The Chicago Academy For the Arts

Our last 3 teenagers are finishing up their time at CAA. I am giving this review as a sort of time capsule reminding everyone how great this school is as it currently exists. Our older son Anthony, was there at a time of transition nearly a decade ago when there was a change to the current principal. The board thought they knew best and ignored the outgoing principal's suggestion. After a lost year for many students, Jason was finally given the wheel, and the keys to the car, and what a ride it has been! Jason has shown integrity and commitment above and beyond the price of the ride. The Academy has sharpened my children into a greater version of who they were meant to be...I may not appreciate every nuance, but I trust in the process. CAA or the Academy is a cradle. As parents, it is NOT our job to make miniatures of ourselves, it is our job to nurture the human potential the universe gifted us. Jason, and through his guidance, the Academy has allowed our children to grow beyond what we could ever have accomplished without their help. This is a great school. We have sent 4/5 of our children to CAA. Not every child has music, art, or dance in their hearts, but for the child who has expressive talents in every fiber of their being...this is the home for them. My wife and I watch with anticipation and joy. We trust in the process. We support choices that are centered on the child. We wish Jason well as he transitions to his next adventure. While CAA, as a car was already a Classic when Jason took the wheel, he has left it shiny, with a full tank, and three coats of polish. I am hoping that someone remembers when choosing his replacement that his heart and determination to providing support to our children is what made the school the number 1 art school in Chicago. And CAA students are a force of good in the world. They graduate with empathy, book smarts, and wit. I can not say enough 👏🏾

I was a film student here, and it was a lackluster experience. The school is very clearly underfunded, and this shows in it’s media arts program. If you have a child who’s looking to study filmmaking/animation, I’d recommend sending them elsewhere. It’s about on par with Saturday classes at a local community center. As a senior, I was doing the exact same arts classes I was doing as a freshman. There was very little plan for growth that me and other young artists needed. Not worth the premium price.

The Chicago Academy has welcomed my child into their intimate and highly creative environment in a way no other school has. The teachers and staff are professional and effective while being warm and generous. We are so happy to be a part of this school!