OPELOUSAS, La. (KLFY) — “It’s been decades since Opelousas has seen a new school. We’re proud to bring this one.” said Preston Castille, President of Helix Community Schools.

Education and bringing schools into the 21st century have been long discussed topics here in Opelousas, and now that goal is one step closer to reality as the Helix A.I and Medical Academy nears completion.

In an interview, Castille said, “It’s bringing an innovative education model to our students in terms of A.I. and health care. It’s a huge industry, both in terms of two separate fields, but both together as one single industry.”

The academy gives children who attend in depth curriculum, introduction to A.I. as early as Kindergarten, along with hands on medical field experience with local medical facilities.

In this virtual tour video from the school, it shows that modern 21st century classrooms and facilities will accompany this new style of curriculum.

Castille said, “It’s a great partnership between the Saint Landry Parish School Board and the greater community. We just had a huge cross-section of folks from all across the community all excited about the promise of what this new school brings.”

While the Helix A.I. and Medical Academy plans to bring in kindergarten through 5th grade students this fall, there is already a plan in place for even more grade levels in middle school to attend in 2026 and eventually high school students as well.

Castille told News 10, “We hope to break ground on Phase two later this year so that we’ll have the little school constructed in time for our sixth graders to begin in the new facility next year.”

Enrollment for the 2025-2026 school year is now open at the Academy for grades K-5.

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