Carlos Santana Arts Academy
General Information
Overview
Carlos Santana Arts Academy is a public elementary school located in North Hills, Los Angeles, California. With a strong emphasis on arts integration, the school’s motto “Where Arts Are the Doorway to Learning” reflects its philosophy that creative exploration strengthens academic growth. Students engage in a standards-based curriculum infused with visual arts, music, theater, dance, robotics and media arts, supporting multiple pathways to understanding and achievement.
Teachers implement research-based pedagogy, differentiated instruction, and data-informed practices to meet diverse learners’ needs including multilingual, gifted, and special education populations. The school also offers a Spanish dual-language program, enabling students to develop bilingual proficiency alongside core academics. Faculty and staff foster an inclusive, culturally responsive environment where young learners are guided to become innovative problem solvers, effective communicators and responsible community members. By blending rigorous academics with rich creative experiences, Carlos Santana Arts Academy aims to develop confident, engaged learners who thrive in a changing world.
Contact Informations
Address: 9301 Columbus Avenue, North Hills, California 91343
Phone Number: (818) 920-4060
Email Address: csaa@lausd.org
School Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 2011 (renamed from Valley Region Elementary) [turn0search3] |
| Motto | “Where Arts Are the Doorway to Learning” [turn0search0] |
| Type | Public Elementary School (Grades K-5) [turn0search4] |
| District | Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) |
| Enrollment | Approximately 389 students [turn0search7] |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | Approx. 22:1 [turn0search7] |
Carlos Santana Arts Academy Rankings
| Ranking Category | Value / Status |
|---|---|
| State Test Proficiency in Math | 17% proficient [turn0search7] |
| State Test Proficiency in Reading | 22% proficient [turn0search7] |
| School Rating (GreatSchools) | 4 / 10 [turn0search4] |
| Niche Overall Grade | Grade C for K-5 public school [turn0search7] |
Carlos Santana Arts Academy Academics
Carlos Santana Arts Academy Faculties / Departments
- English Language Arts Department
- Mathematics Department
- Science Department
- Social Studies Department
- Visual and Performing Arts Department
- Technology & Media Arts Department
- Dual Language (Spanish) Department
- Special Education & Inclusive Support Services
- Student Enrichment & After-School Department
Carlos Santana Arts Academy Courses and Programs / Majors
- Dual Language Spanish program where students receive instruction in both English and Spanish to build bilingual competency
- Visual Arts program covering drawing, painting, sculpture and digital media
- Music & Theater: instrumental music, choir, drama productions
- Dance and Folklórico Club offering cultural and creative expression
- STEAM Lab combining science, technology, robotics and art integration
- Journalism & Movie Club giving students experience in media production
- Tutoring & Enrichment: after-school programs supporting academics and creativity
- Gifted & Talented Education (GATE) tracks for advanced learners
Online Learning
Carlos Santana Arts Academy utilizes digital platforms such as Schoology and other LAUSD-approved tools for blended learning, parent communication and student portfolios. While the primary instructional model is in-person for elementary grades, students have access to technology resources, online assignments, and virtual enrichment when necessary. The integration of digital media with arts and core academics helps prepare students for 21st-century learning and builds digital literacy across grade levels.
Average Test Scores
| Assessment | Approximate Outcome |
|---|---|
| California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) – Math | 17% proficient [turn0search7] |
| CAASPP – English Language Arts | 22% proficient [turn0search7] |
Retention and Graduation Rates
As an elementary institution, Carlos Santana Arts Academy does not publish graduation rates in the traditional sense. The school focuses on promoting students successfully from one grade level to the next with strong academic and social-emotional supports. Anecdotal retention is bolstered by arts engagement, dual-language offerings and inclusive instruction, which encourage families to remain enrolled across multiple grades.
Carlos Santana Arts Academy Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Admission to Carlos Santana Arts Academy is based on residence within the LAUSD attendance zone and availability of space. There is no GPA or SAT/ACT requirement since the school serves grades K-5.
Carlos Santana Arts Academy Acceptance Rate
| Metric | Value / Status |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | Open enrollment for K-5 zone; availability may vary |
Carlos Santana Arts Academy Application Requirements
Parents seeking enrollment must submit a standard LAUSD enrollment application, provide proof of residence (such as lease or utility bill), birth certificate or age verification, immunization records, and previous school records for transfers. For the dual-language program, families may attend an information session to understand program expectations. The school emphasizes collaboration with families and supports for language learners or special education students during enrollment.
