Chicago Arts High School
In the Fall of 2026, the formerly recognized Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts) joins Chicago Public Schools as a District-managed school: Chicago Arts High School.
For more than two decades, philanthropic support has fueled the pre-professional arts conservatories that define this institution. As we enter this exciting new chapter, Children First Fund (CFF) is proud to serve as the philanthropic arm of Chicago Arts High School.
CFF honors the extraordinary work of the supporters, partners, and investors whose dedication has made this premier model possible. Chicago Arts High School ensures students from all backgrounds can access careers in the arts. To that end, we are deeply committed to ensuring ongoing philanthropic opportunities to sustain the school’s vision. Together, we will continue to fund the vibrant productions and robust arts education programming that truly shape the scholar-artist experience.
Want to learn more?
Read the Open Letter to the ChiArts Community.
The Chicago Arts Model: Unmatched Artistic and Academic Rigor
School Vision and Model
- The Longest School Day in CPS: An extended 8-hour and 10-minute school day includes 150 minutes of daily arts training, ensuring students never have to compromise between academics and artistry.
- Elite Faculty and Professional Mentorship: Students learn directly from a unique mix of certified arts educators and professional, real-world Resident Artists who lead intensive, discipline-specific training.
- Early College Credit: Through a strategic partnership with the City Colleges of Chicago, students can earn dual-enrollment college credits directly through high school coursework led by expert Teaching Artists with advanced degrees.
Dual-Focused Approach to Learning
- Pre-Professional Arts Conservatories: Every afternoon, student-artists spend uninterrupted blocks of time immersed in one of five core disciplines: Creative Writing, Dance, Music, Theatre, or Visual Arts.
- Rigorous Academic College Prep: During the first portion of the day, students fulfill and exceed standard graduation requirements, mastering high-level critical
Support the Next Generation of Chicago Artists & Industry Leaders
Together, we can ensure our students have everything they need to create, grow, and thrive. Your gift directly funds the vibrant arts programming and resources that our scholar-artists deserve.
Join us in building a bright future for the arts—make a gift today.
Donate
Stay Connected
Join Our Newsletter. Sign up to receive updates on Chicago Arts High School
