Are boarding options available?

Yes, they are. If your child wants to live, breathe, and dream art all the time, boarding schools like Idyllwild Arts Academy and Besant Hill make this possible. These schools offer full boarding programs. They aim to create an art experience that goes beyond the classroom. Imagine late-night practices, weekend shows, and unplanned jam sessions right in the dorm.

Boarding life is not just handy; it’s like a small community where young artists share ideas, work together on projects, and build lifelong friendships. The strong sense of community and constant creative focus are things day schools cannot quite match. Of course, if boarding is not what you plan, the other schools on our list—Harker, Crossroads, and SF High School of the Arts—still have excellent arts programs as day options. The main point is that boarding isn’t needed for success. However, for students deeply committed to their art, it can change their lives.