Valley Academy of Arts and Sciences
General Information
About (Overview)
The Valley Academy of Arts and Sciences (VAAS) is a public, innovative high school located in Granada Hills, California, serving grades 9 through 12. It opened in 2011 and is part of the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD). VAAS emphasizes a blended focus on arts, sciences and project-based learning, offering students a unique educational experience that integrates rigorous academic pathways with creative expressions. Its campus is designed around specialized learning communities for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics), visual and performing arts, and music programs, within a context of small-school environments to encourage close student-teacher relationships and individualized support.
The school strives to prepare students for both higher education and careers in dynamic fields by nurturing creative thinking, technological fluency and artistic competence. Its mission centers on developing well-rounded, culturally literate, technology-empowered graduates who can succeed in a changing global society and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Contact Information
- Address: 10445 Balboa Blvd., Granada Hills, CA 91344
- Phone Number: (818) 832-7750
- Email Address: (Not publicly listed)
School Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 2011 |
| Grades Served | 9-12 |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | Approximately 17 :1 |
| Enrollment (2024-25) | ~757 students |
| School Type | Public high school in LAUSD |
| Specialized Focus | Arts, Sciences, Project-Based Learning |
Valley Academy of Arts and Sciences Rankings
| Category | Rank / Status |
|---|---|
| Best Public High Schools in California | ~#274 of 574 (per Niche) |
| Best College-Prep Public High Schools CA | ~#473 of 1,449 |
| Niche Overall School Grade | B+ Overall, A in Diversity category |
Valley Academy of Arts and Sciences Academics
Valley Academy of Arts and Sciences Faculties / Departments
- English Language Arts
- Mathematics
- Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
- Social Studies (History, Government, Economics)
- Visual & Performing Arts
- Music Studies
- Technology & Engineering / STEM
- Special Education & Support Services
- Career & Technical Education (CTE)
Valley Academy of Arts and Sciences Courses and Programs / Majors
- Advanced Placement (AP) courses in various disciplines
- Gifted & Talented and Honors pathways
- Project-based learning in STEM and arts disciplines (e.g., robotics, digital media)
- Integrated arts, sciences and technology electives
- College preparatory curriculum with counseling and advising for post-secondary readiness
Online Learning
While the Valley Academy of Arts and Sciences is primarily an in-person institution, it incorporates technology-rich, blended learning strategies. Students use digital platforms for research, collaboration, and presentation of learning, and the school supports online modules, multimedia-enabled instruction and flexible scheduling options for certain courses.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average Score |
|---|---|
| SAT | ~1,050 (based on limited self-reported data) |
| ACT | ~19 (based on limited self-reported data) |
Retention and Graduation Rates
The Valley Academy of Arts and Sciences maintains a solid graduation rate around 95 %. The school’s smaller size and focused communities help support retention by enabling meaningful teacher-student relationships, targeted academic support and a culture of engagement through arts and science programs.
Valley Academy of Arts and Sciences Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
As a public high school within LAUSD, the Valley Academy of Arts and Sciences admits students based on district enrollment processes rather than selective criteria. However, successfully matriculating students typically display academic readiness with GPAs in the A-to-B range and standardized test scores aligning with the school’s average SAT and ACT levels.
Valley Academy of Arts and Sciences Acceptance Rate
| Category | Rate / Status |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | Not applicable (public school zoning/enrollment) |
Valley Academy of Arts and Sciences Application Requirements
Enrollment at the Valley Academy of Arts and Sciences follows the LAUSD district’s registration process rather than a traditional selective application. Prospective students must complete the district’s registration forms, present proof of attendance boundary or open enrollment eligibility, provide prior school records and meet standard district health/immunization requirements. The school welcomes students interested in its arts and sciences focus and encourages early outreach for transitions to the specialized programs.
Application Process
- Confirm eligibility via LAUSD attendance zone or application for open enrollment.
- Submit district registration and required documentation (residence, prior records, health/immunization data).
- Tour the school or attend information sessions to explore arts and sciences pathways.
- Receive enrollment assignment and schedule for grade 9 (or other grade).
Valley Academy of Arts and Sciences Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Typical Timing |
|---|---|
| District Enrollment Window | February – April (for following school year) |
| Information Sessions / Tours | Fall through Winter |
| New Student Orientation | Late August |
Essay Prompt
Not applicable—this school operates under public enrollment policies rather than requiring a selective essay submission.
