2024 Best Schools for the Arts in America

• Los Angeles County Office Of Education, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  221 reviews

Sophomore: I'm a sophomore at LACHSA in the theatre right now and overall it has been an incredible experience! If I was going to grade this school, I'd give it an A. My favorite part of the experience are the classes and teachers. I've gotten to explore literature and history, gain a love for math, and improve as both an actor and dancer. The LACHSA teachers and faculty have provided an excellent support system for me, as well have given me notes, advice, and lessons that have changed me for the better. The main downsides are cliquey behavior in other students and some issues with favoritism. However, those are a small part of the overall experience, and I'd say that it's a great place for kids who are passionate about the arts and want to further pursue the arts in their lives.... Read 221 reviews

• grade A

• Students 527

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Interlochen, MI•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.36 out of 5  293 reviews

Senior: I have been at the Interlochen Arts Academy for almost a year now. It has allowed me to learn and make connections with some of the most talented peers I have ever met and it allows for young and talented artists to blossom and to gain real world knowledge. If I had not been at Interlochen, I would not have learned so many things about the world of classical music and also meet some of the most dedicated artists that I have. I was previously in Texas and had gained a great knowledge for music, however, being at Interlochen allowed for me to gain even more knowledge and expertise in my areas. I also know that being at Interlochen has set me up for success for college and even my future career. Interlochen has been life changing and it continues to be for many people. I would like to see some change however mainly with diversity, food, and overall student culture. At times I wish I could see more positivity on campus and diversity along with better food in the campus cafeteria.... Read 293 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 576

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Idyllwild, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.15 out of 5  123 reviews

Junior: I love Idyllwild Arts Academy! The teachers are very passionate about teaching children and the school environment fosters expression of opinions and discussion inside and outside of classrooms. Due to it's location, staff changes are more frequent, but the community is so tight-knit and caring for every individual.... Read 123 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 280

• Student-teacher ratio 4:1

• Duarte, CA•

• Public School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.69 out of 5  171 reviews

Parent: Nothing, I am very happy that my daughters assist to the school every day! Excellent. Great teachers, environment. Presentations during the whole year and on season finale are wonderful.... Read 171 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 962

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Miami-Dade, FL•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.2 out of 5  317 reviews

Sophomore: As a current sophomore at DASH who’s transitioning into their Junior year in these next few months, I can say I am grateful for DASH. Teachers really do try to help you here for the most part if you’re struggling, though they also make you understand that you are responsible for yourself. DASH gives us responsibilities that no other high school does in terms of art & design. I can confidently say that the school prepares us for art & design careers and opens so many doors for it; even beyond those careers. The educational experience at the moment is rough as we are going through a transitional period, many teachers have left and with that, there are new ones to fill in their place. The new teachers they get are great, and very kind. So even if the period of transition feels a bit daunting at this moment, what comes after is absolutely worth the wait! Overall, DASH is a school that provides opportunities , don’t expect them to be simply handed to you. You will be working for them.... Read 317 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 487

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Chicago, IL•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.66 out of 5  119 reviews

Parent: The Academy is a model for a small successful arts high school that nurtures both academic and creative growth. It includes traditional art forms such as dance, music, visual arts, theater and emerging art forms such as media arts. The student body is diverse, but the teachers and staff could include more BIPOC. Due to its size, the students receive tailored attention and support in both academics, and in finding their own path as artists. Because they are in a small building, they do not have sports facilities, and due to the intensive arts training within a long day, there are limited clubs. However the school is perfect for those who want to pursue the arts professionally, or want an arts infused education which places arts in an equally important place along side major academic areas - as it should be in our whole education system. Even though it is a private school, and not affordable for all, it works with several scholarship and funding options, which make it accessible to many.... Read 119 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 121

• Student-teacher ratio 2:1

• Miami-Dade, FL•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.28 out of 5  329 reviews

Junior: New world provides a great experience for students looking to active their maximum potential in their arts. As a Visual artist studying here I truly believe I would not have reached my level of commitment and skills that I currently present. Their teachers are also amazing and they really care about your craft at a level that it becomes an inspiration.... Read 329 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 473

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Natick, MA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  83 reviews

Alum: Extraordinary school - truly, unlike any other place in the world. A warm, intentionally inclusive, "welcome as you are" culture, with students from around the world whose dedication to their artistic crafts are bar none. Beautiful campus, great facilities, and faculty who care deeply about their students. This school opened my eyes in so many ways, exposed me to peers and programs that expanded my sense of what is possible. I developed lifelong friends, went to a college I never would have heard of, and was set forth on a path of personal success and gratification. And, with new leadership, the school's future is stronger and brighter than ever. Don't miss a chance to get to know Walnut Hill!... Read 83 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 284

