San Francisco High School of the Arts’ aspiring artists cultivate the character and skills necessary for lifelong learning, independent thought, and creative exploration.
Parsons School of Design ∙ Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) ∙ Pratt Institute ∙ School of Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) ∙ ArtCenter College of Design ∙ Maryland Institute College of Arts (MICA)
Arts Programs
Artistic training is at the core of intellectual and character development for all our students. In a structured environment, afternoon hours are almost entirely dedicated to the arts as each student explores in an artistic discipline of his/her own choosing. Whether it be ballet, Chinese dance, music, or visual arts, students explore their passions and strive for excellence, as they develop essential inner qualities of focus, resilience, self-mastery and teamwork.
In our pre-professional ballet program, students train in the Vaganova method. Our classes include Classical Ballet, Pointe, Character & Historical Court Dance, and Performance, drawing from a variety of international styles and folkloric traditions.
Originating in the ancient imperial courts, classical Chinese dance has developed through the ages, into one of the most comprehensive dance systems in the world. The true beauty of Chinese dance embodies the depths of China’s rich cultural history.
The pre-professional music program integrates seamlessly into the outstanding academic environment. Being rooted in classical music, the curriculum comprises of high-level private and ensemble lessons, as well as music theory and composition.
With a focus on solid foundational skill-building, students become well-equipped for professional accomplishment in digital composition, architecture, and other visual arts-related fields. Many High School of the Arts graduates have been accepted into fine arts universities that dominate global rankings.
The theatre curriculum prepares passionate students for university and pre-professional training in acting, writing and directing for stage and film in the 21st century.
Enhance your vocal range through technique training with effective exercises in our comprehensive vocal program.
A great way to get your feet wet in video production and editing, animation, videography, and screenwriting.
- Arts Department Faculty
Our dedicated instructors are highly qualified and committed to helping students achieve their individual artistic goals. Having worked with top artists and companies in their own respective fields, each faculty member brings a unique set of real-to-life experiences to students undertaking the pre-professional curriculum.
UC Berkeley ∙ UCLA ∙ University of Michigan in Ann Arbor ∙ UC Santa Barbara ∙ UC Irvine ∙ UC Davis ∙ New York University ∙ UC San Diego
Academic Programs
Our accelerated academic program caters for middle school and high school students from grades 6 to 12. The curriculum emphasizes five core areas of study: English, Social Studies, Math, Sciences, and Chinese language. Small class sizes facilitate a seminar-style engagement in the humanities, while independent study is available in all high school subjects. Our low student-faculty ratio enhances individualized attention and integrated academic support.
English
Our English program primarily focuses on Western classics. Through activities that enhance core language skills as well as critical thinking and analysis, students discover the merits and inspirations of traditional values. Students also explore their creative writing skills with interdisciplinary activities such as play-writing and media projects.
Mathematics
Math comes from daily life. We encourage students to learn by investigation and become creative problem solvers in real-to-life mathematical scenarios. Classes in lower grade-levels incorporate foundational skills in algebra and strategic reasoning. Upper-grade levels explore advanced areas of math and their real-world applications.
Science
We emphasize application of scientific concepts through experimentation and guided research. By harnessing a scientific attitude in exploring the world around them, students develop an acute awareness of current scientific issues. Through informed discussions and scientific research, students build on essential skills in inquiry and communication.
Social Studies
As well as fundamental understanding of historical events, the history curriculum facilitates in-depth development of skills in chronological and spatial thinking, historical research and interpretation, academic literacy and writing, as well as interdisciplinary learning.
Chinese Language
The Chinese language program caters to a wide range of language abilities from true beginners to advanced readers and writers. While building on core language skills, students grasp the essence of Chinese culture via lessons on historical characters and events. Our curriculum enables all students to pass the AP Chinese exam before graduation.
AP Courses
Students looking to further their academic horizon have the opportunity to explore a wide range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses approved by the College Board.
- Academic Department Faculty
Many of our faculty have 20+ years of teaching experience and hold graduate degrees from prestigious universities in the US and abroad. With a student-centered instructional approach, teachers are committed to facilitating a successful learning experience for students from a range of academic backgrounds.
- Voices of parents and alumni