FAQs
The Salt Lake School for the Performing Arts(SLSPA) is a public charter high school for students who are passionate about the performing arts – Music, Dance and Theatre. The school opened Fall 2006 and was located on the campus of Highland High School. SLSPA students currently attend their academic core classes at Highland High School and their performing arts-related classes at the SLSPA campus a couple of blocks from the Highland High.
For the 2011-12 school year, SLSPA is excited to announce its new location, 2291 South 2000 East (formerly known as Rosslyn Heights Elementary). The SLSPA campus is a mere 3 minutes from Highland High school, students will be shuttled between schools via bus and certified driver, ensuring student safety and timely class arrival.
To attend SLSPA, there are no tryouts, no auditions and no tuition! The final student body is selected through open enrollment and lottery. Please explore our website for more information about our exciting school.
Mission Statement
The Salt Lake School for the Performing Arts exists to enhance and develop technique, creativity, critical thinking and discipline in each of its students.
The School promotes excellence in artistic expression, performing arts and academics to increase each student’s ability to compete professionally and to be successful in their future pursuits in institutions of higher learning.
What grades does SLSPA serve?
Grades 9-12
Is there a lottery?
Not at this time. When our admissions reach 400, a lottery will be initiated.
Are students required to pay tuition to attend SLSPA?
SLSPA is a Salt Lake District Charter School, operating as a public school, allowing all students to attend without discrimination. Only normal high school fees apply.
What is a charter school?
A non-traditional public school founded by community members, usually parents, but primarily funded by traditional public school resources.
How does SLSPA’s class and instruction offerings differ from a regular high school?
Students are in smaller classes which provide more one-on-one instruction time for each student. Curriculum is rigorous and expectations of student performance in both academics and the performing arts are high. Teachers are highly qualified professionals with a strong desire to pass on the love of concentrated hard work and excellence. Instruction received by students provides them with the education needed to either go straight into the performing arts industry or secure placement at highly-reputable colleges and universities.
Does a prospective student need to live in the boundaries of the Salt Lake School District?
No. SLSPA accepts students from all over Utah. Currently we have students coming from as far as Weber and Utah Counties.
Where is SLSPA located?
The new SLSPA Campus is located at 2291 South 2000 East, Salt Lake City, Utah- a mere 3 minutes via the SLSPA Shuttle from Highland High School. Highland High School is located at 2166 South 1700 East, Salt Lake City, Utah. Students are transported to and from the two schools.
Do students attend classes at SLSPA and Highland High School?
Yes. Core academic classes (English, Math, Science, etc.) are taught at Highland and performing arts classes take place at SLSPA.
Do students need to maintain a certain GPA to be in the school?
SLSPA strives for academic as well as performing arts excellence. Student grades are regularly monitored and, when needed, assistance is provided. Students must maintain a 2.5 cumulative SLSPA/HHS GLA and have excellent school attendance at SLSPA/HHS in order to participate in school productions and extracurricular activities.
2010 Graduating Statistics
2010 graduating class received over $480,000 in scholarship offers.
83% of our graduates, graduated with honors (3.0+)
How do I enroll?
SLSPA has open admissions at this time. Please see our "Home" Page for Registration Dates so you can enroll and secure your place for this coming year.