The Avoyelles Public Charter School was founded as a Type 2 charter school open to any student in the state of Louisiana in 2000 by Julie C. Roy. It initially consisted of grades kindergarten through fifth, and one grade was added every year until 2008. In 2005, construction, funded through a loan from the U.S. Department of AgricultureRural Development, began on the high school building, performing arts building and gymnasium but wasn’t completed until September 2006, postponing the school year. In 2008, the senior class became the first graduating class of the school.
Academics
The Avoyelles Public Charter School offers a rigorous academic curriculum, ensuring that its students will be well prepared for college. Along with the essential subjects, there are several special classes offered. The K-8th grade programs teach French, the middle school teaches an engineering course. High school students are able to take Dual Enrollment classes, allowing students to earn college credits while learning more advanced skills, giving students an advantage upon entering a secondary-education program. Currently offered Dual Enrollment courses include College Algebra, Trigonometry, Pre-calculus, Speech, and two Englishes. More Dual Enrollment courses can be taken online via the Louisiana Virtual School. College credit can also be earned by taking AP courses via the Louisiana Virtual School and taking engineering courses. AP courses require students to score at a certain level on its respectable exam in order to receive college credit. The engineering courses have a similar requirement. Students enjoy taking classes through the previously mentioned Louisiana Virtual School, because it allows them to pursue their interests in countless courses. A list of these courses can be found . Some include psychology, astronomy, computer programming, and video game design. APCS offers many electives including choir, show choir, musical theatre, art, ceramics, web design, publications, band, percussion, French, Spanish, speech, debate, physical education, health, and, personal fitness. In 2009 APCS established its edible schoolyard where students are involved in growing organic vegetables and flowers. However, this program was discontinued in 2011.
Data and statistics
The Louisiana Department of Education issues School Performance Scores each year for every school in the state. Four indices are used to calculate the score which are Attendance, Assessment, Dropout, and Graduation. The school received a score of 114 in 2010 earning the school a three star label for the score. The school had a 96.2% attendance rate for the 2009-2010 academic year. 63.5% of the classes were taught by highly qualified teachers in 2009-2010.
