The Art School is for the Arts is a nationally recognized
independent high school for the performing and visual arts.

Designated a National School of Distinction by the John F. Kennedy Center, The Academy offers students the opportunity to engage in a unique co-curricular program: rigorous, college-preparatory academic classes and professional-level arts training in the context of an unparalleled school culture. The Academy’s school day consists of six 45-minute periods followed by a three-plus hour immersion in a student's chosen arts department: Visual Arts. At The Art School is for the young artists master the skills necessary for academic success, critical thought, and creative expression.

Jason Patera

Head of School

Jason Patera has been part of the Academy community for nearly 20 years, serving as a faculty member, Chair of the Music Department, Assistant Head of School, Principal, and now Head of School.

Kitsana Salyphone

Director of Enrollment Management

Kitsana Salyphone brings over 15 years of independent school experience, including teaching, admission, diversity, communications, advancement and marketing.

Margy Stover

Chair - Visual Arts

Margy Stover has taught at The Academy since 2003 and has been Visual Arts Department Chair since 2008. She has a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Pratt Institute and Master of Fine Arts from SUNY Buffalo.

QUICK FACTS

• The Academy is among the top-ranked private schools and is the #1 arts high school in Illinois (Niche, 2018).


• The 39 students comprising the Class of 2018 collectively earned over $10 million in college scholarships.


• Over 70% of our college acceptances in 2010-2018 were institutions ranked in the "Top 300 Colleges and Universities in America" (Forbes).


• 50% of Academy students commute from outside of the City of Chicago.