About Us

Albuquerque Aviation Academy (formerly SAMS Academy) is a free, public STEM charter school located on Albuquerque’s west side that prepares students in grades 6 -12 for college and career in a unique, stimulating atmosphere where innovation and imagination soar!

Since we opened our doors in 2012, our students have been challenged through rigorous, blended online curriculum, college dual enrollment, and hands-on STEM lab. For students interested in the aviation industry, they can earn their private pilot certificate and even fly a real plane in our nationally-recognized aeronautics program.

In 2020 our aeronautics program expanded to include a comprehensive drone flight course, allowing our students to take the controls of consumer-grade unmanned aircraft as they gain first-hand knowledge of this growing industry.

Our core curriculum is delivered through Edgenuity, the leading provider of K-12 online curriculum and blended learning solutions. This allows our students to continue their education whether they are inside our building or at home.  Unlike a traditional school, our students are able to learn at their own pace—within certain parameters, of course—so being self-motivated is essential for student success. Our teachers and educational assistants are available to help along the way, but ultimately it is up the students themselves to achieve their educational goals.

SAMS Academy is accredited by Cognia (formerly AdvancED) and NCAA.