Arts High School
General Information
Overview
Arts High School is a premier performing and visual arts magnet school located in Newark, New Jersey. Established as one of the first public high schools in the United States dedicated to the arts, it has built a legacy of nurturing creativity, discipline, and academic excellence since its founding in 1931. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum that integrates rigorous academic instruction with intensive training in the fine and performing arts, including music, dance, theater, visual arts, and creative writing.
Arts High School emphasizes both artistic mastery and scholarly achievement, preparing students for successful careers in the arts, higher education, and beyond. The school’s philosophy revolves around the belief that artistic education enhances critical thinking, collaboration, and cultural awareness. With a diverse student body drawn from across Essex County, the school fosters an inclusive community that celebrates expression, individuality, and innovation. Graduates of Arts High School have gone on to attend prestigious universities and conservatories and have established distinguished careers in the entertainment, visual arts, and education industries.
Contact Information
Address: 550 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, Newark, NJ 07102
Phone Number: (973) 733-7391
Email Address: info@artshighschool.org
School Facts
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1931 |
| Motto | “Where the Arts and Academics Unite” |
| Type | Public Magnet High School |
| Grades | 9–12 |
| Accreditation | Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools |
| Enrollment | Approximately 600 students |
| Campus Type | Urban |
| Affiliation | Newark Public Schools District |
Arts High School Rankings
| Category | Rank |
|---|---|
| Public High Schools in New Jersey | Top 10% |
| Magnet High Schools in the U.S. | Top 15% |
| Schools for Visual and Performing Arts | Top 10 Nationally |
| Academic Achievement | A Rating |
| Student Satisfaction | 9.1/10 |
Arts High School Academics
Arts High School Faculties / Departments
- Music Department
- Dance Department
- Theater Arts Department
- Visual Arts Department
- Creative Writing Department
- Media Arts and Design Department
- English and Literature Department
- Mathematics Department
- Science Department
- Social Studies Department
- World Languages Department
- Health and Physical Education Department
Arts High School Courses and Programs / Majors
- Instrumental Music (Strings, Brass, Percussion, Woodwinds)
- Vocal Music and Choral Studies
- Ballet, Modern, and Jazz Dance
- Acting and Dramatic Performance
- Visual Arts (Drawing, Painting, Sculpture)
- Digital Media and Photography
- Creative Writing and Poetry
- Film and Video Production
- Technical Theater and Stagecraft
- Art History and Criticism
- College Preparatory Core Curriculum
Online Learning
Arts High School offers select online learning opportunities for students who require flexible learning arrangements or wish to supplement their academic or artistic coursework. Through its digital education platform, students can access core subjects, virtual studio sessions, and arts appreciation modules. These online courses maintain the same academic rigor and creative engagement as in-person classes. Instructors utilize virtual rehearsals, critiques, and project submissions to ensure continued artistic growth. The program provides an alternative for students pursuing performances, competitions, or external internships while keeping them academically on track.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average Score |
|---|---|
| SAT | 1130 |
| ACT | 23 |
| State Assessment (ELA) | 85th Percentile |
| State Assessment (Math) | 80th Percentile |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Arts High School maintains a retention rate of 95% and a graduation rate of 98%, among the highest within the Newark Public Schools system. These figures reflect the school’s strong academic support, faculty mentorship, and student engagement in both academic and artistic pursuits. The majority of graduates continue their education at top universities and conservatories such as Juilliard, NYU Tisch School of the Arts, Rutgers University, and the School of Visual Arts.
Arts High School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Admission to Arts High School is competitive, requiring a strong academic record and demonstrated artistic talent. The average GPA range for accepted students is between 3.2 and 4.0. While SAT and ACT scores are not required for admission, they are often considered for college-bound seniors, with typical student averages being SAT 1130 and ACT 23.
Arts High School Acceptance Rate
| Admission Type | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| Overall | 20% |
| Music Department | 18% |
| Visual Arts Department | 22% |
| Dance Department | 15% |
| Theater and Film | 19% |
Arts High School Application Requirements
Applicants must submit a completed application form, academic transcripts, and teacher recommendations. The most important part of the admissions process is the audition or portfolio review, which evaluates the student’s artistic ability, creativity, and potential for growth. Each department has specific requirements — for example, music applicants perform a prepared piece, while visual artists present a portfolio of recent work. Students must also write a short essay describing their passion for the arts and their personal goals.
