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GreatSchools Rating

Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy

Public | 6-12 | 639 students

We are best known for exemplary students & programs.
Last modified
Community Rating

4 stars

Community Rating by Year
2013:
No new ratings
2012:
No new ratings
2011:
Based on 3 ratings
2010:
Based on 4 ratings

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17 reviews of this school


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Posted August 3, 2011

As a former SASA student, now college graduated, I can honestly say that SASA was the single largest reason for my success, aside from my family. My teachers taught me that my ideas and opinions wmqttered and were valid (as long as I could succinctly defend them with appropriate evidence), and that has translated well into my workplace success. Thanks to the diverse student body, I am comfortable working with others of any culture or race, and I value those differences that make my world richer. SASA is an awesome place -- take advantage of it if you can.


Posted May 30, 2011

SASA has long had a tradition of excellence, but I feel that (as a former student), the programs here have largely suffered as of late. Once boasting a stellar curriculum, the extremely small middle school/high school combination focuses more on the arts than sciences, and has lost many students studying sciences. The class choices are minimal, the student body is small, and the sports programs are nearly nonexistant.


Posted January 10, 2011

SASA is a great school educationally wise. If you are an eighth grader you would be able to go to Washington d.c. for a week and in high school you could go to Chicago, and japan. SASA really is a good school and even though they don't have a wide variety of sports overall it is great. HIGH CLASS SCHOOL NOTHING BUT THE BEST! p.s. I am a student


Posted November 15, 2010

SASA offers excellent opportunities to enrich your high school curriculum. Many students take advanced classes within the school, online, or in dual enrolled classes. SASA has prepared my student well to compete for college admissions and scholarships.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted October 5, 2010

I see some good and not so good at SASA. I see the potential for favoritism among students based on parent donations. I also see disorganization in discipline sometimes things are enforced and sometimes not. Depending on the mood of the teacher/staff. I see arogance run rampant. I would like to see a bit more humility in the staff and students.


Posted May 29, 2010

My 12 Year Old Daughter goes here. The Staff is Great, very friendly & understanding. They're devoted to the Students & Offer great teacher efforts. This is a School that You would love to go to yourself. They are doing a lot to improve the school as a whole & it's all worth it. Safe & the learning experience is what you would want and need your child to get.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted February 23, 2010

Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy (SASA) is a gifted and talented 'magnet' public school which serves grades 6-12. Everyone from teachers to students to parents at SASA wants to be there. The teachers aren't afraid of working with high performing students. SASA students like to solve problems, read books, learn new things. Families are a part of it as well, to get their child to a practice, club or competition, or if they live out of district like so many do, drive their children to school daily. At SASA, it is cool to be a smart kid, to read and love books. SASA is also good if your talent is more 'artsy' such as performing or visual arts. SASA students win many contests and awards including writing and math contests, science and art fairs, music competitions.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted February 23, 2010

At SASA the student is priority number 1. Whether your student is interested in academic or artistic pursuits, this school can provide the best environment to meet your students needs. For five years my daughter has studied at SASA and every year we see her grow in academics, athletics and socially. While athletics has never been the schools priority, SASA recognizes the need for students to express themselves in many and varied ways. Students can tailor afterschool activities to their own desires and the school is open to facilitating almost any experience. Parent involvement is welcome and encouraged. I am looking forward to the expansion of the school with the new gym and auditorium. SASA is on the rise and SASA students are leading the way to their, and Saginaw's, future.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted October 26, 2009

A great school with so many traveling opportunities provided for our kids- not only virtual field trips, but the real deal. We look forward to our daughter going to Japan in two years, and D.C. next year.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted October 12, 2009

Great school with kids of diverse background and dedicated teachers
—Submitted by a parent


Posted October 11, 2009

This is our first year at SASA. My daughter loves it. The teachers are dedicated to student success, she gets a double dose of math/science every day, and she has a diverse group of friends that are talented and nice.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted October 11, 2009

As a middle school, it offers challening curriculum and the students compete the top grades - not best in sports or best dressed! They encourage very well rounded, mature individuals who love to learn!
—Submitted by a parent


Posted October 10, 2009

SASA brings together talented students from a tri-county area. This public school boasts a breadth of talents and gifts among its students. SASA students have won national and international awards in science, language arts, music, dance, visual arts, social science. These kids are talented and committed, and the parents and staff provide great support. Go, SASA!
—Submitted by a teacher


