<p>Hey, my name's artboy and I'm 14. I'm looking to apply for a boarding high school of the performing arts called Idyllwild Arts Academy. I'd be applying as a visual arts major. I want to go because I'd do something I love doing, which is drawing, while getting taught by some very accompished artists, meeting new people, and a huge head start if I decide to go to art school. It's also in california. It's a very nature-oriented campus that's huge and looks just awesome. On top of that, it's far up in the hills (around 5000 feet) meaning the school has some amazing natural vistas (especially at sunset), and we're safe if that tsunami hits the coast lol. </p>
<p>I just wanted to know your opinions on the school, or of me going to the school. Has anyone gone to one?</p>
<p>My D goes to a perfoming arts high school. It is a.) not a boarding school and b.) not in California.</p>
<p>That said, she really has enjoyed her four years there. Her school day is an hour longer than the rest of the high schools in the district. Her school splits the academic courses, with half in each semester. She spends her mornings on acadmics and afternoon is all art.</p>
<p>Her HS does have it downsides: there are limited extracurriculars and less academic choices than a traditional HS. The biggest surprise for us has been how strong those academics have been.</p>
<p>I live at the base of the Idyllwild "hill." My son has attended the summer program (he's a jazz drummer). Also, a collegue's daughter is a Junior there studying drama. </p>
<p>What I can tell you is that the academics are in the morning and students cannot participate in their art if the academics aren't up to snuff. There is good supervision so students are safe. The disciplines do interact at times for performances or showings. There is very good support from the Idyllwild community. Many artists and professionals live in the area and support the school with their talent, name, or financial contributions. </p>
<p>On the negative side, the town is extremely small and there really isn't much to do for anyone (let alone teens). I think they offer outings for the students, but you might feel a bit stir-crazy after awhile. </p>
<p>All-in-all, the school has a very good reputation (at least for music and theater). They are connected into important competitions, audition opportunities, etc. that can help prepare you for an awesome college application/portfolio.</p>
<p>Check out the school website and perhaps request a student in the art discipline contact you via e-mail. Nothing like talking directly to a student already there.</p>
<p>I do that on myspace, and I've emailed the school back (they sent me a message). I don't know. When I'm this serious about something, I have a habit of wanting every possible point of view.</p>