Application Process
- Submit LAUSD enrollment application for grades K-5
- Provide documentation: proof of residence, birth certificate, immunizations
- Attend a school information session or tour (recommended)
- For dual-language or creative arts pathways, review program orientation with family
- Confirm acceptance and attend welcome/orientation events
Carlos Santana Arts Academy Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Timing |
|---|---|
| Enrollment Opens | Typically February for next school year |
| Orientation & Welcome Sessions | Late August (prior to start of school) |
| First Day of School | Early September (LAUSD calendar) |
Essay Prompt
Not applicable for K-5 elementary enrollment; program interest may be discussed during family orientation rather than formal essay.
Carlos Santana Arts Academy Scholarships
As a public elementary school, Carlos Santana Arts Academy does not charge tuition and does not offer scholarships. Families access public school funding and district supports; enrichment activities may have fees which scholarships or support funds can offset.
Carlos Santana Arts Academy Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | None (public school) |
| Activity/Material Fees | Varies based on after-school clubs or enrichment |
Carlos Santana Arts Academy Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics (Gender, Age, Race/Ethnicity)
Carlos Santana Arts Academy serves approximately 379–389 students in grades Kindergarten through 5. [turn0search7] Gender distribution is roughly balanced by elementary norms. Ethnic composition is predominantly Hispanic/Latino (reflecting the local community), with smaller proportions of White, Asian and African American students. About 95% of students are reported eligible for free or reduced lunch. [turn0search7]
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
With approximately 95% of students eligible for free or reduced-price lunch, Carlos Santana Arts Academy serves a high-poverty population. The school supports students with disabilities via inclusive programs, special education services and differentiated instruction. The dual-language program and robust arts curriculum further support learners with varied backgrounds and needs.
Student Body
| Category | Number / Estimate |
|---|---|
| Total Enrollment | Approximately 389 students [turn0search7] |
| Grades Served | K-5 |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | Approx. 22:1 [turn0search7] |
| Free/Reduced Lunch Eligible | ~95% [turn0search7] |
University Diversity
Carlos Santana Arts Academy embraces diversity in every aspect of its school culture. The student population is multilingual and multicultural, representing a variety of backgrounds and experiences. A dual-language Spanish program fosters bilingual fluency and cultural competency. The arts integration ensures that creativity and identity are celebrated in teaching and learning. Teachers implement culturally responsive practices that honor students’ home languages, traditions and creative expressions, enabling them to see themselves reflected in their education. School events—from folklórico dance performances to multicultural art exhibits—reinforce a sense of belonging and inclusion. This commitment to diversity prepares students not only academically but socially and emotionally, equipping them to engage respectfully and confidently in a global community.
Average Earnings
As an elementary school, Carlos Santana Arts Academy does not track alumni earnings or post-secondary outcomes. However, by offering strong early academic foundations, bilingual proficiency and arts-rich experiences, the school contributes to improved long-term educational and career prospects for its students. Developing habits of creativity, communication, and self-directed learning positions graduates to enter higher grades ready and prepared for future success.
Carlos Santana Arts Academy Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The faculty at Carlos Santana Arts Academy are experienced educators committed to arts-infused instruction and bilingual excellence. Staff collaborate to integrate core academics and creative disciplines, while leveraging technology and data to support differentiated learning. Additional team members include arts specialists (music, visual arts, dance), dual-language coaches, intervention specialists, and counselors who support student social-emotional growth and family engagement.
Faculty Profiles
Personnel at Carlos Santana Arts Academy bring expertise in arts education pedagogy, bilingual instruction and culturally responsive teaching. Teachers engage in ongoing professional development focused on arts integration, dual-language methodology, and inclusive practices. The school’s leadership emphasizes innovation, collaboration and community partnership, contributing to a dynamic learning environment where educators inspire students to reach high standards through creative and academically rigorous instruction.
Carlos Santana Arts Academy Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Carlos Santana Arts Academy is a vibrant, creative learning community nestled in the North Hills neighborhood of Los Angeles. The campus features art studios, music and theater spaces, a STEAM lab, and dedicated instructional technology areas alongside traditional classrooms. Students participate in clubs such as movie club, journalism, folklórico dance, rock band, and after-school tutoring. While no housing is provided, the school day and extended enrichment programs ensure ample opportunities for student engagement, creative expression, leadership development and community connection.
Transportation
The school is located at 9301 Columbus Avenue in North Hills, easily accessible by Los Angeles Unified School District bus routes and public transportation. Car drop-off and pick-up zones are organized for safety and efficiency. The school welcomes walking or biking families from nearby neighborhoods and emphasizes safe campus access, student supervision and community involvement in transportation logistics.