Wow. Look at this sprawling campus. This is Alfred Bonnabel High School. It’s hard to believe this impressive school started with a unique system. East Jefferson High used a morning and afternoon shift system. Imagine attending classes from 6 am to noon. Then another shift from 12:30 to 6:30 pm.
Alfred T Bonnabel High School was built in 1973. It was initially designed as an all-male school. The morning shift was called Bonnabel. The afternoon shift kept the East Jefferson name. The following year the shifts flipped. Finally in the third year Bonnabel students moved into their new building. This building sits just north of I-10. It’s located between David Drive and Williams Boulevard. A planned addition Roger B Derby High School was intended to resolve the split student bodies.
The school wasn’t without its challenges. In 1975 racial conflicts caused student fights. Despite these issues Alfred Bonnabel High has grown. It now sits on 30 acres. The main campus has multiple buildings. A dedicated building exists for freshmen. There are also athletic fields a field house and a gym. A memorial garden honors a student lost in 2016. It was dedicated in May 2016 by the class of 2017 and school administrators.
In 2023 the school absorbed students from the closed Grace King High School. Today Alfred Bonnabel High School is a Title I school. It serves over 1400 students. The student body is diverse with a significant Hispanic population. Many students qualify for free lunch. In 2002 the school had about 1750 students. An interesting fact is that in 1973 an anti-crime club was established.
Alfred Bonnabel High School has a rich history. It’s overcome challenges and grown. It’s a testament to the perseverance and dedication of its community. The school shows how education adapts and strives to serve all students. It is a significant part of Kenner’s educational landscape. This school continues to shape the lives of thousands of students.