WHERE DREAMS BECOME REALITY SCHOOL OVERVIEW
Founded in 1987 and still led by visionary educator Dr . Ralph Opacic , the nationally recognized Orange County School of the Arts ( OCSA ) offers a dynamic school culture that enables students to flourish as artists and scholars in a uniquely challenging and nurturing environment , celebrating creativity , individual growth , and opportunity . As one of the premier arts schools in the nation , OCSA embraces and encourages academic and artistic excellence , preparing students to reach their highest potential and thrive in the 21st century . The U . S . Department of Education and National Endowment for the Arts have recognized OCSA as a model arts education program . The school is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges ( WASC ). OCSA ’ s rigorous academic education coupled with advanced arts training has impacted thousands of students — molding generations of creative thinkers , leaders , artists , innovators , and entrepreneurs .
STUDENTS AND FACULTY OCSA currently serves a diverse student body of approximately 2,200 students in grades 7-12 from more than 100 cities throughout Southern California . The academic faculty is fully credentialed , and the majority of the 350 arts and academic teachers hold advanced degrees . They are dedicated and supportive professionals who guide students to develop the skills necessary to succeed in higher education and a career in a field of their choice . Guest artists and industry leaders share their expertise and creativity with students through OCSA ’ s Master Artist Series and Creators & Innovators Series , exposing students to one-of-a-kind master classes , lectures , presentations , and hands-on training . Additionally , OCSA ’ s counseling department is the first 7th-12th grade program in California to be named as a nationally Recognized American School Counselor Association Model Program ( RAMP ).
We provide an unparalleled arts and academic education in a creative , challenging , and nurturing environment to a diverse group of students who are passionate about the arts , preparing them to reach their highest potential .