Las Vegas Academy wins prestigious national award

Wednesday, May 29, 2002 | 9:25 a.m.

The Las Vegas Academy of International Studies, Performing and Visual Arts has been named one of the country's top programs by the Department of Education.

The school is one of 172 nationwide to receive the "Blue Ribbon" designation. Founded in 1993 on the site of the old Las Vegas High School, the magnet high school has grown from 735 to 1,400 students.

With 13,000 high schools and 28,000 secondary schools in the United States, Las Vegas Academy was rated in the top 1 percent, said Principal Bob Gerye.

The award is a validation for the dedicated staff, families and pupils, Gerye said.

"When we opened in 1993, we didn't know if anyone would get off those buses that August morning," Gerye said. "Especially in light of so many people saying the school would never make it."

Not only has the school made it, but the campus has flourished. The academy's performing groups have made three trips to the White House, and the school has been recognized by the Grammy Foundation, the Nevada Department of Education and the International Network of Performing and Visual Arts Schools. The academy's international studies students participate in exchange programs with schools in China, Korea, Germany, Britain, Honduras, Mexico, Russia and the Ukraine.

"We're lucky our kids have the opportunity to go to such a fantastic place and learn," said Agustin Orci, deputy superintendent of instruction for the Clark County School District. "Being named a Blue Ribbon school is a significant achievement, and Las Vegas Academy has certainly earned it."

In his report to the U.S. Department of Education, site evaluator Rudy Papenfuhs praised the academy for its strong community ties, dedicated staff and innovative curriculum.

Las Vegas Academy was the only Nevada school to receive the Blue Ribbon designation for the 2000-2001 academic year. The last Silver State school to win the national award was Becker Middle School in Las Vegas for the 1999-2000 academic year.