The Arts Academy at Estrella Mountain was opened in 2005 to provide an alternative to regular public schools for students in kindergarten through 8th grades. The school normally has an enrollment of around 440 students per year. The curriculum offers the core subjects however, adds fine arts and life skills to ensure students are receiving a well-rounded quality education.

Along with the core subjects, the school offers languages including German, Spanish, Latin, and French. Extra curricular activities include computer arts, orchestra, chorus, dance, sculpture, painting, and theater. Sports are also available for students that wish to participate which are football, basketball, cheerleading, martial arts, softball, track, physical education classes, and volleyball. Special programs include science & technology, yearbook, community service, student council, and academic contests.

Parents are not happy with the school in many different aspects. The curriculum is not as challenging as it should be; the rooms are dark and overcrowded. As far as the staff and teachers, parents are very pleased with the way in which the students are receiving attention and help with their schoolwork. The main problem seen by parents is the curriculum needs to be improved as well as adding more room on the playground and in the classrooms.

Students at Arts Academy at Estrella Mountain participated in the state AIMS exam in 2011, which measures the mastering level of students across the state. 80% of 3rd graders passed or exceeded the requirements of the reading portion of the exam while the state average was 76%, in writing 87% with the state at 79%, and in math 79% with the state average at 68%. 4th graders in reading passing the exam was at 67% with the state average being 75%, in science 54% with the state average at 60%, in writing 93% with the state average at 83%, and in math 48% with the state average at 65%. In reading, 76% of 5th graders passed with the state average at 79%, in writing 53% with the state average at 55%, and in math 63% with the state at 63%. In reading, 80% of 6th graders passed or exceeded the exam with the state average at 81%, in writing 53% with the state at 56%, and in math 39% with the state being 59%. In reading, 80% of 7th graders passed with the state average at 82%, in writing 57% with the state at 53%, and in math 57% with the state average at 61%. In reading, 77% of 8th graders passed or exceeded the standards of the exam with the state average at 71%, in science 48% with the state at 63%, and in math 43% with the state at 54%.

Arts Academy at Estrella Mountain
2504 S. 91st Ave.
Tolleson, AZ 85353
623-474-2120
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