Do students need prior experience to join the arts programs?

Nope. Zero experience? Totally fine. At Crossroads, all you need is curiosity and a little creative spark. Whether your child has never touched a paintbrush or already belts Broadway tunes in the shower, there’s a place for them here. The arts program is all about jumping in, trying something new, and figuring it out along the way. Teachers are like creative cheerleaders — guiding, encouraging, and helping kids grow at their own pace. So go ahead, pick up that trumpet or step into that spotlight. Everyone’s welcome, from total newbies to future Oscar winners.

Are there any special arts events during the school year?

Oh yes — and they're a big deal. Crossroads puts on some seriously cool arts events all year long. We’re talking packed theater shows, toe-tapping jazz concerts, student art exhibits that could belong in a gallery, and dance performances that’ll make you want to join in. Whether your kid’s on stage, behind a camera, or showing off their latest masterpiece, there’s always something to celebrate. Add in guest artists, surprise workshops, and a crowd of proud families, and you’ve got a school year full of creative magic. It’s not just a program, it’s a vibe.

What grade levels have access to the arts program?

Short answer? Everyone. Long answer? From finger painting in kindergarten to jazz ensembles and film editing in high school, the arts are baked into life at Crossroads. Little ones start with music, movement, and making colorful messes, while older students dive into electives like drama, studio art, filmmaking, and more. As they grow, so do the opportunities. It’s like a creative buffet — students can try it all and keep coming back for their favorites. By the time they graduate, they’ve not only found their artistic voice, they’ve probably used it on stage, on canvas, or maybe even in a full-on film premiere.

The Arts at Crossroads School: Inspiring Creativity and Expression

Crossroads School has been a creative home to more than a few future stars — think actors, musicians, and filmmakers who once roamed the same halls. But even if your kid isn’t the next Jack Black or Maya Rudolph, Crossroads is still an amazing place to explore and develop artistic talent. The school takes the arts seriously in the best way possible. With a full lineup of programs in visual arts, music, drama, dance, filmmaking, and even music production, students get to dive into their passions and stretch their creative muscles every single day.

How Crossroads School Nurtures Artistic Talent

A Comprehensive Approach to Visual and Performing Arts

From the start, Crossroads lets students get their hands messy and their minds engaged. Middle Schoolers spend four hours a week exploring both two- and three-dimensional art — and by eighth grade, they get to choose cool electives like Ceramics, Studio Arts, Multimedia Arts, and Graphic Design. Once they hit Upper School, students can major in visual arts, take Crossroads Advanced Studies (CAS) courses, and even show off their work in the on-campus Sam Francis Gallery. Not too shabby.

The performing arts side is just as packed with opportunities. Drama students can dive into acting, playwriting, Shakespeare, and more. There’s even a two-year Conservatory track for serious theater lovers and a traveling theater group for underclassmen. Music is everywhere too, with jazz ensembles, vocal groups, and the audition-only Elizabeth Mandell Music Institute (EMMI) for classical musicians who want to go deep into theory, performance, and ear training. And for dancers? You’ll find jazz, contemporary, hip-hop, and choreography all in the mix.

Encouraging Creativity Through Hands-On Experience

At Crossroads, no one’s sitting on the sidelines. Students are the ones directing the short films, choreographing the dance pieces, and stepping into the spotlight. They don’t just study art — they make it, perform it, and share it with their peers and the wider community. With artist residencies, master classes, and trips to see professional productions, the school makes sure students are constantly inspired and challenged. It’s an art playground with real-world energy..

The Impact of Arts Education on Student Development

Sure, the arts at Crossroads help students become stronger performers, painters, and musicians — but they also grow into more confident, creative, and collaborative humans. Standing up in front of an audience or hanging a piece in a gallery builds serious confidence. Working with others in ensembles or productions teaches how to communicate, problem-solve, and think on your feet. Whether students go on to Broadway or just bring that creative spirit into other parts of life, they leave with a toolbox full of skills that will serve them well in whatever path they choose.

Need Help? Cardinal Education Can Lend a Hand!

The independent admissions consultants at Cardinal Education can offer expert guidance on private school admissions, prepare for interviews and tests, and, of course, refine your personal statement. With academic coaching, test prep, and private school admissions support, we ensure students present themselves as top candidates.

For expert insights on maximizing your child’s chances of admission to Crossroads School, contact us today and let our experts guide you through the process!

How to Get Into Crossroads School: What You Need To Know

Social Justice at Crossroads School: Empowering Students to Create Change

Frequently Asked Questions

Do students need prior experience to join the arts programs?
Nope. Zero experience? Totally fine. At Crossroads, all you need is curiosity and a little creative spark. Whether your child has never touched a paintbrush or already belts Broadway tunes in the shower, there’s a place for them here. The arts program is all about jumping in, trying something new, and figuring it out along the way. Teachers are like creative cheerleaders — guiding, encouraging, and helping kids grow at their own pace. So go ahead, pick up that trumpet or step into that spotlight. Everyone’s welcome, from total newbies to future Oscar winners.
Are there any special arts events during the school year?
Oh yes — and they’re a big deal. Crossroads puts on some seriously cool arts events all year long. We’re talking packed theater shows, toe-tapping jazz concerts, student art exhibits that could belong in a gallery, and dance performances that’ll make you want to join in. Whether your kid’s on stage, behind a camera, or showing off their latest masterpiece, there’s always something to celebrate. Add in guest artists, surprise workshops, and a crowd of proud families, and you’ve got a school year full of creative magic. It’s not just a program, it’s a vibe.
What grade levels have access to the arts program?
Short answer? Everyone. Long answer? From finger painting in kindergarten to jazz ensembles and film editing in high school, the arts are baked into life at Crossroads. Little ones start with music, movement, and making colorful messes, while older students dive into electives like drama, studio art, filmmaking, and more. As they grow, so do the opportunities. It’s like a creative buffet — students can try it all and keep coming back for their favorites. By the time they graduate, they’ve not only found their artistic voice, they’ve probably used it on stage, on canvas, or maybe even in a full-on film premiere.