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Santa Ana, CA•

• Public School•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 4.17 out of 5  614 reviews

Parent: OCSA is an amazing school, and we are very grateful our son attends. He's been there through middle school in the Instrumental Music Program. Solid academic instruction with teachers and adminstration who really care. It is an intensive workload with the conservatories. My son finishes his day at 4:45pm. This school does not have a strong sports program - you have to join outside sports teams. We don't care. My son enjoys jazz class (yes this school has boys in dance classes.) The students are friendly and accepting. Overall a terrific experience.... Read 614 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,217

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Brooklyn, NY•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.1 out of 5  41 reviews

Parent: My children have received an exquisite education. The teachers and students are brilliant. Of course, no place is perfect, and the school has some areas of growth. I am grateful that my kids have gotten to attend such a special and magical school that has fostered their creativity, individuality, and intellectualism.... Read 41 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,095

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• New York City Geographic District # 3, NY•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  1,218 reviews

Senior: I love my school so much: the community, the arts aspect, and the individuality it allows. I feel like I can absolutely be myself there. The teachers at LaGuardia are so welcoming and warm. The creativity is palpable when walking through the halls. My favorite part about my school would definitely be the plethora of shows each year across all the majors. I love seeing the Jazz ensemble, the opera and dance shows, etc. There's just so much to see! I also appreciate that during the summer, no matter your major, you're allowed to take classes in writing, acting, dance or directing. These summer workshops are extremely fun and allow you to stretch yourself while getting a taste for what other majors experience. It's hard to find what I don't like about LaGuardia, but if I had to, I would say the design of the building. I am a sucker for lighting, and LaGuardia halls are devoid of that. There aren't many windows in the halls from 3rd floor to the 7th.... Read 1,218 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,383

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• North Hollywood, CA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.52 out of 5  67 reviews

Parent: Oakwood clicked for our family from first blush, and our daughter is thriving there. Oakwood's warmth and close-knit community makes it feel like a neighborhood school, but it offers the top-notch academics that only come from the best independent schools. It's a tricky needle to thread, but they pull it off beautifully. On our first day of kinder, I was struck by just how friendly the place is - a rarity in LA! And in the time since, that sense of belonging has only deepened for both my daughter and our family. Our daughter is blossoming at Oakwood, which is a testament to both the curriculum and the approach to challenging students, but also the level of social-emotional support that is offered. She especially loves art studio, science lab, and music class. Oakwood also has truly one of the best libraries and librarians I've ever encountered, and it's such a joy and resource for our whole family! We couldn't find a better school and look forward to many happy years ahead!... Read 67 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 828

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Palm Beach County School District, FL•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.24 out of 5  620 reviews

Senior: Dreyfoos has exposed me to so many creative individuals all dedicated to their art areas. There is so much drive and passion at this school that it does get overwhelming at times. People tend to commit to a lot and take on hard coursework, but there are many wonderful teachers to help you along the way. Overall my experience at Dreyfoos as been positive and I would recommend!... Read 620 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,380

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Williamstown, MA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.72 out of 5  53 reviews

Parent: This has been an amazing personal, academic, and artistic experience for my child. They enrolled as a transfer sophomore after starting at a far more traditional private school that did not suit them, and have absolutely blossomed after finding a home at Buxton. The school does an incredible job getting to know each individual student and helping them to thrive in whatever way best suits them. My child had given up on so many interests in their first year in high school that they have picked up again at Buxton, as well as finding new passions to pursue. They are thriving in an environment that celebrates them!... Read 53 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 64

• Student-teacher ratio 4:1

• New York City Geographic District # 2, NY•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  406 reviews

Junior: Starting high school right after the pandemic, the transition from online learning back into in person was an adjustment for both students and teachers. Despite this, in my experience, the teachers were generous, understanding and patient and did not try to force us to revert back to how we used to act and learn pre-pandemic, but instead encouraged new learning methods and encouraged students to improve. The community at Art and Design is one where a student can be themselves and not be shamed for it. It's a community I'm proud to be a part of. Of course, not every single person on this planet is kind, and that goes for students and teachers. However, the majority is who I've been lucky to meet and be taught by.... Read 406 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 1,523

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Altadena, CA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.26 out of 5  27 reviews

Senior: Most of the teachers are very passionate about what they're teaching and it shows. Club engagement has gone up after tanking a bit after COVID. It is a great school for you if you are more arts, music, or social studies focused but it also has good science and math departments.... Read 27 reviews

• grade A

• Students 240

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Dallas Isd, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.12 out of 5  526 reviews

