Airline Park Academy for Advanced Studies - Metairie, LA

Airline Park Academy for Advanced Studies (APAAS) is in its 12th year of existence within the Jefferson Parish Public School system. Our purpose is to educate bright, curious students who are intellectually and personally capable of thriving in a rigorous, academically challenging setting. Graded as an academically 'A' school, we strive to meet the needs of our high achieving students.

Our current enrollment is 426 students in Prekindergarten-fifth grades. Students test into our school, so our attendance zone is large. Our school community is a diverse population of American Indian, Asian, African-American, Hispanic, White, and students of mixed races. Because of our diverse population, we pride ourselves on the community we create. Our parents are extremely involved and partner with us to facilitate the learning process. Since our students come from many backgrounds, we celebrate differences and encourage family and community buy-in.

One example of how we foster community was when we created a "living tree" picture using services from several community members and parents. EVERY staff member and EVERY student took part in creating the cypress tree in our school yard. A sense of community is fostered among staff and students alike. Staff award positive "Eagle tickets" to colleagues and students to show appreciation. Birthdays and accomplishments are celebrated in our "morning meetings" which are broadcast through the school. Buddy benches help students find new friends. We are fortunate to belong to such an active, thriving community.