Application Process
- Complete the online or printed application form
- Submit transcripts and recommendation letters
- Upload or present an art portfolio or audition video
- Attend an in-person audition/interview
- Receive notification of acceptance
- Confirm enrollment and attend orientation
Arts High School Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | November 1 |
| Application Deadline | January 31 |
| Audition Week | February 10–20 |
| Decision Notification | March 15 |
| Enrollment Confirmation | April 1 |
Essay Prompt
Applicants must write an essay on the topic: “How has art influenced your life and shaped your dreams?” The essay should highlight personal experiences, creative inspirations, and how attending Arts High School will help the student grow as an artist and scholar.
Arts High School Scholarships
Arts High School offers various scholarships and financial support programs through the Newark Public Schools system, private sponsors, and alumni donors. These include merit-based awards for artistic excellence, leadership scholarships, and need-based tuition assistance for families facing financial hardship. Students may also qualify for grants to attend national arts workshops, competitions, or summer conservatories.
Arts High School Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | Free (Public Magnet School) |
| Registration Fee | $50 |
| Art Supplies and Materials | $300–$600 (depending on department) |
| Field Trips and Performances | $100–$200 |
| Uniforms (Dance/Theater) | $150–$250 |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics (Gender, Age, Race/Ethnicity)
Arts High School serves a diverse community of students between the ages of 14 and 18. The gender distribution is approximately 60% female and 40% male. The racial and ethnic composition reflects Newark’s cultural diversity, with 45% African American, 35% Hispanic, 10% White, 7% Asian, and 3% multiracial students. This diversity enriches the learning environment and encourages cross-cultural artistic collaboration.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Approximately 65% of students come from low-income households, and the school actively provides financial support and free meal programs to ensure accessibility and inclusion. Arts High School also offers special education resources and individualized education programs (IEPs) for students with learning disabilities or physical challenges, allowing every student to participate fully in both academic and artistic activities.
Student Body
| Category | Data |
|---|---|
| Total Enrollment | 600 students |
| Average Class Size | 18 |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | 12:1 |
| Low-Income Students | 65% |
| Students with Disabilities | 10% |
University Diversity
Arts High School stands out for its commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity. Students from varied cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds come together to share artistic traditions and perspectives. The school’s programs celebrate multicultural expression through annual showcases, performances, and exhibitions that highlight global artistic influences. This diversity not only strengthens artistic creativity but also fosters empathy and unity among students, preparing them to contribute meaningfully to an increasingly interconnected world.
Average Earnings
While Arts High School is not a post-secondary institution, its graduates often pursue higher education and careers in creative industries. Alumni frequently attend prestigious art and music schools and later find success as professional artists, performers, educators, and creative entrepreneurs. Many report higher-than-average earnings in fields such as media production, performing arts, design, and education, attributing their professional confidence and success to the rigorous artistic and academic foundation built at Arts High School.
Arts High School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Arts High School is staffed by a team of experienced educators, artists, and administrators dedicated to academic and artistic excellence. Many teachers hold advanced degrees and professional experience in their respective disciplines, bringing real-world expertise into the classroom. The administrative team focuses on maintaining a supportive environment that balances discipline, creativity, and mentorship. Faculty regularly participate in workshops, exhibitions, and performances to stay current in their fields.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty members include accomplished visual artists, professional musicians, published writers, choreographers, and theater directors. Many have received awards from state arts councils, academic organizations, and national arts associations. Their achievements inspire students and reflect the school’s high standard of artistic and academic integrity.
Arts High School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Arts High School’s campus includes state-of-the-art art studios, performance theaters, dance studios, and digital media labs. The school also features a recording studio, black box theater, and gallery space where students regularly exhibit their work. While the school does not provide housing, its vibrant extracurricular life includes music ensembles, theater productions, art exhibitions, and student-run clubs. These experiences foster collaboration and community among students who share a passion for the arts.
Transportation
The school is centrally located in Newark and easily accessible by public transportation, including buses and NJ Transit trains. Many students commute from neighboring cities, and the school assists with transportation coordination when needed. Secure drop-off and pick-up zones are available, ensuring a safe and convenient experience for students and families.