About J.W. James

Our Mission:
Academic excellence through, with, and in the arts and technology. 

We at J. Wallace James Arts & Technology Academy believe that in order to maximize the academic and artistic potential of our students, they must be provided with a nurturing environment where academics, dance, drama, visual arts, music, and technology are integral parts of developing the whole child.  Our staff, which consists of professional educators specializing in academics, fine arts, and technology along with visiting artists, collaborates to create integrated and interdisciplinary activities that foster personal development in an environment of respect, self-worth, and self-discipline.  We believe these components are essential to the development of scholastic achievement, critical thinking, problem solving, and lifelong learning.

LEF Elementary Finalist

Mary Spencer

 LEF Nominees

Mrs. Schmersahl & Mrs. McCarley recognize our 8 LEF Nominees:
Karen Bordelon, Doni Kovatch, Mary Spencer, Katie Alleman,
Michelle Chustz, Paula Graffeo, and Jill From. 
Not pictured is the 8th nominee, Jolynn Dean.

LAHPHERD Model School Award

J. Wallace James Health & Physical Education Department  was selected as LAHPERD’s 2008 Model School.  As a model school, J. Wallace James continually strives to enhance their physical education lessons and activities by integrating academic subject areas, with their “speciality area of integration” in TECHNOLOGY and the ARTS. 

Pictured with the 2008 Model School award (left to right): Dana Schmersahl, Principal; April Judice, Elementary Health & Physical Education teacher; Pam Burzynski, Elementary Health & Physical Education teacher; Michelle McCarley, Assistant Principal.

The Louisiana Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, & Dance(LAHPERD)
provides the opportunity for schools to apply to the LAHPERD MODEL SCHOOL RECOGNITION PROGRAM, which recognizes the efforts of physical education programs that address serious health issues, provide meaningful learning opportunities for all children, and teach the knowledge and skills necessary to enjoy and take part in life long physical activity.