Chattanooga School for the Arts and Sciences (CSAS) Upper School
General Information
Overview
Chattanooga School for the Arts and Sciences (CSAS) Upper School is a distinguished public magnet school located in Chattanooga, Tennessee, offering a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum infused with liberal arts, sciences, and creative exploration. Established with the mission to foster intellectual curiosity, civic responsibility, and a lifelong love of learning, CSAS has built a reputation for academic excellence and student-centered instruction. The school emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, integrating humanities, mathematics, science, and the arts into a holistic framework that promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, and community engagement.
As part of the Hamilton County Schools district, CSAS Upper School serves grades 6–12, providing a seamless transition from middle to high school education. The campus environment nurtures creativity and inclusivity, with diverse extracurricular activities, performing arts programs, and athletic opportunities. Students at CSAS benefit from small class sizes, a collaborative culture, and strong teacher mentorship, preparing them for higher education and civic leadership. The curriculum aligns with state standards while going beyond them through experiential learning, project-based assessments, and global awareness initiatives.
Contact Informations
Address: 865 East Third Street, Chattanooga, Tennessee 37403
Phone Number: (423) 498-6845
Email Address: csasinfo@hcde.org
School Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1986 |
| Motto | “A Community of Learners” |
| Type | Public Magnet School (Grades 6–12) |
| District | Hamilton County Schools |
| Accreditation | Tennessee Department of Education |
| Enrollment | Approximately 700 students |
Chattanooga School for the Arts and Sciences (CSAS) Upper School Rankings
| Ranking Category | Position |
|---|---|
| Tennessee State High School Ranking | Top 5% of Public High Schools |
| National Magnet School Ranking | Top 10% |
| Academic Performance Index | Excellent (Above 90th percentile) |
Chattanooga School for the Arts and Sciences (CSAS) Upper School Academics
Chattanooga School for the Arts and Sciences (CSAS) Upper School Faculties / Departments
- English and Literature Department
- Mathematics Department
- Science Department
- Social Studies Department
- Fine Arts Department (Visual and Performing Arts)
- World Languages Department
- Physical Education and Health
- Technology and Media Studies
- Guidance and Counseling
Chattanooga School for the Arts and Sciences (CSAS) Upper School Courses and Programs / Majors
- Advanced Placement (AP) Courses in English, Biology, Calculus, History, and Art
- Honors Programs across core subjects
- Visual Arts and Theater Arts
- Music and Band Programs
- Foreign Languages: Spanish, French, and Latin
- Computer Science and Technology Education
- Physical Education and Health Science
- Civic Leadership and Service Learning
- College and Career Readiness Courses
Online Learning
CSAS Upper School integrates online and hybrid learning tools to enhance accessibility and student engagement. Through Hamilton County’s digital learning initiatives, students access online coursework, virtual labs, and supplemental enrichment programs. Online platforms are also used for dual-enrollment opportunities with local colleges and for flexible learning during inclement weather or remote days. However, in-person learning remains the cornerstone of the CSAS educational experience.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average Score |
|---|---|
| SAT | 1210 |
| ACT | 25 |
| AP Exam Pass Rate | 78% |
Retention and Graduation Rates
CSAS Upper School maintains a graduation rate of approximately 96%, among the highest in Hamilton County. Retention rates are similarly strong due to the school’s community-focused environment, academic rigor, and personalized advising system.
Chattanooga School for the Arts and Sciences (CSAS) Upper School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
The typical GPA for incoming students ranges between 3.4 and 4.0. While CSAS is a public magnet school and does not require SAT or ACT scores for admission, these exams are administered to upperclassmen as part of college preparation, with above-average performance compared to national benchmarks.
Chattanooga School for the Arts and Sciences (CSAS) Upper School Acceptance Rate
| Category | Rate |
|---|---|
| Overall Acceptance | Approximately 25% (Selective Magnet Enrollment) |
Chattanooga School for the Arts and Sciences (CSAS) Upper School Application Requirements
Admission to CSAS Upper School is based on the magnet school lottery system administered by Hamilton County Schools. Prospective students must reside within the district and complete an application expressing interest in CSAS. Academic records, attendance, and behavior reports may be reviewed. The process also encourages a student statement or family letter expressing the applicant’s interest in liberal arts and sciences education.
