1
1

Is SLArts for You?

Getting to Know Us

Is Salt Lake Arts Academy the right fit for your child? 

Every child is different, and we want every family to choose SLArts knowing exactly what to expect. Here's what life at SLArts looks like and how to find out if it's right for your family.

Who thrives at SLArts

Students thrive at SLArts, with our support, when they have the foundational skills that show they're ready for middle school and a strong love of the arts.

A student might be a great fit if:

  • They enjoy learning how to create, perform, draw, write, design, or build.
  • They're ready to take on more responsibility for their own learning.
  • They're curious and like sharing their ideas.
  • They want to be known in a small, close-knit community.
  • They're ready to try new things, even outside their comfort zone.
  • They'd enjoy learning alongside kids from all over the valley. 

The big jump to middle school

Middle school is a big change, and it's normal for it to feel like one. At SLArts, students:

  • Change classes throughout the day
  • Navigate busy hallways (loud, but fun!)
  • Adjust to new and changing schedules

Already in middle school?

Some students realize partway through 6th or 7th grade that they need a smaller, more creative, more connected environment. We welcome students into grades 6–8 as seats open. Simply apply for the lottery!



What we expect from students


We support students every step of the way, and we ask them to:

Keep things organized. Track assignments, materials, and deadlines across several classes.

Own their learning. Speak up, ask for help, and take responsibility for their work.

Bring a growth mindset. Mistakes are part of learning, and trying something new is how students grow.


What students can expect from SLArts

heart icon
No arts experience needed

SLArts is open to every student by lottery. Kids who have never danced, acted, painted, or played an instrument fit right in; what matters most is a love of the arts and a willingness to try.

Drama masks icon
The arts, every day

Every student has at least an hour of arts instruction each day, taught by five full-time arts educators, and the arts are woven into Math, Science, and Humanities too. 

School icon
A school built for grades 5–8

About 100 students per grade who navigate the critical years of middle school and move on well-prepared for high school and beyond.

Book icon
Students who own their learning.

With the guidance of teachers, every student builds a digital portfolio and participates in a student-led conference each spring. 

Downtown buildings
A downtown campus.

Families from over 40 zip codes attend SLArts. Students explore downtown Salt Lake using public transportation and experience the city.

atom icon
Core class creativity

Math, Science, and Humanities use creativity as a tool to make learning hands-on and memorable. Students design experiments, build projects, and can stretch themselves with PEAK projects, which all leads up to Teton Science School in 8th grade.


SLArts prepared me for many things, but mostly how to work with people and take care of myself.

Abigail Van Blarcom, SLArts alum,
who went on to attend University of Michigan

Lorem Ipsum

A day in the life

Typical day for SLArts students.

Day at a glance

5th Grade

Project

6th-8th grade slide

6th-8th Grade

Project

Visit / Tour

Visit us!

The best way to know if SLArts is right for your family is to see it for yourself. Attend an Information Night or come for a school tour.

Ready to apply? 
SLArts is tuition-free, 
and enrollment is by lottery.

Enroll Now