Posted October 10, 2009

SASA is a great school. The dedication of the teaching staff always impresses me.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted April 27, 2009

The most phenomenal school in the area, SASA embraces creativity, fosters interest in the arts and provides a challenging, intellectually stimulating environment for its students. The student body is diversity in expression, and all students are honored for their unique contributions. The principal is a hands on individual who knows the many students by name, as well as by field of study. When there have been 'bumps' in the academic road of our student, her leadership and personal involvement were without parallel. A brilliant arts program, encompassing dance, theatre and music combined with cutting edge academics and newsworthy and award winning science and math programs make this school the gem of the area. Students may attend full day or a half day in their concentration. The artistic, academic and intellectual environment of this school is top notch! Kimberly Sawatzki-Jones
—Submitted by a parent


Posted November 20, 2008

The school is slated for over $10 million in facilities improvements to begin in the spring of 2009. Improvements include; a new 2-court gym, play areas in addition to a new soccer fields, glassed entryway and skylights, and a 480-seat high-performance arts auditorium are on the horizon, to be completed by late 2009 or early 2010. Kids, staff and families are really excited and all groups are providing input to the architectural planning and development. Thank you Saginaw Board of Education for your investment in our students!


Posted November 19, 2003

The brightest school in the district embodying well-rounded and hardworking children. They have shown achievements through their many career guided pathways of designated study persisting of Math/Science, Dance, Language Arts, Global Studies, Visual Arts 2D and 3D, Voice Keyboard, and Theatre. A very highley acclaimed school.
—Submitted by katherine leigh


Community ratings and reviews do not represent the views of GreatSchools nor does GreatSchools check their accuracy or verify the reviewers' identities. Use your discretion when evaluating these reviews.

About these ratings

The Community Rating is the school’s average rating from its community members (e.g., parents, students, and school staff). The highest possible rating is five stars; the lowest is one star.

The test results by subgroup show how the designated group of students is performing in comparison to the general population.
Math

The state average for Math was 40% in 2013.

102 students were tested at this school in 2013.

2013

 
 
72%

2012

 
 
49%

2011

 
 
99%

2010

 
 
100%
Reading

The state average for Reading was 68% in 2013.

102 students were tested at this school in 2013.

2013

 
 
92%

2012

 
 
92%

2011

 
 
100%

2010

 
 
100%
Social Studies

The state average for Social Studies was 30% in 2013.

102 students were tested at this school in 2013.

2013

 
 
65%

2011

 
 
98%

2010

 
 
96%
Scale: % proficient or advanced

About the tests


In 2012-2013 Michigan used the Michigan Educational Assessment Program (MEAP) to test students in grades 3 through 8 in math, reading and writing; in grades 5 and 8 in science; and in grades 6 and 9 in social studies. The MEAP is a standards-based test, which measures how well students are mastering specific skills defined for each grade by the state of Michigan. The goal is for all students to score at or above the proficient level.

Beginning in the 2011-2012 school year, the Michigan State Board of Education implemented new definitions of what it means to be proficient on the MEAP test. The new standards for proficiency are higher than in previous years and the percent of students earning a proficient score is expected to be lower as a result of this change.

See Michigan's state standards

Source: Michigan Department of Education

Math

The state average for Math was 38% in 2013.

98 students were tested at this school in 2013.

2013

 
 
75%

2012

 
 
82%

2011

 
 
99%

2010

 
 
100%
Reading

The state average for Reading was 62% in 2013.

98 students were tested at this school in 2013.

2013

 
 
90%

2012

 
 
94%

2011

 
 
100%

2010

 
 
99%
Writing

The state average for Writing was 52% in 2013.

98 students were tested at this school in 2013.

2013

 
 
87%

2011

 
 
76%
Scale: % proficient or advanced

About the tests


In 2012-2013 Michigan used the Michigan Educational Assessment Program (MEAP) to test students in grades 3 through 8 in math, reading and writing; in grades 5 and 8 in science; and in grades 6 and 9 in social studies. The MEAP is a standards-based test, which measures how well students are mastering specific skills defined for each grade by the state of Michigan. The goal is for all students to score at or above the proficient level.

Beginning in the 2011-2012 school year, the Michigan State Board of Education implemented new definitions of what it means to be proficient on the MEAP test. The new standards for proficiency are higher than in previous years and the percent of students earning a proficient score is expected to be lower as a result of this change.

