Academy of American Studies
Q495 — Long Island City, Queens
A rigorous, history-focused education in the heart of Queens, where every student prepares for college and career.
Grades 9–12 • Gilder Lehrman flagship • A community of scholars and leaders.
Principal Search
We're interviewing candidates for our next principal and welcome community input. Learn about the process →
About Our School
Where history comes alive for every student.
Founded in 1996 as the nation’s first American history high school, Academy of American Studies serves grades 9–12 with a signature curriculum developed in partnership with the Gilder Lehrman Institute. Our students explore the past to shape the future—through college-level courses, immersive trips, and a vibrant community of learners.
We believe education should be accessible, engaging, and transformative. From free College Now credits to hands-on historical field trips, we ensure every student graduates ready for college, career, and civic life.
Founded
Credits Available
Academic Trips
Readiness Focus
What We Offer
Our Programs
Preparing students for college and beyond through history, scholarship, and real-world experience.
Gilder Lehrman Flagship Program
As the first high school in the nation dedicated to American history, we partner with the Gilder Lehrman Institute to offer unparalleled access to primary sources, expert historians, and national competitions.
Explore HistoryCollege Now at CUNY
Juniors and seniors earn free college credits through LaGuardia Community College, with courses in art, psychology, statistics, and more—all while still in high school.
Learn MoreAcademic Trip Program
From the Tenement Museum in NYC to overnight trips to Philadelphia, Boston, and Washington, D.C., students experience history firsthand through immersive, curriculum-aligned journeys.
See Our TripsMark Your Calendar
Upcoming Events
School events, PTA meetings, and important dates — all in one place.
A live events calendar, right here.
Your Google Calendar syncs straight into the site — tours, PTA meetings, and key dates update automatically, no re-typing. We wire this up when you come aboard.
Invest in our
children's future.
Your donation funds arts programs, teaching assistants, and school trips. Every dollar makes a difference for our students.