HISD’s High School for the Performing and Visual Arts has been designated a 2017–2019 Exemplary School by Arts Schools Network, the nation’s largest professional membership organization of specialized arts schools.

The Exemplary School designation is presented to Arts Schools Network member schools that follow the ASN Principles of Exemplary Practice in strategically evaluating the school’s purpose, operations, and educational programs. ASN will honor HSPVA at the ASN 2017 Annual Conference in the Twin Cities, Minnesota on Oct. 25. 

“We are thrilled to once again be designated as an Arts Schools Network Exemplary School. The tradition of excellence in both the arts and the academics at HSPVA is validated by this recognition,” Principal R. Scott Allen said.

Since its inception in 1971, HSPVA has been a model for subsequent magnet schools throughout the United States and abroad. HSPVA is an inner-city, public high school for grades 9-12. It is a diverse community of approximately 750 students, representing a wide range of socioeconomic backgrounds. The school is noteworthy among educational institutions in that students are selected for admission by auditioning in the disciplines of creative writing, theatre, dance, instrumental music, vocal music, and visual art.