance academics with a high involvement in an eclectic set of courses, clubs and a broad participation in successful athletic teams. MLWGS fosters an incredibly tightly-knit community of passionate students, dedicated teachers, involved parents, and connected alumni.