Baltimore School for the Arts High

The BSA is a great place to spend your high school years. It was better than your average city public school, there we were able to meet an assortment of students that we would have never otherwise crossed paths with. It was an eye opening experience that enabled growth beyond what would have been possible at a regular public school. I would recommend this place for any student, TWIGS program and all.
—Submitted by Ayanna, a former student

I am a student at the Baltimore School for the Arts (BSA). I am a clarinetist in the music department. BSA is a place that I can come to learn and hang out with all of my great friends. This is a place I call a home away from home because I have been at BSA for 6 years because I was in the TWIGS program. The teachers are always nice to the students and ready to teach us something. I love BSA and only 2 more years until graduation. BSA rocks.
—Submitted by a student

This is a wonderful place to spend your high school years, but it is not by any means an easy ride. Students carry a double major (academics and art form). School starts at 8:30 and ends at 4:10 and beyond. My son is a senior theatre student and he really likes it. He is with the same group of kids in his theatre ensemble that he started with as a freshman in 2002. The director of the theatre department, Donald Hicken is the best. He and the primary acting teacher, Richard Pilcher, have been with BSFA since the beginning (about 25 years ago). I would recommend auditioning to any child with a special talent in the arts. It is an exceptional school, in every respect.
—Submitted by Joyce, a parent

I LOVE BSA! I know this is for parents, but I'm a senior at the Baltimore School for the Arts, and this school has changed my life. Before BSA, I'd never gotten up in the morning and been excited to see what I'd be learning in school. The academics are pretty good, but I like to be challenged, so sometimes I find that the classes move a little slow, but there is AP English, AP French and Calculus offered, so that provides some more rigor if you're looking for it. There are no sports at BSA, but I started up a little after-school soccer thing so anyone who wants can come out and get some exercise. Parents are very involved in the school. They attend performances, help fundraise, etc. My acceptance to BSA is the best thing that has ever happened to me so far.
—Submitted by Savannah, a student

I am a musician who is looking for a great school of art. Well, I found it. There is no other school in the country that offers this much music in one day. 20 hours a week on music and 20 hours a week on academics. Baltimore School for the Arts truly is the best art school. You will never find one like this in the entire state. Maybe not even it the entire country. This school has unique students as well. Everyone is like a family. We laugh and joke together all of time; what makes it even better is that we can discuss our music to each other and actually know what the other person is talking about. This school is one of a kind. If you are looking for an arts school to go to, Baltimore School for the Arts is definatly the one. -Jeremy Conte (freshman student 2005)
—Submitted by Rusty Conte, a student

Our daughter graduated in music and attends a major conservatory. She had good preparation in her instrument, but the experience with a diverse and wonderful group of kids gave her an extra 'real world' boost most of her peers in college haven't had. We are fortunate that we have resources to have sent her anywhere -- but we'd BFSA all over again. The humanities are a strength -- kudos to Dr. Casey, Mr. Moore, Mrs. Knight, and the other dedicated teachers.
—Submitted by a parent

This is a quality school. There is a strict entrance audition and only the best are accepted to this school. Here, your child will be able to develop their talent under the instruction of some of the best in the trade. Many of the instructor are currently performing. Your child will continue to be encouraged to grow and develop in their area of talent through showcases, performances and recitles. Many of the students and graduates have gone on to become well known stars (Jada Pinkett, Tupac Shakur, Andrew Grahms, Larry Gilliard, just to name a few). BSFA also aids in career advancement. Give your child the very best!
—Submitted by a parent