Visual and Performing Arts (VPA)
Grades: Pre-K–12 Zones: 1–4
At Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS), our Visual and Performing Arts (VPA) schools enable students to explore a robust offering of fine arts classes, some of which may include general music, instrumental music, art, digital media, dance, physical education, and theater. Students have the opportunity to express themselves in a variety of ways with the goal being to promote the development of critical thinking skills through cross-disciplinary and integrated academic and arts experiences.
Curriculum Focuses
- Talent development in the arts
- Creative expression
What to Expect
- Students will have access to expanded arts offerings which may include general music, instrumental music, visual art, dance, theater, and digital media.
- Curriculum in some classes is developed through the lens of arts integration which allows the students to connect to academic standards through creative expression.
- Students will have the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of performances, some of which might include concerts, recitals, plays, and musicals.
An In-Depth Look: Visual and Performing Arts
The VPA educational model is designed to foster and develop the talents of students in the arts as well as enhance the general education curriculum through arts integration in reading, social studies, math, and science, to name a few. Educators from a variety of disciplines will plan out experiences where students master academic standards through the integration of core subjects and the arts. Arts are not a supplement to the curriculum, but rather work together with core studies to strengthen one another.
IPS Schools with Visual and Performing Arts Programming
| Zone | Grade Band | School |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 | Pre-K–5 | James Whitcomb Riley School 43* |
| Zone 2 | Pre-K–5 | James Whitcomb Riley School 43* |
| Zone 3 | K–8 | Edison School of the Arts 47 |
| Zone 4 | K–8 |
Edison School of the Arts 47 |
Note: Shortridge High School offers students the opportunity to continue studies in a Visual and Performing Arts pathway. All IPS direct-managed high schools offer VPA electives.