See Michigan's state standards

Source: Michigan Department of Education

Math

The state average for Math was 33% in 2013.

125 students were tested at this school in 2013.

2013

 
 
80%

2012

 
 
63%

2011

 
 
99%

2010

 
 
95%
Reading

The state average for Reading was 66% in 2013.

125 students were tested at this school in 2013.

2013

 
 
98%

2012

 
 
94%

2011

 
 
97%

2010

 
 
98%
Science

The state average for Science was 16% in 2013.

125 students were tested at this school in 2013.

2013

 
 
26%

2011

 
 
96%

2010

 
 
97%
Scale: % proficient or advanced

About the tests


In 2012-2013 Michigan used the Michigan Educational Assessment Program (MEAP) to test students in grades 3 through 8 in math, reading and writing; in grades 5 and 8 in science; and in grades 6 and 9 in social studies. The MEAP is a standards-based test, which measures how well students are mastering specific skills defined for each grade by the state of Michigan. The goal is for all students to score at or above the proficient level.

Beginning in the 2011-2012 school year, the Michigan State Board of Education implemented new definitions of what it means to be proficient on the MEAP test. The new standards for proficiency are higher than in previous years and the percent of students earning a proficient score is expected to be lower as a result of this change.

See Michigan's state standards

Source: Michigan Department of Education

Social Studies

The state average for Social Studies was 29% in 2013.

84 students were tested at this school in 2013.

2013

 
 
71%

2011

 
 
96%

2010

 
 
100%
Scale: % proficient or advanced

About the tests


In 2012-2013 Michigan used the Michigan Educational Assessment Program (MEAP) to test students in grades 3 through 8 in math, reading and writing; in grades 5 and 8 in science; and in grades 6 and 9 in social studies. The MEAP is a standards-based test, which measures how well students are mastering specific skills defined for each grade by the state of Michigan. The goal is for all students to score at or above the proficient level.

Beginning in the 2011-2012 school year, the Michigan State Board of Education implemented new definitions of what it means to be proficient on the MEAP test. The new standards for proficiency are higher than in previous years and the percent of students earning a proficient score is expected to be lower as a result of this change.

See Michigan's state standards

Source: Michigan Department of Education

Math

The state average for Math was 29% in 2012.

61 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
75%

2011

 
 
94%

2010

 
 
86%

2009

 
 
91%
Reading

The state average for Reading was 56% in 2012.

61 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
89%

2011

 
 
94%

2010

 
 
97%

2009

 
 
88%
Science

The state average for Science was 26% in 2012.

61 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
64%

2011

 
 
93%

2010

 
 
86%

2009

 
 
95%
Social Studies

The state average for Social Studies was 41% in 2012.

61 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
67%

2011

 
 
99%

2010

 
 
98%

2009

 
 
98%
Writing

The state average for Writing was 49% in 2012.

61 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
85%

2011

 
 
90%

2010

 
 
85%

2009

 
 
81%
Scale: % proficient or advanced

About the tests


In 2011-2012 Michigan used the Michigan Merit Examination (MME) to assess students in grade 11 in reading, writing, math, science and social studies. The MME is a standards-based test, which measures how well students are mastering specific skills defined for each grade by the state of Michigan. The goal is for all students to score at or above the state standard.

Beginning in the 2011-2012 school year, the Michigan State Board of Education implemented new definitions of what it means to be proficient on the MME test. The new standards for proficiency are higher than in previous years and the percent of students earning a proficient score is expected to be lower as a result of this change.

See Michigan's state standards

Source: Michigan Department of Education

Reading

2012

 
 
n/a
Scale: % proficient or advanced

About the tests


In 2011-2012 Michigan used the Michigan Merit Examination (MME) to assess students in grade 11 in reading, writing, math, science and social studies. The MME is a standards-based test, which measures how well students are mastering specific skills defined for each grade by the state of Michigan. The goal is for all students to score at or above the state standard.

Beginning in the 2011-2012 school year, the Michigan State Board of Education implemented new definitions of what it means to be proficient on the MME test. The new standards for proficiency are higher than in previous years and the percent of students earning a proficient score is expected to be lower as a result of this change.