Valley Academy of Arts and Sciences Scholarships
As a public high school, the Valley Academy of Arts and Sciences does not have school-based tuition or scholarships; however, graduating seniors may apply for external scholarships and financial support for college.
Valley Academy of Arts and Sciences Tuition and Fees
| Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Tuition | $0 (public school for residents) |
| Fees | Standard student-activity fees may apply, variable by program |
Valley Academy of Arts and Sciences Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
The Valley Academy of Arts and Sciences serves a diverse student population with an approximate 17 :1 student-teacher ratio. Racial/ethnic demographics include roughly 61% Hispanic/Latino, 16% Asian, 13% White, 6% African American, and smaller percentages of other groups. Around 71% of students receive free or reduced-price lunch, indicating a significant portion are economically disadvantaged.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
A significant portion of students at the school qualify for free or reduced-price lunch (approx. 71%), reflecting the school’s service to a varied socioeconomic population. The school also provides support services for students with disabilities and English language learners though specific percentages may vary.
Student Body
| Category | Number / Approximate |
|---|---|
| Total Enrollment (2024-25) | ~757 students |
| International Students | Not publicly specified |
University Diversity
Valley Academy of Arts and Sciences presents a richly diverse environment both culturally and socioeconomically. With a high percentage of students from underrepresented and economically challenged backgrounds, the school fosters inclusive practices and deep community engagement. The blend of Hispanic/Latino, Asian, White and other students enriches classroom dynamics, especially in interdisciplinary and arts-based learning communities. Through project-based learning, collaborative technology integration, and peer-driven initiatives, students encounter differing perspectives and develop cultural literacy alongside academic rigor.
The school values equity and creativity, seeking to empower students from varied backgrounds to succeed in STEM and arts fields where diversity is often underrepresented. This environment supports resilience, adaptability and social awareness—qualities essential for success in a multicultural society and global workforce.
Average Earnings
While secondary schools such as Valley Academy of Arts and Sciences do not typically publish alumni earnings data, the strong emphasis on college preparedness, arts and science integration and technology skills positions graduates for promising educational and career trajectories. Alumni who continue to college and enter fields such as engineering, digital media, design, education, arts or technology can expect that the combination of creative and analytical preparation will support long-term earning potential.
The school’s structure of specialized learning communities helps students cultivate both artistic talents and technical proficiencies, contributing to versatility in career paths and future earnings exceeding baseline expectations for high school graduates.
Valley Academy of Arts and Sciences Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The Valley Academy of Arts and Sciences employs a faculty committed to its integrated arts and sciences mission. With approximately a 17:1 student-teacher ratio, the staff includes specialists in STEM, arts, technology, language and support services. Faculty members lead small learning teams, advisories and cross-disciplinary projects, and the school maintains counselors and technology coaches to enhance student success.
Faculty Profiles
Teachers at Valley Academy of Arts and Sciences are recognized for delivering project-based and inquiry-driven instruction, facilitating multimedia productions, robotics teams and arts showcases. The faculty’s commitment to blended learning, student collaboration and 21st-century skills supports the school’s vision of integrated arts and science education. Many instructors hold credentials in specialized fields and contribute to student mentoring in creative and technical domains, thereby elevating student performance and engagement.
Valley Academy of Arts and Sciences Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Valley Academy of Arts and Sciences does not provide on-campus housing; it is a day school within LAUSD. The campus spans approximately 11 acres and was re-designed from a former hospital building into an adaptable, modern educational facility. It features dedicated wings for STEM, arts and music, as well as performance venues, studios, labs and shared learning spaces. Student life is enriched by arts festivals, robotics competitions, performing arts events, club fairs, signature project presentations and service-learning initiatives. These activities help build a vibrant culture of creative exploration and collaboration beyond traditional academics.
Transportation
The campus is located in Granada Hills, Los Angeles, and is accessible via major roadways and public transit routes. Students typically commute via district bus services, parent drop-off or local transit. The school organizes late-bus options and supports after-school activities with safe transportation arrangements when available. The suburban/urban location supports connected mobility for students across the region.
This detailed profile of the Valley Academy of Arts and Sciences covers its mission, academic structure, admissions process, student body, faculty and campus life—providing a comprehensive overview for prospective students, families and community stakeholders.