The High School for the Performing and Visual Arts has been designated a 2013-2015 Exemplary School by Arts Schools Network, the nation’s largest professional membership organization of specialized art schools.

The designation signifies that HSPVA has successfully completed a self-evaluation in the areas of strengths, areas for improvement, consistency with school-wide or program purpose, aspirations, and future challenges.

“The mission of this unique school is to educate and inspire artistically gifted and talented students in specific disciplines while maintaining an equal focus on academic, social, and personal growth in a diverse environment,” the Arts School Network said in a news release.

HSPVA, which opened in 1971, offers programs in visual arts, theatre, vocal music, instrumental music, dance and creative writing. Nearly every student pursues further education at the college or conservatory level.

“Curiosity and creativity at HSPVA have become as natural as breathing for both our faculty and students,” Principal R. Scott Allen said. “The people who enter the doors of our school quickly learn there are no easy solutions to complex problems, but determination will always prevail.”

HSPVA has more Presidential Scholars in the arts than any other school in the nation and has been ranked as an exemplary school by the Texas Education Agency.