Chicago Academy for the Arts

“The students here are self motivated, hardworking, and you really have to be a strong individual. You will not be a nameless face.”
CAA Student


How would you describe the faculty at CAA?

Erika D“Everyone cares. It was so different for me, but so amazing and genuine and sincere. I think other schools could learn from us. Our teachers care not just how you do in their class, but how you do in all of your classes and your arts. My teachers get to see me grow and teach me all day long. You can ask teachers anything, even if it’s not related to their class. They are like parents.”
– Erika Dickerson, Graduate, Media Arts Department
Chicago, IL

Why did you choose CAA?

“I actually don’t feel like I chose the Academy, I think the Academy chose me. I could see that everyone who was involved was here for a reason. The academic teachers give students so much room to learn, and that makes us want to learn more. Erika DThe Academy gives you opportunities and everything you go through defines who you are. It’s like putting yourself in the real world.”

– Garth Johnson, Graduate, Dance Department
Hebron, IL






How has CAA affected your life?

“I have received an amazing education both academically and artistically. Erika DIn a lot of ways I have become an artist here. When I came to CAA, I didn’t have any idea of what I wanted to do and what I wanted to give to the world, but now I know what type of art I want to create and what I want to give back. I truly know what it means to be an artist.”

– Victoria Narayan, Graduate, Musical Theatre Department
Elgin, IL

How would you describe the culture at CAA?

Erika D

“The students are so open. It’s like taking all the art kids from everywhere and placing them in one school. There is nothing cliché or typical about the students at CAA. It is really an opportunity that should be taken advantage of if you are a serious artist.”

– Maisie Schloss, Graduate, Visual Arts Department
Chicago, IL

How would you describe CAA?

“There is so much life in everybody! Everyone really wants to be here. At this school, students choose to go outside of what is expected of them and want each other to succeed. Erika DThe first time I came to CAA was for a shadow day. I remember sitting in the hall waiting for my ambassador and seeing a dancer run and do a leap. I could tell people were excited to be here and actually liked being in school.”

– Lauren Williams, Senior, Music Department
Northbrook, IL