The School for Creative & Performing Arts

As an art school, SCPA is outstanding! It is mind-boggling how far advanced art students are upon graduation. THAT SAID, I would rate the academics only mediocre at best. The students are not challenged and expectations are low, particularly for the high school level. There are a few gems in the teaching staff but my children had several teachers who uninspiring at best. I have another child who attended a high performing academic school so I could easily see the difference. Art students also deserve a high quality academic education. We should expect both.
--Submitted by a parent

What I don't like is children getting picked on and then getting the blame for when they yell out because it hurts (when the other individual stomps their hands, or whatever). However, that child will not speak up for fear of making things worse on themselves. This has been going on for sometime. And, I'm sorry but I have to call it reverse racism. The child in question does not call it that and refuses to be a racist or have anyone around to be that way. I am very proud of her for her beliefs and she is only 9 years old. I know that she works very very hard for her grades and got her first F ever which broke her heart and caused her to be grounded indefinitely but gets no help from her daddy, so that makes it hard on her too. She's had a tough life but doesn't complain and is full of love for others if you get to know her. I believe five hours of homework is an awful lot for a fourth grader which is what she has almost daily. However, I do know that you all are an excellent school and hope all works out for her. A very concerned grandmother Cincyflash15

They teach the arts to children expanding the bounds of the imagination.

It's a school were kids can be more than just brains, they can be whole people.
--Submitted by a parent

Excellent art program, art teachers who care.
--Submitted by a parent

nurtures artistic talents and academics under same roof during school hours
--Submitted by a parent

best curriculum, best teachers, best magnet program.
--Submitted by a parent

I attended SCPA 7th-12th grade. It is an excellent school with terrific programs. The student body is very accepting of all persons and the school helps to foster creativity and proffesionalism. Both skills vital to all careers not just in the arts. Also SCPA has very good academics to go along side the arts.
--Submitted by a student

Funding is a big problem for this school. Until they get a new school one needs to be accepting of the somewhat shoddy facilities. Performances are awesome. Student body is accepting of individuality. Most of the teachers are excellent but as anywhere there are a few that shouldn't be teaching. Students must audition to gain acceptance, but as the school receives much needed funding based solely on student enrollment, they are not entirely selective and take most applicants regardless of talent. There were 3 different principals there during my child's four years of attendance. More parents need to step up and help. Elementary (through 8th) dismissal time is late and most kids don't get home till almost 5. This is a Cincinnati public school, free to all who reside in the city but open to others with tuition. Interview arts teachers and really find out what they are about!
--Submitted by a parent

I attended SCPA from the 7th grade through the 12th. I really enjoyed it. The dance program was great. Though I did not continue dancing as a career, I really enjoyed it. I plan on sending my children there when they are old enough.
--Submitted by a former student