Fine Arts Academy Overview

Brenda Norwood Elementary Fine Arts Academy is a 3rd and 4th grade fine arts program.  The academy is designed to integrate fine arts pedagogy with core content instruction.  Artists will also be immersed in dance, music, art and theatre instruction.  The learning environment at the academy engages artists to explore the arts while creating and innovating in collaborative settings. Learning at the academy gives artists “voice and choice” to develop creativity and explore with the result being high quality and authentic products.  Artists will use 21st century skills including collaboration, communication, creative thinking and critical thinking, while completing various stages in the Studio Habits of Mind. 

Application Considerations

When deciding to apply for the Brenda Norwood Fine Arts Academy families should consider the unique learning environment at the academy.  Applicants should be:

• Current 2nd and 3rd graders interested in fine arts

• Inquisitive and excited about learning in a collaborative environment

• Interested in learning with enhanced technology availability

• Currently passing all classes

• Performing on or above grade level in reading and math.

• Interested in developing 21st century skills including, communication, creativity, collaboration, character, and citizenship

• Receiving satisfactory citizenship grades for the current school year

Once you have read and understand the admission criteria, click here to submit your application.  (Application link will be updated by 12/16/2024.)

You might consider typing essay answers in a word processing program prior to beginning the online application. You will be able to copy and paste answers from a word processing program into the online form - especially if you will be completing more than one application. 

The Power of Choice applications are not available in printable format. If you need technology access, please contact the Fine Arts Academy campus you are applying for. 

STEP 1: Complete the Application

• • Applications are available December 16, 2024 at 9:00 a.m.

  • Applications must be submitted online. Online applications will not be accepted after 4:30 p.m.

STEP 2: Application Review and Selection Process

• • After a completed application is submitted, the application will be reviewed.

  • After the application deadline, applicants will be entered into a lottery.

  • 44 2nd graders will be selected to enter the 3rd grade based on lottery order. 

  • There are 44 seats in the 4th grade class. 3rd grade applicants will be accepted based on seat availability and lottery order. 

  • Learners from each MISD feeder pattern will be represented at the Fine Arts Academy.

  • Learners who are not offered a seat will be placed on a waiting list in an order determined by a random lottery.

STEP 3: Notification Process

• • All learners will be notified on March 14, 2024, after 4:00 pm of their Fine Arts acceptance status.

  • Admitted learners will need to reply to their Fine Arts Academy invitation by 4:30 pm on March 28, 2024.

  • Learners who do not accept the invitation by the deadline will forfeit their seat at the Fine Arts Academy and that seat will be filled from the waiting list of applicants.