Requirements & Points

Curricular Coursework

Students are required to earn 30 curricular points to graduate with a Transcript Distinction from the Fine Arts Academy.

To maintain students progress through the Fine Arts Academy, we recommend students earn the following number of curricular points each year.

    • Freshman Year - 2 points

    • Sophomore Year - 4 points

    • Junior Year - 10 points

    • Senior Year - 14 points

Courses provide opportunities for students to focus on skill development, and gain an understanding of the theory and history behind their craft.

Extra-Curricular Activities

Students in the Music or Theatre Concentrations are required to earn 29 extra-curricular points and students in the Visual Arts Concentration are required to earn 18 extra-curricular points to graduate with a Transcript Distinction.

To maintain student progress through the Fine Arts Academy, we recommend students earn the following number of extra-curricular points each year.

    • Freshman Year - 2 points, Performing Arts Scholars / 2 points, Visual Arts Scholars

    • Sophomore Year - 6 points, Performing Arts Scholars / 3 points, Visual Arts Scholars

    • Junior Year - 9 points, Performing Arts Scholars / 5 points, Visual Arts Scholars

    • Senior Year - 12 points, Performing Arts Scholars / 8 points, Visual Arts Scholars

Students are asked to put their knowledge into practice through extra-curricular performance opportunities.


*We are aware that many students were unable to meet the extra-curricular requirements during the 2020-2021 school year due to remote learning. Please connect with your Fine Arts teacher to discuss any adjustments that may be needed.*

Capstone Project

During their senior year, Fine Arts Academy scholars enroll in an Open Studio period where they spend self-directed time preparing their Capstone Project.

    • Music Scholars will prepare a 15 minute recital including solo & ensemble works. All pieces should either be performed by, composed by, or arranged by the academy student. Students are responsible to work with their teacher to arrange for an accompanist if needed.

    • Theatre Scholars will work as a collaborative team to create student lead productions at the end of each semester. Students will be responsible for all aspects of the performance and should work with Ms. DeFrancesco and Mr. Wilson for support when needed.

    • Visual Art Scholars - Students enrolled in AP Art Studio are expected to prepare 24 pieces to curate a personal show and submit to the AP College Board, Students enrolled in Advanced Art are expected to prepare SIX capstone pieces in addition to their projects from Advanced Art. All Visual Arts students will prepare a 15 minute presentation of their digital portfolio. This can be presented live at the Capstone Festival or prerecorded. Students should speak to a select number of pieces, sharing processes, purpose, and overall pride in their completed work.