Las Vegas Academy of the Arts Performing Arts Center — Attraction in Las Vegas

Back in 2019, my daughter was accepted at this high school. Initially, I was a little skeptical of the location of this high school (downtown by Fremont Street), and how old the buildings were (although historic). Four years later, it appeared that I had nothing to worry about since she graduated safely and honorably.

The school hours are slightly different (earlier) than majority of Clark County School District (CCSD) schools, which was a little challenging to get used to at first; however, we managed and it helped that the bus service covered the far Northwest part of the city.

I know that these types of schools are unique, but it was rather shocking to see how much money parents/guardians/students have to put in to attend this school. I am especially surprised how this school doesn't get more money from the state to help offset some of the major expenses. I don't know what the going rate is these days in CCSD high schools, but we paid ~$2K out of pocket for our daughter to attend this school (this includes everything from the annual Parent Fund Agreement to miscellaneous expenses/field trips, all the way to senior pictures). This may not be difficult for some, nor was it difficult for us, but I do feel bad for some who have a difficult time to pay for some of the expenses.

Communications was decent for the most part. Between receiving emails, texts, and automated calls, I felt that we were adequately notified on key events/issues. There were a few incidents where the response rate from certain faculty members were either slower or non existent which was very frustrating, but at the end of the day, we found other ways to get our answers and my daughter still graduated.

I know this school, along with other schools in CCSD will always get complaints/negative comments from parents, guardians, and students because that's the type of world we live in (can't make everyone happy), I still recommend this school to folks interested in art programs. It is definitely a good (validated) stepping stone towards a promising college/professional art career. If you don't want to pursue the art path, then you should consider attending the school in your district to help save money. My daughter is majoring in something different for college this Fall, compared to what she majored in high school...but given the chance to do it again, she probably would still attend this school even though we don't live close to it.

And finally, of noteworthy significance, I wanted to give a special shout out to the following faculty members due to their outstanding teaching tactics; their exceptional personalities and professionalism (whether talking about food, Marvel, Star Wars, families, hobbies, etc), and being overall good humans with a positive attitude and profound values. These folks are: Taglienti, Mutzhaus, Bradbury, Anderson (Dawn), Jeffery (Ann), and Delgado (Natalie). Note: These names are not in any specific order and apologies if the names are misspelled. Thank you, LVA for the...

With their mix of first-rate Scholastics including the multitude of AP classes and honors classes- the historical significance, the size and scope of the campus, the unparalleled offering of Arts in the country including musicianship and Theory, Theater and acting, vocals and a myriad of dance!

Las Vegas Academy is truly the Excellence of Nevada- in which your child will receive the finest in science and Mathematics and engineering but also possibly the most advanced and recognized Arts High School in the nation.

Las Vegas Academy of the Arts has been recognized internationally and has won numerous Grammy's and other Awards For music and Theatre.

Recognized as one of the very top guitar and piano schools in the country but also recognized as having some of the most challenging and rewarding of Academia as well.

LVA is not easy and kids must pass their audition to be accepted in, but if they do and if they persevere especially throughout those first couple years - they will be rewarded (and awarded, scholarships) with colleges clamoring for their attendance and a future where...

LVA has wonderful Academic teachers and courses all of which help you better prepare for college due to serious deadlines, detailed assignments and college based academic plans. Not to mention, an abundance of AP classes such as AP Psychology and AP Human Geography. The teachers really do want you to succeed and are understanding in all aspects of your educational and home life. LVA's music and art programs are outstanding, and top-of-the-line with an innumerable amount of opportunities like performing at the Smith Center, The Rio and out-of-state travel. However; procrastination and lack of motivation to complete assignments and follow up with majors, will put you into to a state of tremendous stress and potentially put you on academic probation. This school can wear you out and put you on financial struggles (but they do have in-major scholarships and fundraising opportunities to prevent this) but it is still a wonderful, special and unbeatable school. If you think you have what it takes to be an LVA candidate, then go for it; you'll appreciate all it has to offer (except the...