Application Process
- Complete the Hamilton County Magnet School Application
- Submit academic records (previous report cards, standardized scores)
- Participate in family orientation or school visit (recommended)
- Await selection results from the district’s magnet lottery
- Confirm enrollment if accepted
Chattanooga School for the Arts and Sciences (CSAS) Upper School Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | November |
| Application Closes | January |
| Lottery Notification | February |
| Enrollment Confirmation | March–April |
Essay Prompt
No formal essay is required for admission; however, applicants may submit a personal statement explaining their educational interests, goals, and how they align with the CSAS philosophy of a community of learners.
Chattanooga School for the Arts and Sciences (CSAS) Upper School Scholarships
As a public magnet school, CSAS does not charge tuition and does not offer scholarships. However, upperclassmen have access to local and state-level scholarships, such as Tennessee Hope Scholarships, dual-enrollment tuition support, and merit-based awards for academic achievement and community service.
Chattanooga School for the Arts and Sciences (CSAS) Upper School Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | No tuition (Public Magnet School) |
| Activity Fees | Varies by program (Arts, Athletics, etc.) |
| Dual-Enrollment Costs | Covered partially by Tennessee Dual Enrollment Grant |
Chattanooga School for the Arts and Sciences (CSAS) Upper School Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics (Gender, Age, Race/Ethnicity)
CSAS serves a diverse student body from across Hamilton County, including students aged 11–18. Gender distribution is balanced, and the racial composition includes White (55%), African American (25%), Hispanic (10%), Asian (5%), and Multiracial (5%). The school promotes equity and inclusion through cultural events, multicultural education, and equitable access to advanced coursework.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
CSAS provides robust support for low-income families through federal meal programs, tutoring, and counseling services. Students with disabilities receive individualized education plans (IEPs), and specialized educators collaborate closely with families to ensure inclusive academic success.
Student Body
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Total Enrollment | Approximately 700 |
| Student–Teacher Ratio | 15:1 |
| Average Class Size | 20 |
| International Students | Small number (exchange participants) |
University Diversity
Chattanooga School for the Arts and Sciences Upper School emphasizes the importance of diversity, inclusion, and global awareness in every aspect of school life. The curriculum includes multicultural studies, social justice projects, and opportunities for civic engagement that connect students with the broader Chattanooga community. Clubs and student organizations celebrate cultural heritage, art, and identity, while the faculty encourages open discussion and respect for differing perspectives. Diversity is not only visible in demographics but deeply embedded in the school’s culture and curriculum, reflecting its mission to build a compassionate and informed generation of learners.
Average Earnings
Since CSAS is a secondary institution, alumni data show strong post-secondary outcomes rather than earnings. Graduates frequently attend selective universities, with many earning scholarships and pursuing careers in education, engineering, healthcare, and the arts. Alumni success reflects the school’s emphasis on independent thinking and lifelong learning.
Chattanooga School for the Arts and Sciences (CSAS) Upper School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The faculty at CSAS Upper School comprises experienced educators who hold advanced degrees and certifications in their respective disciplines. Teachers foster critical thinking and creativity, while counselors and staff provide academic guidance, college counseling, and social-emotional support. Staff engagement extends beyond the classroom through mentorship, community projects, and extracurricular leadership.
Faculty Profiles
Many CSAS teachers are recognized for excellence in teaching, curriculum design, and student mentorship. The arts faculty includes accomplished musicians and visual artists; science and math teachers regularly sponsor regional competition teams; and humanities faculty integrate service learning and global perspectives into coursework.
Chattanooga School for the Arts and Sciences (CSAS) Upper School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
CSAS Upper School’s campus blends historic architecture with modern facilities, located near downtown Chattanooga and the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. It offers dedicated classrooms for arts, science labs, a media center, performance spaces, athletic fields, and creative studios. The school does not provide housing as it serves day students, but its active student community engages in leadership programs, clubs, sports, theater, and volunteer service that enrich the learning experience.
Transportation
The school is centrally located and easily accessible by car and Hamilton County school buses. Public transportation options connect nearby neighborhoods to the campus. The school provides safe pick-up and drop-off areas, and parking is available for students and visitors. On-campus mobility is efficient, with well-organized pathways and secure entrances ensuring safety for all students.