High School Academics
HSArts offers a rigorous and high quality academic education that promotes active learning. Through an integrated curriculum in the humanities, science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), and Chinese, HSArts students achieve academic and artistic excellence over a four year period from 9th through 12th grades.
“The school was the perfect fit for my two children as I strongly believe in the values of building good character.”
— Parent
High School Academics
San Francisco High School of the Arts’ curriculum is approved by the University of California’s A-G program. In addition, 20 Advanced Placement (AP) courses approved by the College Board, as well as 14 UC-approved honors level courses give students access to intellectually challenging coursework.
All courses offered in the major disciplines meet or exceed California’s state standards and prepare students for studies at highly selective colleges. AP and Honors courses are offered in English, History, Math, the Sciences and Chinese.
A Supportive Environment
Our close-knit community encourages students to love learning, motivating them to take the lead in their academic growth. Our small class sizes allow our dedicated instructors to give students the individualized attention they deserve. We recognize that students learn differently. Click here for more information.[update the link!]
Arts and Academics Synergized
Research proves that young adults who train in the traditional arts build character as well as improve their academic learning capabilities. Through the mastery of the arts, our students learn focus and self-discipline, naturally developing strong study habits that enhance academic efficiency.
SF High School of the Arts is AMAZING. The teacher and staff dedication is beyond par. They really do care about the children as a whole and take action when needed. Most schools our children have been to “talk about” their values a lot. SF High School of the Arts does. And it makes a world of difference. Highly recommend.”
–8th grade parent
Middle School Academics
If you are looking for a warm, positive and supportive school where you can explore both the arts and academics fields, the San Francisco High School of the Arts is the place for you. You will receive a well-rounded education that builds your confidence, self-esteem and your scholastic skills to prepare you for any challenges that lie ahead.
COUNSELING
DR. SHALINA FUNG
Dr. Fung has many years of experience working with education leaders and college admission directors. She has organized many college fairs, and has worked as the Chief Editor for a Chinese educational magazine. Dr. Fung has completed the Certificate Program in College Admission and Career Planning through UC Berkeley, where she also received her Bachelor’s degree in Molecular Cell Biology. She holds a Doctorate of Pharmacy from the University of Southern California.
High School College Counseling
The College Counseling Program is designed to help each student gain deeper self-awareness of their individual strengths and weaknesses, and identify the career path and college choice that is right for them. From freshman through senior year, school counselors will closely guide each student in preparation for college and the application process. In addition to accruing expert advice on building résumés and artistic portfolios, students will gain valuable experiences participating in performances and extracurricular activities, giving them a unique edge in competitive interviews and auditions.
Upon entering 9th grade, each student customizes his or her individual four-year graduation plan with the school’s college counselor. The plan typically incorporates the four-year course and credit completion schedule, an outline of extracurricular activities, advice on participation in summer programs based on individual interest, standardized test selection, as well as college application guidance. The plan is revisited on a regular basis throughout the student’s high school career, in order to ensure the student is on track to successfully accomplishing his or her highest academic goals.
Every year, High School of the Arts organizes field trips for high school students that include visits to well-known universities in the region such as U.C. Berkeley and Stanford University. Students will get a firsthand look of the college environment and learn how to create successful college applications through the mentorship of university admissions personnel.
College Acceptances
100% of High School of the Arts graduates are consistently accepted by their first-choice colleges and universities. We have a 100% acceptance rate at fine arts colleges, in the US and abroad.
Colleges and universities that have accepted our HSArts graduates:
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) • UC Berkeley • UCLA • University of Michigan in Ann Arbor • UC Santa Barbara • UC Irvine • UC Davis • New York University • UC San Diego • University of British Columbia • Purdue University • Rutgers University • American University • George Washington University
High School Graduation Requirements
As a high caliber arts institution, HSArts offers rigorous pre-professional arts training alongside college preparatory academic classes. Our graduation requirements meet and exceed admission guidelines for the University of California and California State University systems, and align to California Department of Education’s state standards. Expanding on the University of California’s A-G requirements prepares HSArts graduates for college-level study at prestigious universities worldwide.
Standardized Tests
► Students participate in annual standardized testing in grades 6 through 10.
► 11th and 12th graders are encouraged to take the ACT and the SAT for college admission.
► High schoolers have the option of taking Advanced Placement (AP) and/or honors-level courses, depending on their postsecondary aspirations.
Community Engagement
Every year, students are required to complete a minimum of 20 community service volunteer hours. As part of HSArts graduation requirements, students are required to submit documentation which includes approval forms and a log of completed volunteer hours.
Credit requirements
To earn an HSArts high-school diploma, students must complete a minimum of 26.5 credits, distributed across the curriculum. They must also verify completion of HSArts-specific requirements, including documentation of completion of annual 20 volunteer hours. Additional Advanced Placement (AP) and/or honors-level courses are optional.
Below is an outline of the minimum recommended credit requirements, where each credit denotes a year-long course:
| Subject | Minimum Credits | Recommended Credits |
|---|---|---|
|
English |
4 (1 ESL credit acceptable) |
4 (1 ESL credit acceptable) |
|
Mathematics |
3* (Algebra I credit from 7th/8th grade acceptable) |
4* (Algebra I credit from 7th/8th grade acceptable) |
|
History |
3† |
4† |
|
Lab Sciences |
2 |
3 |
|
Foreign Language |
2 |
3 |
|
Arts‡ |
9 |
12 |
|
Electives§ |
1 |
1 |
|
Physical Education |
2 |
2 |
|
Leadership |
0.5 |
0.5 |
|
Total Credits |
26.5 |
33.5 |