• Visual and Performing Arts Academy Admission Criteria
    The following factors will be considered when determining admission to the Visual and Performing Arts Academy:
    • Student participation and involvement within the selected area of focus in performing or visual arts both in and out of school
    • Grades from seventh- and eighth-grade core subjects: reading/language arts, math, science, and social studies
    • Standardized test scores in math and reading. This applies only to students with fewer than three years of enrollment in Erie's Public Schools and to students who currently attend a private school or a school outside the Erie school district. 
    • Email address for the teacher who will complete your teacher recommendation. Please choose a teacher in your primary area of focus (for example, dance, band, or art). You should let this person know ahead of time that you have chosen them as a reference.
    • Student activities, service, and awards within the visual and performing arts
    Note: School attendance and behavior issues will affect one’s acceptance to the Visual and Performing Arts Academy.
    The Visual and Performing Arts Academy admissions committee will evaluate each completed application and supporting materials. Please note that raw standardized reading and math test scores will be converted to a percentile. 
    Involvement in visual and performing arts 30 points possible (with a weighted multiplier of 2 totaling 60)
    Grades in seventh and eighth grade 29 points possible
    Standardized test scores 12 points possible
    Teacher recommendation 20 points possible
    Students in the Visual and Performing Arts Academy are required to complete 27 credits for graduation. Each student is also required to successfully complete one AP (advanced placement) course or a dual enrollment course.
    6.5 of the student’s elective courses are required to be within the visual and performing arts, preferably in the student's area of focus (such as visual art, band, dance, and so on).
    The core content curriculum is demanding and students work closely with other highly motivated students. The faculty and staff of the Visual and Performing Arts Academy are committed to providing students with a challenging and engaging high school program.