Senior: Booker T is a great school if you are looking to expand your knowledge of the arts. It is great at helping students form connections, have performance experience, and work with college professors and prepare for colleges in the arts. However, if you are interested in academics there are a lot of schools out there which have much better offers than Booker T.... Read 526 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 949

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Houston Isd, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.21 out of 5  315 reviews

Junior: HSPVA is a public school with private education. The teachers are dedicated to teaching the students for totem shoes who have their life all figured out and for those who don't. They encourage and enforce Post-High School readiness such as job fairs, college options and or military life. Though it is a Preforming Arts School, there are many befits such as, time management which is key for life!... Read 315 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 781

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• San Francisco Unified, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  171 reviews

Junior: Ruth Asawa School Of The Arts is a very special high school in San Francisco. It is the only public SFUSD high school that is audition based. Students who manage to get into the school are privileged with the ability to have access to so many art resources that are valuable for college and beyond. My best experience in SOTA has been being a part of the Conservatory Dance Department. I have learned so many crucial skills that included building my dance technique, style, and views. Not only have I learned about the art of dance, but I have also learned about myself as a person, who I aspire to be, and what I want for my future. Although the academics do tend to lack a tiny bit, this is a school that will prepare you for what you want in the future. Something that I would like to see change in the near future would be focusing on providing classes that would help for college. For example, bringing back psychology and more language classes offered besides Spanish. Overall, amazing school!... Read 171 reviews

• grade A

• Students 750

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• New York, NY•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.29 out of 5  7 reviews

Works Here: PCS has an incredible community of students, families, and faculty that truly believe in the mission of the school. It feels amazing to be a part of a school community that holistically supports what students need both in and out of the classroom. All PCS students are unique and goal-oriented, each with their own dream and passion, however their academic achievements and leadership skills are superior to most students I have worked with over my long career in education. I always leave my job feeling impressed and inspired by PCS students.... Read 7 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 150

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• New York, NY•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.43 out of 5  42 reviews

Junior: Overall, LREI has some amazing teachers, classes, and people. However, there are issues with the administration surrounding prejudice and bullying. A lot of students are entitled and use their parents money to get ahead. Small classes and school spirit are a strongpoint.... Read 42 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 675

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Studio City, CA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.1 out of 5  146 reviews

Senior: I love Campbell Hall! All of the teachers genuinely care about you and want you to succeed in life. I love the CHAI approach to classes rather than AP's. CHAI prepares you for college more in my opinion, because the teachers really want you to understand the material rather than memorize it. My favorite class so far has been CHAI RACE and the Human Experience, the teacher was amazing and I truly had never taken a class like that before. I think CH does a really good job in creating an inclusive and diverse student body.... Read 146 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,157

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Atlanta, GA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.3 out of 5  110 reviews

Parent: Having witnessed my children's journey through AIS, I can personally attest to the profound impact this program has had on their development, both academically and personally. Beyond merely preparing them for university, the school has equipped them with the tools to truly make a difference in the world. The emphasis on critical thinking from the early years, has enabled my children to approach complex problems with confidence and creativity through the IB program. What truly sets AIS apart though, is the nurturing of intercultural competence. My kids have gained a deep understanding of multiple languages and cultures, enriching their perspectives and fostering genuine empathy. The school's focus on transdisciplinary learning, collaboration, and innovation has transformed them into well-rounded, passionate learners.... Read 110 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,325

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Oakland, CA•

• Public School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  162 reviews

Senior: Because my school is an art school, it is unique and different from other schools. My school has incredible art teachers. They are amazing at what they do, they have experience in their field and genuinely care about their students. The academics need some work. They find themselves short on subs a lot and the academic teachers are good overall but it's been difficult for them to find good math teachers for high school. I can't speak on middle school and their teachers because I only entered in high school. I think that my school used to be a lot more diverse and I hope that we move in that direction again because Oakland is honestly very gentrified and you can see this in our school. I hope that our school has more students of color in the future as it was a school made up of predominantly black students when it opened.... Read 162 reviews

• grade A

• Students 791

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Westwood, NJ•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 5 out of 5  11 reviews

Parent: At Primoris School, excellence is not just taught but lived. Under the dedicated guidance of owner Ms. Katie, the school thrives on an advanced curriculum infused with love and enthusiasm, making learning a delight. The warm, unique atmosphere fosters a joy for learning that my daughter keenly embraces daily. Her rapid academic progression, especially her remarkable vocabulary, is a testament to Primoris's effectiveness. The school's devotion to nurturing intellectual curiosity and emotional well-being makes it true stand out. Every school should take a page from Primoris's book. Highly recommended!... Read 11 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 118

• Student-teacher ratio 3:1