See Michigan's state standards

Source: Michigan Department of Education

Breaking down the GreatSchools Rating

GreatSchools Ratings are based on the most recent standardized test results for schools. Use the breakdown ratings below to compare types of students at this school. Learn more »


Student ethnicity

Ethnicity This school State average
White 55% 71%
Black 28% 20%
Asian/Pacific Islander 9% 3%
Hispanic 7% 5%
American Indian/Alaska Native 1% 1%
Source: NCES, 2008-2009

Student subgroups

  This school District averageState average
Students eligible for free or reduced-price lunch program 30%N/A42%
Source: NCES, 2008-2009

College readiness and student pathways

Students typically attend these schools prior to attending this school Handley Elem - Program for Gifted & Talented K-5
Saginaw Township, Bay City & Midland Schools
Various Saginaw Public Schools
Read more about resources at this school
Source: Manually entered by a school official.

Student-teacher ratio

  This school District averageState average
Students per FTE teacher 19N/A18
Source: NCES, 2008-2009

Teacher resources

Foreign languages spoken by school staff French
Japanese
Spanish
Read more about programs at this school
Source: Manually entered by a school official.

Awards

Academic awards received in the past 3 years
  • U.S.News & World Report Silver Medallion School (2009)
  • U.S.News & World Report Silver Medallion School. (2008)
  • Governor's Arts Award, MI Exemplary School, 2007 (2007)

Science, Technology, Engineering, & Math (STEM)

Specific academic themes or areas of focus
  • Mathematics

Arts & music

Visual arts
  • Ceramics
  • Painting
Music
  • Band
  • Choir / Chorus
Performing and written arts
  • Dance
  • Drama

Language learning

Foreign languages taught
  • Spanish
  • all others also as on-line
Foreign languages spoken by staff
  • French
  • Japanese
  • Spanish

Gifted & talented

Instructional and/or curriculum models used
  • Accelerated credit learning
  • Gifted / high performing
  • Honors track
School leaders can update this information here.

School basics

School start time
  • 8:05
School end time
  • 3:20
Before school or after school care / program onsite
  • After school
School Leader's name
  • Mrs. Melretha Moses-Johnson
Special schedule
  • Block scheduling
Fax number
  • (989) 399-5515

Programs

Instructional and/or curriculum models used

Don't understand these terms?
  • Accelerated credit learning
  • Gifted / high performing
  • Honors track
Specific academic themes or areas of focus

Don't understand these terms?
  • Mathematics
Foreign languages taught
  • Spanish
  • all others also as on-line

Resources

Foreign languages spoken by staff
  • French
  • Japanese
  • Spanish
School leaders can update this information here.

Sports

Boys sports
  • Basketball
  • Cross country
  • Football
  • Golf
  • Soccer
  • Swimming
  • Track
  • Volleyball
Girls sports
  • Basketball
  • Cheerleading
  • Cross country
  • Golf
  • Soccer
  • Swimming
  • Track
  • Volleyball

Arts & music

Visual arts
  • Ceramics
  • Painting
Music
  • Band
  • Choir / Chorus
Performing arts
  • Dance
  • Drama
School leaders can update this information here.

School culture

Dress Code
  • Dress code
Parent involvement
  • We have an active parent and community base of support. there is an active student-parent advisory council that meets monthly, a sasa athletic booster club, a sasa foundation committee, and a partnership with the temple theatre downtown. community service and resource sharing exists with many businesses and organizations. students can co-op with dow corning corporation, which also sponsors many activities for math/science students. our students perform at a variety of community events such as arts award ceremonies, business and service organization convocations, fundraisers and conferences. community leaders are classroom speakers, student mentors and panelists for senior projects.
More from this school
  • SASA provides parents with a safe and incredibly unique educational experience for their students. Our student population is highly diverse, both racially and culturally, but is knit together like a family across many Concentration-based learning communities. Although SASA is tuition-free, we provide a very high-quality educational program for our students emphasizing advanced and accelerated career development and preparation, extended real-world experiences, and competitive forums in which students can test their skills and gain knowledge from other students working at comparable levels.
School leaders can update this information here.

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What are your chances?

Students typically come from these schools
Handley Elem - Program for Gifted & Talented K-5
Saginaw Township, Bay City & Midland Schools
Various Saginaw Public Schools

Planning ahead

Students typically attend these schools after graduating
University of Michigan
Michigan State University
Delta College, Central MI University, Saginaw Valley State University
Notice an inaccuracy? Let us know!

200 Congress Ave
Saginaw, MI 48602
Website: Click here
Phone: (989) 399-5500

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