The Arts Program

In addition to traditional core courses, Penn-Griffin School for the Arts offers elective classes in eight different arts disciplines: orchestra, band, chorus, classical guitar, piano, dance, theatre, and visual arts.  Unique to Penn-Griffin is the opportunity for students to journey through the arts in one school from sixth through twelfth grade.  The arts program is designed to allow students to explore multiple arts areas in sixth grade and then choose an area as their arts concentration in seventh and eighth grade.  Upon entering the high school grades, students must audition in their arts concentration.  The high school students continue formal study in their art in a supportive environment with other students who share their passion and love for the arts. 

How do I get to go to Penn-Griffin?

Middle grade students (6-8) come to Penn-Griffin through an application process that takes place in the spring of each school year.  After filling out and turning in the application, a lottery system is used to place students in the school.

High school students (9-12) must audition to attend Penn-Griffin.  The audition process includes a written application, short interview, demonstration of ability level in selected arts area and teacher recommendations.  Audition dates are announced each January for the following school year.

The Faculty

The Penn-Griffin faculty and staff participate regularly in arts integration workshops and training sessions.  The arts are seen and heard in every classroom, not just in the arts classrooms.  Core teachers strive to integrate at least one arts discipline into each unit their students explore.

Unlike traditional schools, there are full-time arts teachers for each of the eight arts disciplines at Penn-Griffin.  In addition to being certified educators, these teachers are also working professionals in their individual areas. 

Penn-Griffin has also established collaborative relationships with local universities.  Students from these universities serve as mentors, classroom assistants, and volunteers at Penn-Griffin.  These partnerships not only enhance the lives of the students at Penn-Griffin, but the college students as well, who have the opportunity to further their love of the arts by experiencing it with the next generation.

Together, the entire faculty works to provide a public school for the arts that offers the best possible education and prepares students to become life-long patrons and participants in the arts.

The Facilities

In 2003 William Penn-Alfred J. Griffin School for the Arts opened its doors to the first class of middle school arts magnet students.  The addition of the historic William Penn High School building doubled the size of the existing facility and supplied the students with the opportunity to perform in the newly renovated auditorium.  This expansion allows a room dedicated to each arts area.   The Samuel E. Burford auditorium is also used by local civic and arts groups for meetings and performances. 

The crowning piece of the new addition is the John Coltrane Hall of Music and Dance, which houses the state-of-the-art dance studio and band room. 

Come for a Visit

Parents who would like more information about the magnet program, audition information, or a tour of the facility should call the school at (336) 819-2870.