BATON ROUGE — The Louisiana Academy of Production (LAAP) Charter School, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at preparing students for high-demand careers in film and television, will potentially open its doors at Celtic Studios in August 2026. Modeled after the Roybal Film and Television Magnet High School in Los Angeles, LAAP will provide students with a unique education in media production while addressing the workforce needs of Louisiana’s growing film industry.
Fallon Ward, Executive Director of LAAP, described the school’s mission and vision as a convergence of her two passions—education and television.
“When this job came across my desk, I thought, ‘Oh, wow!’ It perfectly blends both worlds for me,” Ward said.
The academy will start with 100 ninth-grade students in its first year, expanding to a full capacity of 600 students over time. It offers both TOPS University and TOPS Jump Start diplomas, along with technical and business pathways, equipping students for media careers or entry into competitive collegiate programs.
Addressing Louisiana’s Media Workforce Needs
Louisiana has emerged as a hub for film production, thanks to its tax incentives and facilities like Celtic Studios, where numerous blockbuster films and TV shows have been made. Baton Rouge has played host to productions like Twilight: Breaking Dawn, Pitch Perfect, and Battleship. This thriving industry has created a demand for a skilled workforce in media production, which LAAP aims to fulfill.
Ward emphasized the school’s role in fostering this pipeline of talent.
“The idea was born from recognizing the need for workforce development in the film and television industry, specifically here in Baton Rouge with Celtic Studios operating locally,” she explained.
Louisiana’s film industry has contributed significantly to the state’s economy, creating thousands of jobs annually. According to a 2023 report, the industry generated more than $1 billion in economic activity statewide. LAAP seeks to support this growth by preparing students for roles in editing, cinematography, set design, and production management.
Expanding Opportunities for Students
LAAP will be an open-enrollment high school, allowing any student in Louisiana to apply. While enrollment is open to all area parishes, most students are expected to come from East Baton Rouge Parish and neighboring areas such as Ascension, Livingston, and West Baton Rouge. If applications exceed available seats, a lottery process will be implemented.
The school is already garnering attention for its commitment to quality education.
“We received very high remarks regarding our ability to provide high-quality education in Baton Rouge,” Ward said, noting that LAAP will become one of only three open-enrollment high schools in the city to achieve a B grade or higher.
A Future Built on Innovation
Students and educators can now register their interest on the school’s website. Ward highlighted the significance of this opportunity for young people:
“Our first graduating class will be the Class of 2030. That’s today’s seventh graders. Any student in seventh grade or below can join our waitlist.”
Ward expressed her excitement for the school’s potential to transform lives and the local economy. “This is about creating opportunities for students to step directly into high-wage careers in media or further their education at top universities,” she said.
For more information or to join the waitlist, visit the Louisiana Academy of Production’s official website.
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