Academie Lafayette's K-12 Growth Plan has moved one step closer to becoming a reality.
The board of directors plans to add another building to their current two-campus system by purchasing the old Derrick Thomas Academy located at 201 E. Armour Boulevard.
Elimane Mbengue is the head of schools.
"At this point we want to grow our school at both ends; kindergarten, increase in kindergarten and also starting high school." said Mbengue.
The board of directors' offer to purchase the building was accepted by the building's owners, Wilmington Trust, N.A.
Marianne Eppelheimer has two students at Academie Lafayette. She's optimistic this plan to open a high school will come to pass.
"Maybe I'm just a positive person, but I also see how good the school is and how much effort they put in. And I like the teachers, so it has to happen," said Eppelheimer.
According to AL, since 2000
- 50% of their graduates have gone to private schools.
- 24% have moved out of Kansas City all together
- 26% have attended high schools in the city of Kansas City
AL's growth plan could change.
"The high school will be around 450 to 500 students. It will have the possibility depending on whether or not there's a partnership with other schools, we can get up to 600 to 700 students." said Mbengue.
The purchase of the building is contingent on the outcome of a 120-day inspection and solidifying funding.
